Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me. - Psalm 23:4
As a priest, parent, and friend, I share the burden of a heavy heart in light of yet another massacre, this time at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas. Collectively, we grieve for the senseless loss of life and the families impacted by this horror. As frequently as these atrocities have occurred, it would be easy to become numb to mourning the loss of life. Thoughts and prayers seem synonymous with inaction, but as Christians, we are called to pause and pray for those who've lost their lives, their loved ones, and countless others traumatized by these events. I feel it is critical that we revisit a recent blog post I wrote titled "Run, Hide, Fight." In it, I outlined what the staff learned from the active shooter training led by the Dallas police department. As mass shootings continue, the likelihood that you know someone impacted increases significantly. During our last vestry meeting, we addressed the topic of active shooter training available to all at Ascension. We hope to offer training soon that would cover how best to respond in various emergency situations. It would also be helpful to have some group discussions about how best to apply these principles at Ascension. In the meantime, I encourage your continued prayers for the victims and all affected. Pray also for our nation, that we might find a meaningful way to address continued violence.
Blessings,
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