Prayers Please, Otherwise, Let's Ignore This

I have learned that the Rev Terry Jones is planning a visit to my new home town. And, as if all of his recent behavior hasn't been in bad enough form, as it he doesn't reflect the worst of Christianity, he has chosen Good Friday as the day of his visit.

Here is a quote from an email I received:

"Jones seems to have been joined by an interesting crew. The protest won't be in front of the Islamic Center of America but they intend to hold a press conference on Good Friday between 5 and 8 pm. They will be discussing jihad, sharia and the radicalization of 'Moslems' (their spelling) in America. Participating in the press conference will be: Ahmed Abaza of The Truth TV who claims to be a former Muslim who has found Jesus, Rabbi Nacham Shifren of L.A. - right wing, West Bank settler type, and Frank Fiorello, the founder of the Order of the Dragon. They say: 'We are holding a demo about the middle east the peace process by exposing some lies about Israel/Palestine relations. We are also in protest to the thousands of people worldwide who are dying because of jihad.'"

There is a document making the rounds, being signed by houses of faith "Affirming Our Community" that is speaking out against Rev. Jones and for the dignity with which people in Dearborn live together.

Soon, I will move into this community. I ask your prayers for these people. I have found them to be thoughtful, gracious, kind, intelligent, and, faithful.

I ask your prayers for this community. May we all learn to live with gratitude and grace, trusting in a God who is bigger than we are. I simply cannot believe in a tiny, narrow, angry God.