A Pastoral Letter in Support of the Muslim Community in the Wake of Hateful Violence

Dear Salvationist friends,

It is with sadness that I write to you today as we come together to honour the lives of the Muslim family who were lost to a senseless act of violence in London, Ontario, on Sunday evening. The Salvation Army is shocked by the hateful attack that occurred and condemns this act of Islamophobia that has forever changed a family and community. We pray for the long-term physical, mental and emotional well-being of the surviving child and all Muslim Canadians.

In times like this, we can lean on one another. We mourn with the people of London, Ontario, and pray for strength, resilience and healing. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

We stand in solidarity with the Muslim community against hate in all forms. We pray for a society where all feel safe and welcome to practice their faith without repercussion or prejudice. We pray for the entire Muslim community that they may heal from this sorrow through personal faith and the support of the wider faith community.

As we journey alongside our Muslim brothers and sisters, we do so in empathy and love. We will stand as beacons of love and acceptance, and we pray that we may sow love, faith, joy, and hope in the London community.

Yours in Christ,