For Such a Time as This: Interfaith Vigil
On January 29, 2026, members of the interfaith community gathered for a candlelight vigil at First Presbyterian Church in Santa Fe. What follow are a small selection of quotes from speakers.
“We come this evening to pray, to reflect, to listen, to commit ourselves to working toward a world of compassion, peace and justice…faith is not about being comfortable. It is about being courageous.”
– Rev. Andrew Black, First Presbyterian Church
“The light shining in the darkness is not a mere metaphor. It is our dedication to rebuilding a nation we can cherish.”
– US Congressional Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez
“Dietrich Bonhoeffer made a decision to stand up against violence, against those who violate human rights, against political overreach and the dehumanization of vulnerable groups of people.” Authorities must not trample God-given rights that are shared by every human being, regardless of their legal status. Doors are broken. People are terrified. Trust is eroded.”
– Archbishop John C. Wester, Catholic Diocese of Santa Fe
“It is a time for us not to lose our faith in our democracy. It is time for us to stand up and to uphold the values that created democracy… [the 9th precept of the Order of Interbeing says] we will speak out about situations of injustice.
This is a vow we take, even when doing so may make difficulties for us or threaten our safety. Now, I believe this admonition is especially important at this time. And I’m also recalling the words of Alexei Navalny: you, we are not allowed to give up. We are not allowed to give up.”
– Roshi Joan Halifax, Upaya Zen Buddhist Center
“Moral clarity does not require violence nor hateful words, only courage of heart and stepping up to do the right thing at the right time…
May we, in this moment, with all its uncertainty, with all its instability, and with all its fear, may we precisely recognize that perhaps, just maybe, God has been preparing us for a moment in a time such as this.”
– Rev Andrew Black, First Presbyterian Church
“Our lives begin to end the day that we become silent about things that matter.”
– Rev. Martin Luther King, as quoted by Rev Andrew Black, First Presbyterian Church