Passing the Gavel

Arizona Tragedy

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords

I'm sure many of you have heard the news of Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords being shot in the head today.  As of this evening she's clinging to life, but the doctors are optimistic for her recovery, perhaps even a full recovery.  Let us remember her in our prayers.

The Honorable Judge John Roll, a friend of Giffords, had just left morning Mass and heard Representative Giffords was doing a "Congress on the Corner" (a town hall-like meeting, she was fond of doing), so he decided to stop by and say hello.  Judge Roll ended up being in the wrong place at the wrong time.  A 22 year old gunman opened fire on the small crowd.  It is estimated there were 24 to 36 people there - and 19 of them were shot!  Judge Roll, may he rest in peace, is among 6 who died today, another was a 9 year old girl - and we don't know anything more, yet, of the other 4 who were gunned down.  

For those who lost their lives today we pray, eternal rest grant unto them, o Lord; may your Perpetual Light shine upon them; may they rest in peace.  Amen.

John McCarthy Roll (February 8, 1947 – January 8, 2011)