How Do We Choose Hope at Peoples Church?

Peoples’ people are voters, storytellers, and community leaders. We serve in these roles with justice and hope among other principles.

Our mission states that we serve with spiritual growth and just action. Accomplishing these goals requires a strong belief of hope. This is particularly important when advocating for immigrants and LGBTQ humans who are presently marginalized in our society.

Many of us displayed active hope by participating in the No Kings demonstrations and showing resistance to current events. Listening to others with different perspectives is challenging but better than arguing with them.

By trying to reframe opinions that people express and asking for clarification, we can indicate active listening. Asking “wh” questions is another way to do this (e.g. who, what, where, why and how).

Consider making “hopelessly optimistic” your daily mantra as a guide to emphasize the positive. Choosing hope in the face of fear is a healthy way to address the unknown.