Massacre in Tasmania

From: The Revd Canon John L. Peterson, Secretary General

The thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy of the people of the Anglican Communion throughout the world are with the people of Tasmania as we learn more about the tragic massacre of innocent people by a lone gunman in Port Arthur. We salute the work of Anglican Bishop Phillip Newell and clergy of all demoninations as they attempt to minister and counsel so many people in the wake of this human tragedy. It seems that such tragic massacres are becoming the norm of our human existence. I ask all people to speak with the prophetic voice of Isaiah that we will beat our swords into ploughshares and our spears into pruning hooks (Isaiah 2:4).

Our prayers for those who have died and those who have lost so much will be joined with the people of Tasmania as they join in the State Memorial Service on May 1.