Dear Friends in Christ,
The Episcopal Peace Fellowship (EPF) has invited The Episcopal Church into A Season of Pentecost for Gun Violence Prevention.
“This is a call to deepen our commitment as people of faith to confront the epidemic of gun violence through action at the grassroots level, in our parishes and dioceses. This is an invitation to open the church doors to the winds of the Pentecost Spirit, pledging to engage in specific actions for gun violence prevention in the Pentecost season, from Whitsunday to Advent 2023.” (See EPF’s press release here.)
I am wearied by the reports of gun violence in our country, as I imagine you are too. I recently heard, again, the oft-quoted line, “Guns don’t kill people; people kill people.” Although technically true, this declaration oversimplifies the crisis. Individuals who struggle with anger and fear and who react before reflecting on their emotions are much more dangerous with a loaded gun in their hand than if they were holding a rock. We need to raise the bar of our expectations of ourselves and one another. The problem is both internal and external. We are called, as Christians, to face into and heal the anger and fear within us and our communities while also seeking to limit access to weapons of war. I do believe this is the core meaning of the Kiss of Peace, “The peace of Christ be always with you.” “And also with you.”
EPF has curated a page of resources for faith communities and individuals focused on three areas: liturgical action, public witness, and legislative action. This season and the work the EPF is committed to builds on the foundation of the Bishops United Against Gun Violence group, of which I am a member.
I invite you to join the Episcopal Church in Western Oregon into this season of prayer and action.
Blessings,
+Diana