The Four Loves: 1. Love for the South and 2. Love for the Self

s we continue to discern God’s call on our lives at St. Paul’s, your leaders are considering a four part emphasis for our mission.

Let's consider the first two: Love for the South and Love for the Self.

Love for the South is about our call to love our neighbors in the parish to which God has called us. Since the closest southerly parish is DeSoto, that means, we've got a spiritual responsibility for our neighbors in Jefferson County and South County, as well as South City. That's a lot of people! 

You may already know that there was a time with the KKK adopted highway 55 in Jefferson County, just south of St. Louis. That history speaks to the racism and classism of our area. Let's embody Christ's love by inviting our next- door, around-the-block, and down-the-highway neighbors to Church. In Jesus, we know that all people are loved and welcomed equally. Unpacking our own xenophobia is part of Love for the South. Perhaps you have ideas about this too. They are welcome!

Love for the Self is about our call to Love our neighbors as our selves (Mark 12:31). If we can't honor and cultivate our inner lives, we are not equipped to love others. As part of this commitment, we strive to create safe space for brokenness, learning space for healing and growing, and welcome space for differences of experience and perspective. Love for the Self is a foundational place for us to welcome the healing, transformational power of Jesus.

As you discern what these loves might mean for you, please give your feedback and thoughts. Your leaders are eager to hear from you and be guided by our shared discernment. Below is a survey that can start you off on the process. But don't stop there, keep talking and praying!

​ --Pastor Rebecca