A STATEMENT OF UNITY
Para la versión en español, vea a continuación.
August 21, 2017
PREAMBLE As pastors and ministry leaders in Richmond, Virginia, we desire to express, with a unified voice, our sorrow over last weekend’s tragic events in Charlottesville. These events underscore the broken state of our commonwealth, our country, and our world. Richmond, Virginia has long been a significant location in the dark history of racism and violence in America. As Christian leaders in this city, we declare, with a unified voice, that the gospel of Jesus Christ speaks clearly and relevantly in this particular moment. In this light, the undersigned pastors and ministry leaders of Metro Richmond unite to announce what follows.
WE AFFIRM that every human being is created in the image of God, and therefore carries the inherent value and dignity of God’s design. We affirm that the variety of human cultures on earth is a beautiful expression of God's love for diversity. We affirm that Jesus Christ was crucified and resurrected not only to offer humankind the gift of eternal life, but also to shatter every division—social, political, economic, or racial—which would separate us. We affirm that God’s consummated Kingdom will be a place of rich diversity and cultural expression. We affirm that the church is called to be a community that reflects that present and future Kingdom.
WE REJECT the ideology of white supremacy, including antisemitism, as an unqualified evil, a denunciation of the gospel, and a heresy which wars against God’s design for human culture and creation. We reject the notion that white people, or any collection of humans of any culture, are superior to any other. We reject any ideology that seeks to erect or maintain divisions that God has torn down through Jesus Christ. We reject the efforts to place the good of one race or one nation above the good of all, for God desires all people to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth.
WE REPENT because the church has been complicit in the sins of racism, either through the defense of slavery, segregation, and discrimination, or through passive silence and inactivity. We repent because Christians have played a major role in helping create the segregation and racial injustice that we see in our city and nation today. We repent of our own racism, fear, and hatred, both conscious and unconscious. We repent of our reluctance to be agents of healing and reconciliation in our churches, in our city and in our nation.
WE RESOLVE to preach, teach, and advocate against the sins of racism. We resolve to lead in the way of love, and to seek ways to heal the divisions that separate races and cultures in our city. We resolve to listen to those who have been wounded and dehumanized by racism. We resolve to pray fervently for God’s healing and reconciliation. We resolve to help our churches become more hospitable and welcoming communities to diverse people.
Finally, we resolve to pursue Jesus Christ’s perfect standard of equality, justice, and love in our churches, city, and country.
Linda Abbey, Bon Air Baptist
Min Ronald Abraham, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Wallace Adams-Riley, St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Heather Agnello, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Norma Aguilar, Ramsey Memorial UMC
Ryan Ahlgrim, First Mennonite Church of Richmond
Cassandra Albert, East End Fellowship
Tremayne Albert, East End Fellowship
Adlai Allen, Chief Cornerstone Baptist Church Goochland
Courtney Allen, Grace Baptist Church
Barbara Ambrose, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church
Melaine Amerson, Remnant Church and Miraculous Massages
Carmelita Anderson, Mt. Gilead FGIM
James Anderson, BlessRVA
Lonnie Anderson, Mt. Gilead FGIM
Tim Andrews, West End Presbyterian Church
Robert Andrews, Christ Presbyterian Church
Susan Andrews, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Joshua Andrzejewski, VCU Health, Chaplain
Eva Angell, Nottoway prison ministry
William Angus, Christian Medical and Dental Association
Jennifer Anthony, Elevation Church - RVA Extension
Dr Scott Armistead, Richmond Christian Medical and Dental Association
Michele Armstrong, Little Zion Baptist Church
Lisa Arnt, Mount Gilead FGIM
Elena Aronson, Arrabon
Fr. Jim Arsenault, St. Elizabeth Catholic Church
Nii Aryee, Northside Church of Richmond
Randy Ashcroft, REDclay Ministries
Shameika Atkins, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel international Ministries
Garretha Atkinson, Mt Gilead International Ministries
Marlene Austin, Mt Gilead FGIM
Joseph B, Epiphany Lutheran Church
Ede Bahia, Richmond Life Center
Abbott Bailey, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church
David Bailey, Arrabon
Emmett Bailey, STEP Richmond
Brandon Baldwin, Cornerstone Assembly of God
Michael Bard, The Well
Thomas Barila, Third Church
Betsy Barkley, Deep Passion Ministries
Gretta Barnes, Roman Catholic Diocese of Richmond, retire; member Holy Rosary Parish
Chris Barras, Area 10 Faith Community
Matt Bates, Centenary United Methodist Church
Frank Sheila Battle, The Battle Station
Wayne Beachy, First Mennonite Church of Richmond
Stephan Beatty, Diocese of Virginia
Stefon Beck, Century Church
Heather Beckmann, Hope Church
Mark Becton, Grove Avenue Baptist Church
Dennis and Loretta Beeman, Church of the Redeemer Catholic Church
Leslie Belfield, Mount Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Jim Bennett, Richmond Hill
Mitch Bennett, Mechanicsville Christian Center
Scott Bergum, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Katie Betts, Young Life
Rev. Trudy Betts, Ashland Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Julie Bilodeau, CrossOver Healthcare Ministry
LaShawn Blackwell, Mt. Gilead FGIM
Buck Blanchard, Episcopal Diocese of Virginia
Weezie Blanchard, St. Mary's Episcopal Church
Dave Blanco, Young Life- Hanover County
Carolyn Lewis Bledsoe, Richmond Fellowship of Ministers' Wives and Ministers' Widows
Earl Bledsoe, Quioccasin Baptist Church
Ann Blitchington, Bon Air Baptist Church
Brian Blount, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Ajai Blue-Saunders, Jobs RVA/Jobs for Life
Joel Blunk, Richmond Hill
Bill Bngham, Cambridge Baptist Church
Casey Bodlak, Church Hill Activities and Tutoring
Nathan Boehm, Family Worship Center
Jeff Boggess, Atlee Church
Joseph Bolick, Epiphany Lutheran Church
Becky Boone, Sycamore Presbyterian Church
Molly Bosscher, St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Sandra Bottoms, Shady Grove United Methodist Church, Mechanicsville
John Boucher, St. Anne's Episcopal, Appomattox
Matt Bouknight, Young Life
