Like all people of good will, Courage International condemns the atrocious violence perpetrated at Pulse Orlando in the early hours of June 12, 2016.
We make our own the words of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which insisted nearly 30 years ago:“It is deplorable that homosexual persons have been and are the object of violent malice in speech or in action. Such treatment deserves condemnation from the Church’s pastors wherever it occurs. It reveals a kind of disregard for others which endangers the most fundamental principles of a healthy society. The intrinsic dignity of each person must always be respected in word, in action and in law.”
In the face of such outrageous violence and loss of life, human words and explanations fall short, and so people of faith look to the everlasting mercy and compassion of almighty God, who “is near to the broken-hearted, and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18 RSV). Courage International calls on all of its members to pray for the eternal rest of those who were murdered, and for the consolation of their families and loved ones. Courage International stands committed to proclaiming and living the Gospel demands of charity, respect for human dignity, and solidarity in the pursuit of righteousness, which are essential for building a society of true justice and peace.
