PRESBYTERIAN

ConnectionThe Presbyterian Church in Canada • presbyterian.ca ISSUE 11, FALL 2019 Caring for Creation

Taste of Grace were kept in skeps (upturned straw By the Rev. Ken and Shaunna baskets), which required destruc- MacQuarrie, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian tion of the comb, and sometimes the Church in Thorold, Ont. bees, to harvest the honey. In 1852, L.L. Langstroth, a congregational Our family has been keeping honey- minister in Massachusetts, patented bees since 2015. It has been a rich a system of stacking boxes with re- experience of discovery, growth, movable frames. This innovation al- pain, disappointment, connection, lows a beekeeper to easily check the ecological engagement and wonder. health and condition of a colony and It all began when we were inspired remove honey frames without harm- by a few members of our church ing the bees. who had kept bees in the past. They Do you want to help our important shared their wisdom with us, we pur- pollinators thrive? There are many chased two colonies and were on our things that you can do. Learn not to way! We now manage approximately fear honeybees (they are not inclined 30 colonies located on three different to sting!). Avoid using pesticides on Beekeepers the Rev. Ken and Shaunna MacQuarrie. PHOTO CREDIT: BOB LIDDYCOAT OF THOROLDNEWS.COM properties. your lawn (get to know the beauty of Bees are absolutely amazing! The dandelions). Learn more about hon- queen—the mother of the colony— eybees and natural pollinators. Plant is able to lay more than her own body a pollinator garden at your home or weight in eggs daily. The workers your church. Get to know a beekeep- carry out specialized roles—cleaning er and buy local honey. Perhaps even the hive, caring for the brood, gath- visit an apiary—maybe you’ll be a ering pollen and nectar, storing and beekeeper yourself one day! curing the honey, feeding the popula- The author of Proverbs writes, tion, protecting the hive from preda- “Pleasant words are like a honey- tors and pests, etc. A forging bee will comb, sweetness to the soul and generally fly up to two miles from her health to the body” (Proverbs 16:24). home to gather nectar from flowers. Our experience of bees is that they In her entire life (30 to 45 days) one can teach us much about living a life bee will gather approximately 1/8 of of faith and to be attuned to God’s a teaspoon of honey. Fortunately, a will for us. A day spent in the bee colony has about 80,000 bees, so a yard brings a sense of calm, order good hive can produce many litres of and beauty which is difficult to de- The Rev. Linda Patton-Cowie, beekeeper. Removing bees from a hollow tree. honey in a season. scribe. It’s a taste of grace. The honeybee has been a creature even relies on them to digest her worker doesn’t try to do the drone’s summer, a worker bee may live as of intrigue and esteem for humanity Lessons from food. Queens do not have the same job. I think this is a good reminder for long as 5 to 6 weeks. During the in- throughout history. And bees have glands workers use to digest their us. We can’t do it all—we all have active period in winter, a worker bee found a place of stature within many the Bee Yard food, so her food is predigested and limits. We need other people. Do can live five months or more. What faith traditions. In the Bible, bees and By the Rev. Linda Patton-Cowie, St. Mark’s then fed to her. what you can, and do it well, and this means is that often the bees who honey are attributed with the quali- Presbyterian Church in Orillia, Ont. Before she will lay an egg, the then leave the rest up to others. live during the winter are sustained ties of healing, prosperity, blessing Queen inspects the wax cell to make When we each do well what we by honey provided by the bees that and abundance. And so it is of little Lesson #1: When we each do what sure it has been properly cleaned by can, we make it possible for others lived and worked during the sum- surprise that beekeeping has been a we can, and do it well, we make it the workers. Once satisfied the cell is to do what they can. mer. In the same way, we are often passion of many Christians over the possible for others to do the same clean enough, she lowers her abdo- fed and sustained by those who have generations—especially, it seems, A queen honeybee is constantly at- men into it and lays a single egg. She Lesson #2: There is a time for every gone before us. As we too, by offer- ministers. tended to by a “court” of worker repeats this process with every egg. purpose under heaven ing our love to others, may find that The most commonly used bee bees. These workers feed and groom Bees each have a job, and they The life span of an adult worker bee that love outlives us and strengthens boxes today are called “Langstroth her. Without the constant care of her know what it is. The queen doesn’t varies with the time of the year. When others, even after we are gone. hives.” Prior to their invention, bees attendants, the queen would die. She try to do the worker’s job, and the the colony is active in spring and Continued on page 4

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PM#40614067 of Gratitude 2019 Conscience PRESBYTERIAN 2 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca MESSAGE FROM THE MODERATOR Reconciliation: Meeting Each Other Again

peace in the whole human family and the integrity of all creation. We work toward a church which shares one baptism, celebrates one eucharist and recognizes one ministry. At the same time, we acknowledge that unity is not the same as uniformity and that diver- sity of polity and practice can be faithfully sustained within Christ’s church.” By the Rev. Amanda Currie, Whether we are working on rela- Moderator of 2019 General Assembly tions with other churches from which we have been separated for hun- In Living Faith, we affirm that “The dreds of years, or whether we are church is one. It is one family un- navigating the relationships impacted der God whose purpose it is to unite by current conflicts and debates, rec- all people in Jesus Christ” (7.1.2). onciliation is needed. And yet, we live and minister within “To ‘reconcile’ or bring about ‘rec- Reconciliation has become an we may find that we have a great deal work together across our differences. a church that is divided—separated onciliation’ is to restore harmony often-used word since the formation in common. Non-Indigenous Presbyterians from our siblings in Christ in other or friendship between two entities of the Truth and Reconciliation Com- In relations between Indigenous must also go and meet with their Christian traditions and threatened by formerly divided. In the biblical mission of Canada, and much of the and non-Indigenous peoples in Can- Indigenous neighbours, perhaps be- the possibility of division even within tradition, reconciliation denotes conversation has surrounded what it ada, reconciliation also involves us ginning with those who minister and The Presbyterian Church in Canada the fundamental fact of a restored might mean to achieve reconciliation receiving each other again. Our first worship within our own denomina- over differences and conflicts that relationship, either between human between Indigenous and non-Indige- meetings on this land didn’t go very tion, or perhaps by beginning with we seem unable to resolve. persons, among various elements nous peoples in Canada. well, and we need to acknowledge an Indigenous community that is in In the midst of these challenging in the cosmos, or between humans Literally, reconciliation means “to that. Colonial and paternalistic ideas their local community. They must days, we should remember the state- and God” (Eerdmans Dictionary of meet again.” The Latin “re” means and policies of the settlers harmed get to know each other, discuss life ment made by the 123rd General As- the Bible, p. 1112). again, and “conciliare” refers to a Indigenous communities and fami- and faith together, eat together, pray sembly (1997) on ecumenism. Part Reconciliation is an important con- meeting (like the English word, coun- lies deeply, and sought to wipe out together and look for ways to work of it said: cept beyond the church as well. The cil). In fact, it refers specifically to a Indigenous languages, cultures and together across our different cultures “We recognize the common call- word is used in politics and in ethnic “friendly meeting.” spiritual practices. Lands were sto- and spiritualities. ing in Christ which we share with relations to refer to the restoration In work for Christian unity, recon- len, children were taken away from We may want to consider having all Christians and we seek ways of normal relations between groups, ciliation involves the churches com- parents and Indigenous peoples were some of these meetings and discus- of making visible the unity which or the restoration of mutual respect ing together again. After all, a lot expected to become like “civilized” sions in the format of a talking circle. God has given us. We affirm one between people from different back- has changed since we parted ways. Europeans. There is great wisdom in the Indig- church, one faith, one Lord, shar- grounds. Reconciliation may refer Sometimes our ideas about each I often think of the helpful words of enous practice of sharing in this non- ing in worship, witness and service to the process of winning over hos- other are based on old memories, Cardinal Mercier of Malines, Belgium, hierarchical way that invites each per- to the world. As part of the Church tile people to friendliness. It may be or even on incorrect assumptions or an ecumenical pioneer. Speaking of son to spend more time listening than Universal, we strive to listen to and about settling a quarrel or dispute. Or stereotypes. When we meet again, reconciliation between the churches, speaking, and to share from the heart. learn from one another, to break it can be a matter of bringing things we may discover who the other actu- he suggested that, “In order to unite In the coming months, we will con- down the barriers which divide into agreement or harmony—making ally is, what they believe, how they with one another, we must love one tinue to discuss and discern the way people and to promote justice and things compatible or consistent. worship, what their priorities are, and another. In order to love one another, forward together as a denomination we must know one another. In order addressing same-sex marriage. We to know one another, we must go and will also begin to think about what meet one another.” it means that the 2019 General As- In order for reconciliation to take sembly repudiated the Doctrine of Protecting those who enrich the lives of others place between churches, between Discovery and terra nullius, while factions within our denomination and continuing to live into our 1994 Con- Ecclesiastical is a unique specialist insurance company. Owned by a charitable trust, we are between Indigenous and non-Indige- fession to Indigenous Peoples, re- deeply committed to protecting those who enrich the lives of others and to supporting local nous peoples, I believe that we must sponding to the TRC Calls to Action, and global efforts that help eradicate poverty and improve the conditions of go and come together. That is the and considering our response to the first step toward knowing, loving and Calls to Action with regard to Missing people in need. being united with one another. and Murdered Indigenous Women Presbyterians must make the ef- and Girls. And I hope that Presbyte- Working closely with independent broker partners, we are proud to fort to meet their Orthodox, Catho- rians across Canada will continue to provide customized insurance solutions to registered charities and lic and Evangelical neighbours. Get make connections with other Chris- non-profit organizations across Canada. We are equally proud to to know them, discuss life and faith tian churches to rebuild relationships share the values and ideals of the customers we serve. with them, eat with them, pray with of trust and co-operation with our them, look for ways to work together ecumenical friends. with them. This sounds like a lot of work, Presbyterians with varying views on and it may seem daunting and dif- significant issues like same-sex mar- ficult. Yet, Paul reminds us that it is riage must meet with each other— God “who reconciled us to himself friendly meetings, not debates and through Christ, and has given us the arguments or heated online discus- ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corin- sions. These should be times when thians 5:18). May God lead us to take we get to know each other, discuss some steps toward reconciliation by www.ecclesiastical.ca life and faith together, eat together, going forth and meeting one another, pray together and look for ways to and may God make us one. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 3

MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL SECRETARY ConnectionPRESBYTERIAN Presbyterian Connection is a quarterly newspaper published by the national office of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. Barb Summers: Editor Thank you to all volunteer contributing writers. For submissions, questions and feedback, please email [email protected] or call 1-800-619-7301 ext. 243. ______SUBSCRIPTIONS The Presbyterian Connection newspaper is free of charge to all members and friends of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. For address changes, to subscribe or unsubscribe, please contact the national office or go to presbyterian.ca/connection. ______The Presbyterian Church in Canada 50 Wynford Drive, Toronto, ON M3C 1J7 1-800-619-7301 [email protected] presbyterian.ca The Presbyterian Church in Canada is a community of over 850 congregations in Canada. To find a congregation near you, visit presbyterian.ca/church-finder Moderator of 145th Stormy and Messy Times General Assembly: The Rev. Amanda Currie ______By the Rev. Ian Ross-McDonald, Genesis before humanity is plunged recently ripped through his city leav- world. If the church has been given Life and Mission Agency into a mess—and we have been in ing a mess in its path. The congrega- the mess then we have also been one ever since. And faith, far from tion rose to the challenge of helping given: the Spirit to lead us; the grace Commissioners at this year’s Gen- an inoculation against mess, is rebuild the neighbourhood and city to know how to be and speak and eral Assembly dedicated time to dis- more often than not a catalyst for that had many pre-existing problems what to do when things are messy; cuss their feelings as they wrestled messy circumstances. Abraham’s and inequities related to race and the faith that trusts that the kingdom with the decision to recommend that life was relatively quiet until the day poverty. The congregation’s mantra comes; the hope to move ahead; and Presbyterians Sharing is the ministers be permitted to officiate at God called him. Then Abraham had became “let’s not waste a disaster” the good news to share. Maybe part national church fund that supports same-sex marriages and that people to leave his home (Genesis 12), and they became energized for re- of the mess we think we are in re- the overall mission and ministry of in same-sex marriages be eligible to change his name, raise an unex- newed service, pursued unexplored garding sexuality is the Spirit’s way The Presbyterian Church in Canada. be ordained as elders and ministers. pected child in his old age (Genesis opportunities, exercised old muscles of waking us from our slumbers to The Presbyterian Connection Reactions ranged from a mixture of 17), deal with tensions between his in the service of new missions— pay attention to how we deal with newspaper is funded in part through surprise, confusion, joy, grief, anger wife and his concubine (Genesis 16 they found a new focus. In working each other and to see the reality of gifts to Presbyterians Sharing. and hope. Details for further oppor- and 21), banish one son (Genesis through the mess left by the hurri- what else matters and what resourc- ______tunities to share feelings about these 21) and nearly slaughter the other cane, the congregation came to know es we have been given. recommendations can be found at at God’s direction (Genesis 22). the truth we all have been taught in presbyterian.ca/feedback. That’s messy. The prophet Hosea’s Romans 5, that: “suffering produces PWS&D is the development and During the discussion time, the life was unquestionably messy perseverance; perseverance, charac- Oops! relief agency of The Presbyterian Rev. Paulette Brown said, “Let’s talk when he married and had children ter; and character, hope.” Church in Canada. about what the Holy Spirit was do- with a prostitute at God’s bidding The PCC has been called to minis- In the Summer 2019 edition, the Let- ______ing: maybe the Spirit wants us to be (Hosea 1:2-4). St. Paul’s life was ter in stormy and messy times. There ter to the Editor written by Joshua ADVERTISING in this kind of mess so we can work it supremely well ordered until he was are endless challenges and endless Weresh (p. 13) incorrectly used the Stuart Teather out.” I don’t know all she meant, but blinded by a light and called to min- opportunities for the church to find a word “ironic” when it should have Fenn Company Inc. I do know that we were in a mess at istry; thereafter he was homeless, voice and play its role. We have work said “irenic.” The section should P.O. Box 1060, King City, ON L7B 1B1 Assembly and the PCC will probably shipwrecked, imprisoned, flogged, to do to push open the doors of heal- have read: “…In Jesus’ words, love 1-800-209-4810 ext. 23 be in a bit of mess for a while. And persecuted and endlessly embroiled ing and reconciliation with Indige- your enemies and do good to those [email protected] that’s okay. If we are in uncertain and in conflict. The crisis of Good Friday nous peoples in Canada; to advocate who hate you. If military chaplains difficult times, certainly the Spirit has when God in Christ died and day for persecuted peoples around the truly refuse to bless or endorse war, The national office of The led us into them, certainly the Spirit turned to night, the earth quaked, world; to push for change in a society it seems clear that such irenic ad- Presbyterian Church in Canada is is abiding with us in them and cer- rocks split and the dead walked is an that silently tolerated more than 600 vice to those in charge should form on the traditional territory of the tainly the Spirit will work resolution existential mess on a cosmic scale. missing and murdered Indigenous a large part of their care, and, for the Huron-Wendat, Petun, Seneca and, among us. Messes that, by grace, God works women in this country; to minister laity, such advice should be coupled most recently, the Mississaugas of Life in the Spirit is no defence to redeem are part of church life and and be the church in a changing and with a refusal not only to fight but the Credit Indigenous peoples. against difficulty: people of faith wanting a pure church, therefore, is tricky context; to help heal creation also to pay any taxes that are spent are called to unrest and the his- wanting no church at all. that is in crisis; and to speak amid on national defence, which should be tory of faith and church has always A friend of mine serves in a con- the dangerous rise of nationalism, directed instead toward a conscien- been more than a little messy. We gregation in a region of USA often racism, religious persecution and tious-objectors’ fund.” Our apologies barely get into the second chapter of ravaged by wild storms. A hurricane extremism at home and around the for this error. PRESBYTERIAN 4 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca LEADERSHIP People You Wish Would Never Die

By the Rev. John Congram mental handicaps. his very presence. This may sound problem in our world. Would govern- former editor of the As a result of this experience Vanier blasphemous, but it was almost as if ments spend less money on ways to Presbyterian Record magazine invited two men who had been insti- Jesus had been reincarnated in our keep people out and more on ways to tutionalized to come and live with him midst. help them? Would we in Canada still As you move through life you meet in Trosly-Breuil, France. This became Vanier was a deeply religious man. complain about the relatively small people you feel live too long. When the basis of what we know as the first His writings are filled with references number of refugees who cross our I was a minister of a church, if I was L’Arche community where people to the Bible and to Jesus. His foun- border? to be perfectly honest, I sometimes with disabilities live with those who dational belief was that every human And then there is the recent report thought, but never articulated, that a care for them. Vanier believed that being is valuable whatever their con- of the National Inquiry into Missing few well-timed deaths in the congre- people with disabilities could be our dition. In that conviction, he reflects and Murdered Indigenous Women gation would make my life easier and teachers rather than being seen as Jesus’ own basis for living in com- and Girls. We seem more interested the work of the congregation more ef- burdens to society. Today there are munity. But I wonder if we are willing in whether this should be described fective. On the other hand, you meet L’Arche communities in 37 countries. or able to maintain this conviction in as a genocide rather than addressing people you wish would never die. I met Vanier only once when he society today, let alone in our own our failure to take these women seri- For me, one of the latter was Jean visited the L’Arche community in lives. We have trouble implementing ously. Too often society in general, Vanier. On May 7 of this year, Jean Richmond Hill, Ont. It had a lasting this belief, Vanier claims in his book including the police, viewed them Vanier died at the age of 90. He was effect on me. Although he was over Be Not Afraid, because as he puts primarily as drug users, prostitutes the son of Georges Vanier a former an hour late, the excitement and an- it, in the “normal” there is so much or alcoholics rather than as people Governor General of Canada. Jean ticipation of the crowd remained at fear. “We have so much fear of one of value. Vanier served in the Canadian navy a high level. Apparently being late another; we are afraid of meeting.” I The last word I reserve for Vanier during the 1950s. Becoming dissat- was not unusual for Vanier, who had cannot help but wonder whether it is himself from the well-worn pages of isfied he resigned and went to France constant demands on his time. And Jean Vanier, Canadian Catholic philoso- this fear that keeps us from resolving my copy of his book, Be Not Afraid. where he studied and taught philoso- those who waited were not disap- pher, theologian and humanitarian who some of the so-called “big issues” “But we can [still] say with hope, with phy. In France he became a friend pointed. It is difficult to describe his died May 7, 2019. we’ve been wrestling with for years confidence, with trust, Come, come of a Roman Catholic priest named effect on the community as his pres- in the church. Lord Jesus. And he will answer, Yes Thomas Philippe and through that ence seemed to embrace the room worn casual clothes, moving slowly I wonder too how Vanier’s basic I am coming soon. Yes, I am coming friendship became aware of many while he also embraced the residents among the welcoming throng, af- conviction might impinge on our at- for you who are yearning for love. Be people institutionalized with develop- individually. He appeared in well- firming the worth of each person by titudes regarding the huge refugee not afraid to love.” FEATURE (cont’d) It’s important to plan for change

Continued from page 1

As the scriptures say—there is a belong to each other in discovering ny. They plan ahead! time for every purpose under heaven. and living out our vocation fully. Sometimes, after realizing that we We may want to do what we’ve al- need a change, we’ll also start again. ways done, but maybe the time has Lesson #4: It can be good to get a We will bring some of the things come to do something new. Our fo- fresh start we’ve learned along with us and we cus changes as we grow. When a colony grows too big, and will do some things in a new way. there are too many bees for the hive, And that’s okay. It can be good to get Lesson #3: We belong to one an- the colony usually splits into two a fresh start. But it’s also important other and communication is critical halves. The old queen will leave and to plan for change. Bees communicate with what is take a big part of the existing popu- called the “waggle dance.” We’ve lation with her. This is also known Lesson #5: Sometimes we all need known for a long time that bees are as swarming. Having found a new to be fed master communicators. They’re not location, scout bees will lead the Beekeepers need to leave enough afraid to share with others when homeless colony there. They wait honey in the hives for their bees to they’ve found something good— for unanimity among the bees when live on, especially throughout the something that can benefit them all. they choose their new home—they winter. The bees need it in order to They don’t hoard new-found treasure choose it together. Before the bees survive. We need to acknowledge our for themselves. swarm, however, the original colony need to be fed, too. An empty ves- Communication is so important to will produce several queen cells— sel can’t offer sustenance to anyone us, too. So keep talking—claim your and the larvae will be fed only royal else—so don’t forget to refill your space, guide others. We are bound jelly. That way, when the swarm resources. Read scripture, pray and together on this journey. One bee is takes flight, there will be a new queen worship, and care for the gift that no bee; one person is no person. We to keep populating the original colo- God made you to be to the world. A queen bee laying eggs.

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By the Rev. Daniel Cho, St. Mark’s Pres- of mass killings that have targeted byterian Church in Toronto, Ont., and specific groups, whether based on Moderator of the 2018 General Assembly race, ethnicity, cultural background, religion, geographical origin or sexu- On May 2, 2019, the Rev. Daniel Cho, al identity. Often, the perpetrators of Moderator of the 2018 General As- this violence have been radicalized sembly, was invited to speak before by online influences or have discov- the House of Commons Standing ered a like-minded online community Committee on Justice and Human and through it find validation for their Rights on behalf of Presbyterians. A specific personal bigotry and hatred. portion of his testimony is below. Sadly, it is not difficult to countenance the cruel reality of religious, racial Daniel Cho testified before the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights As Moderator of The Presbyterian and gender prejudices. Racism, sex- on May 2. Church in Canada, I represent many ism, anti-Semitism, xenophobia, Canadians of all cultures and back- Islamophobia and homophobia can or suffer from a form of mental ill- grounds who hold deep faith to help gain momentum through online plat- ness, that are susceptible to commit The Rev. Daniel Cho with David Matas, shape a better world for all. On their forms that recruit and incite others. Presbyterians such crimes. This might very well be Canada’s highly acclaimed international behalf, I express gratitude to this But if we consider for a moment true. But let us consider one point in human rights lawyer and professor. committee for the opportunity to the brazen van attack in Toronto last have a deep a statement made by this committee contribute to the discussion of online spring that resulted in 10 deaths and regarding the statistics of the rise in hate. 16 badly injured, mostly women, it commitment hate-related conduct: “…non-violent As members of The Presbyterian raises an important question: Who crimes such as public incitement of Church in Canada, we have as our would have thought there existed a to help shape a hatred played a greater role in the core values care, love and respect fringe cyber community of misogy- increase than violent hate crimes.” It for our neighbours. We hold to an nists bonded together by their col- better world for shows then that people in general are unwavering commitment to work for lective and explicit disdain of women more emboldened to act and speak just causes and outcomes and affirm because of social and sexual rejec- all. out about their particular bigoted the inherent dignity of all people. In tion? It is deeply troubling that online views at an alarmingly higher rate this regard we enjoy a special rela- hate and the incitement to violence than doing so through violent acts. tionship and partnership with many are so exacting in their allure and and affiliations. Some cases involved The Internet can often act as an open of our faith-based groups in our resonance. In virtually all these hate pre-existing mental health issues. door for the enticement of hate. The common vision to foster compas- crimes reported in the North Ameri- This might lead us to the conclu- very fact that there are others online sion and understanding toward one can media, we have come to learn sion that it is those individuals who who also share the same hate is what The Rev. Daniel Cho with Dave MacKenzie, another. We have all been alarmed that the perpetrators were, to some hold extreme, bigoted views, and gives it a perceived legitimacy. MP from Oxford County and an by recent events around the world degree, influenced by online activity who have a propensity for violence enthusiastic Presbyterian. Incivility: Time to Break the Habit?

