The Unitarian Universalist Association has opened this space for those who wish to express love and support for members and friends of the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church and the Westside Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. We grieve with the greater Knoxville community over the tragic loss of two individuals and the injuries suffered by six others. We know that, for those who survive, healing will take time, and will be nourished by love. In that spirit, with respect for one another, and kindness, we invite your contributions.
-- Deborah Weiner
UUA Director of Electronic Communication
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615 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 401 – 600 of 615 Newer› Newest»thinking of you all, and sending my best wishes. take good care of yourselves.
I wish to tell you how much I admire the members of the Knoxville UU Fellowship. If the reports are true the man who killed two of your group planned to do much greater damage than you allowed him to. Your action saved unknown numbers of your group. As tragic as this was your positive action to protect yourselves and those in your congregation must be honored.
Its hard to even imagine what you are all going through and the ripples this will send throughout your lives and those of your loved ones. Healing thoughts go out to you as I hold you all in my heart.
To our UU brothers and sisters in Knoxville,
Our thoughts are with you from the Unitarian Church of Calgary, Canada. We had one of your members with us this past Sunday morning when he received news from his wife of the horror that had just struck you. A member of our congregation lit the chalice candle as all sat in stunned silence for a few minutes giving thanks for those who survived and sending thoughts of support to those in grief from injury and loss. Our heartfelt sympathies to all of you, to the families and friends of Greg McKendry and Linda Kraeger, and to all those suffering physical and emotional injuries from this horrible event. We hope that you receive to support you need and that you know we are with you in spirit.
Rev. Meg Roberts
Minister,
Unitarian Church of Calgary
Firstly, thank you for this space to gather....
I feel such a spread of emotions now, the shock and grief over this confused and hateful crime, yet also through hearing the response of the local UU and larger UU community, I feel tremendous joy and longing remembering the UU congregation I used to be a part of in Houston.
Hearing the words of the church leadership and adult and youth members of the congregation, I could visualize members of my own congregation feeling, speaking and behaving in exactly the same way. I do not think this is a grasping of memory, but rather a beautiful convergence, a deep human code that sometimes we are wise enough or vulnerable enough to witness.
I am grateful for how many of these convergences find sacred spaces to exist, in UU churches and in many other places where people gather, and how we are able to be diverse yet connected.
How is it that while the social order I know tells me to say I'm sorry for you, dear congregation and neighbors of Knoxville, and to offer love and support to you, that greater than those strong wishes is an impulse telling me to say 'thank you, thank you' for the love and support you are showing me?
May your own hearts and wisdom continue to guide your community.
On behalf of our entire congregation I send heartfelt condolences for your tragic loss. May the spirit of love that nourishes our faith help you find the strength to carry on in this hour of sorrow. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult times.
Jim Williams
President, Northwoods UU Fellowship
Woodruff, WI
Our thoughts and prayers to all of you at the UU Congregation in Knoxville, TN. There are no words
to replace the pain and grief that has been thrust on you. Know that we and all who cherish the blessings of life are with you on this dark day. May you find peace
somewhere in this senseless tragedy.
Donal Rogers, UU,SLD, Binghamton, NY
My deepest sympathy to the members of the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church.
I have spent the past two days trying to make sense out of this tragedy (as I'm sure you all have), but I cannot. My heart aches that our society still has so far to travel before we learn to live together peacefully on this "pale blue dot" that we call home.
Peace be with you all. Stay strong - you are loved.
Love, hugs, and prayers to our UU families at Tennessee Valley UU and Westside UU. Know that you are in the thoughts of so many around this country.
In this time of sorrow, may the love and light between you and your community be stronger because of this tragedy.
Love is the spirit of this church...may we all remember love.
Peace to you.
Linda
UU Congregation of the Lowcountry
Bluffton SC
It broke my heart when I heard about the shooting. Hopefully we as a community can show everyone how we UU's respect "the inherent worth and dignity of every person" in our response regarding everyone involved.
I am saddened by the recent events and hold my fellow Unitarian Universalists in light of hope and love. We should continue to keep the "hateful things" shouted by an angry man in the dark and let the light of love continue to shine.
If there is a blessing in this, let it be that people who are searching for us will now know we exist and we welcome them with open arms and love.
Peace be with you
Beth K, member of First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee, WI
I am so sad for everyone at the Knoxville UU Church. My thoughts are with your congregation and community.
Shelby Havens
UU Fellowship of Gainesville,
Floria
My heart is with the members of both churches in Knoxville. I am a friend of TVUUC and have visited WUUC. Greg McKendry was a good man and will be missed. I am holding all of you in Love & Light.
Natalie Kurylo
Knoxville, TN
Those of us at Bradford Community Church Unitarian Universalist (Kenosha WI) have also suffered a violation of our sacred space in the past. Although no lives were lost, we know the shock and pain of violence in a house of peace. We also know that we (with much support) recovered and re-dedicated our church and continue to reach out to all. Please accept out love and support.
I don't know if anyone can reach this troubled soul, but he may discover that his own life will be saved because if Tennessee has the death penalty, I can't imagine a UU community supporting the execution of anyone, no matter his crimes.
Blessed be,
Jennifer B
Kenosha WI
The Unitarian Universalist Society of Stamford offers our prayers and thoughts to the families of the victims as well as to the congregants of our Sister Society in their time of great sorrow. We send our deepest sympathies.
Daniel A. Beltran
President of the Board of Trustees, UUSIS
In the face of tragedy, we are called to live our values. I am proud to be part of the extended UU community. May you find peace in the midst of this tragic event with the realization that love endures....
Renee
UU Asheville,NC
July 29, 2008 The Last Full Measure of Devotion
–Randall Bachman, St. Paul, Minnesota
Last Sunday morning, July 27, 2008, Greg McKendry stepped in front of a barrel of a 12 gauge shotgun at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Knoxville Tennessee. At the other end of that gun was a man filled with hate who pulled the trigger and ended Greg’s life. I have no idea what went through Greg’s mind at that moment. I have no idea what went through his mind a split second before he decided to step in front of that barrel and shield others from the rampage that the shooter intended to inflict on innocent men, women, and children apparently just because they were “Liberal”. I have no idea if Greg believed in an afterlife, reincarnation, or that this is all we get in life and there is nothing more. I do know for certain, however, that Greg believed in love, and that he sacrificed his life to stop hate.
What is the bedrock of faith for a group of free thinkers that challenge dogma, promote critical thinking, question authority, take nothing for granted, and hold no promise of an afterlife for the righteous? What does faith mean for a congregation that doesn’t require you to leave your brains at the door before entering the church? What does faith mean when you refuse to supplicate to a perceived Higher Power? The answer emerges as we reflect on Greg’s sacrifice: Faith is the belief in love despite all evidence to the contrary. Faith is the ability to give everything without the promise of reward.
Rev. Chris Buice, Minister of the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Knoxville expressed the commitment our faith has in love in a statement after the tragedy:
"None of us can allow our pain and anger to keep us from living our faith, from welcoming all people, from standing on the side of love. We will not let that happen. We will continue our commitment to welcoming all people."
Abraham Lincoln in the Gettysburg Address memorialized fallen soldiers from both armies as having given “the last full measure of devotion”. Greg McKendry, on Sunday morning last, in keeping with all who have died in honor without the promise of reward, gave his last true measure of devotion to love. In giving his life to love, Greg was a true hero. While we would all like to believe that we would make a similar choice if faced with a split second decision that confronted Greg, none of us can say for sure how we would react. What we can do, however, is to honor his sacrifice by living up to the example he set and remembering to promote nonviolence and love for everyone.
The children were on stage performing Annie, a story of love and hope, when hate crashed in and shattered their world, at least for the time being. But what will be the lasting affect of such a tragedy? Will they be forever traumatized, cynical and cowering? Will they lose faith in humankind? Will they seek the comfort of dogmas that promise immortality in exchange for blind devotion? Not if we can help them understand the true meaning of faith, the hard path that affirms hope over hatred and despair.
As in the musical Annie, the sun will come out tomorrow. It will shine brighter as a result of Greg McKendry’s last full measure of devotion.
Upon returning home from the memorial service at The First Universalist Church in downtown Rochester NY and reading every entry, I am awed and inspired by the strength and love of this community. I will be honored to join UU and work tirelessly toward our shared values. My heart breaks for us all. May we hold fast to the love that will prevent us from succumbing to fear. Margaret
I am heartbroken over this tragedy. I would be in any case, no matter who the victims were, but strong ties between Pagans and UUs go back a long time, and I have spent many fine hours in UU fellowships.
My heart is with you.
Blessed be,
Deborah Lipp
(Wiccan Priestess)
I just returned from our candle light service to mourn for this community. After the service several of us just could not seem to leave the company of each other. We retreated to another location and continued our fellowship. In times like these we realize how much we need other UUs.
My thoughts are with both Knoxville congregations who lost members in this tragedy. I also want to commend the congregation for having the courage to restrain the gunman instead of reacting with violence in the face of the violence that was perpetrated against the congregation. That is our UU faith in action. I hope that healing can spread from that action to help to heal the hurts, both the hurts felt by the UU community and the hurt or pain that drove this individual and others like him to engage in violence against others. May we all have healing and find peace in our hearts and peace in our communities.
