Conference keynoter Sandra Peters brought the topic of racism to the forefront in her presentation on the ongoing investigation of the torching of black churches in the South. Noting that there are more than 150 documented church fires believed to be caused by arson, Peters charged that many church burnings go unreported by government authorities and the media. She accused federal investigators of intimidation and harassment, saying that some pastors and parishioners of burned churches have been accused of complicity in the setting fires in their own buildings. Peters expressed concern that the connection between white supremacist groups and the fires has not been adequately pursued, noting that some of the young white men arrested in connection with the fires claim membership in hate groups. Churches are community centers Black churches are community centers in many communities, Peters said, and destroying them is an attempt to destroy the heart and soul of a people.
Churches have to take the lead in changing public policy.
Bishop Barbara Harris, suffragan bishop of Massachusetts and president of the caucus, spoke of the organization's history and future at a banquet attended by Bishop Suffragan Franklin Turner, Bishop Coadjutor-elect Charles Bennison, and other members of the diocese. Our original vision will be refined, reshaped and honed to address today's realities. Ogilby is communications officer for the Diocese of Pennsylvania. Browse month . . .