People across the world stand united in grief as details emerge of the horrific murders at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh (Squirrel Hill).
The Synagogue was named after the famous verse: “It is a tree of life for those who grasp it ... and all of its paths are peace.” (Proverbs 3)
No amount of murderous hatred can weaken our grasp of that tree of life. The more hatred we face, the more relentless our pursuit of the paths of peace will be.
To the families so devastated by this unspeakable evil, may the Almighty comfort you among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. ~ Chief Rabbi Mirvis of London
A Prayer for Victims of Terrorism
Loving God, welcome into your arms the victims of violence and terrorism. Comfort their families and all who grieve for them. Help us in our fear and uncertainty and bless us with the knowledge that we are secure in your love. Strengthen all those who work for peace and may the peace the world cannot give reign in our hearts. Amen.
A Prayer for Social Justice
Almighty God, who created us in your image: Grant us grace fearlessly to contend against evil and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice in our communities and among the nations, to the glory of your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
…This terror is added to the great heap of such crimes we have witnessed in the past. Yet our hope is not dimmed, and our obligation is clear: “Behold, I set before you this day, life and death, blessing and curse: therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live.” (Deuteronomy 30:19) May we especially who bear the name of Christ be fierce in our love and unwavering in our courage, as we mourn with those who mourn, and work with others to lay the foundations for blessing, life and peace for all people. ~ Bishop Dorsey W.M. McConnell, Episcopal Bishop of Pittsburgh
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