Words cannot express my sense of grief and sorrow. To see friends and family harmed before your very eyes calls for endurance beyond belief, demonstrated once again by your congregation through vigil and song. And yes, let the song be translated into a world of inclusiveness and justice for all, one in which no child or adult will ever have to witness the despair of those deprived ot the hope of "tomorrow." May you receive countless blessings for your composure and bravery. My thoughts are with you. Joanna Courteau, Ames, IA
My heart goes out to all of you. This must be so difficult in so many ways. To families and friends of those who died, I send my deepest sympathy and condolences. To the traumatized children who witnessed this tragedy from the stage, I hold you all in my heart. To the community of caring adults faced with helping yourselves and your children I know that together you'll find the courage and the strength you'll need to face this extraordinary challenge.
Rob Zucker, fellow UU
Like so many others who have expressed their love and support on this site, I send to the UUs of Knoxville, Tennessee, and especially to the family and friends of Greg and Linda, the energy of my love. I feel that love as I read the notes of others here and hope you do too.
I also share the hope expressed by another writer who referenced the reaction of the Amish to the shooting at their school. It is a hope that, for me, is greatly influenced by the teachings of the Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh. May we be gentle with our own feelings of anger and even hate toward the shooter who killed two innocents and terrorized so many others. May we also cultivate our compassion so that may we send the energy of our love to him as well. The suffering of one so filled with hate must be horrendous.
We will continue to send our love to you from Phoenix at our candelight vigil on Wednesday night.
Kathy
Member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Phoenix
Our hearts go out to everyone in the TVUUC congregation, particularly to the families and friends of the victims of this senseless tragedy. We will hold you in our thoughts and prayers in the coming days and weeks, and hope that you will gain strength from the caring and concern of fellow UUs and others around the world.
Sharon & David Wynde
First Unitarian Church, Portland, OR
Love and prayers are with you all.
Linda, Beckley Presbyterian, WV
May Greg McKendry be added to the list of all those heroic UUs who have gone before!! His strength is an example to all of us. My condolences to Tennessee Valley UU Fellowship!
Dear Friends,
I hope you know how much you are loved and how much we admire you for your strength as you go through this time of sorrow. I have never been prouder to be a UU than the last few days as I have read of your courage, your dedication and your love that shines in the midst of darkness. What a beautiful presence this tragedy has revealed, your witness to our values in the newspapers and television has been so awe inspiring to me. Even at the worst time you have ever faced, you look like love in action. You are an inspiration to us all. May you be uplifted and carried by our prayers, our love and our concern.
Gracia Walker
Board Member
Holston Valley Unitarian Universalist Church of Gray, TN
My thoughts are with you and your congregation members. This is a hateful crime. Your church is wonderful, as are your members.
I send you all Love, may you be sustained as we collectively hold a place of safety for you.
Let us step forward together towards ever more Love on Earth.
I don't really know any words that can truly help; but you have my utmost support, my positive energy and prayers are going to your community.
As President of the Rainier Valley UU Congregation in Seattle, I'm writing to convey our congregation's deepest sympathy and sadness for your loss. We will remember your courage and sacrifice, in living UU values. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
This is an intolerant and agonized age, but we are called to tolerant and joyful lives. We will continue to live and love as free and responsible human beings, and that creates our legacy to this society and the world.
--Marion R. Kee, RVUUC, Seattle WA
I offer prayers, blessings and concern for all involved in this tragedy. You have my sympathy and love.
So sorry that your sanctuary was broken. Hope we have the power to forgive the unforgiveable. May you know peace
On behalf of thousands of Unitarians in Transylvania I would like to express our sorrow and our deepest feelings of simpathy. We all were shocked learning about the tragic events that happened in your church. We are keeeping you in our thougths and prayers.
We are on your side.
Rev. Sandor Mathe
Brasso, Transylvania
I was so sorry to hear about the tragedy at TVUUC--sending love, peace, and healing thoughts your way.Katie Doman, Columbia, VA
Words of sorrow and support always feel empty in the wake of true horror but as humans, they are all we have.
All the loving people in this world share your grief. All the caring people in this world send their love.
I was driving home from a family wedding in Vermont and I turned on the news in my motel room. I was overcome with sadness for the families as well as for the congregation. The loss is overwhelming. The great sadness that hatred still governs the minds of so many. I send you my sympathy and my love.
Judith Loevy
Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation
Oak Park, Illinois
Sending my love and support to my friends and family at Knoxville.
Please, remember the family of the shooter as well.
sending comfort and love.
gina walker
unitarian universalist fellowship
of dubuque, iowa
As a fellow UU I send my condolences from the Comal County Unitarian Universalist Society. This tregedy reminds us how hard, and even dangerous, it can be to be a progressive. Peace and Blessings - and never give up the good fight.
Deepest sympathies and condolences to the Knoxville church. What a sad and shocking event to happen. My thoughts go out to the congregation, and the families of those that lost their loved ones.
Aly Y., a UU from IL.
To all of us UU's and beyond....how horrible is the hatred that caused this great sadness.
And how brightly it makes our hearts shine with care and love.
And, sadly, but undeniably, it gives us a national platform to say and show who we are...with care and love for ALL.
My UU Youth Group is how I became the man I am today. I met my wife at a youth CON. My thoughts are with you all. Peace find you.
I only want to express my sympathy and love for your congregation. It is hard for me to believe that such hate still exists in our country, and yet I know it does. I am a member of a UU Congregation in Tahlequah, Ok. and we send our love and sympathy to you. If their is any way we can offer assistance, please let us know.
Gloria Brewster
Our prayers and sympathy goes out to TVUU Church and community. Greg McKendry is a special hero in our book.
Beth and Steve Hudson
Ashtabula UU Fellowship
Ashtabula, Ohio
We are holding you close in our hearts!
Love, hUUgs and Blessings, from the Unitarian Fellowship Of Murfreesboro.
Anna Grupke,
Karma Committee
Dear Ones,
We hold you in our thoughts and prayers for love and support at this difficult time.
Blessings to one and all.
In times of tragedy, we may do well to remember Victor Frankl's reminder that though we cannot control what happens to us, we can control our response. By the nature of our loving response to one another in this time of need, we can generate a wave of positive spiritual energy which will wash over us. It will remind us of the daily blessings of our Unitarian Universalist fellowship and the gift that we bring each other when we congregate. Peace and healing to our friends in Knoxville from the UUS of the Daytona Beach Area.
My thoughts and prayers go out to your entire church family as a result of the recent shootings. Your congregation took a courageous stand against homophobia and was attacked because of it. This is a clear reaction to institionalized homophobia and hate and it needs to stop.
Their flames have gone out, but their fire and light go on in you. Blessed be.
Kathryn Jaehnig
Carbondale Unitarian Fellowship
To the congregation in Knoxville.
This is one more tragedy within the long list of persecutions we have faced. As always we shall grow together for though we have not been a "close-knit" community we have always been within the spirit of each other. Our hearts go out to you and the honored dead. Philip Hall of Montgomery Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
My deepest sympathies to all at FVUUC who experienced and endured the happenings of last Sunday.
I read that the children closed the Monday night memorial with the song, "Tomorrow." For each one of those children, the personal memory of singing those lyrics at the memorial service should ensure that each can indeed see beyond what they endured and that there is healing on the other side of the "dark valley" through which they have just passed.
Indeed, in that darkest moment when individuals within the Family of FVUUC were lost, so too, was born the Challenge of Opportunity for the Family of FVUUC and to the UUA at large.
The assailant, as of the Saturday before the tragedy, was a soul certainly in need of the comforting light of Great Love, a human being FVUUC would have no doubt reached out to. It is no less so now. It is my prayer that in the months ahead, this assailant, who has no family, no next-of-kin, will be shown and experience the love-peace-harmony-centered beliefs of Unitarian Universalists— the antithesis of the hatred that presently fills that man's heart. Within his heart lies the Challenge of Opportunity for Unitarian Universalists that their devotion to the belief in Love, Harmony and Peace may shine brighter then ever.
I humbly send my love to all at FVUUC.
Soon you will again be faced with the impulse to smile or laugh at something and you might suppress that instinct. Try your best not to! From experience I know how hard it is to begin again to feel and express happiness but also how important it is. I hope you will each have someone in your life who says, "it's OK to go out for a meal, OK to laugh, OK even to be truly happy." We are with you on this difficult journey. Grace and Earl, Atlanta
My heart goes out to all of you.
I'm so sorry. If there are kindly angels, I see them sitting all night long by the beds of every child who was in the sanctuary that day. I know UU adults, all of us, will be angels for each other. But for children, the tools for healing aren't as easy to grasp.
I was a Poet in the Schools for 4 years. Working with metaphor can be enormously healing for children who've absorbed trauma. I would be glad to help anyone who might want to work with the kids in this way.
Love and hope and determination for all of you, my family.
The saddest thing I felt at the candlelight vigil/service at our church Monday evening (the UU Church of Delaware County, Media, PA) was the pain voiced by some of the parents who said that their children had come to them saying they were afraid to go to church anymore, and those who asked if a bad man was going to come into our church and shoot at them. I hope and pray that our UU churches will be able to find a way to help our young people feel safe again,to feel that our church is truly a sancuary, and that it is worth it to stand up for our UU principles as Greg McKendry did.
