The gut-wrenching news of Friday’s school shooting in Newtown, Conn., sent shock waves through the Capitol, prompting leaders in both parties to — ever so briefly — drop the partisan bickering and reaffirm their commitment to family and faith.

As details of the sickening rampage trickled out on the news, congressional Twitter feeds lit up with heartfelt condolences and comforting words for anyone and everyone affected by the horrific tragedy.

“My thoughts and prayers…” remains the most popular preamble for leaders left reeling by the thoughts of innocent lives cut short by senseless violence.

Other members, particularly those with children of their own, took the episode completely to heart.

“The horror in #newtown seems unbearable, but we will lock arms & unite as citizens, for that is how we rise above evil (https://j.mp/U0KFxm),” Speaker John A. Boehner declared shortly after ordering the flags at the Capitol lowered to half-staff.

‏“Whether they witness a tragedy, see it on TV or hear adults talking, tips for talking to kids about tragedy (https://1.usa.gov/UGyfIv),” Florida Democrat Debbie Wasserman Schultz counseled parents struggling to find the right words.

“Americans are sick & tired of these attacks and sick & tired of nothing being done in Washington to stop the bloodshed,” New Jersey Democrat Frank R. Lautenberg clamored.

The Connecticut delegation’s staff made plans to join a vigil at the Washington Monument at 7 p.m. that was organized by the Connecticut Society.

Even as the events unfolded, ex-Rep. Thaddeus McCotter, R-Mich., felt compelled to take this totally random potshot.

“Didn’t this man have anything better to do?” he groused in a tweet depicting President Franklin Delano Roosevelt smoking and drinking.