An interfaith council of ministers and congregations voted today to ban any Trump supporters from worship services.
The Western Southern New York Cooperative Council of Progressive Congregations, in a special meeting, voted 15-0 to turn away from services anyone who publicly supports, admits to voting for, or is suspected of liking Donald Trump. If such people show up for services they will be asked to leave.
“This is a moment in our democracy when people have to make uncomfortable actions and decisions to uphold their morals,” declared the Rev. Gennifer Sanger-Spong, lead minster of the Ecumenical Universal Life Church of West Cayuga. She said the action of Trump’s White House have consistently been, “inhumane and unethical.”
Sanger-Spong explained that the churches decided to turn away the Trump supporters because, “our churches have certain standards that they feel they have to uphold, such as honesty, and compassion, and cooperation." They found Trump policies toward Democrats, the media, NFL players, and Hollywood B-listers are inherently mean.
To enforce the decision, volunteers will stand in parking lots before services and whenever they spot a car with a bumper sticker saying "Trump" or "MAGA," the drivers will be asked to turn around a go home. In addition, each congregation will have a committee that will make lists of any individuals who said they voted for Trump, had Trump lawn signs, or voiced support for any Trump proposals, and those people will be asked to leave the church if they are seen sitting in a pew.
"Despite its many crimes and inherent racism, we believe America's alleged values include being inclusive," Sanger-Spong said. "We are trying to send a message."
The WSNYCCPC consists of 18 congregations. At the special meeting, the vote included two abstentions. In addition, one congregation boycotted the meeting because of the kind of coffee the council was using.
Pax et bonum
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