Hello friends,

Like many of you, I’ve been watching the events unfolding in Minnesota, where thousands of federal agents from U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol have been deployed to detain and deport members of immigrant communities. It has become clear that these actions have not been limited to “violent criminals,” but have enveloped people based on skin color, accents, or other perceived foreignness—regardless of documented status.

These efforts have been fueled and defended by incendiary rhetoric from elected officials that contradicts the evidence and firsthand reporting on the ground. One of the most troubling aspects of this moment is how quickly facts are filtered through pre-determined political narratives, often making the truth itself seem irrelevant. This happens on all sides.

At the same time, ordinary people—often organized through churches—have stepped in to care for their neighbors. Some protest peacefully. Others deliver food, provide rides to school and medical appointments, and help cover rent. Others document raids and alert communities when agents are present. 

These neighbors are showing up for one another at real cost - including the cost of their lives.

I approach this moment not through a partisan lens, but as a follower of Jesus. Jesus expanded the meaning of “neighbor” to uphold the dignity of all human life. 

More radical still, Jesus calls us to love our enemies—to seek the good even of those we disagree with. The question is not who deserves compassion, but whether we will extend the same grace God has freely given us in Christ. Jesus refused to place any conditions on love. He gave his life for the whole world: those who disagree with us, undocumented immigrants, and federal agents alike.

No matter where we land politically, I hope we can agree that all people are created in the image of God.

I share this not to tell you what to think or do, but to say: if you are scared, grieving, or angry, you are not alone. I feel this too, and I’ve heard from many of you who care deeply about what is happening in our country and our neighborhoods. For many, responding with love and protection for others is simply an expression of faith. This isn’t a political ideology—it’s a Christian way of life.

We chose the name The Commons because we want to be a community where people are safe, welcomed, and sustained by shared resources in Christ. We welcome nuance and multiple perspectives, while holding our ultimate allegiance to Jesus and seeking to grow in a distinctly Christ-like way.

I believe we can be Christ’s people in this moment. What is happening in Minneapolis might very well happen here in Massachusetts.

We’ll continue these conversations during Sunday gatherings and share opportunities as they arise. For now, we’ve created a page on our website under Resources called Meeting the Moment, which includes:

We’ll continue adding to these resources in the days ahead - I hope you find them helpful.

I don’t have all the answers, but I’m committed to following Jesus in this moment—trusting not in our own strength, but in the Spirit’s power (Zech. 4:6), and believing that God uses the “weak things of the world to shame the strong” (1 Cor. 1:27).

Reach out to one another for support and encouragement. Also know that we’re here for you: Matthew, Megan, and myself, as well as the members of our Advisory Council.

Under grace,

Matt Webel