Loving God, we cry to you on this New Year's Day for all those killed and injured this morning in New Orleans, Louisiana, and for all the people of that city, loved ones, neighbors, and first responders. We also remember all those for whom this news will touch their personal lives most painfully, especially veterans, Muslims, and survivors of violence. As we pause to celebrate the end of a year and the beginning of another, may we commit again to our Christian call to make peace, to respect the dignity of every human being, and to celebrate with joy the life that we have been given through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
