Reflections on the 38th Annual Pulpit Exchange Between Third Baptist Church and Congregation Emanu-El
Last weekend, Third Baptist Church and Congregation Emanu-El came together once again for the 38th Annual Pulpit Exchange, a cherished tradition that exemplifies unity, compassion, and shared purpose. As part of our 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Weekend, this exchange highlighted the enduring bond between our two faith communities and their commitment to justice, understanding, and uplifting one another.
Messages of Connection and Action
Both Friday’s and Sunday’s sermons by Rev. Devon Crawford and Rabbi Ryan Bauer offered profound reflections on our shared responsibilities in today’s world. We were reminded that to combat dangerous demagoguery, we must arm ourselves with facts and reason, love and compassion. Much like redwood trees that grow to towering heights by being connected through a network of roots underground, we too must stay connected, lifting each other up in solidarity and mutual support. These words challenge us to stay vigilant, grounded in truth and love, as we work together to build a more just and compassionate world.
A Legacy of Partnership
This exchange also reflects a long history of collaboration between Third Baptist Church and Congregation Emanu-El. Together, our communities co-authored and continue to support the Back on Track after-school tutoring program, which provides critical educational resources to youth in San Francisco. This partnership is a testament to what can be achieved when we unite across cultural and religious divides, guided by shared values and a commitment to justice.
Moving Forward Together
As we celebrate 38 years of this meaningful tradition, we look ahead with hope and determination. The bond between Third Baptist Church and Congregation Emanu-El continues to inspire, showing us the power of connection, dialogue, and love in action. Let us carry forward the lessons of this weekend: to fight injustice with truth and compassion, to strengthen the networks that bind us together, and to lift one another higher as we work toward a brighter future for all.
Rev. Devon Jerome Crawford delivers the sermon at Congregation Emanu-El Friday January 17, 2025.
Third Baptist Church and Congregation Emanu-El 38th Annual Pulpit Exchange, Sunday, January 19, 2025 at Third Baptist Church.
Rabbi Ryan Bauer, Richard and Rhoda Goldman Senior Rabbi of Congregation Emanu-El delivers the sermon at Third Baptist Church Sunday, January 19, 2025. Photo courtesy of Susan Adler.
Rabbi Ryan Bauer and Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown at Third Baptist Church, Sunday, January 19, 2025. Photo courtesy of Susan Adler.