In the Face of Violence: A Call to Walk in the Way of Jesus

Today, our Minnesota community has been shocked by political violence that hits far too close to home. Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were killed in what authorities have called a targeted political assassination. State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also wounded in this senseless act of violence. The suspect, disguised as a police officer, left behind a chilling manifesto naming several political leaders. The horror of this moment is difficult to put into words.

As followers of Jesus, we begin by grieving. This is not only a loss of life—it is a loss of trust, a loss of safety, and a sobering reminder of the deepening climate of fear and hostility in our nation. We unequivocally condemn this act of violence, which shatters lives and wounds our community. Violence, hatred, and intimidation have no place in the way of Christ. Political violence is not merely a breakdown in civic life—it is a betrayal of the gospel itself, which calls us to love our enemies, pray for those who persecute us, and walk in the way of peace.

Now is a time for us to be on bended knee—and pray. We pray for comfort for the families who are mourning, for healing for Senator Hoffman and his wife, and for wisdom and courage among our leaders. And may our prayers lead us into the way of Jesus—not just in private devotion, but in public discipleship. Jesus calls us to be salt and light, to speak truth with love, to resist every form of extremism, and to live with compassion, conviction, and grace.

In moments like this, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by despair. But our hope is not grounded in circumstances, it is anchored in Christ, who has overcome the world. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in us, empowering us to pursue what makes for peace in a world bent toward conflict. We believe that God can bring beauty from ashes, justice from brokenness, and healing from horror.

So let us walk in the way of Jesus—not only in our prayers, but in our presence, our posture, and our public witness. Let us weep with those who weep, stand with those who suffer, and resist the darkness that seeks to divide and destroy. And let us live in such a way that the world sees a different kind of power—a power made perfect in weakness, rooted in love, and carried forward by hope.

Written by Rev. Clynt Reddy, Executive Board Member of Transform Minnesota: The Evangelical Network, and Executive Pastor of Westwood Community Church. 

This statement was originally released June 14, 2025