Thursday, February 1, 2018

Whom Shall I Send

orginally written when serving Northwest Community UU Church published in the Houston Chronicle 11/27/09. 

Last week, we heard news that a teen from Langham Creek High School was allegedly chased down by other teens, beaten with a pipe and told, “You are going to quit being gay.” The boy says that he had been tipped off that the attack was going to happen, and that he approached the Vice Principal and the bus driver seeking protection. Parents are questioning the level of safety being provided to their teens. Rumors and accusations of previous conflict and offensive behavior began to emerge. Was it a hate crime? We know this–the assault was tragic, and is part of a larger pattern of violence against gay people. Incidents of violence assault the safety and security of all teens, especially any may be perceived as gay.
Unitarian Universalist congregations covenant to affirm and promote the inherent worth and dignity of every person. Many of us have been working to see that the same basic civil rights become guaranteed to everyone. I have contacted the mother of the boy who was beaten and offered the support of our congregation. I am grateful to any who have offered their support to this grieving family. I see this support as living out the injunction to love your neighbor as yourself.
Accusations, rumors, and moralistic judgments are common after such incidents of violence. It becomes difficult to find a path to peace and harmony. Although it’s easy to point fingers, liberal faith challenges us to remember the humanity of all concerned. When despair, anger or resentment are present in us, we can pray for the power to be able to work through differences peaceably. Deep listening and respectful dialogue can open up possibilities for greater understanding and cooperation. These can lead to better conditions for all. Who will heed the divine call to be peacemakers?
We have no magic wands, but we have faith and willingness. On Sunday, November 29, at 6:30 pm, Northwest Community Unitarian Universalist Church will have a short religious service, a prayer and peace vigil. Afterwards there will be a teen and an adult dialog for peace, healing and safety. We hope you can join us as we pray for the will to create safe community for all our teens.