ASBURY FIRST MONDAY READER | MAY 26, 2025

CONTENTS: THOUGHTS ON MEMORIAL DAY BY REV. KATHY THIEL

UMC SOCIAL JUSTICE POSITION STATEMENTS

THOUGHTS ON MEMORIAL DAY

by REV. KATHY THIEL

Memorial Day is here, a day to pause and remember those who gave their lives in service to our country. Established on May 30, 1868 to honor fallen Union soldiers from the Civil War, Memorial Day acknowledges the extraordinary gift of those who joined the military, pledging their lives to protect their nation's people. While I haven't personally known someone who died in war, I honor the many veterans whose service demonstrates such profound commitment.


Memorial Day also marks the unofficial beginning of summer—a time of picnics, pool parties, and a day off, for some, from work and school. This celebration alongside remembrance feels appropriate. As we gather with loved ones, we also draw into our hearts the people who are no longer here with us, knowing that what they left us with matters: an example of how to live.  


Take a moment to recall someone you love who has died. Consider the lessons they taught you and how their life transformed yours. Thank them in your heart, and move forward knowing their love travels with you. Their examples form a paradigm of compassionate living.


Whatever your plans for Memorial Day, or any day for that matter, remember those who have gone before us. Acknowledge and celebrate the wonderful gifts they left behind and their love that endures always in our hearts.


God Bless You.


Love,

Rev. Kathy Thiel

Minister for Congregational Care



UMC SOCIAL JUSTICE POSITION STATEMENTS



On May 7, 2025, the Council of Bishops of the United Methodist Church engaged in reflective conversations, and delivered four peace and justice pastoral letters concerning four social concerns for prayerful dialogue, discernment and witness.


• A Call for Peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo

• A Plea for Ceasefire and Justice in Palestine and Israel

• A Call to Reject Violence Against Transgender Persons

• A Stand Against the Dismantling of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies

You can read the letters here.


In addition to the Bishop’s pastoral letters, Church and Society offers these position statements on the same peace and justice issues as a way to learn about the issues, provide dialogue, model social witness and take action from the perspective of the United Methodist Church.

For nearly three decades the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been torn by a succession of wars that have cost an estimated 6 million lives. Read More.

It’s time to break the cycle of violence by addressing the root causes of conflict and work for a just peace in the Middle East. Read More.

As United Methodists, we believe basic human rights, civil liberties and protections are due all persons regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Read More.

The Trump administration has set out to eliminate “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” (DEI), a term which generally refers to movements for racial justice, LGBTQIA+ rights and women’s equality. Read More.


To learn more about the United Methodist Social Principles visit www.umcjustice.org.

Asbury First United Methodist Church

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