We are horrified by and grieving for the loss of life in Buffalo. And we are exhausted by the familiarity of this story, and the violence, racially motivated hatred, and lasting damage that it entails.
Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy. May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins and forgive those who sin against us. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.
A word from Pastor Charles Montgomery:
Right now I’m nauseated and numb over the shooting in Buffalo NY. In reading the manifesto of the alleged shooter, I’m amazed by how he admits being indoctrinated (discipled) with so much hate. I read this and am convinced more than ever that God’s desire for God’s church is for us to be active in discipling out hate and discipling people toward love. Ultimately, I know this is the Spirit’s work-yet I also know that we have a calling/opportunity to partner with the Spirit to heal the world. In times like these I’m grateful I get an opportunity to live this out with you. I pray for the alleged shooter, I especially pray for victims (and their families affected). Most importantly I pray Holy Spirit come in your power, mercy, justice and grace!
A word from Pastor Adrienne Ash:
What hurts most is that you don’t get shocked. This feels like just another horrible story in a long line of horrible stories. It’s so *un*peaceful, yet you have to have peace! This is not right. We should never be numb to it. Church: stay in the room with one another…. Really lean into one another... Carry one another’s burdens in real ways… Listen to one another’s stories in ways that grow your compassion. Serve and support one another in practical ways. And pray. And keep praying!
Vineyard Columbus is a multi-ethnic community of disciples who experience God, love one another, and partner with Christ to heal the world. We are committed to joining God’s mission of love by sharing the gospel, extending mercy, and restoring justice. Racial reconciliation starts with each one of us, no matter our color or ethnic background. As a multi-ethnic church body, we are committed to doing the work necessary to fight inequality and to support racial reconciliation.
