The Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. believes that all men and women are created imago Dei, in the image and likeness of God, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, ability and class—and therefore should share equality in rights as individuals and citizens. Holding to such beliefs, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. affirms the equality of all individuals and denounces systematically sanctioned violence against people of color.
The Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. goes on record condemning in the strongest terms possible racism, discrimination and violence against people of color—particularly such violence as enacted at the hands of law enforcement. We continue to call upon law enforcement officials to publicly denounce those individuals within their ranks who abuse their authority when interacting with the citizenry. We also call upon law enforcement agencies to increase diversity training and improve policing procedures when interacting with communities of color in every effort to reduce the effects of racial injustice in over-policed neighborhoods. Similarly, we call upon local, state, and federal officials to amend legislation that disproportionately effects communities of color.
Understanding the complexity of mitigating racial injustice, and the central role community partners play in social justice work, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World joins voice with civic and religious leaders across the nation in pledging to work for community healing, justice and reconciliation. Drawing upon the example of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we encourage peaceful demonstrations and cooperative efforts to affect positive and ethical community change. The Pentecostal Assemblies of the World will continue to advocate for enacting social policies that mitigate racial injustice and we will continue to work as community partners to improve our neighborhoods and communities.
Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr. | Presiding Bishop
Bishop Mark C. Tolbert | 1st Assistant Presiding Bishop
Bishop Michael D. Hannah, Sr. | 2nd Assistant Presiding Bishop
Suffragan Bishop Craig S. High | General Secretary
Suffragan Bishop Ann Story-Pratt | Assistant General Secretary
Suffragan Bishop Maxie Dobson | General Treasurer
Suffragan Bishop Leon E. Parker | Assistant General Treasurer