Pastoral Statement on the East Brunswick Tragedy
With heavy hearts, we mourn the tragic event that took place in East Brunswick on Friday, February 28, 2025, where a wife lost her life at the hands of her husband. As a church, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to her family, loved ones, and all those affected by this heartbreaking act of violence. In this time of sorrow, we turn to the comfort of God’s Word and the hope found in Christ.
1. God Feels Our Grief and Will Redeem Creation
In moments of deep sorrow, we take refuge in the truth that God sees our pain, hears our cries, and is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). Though the world is marred by sin and violence, God is at work to redeem creation from its corruption (Romans 8:21-23). We hold onto the promise that Christ will return and make all things new, bringing justice, healing, and an end to suffering (Revelation 21:4-5).
2. The Church Condemns Domestic Violence and All Acts of Harm
The Church firmly condemns domestic violence and any form of harm within marriage or family life. Marriage is a sacred covenant of love and mutual respect, not a place for abuse or control (Ephesians 5:25-28). Violence against one’s spouse is not only a crime against another person but also a sin against God, who created each person in His image (Genesis 1:27). The Church upholds the dignity of all individuals and calls for the protection of those suffering from domestic abuse.
3. Only God Knows the Heart
The suspect has confessed to this grievous crime, and justice now takes its course. The authorities bear the responsibility of investigating and ensuring that justice is served (Romans 13:1-4). However, we must remember that only God fully knows the depths of the human heart (1 Samuel 16:7; Romans 2:16). We pray for truth and righteousness to prevail.
4. The Church Prays for the Victim and the Perpetrator
We pray for the soul of the victim, entrusting her to God’s mercy and asking that she may find eternal rest in His presence (Luke 23:43). We also pray for her grieving family, that God may comfort them in their time of loss (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
At the same time, we pray for the perpetrator—not excusing his actions, but asking that he may be brought to true repentance (Ezekiel 18:23). As Christians, we are called to seek justice while also praying for God’s mercy and transformation, even for those who have done evil (Matthew 5:44).
5. This Tragedy Must Not Be Used Against the Church
Some may attempt to use this tragedy as a way to criticize the Church. However, the Church has always taught love, mercy, and peace. The wrongful actions of individuals do not reflect the teachings of Christ. Sin originates from human free will and a fallen nature (Jeremiah 17:9; James 1:14-15), not from the faith that calls us to live in holiness and righteousness (Colossians 3:12-14). The Church remains a refuge for those in pain and a voice against injustice.
6. Christian Marriage Remains a Sacred Covenant
This tragic event should not be used to undermine the beauty and sanctity of Christian marriage. Marriage, as God designed it, is a covenant of love, unity, and self-sacrificial commitment (Ephesians 5:25). It is blessed by the Holy Spirit and reflects Christ’s love for His Church. No act of violence should cause us to lose faith in the sacredness of marriage, but rather call us to strengthen our commitment to godly love, respect, and accountability in relationships.
Conclusion: A Call to Prayer and Healing
As we mourn, we must also reflect. Let this tragedy remind us to stand against domestic violence, support those in abusive situations, and advocate for love and peace in our families. We call on God, our merciful Father, to bring healing to the brokenhearted, justice to those who seek it, and peace to those in mourning.
“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
May the grace and peace of Christ be with all. Amen.
Fr. Abraam Sleman
frsleman@CopticChurch.net
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