Working to End Violence

Dear Lakeshore,

Greetings from our nation’s capital, where I joined with 300 Christian leaders this week to decry cruel and inhumane policies against Palestinians enacted by our government and advocate for legislation that would mitigate these harms. I was also able to co-lead a workshop empowering congregations and Christian organizations to engage in meaningful solidarity with Palestinians through boycotts and divestment efforts.

I’m returning home today, and look forward to participating in tomorrow’s Interfaith 4 Palestine pilgrimage from Oakland City Hall to the Oakland airport where we will walk, pray and discern how to Divest from War and Invest in Life in support of the Oakland People’s Arms Embargo. I encourage all who are able to join me – especially on the final few miles! More info here; reach out with any questions.

In case you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend the article Oakland attributes a 6-decade low in homicides, in part, to life coaches, featuring Lakeshore’s commitment to Ceasefire in Oakland. From the article, “We’re going to talk about keeping you and those you love alive and free,” Jim Hopkins, emeritus pastor of Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church, says he told the men who gather at his church. “If you put down the gun, start taking the (city’s) services, we’ll help you find another way.”

Mother’s Day began as a plea by mothers to end the violence that robs them of their children. As we celebrate those who nurture life this weekend, let us continue to work for a less violent, more humane world.

Pastor Allison