Rio Texas Methodist Federation for Social Action

Praying for Boston, Standing for Peace

Tuesday, April 16th, 2013 3:54 pm

WASHINGTON, DC – April 16, 2013 – In the wake of the bombing at yesterday’s Boston Marathon, the Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) offers its thoughts and prayers to the families of those killed and those injured, first responders and caretakers, participants of the marathon, and the people of Boston.

“Violence in any form is anathema to the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” says Chett Pritchett, MFSA’s Interim Executive Director.  “Our contemporary culture of violence is no longer limited to our televisions and movie screens. It has taken hold of the public square – our schools, our workplaces, and our celebrated community rituals. The Church must not only be a soothing balm when such violence occurs, but take a pro-active stand against the culture of violence leading to so great a harm.”

Sean Delmore, a member of the New England Chapter of the Methodist Federation for Social Action, states, “In a time in which fear might take hold, it is important to remember that Boston is a city of immigrants and sojourners. Instead of fearing those who might fit a certain profile, I urge us to remember Jesus’ command to love your neighbor.”

“Bostonians are resilient people,” asserts Pritchett. “We commend the work of congregations and social service agencies in reaching out to those with questions and needs in this time of uncertainty. We thank Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar of the Boston Episcopal Area and Reverend LaTrelle Easterling, District Superintendent of the Boston Metro District, for providing leadership to The United Methodist Church in the Boston region at such a time as this.”

Since 1907, the Methodist Federation for Social Action has worked to mobilize, lead, and sustain a progressive movement, energizing people to be agents of God’s justice, peace, and reconciliation. As an independent, faith-based organization, MFSA leads both Church and society on issues of peace, poverty, people’s rights, progressive issues, and justice within

National MFSA recent newsletter:

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Reconciling Ministries recent newsletter:

http://www.rmnetwork.org/flashnet-04-18-2012/#1

General Board of Church & Society – Faith in Action