To Clergy, Religious, & Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Saskatoon:
I join with you all in expressing concern and disappointment regarding the recent news of vandalism at Congregation Agudas Israel Synagogue while members of the community were at worship at Shabbat service.
We join in prayer and solidarity with the Agudas Israel community at this time. I also know that other faith communities and all people of good will of the Saskatoon community and beyond, are united in prayer and solidarity, expressing mutual support, and condemning antisemitism, disrespect and violence against those of a different faith or culture.
As we become increasingly aware of the problem of aggression and violence in our world, let us all continue to commit ourselves to the better way – of promoting peace and right relationship. This involves the ‘personal work’ we must do within our own minds and hearts. On this day in which we commemorate St. Dominic of the 12th century, I recall one of his sayings in relation to how we deal with problematic passion and anger: “A person who governs one’s passions is master of the world. We must either rule them or be ruled by them.”
Earlier this year, Pope Leo XIV quoted Saint Augustine, who urged that we forge an unbreakable bond with peace, so that by cherishing it in our own lives, we would be able to, “… radiate its luminous warmth…” to others. “If you wish to draw others to peace, first have it yourselves; be steadfast in peace yourselves. To inflame others, you must have the flame burning within.”
Let us commit together to resist hate and destructive passion, and be proactive with a response of respect and building right relationship – as a response to this distressing event in our community and the disappointing news of war, conflict, and destruction in our world.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Rev. Mark A. Hagemoen
Aug. 8, 2026 Feast of St. Dominic
