A predominantly Black group of about 20 ministers and pastors in Oklahoma City are praying for Gov. Kevin Stitt as he weighs whether to spare the life of Black death row inmate Julius Jones.

The clergy members told The Oklahoman that they pray that Stitt follows the recommendation of the state’s Pardon and Parole Board that Jones be granted clemency. They are members of the Oklahoma City Baptist Ministers’ Association and Concerned Clergy for Spiritual Renewal.

Jones is scheduled to die Nov. 18 for the 1999 fatal carjacking of an insurance executive. He has consistently maintained his innocence and insisted that someone else committed the murder and blamed him.

Carly Atchison, the governor’s communications director, said Stitt will not comment on the matter until he has made a decision.