Statement on the Mass Shootings in El Paso, TX and Dayton , OH The Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. is deeply shocked and saddened by the news of two mass shooting in El Paso, TX and Dayton, OH.
Twenty bright souls were forcefully taken from their families and loved ones, and dozens of others critically or moderately injured in El Paso. Less than 24 hours later, nine more souls were senselessly murdered, and another couple dozen injured in Dayton, Oh. Though the shooters are no longer an active threat, the damage they have inflicted upon the victims, their families, and the El Paso and Dayton communities can only be imagined. Therefore, we are sending our deepest condolences, and most heartfelt prayers, to the families of all those who were senselessly killed and injured, as well as the El Paso and Dayton communities at large. We grieve with you all, and pray that the infinite love and comfort of Jesus Christ be with everyone affected by such unconscionable and evil violence. We pray also for the healing of the injured, and the soul of each community–there is a long road ahead for both the El Paso and Dayton communities. We are also deeply grateful for the police and first responders who secured and supported both communities in the wake of the shootings, and continually pray for them as well.
In many ways, there are not enough words to describe our grief, anger, and pain at the thought of another two instances of gun violence and mass shooting in our great country, particularly less than 24 hours a part. At great expense, we have been given another reminder about the value of life, and the obligation we have as a nation to provide safe communities in which we can all live, regardless of race, ethnicity and religion.
Today, and in the days ahead, we must continue to seek God on behalf of the victims, their families and loved ones, the people of El Paso, the people of Dayton, and each other. God bless you all, and the United States of America.