“In Everything do to others as you would have them do to you, for this sums up the law and the prophets”
— Matthew 7:12
In these times of division and unrest, this timeless teaching from Jesus feels more important than ever. Today it is easy for people to take sides, whether political, socioeconomic, or geographic, that divides us. Yet Christ Jesus’ message challenges us to rise above these divisions and seek unity, seeing ourselves in every person we meet.
This October 2026, we walk this faith journey together. In a world where some may seek to divide, we will respond as Jesus teaches us, which compassion, respect and kindness. In our church we will campaign not for any political party, but for the Christian values of love, dignity, and unity. As politicians campaign for office, we will engage in political discussions with honesty, humility, and respect, rejecting personal insults and polarization.
On October 6, 1774, John Wesley offered three simple rules for voters in his journal:
- Vote for the person who you believe is most worthy, without fee or reward.
- Speak no evil of the person you vote against.
- Take care that your spirit is not sharpened against those who vote differently than you.
As United Methodists, we know differences of opinion within our denomination and across our connection exist. I believe we are stronger for a diversity of thought. What unites us is far more powerful than what divides us, our desire for a better future and our conviction to treat one another with love, respect, compassion and kindness.
So, I invite you this month to join me in campaigning for kindness and compassion. Let’s commit to showing love in every interaction and together be the reflection of Jesus’ grace in the world.
In a world that feels divided, let us remember that Christ Jesus united us in love. Together we can be beacons of kindness, compassion and hope. May God bless Sayville United Methodist Church.
Yours in the love of Christ Jesus,
Rev. Douglas Madlon
