May 8, 1994- September 27, 2008
Last night at about 4:45 our precious 14 year-old daughter Emily was attacked and killed as she was out for a walk. We don't know a lot of details, but we know that two young men came upon the scene right away, but it was too late for Emily.
I will write more as more details come available. Please pray for us, for our church family who are meeting without us right now, and for family that is travelling.
We are realizing from the inside the value of good, Gospel theology right now.
372 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 372 of 372To you and your family. My heart breaks at your loss. I hope that God's love surrounds you and that you find comfort in the support of family and friends as you cope with your grief. I also pray for the community of Edson, and that the police quickly apprehend this killer.
We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Things of this nature should never happen. So sorry for your loss.
I haven't spent much time praying for the last few years but for you and your family I will be starting tonight.
Stay strong.
Praying for you and your family. He will provide.
Dear Stauffer Family.
Let me start by saying how very sorry I am to hear about the loss of your dear Emily. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I am also a resident of Edson, Please know that the whole town shares in your pain, and offers you our full support.
Tammy & Megan Huntley.
I was Josh's Great Books teacher the last two years. I and my family and all of us at Schola grieve for you and send our love and prayers. May the Lord continually give you His comfort and peace and assurance of His goodness and sovereignty.
In Christ,
Wes Callihan for my family and all of Schola Classical Tutorials.
Dear Terry, Juanita and Family;
How can we express our sincere sympathy at the horrible crime that was committed against your family. Be assured that our prayers join the multitude of others for the Lord, who saw this dreadful act against your precious daughter, to sustain you with his enduring and comforting embrace.
There are a lot of "Why"s as sorrow drives into your spirit like a cruel sword. But for the present it may be enough to know that your lovely Emily is safe in the arms of Jesus! But it won't be long until we join her. In the mean time let the tears flow but not as those without hope. Your short expression of that certainty on TV, Terry, was so uplifting!
Our Love,
Lillian & Albert Werbiski
Terry and Jaunita,
My heart and prayers are with you. 40 days ago I recieved a call from a former Lavington member to come to Ontario and bury his 15 year old son. The memories of that, make your daughter's death very real to us.
I am grateful for your God centered theology, that gives you and us, hope.
Phil and Anne Johnson
I was shocked and saddened to read about your child's tragic death in the Edmonton Journal today. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you all at this difficult time.
I am again reminded that no town or city is immune to such horrific crimes. Many years ago, when I lived in Peace River, Carolyn Pruyser disappeared never to be found. She was the teenage daughter of our church organist. The town wept together, and supported each other as we all tried to come to an understanding of how such a thing could happen in such a small community.
Have you read "The Shack"? A good friend of mine highly recommended it to me this summer, and I recommend it for you.
My heart goes out to you as you grieve the loss of your precious daughter.
We talked about Emily's death at our Bible quiz practice tonight, and the quizzers remembered her smile, always smiling. Emily touched many lives and will be remembered as a shining light, reflecting the light of her Saviour.
We pray for you all that God would enfold you in his loving arms, and that you would feel Him guiding you through the valley.
Kathy Put, St Albert (Next) Bible Quizing
Hi,
I heard about what happened to your daughter via the Rebelution fourm's prayer room. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
~Felicity
Dear Terry and Juanita
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your precious daughter, Emily. I live in Edmonton and never had a chance to meet her, but many at our church knew you and your family and were deeply saddened by the news. My the Lord comfort you,your children and family at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
I was Josh's Great Books teacher the last two years. I and my family and all of Schola are praying for you and everyone sends their love. We wish you Christ's presence, comfort, and peace.
Love in Christ, from all the Callihans and Schola Classical Tutorials,
Wes Callihan
Dear Terry, Juanita, and family
My heart cries out for you. I know that those around you will do all they can to love, care and support you and I thank God for them and I ask God to bless you, your family and those that stand next you.
Anand Chetty
Dear Terry and Juanita,
I just heard about your tragic loss from Magdy Ghobrial, who heard it on the news. I pray that God would grant you strength as you grieve and anguish over your daughter's death.
Dear Stauffer Family my heart go out for you and your family during this horrible time. My god be with you to help you through each day. I also prey that justice can be served and the person who has done this can turn themself in.
Dear Terry and Juanita and family,
This sad news reached my ears this morning. My heart was broken for you. Be assured that our church family is praying for you at this most difficult time. Our love and prayers are with you.
Steve Campbell
Burnett Fellowship
Dear Terry & Juanita
We just wanted to let you and your family know that we are thinking about you and praying for you. Words are really not enough....
Much love,
Dan & Sherry Bennett
Terry and Juanita,
After learning of Emily's tragic passing, my wife and I have prayed and wrestled as I am sure many have, as to the senselessness behind this. We knew you both when we first arrived at Burnett over 12 years ago. Please know that we will continue to uphold you in prayer and ask God to reveal Himself to you all in new and gracious ways.
Paul and Julie Olson
Maple Ridge (Burnett Fellowship)
Dear Terry, Juanita and family,
Old NBTC friends, I am so shocked and grieved by the news on TV tonight. Surely this is something that occurs in another world to people that we don't know. But as you know well this is a fallen and sick world. My prayers go out for you as you walk through the dark shadows of grief. May God in his grace light your way and help you move ahead, may he keep you strong in him. My thoughts and platitudes seem so lame but God is faithful and big enough to see you through the toughest times. Your Friend in Christ, Tim Balzer
Sometimes
Dear Terry,
It's been many years since you and I were at NBTC together, and I haven't seen you since, but my heart breaks for you and your family today. Words are such futile things in the face of such a shattering loss; I trust you all will sense, below all the words, the loving arms of many people, near and far, wrapped around you as you face this together.
Mark
I just want to say that I continue to pray for you day and night. At midnight, tonight, I was listening to Twila Paris and knew that the Lord was asking me to pass it on to you as His words for you as a family: "He is Exalted".
