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Virginia Tech tragedy: A pastoral reflection from Rev. John L. McCullough, CWS Executive Director

April 17, 2007

As the biblical story of Job relates, there are many, many afflictions in life; sometimes more than what seems reasonable to withstand, even among those who seek to be faithful.

We are mindful of these words as we lift in prayer the victims, their friends and families, and the survivors of that horrific tragedy at Virginia Tech University. Our prayers also include the person responsible for this horrific taking of life. As we lament the tragedy, and seek to reach across the miles to offer words of comfort to the people of Blacksburg, Virginia, as they mourn their dead, we also lament the personal trauma or torment that may have led a person to commit such terrible acts.

We might never find an answer to the question, “Why?” But our faith commands--even in the face of unanswered questions--to fulfill our call to respond with compassion, service and healing when individuals or communities suffer trauma.

The strongest witness that people of faith have is in not just standing in shock and horror when atrocities occur, but in responding with compassion, care and understanding as all of us who are victimized--directly or indirectly--by the violence in our society seek to cope.

Media Contact:
Lesley Crosson, CWS/New York, 212-870-2676;
Jan Dragin, 781-925-1526;

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