Florida diocese calls for prayer after 2 reported dead in university mass shooting

[Episcopal News Service] The Diocese of Florida is calling for prayer after a gunman shot multiple people at Florida State University in Tallahassee, the state’s capital, this afternoon. At least two people are reported dead and at least five are receiving treatment at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare. A suspect is in custody.

The campus is closed as several buildings are still an active crime scene, though law enforcement “has neutralized the threat,” according to the latest alert from Florida State.

The Jacksonville-based Diocese of Florida’s Episcopal University Center of FSU at Ruge Hall serves Florida State and the Tallahassee community. Anyone in need of pastoral support may contact the ministry center at jacob@rugehall.org.

As of April 17, 4,064 people have died from gun violence nationwide this year, including 81 from mass shootings, according to the Gun Violence Archive, an American nonprofit that catalogs every gun-related death in the United States. The organization defines a mass shooting as one in which at least four people are shot either fatally or non-fatally, excluding the shooter.

The Episcopal diocese shared a prayer April 17 in response to the day’s violence in an email newsletter and on Facebook:

“Gracious God, our strength and consolation, be present with all students, faculty and staff that are part of the Florida State University community and their families. Dispatch your angels to any families whose loved ones have been affected; help them to feel your love and care even at this dark hour. Heal those who have been hospitalized through the care of skilled professionals and restore them to health. Bless the first responders and law enforcement officers who run towards danger on our behalf.  And finally, we pray for the one who committed this violence that they would repent and live the rest of their days as your healing instrument, this we pray in the name of Jesus, Lord and friend. Amen.”

St. John’s Episcopal Church in Tallahassee, located less than a mile east of Florida State’s campus, announced on Facebook that it will remain open April 17 into the evening for anyone in need of a quiet space. A priest will be available in the sanctuary for pastoral care until 6 p.m. Eastern and from 8 p.m. to midnight. 

St. John’s Maundy Thursday service will take place this evening at 6:30. Security will be at the church beginning at 8 p.m.

“You do not have to walk through this night alone,” the Facebook post says. “Come find peace, light a candle, or sit in stillness. You are welcome here.”