Minister Keith Hudson Issues Apology For 'Hurtful and Ugly Language'

Minister Keith Hudson, who visited Westlake's Church on the Rise on Wednesday and Thursday with his wife and co-minister Mary, issued an apology Tuesday afternoon following allegations of anti-Semitism.

Hudson, while praying for small business owners, reportedly said that the best way to make the Jewish community jealous is to get rich.

The Hudsons, parents of pop star Katy Perry, stopped at Church on the Rise as part of their travels across the country.

Here is Hudson's statement in full:

"I deeply regret the hurtful and ugly language I used in my message in Ohio. I have had a few days to think about what I said, and to listen to my words as they were understood by others.

I am not going to offer any excuse, or tell you not to think what I did wasn't so terrible. I do insist, and G-d is my witness - that I am not an anti-Semite. If anything, my faith as a Christian reminds me, and always has reminded me, of my special closeness to the Jewish people.

But that is the point. We can do lots of harm even to those we love simply by using words irresponsibly.

I used images about Jews rooted in the worst anti-Semitism in the past, images that at times led to the persecution and murder of Jews. I can't tell you where I picked up phrases and descriptions that became part of my vocabulary. I used them without ever considering what they meant. I probably would have used them for the rest of my life, had people not pointed out to me their origin and evil purpose.

My joy in life is preaching - using words to call people to G-d. I understand the power of words, and the need for all of us to think twice before using words that can hurt or harm others. I apologize for the hurt that I caused my Jewish friends. With the help of G-d, it will not happen again.

Sincerely,

Keith Hudson"

To read more about the Hudsons' visit: