Statement Concerning Re-Opening of Churches

In light of the continued instances of police brutality against men and women of color, the militia action taken against communities of color, and other such actions that have resulting in the deaths of innocents within the United States of America, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. reiterates and reaffirms its position 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.

The Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. continues to join voice with civic and religious leaders across the nation and world whom are dedicated to community healing, justice and reconciliation. We similarly continue to encourage peaceful demonstrations and cooperative efforts for positive and ethical community change.

Above all, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. is grounded in such spiritual traditions that seek the voice and hand of God for the peace and betterment of our global communities. Therefore, Presiding Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr. is calling for September 2020 to be a month of consecration and prayer for peace and healing in the United States of America and abroad. The Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. asks that the constituency of fellow Apostolic organizations and those of like faith join together in prayer on each Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the month of September 2020 beginning Monday September 7, 2020, at least three times per day. The objectives of this consecration include: peace; the end of racism and oppression; the end of divisive political rhetoric; and healing in the land.

We hold to be true the Word of the Lord recorded in the Holy Scriptures – “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).