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ELCA NEWS SERVICE April 16, 2007 ELCA Presiding Bishop's Statement on Virginia Tech Tragedy With the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) community and the nation, we mourn, we pray, and with the Psalmist we plead: "Out of the depths, I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice!" (Psalm 130:1) As family and friends grieve the deaths and injuries of loved ones, we claim the promise of Christ's Resurrection. Campus ministries, congregations and leaders of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are offering support and spiritual care to the local community. Through the deep wounds of this tragedy, let us renew our resolve to live together in peace. "Holy One, you do not distance yourself from the pain of your people, but in Jesus you bear that pain with all who suffer at others' hands. With your cleansing love bring healing and strength to the Virginia Tech community; and by your justice, lift them up, that in body, mind, and spirit, they may again rejoice. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen." (Evangelical Lutheran Worship, p. 84) The Rev. Mark S. Hanson Presiding Bishop Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Chicago For information contact: John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or [log in to unmask] http://www.elca.org/news ELCA News Blog: http://www.elca.org/news/blog