Providing God,
With people across the country and around the world,
we seek your care as we bear witness to the mass shooting in the community of Tumbler Ridge.
Provide solace for all affected.
Provide comfort to those overwhelmed by grief.
Provide compassionate strength to those who are providing support to the broken-hearted.
Providing God,
guide us, as we continue to the build the world you have imagined:
A world where a child's right to learn, laugh, love and live is cherished and protected in every village – everywhere;
A world without violence;
A world where the most vulnerable among us feel safe, cherished and protected, always.
For the sake of Christ who entrusted us to each other,
may it be so.
Amen.
A note for worship leaders in times of crisis:
Dear Worship Leaders,
We know that vital worship is always contextual. It honestly names the reality that we find ourselves in as people of God attempting to boldly proclaim the gospel. When tragedies occur, we bring them to God in community, seeking comfort and guidance on how we can best be God’s agents in this time.
When doing so it is important to remember that tragic events affect each person in the community differently, and for many it can force them to relive past traumas. As we care for our communities, I encourage us to:
- Provide warning before naming or addressing things that you know might be traumatic or anxiety inducing (and provide a safe and judgement free way for people to remove themselves and come back if they need to)
- Have supports available to community members (remind them of supports in numerous formats; provide a quiet space where people can go if they are feeling overwhelmed, have folks trained in pastoral care to be available and present)
- Encourage a space that welcomes all emotions (if possible, you may name some of these emotions for folks)
- Ensure that the information you share is truthful and age appropriate
- Check in on your worship team (choir, Sunday school teachers, ushers, etc.) before the service, tell them how the tragedy will be addressed and offer them supports for themselves and to share with the community
- Make no assumptions and be abundantly kind to each other, we do not know what this tragedy may have triggered for those around us
- Learn more about how your community can support mental health and wellness
- Consult and work with local mental health professionals
—Rev. Dr. Alydia Smith
For additional resources and support:
Northern Health Services - Mental Health
British Columbia Trauma-Informed Practice (TIP) – Resources