Why wouldn't the U.S. government wait at least a month or so before going through with the scheduled execution of Timothy McVeigh? It seems that by denying the defense attorneys time to adequately review the thousands of documents withheld by the FBI, that the government really feeds into the paranoia of far right-wing groups, their distrust of Washington and their yen for retaliation. Nonetheless, it seems revenge is weighing in more heavily than reason yet again, as Judge Matsch decided June 6 he would not issue a stay in the state killing of McVeigh.

The Mid-Missouri Fellowship of Reconciliation will hold a vigil opposing the scheduled execution of Timothy McVeigh from 5:00-6:00 pm, Sunday, June 10, in front of the Boone County Courthouse in Columbia. A prayer vigil will follow at 6:30 pm, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 204 E. Ash. Other concerned citizens will gather for a protest vigil in Jefferson City, also on Sunday, June 10, from 5:00-6:00 pm, across from the Supreme Court building on High Street. Missourians to Abolish the Death Penalty and other concerned Missourians will also hold prayer vigils and opposition events in Kansas City and St. Louis.

Please call the White House, urge Pres. George Bush to halt the scheduled execution of McVeigh, at least for a few months while the defense attorneys review the new papers. Call the comment line at 202-395-1160. For more information about local protest efforts call 573-449-4585.