Antiochian Orthodox Archbishop Joseph Condemns Violence, Requests Prayers for Victims

posted on: Aug 5, 2019

His Eminence Metropolitan Joseph received the news of the most recent mass shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, on the heels of the shooting in Gilroy, California, while making pastoral visits to the Diocese of Los Angeles and the West. His Eminence strongly condemns these evil acts of violence against innocent people and offers the prayers of the Antiochian Orthodox faithful for the repose of the souls of all the slain and for the comfort and healing of all of the victims as well as the families, loved ones, and communities affected by these tragedies.

As we continue our time of fasting and repentance during these holy days of the Dormition Fast, His Eminence calls on us to offer increased fervent prayers to the Theotokos.​ As one who suffered the unjust murder of her innocent Son, we ask her to offer her help in a special way to the victims of this unjust violence. As one who is our protectress, we ask her to shelter all under her protecting veil. As one who softens evil hearts, we ask her to heal all of the anger and divisiveness we see tearing apart our society.

His Eminence also offers his support to the federal, state, and local authorities of our country as they work to respond appropriately to these horrendous acts.

Complied by Arab America