June 25, 2022
Dear East Tennessee Clergy,
Yesterday, the Canon to the Presiding Bishop reached out to the House of Bishops and made us aware they have received information from federal authorities of credible security threats against clergy and churches in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s abortion decision.
I am writing because I wanted you all to be aware of this and to encourage you to maintain welcoming spaces in your parish churches, while being mindful of the charged environment in which we all now navigate in our ministry settings.
Brother Andrew will also be placing additional resources on our Diocesan website to aid you and your lay leaders in maintaining welcoming and safe sacred spaces. You will be able to find these resources at the bottom of this page. These resources will help strengthen the safety plans you already have in place and consider how best to share these plans with your parish members.
As you all inhabit your vocations in hard and hot and harrowing days, remember the source of our common life together remains the Crucified and Risen Christ, who overcame demonic power with a nonviolent vision that included all finding room in God’s house.
Peace,
+ Brian
Mitigating Attacks on Houses of Worship | The Power of Hello
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