Kindred in Christ,

When nationalism hijacks faith, the Gospel calls us somewhere deeper—into Costly Grace. This September we begin a new worship series by that name, where we’ll confront shallow religion and the lure of easy answers, and instead follow Jesus into love that disrupts, heals, and transforms.

We’ll draw on the witness of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who resisted Hitler’s regime, and James Cone, who proclaimed the cross as God’s solidarity with the oppressed. Their voices remind us what’s at stake when grace is costly. Bonhoeffer once wrote, “grace is free, but it will cost you your life.” Real grace—the kind that transforms us—calls us deeper. It asks us to let go of what gives us false security and to trust the abundant life God offers.

This week’s message, “The Call into the Deep” (Luke 14:25–33; Psalm 1), will invite us to move beyond surface-level faith. Jesus’ shocking words about family, life, and the cross remind us that discipleship means diving into waters deeper than wealth, patriarchy, nation, or status. Together, we follow Jesus—who calls us into the deep.

We will also share in a Back-to-School Blessing during worship. We’ll pray for students, teachers, administrators, and all connected to schools as a new year begins. Bring your backpacks, your energy, and your hopes for the year ahead—we want to bless you as a community of faith!

Come ready to be stretched, encouraged, and blessed as we begin this new season together.

Alongside you,

Pastor Paul Ortiz