She says: Sometimes we really feel like worshipping but the truth is that part of being human is that sometimes life can be very difficult; sometimes, even devastating; and the question is: How do you respond? You walk with Jesus, hand in hand, day-by-day. And then, when those moments come And you face that choice, whether to lean to your own understanding, or to lean into Jesus, you lean in and you believe this promise that all things, ALL things, work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. May you be encouraged by the following words of her song:
"And we know that all things work together
Yes we know that all things work together
For those who are called
Those who love God
Those who are called
called to Your purpose
All things work together
All things work together
All things work together
Work together for good
So we lift up our hearts
Lift up our hands
Lift up our hope in You
Though we may not yet understand
We know it's true
ALL things work together..."
Dear Terry, Juanita and Family;
We heard of the tragic loss of your daughter on tonight's local news. We are shocked and grieve with you. One of my favourite songs when I am facing deep waters is "Praise You in the Storm" by Casting Crowns:
(chorus)
I'll praise You in this storm,
and I will lift my hands,
For You are who You are,
No matter where I am.
And every tear I've cried,
You hold in Your hand;
You never left my side,
And though my heart is torn,
I'll praise You in this storm.
May our amazing and GOOD Lord hold your every tear and sustain you as you go through this most difficult storm.
Our love and prayers are with you,
Geoff, Michelle, Josee, Jean-Marc, Stephane, Yvan, Zachee and Alex
May you know the Lord's comfort and upholding in your sorrow.Praying for you.
Our deepest sympathy and assurance of prayer at this time. His grace is sufficient.
We identify with you as we still think of the loss of our son five years ago.
God Bless
Pastor A.morris and Morag Russell
There isn't much that has not been said yet, but I just wanted to let you know we are terribly sorry for yor loss and will keep you in our prayers.
We are a homeschool family whose girls are also on The Potters School, which Emily was on. We are so very sorry for your loss. We are also praising God for His grace in helping you during this time. He will be your strength in the days and years to come. Your blogs are amazing.. you are kindred spirits/very like-minded. We know for sure that the Christ that you have & serve will provide everything you need as you walk through this in Him. We will pray for you.
Anna Thorburn
Emily was such a beautiful person. We are all sad to see her go but so happy to know that she is with Jesus!! I cannot wait to meet her someday in heaven. Love to all of your family and may God bless you, I am praying for everyone that God will give you the strength to bring you through this time.
May God grant you comfort and strength, as only He can.
Praying for you all,
Beth and John (Astorville, ON)
Dear Terry & Family, We are so very sorry for your loss and suffering during this time. We have not met, but friends of ours told us about your loss. Their daughter was in the same class as your daughter. We will be praying for you and your family. In Christ we stand and may he give you comfort during this time.
The Thompsons
Christ Community Church
Plainfield, NH
Dear Terry and Juanita, Josh, Petra and Ann
I only received the news a few minutes ago on Tuesday morning. May God uphold you all in His strong arms. I wish I could be there with you, but it;s clear you have godly people surrounding you in Edson. Like everyone else, I don't have words so I;ll pray out of my sorrow for you all and trust God to bathe you all with His peace that is beyond understanding. You are all greatly loved, by many others and mostly by our heavenly Father.
Brad and Tina Harback
Your whole family is in my prayers.
No need to worry
God has it in control
Just look up above
To His mercies untold
He really does know
The grief you’re going through
He knows it first hand
Because He has been there too.
Terry and Juanita,
We're praying for all of you. We're so sorry for the loss of Emily. When you stayed with us in Colorado Springs, we had the opportunity to meet Emily and all of you after several years of emailing on ClassEd with Juanita. Thank you for your reminder that God is good now and always.
With love and tears,
Steve,Leslie,Brenna,Lindsee McCrea in Colorado Springs
I'm praying for you all and your church family....may the Lord bless and comfort you all.....
Dear Terry and Juanita,
Our hearts go out to you in this time of grief. May our God continue to comfort you all and give you peace in the midst of tribulation.
Jim and Rebecca Butler
Chilliwack, B.C.
Dear Terry, Juanita & family,
We are saddened beyond words to hear news of Emily's death. We pray for you in this difficult time and are touched by your strong testimony of faith. The photograph of Emily on your blog shows such a beautiful person. It is impossible to understand how someone could have deliberately snuffed out her life. We have such fond memories of your visit to Goshen and are grateful you chose to help us get better acquainted with our Canadian cousins. We count that visit especially precious now because we had the privilege of sharing Emily's presence for a few days. May God's love and mercy enfold you in this difficult time.
Ann Hostetler, Merv Smucker & family, Goshen, Indiana, USA
I know you don't know me...I linked to your blog through Chris Finnegan's (she is a dear family friend). I see you have hundreds of comments on here, but I wanted to let you know that my family and others in my church (in Texas) are praying for your family, for the investigation, and for the person who did this. My heart breaks for you, yet I am encouraged by the testimony you are presenting.
Close in thought and prayer,
Shannon
Dearest Stauffers,
Our deepest sympathies are with you in the loss of Emily. We have been praying that God's comforting presence will embrace your family through this time.
We have been encouraged as every news report describes Emily a beautiful, talented girl who loved God. And it has been amazing to hear the secular media proclaiming Jesus as her Lord and Savior.
May your knowledge of the truth be your anchor, and your family in Christ be your comfort in this time. We send you big hugs from Ottawa.
Mike and Jackie Duckering
Dear Pastor Terry and Family;
May God bless you and your family. Keeping you near to his heart, that you may find the strength and comfort to carry you through this time of need. Our family sends out our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers. May God be with you and carry you all through this most difficult time.
All of our love;
Rose, Jeff and Family.
Oh Dear Brother and Sister, very few can understand the internal communication you are having with yourself right now and with God, but we can all work towards it, in the unity of the church: it is not just you who cry out, but the church does with you and on your behalf. there are many voices that form a chorus with yours right now. may the peace of God overtake you like a tidal wave. you will never be alone.
jason hutchins
Dear Terry and Family,
Our Thoughts and prayers are with you all. We pray that God's abundant Grace will be sufficent and that you will find your comfort in Him.
In Christ,
Don Karen, Emily & Sarah Neufeld (Ojala) (Friends from College)
Terry,Juanita,Josh,Petra and Ann,
It has been quite some time since I have seen you both. I only wish it weren't this event which has led me to connect again. I am so very sorry that this has happened within your beautiful family. Darcy is hit quite hard with the news of his cousin,as am I.
