On April 14, 2016, British Columbia declared a public health emergency because of the number of opioid-related deaths. At that time, the rate of overdose deaths was 20.4 per 100,000 people. In 2023, the rate of overdose deaths was 45.7 per 100,000. Thousands of our family members, friends and neighbours have died, and we are grieving their loss.
On Sunday, April 13, 2025, at 4 pm, a Service of Remembrance for the victims of the Opioid Crisis will be held at Christ Church Cathedral. In partnership with our neighbours, we will offer prayers, reflection, music and pastoral care.
The space will open at 3:45 pm. We will have spiritual and pastoral support available during and following the service. Please join us to mark the anniversary of this public health crisis, joining our hearts together to remember those we have lost and to say that more must be done.
For this service, please send us the names of loved ones who have died due to the opioid crisis. You can send the names of your loved ones to: reception@thecathedral.ca.