06/17/2026
Today, June 17, we remember the Emanuel Nine:
The Rev. Clementa C. Pinckney, Cynthia Marie Graham Hurd, Susie Jackson, Ethel Lee Lance, DePayne Middleton-Doctor, Tywanza Sanders, The Rev. Daniel Lee Simmons Sr., Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, and Myra Thompson.
Eleven years ago, these disciples were gathered for Bible study and prayer at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina when their lives were taken in an act of racist violence and white supremacy.
In 2019, the ELCA designated June 17 as a Day of Repentance for the martyrdom of the Emanuel Nine, calling the church to prayer, learning, repentance, and renewed commitment to confronting racism and white supremacy.
Today, we honor their witness, grieve the wounds that persist in our communities, and recommit ourselves to the work of justice, reconciliation, and Christ-centered love.
Let us pray.
God of justice and mercy,
We remember the Emanuel Nine and give thanks for their faithful witness to Christ.
We lament the sin of racism and the violence born of hatred and white supremacy. Forgive us where we have been silent, indifferent, or complicit. Open our eyes to see the dignity of every person you have created in your image. Strengthen your church to be a community of repentance, courage, healing, and hope. Help us to follow Jesus more faithfully, working for justice, seeking peace, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. May the memory of the Emanuel Nine continue to call us toward a deeper commitment to your beloved community.
In the name of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.
Amen.
