Leaders of the Presbyterian Church, USA, and the United Presbyterian Church produced a joint statement in support of Christians taking a courageous stand pertaining to racial integration of the schools.
“The faithfulness of your witness to the Gospel of Reconciliation through the ministry of the church is known even though it has not been widely reported. … The work of Christians and others in civil agencies to bring about orderly compliance with the law is also known. We thank God for your obedience in these days, remembering that suffering may be both a sign and a consequence of obedience, for ‘we should not be surprised at the fiery ordeal which comes upon us’ when we answer the call of Christ.”
The statement continues, when you “recently brought Christians of both races together to share their faith and wisdom, when you went to the scene of violence and stood with those who were the object of hatred, when you spoke out clearly and boldly for the right, you were acting out the Gospel of Reconciliation.”
From the article “USA Leaders Issue Little Rock Pledge” by Religious News Service