Silence = Death

I'm on the mailing list for "Other Sheep," a ministry with GLBT persons in Africa that has ordered copies of our "Blue Book." Today's news is horrific. David Kato, a gay leader in Uganda was bludgeoned to death yesterday.

Click on his picture to access the page from "Other Sheep," or click on this link for a news article from today's Guardian.

The Presbyterian Church (USA) has been consistent in our concern about the consequences of "the sin of homophobia." But we may need to do more than just offer words. The oppression and annihilation of gay people would at least call for our tears. Christians across the theological spectrum, from Jim Wallis to Rick Warren, have spoken out in the past against anti-gay attitudes in Uganda, reflected in a bill in that country's parliament that would have executed homosexuals.I wonder what the compassion of Jesus might invite us to do?

Perhaps our government can teach us. Secretary of State Clinton said today, "We are profoundly saddened by the loss of Ugandan human rights defender David Kato, who was brutally murdered in his home near Kampala yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues. We urge Ugandan authorities to quickly and thoroughly investigate and prosecute those responsible for this heinous act....  This crime is a reminder of the heroic generosity of the people who advocate for and defend human rights on behalf of the rest of us -- and the sacrifices they make. And as we reflect on his life, it is also an occasion to reaffirm that human rights apply to everyone, no exceptions, and that the human rights of LGBT individuals cannot be separated from the human rights of all persons."

The lectionary passage from the Gospel of Matthew this coming Sunday includes these words from Jesus (Mt. 5:11-12):
Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely^* on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 

This news puts those words into stark context for me. How shall I preach "God Chooses the Lowest and the Least"?

--Jack Lohr, Interim Pastor

PS: There will be a Memorial Service for David Kato
This Sunday at Love Alive International Sanctuary of Praise and Worship Center

1157 Lexington Avenue (@ East 80 Street )
In the Chapel to the right as you go through the court yard.

For help with directions or information, you can phone
Rev. David Franzo at 646-206-9037

January 30, 2011, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Service will be conducted by The Right Reverend Stacy S. Latimer, Senior Pastor
A special offering will be taken in memory of David Kato for the ministry of Other Sheep.