Jonathan Bowell, Manchester Church Plant
Peter Bowell, Hope Church
Brice Bowman, West End Presbyterian Church
David and Linda Boyce, Kingsway Prison and Family Outreach
Gail Boyd, Mt Gilead Full Gospel International Ministry
D Tyrone Brandon, Little Zion Baptist Church
Lloyd Braswell, Chester Baptist Church
Janice Bricker, West End Presbyterian Church
Joe Bricker, West End Presbyterian Church
Erich Bridges, Grace Community Baptist Church
Bryan Briggs, Destination Church
Rev. Sharon Broaddus, God's House Of Royalty
Spencer Broce, Lebanon United Methodist Church, Hanover
Florence Brooks, Pinnacle Living, Chaplain
Henry Brooks, Mt. Gilead FGIM
Shawn Brooks, MT.Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Wendy Brooks, Mt. Gilead FGIM
Chris Brown, Victory Christian Church
Joe Brown, West End Presbyterian Church
Leah Brown, Victory Christian Church
Leon Brown, Crown and Joy Presbyterian Church
Phillip Brown, Huguenot Road Baptist Church
Tom Brown, United Methodist retired
Rev. S. Mark Browne, Christ Community Church, AMiA
Don and Joyce Burgess, Hope Church
Robert Burns, Crestwood Presbyterian Church
Glenn Burris, The Foursquare Church
Eleanor Burt, St Paul's Episcopal Church
Harry Burt, St Paul's Episcopal Church
Collie and Audrey Burton, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Jeff Butler, Woodlawn Presbyterian Church
Garvin Byrd, Word Of God Fellowship
Diane Byrnes, Church of the Redeemer, Catholic
Frances Caldwell, GoTaP Consulting
Lynne Caldwell, Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology
Ben Campbell, St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Vivian Campbell, DeWitt Reformed Church
Heather Capel, Family Worship Center, Chesterfield
Jason Cashing, Gregory Memorial Presbyterian Church
Amie Carter, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Dominic Carter, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Marty Cates, Sycamore Presbyterian
Valerie Catrow, City Church of Richmond
Mike Cauthorne, Centerpoint Church
Laurel Chalifoux, West End Assembly of God
Cecil Chambers, Skipwith Baptist Church
Lynne Chambers, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Jonathan Chan, Church Hill Activities & Tutoring
Tiffanie Chan, West End Presbyterian Church
Robert Chesnut, Gayton Kirk Presbyterian
Buddy Childress, Needle's Eye Ministries
Esther Choi, First Presbyterian Church
Dianne Claiborne, Mechanicsville Christian Center
Michael Clang, Pinnacle Living, Chaplain
Stephen Clark, Virginia United Methodist Foundation
Alice Cates Clarke, Chester Baptist Church
Littycia Clay-Crawley, New LIfe Community Church, Manquin
Patricia E Clement D Min, St. Ann Catholic Church, Colonial Hgts.
Randy Clipp, Monument Heights Baptist Church
Chris Cobb, Second Baptist Church
Mandy England Cole, Ginter Park Baptist Church
Don Coleman, East End Fellowship
Malinda Collier, St. Mark's Episcopal Church
Landon Collins, Chestnutgrove Baptist Church
Louis Collins, Garden of Gethsemane Ministries
Mary Kay Collins, First Presbyterian Church Richmond
Mattie Collins, Grace Community Baptist Church
Tom Collins, Grace Community Baptist Church
Pastor Charles Cook, Embassy of Heaven Ministries
LaKeisha Cook, Saint Paul's Baptist Church
Frances Cooper, St Mark's United Methodist Church
Andrew Conrad, Spring Run Presbyterian Church
Steve Constable, Stony Point Church
Oscar Contreras, Radio Host-WBTK Radio Poder 1380AM
David Coogan, St. Paul's Episcopal Church
John D Copenhaver, Methodist Federation for Social Action
Gene Cornett, Bethany Place Baptist Church
Tim Cornwell, West End Presbyterian Church
Jamie and Stacy Cowen, Tikvat Israel Congregation
Joy Crawford, Welborne United Methodist Church
Wayne Credle, First Shiloh Baptist Church
Gwen Corley Creighton, Peter Paul Development Center
Elder Council, Grace Community Baptist Church
Trey Critzer, Atlee Church
Lacette Cross, Restoration Fellowship RVA
Chris Crowley, Chamberlayne Baptist Church
Kim Crowley, River Road Church Baptist
David Curtis, St. John's Episcopal Church
Reggie Dabney, Shiloh Baptist Church
Anthony Dagner, Word of God International Ministries
Chip Dandridge, Hope City Church
John Daniel, Retired Pastor of Crestwood Presbyterian Church
Dave Danks, CityReach Church
Erik Davidson, Lyndale Baptist
Todd Davidson, Three Chopt Presbyterian Church
Arnold 'Win' Davis, Cambridge Baptist Church
Billy and Joy Davis, Caffeinated Christian Ministries
Jonathan Davis, Beale Memorial Baptist Church
Judy Webb Davis, All Saints Episcopal Church
Laura Davis, WMUV (Woman's Missionary Union of VA)
Michael Davis, Mt. Gliead Full Gospel Intl Min
Price London Davis, Mosby Memorial Baptist Church
Shannon Davis, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Trina Davis, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Morgan Dawson, Thrive ministry at John Tyler
Rev. Jenny Day, Bon Air United Methodist Church
William Deal, Derbyshire Baptist Church
Becki Dean, St. Michael's Episcopal Church, Bon Air, VA
Renee Delgado, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church
Shangwok Deng, West End Presbyterian Church
William Dericott, Everlasting Spirit Ministries
Caitlin Deyerle, Southminster Presbyterian Church
Carolyn Mitchell Dillard, Zion Hill Baptist Church
Sarah Doerfler, West End Presbyterian Church
Claudia Dorsey, Mt Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Katherine Dougherty, All Souls Episcopal Church
Clint Dowda, Grace Community Presbyterian Church
Roge Dowdy, CROSS-PATHS Ministries, United Methodist
Casey Doyle, Young Life
Susan Drumwright, Third Church
Mac Dunn, West End Assembly of God
David Dwight, Hope Church
Joshua Earman, City Church of Richmond
Steve Eason, First Presbyterian, Richmond
Craig Eastman, Cross and Bars
Lindon Eaves, St. Peter's Episcopal and St. John's Episcopal, Richmond
Susan Eaves, St.Peter's Episcopal and St John's Episcopal
Tina Eddings, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International
Leonard Edloe, New Hope Fellowship
Tyler Edmonds, All Saints Apostolic Church
Gloria Edrys, West End Assemblies of God
Ken Edwards, Board Chair, S.T.E.P. Richmond
Robin Edwards, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Lissa Eggleston, Crestwood Presbyterian Church
Jeff Ell, North City Church
William Ellis, First Baptist Church, Ashland, Va
Pastor Joe Ellison, City Park Church
Raymond Elmore, Chamberlayne Baptist Church
Kerra Becker English, Ashland Presbyterian Church
Alexander Evans, Second Presbyterian - Richmond
Charlotte Evans, Westminster Canterbury Richmond
Alexis Fathbrucknet, Retire UMC clergy
Jeff Fehn, Harmony Vineyard Church
Eniko Ferenczy, Southminster Presbyterian Church
James Ferguson, Richmond Christian Center Inc.
