Bishops of the Diocese of North Carolina Share Statement Regarding Weekend Gun Violence

By Diocesan House

The Rt. Rev. Sam Rodman, bishop of the Diocese of North Carolina, and the Rt. Rev. Anne Hodges-Copple, bishop suffragan of the Diocese of North Carolina, offer these prayers for those killed in the violence in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio this weekend, and those who died in the violence in California earlier this week, as well as for those who were wounded and those who mourn. We understand the desire to do more, and in the coming days we will share resources and ways we can work together to prevent further tragedies. But tonight, we ask that you join us in prayer for a transformation of hearts and minds to find a common will and common way to prevent all such devastation in the future.

Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep [for days and nights to come....[G]ive your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love's sake. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, page 134)

O God, you have bound us together in a common life. Help us,
in the midst of our struggles for justice and truth, to confront
one another without hatred or bitterness, and to work
together with mutual forbearance and respect; through Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, page 824)