The recent mass shooting at the Pulse, a homosexual nightclub in Orlando, Florida, was wrong in every way. Yet, in the aftermath, some people rejoiced or were indifferent because the attack was carried out against homosexuals. Sadly, people who reacted in such inappropriate and unbecoming ways fail to realize that one can oppose the sinful conduct of homosexuals and allied groups while at the same time seeing the attack for what it truly is: the murdering and injuring of human beings made in the image of God. All human life is precious, and law abiding people should condemn all acts of violence in the strongest terms. For this reason, I join my voice with countless other voices and condemn that horrific act of violence.

At the same time, I once again condemn the acts of murder, attempted murder, and other forms of violence that take place in The Bahamas on an almost daily basis and with similar indifference from the wider community, unless upstanding citizens happen to be victims.

Interestingly, even with the forty-nine murders from the Pulse shooting in Orlando, the per capita murder rate in Orlando is still much lower than the rate in The Bahamas. So even though we should sympathize with those who are mourning and grieving over loved ones who died or were injured in the massacre in Orlando, we must likewise extend the same sympathy at home, even when the persons murdered are categorized by the commonly used description: “known to the police.” In addition, we must continue to hold the Prime Minister and the government responsible to do their job of providing national security, for which they are being paid.

May all who mourn and grieve over dead and injured loved ones, at home and abroad, find strength and solace in the God of all comfort and in the hope of the gospel that is held out to all people.

Yours truly,

Pastor Cedric Moss,

Kingdom Life Church