I can remember when she was born, two months before my Donald. She reminded me then of my daughter, Victoria with her blonde hair and her cute little cheeks.
Darcy holds very fond memories of last years family reunion and playing pool with Josh and Emily. We are praying, along with so many others, that the glory of Gods love is keeping you all, as i know it is! thinking of you all constantly.
Peace be with you,Darlinda, Darcy,Victoria and Donald.
dear Stauffer family
sorry for the loss of your sweet emily. our hearts are filled with sadness for you all. we live in edson and have four daughters of our own. and cant even begin to imagine what you are going through god bless all of you.
The Mccallum Family
My prayers are with you.....what more can I say.....I know God will see you through.
May his peace be a part of your day today.
Dave Ferguson, Westbourne Baptist Calgary.
To the Stauffer family,
I pray you experience God's grace and His peace that passes all understanding. I am truly sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you>
Our prayers are with you. May our Lord keep you close and your hearts in him...
Pastor Ray
FRom Bethel Baptist Church
in Montreal, Qc. Canada
I am so sorry to hear this. I don't know you at all, but I am the mom of a homeschooled 14 year old daughter. I can't even imagine the heartache and the senselessness of this horrible thing.
Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
Mary Sellers in PA
Terry,
So sorry to hear about Emily. Talked to Lorne last night. He should be in touch as well. Our thoughts are with you.
Take care.
To lose a loved one after a long illness is hard; to lose a loved one suddenly is harder.
We will never understand this side of glory why the Lord allows the storms and troubles of life, apart from the certainty that it is so that He may show Himself to be our refuge and strength, and very present help. "Faith is always, and can can only ever be, tried in the dark." "If you want to see the rainbow of God's covenant love, there has to be a storm."
May the God of all grace and comfort - the God and FATHER of our Lord Jesus Christ - be your strength and sustainer; and may your witness be a blessing and challenge to many, for His glory.
Praying for you from the UK
David
To the Stauffer family,
May the man of sorrows, well acquainted with grief, be with you strongly and abidingly at this most painful time. He is the lifter of your heads. Our church family is praying fervently for you.
In His Love,
Pastor Brent
(Fellowship, Fort Saskatchewan)
I think I can speak on behalf of an entire country in expressing my deepest regrets on the tragic loss of such a beautiful young woman.
I can think of no more painful experiance for a parent or family to have to endure.
God Bless.
Dan F
Ontario
Terry, Juanita, Josh, Petra & Ann,
I couldn't write this yesterday... I still don't know what to say...
Our tears, prayers, and love go out to you all. Karen and the boys and I will continue to pray for you and your family...
Brad, Karen, Caleb, Luke, Matthew & Micah Warner
Burnett Fellowship
Dear Terry and Juanita,
I've already written to you privately, but Lee and I want to stand with you publicly as well. The words of faith you have expressed are eloquent and biblical. Thanks be to God for his revealed truth in the Scriptures for times like these. I pray that the Lord Jesus will grant you the freedom and courage to lean on him even when your feelings and thoughts are not what you would want them to be. Robin Pifer and I from the Fellowship will be there with you for Emily's service on Friday, along with many others who care for you. May the Comforter that Jesus sent us sustain you as you walk in grace.
John and Lee Kaiser
Praying for you all. May the peace of God dwell in you.
Janet Tuininga and family.
Dear Terry, Juanita and your little girls,
With love...my heartfelt condolences to you, your family and friends.
Judith
I can't even begin to imagine the horror you are going through. Take good care of each other.
May God Wrap his arms around you and fill you with his peace.
Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time... Will and Tara Dehaan and family Trout Creek Baptist Church, Ontario
I don't know you, but I am praying for you all the way on the other side of the country. I can only imagine how amazing it must be for your Emily, finally seeing Jesus, being over with all the warfare so soon, so quickly... For you, the grief goes on, but she will never know grief and pain again! It's a horrible shock, but you know that God's plan is always unspeakably, breathtakingly, dazzlingly GOOD. How comforting to know that not only is Jesus weeping with you, but He is also doing things greater than any of us can comprehend.
heartfelt prayers to the family of emily i as many are shocked and outraged that this could happen in our town to such a young beautiful lady god be with you wendy clark
Dear Pastor Terry and family,
I came here via Kim at The Upward Call... My heart breaks for you and your family. May the God of all comfort comfort you in all of your sorrows (2 Cor. 1).
Your family came to mind as I was weeding flower beds tonight, and this was the hymn on my heart as my prayer for you, especially verse 3...
This is my Father's World:
This is my Father’s world, and to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings the music of the spheres.
This is my Father’s world: I rest me in the thought
Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas;
His hand the wonders wrought.
This is my Father’s world, the birds their carols raise,
The morning light, the lily white, declare their Maker’s praise.
This is my Father’s world: He shines in all that’s fair;
In the rustling grass I hear Him pass;
He speaks to me everywhere.
This is my Father’s world. O let me ne’er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world: the battle is not done:
Jesus Who died shall be satisfied,
And earth and Heav’n be one.
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/t/i/tismyfw.htm
Shalom,
Jennifer in Ontario
I am so sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my prayers.
I'm so very sorry for your loss.
My deepest condolences for your loss.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely,
Brenda D.
Toronto, Ont.
Emily is a beautiful girl.
I'm sorry to hear what happened.
God is with you.
God Bless you and your family. Just know that your beautiful baby is in a better place
Terry and Family
I am from Brasil, I did read about your daugther on Hope Mission website.
I want to let you know that my family and I are praying for you.
I pray may God give you strength to go through this hard moment in you life.
From Brasil
In Jesus Love
Pr. Tony Lopes Rimualdo
Dear Stauffer family and Al and Sheila - our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jim (brother with brain tumor) joined Emily in the presence of the King today - truly our reunion in Glory will be precious! May God sustain you and give you HIS peace!
Art, Joy, Lonna and Dawn Cunningham
Dear Terry, Juanita, Josh, Petra and Anne,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this terribly difficult time. Both Shelley and I have a little uderstanding of your pain and sorrow with the loss of our son five years ago.
No amount of words can make the pain go away but know this that you are in our prayers and held close to our hearts during these days.
