Tragedy and Prayer

I’m writing this the day after the shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas. So far, 19 children and two teachers have died. Many others are still in the hospital being treated for their wounds. I cannot express my sorrow, anger, and frustration enough for this tragedy. This is the 2nd mass shooting in weeks in the United States following the shooting in Buffalo, NY.

I cannot fathom the pain that the victims and families are going through and the pain they will live with for years. We hear two phrases during these moments: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and victims…” or “We are passed the point of prayers…”. I believe that there will never be the right words to express solidarity with those suffering in moments of tragedy and sorrow. Still, I believe that it’s my responsibility to continue to pray as a Catholic Christian.

Prayer and the sacraments of the Church are the foundation of my faith as a Catholic Christian. Prayer is how I plead with my God and give him my sorrow, anger, and frustration. Going to Mass and offering prayers for the families and communities affected is how I can do something. But prayer isn’t where it stops. I am called to live out my faith, and prayer helps to guide and direct a path forward for me so that the decision I make is driven by the Lord. How I vote, who I support, and how I serve are powered through a lens of prayer.

My prayers will never be enough for the victims and families affected by tragedy and senseless violence. Still, we have a Savior who experiences our sorrow, anger, and pain with us. He, too, weeps today.