“Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries mourns with the citizens of Orlando, Florida following the mass shooting in that city. Our condolences are sent to the victims and their families, friends, and loved ones who are experiencing heartache and sorrow. We offer our prayers for the health care workers and chaplains who seek to bring physical and emotional healing, and for the community at large.
“We live in a world full of violence and strife. The Psalmist wrote, ‘O Lord, rescue me from wicked men! Protect me from violent men who plan ways to harm me. All day long they stir up conflict.’ (Psalm 140:1, 2)
“As Christians, we wish to speak out against the hate and brutality that ended the lives of so many. Finding ways to promote living together in peace must be our mission. This is what the Psalmist meant when he wrote, ‘How good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.’ (Psalm 133:1)
“ACM has been in contact with the chaplains at Florida Hospital who are providing support to all who are dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy. The chaplains ask for prayers as they minister to victims, families, friends, and hospital staff, and at the same time care for each other in this trying time. Additionally, Seventh-day Adventist churches in the Greater Orlando area are providing support and services to the victims’ families.
“One day, we will no longer experience violence, hate, or death. These expressions of evil will be replaced with peace and harmony. Until that day, we must seek ways to bring peace to our workplace, our community, our homes. What will your peacemaking action be today?”