ATLANTA–Archbishop Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv., released the following statement about the March 16 shootings in Atlanta:

“I grieve today with the families and communities impacted by the murder of eight people in Atlanta last night. We must support all victims of violence and stand in solidarity with those who are vulnerable in our communities. I call on all Catholics today to reach out to your neighbors in love and protection.

When an attack of this kind happens, we have to be aware of the possibility that it could, tragically, lead to more violence. We don’t know the circumstances of this case, and that work is better left to civil authorities, but we do know members of the Asian community have found themselves the object of hateful speech and actions in the past year.

We have brothers and sisters in Christ who endure discrimination, aggression and violence every day of their lives. Tonight, many of them may wonder if they will be safe–my heart aches just to think of it.

We must, as a Christian family of faith, work to protect the whole community. We must speak up against any aggression and we must be active in our pursuit to end racism and discrimination of every kind.

May God grant the victims eternal rest. May he grant comfort to their families and may the Holy Spirit inspire us to be a community of peace, inclusion and justice.”