Having recently returned from GA in Ft. Lauderdale, I was reminded of Forrest Church's words "The opposite of love is not hate, but fear." The shooter surely demonstrated the worst extreme of fear, fear of others who are different. As UU's we must take care not to succumb to fear and become less welcoming, even of those who hate us for our beliefs. My heart, and those of all of us, goes out to the congregations in Knoxville, so directly wounded by this horrific event, especially the children. May we all continue to "stand on the side of love."
When I think of Greg McKendry's courageous decision to step between the shooter and other potential victims, knowing that he would receive the full shotgun blast, I am reminded of this New Testament Bible verse (John 15:13):
"There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." (NLT)
Greg laid down his life not only for his friends in the sanctuary, but also for the countless people who need the spiritual sanctuary of a welcoming UU community. He laid down his life for all of us.
I am most saddened for my good friend Duane Kraeger. Men's Group and the rest of the Denton UU Fellowship are here for you anytime.
An elderly Rainier cherry tree in my back yard holds my tribute to all those affected by Sunday’s shooting at TVUUC. Nestled in its limbs is a beautifully glazed ceramic bowl I placed there Monday when I learned of the shooting. In the bowl, I put a handful of beach agates, worn by the sea. The scuffed outer layers of these strong stones look almost milky, concealing their inner beauty.
As each of us is tossed and tumbled in this ocean of shock and grief, our inner light may seem dulled, both to the outside world and even to our own self. Yet we each retain our inner spirit, personal strength, and connections from which we draw hope: family, community, one’s sense of truth, a belief system, one or more deities, nature, the unnameable mystery, or others.
As we each move from shock to grief to healing -- whether we experienced this trauma firsthand or at a distance -- may we let that hope flow through us. As we help one another heal and work to heal our own pain, may we see the spirit, strength, and beauty we each hold inside.
I join you in this healing process and offer your this: May you take comfort in the image of frosted Oregon beach agates in a handmade bowl, in the arms of a gnarled cherry tree, rooted in the same Earth your feet touch, watered by our tears, and kissed by the sun -- which will, indeed, come out tomorrow, come what may.
Marcella
Member, South Coast UU Fellowship, Oregon
currently residing inland
It is always difficult to be a Unitarian, to seek just and real change in an imperfect world. It is imposible to understand the pain and anger that seeks to cause the pain and anguish of others. As a Canadian Unitarian, as a human being I reach out to the Knoxville congregation and express my deepest condolences.
We learned of your tragedy just before our service began. You have been in our hearts and prayers since then.
Elmer Taylor
President, Board of Trustees
UU Church of Long Beach, CA
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Loudoun in Leesburg, VA sends its deepest sympathy and condolences to our brother and sister Unitarian Universalists affected by this horrible tragedy. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you navigate this difficult time.
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Durango, Colorado, sends its concolences, prayers and support to the people of the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church. We cannot let this senseless act of violence deter us from our mission of making this world a better place. Our thoughts are with the TVUUC congregation in this time of sorrow and healing.
Ron Garst, President, UUFD
We at the Lakeshore Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Montreal, Canada will be lighting our chalice this Sunday in support and solidarity with you.
Somehow ways must be found to separate the mentally unstable from guns....
I'm so sorry. Many hugs...cookies if that helps. Love you all.
Susannah Bell
from St. Christopher's Episcopal Church
Kingsport, TN
Last night here at the Unitarian Universalist Church West in Brookfield, WI 25 people gathered in a candlelight service of memory and hope for our brothers and sisters of the TVUUC and Westside UU Church in Knoxville. We are praying for you, and holding you in our hearts -- as well as holding high our UU values.
Love rather than hate will abide. We love you.
K. Welch-Bazell, a fellow U.U.
I am deeply sorry for the tragedy that as struck you and I carry you in my heart. It's particularly sad that children were witnesses to this violence and hate.
There is no strength without unity. You are in our thoughts.
Powell-Miller Family
High Plains Church UU
Colorado Springs, co
I was shocked to learn about these recent and tragic events. Our church community is thinking of all of you. I'm sure many candles will be lit on Sunday.
Karin Carlson, member and Webmaster, First Unitarian Universalist Church of Winnipe
To our UU family in Knoxville: no matter how many times the same words are used over and over to express the love and support we all feel for you in response to this horrible tragedy, each repetition emphasizes the message of strength and hope. We add our thoughts and prayers to those already spoken.
Joan Nierenberg, President
UUCUV, Norwich, VT
Sending wishes of hope, peace, and healing to everyone affected by this horrible event.
To our UU sisters and brothers in Knoxville –
It takes courage – and firm hope – to stand for justice and the inclusion of all people in the family of faith. You all have taken just that kind of positive stand, and tragically you have paid a high price.
We salute you, and as a group of progressive Presbyterians we stand with you. May the Creator’s love sustain you all in these hard days.
Doug King
for the Board of the Witherspoon Society ( www.witherspoonsociety.org)
The UU Fellowship at Easton, MD is deeply saddened by the cruelty shown in Knoxville and the loss of loved ones. Your tragedy is very close to our hearts. It could have happened to any of us.
Many blessings and condolences from the UU Church of the South Hills, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
I wish you all the best. May you and your community work together to heal from this dreadful tragedy.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the congregations in Knoxville. I have been following the news out of Knoxville since this happened and, I must say, it is gratifying to see the community come together in love and support the way it has in Knoxville.
John
Member, UU Congregation of Santa Fe
I hope that love and peace can prevail. May all those touched by this event (and who of us, given the interdependant web, is not?) find support and love to sustain and strengthen them.
Linda Thomson
Canadian Unitarian Council & Meadville Lombard.
There is nothing I can say to ease your grief. Please know that my thoughts are with you.
Joan, Newark, Delaware
My thoughts are with you at this time of sorry and grieving. From Saint Petersburg, FL
I am so saddened by these events - sad that fellow UUs have been hurt and sad that another person felt so driven as to hurt others. Please stand strong in your faith and love and know that there is much support from many. - A former Holston Valley UU member and now member at UU Church of Little Rock AR
To all the members of Knoxville's Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church: your courage and integrity and caring for fellow human beings should not bring you grief but praise...may you find solace in the support of people everywhere who believe that all individuals deserve to be treated equally. I hope that those who were injured recover fully; and that the families and friends of those who died will be comforted, knowing that truly they are heroes.
I am utterly at a loss. How do people so miscontrue other's intentions so completely? We are a community of love and acceptance. This person would have found comfort and support, had he brought an open hand rather than a shotgun. We must continue speeking up for those with no voice, for those discriminated against, those in need of assistance of any kind. It's the only way to make peace in the world.
With loving thoughts of support, your friend in faith,
Susanne Beeber
My prayers and blessings to everyone touched by the tragic shooting at the Knoxville UU Congregation. Karen Shelley
Unitarian Society of Northampton and Florence MA
I cannot imagine how dreadful it is for someone to invade a safe place for community and fellowship and attack your friends and family, but my heart aches for your losses. You will be in my thoughts, and I hope that you will be able to help each other through this tragedy.
I received word of your tragedy while in Australia. I hold you in my heart and in my mind with compassion.
Julia Corbett-Hemeyer
Muncie, IN UU Church
Personally, and a president of the Board of Trustees of First Unitarian Church in South Bend, IN, I wish to express my sincere condolences to your congregations and families. Please know that we are with you in spirit and support. This tragedy touches us all deeply.
To Our Dear Friends at TV and Westside UU Churches,
We were deeply saddened by news of the violence that took place in Knoxville, and so deeply impacted your congregations, on Sunday, July 27. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all of you who must now deal with the aftermath of this tragic event.
Of particular concern is the reason for the attack. The violence was not random or the result of a personal feud. Rather, by targeting you as defenders of human rights, it was directed against one of the very principles for which our churches exist: to promote the inherent worth and dignity of every person. In this sense, of course, the attack was directed against all Unitarian Universalist churches, not just yours. Our own church is not unfamiliar with such attacks, although by no means of the severity that all of you are suffering. In the summer of 1968 our church was fire-bombed because of our stand for peace and equal rights for all.
Please know that the members of our congregation stand with you as you face the unenviable task of healing. Our prayers for a recovery are with you, and we are prepared to help in any way that we can.
Your sisters and brothers in northern Indiana,
Members of the First Unitarian Church in South Bend
I just wanted to say my thoughts, and yes, prayers too are with you all.
I am shocked and saddened to hear about this terrible, terrible event in Knoxville. I hope and pray that all of our companions in Tennessee may be relieved from their fear and grief, and continue to stand witness for love and justice in their local community.
I also pray that those who have in any way contributed to this senseless tragedy, think deeply on the effects of their actions, even if indirectly related to what physically happened at the church in Knoxville.
God bless us all.
With Love,
Sean Sanford
First Unitarian
Denver, Colorado
I am deeply saddened by the events that took place in Knoxville. Please know that my fellow UU's there - and everywhere - are always in my heart, mind, and soul. I send you love, strength, and hope.
Sincerely,
Toby Padgett, Chair,
CareNet Committee,
West Hills UU Fellowship,
Portland, OR
Please feel the loving embrace of thousands of UU's who hold you in their hearts. May we all be emboldened to stand strong in the face of adversity and fear. I pray you may all find peace and serenity amid the grief and sorrow you must also bear.
