Five years ago, on this very night a small group of Christians gathered at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina for Bible study and prayer. All were African American. Many were leaders in their denomination and state. They came from many generations – young and old – gathering midweek to study God’s Word.

After they had begun a young white man appeared at the church door. They weren’t expecting him but they invited him to join them in their church. Picture that. Picture that forever in your mind, dear church. They said to him even you are welcome here.

Read Bishop Lull's full message.