By Allen Macartney, Gloucester Presby- as we want them to do to us. Like they start liking us. terian Church in Ottawa, reproduced it or not, we are obliged to show Listening skills are weak today. with permission from SPUR Ottawa respectful self-restraint. This isn’t a Our culture glories in assertiveness. Magazine weak form of sentimentalism. This provides opportunities. If people No one could accuse Dr. Martin knew Christians as a listening, gentle “What’s wrong with you!! What an Luther King of lacking passion. Yet people, not easily slighted and of- incredibly &%#$&* idea! You’ve got he used non-violent respectful words fended, would that bring honour to the IQ of a hubcap!” that didn’t vilify others. Even when God? We don’t have to drive the full Welcome to the 21st Century. they were beating him with a club speed limit. We can ease off slightly. Ours is a highly competitive culture and releasing attack dogs against (Full disclosure: I personally find this too frequently seasoned with hostil- him, his Christian witness shone. very hard!) ity and disrespect. Shielded by the Change didn’t come immediately, but So what can we do to breathe Internet’s anonymity, many bloggers people soon noticed. some balance into a raw conversa- vent anger by launching unrestrained Not all ideas are equal, balanced tion? What are some de-escalating warfare using sneering words meant and right. Some people are simply strategies? Try speaking a little bit to humiliate, demean and insult those wrong. But here’s the point: ideas quieter and slower than the other who disagree. Wired on double cap- Facebook, e-mails and text mes- a toxic, arrogant way. might not be equal, but people are. person. Adopt a measured approach, puccinos and high-octane energy sages, most people have few or poor If we’re only pleasant and reasona- We can disagree strongly, even pas- pausing. Listen actively. Refuse— drinks, we’re like a society of ramped- communication skills. Plus, we’re all ble with those who agree with us, are sionately, without attacking in an actually refuse—to interrupt. up, tuned-out, adrenaline-charged too stressed out. The result: a fever- we any better than the society around insulting, demeaning or humiliating We don’t have to become willing hamsters running madly around our ish escalation of incivility and pro- us? Mercy and love must temper our way. The core of civility means liv- doormats. If someone starts loudly cage. Restaurants boast, “In and out vocative attacks that often spiral out words and tone. Discussion doesn’t ing in peace with others despite deep ranting, it’s time to simply walk away, in 15 minutes or it’s free!” One-minute of control. need to become an adversarial bat- differences. hang up or sign off. bedtime stories now condense an en- Even some Christians readily tle of egos where the most acerbic Russian KGB secret police recruit- We’re called to be counter-cultural. tire 19th classic into a quick, hit-and- adopt an insulting, biting tone with person dominates the other. ers used to train their spies to be That requires discipline. It also might run, 60-second sound bite—perfect those who disagree on hot-button The Gospel of James tells us to great listeners. The reason: everyone be creative and fun. Let’s look for it. for busy parents. topics like abortion, same-sex rela- be “quick to listen, slow to speak wants to talk, and no one wants to In this era of road rage, air rage and Ironically, in this age of 24/7 com- tionships and assisted suicide. Truth and slow to become angry” (James listen. The moment we really listen shopping cart rage, let’s be utterly munication, news streams, tweets, matters but not when it’s delivered in 1:19). Jesus told us to do to others actively to someone, unconsciously, outrageous. PRESBYTERIAN 6 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca LEADERSHIP (cont’d)

Enthusiastic participants of the May 2019 Cyclical PCC meeting. Church Planting with Cyclical PCC

By the Rev. Steve Filyk, St. Andrew’s included a full schedule of worship, community around a single per- Cyclical communicates a foun- will emerge in the church nascent Presbyterian Church in Kamloops, B.C. presentations, discussions and time son which makes it vulnerable to dational belief that when God is community that is being formed. for building relationships. Topics ad- their eventual departure shaping a people, God brings I should note that significant time At our November 2018 presbytery dressed included: widening our un- All of these models tend to ignore together a team of leaders with was spent on Gallup’s StrengthsFinder meeting, it was proposed that the derstanding of mission, widening our the context (a place in which God is various gifts, skills, abilities that tool (completed in advance), not as a presbytery investigate the possibility understanding of church, coaching, already working) and discount the will be used collectively for this means of determining who is suitable of planting new churches within our spiritual practices, identifying and involvement of everyday Christians task for church-planting, but as a means of bounds and discover expertise for building on our strengths, going from (through whom God desires to work). What is clear is that church plant- self-awareness for those who intend this venture. Through conversations nothing to something. Throughout the conference, we ing according to Cyclical PCC is not to go into this work, so that they might with colleagues in the Presbytery of At the outset we were asked to discussed priorities for starting mis- a program that you purchase off the know what strengths can be leveraged Westminster I became aware of an consider the current and past models sional communities. These include shelf, to be used on an unsuspect- and where they will need the input and initiative called Cyclical PCC. of church-planting to assess their li- the following (which can also be ing audience by a solitary church assistance of others. Cyclical PCC is a new church- abilities. Below is a short summary found in Starting Missional Church- professional. Rather, it involves ac- It was extremely encouraging to at- planting support initiative within the that was shared (and can be found es: Life with God in the Neighbor- tive discernment and involvement tend this Spring Gathering and learn PCC that, in partnership with Cyclical in Starting Missional Churches: Life hood, beginning on p. 37): within communities by people who more about Cyclical PCC. It is clear Inc., affiliated with the PC(USA), is de- with God in the Neighborhood by • Priority on discerning God’s believe that they are called to this not just that people in the PCC are in- signed to encourage presbyteries and Mark Branson and Nicholas Warnes, activity—it is foundational that work. If a church professional is to terested in starting new worshipping leaders within our denomination to beginning on p. 14): God is already at work in the be employed it seems that their role communities, but that such commu- take first steps toward beginning new • Suburban sprawl (build in grow- neighborhood and it is our task is to facilitate (rather than direct) the nities are already beginning, and that worshipping communities. In Cyclical ing areas)—this tends to deliver to discover what God is doing process of a larger group discover- there is a growing interest to take PCC, participants are led through a predetermined goods without as- and how to join in this work ing the mission to which they have part in this work. For those who have three-step process of discerning call suming what the Spirit is doing; • Priority on the neighbour as a been called and to support them in consistently heard that it is fall/winter and vision, taking initial steps toward success is rarely transferable subject—rather than assum- this work. in the life of the PCC, I saw distinct living out the vision and establishing a • Protestant splitting (building ing we know what the neighbor Discerning who might comprise signs of springtime. I would humbly sustainable new ministry. a community out of refugees needs and treating them like ob- the team that is creating a new wor- suggest that ministry committees and I reached out to Cyclical PCC about from other churches)—pri- jects or targets, we are invited to shipping community is also crucial. presbyteries, in their desire to start the possibility of learning more about oritizes consumer preference join into life with them in mutual A number of times throughout the new worshipping communities, begin this initiative as an observer, rather over God’s mission and makes relationships week, it was underscored that the by engaging in prayer, asking God to than a participant, with explicit inten- discontent foundational in the • Priority on boundary crossing— church’s DNA tends to reflect that of point out to them the work that God tions of starting a new worshipping church DNA starting new worshipping com- its founder(s). That is, if you gather wants accomplished, and to help us community. After some discussion • Expert strategies (calling in the munities demands a willingness a group of Caucasian male Christian find those very people among them among Cyclical leaders, I was invited church consultant)—misses to move outside our boundaries seniors to be a foundational leadership who God is calling to this task. I would to attend their Spring Gathering. At unique characteristics of the of what is safe and familiar and group, it is very likely that the commu- also suggest that, if establishing new our last presbytery meeting I was mission context, objectivizes the engage those who may be dif- nity that is formed will have a striking worshipping communities is a priority, granted the permission and the funds context, and undervalues the ac- ferent in terms of age, ethnicity resemblance to this team. Similarly, if congregations consider engaging the to attend the May 13–16 event. tive participation of the church or socio-economic differences the group has a culture of generosity Cyclical PCC program. The Spring Gathering brought community (among others) versus a culture of tightfistedness, it To learn more about Cyclical PCC, together over 40 participants and • Charismatic figure—builds the • Priority on plural leadership— is very likely that this cultural element visit presbyterian.ca/cyclicalpcc PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca FALL 2019 7 ConnectionPRES CON-HALF-V-2019-SEP.qxp_Layout 1 2019-07-23 9:04 AM Page 1 LEADERSHIP (cont’d) Small Church Your Future Having a is Big Impact GREEN

By Canadian Ministries Another need identified in the community came from Janeway Small churches can have a big mis- Children’s Hospital in St. John’s and sional impact. In the rural town of their own local hospital. There was a Grand Falls-Windsor in Newfound- shortage of knitted caps, mitts and land, members of St. Matthew’s blankets for babies. Two meetings of Presbyterian Church have been re- the Thistle Club later, there were 57 sponding to promptings by God to hats and pairs of mitts as well as 32 connect more intentionally with their incubator blankets that were ready local community. for delivery to the hospitals. This was It began with just a few small a project that not only St. Matthew’s steps. The first initiative was to place got on board for, but also friends of a Food Bank donation box in the front the congregation. entrance of the church. Soon, the box The Thistle Club did not stop at was overflowing, and the congrega- reaching out to service organizations. tion realized they would need a group They also wrote to other Christian to take the lead on their community women’s groups, offering to support outreach. outreach events they were planning. This resulted in the rebirth of the They were quickly taken up on their No minimum order • FREE shipping Thistle Club, a women’s group that offer of help and are now planning an FREE sales supplies • No up-front cost • All products guaranteed had dismantled eight years before. ecumenical project with a neighbour- Expert help every step of the way Passionate about this new vision, the ing church this summer. members got down to business and This story confirms that all con- For the last 40 seasons, schools and organizations across Canada have raised brainstormed ideas for more com- gregations, regardless of size, have millions & millions of dollars through our fundraising program. One of the main munity outreach projects. At first, the ability to impact their communi- their conversations centred on what ties. Taking the first steps in response reasons for this great success is the fact that there is no risk and no up-front costs could be done in the congregational to God’s missional call led St. Mat- to the participating organizations… what could be better? context, but soon they began imagin- thew’s to a renewed sense of excite- ing what could happen if they part- ment, purpose and connection to nered with local community service neighbours. What first steps might organizations. God be calling your congregation to In a discussion with the Salvation take? Are there organizations in your Army Community and Family Ser- community that you could partner vices Coordinator, it was determined with to respond to a local need? If that a supply of socks and underwear nothing is coming to mind, take time was required for adults in need. The to pray and ask God where your con- Thistle Club decided to create a Com- gregation could serve. Click or call today to receive your FREE Information Kit & Supplies munity Clothesline in their sanctuary. Canadian Ministries would be hap- It wasn’t very long after the clothesline py to talk to you about ways to reach was constructed in the sanctuary that out to your community. Please email www.Veseys.com/fundraising • 1-800-363-7333 it was filled with new socks and un- canadianministries@presbyterian. derwear donated by the congregation. ca or call 1-800-619-7301. PRESBYTERIAN 8 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca PLANNED GIVING The Tale of the Westcoast Scot

By Jim MacDonald, Development Man- went home with their hopes dashed. as a “single life”—for one person, ager for Stewardship & Planned Giving, However, somehow the homeown- or “joint life”—covering the lives of part-time M.Div. student at Knox Col- ers had taken a liking to Graeme both spouses or siblings. At the end lege, and elder at St. Paul’s Presbyte- and Lorna and allowed them to buy of your life (or both lives, in the case rian Church, Vaughan, Ont. the house. By scrimping and sav- of a joint annuity), the remainder of ing, they had the mortgage paid off the gift annuity capital becomes an In my job, I have the great privilege of in just four years. It was only then immediate gift for the church, avoid- meeting people who want to support that they finally decided to buy their ing probate and other fees associ- the work of the church with the gifts first car. Lorna and her husband were ated at estate time. God has given them. I am inspired by committed to staying out of debt, be- Lorna purchased joint annuities, their stories, as I see how their gift is lieving that was the only way to get so Graeme’s financial future would an extension of how they have lived ahead. be secure if she should pass away their lives. After one such conversa- The family kept saving and invest- before him, and he wouldn’t have to tion with a wonderful woman in B.C., ing. Lorna’s portfolio had its peaks worry about managing a “big mess receives income from an annuity) (For larger annuities, payments can I asked if I could share her story with and valleys over the years and took of investments.” And if he passed when they obtain the annuity.” (see be received monthly.) Lorna has you. She kindly agreed but asked if a particularly bad hit in the early ’80s away before her, she would also re- examples in box below) identified a number of beneficiar- I would keep her name anonymous, when interest rates surpassed 20% ceive the income. In the first annuity When you purchase a PCC Chari- ies for her annuities, including her so I’ve changed the names in the but, whenever her investments went they acquired, Lorna made her con- table Gift Annuity, you can desig- congregation, PWS&D’s Loaves and story below. Here is her story: badly, Lorna took it in stride. She gregation the beneficiary of the funds nate the Presbyterian ministry that Fishes Fund and the Norman Patter- Way back in 1956, Lorna travelled says, when the going gets tough, “you remaining in the annuity after they will receive the funds remaining in son Fund for Ministerial Assistance. halfway around the world in pursuit just get on with it.” Over time, through die. In this way, should Graeme and the annuity after your death, or the Lorna finished off by saying, “I’m of a dream. Her husband, Graeme, Lorna’s wise management, the fam- Lorna both pass away, the income deaths of both annuitants in the case happy to recommend guaranteed was in B.C. and waiting for Lorna and ily came out ahead financially, and for would ease the church’s adjustment of a joint annuity. For example, you lifetime income through the annuities their three children to join him there. that, Lorna is very grateful to God. to the loss of their family’s annual might choose Presbyterians Sharing, offered by The Presbyterian Church She left the Highlands of Scotland for In later years, Lorna had two grow- giving. According to Lorna, she had Presbyterian World Service & Devel- in Canada, and trust that many will the mountains of B.C. with a hundred ing concerns. First, Graeme was a found the perfect “two birds with one opment, PCC camps or theological find it as helpful as we have. May dollars in her purse and three wee solid provider who kept the same job stone solution.” colleges and, of course, your con- God bless you all.” ones in tow. They sailed from Liv- for 35 years, but he didn’t care much gregation. The Presbyterian Church I want to thank the “Westcoast erpool to Halifax and then traversed for managing money. Since Lorna had Are You Concerned About in Canada will ensure the funds are Scot” for allowing me to share her Canada by train. In those days, chil- made a career of financial manage- Outliving Your Income? distributed as designated. story and her good advice. And dren took the train for free, but only ment, Graeme’s lack of interest was As an expert in finance, Lorna ex- Lorna explains, “I started pur- please, if you do happen to guess if they slept in the same berth as just fine. However, it also meant that, plained, “One way to ensure a guar- chasing annuities several years ago, who Lorna and Graeme really are, their parent! Caring for three children, if anything should happen to Lorna, anteed income for life is to purchase buying $10,000 to $15,000 on an please don’t tell them or anyone else! it was a difficult journey, not least Graeme would not have the skill set to a Charitable Gift Annuity from The annual basis, and it is amazing how For a no-obligation, personal and because disposable diapers hadn’t manage a complex portfolio. Presbyterian Church in Canada. It it builds up to a substantial guar- confidential quote on Charitable Gift been invented yet. Remembering Lorna was also worried about her also gives the benefit of a Charita- anteed income. Income can be re- Annuities from The Presbyterian fondly, Lorna told me, “Being from local Presbyterian church. Because ble Donation Income Tax receipt for ceived semi-annually, which for us Church in Canada, you can reach the Highlands, we didn’t expect any- they had been blessed with financial part of the total value (at least 20% comes in handy because our prop- Maggie Leung at the Stewardship & one to take care of us—we just got success, her family’s offerings rep- of the gift). The guaranteed income erty taxes are due on July 2, and the Planned Giving office by phone at on with it.” By the time they arrived, resented a significant percentage of is often tax free, depending upon the payment is deposited into my bank 1-800-619-7301, ext. 239 or email Graeme had landed a full-time job the annual gifts received by her con- age of the annuitant (the person who account promptly on the due date.” [email protected]. and had just found a rented house for gregation. Should something happen the family on the previous day. Lorna to Lorna and Graeme, the loss of rev- was grateful to God for bringing her enue would have a serious impact on family safely to their new home. the church’s finances. Lorna needed Charitable Gift Annuities Lorna realized that she would also to find a solution: an investment that need to work and soon found a job would lessen the impact of her unex- Here are a few examples: doing clerical work. Graeme worked pected departure on her family and Joint Annuity: Female 65, Male 69 Annual income $1,922.29 (taxable portion $311.61) nights, while Lorna worked days. The her church. But what could that solu- $50,000.00 Charitable Donation $10,000.00 family lived on his wages and saved tion be? her salary, gathering together a down Lorna realized that she could solve payment to buy a home. Graeme en- both problems by purchasing joint Single Annuity: Female 70 Annual income $1,191.04 (taxable portion $81.25) couraged Lorna to sign up for spe- Charitable Gift Annuities from The $25,000.00 Charitable Donation $5,000.00 cialized training that was offered by Presbyterian Church in Canada. This her employer. Over five years, Lorna unique planned gift mechanism pro- Joint Annuity: Female 75, Male 78 Annual income $4,911.50 (taxable portion $242.16) studied part-time and earned a pro- vides an income to the donors for $100,000.00 Charitable Donation $22,584.39 fessional designation. She then had the rest of their lives and, when they more income and more responsibility. both die and the income is no longer Note: These quotes were valid until July 2, 2019, and rates may vary depending on when a quote is After years of saving, Graeme and needed, the balance in the account obtained. Minimum amount of Annuity is $10,000. Minimum age is 55. The Presbyterian Church in Lorna had an opportunity to buy a goes to the designated beneficiary: Canada is a member in good standing of the Canadian Charitable Annuity Association and adheres beautiful bungalow with a gorgeous any ministry or congregation in The to the standards and ethics required of members. The Association carefully sets recommended view. The asking price? Sixteen thou- Presbyterian Church in Canada. The annuity rates based on a professional actuarial firm’s calculations and assumptions. Everyone is sand dollars. They only had $3,500 income from an annuity is predicta- for the down payment and another ble, lasts a lifetime and is easy to un- encouraged to seek independent financial advice before obtaining a gift annuity. couple was offering $4,500. They derstand. Annuities can be obtained PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 9 PRESBYTERIANS SHARING An Attitude of Gratitude

Youth in Mission, Guatemala

Proclaiming the love of Jesus Christ

Heather and the Finlay/Chappell/Lambie clan, Thanksgiving circa 1982.

By Heather Chappell, Stewardship & ful: gratitude begets gratitude! And I am grateful for all of the good Your gifts put faith into action Planned Giving A number of years ago, I spoke work that is being done. with a woman on the phone and In Thessalonians 5:18, Paul writes, in Canada and around the world. As Thanksgiving approaches, I find answered some questions she had “Give thanks in all circumstances; for myself thinking about gratitude. about stewardship and the ministry this is the will of God in Christ Jesus When I was young, my family of the PCC. A few days later, I re- for you.” God is the giver of all good would sit around the big Thanksgiv- ceived a note in the mail, thanking me gifts. Yet in the midst of the struggles Donate through your congregation ing harvest table, enveloped by the for my work and letting me know that and stresses of our daily lives, we or online at presbyterian.ca/donate good smells of turkey and gravy I was making a difference. It was a don’t always feel like we have the time and apple pie, and each of us would simple gesture, but it meant so much to express thanks to God for all that name something we were grateful for. to me that she had taken the time to we have been given. Pausing to focus YES, I WANT TO SUPPORT Presbyterians Sharing It was always difficult to choose just write. It literally brought tears to my on God and our many blessings gives • As a monthly donor for $______/month one thing: family, friends, health, mu- eyes. I pinned that note to my bulle- us time to breathe, to be still and to • With a one-time donation of $ ______sic, colourful leaves, Bear (our dog). tin board where it remained for many be refreshed. Which makes us better I usually ended up choosing family. It years. Saying thank you is powerful. equipped to cope with the obstacles Please provide the following credit card information: was uplifting to hear the answers my And it is a gift. we face along life’s journey. Visa ® Mastercard ® parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles Working in the Stewardship & I am grateful for so much. It’s a Credit card #: ______and siblings gave. It was a good ex- Planned Giving department at the long list that grows longer as each ercise in counting our blessings. PCC’s national office, I have the year passes. And I include you in that Expiry date:______Many people keep a gratitude jour- privilege of witnessing the continuous list—my Presbyterian family. Thank Name on card:______nal, writing down something they generosity of Presbyterians across you for sharing your prayers, your Signature:______are thankful for each day. Eventually, Canada who give to the mission and gifts, your time, your talents. Thank gratitude becomes a habit. When we ministry of our church. I also have the you for making a difference, and for Address: ______deliberately cultivate gratitude, it can privilege of witnessing the many ways shining Christ’s light in the world. Phone #:______Email:______make us feel more positive, optimis- these gifts are changing people’s This Thanksgiving, I will once tic and compassionate. It can deepen lives. Over the past few weeks I have again gather with my family around 50 Wynford Dr., Toronto, ON M3C 1J7 • 1-800-619-7301 our relationships and increase pro- been reading reports from the minis- the harvest table and sing our tra- ductivity. It can improve both mental tries that receive support through gifts ditional Finlay Family Grace (also and physical health and motivate us to Presbyterians Sharing. There are known as Johnny Appleseed). We to make positive changes in our lives. so many inspiring stories—many of will count our many blessings. And presbyterian.ca And it can make us even more grate- which fill the pages of this newspaper. we will be thankful. PRESBYTERIAN 10 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2019

The 145th General Assembly of that will be applied as work by the The Presbyterian Church in Canada church proceeds. Presbyteries will took place from June 2 to 6, 2019, vote on the recommendations and if at Wilfrid Laurier University in Wa- a majority is reached, the 2020 Gen- terloo, Ont. Opening worship at St. eral Assembly may pass the recom- Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in mendations into the law and policy Kitchener, Ont., was led by the Rev. of the church. To submit feedback Daniel Cho, Moderator of the 2018 on General Assembly’s decisions re- General Assembly. During the first garding sexuality, visit presbyterian. session, the Rev. Amanda Currie, ca/feedback. minister at First Presbyterian Church All the summaries and photos in Regina, was installed as the new from General Assembly, as well as moderator. the full minutes and recordings of This year’s Assembly featured the livestream, are available online at several guest speakers: Peter Note- presbyterian.ca/ga2019. boom, General Secretary of the Ca- nadian Council of Churches; Kerry Rice, a ruling elder and long-time employee of the Presbyterian Church (USA); the Rev. Jonghyun Kim, Mod- erator of the 54th General Assembly of the Korean Christian Church in Ja- pan (KCCJ), who was accompanied by the Rev. Byuungho Kim, General Secretary; and Dr. Sheila Watt-Clouti- er, an internationally recognized envi- ronmental, cultural and human rights advocate who accepted the Cutting Edge of Mission award. With regard to the lengthy and sig- nificant discussion on sexuality, sev- eral recommendations were adopted A Letter from the Young Adult Representatives

