The ELCA has designated June 17 as a day of commemoration of the martyrdom of the Emanuel 9. On June 17, 2015, nine people were shot and killed during a Bible study at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Bishop Eaton reminds us to mark this day of penitence with study and prayer.

Clementa C. Pinckney (41)

The church's pastor and a South Carolina state senator.

Cynthia Graham Hurd (54)

A Bible study member and manager for the Charleston County Public Library system; sister of former state senator Malcolm Graham.

Susie Jackson (87)

The oldest victim who was a Bible study and church choir member.

Ethel Lee Lance (70)

The church's sexton.

Depayne Middleton-Doctor (49)

A pastor who was also employed as a school administrator and admissions coordinator at Southern Wesleyan University.

Tywanza Sanders (26)

The youngest victim who was a graduate of Allen University; grandnephew of victim Susie Jackson.

Daniel L. Simmons (74)

A pastor who also served at Greater Zion AME Church in Awendaw.

Sharonda Coleman-Singleton (45)

A pastor; also a speech therapist and track coach at Goose Creek High School; mother of MLB prospect Chris Singleton.

Myra Thompson (59)

A Bible study teacher.

As part of the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, voting members  adopted a resolution  designating June 17 as a commemoration of the martyrdom of the Emanuel Nine — the nine people shot and killed on June 17, 2015, during a Bible study at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C.

A collection of resources is available at elca.org/emanuelnine to help synods and congregations mark this commemoration. These resources can be adapted for virtual worship, online conversation or individual reflection and devotion. Synods and congregations are encouraged to mark this commemoration locally.

Please email worship@elca.org if your synod or congregation is planning a dedicated, online commemoration service that you wish to share with others.

May God continue to guide us as we seek repentance, renewal and racial justice and reconciliation among God’s precious children. Learn more.