For the eighteenth time in this short new year, we must join in prayer and sorrow at an act of madness carried out in what should be a safe haven, an American school. These victims have been robbed of their futures, but so have their parents, classmates and our nation. Yes, we ask God’s blessing on the families of the victims, their classmates, teachers and community. We owe them that as we help them carry the burden of their suffering. But, when it is so clear that direct action can be taken to prevent another day like this one, we cannot stand by and shrug our shoulders. Let us extend a hand to those suffering alienation and illness and help them find understanding, treatment and peace.

Let us make it clear to our elected officials that the weapons and ammunition that facilitate this carnage have no place in our culture. We owe it to our children to protect the cherished freedoms so many have fought and died for: to worship, learn and work in safety. That is true patriotism. Leaders in our country, who are in a position to make meaningful changes, need to hear the cries of the wounded and bereaved and open their hearts to the possibility of peace. Let us work and pray to that end.

For the Spanish version of the statement, please click here.