Archbishop Vásquez's statement on the tragedy in Michigan

On behalf of Cardinal DiNardo, Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, the priests, deacons, men and women religious, and all the faithful of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, I express our profound sorrow at the heartbreaking tragedy that occurred at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. We stand in prayerful solidarity with our brothers and sisters of that community, entrusting the victims, their families, and all those affected to the merciful love of Christ.
 
May the Lord Jesus, our refuge and strength in every trial, surround the grieving with His peace and console all who mourn. We commend to God the souls of those who died, praying that they may rest forever in His embrace. We also remember with gratitude the courage of first responders and all who rushed to aid those in danger.
 
I invite the faithful of our local Church to unite in prayer for an end to senseless violence. On this feast of the Holy Archangels, we ask Saint Michael, Saint Gabriel, and Saint Raphael to intercede for us and protect all God’s people with their heavenly aid.