A Prayer in Times of Violence
Yesterday a PC(USA) church in Southern California was the site of yet another mass shooting in our nation. During a lunch reception at the Irvine Taiwanese Presbyterian Church, which shares a facility with Geneva Presbyterian Church, a gunman opened fire, leaving one dead and five wounded, most with critical injuries.
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is coordinating with the Presbytery of Los Ranchos to provide support to both congregations following this traumatic and senseless act of violence. Our national denominational leadership has requested all Presbyterians join in prayer for the members and leadership at ITPC and Geneva as they navigate the hard days ahead. You may read their statements here.
Coming just a day after another mass shooting at a supermarket in Buffalo, NY, which claimed 10 lives as a white nationalist carried out a planned attack targeting people of color, this act of gun violence is a stark reminder that the work of peacemaking is needed not just in war zones, but in our own communities. When the rhetoric of division, hatred, and violence in our world leads someone to believe their best option, even the right option, is to use a gun to kill and maim people shopping for dinner or gathered for a church luncheon, we must take up the cry of the Psalmist, "How long, O Lord?"
Today, I ask that you join me in prayer:
For the family and friends of those killed and wounded at these mass shootings this past weekend, as well as those who have lost loved ones during one of previous 198 mass shootings so far this year.
For those who took courageous actions to save lives during the attacks, including the retired police officer who lost his life in Buffalo and the congregants who subdued the gunman in California.
For the congregations and leadership of ITPC and Geneva Presbyterian Church as they seek to walk the hard road ahead following this trauma.
For those who feel so much hurt, anger, and hatred that an act of violence seems an acceptable choice, that a friend, coworker, or loved one might intervene with love and compassion, helping them find peace.
For all those in our nation who are engaged in the work of peacemaking, that the American epidemic of gun violence may be brought to an end.
We ask these prayers in the name of the Prince of Peace, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
May you know grace and peace in these days,
Rev. Chris Miller
