Statement by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge, Catholic Diocese of Arlington,
on the Tragic Killings in Atlanta, GA. and Boulder, CO.

The recent, tragic killings in Atlanta, Georgia, and Boulder, Colorado, fill us with profound sadness and grief. These horrific events destroy the most precious of gifts-that of human life and peace. They call our attention, again, to our constant need for God's love and his divine assistance in our lives and throughout our world. He is the One alone who can transform hearts from hatred to love and fill our world with the peace and unity for which we long. 

We pray for the families of the victims and the larger communities as they grieve, asking the Lord to give them strength, peace and healing, especially at this time. We are united in prayer for all victims of violence as we ask God to embrace them in his infinite care.

In the face of hate and loss, may we renew our resolve to pray daily for the protection of all human life and the dignity of each and every human person. May the Lord give us the grace to live in harmony as God's holy family and as brothers and sisters in Christ.