Note from Lisa – What I am/What we are

On the fourth Monday of the month, I’ll be sharing with everyone what it means to me and us to be Presbyterian. This week, I want to focus on the recent shootings at the Islamic Center of San Diego and how we respond as Presbyterians. This recent attack in a neighboring city brings up several societal issues: the radicalization of young people, gun violence, and religious hatred.

There are many opinions on the radicalization of American youth, particularly of young men and boys. Regardless of what individuals believe the causes are, we can all do better by providing safe spaces in Sunday School and Youth Groups for our young boys and girls to express feelings of loneliness and alienation. We can provide mentors for our young people to help them navigate growing up in a complex world. And we can find ways to involve them in the life and work of the church. As our society struggles to address this problem, we know that one of the root causes is a lack of relationships with others and with supportive adults. The PC(USA) does not have any reports that directly address this issue, but there is a Presby Podcast on it available here: https://pcusa.org/news-storytelling/news/2025/3/27/understanding-radicalization-american-boyhood.

The PC(USA) has many resources that explore the causes of and impacts of gun violence. Information on gun violence can be found here: https://pcusa.org/how-we-serve/justice-peace/gun-violence-prevention-response.

Finally, in 2022, the General Assembly of the PCUSA approved a study document entitled “Denouncing Antisemitism and Islamophobia.” This is a wonderful resource with both information and practical guidance to help a Session find ways to counter religious intolerance and hate. https://pcusa.org/resource/denouncing-antisemitism-and-islamophobia.

The PC(USA) has a long history of involvement in social justice issues, grounded in the call of the prophet to seek justice and love mercy as we walk humbly with God. But we also have a long history of following Jesus’ example in caring for our neighbors. So, I encourage each church to find ways at this particular time to reach out to local Mosques, Imams, and Muslim communities and offer not only our prayers and support during this difficult time of fear and grief.

I am/we are Presbyterian, serving Christ in our community and the world.