Karen Engelking
Unitarian Universalist Church West
Brookfield WI
I have been very touched by the Knoxville UU tragedy. Like many UUs I have witnessed my faith through social action, which at times, has drawn outspoken responses. But, violent reaction is shocking and unwarranted, especially against innocent bystanders. I wish, like all in our faith, for your healing.
John Riles, West Hills UU Fellowship, Portland, OR.
Thoughts of deepest sympathy and prayers for hope and peace go out to everyone in the Knoxville congregation—especially the families of those killed and injured—from this Unitarian Universalist in Vermont. Know that your larger faith community is with you, and that love is always with you too, even in the face of hate and fear and grief.
I was so sorry to hear the news of this horrible tragedy. Please know that you are held in the thoughts and prayers of so many. Though that won't change the impact of your loss, I hope that it will bring some measure of comfort. Sending you much love and many blessings from 4th U in New York City.
To Rev. Chris Buice and the congregation of Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church,
Knoxville, Tennessee
On behalf of the board and congregation of Beacon Unitarian Church, let me express our sorrow and grief at your tragic loss. Bound as we are in the interconnected web of life, our prayers, thoughts and best wishes are with you and your congregation. May they be a source of strength to you as you cope with this heart-breaking event. We know that despite the horror and the grief, you will continue to let your light shine as a beacon of tolerance, compassion and respect for the worth and dignity of every individual.
In faith,
Don Hauka, President,
Beacon Unitarian Church,
Port Coquitlam, British Columbia,
Canada
This tragedy points to the need for better mental health care. One would have to have mental problem to do something like this.
Sending you love, support and wishes for healing from West Hills UU Fellowship in Portland, Oregon.
Please know that my prayers are with you in this awful time. I cannot possibly understand what you're going through, but know that you have my sympathy and respect.
To my knowledge, I know none of you at all, but you are all my brothers and sisters.
We heard of the horrific event within hours of it's occurrence and have been struggling to make sense of it ever since. We are grieving with you and sending you all our love and prayers for healing. We wish you uncommon strength and perseverance as you rebuild what must be shattered and shaken perceptions of the world around you. No doubt this and worse was the intent of your attacker. It is my deep personal hope, that in time, not only will his desperate acts be proven powerless in dimming your light, they will in fact make it burn all the brighter. For now we ALL are with you - galvanized by your pain - now so ready and so proud to stand with you in firm support of our common beliefs for which your members have given of themselves so greatly and so tragically.
Christopher Stygar
President
Allegheny UU
Pittsburgh, PA
It is absolutely necessary that we be open to each other and learn from each other. We must find a way to create a world where we are all welcomed...
I am so deeply saddened by this terrible event. I hope that, as a religious community, we can come together and call for a national campaign to show our UU values. This tragedy gives us an opportunity to publicly oppose the possibility of the death penalty for this disturbed man - or for anyone. We can show the greatest faith in our ideals to call for compassion for one who has hurt us so gravely.
My heart goes out to all who are suffering from this terrible event.
--Elaine from Palomar UU, Vista, CA
I am deeply saddened and shocked by this event. My prayers go out to you all in the Knoxville congregation.
Blessings ~
I only can imagine the experiences you're all having...what a tragedy for you as well as all of us. Please know I'm holding all of you in my heart and prayers...
Hugs and Love from Linda Hladek, First Parish Brewster UU, Cape Cod, MA
Our hearts and thoughts have been and will continue to be with you. We will, of course, reserve a portion of our Sunday service to bear witness to your loss and to your strength.
Love and Peace to you all,
Jerry Gray
President of the Board of Trustees
Universalist Unitarian Church of Santa Paula, CA
I wish to extend my heartfelt sympathies to the families of all those involved with the tragedy in Knoxville.
Please accept my love.
Blessings.
Adrian Magill.
Our Fellowship will be CLOSING OUR SERVICE THIS SUNDAY WITH "TOMORROW" from Annie - we invite others to do the same. Hugs to the UU children of Knoxville - and our thanks for their courage and caring.
Cathy from the New River UU Fellowship, Beckley, WV
One of the most beautiful and supportive statements about the Knoxville shooting is Of Madmen and Martyrs: A Unitarian Take On Knoxville by Sara Robinson of Vancouver. I found this just by Googling. It isn't on the UUA site yet, but I hope someone posts it there - this is my attempt to set that in motion. It's a joy to read this.
Sara only briefly mentions "what motivated the attacker," but we now know that his derangement was fueled by the hate-mongering anti-liberalism of "Liberalism is a Mental Health Disorder" by radio talk show host Michael Savage, "Let Freedom Ring" by Sean Hannity, and "The O'Reilly Factor," by Bill O'Reilly - all books found in his home when the police investigated.
For a complete healing, the virulent anti-liberalism that led to this act must be faced for what it is - a dangerous proto-fascist hatred that's poisoning American society. O'Reilly and his ilk, (e.g. the openly fascist cartoon duck "Mallard Fillmore", spawned in a community not that far from Knoxvile) are all but calling for the hated liberals to be forced to wear yellow stars with the letter "L."
If this had been a black or Jewish church, the "motivation of the attacker" would quite rightly have be front-page news for weeks. In this case, the media have largely swept the matter under the rug. Facing anti-liberal bias is not easy. But it must be done.
While a Roman Catholic, I share the outrage of millions of us who belong to other faiths at the "hate crime" in Knoxville. While possibly not agreeing 100% with UU postions, I can't fathom why anyone would want to hurt a group of people who do so much good in this world for so many people.
Make no mistake, this could have been a Synagogue, A Friends' Meeting House, Mosque or church of any denomination.
It is my hope that our justice system will prevail and this person, who obviously has a lot of problems, is removed as a threat to society.
This is no place for politics, but I can't help but feel sad as yet again we have minimal weapons controls and our airwaves are open to those who spout hate and degrade others because of their belifs.
Please know that I and millions of others stand behind you in this terrible moment. May God, Allah, Buddha, or by whatever name the Deity is known, watch over you and protect you as you continue to serve others with such dedication.
I am a Wiccan solitary; my heart goes out to all of you. I have endless admiration for Greg McKendry; his incredibly unselfish sacrifice highlights the love your congregations have shown to all people. Thank you, and please know that you are deeply loved and appreciated. Blessed Be.
The members and friends of First Universalist Parish of Chester, Vermont and the Walpole Unitarian Church in New Hampshire send our love and care. Please know there chalices being lit across the country and the world representing our renewed commitment to justice and love in the face of violence.
with sorrow and care, Rev. Telos Whitfield
Last night, our church held a Candlelight Vigil for all those impacted by this senseless tragedy. One thing that struck me was the compassion showed to not only the victims, but the shooter. Our community is a loving community. May the children remember the heroism showed that fateful day, as well as the tragedy.
You all are in my thoughts, prayers and circle of concern.
Mary Costello
First Jefferson UU
Fort Worth, TX
We and members of our church, Circle Sanctuary, offer our deepest sympathies and sadness at the tragic events you have experienced this past Sunday.
Our prayers and thoughts go out to you all -- to those who lost their lives and and were injured, their families, the children who worked so hard for their presentation,your congregation and all those who stand for the principles that Unitarian Universalism holds dear.
Know that our ministers as well as members of our church and the larger network we serve are praying for you and sending you support.
Our church, which serves Nature religion/Pagan/Earth-centered spiritual individuals and groups across the USA and elsewhere, has had a long and mutually supportive relationship with UU congregations across the nation as well as with the UUA.
You have stood in solidarity with us as we have worked to uphold religious freedom for our people and for all. We have stood in solidarity with you and continue to do so now in expressing our support.
May the Web of Life, the Sacred Circle of Nature, the Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Spirit, and all that is Divine and Sacred bless you with healing, comfort, and strength.
No matter the differences of faith traditions, what ultimately holds us together is our humanity.
We ask that the gracious Spirit of Beloved Community wrap its arms around you all.
Blessed Be,
Rev. Selena Fox
Senior Minister, Circle Sanctuary
Barneveld, Wisconsin
Rev. Jerrie Hildebrand
Circle Sanctuary
Interfaith Relations Minister
Salem, Massachusetts
As a Unity Church of Overland Park, KS member, I send my love and prayers to the members of the Knoxville UU Congregation. I have deep respect for Unitarian church members and am saddened to see such religious extremism in this country. Let's send our messages of disappointment to the politicians in November. We cannot live in fear. Beth Richardson
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this extremely sad time. That someone could do such a horrific act is unconscienable. Unfortunately, this serves as a reminder that religious tolerance and respect still need much attention and practice. My sincere condolences to you all.
My tears of sympathy flow when I read about the events of Sunday.
I write today particularly in support of the Green Sanctuary committees. May your grief heal so that you can return to work on this important endeavor, proclaiming your reverence and gratitude for the interdependent web.
Our faith is so important to us, to our society -- keep your faith, keep our faith.
My prayers are with all of you. I am not a Unitarian, but I have always supported the values of your church. Any church that focuses on love and acceptance is doing exactly what a church should do. Your church loves embraces all people, no matter what, as Jesus did. It seems as that sometimes the right way of life is met with resistance. Jesus was persecuted for his beliefs, as well.
