This week Bishop Hughes is in Washington, D.C. with Bishops United Against Gun Violence for a gathering of advocates working against the twin epidemics of gun violence and racism. She writes:
“It was a gift to join Bishop Beckwith to visit the offices of Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Congressman Tom Kean (R-NJ). We met with staffers who listened with great interest to our requests for assistance with legislation to reduce gun violence. They were also grateful to hear of the church’s desire to help with conversation across differences. The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations was a great support as we prepared for these meetings.
“One thing I heard over and over today from those working here is the important impact of letters and calls to elected officials. As one person said, ‘do not be discouraged, sometimes winning change takes a long time, but it is worth the effort to keep pressing for it.’”
Bishop Mark Beckwith, retired 10th Bishop of Newark, is one of the co-founders of BUAGV.
DAVID SMEDLEY PHOTO
