My friend Amjad Taufique, to whom I've introduced you before, has sent this multi-faith protest against the mass shooting in San Bernardino – but elsewhere, as well. He's inviting other congregations to sign on as well. Read here:
Although a prompt rush to judgment is tempting, these violent events threaten not just those they immediately target but make each of us a victim of mistrust and prejudice that sap the strength of our society and our great nation, and we fear, will beget more hatred and the violence which follows.
All people of faith who have affixed their names to this statement condemn the violence in San Bernardino, Cal., and in Savannah, Ga.; in Colorado Springs, Colo.; in Charleston, S.C.; and Paris, France, and elsewhere around the world. We pray that the hearts of those who perpetrate such violence will be changed.
We join those who work for peace.
We grieve with the communities which fell victims to this violence and with the families and friends who lost dear ones. When violence takes one of us, we are all wounded.
We pray, as one, for those who are injured that they may heal quickly and completely. And we pray for fortitude for all of us, that we may overcome the evil in our midst that threatens the pluralistic nature of our great nation. May God bless us all.
East Cobb Islamic Center, Marietta, Ga.
West Cobb Islamic Center – Masjid Al-Furqan, Marietta, Ga.
Pilgrimage United Church of Christ, Marietta, Ga.
Roswell Community Masjid, Roswell, Ga.
East Cobb United Methodist Church, Marietta, Ga.
Masjid Suffah of Kennesaw, Kennesaw, Ga.
Masjid Ibad-ur-Rehman, Marietta, Ga.
One World Spiritual Center, Roswell, Ga.
Unity North Atlanta Church, Marietta, Ga.
St. Catherine's Episcopal Church, Marietta, Ga.
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
Baha'I community
Temple Kol Emeth
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