“Today Axel Rudakubana received the justice of the courts for his senseless act of brutality that left Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice da Silva Aguiar tragically dead with more children and adults terrified and injured. Southport was in shock and I remember that feeling of horror when I visited the day after, speaking to local people and the clergy. Although all have been spared the details of the trial, this week is bound to have resurfaced strong feelings. Our churches are there for those who need them, as they have been throughout the weeks and months that followed the awful tragedy.
Through this time, I have seen and heard of the spirit of Southport, a community not defined by one person’s evil deed but a community that has pulled together to support each other and especially those in the most need. That community is in my prayers that they may continue to be healed and grow stronger in love and care.
Today Axel Rudakubana was sentenced. Tonight, the families of Bebe, Elsie and Alice go to bed without their precious beautiful girls. I pray for these families that they may hold treasured memories of their loved ones who were with them so briefly and take comfort in each other in the love of a God who is with us at all times.”
