Shootings in Sacramento
Once again, our hearts break at the senseless injuring and killing of people, this time in a busy downtown area. We have become far too used to this in American society, and it must stop.
Religion, as with everything else in society, plays a role in stopping violent crime. Religious communities bring people of all ages together to develop strong bonds, supporting emotionally, spiritually, and financially the families and individuals in it. A tight-knit community is a safety net for families and individuals growing or struggling in life. In my religious community, as I’m sure in yours, friendships develop between families and individuals, groups are created around similar interests, young mothers gather together, youth groups develop to keep them engaged in the religious community, and seniors are helped by the younger ones in the community.
In a society where people may not be interested or are even cautious in knowing their neighbors, are not engaged in their local communities, and are cautious about joining any organization that might involve commitment, we see how isolated most people are. With few friends or family, there is no close-knit community to rely on, look after the children, keep kids on the straight and narrow, and help people looking for jobs.
Let this be a time for the religious communities in the area to rededicate themselves to being that chose-knit community people are truly desperate for, to love, support, and help in times of need. Let us do our part in helping our community in these violent times.
Serene Erby
President