Renee Ferguson, Richmond Christian Center, Inc.
Tony and Lara Finnie, West End Presbyterian Church
Beverly Fitch, Inner Healing Ministries
Brian Fleming, Colonial Place Christian Church
The Rev. Louis Florio, Messiah Lutheran
Daniel Floyd, Lifepoint Church
Patience Flynn, St. Giles Church
Christy Foldenauer, Tomahawk Baptist Church
Amy Foley, Camp Hope / Hope For Families
Harrison Ford, Reformed University Fellowship at VCU
Jerimy Ford, PCC (Passion Community Church)
Douglas Forrester, Reveille United Methodist Church
Nicholas Forti, The Fork Church of St Martin's Parish
Sarah Forti, Ramsey United Methodist Church
Elaine Bowen Fowler, Providence Presbyterian Church
Jeffery Fox, Abundant Life Church of Deliverance
Susan Fox, Unitarian Universalist Community Church Glen Allen
Sammy Frame, Praxis Church
Shawn Franco, Cornerstone Assembly of God
LouAnn Frederick, Richmond District,United Methodist Church, retired
Matt Fretwell, Oak Hall Baptist Church
Mike Frontiero, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Eric Fulcher, Hunton Baptist Church
Andrew Fuller, World Horizons
Tucker Frye, Young Life
Cynthia Gaines, Spring Creek Baptist Church Bridge Builders
Debra Gannaway, Mt. Gilead FGIM
Christine Garcia, Christ Ascension Episcopal Church, Richmond, VA
Terry Menefee Gau, St. Thomas' Episcopal Church
Alonza George, Garden of Gethsemane Ministries
Tim Gerde, Retired United Methodist Church
Howard Germany, Carlisle Avenue Baptist Church
Kevin Germer, Christ Presbyterian Church
Carmen Germino, St. James's Episcopal Church
Sarah Gholson, Trinity United Methodist Ch. Amelia, VA
Marie Giblin, Sacred Heart Church
Jon Gibson, Restoration Church
Marvin Gilliam, Jr., Mount Oni Baptist Church
Beth Givens, Welborne United Methodist Church
Jasen Glasbrenner, YWAM Virginia
Daniel Glaze, River Road Church, Baptist
Wendell Globig, East End Fellowship
Frank Goare, Hunton Baptist Church
Mike and Jennifer Godzwa, Richmond Chi Alpha Campus Ministries
Susan Goff, Episcopal Diocese of Virginia
Katir B. Gooch, The Pace Center -VCU's United Methodist Campus Ministry
Aaron Goodman, United Church
Thomas Goodrich, Meadows Presbyterian Church
Carter Goolsby, Mechanicsville Christian Center
Patricia Gould-Champ, Faith Community Baptist Church
Maurice Graham, Shepherd's Staff Ministry
Shirley Smith Graham, Christ Church Episcopal
Joyce Grambo, Varina Church of the Nazarene
Paul Granger, Church Hill Activities and Tutoring
R Charles Grant, Presbytery of the James - 1st Congregational Christian UCC
Gale Grant, Swansboro Baptist Church
Catherine Gray, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Carol Green, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
David Green, Christ Community Church, AMIA
George Greene, St Giles Church
Kevin Greene, West End Presbyterian Church
Kim Greene, West End Presbyterian Church
Pierre Greene, Poplar Mount Baptist Church
Rev. James Griffin, St. Paul's Catholic Church
Kendra Grimes, Chaplain, Randolph-Macon College
Sam Grozdanov, Branch's Baptist Church
Ray Gryder, EcuMENTORS Inc.
Norma and Edward Guenther, Church of the Redeemer, Mechanicsville
Scott Gwynn, Christ Presbyterian Church
Conrad Haas, St. Mary's Church, Suffolk, VA
Donald Habersack, The Family Worship Center
Jon-Marc Haden, FOCUS Richmond
Ben Hadley-Goggin, United Methodist Church
Sarah Hale, Urban Hope
Otis Hall, Bon Air Baptist church
Jim Hamacher, Middle District Baptist Association
Sean Hamon, First Baptist Ashland
J. Scott Harding, The Father's House Church
Lyn Whitley Harding, Welborne United Methodist Church
James T. Hardy, HOPE Ministries
Dan Hargreaves, Christ Presbyterian Church
Betsy Hart, Robinson Theater//United Church
Duane E. Hardy, Seven Pines Baptist Church, President, Henrico Ministers' Conference
Albert Harris, Mt.Gilead FGIM
Brian Harris, Rural Health Group, Inc.
