Statement on the Tragedy in British Columbia

With deep sorrow and a heavy heart, we have received the tragic news of the mass shooting at a school in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, which has claimed multiple innocent lives and left many others injured.

This senseless act of violence has shaken the entire nation, and our hearts are broken for the young lives lost, for the families who now grieve, and for the entire community that has been wounded by this tragedy. We join all Canadians in mourning and in fervent prayer for the victims, the injured, their loved ones, and all those affected.

In moments such as these, when words fall short, we turn to the Lord who is “near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). We pray that God may grant eternal rest to those who have departed, healing to the wounded, comfort to the grieving, and strength to the first responders, teachers, and counselors who now serve in the midst of sorrow.

May this tragedy also call us to renew our commitment to love, compassion, and vigilance for the well-being of every child and family entrusted to our care. Let our churches become places of refuge, prayer, and healing, where the light of Christ overcomes the darkness of violence and despair.

On behalf of the Diocese of Canada of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, I offer our deepest condolences and assure all those affected of our prayers and spiritual support in the days ahead.

May the souls of the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

- Metropolitan Zachariah Mar Nicholovos

Assistant Metropolitan of the Diocese of Canada

Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church