Well said Father Cooper and thanks John donnelly manager development & communications church of St Luke in the fields.

John donnelly on October 5, 2011

Yes, Moses - but how will you move out of the church and offer the mana of communion to all or will you set the meeting with the director of the Shalom Center that brings all to the table and lead them through this Exodus...?

Caroline Arter (caroline.arter23@gmail.com) on October 5, 2011

My ancestors were faithful communicants at Saint Paul's, and family members and friends have attended Eucharists at Trinity. I believe I understand some of the unrest expressed by the Protest, but I pray earnestly that this American Experience does not resemble at any time what happened in London. To The Rev. Dr. Cooper---Well said. Welcome All.

kyjockey on October 6, 2011

Where is the call for peaceful protest as opposed to antagonistic protest?

Robert on October 6, 2011

Thanks so much for lending assistance to this group of people excerising their right to free speech. This group stands for what many of us believe is the heart of America's most important issues. Again, many thanks.

Art Means on October 6, 2011

The protesters are good people. Blessings to you for reaching out to them. Jesus would be with them. I'm participating in Occupy Portland. We're inspired here in the PacificNW by what you've been doing in the AtlanticNE. Onward, toward Justice.

Den Mark Wichar, Vancouver WA on October 6, 2011

Jim, I'm proud of you for this outreach as well as the many things you and Trinity do to bring a living Gospel to a hungry and thirsty world. A couple of months ago, I had the privilege of a short visit with Katharine, our Presiding Bishop, and as I said to her, "I've never been prouder of our Church" than I have been these last tumultuous years. Know that though we live away from the scene, we are near in prayer. d+

David Jeffery, retired priest on October 7, 2011

Well said, Jim. You see Trinity/St. Paul's, especially at this time, for who we want to be: a place and community open and welcoming to all for prayer, rest, respite, sharing, renewal, strength, and healing. This, from you, helps to enable us all.

John Moody on October 7, 2011

As always, Trinity makes us proud.

Andy Martin on October 8, 2011

As one of the Protest Chaplains who was there for the first day of the NYC protests, and as an Episcopalian, it's really nice to see this. Really nice. These are peaceful protests. Dissent is not antagonism. The frustration is real. With 15% unemployment rates in some areas, and much higher rates of underemployment, there are many millions of Americans being pushed to desperation. We've heard from hundreds of non-Christians who are thrilled to "finally" see Christians live out Christ's message of welcome, inclusion, and new life instead of merely talking about it. That begins with messages of support like this, rather than staying silent for fear of bothering the wealthy and powerful. Thank you.

Marisa on October 8, 2011

Thank you, Jim, for this support. Let all of us pray for the continued examination and free discussion of the principles on which this nation was founded and the will and ability to change for the mutual benefit of all.

Robin Pelkki on October 8, 2011

As a cradle Episcopalian, I have been molded by the church's tradition of the via media, or middle way. I have worshipped ast Trinity when I have been in NYC and found the congregation kind and welcoming. I remember Trinity as a place of rest for the 1st responders at 9/11. Thank you Trinity, for continuing to walk in the way of peace and offering respite for those protesting our terrifying economic times. Currently I am one of the unemployed and uninsured battling lymphoma. I am one of the 99%. If you woukld like to follow my personal journey, I am blogging at wordpress:http://runningwithgodonmyipod.wordpress.com/ Wishing everyone peace and light.

Jennye on October 8, 2011

I am on a similar journey,am facing eviction, and you will be in my prayers. I will follow your blog. I haveseen the upheavals up close in Berkeley in the late 60's and the AIDS protests in the 90's I have just joined the church, and my problem has always been the hypocrisy between what is said, and what is acted upon. As a new member of Trinity, it is our responsiblity to be a leader, at the head of wall Street as it were, We had an incredible celebrathion for a week for9/11. This situation is affecting more people and it seems like people are just waking up. Last summer it was obvious that the Koch Brothers and toether such "corporate leaders" were getting the ";ess informed" to vote against their own interest, It seems that the wheel is turning on the side of justice for us 99% ers. God bless you keep up the good work

John McCann on October 8, 2011

Occupy Wall Street, Nashville, here. So good to see actions speaking louder than words. I am not a church goer, but have always appreciated what I learned in(the Episcopal) church about tolerance, forgiveness, and reaching out. You are inspiring, and so are those who dare to start a movement like Occupy Wall Street. i also find it inspiring that you have successfully encouraged people to come in to talk about their differences. Thank you.