In the time of this tragedy, the unfortunate focus is on the gunman. It is important to remember that Love triumphs over evil, even though sometimes it is difficult to see.
I have been considering attending a UU church for quite some time. The tremendous love, courage, and faith demonstrated by the church in Knoxville, as well as Unitarians all over the world, has made me realize what a truly special group of people you all are. I will be attending my first UU service this Sunday.
I continue to pray, and support your community. Thank you for being such an inspiration to me.
Keep the faith.
I send my deepest condolescences, prayers, (feelings of brotherly love and good wishes) to everyone at the Tennessee Valley UU Church and others who might have been and still are affected by the awful events of last weekend. Not enough words can be said to express my feelings of sadness for what you each have experienced. I hope somehow, into the future, that the church and its members and friends will be able to recover and build a stronger fellowship. Sincerely,
Amanda H. from the Orange Coast UU Church in Costa Mesa, CA.
My heart is with you all during this tragic time. Your community's noble response, and our wider community's unity of spirit in support of you have uplifted me in the face of the horrors you have suffered. May the spirit of love continue to envelop the loved ones of those departed, the physically injured and the psychicly injured, you as you work through this and find healing.
Never have I felt such unity with my wider UU community. May that unity expand with time to the whole human family. My love, and that of my UU community who gathered in a vigil here Tuesday night goes out to you now and in the days and weeks to come.
Walker Willingham Jr
Cedars UU Church
Bainbridge Island, WA
Know that you have friends everywhere, sharing your pain and praying for courage.
Karen Esterl, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta
Dear Members and Friends of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Knoxville,
Our hearts are heavy for the murdered and injured of your church family.
Our hearts are heavy for your congregation that must now try to understand and then respond to the single gunman's hate for liberals and gays directed at them.
Our hearts are heavy for the violence that marbles American society.
Our hearts are heavy for what drives a man, such as this gunman, to resort to such an act as the consummation of his 58 years.
The shooting spree on Sunday could have cost more lives and injured more people, for the gunman had 73 rounds of unspent ammunition. It's likely that the selfless courage of an usher and others, who subdued the gunman, saved many children, youth, and adults. For this we are thankful.
Our Hinsdale congregation will follow the UUA's lead, supporting your congregation and our beloved liberal religious tradition. In this hateful act of senseless violence we UUs are united in grief and resolve.
Our thoughts are with you.
On behalf of the Unitarian Church of Hinsdale,
Rev. Edward Searl, Minister
Unitarian Church of Hinsdale
17 West Maple Street
Hinsdale, IL 60521
630-323-2885
The Unitarian Church of Calgary extends its sympathy for the loss and suffering inflicted on your congregation in the shooting incident on July 27. We feel a special connection to you, since Mr. Terry Tyler, a member of your congregation, was a visitor at our service on that day, and shared with us the news of this tragedy, which he had just learned by telephone. We hold you in our hearts and wish for healing to those who have been injured.
Sincerely,
Board of Trustees
Unitarian Church of Calgary
As I write this, there are 519 posts on the blog, all expressing love, admiration, and sympathy for the people at Knoxville. I join in that. But I was particularly struck that at least 15 also showed a concern for Mr. Adkisson. Two mentioned the lesson we could take from the Amish in their reaction to a school shooting in their community. This was also pointed out by our minister, the Reverend Lynn Thomas Strauss during our vigil here Tuesday night at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Rockville, Maryland. This is a harder challenge than sending love to Knoxville UUs, but we should all strive to make room in our hearts as well for compassion towards the offender.
The Unitarian Church of Calgary extends its sympathy for the loss and suffering inflicted on your congregation in the shooting incident on July 27. We feel a special connection to you, since Mr. Terry Tyler, a member of your congregation, was a visitor at our service on that day, and shared with us the news of this tragedy, which he had just learned by telephone. We hold you in our hearts and wish for healing to those who have been injured.
Sincerely,
Board of Trustees
Unitarian Church of Calgary
I am a member of the Lakeshore Unitarian Church of Beaconsfield, Quebec. We are on summer break, so I can only do so virtually. So, with this note, I light a candle of support and love for my brothers and sisters in Knoxville.
May you all find love, hope and strength at this most difficult time. Our hearts are with you.
Tina Brooks
Amidst the shock, disbelief, fear comes a deeper appreciation for our loved ones, our UU community, and our faith. No matter what acts of violence descend upon us, we will always be "on the side of love" and I find great comfort in that fact.
As mentioned elsewhere here, thank you for giving us a forum to hug and share our thoughts electronically
With love and light to Knoxville from Boston...
The Dennehy family
First Universalist Society in Franklin, Mass. (www.fusf.org)
On behalf of our Board, our staff, and the 38 member congregations of the Pacific Central District, I am sending our prayers for strength, courage, comfort, and peace to the Tennessee Valley and Westside congregations. In this sorrowful time, may it help to know you are surrounded by the loving support of all of us. May it sustain you through the pain of such tragic loss, until all that remains is the beauty of our memories and the love. Always, the love.
Cilla Raughley
District Exectuive
Wishing showers of grace upon you all. Bob and Martie
No words adequately express my shock and sorrow at the actions of one beyond the edges of reason and rationality. My heart aches for fellow UUs in Knoxville and for all of us in the UU and wider community. May we all join hands within the UU community and with all those of good will everywhere and continue to work for justice in this nation and the world, so that hatred turns to love and horrors of this kind simply cannot happen.
Mary Ann Oakley
UU Congregation of Atlanta
"We the undersigned members of the Hendersonville North Carolina Interfaith Ministerial Association wish to convey to you our condolences for the tragic events of last Sunday. We want to stand with you in your grief and the healing of your community. This attack is an attack on all communities of faith who seek to be inclusive in any way. We celebrate your ministries to the community and pledge to offer spiritual support consistent with our individual traditions."
Rev. Jim McKinley – UU and President of Interfaith Ministry Assoc.
Rev. Larry Anderson – United Church of Christ
Rev. Charles Kirby – Chaplain
Rev. Gary Prichard – Disciples of Christ
Mr. Roy Harris – Lay person from the Episcopal Church
Rev. Jerry Miller – American Baptist Church
Rabbi Philip J Bentley – Jewish Synagogue
Rev. Barbara M Rathbun – United Church of Christ
Rev. Dr. Mark Stanley – Presbyterian
Rev. Lester Vier – American Baptist
Venerable Pannavati Bhikkhuni - Buddhist
Mr. Alex Briber – Bahai
Rev. Don Keefauver – Unitarian Universalist
Rev John Tuxbury – United Church of Christ
Rev. Debby Bradley – Chaplin
Rev. Dr. Sandi Rice – International Christian Community of Churches
Having read all the comments, I have little to add except my own condolences and love. I'm especially touched by the fact that we are in the same state as the victims of this senseless tragedy...those victims including the perpetrator of this tragic act.
May we yet prevail over the forces which divide us.
jak
FUUN
First Unitarian Universalist Nashville
This was a ghastly crime and the victims and their families and their friends have my sympathy and prayers for a full recovery and to regain the right to worship in peace ... a right most people take for granted.
Grace and peace,
John Erthein
Pastor,
Westminster Presbyterian Church
Erie
I relocated to Knoxville for about a year after Hurricane Katrina and it was at the TVUUC that I found a place where I could think and heal. That someone could harm such a loving, accepting group of people is beyond comprehension. My heart aches for the children there that day, and for everyone else affected.
Our congregation gathers tonight to voice our grief and hold you all in our hearts. We will sing,
"though these sheltering walls are thin,
May they be strong to keep hate out,
And hold love in."
The love of the Tennessee Valley and Westside congregations, and all our hundreds others, and so many people of many faiths, is palpable this week. I am grateful to share this faith with you.
Sending you light and healing from Palo Alto,
Amy
Our thoughts and deepest sympathy go out to you at this time. We are deeply saddened by the recent tragedy you have experienced and, simultaneously amazed at your strength, courage and deep sense of faith. Acts of this nature are what propel us as UU's to seek greater tolerance for all. May this only strengthen all of us in our resolve.
The Kager Family
Skylands UU fellowship of New Jersey
I wish there was something I could do to help. Know that you are not alone in you grief and sorrow. May it pass quickly with God's soothing presence. It may be hard to think this so soon, but I believe something good will come from this. The two who perished did not die for nothing. Please take comfort and keep the faith. My young niece and her father and grandmother were there. Fortunately they were unharmed physically. I want to thank 2nd Presbytarian church next door for their quick and kind response by taking the children in. And also let West Side Unitarian know that they are not alone in their grief and sorrow either. My thoughts and prayers are with all who were affected by this tragedy.
Julie C. Knoxville, TN
Thinking of you and yours.
Blessed Be
Peace,
Kim
I am deeply saddened by this vilonece and desecration. I would like to send my deep feelings or sorrow at your loss of friends. I feel most deeply for the children having been a part and witness to this terrible act. Though their are people in this world that use violence as their solution, know also that there are a great majority that know violence is never a solution but just a further problem. Your congregation has and is doing great things to make this world a better place. I know that this will take time to heal but I also know that Unitarian Universalists are people who live their beliefs and so you will be back stronger than ever in your convictions helping your community to be a better place. You are in my thoughts often.
