The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council has expressed its “profound sorrow” at the shooting in Green Hill on Sept. 25 that left four Vincentians dead and four others injured.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the recovery of those injured, and for the comfort and healing of all who witnessed or have been affected by this tragedy,’ the council said on Friday (today) in a statement.
“As Christians, we affirm that every human being is created in the image of God. The taking of a human life is a grave assault on that dignity, and we unequivocally condemn this violence.”
The council said St. Vincent and the Grenadines must never become numb to acts of bloodshed and it urged the nation “not to accept this as a norm in our blessed land.”
“Every such incident demands both a just response and renewed commitment to preventing further loss of life,” the statement said.
“At this time, we appeal for calm and urge all concerned to reject retaliation. We encourage anyone with information that may assist the investigation to provide it to the police.”
The council also asked the public to respect grieving families by refraining from circulating graphic images, unverified allegations and speculation.
“The Council supports a thorough investigation and calls for those responsible to be brought to justice through due process. We recognise the difficult work of the police, medical personnel and other responders, and urge that they receive the support necessary to protect our communities and care for those affected.
“We believe that building a more peaceful society is a responsibility to be shared by all Vincentians.”
The council, therefore, called on the government, parliamentary opposition, churches, schools, businesses, community organisations and families to work together on sustained measures to reduce gun violence.
“These measures must include action against illegal firearms; support for people at risk of involvement in violence, help for those seeking to leave violent groups, and counselling and care for victims and their families.”
“It said that churches in SVG “must examine how we can strengthen our presence in communities: listening to young people, supporting parents, offering pastoral care, helping to resolve conflict and creating places of belonging and hope.
“Prayer must be accompanied by practical expressions of love and service. Although this is a painful moment, the Council is confident that with God’s help, we can overcome this tragedy and position our nation in a place where human life is cherished, justice is upheld and every community can live in peace,” the council said.