There is an old adage that says, ‘the more things change the more they stay the same’. Saturday, August 26 three Black Americans were shopping at a local Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida and hate snuffed out their lives.
Yes, America witnessed yet another vicious act of hatred and injustice by a white supremist with an AR 15 semi-automatic weapon.
As I navigated through my feelings, both pain and anger, I tried to find the words to say but all I could do was cry out to the Lord!
On Monday, Aug 28 God heard my cry in a response from Bishop Peggy Johnson of the New England Annual Conference!
The powerful words written in her message to the New England Annual Conference and the entire connection, were bold, audacious and affirmed her unwavering commitment to speaking truth to power.
Ironically,this hate unfolded during the 60th commemoration of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “I Have A Dream” speech that reminded us of striving for the beloved community.
Thank you, Bishop, for your HOLY BOLDNESS and for utilizing your Episcopal platform and your prophetic voice to address this blatant act of evil. It’s time for the redeemed of the Lord to speak out and say something, but more importantly – DO SOMETHING!
Keep praying,
Dr. Michael L. Bowie, Jr.
National Executive Director, SBC21
Read Bishop Johnson’s Complete Note (PDF)