Love Boldly: It's Time to Take Off the Masks! Reflections on Matthew 22:34–46 | Pastor Marvel Souza What does it really mean to love boldly? This Sunday at Jason Lee Memorial United Methodist Church, we reflected on one of Jesus' most important teachings: Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself. It sounds simple, doesn't it? But living it out can be a real challenge! During my sermon, I shared a story from my ministry in Brasília, Brazil, that has stayed with me for many years. Back in 2014, I had the privilege of officiating the wedding of two men who had been together for more than fifteen years. For all those years, they had told their families they were just roommates. One of them came from a very religious family, and his aunt had even worked at the Vatican as a secretary for the Pope. They loved each other, but fear of rejection had kept them from living openly. When they started attending our church, something began to chang...
Founded by Rev. Marvel Souza, whose ministry spans Brazil and the United States, Grace Upon Grace Journal is an inclusive platform dedicated to faith, diversity, equity, and equality. Through articles, videos, podcasts, and timely news, we inspire meaningful conversations rooted in grace, hope, and the dignity of every person.