We extend our condolences to the members of the Virginia Tech University family as well as the community of Blacksburg, Virginia, as they take their initial steps toward recovery from the tragedy of the campus shootings on April 16, 2007. Human tragedy and suffering serve as painful reminders of our solidarity with all humankind as the fellow creatures of a faithful God. The chasms of grief opened by the events of April 16, 2007, will not be bridged quickly, nor will the pain of these events be assuaged by shallow clichés. We are confident, however, in the living presence of a grieving God who stands with all who suffer. God offers assurances of grace through acts of kindness, empathy, and the presence of those who come alongside us in our grief. The Church of the Nazarene, a global family of Christ’s followers, unites their hearts and minds in prayers for all who are touched by this horror. Additionally, we offer prayers for the United States of America, that this grievous wound may be healed and that the lives of the slain will speak of courage, compassion, and the importance of working together to end violence among humankind everywhere.

Board of General Superintendents