I am available to chat should the need arise and there is no bad time to email. In Christ's suffering.
Chaplain Jim Turner and Shelley
I'm very sorry for your loss. Our lives are so short, "like a vapor, that vanisheth away".
Dear Family,
We cannot help but recall how kind you were to us when we first arrived in Edson and the many years we attended the Baptist Church. We have been blessed many times by your example of a Godly family. A blessing to me was to watch the children playing in and around the church. Emily was always delightful with her kind and loving spirit, and alittle spunk thrown in which I found to be a especially delightful! I have learned a lot from watching Emily play, play wasn't encouraged in our home as a child. I would like to say that being a part of your family has given me a better understanding of what family is and that it's okay to play. As I recently seen Emily with you shopping I was amazed to see how lovely a young woman she had grown to be and thankful to still see that sparkle in her eyes. Gerry and I want you to know that we love you greatly and that many prayers are going up for you. Thank you for your continued message that Our God is Good and that His plan is right and just. Love from The Bookers
The people of the churches of Moose Jaw join in the prayers for you all and we trust that God will bring his justice to bear in this tragedy. May he sustain you in the coming weeks.
Much love,
Susan and Dell
St. Aidan Anglican Church, Moose Jaw
Dear Terry,
The greatest burden in this world is to carry the casket of a beloved daughter. In this time of grief remember hundreds are standing by you and praying for you.
A privelege that we as believers have is that our seperation with our loved one's is brief, we are going to be united again in eternity, and you shall see Emily again. May our Heavenly father comfort you and give you peace that passeth understanding.
Muneer
I recently read your family's story in the Edmonton Sun. My heart and prayers go out to you and your loved ones. We have three little girls ourselves, and I can't imagine the pain that you are going through. Continuing to pray in rural Alberta.
Our prayers are with you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. May the Lord give all of you supernatural strength and peace. May a miracle take place in the midst of the darkness. We are standing with you.....
Dear Pastor Stauffer, Juanita & Family,
Below is a mini-sermon, in hymn form, with good gospel theolgy for such a time as this:
Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side.
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain.
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change, He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake
To guide the future, as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
His voice Who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,
And all is darkened in the vale of tears,
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.
Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay
From His own fullness all He takes away.
Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord.
When disappointment, grief and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past
All safe and blessèd we shall meet at last.
Be still, my soul: begin the song of praise
On earth, believing, to Thy Lord on high;
Acknowledge Him in all thy words and ways,
So shall He view thee with a well pleased eye.
Be still, my soul: the Sun of life divine
Through passing clouds shall but more brightly shine.
~ Katharina A. von Schlegel, 1752
We grieve with you, but not without hope or certainity in Christ our Saviour.
In Christian love,
Howie and Camille Jones & Family,
South Surrey, BC
Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
– 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
To the Stauffer children,
Christians all over the world are praying for your family. In the coming days when you feel so sad about Emily, also remember the many times when the Lord gave you so much fun with your wonderful sister.
Pastor Gordon and Aleta Marchant
Washington, D.C.
My thoughts are with you Terry and family. I pray that Go will bring strength and comfort to you during this time. Emily is now in her true home! Your sisters and brothers in Christ from Perth, Western Australia.
I'm very sorry for the loss of your precious little girl.
My heart aches for your family and friends during this difficult time.
My prayers are with you.
Hi!I heard about the loss of your daughter through the above Rubies Yahoo Group. Know that I sit here and weep with you for your loss.We will be praying for you, for you are a part of our family, the family of Christ.Please see God's hand even in this tragedy. I know that God knew everything thst would happen and that he will use your loss for his glory. Here is a poem,that just describes what's going on. It's called the Tapestry. Corrie Ten Boom used this in her talks all the time.
My life is but a weaving between my God and me,
I do not choose the colors, He works so steadily.
Oft times He weaves in sorrow, and I in foolish pride,
Forget He sees the upper,and I the underside. not until the loom is silent, and the shuttles cease to fly
Will God unroll the canvas, and explain the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful in the Weaver's skillful hand
as the threads of gold and silver He has planned. This is a very difficult time for you all, hold onto Jesus hand and don't pull away or let go, but hold on tight. Love in christ, Lisa & family prayerworks2007@peoplepc.com
Umm you don't know me but my name is autumn and i am living in india!
i just heard on the news of your daughter!i cannot explain how sorry i am for you and your family i have lost a cousin so i know waht it feels like i will be praying for you and your family and i will also be praying for the man who killed your daughter!i hope he will come to his common sense and comfess so that nobody gets caught!
god bless you and your family!
Very sorry to hear about such a shocking loss of your daughter. may the Lord be your everlasting arms at this time.
Miriam London
You do not know me, I heard about your daughters death via email from a friend and my heart goes out to you and your family. Know that people down in Windsor Ontario are praying for you and your church right now.
When the grapes are squeezed, do they produce good wine? (ref My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers Sept 30). Praise God, yes, of ancient vintage.
You are living every parent's worst nightmare. With grace. May our God continue to sustain you and bring a mighty harvest from this precious seed who has fallen to the ground.
We pray and weep and grieve with you.
Paul and Wendy (nee Heaslip) Plant and family, and McLaurin Baptist Church in Grande Prairie
From Victoria--Our hearts ache with yours--the unthinkable happens! Our children played in those woods, we worshipped in the church, we were there with you at Pam McPhee's wedding and the Sunday after. Every day throughout the day I intercede for your family at this excruciating time. How blessed I have been to read your blog entries and affirm with you the realities of gospel theology at such a time as this. We too experienced the love of Edson Baptist Church when our son Justin, then 3 (now 32) fell on his head from playground equipment, and was not expected to live. May "gospel theology" and the love of God's people cushion the days ahead.
Shalom/Cathy (and Dave) Wootton
Grace & peace to you in the name of our risen Lord Jesus Christ.
We send our deepest condolences to you during this difficult time.
We look forward to the time when, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."
Revelation 21:3,4
~The Weinstock Family in South Florida, U.S.A.~
Hello Sir,
I am so grieved by your loss. I do not know you or your family, but belong to that great Church of believers that spans the globe; of those who are, by the grace of God, saved by His sovereignty through the shed blood of Jesus.