Clover Harris, River of Life Community Church Assemblies of God
Evelyn Harris, Good Shepherd Baptist Church
Peyton Harris, River of Life Community Church
Tiffany Harris-Greene, Poplar Mount Baptist Church
Mike Harton, Member, Richmond's FBC
Kip Hart, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship at VCU
Tracy Hartman, Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond, West Richmond Church of the Brethren
Josh Hayden, First Baptist Church Ashland
Theresa Headen, Mt Gilead FGIM
Dan Helland, East End Assembly of God
Bishop Alroy S Henderson, New Direction Overcomer's International Fellowship
Mike Hennigan, Victory Christian Church
Matthew Hensley, Huguenot Road Baptist Church
Chad Herndon, New Song Church, a United Methodist Faith Community (Mechanicsville)
Roger Hershberger, Youth With A Mission
Robert Hetherington, Richmond Hill
Derwin Hickman, Divine World Changers International Ministries
Linda Higgins, St John's UCC
Rock Higgins, Episcopal Diocese of Virginia
Amanda Hill, Virginia Commonwealth University Health
Chad Hill, JCUMC
Douglas Hill, United Methodist Church, Retired
Keith Hill, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Sarah Hill, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Loral Hoagland, Swift Creek Presbyterian Church Bridge Builders
Roy Hoagland, Swift Creek Presbyterian Church Bridge Builders
Rob Hodous, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship at University of Richmond
Michael Hogue, West End Alliance Church
Donna Holder, Westover Hills United Methodist Church
Erin Holler, Grace Community Presbyterian Church
Mark Holland, St. Stephens Baptist Church
Charles Thomas Holliday, Episcopal Diocese of Virginia
Guy Holloway, Grace Community Baptist Church
Sarah Holloway, Arrabon
Tim Holtz, Richmond Christian Leadership Initiative (RCLI)
Chetara Hooker, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Matt Hoole, Mechanicsville Christian Center
Becky Hopkins, Bon Air Baptist Church
Kathy Hoppe, Shepherd of the Valley
Frederick Horn, Ginter Park Baptist Church
Aaron Houghton, Ampthill Presbyterian Church
Melisa Hubbard, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Jon Huckins, The Global Immersion Project
Karen Howe, West End Presbyterian Church
Brian Hughes, Passion Community Church
Mark Hughes, West End Baptist Church, N. Dinwiddie
Bobby Hulme-Lippert, Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church
Bob Hummer, Moments of Hope Outreach
Karla Hunt, Christ Ascension Episcopal Church, Richmond, VA
Dontay Hunter, Columbus Christian Center
Rodney Hunter, Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church
Darryl Husband, Mt. Olivet Church
Rick Hutton, Third Church
Joel Ingram, Tabernacle Baptist Church
Laura Inscoe, Retired
Ray Inscoe, Presbytery of the James
Clinton Jackson, Pine Street Baptist Church
Gregory Jackson, Mount Olive Baptist Church
Mario Jackson, Northside Church of Richmond
Marlon Jackson, Commanded Harvest Ministries
Michele Jacques, Free Woman, Free World
Carla Jean-McNeil Jackson Esq., Saint Paul's Baptist Church
Janet James, The Gayton Kirk
William James, United Methodist Retired
Pastor Yolanda James, Anointing Women of A Greater Call International Outreach Ministry
Heather Jarvis, West End Presbyterian Church
Mike Jefferson, Mechanicsville Christian Center
Ann Jenkins, Metropolitain Church of Richmond
Butch Johnson, Northside Outreach Center
Darcey Johnson, River Road United Methodist Church
Elizabeth Johnson, Mt Gilead Full Gospel Baptist Church
Everett Johnson, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Geraldine Johnson, Abundant Life Church of Christ
Jeremy Johnson, Urban Doxology
Minister Lydia Johnson, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Robert Johnson, New Hanover Presbyterian Church
Bishop Ramone Johnson, Kingdom Covenant Empowerment Center Dinwiddie, VA
Sandra Johnson, Mount Olivet Church
Sheena Johnson, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Sheryl Johnson, RVA Rapid Transit Clergy Committee
Keith Johnston, Retired pastor, Presbytery of the James
Shannon S. Johnston, Episcopal Diocese of Virginia
Anthony Jones, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Gary Jones, St. Stephen's Episcopal Church
Herbert Jones, Church of Our Saviour, Episcopal
Jimia Jones, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Kim Jones, Mt Gilead FGIM
Shaka Jones, Mount Gilead fgim
Sheretta Jones, Mt Gilead FGIM
Terrance Jones, Mountain of Blessings Christian Center
Travis Jones, Motivation Church
Cliff Jordan, Movement Church
Mac Jordan, Bon Air Baptist Buford Road Campus
Mark Jordan, Ironbridge Church
LJ Jaworski, Third Church
Tim Joyce, YMCA of Greater Richmond
BJ Joyner, Hope Church
Jesse Joyner, For HIS Kidz Ministries
Brian Justice, St Paul's Episcopal Church
Lisa Kearse, Crown of Life Ministries
Edward Keating, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Kristopher Keating, Hillside Missions Organization
David Keill, Christ Ascension Episcopal Church, Richmond, VA
Jay Kelchner, Shady Grove United Methodist Church (Mechanicsville)
Jesse Kell, Elijah House Academy
Bobby Kelland, Stony Point Presbyterian
Margaret Kelland, Stony Point Presbyterian
Mary Kelley, St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church
Laura Kelly, Chaplain
Janet Kelly, Virginia's Kids Belong
John Kelly, West End Assembly of God
Nikki Kelly, West End Assembly of God
Joe Kendrick, Black Creek
John Kerr, St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Blackstone, VA
Susan Kerr, Old North Church
Carla Pratt Keyes, Ginter Park Presbyterian Church
