In the face of unimaginable tragedy, a remarkable group known as Journey of Hope travels the country, not seeking vengeance but offering a profound message of forgiveness and the belief that the death penalty is not the answer. This Palm Sunday, April 13th, at 11:45 a.m., the Nacoochee Presbyterian Church located at 260 GA-255, Sautee Nacoochee, GA will host two compelling speakers from Journey of Hope, offering a unique and deeply moving perspective on loss and justice.
An organization of hope
Journey of Hope is comprised of individuals who have personally experienced the devastating loss of loved ones to violent crime. Instead of succumbing to anger and a desire for retribution, they have embarked on a journey of healing, advocating for alternatives to the death penalty and emphasizing the importance of forgiveness.
SueZann Bosler lost her father (a pastor) in a violent murder. She was stabbed numerous times during the attack. Her story is one of many do not hear about but she is diligent to get her story out.
James Bernard Campbell came to the door of their home, murdered her father, and injured her. She talks about her journey to forgive Campbell and keep him off of death row.
Bosler and Sarah Gregory (also a family member who lost a loved one to murder) will be speakers at the Palm Sunday Service on April 13.
The Palm Sunday Event
Pastor John Harrison of Nacoochee Presbyterian Church is honored to welcome these powerful voices to his congregation. “To hear from individuals who have walked through the darkest valleys of human experience and yet chosen a path of forgiveness over vengeance is truly inspiring,” Pastor Harrison shared. “Their presence on Palm Sunday offers a powerful reflection on themes of suffering, redemption, and the radical call to love our neighbors, even those who have caused us profound pain.”
Pastor Harrison added, “God has use for us after even the worst we’ve done. With Jesus, there is a reality that we cannot screw-up bigger than Jesus’ ability to save us.”
Bosler and Gregory will share their personal stories of loss, their individual journeys towards finding forgiveness, and their unwavering conviction that the death penalty is not a just or effective response to violence.
They will articulate why they believe that seeking vindication through capital punishment only perpetuates a cycle of suffering, offering instead a message of restorative justice and the potential for healing, even in the wake of profound grief.
Founder of Journey of Hope
Cathey Harmon-Christian,
described, “Capital Punishment does not bring healing. People can change in prison. Family members of murder victims realize that taking another life does not bring their loved one back.”
It has become her life mission to end the death penalty and to help people who have experienced the unthinkable to find paths to healing. “Every person on death row has family who loves them. The Death Penalty does not bring closure for victims’ families.”
Deeply personal narratives
This special event at Nacoochee Presbyterian Church offers a unique opportunity for the community to engage with deeply personal narratives and to consider alternative perspectives on justice and healing. It promises to be a moving and thought-provoking experience, encouraging reflection on the human capacity for forgiveness and the search for constructive paths forward after loss.
All are welcome to attend this important presentation on Palm Sunday, April 13th, and hear the compelling message of hope and reconciliation from the courageous members of Journey of Hope.
