November 4, 2025

If Our Faith Doesn’t Lead to Compassion, It’s Not Faith at All

By Rev. Dr. David L. Madsen

Scrolling through social media lately, I’ve seen too many posts that break my heart, and, I believe, break God’s heart too.


Posts that mock the poor. That blame immigrants for their suffering. That use racial slurs or suggest that those who are unhoused or are simply lazy. These aren’t just unkind, they’re unholy.


Let’s be clear: the Bible doesn’t whisper about justice. It shouts.

“Whatever you did for the least of these,” Jesus said, “you did for me.”
“Share your bread with the hungry,” said the prophet Isaiah.
“Do not oppress the stranger,” said the law of Moses.


This isn’t political correctness. It’s spiritual integrity.


If we claim to follow Christ but post hate, we’re not walking in faith,

we’re walking in fear. And fear is a terrible teacher. It makes us

small. It makes us cruel. It makes us forget that every person,

housed or unhoused, gay or straight, citizen or newcomer, rich or

poor, is made in the image of God.


So here’s my plea:
Let’s speak with compassion.
Let’s post with humility.

Let’s live like we actually believe what we say on Sunday.

Because faith without love is just noise. And the world has enough noise already.


December 22, 2025
A Community Concert Marking 60 Years of a Holiday Classic
By Fr. Michael Plekon December 20, 2025
By Fr. Michael Plekon
December 20, 2025
Fr. George Keith, a retired Episcopal priest who served St. Barnabas and worked closely with the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center, continues to be held in prayer by the parish and wider community. He is remembered by name at every Sunday service, reflecting the lasting impact of his ministry and presence in Borrego Springs. Fr. George receives regular visits from the priests and people of St. Barnabas, as well as from Archdeacon Cindy Campos and local San Diego priest Fr. Richard Vevia. Recently, Jan Naragon and Fr. Michael Plekon spent time visiting Fr. George, offering prayer and companionship on behalf of the parish.  The photos below capture moments from that visit and the continued care that surrounds him.
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December 22, 2025
A Community Concert Marking 60 Years of a Holiday Classic
By Fr. Michael Plekon December 20, 2025
By Fr. Michael Plekon
December 20, 2025
Fr. George Keith, a retired Episcopal priest who served St. Barnabas and worked closely with the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center, continues to be held in prayer by the parish and wider community. He is remembered by name at every Sunday service, reflecting the lasting impact of his ministry and presence in Borrego Springs. Fr. George receives regular visits from the priests and people of St. Barnabas, as well as from Archdeacon Cindy Campos and local San Diego priest Fr. Richard Vevia. Recently, Jan Naragon and Fr. Michael Plekon spent time visiting Fr. George, offering prayer and companionship on behalf of the parish.  The photos below capture moments from that visit and the continued care that surrounds him.
Show More

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