Hearts of Compassion: A Night of Grief, Love, and God's Presence in Wenatchee, WA

​A few weeks ago, three young girls visiting their father in Wenatchee, WA, tragically never returned home. Their father—now on the run—is suspected in their disappearance and presumed deaths. As the community continues to search for answers, the sorrow and shock remain deep.

Last Friday, a vigil was held to honor the memory of the girls and to support their heartbroken mother. Motivated by compassion and guided by faith, the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) team from Redeemer Lutheran in Spokane Valley traveled more than three hours to be present.

Bill Hager, HMC Ministry Coordinator, reflected on how God led his team for this visit: 

        As we arrived at the outdoor event, unsure of where we should set up, we began unloading the crosses
        from the truck with no contact person to guide us, In that moment of uncertainty, God moved.

        A volunteer—who we later learned was a family member of the girls—approached us, curious about  
       what we were doing. Once we shared our mission, she immediately knew where we needed to be. She
       guided us to a separate area where the public would be entering and leaving messages or gifts for the
       children. There, three tables stood—one for each girl.

        With love, we placed each heart and cross next to the dedicated tables. Throughout the evening, the
       community flowed through, pausing at each table. Many were moved to tears, grateful for something
       on which to write encouraging, personal messages. We watched as young classmates of the girls came
       forward—some shy, some bold—encouraged by their parents to write something meaningful. Adults
       added their voices too, their messages flowing with love, sorrow, and hope. The Holy Spirit, in God’s
       word and in our HMC team members, was present in that space—comforting, stirring, and healing.

       Unbeknownst to us at the time, the girls' mother and grandfather had also come through and quietly
       observed the community signing the hearts. Their silent presence made our offering feel all the more
       meaningful—proof that love and support were reaching them even in their most unimaginable pain.

      One heart had been created especially for the local police department—a symbol of gratitude for the
      officers burdened with the weight of this case. Initially, we struggled to find someone to receive it.  As
      the vigil neared its end, I felt a strong prompting to speak with a sergeant who had wandered near. That
      Spirit-led moment connected me to the incident command center, where I was introduced to the county
      sheriff. After hearing about our ministry and the purpose of the heart, he promised to deliver it to the
      police department's chaplain—ensuring that the law enforcement team would also be supported in
      prayer.

      That evening was filled with deep grief, but also with Christ’s presence. The HMC team was honored to
      join in this community’s heartbreak, and to offer a simple, powerful message: You are not alone. You are
​      loved. And even in darkness, God’s light shines through.

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