Statement on the Word Church Burning

3 September 2025

I am heartbroken and sickened to learn of the deliberate burning of Thunderchild Word Church. Christians have the right to worship freely, without fear, intimidation, or violence.

This was more than an attack on a building. It was an attack on the values of faith, fellowship, and service that this church represents in the community.

Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Canada is seeing a disturbing rise in hate crimes against places of worship. This growing trend is absolutely unacceptable. We need targeted action to ensure these hateful crimes are met with real consequences because no Canadian should ever fear walking through the doors of their church.