A Message of Hope Following the Tragedy in Twin Falls

August 5, 2026

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The heartbreaking tragedy in Twin Falls has touched every corner of our diocese. Our hearts ache for those who have lost loved ones, for those who have been injured, and for the families, friends, first responders, and all whose lives have been forever changed by these events.

At moments like these, words often seem inadequate. Yet as people of faith, we know that we are never alone in our sorrow. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Even in the darkest moments, God remains with His people, offering His presence, His strength, and His peace.

I ask every parish and every member of our diocesan family to join me in praying for all those affected by this tragedy. Let us pray for those who have died, that the Lord may welcome them into His eternal embrace. Let us pray for healing for the injured, comfort for grieving families, wisdom and strength for those caring for them, and peace for our entire community.

In the days following this tragedy, one moving image has remained with me. Near the In-N-Out Burger where the shootings occurred, a man has quietly kept vigil with a large wooden cross as a witness to Christ. He reminds all who pass by that even in the presence of profound sorrow, the Cross of Christ stands as the enduring sign of God's unfailing love. 

Photo: KTVB Channel 7

As we support one another in the days ahead, may we become signs of Christ's compassion through our prayers, our presence, and our acts of kindness. Every prayer offered in faith, every word of encouragement, every act of charity, and every gesture of love reminds those who suffer that they do not carry their burdens alone. Together, as the Body of Christ, we walk with one another in faith, trusting that the Lord will bring healing, strength, and peace.

I would like to leave you with one of my favorite passages from the Gospel, words that have brought comfort to countless believers throughout the centuries. They are Christ's personal invitation to every heart burdened by grief, fear, or uncertainty:

"Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

May these words of our Savior bring comfort to all who are suffering. May the Lord Jesus, the Prince of Peace, draw near to every grieving heart, strengthen us in faith, and fill us with the hope that only He can give. And may Our Lady of Peace intercede for the victims, their families, all who mourn, and our entire Twin Falls community, leading us always to her Son, Jesus Christ.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Peter F. Christensen, M.A., D.D.

Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise

---