Coming Together

Above, Rev. Robert Poitras, flanked by Rev. Kathy McAdams, addresses the crowd at the Common.

Convened with the support of the town, the Franklin Interfaith Council, and the Franklin Freedom Team, about 100 people gathered at the bandstand in the center of the Town Common Sunday afternoon at 4, joined by television news crews from Boston 25 and Channel 5.

Rev. Kathy McAdams, from St. John's Episcopal Church, provided opening remarks and then introduced St. Mary's pastor, Rev. Robert Poitras. Poitras. referencing his upbringing in Lowell Massachusetts, said his first impulse regarding the fire at his church was revenge. Then, he noted, he looked deeper and said he found  he could get past that. He stressed that he does want the perpetrator to face the legal consequences for arson but, looking out into the crowd and saying, 'if you can hear me now, I forgive you and I love you.'

Poitras also thanked first responders for their prompt action and the community for its support.

Other speakers included Town Council Chair Tom Mercer, who referenced the message of understanding shared by Poitras, and urged everyone in the town to be more understanding and to treat each other with respect and appreciation.

Jamele Adams, of Franklin Freedom Team, delivered high-energy, participatory remarks that urged betterment, mutual respect, and love. 

Rev. Doreen Oughton from Franklin Federated also spoke. And, finally, Mary Diehl from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, led attendees in a hymn, "Let There Be Peace on Earth."