Yesterday, I joined more than 200 Episcopalians and other people of faith and conscience, who followed Bishop Marc Andrus in procession from Grace Cathedral to the Federal Building to commemorate all the dead in Iraq and witness for peace. Hat tip to Jan in San Francisco for her thoughtful commentary and wonderful pictures of the event, including the one above. Bishop Marc celebrated the Eucharist with us, and then was arrested during a "die-in" blocking the entrance to the Federal Building as an act of civil disobedience protesting the war. Also arrested were his wife, Sheila Andrus, and several Episcopal clergy along with others.The entire march, liturgy, and civil disobedience were marked by joyful solemnity and a spirit of nonviolence. It was a wonderful opportunity for people from around the diocese to act together in faithful witness of the Prince of Peace to whom we give our ultimate allegiance. It was also good to do so with Jewish, Muslim, Roman Catholic, Buddhist, Quaker and humanist sisters and brothers who share our commitment to justice, peace, and nonviolence. None of us ceased being who we were; we were not reduced to an imaginary generic humanity, sans tradition or history. Yet, for a few hours, we were able to speak with one voice for an end to this unjust and brutal war.
Episcopal News Service and Civic Center also provide good coverage of the requiem Eucharist and protest, including SFMike's picture of my family celebrating the Eucharist.
3 comments:
John, I saw the photos on SFMike's site -- the one of the three of you is so precious (in a good way).
I was really glad to be able to read the excellent coverage of this landmark event. Even on the other side of the world, it makes me so damn proud to serve this man as my Bishop and it was wonderful to see photos and see all of YOU who participated. Cromey must have been in bliss (ah well almost -- I saw his gripe about Dean Jones -- the guy really is a curmdudgeon :)).
I am really proud to be part of this Church were our Bishops are true men of God that stand up for what is right.
I am going to blog about this in connection with Advent
Kindred Spirits Working for Peace:
I am trying to get the word out about my new children’s fantasy adventure “The Call to Shakabaz,” which teaches young people the fundamental principles of nonviolence as practiced by Dr. King and Gandhi and is a rollicking good read to boot. This book is exceptionally different because it does not depend on a gory violent battle scene for the climax. Instead it demonstrates a peaceful resolution to conflict. In addition, all the characters in the book are Black. There are very few books for children in this genre with all Black characters. The book will be officially “launched” on January 15, 2007, in honor of Dr. King’s birthday, but copies are already in print and are selling like hotcakes in my little part of the world. Children, parents, teachers, and librarians are reading this book and loving it (Bob Spear at “Heartland Reviews” identified the book as a recommended title for reluctant readers because you can’t put it down). Please help me get the word out! Visit my website at www.wozabooks.com.
This book is a great way to introduce children and teens to new perspectives on the uselessness of war and the power of peaceful conflict resolution.
Amy
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