Clergy stand with Muslim brethren

An open letter to the Islamic community of Charles County,

On Friday, we heard the news of the devastating terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. We pray for all those who are affected by this tragedy. We pray for the families who have lost loved ones, for the first responders and for the people of New Zealand, particularly for our Muslim brothers and sisters. We know that God is with those who suffer, and we pray all know God’s presence in the midst of this suffering.

In the wake of this terrible attack, we, the clergy of Charles County, want you to know that we stand in solidarity with you and denounce any form of hatred, discrimination or violence. When one suffers, we all suffer. Though our faiths may be different, together we worship one God, a God of peace.

We ask for our fellow Christians and Jews to join us in working toward peaceful cooperation and understanding. Much of the hatred and disdain shown toward Muslims is born not out of truth but out of fear and ignorance. It is time to stop normalizing hateful and sensationalized rhetoric at the expense of truth and justice.

As fellow residents and brothers and sisters in Charles County, we want to say to you that we are glad you are here. We are glad that you are part of our community. We pledge to do what we can to make Charles County a place where people of all faiths are welcome and can find a home.

With blessings, love and peace, clergy members of Charles County.

The letter writers are the Rev. Shannon K. Anderson of Peace Lutheran Church in Waldorf, the Rev. Susan Boehl of La Plata United Methodist Church, the Rev. Susan Fritz of Christ Church (Nanjemoy) and St. James in Indian Head, the Rev. Laurie Gates-Ward of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church in Waldorf, the Rev. Maria A. Kane of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Waldorf, the Rev. Gladman Kapfumvuti of Zion Wesley United Methodist Church in Waldorf, the Rev. Jeanne Parr of Pisgah United Methodist Church in La Plata, the Rev. Sarah Schliekert of Calvary United Methodist Church in Waldorf, the Rev. Steven Seely of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Waldorf and Christ Church, La Plata and Newburg, and the Rev. Robin Taylor of St. James’ Episcopal Church in Indian Head.