Dear Friends:
I wish I could stop beginning these letters with "it's been a hard week" - but the world continues to be a deeply complicated place, doesn't it? I know I join you in heartbreak at the horrific events in Quebec last Sunday. One thing that's bringing me comfort is the number of amazing acts of solidarity that have taken place over the past few days - vigils and rallies, prayer services, and so many other signs of love and support for our Muslim neighbours. Our very own Christina Paradela was asked to speak at Monday's rally in Hamilton, and (as usual) she issued a profound and inspiring call to justice. How very brave and faithful she is. I'm so proud to call her a friend and colleague. These acts give us hope - that no matter how much we might want to retreat, we have to keep working for peace. So, let's keep on being brave, and faithful, all of us - and never lose hope that love overcomes fear.
You might also like to know that Muslim-Christian relationships have been a priority for the United Church of Canada for some time. There is a thoughtful report that you can access,
That We May Know Each Other, by following the link. Though it was authored in 2005, it still rings true. It's 128 pages long, but I find Chapter 7 especially helpful.
On Sunday, we continue with our preaching and film series - there are 2 weeks left. This week's movie is
Hidden Figures, the largely untold story of the black women who worked as "computers" at NASA during the 1960s. It's an incredible film, up for many awards, and still in theatres. About 20 of us gathered at the theatre to see it together last Sunday, and all agreed - it's well worth the effort! Join us at 9am at Rock Chapel, and 10:30am at St. Mark's.
After church, stay for a Loaf and Ladle Lunch! All are invited to enjoy a delicious bowl of soup , homemade right here in our own kitchen. There is no cost for the lunch. You may also be able to purchase a portion of soup to take home depending on supply at the end of the lunch. Fair Trade products will also be available for sale. Please join us - and if you are worshipping at Rock Chapel at 9am, please be welcome to wander down to St. Mark's for 11:30, and have your lunch there!
A few reminders for you for next week: the knitting group will meet at 10am on Thursday, Feb 9th in the St. Mark's Fireside Room - all knitters welcome! And on Friday the 10th (one week from tonight) the Youth Group will meet from 6-8pm at St. Mark's.
What a blessing these communities are. See you on Sunday.