Diocesan Family of Churches Upholds Jasper Community in Prayer

Dear friends in Christ,

Many of you have seen the devastating pictures on social media and in the news of wildfire consuming the town of Jasper. Jasper is a special place, a place where people have said they feel closest to God. We are all heartbroken. There are no words.

With deep sadness, we confirm the historic St. Mary and St. George Anglican Church, built in 1928, was destroyed, as were the homes and livelihoods of the whole community.

Jasper Anglicans held their first worship services in a tent, in 1909, and the parish became an integral part of the community. In recent years, parishioners have helped to settle Ukrainian refugees displaced by war, and the church was home to the local food bank. Community events, such as concerts and art shows, were held at Jasper Anglican Church throughout the year. 

We are profoundly grateful for the people who put their lives on the line to fight the fire, ensuring the safe evacuation of approximately 25,000 Jasper National Park residents and visitors. Their courage and dedication are exemplary. To our knowledge, no lives have been lost to the fire. 

Evacuees can receive assistance at reception centers that were established in Grande Prairie, Calgary and Edmonton. We are also in contact with the dioceses of Athabasca and Calgary to determine how best to help based on need.

Some will ask how to help. We will let you know as events unfold. We are a diocesan family of churches, and we will walk with each other.

Please continue to uphold the community of Jasper and the parish of St. Mary and St. George in prayer. In the 23rd Psalm, the psalmist walks through the valley of the shadow of death knowing that God accompanies us. Today we hold to that promise.

Blessings,

Bishop Stephen London