Dear Commissioners: ment to change. The biggest ques- The Young Adult Representatives tion facing us as YARs returning to (YARs) would like to extend our sin- our home congregations is how we cerest gratitude to the 145th Gen- can actively work toward unity, to- eral Assembly of The Presbyterian ward whole inclusivity; inclusivity Church in Canada that has support- that does not simply tolerate different ed us in our participation within the beliefs, but accepts them—and em- court. The YARs are in awe of the braces them for what they are. work that goes into the preparation We encourage all Presbyterians to of the Assembly and are grateful for engage in challenging conversations, the innumerable hours of work that acknowledging that avoidance will go into the preparation of reports not make them go away. We believe and administration of the national that in order for such conversations church. to reach meaningful resolutions, an The YARs of this Assembly were empathetic, grace-filled listening is diverse in age, background, congre- required. We hope to see members gational context and theology. As of the church be proactive rather we grew closer to one another this than reactive in listening: with open week, we established a community minds, receptive hearts and arms in which Young Presbyterians could extended. voice their opinions in a respect- ful environment while engaging in Shalom, meaningful fellowship, a dream we Omar Zachary Baboolal, Brampton have for our wider church. We also Kelly Christopher, Calgary-Macleod hope that more of this work can be Danielle Currie, Brandon done intergenerationally within the Julia-Don Edwards, Edmonton- denomination. Lakeland The Spirit moved through us this The Rev. Amanda Currie, Moderator (bottom left) and the Rev. Ian Ross-McDonald, General Secretary (top right) with the Victoria Graff, East Toronto week and opened us up to a wide young adult representatives at General Assembly. Priscilla Joung, Eastern Han-Ca range of emotions. At times we felt Bryan Kenwell, Grey-Bruce-Maitland connected and yet at other times, order to put ourselves back together spoke courageously, and our pres- this acknowledgement of the value Jacquline Nathaniel, London we felt no affiliation with the Church in a better way. ence at the microphone and advisory we bring to the discussion. We would Ama Mambe, Pickering that we all call our home. While we At General Assembly, many of votes were well-received by the as- urge all youth within the PCC to con- Bronwyn McCormick, Vancouver may be facing brokenness now, we the YARs discovered the united yet sembly. We were honoured to also tinue speaking the truth of their faith. Island acknowledge that sometimes it is distinct perspectives their voices have a representative on the implica- As a reformed church, we seek to Brittany Power, Halifax & Lunenburg necessary to feel that brokenness in brought to the conversation. We tions committee, and we appreciated honour our denomination’s commit- Crystal Tufford, Waterloo-Wellington PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 11 GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2019 Repudiating the Doctrine of Discovery

By Justice Ministries fied the understanding that while land periority of peoples or individuals on could not be claimed by one nation if the basis of national origin, or racial, At General Assembly this year, com- it was already occupied by another, in religious, ethnic or cultural differences missioners voted to repudiate the order for land to be considered “oc- are racist, scientifically false, legally Doctrine of Discovery and terra nul- cupied” it must be used in particular invalid, morally condemnable and so- lius as a step in the church’s journey ways—notably practices similar to cially unjust.” toward reconciliation with Indigenous European agriculture. The papal bulls By voting to repudiate the Doctrine peoples. Although these concepts also essentially said that Christian na- of Discovery at General Assembly, The have shaped and continue to influence tions had the right to seek out, enslave Presbyterian Church in Canada joins Canada as a country, many people are and take the land and possessions of its voice with many other denomina- unfamiliar with them. any peoples who were not Christian. tions that have already done so, in- The Truth and Reconciliation Com- This is because those who weren’t cluding The United Church of Canada, mission (TRC) describes the Doctrine Christian—particularly people from The Anglican Church of Canada, The of Discovery and terra nullius as different continents—were seen as Christian Reformed Church in North The Rev. Margaret Mullin of the National Indigenous Ministry Council addresses “concepts used to justify European less than human and undeserving of America, and international bodies like the Assembly after a discussion on the repudiation of concepts used to justify Eu- sovereignty over Indigenous lands the right to land and self-governance. the World Council of Churches. The ropean sovereignty over Indigenous peoples. and peoples. Underlying these argu- It’s important to note too that while National Indigenous Ministry Council ments was the belief that the coloniz- the Doctrine of Discovery originated (NIMC) stood as witness to the vote ers were bringing civilization to sav- with the medieval Catholic church, to repudiate, and noted it was an “his- age people who could never civilize the reasoning used in these decrees toric moment.” It is indeed an historic themselves. The ‘civilizing mission’ shaped both Catholic and Protestant moment. We reject this doctrine not rested on a belief of racial and cultural responses to Indigenous peoples go- simply because we affirm the United superiority” (TRC Executive Summa- ing forward. Nations Declaration on the Rights of ry, p. 46). These concepts were first This mindset led not only to the Indigenous Peoples, but because we given formal framing when the Roman practice of taking land and not respect- believe this doctrine is contrary to Catholic Church issued a set of papal ing those treaties that were formed the will and way of God as revealed bulls (decrees) during the middle ages but also eventually to the compulsory in Jesus Christ. The Doctrine of Dis- that effectively encouraged Christian separation of First Nations, Inuit and covery and terra nullius, as embraced monarchs in Europe to explore the Métis children from their families into and taught by the church, is a failure world in search of lands and peoples residential schools. Mindsets shaped of the church to believe and live the to colonize. These decrees are now by the Doctrine of Discovery con- gospel, which teaches that all humans Members of the National Indigenous Ministry Council joined the Assembly for dis- collectively referred to as the Doctrine tinue to be the foundation for racism were created in God’s image. In the cussion on the repudiation of the Doctrine of Discovery and adoption of recom- of Discovery, and they rest on a relat- against Indigenous peoples today. Be- moment that we formally repudiated mendations responding to Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Actions. ed legal concept known as terra nul- cause of this, the TRC issued a num- these concepts, we committed again lius, which is Latin for “empty land” or ber of Calls to Action for churches and to seeking ways to be in good rela- peoples. We all must consider ways do so. “land belonging to no one.” governments to repudiate the Doctrine tions with Indigenous peoples, and we that we can resist further damage and For more information and to watch In order for monarchs to justify of Discovery (39.i, 46.ii, 47, 49). Re- are able to live out our faith more fully. redress past wrongs. For too many videos about the Doctrine of Dis- colonizing the places their explorers pudiating is also in line with the United To put this repudiation into action, years, Christ’s instruction to love our covery and terra nullius, and how to came across, they needed an expla- Nations Declaration on the Rights of Presbyterians are encouraged to neighbour was warped into practices support healing and reconciliation nation for why they had the right to do Indigenous peoples which “affirms study the Doctrine of Discovery and that could never be termed love. We going forward, visit presbyterian.ca/ so when there were Indigenous people that all doctrines, policies and prac- terra nullius to understand how they are beginning to recognize and seek doctrine-of-discovery or contact Jus- already living there. Terra nullius justi- tices based on or advocating for su- continue to justify harm to Indigenous to change that; may we continue to tice Ministries. Decisions Made Regarding Sexuality

By the Rev. Don Muir, ruling and teaching elders be cilitated in presbyteries and con- General Assembly will make the final General Assembly Office granted liberty of conscience gregations. decision regarding them. and action on marriage. • That the moderator write a pasto- Mindful that the theme of the 2019 Many Presbyterians are deeply inter- • That the following be approved ral letter to the church. General Assembly was “Receive ested in the life and witness of the and remitted to presbyteries • That as a matter of urgency, the the Holy Spirit,” Living Faith (4.2.2) church as it relates to questions of under the Barrier Act: That con- Life and Mission Agency pro- speaks to us words of peace and sexuality. It’s a topic that has been dis- gregations and presbyteries may vide a means for those affected patience as we ponder these matters cussed at every level of The Presbyte- call and ordain as ministers and by this decision to express their and seek the will of God: rian Church in Canada and by many elect and ordain as ruling elders concerns, views and pain in a The Holy Spirit other Christian bodies. LGBTQI persons (married or sin- safe environment, and that these accompanies us on our journey The 2019 General Assembly made gle) with the provision that liberty concerns be reported back to the of faith. the following decisions after a pro- of conscience and action regard- 2020 General Assembly before We may not always be sure cess of prayerful discernment. ing participation in ordinations, the report on remits is received of this presence. • That the following be approved inductions and installations be and its recommendations con- Yet God’s Spirit is with us, and remitted to presbyteries un- granted to ministers and ruling sidered. sometimes gently, sometimes der the Barrier Act: The Presbyte- elders. powerfully, rian Church in Canada holds two stand marriage as a covenant re- • That the Clerks of Assembly be These decisions are also posted guiding us in the midst of life, parallel definitions of marriage lationship between a man and a instructed to provisionally pre- on the presbyterian.ca website. Items our comfort and our help. and recognizes that faithful, Holy woman or as a covenant relation- pare guidelines to ensure that (1) and (2) are not final. Presbyteries Christian life is a pilgrimage: Spirit filled, Christ centred, God ship between two adult persons. calls to LGBTQI ministers and the are to review these matters as part of it begins, continues, and ends in honouring people can under- • That congregations, Sessions, election of LGBTQI elders are fa- the Barrier Act process and the 2020 God. PRESBYTERIAN 12 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca HEALING AND RECONCILIATION Listen Deeply and Work for Justice

By Justice Ministries rights amounts to genocide against Doctrine of Discovery enabled the Indigenous peoples, one especially creation of the racist and patriarchal On June 3, the National Inquiry into targeting Indigenous women, girls structures that were put in place to RECLAIMING Missing and Murdered Indigenous and 2SLGBTQQIA people. The finding disrupt Indigenous nations’ culture Women and Girls released its final re- that Canada is committing genocide and connection to the land. In these POWER port, Reclaiming Power and Place, at has been very difficult for many non- structures, Indigenous women, girls a ceremony in Gatineau, Que. The re- Indigenous Canadians to receive. My and 2SLGBTQQIA people are treated AND PLACE port is the result of decades of advo- hope is that rather than shying away as less important than other people cacy from Indigenous organizations from what the National Inquiry has in Canada and their rights are not calling on Canadians to take a close put before us, we will accept their honoured. look at why Indigenous women and call to listen deeply so we can under- Reclaiming Power and Place cen- girls are so often victims of violence. stand what has brought us here and tres the voices of Indigenous women, Because of their persistence, and the how we can change for the better. girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people and participation of more than 2,380 peo- By listening deeply, we can hear their families, recognizing that they THE FINAL REPORT ple who spoke to the National Inquiry, that the violence against Indigenous know what is needed for healing. OF THE NATIONAL INQUIRY we now have a report to help us see people today is rooted in a long his- The report describes a process of INTO MISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS the causes more clearly, and to guide tory of racism. In Chapter 4 of the fi- commemoration and calling forth. WOMEN AND GIRLS us in taking steps to ensure the safe- nal report, the National Inquiry traces It reminds us that it is not enough to ty and well-being of those the report this racism back to the 15th Century remember those who have been lost focused on: Indigenous women, girls when Pope Alexander VI issued a to violence; we must also understand Volume 1a and 2SLGBTQQIA (Two-Spirit, lesbi- decree stating that lands not owned commemoration as “tied to individual an, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, by Christians could be “discovered” and community healing, the recovery questioning, intersex and asexual) and claimed by Christian monarchs. and reclamation of identity, the ex- people. Further, Christian nations were en- pression of deep knowledge and truth, The National Inquiry heard thou- couraged to enslave non-Christian and most importantly, change for the tions directed at different levels of Christians too, we have a responsi- sands of stories of violence. In these people, who were seen as less than future” (Executive Summary, p. 46). government, types of public servants bility to work for reconciliation and testimonies, the commissioners human. This false interpretation of To remember is to work for justice. and industry sectors. Section 15 is to do what is just and right. We are noted the continued impact of colo- the gospel is part of the Doctrine of The wisdom of those who testified addressed to all Canadians, though, called forth to speak out against nialism and the ongoing human and Discovery and led to colonization ef- at the National Inquiry is combined recognizing that we each have a role violence against Indigenous women, Indigenous rights violations that are forts all over the world (read more on to present 231 Calls for Justice as in ensuring that Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people and to committed and condoned by the pg. 12). The Presbyterian Church in steps taken to create “a world within girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people’s confront racism, sexism, ignorance, Canadian state. The report is clear: Canada took the important step of which First Nations, Inuit and Métis rights are met, and that these indi- homophobia and transphobia wher- Canada continues to deny Indige- repudiating the Doctrine of Discov- families can raise their children with viduals are safe. ever it occurs. This journey begins nous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA ery at General Assembly this year. the same safety, security, and human As Canadians, we are not only by listening deeply. Justice and heal- people safety, security and human That repudiation, though only a first rights that non-Indigenous families invited but we have a responsibility ing are possible, and ignoring these dignity. One of the key findings of the step, was so important because the do” (Volume 1b, p. 168). The Calls to listen to the hard truths that the hard truths would come at too great National Inquiry is that this denial of attitudes and reasoning behind the for Justice are divided into 18 sec- National Inquiry has presented. As a cost. Awe and Reverence By the Rev. Steve Filyk, St. Andrew’s (that is, God’s “otherness”), Chris- pears. The response God offers, how- Presbyterian Church in Kamloops, B.C. tians also emphasize God’s im- ever, is not what Job expects. In what manence (God’s “nearness”). The is probably the most ancient of all the It is now quite common for public incarnation is about God moving biblical creation stories, God asks Job gatherings to start with an acknowl- into the neighbourhood, the Son of to reconsider his indictment: “Where edgement of traditional territory. God walking among us, getting sand were you when I laid the earth’s foun- Sometimes an Indigenous elder is stuck between his toes. dation? Tell me, if you understand. invited to say a prayer. Over time This God who stoops to come near Who marked off its dimensions? I’ve grown to appreciate these be- is a central tenet of Christianity. But Surely you know! Who stretched a ginnings. The prayers I’ve witnessed at its best, Christianity doesn’t let go measuring line across it?... Have you express gratitude to the Creator, with of God’s transcendence to embrace ever given orders to the morning, or reverence and humility that is seldom God’s immanence. Our scripture shown the dawn its place, that it might observed. points to a God who is both majestic take the earth by the edges and shake sus has been reduced in many imagi- I didn’t see a lot of awe and wonder Christians don’t always position and maternal. the wicked out of it?” (selected verses nations to a gentle spirit who waxed among the Christians I grew up with, themselves before God in this way. In the biblical Book of Job, we en- from Job 38 NIV) poetic about love, the Bible gives him or in the services I sometimes visited. Dress for worship is casual. Prayers counter a man who has been abused After hearing God’s testimony, more street cred. In the Gospels, we But it still exists, in small pockets. I are chummy and familiar. More peo- by life. In a quick succession of (and that testimony goes on for a meet an exorcist who casts out de- observe it when my elders pray. Like ple are checking their phones than tragic events, he loses his health, his couple of chapters) Job is awestruck mons, a teacher who curses clergy those prayers from the Indigenous quieting their hearts and minds (let wealth and his children. After listen- and suitably humbled. The Bible and a miracle worker who com- elders I mentioned, their prayers are alone kneeling). ing to his friends, this brazen but bro- clearly upholds the “otherness” of mands storms. When his disciples also marked by humility and awe. This is may be a danger inherent ken man demands that God account the Creator. watched him perform the latter, we This inspires me. This inspires me be- in Christianity. While some religions for his pain and suffering. And surprising to some, the Bible are told that they were terrified (see cause, deep in my soul, I am looking emphasize God’s transcendence To everyone’s surprise, God ap- does the same for Jesus. While Je- Mark 4:41). for a God who is bigger than me. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 13 HEALING AND RECONCILIATION

Confession to Mistawasis Memorial Presbyterian Church and the com- Come and See! munity of Mistawasis as moderator. His sincerity, even several years later By the Rev. Linda Patton-Cowie, St. them to my wounds. Take the words when he spoke with me, was moving. Mark’s Presbyterian Church in Orillia, of the deeds done to us as children. I was given the opportunity to Ont. The sexual abuse, physical abuse, present again that Confession and cultural and all the other abuses list- it was a moving experience for me. On June 15, 2019, 34 Presbyterians ed in the Confession. Let my Shadow It was moving in two ways. First, it from Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario Child be aware of the many wrongs was the Confession of my church to and Alberta gathered in Winnipeg done to her. I refer to my Shadow show our sincerity of what we had to embark on the continuing jour- Child as the one who holds my worst done and also a determination to ney of Healing and Reconciliation. I memories. My way of coping with my move forward. Secondly, it was my am grateful that our group included past. Let her weep. Let her know she own confession of how wrong I had people from a wide range of ages no longer has to hold the secrets of been about Indigenous peoples gen- and several different cultural back- the past. The church is now with us erally and the people of Mistawasis grounds; that certainly added to the in our healing journey. in particular. As I looked at the those experience for all of us. We had heard Today I can read the words of the present and then thought back at all the call to “come and see”—to meet Confession. Each sentence written the hurt I had heard through reading with Indigenous peoples in Winnipeg, is of some importance to my heal- and the TRC, I realized the Confes- Kenora, Birdtail Reserve, Mistawasis ing journey. Each paragraph a part of sion was much more than a piece of and Saskatoon in order to learn, to my healing journey with the church. paper: it was the heart and soul of listen, to share experiences and to A couple of decades ago, I couldn’t our future with Indigenous peoples form relationships. bear to read the words. A few weeks of Mistawasis and Canada. 2019 marked the 25th anniversary ago, I was able to hold it in my arms. of the Confession, and we felt it was A sign of my healing. A visible sign Our last stop of the journey was important to personally present the of my faith walk with the church. Saskatoon, where the Rev. Joan Confession to the communities we Shadow Child, Vivian Masterton, from St. James Pres- were to visit. It was also important byterian Church in Stouffville, Ont., that the Confession was seen to be Next, the Confession was pre- presented at Saskatoon Native Circle more than words on a piece of paper; sented at Kenora Fellowship Centre, Ministry: that it had weight; that it was offered where Victoria Chandler shared her The Rev. Margaret Mullin with the Rev. Linda Patton-Cowie during the Healing and by people who were prepared to live thoughts: Reconciliation Tour. In thinking about what I would out what it would mean to be com- say before presenting the Confes- mitted to the journey of healing and I presented a copy of the PCC Here are her reflections: enriched my learning; Presbyterians sion to Stewart Folster, I realized that reconciliation. So, with a little help Confession to Cathy at the Kenora Sharing made this trip possible; my personal signature on the back from some friends in Winnipeg, cop- Fellowship Centre. While doing so A number of words come to me as and so, essentially, the individuals meant that this was my confession, ies of the confession were framed I got the chance to speak to some I reflect upon last month’s Healing who opened their hearts to us have my expression of regret, my sense and waiting for us when we arrived. of what had been on my heart while and Reconciliation trip. made it impossible for me to be the of humility, and my resolve to listen, Every participant signed their name on the first week of our Healing One word is “sorrow.” I had been same as I was. I have been blessed. learn, make new friends, share my on the back of each Confession, sig- and Reconciliation trip. I found this so ignorant and so detached from Mìgwech. experiences, and do what I can in my nifying our intentions to live out those chance to be quite moving for me the hurt and the intentional injury in- context to be active in the processes powerful words. as I felt quite connected with Cathy flicted upon fellow children of God— David Phillips, one of the leaders of healing and reconciliation. Thank The Confession was first present- and the patrons of the fellowship I am sorry for my past indifference. on the journey, presented in Mista- you for that opportunity! ed at Winnipeg Inner-City Missions, centre as I spoke to them. To me, The smiling faces of little girls are wasis: and Vivian Ketchum agreed to share this moment not only symbolized a seared onto my heart and I weep as Perhaps Nicole Flynn, from St. An- her thoughts about receiving it: continued commitment of the Pres- I consider the probabilities of what Mistawasis is a very special place drew’s Presbyterian Church in Tweed, byterian church to Indigenous peo- their lives might be. since it was there that I realized that Ont., summed up all of our feelings Words written on the piece of ples through the Confession, but it Another word is “humility.” I don’t my education about Indigenous by saying that she is fully committed board. The Confession by the Pres- also symbolized my desire to live out have the solutions and I can’t wave a peoples was sadly lacking. It was to taking action and standing with byterian Church. When I first saw it the words I was sharing. After having magic wand to undo the harm. As a also there that I saw The Presby- Indigenous peoples in Canada, to many years ago, my emotions were been given this opportunity, it has person of privilege, who am I to sup- terian Church in Canada’s Confes- continue the journey of healing and still raw on the surface as I was be- further solidified my desire to con- pose I know the answers? I am hum- sion. Later, I spoke with the Rev. Alan reconciliation that we have begun. ginning the legal process of my resi- tinue learning about the injustices bled by the gentleness and forgive- McPherson, who was moderator of Many thanks to Presbyterians dential school claim. I couldn’t even Indigenous peoples have faced, as ness of the individuals who shared the Presbyterian Church in 1995 and Sharing for helping to make this trip bear to read it. My anger and scars well as work toward reconciliation their stories with us. They exhibited went to Mistawasis to present that possible. of the past were blinding me from with these individuals. This has led grace in ways that I would never have reading the words of the wrongs me to present some of the things I imagined. done to Indigenous peoples. It took have heard and learned on this trip I also experienced “hope.” I met time and walking with the church in to the children I work with at Camp Indigenous leaders who shared great various areas for me to heal from my Geddie this summer, as well as hav- wisdom and incredible love for their wounds. That and a great therapist ing a few events planned with various communities. There are programs, who worked with me in dealing with churches in Nova Scotia for the fall. I designed and run by Indigenous my anger. continue to pray that as a church we coordinators, that provide healing Now I can read the words and try are committed to reconciliation and and education and are making a dif- to understand what they fully mean that our eyes will be opened to the ference. I will support these leaders to me. In small portions. I can’t work that needs to be done with our and programs. just take the words of the acknowl- Indigenous neighbours to make this Finally, I feel “gratitude.” The trip edgements of the wrongs done to a reality. organizers had prayerfully arranged survivors. That would create an im- our schedule to enable us to see balance. There would be a wrongful We visited the National Centre for and experience much; our chaplain’s sense of smugness in me. Not a Truth and Reconciliation, where Cin- meditations and the generosity of fel- healthy way to heal. I need to take the dy Stephenson, from Grace Presby- low travellers sharing their observa- words of the wrongs done and apply terian Church in Calgary, presented. tions and feelings as we went greatly The Confession, along with the signatures of mission trip participants. PRESBYTERIAN 14 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca HEALING AND RECONCILIATION Continuing the Journey

By David Phillips, Healing and Recon- and other Indigenous voices and try- ciliation Tour Leader ing to seek a way forward in mutual understanding and respect. The Presbyterian Church in Canada Part 7 of the Confession states: confessed its role in the tragic legacy “With God’s guidance our Church of the Indian Residential Schools in will seek opportunities to walk with 1994. On a recent Healing and Rec- Aboriginal peoples to find healing and onciliation trip in June, participants wholeness together as God’s people.” learned about some of the complex We set that as a goal to walk together issues related to The Presbyterian and to work together on various pro- Participants of the Healing and Reconciliation mission trip. Church in Canada’s involvement in the jects. We were privileged to help clean schools and how we have been walk- and paint various buildings at Winni- ing alongside Indigenous peoples as peg Inner-City Missions, cook a fish we live out the spirit of the Confession fry to share with patrons at Kenora and work toward reconciliation. Fellowship Centre, and share in crafts This is the PCC’s 25th Anniversary and preparing and serving lunch at of the Confession of The Presbyterian Saskatoon Native Circle Ministry. Church in Canada to Indigenous peo- Near the end of the journey, we also ples, and at each of the locations we worshiped with the congregation at visited, we presented our Confession Mistawasis Memorial Church, the once again. only Presbyterian congregation on a Over the course of 12 days, we vis- reserve. ited three of the PCC’s Indigenous min- One especially important part of the istries: Winnipeg Inner-City Missions, trip was to visit the sites of two of the Kenora Fellowship Centre and Sas- residential schools, Birtle and Cecilia The Rev. Joan Masterton presents a Taking part in the Blanket Exercise in Kenora. katoon Native Circle, as well as con- Jeffery, that remained Presbyterian- poster of the PCC’s Confession to Sas- gregations, the sites of two residential run until they were taken over by the katoon Native Circle Ministry. schools and Indigenous reserves. Government of Canada in 1969. Birtle The journey began in Winnipeg on is on private property now and we that is still felt. We also travelled along National Indigenous People Sunday could only see it from a distance, but the recently completed Freedom Road with worship at First Presbyterian we were struck by the sheer size of the to Shoal Lake, the initial site of Cecilia Church and then later at Place of Hope, school. In Kenora, we were able to visit Jeffery Residential School; there is only the worshipping community connected the second and final site of the Cecilia a monument to the children there now. with Winnipeg Inner-City Missions. At Jeffery Residential School, where we What is reconciliation? One of my Place of Hope, a meal and stories were placed tobacco at the memorial to the Indigenous friends said to me that we shared. The journey had begun. children and saw the swing and one spend too much time trying to fig- We continued the journey, trying to building that still stands. While there, In- ure it out and so little time living it. In understand the hurts caused by resi- digenous elders and others spoke to us the coming year, let’s try to focus on dential schools, listening to survivors about residential schools and the hurt changing that. Gathered around the fire at Winnipeg Inner-City Missions.

