Church leadership urges peace following violence in Utah

The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement denouncing recent violent acts, including an assassination in Utah. The leadership emphasized the importance of peace and unity across differences.

In the statement, Church leaders said, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints condemns horrific acts of violence worldwide, including the recent assassination in Utah. We affirm our repeated calls to seek peace and unity despite our differences. Jesus Christ teaches us to love one another, that hate is wrong and that human life is sacred. We urge all to reject violence and instead build understanding. Recognizing that we are all children of God, we must treat one another with more dignity, compassion and respect. As we mourn with those who have experienced loss and care for those living in fear or conflict, we call upon people everywhere to build communities of greater kindness and love."

The statement comes as communities respond to both local incidents in Utah and ongoing violence around the world. The Church’s message underscores its stance against hatred and encourages efforts toward mutual respect.