An emotional Burruss said that when he doesn’t have the words to say, he often turns to the comfort of the Book of Common Prayer. Burruss then prayed the words, “Oh, mighty God we entrust all who are dear to us to your fear never failing care and love. For this life and for the life to come, knowing that you’re doing to them better things that we could desire or pray for Jesus Christ our Lord.”
“I ask for your continued prayers and your support,” Burruss concluded. “Together we will hold each other in the tender love of our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.”
Burruss also released a statement the night of the church shooting, expressing that he can’t “begin to fathom how painful this is for our entire church, and the larger community.”
“We gather because we know that love is the most powerful force in this world, and tonight, and in the days, months, and years that come, will hold onto that truth to know that Christ’s love will always shine,” Burruss said.
The church’s Rev. Katherine Harper has been organizing prayer vigils and gatherings, which are being held at another nearby church.
Alabama Governor Releases Statement
Alabama’s Governor Kay Ivey released a statement, saying, “As we are learning about the shocking and tragic loss of a life at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Vestavia, we want to offer our prayers for the victim’s family, the injured and the entire church community. I am glad to hear the shooter is in custody.”
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“This should never happen,” Ivey stated. “In a church, in a store, in the city or anywhere. We continue to closely monitor the situation.”