I am greatly encouraged by your reliance upon the God you serve. From reading your blog, I see you have a firm reliance upon many splendid Biblical truths and upon the theology that proclaims God sovereign above all things. Indeed, you reminded me by this post, that this world is full of suffering of much pain, but that God never promised anything less. Indeed, Jesus suffered most intensely of all. Our lives, if they are lived for His glory, will mirror that of our Saviour. We sing that song in church, "It is Not Death to Die ..." and I'm glad that you have such hope in regards to your daughter, of whom I have learned from Facebook groups erected in her honor, that she loved the Lord greatly and unashamedly. Be assured that folks from our Church in Blackie Alberta, Sovereign Grace Baptist Church, are praying hard for you and your family even now. And I want to thank you, Sir, for your blog, and also, commend you. For though you suffer (and indeed, I do not know how much, for I cannot fully comprehend the loss of a child), I am encouraged to know that you rest so heavily upon the sovereignty of God in all things; good and unthinkable. I am not sure if you have heard the song, "As Long As You Are Glorified," by Mark Altrogge. It is a song that terrifies me, because I know that God is free to do what he wishes with myself and those I love, but it is comforting, because I want to learn, to love all God's purposes and plans. But this song may be of help to you .... it is one that you cannot sing without serious reflection. Again, many prayers and God's blessing as you prepare to celebrate your daughter, Emily's life. It seems, from what I read of her, that her life has surely touched many for Christ. She has been praised for her joy and love of God. I hope that when I die, that will also be my legacy. What more could you ask for?? The Lord bless and keep you ...
Dearest Juanita and Terry and family,
May you feel and know God's peace during this time of great sorrow and need. May The God of wonders answer the questions of your heart and smooth over the wounds and leave a smooth surface for you all to reflect God's love and grace from. May you not allow your heart to become hardened so that more forgiveness can flow.
May our Savior Jesus Christ comfort you through the revelation of the cross that He bore so that we didn't have to. May the deeper understandings of the cross be revealed to you so that you will no longer mourn but rejoice because your daughter is safe in the tender arms of Christ!She is home and that is where we all long to be!
May God bring you comfort and peace, and love. May He sustain all of you and may He keep you all a loving family with your house secure with the foundation of love and openess for you all to lean on one another and lean on HIM! May GOD BE GLORIFIED in this time of loss. In Jesus Name, Amen.
love a fellow sister in Christ, our family is praying for you.
Stauffer Family,
My heartfelt condolences to you all. This tragedy has not only brought our families closer, but our community. Please know that all of us Edsonites are mourning with you. May the love of GOD surround & comfort you at all times.
We are all praying for you and your family. May God give you the strength and peace you need.
Doug & Stacy Van Beek
Peers, AB
Dear Terry, Juanita,Josh,Petra and Ann.
We cannot begin to understand what you must be going through right now.Our prayers and thoughts are with you.Jenna and Lacey often talked to Emily at Quizzing touraments and will miss her.We are praying that would shower down his love upon you.We know words are never enough.We grieve along with you.love from the Bridges
Praying in Meeker, Colorado.
Dear Pasotr and Family,
As a teenager my heart goes out for what happened to your beloved daughter. A life so beautiful, so tender and dedicated to the Lord has been choked.
I dont know you personally but there is a unity we all have in Christ.
our comfort and peace is in Jesus and the hope that he gives us of meeting our dear one's again. May our heavenly father sustain you and the family in these difficult times.
Mahima email mmoulali@live.ca
I am so so sorry! I will be praying for your family!
My God I am so sorry for this tragic loss. I will be praying for you and for your family.
Dear Stauffer Family,
First let me say how sorry I am that you are going through this trial. Let me assure you that your sweet little Emily can now answer the question to that beautiful song, "I can only imagine" by Mercy Me. May that song lift your hearts as you think of Emily.
Secondly, I was reading the Calgary Sun and I must say you are such a beautiful testimony of what the Christian walk is. May the Lord bless you all for that.
I know I'll never meet you here on here on earth, but I will one day in Heaven.
May the Lord be with you, may His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Your sister in Christ,
T. Carmell
Calgary, AB
Dear Terry and family, just want to let you know that my families thoughts and prayers are with you during this horrible time. Continue to let God comfort you in the days ahead. I knew you At NBTC in our first year and My family is also very good friends with Ian and Sarah. Once again remeber you're in our prayers.
In Christ's love
Mandy Nelson
The Stewart family in Idaho are praying for you all.
-Your family in Christ
We are a family that uses Bridgeway to homeschool. We are located in the Bahamas and run a Christian Sports Camp called Camp Bahamas. I am sorry for your loss and I will be praying for you and your family. This is a sensless act that is tragic on so many levels. Please know that you are being lifted up in prayer from the Bahamas. May God give you strength to lead your family through these tough times. We are truly sorry!
Following The Leader,
Richard Albury, Director CBM
Dear, Sweet, Godly Family,
We wrap you in our prayers and know that HE holds you firmly in HIS grasp. We are Georgia members of Bridgeway Homeschool Academy and our thoughts and prayers don't know the miles between us. Stay strong and faithful and know that you will see Emily again.
Terry, Juanita, Josh, Petra and Ann:
Our connection with you is through the Matychuks, quizzing, homeschooling and the Church of Jesus Christ. You have been everpresent in our thoughts, and hearts from the moment we heard your news Sun. AM. We are working through how this fits with what we believe and we conclude that God is still good and Sovereign.
We're praying that as you run the gamut of emotions and thoughts that such grief must produce, that your wrestling with the Lord will make your faith stronger. We are praying that He will be glorified in this in every way. Meanwhile, we weep with you and wish that by our tears we could take a portion of your pain away.
In Christ,
The Hankins Family, Penhold.
i just wanted to leave you some words of comfort, so you would know that while you may be too weak to stand, we are doing our part, as the body of Christ, to hold you up in prayer. our hearts break with yours as you grieve for your beautiful Emily. to God be the glory.
Dear Stauffer Family,
I heard about your loss through the SoundOfGrace message board. Please know that total strangers (in the family of God) are praying for you as well. May His Peace be your comfort and sustain you through the hard times to come. As you said, Emily was truly a beautiful girl.
