Sharing our thoughts and prayers

We are shaken and deeply saddened by the targeted Islamophobic attack on June 6. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this disturbing act of violence and their loved ones as we pray for the recovery of the young boy who remains in hospital. 

Today, we lower our flags in sombre recognition of those lost to this devastating hate crime and as an act of solidarity with our Muslim community locally and around the world, as they deal with this unspeakable loss. 

We pray for peace during this time of fear, for compassion when anger is undeniable and for resolve when words and actions fail us. In the days, weeks and months ahead, the responsibility falls to all of us to find ways within our networks and communities to address and eradicate Islamophobia and all forms of hate-based violence. Let us not forget this is a daily reality for many of those we serve and work alongside every day. 

May there be some comfort found in this excerpt from the prayer of St. Frances of Assisi:
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace, where there is hatred, let me sow love, where there is injury, pardon; where there is discord, union, where there is doubt, faith, where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light and where there is sadness, joy.

Thank you for your kindness and compassion.

Dr. Gillian Kernaghan
President and CEO