Fort Chipewyan, AB (August 25, 2022) – As has been widely reported, on August 25, 2022, at 2:34 a.m., the RCMP received a report of a fire at the Blessed Virgin Roman Catholic Church. While emergency crews responded, there was no saving the 100-year-old structure. The fire has been deemed suspicious by the RCMP. The church was vacant at the time of the fire and no one was harmed.
FCM President Kendrick Cardinal made the following statement:
The Fort Chip Métis Nation share the community’s mixed feelings about the loss of our church. This church—a historic fixture just off Mackenzie Avenue that has for years hosted worship ceremonies, funerals and community events—represented vastly different things to different people. The history of the church is deep and complex, not just for residential school survivors and their families but the whole community.
Some people saw the church as a place of worship. Others saw its presence as part of a system which stole our children.
We welcome members of our community to avail of our community resources if they are struggling.
WELLNESS SUPPORTS
| Indian Residential School Survivors Society 1.866.925.4419Hope for Wellness 1.855.242.3310 Wellness Together Canada Non-Insured Health Benefits Program Addiction Helpline 1.866.332.2322 Mental Health Help Line 1.877.303.2642 | Suicide Prevention Line 1.833.456.4566
Kids Help Phone 1.800.668.6868
Local Support: Nunee Health Centre 780.697.3650 Text HOME to 741741 |
We are a strong people in Fort Chipewyan, and in times of struggle we stand together—whatever our differences—to offer support and love. Fort Chipewyan Metis Strong.
We will keep our members updated as more facts develop.
– Fort Chip Métis Nation