Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Trump release statements on violence in Michigan

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released a statement regarding violence committed at an LDS church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday. At least one person is dead and 10 more injured after a man drove through the front doors of the church, Grand Blanc authorities confirmed.

The violence happened less than 24 hours after the passing of LDS Church President Russell M. Nelson.

Read the statement below, courtesy of Doug Andersen, LDS Church Spokesperson:

A tragic act of violence occurred today at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire, and early reports indicate that multiple individuals were injured. We ask for cooperation with local authorities as details become available.

The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families.

We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved.

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Utah and National Leaders React

Several politicians and leaders have spoken about the shooting.

U.S. President Donald Trump released the following statement on Sunday’s shooting:

I have been briefed on the horrendous shooting that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Michigan. The FBI was immediately on scene, and will be leading the Federal Investigation, and providing full support to State and Local Officials. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn. This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!

Additionally, Former U.S. Senator Mitt Romney posted online, “Tragedy in Michigan as my brothers and sisters and their church are targets of violence. Praying for healing and comforting.”

Utah Congressman Blake Moore, who represents Utah’s First District, posted online, “Jane and I are heartbroken, and our prayers are with our fellow church members in Michigan after this senseless act of violence. Today is a heavy day for members of our faith.”

Other religious organizations have provided statements on the shooting. The Jewish Federation of Utah said the following:

The United Jewish Federation of Utah is horrified and heartbroken by the tragic shooting this morning at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints congregation in Michigan. We condemn in the strongest terms this senseless act of violence, and we mourn the precious lives cut short in what should have been a sacred place of worship and community. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those whose lives have been shattered, the families who have lost loved ones, those injured and traumatized, and the entire Latter-day Saint community who will struggle in the days ahead to find comfort and healing.

As Jews, we know the anguish of violence in sacred spaces, from the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh to other attacks that have shaken our people. Houses of worship must be places of peace, not fear, and no one of any faith should ever feel unsafe in prayer. That is why this tragedy strikes so deeply. When our friends in the Latter-day Saint community hurt, we too feel that hurt. Today, we stand in solidarity with you, mourning your loss as our own and renewing our shared commitment to a future where faith is met with respect, communities are bound by compassion, and every person can gather in safety and peace.

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