September 24, 2020
Dear Members of the Society for Buddhist-Christian Studies and All Colleagues:
This year, 2020, has not been an easy year, to say the least. We have had the Global Pandemic, Black Lives Matter and social justice issues that have spread in the US but also globally, one of the most intense election cycles in American history, the Conflagration in the West Coast of the US which has consumed an unprecedented six million acres and is growing, and the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who for many was not just a great Supreme Court justice for the US, but an inspirational figure around the world. Of course, there are many other issues internationally.
First, our profound gratitude goes out to all of the healthcare care workers, firefighters, first responders, and others who have worked tirelessly around the clock to save lives, tend to those who are ill, and have lost their homes. These workers have often done so at great sacrifice, including the ultimate sacrifice, their very lives. Our hearts go out to all of those who have suffered great loss.
Second, we stand for true inclusivity and with Black Lives Matter. As the family of George Floyd pleaded at his memorial in Houston, Texas, we should all come from love, not from hatred and violence. Justice and Love do not conflict with each other: there is no true love without justice, and no true justice without love, no boundless compassion without karmic responsibility, and no true taking of karmic responsibility without the awareness of limitless compassion.
Third, there is no question that for many of us, the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a profound loss. However, we can keep a few things in mind: Thanks to RBG and others, we have shoulders to stand on. She worked tirelessly until virtually her last breath – she could be considered a true bodhisattva, a true follower of God. If she can do it, then we can be inspired to do it.
Finally, all of this reminds us that Buddhist-Christian interreligious dialogue is about how we come together, overcoming divides, creating bridges to understanding, and working together to better the lives of others and our own.
We thank you for your commitment, all of the work that you do, and we look forward to a brighter future because of this.
With deepest appreciation,
Leo Lefebure, President, and Mark Unno, Vice President