************************************* THE 26th ANNUAL Church & Charity Law Seminar™ Hosted by: Carters Professional Corporation DATE: Thursday, November 7, 2019 The PCC TIME: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. PORTICO Community Church, Confession 1814 Barbertown Road, Mississauga, ON to COST: Early Registration fee is $40.00 per person (plus HST) Includes a continental breakfast and electronic seminar handouts Indigenous ($50.00 after October 8, plus HST) parasource.com TO REGISTER, CALL TOLL FREE Peoples 1-877-942-0001 x230 FAX 519-942-0300 BIBLES CURRICULUM BOOKS EMAIL [email protected] presbyterian.ca/order OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.carters.ca & SO MUCH MORE! Brochure, Map & Online Registration available at: http://www.carters.ca/index.php?page_id=150 Serving Canada’s Christian Community ************************************* PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 15 JUSTICE Poverty Reduction Act Entrenched in Law

By Justice Ministries developing a strategy was a good ans specific targets to hold future gov- initial step, legislation was necessary ernments to, and that acknowledges In the last round of bills passed by for the national poverty reduction addressing poverty as an important Parliament before adjourning for the strategy to have real power to effect priority. This is also an opportunity to summer, at least one important mile- change and to improve its chances re-commit to continued work at end- stone for Canada was reached. That at reaching those long-term goals. “It ing poverty. Christians have long been milestone was the legislation of the is an important step forward for the known for helping those vulnerable to Poverty Reduction Act, which is now federal poverty reduction strategy to poverty. It can be argued that the gos- entrenched in law. see this legislation pass,” states Dar- pel calls us to do so in love and to help The Government of Canada re- lene O’Leary, socio-economic policy those who need food, water, health leased the nation’s first poverty analyst at Citizens for Public Justice, care, housing and necessities like reduction strategy, Opportunity for further encouraging people to con- clothing, not to mention comfort for All, in August 2018. Using a base- tinue pushing for: “strong regulations those in prison (Matthew 25:34–40). line year of 2015, it aimed for a and accountability in the implemen- Whether through advocating for fair 20% reduction by 2020 and a 50% tation of Canada’s Poverty Reduction housing and employment programs, reduction by 2030. Those targets be- Strategy, particularly ensuring that pushing to improve services that help came part of the Act. While it must the government makes poverty erad- vulnerable people gain security and be stressed that poverty reduction ication the goal moving forward.” skills, working to support initiatives doesn’t go far enough—one person Using numbers from Canada’s pop- For Canada to meet the goals set More work is needed to eradicate, such as basic income programs, or living in poverty is still one person ulation in 2015, it is estimated that out in the Poverty Reduction Act— and not simply reduce, poverty. That through other means, we have a re- too many—meeting the targets that meeting the 50% reduction by 2030 both its 2020 goal, and the longer- said, while the legislation could have sponsibility to find and support just are now set would improve the lives would translate to 2.1 million fewer term ones—concrete and informed been stronger, there is still cause to and effective solutions to the reasons of a significant number of people. people living in poverty. follow-through is required. While celebrate legislation that gives Canadi- behind poverty. MISSION Sharing Knowledge and Friendship

By International Ministries prayer shawl ministry, pastoral care population speaks Indigenous lan- committee and the knitter’s guild. guages, primarily Chichewa. Steve For many, retirement is a time to fi- Steve is a chemical engineer, work- will also assist with the Ndirande nally check off a few things from their ing as a product manager for many Rehabilitation Centre working with bucket list. After working hard for years. He is an elder and convener people with physical and cognitive many years, it is an opportunity to do of Knox’s Board of Stewards (Man- disabilities. things for themselves. Some choose agers). Steve was a member of the It won’t be an easy assignment. to see the world while others choose Presbyterian World Service & De- Malawi is a very poor country where to spend more time with friends and velopment (PWS&D) committee and the minimum wage is $1 USD. Pris- family. Many use the time to pick up represented the PCC at the Cana- ons are overcrowded, and they lack a new hobby or learn new things. dian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB). Nora basic items such as soap, bed mats Then there are those who choose and Steve served three years with and medicine. Inmates are often hun- to volunteer their time and abilities the Mennonite Central Committee in gry, usually eating only one meal of internationally, seeking an experi- Bangladesh in the early 1990s, a life- corn porridge a day. Prisoners can be Nora Martin and Steve McInnis, from Knox Presbyterian Church in Woodstock, Ont., will be serving as PCC mission staff in Malawi this fall. ence of the diversity of the global changing experience. They are both held for many months without ever church and the people. That’s the avid singers, having been part of the having their day in court. Some could prisons, providing activities such as expertise among partners. By living path Nora Martin and Steve McInnis, church choir for over 20 years. be released on bail, but most don’t Bible studies, prayer and counselling in Malawi and spending time with active members of Knox Presbyterian Nora and Steve will join in a min- have the money to do so. In sharing and most importantly, hope. They the people, they hope to learn from Church in Woodstock, Ont., chose to istry within Chichiri prison, in the their gifts of teaching and forging call themselves the “friends of the them. Nora said, “No one group take. This fall, they will embark on a southern city of Blantyre. They will be new friendships with those who have prison.” These dedicated folk visit 11 has the answers to life’s problems new journey, one that will take them teachers, working with the inmates been shunned or forgotten by their different prisons weekly, many small but working together helps us to to Malawi. For a year, they will be who are attending classes during families and society, Steve and Nora and remote. The Rev. Joel Sherbino work toward answers.” In a country working with the Church of Central the day. Nora will teach English and will be living out the words found in of Paris Presbyterian Church in Paris, where honour and shame defines Africa Presbyterian, Blantyre Synod, Steve will teach mathematics. There Matthew 25:36, “When I was in pris- Ont., supports these volunteers via public life, the presence of Nora and a long-standing partner of The Pres- are few activities and some prison- on, you visited me.” Internet and Skype and an annual Steve will be a reminder to the pris- byterian Church in Canada. ers may have limited education, so Steve and Nora won’t be alone in visit. Joel will also provide support oners that they are human and wor- Nora taught English to elementary- the opportunity to learn is appeal- this work. They will join a group of for Nora and Steve. thy of friendship. Sharing knowledge and secondary-school students for ing. English is the official language of three volunteers from the Blantyre For Steve and Nora, mission is a with patience, respect and humour 40 years. She has been active in the Malawi but in reality, about half the Church who felt called to visit the mutual sharing of experience and will be a blessing.

Resources for worship: worship planners, prayers, sermons, seasonal materials, church special dates, certificates and more: presbyterian.ca/worship PRESBYTERIAN 16 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca MISSION Innovative Session Opens Doorway for Change

The Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise continues to grow through the ongoing support of individuals who believe in the vision to create dignity through meaningful employment. Here are three ways that you can contribute your gifts to build up the body of Christ in Canada!

Time: We are always on the lookout for people willing to serve with us to grow this ministry. Volunteer roles could include kitch- en helpers, volunteer soup drivers and marketing professionals in one of the four Raw Carrot locations in Ontario (Paris Presby- terian Church – Paris, Mennonite Central Committee – Kitchener, Mount Forest United Church – Mount Forest, Innerkip Presbyte- rian Church – Woodstock).

Talent: Would you consider serving on an advisory board that would expand networks to find freezer storage or larger-scale transportation of soup to retail stores in Ontario? Email rebec- [email protected].

Treasure: We are passionate to grow this ministry, but we need your help! Each Raw Carrot location is working to cover the sal- aries of the staff and expenses through the sales of soup. With The Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise kitchen. your support we can expand our vision: helping more people with disAbilties in more communities to find meaningful employ- ment—and the smile that comes with the dignity of work! By Rebecca Sherbino Presbyterian Church and co-founders and supportive work environment. of the Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise And what’s more, what keeps every- the Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise Watch this short two-minute video to see our team at work: ministry, had become involved with thing going, is that the soup’s great!” “I remember Kate really well be- some of these same folks both within Kate was one of the first four peo- presbyterian.ca/raw-carrot-video cause I saw so much of her at differ- and outside the church through a ple hired from the church congre- ent stages in her life: when she had church drop-in program. We recog- gation and amazed everyone with Please visit therawcarrot.com to make a gift today or call one of children, when they were taken away nized that there was a major gap in her proficient chopping skills. The the co-directors to learn more about how you can support the and in the difficult days afterward.” the support system. Raw Carrot started selling soup and ministry: 519-865-1965. Want to start a Raw Carrot site, hold Sylvia Rudy was the church ad- “There are half a million people in Kate started earning money and had a soup lunch or have us speak at your church (currently only ministrator at Paris Presbyterian Ontario on disability support, many something meaningful to do 2 to 3 available in Ontario)? Let us know! [email protected] Church in Paris, Ont., for 17 years. that are marginalized through pov- days a week. During that period, she became inti- erty and socially isolated,” explains Sylvia could see the transformation “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” mately acquainted with Kate, a moth- Colleen Graham. “We wanted to in Kate as she started working. “More Matthew 6:21. er with developmental disabilities and start something that would minister and more she had confidence in her- a husband that struggled with bipolar to people spiritually and meet their self which was totally and absolutely disorder. Kate’s children were placed needs financially.” lacking before. She could actually in foster care when they were aged With a desire to follow the example laugh about something that had hap- 4 and 8. of Jesus and also create a sustain- pened! The interesting thing was that “I knew Kate well,” Sylvia re- able means of income for those in she never really talked about earning calls, “because she would visit me poverty, Colleen and I approached money very much. Even though that at church. She was beside herself the church Session to consider an was important, that was not the main after losing her kids and needed out-of-the-box initiative to use the thing. She felt appreciated. I was ab- somebody to talk to. After her chil- church kitchen during the week and solutely thrilled with the changes that dren were taken, she was always hire individuals on the disability sup- I could see in her. She would be dead sad—understandably so. She rarely port program to prepare and cook tired when coming to choir after a day smiled, never laughed and never gourmet soup. It was a unique minis- at work—but she was happy.” had anything positive in her life to try and one that had some risks and Through a supportive church Ses- talk about.” Kate used to mourn; “I questions that needed answering as sion and seed funding from both the don’t know what I’m supposed to do. the church explored the possibility, Paris Presbytery and The Presbyte- Every day after breakfast, I clean the but they were excited to consider it. rian Church in Canada, the Raw Car- apartment. It takes me an hour and “Session was unanimous in re- rot Soup Enterprise has expanded to then I’m done. I don’t know what else sponding positively to the start-up of three locations with a fourth launch- to do. I have nothing to do.” the Raw Carrot,” said Session mem- ing this fall. By October 2019, 25 “As the administrator, I saw so ber Haidee Vlaar. “[Paris Presbyte- permanent part-time jobs will have many people in similar circumstanc- rian Church] session has a strong been created for talented folks with es come into and out of the church history of supporting missional and disAbilities and mental illness. looking for assistance of one kind grassroots enterprises within our “When I talk to Kate now,” Sylvia or another. They all had the same community. We heard Rebecca and affirms, “she smiles. And that is the problem—nothing to do, and that’s Colleen’s desire to help those folks very best sign that things are going exactly what they would tell me. They on ODSP (Ontario Disability Support well, if a person is able to smile.” had nothing to do all day.” Program) and increase their quality (Note that some names have been Colleen and I, members of Paris of life by being able to work in a safe changed.) Soup made by the Raw Carrot assists people on the Ontario Disability Support Program. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 17 MISSION Messy Church Breathes New Hope

Join us for a special FOUNDING DAY CONVOCATION By Allen Macartney, Gloucester set God’s angels dancing. Then we November 5, 2019 Presbyterian Church in Ottawa headed to the hall for a delicious 4:15 p.m. in the It was the (and somewhat casual) meal. More “What the heck?!” games and crafts followed until peo- Knox College Chapel That’s the first thing I said to my- most interactive ple drifted off home. self as I got off the bus at the church Commemorating one afternoon in May. Though it was service I’ve ever The Bottom Line the 175th anniversary of the first raining and quite miserable, the park- I’ve never been a fan of Messy Knox College classes, held on ing lot was almost filled with cars. Church—too chaotic and loud for November 5, 1844 Inside, the church was bouncing attended. me. Too…well…messy. But during with life: kids running and laugh- our Messy Church service, God’s Keynote speaker: ing, and parents (many of whom I name was lifted up in our communi- the Rev. Dr. Terry LeBlanc, didn’t know) grinning and talking to picking up his guitar, kicking back on ty. People were introduced to God in each other. Church members Olive one leg and letting it rip!) Not bad for a new way. They heard about God’s director of NAIITS – formerly and Hala were helping people make a guy who’s been a senior for over great love for all people, and about the North American Institute for name tags. David was teaching little 20 years! God’s rescue plan for their lives. Indigenous Theological Studies “shepherds” how to herd sheep (bal- Later in the sanctuary, a larger They also learned that being in God’s loons) with canes (swimming pool shepherd (dressed in an old dressing family is a lot of fun—an unusual knox.utoronto.ca/175 noodles). It’s not easy! Others were gown) led the worship and “sermon.” thought for some. tossing bean bags to nudge wayward I hardly recognized pastor Denise. It Almost every Messy Church sheep away from a cliff. Crystal, was the most interactive service I’ve brings more people to our Sunday Joan and Carol were helping other lit- ever attended. Adults and kids alike worship services. It’s a simple way tle shepherds make sheep faces on listened intently while excitement to ease shy, skeptical people through cupcakes and/or paper plates. Fun! buzzed. People of all ages learned the doors. But most importantly, in a What a mess! about the Good Shepherd searching non-traditional way, our neighbours In the background, Geoff had the for lost sheep, while we threw our are hearing the simple words, “Jesus OPEN HOUSE kitchen humming with cool effi- arms out wide, reached up high and loves you!” Often, it’s the first time ciency, while Denis and Sabrina en- shouted, “Ya!” The rafters vibrated. they’ve really heard that message October 29, 2019 tertained with bright music. (At one And the “messy blessing” at the in their lives. And it’s bringing them point, Denis imitated a rock star by end was something that I’m sure hope. Learn more and register at knox.utoronto.ca/openhouse, or Save on capital gains taxes through a planned gift to the church contact Megan at 416-978-5306 or [email protected]. presbyterian.ca/plannedgiving

2019 07 PC Connect 4x7 FDConvo and OH.indd 1 7/30/2019 1:45:20 PM PRESBYTERIAN 18 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca ENVIRONMENT The Gift of Gardening in Montreal

By Cheryl Doxas, Chair of Food harvesters donate fresh vegetables Ministry Committee and Clerk of to a local food bank. The gardens Session at St. Columba By-The-Lake are a source of food and enjoyment Presbyterian Church in Montreal, Que. for many people but also provide a means for augmenting food resourc- Three years ago, as an extension of es in our local area. St. Columba By-The-Lake Presby- A community spirit is generated terian Church in Montreal’s thriving as like-minded gardeners meet to Tending the gardens at St. Columba By-The-Lake Presbyterian Church in Food Ministry, Nadia Prevost, co- discuss which crops to plant and Montreal. ordinator of Food Ministry, headed the most successful gardening tech- a group to secure a grant from the niques. In fact, Extra Hands, a group Toronto Dominion Friends of the En- of intellectually handicapped adults area. We continue to compost all vironment Foundation. The grant ap- who gather weekdays at St. Colum- food waste generated from our First plication was successful and allowed ba, have taken over the role of plant- Friday community dinners and from St. Columba to take on a new pro- ing and nurturing one of the gardens. the monthly lunch we provide to a lo- ject. Since receiving the grant, eight This project gave them the chance to cal seniors’ home. Likewise, we lend above-ground community garden learn to tend the garden and delight in our cooking skills to provide meals beds have been built and then main- the vegetables they grow. In addition, for local youth centres. Members of tained by neighbours and friends of the professionally trained chef, Ms. the church community attend semi- the church. Prevost, offers classes to those who nars seeking to learn about and sup- It has been wonderful to see the wish to learn canning techniques or port issues of food security in the blessings that have come from this, some new recipes that rely on the Montreal area. The gardens, and the and the way it has led people to work fresh produce. So many people and energy they have brought to the con- together. Members of the church’s communities are sharing the gifts of gregation, have provided opportuni- property committee purchased, as- this garden! ties for so many, in more ways than sembled and readied the beds for As St. Columba continues to en- we could have imagined. They are planting, and since then bountiful courage the “greening” of our church helping us to actively participate in crops of vegetables and edible flow- and its land, this season Echinacea all areas of improving the culture and ers have been grown. In addition to has been planted to help attract community surrounding the environ- providing food for the gardeners, butterflies to the rest of our garden ment in which we live.

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The Presbyterian History is Alive Museum is Moving

First established on June 21, 1879, historical matters. and Changing the Committee on History is one of the The Committee has always actively older committees of the General As- encouraged congregations to properly The National Presbyterian sembly and has been, more or less, care for their records and to ensure Museum is overseen by the in continuous existence ever since. In their preservation by having them Committee on History. The its early days, the Committee appears microfilmed. Further information on artifacts and items currently to have been more concerned with the microfilming can be obtained from the held at St. John’s Presbyte- collection and preservation of records Presbyterian Church Archives. rian Church in Toronto were than with the actual history of the na- The Committee works diligently to ment of our denomination. Our history packed up for storage this tional church. engender an interest in, and aware- is alive in the buildings in which we summer and will be moved The Committee functions under, ness of, our church’s long and glorious worship, in the beauty of our stained- to the new location in 2020. and reports directly to, the General history. We do this by encouraging the glass windows, in our books, records The museum will be re- Assembly. Each year a report detail- celebration of significant anniversaries and other artifacts. Preserving them is ing the activities of the Committee is or other prominent occasions in con- another way in which we Presbyteri- named as the Presbyterian submitted to Assembly and is pub- gregations. From time-to-time various ans can be good stewards, standing Church Heritage Centre. lished in the Acts & Proceedings. members of the Committee have writ- behind our faith, ready to pass all of The Committee gives out awards for ten articles on historical matters in the these things on to the generations to High school and university student volunteers from St. Timothy books written on matters of Presbyte- Presbyterian Record. come. Presbyterian Church in Etobicoke, Ont., were invaluable in as- rian Church history. Our mandate is to We firmly believes in the impor- The Committee on History is avail- sisting with the packing up of museum artifacts. The Rev. Simon raise awareness of, and interest in, the tance of preserving Presbyterian able to assist congregations and oth- Park, youth pastor at St. Timothy, coordinated their important history of our church. The Committee history right across the country. We ers on matters regarding the history of efforts. acts as a resource to other commit- know, as well, that preservation of our church. tees and bodies within the church on church records is a legal require- Taking Some Steps on Our Journey of Repentance

By Rev. Dr. Robert Faris and mended and are seen by some to be a As background to this petition, Sue Senior, Rainbow Communion helpful pastoral response for LGBTQI Generous Space Ministries explains Co-conveners people in the church. on their website: Rainbow Communion recommend-  Few spiritual interventions cause Rainbow Communion has been listen- ed to General Assembly that the PCC the degree of harm that efforts to ing. Over the past year we have heard reaffirm its statements (A&P 2003, change someone’s sexual or gen- more than one hundred stories— pp. 526–47, 26, 34, 37–41, 43–45) der identity do. From deeply inter- mostly in face-to-face spaces—from that homosexual orientation is not a nalized shame and self-loathing, to people across the country, including sin and that studies have not revealed depression, high-risk behaviours LGBTQI people, their friends, family, any scriptural, scientific or pastoral like substance abuse, and suicidal fellow church members, colleagues basis or justification for programs ideation, attempts, and death by and more. We have heard stories of to change a person’s sexual orienta- suicide, sexual orientation and harm done in the church by homo- tion and therefore acknowledge that gender identity change efforts steady stream of Christian resourc- Stopping the Harm. phobia, transphobia, heterosexism any form of conversion or reparative (SOGICE) have caused profound es published to equip the local pas- and hypocrisy. We have also heard therapy is not a helpful or appropri- trauma. When these efforts are tor to believe they could be used of Many ministers of The Presbyterian stories of grace received in the midst ate pastoral response to those who practiced in the context of one’s God to change someone’s sexual Church in Canada have already joined of very severe challenges. We were identify as LGBTQI. This was adopted faith community, by the spiritual orientation or gender identity. the moderator in adding their names pleased to bring a second interim re- overwhelmingly by commissioners. authority figure, the harm goes in- Exorcisms. Prayer sessions. Bi- to the campaign. Other people are port to General Assembly that begins In accordance with this decision of credibly deep.” ble memorization. Accountability. welcome to sign as well, making clear to address some of the issues result- the Assembly, the Moderator, the Rev.  Recently, efforts to ban the prac- Church discipline. Counselling at- the church’s opposition to programs ing from these stories. We invite you Amanda Currie, has added her name tice of conversion therapy, particu- tempts. of SOGICE and our deep concern over to read our full report and recommen- to a campaign organized by Gener- larly for minors, have intensified.  Energized by a theology that the harm done by them. Visit gener- dations at presbyterian.ca/listening. ous Space Ministries, an ecumenical Two Canada-wide petitions asking taught that LGBTQ2S+ (lesbian, ousspace.ca/pastors-stopping-the- As noted in our report, of grave organization “encouraging Christ- the government for a federal ban gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, harm. concern from what we are hearing is centred spiritual formation by inviting have garnered thousands of sig- questioning, 2-Spirit, plus people) This is a concrete action in which that some people have been deeply people to work together to dismantle natures. The challenge with legis- were inherently sinful, disordered, leaders in our church can be engaged traumatized by attempts to change fear, division, and hostility at the inter- lative efforts is that many SOGICE and in need of repair, the damage to reduce the harm done to LGBTQI their orientation through so-called section of faith, gender, and sexual- experiences do not take place in caused by the Christian commu- people and continue to live out our conversion or reparative therapy— ity.” The campaign for church leaders therapists’ offices. nity is unfathomable. journey of repentance begun in the what are now often referred to as called “Pastors Stopping the Harm”  Much of the harm is experienced  Psychological trauma. Emotional moderator’s 2018 letter to The Pres- “sexual orientation and gender identity has the goal of eradicating the harm of in churches—perpetrated by well- trauma. Spiritual trauma. Physical byterian Church in Canada and all change efforts” (SOGICE)—and that “sexual orientation and gender identity meaning pastors. trauma. Financial trauma. those harmed by homophobia and these programs are still being recom- change efforts” in the church. For decades there has been a  It is more than time for: Pastors hypocrisy by and within the church.

