Mark Kelly, husband of former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.), released a powerful message in the wake of Friday's shooting in Newtown, Connecticut.

In a Facebook post, Kelly said he woke up in the middle of the night in Beijing to learn of the shootings. Here's what he had to say:

"I just woke up in my hotel room in Beijing, China to learn that another mass shooting had taken place - this time at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and the entire community of Newtown, CT. I just spoke to Gabby, and she sends her prayers from Tucson.

As we mourn, we must sound a call for our leaders to stand up and do what is right. This time our response must consist of more than regret, sorrow, and condolence. The children of Sandy Hook Elementary School and all victims of gun violence deserve leaders who have the courage to participate in a meaningful discussion about our gun laws - and how they can be reformed and better enforced to prevent gun violence and death in America. This can no longer wait."

For the full text, transcript, and video of President Obama's remarks in response to the shooting, see here.