Salvation Army Response to Christchurch Mosque Shootings

Hands hold a red heart
by SalvationArmy.ca
Categories: Articles, Blog, Feature, Mobile, Newswire
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Following mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, which have claimed at least 49 lives, members of The Salvation Army–particularly those near the sites of these attacks–were able to provide support and transport for those who needed it.

Members of The Salvation Army’s Christchurch City Corps (church) are working at the hospital where many of the injured people are being treated and distressed family members are gathering. Salvationists from the corps are also employed in the local police and forensics service, and as funeral directors in the South Island city.

The Salvation Army will be working closely with national and local authorities and other support agencies in the coming days regarding the ongoing help that will be provided.

Commissioner Andy Westrupp, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory, has issued the following statement following today’s mosque shootings in Christchurch:

“The Salvation Army stands with our Muslim brothers and sisters today, and totally condemns this unprecedented act of violence in Christchurch towards people who were peacefully at worship.

“The horror of these attacks reminds us of our shared humanity and the urgent need to stand for love and peace. Everyone will do that in their own way, some by praying, as we will. The response of caring for others is another way – this is also the path that our faith calls us to. But regardless of religious belief, caring is a response that we can all share.

“Our church staff, particularly those near the sites of these attacks, were able to provide comfort, support and transport for those who needed it immediately after. We will be working closely with authorities and other support agencies in the coming days about the help we can provide.

“We think of all those in Christchurch today who will be feeling anxious and grief-stricken. You are not alone. We stand with you.”