LGBTQI is an acronym used to refer to people whose sexual orientation is not heterosexual and/or whose gender identity does not conform either to binary male/ female categories or the “assigned” gender at birth. LGBTQI is an acronym for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex. PRESBYTERIAN 20 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca GATHERINGS

Before heading to Guatemala to take part in a PCC Youth in Mission trip, youth from Armour Heights Presbyterian Church in Toronto On May 5, 2019, the Session and congregation of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church held a “Guatemala Night” to eat authentic Guatemalan food and to learn alongside the congregation about issues facing that country. in Orillia, Ont., were delighted to host the Rev. Dr. Eric Beggs and to unveil a plaque commemorating his 31 years of service to the life and spiritual wellbeing of the congregation. From 1963 until his retirement in 1992, Dr. Beggs was a very special part of St. Andrew’s and the community of Orillia. The congregation is grateful that Dr. Beggs was able to return home to greet his friends and the many congregants whose lives he helped shape during his tenure.

As a congregation on the shores of Lake Erie, First Presbyterian Church in Port Colborne, Ont., is taking a serious look at the climate crisis. In a series of five evening events that were open to the public—featuring discussions, meditations, films and exhibitions—First PC considered how the city should be responding, practically and spiritually.

The three choral programs at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Port Hope, Ont., More than 75 people gathered in a day of worship and have been doing wonderfully well. The Junior Choir is an after-school program for encouragement during the Renewal Fellowship’s annual children between the ages of 6 and 16. This year they won their class at the Peter- general meeting at Grace West Hill Presbyterian Church borough Kiwanis Festival in March. The St. Cecilia Singers (a group of seven young in Toronto, Ont., on April 6. The Rev. Daniel Cho, centre, women) won the overall Choral placing at the Peterborough Kiwanis Festival. They continued the moderator’s tradition of attending, posing also received a trophy and a small scholarship. Most exciting was that they placed with renewal executive director, the Rev. Andy Cornell, second overall at the Kiwanis Music Festival provincial recorded competition. The left, and board chair, the Rev. Ian Shaw. Three speakers, St. Paul’s Singers is an SATB (soprano, alto, tenor and bass) choir who participate including the Rev. John Park of London, Ont., explored in worship every Sunday. This year they tried something new and held two choral the Renewal Fellowship’s new mission statement: To lead events (Christmas and Easter) that included audience participation. Both events each other and The Presbyterian Church in Canada to The Treble Makers foursome offered some magical musical moments were an exciting adventure and a big success. The Christmas concert raised close authentic Biblical thinking, powerful, spirit-led prayer for Father’s Day at First Presbyterian Church’s “The Gathering to $700. and effective Gospel witness. Place” in Port Colborne, Ont.

The Rev. Doug Maxwell and his wife, After years of steadily declining membership at Claude Presbyterian Church in Caledon, Ont., and with a Sunday School membership down to just one child, the congrega- Joyce, at their retirement lunch at St. tion started discussing whether to close their doors. It was a struggle, but they happily decided to remain open. Recently, for the first time in many years, the congregation Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Olds. welcomed seven folks by Profession of Faith. The Sunday School is growing and there are now 14 children on the roll. Claude PC is thankful to God for sending all of these Alta., on June 16. The Rev. Maxwell was great people. with the congregation for five years. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 21 GATHERINGS

The congregation of Petawawa Presbyterian Church in the Ottawa Valley celebrates Easter in style! Traditionally, after the service on Easter Sunday, the congregation sings “Easter Parade” and all the women wear bonnets and have their picture taken together. This brings much joy for the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

When Evangel Hall Mission in Toronto had a flood in April, they were unable to pre- pare food or serve meals. The call for help went out to several local congregations. The Rapid Response Team at Glenview Presbyterian Church got together in their kitchen and, with the help of others who worked from home, delivered 50 loaves of sandwiches, just in time for supper. Glenview also supplies sandwiches to the mis- sion one Sunday each month.

Nine former PCC missionaries to Taiwan held a reunion mid-July at Crieff Hills Retreat Centre in Puslinch, Ont. For many years the group met at the Garvin Cottage on Bird Lake in Muskoka, but, after the death of missionary Murray Garvin, the retreat didn’t take place for several years. Upon reuniting at Crieff, the group felt that there had been no gap at all in the years between. The retreat was a wonderful time of reminiscing, catching up, talking about families and remembering those who were unable St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Picton, Ont., held its third annual Pride service to attend or had passed on. There were meaningful exchanges on current issues related to Taiwan, as well as great discussions on Sunday June 9. It is important to the congregation that they share an inclusive on the pros and cons of aging! Of the group, Louise Gamble and the Rev. Dr. Paul McLean continue to serve in Taiwan. Pictured gospel vision with the wider community. The theme, “For everyone born, a place at above are (front row, left to right): Louise Gamble, Florabell (Betty) Geddes, MaryBeth McLean, Mary Helen Garvin, Diane the table!” is from the hymn of that name by Shirley Erena Murray. Local poet Roz (Petrie) Osborn, Susan Samuel, Joy Randall. Back Row: Terry Samuel. Missing is Wilma Welsh. Absent were Marie Wilson, Mari- Bound created an original piece of poetry for the event and joined the congregation lyn Ellis and Paul McLean. to celebrate and affirm diversity.

Members of Armour Heights Presbyterian Church in Toronto took part in the Toronto Pride Parade on June 23. Pictured above are (left to right): Kim Stanbury, the Rev. Dr. Harris Athanasiadis, Shaun Alphonso, the Rev. Deb Stanbury and the Rev. Dr. Pam McCarroll. PRESBYTERIAN 22 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca GATHERINGS

The congregation of Armour Heights Presbyterian Church in Toronto inducted the Rev. Deb Stanbury as a Minister-in-Association on March 24, 2019, celebrating the occasion with—you guessed it—cake! Welcome, Deb!

Thornhill Presbyterian Church in Thornhill, Ont., hosted a fundraiser for ARISE Ministry in May. The Spaghetti Dinner and Euchre Night raised over $3,600. Event organizers, Donna Chapman and Lorraine McBride, were pleased to present the The Sunday School at St. James Presbyterian Church in Hanwell, cheque to the Executive Director of ARISE, the Rev. Deb Stanbury. ARISE is a mis- N.B., took on a secret project during Lent to help transform the sion of the Presbytery of East Toronto, providing hope and support to individuals sanctuary Easter morning. They decided to produce stained glass involved in the sex trade by helping them reclaim their lives. pictures using tissue paper. They did such amazing work and it was a creative, economical way to make stained-glass windows.

In February 2018, Burns Presbyterian Church in Milverton, Ont., stepped forward in mission to support the building of a much-needed hospice in Stratford, Ont. With the efforts of Session and the congregation, they raised over $10,000 in various fundraising events. Pictured in June 2019 is the Burns Session with the last cheque presentation from the profits of a Drive-Thru Chicken Dinner.

The congregation of First Presbyterian Church in Regina, Sask., presented the Rev. Amanda Currie with this pectoral cross in honour of her role as the Moderator- June was wedding month! To honour Elect (and later Moderator) At St. David Presbyterian Church in Halifax, N.S., a small garden is growing in the wedding stories from members of the of the 145th General Assembly tiny cemetery. The produce grown in the garden is used for a “David’s Place” meal congregation, Knox Presbyterian Church of The Presbyterian Church in offering to the people in need, which takes place on Friday mornings. The garden has in Vernon, B.C., invited members to Canada. Amanda’s husband, been part of a New Beginnings project and supplements the Nova Scotia Feed program submit a photo of their wedding day, Nicholas Jesson, joined her for that contributes to the meal program. Pictured above, hard at work, is a member of along with a few lines of how they met. the presentation, which was the congregation who is also a volunteer at David’s Place. The cemetery garden is very By mid-summer, the bulletin board was made by Graeme Mitchell on small, yet it grows a rich bounty of lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, radishes, garlic, parsley, full of photos, touching stories, along behalf of the congregation. beans, peas, chives and zucchini. with a few wedding dresses to display.

Guest minister the Rev. Daniel Cho knows how to get the attention of the youngest people in a congregation by using costumes to explain why it’s just as important to clothe ourselves with love, compassion, kindness and gentleness. On May 12 at St. Columba Presbyterian Church in Kirk Hill, Ont., the Rev. Cho even got Interim Twenty-one guests from the Korean Christian Church in Japan (KCCJ) visited the PCC national office on Tuesday, June 11, including Moderator, the Rev. Jim Ferrier, to put on a hat to make the point. The Rev. Cho and ministers and some spouses. A lunch was jointly hosted by the PCC and the United Church of Canada (UCC). Also in attendance were his wife, Esther, were visiting in honour of the church’s 200th anniversary. The Chos former mission staff to KCCJ, the Revs. Bob and Priscilla Anderson, the Revs. Glen and Joyce Davis, and Beth McIntosh. The UCC was were treated to musical offerings by Taylor Hambleton, who sang two Celtic songs, represented by Nora Sanders, General Secretary, and Patti Talbot, Global Partnership Program and Northeast Asia Partnerships. and fiddler Robyn Howes. The service was the first in a year of events celebrating 200 The Rev. Stephen Kendall, the Rev. Ian Ross-McDonald, the Rev. Dr. Glynis Williams and Lily Ko, International Ministries, attended years since the congregation of St. Columba was formed. PHOTO AND ARTICLE COUR- from the PCC, for a total of 32 people in attendance. Greetings were shared by all three churches and a joint gift from the UCC and TESY OF MARGARET CALDBICK, GLENGARRY NEWS, ALEXANDRIA, ONT. PCC was presented to the KCCJ. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 23 GATHERINGS

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Ajax, Ont., held a special outdoor worship ser- vice this summer in a shady place that included a barbecue, games, fellowship and plenty of music. The Rev. Shalini Rajack-Sankarlal gave a sermon focusing on how we are called to care for nature and each other since we are all created by God. An- gela Wellwood, organist-turned-accordion-player, was joined by her husband, Bevin, on keyboard. The choir sang praises to God’s glory manifested in his creation. PHOTO CREDITS: ROSANNE PURNWASIE AND JUNE IDE.

The Knitting Pilgrim is a one-man show by Kirk Dunn, a member and elder at Morn- ingside-High Park Presbyterian Church in Toronto. The show details Kirk’s artistic On May 26, West Vancouver Presbyterian Church had its and spiritual journey over 15 years and features three large tapestries designed to second annual Parking Lot Party—and it rained! The musi- look like stained glass windows. The pieces look at the commonalities and conflicts On June 2, the congregations of Rockway & First Presbyterian cians were moved into the lower hall, but the main feature— of the Abrahamic faiths: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The show premiered at Church in North Pelham, Ont., gathered to thank Carole Vosburgh a bouncy castle—could not be used when wet and was too the Aga Khan Museum in May 2019, and is touring Ontario theatres, museums and for her 25 years of service as the church secretary and bulletin tall for the hall. However, as you can see, it fit nicely into the places of faith for 40+ shows. For more information, visit kirkdunn.com. PHOTO editor. The congregations enjoyed a potluck lunch…and of course sanctuary, so for one whole afternoon, West Vancouver PC was CREDIT: ANNA PAPPAS. we had cake! filled with bouncing children! Maye Cann has a heart for the hungry. Over the years several organizations that meet the needs of the less fortunate have been, and continue to be, blessed by Maye and husband Don’s willingness to lend a hand. Several years ago, Maye created a HOPE garden. HOPE stands for Helping Other People Eat. Under the auspices of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Salmon Arm, B.C., a dedicated group of volunteers prepare, plant and tend a garden plot. They grow potatoes, carrots, beets and onions—long- lasting root vegetables that are household staples. The vegetables are harvested and then donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank. Last year the garden netted 1,100 lbs of fresh produce. Second St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Markham, Ont., recently held a pancake dinner in support of relief efforts for African countries Harvest is very thankful for the facing conflict and hunger due to weather-related disaster. The congregation’s gifts, totalling $400, will help provide humanitarian donations as they provide so many relief for families in Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Somalia through Presbyterian World Service wholesome, farm-fresh vegetables & Development. for their clients to enjoy. PRESBYTERIAN 24 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca BOOK REVIEWS A Review of Claws of the Panda

By the Rev. Dr. Daniel Scott, St. John’s tion there is an equal and opposite idea, following in the steps of our Presbyterian Church in Bradford West reaction.” So, as in relationships with famous Presbyterian missionary Gwillimbury, Ont. individuals, if a nation harms China, Jonathan Goforth, as well as the chil- China will retaliate. When Canada de- dren of former Canadian missionar- Claws of the Panda: Beijing’s Cam- tains one Chinese citizen, China re- ies, that somehow Canadians need paign of Influence and Intimidation taliates by detaining two Canadians. to “save” China. The hope was that in Canada A few months ago, in the wake of Canada would have good Quanxi (re- Written by Jonathan Manthorpe John McCallum’s removal as Am- lationship) with China. If we helped Cormorant Books, 2019 bassador to China by Prime Minister them, they would be so pleased with Justin Trudeau, the “At Issue” panel this help and want to do good to us As China moves inexorably toward on CBC’s The National zeroed in on in return. becoming the world’s largest su- “Fixing China Relations.” Out of the However, Manthorpe chronicles perpower, the relationship between blue it seemed, on a Thursday in the systematic approach China has China and Canada is in trouble. And January 2019, Paul Wells of Ma- taken to change the way it deals with that is a big problem. clean’s, an “At Issue” commentator, Canada. This goes well beyond the There is a social feature of Chinese burst into a passionate endorsement romantic view many Canadians have society called Quanxi. On the indi- of an as yet unpublished book that of China (beautiful ancient culture, vidual level, one wants to have good helps explain the current breakdown spectacular tourist attractions, im- Quanxi (relationships) with others in in the relationship between China and pressive Olympic venue) to pointing order to be successful. In order to Canada. out the reality that today Canada is have good relationships, one gives Wells mentioned he had recently no longer important to China. This is favours and expects favours in re- become an advocate of this book China a hundred or so years ago, we vanishing from China’s radar screen a reality that hits Canada like a snake- turn. It’s something like the perplex- by a Canadian journalist he had not have developed a mindset that we except as a place for industrial espio- bite. ing Parable of the Dishonest Stew- even met. He explained that Jona- are “saving” China. And, this attitude nage, exerting pressure on the Trump Beijing has concertedly and con- ard in Luke’s gospel, where Jesus than Manthorpe’s book was key to of “if we help China, they will help administration or as a haven for sistently, through a variety of means, urged, “Use worldly wealth to gain understanding the current situation. us” has permeated Canadian interac- money laundering mostly in the lower including co-opting overseas Chi- friends for yourselves, so that when The relationship between China and tion with China throughout the years. mainland of British Columbia.” nese, controlled the message and it is gone, you will be welcomed into Canada has been strained, to say the Manthorpe argues forcefully that this Based on the impassioned pro- controlled the thought of how people eternal dwellings.” In other words, least, by the detention of Meng Wan- attitude needs to change because the motion of the book, I immediately understand China. But more than that, the parable seems to promote “give zhou of Huawei in Vancouver weeks relationship has changed. ordered it online and then eagerly China has infiltrated Canadian soci- to get” or “you scratch my back, I’ll before. And, in a country that flour- As Wells pointed out, as late as the awaited the book’s publication and ety and is, in some ways, controlling scratch yours.” ishes in the art of Quanxi (relation- 1970s, Canada was China’s fourth delivery. I received it mid-February. It it. “All too often in the past, Canadian The opposite concept is also true ships), the strain in relationship is a largest trading partner. Today, Canada is compelling, and as David Mulroney politicians, officials, security agents, in Quanxi (relationships). If you do big deal. has fallen to number 21. Simply put, former Ambassador to the People’s business people, academics, and, on something to hurt me, I’ll do some- In this book that Wells promoted, Canada is no longer important to Chi- Republic of China says, “disturbing.” occasion, the media have shied away thing to hurt you. Or, according to Manthorpe details that as a result na, except as Wells said quite boldly, Why disturbing? Well, Canada from levelling justified criticism at the Newton’s Third Law: “For every ac- of Canadian missionary activity in and I’m paraphrasing, “Canada is has had a long relationship with Chinese Communist Party and its op- China—“Chinese build Canada and eratives for their behaviour in Canada Canadians Save China.” In roughly against Canadians” (p. 241). This St. Andrew’s Hall, Vancouver the same time period over a century behaviour is not acceptable. ago, Chinese were arriving in Canada According to Manthorpe, in the Ep- Learning. Life. Location. to work on the railroad and Canadian ilogue to his excellent book, it is time churches, of all stripes, were sending for Canada “to abandon the Mission- missionaries to “save” China. A song ary Spirit.” That is, Canadian leaders A PLACE FOR YOU! of Canadian missionaries in China, need to move beyond the “romantic sung to the tune of “Bringing in the notion that the example of Canadian Sheaves,” expressed this evangelis- civic values will change China.” Or, tic fervour this way: put another way, “be nice to them Bringing in Chinese, and they will be nice to us.” Bringing in Chinese, Unfortunately, Manthorpe doesn’t We shall come rejoicing, provide much insight as to how to Bringing in Chinese. repair the Quanxi between China and And yet, Canadians persist in this Canada. He diagnoses the problem and says the relationship is stuck. As Canadians, and as Christian Canadi- ans, we need to pay attention to this relationship for many reasons, not least of which demographic trends Group Ltd suggest, and various media outlets have reported on this, that China is St. Andrew’s Hall is preparing missional leaders Sanctuary Restoration poised to be not only the world’s for Christ’s Church of tomorrow, today. Plaster Restoration most populous nation, but also the Join us on the adventure of faith through Design Services most populous Christian nation with- theological education!Generous bursaries for Custom Painting in a decade or two. education and housing are available for you. Canadian Christians and Chinese P.O. Box 1502 Christians as members together in Kingston, Ont. Canada K7L 5C7 the “one, holy and catholic” church Contact Professor Ross Lockhart for more information on how to join us Tel: 613-549-9250 need to have good Quanxi (relation- in study and service on the west coast - [email protected] Fax: 613-549-3364 www.ecclesiasticalgroup.com ship). PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 25 BOOK REVIEWS Being Christian and Being Canadian

By the Rev. Dr. Harris Athanasiadis, First, both writers acknowledge clusion. How do we find a spiritual/ Armour Heights Presbyterian Church how Canada is founded on colonial- theological template for hope that will in Toronto, Ont. ism. Colonialism is about mastery: engage both overt and covert despair mastery of nature, the earth and and integrate it into who we may be- What does it mean to be a Christian other people. The version of mastery come as a nation and as churches in in Canada today? Two recent books known in the church is triumphalism a secular age? engage this question in easy-to-read (i.e., overcoming negation through Instead of reacting out of fear language with perspectives that are triumph of the positive, or overcom- and a sense of threat, Hall writes: profound. In this article I share re- ing the cross through resurrection). “There is a more courageous way flections on Douglas John Hall’s The Mastery undermines the need for co- of reacting to the dark place. It is to Canada Crisis: A Christian Perspec- operation and shuts down the possi- find, somehow, the will to stay there; tive and Mary Jo Leddy’s Why Are bility of facing our own failures and to wait in the dark, as it were, until We Here? A Meditation on Canada. vulnerabilities. Consequently, when one’s eyes are a little accustomed to I consider their insights for what it the colonizing impulse of mastery it; to feel one’s way about, take a few means to be Christian and Canadian persists, we are unable to recognize steps. Perhaps one will stumble and today. our own need to repent for the hurt fall. On the other hand, after some tion, when it comes, grows out of For both Hall and Leddy, living in Douglas John Hall is a Canadian we have caused, and we are unable initial awkwardness, it may grow less and integrates the pain and strug- solidarity with all those marginalized theologian with a global reputation to listen to the voices of others and frightening. There may even be some gle we know in being church today? in Canadian society is the means to who taught theology for many dec- receive them as sources of wisdom light to be discerned—there, in the How might present experiences of find a renewed identity and sense of ades at McGill University in Montreal and enlightenment. dark! Christians ought not to be sur- pain and struggle become more in- mission through advocacy and com- to seminarians, of which I am one. Second, both explore the tempta- prised if such were the case, since tegral in shaping our vision of hope munity. The journey to hope is about His book is a 2019 reprint of an ear- tion to survival based on fear and the they hold the faith of a light which and our mission as churches? And rediscovering ourselves according to lier version with the same title. Even feeling of threat: fear of other people shines in the darkness and may be how might this journey also provide the gospel metaphors—as little lights though the “crisis” Hall is addressing (i.e., Indigenous peoples, refugees seen only from within that darkness” some vision and purpose for our way in dark places, pinches of salt and (i.e., the French-English divide over or others who are different than us) (p. 44). of being and doing within the larger yeast. The journey to hope is about repatriating the constitution in the or fear of nature itself in a harsh and Darkness is a metaphor for the ex- place and space we call Canada? discovering how welcoming into our 1970s and 80s) is far away from the unforgiving climate that is Canada. perience of despair or the experience Both Leddy and Hall provide some family those historically excluded crises Canada is facing in 2019, the Humans often deal with our fear and of the cross. As the apostle Paul and positive directions for us to live au- changes us, and how such welcom- book has been reprinted because it sense of threat by seeking to mas- the Gospels understand the cross, it thentically and faithfully today. They ing inclusion can become new wine offers a powerful biblical-theological ter that which we fear—mastering is not something to be overcome or do this with feet firmly rooted on the that no longer fits into the old wine- template for how to find hope in the our environment with technology or get past through resurrection. Rather, ground. Nothing worthwhile is ac- skins of our historic alignment with face of the kinds of fear and despair condemning those who are different the cross is a reality and truth that complished by downplaying the effort power, privilege and mastery. Hall and we experience today as individual by marginalizing them. And in the shapes the Christian life. An experi- and struggle involved and the transfor- Leddy challenge us, as churches and Canadians and as churches. church, we build walls of morality, ence of resurrection that is authentic mation that must happen in us all. For as Canadians, to genuine hope based Mary Jo Leddy is a Christian phi- doctrine and tradition as a safeguard integrates the marks, wounds and Leddy, as Canadians at our best, “We on openness, trust and solidarity. Are losopher who has taught both Prot- to risking openness, change and scars of the cross into the persons are here to take up responsibility for we willing to face our fears, our fail- estant and Catholic seminarians transformation. and communities we become. The this place on earth, for the sake of the ure and our despair? In the journey at the Toronto School of Theology. Some on the margins of Cana- question, then, becomes how can whole earth” (p. 82). For Hall, being to genuine hope are we prepared to She is also a founder of Romero dian society live their despair more we, as Christians and as churches, a Christian in the church means that engage those we have excluded be- House, which provides housing and openly. Some of us who on the sur- be shaped by the particular vulner- we see in the “crisis” of our despair cause we are learning what it means advocacy for refugees. Her book is face are all put together carry our de- ability of our existence? How can we God’s call to discern a new opportu- to be marginalized ourselves? May a series of reflections on Canada: spair more covertly, afraid to name face the despair of our present and nity to be church as an increasingly we follow Christ through our cross to “spiritual…perspectives in and for a it openly for fear of rejection and ex- future as church, so that resurrec- marginalized and minority movement. new resurrection. post-secular age” (p. 10). Leddy and Hall are mutual admirers of each oth- ers’ work. It is no surprise then, that Faith and Formation despite many differences, the books share much in terms of their analy- The Presbyterian College, Montreal ses of the Canadian context, even as Hall’s work also focuses on being Degree programs (BTh, MDiv, STM) designed to church in the Canadian context. equip you for the service of Christ and his people. At its best, Canada is a place and Study in a warm and worshipping community a space that welcomes refugees and context. Experience and live within the global newcomers and provides coopera- church in your own back yard. We look forward to tive opportunity to build together a meeting you! common good where everyone is re- spected, welcomed and supported. At its worst, however, Canada and www.presbyteriancollege.ca Canadians have succumbed to two key historic temptations that have led to oppression and despair for The Presbyterian College ourselves and others. In their books, both Hall and Leddy explore two key Montreal, Quebec, Canada dynamics of our context: colonial- 514.288.5256 [email protected] ism/mastery and fear-based survival. PRESBYTERIAN 26 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca PRESBYTERIAN WORLD SERVICE & DEVELOPMENT Caring for Creation in Times of Disaster By Guy Smagghe, PWS&D Director an already overcrowded house. Once also means managing human waste the rains stopped not much was left adequately to prevent the spread of We live in turbulent times and are of her home. disease caused by open defecation. challenged to care for God’s crea- When I visited, she stood on a pile This is of especially great concern tion so that we can continue to enjoy of rubble where her house had been, in an area of Malawi where PWS&D the bounty of the planet God gave us with her little one in a sling on her is working to promote maternal and to live on. We know it is possible for back. She showed us her cornfield child health. all to live lives with dignity. But cli- that had almost been ready for har- To alleviate health risks, we are mate change is creating hardship for vesting when the cyclone hit, taking responding with the Mulanje Mission millions, and we are called to make away her food supply for a large part Hospital to help communities restore renewed efforts to reach out and pro- of the coming year. their sanitation facilities. Families are vide a helping hand. Esther is now receiving food assis- given a quality concrete slab to cover This is the case in Malawi where, tance as part of PWS&D’s Cyclone a deep hole they’ve dug. PWS&D is in May, I visited areas affected by Idai response. With the help of Cana- providing funding for 525 house- Cyclone Idai. This cyclone—affect- dian Foodgrains Bank, 2,000 house- holds to get latrine slabs. ing Mozambique, Malawi and Zim- holds (around 10,000 people) in that PWS&D works with its partners babwe in March—has been called part of Malawi are receiving the food around the world to build resilience A woman stands atop the rubble of her destroyed home in Malawi. PHOTO CREDIT: ERIN WHITTAKER one of the worst weather-related they need to help get them to the next against climate change and the chal- disasters to hit the Southern Hemi- harvest season. lenges it brings. In Malawi, where counter the effects of climate change sphere. More than 900,000 people The total budget for this project rains are less predictable than they through reforestation and sustainable were affected in Malawi, losing is just under $500,000. Generous used to be, farmers involved in con- agriculture. We work with farmers in crops, homes and sanitation facili- donations of $150,000 to PWS&D, servation agriculture projects are Haiti to build resilience in a similar ties to the torrential rains. along with matching funds at Cana- able to better protect their land from fashion. There I met Esther, a single mom of dian Foodgrains Bank and contribu- the erosion that happens during the However, when dramatic events three young children aged five, three tions from other CFGB members, rains, and preserve moisture in the such as Cyclone Idai come, no and one. She had to leave her house have made it possible to carry out soil by covering it with mulch from amount of ground cover can resist during the cyclone, as the mud bricks this important response. locally available crop residues. the devastating powers of nature. In were washed away. She ran with her Around Mulanje in southern Ma- Our project in Guatemala was the those cases, one must start from In areas where latrines were damaged three kids to her sister’s home a few lawi, countless families saw their recipient of the Canadian Foodgrains scratch, hoping for a helping hand to or swept away by Cyclone Idai, PWS&D is providing concrete latrine slabs to aid hundred metres away. She was able latrines overflow and collapse dur- Bank Climate Fund—an affirmation get through the difficult times. in reconstruction. PHOTO CREDIT: ERIN to stay there, adding four people to ing the rains. Caring for creation of our partner’s work in helping to WHITTAKER Praying for Yemen’s Hungry on World Food Day

