Deep Grief with the Events in Saskatchewan
Our Denominations Respond
The Anglican Church of Canada
Bishop Michael Hawkins of the Diocese of Saskatchewan broadcast a reflection and call to prayer in a video posted to The Anglican Church of Canada Facebook page on September 4th.
Primate Linda Nicholls posted a message and prayers for the James Smith/Weldon tragedies on The Anglican Church of Canada Facebook page on September 5th.
Bishop Christopher Harper of the Diocese of Saskatoon published this letter.
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada
The following prayer from the National Bishop Susan Johnson was posted to the ELCIC Facebook page.
The United Church of Canada
Moderator Carmen Lansdowne shared the following message on her Facebook page.
Dear Siblings in Christ,
I woke up this morning in Karlsruhe, Germany to learn of the horrific stabbings in Saskatchewan. My prayers go out to the people of James Smith Cree Nation, Weldon, and surrounding areas. Especially I hold in prayer the families of the victims, and survivors as they deal with the resulting trauma of these attacks.
May God have mercy. In our grief may we be blessed with God’s peace that surpasses our human understanding.
On September 5, 2022, The United Church of Canada provided this statement on its website.
The people of The United Church of Canada express our profound grief at the tragic events in James Smith Cree Nation and the nearby village of Weldon, Saskatchewan.
In this most difficult time, we extend deep condolences to those who have lost loved ones, healing prayers to those who were injured, and comfort for all who are afraid.
Moderator Carmen Lansdowne, speaking from Germany where she is with the United Church delegation at the World Council of Churches General Assembly, expressed her pain on hearing of these attacks and committed her ongoing prayers for “the families of the victims, and survivors as they deal with the resulting trauma.”
As this tragedy continues to unfold, we seek strength for community leaders and for an end without further violence.
In the words of Moderator Carmen: “May God have mercy. In our grief, may we be blessed with God’s peace that surpasses our human understanding. Amen.”