March 15, 2019

By CBF Communications

Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Executive Coordinator Paul Baxley released the following statement after the death of 49 Muslim worshipers in a terrorist attack during Friday prayers at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.

While details are still unfolding about this tragic event, we have been stopped in our tracks by the evil inflicted upon so many at the Al Noor and Linwood mosques. Our hearts ache for the victims and their families, and we offer support, love, prayer and a pledge of solidarity in the wake of all-too-frequent violence.

 These attacks happened seemingly a world away, but we are also faced with questions closer to home. How are we reaching out to exemplify the Fruits of the Spirit to all people in our own communities, especially those who may believe and worship differently than we do? In a world too often marked by violent hatred and paralyzing fear of difference, we must embrace and enact Christ’s message and ministry of reconciliation.

 That these innocent victims were inside their house of worship practicing their faith underscores the vital work that remains to protect the religious freedom we all hold dear, especially as Baptists who champion religious liberty for all people.

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CBF is a Christian network that helps people put their faith to practice through ministry eff­orts, global missions and a broad community of support. The Fellowship’s mission is to serve Christians and churches as they discover and fulfill their God-given mission. Learn more at http://www.cbf.net.