New Hampshire Council of Churches Statement on Recent Events

In light of this weekend’s troubling events, the New Hampshire Council of Churches wishes to reaffirm our commitment to the principles of love, peace, and the inherent worth of every individual. Our hearts are heavy for the lives lost, and for all those affected; we pray for speedy recovery for those who were injured. This uncertainty and tension calls for us to once again return to our core teachings across diverse faith traditions.

As the Apostle Paul reminds us in his letter to the Romans, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). We are called to respond to discord not with further animosity, but with acts of kindness and compassion. It is through these acts that we truly embody the love that is at the heart of our faith.

Loving our neighbors is central to all covenants. In the words of the Unitarian Universalist tradition, “Love is the spirit of this church, and service is its law. This is our great covenant: to dwell together in peace, to seek the truth in love, and to help one another.” The Council urges us all to transcend political and social divides.  NH communities must invest in opportunities to see the humanity in one another.

Let us also cultivate peace, following the example of “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). In our actions and in words, let us strive to build bridges of understanding and reconciliation. Afterall, peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, empathy, and mutual care.

Guided by love, let us work together to heal the divisions among us. Let us work together to be voices of hope and instruments of peace; building communities where all feel safe, valued, and respected. May we all commit to a future grounded in love, compassion, and unity.

Lisa Beaudoin, Executive Director                 The Board of Directors