Ronnie Kitt, Chief Cornerstone Baptist Church, Goochland
Paul Klassen, Hope for Israel
Joseph Klenzmann, Church of The Holy Comforter
Evie Kling
Fritz Kling, Third Church
Maia Kling, Third Church
Val Kling, Third Church
James Kniseley, Christ Lutheran
Craig Kocher, Chaplain, University of Richmond
Deborah Koontz, Ramsey Memorial United Methodist Church
Russ Kowalski, Mila United Methodist Church
Curt Kruschwitz, Goochland Baptist Church
Jonathan Kruschwitz, Gayton Road Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Nicole Kuhl, Harvest Renewal Church
Dennis Lacheney, Christian Life Church
Kyle Lacheney, Christian Life Church
Kenny Lambiotte, U-Turn Sports
Kamau Lancaster, Mt. Gilead FGIM
Wynne Lankford, Southside Church of The Nazarene
John Lassiter, Atlee Church
Tim Latham, Third Church
Phil Lawson, Gayton Baptist Church
Gene LeCouteur, St. Stephen's Episcopal Church
Paul L'Ecuyer, Christian Life Church
Patsy Ledford, Stony Point Presbyterian Church
Alan Lee, Stony Point Church
Bob Lee, Huguenot Road Baptist Church
Cindy Lee, New Song United Methodist Church
Jeff Lee, Restoration Church
Rusty Lee, Westhunt Baptist
John Lefler, RiverCity Church
Kendra Lefler, RiverCity Church
Larry Lenow, Trinity United Methodist Church
Kathryn Lester-Bacon, Second Presbyterian Church
Robert Lewis, Hinton Avenue United Methodist Church (C'ville)
Sandra Lewis, Grace & Peace Community Ministries
Sharma D. Lewis, Resident Bishop of The United Methodist Church, Virginia Conference
Sharon Lewis, Open Well RVA
Dr. Steve Lewis, Dean, Higher Learning Bible Institute
Tom Lewis, PCC - Passion Community Church
Melissa Lincoln, Third Church
Beverly Lindsey, St. John's United Church of Christ
Charles Lindsey, Mount Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Cindy Lindsey, Mount Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Rose Lindsey, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Leonard Liu, Evergreen Community Church
Devin Livingston, Community of Grace Church
Lauren Lobenhofer, Gum Spring United Methodist Church
Carolyn Loftin, Urban Hope
Sherman Logan, First Unitarian Universalist of Richmond
Randy Lohr, Christ The King Lutheran Church
Michael Lomax, Westwood Baptist Church
Ann Long, West End Presbyterian Church
Harry Long, Sycamore Presbyterian Church
Matt Lorish, Northside Church of Richmond
Tom Love, Hope Church
Rev. Fletcher Lowe, St. Paul's Episcopal
Debra Lucas, St. Peter's United Methodist Church, Montpelier
David Luck, West End Alliance Church
Christopher Luhrman, Cru
Lori Luhrman, Cru @ VCU
Tom Lynch, First Baptist Church, Ashland
Malcoln Lynch, Associate Minister, Quioccasin Baptist Church
Maria Lynn, Hatcher Memorial Baptist Church
Ken and Olivia MacDonald, Swift Creek Presbyterian Church, Bridge Builders
Lillian Macpherson, YWAM Virginia
Jacqueline Madison-McCreary, Spring Creek Baptist Church
Carol Maher, ManyWaters Ministries, INC and St Francis Episcopal Church
John Maher, St. Francis Episcopal Church
Gina Maio, Church Hill Academy
Dianne Mallory, Bon Air Baptist & Transformative Leadership Solutions
Marilyn Maloney, Swift Creek Presbyterian Church Bridge Builders
Rev. Rachel Manke, Christ the King Lutheran
Mary Richerson Mann, Westover Baptist Church
Grant Mansfield, Seminarian, Episcopal Diocese of Virginia
Krista Manuel, Chester United Methodist Church
Gordon Mapes, Chester Presbyterian Church
Joan Maples, Central Baptist Church
Terry Maples, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Virginia
Kim Marble, Corridor Faith Community, Route 1 (Chesterfield)
Jordan Maroon, Needle's Eye Ministries
Dan Marotta, Redeemer Anglican Church
Christine Luckritz Marquis, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Rocky Marrin, 3WIDE Ministries
Jason Marshall, Cornerstone Assembly of God
Jeff Martin, Ironbridge Church
Jesse Martin, Atlee Church
Phillip Martin, Epiphany Evangelical Lutheran Church
Richard Martin, Huguenot Road Baptist Church
Adam Martino, United Church
Michael Maruca, Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School
Jerimy Mask, East End Fellowship
Dale and Kathy Mast, YWAM Virginia
Willie Matos, West End Alliance Church
Jake Maxwell, Bon Air Baptist Church
Rachel May, Boulevard UMC
Tom May, Celebration Church & Outreach Ministry
Michael Maye, Spirit of Fire Fellowship
Claire McAuliffe, Cambridge Baptist Church; Sigma Alpha Omega Christian Sorority Inc
Wendy McCaig, Embrace Richmond
Joshua McCauley, Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church
Lynn McClintock, Westminster Canterbury Richmond
Micah McCreary, New Brunswick Theological Seminary
Amanda McCullough, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship at Randolph-Macon College
Amelia McDaniel, St. Mary's Episcopal Church
Rick McDaniel, Richmond Community Church
Lisa McGehee, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church
Steve McGehee, St. Stephen's Episcopal Church
Chris McLain, Shady Grove United Methodist Church
Daniel McNamara, InterVarsity at Reynolds Community College
Jay McNeal, United Faith Leaders
Joseph McWilliams, Trinity United Methodist Church
Tracie Meadows, Third Church
Danny Meads, The Celebration Center
Tom and Marci Meels, St. Giles
Jessie Mejias, Finding Home Institute
Brent Melton, All Saints Episcopal Church
Michael Mercatante Jr, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church
Matt Merrill, Crestwood Presbyterian Church
Shanita Mickie, Young Life/YoungLives Metro Richmond
George Miley, Antioch Network Family of Ministries
Anna Perry Miller, Westhunt Baptist Church
Dean Miller, Baptist General Association of Virginia
