A message from the rector on anti-Asian violence

The faith, commitment, and strength of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders is an integral part of the story of American Christianity. All Saints' Church celebrates its Asian and Asian American members, family, and friends. We condemn all hatred, discrimination, and violence against AAPI people as a sin against God's creation, and we grieve together as one body acts of anti-Asian hatred and violence, especially the murders of Delania Ashley Yuan, Paul Andre Michaels, Xiaojie Tan, Daoyou Feng, and other yet unnamed victims in Atlanta this week. 

The horrible news from Atlanta is part of a rising trend of violence that taps into generations of prejudice and discrimination that is a lasting stain on American life. Hate crimes against AAPI people rose by 150% between 2019 and 2020, and far too many members of our parish family and the wider community are living in fear and anxiety. All Saints' is committed to being a church where every person knows they are seen, known, and loved without exception. In this sad and frightening time, we redouble our commitment to justice and full inclusion of the AAPI community in all we do. We acknowledge the history of anti-Asian racism both in our culture and in the Church, which has too often perpetuated and abetted the forces of white supremacy that harm AAPI people. 

To the Asian and Asian American members of our church, family, friends, and loved ones: you are surrounded in prayer and love by your church family. All Saints' sees you and celebrates you even as we long for a time when hatred and violence will end. May God lead us swiftly into that promised land.  

In Christ,


The Rev. Steven D. Paulikas 
In consultation with the All Saints' Church Racial Justice Committee