October 11, 2023

The world is watching as escalating conflict unfolds in the Middle East. There has been a tragic loss of civilian life. We understand that this will cause a range of reactions and emotions for members of our school communities and sites.

It is normal to feel sad or worried in the face of a crisis. However, some students, families, and staff may need extra support in the days and weeks ahead. 

Here are some more resources to help you navigate this crisis with your children:

• Review the Alberta Health Services: Helping Your Child or Teen Respond to a Disaster or Emergency (PDF) 
• Encourage your children to limit their exposure to media and social media. 
• Visit ecsd.net/mentalhealth for further information and readily available resources. 

As a Catholic community, we continue to unite in prayer:

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit (+). Amen. 

Let us pray: Loving Father, you sent your Son into the world to redeem us by his Cross and Resurrection. Send your Spirit upon us to make us stewards of your gifts and witnesses of your Son, Jesus Christ, in our schools and in our world. 

We pray for peace. We recall in sadness the crisis in the Middle East that erupted over the Thanksgiving weekend. 

Pope Francis called for an end to attacks and violence in Israel and Gaza, saying terrorism and war would not solve any problems, but only bring further suffering and death to innocent people. 

In our despair in the midst of hate, in our sense of helplessness in the face of violence, we lean on you. We pray for those impacted by the escalating conflict, for the victims of the tragic crisis, their families and friends, the injured, and the displaced.

Isaiah 55:8 reminds us that our thoughts are not your thoughts – and that our ways are not your ways. When we are struggling to see clearly, remind us that we are not alone. Give us the wisdom to hear your voice, and the firm footsteps to follow your path. Come live in our hearts and console us by your love and compassion.

Through the intercession of our Most Blessed Mother, Mary, the Mother of God, we ask you to guide and protect all those suffering the tragedies of war.

Hail Mary, Full of Grace, The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now, and at the hour of death. Amen.

We pray this through your Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (+). Amen.