Open Letter to the San Jose State Community

To the community of San Jose State University,

At this time of sadness you are not alone.   The news of students committing hateful acts towards their roommate reveals that racism continues to exist, but many of you already knew that.  Many have been hurt by racist attitudes in the past and can identify with the pain of your fellow student.  Others may be surprised that something like this could happen on your campus.  Most would like to stop it from happening again.

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church is saddened along with you.  We are disappointed in the few who do such hateful acts, but also in the many who look the other way when we see someone suffering.  We are angry that hardened hearts can only see the differences among us.

As people who follow Jesus, we hope, pray and work for the day when racism and hateful actions are no longer talked about, not because they are kept hidden, but because they no longer exist.  We believe in a love that will overcome this hatred.  We believe in the goodness of God that will overcome racism. 

If you need a community where you can feel sheltered from this storm, we are here for you.  If you need to simply see that it is possible for people of many different cultures and ethnicities to know and love one another, come and pass the peace with us.  Hugs will abound, tears may be shed, prayers will be lifted, peace will be felt, stories will be heard, songs will be sung, and little by little, through each of us, the world will be transformed. 

Pastor Jennifer Goto

St. Paul's United Methodist Church
405 S. 10th Street, San Jose (10th and San Salvador)
Worship Sundays at 10:30 AM
Pastor: Rev. Jennifer Goto
www.stpaulsumcsj.com

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