A Call to Rally on September 4, 2010

In Atlantic Beach, SC

On September 4th we want to remind the town of Atlantic Beach, South Carolina that a sanctuary is a “sacred place”’ a place that has historically provided refuge, asylum and/or immunity from being arrested. The history of this country and all of civilization is filled with examples of persons going into a sanctuary seeking immunity from being arrested. Therefore, the removal and arrest of Pastor Windy Price, her husband and the Atlantic Beach Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in their sanctuary during worship has unlimited negative implications for worshippers everywhere. This small town has struck a gigantic blow against humanity.

Based on the 1st and 14th amendments of the Constitution of the United Stated of America we want the harassment of the pastor and members of the Atlantic Beach Christian Methodist Episcopal Church to stop immediately.

Furthermore, we call upon the town of Atlantic Beach, South Carolina to fully reimburse the Atlantic Beach Christian Methodist Episcopal Church for all expenses and fees that this congregation has incurred since the night of July 28, 2010. .

Finally, we call upon all the people of faith to come to Atlantic Beach, South Carolina on September 4, 2010 at 10 am and meet us at the Atlantic Beach Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, 502 40th Avenue, South.

This rally is not just about the injustices that this pastor and congregation have been made to face; it is about the threat that every sanctuary will continue to face if we do not show up and speak out.

TO ALL PASTORS, MEMBERS, AND FRIENDS

OF THE CAROLINA REGION AND THE 7TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT:

Bishop Thomas L. Hoyt, Jr. is hereby asking all pastors, members and friend of the “Mighty 7th Episcopal District” to join him on September 4, 2010 at 10:00 am at 502 40th Avenue, South, Atlantic Beach, South Carolina. Together we will rally and march in protest of the ill treatment of Atlantic Beach, South Carolina toward the Atlantic Beach CME Church. The rally will begin at the Church. Further information and hotel accommodation will be sent shortly.

Bishop Hoyt is hopeful that those pastors within a couple hundred miles radius would gather their members and friends and car pool to Atlantic Beach. Our presence will send a message to the authorities of Atlantic Beach, South Carolina and others who would harass and disrespect our right to worship.

Submitted by Dr. James E. Russell, Presiding Elder of the Winston-Salem/Greenville District