Statement Regarding the Recent Mass Shootings in Dayton, OH and El Paso, TX

Dear Fr. Rectors, Christ is amongst us!

In light of the recent violence in our diocese, His Eminence Archbishop Peter has asked me to remind each of you of the importance of reading the prayer for Peace in Ukraine with the extra petition we have added in our diocese for peace in our American land. You can find the prayer here: ukraine-america-dcma-09-28-18.pdf

It is not spiritually profitable to speculate as to the underlying reasons that such violence is taking place. Nor is it spiritually profitable to promote one or another political solution to this ongoing crisis. Rather, as Orthodox Christians it is imperative that we turn to the Lord and implore His help to solve problems we cannot solve ourselves. His Eminence also asks that you encourage your parishioners to read this prayer daily. Our only hope for our country is in the mercy of the Lord. May He have mercy on the victims of the latest violence, the survivors, and on us all.

With Love in our Lord Jesus Christ,

Archpriest Gregory Joyce

Diocesan Secretary