10/16/2026
Our Hearts Are With Bend, Oregon.
Our community is grieving following the heartbreaking tragedy at Silver Rail Elementary School.
We lift up in prayer the families who have lost loved ones, the parents facing unimaginable grief, the children who witnessed this tragedy, and every student, teacher, and community member affected.
In the midst of this heartbreak, The Salvation Army Bend Corps Envoys Alfonso and Luz Juarez stepped forward to serve their community, joining hundreds gathered at a vigil Thursday evening. Through emotional and spiritual care, prayer, and the simple act of offering bottled water, they provided comfort and compassion to neighbors in need.
Envoy Alfonso described a deep heaviness felt throughout
Bend—a community mourning together.
As we face the difficult days ahead, we ask you to join us in praying for the families, the injured, our first responders, and everyone carrying the weight of this tragedy.
May God's presence bring comfort where words fall short, strength for the days ahead, and hope in the midst of heartbreak.
Bend, you are not alone.
We grieve with you, we pray with you,
and we stand beside you.
The Salvation Army Bend & Central Oregon