Resources for Responding to Targeted Violence

The events of the past week left our faith community dismayed and heartsick. As we grieve the loss of innocent lives, we are also processing anew what it takes to be peacemakers in a time when mass shootings and targeted violence against religious communities are all too common. Tragically, that violence violated one of our own sacred spaces last weekend. What does peacemaking look like in this moment?  

In the immediate aftermath, we find that words do matter. President Dallin Oaks set the standard for us to follow — naming our own pain and mourning while at the same time reminding us that we are not alone in suffering and that the role of disciples is to look outward toward our fellow children of God who are also worthy of care. MWEG also responded, with a statement about the shooting and a reminder that acts like these do not have to weaken our resolve to be peacemakers. Finally, private outreach also makes a difference, and we express our deep gratitude for the multitude of messages of love and care sent by our friends, colleagues, and partners who are not members of our faith. 

But words are only the first step. One of the most inspiring things about our MWEG community is that we support each other in our commitment to be proactive. In the face of discouragement and even trauma, we choose hope, connection, and carefully considered action. In that vein, we would like to offer some curated resources (below) to help as we respond to this tragedy. We will also be sharing several new episodes of the Proclaim Peace podcast in order to connect with three remarkable leaders who can counsel us in this moment of difficulty. Our prayer is that these professional resources can inspire and direct us as we talk with our families, our congregations, and our communities, and as we process the grief in our own hearts. 

We have witnessed the power that women of faith have as they act in compassion and love, even in the most challenging circumstances. We trust our beloved MWEG community to respond to this incident in ways that will mend hearts, bring families and communities closer together, and uplift a vision of the world we want to create.

Remember that you are not alone. MWEG Central is a place where you can discuss current events with others, counsel in sympathy, and coordinate action.

Communicating With Children and Youth About Violence

• The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Parent Guidelines for Helping Youth After the Recent Shooting

• The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Talking to Teens When Violence Happens

• Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress: Helping Children Understand Frightening Events 

Caring for Our Congregations and Communities

• National Mass Violence Center: Rebuild Your Community 

• The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Psychological Impact of Mass Violence

• Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress: Safety, Recovery, and Hope After Disaster: Helping Communities and Families Recover 

Empowering Healthier Dialogue Across Difference

• Interfaith America: Shared Values Facilitation Guide 

• Living Room Conversations: Conversations in Troubled Times

• USU Extension Service: Parenting Toolkit and Tips for Learning to Disagree Better

Faithful Resources to Cultivate Hope in the Midst of Fear

• Russell M. Nelson: Peacemakers Needed

• Dieter F. Uchtdorf: The Infinite Power of Hope

• Cristina B. Franco: The Healing Power of Jesus Christ