UCC Response of Gratitude for Condolences

April 18, 2007

The Rev. Yoon Kil-Soo
General Secretary
Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea

Dear Rev. Yoon:

April 18, 2007

The Rev. Yoon Kil-Soo
General Secretary
Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea

Dear Rev. Yoon:

On behalf of the United Church of Christ I want to express our deep gratitude for your expression of sympathy and solidarity following the tragic deaths on the campus of Virginia Tech.  It is good to be reminded of the global family that embraces us in times such as these.  Just as sorrow knows no borders, so also is the reality that deeply troubled souls who may be tempted to turn to violence carry the passports of many nations, including our own.  May this tragedy renew in both of our churches a commitment to overcome violence and to minister to those whose spirits yearn so desperately for the Gospel of reconciliation, forgiveness, and peace.

I will share with our pastor in Blacksburg the words of solidarity and faith you have sent to us, and know that it will be a source of deep comfort to them.

In Christ,
John H. Thomas
General Minister and President, United Church of Christ