President Trump addressed “a nation in grief” Thursday morning on the Parkland, Fla. high school shooting. At least 17 people were killed and fourteen others were wounded Wednesday when former Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School student Nikolas Cruz allegedly entered the school and opened fire with an AR-15. Cruz has been charged with 17 counts of premeditated murder.

The President Focuses on Comfort

In his White House address President Trump focused on comforting the victims and their families.

“Our entire nation, with one heavy heart is praying for the victims and teachers,” he said. “No child, no teacher should ever be in danger in an American school. No parent should ever have to fear for their sons and daughters when they kiss them goodbye in the morning.”

“In these moments of darkness, we hold onto God’s Word in scripture,” continued Trump. “‘I have heard your prayer and seen your tears. I will heal you.’ We trust in that promise and we hold fast to our fellow Americans in their time of sorrow.”

He spoke directly to America’s children who “feel lost, alone, confused or even scared.” “I want you to know that you are never alone and you never will be. You have people who care about you who love you and will do anything at all to protect you. If you need help, turn to a teacher, a family member, a local police officer or a faith leader. Answer hate with love answer cruelty with kindness.”

He also spoke of a culture that doesn’t value life. “We must also work together to create a culture in our country that embraces the dignity of life that creates deep and meaningful human connections and that turns classmates and colleagues into friends and neighbors.”

President Trump thanked the first responders and teachers who went above and beyond to protect their students. He assured the public that his administration is working closely with state and local leaders to tackle the issue of mental health.

It is a subject he brought up earlier Thursday in a tweet.

So many signs that the Florida shooter was mentally disturbed, even expelled from school for bad and erratic behavior. Neighbors and classmates knew he was a big problem. Must always report such instances to authorities, again and again!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 15, 2018

A Prayer for Healing

“Making our schools safer will be our top priority,” said Trump told the nation. “We must make a difference. In times of tragedy, the bonds that sustain us are those of family, faith and community.”

He encouraged prayers for healing. “Especially today, let us hold our loved ones close, let us pray for healing and for peace and let us come together as one nation.”

Watch: