On November 19, five people were killed, and at least 25 were injured, during a shooting at Club Q, an LGBTQ nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The attack occurred on the eve of Transgender Day of Remembrance—an annual day to mourn transgender people killed by violence—deepening the trauma and sense of tragedy felt by many LGBTQI2+ people.

In The Presbyterian Church in Canada’s Confession to God and LGBTQI People, we confess that “the church’s prejudice contributes to hatred and neglect of LGBTQI people, making them targets for physical, spiritual and emotional violence.” We lament the church’s role in perpetuating violence against LGBTQI2+ people and commit to working for a future where people of all gender identities and sexual orientations can flourish.

Spaces like Club Q are intended to offer sanctuary and safety for LGBTQI2+ people in a world where many spaces still do not. When spaces that are supposed to be safe for LGBTQI2+ people are attacked, fear is amplified. The church offers prayers for healing and safety in this time of grief.

God, our Creator and Comforter,
In the wake of violence and tragedy at Club Q in Colorado Springs, we turn to you.

We mourn for those who were killed, and pray that you will comfort their families and friends.
We pray that those who were wounded will have a full recovery from their physical injuries, and the support they need to heal from the trauma of the attack.
We give thanks for all who are organizing vigils and supports for the victims and others who are grieving.
We pray for all who are afraid and at risk of being the target of acts of homophobic and transphobic violence.

God, you create us in your image and love us in ways beyond our understanding. As a church, you call us to love, protect and support those who are vulnerable in our communities and in the world. Guide us to see the ways that our communities are unsafe for LGBTQI2+ people, and help us discern how the church can contribute to creating a safer world for all.

Amen.

The Rev. Dr. Bob Faris, Moderator of the 2022 General Assembly, sent a letter to Club Q extending the church’s condolences and expressing solidarity with all who are mourning. The Moderator also sent letters to congregations in Colorado Springs that were engaged in organizing support for the community following the attack.