A sign in front of a church in Milwaukie, OR, is getting national attention for its bold take on the real threat plaguing Americans, and it's not about an invasion.
According to Oregon Live, the letter board sign, headlined in all-caps with "National Emergency" gained over 20K likes, 24 hours after being posted on the organization's Facebook page.
Even the church is acknowledging we are in the midst of a national crisis with a gospel truth.
The sign adds a startling wake up call: "44 million people without health insurance."
Reverend Adam Ericksen joined the congregation as a pastor in 2017 and explained that the goal with the recent board was "to get our message about God's love for all people into the neighborhood."
"I think it's important to have a sign like this because during the last few years in particular, I have noticed that progressive Christians need to be bold with our message."
He added:
"That message is this: God loves all people and God works for a more just and inclusive world. Jesus always sought to include into his community those who were marginalized by the religious authorities of his day."
In addressing the "national emergency" sign, Ericksen imparted some words about Jesus Christ being a purveyor of free healthcare.
"The sick came to Jesus in search of healing. He saw they were in an emergency and he provided them with free healthcare. We seek to follow Jesus. For us, that means working for a world where everyone is cared for and included in a community of love and justice."
The church's bold take on politics received some hallelujahs online.
The sign addressing the nation's healthcare system sparked a debate on Facebook in which user Robert Donk wrote:
"Stay out of politics. The minute the church is involved in politics, is the same minute it's corrupted."
But there were still plenty of those who praised Clackamas's valiant efforts.
Clackamas United Church of Christ, Milwaukie, OR/Facebook
Clackamas United Church of Christ, Milwaukie, OR/Facebook
Clackamas United Church of Christ, Milwaukie, OR/Facebook
Clackamas United Church of Christ, Milwaukie, OR/Facebook
Clackamas United Church of Christ, Milwaukie, OR/Facebook
Clackamas United Church of Christ, Milwaukie, OR/Facebook
Clackamas United Church of Christ, Milwaukie, OR/Facebook
Sunday's board had an additional message on the other side that addressed another epidemic. It read: "National Emergency: 553,700 are homeless. Sunday 10:30."
The progressive church is known for being outspoken on important issues as well as opening its doors to those who are oppressed.
Earlier this year, Clackamas displayed a sign that read: "Lady Gaga knows Christianity. And so do we. LGBTQ welcome here."
Hallelujah to this congregation that truly gets it.