Jeff Mills, Renewal Church - Varina
Ann Mingione, Gathering of Friends, Portsmouth, VA
Andrea Mitchell, The Barnabas Center
Kevin Moen, Concord Baptist Church
Catherine F Moffett, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Grant Larry Moffett, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Cathy Wells Monroe, United Methodist Church (retired)
Peter Moon, District Superintendent Richmond District United Methodist Church
Corell Moore, First Presbyterian Church
Dwayne Moore, Mechanicsville Christian Center
Andrew Moore, St. Mary's Episcopal Church
Justin Moore, Peace Hill Christian Fellowship
Melissa Moore, Peace Hill Christian Fellowship
Sherrie Moore, Common Thread Ministries/RIHOPE
Tommy Moore, Area 10 Faith Community
Kate Moorehead, St John's Episcopal Cathedral
Joel Morgan, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Richmond
Kerin Morgan, Aqua-Tots Swim Schools
C. Diane Mosby, Anointed New Life Baptist Church
Mike Murchie, CrossOver Healthcare Ministry
Peter Murchie, Third Church
Malcolm and Lois Myers, Third Church
Tommy Nance, Aim Church-Ashland
Penny Nash, St. Stephen's Episcopal Church
Francis Nelson Jr, Holy Rosary Catholic Church
Corinne Nguyen, Bon Air Baptist Church
Jason Nicholas, Commonwealth Chapel
Rev. J. David Niemeyer, St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Richmond VA
Tony Nieves, Bikers for Christ M/M RVA
Keith Nix, Veritas School
Linette Nolen, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church
Todd Ofslager, Church in the home Richmond
Carolyn Ogrosky, Be the Bridge to Racial Unity - South Midlothian Chapter
Sherrell Ongaro, Mt Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Rev. Louis Orsatti, Second Baptist Church at River, Spanish Language
Jeanette Ortiz, St. Augustine RC Church
Candy Osdene, Grace and Holy Trinity Richmond Virginia
Lisa Ould, The Barnabas Center
Nelson Ould, Community West Church
David Outhous, Grace Community Presbyterian Church
Johnnie Overstreet, Greater Heigths COGIC
Cheryl Owen-Watson, Centernary United Methodist Church
Michelle Freeman Owens, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Mario Palma, Jesus Reigns International Church
Svetlana Papazov, Real Life Church
Kenyo Paraiso, Wave Church
Jennifer Parham, Third Church
Brent Parker, Lifepoint Church
Nelson Parker, Northside Cares
Paula Owens Parker, Roots Matter LLC
David Patterson, Divine Providence Ministries
Drewry Oxford, 3rd Presbeterian
Raymond Partridge, Richmond Christian Center, Inc
Jason Pascale, Church of the Nations Richmond
Joel Passmore, Northside Church of Richmond
Doug Paul, East End Fellowship
Drew Paulette, Manchester Church Plant
Chip Payne, Harvest Renewal Church
Jennifer Payne, PCC-Farmville
Liz Pearce, St. Thomas' Episcopal Church
Dana Peebles, Gordonsville United Methodist Church
Macon N Pegram, First Baptist Ashland
Sonia Peña, Destiny City Fellowship
Victor M Peña, Destiny City Fellowship
Victor Manny Peña, Destiny City Fellowship
David Peppler Sr, Chamberlayne Baptist Church
Christina Perera, Christina Perera Ministries, Inc.
Jennifer Pergerson, Mt.Gilead International Ministries
Becky Peters, The Bridge RVA
Ken Peters, The Bridge RVA
Carl Peyton, Southside Baptist Church
Robert Pfeifer, Stony Point Presbyterian Church
Betty Pflieger, St. Paul Catholic Church, Richmond
Joe Pierce, First Baptist Ashland, VA
Rachel Pierce, First Baptist Church Ashland
Scott Pharr, Christian Life Church
Ragan Phillips, Hawk Hill Associates
Paul Pleasants, Calvary Baptist (Saluda)
Kathryn Pocalyko, Lutheran Church of Our Saviour
Rob Pochek, First Baptist Church of Charlottesville (Park Street)
Jack Podsiadlo, Sacred Heart Center
Doug Ponder, Remnant Church
Herbert L. Ponder, Mount Tabor Baptist Church
Stephen Poore, Center Church
Bryan Pope, Passion Community Church/ PCC
Richard Popielarz, West End Alliance Church
Amy Popovich, East End Fellowship
Melody Porter, Boulevard United Methodist Church
Lenny Ports, Encounter Christian Church
Nancy Poti, Trinity Church, Baptist
Kia Potts, Liberation Church International
Traci Powers, Woodland Heights Baptist Church
Kristin Prasad, Gayton Baptist Church
Sarah Price, Seminarian, Episcopal Diocese of Virginia
Ken Priddy, Evangelical Presbyterian Church
Dominic Pritchett, Truth Ministries
Jacki Prock, Heaven In Healing
Jim Pulizzi, City Church of Richmond
Jeanne Pupke, First Unitarian Universalist Church
Marty Purks, InterVarsity@The College of W&M
Lowell Qualls, La Iglesias de Bendicion
Bill Queen Jr, Christ and Grace Episcopal, Petersburg
Jamie Radtke, WE Believe
Peter Rai, Ray Of Hope International
Rick Raines, Fairmount Christian Church
Lauren Ramseur, Bon Air Presbyterian Church
Deidre Randolph, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Matthew Rawls, Dir. of Youth Ministries, St. Mary's Episcopal
Andrew Redford, The Christian Counseling and Training Center
Joe Reeves, Tabernacle of Praise Ministries International
Kathi Reid, Lott Carey
Kimberly Reinholz, Grace and Holy Trinity Church, Episcopal Campus Ministry at VCU
Mairi Renwick, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Nelson Reveley, Clergy Committee for Rapid Transit
Diana Revels, Spring Creek Baptist Church
Rev. Braunda L. Ridley, Riverview Baptist Church
Suzanne Riehl, First Presbyterian Church
Carlos Rivera, New Life Outreach Church
Jan Rivero, Wesley Memorial UMC
Kenneth Roberts, Richmond Firefighters Association
Bishop Daniel Robertson Jr., Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Min.
CoPastor Elena Robertson, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Min.
