It often seems that every few days brings news of another mass shooting. While violence has been present in the world since the dawn of humanity, it can still weigh heavily, especially when the crimes are motivated by deep-seated prejudice. It's natural for people to feel overwhelmed and search for meaning when tragedy strikes.

Your church's response to grim news can be a healing balm to those looking for comfort and justice. There are several things you can do to help members keep despair at bay.

Speak

Many pastors are tempted to shy away from devastating news. This desire probably comes from a loving place. They may think that their congregants are already aware of it and want a little time away from the world when they walk through the doors of the church. For some people, this may be true. Others, however, are likely to want to process their grief with their community. Bringing the topic up lets them know that it's OK to do so. It also confirms that the church cares about what goes on in the world outside its walls.

You don't need to overthink how to work the news into conversation. When something is on so many people's minds, it will be easier than you imagine. You can mention the event in the announcements or talk about it as it relates to the lesson in the sermon or text study. Less formal conversations before and after the service also give people the opportunity to express their feelings.

Pray

Another good way to respond is to pray. For many believers, prayer is a personal activity, but when you are gathered together, it can also be a way to enter into the pain of others, which results in empathy and grace. 

Keep prayers focused on love. This is necessary for all situations, of course, but it's particularly important when violence has occurred. A clear focus keeps your petitions from veering into thinly veiled political statements, which can alienate some members.

Learn

While prayer is often important for people of faith, what those prayers inspire is vital to your service as a church. Empathy should always lead to curiosity and action. If members express that they are at a loss to know how to respond, this is a good indication that further education may be in order.

Depending on the structure of your church, some teaching methods may be more effective than others. You can read a book together or lead a study on what your scriptures say about the most recent pressing issue. Partner with another church, especially if that community's demographics look different from your own. You may also consider other options:

• Documentaries
• Podcasts
• Expert panels
• Conferences

You probably have a clear idea of what your church will respond to or get the most out of. If you're not sure, you can offer multiple opportunities and let people decide for themselves.

Act

Based on what they learn, most congregants will be ready to respond with action. You will see passionate leaders rise up with strong ideas of what needs to be done. Try to let these leaders take charge, lending support when necessary and appropriate.

A good way to take action after a mass shooting is to support the families of the victims. It's common for funds to be set up that help them with funeral costs or other expenses. Even if you are far away, your church can show love to them by raising funds and offering condolences.

It's easy for your congregation to feel helpless after yet another act of senseless violence occurs. By showing you are not afraid to talk about hard things, you can open up discussion and provide a way to express and deal with their fears.