Statement Regarding Buffalo Shooting from Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston S.C.

 “To my beloved brothers and sisters in Buffalo, New York.  It is with a heavy heart that I pen these words to you, your families, and the surrounding community.  As the senior pastor of Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston S.C., we can relate to your hurt, pain, and anger; the congregation of Mother Emanuel was in the same place almost seven years ago.  

For the last six years, I have personally watched how God continued to strengthen our community and I know that He will do the same for yours.  However, it does not negate the reality of your pain, and the testimony of the empty seat of your loved ones.  Please know that as you mourn, we mourn with you, and will be here for you if you need anything.  In closing, I leave you with the following words that are found in Psalm 121 verses one and two, “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”

May the God of Heaven continue to strengthen you today, tomorrow, and always. In The Strength of The Lord

-Pastor Eric S C Manning