Tony Robinson, West End Assembly of God
Errol Rohr, PCUSA, Minister Honorably Retired
Erin Rose, East End Fellowship/Urban Doxology
Keith Rowell, Thrive Church
Carson Rhyne, Presbytery of the James
Phoebe Roaf, St. Philip's Episcopal Church
Mike Robinson, River City Faith Network
Nancy Robinson, General Board of Global Ministries, UMC Missionary
Cheryle Rodriguez, Spring Creek Baptist Church
Kathy Rolph, Grace & Holy Trinity Church
Megan Rollins, Boaz & Ruth
Dorryce Rudd, Branch's Baptist Church
Melinda Ruhl, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Rev. Lisa Salita, Ebenezer Presbyterian Church Kenbridge
Brandon Samuel, Commonwealth Chapel
Keith Sanders, Fountain Baptist Church
Sonia Santos, The Life Church
Ed Satterfield, Third Church
Margie Satterfield, Center for Christian Counseling
Alex Sawyer, Third Church
John Sawyer, Bon Air Baptist - James River Campus
Harold Sayles, State Chaplain-Veterans of Foreign Wars Dept. of Virginia
Shane Schlesman, West End Assembly of God
Rifle Schutte, Harvest Renewal Church
Sarah Marsh Schutte, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Michael Sciretti Jr, University of Richmond Chaplaincy
Ivory C Scott Sr, Second Baptist Church
Sterling Severns, Tabernacle Baptist Church (Fan District)
Jim and Mary Shakespeare, West End Assembly of God
Steve Shelby, West End Presbyterian Church
Matt and Anna Shenk, Cru
Craig Sherouse, Second Baptist Church
Patricia Shipley, Centenary United Methodist Church
Charlotte Shirey, West End Presbyterian Church
Chic Silver, St. Giles- Richmond, VA
Renita Simons, Mt Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
J. David Singh, Eternity Church
Sue Sinnamon, Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond RVA
Annette Sirica, Our Lady of Lourdrs Catholic Church
Rev. Sally Ann McKinsey Sisk, Colonial Heights Presbyterian Church
Kevin Skellett, Southside Church of The Nazarene
Mike Sloan, Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment
Charity Smith, Northside Church of Richmond
Cindy Smith, Mechanicsville Christian Cente
E. Henry Smith, Mechanicsville Christian Center
Faye Smith, Mt Gilead Full Gospel Int'l Ministries
Greg Smith, Third Church
Hilary Smith, Church of the Holy Comforter
Sha'tan Smith, Mt Gilead full Gospel International Ministries
Sylvester Smith, Good Shepherd Baptist Church
T. Todd Smith, Skipwith United Methodiist Church
Yvonne Smith, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Jason Snook, Commonwealth Chapel
Jim Somerville, First Baptist Church
Ken Sorrell, Movement Church
Joshua Soto, Remnant Church
O. Benjamin Sparks, Presbyterian Minister (ret'd)
Brandon Spurlock, Cru
Blake Stack, City Church of Richmond
Robert Stamps, United Methodist Church- Retired Clergy
Chauncey Starkey, Praxis Church
Stephen Starzer, Fairfield Presbyterian Church
Durk Steed, Presbytery of the James
Jonathan Stells, House of Prayer
Stephen Stells, House of Prayer
Rev. Joe Stephenson, Friendship Baptist Church, retired
Ronald Stilwell, BCC
Michael Stinson, 2nd Life Society
Joyce Stith, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Michael Stock, FCARVA
Tom Stocks, Bon Air Baptist Church
Beth Stoddard, PCC
Cynthia Stratton, Bon Air Christian Church
Kathryn Straw, West End Assembly of God
Hilary Streever, St. James's Episcopal Church
Sharon Strickland, Mount Gilead Full International
Steven Summers, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church
Judith Sutherland, Retired, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A)
Crystal Sygeel, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Tad Tadlock, As We Journey Ministries
Charlotte Talley, The Stream a Vineyard Church
James Talley, The Stream a Vineyard Church
Mark Tapscott, Atlee Church
Kim Taulbee, Third Church
Heath Taws, Spring Run Presbyterian Church
Angela Taylor, World Outreach Worship Center
Carolyn Taylor, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Darrell Taylor, Fairfield Baptist Church, Pastor
Nathan Taylor, Center for Baptist Heritage and Studies
Robin Teasley, Christ Church Episcopal
Kambui Tendaji, Journey Christian Church
Andrew Terry, St. Peter's Episcopal Church
Dave Terry, Life Changing Productions RVA, Inc
Kristin Tetterton, West End Presbyterian Church
Chanell Thomas, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Mark Thomas, Thrive Church
Sonya Thomas, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Nichole Thompson, LEAP for Reform
Robert Thompson, First Baptist Church Richmond
Douglas Thorpe, Virginia Institute of Pastoral Care
Mary Thorpe, Episcopal Diocese of Virginia
Kenny Timley, Evolution Church
Larry Tingle, United Methodist Clergy, retired
Rob Toepfert, Passion Community Church
Karyn Touw, Gateway Pentecostal Church
Tim Toy, Young Life
Rev. Kim Triplett, Lutheran Church of Our Savior
Corinne Tucker, Northside Church of Richmond
Christy Haga Turner, Westhampton United Methodist Church, Richmond, VA
David Turner, Central Baptist Church
Jennifer Turner, Oregon Hill Baptist Center
Lynn Turner, Richmond's First Baptist Church
Philip Turner, Pine Street Baptist Church
Rev. Sylvester Turner, Pilgrim Baptist Church
Jackie Twedell, Bethany Christian Church
Christopher Tweel, Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church
Tyrian Tyler, Mt. Gilead FGIM-Richmond, VA
Nic Uebel, Baptist Collegiate Ministries at VCU
Nicole Unice, Hope Church
John Upton, BGAV
Darren Utley, Fairfield Presbyterian Church
Rev.Juan Pablo Valderrama, Iglesia Episcopal de Colombia
Rhonda VanHuss, Third RVA
John Vest, The Joyful Feast and Union Presbyterian Seminary
Brenda Vickers, East End Fellowship
Ed Vinson, Hanover Evangelical Friends Church
Rev. Suzanne L. Vinson, Grace Baptist Church
Richard Voelz, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Micah Voraritskul, Hope Church Midtown
John Wagler, Hill City Church
Lacy Wagler, Hill City Church
Todd Waldo, United Church
Rev. Dr. Brenda Walker, Three Chopt Presbyterian
Callie Walker, Tabernacle UMC and Trinity UMC
Corey D. B. Walker, Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology of Virginia Union University
Janie Walker, Richmond Hill
TyAsia Walker, Mt Gilead Full Gospel International Ministeries
Andrew Ware, Wood's United Methodist Church
Travis Warren, Spring Hill Baptist Church
Damon Omar Watson, Spring Creek Baptist Church
Doug Watson, Harvest Renewal Church
Rebecca Weaver, The Gayton Kirk, Presbyterian
Willam Weber, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
Willis Weber, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Capital Area
