GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) — President Dallin H. Oaks released a statement addressing both the death of President Russell M. Nelson and the tragic mass shooting at a church in Michigan.
Dallin H. Oaks, president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared a message of sorrow and hope on social media Monday. The statement comes after a difficult weekend for the church, with the loss of its leader, President Nelson, and a deadly shooting
at a meetinghouse during a Sunday worship service.
“Our hearts are heavy with sorrow. Millions of us are mourning the passing of our beloved Prophet and President, Russell M. Nelson. He was a dear friend and a cherished leader. His timeless teachings continue to guide us and help us find comfort amid suffering, especially in the wake of the recent violence aimed at members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Michigan this past Sunday,” Oaks said.
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President Nelson died at the age of 101 on Saturday evening in his Salt Lake City home. Oaks is expected to be the next president of the church as he has been an apostle for the longest period of time.
Shortly after Nelson’s passing, police said a suspected gunman drove a truck into a Michigan church building, fired shots, and set the building on fire. Four victims were confirmed dead, and eight others were injured. Police said they shot and killed the suspect.
“On behalf of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I extend this expression to the family and friends of those affected by this recent tragedy and all others who may be experiencing loss and heartache at this time,” Oaks said.
Read his full statement below:
Our hearts are heavy with sorrow. Millions of us are mourning the passing of our beloved Prophet and President, Russell M. Nelson. He was a dear friend and a cherished leader.
His timeless teachings continue to guide us and help us find comfort amid suffering, especially in the wake of the recent violence aimed at members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Michigan this past Sunday.
The awful tragedy that took place in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on September 28, reminds us of our sacred responsibilities as followers of Jesus Christ. We mourn with our members who have lost loved ones, and we join in prayer for comfort with others around the world who are suffering from similar tragedies.
We all seek answers and understanding in the wake of trauma, shock, and grief. We are grateful to all who are reaching out with service, prayers, and words of support during this difficult time.
May we all remember the truth that each of us is a beloved child of God. Our Savior Jesus Christ, through His infinite Atonement, overcame death and gives us the joyful assurance that each of us will be gloriously resurrected.
On behalf of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I extend this expression to the family and friends of those affected by this recent tragedy and all others who may be experiencing loss and heartache at this time.
– President Dallin H. Oaks
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