Dear Terri and Juanita
Just to let you know that you are remembered by your brothers and sisters at Tofield Mennonite Church. We pray for you and your family remembering our time with you when we lived in Edson and were part of the ministerial with you. Bob and Irene Crosland
I am truly sorry for your loss. I will not attemnpt to convey my compassion and sympothy for your entire family because words cannot begin to describe nor can I imagine the pain you all are in at this moment. I am praying brothers and sisters for you to be granted that peace that passes all understanding that only comes from our Lord and Savior Jesus.
Terry, Juanita & family, our hearts are with you in your great loss of Emily from your side and our prayers along with those of our congregation are ascending to the throne of grace on your behalf. We are thankful to the Lord for the tremendous consolation of the gospel as we remember the death of our blessed Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. May you draw daily comfort from the continuing presence in your lives of our resurrected and triumphant Lord who wept at the grave of Lazarus before He raised him from the dead and then submitted to His Father's will to go to the cross and bring us life and immortality. Love to you in Christ, Ted and Marie Searle and the congregation of First Baptist Church in Dryden.
Dear Pastor Stauffer and family,
We, in the Rebelution forum, mourn with you at the loss of your wonderful daughter, Emily.
Though I don't know her personally, I know she has touched many people's lives in the forum, including mine. If Emily knew she was going to leave us, she would probably quote,
Philippians 1:21
"For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain."
We're continually praying for your family.
Rest assured your daughter is in our Heavenly Father's embrace,
Christin A.
Terry,Juanita and family,
I knew you and your family back in Barriere BC.
I was in complete shock when I saw this tragedy on Tv in Calgary.
My families heart and thoughts are with you all.
I have spoken to some old friends from Barriere and they all send their love to you.I remember Emily as a beautiful baby girl...she touched so many lives even back then.
I wish you peace as you go through this horrible time.
Praying for you,
Simone[Gregoire] and family
My deepest sympathies are to you and your family. I just got the message from Bridgeway Academy via email. The family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Weeping my endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning (Psalm 30:5). God bless you and your family.
Terry & Juanita and family:
It doesn't seem like that long ago, Terry, that you were the pastor at Burnett. I was still quite young but you two did make an impression. I heard the news from Helen the other day and cried for your loss. Please know that you are in my family's prayers at this incredibly difficult time.
Sara Searle (formerly Robinson)
daughter to Stephen & Iris.
Dear Terry, Juanita, and family,
We are so sorry to hear about your loss, and have been praying for you since Chris called us Sun. night. Our school, Lighthouse Christian Academy in Sylvan Lake, AB, has been praying, and also our pastor. May the God of all comfort continue to uphold you and keep you in His tender care.
Love in Christ,
Alice and Terry Burnett,
Rocky Mountain House, AB
I never knew Emily personally, but as a fellow Rebelutionary, we had many things in common. I pray that God would comfort you and your family, especially in a time like this. May He always be your shield. God bless you!
~ Alyssa C.
Our hearts and prayers are with you and Juanita, and your family, may our Big God carry you in this very difficult time, love in Christ,
Steve and Iris Robinson, Pitt Meadows, b.c.
I met sweet Emily only through emails and the Potter's School forum but she was a girl who had the sweetest heart and deeply cared about others... I can't wait to meet her in heaven one day!
Your family is in our prayers...
Dear Stauffer family,
Oh, our hearts are aching for you right now ... and crying out to God to continue to be your ever present source of Comfort, Help, Strength, and Peace.
We are enrolled with Bridgeway Academy's Homeschool program - and they let us know about precious Emily Joy... Please know that you are being prayed for by many of us homeschoolers who are weeping with you.
We are so - so sorry for your loss, and asking and trusting that God will continually hold and uphold you moment by moment (especially in those times of grief when we've found that is difficult to just breathe ... and yet Jesus helps us to go on...)
Emily JOY is now in the Lord's presence where there is fulness of JOY. May this truth fill you with the living hope God has for us.
In the lost of my loved ones, this verse comforted me - and i want to share it with you now, and pray that it comforts you as well:
"Now may the God of all hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13)
He has comforted us ... and we know that He is near comforting you right now - for He is near to the broken hearted ...
Keep casting ALL your cares upon Him, for He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7)
You are in our prayers.
In Jesus' love and grace,
karen koczman (& husband-Pastor Bruce; and children-Josh, Jess, Jeremiah, Jordan)
Pastor John Wilkerson's son, Tyler, went home to be with the Lord recently. I know he would be glad to pray and counsel with you during this difficult time. God greatly gave grace to bless in his situation.
http://www.fbclb.org/tylerwilkerson/
May God keep you in the palm of his hand and carry you thru this time of grief.
Be rest assured that she sleeps with the angels.
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As I read about this tragic event, I felt overwhelmed with sorrow as I think about my own children and how precious each one is to my wife and I, and how difficult it would be to lose any one of them.
Lord, please use this for your glory, and bless the Stauffer family and give them an extra measure of your grace in this difficult time. Lord, please lend them your peace, and remind them of how you lost a son too, but that it was all a part of your good and perfect plan. And as David, speaking of his son said 'I will see him again', they too will see Emily again. Praised be your name! Amen.
your daughter emily is beautiful.
i am from manitoba and have been reading about the hard days you and your precious family are walking through. please know you are often in my prayers. praying for shalom to cover your hearts like a blanket.
with love, ruth bergen
Dear Terry, Juanita, and family:
We were shocked and saddened with this news of Emily's death. We remember you, Terry, when you came to Revelstoke, BC, in the early 1980's as part of a NBTC choir that came to sing at the Baptist church there. We are upholding you in our prayers and trust God will comfort you during these difficult days.
The Rudyk Family
Qualicum Beach, BC
My heart and prayers go out to you in this time of great sorrow.
Remember, "Thou art with you."
Sincerely,
- The Pilgrim
www.DefendingContending.com
I came across the news about your daughter on a sight for homeschooling. I don't know who you are, but it really touched my heart. I am so sorry for your loss & will keep you in my prayers. God bless you!
