Faith Leaders Speak Out Against Gun Violence in Pennsylvania

Pastors, rabbis, and other religious figures unite to demand legislative action on gun control measures.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A coalition of clergy and faith leaders from across Pennsylvania gathered at the state Capitol in Harrisburg to call on lawmakers to enact stronger gun laws and support programs to prevent gun violence. The 'With One Voice' movement, which includes Episcopal, Methodist, Jewish, and Muslim leaders, is amplifying the voices of courageous religious figures who want to save lives by insisting the legislature pass measures like funding for community violence intervention, mandating safe firearm storage, banning ghost guns, and closing background check loopholes.

Why it matters

This show of unity among faith leaders reflects the growing demand from religious communities across Pennsylvania to address the gun violence crisis. As influential figures in their communities, these pastors, rabbis, and other clergy have the power to sway public opinion and put pressure on lawmakers to take action. Their willingness to step into the political arena underscores how gun violence has become a moral imperative for many people of faith.

The details

The 'With One Voice' rally featured speeches from Episcopal Bishop Audrey Scanlan, United Methodist Bishop Hector Burgos Nunez, Rabbi Ariana Capptauber, and Rabbi Eric Molo, among other religious leaders. They called on the state legislature to pass a range of gun control measures, including securing funding for community violence intervention programs, mandating safe firearm storage, banning ghost guns, enabling extreme risk protection orders, and closing background check loopholes.

  • The 'With One Voice' rally took place at the Pennsylvania state Capitol on January 28, 2026.

The players

Rt. Rev. Audrey Scanlan

Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of the Susquehanna.

Bishop Hector Burgos Nunez

Bishop of the Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Rabbi Ariana Capptauber

Rabbi at Beth El Temple in Harrisburg.

Rabbi Eric Molo

Rabbi at the Main Line Reform Temple in Newtown Square.

Islamic Society of Central PA

Muslim organization supporting the 'With One Voice' movement.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.