Jindy Gelow more proud than ever to be a Unitarian Universalist.
This terrible tragedy (along with too many others) will hopefully help us to realize the need for UU churches, other churches and good men and women everywhere that there is much work to be done to better humankind. I believe our UU faith is strong enough so we can together make great stides in helping this to happen. Steve
My thoughts are with the Knoxville UUs as you prepare to re-dedicate your sacred space. Tonight I attended my congregation's Service of Sorrow and Support in solidarity with all of you. There was a deep feeling that this happened to "our people," and that you have really let your light shine in the way you have responded to this terrible act. I wish for healing for all of you who suffer.
Amy Weber
Carbondale Unitarian Fellowship
Carbondale, Illinois
I was a little upset when I heard the announcement in church on Sunday but wasn't able to get any news until Monday. That morning at a client's office was the first chance I had to check the internet since Sunday so I quickly checked the press to find out more. I broke into tears reading the story.
My heart and prayers go out to those who were hurt and killed, their families, your church and the entire community.
My family is heading to UU Camp this Saturday and I know we'll send some special prayers your way.
To our brothers and sisters in the faith in Knoxville, and especially to Reverend Buice:
Chris Buice was our minister in Oxford, Ohio when he was a seminary student. Namaste, Chris. We did not need this terrible event to remind us of human fear and pain and hate; but perhaps we can use it to remind us of how we are bound together in love and determination to bind up our wounds and make something powerful and good out of something mad and bad and sad. Pain begets pain and love begets love; if only someone had been able to reach out to this demented perpetrator. Sending you thoughts and prayers from Bainbridge Island, Washington. Alan Miller
It is Tuesday and I am in the Minister’s Study at All Souls Church with a candle lighted for our sisters and brothers in Knoxville, Tennessee. It is also lighted for members and friends of All Souls Church in Brattleboro, Vermont.
I was profoundly saddened Sunday afternoon when I heard on the news that there had been a shooting at a church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Before going off to seminary in 1994, I had completed seven years as a member of the Board of the Thomas Jefferson District of the UUA. My last District Board Meeting was held at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church. It was there I passed on the gavel to the next District President.
On Monday morning when I read the very brief article in the Reformer and learned that the shooting had taken place at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church, my eyes filled with tears. All day Monday, I wrestled with how to respond, what to do, while going from one previously scheduled meeting to another. The day went and at the end of it, I felt deeply, deeply sad.
My sadness is personal and pastoral, too. Personal for I know the Tennessee Valley UU Church. The very first District event I ever attended was held at that church. It was a gathering for women, and it was profoundly meaningful. I also know the minister there, Chris Buice. Chris entered seminary at about the same time I did, in 1994, after having served as the Director of Religious Education at TVUUC for many years. He was called to serve as TVUUC’s settled minister in 2001.
The social climate in the South is quite unique. For religious liberals, Unitarian Universalist congregations offer places of real sanctuary in communities that are religiously conservative and fundamentalist. People who are different find refuge at UU congregations in the South, because UU beliefs and values affirm the inherent worth of all people. Outside of their own UU congregation, many people live closeted lives. Some do so because they are religiously liberal and fear for their safety. Others do so because of their sexual orientation and fear for their safety.
I am deeply saddened because I know how devastating it is to experience violence in a church. The shooting at the Tennessee Valley UU Church is being called a hate crime. The Church was targeted for its beliefs. The man who entered the Church and started shooting had written a four-page letter about his "hatred for the liberal movement." My heart breaks for this man, for he must have been broken to harbor such hate and to carry out such violence.
My heart breaks. Churches are thought of as sanctuaries, safe places where good living and good values are promoted. Church is where we are supposed to be able to go when we ache and hurt, to bathe in the compassion and care of others. When we are not safe in the places that are supposed to be safe havens, when we are violated in the places where we come to be "saved," we are devastated.
As the Minister who serves All Souls Church, I have written a letter to the Reverend Chris Buice and the congregation he serves to express our common grief and sadness and our prayers for healing and comfort. Because the service held at the Tennessee Valley UU Church Sunday morning was a joint service with their sister church, the Westside UU Church, I also sent a letter of condolences to the minister there.
As I continue to wrestle with how to reach out and respond to this tragedy, I pray that people everywhere will commit themselves to protect others from hate. I pray that this devastating event will bring people together to stand strong on the side of love and hope. I pray that the circle of love and hope and support will expand, not contract out of fear. I pray that we here in Brattleboro reach out to people in our community who are targets of hate and violence to provide safety and support.
I pray that we all have the courage and strength to live our faith and express our values openly and freely today and every day.
Blessings,
Barbro
Rev. Barbro Hansson, Minister
All Souls Church Unitarian Universalist
Brattleboro, Vermont
Tapestry UU in Mission Viejo is sending positive, healing prayers and peaceful thoughts to your congregation in this time of grief. It is so sad that a desperate person with the goal of harming the congregants would come to a place that could surely have provided him with comfort and assistance during his frustrating life situation.
One can only hope that the causes for this kind of violence will become a thing of the past.
I am holding good thoughts for all of those involved in the tragedy.
All best,
Wiley Saichek
Member, Unitarian Church of All Souls in Manhattan
I learned of the tragedy at your church from the Deseret News in Cedar City, Utah on vacation in a diner for breakfast on Main Street. Tears leaked out over my coffee and eggs. Since then I have been thinking about your congregation a great deal. Your Unitarian friends throughout the world hold your congregation and families in our hearts.
Tricia Knoll
Member at First Unitarian Church, Portland, Oregon
In the name of our Emergent Group in Mexico City, Libre Congregación Unitaria de Mexico , I want to express to our Knoxville brothers and sisters in liberal faith, our deep condolences and our full support in these trial times...
This is a poem by the noted Mexican writer, Jaime Torres Bodet:
Civilización
Un hombre muere en mí siempre que un hombre
muere en cualquier lugar, asesinado
por el miedo y la prisa de otros hombres.
Un hombre como yo; durante meses
en las entrañas de una madre oculto;
nacido, como yo,
entre esperanzas y entre lágrimas,
y -como yo- feliz de haber sufrido,
triste de haber gozado,
Hecho de sangre y sal y tiempo y sueño.
Un hombre que anheló ser más que un hombre
y que, de pronto, un día comprendió
el valor que tendría la existencia
si todos cuantos viven
fuesen, en realidad, hombres enhiestos,
capaces de legar sin amargura
lo que todos dejamos
a los próximos hombres:
El amor, las mujeres, los crepúsculos,
la luna, el mar, el sol, las sementeras,
frío de la piña rebanada
sobre el plato de la ca de un otoño,
el alba de unos ojos,
el litoral de una sonrisa
y, en todo lo que viene y lo que pasa,
el ansia de encontrar
la dimensión de una verdad completa.
Un hombre muere en mí siempre que en Asia,
o en la margen de un río
de África o de América,
o en el jardín de una ciudad de Europa,
Una bala de hombre mata a un hombre.
Y su muerte deshace
todo lo que pensé haber levantado
en mí sobre sillares permanentes:
La confianza en mis héroes,
mi afición a callar bajo los pinos,
el orgullo que tuve de ser hombre
al oír -en Platón- morir a Sócrates,
y hasta el sabor del agua, y hasta el claro
júbilo de saber
que dos y dos son cuatro...
Porque de nuevo todo es puesto en duda,
todo
se interroga de nuevo
y deja mil preguntas sin respuesta
en la hora en que el hombre
penetra -a mano armada-
en la vida indefensa de otros hombres.
súbitamente arteras,
las raíces del ser nos estrangulan.
Y nada está seguro de sí mismo
-ni en la semilla en germen,
ni en la aurora la alondra,
ni en la roca el diamante,
ni en la compacta oscuridad la estrella,
¡cuando hay hombres que amasan
el pan de su victoria
con el polvo sangriento de otros hombres!
Our thoughts and prays are with you,
Francisco Javier Lagunes Gaitan
Moderator and Lay Chaplain of the
Libre congregación UNitaria de Mexico
http://www.lcum.blogspot.com
serviciounitario@gmail.com
My heart goes out to the families that have been forever changed as a result of this tragedy. You are in my prayers.
Dearest UU Family,
Listed below is my video response. Peace and love,
http://www.philauu.org/index.php/messages
Rev. Nate
First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia
In the midst of the tragedy, the brilliant light of love and steadfastness has shone from Knoxville's TVUUC to the rest of the nation. So deeply grieved and so deeply humbled, we send our condolences and hold TVUUC in the warmth of our hearts.
I would like to offer my love and support, also. UU had only recently come in to my life, but is my home and I will come home in faith to support you all. I have been away from my own congregation as my mother recently passed away and I am taking care of all the after death business. I will find a local congregation this Sunday to worship with all UUs and offer our love, support, energy and faith for healing to come to TVUU. After reading Annette's article, it looks like it has started all ready.
All my thoughts and prayers are with you!
Love, Julie Punishill
Member of UUSIS, Stamford, CT
Sending loving support in your time of need. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers as you travel through these troubled and sad times. I'm sending loving energy to all and hopes for a bright future. Goddess Bless you all.
Our hearts go out to you from Portland, Oregon. May, in time, your hearts are lighter than what these dark memories must surely bring.