By Anna Muir, hunger and malnutrition—especially PWS&D Communications in areas fraught with conflict. In the Harib Al Qaramish District Yemen’s four-year civil war has pro- of Yemen—an area that has experi- duced the worst humanitarian crisis enced extremely intense conflict— on the planet. Airstrikes and fighting PWS&D is responding to meet urgent have killed thousands and devastated food needs. PWS&D is supporting the lives of millions more by impact- members of Canadian Foodgrains ing the availability of food, clean wa- Bank to provide 1,100 vulner- ter and other essential services. able families with packages of flour, Fighting at the port of entry for beans, oil, sugar and salt. much of the country’s food has In another area of Yemen, PWS&D stopped imports and blocked other is also supporting the rehabilitation vital aid shipments. About 16 mil- of water sources to help prevent the lion people wake up to severe hunger spread of disease. every day. Global media attention has shifted Staggeringly, conflict is named as from this crisis, but the needs in the cause of acute food insecurity in Yemen continue to mount. This World 18 countries around the world. Insta- Food Day, learn and share about bility that causes mass displacement PWS&D’s response in Yemen and and disrupts food production leaves help bring innocent people caught in women and men trapped in cycles this crisis back from the brink of star- of hunger, and children facing acute vation. Find out more at WeRespond. malnutrition. As health care facilities ca/yemen-crisis. collapse, disease spreads, leading to greater malnutrition. PWS&D is a member of Canadian This World Food Day on October Foodgrains Bank, a partnership of 16, as we give thanks for abundant 15 churches and church agencies food and God’s good gifts, we also working together to end global Airstrikes destroyed Ahmed’s home in Yemen, forcing him to take shelter with his wife and their seven children under a bridge remember those who struggle against hunger. in the country’s largest city. PHOTO CREDIT: ADRA CANADA PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 27 PRESBYTERIAN WORLD SERVICE & DEVELOPMENT Maternal Health in Afghanistan

By Emma Clarke, did not want to repeat the mistake of PWS&D Communications being careless and let myself and my child suffer again.” In many parts of the developing world, Thankful to not have to travel far when the sun sets, delivery wards be- or take another loan in order to afford come empty. Without somewhere for treatment at a private clinic, Murzia nurses and midwives to stay nearby, followed the advice of her peers to late-night deliveries are often not at- visit the newly constructed PWS&D- A woman accesses screening services in a local health facility. PWS&D and CWSA A nurse provides outpatient care at a PWS&D-supported health clinic. PHOTO tended by health care professionals. supported health centre close to her are working to make ante- and postnatal care available to women in underserved areas of Afghanistan. PHOTO CREDIT: CWSA CREDIT: CWSA Even at the times of day when medi- home in Laghman province, Afghani- cal staff are available, many women stan. Months of neonatal support, as crease maternal mortality rates by a rate markedly higher. ceive and advocate for appropriate do not have the transportation or the well as the staff’s dedication to ensur- whopping 74%. The work of PWS&D and CWSA health services, their autonomy must finances to access their services. ing a prompt, hygienic delivery, gave PWS&D works with Community does not stop here, because mater- be improved. These conditions make it remarka- Murzia the power to say, “I am a very World Service Asia (CWSA) to im- nal and neonatal health care services PWS&D’s maternal health project, ble that Murzia gave birth to a healthy happy mother. My newborn is healthy prove the quality and availability of are only successful if women are with support from the Government baby boy in a local health centre ear- and my health has improved, too.” services for pregnant women by able to access them. of Canada is helping to decrease ly one morning. After several painful In a country where the maternal helping health-care workers develop Only one in two Afghan women maternal mortality by ensuring men experiences in childbirth, includ- mortality rate is too high—close their skills and by building and equip- participate in decision-making about understand that when women make ing two miscarriages, when Murzia to 400 women die every day from ping health facilities in underserved their own health care. Many also do decisions regarding their own health, learned that she was pregnant with childbirth or the complications of areas in Afghanistan. Through this not have a say in how their house- everyone benefits. Programs that her fourth child, she was determined: pregnancy—it is imperative that all vital work, midwives are not only hold’s finances are spent; so even a teach about sexual and reproductive “The physical and mental trauma and women have the help of skilled health available around the clock, but they small transportation cost can prevent health rights, family planning and pain of experiencing miscarriages professionals before, during and af- also travel to assist pregnant women them from getting the care they and gender equality are helping whole and delivery complications had re- ter the delivery of their baby. Accord- who live in rural areas where isola- their baby need. In order for women communities, as behaviours that put ally affected my health adversely. I ing to the World Bank, this could de- tion makes the maternal mortality to have the opportunity to seek, re- women and girls at risk are left behind. Women Farmers Ensure Food Security

conservation agriculture. Twambilire region. As a member of the group, well-being of children, households beams as she says that. As a lead Twambilire regularly meets with farm- and communities. Through your sup- farmer with the PWS&D project, she ers in her village to share and distrib- port, women can continue to restore taught many of them. ute loans. Twambilire has used her creation and grow the food that sus- “They were reluctant at first, but loans to buy farming tools and seeds, tains their communities. after the training, they mulched their and with extra income, she is able to entire plots and their crops have done provide health care, clothing and edu- PWS&D is a member of Canadian better,” says Twambilire. cation for her children. Foodgrains Bank, a partnership of Twambilire, a lead farmer with PWS&D’s conservation agriculture project in Mpata, In a country where few women hold Empowering rural women with 15 churches and church agencies Malawi, stands in front of her plot of land. decision-making positions, it is em- training and resources translates into working together to end global powering to see clever and confident better food security and the improved hunger. By Anna Muir, mother had been begging her neigh- Twambilire in her role as lead farmer. PWS&D Communications bours for money. In Africa, women comprise up to That’s when Twambilire decided 60% of the agricultural labour force. In In the village of Mwenitanga in to try conservation agriculture. With countries like Malawi, they are essen- northern Malawi, slopes of farm- the help of PWS&D and Canadian tial to food production and the food land stretching in all directions are Foodgrains Bank, she learned to farm security of their families and commu- golden—they are overspread by long in a way that encourages minimal soil nities. And yet, in many cases, wom- stalks of yellow maize. disturbance, crop rotation and the use en subsistence farmers don’t have a Twambilire inspects the soil that lies of old plant material—like the maize say in farming decisions. They often beneath the layers of papery husks stalks that cover her land—as mulch. lack access to training and education on her own plot. Like all farmers in Conservation agriculture helps as well as savings and credit, making her village, Twambilire toils for many make land more productive and al- it difficult to invest in their farms. hours to prepare her land so that she lows farmers to better cope with For Twambilire, assistance from can harvest a good crop. drought. Twambilire proudly explained PWS&D changed this experience. Not But climate change has increased that, since mulching her plot, her soil only did she receive training to rehabil- the frequency and severity of drought is rich and healthy where it was once itate her weather-worn land, she also and erratic rain—events that make it degraded. was able to get the farming supplies difficult for Twambilire to grow enough Stretches of mulch-covered ground she needed. food to eat and sell at the market. To throughout the community indicate PWS&D supports village savings Twambilire takes record of loans shared among her neighbours during a PWS&D- support her children, the desperate that other farmers have also taken up groups for vulnerable farmers in the supported savings group meeting. PRESBYTERIAN 28 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca PRESBYTERIAN WORLD SERVICE & DEVELOPMENT PWS&D Champions’ Corner

By Emma Clarke, you have a passion for PWS&D and by a natural disaster, every day—and PWS&D Communications a desire to use your unique gifts and for every person—being a Champion interests to engage with our work, looks a little different. A quiz about development around there’s a place for you on the team. the world appears on the placemat A Day in the Life of a Champion: at your church’s Easter breakfast. A Day in the Life of a Champion: Olive Brinson The story of Junayet, a high-school the Rev. Laura Kavanagh While Elvis may seem to have nothing chemistry teacher fleeing conflict in Members of Knox Presbyterian to do with PWS&D, Olive, the Cham- Myanmar, is read during a commu- Church in Victoria, B.C., love being pion at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian nity Advent service. Often, these are greeted on a Sunday morning by the Church in Tweed, Ont., and church the marks of dedicated volunteers smiling face of Poonam from India or member Gail Brown recognized their called Champions. Rosa from Nicaragua. Inspired by her own town’s Elvis Festival as an op- Passionate about the mission and community’s desire to learn about portunity to reach their community. ministry of PWS&D, Champions stay those impacted by PWS&D, Laura By setting up a table to sell gently informed about PWS&D’s projects shares the stories of PWS&D ben- used purses during the Tweed Elvis and partners, promote the work of eficiaries like Poonam and Rosa by Festival’s Gospel Brunch, Olive’s PWS&D within their church and en- including Mission Moment slides in team raised awareness and funds for courage others to get involved. Cham- each week’s worship service—mak- the work of PWS&D in Guatemala— Champion Olive Brinson and her team sell gently used purses at the Tweed Elvis pions are vital to the ongoing work of ing sure everyone has the opportuni- while joining their neighbours in lis- Festival to raise funds for PWS&D’s work in Guatemala. PWS&D. ty to connect with their global sisters tening to some great music. To facilitate a deeper connection and brothers. Whether they plan a mission- same: to help build God’s kingdom To learn more or tell us how you’re with congregations across Canada, From distributing resources to minded service or share about the on earth and bring about a more a Champion for PWS&D in your PWS&D has a vision to see one Cham- participating in a monthly leadership work of PWS&D in their community, sustainable, compassionate and just congregation, visit WeRespond.ca/ pion in every Presbyterian church. If webinar or praying for those touched all Champions’ commitments are the world. be-a-champion.

Wall Join the Ride for Refuge 2020 Calendar

Artwork from Centreville Featuring the Presbyterian Church, Ont. beautiful artwork Team Lightning Bolt and Team PWS&D at the Ride for Refuge in Toronto. In a world filled with need, we have a On Saturday, October 5, join locations across Canada. Partici- of children and youth chance to create positive change— PWS&D in the Ride for Refuge—a pants, choosing to either walk 5 km and it’s as easy as riding a bike. cycling and walking fundraiser with or cycle 10, 25 or 50 km, will raise funds and awareness for PWS&D’s $4.00 each or maternal, newborn and child health projects in Afghanistan and Malawi. $3.50 for orders of Memorial Windows Your participation will help deliver 50 copies or more Restoration healthy futures by supporting pro- Protective Storm Glazing jects that train health workers, provide Custom Woodworking medical equipment and build up health facilities in poor, remote communities. Order today! 97 Wharncliffe Rd. S. With support from the Govern- London, Ontario N6J 2K2 ment of Canada, dollars raised for 519-432-9624 this project are matched 4:1, mak- presbyterian.ca/calendar Toll Free 1-877-575-2321 ing your support go even further. Register today! Visit WeRespond.ca/ www.sunrisestainedglass.com rideforrefuge. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 29 REFUGEE SPONSORSHIP Sponsorship Corner: Given Destiny

By Sha Tha Lei Wah in Canada, sponsored by First Pres- Then came the answer to our byterian Church together with Hosan- prayers—First Presbyterian Church, Sha Tha Lei Wah’s brother, Tamla Lar na Karen community in Thunder Bay. working together with Hosanna Karen Wah, was born to Karen parents in a For over six years we tried to bring community. I know that much time refugee camp in Thailand, living there Tamla Lar Wah to Canada through and effort was selflessly put forward all his 20+ years. Together with the various ways by our own efforts. We to make this sponsorship successful. Karen People Refugee Sponsorship faced challenges such as his ineligi- I want to say thank you all from the Foundation, Tamla was sponsored to ble age, finding sponsors, language bottom of my heart. We could never Canada by First Presbyterian Church barriers, finances and gathering re- repay the good work you’ve done in The Wah brothers as young boys in a refugee camp in Thailand. in Thunder Bay. The two groups quired documents. We even tried to our lives, but I know the Father God is have a close relationship that runs adopt him once when he was under- the true rewarder. much deeper than the administrative age and were rejected. As countryless refugees, we tasks of sponsorship. However, we didn’t give up on him. struggle with our political and na- He’d been through a lot at his really tional identities, life purpose and the On behalf of my family, I want to young age when we left him in 2009 meaning and definition of our futures. thank you all for the refugee sponsor- for Canada. Rejection of his applica- Having fled from the Burma civil ship program that changed our lives tion was very discouraging, but it war, involuntarily born countryless radically from east to west. wasn’t impossible. refugees and politically prohibited to In 2009, my younger brother Sha Many times, I encouraged myself integrate into Thai society, this was Tha Yu Wah, my adopted sister (bio- and my brother to trust God. God a given destiny that only God could logical cousin), my cousin Prer Nay has a plan and God never makes a liberate us from. Htoo and I were sponsored to come mistake. God became our only hope We once lived in a pond. Now we to Canada. In 2015, my second-last and we tried to abide within God’s live in the ocean. We couldn’t tell the brother Saw Lwe K’ Pru Soe joined promises. I yielded back my own difference then. Now we know the us, sponsored by Government of effort and trusted God in every way vastness of the ocean with all the Canada. And on June 26, 2019 my possible. I prayed heartfelt and des- freedoms, adventures and challeng- last brother, Tamla Lar Wah, joined us perate prayers. es it offers—all by the grace of God. The Wah brothers finally reunited in Canada in June 2019. NEWS

Celebrating Diversity

By Michael Turman, program coordinator This spring, at Calvin Presbyterian Church in Kitchener, Ont., we took a congregational photo. The flags above the main entrance represent the diversity of countries from which our people come. We give thanks to God that we may all join together to give God praise each week! PRESBYTERIAN 30 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca NEWS 200 Years of Presbyterian Presence

By the Rev. Dr. Daniel Scott, St. John’s authority to marry and baptize. It Presbyterian Church in Bradford West would seem…that he obtained it Gwillimbury, Ont. from Lord Selkirk; but from another statement he received it from the On July 4, 1976, I sat on my grand- Presbytery of Caithness…it has also mother’s couch watching the U.S. been stated that he received it from Bicentennial celebrations. As a teen- a parish minister of the Church of ager, I never dreamed I’d be asked Scotland.” By whatever authority, the to speak at a 200th anniversary, early settlers were in good hands and but on June 16, 2019, the Bradford a congregation was first established The Rev. Dan Scott with Edgar Lloyd, a Trustee at St. John’s and a member of the BWG West Gwillimbury Local History As- on January 6, 1822. History Association. sociation hosted a celebration of During the 1800s the hearty Selkirk the church and the establishment of Settlers, along with Irish immigrants, the “Scotch Settlement” at the “Auld built five Presbyterian churches in Kirk” (First West Gwillimbury Presby- Bradford West Gwillimbury! In the terian Church). Jan Blommaert, the 1900s, as these various congrega- First West Gwillimbury Presbyterian Association’s President and an ad- tions began to decline in number, Church. herent at St. John’s, Bradford, invited they chose to amalgamate and form me to say a few words. St. John’s Presbyterian Church in the Associate Minister for Children’s and From the outset, these Selkirk downtown core. However, in 2004, Youth Ministries. Construction on a Settlers received spiritual care from the congregation moved to a brand- second phase “Memory Care” home James Sutherland. The Rev. William new building at the corner of Middle- will begin this fall. Gregg, DD, in his History of the Pres- town Sideroad and 8th Line. St. John’s, Bradford, will be cel- byterian Church in the Dominion of Growth happened again on that ebrating 200 years of Presbyterian Canada, claims, “None stood higher corner and in partnership with Bek- presence, beginning with a special in the estimation of the settlers, both erman Properties Inc., a $53 million lecture series and an anniversary for sterling piety and Christian con- retirement home officially opened on service on the third weekend in No- duct.” And ,the Rev. Jonathan Den- June 22, 2019. The congregation’s vember 2019. The events are lives- nis, the 2018 anniversary speaker at stake in this development project treamed so you can watch our bicen- the Auld Kirk says, “It is not certain will provide for an expansion to their tennial events from the comfort of from whom Mr. Sutherland obtained facilities and the engagement of an your own couch. PHOTO CREDIT: NICHOLAS MOLNAR PHOTOGRAPHY Drawing Closer to God through Bible Readings By Allen Macartney, Gloucester choose the Biblical passage or book Presbyterian Church in Ottawa you want to hear. You can listen to it in a wide variety of translations, even Each year, for the past 10 years, paraphrased versions. about 70 people from Gloucester Some couples use this challenge Presbyterian Church in Ottawa sign to spend time together, with one per- up for a New Year’s Challenge. It in- son reading out loud while the other volves reading large parts of the Bi- listens. Some families incorporate it ble (both Old and New Testament) in into their January mealtimes. the month of January. The readings Others adopt a slower pace and change each year. Last year we read take notes while they read or listen. Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, Matthew Still others take a more meditative and Mark. approach and use the reading to pray The challenge involves a com- through the verses. mitment to read roughly 20 minutes Readers range in age from about a day during the month of January nine to early 80s. Our Gloucester Taking up a Bible reading challenge at Gloucester Presbyterian Church in Ottawa. from God’s Word. Youth aged nine to folks were not the only ones to ac- 12 have a much shorter requirement, cept the challenge. Several years January? move toward the light.” Every time while teens aged 13–17 read about ago, an engineering student living In the Middle Ages, churches had we hear or read scripture we’re draw- Allen Macartney writing the names of half the adult list. Each year about 45 in the Netherlands heard about our colourful stained-glass windows ing closer to God. And that’s what the those who have completed the Bible read- people finish the task within the 31 challenge. He decided to read the because so few people could read. New Year’s Challenge is all about. It’s ing challenge on a congratulatory cake. days allotted. entire New Testament from Matthew All they had to do was look up at a a great way to build enthusiasm for But reading isn’t the only way to Revelations. “I’ve always wanted Biblical scene portrayed with light reading the Bible. Another church in Ottawa (St. some people complete the task. to do it, and this was my incentive,” streaming through brightly coloured Then, on the first Sunday in Febru- Stephen’s Presbyterian Church) has Many choose a high-tech method he said. Was he successful? You bet! glass. The stained-glass windows ary, our entire church celebrates the adapted this into a challenge leading to get God’s living words into their We highlighted his name on the cake depicted the story of God’s great end of the challenge by eating cake up to Easter. They love it. hearts and minds. They listen to in bold face to celebrate his initiative passion for his people. It helped build decorated with the names of all those Are you ready to take up the chal- MP3 files, or CDs, or listen directly and drive. He continues to join our faith in Jesus. who complete the readings. What a lenge?! Please contact us at yu- from the Internet. It’s easy to do. challenge each year. In the words of song-writer Mi- celebration! This builds momentum [email protected] if you’re Just “Google” Biblegateay.com and So why do we read the Bible in chael Card, “Open the Bible and for next year’s challenge. interested. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 31 NEWS Aboriginal Sharing Day

Left to right, Ernest Poundmaker of the Calgary Aboriginal Friendship Centre and mas- A teepee on the grounds of St. Andrew’s ter of ceremonies for the day, and the Rev. Jared Miller. used for storytelling by elders.

