Statement of USCCB on shootings in Buffalo, Laguna Woods

WASHINGTON – In response to the shootings in Buffalo, N.Y., and Laguna Woods, Calif., over the weekend, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops offered the following statement from its spokesperson, Chieko Noguchi, director of public affairs.
 
“The U.S. bishops join with others throughout the country in offering prayers for the support and healing of the families, friends and communities of those impacted by these violent incidents. We pray especially for those who were injured and particularly for those who lost their lives. We pray also for those on the front lines who risk their lives in responding to the calls for help, and to those in the medical fields who minister to those who have been harmed.
 
“The bishops again call for an honest dialogue rooted in Christ in addressing the persistent evil of racism in our country. The Catholic Church has been a consistent voice for rational yet effective forms of regulation of dangerous weapons, and the USCCB continues to advocate for an end to violence, and for the respect and dignity of all lives.
 
“We pray for and support the healing of the communities impacted and for all the victims of violence and that Christ’s peace be upon all affected.”