Statement on Recent Faith Community Violence

In response to the heartbreaking tragedies that have taken place in the last week at the LDS church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, and the Jewish Synagogue in Manchester, UK, the leadership of Associated Ministries expresses sorrow and solidarity with the affected congregations and their brothers and sisters in faith within this community.

We are deeply saddened that, yet again, sanctuaries meant for worship and prayer have been shaken by violence. We grieve with those who lost loved ones, with those who were present, and with the entire communities served by these congregations. Violence against any faith community is an assault on us all.

The incident at the UK Synagogue is particularly heartbreaking as it took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Evidence is pointing to targeted terroristic motives behind both attacks. We pray for healed hearts and an expanded recognition of the evil of seeing those who are different as enemies.

To all who are shaken and who mourn: you are not alone. We stand beside you in this time of pain; it echoes through us all. We will honor those affected by committing ourselves to healing—not just in words, but in the way we continue to live and serve together.

With deepest sympathy and unwavering solidarity.

Michael Yoder, Executive Director
on behalf of the Associated Ministries team