Annie Armour on October 9, 2011

Right on target! You and the Trinity family always make me proud!

Bill Gans on October 9, 2011

So many protest, riots and wars in the present world, this person TRIES to separate them. Daily, reading the Wall St. NY Times online issues, it recalls my student protest at Berkeley. Issues are NOT new, only the dissenters change. Activists are the ones who take action. Demonstrators are the visible signs of a troubled economy, an anxious concern for a job (not just EQUAL OPPORTUNITY); We are an uneasy population. But it takes a 'James Cooper' to effectively provide the place, the opportunity, the equalizing wisdom to really open the doors. Indeed, Trinity Church Wall Street and its Staff are there. Are here. Len Sullivan

Len Sullivan on October 9, 2011

Thank you for continuing to use your church facility as a place of refuge, welcome, and peace in a very divided, broken world. I mentioned your church in my own blog post about Occupy Wall Street: http://wordshalfheard.blogspot.com/2011/10/mystery-fruit.html I especially appreciate your call to prayer for all involved, and your challenge to be proactive in improving the lives of others. RTDFB

Carol Kuniholm on October 9, 2011

Althought I find Dr. Cooper's comments thoughtful, I would like to suggest that perhaps Trinity go a step futher and consider providing/donating bag lunches, simple medical supplies (gloves, bandages, alcohol wipes etc) blankets, towels, and hygeine kits to the protesters camping out at Zuccini Park. Given our Christian heritage (let's face it Jesus was the most effective trouble-maker, protester that there ever was) I beleive such a tangible gesture would be an expression of our commitment and would add undeniable substance to Dr. Cooper's words. Moreover, given Trinity's corporate standing and stature on Wall Street, such a tangible gesteure might send Trinity's Wall Street corporate neighbors a message that perhaps it would be a good time to start taking the protester's underlying greivances seriously.

Dr. Adriane David Paniagua on October 10, 2011

So does this mean that Trinity Real Estate is going to liquidate its extensive, multi-billion dollar portfolio and donate that money to the 'Occupy Wall Street' mob? If you're going to talk the talk, then walk the walk...

Jay Akasie on October 10, 2011

Oh common, Jay. The last guy that suggested that the ointment used by Magdalene be 'liquidated' and sold for the good of the poor had an all together different agenda, didn't he?

Arthur J. Sikula on October 10, 2011

I'm so proud that TWS took this action, rather than refuse to reach-out to a group that may not be popular with all its members. Thank you!

Bill Miller on October 10, 2011

Thank you for serving in the name of Christ. "And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God." --Micah 6:8

The Rev. Dr. Charles Ferrell on October 10, 2011

My prayers go out to the protesters. This Country was founded based on protest. God is with them and with Trinity Church.... Yolanda 10-12-11

YOLANDA SILVERIO on October 12, 2011

Thank you Father cooper

Edgar eaves on October 13, 2011

If those demonstrating get kicked out of the park, will they find sanctuary in the hallowed space of Trinity? Or perhaps could some of its space be used to help them stay in the park? (e.g. if they aren't allowed to sleep in the park they could sleep on Trinity's property, if they aren't allowed to keep their belongings in the park they could store them on Trinity's property etc.) Occupy Wall Street is raising gobs of money from their sympathizers and from a financial standpoint the church might be able to recoup whatever costs are involved by setting up some kind of paypal account. Not to mention goodwill from around the world as the church once again does what Jesus would have done. God bless.

F on October 13, 2011

My blessings go out Fr. Cooper. His generous gesture reminds me to the feeding of the five thousand; your humility and hospitality will return to TWS ten fold. God bless you for all you do for so many. Rev. Lisle H. Davis El Paso, TX

Rev. Lisle H. Davis on October 13, 2011

Trinity has stood in solidarity with the Rich and Powerful for most of its existence. As many wealthy establishment churches, it throws money at several problems, mostly through grants. Yet many of it's projects are just ways for wealthy Episcopalians to feel good about themselves. It seems like this opening of space is just another fence-riding gesture on the part of the church to look and feel good about it's benevolence to society. When will The Church stand in solidarity with the 99%? When will the church stand with God, against the the strong and mighty?

Jimmy on October 13, 2011

It's amazing how many Episcopalians just don't get it. Yes, we are called to radical welcome, but Christ does not call us to the middle way! We are called to give up EVERYTHING and follow Christ. Trinity Wall Street and Fr. Cooper maintain wealth and power, and believe they are leading us to the Kindom of God. The Kindom of God is closer in the park and on the streets than with The Episcopal Church.

