Message from Bishop Wallace-Padgett: Charlottesville
August 14, 2017
Dear Friends,
As I have read and heard reports about the recent events in Charlottesville, Virginia, my heart has been filled with grief. I grieve:
- for those who were killed;
- for those who were injured physically;
- for those who feel hurt and unsafe as a result of the incident;
- that racism continues to be a prevalent reality in our country.
Grief often brings me to my knees in prayer. So I have also prayed. I pray for a day when:
- racism no longer exists;
- injustice of every kind is a distant memory;
- evil of any sort is eradicated from individual hearts, groups and nations.
Prayer often moves me to action. I acted by . . .
- reaching out to friends and colleagues in the aftermath of Charlottesville;
- writing this blog;
- asking God to show me ways in which I unknowingly contribute to the sins of injustice and racism;
- committing to identify and take intentional steps that lead to a more just society.
I invite you to join me in grieving, praying and acting in response to the Charlottesville event. Together we can make a difference in addressing the hatred, injustice and racism that exists in our communities, nation and world.
As always it is a privilege to serve as your bishop.
Blessings,
Debra Wallace-Padgett
Resident Bishop
North Alabama Conference
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