Letter from the CE branch:
March 16, 2023
TO ALL CONGREGATIONS
Re: Update on the Situation in Hamburg
Dear Brothers:
The cruel act in Hamburg on March 9, 2023, has severely affected the whole brotherhood. We
are all saddened and suffer along with them. (1 Cor. 12:26) It is all the more overwhelming what has
and is being accomplished locally to support our dear brothers and sisters, starting with the first hours
after the crime and continuing until now.
Many relief efforts have been coordinated in close communication with World Headquarters
to best assist all those who are suffering. Brothers of the Hospital Liaison Committee, circuit
overseers, Branch Committee representatives and many others have been working tirelessly last week
and this week to assist and to provide comfort or practical help to victims, relatives, and brothers and
sisters of the congregation. These efforts demonstrate Jehovah’s compassion. The words of Psalm
34:18 really come true: “Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted.”
We are pleased to inform you that a funeral program is planned, which will certainly provide
special comfort to all those affected. A member of the Governing Body, representatives of World
Headquarters, and members of the Branch Committee will also be present at this occasion. The
program will take place in Hamburg on the last weekend in March 2023.
Please continue to pray incessantly for the brothers and sisters who went through this
traumatic experience (2 Cor. 1:8-11), and for everything that is being done to help them. We are
convinced that Jehovah is our secure refuge in times of distress. (Ps. 9:9) Please be assured of our
love.
Your brothers,
[Central Europe branch office]
