'What A Great Day': OKC Pastor Expresses Gratitude After Julius Jones' Sentence Was Commuted

Pastor John Reed has been the pastor at Fairview Baptist Church for 59 years. He’s also a community activist and has seen his share of protest. 

Reed has been heavily involved with Julius Jones’ family throughout this entire process. When word came down about Jones' commutation, he couldn’t believe it. 

“Everything that you have seen this morning, even on the news media, made you feel that it was going to happen,” Reed said. “You get the news that the governor has made the decision to save this young man’s life. What a great day."

He has a special message to the Howell family. 

“I would say to them we most certainly will continue praying for their strength. It’s been a long 22 years,” said Reed. 

As celebrations begin, he also has a message for the Jones supporters. 

“We ask everyone to remain peaceful and most certainly lawful,” said Reed. 

He calls for respect and says now is the time for healing and there is only one way for that to happen 

“Prayer works no question about that,” said Reed. 

Reed reiterated his appreciation to the governor and understands it was a very difficult decision to make.