Rhonda on October 14, 2011

THIS is what Jesus would do. Thank you for bearing the light into the world Fr. Cooper.

Sandy in SC on October 14, 2011

This is a great start. I agree with both sides. Trinity is a very wealthy parish, and it's almost embarrassing to realize the juxtaposition. Of course, such a wealthy parish can do more. We all can do more. I'm also embarrassed to admit I am part of the 1%. I wish I had the strength and courage to stand up with the occupiers. Blessings to you Fr. Cooper. Keep strong. Don't stop now! in the Peace AND the Justice of the Holy One. Debbie Smith Senior Warden at a Long Island Parish

Debbie Smith - Long Island Parish on October 14, 2011

Dear Dr. Cooper, You've outdone yourself. Certainly this genteel and carefully worded statement will not offend or challenge any of Trinity's communicants who will be making their pledges for 2012. Although I am sure you are without guile or malice, your evasive non-committal is a masterpiece of Solomonic quality.. The last time I heard anything of this caliber was from a very cautious, white, Southern churchman in 1963.. I am confident you have good intentions. But in this case, your continuing, silent complicity (at this time of crisis and decision) would have better served the common good than your commentary. Michael

Michael F. Foster on October 14, 2011

Hmm.

Worf Son of Mogh on October 15, 2011

IT will be very hard as a parishioner who is a 99% er to consider a financial donation to a church where it is well known has a multi billion dollar real estate portfolio. The church is fillled with good people, who seem to lead low key and modest lives, and do good church work. But our economy is coming apart at the seems because of the banks and because of the real estate. The clergy is all well intentioned. I am on disability and dont put any money in the bowl when distributed.

Hamilron McCann on October 15, 2011

The generosity Trinity has shown to OWS is a reflection of the dignity of all men and women deserving of compassion. Thank you for your support and understanding. If we are truly all one people - if one of us is suffering at the hands of injustice - all of us suffer.

Kevin Jones on October 16, 2011

It feels like a good day to be an Episcopalian.

Mary Eileen on October 16, 2011

proud to be an Episcopalian!!!!!!! (And not the first time, either)

John Orbell on October 17, 2011

Mr. Cooper. Would you so vigorously support the protests of the disenfranchised orthodox Episcopalians that cannot accept the "innovations" of the General Convention over the past 40 years??? Didn't think so.... Frankly, I miss the good old days of rubber bullets, tear gas, police batons and water cannon.

Scott Jarvis Loftesness on October 17, 2011

Dear Rev. Cooper, It was after reading your letter on this website that Jane and I were humbled and made a conscious decision to change our attitude towards the protestors. It has been difficult to embrace them since we have had to install significant security upgrades to our store since their arrival. Yesterday was our first day with our new outlook and the positive attitude permeated the whole store and made our day significantly better. We want to thank you for your leadership in the neighborhood. Sincerely Yours, Doug & Jane Smith World Trade Art Gallery 74 Trinity Place

Doug & Jane Smith on October 21, 2011

Thank you for providing this healthy space for work and consideration of the great task at hand. I think I speak for the heart of this movement in saying that we greatly appreciate your patience and understanding, especially considering the inconveniences we inevitably create and the occasional lapses in judgment and personal responsibility on the part of a number of occupants. Many of us are routinely troubled by the uncontrollable elements of human nature that have been witnessed here since we arrived (and that are unfairly attributed to our movement as a whole), and I am therefore gladdened to see that some of our neighbors are able to look past these discrepancies and forgive those among us who know not what they do [if only in the broader sense]. We dream of a better world, and your hospitality is very much appreciated to that end - both as an example of the potential for good in man, and as a practical place to work towards furthering that potential. If we succeed in our task, together we will see that potential actualize in the coming months and years.

Calum Macpherson-Smith on October 24, 2011

Not bad - I've been pestering you guys with Tweets asking what you're doing to support OWS. This is a start - but only a start. I'm glad you're willing to provide space for the purposes mentioned, but believe that TWS could afford to provide more immediate material support as well--including food, warm clothes and sanitary supplies. How about it?

