We join with all who are praying  for the two National Guardsmen who were shot in Washington, DC, and for their loved ones. This event reminds us of the great risks that our military men and women take on our behalf, and the heavy burden of fear and worry that military families carry every day. For this to have happened at Thanksgiving is especially devastating.

Guardsmen, soldiers, reservists and others on active duty are our neighbors and co-workers who answer our nation’s call to serve, whether it is in Washington, DC or across the world.  May we all choose to see Guard members and their families with gratitude and care.

We pray, too, for the medical personnel caring for the wounded, for those investigating this crime, and for all who have been victims of gun violence.

Finally, as we learn more about the man responsible for this violence, may we remember the countless Afghani men and women who served courageously alongside our soldiers against the Taliban and others who wished us harm, and who seek only to live in peace in our land.

Faithfully,

The Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde
Bishop, the Episcopal Diocese of Washington

The Very Rev. Randolph Marshall Hollerith
Dean, Washington National Cathedral