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CWS statement on the Virginia Tech shootings
April 17, 2007The worst campus killings in United States history played out yesterday on an otherwise serene setting, Virginia Tech's campus in the mountains of southwestern Virginia. As its denominational partners respond to a community in crisis, Church World Service joins in condemning the violence and praying for healing.
Authorities have confirmed 33 people, including a suspected gunman, were killed on the Blacksburg, Virginia, campus. At least 15 others were wounded.
Faith-based specialists in psychological trauma are expected to arrive in Blacksburg soon, to provide spiritual and emotional support. As on most college campuses, Church World Service partners have a significant presence at Virginia Tech in denominational campus ministries. Church World Service is ready to offer support to its partners as they take on the challenges found in this tragic call to ministry.
The campus community will come together for an interfaith memorial service tonight. University officials say Virginia Tech’s counseling center is ready to assist students, faculty, and staff in need of support. As Virginia's largest university, with a student body of 27,000, there will likely be significant demand for spiritual and emotional care, and a prolonged need for support in the lengthy path of healing.
There have been at least 19 shootings in places of learning in U.S. history. Church World Service condemns all acts of violence, prays for victims everywhere, and joins a community that finds solace and hope for a peaceful world in faith.
Media Contact:
Lesley Crosson, CWS/New York, 212-870-2676;
Jan Dragin, 781-925-1526;
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