A Statement from Pastor Rod Parsley

Monday, June 15, 2020 — COLUMBUS, OH

Well friends, I need to say something from my heart to the black community.

As a white man from the hills of eastern Kentucky, I can’t possibly identify with the plight of people of color in our country. But what I can do is speak out. And I can also admit when I make a misstep. Especially when it hurts, disappoints, or confuses those I love and am called to serve.

So let me be unequivocally clear: Slavery was and slavery is a blight on our nation and the world. It was and is an egregious, heinous, despicable sin that grieves my heart and the heart of God. I would never attempt to defend the indefensible atrocities inflicted upon people of color by our founders and generations after them.

Our history is a tumultuous and very painful one, in particular for the black community. But I believe that together, we can make history right now. And I believe that we should all stand hand in hand with black people against the evils of racism in our nation and together, we can win.

I pray you hear and know my heart is never, ever to hurt you. And it is always to unite in solidarity WITH you. After 46 years of Gospel ministry, I don’t always get it right. But what I can get right is to listen and to hear you and to see you. And I will continue to use my voice to stand alongside you. God being my help.