Bishop Frank J. Beard has released the following statement in the aftermath of the verdict rendered by a jury in Minneapolis today:
“There are no winners in the George Floyd murder case. We are all hurt and weakened by all forms of injustice and pain. While our court system has rendered its verdict the pain has simply spread in yet another direction. I continue to pray for my brothers and sisters in Minnesota and for unity across our nation and world.
“I pray for Derek Chauvin and for his family. I continue to pray for the family of George Floyd. I pray for our police officers and those sworn to protect and to serve.
“Mostly I pray for the peace, unity and love of Jesus Christ to break the bonds of fear, hatred and mistrust. 'Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers!'”