A Message from Rev. Stephen Love, District Superintendent of the Greenwood District:
We have been faced with the reality of the power of evil in our world demonstrated in a cruel and violent way this past week. We especially keep in our prayers all of the families grieving in Louisiana, Minnesota, and Dallas as we also grieve.
In times like these we must remember that we have the reality of our faith in Jesus Christ who suffered and died for all of us. I want to encourage all of you, as leaders of our congregations, and laity to band together in prayer and in love for God and one another. Now is our time to witness to the power of God in love, as we pray for the families who are in pain as they grieve the loss of loved ones in such a violent manner. I pray for their comfort during their grief and for healing that only God can provide. I pray for each of you as well, as we seek God for ways to address concerns in our local community that will help us build stronger relationships with God and each other. We have work to do. Although we may not know how to move forward we know our first steps begins with surrender to God who will guide and instruct us. I also encourage you to be active participants in your communities where there are opportunities for grief and healing worship and prayer services.
I pray that God will give you peace that together we may also be the peacemakers in our communities.
On July 9, 2016, Bishop Jonathan Holston, resident bishop of the South Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church issued a statement on the recent tragedies.
Click on the image to the left to read the letter from Bishop Holston.