Bishop Rob Hirschfield of the Episcopal Church in New Hampshire has become a national focal point after a speech at a vigil honoring Renee Good, who was fatally shot by ICE officer Jonathan Ross in Minneapolis.
At the event, Hirschfield called Good a “martyr” and urged his clergy to prepare for what he described as a new era of witness and potential sacrifice.
Remembering Renee Good
The vigil on January 9 marked a somber moment for attendees as Hirschfield reflected on Good’s death during an immigration enforcement operation.
Officials from the Trump administration defended Ross’s actions as self-defense, claiming Good’s vehicle was moving toward the officer.
However, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz publicly criticized this explanation, citing video footage that appeared to contradict the federal account.
Historical Context and Call to Preparedness
In his speech at the New Hampshire State House, Hirschfield linked the present moment to a broader history of church and societal struggles.
He described an “eternal battle” dating back to the early days of Christianity and cited examples of clergy who risked or lost their lives to protect others.
Among them was Jonathan Daniels, a seminary student killed in 1965 while defending a young Black civil rights activist in Alabama.
Hirschfield then made a striking request: he asked clergy in New Hampshire to finalize their wills.
“We may be entering into that same witness,” he said.
“It may be that now is no longer the time for statements, but for us with our bodies, to stand between the powers of this world and the most vulnerable.”
Standing Against Injustice
The bishop emphasized that Christians are called to act with courage and love, even in the face of death.
He referenced both Renee Good and George Floyd, asserting that God demands followers stand for the vulnerable.
Hirschfield urged his clergy to trust in God’s protection while confronting cruelty and injustice, framing Good’s actions as part of a sacred tradition of protecting life and dignity.
Peaceful Resistance, Not Violence
In response to criticism from the White House, Hirschfield clarified that his call was not for violent action.
Spokesperson Abigail Jackson warned against any interference with federal law enforcement, calling it a crime.
Hirschfield countered by stressing the importance of nonviolent resistance and following the example of Jesus in advocating for justice through love and compassion rather than aggression.
Life Lessons and Spiritual Centering
Speaking to NHPR, Hirschfield said he was surprised by the widespread attention his remarks received.
He described the message as consistent with his nearly 35-year career as a priest and bishop: encouraging spiritual preparedness and centeredness to face life’s challenges.
For Hirschfield, Good exemplified “upholding the dignity of every human being” in her actions.
The Incident in Minneapolis
Witness accounts and surveillance footage indicate that Good and her wife Rebecca were acting as legal observers during ICE raids.
Renee Good’s SUV was stationary for several minutes before Ross approached, with video showing him grab the car handle and fire as the vehicle began moving.
It remains unclear whether the SUV made contact with the officer before shots were fired.
Broader Religious Response
Other religious leaders have echoed Hirschfield’s call for protection of the vulnerable amid heightened immigration enforcement.
Presiding Bishop Sean W. Rowe highlighted the church’s responsibility to shelter and advocate for immigrants and refugees.
In Minnesota, Bishop Craig Loya called for love over hatred, urging communities to mobilize for justice and hope while resisting oppression peacefully.
A New Era of Advocacy
Hirschfield concluded his vigil remarks with a hopeful tone: he called for courage, compassion, and strength in confronting injustice and affirmed that a new day is coming.
In doing so, he positioned the clergy and the faithful to continue standing for the most vulnerable members of society while remaining committed to nonviolent principles.
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