Early responses to the terrorist strike at the offices of Charlie Hebdo:
This is an act of the most extraordinary brutality and barbarity. This violence is demonic in its attack on the innocent, and cowardly in its denial of the basic human right of freedom of speech.
The people of France, a country in which I have lived, which I know and love, will rise courageously above the challenge of this vile attack and continue to demonstrate strength and confidence arising out of their great history.
Our prayers and thoughts are especially with those who have been killed and injured and their families. I pray also for those involved in pursuing the terrorists.
The Very Rev. Lucinda Laird, dean of the American Cathedral in Paris:
We are all in shock and grief following today’s brutal shootings at Charlie Hebdo. I do want you to know that everything is normal here at the Cathedral, although we are of course on the alert.
I think the most important thing for all of us to do right now is to pray. Pray for the victims and their families. Pray for peace and justice, here and around the world. Pray for this city, that the perpetrators may be found and stopped, and for an end to this hatred and violence. And most especially, please pray for those whose hatred is so overwhelming that this kind of action is possible. Pray that we may not react with hatred ourselves.
The Rt. Rev. Pierre Whalon, Bishop in Charge of the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe, on Facebook:
Paris is shocked, 12 families are bereft, 2 cowardly murderers are on the run. We have increased security, begun to pray for the victims, including the four in grave condition. I will be issuing a statement, but I want to salute right away the rapid reaction of all Muslim leaders of France condemning in the firmest terms this revolting act. Please pray.
Biretta tip: John Chilton of Episcopal Café.
Image by Thierry Caro (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons
