Washington D.C., Mar 5, 2018 / 20:00 pm
In the aftermath of the Feb. 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla. that killed 17 people, two US bishops have issued a joint statement calling for "common-sense gun measures" and dialogue about specific proposals that will reduce gun violence and ensure school safety.
"Once again, we are confronted with grave evil, the murder of our dear children and those who teach them. Our prayers continue for those who have died, and those suffering with injuries and unimaginable grief. We also continue our decades-long advocacy for common-sense gun measures as part of a comprehensive approach to the reduction of violence in society and the protection of life," the statement said.
The statement was issued by Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Fla., chairman of the US bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice, and Bishop George V. Murry, S.J., of Youngstown, Ohio, chairman of the Committee on Catholic Education.
The bishops said the idea of arming teachers "seems to raise more concerns than it addresses." Rather, the bishops said "concepts that appear to offer more promise" would include "an appropriate minimum age for gun ownership," universal background checks, and the banning of certain gun accessories, such bump stocks.