Daniel Berry, Parishioner, St Luke in the Fields on October 25, 2011

PS: Jesus' critique of the power structure in the Temple in Jerusalem did not seem to be one advocating the Temple's providing a space to accommodate dialogue those with whom he disagreed: he turned the bloody currency exchange tables over, obviously enraged by extortionary financial practices. TWS could easily - easily - accommodate and afford something much closer to that. Certainly those who manage your portfolio would not wash their hands of how they profit from TWS if for example, the clergy and people of the parish definitively stood with those arrested in actions against Citibank and BoA.

Daniel Berry, Parishioner, St Luke in the Fields on October 25, 2011

My last critique of Trinity was deleted by the moderator...I received inquiry from Democracy Now to give an interview of that and I declined out of respect for our this ministry that we share. I will not do so if this post is deleted. I must submit that in all this Trinity Wall Street is acting with a lack of nerve and disguising it as faux Angican circumspection. Providing what you do at Charlottes Place is not enough AT ALL given your proximity to the site. Providing a room for a local meeting of Interfaith clergy which I attended, and which we could have held at any one of our churches is not enough. The fact that the meeting was 3 hours long and not ONE member of the Trinity clergy deigned to spend so much as a second there to listen or take part in a meeting with over 40 local and national clergy leaders discussing and creating strategies around this issue is troubling. Community Board 1, in which you reside, passed a resolution supporting the first amendment rights of the protests and they called for local solutions to the issue of bathrooms etc. I will again make a clear call to you at Trinity to provide and manage 6 porto potties on the portico of St. Paul's. This is the very least you can do to help your neighborhood and this movement which is galvanizing the spirit of a nation long ailing under economic policies that favor the wealthy. This move is the VERY least. You cannot hide behind words like conversation when you are not actually in them and acting. You can not hide behind words like "ministry of presence" when you are not taking pro active steps to alleviate the most basic needs, the most basic needs, of people demonstrating for the very goals and ideals that you and I preach about every weekend. Accountability, transformation, justice. Trinity: you can join the conversation but through your publicity wing please stop perpetuating in your blogs and interviews that you are doing anything significant to aid, support or be present to this once a generation movement. You are quickly missing this bus, you are invited on, but do it with integrity and honesty. This post is placed here to remind you of your high calling, a calling we share. If this is deleted yet again, it will appear elsewhere. With great hope, your colleague in faith

Rev. John Merz, Episcopal Priest on October 26, 2011

Brian Jordan ABOUT 20 YEARS AGO I HAD PRAYED WITH MY CONGRESSMAN JOE PITTS FOR THE BERLIN WALL TO COME DOWN... I THOUGHT IT WAS A LONG SHOT.. THIS PAST MONTH I MADE A POSTER FOR WALL STREET "NO MORE WAR" . I CAN ONLY SAY DON'T STOP PRAYING. I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES.

BRIAN JORDAN on October 26, 2011

Well said my brother John and I stand with you. Indeed, "We shall over come some day."

The Rev. Sheldon Hamblin, Episcopal Priest on October 27, 2011

Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined the protests in our Nation, and around the globe. I have been praying for Trinity and their hospitality to all peoples. I pray that the regular cycle of daily prayers and Eucharists have been observed, and that all have been welcome at the banquet table. I hope that Washington is watching and listening. As I believe the peaceful protests would have more coverage and exposure on The Mall and in Lafayette Park. Come let us reason together---winter is at the door. Blessings and Peace.

kyjockey on October 28, 2011

Yes. Trinity is a wealthy parish. The difference is that Trinity does a lot of good with that wealth. Amen.

Jeannie Z on November 6, 2011

Thank you for your message of tolerance and respect. As a newcomer to your community and as an occupier, I appreciate your thoughts and support.

garrett perkins on November 14, 2011

Please let the protesters stay. Thank you.

Rabbit Seagraves on November 15, 2011

I am very proud to be part of the parish that helped nurture The Rev. John Merz' vocation! www.stlukeinthefields.org

MaryO on November 15, 2011

OWS needs help Trinity. It would be a nice gestured of humanity if you could help them.

Brian on November 15, 2011

IF THIS MESSAGE WAS SINCERE AND HEARTFELT....ALLOW THE PROTESTERS TO STAY!! BE BRAVE!! SOLIDARITY WITH #OWS!!!

Anonnymous on November 15, 2011

One very large way you can support OWS is to allow them to stay. Make a stand now and deal with it later. "Shame on you who make unjust laws and publish burdonsome decrees, depriving the poor of justice.." (Isaiah 10:1-2)

Cherie Boeneman on November 15, 2011

Please let the protesters stay, and denounce mayor's police action. Thank you!

