Tragically, a fatal shooting took place Sunday, July 27 at one of our UU congregations, Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church. This New York Times article elaborates.

I'm guessing that in relation to this tragedy, many in that church and community have been experiencing shock, overwhelm, deep pain and far more than mere words could ever fully articulate. I'm betting that many in the Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist community have experienced a similar cascade of emotions. I'm sure that I speak for many at our church when I say that our hearts, well-wishes and support reach out to the TVUUC community.

In our church newsletter, as part of a longer statement, our newly hired, settled minister, Rev. Hilary Landau-Krivchenia, expressed the following.

This is a time to be compassionately mindful of the TVUUC members. It is possible that learning of this event will raise grief and anxiety for many people. This is a time to be compassionate with ourselves and one another as we respond from individual histories of pain and loss. This is a tragedy that will have an impact on that congregation and the other churches in the area - as well as our association... This is a time to remind ourselves and the children of our congregations that Unitarian Universalists gather in religious community in hope and in the intention of helping to create a society where compassion and respect can lead.

Rev. William G. Sinkford, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association said in a press release: “I know that many people, both in Knoxville and around the country, are struggling with shock and grief right now. I pray that those so affected will find strength and comfort... Unitarian Universalists around the world are sending love and prayers to the Tennessee Valley congregation to tell them they are not alone on this dark day.”

May each of us find peace in the wake of this violence. May each person remember that there is comfort, healing, and safety within our congregational community - we can turn to one another and it will bring more strength and safety. May all our congregations have a positive and powerful influence in the world such that acts of mindless violence become more and more unthinkable.

Peace and healing to you all,

Rev. Hilary Landau-Krivchenia

Additional reflections may be found in our local church newsletter, and at the Unitarian Universalist Association website, as in Rev. William G. Sinkford's Remarks from Service of Healing Following Knoxville, Tennessee, Tragedy and Unitarian Universalists Respond to Knoxville Shooting Disaster.

Wishing Everyone Healing And Support,

Vid Axel