Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

The events of this week, including the horrific killing of five policemen last night in Dallas and the killings of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling in the days prior, leave us once more with examples of the desperate need for discourse in our cities regarding police-community relationships. These atrocities must place fear in the heart of every police officer and likewise, in the hearts of black Americans everywhere.

This discourse must start with us. As Christians we must not only witness to better racial relationships but we must count amongst our friends those of differing opinions and racial and ethnic backgrounds. It is not enough to “march for equality” when in reality our churches and personal friendships often reflect the same divisions or same separateness that exists in our society. It is incumbent upon all of us to educate ourselves on the systems that have led our society to this point and work in our own lives to break down the barriers which divide us.

For the many individuals and churches that are already engaged in ministries that nurture our mutual respect, we must all give thanks.

Please keep all those who have died and have been injured in your prayers and, with compassion, pray also for the perpetrators of this violence.

Faithfully yours in Christ,

The Rt. Rev. Lawrence C. Provenzano
Bishop Diocesan of Long Island

The Rt. Rev. Geralyn Wolf
Assistant Bishop of Long Island