Joe Wilson on November 15, 2011

Amen, Cherie!

KodeBloo on November 15, 2011

Let the protesters stay. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Cindy Maslonka on November 15, 2011

Today's events are significant in trying to really ascertain the Church loyalty to its people or government profit. I'm disgusted at Trinity Church's refusal to help the OWS Protesters when they sought refuge at your Church Gates!! Terrible display of Police force against peaceful people. I'm a long time supporter of the Church and can't believe that they would allow the events to unfold the way that they did. Thankfully, the protesters carried themselves with the peaceful dignity that they do and left. Why should we support a Church that doesn't support us? You have a vacant lot and could have helped ease some of the tensions in the city while the protesters regrouped and let the police leave quietly. Please explain!!

D. Turner on November 15, 2011

Please practice what you preach! Don't be afraid to get in the thick of things and get messy - Jesus certainly did. And do not fool yourself - you cannot support the protestors while simultaneously calling in the police to harass and evict them.

Episcopalian on November 15, 2011

Shame on Trinity for not allowing people access to your land. Shame.

Marc Armstrong on November 15, 2011

Shame!

Jim Fleming on November 15, 2011

Let the protestors upholding our First Amendment rights use your property. Jesus would let them.

Susanne on November 15, 2011

You should feel shame

Billy on November 15, 2011

Please allow the protesters to use your property to exercise their First Amendment rights. Please give them safe haven. Generosity of spirit trumps greed, please!

Connie Fowler on November 15, 2011

Religion is a poison and the arrests at canal show no faction is apart from the Right wing structure of power and pain.

YellowJacket on November 15, 2011

Well obviously you have limits to your generosity. Too bad!

mooncat99 on November 15, 2011

Apparently you are complete hypocrites given these statements versus what happened on your property today by your request. You should be ashamed of yourselves......apparently you have forgotten Jesus' own words.

NYC Resident on November 15, 2011

And another Church displays their real mettle......nothing more than rich landowners, duping the public, rejecting the needy, and ignoring the words of their Savior. Shame on all of you! There is a special place in Hell reserved for hypocrites of your caliber.

Jerky on November 15, 2011

Word is Trinity would rather they leave town. Any truth to that Trinity???

Brian on November 15, 2011

OWS is the movement Jesus would support were he alive today. And having people arrested because they are in your empty dirt lot is what the Pharisees would do. Why do you exist and why are you tax exempt if you are no longer a supporter of Christianity?

Marguerite Matthews - Trinity supporter on November 15, 2011

Your response to today's events is shameful, Trinity.

Kaie Bird on November 15, 2011

will you really have people arrested if they take your graveyard? hrmm.

nitemare on November 15, 2011

It would be good if somebody from the church staff would respond to questions and comments about today's actions regarding the OWS protestors. Otherwise it leaves the impression that the church is basically washing its hands of this situation.

Rev. Paul Drake on November 15, 2011

I'm a cradle Episcopalian, and I'm appalled by your cowardice and inaction yesterday. You've proven that your church is about little else than real estate. . . And you wonder why so many congregants are leaving PECUSA; it's because you're gutless and stand for nothing.

MD Armstrong on November 16, 2011

I sincerely hope that you will open your arms to the ex-Zuccotti OWS group and allow them to stay on your land by the Holland River!

Ann Kemler on November 16, 2011

What happened to the "peaceful protest"? Sorry about all this, Trinity. As for the unruly, Jesus through Peter teaches to obey the laws of the land (1 Peter 2:13). Jesus could cause riots just by being righteous, He never sinned against His Father or His neighbor. Where is the compassion of the protesters? Keeping all in my prayers.

