October 11, 2006

JOHNSTOWN, PA - His Eminence, Metropolitan Nicholas has issued the following statement regarding the recent tragic shooting of the Amish School Children:

Glory to Jesus Christ!

Reverend and dear Fathers and Faithful:

Global news coverage of the recent, unfathomable rampage of a gunman that was dealt to Amish schoolchildren in the Lancaster County Pennsylvania town of Nickel Mines has reached everyone everywhere.

Of significance to us as a Christian community is how the Amish are dealing with this horrific act of violence. Not only is their community taking care of their own and supporting the families of the victims, but they have displayed love and heartfelt forgiveness towards the family of the gunman! What may at first appear to be strange is actually the command of our Lord to forgive our enemies seventy times seven and without end.

It is significant also that many people everywhere are coming to the aid of the victims' families. We should do no less, and I am calling on our faithful to respond according to their ability. Donations may be sent to:

The Nickel Mines School Victims Fund

c/o Home Towne Heritage Bank

P.O. Box 337

Strasburg, PA 17579.

May God move your heart to consider this kindness.