The Rev. Karen Georgia A. Thompson, general minister and president of the United Church of Christ, is calling on the church to “pause, pray, and prepare to live love boldly.” In a time of political division, rising inequality, and social uncertainty, she emphasizes that the church’s role is not only to speak about justice but to actively embody it. Her call to action aligns with the theme of the upcoming General Council of the World Communion of Reformed Churches: “Persevere in Your Witness.” In a world facing polarization and growing threats to democracy, the UCC remains steadfast in its commitment to justice, ensuring that faith is not only professed but lived out through action.

As one of our member churches navigates a shifting political landscape, Thompson’s message extends beyond denominational lines, serving as both a challenge and an invitation. It reaffirms the UCC’s dedication to advocating for marginalized communities and speaking truth to power, even in times of uncertainty. By grounding its mission in love and justice, the church strives to be a source of hope and transformation in a divided world.

A Consistent Witness for Justice

“The United Church of Christ has a pretty consistent witness around justice, and we will continue to amplify that,” Thompson said. “We have been consistent in our support for refugee resettlement, for migration as a human right, and for policies that uphold the dignity of all people. Where we can, we will challenge these executive orders through legal means, advocacy, and community support,” she emphasized. Through conference-level initiatives and amicus briefs, the UCC actively participates in lawsuits against unjust policies, ensuring that its call for justice is more than just words—it is action.

Navigating Internal Differences in a Divided Nation

The UCC, known for its diverse membership, faces the challenge of political polarization within its own congregations. “We are not a red church or a blue church; most of our congregations are purple,” Thompson said, acknowledging the wide spectrum of political perspectives within the denomination. In an era where partisan divides seem insurmountable, she emphasized the central Christian tenet of love.“It feels as though we have not been able to transcend the political divide by adhering to Jesus’ commandment to love,” she said. The UCC continues to create spaces for dialogue, education, and engagement that prioritize love and justice over party lines.

Speaking Truth to Power While Staying Nonpartisan

A critical distinction in the UCC’s approach is its unwavering focus on policy rather than political affiliation.“We do not tell people how to vote. We speak to policy,” Thompson said. Historically, the church has critiqued policies under various administrations, from Reaganomics to President Joe Biden’s handling of Gaza and immigration. “Where justice does not prevail, it is incumbent on the church to call truth to power, and that is our commitment in every administration.”

The UCC’s Our Faith, Our Vote campaign encouraged members to vote with justice in mind, ensuring that civic engagement remains a core value of faith practice.

The Church’s Role in a Politically Charged Time

With escalating political tensions, the role of the church is increasingly vital. Thompson sees advocacy as an essential function. “We have seen that when people protest, write letters, and call their representatives, change happens,” she said. The UCC collaborates with multifaith coalitions and legal initiatives to challenge unjust policies, recognizing that collective action is necessary to make an impact. However, the rapid succession of executive orders and policy shifts poses a unique challenge. “The sheer volume of changes makes it difficult to respond effectively. This administration’s strategy seems to overwhelm opponents by keeping them constantly on the defensive,” she said. To counter this, the UCC is strengthening coalitions and mobilizing resources to ensure a sustained, strategic approach to advocacy.

Fostering Civil Discourse and Reconciliation

As political discourse grows more hostile, the UCC is committed to fostering conversations that bridge divides. “We must equip people with tools for civil discourse,” Thompson said, pointing to books like I Never Thought of It That Way by Mónica Guzmán as resources for constructive dialogue. The global church also has a role to play. “The World Communion of Reformed Churches must step up in its support of U.S. churches,” she said. The WCRC has historically been vocal on issues of justice, but Thompson believes it must take an even stronger stance against Christian nationalism and authoritarianism.

A Leader Shaped by Experience

As the first Black woman and first immigrant to lead the UCC, Thompson’s personal journey deeply informs her leadership. “It’s not just about being the first African descendant woman. It’s also about being the first leader who was not born in this country,” she said. Her experiences as a Jamaican immigrant provide her with a unique perspective on issues of justice, inclusion, and faith-based advocacy. Her leadership is rooted in a firm belief that the church must be both a sanctuary and a force for change. “We cannot do this alone,” she said. “It will take all of us—across denominations, across faiths, and across borders—to push back against the forces that threaten justice and democracy.” In this post-election moment, as the country recalibrates and churches discern their role, Thompson’s message serves as a reminder that faith is not just about belief—it is about bold, compassionate action.

Note: Leading into the General Council with voices from member churches, this article highlights how World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) members engage in justice and reconciliation. In this article, we feature the United Church of Christ (UCC) and its commitment to faith-based action in a polarized world. As the General Council in Thailand approaches, these reflections shape the conversations ahead, ensuring that the lived experiences and advocacy efforts of member churches inform the global dialogue.