Good Shepherd Valleyview building fire

Firefighters battle the blaze at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Valleyview, Alberta. Photo courtesy of Todd Loewen.

by Michelle Heumann

VALLEYVIEW, Alta. – Late in the evening of July 26, 2020, the building belonging to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, a historical storefront located on Main Street, caught on fire. Rev. Shiekh Lief Mauricio, who has been the pastor there since 2019, reports that the building is “essentially destroyed.”

“The disastrous fire was a shock for us,” Rev. Mauricio stated. “The devil, the world, and the flesh certainly do not want God’s name to be hallowed among us nor let His kingdom come through Word and Sacrament by the grace of the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us as a gift and comforter for Jesus’ sake. We trust that God will turn our day of trouble into good in His time and in His way.”

“We trust that God will turn our day of trouble into good in His time and in His way.”

An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. On July 28, the insurance inspector was able to access the building, and the damage is extensive. The building, a town landmark which began as a general store, had been undergoing renovations, many of them carried out by members who volunteered. “Lots of blood, sweat, and tears were shed as a labour of love for God and for our neighbours,” said Rev. Mauricio. “We were hoping to have the grand opening of our church in November.”

The congregation will gather for worship this coming Sunday on the farm of one of its members, and are seeking a rental facility going forward.

“This is a great tragedy,” said Rev. Robert Mohns, West Regional Pastor for LCC. “May God look after all the saints in Valleyview, and give them strength during this difficult time. I encourage all members of Lutheran Church–Canada, and friends around the world, to remember the people of Good Shepherd Lutheran in prayer.”

Prayer

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns. The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Come, behold the works of the Lord, how he has brought desolations on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire. “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

– Psalm 46 (ESV)

Almighty and everlasting God, You are the strength of those who suffer and the comfort of all who grieve. Let the prayers of your children who have suffered the loss of their house of prayer by fire rise to you. Grant your mercy and peace to Pastor Mauricio and the members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Valleyview, Alberta. Surround them with your present love and hold them in faith and hope. Through Jesus Christ, our rock and redeemer. Amen.

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Michelle Heumann is Regional News Editor for The Canadian Lutheran.

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