Located in the Northern Great Plains, After a first round demonstrating the in Athapascan. A feast of traditional the area around Calgary is part dance, audience members were in- food was prepared by the Friendship of the traditional home of the Niit- vited to join in. Centre’s Lana Manybears to end the sitapi (Blackfoot), Stoney-Nakoda, Brian Hawco, a member of the or- day. Hard as it may be to believe, one Tsuut’ina and the Métis Nation. One ganizing committee, estimated some of the biggest challenges faced by or- of the largest reserves in Canada, the 375 to 400 people took part, with ganizers was getting bison meat for Tsuut’ina Nation, is next to Calgary’s about 300 people present at any one the dinner. Wilfred Kangong, a mem- southwest boundary, yet many Cal- time. Some guests chose to pass by ber of the congregation and a butcher, garians know little about their next- the activities and enjoy the display used his influence to secure the meat door neighbours. In the spirit of and sale of Indigenous art elsewhere which, the committee learned, has to “getting to know your neighbours,” in the church, while others remained be ordered well in advance. St. Andrew’s partnered with the Abo- throughout the event. Long-time congregation member riginal Friendship Centre of Calgary Master of ceremonies, Ernest Jim Hope-Ross was also part of the to host a daylong gathering on the Poundmaker, together with Trian organizing committee. He explained a church grounds. Knight, represented the Friendship key point about the history of Indig- Burning sweet grass (a mixture of Centre at the event and worked enous peoples in the prairies: “These wild prairie grasses) was the tradi- alongside members of the church are not a conquered people,” he said, tional beginning of Aboriginal Shar- to plan for the day so it would go off commenting that Western Canada ing Day on May 25 at St. Andrew’s without a hitch. Mr. Knight summed was settled when Indigenous peo- Presbyterian Church in Calgary. Two up the event as one of breaking down ples signed treaties with the Crown full-size teepees were erected on the barriers, bringing people together. to allow settlement. Calgary is part of lawns where elders shared teachings The Rev. Dr. Tim Archibald and Treaty Seven. “In a very real sense, of traditional life. Indigenous dancers the Rev. Jared Miller began the day’s the people of Treaty Seven have performed in their regalia, accompa- activities with prayers, while Mr. been, and are, our neighbours. And nied by an explanation of the dances. Poundmaker led the event praying yet, through our failure to respect An Indigenous dancer. and honour our differences, we have remained distant from those whose traditional lands we are privileged to occupy.” Alberta also includes Trea- ties Six and Eight. New Leader for Justice Ministries Other Calgary churches partici- pated in the event at St. Andrew’s The Life and Mission Agency Com- and as the Associate Director at the and spiritual practices we yield bet- and are discussing organizing similar mittee is pleased to announce the Centre for Philosophy, Religion and ter fruit. partnerships in their communities. appointment of Dr. Allyson Carr as Social Ethics with experience lead- “I am very excited to be able to the newly appointed Associate Sec- ing collaborative projects grounded take on this new role as Associ- Free Leadership retary for Justice Ministries. Allyson in a community ethos with a justice ate Secretary of Justice Ministries, has been working at the national focus. where shaping understandings and Webinars office since January, serving in the Allyson has a deep understand- practice of justice in a faith context presbyterian.ca/webinars position of Justice Ministries Pro- ing of the power of storytelling and is the daily focus and form of ser- gram Coordinator. identity to help communities find vice to the Presbyterian commu- Allyson brings a diverse skill set and name who they are and who nity,” said Allyson. and deep commitment to social jus- they want to be. She finds joy in Allyson’s research, writing and tice initiatives and to the role of As- learning and helping others under- leadership skills, combined with her sociate Secretary. She is a strategic stand. Allyson has a passion for passion for justice, will serve her leader, an experienced administrator, digging theologically into a topic to well in this new role. The Life and a skilled project and public events better reflect on and articulate the Mission Agency looks forward to facilitator, and an accomplished intersection of justice and scrip- the many contributions Allyson will writer and editor. Allyson previously ture, and it has been her experience make to the continuing ministry of served as an Assistant Professor that by rooting our understanding Allyson Carr, Associate Secretary for Jus- Christ through The Presbyterian of philosophy at Trent University of “how to do justice” in one’s faith tice Ministries. Church in Canada. PRESBYTERIAN 32 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca NEWS 145 Years July 1 in Newfoundland in Fort Erie and Labrador By Bruce Templeton, St. Andrew’s the Newfoundland Highlanders. The Presbyterian Church in St. John’s, N.L. cap badge selected for the regiment was the caribou badge from our high- July 1 is a different day in Newfound- landers and it is still today the symbol land and Labrador. of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. Before you read any further, I ask One can follow the Trail of the Caribou you to think about your own church: and the story of the regiment’s battles What would be left of your church as there is a full-size bronze Caribou congregation today if you took twen- Monument featured at each battle site. ty-five young people aged 18-24 Together they represent some of the years old, sent them off to war and most important moments in New- they did not return? Yes, twenty-five foundland’s First World War experi- youth members of your congregation. ence and these statues are erected in There are three monuments inside France and Belgium. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Now picture a small battlefield, (the Kirk) in St. John’s, at which we one no longer than a football field, The Rev. Trish Archibald with Fort Erie Mayor, Wayne Redekop, and Wayne Gates, MPP lay wreaths in memory of those who and think about a trench full of young Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake. died in world wars. Two of the plaques anxious soldiers in one end. This was mark the First World War and the third where the Royal Newfoundland Regi- By the Rev. Trish Archibald, plaque is for those who died in the ment found itself in Beaumont-Hamel, St. Andrew’s-Knox Presbyterian Church Second World War. France, on the morning of July 1, in Fort Erie, Ont. For the First World War, Newfound- 1916. At 8.45 a.m., the order was is- land and Labrador made up a regi- sued to “go over the top” and advance It depends on who you ask: we might ment we call The First 500. This was on German Forces who were well pre- have been marking 145 years of the the founding group that made up what pared not more than 100 yards away. Laying the wreath at St. Andrew’s Pres- Presbyterian Church in Fort Erie, Ont., is known today as the Royal New- They had been there for months in byterian Church in Newfoundland. or 52 years together as St. Andrew’s- foundland Regiment. In St. John’s, preparation. The losses sustained Knox Church—but it was clear we four of the churches that make up the were staggering and of the roughly the congregation who fell in the Sec- have a great deal to celebrate! downtown core are within two blocks 800 Newfoundlanders who went into ond World War. There are very few On Sunday, June 23, members and of each other. As the recruiters sat battle that morning, only 68 were able veterans left to lay the wreaths, but friends of the congregation shared a at tables and interviewed prospec- to answer the roll call the next day, the service has equally great mean- wonderful meal together and un- tive soldiers, they found that it was with more than 700 killed, wounded ing when you watch the youth lay the veiled a memorial cabinet of curios, Janet Engels (longest member) and Ella through the church youth groups or missing. We lost a whole genera- wreaths, for they know that some of including study notes from previous Homewood (most recent member) of St. where skills of camping and cooking tion of our youth. those engraved in bronze before them ministers and a silver christening Andrew’s-Knox, Fort Erie. PHOTO CREDITS: had been developed. As a result, an Therefore, when we stand and lay were not much older than they are. On MAPLE LEAVES PHOTOGRAPHY (HOLLY L. CA- cup belonging to Janet Engels, the VANAGH) estimated 400 members of The First the wreaths at the plaques on July 1, July 1, we all wear Forget-Me-Nots. first baby baptised in the new church 500 came from the church youth we think of them all, but especially the Yes, July 1 is different in Newfound- on Highland Avenue 75 years ago— gifts of donors and contractors who groups. The Church Lads Brigade 25 members of our Kirk congregation land and Labrador as commemorative which makes her our longest, if not have seen the church through a year came from the Anglican Church. who died in the first war, and the 24 wreaths are placed at monuments oldest member. of staggering repairs. The congrega- The Methodist Guard came from the members lost from the Newfoundland throughout the province at 11 a.m. The gathering also recognized tion of St. Andrew’s-Knox can’t wait United Church. The Roman Catholic Highlanders, not all of whom came Then, in the afternoon, the flags return Laird Kinghorn’s 45 years of service to see where God will lead in the next Church had the Catholic Cadet Corp from our Kirk. In the front vestibule, to full mast, and the Canada Day fes- as a firefighter, and the generous 145 years! and from St. Andrew’s Church came we honour the eight members from tivities get underway. Service of Celebration and Reflection for Graduates

By Nancy Harvey, Summerside the free Kraft Dinner lunch on Thurs- Presbyterian Church in P.E.I. days during their three years at the school. As well, the church is listed When the Rev. Brad Blaikie, minister as the school’s safe place in case of of Summerside Presbyterian Church emergency. The Rev. Blaikie stated, in Summerside, P.E.I., learned that “When people ask where our church the local high school would not be is, I say ‘behind the high school.’ having an invocation prayer during And, while I mean it literally, it also this year’s graduation ceremony, means that we want to support them he and the Session of SPC decided and be behind them.” to find an alternative to offer to the A church service was organized graduates and the community. with a focus on celebrating and pray- The church has lasting connec- ing for graduates. As well, the church tions with the high school, in part partnered with the Canadian Bible because it is located right behind the Society to present a Bible to each school and has a strong relationship graduate who attended. To complete with the students. Many of the stu- the celebration, there was cake (of dents have come to the church for course!) and a time of fellowship. High school graduates at Summerside Presbyterian Church, P.E.I. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 33 NEWS St. Columba Celebrates 200th Anniversary

By Evelyn Westgate, St. Columba livered the Message: “I Will Build My Presbyterian Church in Kirk Hill, Ont. Church.” She attended St. Columba in her formative years and now lives in St. Columba Presbyterian Church in Hamilton, Ont. Former student minis- Kirk Hill, Ont., celebrated the 200th ter at St. Columba during the period anniversary of its founding on June 2, 1960–1963, the Rev. Leo Hughes of- 2019, with an old-fashioned service fered Prayers of Adoration and Con- and the book launch and dedication fession. In keeping with the tradition of of St. Columba Presbyterian Church: the congregation’s forefathers, people Celebrating 200 Years, 1819–2019. stood to pray and stayed seated to St. Columba book committee members receive the first copies of the anniversary book.PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARGARET CALDBICK, GLENGARRY NEWS, ALEXANDRIA, ONT. It was in 1794 when the first Pres- sing, and several of the hymns were byterians who came from Glenelg, without accompaniment. Psalm 23 tural roots of the Kirk Hill community. tion. The drizzle mattered little to the Scotland, settled in the Township of was sung in Gaelic with the congre- In her book, Up and Down the Glens, large gathering seated in their warm Lochiel. The congregation was formed gation echoing the words of precen- Dorothy Dumbrille wrote: ‘These pews other than to cancel a planned in 1819. Shortly after the arrival of the tor Darrel MacLeod, while Donaldson Scottish people brought to their task a group photo on the church’s steps af- Rev. John McLaurin in 1820, a wood- MacLeod said the Lord’s Prayer in tenacity of purpose, a resourcefulness ter the service. en church named the Lochiel Church Gaelic. and courage that were rooted in deep The service was a music-filled af- of Scotland was erected. In 1862, The anniversary book St. Columba religious faith. Loyal to their principles, fair, featuring the Campbell Trio—Ga- the planning began for a new stone Presbyterian Church, Kirk Hill, Cel- they never failed in their response to brielle and her talented children Rachel edifice, which was dedicated in 1869 ebrating 200 Years: 1819–2019 duty.’ We thank God for their labours. and Noël—who brought a gasp of ap- and renamed St. Columba Church. was then presented by Audrey Nixon This Book is dedicated to the men and preciation and an uttered “Wow!” at Although The Presbyterian Church in Crawford, chair of the book commit- women who have contributed to the the close of their beautiful rendering of Canada was formed in 1875, it was tee. This hardcover commemorative spiritual well-being of the people who the hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” not until 1911 that St. Columba de- book illustrates the important events have called St. Columba home for the A highlight was Bill Connors’ accom- cided to become part of the national in the church’s history and includes past two centuries. May the goodwill paniment on the church’s antique reed church. St. Columba was the second- information on the various organiza- and fellowship of the church commu- organ to “Blest Be the Tie That Binds.” last church in Canada to secede from tions within the church, such as the nity continue to be enjoyed by future After the service, the membership Here it is! Audrey Nixon Crawford, chair the Established Church of Scotland. Ladies’ Aid Society, Sunday School generations as they worship together headed through the rain and across of the St. Columba book committee, pre- For the special service on June 2, and Young People’s Society. It con- under the Gaelic words Tigh Dhe the lawn to a large tent, where tables sents the anniversary book, St. Colum- the church was decorated with vari- tains a list and description of In Me- (House of God).” and chairs seated the several hun- ba Presbyterian Church, Kirk Hill, Cel- ous tartans in keeping with the strong moriam gifts, artifacts, banners and An “international link” was formed dred people attending the anniversary ebrating 200 Years: 1819-2019. Scottish heritage in the area. Historical plaques and records the names of the as the congregation welcomed Jean lunch that consisted of a long banquet artifacts, loaned by church members, men and women of St. Columba who Macrae who travelled all the way from table covered in sandwiches, vegeta- Two earlier bicentennial events in- and early church documents were on served in the First and Second World Glenelg, Scotland, to attend the event. ble platters, dainties, desserts and a cluded a visit on May 12 from the Rev. display. Individuals dressed in period Wars. Also featured are the memo- It was through researching a former 200th anniversary cake. Adding to the Daniel Cho, Moderator of the 144th costume added to the ambience of ries and pictures of past and present Glenelg minister that Jean saw the festive atmosphere were the sounds General Assembly of The Presbyterian bygone days. On view at the front of church members, some of whom are notice of St. Columba’s 200th anni- of the pipes and drums of the Kirk Hill Church in Canada, and a sold-out Vic- the church and set on an easel was direct descendants of the original Gle- versary celebration and “kinda invited pipe band, descendants of the origi- torian Tea and Fashion Show held in the a beautiful oil painting of St. Columba nelg, Scotland, settlers. The dedication herself.” She had visited St. Columba nal settlers, who gallantly played in Dalkeith Recreation Hall on May 18. Church painted in 1947 by Stuart Mc- reads as follows: “The past 200 years some 54 years ago. Sporting a white the rain. The crowd then returned to To complete the 2019 celebrations, Cormick. is rich with the history of our Scottish cotton bonnet and tartan shawl, Jean the sanctuary to enjoy an hour-long the ever-popular Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan The Rev. Jim Ferrier, Interim Moder- ancestors. This book is meant to be gave an interesting talk about the Par- splendid performance by the Camp- took place August 4, Memorial Sun- ator, brought greetings and conducted a written and visual testament to their ish of Glenelg. She joked that she bells. To end this memorable day, a day was observed on August 11, and the service. The guest speaker was faith and perseverance as they settled hoped it wasn’t her who brought a slideshow of colourful photos collect- a Gospel Choir featuring Concession the Rev. Jean Franklin Harms, who de- the area and developed the agricul- Highland Scottish mist to the celebra- ed from over the years was presented. 23 is slated for October 27. Nominate a Presbyterian Woman of Faith By Liz Brewer, for lifetime achievements. this award and nominate them. Also, Ministry and Church Vocations All of the recipients of the award consider nominating a younger wom- were nominated by the people of The an! Decide which category best fits The Presbyterian Woman of Faith Presbyterian Church in Canada— your nominee. The three categories Awards (WOFA) will again be pre- Sessions, presbyteries, the Women’s are: Faithful Service, Specific Accom- sented at the National Presbyterian Missionary Society, the Atlantic Mis- plishment and Lifetime of Achieve- Women’s Gathering in May 2020. sion Society, various groups and or- ment. Nine women have received this award ganizations within the church. Details outlining conditions for at previous Women’s Gatherings and Once again, we need nominations nomination, the nomination applica- have shared their stories of ministry. to honour three new award winners tion and other information are all avail- The award has been given to faith- at the 2020 Women’s Gathering. The able on the website at presbyterian.ca/ ful workers in their congregations, to award is open to all women of The wofa, or by email to wofa@presbyte- women who engaged in a special pro- Presbyterian Church in Canada. Think rian.ca. The committee will receive ject or unique ministry and to women about women who deserve to receive nominations until Nov. 30, 2019. PRESBYTERIAN 34 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca NEWS Two Honorary Doctorates She was especially recognized for The Rev. Susan Shaffer and her faithful and careful service within the Rev. Dr. Paul McLean the wider denomination over many years. Since 1997, Susan has served Presbyterian College in Montreal re- as Associate Secretary, Ministry and cently announced that the degree Church Vocations, and has under- Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa) taken this work prayerfully, diligently has been conferred upon the Rev. and with a deep commitment to the Susan Shaffer. Susan has served well-being of the church and to those faithfully in pastoral ministry within who serve within it. The convocation The Presbyterian Church in Canada was held in Montreal on Thursday, and has also been active in educa- May 9, 2019, at the Church of St. An- tional ministry within the church. drew and St. Paul.

(Left to right): The Rev. Dr. Terry Hibbert, Nancy Hibbert, Linda Inglis, the Rev. Dr. Glenn Inglis, the Rev. Betty McLagan, the Rev. Dennis Howard, the Rev. John Calvin Rhoad, Bunny Rhoad, Carol Garvin, the Rev. Bob Garvin. Forty Years in Langley, B.C.

By Marianne Lazaro, ministers and their partners: the Rev. with God into the future God holds Langley Presbyterian Church in John Rhoad and Bunny, the Rev. Dr. for us.” The LPC choir sang two Langley, B.C., 40th Anniversary Chair Glenn Inglis and Linda, the Rev. Bob anthems, “Here in the House of the Garvin and Carol, the Rev. Dr. Terry Lord” and “Give Thanks” during the It was a joyous day! On Novem- Hibbert and Nancy, the Rev. Betty service. The Rev. John Calvin Rhoad, ber 18, 2018, Langley Presbyterian McLagan, and the Rev. Dennis How- LPC’s first minister, spoke of LPC’s The Rev. Susan Shaffer (left) with the Rev. Dr. Dale Woods from Presbyterian College. Church (LPC) held a special worship ard. The Rev. Bruce Cairnie, his wife, 40-year history in his comments dur- service and luncheon to celebrate Beth, and family sent their wishes to ing the service. The bulletin included our 40th anniversary. A reunion of LPC via e-mail, which was read to the LPC timeline, mission statement, The Board of Governors of Knox In conferring this degree, Knox Col- former ministers and others who the congregation at the start of the purpose and the list of ministers from College is pleased to announce that lege lifts up the partnership between were part of LPC throughout the service. 1977 to present. the degree Doctor of Divinity (hono- The Presbyterian Church in Canada years joined us. Festivities included The worship service sermon by The luncheon and program in the ris causa) has been conferred upon and the Presbyterian Church in Tai- choir anthems, a sermon on grateful the Rev. Dennis Howard was entitled main hall included trays of sand- the Rev. Dr. Paul McLean in recog- wan in Bible translation, especially remembrance, displays, speeches “The Anniversary of Your Departure wiches, croissants, fruits and veg- nition of outstanding service in the the work of the translation teams and tributes, a luncheon, cake cut- from Egypt” found in Deuteronomy etables, with baked goods provided completed and ongoing work of among Taiwan’s Hakka people and ting, the LPC timeline and the LPC’s 16:1–8. He spoke of the celebration by church volunteers. A special Bible translation, together with the Taiwan’s Indigenous peoples. The 40th slideshow. as a time to engage in remembering “LPC’s 40th Anniversary” cake was translation teams of the Presbyterian degree was conferred at the 175th Special guests included former “God’s past blessings, and working displayed on a table together with a Church in Taiwan (PCT). Convocation on May 8, 2019. floral arrangement. A display table of LPC archives was set up in the main hall with pho- tos of all LPC ministers, several pho- to albums and other historical docu- ments. An open mic time was held and several people shared personal stories and tributes, or reminisced about LPC’s history. The choir sang another anthem, “Bless This House,” during the luncheon. The cake-cut- ting ceremony was performed by our first minister, the Rev. John Calvin Rhoad, and our current minister, the Rev. Dennis Howard. Thanks to many members who worked behind the scenes to make The Rev. Dr. Paul McLean (centre) with the Rev. Dr. John Vissers of Knox College (left) this a very special day. A very big and the Rev. Daniel Cho. thank you to the LPC’s 40th commit- tee members, for their work on com- piling the slidehow, for the coordina- A full year’s worth of PCC bulletin covers tion of catering, and so many other details to make this a joyous day! presbyterian.ca/bulletins View our LPC timeline and photos at: langleypresbyterian.ca/welcome/ The Langley Presbyterian Church choir. about PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 35 REFLECTIONS “The French Connexion”: A Pastoral Visit and Missionary Outreach in France

The Rev. Daniel H. Forget recently re- provide Bible studies, to make pas- But it is the people we have met and tired from the Canadian Armed Forces toral visits, to participate in the choir not the activities and visits of the cit- after serving eight years as a chaplain rehearsals; and of course, to attend ies in themselves that constitute the Session meetings. I had the great legacy that the people of Arles give Early in December 2018, I was invit- pleasure of sharing music ministry us. Lucie and I were accepted as ed by the Session of l’Église Protes- by presenting three recitals in the members of their family during our tante Unie du Pays d’Arles in south- temples of Arles, Beaucaire-Tarascon stay. We were greeted in homes with ern France to provide pastoral care and Mouriès. courtesy, sharing delicious Proven- A Sliver to this community of faith who have In the last twenty years of my pas- çal meals, sharing our common faith. been without a minister since 2016. toral ministry within The Presbyterian Oh yes, I almost forgot. From the This parish is comprised of three Church in Canada and the Canadian manse, on the third floor of the tem- congregations. The main congrega- Armed Forces, ministry was essen- ple, we were in the best location to of Silver The Rev. Daniel Forget preaching the tion is located in the City of Arles; the tially done in the language of Shake- contemplate “la Feria de Pâques,” Word of God. By Patricia Schneider, other two are in Mouriès and in Port- speare. La langue de Molière, with one of the greatest events of the elder at Forbes Presbyterian Church Saint-Louis-du-Rhône. This parish is its various accents, seemed sweet to year in Arles. It attracts more than them and appreciate their commit- in Grande Prairie, Alta. part of l’Église Protestante Unie de my ears and honey on my lips. 500,000 people during those four ment to the values of the Reformed France, formally named l’Église Ré- Southern France is a beautiful days. On the Boulevard des Lices faith. These values find their sources I was recently dusting off some furni- formée de France. country. In our spare time we visited (where the temple is located), we can in our relationship with God and our ture and found a stray strand of hair This visit was to provide pastoral Arles and its surroundings, the Cam- see beautiful horses and bulls from affection for the teachings of Christ clinging to one of the chairs in the care and worship services during the argue, Mouriès, Port-Saint-Louis-du- the Camargue. Numerous abrivado incarnated in each and every one room. I went to pull it off and then Lenten Season and the Holy Week Rhône as well as the cities of Mar- and bandido races that consist of let- of us to carry the Gospel. After ex- realized that the sun was shining on it leading to Easter Sunday. In fact, it seille, Nîmes and Aix-en-Provence, ting the bulls in the closed streets of periencing the joy of being in their and the whole length of it was reflect- was missionary outreach aspiring to to name a few. We discovered the the city, providing spectators with a presence, we now live the absence, ing the sun’s rays. Such a thin bit of revitalise the parish. The parish pro- Cévennes, a symbol of Protestant- tremendous show. All over the city, the pain of being apart. However, we silver but God was using it to reflect vided accommodation in its manse ism that resists the blind persecution people gather in the streets to dance know that the people we met are in God’s glory. and facilitated local transportation of obscurantism. French Protestants, with moving orchestras (called good hands, for God is with them. It made my day. As a senior in my during our journey. International the Huguenots, were established peñas) and concerts. Once one is called to serve, one new residence, I often feel rather flights, medical insurances, food, in the Cévennes at the beginning of We came to Arles without any always wants to serve the cause useless. At one time I had a house, incidentals, etc., were our own ex- the 16th century, but were often per- special expectation but to melt into of Christ’s kingdom. That is why I a yard, a husband and children to penses. secuted and lacked the freedom to the people’s journey of faith in order continue to search God’s will and look after. Now the girls are gone, the My wife, Lucie, and I give thanks worship openly. The Cévennes will to serve the cause of the One who discernment for the future of my pas- house is gone, my husband is gone, to God for the privilege, which was remain engraved in our memories called us. This faith community will toral ministry within the francophone and all I have are the memories. ours, from February 28 to April 30 of so that we can share its history with have left an indelible mark in our milieu in Canada or elsewhere. Then I thought about that tiny sliver this year, to provide pastoral ministry Protestants in Québec and in Canada. hearts. We have learned to know of silver. Such a tiny bit of nothing, to this faith community. The parish not even contributing any longer to a impressed us with its “Temple” lo- head of hair, yet God had chosen it to cated in the heart of the city of Arles. reflect this glory. Yes, Protestant churches in southern Somehow it gave me a lift and France are referred to as temples. We that lift has helped carry me along. were most fascinated with this par- I thought of the gospel song, “Love ish’s strategic location, which offers Lifted Me,” and it seemed to speak great potential to impact the citizens to me. of this city with the gospel. Much I smiled as I saw two little girls more than church dust falling from wander into the back garden with the columns of the temple, we found their great-grandma. They were ad- living stones in its sanctuary: a warm miring the flowers, especially the big and welcoming people. It is certainly pink peonies. “I have a loonie and a an aging parish, but also a commu- dime, can I buy one?” the younger nity of faith on a journey to becom- asked me. Not being sure of what to ing what God intends it to be. I say, say, I checked with the office. “She “becoming” because we are always can have one,” I was told by the in the process of transformation. It lady there and she was amused and is important for us to continually re- seemed delighted that the girl had of- form ourselves in order to build the fered to pay. Here was an example Church of Christ for the glory of God. of appreciation of beauty by a small Without listing all our activities, let child and also the message that God me just share briefly the following. gives us so much, only asking for our There is little doubt that worship ser- love and thanks in return. vices are opportunities to hear God’s So whether it is a bit of silver hair, Word proclaimed and made relevant or a pink peony, God can use all of in order to nourish our faith for daily creation to reflect back his love to all living. Throughout our pastoral visit, of his children...both the young and I presided over all worship services, The Protestant church of Arles (Le temple protestant d’Arles, dit La Rotonde d’Arles), is a Protestant (Reformed) place of worship the old. including Holy Week. It was a joy to located at 9 rue de la Rotonde in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhone, France. The parish is attached to l’Église protestante unie de France. PRESBYTERIAN 36 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca REFLECTIONS No More A Biblical Look at the Environment

