Episode
Because: Quiet Acts of Courage: Calming the Klan Meeting in Evansville
- Published
- Mar 16, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 321
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Summary
Host: Phil Amerson This "Because" episode of "To Be and Do" features Phil Amerson as he shares deeply personal reflections on life, faith, and ministry in the context of responding to challenging events—both locally and nationally. Drawing on memories of ICE raids in Minneapolis and historical tragedies at Kent State and Jackson State, Phil Amerson connects these large-scale events to a pivotal experience in Evansville, Indiana in the late 1980s, centered around a neighborhood’s encounter with the Ku Klux Klan. Through heartfelt storytelling, Phil explores how a faith community can respond thoughtfully and peacefully to hatred and fear. Three Key Takeaways: The Power of Listening to Unexpected Voices One of the most impactful moments is when Stella—a neighbor not always regarded as wise—offers the suggestion that the best response to the Klan’s meeting is to attend, pray with those present, and help them reflect quietly. Contrary to more reactive ideas, her approach shifts the atmosphere from confrontation to compassion, demonstrating how powerful it can be to pause and listen to voices that might otherwise be overlooked. Building Relationships and Changing Hearts Instead of protesting loudly, Phil Amerson and his group chose to attend the Klan event, speak calmly, and even sing hymns. This approach led to genuine connections—eventually, Phil befriended one of the Klan members, who began coming to their worship services. Over time, this relationship helped shift the man’s perspective; a year later, he symbolically renounced violence and his Klan membership by placing his revolver and membership card in the offering plate. The story powerfully illustrates that empathy and presence can create openings for transformation in even the most unlikely situations. Faith as a Pa…