I have often commented to those who do not live here, that not only is Tucson a "big smalll town," but
there is a peculiar unity here among Christians that easily transcends church boundaries and denominational lines. That was particularly evident in the overwhelming response to a local tragedy this week end.
Doctors Brice and Becca Kopas met at U of A medical school in the 1990's. Becca is a Tucson native and grew up in Casas Church. Brice is from Phoenix and became a Christian during college years. By the time I met them in spring of 2010, they were the parents of three lovely girls, ages one through five. This past year it was my joy to teach science to their oldest, Ella, at Veritas Academy of Tucson. Because the Kopas's are founding board members of Veritas, they were often the first ones on campus in the mornings, and I would often see the youngest, Olivia, enjoying life on the playground under the sun shade as I prepared for class.
In a tragic accident this past Sunday, Olivia was drowned in a jacuzzi. Heroic medical efforts kept her alive at TMC until 2:51 AM Monday morning. As soon as Olivia was rushed to the hospital, prayer requests were being relayed throughout the Tucson Christian community. By early evening a Facebook page had been created where friends could write their prayers for Olivia on the wall, as well as leave messages for Brice and Becca. In churches the Kopas had never even attended, prayers for Olivia went up from the pulpits in Sunday evening services. Friends from Phoenix have begun leaving their messages on the Facebook page, as well.
By Tuesday morning (today), less than 36 hours after it was initiated, the Facebook page has over 580 responses and messages for the Kopas family. We are all emotionally jolted by the tremendous grief that such an experience must be for these young parents. It is clear from the responses that we are all united in our love and support for them. They are deeply respected in terms of their professional, spiritual, and social impact and leadership here in Tucson.
As I scanned the wallposts this morning, I saw dozens of faces and names I don't even know, of course. But just among those I do recognize, I could name more than ten different churches represented. It is evident that in times of suffering, we are united in our love and support for those who need us.
...the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. Job 1:21b
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