Sisters and brothers in Christ,

Last weekend, I and the Bishops of Maine, West Virginia, Southern Ohio, Arizona, and Alaska wrote the attached letter to the Senators of the five states in which we serve. As bishops serving the states most adversely affected by the proposed Graham-Cassidy bill, we urged their rejection of this legislation.

 

As well, I am a signatory to last week's open letter in the New York Times to the President and Members of Congress regarding the vulnerability of "Dreamers" that would result from the termination of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). While I believe that our immigration policies are in need of thoughtful reform, I do not believe that the ending of DACA is part of what God is dreaming either for Dreamers, who include clergy and lay leaders of our church, or for our country.

 

I am aware that Episcopalians and members of our Diocese may have varying perspectives on these issues. I respect that diversity of opinion and do not presume to speak for all. As a Christian and a bishop, I, like you, have a responsibility to speak to social issues when I feel so called, and thus want to make you aware of my recent actions in this regard.

 

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

 

Gratefully,

 

The Rt. Rev. Mark Hollingsworth, Jr.

Bishop of Ohio