Darius Webster, Samaria Baptist Church
Michael Weeks, Slash Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
David Wein, Tikvat Israel Messianic Synagogue
Stephen Weir, Church Hill Activities and Tutoring (CHAT)
Alan Wentz, Three Chopt Presbyterian Church
Allison White, Third Church
Ayuko White, Faith Community Baptist Church
Dorothy A. White, Episcopal Clergy
Jo White, St. Giles Presbyterian Church
Kathy White, Third Church
Mike White, Stony Point Presbyterian Church
Tim White, Calvary Chapel Richmond
Elizabeth Whiting, East End Fellowship
Josh Whitlow, Heights Church
Kathy Wibberly, Christ Presbyterian Church
Corey Widmer, Third Church
Crystal Wiley-Perry, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries
Elnora Williams, Trustees Ministry of Richmond and Vicinity
Lindsey Williams, Kirk O'Cliff Presbyterian Church
Louis Williams, Chief of Chaplains for the Richmond City Sheriff's Office and Life Transformation Church
Marti Williams, Into the Neighborhood
Matthew Williams, KingsWay Community Church
Tiont Williams, Richmond City Young Life
Ken Willis, Carriage Hill Chapel
Brian Wills, Healing For The Nations
Amelie Wilmer, St. John's Episcopal Church
David Wilson, Metropolitan Community Churches Eastern USA Network Co-Leader
Drew Willson, Trinity United Methodist Church
Harold Wilson Jr., Victory Life Fellowship
Zach Wilson, Cru
Cassandra Winger, St John's Episcopal Church
Kortney Wingo, Mt Gilead
Janet Winslow, Bon Air Presbyterian Church
Cassandra Winston, Mt. Gilead Full International Gospel
Glendora Winston, The Master's Touch Church
Ken Winter, Grove Avenue Baptist Church
Brooke Winters, Arrabon
Chris and Sue Withers, West End Assembly of God
Murray Withrow, Servant Partners
Karen Witt, Providence Presbyterian Church
Stacy Wittkamp, Open Well RVA
Jaime Woltz, West End Assembly of God
Jeremy Woltz, West End Assembly of God
Gary Wood, Grove Avenue Baptist Church
Sue Wood, Grove Avenue Baptist Church
Travis Woods, Youth Impact
Margaret Woody, St. Thomas Episcopal Richmond
Rob Wootton, River's Edge Bible Church
Hayden Workman, Community West Church
Everett Worthington, Christ Presbyterian Church
Steve Wozny, Stony Point Presbyterian Church
Adrienne Wright, U-TURN SPORTS, INC
Ross Wright, Center Church
Davis Wrinkle, St Paul's Episcopal
Fakhri Yacoub, The Christian Arabic Church
Rob Yancey, Velocity Christian Church
Michael Yardley, The Rise Church
Rev . Elizabeth Yates, Retired, Ev. Lutheran Church in America
Gwendolyn Young, The Lord's Healing Church, Inc.
Karen-Marie Yust, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Christopher Zinchuck, YWAM Virginia
Casey Zollinhofer, West End Presbyterian Church
Press Event this Monday
Pastors and ministry leaders are invited to come together with one voice this Monday, August 21st at 10 a.m. at the Maggie Walker Statue for a press event where we will share this statement. Please note that parking near the statue – located at Broad and Adams Streets - is somewhat limited, so plan to arrive early and carpool if possible.
UNA DECLARACIÓN DE UNIDAD DE LOS PASTORES Y LÍDERES DE MINISTERIO DE METRO RICHMOND
21 de agosto de 2017
PREÁMBULO Como pastores y líderes ministeriales en Richmond, Virginia, deseamos expresar, con una voz unificada, nuestra tristeza por los trágicos eventos del pasado fin de semana en Charlottesville. Estos eventos subrayan el estado roto de nuestra comunidad, nuestro país y nuestro mundo. Richmond, Virginia ha sido durante mucho tiempo un lugar importante en la oscura historia del racismo y violencia en América. Como líderes Cristianos en esta ciudad, declaramos, con una voz unificada, que el Evangelio de Jesucristo habla con claridad y pertinencia en este momento particular. A la luz de esto, los pastores y líderes ministeriales de Metro Richmond se comprometen a anunciar lo siguiente.
AFIRMAMOS que cada ser humano es creado a la imagen de Dios, y por lo tanto, lleva el valor inherente y la dignidad del diseño de Dios. Afirmamos que la variedad de culturas humanas en la tierra es una hermosa expresión del amor de Dios por la diversidad. Afirmamos que Jesucristo fue crucificado y resucitado no sólo para ofrecer a la humanidad el don de la vida eterna, sino también para destruir todas las divisiones -sociales, políticas, económicas o raciales- que nos separaran. Afirmamos que el consumado Reino de Dios será un lugar de rica diversidad y expresión cultural. Afirmamos que la iglesia está llamada a ser una comunidad que refleje ese Reino presente y futuro.
RECHAZAMOS la ideología de la supremacía blanca, incluyendo el antisemitismo, como un mal incondicional, una denuncia del evangelio y una herejía que se opone al diseño de Dios para la cultura y la creación humana. Rechazamos la idea de que los blancos, o cualquier conjunto de seres humanos de cualquier cultura, son superiores a cualquier otro. Rechazamos cualquier ideología que busque erigir o mantener divisiones que Dios ha derribado a través de Jesucristo. Rechazamos los esfuerzos para colocar el bien de una raza o una nación por encima del bien de todos, porque Dios desea que todas las personas sean salvas y lleguen al conocimiento de la verdad.
NOS ARREPENTIMOS porque la iglesia ha sido cómplice de los pecados del racismo, ya sea a través de la defensa de la esclavitud, la segregación y la discriminación, o mediante el silencio pasivo y la inactividad. Nos arrepentimos porque los cristianos han jugado un papel importante en ayudar a crear la segregación y la injusticia racial que vemos en nuestra ciudad y nación hoy. Nos arrepentimos de nuestro propio racismo, temor y odio, tanto consciente como inconsciente. Nos arrepentimos de nuestra renuencia a ser agentes de curación y reconciliación en nuestras iglesias, en nuestra ciudad y en nuestra nación.
FIRMEMENTE DECIDIMOS predicar, enseñar y abogar contra de los pecados del racismo. Resolvemos dirigir en el camino del amor, y buscar maneras de curar las divisiones que separan razas y culturas en nuestra ciudad. Resolvemos escuchar a aquellos que han sido heridos y deshumanizados por el racismo. Resolvemos orar fervientemente por la sanación y reconciliación de Dios. Resolvemos ayudar a nuestras iglesias a ser más hospitalarias y dar la bienvenida a las comunidades a personas diversas.
Finalmente, resolvemos perseguir el estándar perfecto de igualdad, justicia y amor de Jesucristo en nuestras iglesias, ciudad y país.
If you have any questions about the Metro Richmond Pastors Statement, please contact info@blessrva.org.