Note from Bishop Frank Beard
Praying...and acting to end violence in Peoria, America, and the world
Friends,
God tells us in His Word, in the example of Jesus, and through the Holy Spirit's whispers, that His triune heart grieves when His children war against one another.
It's been a grievous season...
News from El Paso, TX and Dayton, OH only add to the long list of acts of violence around our nation. News of genocide and religious-based violence, often against Christians around the world, is only a quick Google search away. Closer to home, Peoria has already experienced 14 homicides in 2019, with many more shootings and acts of violence in the news on a near daily basis (a 15-year old was arrested on Monday in connection was the most recent shooting in Peoria).
I would encourage you all to read the response/invitation from our resident Bishop, Frank Beard. Then join me in praying...pray for those affected by mental illness; pray for a culture that does not value human life; pray against all forms of hatred and violence; pray for our law enforcement servants, government officials, social workers, educators and the Church of Christ in their respective peace-making roles. And, in addition to praying for peace to come to earth as it exists in heaven, begin brainstorming ideas that Prospect (and/or your workplace, neighborhood, family, etc.) might embrace as tangible, even small steps towards bringing peace in Peoria and the world.
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Pastor Steve