We pray for the victims for the shootings in Charleston, South Carolina,
and for an end to racial hatred and bigotry

A Prayer for Emanuel AME Church
written by Nancy S. Taylor, senior minister of Old South Church in Boston:

Dear "Mother Emanuel"
(the Historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Charleston, SC):
 
You, who authored courageous slave rebellions, who suffered and survived wretched bigotry, burnings and earthquake,
 
You, you who worshipped underground when black churches were outlawed . . 
Dear Mother Emanuel, in this day of grievous heartache we wrap you in bands of prayer.
We pour out upon your broken hearts the healing balm of Gilead.
 
You, whose shepherd has been taken from you,
    whose building has become a tomb,
    whose children are terrified:
We stand with you,
    We weep with you.
We rage for you.
    We keep vigil with you for your beloved dead.
 
May to God of Moses and Miriam, of Jesus and the Marys,
anoint you with healing, furnish you with hope and,
one day, some day, mend your torn hearts and wipe the tears
from your swollen eyes.
 
God help us.
 
Amen.