Billy Graham Chaplains Support Grieving Cree First Nation Community After Shooting

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) has deployed crisis-trained chaplains to the Cree Nation Mistissini, in Quebec, to offer emotional and spiritual care after two residents were shot and killed.

Police initially responded to reports of shots fired in the community on Jan. 28 but tragically found two victims already deceased. The community was briefly placed under lockdown on Jan. 29, which was lifted once police confirmed the incident was isolated.

Mistissini is home to around 4,000 residents and this tragedy comes only days after a week-long revival movement where many locals placed their faith in Jesus Christ. These new believers, who experienced salvation, healing, and baptism, along with the rest of the community are grieving in the aftermath of this sudden tragedy.

Our BG-RRT chaplains will serve in the community and alongside the local churches to provide spiritual and emotional care.

“As Christians, our lives are marked by blessings and battles, often occurring simultaneously. This is the reality that is currently being shared by the community of Mistissini,” said Tristan Klassen, manager of BG-RRT. “While the church rejoices in the profound news of recent revival and many salvations, there is also deep sorrow for the loss of two individuals and all involved in this recent tragedy. We recognize that many are affected by these events, and our thoughts and prayers are with those who mourn.”

Two chaplains reached the community on Feb. 2, with more arriving in the coming days.

Will you pray for the families who are hurting and the entire Mistissini community impacted by this shooting? Pray also for our chaplains, that God would work through them to shine the love and compassion of Christ, who “is near to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18, ESV).