Lenten Reflection: Lent & Policy

Lent is a season for reflection, an invitation to examine the brokenness around us while also encouraging us to expand our imagination of what’s possible. Right now, many of us are grieving the broken state of politics in the United States and how the decisions of a few are causing immense harm to many. 

This Lenten season, we lament the layers of harm being inflicted upon our neighbors and Creation. We bear witness to the ways in which public health is now endangered due to rollbacks of regulations that hold polluters accountable. We bear witness and we lament the attacks to sacred grounds like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, home to the Gwich'in people, and Oak Flat, sacred grounds for the Western Apache peoples. We bear witness and lament the harms towards precious species, who are at risk of becoming endangered and the loss of those who have crossed the threshold of non-recovery. 

This Lenten season, may we also recognize the moral urgency of confronting the escalating terror inflicted upon immigrant communities and people across the country. Our ability to build a future in which Creation can flourish depends on a strong and healthy democracy, one that upholds the rule of law, protects our First Amendment rights, and ensures free and fair elections. These systems are not merely political structures; they are instruments through which we are called to pursue the common good and safeguard the dignity of all.

Beyond the invitation to grieve and lament, lent is also an invitation to expand our imaginations. Faith communities play a critical role in not only resisting these harms, but calling for and building a new world together. Many faith communities are already leading the way, whether by holding their lawmakers accountable through advocacy, standing alongside their neighbors being attacked in the streets, establishing mutual aid or supporting existing structures, and installing clean infrastructure. 

For people of faith, social justice and creation care are inseparable. When human lives are devalued, Creation itself is wounded. When fear and violence are normalized, our shared home suffers. The Lenten journey is an annual reminder of death, resurrection, and the hope of renewal, mirroring the rhythms of the natural world. In the face of overwhelming harm to Creation, the message of Easter offers hope that transformation and rebirth are within reach.This Lenten season, may we be reminded of the power of community and the hope that can be found in building a transformative way forward—one that honors Creation, protects the vulnerable, and sets a course toward renewed life.

Madison Mayhew 
Policy & Advocacy Manager
Creation Justice Ministries​