Please remember that we send all of our prayers and well wishes to you and all those you know and care about. Please remain strong, and together we'll get through to brighter times.
Love is stronger than guns and hatred. Our love is with you.
We at Blue Moon Circle of Indianpolis, Indiana send our prayers to the friends and families of those injured and lost. We stand with you during this difficult time, and we will do anything we can to support you.
Healing Love and Light
Lady Moon Spirit
The Mountain Community holds our beloved friends at the TVUUC and Westside Congregations in our prayers. On Monday evening July 28, we held a candlelight service on the deck of our Lodge with our Senior High Campers, Counselors in Training, Counselors, and members of our staff. In silence and in song, with candles lit one by one and extinguished as one, and with a ritual of love, friendship, forgiveness and reconciliation, we sent our thoughts of healing and hope.
We also mourned the loss of a young friend from the Nashville congregation who was killed Sunday in a car accident… and our campers who knew and loved her continue to hold her and her loved ones close in their hearts.
For our Sunday morning worship, the Rev. Marti Keller, UUC Atlanta, Rev. Glenn Johnson (TJ District Administrator), Dr. Ken Nafziger (Eastern Mennonite University), Shelley Jackson Denham and Sabine Gifford, (The Mountain) will lead a service dedicated to you at TVUUC as you reconsecrate your sacred space and move forward on your journey.
We grieve for you, but we are profoundly moved by your courage, resilience and loving response to the unthinkable. The Mountain is here for you… as are the many throughout the world who stand with you in solidarity.
Blessings to you all.
The Unitarian Universalist Association staff joined in a time of meditation and prayer this morning in Eliot Chapel at UUA Headquarters in Boston, as we sent love, strength, condolences and prayers for healing to our faith community in Knoxville. Rev. Beth Miller, Director of our Ministry and Professional Leadership staff group, led this time of prayer and reflection, and we were joined by UUA staff on the phone from around the United States.
Friends in Knoxville, we are one community -- you are not alone.
You are held in my spirit and prayers. In the Thomas Jefferson District, we've received regular updates from our DE Annette. I am reminded of my favorite quote from Elizabeth Tarbox:
I will speak of justice and kindness and beauty and truth, and I will try bravery though I am a coward, and I will honor wisdom though I am a fool. I will find other broken people with divinity shining through their pain, to remind me that the human spirit is hard to defeat, that love is not forever, but a little love once in a while is worth the risk of keeping the door of our hearts wide open.
And I look for goodness and know it when I see it, and I see it in our faith community, in you and your children and your dreams.
May our hearts be open and look for goodness.
Nancy Proctor
My heart goes out to the UU congregation in Knoxville. I pray for healing for the survivors & the loved ones of those who were lost. Additionally, I am astounded by the courage of the congregation, as I read that congregation members subdued the shooter.
Blessings & healing!
On behalf of the Temple of Hekate's Torch, I would like to express our sadness for your loss. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers and we will remember and honor the brave acts of those who gave their lives for the protection of others.
Blessings to you and may this senseless act of violence bring us all closer to one another.
Cindy Wilson
Priestess of the Temple of Hekate's Torch
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at TVUUC and Westside, all of you who were affected directly and indirectly, as well with all those who have family and/or friends attending TVUUC or any of the Knoxville area UU congregations.
Our summer service will go forward as planned this coming Sunday and we hope that we (and all other UU congregations around the world) will have a strong attendance as a show of support for TVUUC and Unitarian Universalism itself.
Uta Mattox
President
UU Congregation of Fayetteville, NC
Our hearts and prayers are with you. We love you dearly.
Sharon Rogalski
Temple of Diana (Wiccan)
The Carbondale Unitarian Fellowship in Carbondale, Illinois held a service of Sorrow and Support last night for our sisters and brothers in Knoxville. We send our love and wishes for your healing.
Amy Weber
Carbondale, Illinois
We at the UU Church of Roanoke feel so close to you at this time; we share friends, even members, and of course, know one another through events like SUUSI... We feel not at all separated, but a part of a common body, and so as we all gather in worship Sunday, please remember we are there with you in spirit and in hope and confidence that one day, this world will be a better place -- because of you.
I am shocked and saddened beyond words.
When my monthly (non-UU) worship circle met tonight, our first prayer was for the congregation of TVUU. We are deeply grieved for you in the wake of this awful tragedy, and holding you in our hearts.
Ann L.
Atlanta, GA
I hope that those wounded as well as the families and friends of those involved are well. It is terriable that in this day and age that there is so much hate from someone against a church and it's members. I'm Pagan myself and a small business owner in Iowa. We have had grafitti on our windows, a "Christian" prayer group picket the store and even a death threat. I and my coven will send positive energy to those affected by this violance. God and Goddess Bless.
Here in the pleasant, safe, comfortable Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor, I am trying very hard not to feed my anger at the miserable, sad, pathetic, pointless, and above all inexcusably STUPID STUPID STUPID stupidity of it all. This kind of thing is why people become calvanists or make up stories for themselves about God sending people messages with hurricanes or airplane crashes. And there isn't a damn thing I can do or say to ease the pain of the survivors, or help heal the next confused, anguished, angry, god-besotted, hate-ridden misfit out there lining up to do the same thing somewhere else. How on earth can we live this way? Or more to the point, how on earth can we not live this way?
If I were a theist I would pray for you, but I'm not, and I can't. All I can do is say I love you, whoever you are--something like love, anyway--and promise to try and be better than my anger.
This Sunday our minister--like many, many others I am sure--will interrupt his regularly scheduled programming for an emergency sermon. I am definitely going to be there. I'm hoping he will have some magic words for my bitterness. (That's why we pay him the big money.) You will be much in our minds and hearts.
I have only been to two UU churches, but what I found was acceptance for all beliefs. The people were warm and friendly. What a terrible tragedy for such a group of loving people.
My heart and condolences go out to your congregation, and the families of victims. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Jan & Linnis Hoyle
Irvine, CA
There are no words that really express the shock, horror, and grief that I feel about the violence in your beloved community. I pray for your healing as individuals and as a community. May your loving support of each other be strong in this and in all that you experience, and may you feel the loving support of all of us who care so deeply for your congregation and all it stands for. I pray, too for those who loved the man who did this terrible deed and for the man himself, who surely must have suffered much to have been driven to this extreme action. May all be comforted and healed.
Jan Austin
Wildflower UU Church, Austin, TX
Please know that the members of the Unitarian Universalist Ocean County Congregation hold each of you in ours hearts with an abundance of love and healing energy.
I send my condolences to your congregation for the senseless act that took place in your sanctuary.
Maureen
musician
Unitarian Universalist Society in Stamford
To our dear brothers and sisters in Knoxville,
"May the Spirit of Love surround you everywhere you may go..."
We are one with you, and hold you in our hearts and minds as we send you thoughts of healing and peace.
Jenn
Boulder Valley UU Fellowship
Lafayette, CO
My condolences go out to you in this sad, sad time. I hope you may find the love, support, and justice that you so rightly deserve. Paix.
As a fellow UUer I am deeply saddend by this tragic event. The Unitarian church was the first spiritual home for me, and I therefore know that they will recover from this event. Blessed be.....
Andrea
This past Wednesday evening on the steps of the sanctuary at the First Parish in Duxbury (MA), Rev. Catherine Cullen (Minister) and Rev. Robbie Walsh (Minister Emeritus)led a beautiful service of remembrance followed by a candle vigil of hope for all those affected by the tragedy in Knoxville.
An additional vespers prayer and reflection service will be held in the neighboring First Parish in Kingston on Sunday evening, August 3rd at 6pm.
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Yellow Springs sends our love and support to the families, members, and friends of the Knoxville UU Fellowship during this time of tragedy.
We hold you in our hearts and support you in your healing. May our shared tradition of peaceful action, service to others, and loving community comfort and sustain you now and always.
Mary Donahoe
President, Executive Board
UU Fellowship of Yellow Springs
Ohio
The West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church of Cleveland, OH stand with both congregations as you continue to recover from the aftermath of this tragedy. My heart goes out to both congregations. I served the Westside Congregation from 1994-1998, so the members of Westside hold a special place in my heart. Please know that we are thinking of you and praying with you on this day of rededication. Love, Kathleen Rolenz
LOVE - that's what it is all about - that's what I learned being raised UU. I remember my Mom going on the train to march from Selma to Montgomery and worrying what would happen to her three kids if she was killed. People did die there. Being a UU is a brave thing to do - though rarely do we think of it on a Sunday service watching kids perform - Standing up for LOVE is a brave thing to do - I am proud of my sister congregations and of being a UU - Jan Ogren, CLF (Church of the Larger Fellowship.
I came across this story browsing the web for Pagan websites and one site noted this and posted a link to this site.
May I add my condolences to all the people involved. Whatever ones path to the Divine a place of worship should be a santuary from the politics and dangers on the outside.
Defiling any place of worship with such violence hurts us all equally.
Norfolk, England
As a fellow UUer in Norfolk, thoughts of condolences, healing and peace go out to the Tennessee Valley church family, especially to the loved ones of the deceased and those injured by the gunfire. If the gunman had come seeking support and help, he would have gotten it. Tragically, as in this case, hateful words from those who feed the brokenness in our midst do matter.
