I had the privilege of marching with #praymarchact in the Bronx today. #PrayBX!!! Some reflections:
1. All the pastors were local leaders who have been doing ministry in and for the the community for decades. That made a huge difference. It felt more effective and "sturdy."
2. The police captain of the local precinct, because it was led by local churches that he had relationship with, came out to address the pastors. This profoundly humanized police officers and dispelled the belief that this was the people vs. the police. Powerful.
3. His essential message: "This march is needed. I'm Puerto Rican, I'm with you. I grew up in the church, I love that this is the church. We are here to protect you and your right to protest. We want to see peaceful change."
4. The chants were clear about who we were: "We are the church! We want justice!" The witness of that esp to neighbors who might recognize a pastor or friend, was incredible. Leaders explicitly said inflammatory/threatening signs & chants are not allowed. "We are peacemakers."
Local leadership, local relationships, local churches are the key to a justice that leads to reconciliation. Incredible.
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