Starting the week of February 13, tens of thousands of people who object to Gov. Scott Walker's plan to remove collective bargaining rights from public employees have been protesting around the state.

There are clashing values in play here. Within our congregation, there are people who hold a variety of views on this and at the heart of who we are is to listen carefully and respectfully to one another. By doing that, we provide a model for the wider community of how to deal with disputes -- and we reaffirm our unity around the person and message of Jesus.

Here are some resources for thought. They tend to reflect the general support of faith traditions for having all voices at the table when decisions that affect people's lives are being made. They are not the last word on this topic.

Resources

"There is enough" - A reflection  by Rev. Steve Savides on the state budget.

A ministry of advocacy - A talk by Bishop Bruce Burnside

A few pastoral thoughts in the midst of anxiety - A letter from Pastor Phil

Pastor Phil's Mar. 9 Cap Times column on a faith response to budget issues

Wisconsin Religious Leaders Respond to State Budget Crisis (resources from the Wis Council of Churches) 

A reflection from Pastor Phil on why faith traditions support collective bargaining

Rev. Curt Anderson of First Cong UCC on God's concern for laborers (from the Huffington Post)

People of Faith United in Wisconsin (A God's Politics Blog entry from Pastor Phil)

Religious leaders stand up to defend workers (Pastor Phil in the Cap Times)

Photos from faith leaders rally and prayer vigil on Feb 22

Photos from faith presence at Feb. 26 rally

Photos from faith presence at Mar. 13 rally

Pastor Leah's sermon from Feb. 20: Called to More  

Pastor Phil's sermon from Feb. 27: Is God enough?