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¨Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the Lord,
´You are my Lord, I have no good apart from you.´
As for the holy ones in the land, they are the noble, in whom is all my delight.¨

Psalm 16:1-3 NRSV 

 

The National Council of Churches is deeply saddened by the news of a multiple stabbing at a rabbi’s home in Monsey, New York, and of a shooting during a church service in White Settlement, Texas. Both attacks took place this past weekend, in the midst of the holiday season.

 

Additional antisemitic incidents have occurred recently in Brooklyn, Miami, Jersey City, Boston, Washington, DC, and elsewhere. We call upon churches associated with the National Council of Churches to reach out to synagogues in their communities and express sorrow and solidarity. 

 

Too many attacks against houses of worship have plagued the entire world in recent years. People should not have to fear for their lives as they worship God, nor should they feel it necessary or appropriate to carry weapons into houses of worship in order to protect themselves. All people should feel safe and secure during worship.

 

“We pledge to continue to counter anti-Semitism, to work for sensible gun violence prevention measures, and to advocate for policies and programs that will assist those suffering from mental illness,” said Jim Winkler, President and General Secretary. “We grieve for those who have been wounded and for the families of the victims. We cry out to God in the midst of this pain.”

 

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