As we approach a presidential election on November 5th, citizens of every political stripe worry about the future of our nation. Pundits wring their hands. Extremists sow division and fear. From overseas, our allies and adversaries hold their breath to see which path America will choose.

On Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church’s clergy will be on hand in the Sanctuary and Narthex from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, to pray with and for any who stop by. We will also have a special prayer service, Prayers for a Divided Nation, at 12:30 pm, in the Sanctuary and online. To all who would like to sit for a few minutes in prayer or contemplation, or those who want to worship Almighty God in the company of others on this important day, our doors will be open for you.

“Can we heal this divided house?”

In the twelfth chapter of Matthew, Jesus (after casting out a demon) tells a crowd, “No city or house divided against itself will stand.” Throughout the ages, literary figures and politicians have quoted this verse. Perhaps the most famous is Abraham Lincoln, speaking in 1858, a few short years before his election to the presidency and the outbreak of the Civil War.

“A house divided against itself cannot stand.”

“The truth in Christ’s statement begs an important question,” says the Rev. Dr. Scott Black Johnston, Fifth Avenue’s Senior Pastor. “Can we be passionate about our politics, committed to casting a vote, and also focused on the idea that no matter who wins and who loses, we as people of faith have work to do, difficult work, work assigned to us by Jesus? Can we heal this divided house? Can we love both our neighbors and our political ‘enemies’ in the days ahead? Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church is going to try its faithful best. We welcome all to join us in reverent prayer throughout Election Day.”

If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please email [email protected].