With grieving hearts and deep concern, we watch. We watch as images of anger, fear, racism, and hate fill our screens. We watch as protesters march and counter-protestors respond. We watch as death and tragedy seemingly become more commonplace than ever before.
We watch, but we cannot be silent.
We draft this statement with the firm belief that we are all made in the image of God, regardless of color or ethnicity. We affirm that racism, bigotry, and hatred do not reflect, in any way, the character of Jesus Christ. We stand united to boldly condemn white supremacy and all ideals that promote hate.
The events of the past week in Charlottesville, VA have reminded us that though our country may be divided, the Church of Jesus Christ must stand united. United against voices that seek to elevate one group over an other. United against those who seek to dehumanize others. United against racism in any and all forms. United to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Our faith in Jesus Christ compels us to act – to seek justice and to love mercy. The Parable of the Good Samaritan laid out in Luke 10, speaks to our duty to look after the welfare of all those we encounter. As Church United, we pray that the love of Christ would shine through the Churches of our communities in new and unprecedented ways. We pray that the love found in Jesus Christ would stir our hearts towards justice — towards a time where racism, hatred, and evil are no more.
Together with one voice,
Church United South Florida.
