HARRISBURG, (PRNewswire) – Gov. Edward G. Rendell issued the following statement today as Amish families prepare to lay to
rest five young girls who were killed in a Lancaster County Amish school this week. The Governor has contacted leaders in the Amish community to
offer Pennsylvania State Police presence if they choose.
“Our hearts are heavy as our entire Pennsylvania family is mourning the senseless loss of these young lives,” said Rendell. “We are
praying for the girls, their families and the entire Amish community as they prepare to lay their loved ones to rest.
“During this difficult time, I am asking everyone, media included, to please observe Amish traditions and customs and allow them to carry out
their funerals in privacy. Please do not intrude on that privacy during what is one of the most difficult times in their community’s proud history.
“I have offered State Police presence at the funeral, if Amish leaders think it is appropriate. It would be a terrible sin if these families are
harassed during their time of grieving,” said Rendell. “Please respect not only their tradition, but their God-given right to mourn the loss of their loved ones in privacy.”