Clergy offer prayer, compassion and hope after CFB Wainwright fire tragedy

Priests and deacons from the Parish of the Blessed Sacrament offered prayers for the community following a devastating fire at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Wainwright on Oct. 17.

Father Felix Kusamba, who was filling in for Rev. Benjamin Obetta, reported that the fire began around 4 p.m. in the base training area and spread beyond its boundaries, according to National Defence. While the Canadian Armed Forces confirmed that the fire caused injuries and fatalities, the full impact is still being assessed.

Father Kusamba and Deacon Carlos Lara, whose home is near the military base, monitored the situation as emergency vehicles and aircraft operated throughout the night. Kusamba noted that military personnel and their families are members of the parish community. Parishioners expressed their anxiety during Mass the following Sunday morning.