Over the last few days, we have watched with deep anguish as details of the brutal stabbings in Saskatchewan unfolded. Our hearts go out to the people of James Smith Cree Nation and nearby Weldon, Sask., as they cope with the aftermath of the attacks that have left 11 dead and many more injured. Today, I invite you to join with Commissioner Tracey and me as together we pray for the victims and their families, the local communities and their leaders who have all been deeply impacted by this tragedy.
On Sunday, September 4, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency requested that The Salvation Army establish a mass casualty reception centre for families of victims of the stabbing incidents. They were concerned that the hospital would be overwhelmed with family members of those seeking medical treatment.
Captain Glenna Cryderman (Melfort) and Majors Ed and Charlotte Dean (Prince Albert), along with volunteers from the Melfort Corps, were able to set up a reception centre at the corps in Melfort. In the end, it was determined that our services were not required, however, our availability and willingness to respond was much appreciated, and we will be prepared for any future requests.
We recognize that this is an ongoing investigation and so we also pray for the RCMP and other first responders as they attempt to locate one of the alleged perpetrators. We pray that no further harm will come to individuals and that this incident will conclude peacefully.
The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territorial Headquarters is lowering its Canadian flags to half-mast to commemorate the victims of the tragedy and again, I invite you to pray as we send our condolences to the people of James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon.
As a Salvation Army, we stand ready to serve wherever we are needed. And we look to “the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
May God’s Spirit be close to the bereaved and may these communities experience healing and support in the days ahead.
Commissioner Floyd Tidd
Territorial Commander
The danger is over, now the healing begins. May all those affected including the first responders rely on the God of all comfort to sustain them.