Wednesday, October 31, 2018

The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America expresses its deep sympathies as we mourn the loss of innocent lives and pray for the speedy recovery of those wounded in the recent attack on the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Remembering the Message from our Assembly meeting just last month, we reiterate our “denunciation of all violence, whether caused by senseless acts related to weapons and shootings or instigated by abhorrent acts of discrimination and prejudice.”

Indeed the heinous and murderous act of terror on October 27, 2018, sprang from a place of deep prejudice against people and religion. We unequivocally condemn this rampage as a sin against the local community, religion, and humanity.

We call upon all Christians and all people of good will to stand in solidarity with the families of the victims and the survivors. We pray fervently to the Almighty God for the spiritual healing of the entire congregation and community, especially those in Pittsburgh. In this era of frequent and unprecedented attacks on basic freedoms, especially freedom of religion, it is through love and harmony that hearts might be softened and transformed. For only through love will evil be neutralized, violence cease, and peace prevail.