USA Apostles Respond to Gun Violence in the USA

On Tuesday, the USA Team of Apostles shared the following letter to the church. 

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We are deeply saddened by the recent shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, and grieve with those who suffer the horrific consequences of hatred, violence, and disregard for life.

We are reminded that, “…human beings often fear, hate, and abuse each other
because of ignorance about such factors as socioeconomic status, culture, race,
gender, age, size, sexual orientation, and mental or physical disability. Such prejudicial behavior undermines the personal and spiritual development of both abuser and abused and denies the mutual benefits of shared giftedness” (Human Diversity, World Conference Resolution 1226, 1992, page 45,
www.CofChrist.org/common/cms/resources/Documents/WCR-Texts-July2019.pdf).

Our Enduring Principle, Worth of All Persons, compels us to speak and act.
We urge members and friends to take action. Renounce hate speech, white
nationalism, and domestic terrorism. Advocate for common-sense gun legislation.
May we continue to be guided by counsel in Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b, which states, “Above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.”

In the peace of Jesus Christ,

USA Apostles
Barbara Carter
Janné Grover
Ron Harmon
Robin Linkhart
Lachlan Mackay
David Nii