Al Fletcher, Executive Minister of the American Baptist Churches of Maine, shared the message below on Thursday morning, October 26, following a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday night, October 25:

The American Baptist Churches of Maine grieve with the families and friends who lost loved ones in the tragic shooting at the at Sparetime Recreation and Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant in Lewiston.

Human depravity and inner turmoil know no depth. In situations like this, we turn our attention to Jesus and pray for His intervention, solace, and comfort. We ask for the shooter to be found quickly by law enforcement officials. We ask for wisdom as this situation is examined. We pray for protection of innocent life until the shooter is found. We pray for all those affected by this tragedy.

May God grant wisdom to your church’s leadership as they assist your congregation in dealing with this tragedy which is being felt throughout Maine and across our country. Love one another, practice forgiveness, and always seek reconciliation.