Lapu-Lapu Festival: How do we heal?
How Do We Heal?
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
We are still reeling from the tragedy that unfolded at the Lapu-Lapu Festival last Saturday in Vancouver. A violent attack cut lives short, shattered peace, and left our community shaken. People of Grace International Foundation had a booth at the event — we had already wrapped up before the attack happened. Still, it’s hard not to think: It could have been any one of us.
One of our friends lost a loved one—her niece was killed, while her niece’s boyfriend and brother were severely injured. This was not just an attack on individuals; it was an attack on our collective progress, on the Filipino community and our shared advocacy for housing, senior care, and community support. It was an attack on small businesses, livelihoods, and our sense of safety. Non-Filipinos were among the victims as well, reminding us of our shared humanity and how fragile life can be.
We mourn together. We grieve as one. But in the midst of the pain, we also draw near to God, who promises to be close to the brokenhearted.
This moment calls us to reflect:
Don’t take each other for granted.
Make your life count.
Secure your eternity with God today.
Please continue to lift up the victims and their families in prayer. Support the Filipino community as we seek healing, strength, and a way forward.
If we met you for the first time at the festival, thank you for visiting our booth. We hope to continue connecting and offering encouragement to those still processing what happened. If you need prayer or someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Click here to learn more about the incident (CBC News)
Let’s Gather Again: Jazz Cafe in Vancouver
We invite you to join us at our upcoming Jazz Cafe — a time to reconnect, uplift one another, and find peace through music and fellowship. Event details are below. Please share the invitation with friends and loved ones.
Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1323257160789?aff=oddtdtcreator
With love and peace,
Buena Tupe
Founder
People of Grace International
2025 Goals
Additional Ways to Give
Online: bit.ly/pogigift
Cheques to ICMS: Please include a "separate" note – For People of Grace International
Contact: 604-240-5096 or peopleofgraceintl@gmail.com
Donations in the US and Canada are tax receipted by ICMS (International Christian Mission Services).
Tickets are not tax deductible.
