They burned a cross.
They burned a cross on a family’s yard.
They burned a cross on a family’s yard here in my community.
They took the cross of Jesus Christ, desecrated it and turned it into a sign of violence, intimidation and racism.
How could anyone think of it as something to do, let alone do it?
Of course, our mind quickly wants to minimize it. We hear comments like, “It doesn’t reflect Clarkston”. “It was probably a bunch of kids who do not know any better.” “Must have been outsiders who did it.”
But it happened here. No matter who did it, we will be measured by how we respond to it. It happened two weeks ago and I just read about it today. I have not heard anyone talk about it in the church or the community. That is what scares me the most.
There will be a community gathering at St. Daniel's Catholic Church for a 'prayer service for ethnic and racial tolerance' on Tuesday, Sept 1 at 7 p.m. I will be there and pray you will be also. But just as importantly, let our voice be heard. Speak to others and proclaim a gospel message that will not allow the cross of Christ to be so desecrated. Speak out about the passion for a community that welcomes all – stands with all and will not accept intimidation, injustice or persecution in any form. Speak out and pray for the power of Christ to drive racism from our own hearts and the hearts of all, including the they’s of the world.