You are in our prayers from Ontario Canada. My brother was taken from us in the 9/11 attack in New York- It was our faith in God and the love we received and continue to receive from our community that help us deal with this loss. Lean on God and your spiritual family and they/we will support you.
"Eternal rest grant unto Emily, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen."
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Dear Terry, Juanita, Josh, Petra, and Ann,
Our deepest sympathy in your loss of beautiful Emily. We will not be able to attend the funeral, but send our love with my brothers.
Sincere condolences to our dear Aunt Pearl as well.
Doug, Lois, Ross, Abigail, and Sylvie Harrowing
Dear Terry & Family,
I heard about the loss of your dear Emily on Way Of The Master Radio. We weep with you over the loss of your beautiful daughter and pray the Lord will comfort you and your family and stregthen you through this painful time.
Your brother and sisters in Christ,
Leigh, Edel & family
Ireland
I am so sorry. I will be praying for you.
Much Grace and Peace to you.
"He'll wipe each tear-stained eye,
as death and hunger die,
the Lamb becomes the Shepherd King,
we'll reign with Him."
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, 5who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
Timo
Singapore
Dear Stauffers:
I was utterly horrified to just hear of this. You shall be in my prayers.
Michael Haykin
To the entire family of Emily,
Although I do not know you, the passing of your beautiful daughter has touch me in a way I can not describe. I have constantly thought of Emily since I heard the horrific news last weekend.
It is your amazing faith in God which will allow you to carry on each day, knowing that Emily is with the Lord now. May she rest in Peace, and please know that we are all praying for your entire family.
God Bless, Alissa
Dear Stauffer Family,
My stomach aches when I think of what has happened to you and your family, and your precious daughter. I too know the pain of a senseless death. My Brother in law, Silas O'Brien was killed earlier this year in a road rage incident in BC, he was only 21.
The emotions swing like a pendulum, from amazing strenght of the knowledge that your daughter is face to face with Jesus and no harm or disappointment will ever meet her again. Then it swings to anger, questions, and the WHY?! WHY God? Why me, why us?
And then overwhelming peace, and God gently speaks to you and says, because "I love you, and I know you can handle it, because I will take you through". Trials come for our perfection, to reveal the gold in our hearts.
I am praying for you, and may God give you strenght through the weeks and months ahead. When the flowers stop coming, the phone stops ringing and no one wants to talk about it anymore, don't forget there is One who still feels your pain.
May God bless you in the coming days.
J. O'Brien
Dear Terry & Juanita,
Many in the body of Christ who do not know you personally have been struck by your tragedy. While we grieve for you and your family deeply and don't know what to say, there is one thing we know through the Gospel. There is a Father Who knows exactly how you feel, and there is a Son Who knows exactly how Emily felt. They went through their tragedy willingly so that yours and hers will only be temporary! As parents of four homeschooled children, our hearts bleed with you.
In Christ,
Gordon & Karen Pawson
(friends of your friend, Elaine, in Greensburg, PA)
May God watch over you and your Family in this time of sorrow. As the father of a teenage daughter I can only imagine the pain you are feeling.
Our greatest sympathy and heart felt wishes go out to you and your family from my family here in Ontario.
God Bless and keep you all...
We learned of the tragic death of your dear daughter through mutual friends, and we have been deeply grieved for you all. We prayed for your family at our homeschooling co-op on Tuesday. It sounds as though you are being wonderfully upheld by God's abundant grace and this is such a testimony to a watching world. We will continue to pray for you.
The Carlson family
New Jersey
I'm very sorry to hear about Emily's death, but look forward to meeting her, a fellow rebelutionary, in heaven.
God bless you.
Even thought you don't know me as a parent I just wanted to say you are not alone in your grief.
Many of us, strangers and friends, feel for your pain.
I pray that God carries you and your family through this.
NJ in Calgary
May God's mercy and love give your family the comfort you so deeply long for. Our hearts and prayers and tears are with you. We also ask that God will work through the testimony of Emily's faith, and your family's hope and trust in Him, to lead others to Jesus Christ.
The Bosveld Family
Waterdown, Ontario
Dear Terry Juanita, Josh Petra & Ann Also Grandpa and Grandma Hern
Just to let you know we are praying for you here in Sooke. May the God of All Comfort bring you His Peace. He alone can bring you through this time. Our son David died tragically in 1986 and the Lord was our strength and He continues to strengthen us. Much love through our Saviour, Gaye Patterson
Hello,
I'm agnostic and not terribly comfortable with evangelical Christianity, however, where ever Emily is, I hope its a beautiful place. And I also hope that you and your family find comfort in your faith.
Nothing is worse than this...but this is what must be endured. If for nothing else, survive to hold onto her memory.
Terry,
There are no words, none, to convey how sad I am for your loss.
I wish I had more to write...
You're strength during this most tragic time is inspiring.
While I'm not a religious person, I hope with all my heart you get that 'Dance in Heaven' with your daughter.
Steph C,
Toronto
Just want to add that Emily's funeral was one of the most God-honouring funeral I have ever attended. Both, Terry and Emily's grandpa, had a powerfully TRUTHFUL gospel-message to share, that Jesus is alive and so is Emily, and that He is the reason why you are able to walk thru this valley with such strength. May the God of hope and healing and comfort continue to cradle you throughout life's journey, as you raise Josh, Petra and Ann; and, as you continue to serve your ever-loving faithful God.
Blessings,
Ruth
Southgate Alliance, Edmonton
“We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” (Ro 5:3–5)
ruth
SAC,edmonton
My Brother & Sister in Christ!
Though we live miles from you and your family, we are shocked and deeply saddened by this tremendous loss in your lives.
In my prayers today I asked God if He could portion out some of your grief on us that we might help you in a spiritual sense bear this load, it was the only thing I could pray, "God help us in some way to share this grief so the load can be more bearable for our Sister and Brother"
In my church tomorrow morning I will ask my congregation to come to our Altar and pray the same prayer.
May God place His arms around your family and protect you as you try to cope in the next few weeks from this awful attack of evil upon your family. Please be assured of our prayers !
For His Kingdom.
