Messages of unity and acceptance are something Kirkland pastors have been preaching for years, and that tradition seems all the more important to them following the unrest many have experienced in the months before and after Donald Trump became the president of the United States.

“We’re called by God to literally love our neighbors no matter who they may be,” Life Community Church Lead Pastor Mike Ford said, echoing statements made by his colleagues, who include Lakeside Christian Church Senior Pastor Vince Armfield, Eastside Christian Fellowship Lead Pastor Dave Parker, Elevation Church Lead Pastor Ben Sterciuc and Church Without Walls Pastor Norm Willis.

They hope this message resonates not only with their own church members but with the community at large.

“It’s not one person who divided our country,” Parker said, referring to Trump. “But the leadership has to start paving the way … (demonstrating) there’s no ‘us’ or ‘them.’”

The pastors indicated a desire to see everyone transcend politics and work together.

“Before we have political ideas, we have to be basic humans,” Sterciuc, who is a Romanian immigrant, said.

“That’s what we’re teaching in our children’s ministries,” Armfield added. “We’ve got to be able to listen to one another with respect.”

This group of pastors and their churches, all located in or near downtown Kirkland, have been collaborating for a number of years, including worshipping together on Good Friday every year.

“The first command was the command to love,” Willis said, adding that they all believe in the power of having dialogues with others, especially those who have differing beliefs.

“Freedom of religion is the reason why I came to this country,” Sterciuc added. “That extends to any and all.”