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From the Desk of Bishop Héctor: Recent shooting in Albany, NY
July 15, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez about the Independence Day shooting in Albany, NY.
Dear Family of God,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
As many gathered in Albany to celebrate Independence Day, the community was shaken by devastating violence. Ten people were shot, including teenagers and innocent bystanders, and a fire ignited by a flare gun destroyed a building, displacing residents and traumatizing many.
We grieve with all who were injured, who lost their homes, and who now live with fear and sorrow. I ask you to join me in prayer, for healing, peace, and justice. Let us lift the victims, their families, and the first responders who served with courage in the face of chaos.
Scripture reminds us: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18). In this spirit, I call upon each of you to be agents of healing and compassion in your congregations and communities. Let us speak hope into despair and stand together against the tide of gun violence that continues to harm our neighborhoods.
I invite Upper New York congregations to respond by:
- Offering prayers for Albany and all communities affected by gun violence.
- Encouraging advocacy and engagement that supports youth, families, and public safety.
- Partnering with organizations committed to peacemaking and community restoration.
Thank you for living the Gospel of Peace and embodying Christ’s love among your neighbors. May the Spirit guide us—not in fear, but in love and holy resolve.
Together in Christ’s mission,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area