A Letter from President Mark Husbands
By now, you are likely aware of the tragic events surrounding Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 in Iran that led to a total loss of life for those aboard. One hundred and thirty-eight of those individuals were travelling to Canada through a connecting flight to Toronto, including 57 Canadian citizens and many more who resided in Canada.
This devastating event has not only deeply affected Canada as a nation but has had a far-reaching and profound impact on our academic community, as we reflect on the fact that so many of our fellow Canadian post-secondary institutions have lost students, faculty, researchers, and graduates.
Please join us as Trinity Western University observes a moment of silence on Wednesday, January 15, at 10 a.m., along with other Canadian universities nationwide, to honour all those who perished in this tragic event.
In solidarity with all who mourn and suffer the loss of family, friends, and colleagues, we would also invite you to join us for a dedicated time of prayer that will begin our 11 a.m. chapel service.
I stand with the entire Trinity Western University community in offering my prayers and most sincere condolences to members of Canada’s Iranian community as we mourn with those left grappling with this devastating reality.
Scripture teaches us that lament is a fitting response to tragic and heartbreaking loss. With the Psalmist we cry out, “How long, O Lord? … How long must I bear pain in my soul, and have sorrow in my heart all day long?” (Psalm 13:1–2). With all who mourn this loss, we also cry out to God, “You are my help and my deliverer” (Psalm 40:17). We follow a gracious Lord who suffered and is familiar with pain (Isaiah 53:3). We pray for all who grieve and suffer; may they not give in to despair but, rather, find solace and comfort in the promise and hope of the resurrection.
Please join us as we prayerfully consider a loss that has profoundly impacted our nation and academic community in Canada.