Rio Texas Methodist Federation for Social Action

SISTER HELEN PREJEAN — Friday, October 12

On Friday, October 12, St. Edwards University, the UMC General Board of Church and Society, the Texas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty, and others will host Faithful Considerations: A Discussion With Sister Helen Prejean and Austin Faith Leaders.  Sister Helen will be joined by Rev. John Elford of University UMC and Pastor Nestor Menjivar.

 The conversation will include the challenges of moving Texas away from a culture of vengeance toward a culture of accountability that does not rely on the death penalty; how faith leaders and people of faith can take a more proactive role in educating their congregations about this issue, and the challenges of addressing the death penalty from the pulpit.  As Sr. Helen states, “I realize that I cannot stand by silently as my government executes its citizens. If I do not speak out and resist, I am an accomplice.”

The event will be held at the Ragsdale Center at St. Edward’s University from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.  The event is free, but you will need to register.  Seating is limited.

Sister Helen Prejean is the author of Dead Man Walking, which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and later made into a powerful movie (with Susan Sarandon playing Sister Helen).  She’ll be coming to Austin to share her story.