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Statement on the death of Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV

Published on 
February 5, 2025

To the Ismaili Shia Muslim community, and all people of peace,

As we join with many in mourning the death of Prince Karim Aga Khan, I extend on behalf of the Anglican Church of Canada our deepest condolences to his family and to our Ismaili Muslim neighbours here in Canada and all over the world. The loss of such a visionary, compassionate and generous spiritual and philanthropic leader will be deeply felt.

The connections of the Aga Khan to Canada and to our churches have been significant. I think with particularly fond memory to 2013, when he was awarded an honourary Doctor of Sacred Letters degree from Trinity College at the University of Toronto for his decades of service to humanity. I also reflect on the many opportunities that Anglican Christians have had to engage in dialogue and partnership with Ismaili Muslims in cities and communities across this country and opportunities to be inspired by the Aga Khan’s example of commitment to interreligious understanding as a path to justice and peace.

May the faith that inspired His Highness’ extraordinary contributions continue to sustain and guide you in this difficult time. We add our prayers to yours and grieve with you.

[Signed +Anne Germond]
Archbishop Anne Germond
Acting Primate, Anglican Church of Canada

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Acknowledging the land and God’s creation

This acknowledgement is crafted in light of the Principles of Reconciliation by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, as we seek to live faithfully in Christ and in right relationship with all. 

We give thanks to the Creator for this land, its waters, forests and all living beings, and for the abiding presence of Christ among us. From coast to coast to coast, these have been cared for and nurtured by First Nations, Inuit and Métis through countless generations. 

We honour the enduring relationship Indigenous Peoples have cultivated with these lands and waters, and the treaties and agreements that reflect these sacred bonds. We acknowledge the harms caused by colonial expansion, through frameworks like the Doctrine of Discovery and structures like the residential school system. We recognize our past failures as a Church, including disruption of connections to the land and suppression of Indigenous spiritualities. 

Guided by the gospel of Jesus Christ, we confess our need for healing. We commit ourselves to seeking truth, pursuing reconciliation and nurturing harmony with all creation. We place our trust in Christ, through whom all things are reconciled to God. 

May God strengthen us to live faithfully as stewards of the Earth. Let us walk in love, justice and reconciliation, joining in God’s work to restore all creation.