Romans 12:15 Leads Prominent Pastors One Year After LGBT Massacre
One year after Omar Mateen attacked Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, the city still mourns. Beyond the physical boundaries of central Florida, emotional heartache permeates the lives of many, including those within and outside the LGBT community.
As pastors and prominent Christian leaders reflect on the worst mass-shooting in U.S. history, many are asking for prayer and following the Holy Spirit as they determine how to proceed.
Here’s what some are saying:
Joel Hunter, pastor of Northland, A Church Distributed
The first anniversary of a tragedy brings back all the original feelings of shock and grief for those who lost loved ones, and all of the feelings of empathy for the rest of us who care. As a Christian and pastor, I want to be a part of the healing of our city because Jeremiah 29:7 (NIV) reminds us to “…seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Yet beyond that and more personally I am reaching out to hear the stories of some of those in the LGBTQ community. I had no relationships in that part of our community, and I realized I would probably not ever “love thy neighbor” well if I didn’t get to know him or her. If we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we will to go to the marginalized and the vulnerable. We will have conversations with them and not just regress into stereotypes. The result has enlarged my prayers and my heart.
Dr. Carol Peters-Tanksley, author of Overcoming Fear and Anxiety Through Spiritual Warfare:
This one-year anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub shootings reminds us we are all vulnerable in this messed-up world. Remembering those who lost their lives, and those who carry physical and psychological wounds as a result, makes clear that we all share that vulnerability and wounded-ness—both believers and those who do not share our faith.
As members of the body of Christ, we must be a place where those who are hurting can be invited to bring their wounds into the light. The healing Christ offers is not the elimination of pain, but the offer of meaning, purpose and hope even in the midst of pain. We must truly sorrow with those who sorrow. We must reach out saying, “Take my hand. I’ll walk with you as we together step into the future God offers us both.”
Larry Tomczak, cultural commentator:
As I approach my 45th anniversary in vocational ministry, I want to say the following to my friends in the LGBTQ community upon the anniversary of the tragic Pulse nightclub tragedy.
Scripture tells us that as Christians we are to “mourn with those who mourn.” At this time, my wife and I want to convey our support and prayers to you in this time of grieving.
I share with you not as an angry, mean-spirited opponent but rather in the spirit of humility, as a would-be friend.
I was formally a rockstar drummer in a band called the Lost Souls (and I was lost). I attended church regularly and will confess that I was not very understanding or loving in my approach towards those who identify with your lifestyle. I ask your forgiveness for myself and others who have done likewise.
I want to be part of the generation arising that is not so much imposing but proposing a better way that really does lead to peace, freedom and long-term happiness in human relationships.
I’ve engaged and befriended gays and have regularly attended your gay pride events for decades in different states. I’ve stood at the bedside of my buddy John, who changed from gay to straight but later died of AIDS and requested I officiate his funeral.
We are all broken people on a journey of discovery. At this time, I hope you receive my love and prayers and know that I am always available to share with you how Jesus transforms lives of all who are searching for answers in this life.
Tim Cameron, author of 40 Days Through the Prayers of Jesus:
Prayer for the City of Orlando:
In the name of Jesus, we fearlessly come before God to appropriate mercy, peace, and restoration for the city of Orlando on this first anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting.
Father, we pray for the city of Orlando, that the Holy Spirit would visit this city in a mighty way. We believe that the entire city can be consecrated and purified for your purposes. We pray that the churches in this city would rise up with a great demonstration of the love of Christ to all unbelievers, the poor, the widows and orphans. Father, let Your people be shining examples of compassion and kindness.
We proclaim for the city of Orlando that the Father’s plans are for peace, not evil, and that this city has a hope for a blessed future.
Editor’s note: This story will be updated throughout the day. Please check back for more responses. {eoa}
