Dear Friends,
There is so much to talk, write, pray, reflect, and sing about these days and I am grateful for a community that leans into what it means to “seek justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.”
At the council meeting on Wednesday, this statement of solidarity was adopted to denounce systemic racism in Canada and around the world. Together we will lament, listen, learn and act.
The GO Project is leading in this work with children and youth in their new summer programming opportunities.
If you are willing to experience some discomfort, come and join us on Thursday, June 18 from 12:30 to 2:00 pm for a Conversation About Race Workshop led by James Aitchison. In our predominantly wealthy and white congregation, the onus for education is our own. All are welcome to be a part of this workshop where we will have interactive presentations and small-group conversations. We will be exploring white privilege, dominant culture and intersectionality, among other things. This will be the first of two sessions; the second will be developed in response to specific requests for learning. On June 18, click here to join the conversation on Zoom.
Beloved writer and fellow follower, Richard Rohr, shares his commentary on White Privilege.
For my part, I am retuning my ears. Vancouver artist, United Church of Canada leader, courageous teacher and soul singer Dawn Pemberton is interviewed here on Mulligan Stew. Following her on Instagram (Dawn Pemberton) or Facebook (Dawn Pemby) will open you to seeing in a new way. Her wisdom and her music have been important in my faith journey. This is a time to listen to the soundtrack of what is happening — the artists, musicians and creatives who respond to what they are knowing and seeing.
Music Sunday
Music opens us, heals us, inspires us, and calls us to action. Join us this Sunday at 10:30 am for Music Sunday—offered in a new way (online). Jason and our family of musicians have a few surprises in store during the service.
Don’t miss it, tell all your friends and share out an invite for people to join us for moments of Christ’s peace justice, community and hope.
STAY on the website following church, scroll down just a little bit, and one or two minutes after the postlude the Facebook Live for passing the peace and sharing news with me comes right up. You don’t need to do anything — just STAY. If you’d rather, you can contribute comments in real time by going to the Islington United Church Facebook page.
In the midst of it all enjoy the beauty of creation (despite the allergies).
Sending love and prayers, Rev. Maya