Chief Apostle McCoy calls for unity for post-election goal
By Chinta Strausberg
In calling for unity after the November 5th general election, Chief Apostle William McCoy, who heads the Faith-Based Network and who oversees more than 6,700 religious leaders in Illinois and other states, hosted a meeting at the Gloria Taylor Hall in Harvey, Illinois sponsored by the Clergy and Community and hosted by himself, and Dr. Kisha E. McCaskill, to map out a plan that will deal with this new administration and how its policies may affect Illinois.
While celebrating those who won the election, McCoy said it is important to prepare for anticipated attacks on civil rights and other hard-fought and won legislation many have marched and died for decades.
At a press conference held Saturday, November 16th, Apostle McCoy said, “I want to take a moment to reflect on the greater calling God has for each of us—unity, a and a shared commitment to His purpose.”
Ald. Danny K. Davis (D-7th) was present, and he too called for unit in what is expected to be a politically rough road until January 20, 2028, when the next president is sworn into office.
Quoting Romans 15:5-6, Apostle McCoy said, “We are reminded that may the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Saying this is not just a prayer, Apostle McCoy explained that “it is an instruction for us to work together, to unify for something far greater than ourselves.” Unity, he said, is the “heartbeat of a thriving community and that it is the cornerstone of leadership and progress”
Making it clear, McCoy added, “Unity is not simply standing side-by-side. It is moving forward together bound by a shared vision of what is right and just. Referring to Illinois, McCoy said for it to “truly flourish, we must reject division, selfish ambition, and backstabbing. These things do not build, they destroy. They weaken the very foundation God has set before us.”
Rather, Apostle McCoy urged them to “embrace camaraderie, a spirit of collaboration where we lift one another up and recognize that no one person can carry the burden alone.”
In referencing Ecclesiastes 4:9, McCoy stated, “Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor. Together, we can achieve what is impossible alone. Together, we can build a stronger Illinois, a state that reflects God’s love, compassion and justice.”
And at the center of it all is love which he said is not just a word but rather an action. “Jesus taught us to ‘Love one another as I have loved you.’” This love, Apostle McCoy explained is “patient. It is kind and it does not keep record of wrongs. As leaders and as citizens, we must choose love over bitterness, forgiveness of grudges, and understanding over judgment. Love transforms. It unites.”
Looking out over the officials who were present, Apostle McCoy told them to “lead with humility and serve with integrity. Love with courage and be the example this state needs not for your glory but for God’s.”
He told those present to recommit themselves to working together, to support each other and to build a state that honors God in all that they do.
“Illinois is at its strongest when its people are united, its leaders are selfless, and its communities are filled with love. Let us walk forward together with one voice and one heart giving God the glory every step of the way,” said McCoy.
