Dear Friends –
Our hearts are heavy with the news of the horrific act of violence at Annunciation Church and School in Minneapolis on Wednesday morning. As many of our children return to the places where they learn and socialize with friends in what we conceive of as safe places of growth and development, it is heart-wrenching to hear that the violence that plagues our nation has found its way into the very sanctuaries we hold sacred. We encourage you to join other ELCA congregations this Sunday in remembering those children who were killed, those who continue to heal, and for all who have been impacted by this senseless act.
In Christ,
Bishop Regina Hassanally, Southeastern Minnesota Synod - ELCA
Bishop Patricia Lull, Saint Paul Area Synod - ELCA
Bishop Jen Nagel, Minneapolis Area Synod - ELCA
Bishop Amy Odgren, Northeastern Minnesota Synod - ELCA
Bishop Dee Pederson, Southwestern Minnesota Synod - ELCA
Bishop Bill Tesch, Northwestern Minnesota Synod - ELCA
In a time of tragedy and violence
When we have no words to express our grief, Scripture gives voice to our pain and anger and sadness:
“A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.” – Matthew 2:18.
This summer has been book-ended by attacks and shootings. The horrific killing of little children yet again is more than our minds can absorb. We grieve with the families whose hearts are broken as they mourn. We pray for so many others who were gathered in a church for the first Mass of the new school year. Little children. Praying. In a church. Violence like this rips our hearts and tears at our spirits. We weep and seek to be those who work for the safety of every child created in the image of God. We ask God to hear our cries of despair, heed our calls for justice, and not let us lose hope.
As you prepare for worship this week, please hold in prayer the families, victims, and all who are part of Annunciation Catholic Church, as well as those who responded to this crisis or offered medical care. Please receive the prayers below as a resource and feel free to adapt for your setting.
Click here to view and download prayer resource: In a time of tragedy and violence.
The ELCA’s Social Message, “Gun-related Violence” reminds us that “Persisting violence erodes social capital, impairs social networks, and breeds hopelessness…” This is a helpful resource for study and conversation as we struggle with how to respond to such shocking violence and move forward with courage and strength. You can access the social message here: Gun Related Violence Social Message.
