In the Greater Cincinnati area, on Wednesday, September 5, severe storms caused damage throughout the area.

On a warm morning on Thursday, September 6 many workers traveled into the central business district of Cincinnati. Many stopping off at local coffee shops, going to their many offices talking about the night before. Others traveled to do business at banks, attorney offices, and various government agencies.

At 9:00 a.m., violence pierced this average morning in the heart of the city at Fifth-Third Bank on Fountain Square. Within moments, besides the typical noise of buses and cars, sirens were heard for about an hour rushing to the scene.

The latest is that four were killed, and several injured in the shooting.

Every afternoon at 12:10 p.m., Mass is said at St. Louis Church just blocks away from this violent event. On this day, Bishop Joseph Binzer said Mass. Today’s Gospel, Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” -LK 5:11

Bishop Binzer in his homily talked about the act of mercy coming to Mass. He also reiterated that “Trusting in Jesus, great things will happen.” As in the Gospel, Bishop Binzer echoed, “Be not afraid.” Prayers were said for the victims and the families of the victims.

A stark reminder that in the ordinary, anything can change. From the USCCB a Prayer for Mourners.

Lord God,
you are attentive to the voice of our pleading.
Let us find in your Son
comfort in our sadness,
certainty in our doubt,
and courage to live through this hour.
Make our faith strong
through Christ out Lord,
Amen.