Kris Groda, church of Christ minister on November 17, 2011

I have questions for the Trinity clergy. Since you have been involved with this movement, since you have been by your own admission supporting it, how many working group meetings have you attended? I do know that there was an aborted spokes council meeting held at the 2nd floor meeting space but how many working groups meetings did you attend at the many atrium locations? Please cut out the nonsense about Charlotte's space being enough. When people were raided you did not provide a SINGLE BED.... I am interested in knowing that since Liberty square is in your "parish" and you operate on the parish model that all your neighbors are your responsibility, why it was that you did not have the occupy alert text that about 1200 other clergy had: that goes off when the occupiers were threatened by a very real brutal police force. Do you all think police brutality is a the violence reigned down upon protesters is/was not real? In other words, the night the park was raided do you realize that you did not know about it, and yet people from all over, and other clergy did. Yet you work right there and you knew nothing. In the midst of your listening and support for this movement you neglected to actually leave your building and connect to the movement in a real way. I am interested in how you feel about the fact that the Police came into your parish space, blocked off the whole area withing your direct locale and beat people up and down the block between St. Paul's and Trinity? How is it that nobody at Trinity has issued a seriously strong statement about police brutality when the Times shows a man with his arms out stretched on the gates of Trinity and a police officer poised to hit him with his billy club and then did. Where else have we seen state power arrayed against a man advocating for the least, the lost and the left behind be treated in such a way, his arms splayed in such manner? Dead Silence on that. Why is that this Church has hid behind its patronizing claims of "doing enough" in the midst of this movement when you did the bare minimum and then lauded yourselves without shame on your blogs etc, a claim that even though almost every occupier I have spoken to thinks you guys are a joke you cling to. I have heard the Rector say with great pride that he upholds in inviolate nature of private property, and that this is an unshakable belief. I have heard other clergy say of the desire of occupiers use 6th and Canal, "it will never happen" again and again, even to the point of saying "that spot is for developers". I have seen that despite the fact that Trinity clergy made no statement about police brutality, despite the fact that they knew that the space on 6th and Canal was being eyed by the Occupiers, that is a fact established 6 days before Tuesday the 15th, that once the space was entered upon they allowed people to be hit and stomped on by police even as the director of communications was on the phone with an occupier. Let me get this straight, they new the space was being eyed for occupation and a massive real estate company was surprised when it happened? No, that is not the way these things work. Lawyers were called, decisions were made, liabilities were considered and a decision was made as to how to proceed. Nice try gang but you ain't got a leg to stand on. Do you see the basic fact that at some point you can't sit on all sides of the fence. It is a specious and gutless position to position yourself as a mediator, a "conversation partner" when your institutional capacity to act locally as a church to those in real time need, real time duress betrays a VERY serious impotence. One thing I honestly did love is that you closed on the morning of the big wall street action and then the clergy were outside in Anglican cassock greeting the action as if they were supportive, standing behind closed doors. That move was defended as the "same thing we do when the Giants won" the super bowl!! LOL Wow, so a global movement for social and economic justice is to be treated like the Giants winning the super bowl?! To my young clergy colleagues who stood out there we have a new york saying for what you were doing, "you played yourself". You might have well as just stood out there in a monkey suit or something because that kind of buffoonery when done should at least have some imagination, make it playful! Lets face it guys, you dropped the ball big big time on this. It wasn't on you to save this movement, it was on you to actually be in it if you supported it. You made the classic trinity mistake...you took to your blogs and your media bs without considering the real stuff that was going on on your doorstep. You tried to be all things to all people and failed miserably. The civil rights leaders had to move there meeting away from your site Sunday because it just wasn't right to be on your property, but rather be in solidarity with the movement. Who would partner in dialogue with people who were not actually involved. I chatted with Phil Lawson from the elders council from the civil rights era. Do you know that he was involved, at 79, in shutting down the port in Oakland? That is being involved. What I look forward to is the Trinity Institute event that is going to be called some thing like "The Arc of Social Movements" or perhaps "Being Church in Troubled Times". That would be an interesting evening of invigorating explanation. You got exposed...accept the gift. So why critique Trinity so hard? Because this movement is about exposing the relationship between money, power and the disenfranchisement of ordinary people. So my colleagues have served mammon rather than God. I never expected much more, I can say I hoped for more though. My last three encounters with staff have left me deeply compassionate in some sense: what a bind to be so beholden to your job, to your standing that you lose all sight of our call to Justice and that you will just come up with any rationale. I ask only one thing of my brothers and sisters at Trinity. The day I let people being chased and beaten and slammed against my church gates unrecorded please let it be the day you come after me with serious ire. May I suggest you google C.R.E.A.M. by the wu tang clan http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15lmrWx8lLU ...it lays bare the dilemma. Sometimes the sword makes us move from the middle, you can't be all things to all people. Good Luck, maybe we can partner sometime down the road at an institute meeting :) By the way I look forward to the conversation you recorded without my knowledge being on your website in its entirety, I take the accusation of being a "troublemaker" by the rector to be a pretty solid compliment. At least send me the clip to put on my facebook page. Thanks!

