Outreach and Advocacy

The Church of Gethsemane is committed not only to being a truly inclusive congregation, but also to bringing about justice and equity to all. We collaborate with other churches, community groups, and individuals to reform policies and laws in our present criminal justice system, government, and denomination. We seek to ultimately bring about systemic change. 

In the area of Criminal Justice, we have been a persistent voice in challenging unjust laws that discriminate.  We collaborate with the Presbytery of New York City (www.nycpresbytery.org), The Correctional Association of New York, The Women’s Prison Association, The New York City Council of Churches and other groups to advocate for changes that include alternatives to incarceration, discretionary sentencing, parole reforms, and an end to capital punishment.

We advocate for all persons who are poor and marginalized, including persons who are homeless, voiceless, jobless, and without adequate health care.  At the Church of Gethsemane we believe in the basic God given human rights for all, and that each and every person must be treated with dignity and respect.