Following the horrendous attack that occurred Wednesday night at a historic African American church in downtown Charleston, the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, the nation’s largest Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization, expresses its sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives and their outrage for such a hateful act of violence in a place of worship.

“The leadership of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations is outraged by the heinous attack that occurred last night at the historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, killing nine people during a prayer service.

“This act of senseless violence and brutal terror has no place anywhere in the world, but particularly not in a house of worship. Indeed, the perpetrators have violated all houses of worship with this vile attack. We support the efforts of law enforcement officials to bring swift and certain justice to the criminals.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic attack, pray for the injured and express our support for the people of Charleston at this very difficult time.”