February 2, 2023

Dear Sisters,

In considering Pastor Jeff's recent sermons and his reminder that our desire for unity does not lessen our need for diversity, I'd like to share one specific application with you tied to the varied schooling-related decisions those of us with children are making for our families.  Unfortunately, numerous conversations have occurred over the last few months in which women (or their children) have felt judged, criticized, and excluded for these choices.

While I assume that most of these comments were made unintentionally - without an awareness of their potential impact - a good rule of thumb is to remember that, just like you, other parents want the best for their children and are raising them in alignment with the Spirit's leading for their family.  When we follow this leading, we can stand with confidence in our own choices and give grace to others who are doing what they feel uniquely called to do, even if it's very different than what we choose for ourselves. There are also countless factors parents consider when making these decisions that we are not privy to.

As a church that believes strongly in unity on the essentials and liberty in the nonessentials, we should encourage others in these kinds of distinctions that enrich our community.  In this instance, though we may choose different schooling options for our children, we share the higher goal of raising righteous, godly kids. We have many more commonalities than we do differences, and every choice - public school, private school, or home schooling - comes with its own benefits, hardships, and challenges.

Let our Sisterhood be characterized by the way we refuse to think better of ourselves than we should (Rom. 12:3), edify and build each other up (1 Thess. 5:11), and demonstrate the kind of steadfast love for one another that is grounded in our shared gratitude for the grace and mercy God has lavished on us (Jn 13:35).

Yours in Christ,

Michele Moore
Director of Women's & Marriage Ministries
Christ Community Church