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Dear
Cathedral Community,
We know that
recent news about increased immigration enforcement activity has
caused fear, uncertainty, and deep concern for many in our community.
Today’s shooting of an unarmed individual by ICE agents is tragic and
disheartening, and it further escalates an already tense and
increasingly dangerous situation in our communities. I want to say
this clearly and gently: you are not alone in your grief,
fear, or outrage.
As people
of faith, we are grounded in compassion, dignity, and care for one another—especially for those who are feeling
vulnerable or afraid right now. Fear can spread quickly in moments
like these, and we encourage one another to pause, breathe, and stay
connected rather than isolated. Our concern for our immigrant
neighbors is deeply rooted in love; at the same time, heightened
anxiety can unintentionally increase confusion and risk for everyone.
Remaining calm, prepared, and grounded helps keep people safer and
allows us to stay focused on our chief work: being the love of Christ
to all we encounter.
I ask
Saint Mark's and all communities to:
· Stay supportive and calm, especially in conversations
that feel heavy or emotional
· Check in on one another, particularly families,
neighbors, and those most directly affected, as well as the clergy
and lay leaders serving our multicultural congregations.
· Rely on trusted information, not rumors or social
media speculation
· Revisit the Current Recommendations for Safety and Security
Preparedness for ECMN Congregations, which have not changed in light of this week’s
events
· Be present and non-anxious, allowing congregational
leaders charged with keeping people and property safe the space and
support to do so
· Know
the resources available to serve our immigrant members and neighbors
· Stay safe by avoiding interaction with local law
enforcement and ICE agents
It is also
important to know that everyone has rights. Regardless of immigration
status, individuals have the right to remain silent, the right to ask
for a warrant, and the right to seek legal counsel. We will continue
to share reliable resources and learning opportunities so that we can
remain informed rather than overwhelmed.
Our
calling as followers of Jesus is to love our neighbors, protect human
dignity, and walk together through difficult times. We remain
committed to creating spaces of welcome, prayer, and mutual care. If
you are feeling afraid or in need of support, please reach
out—pastoral leaders and trusted community members are here to listen
and help connect you with resources.
Let us
continue to move forward together with courage, compassion, and hope.
With care
and solidarity,
Tim+
The
Rev. Timothy M. Kingsley
Provost,
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral
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