Texas Baptists response to Santa Fe High School shooting

Friday morning, May 18, a gunman shot and killed 9 students and 1 teacher at Santa Fe High School in Santa Fe, Texas.

Ernest Dagohoy, Texas Baptists Area Representative for the Houston area, has been in contact with several church leaders and the association in that area. He is providing convention resources and support in the aftermath of the shooting.

David Hardage, Texas Baptists executive director, said, “Today’s shooting in Santa Fe is heartbreaking. Violence at school, the home, and the workplace is a direct contradiction to God’s word and way. We are earnestly praying for all those affected.”

John Newton, pastor of First Baptist Church Alta Loma, confirmed that students from the church attend Santa Fe High School, but that none of the shooting casualties were members of the church. The church will be holding a prayer service tonight at 7PM. They are making chaplains available, and Texas Baptists Chaplaincy Relations is prepared to send additional chaplains should they be needed. The pastor has not asked for additional support at this time.

Students from FBC Alta Loma recently participated in regional Bible Drill and Speakers’ tournaments and one student advanced to the Texas Baptists’ State Bible Drill and Speakers’ Tournament.

Galveston Baptist Association Moderator Clay Bowers, who serves as pastor of Northside Baptist Church in Texas City, is also monitoring the situation and aware of the additional chaplains available if needed.

Moe Mays, an administrator and chaplain from First Baptist Church Friendswood, is currently at the school ministering to families.

Hardage continued, “Violence and abuse of any kind, particularly against women and children, is far too commonplace in our society. Texas Baptists will continue its efforts to ensure the respectful treatment of everyone.”