LENOIR, N.C. – A few years ago, my sister gave me a small bumper sticker that says, “If you hate somebody because of your religion, you’re doing it wrong.”

That being the case, it seems clear to me, then, that St. James Episcopal Church, located in downtown Lenoir, is “doing religion right.”

And, they have done so colorfully and succinctly, as the photo above proves.

Such a church is rare. And endangered. This action is not only expressing the most fundamental message of the Gospel, it is courageous and bold because it is true. Odd, isn’t it, that love is controversial?

Taking risks and sharing truth suggests to me that this parish is led by a strong pastor and congregants. Such boldness and displays of hope are essential for our times, yet extremely rare. In this battle though, numbers don’t win. Love does.

© Michael M. Barrick, 2025