Columns appreciated
I am writing in regards to two columns in your June 11 edition – Fr. Pablo Migone’s and Msgr. Fred Nijem’s. They were both in response to the “Black Lives Matter” situation in our country (and the world). They provided quite a bit of challenging information which I enjoyed reading and will continue to ponder. A big thank-you to these two men for providing these words and a thank-you to the newspaper staff for including them.
Sincerely,
Sr. Donna Jo Loeper, SSJ
Savannah

Black Lives Matter Creed
I am writing in response to your article on May 31 describing the peaceful Black Lives Matter protest in Savannah. While I am thankful for the protests that occurred, which were peaceful, I am also concerned about the widespread misconception of the Black Lives Matter movement. I am particularly concerned that Catholics of goodwill might be encouraged to support this movement without knowing that there is a great deal more to it than a peaceful protest of racial injustice.
I am attaching a PDF from the movement’s website. Statements such as, “We make space for transgender brothers and sisters to lead...and do the work required to dismantle cisgender privilege” are among those of concern. “We disrupt the Western-prescribed nuclear family structure requirement...” is another red flag. “We foster a queer-affirming network. When we gather, we do so with the intention of freeing ourselves from the tight grip of heteronormative thinking, or rather, the belief that all in the world are heterosexual (unless s/he or they disclose otherwise,” is another indication that this movement is not compatible with our Catholic faith.
Sincerely,
Ann Heusel
St. Mary on the Hill, Augusta

Balance appreciated
With all the one-sided attacks on the police I was gratified to read the comments by Savannah Mayor Van Johnson suggesting that people also see the other side of the story by joining the police force. These balanced comments were sadly met with criticism.I have attended Sheriff’s citizen’s Academy courses , including 2 ride a longs, in Virginia and Georgia. To observe the professional conduct of the deputies and their sensitivity to and respectful treatment of all ethnic groups is very educational. Attendance at these courses should be required of all elected officials and prominent civic leaders and citizens of all communities. Reverend Daniel Firmin’s one sided letter was disappointing.No mention of the 17 innocent people, including 2 African American police officers, killed by the rioters. Fr. Migone knows what happens when society loses it’s moral fiber. His family moved here to flee such a society.The First Step Act recently signed by President Trump was enacted to address the equal Justice Initiatives inequities he mentions.
Good to see balance from an elected official.
Donald Petrine
Our Lady Star of the Sea, St. Marys