Bishop’s Message to the Diocese on Alabama Shooting

We grieve with our fellow members of Christ in the Diocese of Alabama, following the deadly shooting last evening at St. Stephen’s Church in Vestavia Hills.

The Church is the Body of Christ, joined by deep ties of love and affection. The hopes and griefs of each member are the concern of all. The Diocese of Alabama will join in prayer at 10:00 today, to seek healing, justice, and an end to senseless violence in our communities and nation. Please add your own prayers to those of our fellow Episcopalians in the course of this day.

Remember the words of St. Paul in the Letter to the Romans: “Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers… Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:11-13,15).