Statement from the President of the International Multi-Faith Coalition on the Events in Washington, D.C.

As President of the International Multi-Faith Coalition, Bishop of the Christian Episcopal Church, and Executive Director of Chaplains Counselors, I raise my voice with deep sorrow and a profound sense of responsibility in the face of the tragic act of violence that occurred in Washington, D.C. Two lives were taken in a setting that was meant to foster encounter, dialogue, and compassion.

This attack, carried out in front of a museum that preserves memory, identity, and dignity, during an interfaith conference focused on Gaza, confronts us with the urgent need to reaffirm the essential value of faith: active love, tangible compassion, and lived peace.

The world's religions—Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and many others—are centered on the command to care for our neighbor. There is no just cause that can be built on bloodshed. No spiritual conviction can be born from a weapon. Faith must never be a weapon or a shield for hatred. It is only true when it becomes service, justice, forgiveness, and aid to those in need.

We call upon our communities to renew their commitment to peace. Interfaith cooperation is not merely a noble idea—it is a moral imperative. We cannot allow the actions of a few to overshadow the efforts of so many who work and serve together for a more humane world.

Faith must never be a weapon or a shield for hatred. It is only true when it becomes service, justice, forgiveness, and aid to those in need.

From this coalition, we reaffirm our commitment to the unity of faith, to human dignity, and to active resistance against all forms of hatred. We will continue working—shoulder to shoulder—for a spirituality that builds bridges, not walls, united by the same ideal and love.

We pray for comfort for the affected families, strength for those who serve peace, and wisdom for all religious leaders in these trying times.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9

**Bishop Guillermo A. Ahumada**

President, International Multifaith Presidential Coalition

Bishop, Christian Episcopal Church

Executive Director, Chaplains Counselors