With deepest sympathy and love my heart goes out to the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church.
Celonia Walden
Columbia, Maryland
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia
Dear Chris and members of the congregation:
Beth and I have been out of the country this week but followed with deep concern news of the trauma you have sustained. We know you are at this very hour rededicating your sanctuary and want to reach out to you as you do.
As one who is intimately acquainted with gratuitous violence from my years with Amnesty International, I have a small sense of what you have been through this week and what you face in the months to come. Both of us feel enormous respect for the values you have embodied in the community—an embodiment which apparently contributed in part to the attack--and to the way you have begun to cope with the tragedy. We know that it reminds you, as it does us all, that pain can intrude into even the most tranquil corners of our lives and at the most unexpected times.
Our hearts go out to you, Chris, as you minister through your own grief to those you love and to the members of the congregation who sustain our faith even as they sustain each other. Thank you for being models of the best of our religious tradition. Please know that we both embrace all of you with pride, caring and affection.
William F. Schulz
UUA President, 1985-94
Executive director, Amnesty International USA,
1994-2006
Beth Graham
UUA Associate Director for Stewardship and
and Develoment
Rudy Nyhoff ...
As a member of the UU Church of Augusta (GA), I would like to extend my heartfelt sense of loss at the senseless tragedy in Knoxville a week ago. It was a significant part of Rev. Margaret Beard's message in her inaugural service to our congregation.
It is indeed "our" loss as the covenant that we espouse as Unitarian Universalists is a universal one that incorporates all in an interconnected web. Seven days ago, strands were shorn but the bond is still strong.
In loving and continuing humankindness.
At this time please know that we grieve with you and hope with you.
May you find comfort in your community and in the knowledge that we stand together against such hate.
For while the story of hate is an old one, so is the story of love.
May we strive ever towards love, even in the face of hate. May we not let those that can not understand deter us from this striving.
I for one will think of your congregation. Hoping that our combined voices and your faith brings you some comfort.
As a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Augusta, I want to extend healing thoughts to the Tennessee Valley UU Church of Knoxville a week after the tragedy.
Today's service was our new minister's, Rev. Margaret Beard, inaugural one. She marvelously interwove the news of this heartrending event and her message, one of developing covenant between people. It is a daily process and as your members move to heal from this tragedy, let it be known that your brothers and sisters in Augusta, Georgia, are with you all the time.
In loving and perpetual humankindness ...
I have just returned from 2 weeks vacation, and so I am posting this a bit late. But, on behalf of the people of St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Farragut, TN, I want to express our shock and sadness at what has happened to TVUUC and Westside UUC in Knoxville and Farragut. Please know that our thoughts and prayers have been with you over this past week. We believe in your strength and your witness to love and acceptance in what often seems like an increasingly intolerant world. May God bless you all.
Peace,
The Rev. Matthew Dutton-Gillett
This has been an extraordinary time of sadness, outreach, frustation, anger, forgiveness, love, caring, hope. All Unitarian Univeralists feel connected through this tragedy at one of our congregations. We are all heart sick for the families whose lives have been turned upside down and we want to them to know our concern and love for them. And we stand with them by not flinching from fear in our resolve to continue to live our lives in the Unitarian Universalist faith.
--Jack Kulas
President
UU Fellowship
Gainesville, FL
the uu church in ellsworth, maine held you in our hearts today in morning worship. knoxville felt no further away than a lit candle, than the litany of names of those injured or killed, or the shared tears we also shed. we are all bound together in our diverse faith and our desire to transform this world with love and determination. you are not alone during this time of grief. your friends around this country meet to light candles, to grieve with you and to support you in the days ahead. we send our love, our blessing and strength to you, and the message that we stand beside you in this time of grief and loss and healing.
I first heard about this tragedy today while listening to the web-cast from 1st Church UU in Boston. I am both saddened and angered at the outrage committed against you. I honour the courage and heroism displayed by you. I cannot bear to imagine what you are all going through. May you all find strength in each other and from the solidarity offered to you from around the world.
David Lewis of
Merthyr Tydfil, Wales
My heart goes out to those that suffered this terrible onslaught of violence spawned from hate. I was a Unitarian for over 30 years. Though as I grieve with you I am Roman Catholic, I totally support your teachings of openness, tolerance and LOVE and try to practice these as well in my own life. The Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church has and will, continue to contribute greatly to our society.
St. Athanasius Church
Mountain View CA
It is a shame that this world has come to such chaos due to jealousy, greed, poverty, drug influence, or just plain insanity; that makes this world such a hard place to live. Even though some peoople are unstable and dangerous there is no need for you to have fun and find ways of being safe even in public places. There should always be a back up plan or make note of a proper escape route. Blessed be to those who have lost or been lost and those in mourning.
The members and friends of the UU Congregation of Phoenix are sending all our love and prayers to you at TVUUC and Westside UU Fellowship. One of our members here had been a member of TVUUC many years ago. She is holding all you especially close in her heart. We gathered on Wednesday after the tragedy and again on Sunday to stand in love and solidarity with you. With deepest love.
I am not a Universalist, nor a Christian, and not even a theist. However, the members of the TVUUC that were victims of this act of violence have been on my mind a great deal the past week. If any of you are reading this, I hope that you have all found the beginning of healing.
I'm struck anew in reading the news articles and blogs (especially this one) by the incredibly loving nature of UUs, even toward the perpetrator of this act. I'm so angry about what happened that I cannot find love or sadness or forgiveness in my heart for the man who did this, nor for the millions who in some measure encouraged him and think he was justified. Sadly, they are there ... just read the comments of readers of knoxnews.com (the local newspaper). Within an hour of this happening, there were postings by those who basically said "a church like that was just asking for it."
I was born in and lived in Knoxville for many years, but finally left in search of a better life. I knew there had to be somewhere, some community, where I fit in, and I have been lucky enough to find it. I am a proud gay LIBERAL - a double whammy in Knoxville, where the Christian churces regularly spew hatred and intolerance for both from the pulpit. No one from Knoxville can possibly be surprised that a man like this lived among them. Good grief, the people elected a "county mayor" who at a contentious meeting in the 1990s encouraged anti-gay religious conservatives bussed in from all over the region to vent their intolerance and hatred at a county commission meeting. "Leave 'em alone! I like the ruckus!" he shouted as the chair was trying to restore order from the screaming fundamentalists frothing at the mouth. But he has the nerve to offer sympathy? Shame on you, Mr. Ragsdale. You and your ilk are criminals no better than the man who fired the gun.
I have deep connections with TVUUC going back to my childhood. As a child, before I even knew what LIBERAL meant, I admired (and envied) my friends who were Unitarians. I've attended many discussion & support groups at TVUUC, which has always been accomodating and gracious in offering to share their refuge from the unkind world outside their doors.
Now I have an even greater respect for you, members of the TVUUC. You are heroes not only for what happened that Sunday morning, but also for daring to stand out in the crowd in what is a very hostile place to do so. Now we know, and the world knows if it decides to pay attention, that in some ways we're not so different from those third-world countries where political killings and genocide is the order of the day. Yet you still stand up for what you believe, and you plead for tolerance and love even in your grief. You do inspire me.
"Have there ever been so many who owe so much to so few?"
Wow.
As Randall Bachman said so eloquently earlier, this church, and Greg in particular, show us what it is to love and stand up for that love. We have known for a long time that to stand on the side of love is not easy, and it has been shown even more clearly that it is dangerous. I have never been more proud to be a UU and strive to live our values.
My heart goes out to everyone who was touched by this terrible crime. You are not alone. We grieve with you.
Namaste,
Melissa, a fellow UU from Los Angeles, California
You have not left my thoughts for long in the last week. You make me proud to be a UU. My family and I have not attended the UU fellowship here where we moved a year ago (as much as we did before we moved), but the tragedy made us realize we need to stand on the side of love by attending more often. I am so truly and deeply sorry for your loss, but please know that your strength has made me so proud of Unitarian Universalism. I am hoping and praying for much love and healing to come to you all. Thank you for your strength and courage.
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Tennessee,
I wish you peace and serenity during this time of deep loss and grief. Please know that UUs all over the world hold you in their hearts and prayers. We stand proudly as Unitarian Universalists with open minds and hearts that seek love and peace for all.
Blessings, Karen Engelking, Member, UU Church West, Brookfield, WI
On behalf of the entire UU community in Stockton, California, I send love and strength to all who have been affected by this terrible event. We honored and prayed for you in worship yesterday, and many of my interfaith colleagues assured me that their congregations would be praying for you too. You are not alone.
Yours in faith and love,
Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig
Minister, First Unitarian Universalist Church of Stockton, CA
this brutal and senseless crime has made many of us feel vulnerable. However, it has made all of us feel proud, strong, and resolved to stand up to this and all other forms of terrorism. I am so sorry that the two congregations in Knoxville, and all their individual members and friends, have suffered from this violent act. I hope that our responses will help troubled individuals turn away from violence.
David C. Kopaska-Merkel
Unitarian Universalist congregation of Tuscaloosa
The Unitarians of Knoxville and the Unitarian Universalist Association were lovingly held in the Light by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) at worship on Sunday, August 3 during a gathering of the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting at Center Valley, PA. We are so sorry that you have suffered these deaths and injuries in your congregation.
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