Statement from the Colorado Council of Churches
On the Attack Against Peaceful Protesters in Boulder
June 5, 2025
As faith leaders rooted in the Christian tradition and committed to dignity, justice, and peace, the Colorado Council of Churches unequivocally denounces the brutal, anti-Semitic attack on the peaceful protesters in Boulder last Sunday. We grieve the violence that disrupted a lawful and peaceful demonstration and seriously injured several people. We lift up in prayer all those who were harmed physically, emotionally, or spiritually by the attack.
The right to peacefully assemble and express one’s conscience is not only protected by law, it is a sacred part of the democratic and moral fabric of our society. We should all understand that the protests we are seeing across our country reflect the deep despair and justified frustration with what has happened, and continues to happen, in Gaza and Israel. Yet, the public square must be a place where people can freely and safely advocate for a particular viewpoint, even if someone strongly disagrees with that viewpoint.
As local and state authorities conduct their investigation and prosecute the alleged crimes, we urge community leaders, faith communities, and neighbors across Colorado to recommit themselves to the principles of peace, justice, and mutual respect.
As followers of Christ, we are reminded that “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). In this spirit, we affirm our support for all who seek to bring about a more just and compassionate world, and we pledge to work alongside them in hope and solidarity.
May we work together in love and unity, bearing witness to the hope that Christ brings, even in the darkest moments.
In peace,
The Colorado Council of Churches
Also, individually:
Also individually:
The Rev. Dr. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni, Bishop, Rocky Mountain Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Rev. Dr. Dee Cooper, Lead Presbyter, Presbytery of Denver
Rev. Erin Gilmore, Transitional Conference Minister, Rocky Mountain Conference, United Church of Christ
Rev. Anthony C. Hill, Presiding Elder, Kansas District, Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
The Right Reverend Kym Lucas, Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Colorado
Bishop Kae Madden, Rocky Mountain Region of the Ecumenical Catholic Communion
Rev. Dale Matherly, Interim Executive Regional Minister, Central Rocky Mountain Region, Disciples of Christ
Rev. Vickie Samland, Church of the Brethren
Bishop Kristin G. Stoneking, Mountain Sky Conference of the United Methodist Church
Rev. Dr. Steve Van Ostran, Executive Regional Minister, American Baptist Churches of the Rocky Mountains
