FAN Statement on Orlando

Press Statement: Franciscan Action Network Decries Mass Shooting in Orlando, Asks Politicians to Both Pray and ActFaith and Good Works are Needed to Ensure Once and for All We Put an End to Violence

Washington, D.C. – The Franciscan Action Network (FAN) stands in prayerful solidarity with the people of Orlando, Florida, especially the LGBTQ community, as they struggle with the aftermath of the country’s largest mass shooting in our nation’s history.  FAN also decries anti-Muslim rhetoric following the tragedy, especially from a presumptive nominee for President of the United States.

The horrific violent attack was a tragic convergence of hatred, easy access to assault weapons, and Islamophobia.  While we pray for all the victims and their loved ones, we also urge our nation to address root causes of violence, especially in light of this most recent hate crime and rhetoric coming from politicians and the media. FAN calls on Congress to enact a federal ban on the manufacture, purchase, and possession of automatic weapons designed for use on the battlefield.

As Christians, we follow the Jesus who insisted that the greatest commandment is love of God and neighbor and preached “Blessed are the peacemakers.”  As Franciscans, we look to Francis of Assisi who forbade his followers to bear arms and greet everyone with a greeting of peace.  As US Americans, we desire that our country truly offers “liberty and justice for all.”  And we call on Congress to act immediately to ensure that we put a stop once and for all to mass shootings that are plaguing our nation.