Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake, Sr.
Church of God in Christ
Pastoral Statement on Police Executions
The brutal execution-style ambush and killing of two New York police officers Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos is a horrifying tragedy. Our prayers are for their families at this time. We pray also for the vast majority of police officers across this country who risk their lives on a daily basis to defend the public. The injustices suffered by black men can in no way justify this act of insanity. All who are committed to advancing the necessary systemic reforms of police practices and procedures must condemn this murder in no uncertain terms. It is essential to pursue justice for black men in a way that does not create an atmosphere that encourages violence or a disregard for the rule of law. This outrageous murder is sickeningly reminiscent of the avalanche of black-on-black murder that plagues our young men. We must be as determined to address the roots of this violence as we are to correct the injustices visited upon us by others. As Christians we are called to seek peace and pursue justice and to stand in compassion with the grieving families of these brave men who have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the community.
