New Hampshire Bishop Warns Clergy of Potential 'Martyrdom'

Sun Jan 18 2026 21:57:49 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Bishop Rob Hirschfeld of the Episcopal Church in New Hampshire has called on clergy to prepare for a new era of martyrdom, referencing historical sacrifices as he addresses the challenges facing vulnerable communities amid political tensions.

In a recent vigil honoring Renee Good, an immigrant fatally shot by ICE, Bishop Rob Hirschfeld emphasized the need for his clergy to be ready to risk their lives for the vulnerable. He urged them to finalize their wills, saying, 'It may be that now is no longer the time for statements, but for us with our bodies to stand between the powers of this world and the most vulnerable.' His comments come amidst a troubling climate for immigrants, echoing calls from other religious leaders to protect the disenfranchised.

CONCORD, N.H. — A New Hampshire Episcopal bishop is attracting national attention after warning his clergy to finalize their wills and get their affairs in order to prepare for a 'new era of martyrdom.'

Bishop Rob Hirschfeld of the Episcopal Church of New Hampshire made his comments earlier this month at a vigil honoring Renee Good, who was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer. This tragic incident has raised significant concerns around immigration enforcement and the protection of vulnerable communities.

The defending narrative from the Trump administration stated that the ICE officer acted in self-defense. However, there has been widespread disapproval, notably from critics including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who questioned the justification based on video evidence.

Hirschfeld’s speech echoed stories of clergy who sacrificed their lives to protect others, highlighting the legacy of New Hampshire seminary student Jonathan Daniels, who was killed while shielding a young Black civil rights activist in 1965.

He stated, 'I have told the clergy of the Episcopal diocese of New Hampshire that we may be entering into that same witness... now is no longer the time for statements, but for us with our bodies to stand between the powers of this world and the most vulnerable.'

Furthermore, while he did not incite violence, he urged people of Christian faith to embrace courage, even in the face of death: 'If we truly want to live without fear, we cannot fear even death itself.'

Other religious leaders are echoing similar sentiments and calling on Christians to advocate for and protect vulnerable populations amid a growing concern over immigration policies under the current administration. Most Rev. Sean W. Rowe emphasized the importance of sheltering immigrants and refugees, acknowledging their intrinsic value as beloved by God.

In a broader context of compassion and solidarity, Rt. Rev. Craig Loya urged against meeting hatred with hatred, promoting a vision of love as the guiding principle for action in a challenging societal climate.