We hold in prayer the individuals, families, and community who have been profoundly impacted by this enormous tragedy
The United Church of Canada laments the tragic violence in Tumbler Ridge and holds in prayer the families, loved ones, and entire community who are now living with shock, trauma, and profound loss. With deep compassion, we stand alongside the community of Tumbler Ridge and all Canadians, praying for peace and healing, and affirming with clarity and conviction that violence is unspeakably wrong. It is in moments such as this, we are reminded of our deepest calling as followers of Jesus: to care for one another, to protect the vulnerable, and to seek justice rooted in compassion.
As more information becomes public, including details about the young person responsible, we recognize that such information can quickly become a source of fear or blame. We urge our communities to resist narratives that target entire groups of people.
Every person is a child of God, carrying inherent dignity that cannot be diminished by the actions of another. Violence is never who we are called to be. Community care is always the work that heals and rebuilds. In this painful time, we invite people across the country to act with tenderness and courage:
- Hold your children and loved ones close.
- Check in on neighbours who may feel isolated or afraid.
- Make space for grief, for listening, and for honest lament.
- Practice compassion that extends beyond our immediate circles.
In the wake of this tragedy, The United Church of Canada affirms a simple but essential truth: one person’s actions never define an entire community or identity group. At a time when fear and suspicion can take hold, we call on all people of faith and goodwill to let love, compassion, and our shared humanity lead the way. No community should be judged by the actions of an individual, and no moment of violence should be used to create division or deepen stigma.
As a church, we affirm that building safe communities requires shared commitment and concrete action. This includes creating conditions where young people of every identity are supported, not isolated; where no child is left alone with despair or harmful influences; and where access to weapons is carefully and responsibly regulated to prevent irreversible harm.
We also affirm clearly and without hesitation: trans and nonbinary people and all those who identify as genderqueer and gender-fluid are beloved members of our churches, our families, and our communities. All people deserve safety, dignity, and inclusion—not suspicion or stigma. The United Church of Canada has long upheld the sacred worth of all people and continues to work toward communities marked by compassion, justice, and mutual care. That work is especially urgent now.
As we mourn, we also recommit ourselves to fostering spaces where every person can live in safety, hope, and belonging. You are not alone. Help is available. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out to local emergency services or dial 211 to be connected to a list of community and social services in Canada. You can also contact: Trans Lifeline (Canada): 8773306366 and LGBT National Help Centre: 1-888-843-4564.
May God’s healing presence surround all who are grieving, and may our shared humanity guide us towards compassion, justice, and peace.
A prayer for the community of Tumbler Ridge, as well as a message for worship leaders in times of crisis, is available here.