By Dr. Robert “Roy” M. Strang, template, bring it down to the local When we waste water by washing member of Fairview Presbyterian level. We’re in a position analogous down driveways, apply it for cos- Church in Vancouver, B.C. to a neighbour who agrees to mow metic reasons to lawns or fairways, the lawn and water the plants while or render it unusable by pollution, do We are called to think about our col- those next door are on vacation, or we think of the women and children lective stewardship of the God-given a sibling who looks after a family who must walk miles for their mea- creation we share. member’s aquarium while they are gre supply? Psalm 24: “The earth is the Lord’s away at camp. That’s almost a case We are either complacent or lazy and all that is in it.” To me, this verse of reductio ad absurdum, but I hope when it comes to linking cause and says that all of the world’s natural it makes the point: we are tenants or effect. For example, before a fac- resources come from God and are caretakers, not owners. We have no tory can be built to produce a sale- not ours to exploit, mismanage or proprietary rights. able product and incidentally provide despoil, but that they belong to our Endless are the ways in which the employment, land has to be cleared, Lord. world is being damaged, often un- which destroys habitat; the sur- In Colossians 1:16, Paul writes intentionally, too often in ignorance roundings are paved, which means that, “For in [Jesus] all things in and sometimes for short-term gain. water runs off carrying pollutants heaven and on earth were created, I don’t believe anyone intended that into streams; metal and concrete are things visible and invisible, whether the Atlantic cod-fishery should col- used in construction, but these mate- thrones or dominions or rulers or lapse, but it did; we’re still wres- rials are dug from the earth, causing The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls monument at the Forks in powers—all things have been creat- tling with the fate of Pacific salmon further habitat damage, and so the Winnipeg. ed through him and for him.” In Gen- stocks and trying to ascertain what story goes on. Now, I’m not saying esis 2:15 we read that God took the influences are at work; conver- don’t build a factory, but when you By Vivian Ketchum, originating man into the Garden of Eden “to till it sion of pristine complex Indone- do, recognize all of the long-term, from Wauzhushk Onigum Nation of and keep it.” (Some translations use sian forest to palm oil plantations sometimes hidden or unexpected fis- Northern Ontario and now a member “tend” instead of “keep.”) The He- is extensive, with serious adverse cal and environmental impacts and of Place of Hope Presbyterian Church brew word for “keep” is “sharmar,” consequences. These are just three costs, and compare those costs to in Winnipeg, Man. which implies a loving, caring type examples among many. any environmental harm—is it good of keeping and it appears too in the Recall the story of Lazarus and stewardship? Be aware of the law of Here is to hoping that ALL the Miss- Aaronic Blessing, “The Lord bless the rich man in Luke 16:19–31. The unexpected consequences. If there ing and Murdered Indigenous Wom- you and keep you; the Lord make rich man did nothing to help poor is harm, how can it be minimized or en and Girls (MMIWG) recommen- his face shine on you and give you Lazarus in life and so, in death, he mitigated? dations are carried out in a timely peace” (Numbers 6:24–25). In other appealed in vain for Abraham to en- This is the kind of environmental fashion. That the federal government words, it’s our responsibility to look able Lazarus to bring him relief. How stewardship the Lord requires of us. carries them out as promised. (Visit after, to care for, to tend the world will we rate when we’re called to ac- It’s not just an uncritical “green” ap- mmiwg-ffada.ca to learn more.) we live in. Having dominion over it count for our selfishly profligate use proach, it’s an obligation laid on us if As a photographer, I don’t want to does not confer licence to dominate, of natural resources? We readily we are serious about Jesus’ instruc- be taking any more pictures of fami- control or exploit, it means exercising burn fossil fuels and complain about tions. If we fail, there’s a real pos- lies at vigils. Their private grief out responsible management as we’re the price more than trying to limit sibility that, in practical terms, there in the open for the public to view. I told in Genesis 1:28 to “replenish the use; how does that match against will eventually come a time when the don’t want to hear a mother’s wail- earth.” Because, as Gen 1:31 says, the African women who collect earth will no longer be able to sustain ing of her loss as she stands by her “God saw everything that He had plastic scraps for fuel and risk dying our present comfortable lifestyle and, daughter’s vigil. I don’t want to see a made and, indeed, it was very good.” from resultant toxic fumes because theologically, we’ll be answerable to mother’s children putting flowers in am a grassroots member in the com- If that scale is too large to con- fuel wood is so hard to come by? our creator. that circle of candles. munity. I have sat with other grass- As a writer, I don’t want to have to roots members and heard their sto- find the words to describe the emo- ries of loss and emotional pain. Their tions of losing a mother, daughter or stories often begin with words of: child to violence by a family member. she didn’t come home that night, or I As I stand at yet another vigil of a began phoning around for her. I tried missing and murdered woman, the reporting her missing. The beginning beating of the drums resonates the of their nightmares of loss or missing grief of yet another family. loved ones. As a reader of the media, I don’t I don’t want to be putting up post- want to be reading any more stories ers of the missing or taking down of a woman gone missing. Or how posters in my community. I don’t she was described by how she lived want to be lighting candles at vigils. or what she did by the justice sys- I don’t want to be holding a grieving tem. No more cruel words of drug mother in my arms as she stands by use or of prostitution to describe the a vigil of her daughter. Sharing my women. No more seeing of pictures tears with the community. Sharing of body parts in jars. What I hope for my anger of the injustice of it all. the future is a more humane justice If the recommendations of the system for the families. MMIWG are carried as planned, there I do consider myself a social ac- will be less of these activities and tivist. I don’t only attend vigils or more hope for the future. marches to highlight a social issue, I No more Stolen Sisters. PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 37 JUST WONDERING

Submit your questions to shall be held to sanction any prin- conversations with and about God’s on one line of Living Faith section obligation or sanction, under any [email protected] ciples or views inconsistent with word and God’s will. Living Faith 5.4 8.2.3: “Christian marriage is a un- law of the Parliament of Canada full liberty of conscience on mat- provides guidance in how we are to ion in Christ whereby a man and a solely by reason of their exercise, I have heard that ministers will ters of religion (Book of Forms understand and interpret the Bible. woman become one in the sight of in respect of marriage between be able to exercise liberty of con- 1954, section 406.2). The role of the church in interpreting God.” This section could still remain persons of the same sex, of the science if the proposed changes to A few years later, The Presbyterian God’s word and will is also central in our subordinate standard, but, as freedom of conscience and religion the church’s understanding of mar- Church in Canada granted liberty to this section of the Westminster with the sections noted above on the guaranteed under the Canadian riage is adopted. What is liberty of of opinion on section XXIV.4 of the Confession of Faith. The next para- Westminster Confession of Faith, lib- Charter of Rights and Freedoms conscience in the PCC? Westminster Confession of Faith that graph (XX.IV) says that in addition erty of conscience and action would [Section 2 (a) or the expression of Answered by the Rev. Stephen states a person may not marry any to our liberty of conscience being be granted. their beliefs in respect of marriage Kendall, Principal Clerk, and the Rev. of their spouse’s family members subordinate to God, God’s will and as the union of a man and woman Don Muir, General Assembly Office nearer in blood than they may mar- God’s word, it should also be sub- Liberty of conscience and the pro- to the exclusion of all others based ry of their own (see Book of Forms ordinate to “lawfully appointed pow- posed legislation on that guaranteed freedom. Conscience is sometimes defined as 445.1). Here, the Westminster Con- ers, either ecclesiastical or civil.” We The proposed legislation about mar- Similarly, granting liberty of con- a personal awareness of right and fession of Faith is saying, for exam- understand that the church has a role riage and ordination, as remitted to science and action to a Session wrong that you use to guide your ac- ple, that if a spouse dies, the survivor in dictating, or at least guiding, our presbyteries under the Barrier Act, means that, while no congregation tions to do right. may not marry that person’s brother liberty of conscience. provides for specific and limited as- would be required to host a same- Remember Jiminy Cricket’s song or sister. Our church grants liberty of How can this be if only God is the pects of liberty of conscience that sex marriage, any congregation to Pinocchio when he was learning opinion on that point. Lord of conscience? our church would allow on these would be free to do so. This freedom how to be a real boy: “And always Today, ministers and elders are ex- The Westminster Confession of subjects. This takes effect if the re- still comes with pastoral responsi- let your conscience be your guide.” pected to uphold the doctrine found Faith says it is because this liberty mits are approved through the Barrier bility. If a same-sex couple comes Pinocchio was learning to become in our subordinate standards “under is intended by God as a means for Act process. to a church to request a wedding, human, to take responsibility for him- the continual illumination and correc- us to uphold and preserve one an- With respect to marriage, this the minister who is in a church that self and his actions. tion of the Holy Spirit speaking in the other in the faith, not to destroy one means it is acceptable for our con- chooses not to host such weddings, When the General Assembly uses Scriptures” (Book of Forms, section another. This section (XX.IV) places science to dictate that our under- may exercise pastoral concern by, the language of granting “liberty of 447.2, 449.2). Cases of liberty of upon the church the obligation to standing, or belief, of marriage is that for example, helping the couple find conscience and action,” the church conscience (or opinion) have, in our put limits on practices or even opin- it can be faithful as either (a) only a nearby church that will offer the seeks to create space for respecting church, been used very rarely to ac- ions that might be destructive to the between a man and a woman, or (b) wedding. differences in theological views and commodate differences. peace and order that Christ intends between two adult persons. how they are lived out. While chapter 20 states that God for the church. With respect to the ordination Liberty of action – ordination, in- alone is Lord of the conscience, it Take the example of the doctrine of of LGBTQI people to the office of duction or installation Liberty of conscience in the West- recognizes that people, being human the Trinity. If a minister were to say teaching or ruling elder, the liberty As described above, liberty of ac- minster Confession of Faith after all, sometimes adopt doctrines that they no longer believed in this of conscience (and action) is limited tion is restricted to the participation The Westminster Confession of and commandments that might be doctrine, the church would be quite to one’s participation in ordinations, in these events. It might be that the Faith, in chapter 20, provides what contrary to God’s word. It’s possible justified in declaring that that is out- inductions and installations. This minister or elder whose conscience can be said to be the classic Re- for us, and others, to misunderstand side of permissible belief for a min- means a minister would not be free dictates disagreement would attend, formed delineation of liberty of con- or misinterpret God’s word and will. ister of our church. As ministers and to believe that the ordination of an but not participate in the laying on science: God alone is the Lord of the Because of that possibility, nothing elders, we cannot believe whatever LGBTQI colleague is invalid based of hands. That person might still conscience (XX.II). should interfere with an individual’s want and not expect to be held ac- on orientation, identity or relation- wish to extend the right hand of fel- Influenced by Puritan and covenant liberty to align their conscience with countable for it. ship status. If one’s conscience did lowship as a sign that it is just the theology of the day, the Westminster God’s word and will. Liberty of conscience in the West- not permit them to accept the under- ordination (or induction) they are Confession of Faith was drawn up This does not mean we can believe minster Confession of Faith presents standing that faithful marriage can be absenting themselves from, but they over five years preceding 1646 to be whatever we want. It is quite the op- the important Reformed principle that between two adults of the same sex, are nonetheless wanting to express, a confession of the Church of Eng- posite. We are expected to believe our conscience is something that is that person is permitted to not par- by extending the right hand of fel- land. It later became a subordinate and act according to God’s word and a gift from God, who is Lord of our ticipate in the ordination, installation lowship, their support for the gospel standard of the Church of Scotland. God’s will. Our conscience should whole being, including our minds. It or induction. ministry that has been affirmed in The Presbyterian Church in Canada help us to do that. Liberty of con- is also a means of grace that should this act and they will support their adopted it in 1875 as part of our science is the term used to describe always be for the upbuilding of the Liberty of action colleague in this ministry. Basis of Union and as our principal the importance of not interfering with church. The remits that our church is now Another minister or elder may feel subordinate standard. that expectation. considering include both liberty of that it is best to send regrets to such Much of the reason for including Paragraph three of the same chap- Living Faith conscience and action. While the a meeting as a quiet way of privately liberty of conscience in the West- ter (XX.III) drives this home (and While Living Faith does not expressly Westminster Confession of Faith expressing the freedom of action. minster Confession of Faith had to do wades into the realm of liberty of ac- use the language of “liberty of con- focuses on conscience, it does That same minister or elder might with the relationship between church tion) by stating that if anyone, claim- science,” in various sections this not ignore action. The guidance it want to make the point that they will and state. There was a “state” church ing liberty of conscience, “practices subordinate standard of our church gives with respect to action is that be a supportive colleague by having and a “free” church and both needed any sin, or cherishes any lust,” liber- acknowledges that there will be and no action should lead to division in lunch with the inductee, or by ex- to determine how much influence ty of conscience is destroyed. There can be a variety of opinions among the church, or to the destruction of tending a welcoming phone call or church and state could rightly have is a limit to our liberty of conscience, those within the church. For exam- peace within the church. encouraging email. on each other. especially when it leads to what is ple, section 9.1.2 describes mission These gestures of kindness will In our Basis of Union of 1875 damaging or contrary to God’s will. as evangelism and 9.1.3 describes Liberty of action – marriage be important in the context of lib- (Book of Forms 442.2), liberty of This raises the question about it as service. While evangelism and Regarding marriage, liberty of action erty of conscience and action in conscience was granted with respect what is the correct interpretation of service are often complementary means that no minister would be re- order that the peace of the church to the authority of the state over the God’s will and God’s word. How can ways of approaching mission, it is quired to conduct a same-sex mar- be maintained, and support for one church. This was reflected in our or- we be certain to know what is cor- also true that we have the freedom riage. This is something that is also another as colleagues in ministry be dination vows as late as 1954, which rect? While this is an individual task, to place more emphasis on one ap- enshrined in Section 3.1 of the Civil respected. An important principle of state that: it is also the task of the church. To- proach or the other. Marriage Act, which states: the polity of The Presbyterian Church … nothing in the … Confession or gether we meet and pray and discern If the current legislation is adopt- For greater certainty, no person or in Canada is that all are equal in min- Catechisms regarding the power in churches week by week, and in ed with respect to marriage, liberty organization shall be deprived of istry (Book of Forms section 4). and duty of the civil magistrate colleges, councils and courts to have of conscience would be granted any benefit, or be subject to any Continued on page 4 PRESBYTERIAN 38 FALL 2019 Connection presbyterian.ca JUST WONDERING (cont’d) SHARING THE Continued from page 37 Liberty of Conscience and Action care and concern for the unity of the for the parties involved, with concern regarding the Ordination of Women whole church. and sensitivity for the peace and uni- GOOD NEWS (1966 – 1989) Then in 1989, another Declaratory ty of the whole church. When the ordination of women was Act was adopted and resulted in what The intent of this section is that all WITH approved in 1966, no provision for is currently section 11.2 in the Book ministers and elders are expected to liberty of conscience or action was of Forms. This replaced the 1982 De- participate in all ordinations, includ- put in place. In the years that fol- claratory Act that was applied to the ing those of women. lowed, the church lived into what ordination vows. Section 11.2 means that free- EACH OTHER it meant to be a denomination that 11.2 The following Declaratory dom of action regarding ordinations holds as equal the role of women and Act was adopted by the 1989 Gen- was removed, and freedom of con- men within the church. eral Assembly and ordered inserted science, while still acknowledged, In 1981 and 1982, the General in the Book of Forms (A&P 1981, p. is conditioned by the obligation of Assembly considered reports (e.g., 90; A&P 1989, p. 271, 65): By virtue presbyteries to obey church law and A&P 1982 p. 506–7) that wrestled of their ordination vows, all ministers doctrine (including the ordination of with the apparent conflict between and elders are obliged to exercise women). Pastoral care, understand- the authority of God over the con- full ministry including, among other ing and the peace and unity of the science and the authority of the things, active participation in the or- whole church are to be the guiding church. A Declaratory Act was added dination of candidates to the elder- principles in dealing with cases of to the ordination vows that provided ship and to the ministry of Word and conscience. for “freedom of belief but not freedom Sacraments. Though presbyteries If the current remits before the St. Matthew’s PC, NL of action.” Active participation at the have no authority to grant permission church are approved, a note could be ordination of women was made a re- to disobey church law and doctrine, added to the Book of Forms referenc- Are you enjoying your free copy of our denomination’s quirement. At the same time, presby- yet they are enjoined to deal with ing liberty of conscience and action newspaper? Please make a donation to help ensure teries were called upon to deal with cases of conscience on any question related to marriage and the ordination cases of conscience with pastoral with pastoral care and understanding of LGBTQI people. we continue to share the good news with each other. Presbyterian Connection runs four times a year and is distributed to churches and individuals across Canada. I’ve been hearing a lot about the Through the newspaper, we share our successes and Barrier Act. Can you tell me what it is and why it’s important? highlight our ministries with each other—strengthening Answered by the Rev. Don Muir, our denominational ties across the country. General Assembly Office

Please donate The Barrier Act is a decision-making today process of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. It is used when changes to the law or doctrine of the church are proposed. It requires the agree- ment of two General Assemblies and, between the Assemblies, the ap- proval from a majority of presbyter- ies (whose membership represents a majority of all those on the constitu- ent rolls of the presbyteries) before the proposed change can be made. Here is an example of how the Barrier Act functions. Step 1: The 2019 General Assem- bly adopted a recommendation to amend how Term Service for Elder- ship works and to send the legisla- let the General Assembly Office know disapproves the remit, the 2020 Gen- St. David’s PC, BC tion to presbyteries for their consid- its decision by April 1, 2020. eral Assembly will dismiss it. eration. This is called a remit. Step 3: If the majority, as described This is an important process be- Cut this portion off and send it in with a cheque or Step 2: As presbyteries meet dur- above, approves the remit, it will be cause it compels the General Assem- your credit card details. You can also donate online: ing the remainder of 2019 and into placed before the 2020 Assembly bly to consult with the wider church presbyterian.ca/donate 2020, each one is expected to ap- where it can be adopted by the church before making changes to the law or prove or disapprove the remit and to or defeated. If the presbytery majority doctrine of the church. Donation amount: $ ______Visa ® Mastercard ® Name on card: ______Celebrating Abundance Card number: ______By Walter Brueggemann Expiry date: ______Signature: ______Join Presbyterians from across the country Address: ______to journey through Advent with Phone: ______Presbyterians Walter Brueggemann’s devotions. Email: ______Read Ideal for individual or small group study.

50 Wynford Dr., Toronto, ON M3C 1J7 1-800-619-7301 | presbyterian.ca presbyterian.ca/read PRESBYTERIAN presbyterian.ca Connection FALL 2019 39 SMILES FEATURE IMAGE Crossword Test your knowledge on our Caring for Creation theme with the clues below.

These beautiful stained-glass window images from Grace Presbyterian Church in St. John, N.B., by Mark Hemmings were submitted in response to the call for images of stained-glass windows from congregations. To submit photos from your congregation, visit presbyterian.ca/stained-glass. DEATH NOTICES

ACROSS Read all full obituaries online at presbyterian.ca 1. The _____ sang together when God laid the cornerstone of earth, according to Job 38:7. Ian Gordon Michie The Rev. Alan Ross 4. Name of sea creature that could be caught on a hook in Psalm 74:14. Toronto, Ont. Bracebridge, Ont. 5. God is referred to by this honorific title in place of God’s name in the creation story in Genesis 2. Deceased June 27, 2019 Deceased May 1, 2019 7. A biological community of interacting organisms and the physical environment in which they live. 8. The first bird Noah sends out from the ark. The Rev. Freda MacDonald Robert Edward Carpen 10. According to the World Wildlife Fund, the conservation status of blue whales, chimpanzees and Malayan Fonthill, Ont. Toronto, Ont. tigers are all ______. Deceased June 2, 2019 Deceased April 27, 2019 16. Decayed organic material used as a plant fertilizer. 19. To reuse material but make it into something of higher quality. 22. In Jesus’ parable the kingdom of heaven is like a _____ seed, which, though it is the smallest of all seeds, becomes a tree. PULPIT VACANCIES 23. The natural home or environment of an animal, plant or other organism. To see all pulpit vacancies, visit presbyterian.ca/vacancies 24. Convert waste into reusable material. 25. This covers 71% of the earth’s surface. New Minas, Kings (full-time minister) Toronto, York Memorial (half-time – Atlantic Provinces minister – CNEOB DOWN River John, St. George’s – Toney London, New St. James (full-time 1. “I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the _____ will cry out” (Luke 19:40). River, St. David’s (full-time minister) minister) – Southwestern Ontario 2. In the King James Version of the Bible, the wild ox referred to in Numbers 23:22 is called a ______. – Atlantic Provinces Point Edward, Point Edward 3. In Genesis 1, the sky was created on the _____ day. Cornwall, St. John’s (full-time (part-time minister) – Southwestern 6. The second bird Noah sends out from the ark. minister) – Quebec and Eastern Ontario 7. Save ______in your house by changing to compact fluorescent light bulbs. Ontario St. Catharines, Knox (full-time 9. The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal or plant lives or functions. Ottawa, Westminster (full-time minister) – Southwestern Ontario 11. Gaylord ______is the founder of Earth Day, which began in 1970. minister) – Quebec and Eastern Kenora, First (full-time minister) – 12. First human whose name is associated with “earth.” Ontario Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario 13. Passenger pigeons, Tasmanian tigers and the Dodo are all species that are ______. Sherbrooke, St. Andrew’s (full-time Mistawasis Memorial (full-time 14. The gardener volunteers put _____ around the tree in the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree and let the tree minister) – Quebec and Eastern minister) – Saskatchewan remain for a year before cutting it down (Luke 13). Ontario Abbotsford, Calvin (full-time 15. To contaminate with harmful and poisonous substances. Barrie, St. Andrew’s (full-time minister) – British Columbia 17. One of the constellations of stars mentioned in Job 9:9. minister) – CNEOB (Central, Creston, St. Stephen’s (full-time 18. What month is Earth Day in? Northeastern Ontario and Bermuda) minister) – British Columbia 20. According to Psalm 92, “The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like the _____ in Lebanon.” Grand Valley, Knox (part-time Vancouver, Kerrisdale (full-time 21. In Psalm 98, the hills _____ for joy at the coming of the Lord. minister) – CNEOB minister) – British Columbia

22. In what month is World Water Day?

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DOWN 4. LEVIATHAN LEVIATHAN 4. 10. ENDANGERED ENDANGERED 10. HABITAT 23. 6. DOVE DOVE 6. 12. ADAM ADAM 12. 17. PLEIADES PLEIADES 17.

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