To My Brothers and Sisters in Christ in the Wisconsin Annual Conference,
I am deeply saddened and dismayed at the terrible act of violence committed against Pastor Clementa Pinckney and the worshipers at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Words cannot convey the depth of emotion in the face of such tragedy. I invite us all to be in prayer for the families and loved ones of the nine dead and the other victims. I also encourage our congregational leaders to pray for victims of hate crimes, and to ask that God’s grace and peace may prevail in times of wanton violence and senseless destruction. This is a time for healing, compassion and mercy, and a reminder that we, as the body of Christ, must be ever vigilant and prepared to respond in times of need.
We are a Conference constantly challenged to “imagine anew” a world of peace, love, kindness, gentleness and self-control. I am so thankful that in situations such as this, we can join our hearts and voices together in prayer for God’s mercy. Click here for message from the Council of Bishops. Click here for message from the National Council of Churches.
With Christ’s Blessing,
Hee-Soo Jung, PhD
Bishop
Author

Hee-Soo Jung
Bishop Hee-Soo Jung has served as resident bishop of the Wisconsin Annual Conference since September of 2012. Prior to leading the Wisconsin Conference UMC, Bishop Jung served eight years as bishop of the Northern Illinois Conference (Chicago area).