Rev. John Merz, Episcopal Priest on November 21, 2011

I am one of the early organizers of OWS and so I am familiar with what Trinity has done for us and what it has not. It has offered us usage of bathrooms and it has not restricted our use of Charlotte's place (a space open to the public anyway). It has used the protests to enhance it's image. We feel used, because we never though that such a wealthy Perish would say no to giving us space. You own so much property. You are so wealthy. The 6th and Canal space is not being used. The community wants us to be there. The future of the movement depends on outside space, a civic space that's transparent that can show the world that there is hunger for social and economic justice and equality. What would Jesus do? Really? Say no? Shame on Rev Cooper. A moment in history and the most that Trinity can do is less than what McDonald's has already done for protestors. Shame!

Amin Husain on November 25, 2011

When OWS asked Trinity to use space, they told us that we had to go through their bureaucratic channels and wait in line along with programs like AA. I have news for you. AA is awesome, but we're not asking for a room we can use several times a week. We are asking for use of a VACANT lot so that we can create an open forum for a movement that seeks to change the world. We need this space so we can receive the support of a community which is dying to get involved. We cannot sit on our hands and wait for a polite letter declining our request. What Trinity has done is say no without saying no, which is a political tactic to retain their tacit 'support' for OWS while doing nothing to make with this support. The diocese supports OWS. The majority of Americans support OWS. How is it in your interest to sit in your castle and refuse the requests of the community? Consider this a request for 20,000 sq. feet of space to be used to change the world. We see this as a worthwhile investment. Again, this is an invitation. Join us! What side of history are you on?

Thomas Hintze on November 25, 2011

This letter was read to Trinity: An open invitation to the Rev. Dr. James Cooper, Rector, Trinity Wall Street Dear Rev. Dr. Cooper, We want to extend an invitation to you. We invite you to engage with a movement for social and economic justice that is taking hold across our country. This movement is part of a broader global movement to reclaim our humanity and our future. Today, we are stepping visibly into a revitalizing civic process. We are looking toward each other, realizing that we cannot fix the crises we face while isolated from one another. We need collective action. Collective action requires a revitalized civics, which requires new kinds of civic space. We are creating that civic space. This is the symbolic importance of occupying. We are asking faith communities to reflect on the question of what it means to occupy. What does it mean to re-enfranchise the 99%? What does social justice – a core tenant of our faith traditions – look like in our world today? How do we engage one another to move our society forward? For us, to occupy is to create civic spaces in an age when we desperately need such spaces. It is to collectively embody the spirit of liberation that we wish to manifest in our society. We are creating space for community, for ideas, for a meaningful dialogue that is not permitted within our current system. Liberated space is about breaking free of isolation. It is a new focus on community, trust, love and hope. We are creating spaces that prefigure an alternate vision for our world – a society structured to bring out our best selves, that encourages our responsibility to truly be our sister’s and brother’s keeper. We believe that a society based on social justice, equality, and mutual respect can exist. And we are actively working to create it. Outdoor public space has played a crucial function in encouraging this civic process, and encouraging open, transparent ways of organizing in our movement. As we have seen in Liberty Square, outdoor space invites people to listen, speak, share, learn, and act. We believe the building of walls both literally and figuratively separates and isolated us from one another. We hope that additional spaces will provide additional platforms for this bold new dialogue to flourish. We invite you to join us.

Thomas Hintze on November 25, 2011

As an organizer at OWS I would like to dispel the impression given by Trinity's public statements that they are on our side. Their stance - one of hesitant neutrality informed by their own self-interest - reminds me of Northern whites when our brothers were struggling for human rights in a racist country. If Trinity wanted to do something significant they could open 6th and Canal to us. The tokenism of Charlotte's Place may work on the rich and powerful but us in the 99% know the truth: if Trinity cared they would be in the streets with us. Until Trinity steps up and acts on the rhetoric of sanctuary they so happily claim I count them as part of the 1% and thus an obstacle to the causes of social justice and equality. Shame on you.

Andrew Huckins on November 25, 2011

I just would like to add to the dissent here. Trinity hasn't done enough at all, and they knew we OWS was being evicted two days before the Oct 15th raid and did not move to either resist or to provide political asylum for the occupiers. Churches who really understand the message of Christ do more to their brothers and sisters. If they fail to do that, they should be considered by the public as dead walls and chambers. Not churches of the Word.

