Statement by the Most Rev. William R. Cavins
Pastor Abiding Presence Faith Community, Auxiliary Bishop, Diocese of St. John XXIII

A Pastoral Reprimand Against Political Violence

In the image of God we are created, and our human dignity is inviolable. Violence against any person, especially such a tragic and violent end to a life gifted with influence, faith, and family, is an affront not only to law and civic order, but to the very reflection of the Divine in humanity.

To all who profess faith, in every political stripe:

Let us condemn without reservation the killing of Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, an act that cuts through the heart of public discourse and wounds our common life. 

Detention is not the only answer to the complex challenges of immigration. Communities of faith, service organizations, and local governments have repeatedly demonstrated more humane, effective, and cost-conscious alternatives. Turning to prison structures sends the wrong moral message: that asylum seekers and migrants are criminals rather than neighbors.

I urge state and federal officials to seek solutions grounded in human dignity, due process, and compassion. I call on all people of faith to speak out, to stand alongside the vulnerable, and to work toward an immigration system that honors both our laws and our highest moral values.

In the spirit of the 2013 pastoral letter’s teaching on human dignity and the sacredness of life, we affirm that the sanctity of every human being must be upheld, even in disagreement, even in conflict. Political violence is never permissible. It undermines the foundations of justice, peace, and the Church’s mission to bear witness to mercy and truth. 

We mourn the loss of a young father, a voice for his generation, and a human person created in God’s image. Our prayers are with his wife Erika, his children, and all whose lives were impacted by this tragic event. Let our unity in prayer become a healing balm for grief and fear.

We reject the descent into violence, political or otherwise, as a means of conflict resolution. As our Pastoral Letter proclaimed:

“Human Dignity is the intrinsic worth that inheres in every human being. … The source of human dignity is rooted in the concept of humanity created in the Image of God…” –

                  Pastoral Letter on Violence, March 6, 2013. 

May this tragedy awaken within us the urgent call to witness to the Gospel of Life, to embrace charitableness amid ideological divides, and to stand firm against all forms of violence.

Most Rev. William R. Cavins
Pastor, Abiding Presence Faith Community
Auxiliary Bishop, Diocese of St. John XXIII
Reformed Catholic Church

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Peace Be With You

Abiding Presence Faith Community, a parish of The Reformed Catholic Church, welcomes you to our inclusive Catholic family. Together, we strive to make God’s love known in Central Florida by leading people to a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ. No matter what you’ve been through. We are here for you. Whatever questions you have. We will try to answer them. Your spiritual journey is unique, and we celebrate the diversity of our members.

Abiding Presence is where you’ll find the grace, mercy, and forgiveness Jesus gives everyone. We are similar to other catholic churches in our liturgy, sacraments, and apostolic succession. What makes us different is our desire to include everyone regardless of marital status, gender identity, or other human distinctions that lead to exclusion. 

We invite you to worship with us this Saturday and participate in “Making God’s Love Known.”