For Immediate Release
April 27, 2026
Statement from the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church expresses deep sorrow and grave concern following the shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner where President Donald J. Trump was in attendance on Saturday night. Acts of political violence—regardless of the target, location, or motivation—are an affront to human dignity and a rejection of the values that sustain civil society.
In recent days, numerous media outlets have underscored the essential role that freedom of speech plays in democratic life. This freedom allows people to debate, dissent, and advocate without fear of intimidation or harm. Violence seeks to silence; free expression seeks to illuminate.
As followers of Jesus Christ, we affirm the sacred worth of every person and the moral imperative to protect spaces where dialogue, disagreement, and public engagement can occur without threat.
We also recognize that political violence is not confined to the United States. Around the world, communities are experiencing unrest, intimidation, and attacks that erode trust and undermine the common good. The worldwide Church grieves these patterns wherever they appear and calls all people to reject hatred, vengeance, and the dehumanization of others.
In this moment, we offer a pastoral word to the nation and to the world. Scripture reminds us that “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it” (John 1:5). We hold fast to this promise as we pray for President Trump, for his family, for those who were endangered, and for all who carry the weight of public leadership. We also pray for the healing of divisions that have hardened across communities and nations.
As we meet this week in Jacksonville, Florida, for our semi-annual meeting, we urge all people—especially those entrusted with influence, authority, and public voice—to model restraint, compassion, and a commitment to the common good. As the Apostle Paul teaches, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). May this be our shared calling in a time of fear and uncertainty.
With hope in Christ,
Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President – The Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church