inline_290_/pictures/2017/8/Charlottsville%20Statement%208-14-2017.jpg

COMMISSION OF RELIGIOUS LEADERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE STATEMENT

August 14, 2017

We, the Executive Committee of the Commission of Religious Leaders, represent different faith traditions, but stand firmly on the same side in our condemnation of hatred.  We will not be silent while neo-Nazis, white supremacists, or any individuals or groups, seek to divide us from one another.

The hatred in the hearts of those who espouse bigotry and prejudice becomes hatred in their hands through acts of horrific violence.  We, who have felt the pain of prejudice in our respective histories, must not permit other groups to be victimized.  All people of conscience must unite to do that which is morally right.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only love can do that.â€Â  We remain strong in our love of our faith and the human family, and believe that decency conquers indecency, and goodness will ultimately triumph over evil.

We offer our prayers of comfort to the victims and their families who hurt so deeply during this time.

May we all see the blessing of peace that we want and need in our land.
 

His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan
Archdiocese of New York

Rev. Dr. A. R. Bernard, Sr.
Christian Cultural Center
Christian Community Relations Council

Rabbi Joseph Potasnik
New York Board of Rabbis

Rev. Dr. Jimmy Lim
Commission of Religious Leaders

 

Download this document as a PDF