Faith Community Event at St. Barnabas 'Is Not About Fr. Pfleger'

In response to neighborhood concerns about an invitation extended to Rev. Michael Pfleger to be a guest panelist in a discussion about gun violence in Chicago at St. Barnabas Church, Rev. William Malloy penned a letter last week to parishioners explaining the purpose of the gathering on Feb. 27.

Organized by the Thou Shalt Not Murder campaign, speakers are expected to discuss ways they are addressing violence in the city’s neighborhoods, what works and what doesn’t, and what concerned individuals can do to be part of the solution. After the discussion, panelists and audience members will join in prayer for healing in the city. People of all denominations and faith traditions are welcome.

The gathering and discussion will take place 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 27, at St. Barnabas Church, 10134 S. Longwood Drive, Chicago.

Dear People of St. Barnabas,

I write this letter to address issues and concerns you may have about the “Thou Shalt Not Murder” campaign, and the gathering which is to take place at St. Barnabas on Saturday, February 27. Recently, the local online publication, DNAinfo, printed an article about the event, which has generated some controversy.

St. Barnabas Parish has for many years actively worked together with several local faith communities of various denominations called the “Community of Churches.” The pastors and faith leaders within our neighborhood resolved to work together to address the issues of gun violence in Chicago, which threaten the well-being of us all.

There were 2,973 shootings in our city last year. Recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and our responsibility as pastors, we asked the question: “Can we create one day, in the city of Chicago, where every voice is calling for no more murder?” We chose March 27, 2016, Easter Sunday, as our target date, and launched the “Thou Shalt Not Murder” Campaign. Its goal is to win a small victory for life by asking people to sign a petition in support of that one day free from murder.

There have been three events so far in support of this effort. The first was a prayer service on December 16 at Morgan Park United Methodist Church with about 60 people in attendance. The second event took place on January 16 at St. Barnabas with more than 100 people attending. It was successful and well-received.

St. Barnabas was also asked to host the third event “What Can We Do?” on February 27, because ours is the largest church building in the community and can accommodate the largest number of people.

The February 27 event will include Chicago Police Chief Eugene Williams, Rev. David Kelly of Precious Blood Ministries of Reconciliation, Fr. Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Church, and others yet to be chosen. The leaders of the Community of Churches invited Fr. Michael Pfleger to participate in the event because he is a well-known and outspoken advocate against the forces of violence in his neighborhood and our city. Although he is a controversial religious and social figure, the local pastors hoped that his participation would bring attention to our fledgling cause. It has done so in ways we did not anticipate or welcome.

I ask you to know that the February 27 event is not about Fr. Pfleger. He is one of several religious, community, and civic leaders who will address the issues of violence that threaten our neighborhoods.

The “Thou Shalt Not Murder” movement is not anti-police. If it were, I could not permit this event to take place in our church. There are many police officers and first responders who are members of our parish community. Like you, I honor and respect them for their commitment to protect the people of our city, which is often dangerous and unappreciated.

The event on February 27 is anti-violence. And it is crucial to the future well-being of our children and families that people of faith come together to prayerfully discuss the important issues we face, and seek solutions. I hope you agree that St. Barnabas Parish must be a part of that dialogue. Please come to this event on Saturday evening, February 27 to share your ideas.

These issues are complex and painful. Please let me know if you have comments or questions, and I will answer them as best I can.

Sincerely,

Fr. Bill Malloy