SOUTHWESTERN VIRGINIA: ERD plans response to Virginia Tech tragedy

April 23, 2007 [Episcopal News Service] Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) will respond to the tragedy at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University by providing emergency support to the Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia.

On Monday, April 16, 32 people were killed and more than 15 were injured in what is being called the deadliest shooting in United States history. Cho Seung-Hui, 23, a South Korean who was a resident alien in the United States and Virginia Tech senior, apparently opened fire in a dormitory and then a classroom building, before committing suicide. An ongoing investigation is still underway by university officials and Virginia State police.

Virginia Governor Timothy Kaine declared Friday, April 20 as a day of mourning for the victims. A moment of silence was observed at noon. Churches nationwide plan to hold vigils and prayer services for those impacted by this tragedy.

ERD is working with the Diocese of Southwestern Virginia and will provide critical assistance including counseling to the Virginia Tech community. In Blacksburg, several Virginia Tech faculty and staff attend Christ Episcopal Church which is serving as a pastoral care and counseling center for the community. The church also supports the Canterbury House Episcopal ministry, which is housed on Virginia Tech's campus.

To make a donation to Episcopal Relief and Development's "Emergency Relief Fund," visit www.er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, "Emergency Relief Fund", P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

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