A Pastoral Word from Bishop Jolly on Church and Public Witness

Dear Ones,

This week’s news of the IRS’s break in decades of tradition on churches and political endorsements has stirred a great deal of conversation, and understandably so. In a time already filled with political anxiety and social fragmentation, this development adds another layer of uncertainty. As your bishop, I want to offer not just a response, but a reminder — of who we are, what we are called to, and how we will move forward together.

I want to be clear: we are defined by what Christ has called us to be, not by what others may now permit us to do or think we should do.

The Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Ohio is a people centered in relationship — with God, with one another, and with the communities in which we are called to serve. At our core, we are a spiritual body shaped by the Gospel of Jesus Christ: the One who fed the hungry, healed the broken, welcomed the stranger and outcast, and challenged unjust systems — not to advance a political platform, but to reveal the Kingdom of God.

Our Baptismal Covenant asks us, “Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?” and “Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?”

We answer together: “We will, with God’s help,” and then, by God’s grace, I hope we do.

We will proclaim the Gospel. Boldly. Lovingly. Clearly.

And we will do so from our pulpits and with our lives — as people committed to the truth and grace of Christ, not as Democrats, Republicans, or Independents.

Let me again be clear: The pulpit is for preaching the Gospel — not endorsing political candidates.

While the IRS may now allow political endorsements from religious leaders, that is not the path we will walk. We believe the Gospel is inherently about the people — it speaks into our real lives, systems, choices, and relationships. It will necessarily challenge the status quo and structures that seek to marginalize or harm people. It will often be political in the truest sense — of and for the people — but it must never be reduced to a party line, platform, or partisan agenda.

Our preaching, our teaching, our ministries and daily lives will continue to call us to feed the hungry, to welcome the stranger, to lift up the vulnerable and speak the truth in love. These are not partisan acts. They are Gospel imperatives.

Our diocese and nation are home to parishioners and visitors from diverse backgrounds with different political viewpoints. Even in moments of division and fear, we are one Body. We are united not by agreement on every issue, but by our common baptism and our commitment to walk this way of Jesus together. That unity matters more than ever right now. We are a church that boldly proclaims and lives the truth: God loves you, no exceptions.

Our churches will remain places of refuge, connection, and grace. We will continue to be a central voice in our communities — not for polarization, but for the transformation that comes through the abundant love of Jesus, compassion, and relationship.

Preaching and living the gospel is never easy – Jesus was clear about that. Thanks be to God, we are given to each other to walk this journey together. I’m tremendously grateful that we are serving at this time together.

With gratitude for your faithfulness and courage,

+Anne

The Rt. Rev. Anne B Jolly

Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio