NCC leaders express dismay at Bhutto's murder

New York, December 27, 2007 ̶  National Council of Churches leaders expressed dismay Thursday at the brutal assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

"We are praying for the people of Pakistan and will be in touch with the churches in Pakistan to determine how we can most effectively support them in these perilous times," said incoming NCC General Secretary, the Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon.

"It's appalling when arrogant minorities feel justified to use terror and violence to get their way. Not all Pakistanis supported Bhutto or her party, but she was nonetheless a symbol of hope that democratic processes offered the best chance to bring about justice and peace."

Acting General Secretary Clare J. Chapman said, "Benazir Bhutto has exhibited amazing courage all her life, but never more so than in the past few months when she returned to Pakistan amid turmoil and daily threats against her.

She lived her life for principles she believed were important enough to die for, and she will be remembered as an exemplar of courage and strength for generations to come."

 

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Contact Philip E. Jenks, 212-870-2228, nccnews@ncccusa.org