Bishop Zubik's Statement on the Shooting in New Zealand

Together with so many others, my heart hurts to learn of yet another mass shooting in a place of worship, this time two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. The senseless taking of innocent life is only made more disturbing when people are targeted because of their beliefs and as they gather to pray.
 
Our local community knows all too well the shock and horror of a massacre such as this. Yet, an act intended to tear people apart can instead build up a community that is “Stronger than Hate.” I hope that the Muslim community in Christchurch will know the love and support of their neighbors near and far in the face of the evil they have experienced.
 
On behalf of the faithful of the Church of Pittsburgh, I pledge our prayers for those killed and injured in this terrible tragedy, for comfort and consolation for their loved ones, and for peace in the hearts of all affected by today’s events. We especially extend our support to the Muslim community in Southwestern Pennsylvania.
 
At the same time, we pray that our community of Pittsburgh will continue to be a place of compassion and peace, where people of all faiths can live and grow together free from the fear of encountering hate because of their beliefs. May civil discourse and mutual respect be the hallmarks of this place we call home.