Bishop Advises Clergy to Write Wills Amid ICE Clashes

A recent statement from Bishop Rob Hirschfeld of the Episcopal Church in New Hampshire has sparked a widespread conversation among clergy nationwide. Following the tragic death of Renee Macklin Good, allegedly shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minneapolis, Hirschfeld addressed his fellow clergy during a vigil in Concord, New Hampshire.

Bishop’s Call for Preparedness

During the vigil held shortly after Good’s death, Bishop Hirschfeld expressed his concerns about rising tensions surrounding immigration enforcement activities. He urged clergy to prepare for a potential “new era of martyrdom.” Specifically, he advised them to write their wills and organize their affairs. Hirschfeld remarked, “It may be that now is no longer the time for statements, but for us to stand between the powers of this world and the most vulnerable.”

Reactions from Clergy

Responses to Bishop Hirschfeld’s remarks have varied significantly. Many faith leaders, such as Reverend Jason Wells from St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, found comfort in his words. Wells indicated that Hirschfeld’s statement resonated with a national anxiety among clergy who have begun to speak out against the actions of ICE, often facing violent repercussions.

• Wells stated, “People feel like he’s giving voice to a feeling in the pit of their stomach.”
• Reverend Betsy Hess from St. Barnabas Episcopal Church expressed agreement, calling for clergy to act decisively.

Conversely, some clergy voiced opposition to Hirschfeld’s assertion of a need for martyrdom. Reverend Tom Gartin of Faith Episcopal Church conveyed his concerns, suggesting that his call to stand against violence could escalate tensions instead of mitigating them. He emphasized the importance of peacemaking within the community.

Bishop’s Clarification

Bishop Hirschfeld responded to the backlash, clarifying that his intention was not to incite violence. He urged clergy to live fearlessly while remaining prepared for potential consequences. “What I said to the clergy was, ‘I’m just asking you to live your life without fear of death,'” he explained.

The bishop referenced historical martyrs, including Jonathan Daniels, a New Hampshire native who died while helping to protect a young Black teenager during the civil rights movement. Hirschfeld highlighted the Episcopal tradition of courage in the face of injustice, saying, “We’re increasingly called to go into places that feel dangerous.”

Continued Debate on ICE Actions

The incident involving Renee Macklin Good has triggered a broader debate regarding ICE practices. A statement from the White House reaffirmed the administration’s stance, declaring any interference with federal law enforcement as a prosecutable offense. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) characterized Hirschfeld’s comments about martyrdom as “absurd,” advocating for support of ICE agents.

Bishop Hirschfeld concluded by expressing compassion for all individuals involved, including law enforcement personnel. “It’s definitely our Christian responsibility to extend love even to our enemies,” he said, emphasizing the need for understanding amid escalating tensions surrounding immigration policy and enforcement.