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Local interfaith group decries New Zealand mosque shooting

The South-West Interfaith Team of Greater Chicago (SWIFT) issued a statement Friday in response to the shootings that killed 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand.

The suspected shooter reportedly issued an Islamophobic manifesto prior to the attack.

SWIFT is an interfaith 18- member organization of Christian, Muslim and Jewish congregations, including four in the Homewood-Flossmoor area.

The South-West Interfaith Team of Greater Chicago stands in solidarity with the New Zealand Muslim community.

We are profoundly saddened and shaken by the recent events that have taken place. We mourn the horrific loss of life. 

Our prayers and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the victims. Our voices of peace must be louder than the voices of hate. 

As Christians, Jews and Muslims, we reaffirm our beliefs, as emphasized in our respective scriptures. We condemn all forms of attacks on innocent people. We call for peace, healing and justice for the victims, as well as an end to violence against the innocent. 

We pray for light, guidance and hope at this time of great darkness. 

May God keep us and our neighbors safe in this global village. 

May God guide humanity to be kind and compassionate. 

May He transform the hearts of the war-mongers and the hate mongers. 

Peace, Shalom and Salam, 

Ernie Ratowitz Sr. 
Jewish co-chair 

Marilyn Renninger 
Christian co-chair 

Mohammed Nofal 
Muslim co-chair 

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