Merciful God in heaven: Grant, we beseech thee, peace and rest to those whose lives were taken in the Columbia Mall shooting, and comfort those who mourn them. Give strength and courage to those who were injured, and bless those who minister unto them. Grant the residents of Columbia the resolve to carry on their lives with faith and dignity, that they may bear witness to thy salvation, and may come eventually to know the joys of thy kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
This collect was originally written for remembrance of the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing of April 15th, 2013, and first used on Sunday, April 21st, 2013.