Rev. Ray & Deb Hinchey
Church of the Nazarene
Fredericton, New Brunswick
stauffer family,
i saw your daughter's story on the front of the edmonton sun at work. sad....but yet a joy to see that even the paper portrayed your firm faith in the God of the Bible (and your understanding that proper theology builds a foundation for such times of suffering). I can already see some good in trial, as so many have heard of your faith through this. otherwise i might never have heard of you. May our good God remind you that he walks through you through this "short" time of suffering...as we will shortly be at peace with our Saviour.
Im sorry for your loss. I pray that you find comfort in the sovereignty of God.
May God bless you and keep you and make His face shine upon you. Barbara Challies
I just can not imagine. . .
Our prayers are with you. . .
Hi Terry and family,
I heard the news of your daughter Emily's passing at Challies. I just wanted to add my voice to the others; your God will sustain you all the way through and bring you safely home at the end.
I am praying for you all.
Love,
Jeri Tanner
Dear family Stauffer!
I feel very sad and heartbroken for your lovely daughter Emily when I found our blog in the net, thanks to my sister who lives in Mission, B.C., Canada.
Your daughter Emily was fortunate to have very supportive and loving parents - and now she is in loving arms of our Father in heaven.
I was very comforted for your words and attitude to that horrible moment in your life, too. Whole Finland is in shock for the schools mass slaughters in Jokela last year and in Kauhajoki last month. We here feel the the reason for those desperate deeds of young men are due to carelessness of their fellows, families or the society. They must success but they have no listers for the feelings and anxiety.
I pray for our us that we should see also the anxiety of young children. They very often are incapable to speek or express themselves, boys more than girls.
God bless You and your family!
Helena Tahtinen, Mynamaki, Finland
I'm so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers.
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and my prayers are with you all.
Dear Terry and family,
Pastor Richard Agnew here in Charlottetown, PE, at Grace Baptist Church (Fellowship). Whilst this post might be a little while after Emily's death you have not been forgotten and always remembered in prayer here at Grace. May God continue with you and yours at this time!
I'm praying for you.
The Gruben family in New Mexico, USA has been praying for your family.
Hello... I heard about your blog from Way of the Master Radio and also your story from people here in Drayton Valley. I am the Ass. Pastor at the DV Alliance Church here and all our prayers are with you, your family, congregation and city.
PS This post was such an encouragement for me, it is such a beautiful testimony to Christ in the midst of the trial and pain for your family, congregation and city going through.
I have passed this post onto my blog as well... in hopes to share your story with my readers for encouragement and prayer for you all.
I just wanted to say how deeply sorry I am about the loss of your daughter. My daughter was brutaly murdered last December, so I know your pain, please feel free to contact me. My prayers and deepest sympathy are with you. Susanne
I'm so sorry. I got this by email and am saddened for you. The Lord be with you and bless you with His comfort. May you find peace in Him through this. Praying for your family. Tamara
My thoughts and deepest prayers go out to you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss and pray that God provides you with strength and love in the coming days. I am inspired by your steadfast faith during this time of extreme sadness and turmoil. I know He is holding Emily in His arms.
Kaia Koopmans, Leduc Alberta
Dear family in Christ:
I have been deeply saddened to hear about this tragic news.
May the Lord keep you at this very trying time. Only he can restore peace in your hearts. He is Sovereign and is still on the Throne.
Your baby is now in His presence and we can but go before Him, asking for confort and wisdom for you.
God bless you and keep you.
Just another brother in Christ.
Rubén Sarrión
Dénia. Spain
www.rubensarrion.com
i am praying for you!
My family and I have been praying for your family ever since we heard. We do not personally know you but, as a parent my heart aches for you. May God Continue to provide for your daily needs. In Christ, The Wallen's from PA
My heart goes out to you and your family. As the father of four, I can only imagine the pain of your loss. I pray that God's solace and love will keep you strong and comforted. Take heart in the reality that Emily is comforted in the arms of our wonderful Lord and Savior. Truly, it is not death to die.
Peace,
Ray
praying for you. the hovdestad family
Dear Terry, Juanita, and Family,
I was made aware of Emily's tragedy through Way Of The Master Radio. I am deeply sorry for your loss and am praying earnestly for the Peace of God to keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. It is such an reminder to the rest of us that when tragedy strikes, that it is so important to have our theology well established. God is our only hope and very present help in times of trouble. Know that you are in my prayers and I specifically pray that God's grace and peace will not only guard your hearts and minds, but that many will also be drawn to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. God bless you all!
Dear Juanita,Terry and family. We have been out of the country and just received the tragic news about Emily last njght. Having two grandaugters Emily' s age who Emjly probably knew brings fear to our hearts for such a senseless act,
May our Lord sustain you as you seek His peace and acceptance that only comes from our God.
Our love and prayers are with you all.
David and Ann Heaslip,
We, at Hinton Baptist Church are praying for you. Please know that you will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Pastor and Mrs. Shane Davis
Dear Pastor Stauffer and Family,
I'm a member of a church in Tokyo where this morning before worship we were informed about what has befallen your family, and we are praying for God's healing work in your lives and in the lives of people affected by this in your community. Even amid our tears we joyfully confess that for the Lord's beloved, there is no such thing as an ultimate tragedy. We are glad in the knowledge that Emily is in glory, and we look forward to meeting her someday, at Jesus' feet. We pray that just as Job was ultimately restored and made whole again after enduring suffering beyond his ability to comprehend, God will restore and make whole each and every one of you who have been so deeply hurt through all this. And we pray that if it please our Father to do so, the perpetrator might be quickly apprehended and brought to justice.
Christopher Witmer, member, Mitaka Evangelical Church (CREC), Tokyo
Romans 12:15
I stumbled across this blog and read this tragic story, which made me cry until I could cry no more.
"Sorry" is surely not enough, and doesn't mean much coming from me, a stranger. What I will say, though, is that I am upset for your family but I am envious of Emily, who now sees her Almighty King, Jesus Christ face-to-face.
Truly, for a Christian like Emily, It Is Not Death To Die.
I am from Hamilton and also homeschool my 5 daughters. This story really makes you step back and think appreciate everyday as your reality can change on a dime. Take care.
Bernie M.
Such a beautiful picture of such a beautiful young lady. My prayers are with you all.
Thank you.
Stauffers of kissel hil
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