Our historic church has faced many challenges throughout its 137-year history, including threats to its continuation and, today, to its very identity and legacy as a liberal institution. But liberalism’s values are the only values that have ever allowed human civilization to advance, even while facing constant resistance. Our congregation, in particular, has had a unique and crucial role in the maintenance and advancement of these values, which is why we must remember our heritage, recognize our responsibilities, and reclaim our mission and place in the world.