A Call to Action: Addressing the Leading Cause of Youth Death in America
What if you could be part of the solution to one of our nation’s most pressing crises? Firearms have become the leading cause of death among children and teens in the United States—surpassing both childhood cancer and car accidents. This stark reality demands our attention and our action.
Whether it’s neighborhood violence, school shootings, or accidental tragedies, there are concrete steps we can take as a community of faith. From promoting safe firearm storage to supporting community violence interruption programs, the path forward requires both compassion and commitment.
Get Involved: Planning Session This Month
On Tuesday, April 28 at 7:30 p.m., Bethesda United Methodist Church’s Gun Violence Prevention Ministry invites everyone to join in planning future events and programs. This gathering welcomes all voices—whether you’re deeply familiar with the issue or just beginning to learn.
The meeting will take place in the Narthex, with a Zoom option available for those who cannot attend in person. Come prepared to share your ideas for programs, speakers, and educational opportunities that can help our community better understand and address this critical issue.
Mark Your Calendar: Silence the Violence Concert
Looking ahead, save the date for Saturday, June 6 at 7 p.m. for the Silence the Violence concert at National United Methodist Church, located at 3401 Nebraska Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C.
This benefit concert features a variety of local choral groups performing to support the TraRon Center in D.C. The TraRon Center provides essential after-school programs and therapy for children who have lost family members to gun violence. BUMC is proud to serve as a sponsor of this meaningful event.
Why This Matters
Gun violence prevention isn’t a political issue—it’s a human one. Children deserve to grow up safe. Families deserve to remain whole. Communities deserve peace. Through education, advocacy, and support for organizations making a difference, people of faith can be changemakers in this crisis.
The Gun Violence Prevention Ministry at BUMC offers a space where thoughtful conversation meets meaningful action. By bringing together diverse perspectives and exploring evidence-based solutions, the group aims to create programs that educate, inspire, and ultimately save lives. Your voice matters in this work, and your participation could help shape initiatives that make a real difference in our community and beyond.
