Wichita Christian News and Information

OLATHE, KAN. — Kansas Governor-elect Sam Brownback held his inaugural prayer service at Mid-America Nazarene University in Olathe on Sunday. He and others took a moment to remember those who were hurt in Saturday's shooting in Arizona. More than 400 people attended the event meant to celebrate Brownback's victory.

Speakers took time to address the tragedy in Arizona. The governor-elect urged Kansas to pray for elected leaders as part of the inaugural prayer service.

"We first lift up the situation in Arizona and the people who were killed there and the congresswoman who was wounded," Brownback said. "We pray for healing strength on her and for comfort or the families."

The news of Representative Gabrielle Giffords being shot in the head in Tucson on Saturday has hit the political spectrum hard.

"Saturday's shooting and others like it remind us the sacrifices made and the risks taken by those who serve in public life," said Archbishop Joseph Naumann, Kansas City Archdiocese.

Some people may feel the shooting brings the country's toxic political atmosphere to the forefront.

"Fortunately what happened in Tuscon is rare," said Archbishop Joseph Naumann. "It is a sad reflection on our culture that we must spend money and resources attempting to keep those who serve in public life safe."

Which is why Brownback ended his inaugural prayer on a positive note.

"We want Kansas to be a great state of love and justice," Brownback said. "Goodness comes before greatness."

Governor-elect Brownback, who is a Republican, will be sworn into office on January 10 as the 2011 legislative session starts.