The Planned Parenthood Clergy Advocacy Board (CAB) represents diverse denominations and faith traditions finding common ground in their respect for a woman's ability to make her own personal health care decisions without political or government intrusion. I am proud to be a member of this dedicated group of faith leaders.
In response to the tragic violence at the Planned Parenthood Rocky Mountains Health Center in Colorado Springs, the Clergy Advocacy Board issued the following statement and interfaith prayer.
In the wake of the violent assault on the Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado Springs, our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We pray healing for the injured, comfort for those who mourn and give thanks for the devoted staff of Planned Parenthood Rocky Mountain and first responders who put themselves in harm's way to protect and defend their fellow citizens. We stand with Planned Parenthood and their continued commitment to provide care in the safe, supportive environment that millions of people rely on and trust for quality healthcare. We also pray for an end to the climate of violence and polarization that grips our nation -- asking for the will and wisdom to overcome hatred with hope, fear with trust and violence with compassion.
And so we pray with heart and mind that God of many names, look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that all nations and peoples may make known your values of love, hope and justice. Amen.
My hope is that sharing these words as widely as possible will give voice to the good people of deep faith across this nation who support the work of Planned Parenthood -- not in spite of their faith, but because of it. My prayer is that we can work together to bridge the divides that polarize our nation and challenge the violence that contaminates our country. And my faith is that these words of the Jesus I follow -- "The truth will set you free" (John 8:32) -- are as true in the 21st century as they were when they were spoken in the 1st century.
Because the truth is we are a better nation than we have allowed ourselves to become: and speaking the truth about Planned Parenthood is one way we can begin to set ourselves free from the violence, polarization and victimization that plagues us.