Lent brings us back to what matters. When we receive ashes and hear, “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” we remember something essential. Titles do not define us. Positions do not elevate us. We all stand equally before God as servants of Christ.
This truth shapes how we live and govern together in the United Church of Christ, and especially here in the Southwest Conference.
We practice covenant, not hierarchy.
Jesus showed us this way. When the disciples questioned their importance and status, Jesus did not set up a chain of command. He taught them to serve, wash their feet, and walked beside them. He formed a community rooted in humility, trust, and shared responsibility. He showed leadership grows from service, not control.
We continue that same practice today.
In the Southwest Conference, there are no Associations. The Conference carries those responsibilities. When we say, “the Conference,” we do not mean a distant office or authority. We mean you.
The Conference is the churches.
The Conference is the pastors.
The Conference is the lay leaders.
The Conference is the people.
The Conference exists because of the covenant we share with one another in Christ.
Together, we authorize ministers, support congregations, and care for the church’s health and future. This means we act by sharing responsibility and building trust, not by imposing hierarchy.
Remember, this covenantal way means we must listen, practice humility, and trust the Spirit works through everyone—not just a few. The key takeaway is that everyone has a role and responsibility in our shared life.
Lent reminds us why this matters.
As Jesus walked toward the cross, he did not seek power. He chose the service. He entrusted himself to God. He showed us that faithfulness grows through humility, trust, and love.
We follow that same path.
The Southwest Conference does not stand above the churches. The Conference stands with the churches. We walk together. We discern together. We serve together.
The key takeaway for Lent is to renew our covenant with one another, remembering that Christ calls us to walk alongside—not apart from—each other.
As we journey toward Easter, we trust Christ guides us together.