Tragedy in Orlando: A Response

Together with the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, I join my prayers with those around the country and throughout the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) lamenting the attack on an LGBTQ nightclub in Orlando that left 50 people dead.It has become easy, in this day and age, to think that the work of seeking dignity and equality for LGBTQ people in church and society is over. This tragedy reminds us that we—as all God’s people, and as all Americans—still have much work to do. As long as there is fear, as long as there is hatred, as long as there is lack of understanding and of relationships, we all have work to do in proclaiming God’s love—a love that embraces and honors everybody.Three weeks ago today, I was in Orlando, preaching at a church exactly two miles east of the Pulse nightclub. I had been part of a weekend conference in which local church leaders committed themselves anew to seeking peace and justice in their community and to modeling compassion in a broken and hurting world. As I presented a workshop on welcoming LGBTQ people in church and society, another speaker shared bracing facts about the level of gun access and use in America. As the event sought to equip and empower Florida Presbyterians for prophetic and effective mission, I met dozens of faithful people ready and willing to work for positive change. As sadness and shock now envelop their communities, I’m grateful for these co-laborers in the faith, whose witness will be most needed in the difficult days ahead.In a few days, Presbyterians from around the country will gather in Portland for the 222nd General Assembly. There will be many items on the agenda that call upon—and, in some cases, challenge—our ongoing commitment to justice and reconciliation. The Covenant Network will be there, lifting up and advocating for the church's voice in the public square for a more peaceful and just society. We’re grateful for the prayers and support as we undertake that work—work that today we are sadly reminded is as important as ever.

—The Rev. Brian Ellison, executive directorCovenant Network of Presbyterians