Alexandre Carvalho on November 28, 2011

Alexandre Carvalho -- Thanks for posting. To correct the record here: please note that no one at Trinity Wall Street knew of the decision to clear Zuccotti Park in advance.

Moderator on November 28, 2011

From Germany to the Trinity Church: The Church in the former DDR helped oppressed people, supported their demands for freedom and gave protection for those hunted by the DDR Security STASI. Thanks to the help of the brave church the Berlin Wall was torn down and German brothers were united again. We, the German people are thankful for their deeds, which, by the way, also brought the end of the cold war and the daily menace of a nuclear war. We Germans look at the Trinity Church as a new symbol of how the church helps oppressed and those who are in need and are distressed. Many aspects of what is now happening in your country bring back reminiscences of the joy of the German reunification. Be sure that we watch grateful any help you can give to the hopeless people at the street and give them a place to demonstrate. Best regards and all the best for your people From Germany with love Karl Heinz Wilm

Karl Heinz Wilm on December 4, 2011

I seem to remember from Sunday School that Jesus was most interested in reaching the poor and disenfranchised. Good to keep this concept alive, at the core of His message in my view. The pomp and ceremony mean nothing. Why not let OWS encamp on Trinity property?

Kristian Nammack on December 4, 2011

OPEN LETTER FROM THE OWS HUNGER STRIKERS TO TRINITY WALL STREET December 4, 2011 Dear Trinity Wall Street, Yesterday, we began a hunger strike at 12 p.m. on your vacant lot at Canal Street and Sixth Avenue. Today, 24 hours into our strike we were arrested on your property as we sat in peace. Upon release, we returned to Canal Street and Sixth Avenue to find three new hunger strikers had joined us. Now as six, the strike continues. We are striking to gain unfettered access to your site on Sixth Avenue and Canal Street until the proposed building begins on the premises. In the meantime, ask that you take the following three actions immediately: 1. Meet with a designated delegation from Occupy Wall Street to discuss a future, mutually beneficial use of this site 2. Allow a peaceful hunger strike to continue on your property without fear of harassment or arrest 3. Drop today's trespassing charges--and all past and future charges against us and other members of Occupy Wall Street incurred on this site Yesterday we were three. Today we are six. We appeal to the Episcopal Diocese’s sense of compassion and its respect for righteousness and peaceful protest. We are hopeful that Trinity will embody these ideals moving forward.

OWS HUNGER STRIKERS on December 4, 2011

I am very happy to know that the Occupy Wall Street movement has brought awareness to the world that only 1% of the population had the opportunity (and fixed it) to increase their earnings by 275% over the past 30 years. What an amazing power of collaboration. This is proof that the human spirit can rally and can bring people together to higher consciousness. There is amazing power behind the concept of Occupy Wall Street. I write here as a native New Yorker, and wish to express surprise that the awareness of 1% vs. the 99% hasn’t happened sooner. We (the people) are all for lifting the human spirit, for the right to be heard, and for bringing the truth to the whole world. Amen to all of it. But, I really don’t believe in the goal to force occupation on a Church property. This staged drama makes the world wonder who really is behind this movement. How did the members of the movement slowly turn into a force representing a Hunchback of Notre Dame movie? Why the sudden need to seek asylum on Trinity Church property? I don’t know that the world will buy into this plan (it smells like soured milk). What about properties owned by other religions? That would be wrong too. As a fellow New Yorker, a part of my DNA goes back 300+ years when farms and windmills occupied our downtown New Amsterdam neighborhood (now NY). I don’t have a sense of entitlement, why do the protesters? Each and every one of the Occupy Wall Street protesters continue to be invited to the table to celebrate at Trinity in the spirit of Christ. But they don’t want to be invited, they want to occupy. Next thing, OWS will hire the actors from the Capti’l Banking commercial and stage plays where Vikings pretend to peacefully harass Quasimodo. People will no longer believe their purpose is for lifting the human spirit, creating balance, creating jobs and opportunity. Nobody will believe in the new hunger strike drama. After 300+ years of my Dutch heritage in NYC, my family’s mortgage is still not paid, and I am unemployed. I, and we (the people) are really moved by the awareness that OWS has brought to the world. I pray that divine guidance will come to them. I pray they don’t shift away from their cause. I pray that they don’t harass religious groups believing Church does not have a right to say no. Let the world still believe there is a reason for the voice of the Occupy Wall Street movement.

We the People on December 4, 2011