Member Report: Episcopal Church Shuns Robert E. Lee Birthday Floral Tribute - Episcopal Church Shows its Anti-Southern Bigotry in 2026

A member has submitted this disturbing report. It appears that the family Church of Robert E. Lee isn't even willing to accept Church flowers for him now.

This report came in from the Tampa, Florida area after a member purchased flowers for the church in memory of Robert E. Lee's birthday, January 19, 2026.

After placing the order, they received this message from the Priest:

"I wanted to reach out to you regarding your request to sponsor flowers for this Sunday in honor of Gen. Robert E. Lee's birthday. This is the first time we have received a request to honor a historical and famous figure outside of the saints of the church. As we both know from our professional lives, setting a precedent is something to be engaged with prudence.

Such a request requires thoughtful prayer and discernment as all our decisions need to be guided by our mission, vision, and core diocesan value of unity. If we were to set this precedent I would be concerned that all sorts of possibilities of honoring former or current partisan political figures then become available, which could lead to division in the parish.

Also, as you know from your own advocacy work around Confederate monuments and memorials, in the US today General Lee is experienced by many as a controversial figure. The Vestry and I are trying to create a church environment where all political perspectives can have a safe home within our own hearts.

I hope you can appreciate the delicacy of the situation and understand why we're unable to publicly print this dedication. We will submit for a refund of your dedication contribution at our next accounts payable cycle. I look forward to seeing you Sunday, and hope you have a great weekend."

The member pushed back, pointing out the hypocrisy, and referring the priest to James:1 and expressed their 'unwelcomness" in a church that is expressing their Anti-Southern bigotry.

Topics: Anti-Southern Bigotry Robert E. Lee Episcopal Church Confederaphobia

Episcopal Church Shows its Anti-Southern Bigotry in 2026

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