Members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church family mourn all loss of life, but especially cry out against mass violence such as what took place this past weekend in Buffalo, New York.

Our hearts are shattered for those who lost family and friends and for those who will continue to suffer greatly as a result of this senseless act.

As a family of faith, we pray for healing for all who have been affected. But as much as our prayers go up and our hearts go out to those who have been devastated by this horrific event, we cannot stop there.

We denounce this mindless and premeditated act of hatred and violence. We call on all people of goodwill to use your voices and platforms to denounce hatred and racism in all of its forms. May we use this evil intention as a catalyst to propel us to action and demonstrate that love is stronger than hatred.

We call on our fellow communities of faith and the clergy to provide a comfortable, safe environment in which people can grieve and recover. We ask them to help facilitate the difficult conversations that can no longer be put off — conversations about why this is happening and how the violence and racism that are dividing our country can be addressed.

We believe that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18, NIV). May this be true for all those grieving and saddened at this time of loss.

G. Alexander Bryant, president, North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists

Pierre Omeler, president, Atlantic Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

Abraham Jules, president, Northeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

Miguel Crespo, president, New York Conference of Seventh-day Adventists