Bishop Lowry Calls for Prayer/Solidarity Following Deadly Synagogue Shooting
Bishop Lowry is calling on the clergy, lay leadership and members of the conference to pray for and proactively contact the synagogues and Jewish communities in their area in an act of harmony and support following last weekend’s deadly shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA.
“I call upon all churches in the Central Texas Conference to reach out to our Jewish brothers and sisters in love and compassion,” stated Bishop Lowry. “I ask pastors and lay leadership to stand with the leadership of synagogues in their area in a solidarity of shared faith in God Almighty.”On Saturday, Oct. 27, a gunman who frequently posted anti-Semitic threats online, burst into the Pittsburgh synagogue and opened fire on the congregation, killing 11 worshipers and injuring six more. According to news reports and the FBI, the shooter, who surrendered to police and is currently in custody, targeted the synagogue because of their faith.
Along with a call for prayer and proactive demonstrations of solidarity with the synagogues throughout the CTC, Bishop Lowry also reiterated the need for Christians to spurn prejudices, violence and hate in all forms and fashions.
“Together, may we reject bigotry and hatred in whatever forms they present themselves," said Bishop Lowry prayerfully. "May we renounce violence and reach out with compassionate love in the name of God.”
Editors Note: After the original article above was posted, the CTCSC received the following announcement for a Jewish Communal and city-wide night of Prayer, Remembrance and Unity. We realize that this is opportunity is not convenient for the local churches and people outside the DFW metroplex. As such, if a similar event is happening in the Central, South or West Districts, please email that info to vancemorton@ctcumc.org for review and if applicable, posting on this page.
The following is NOT a CTCSC-sponsored event, nor is it affiliated with one of the conference's districts or local churches. Please contact the Congregation Ahavath Sholom with questions.
