Communiqué
2023 Issue 6



Ordinary Time
Social Justice and Political Agendas

At first, I did not believe what I had been told, I thought it might be an internet hoax. But a recent article in Sojourners (an American publication that promotes a gospel life that integrates spiritual renewal and social justice) confirms the personal experience of a colleague in the US. And now, an evangelical leader is warning that conservative Christians are rejecting the teachings of Jesus as "liberal talking points."

Russell Moore, a former top official with a powerful evangelical denomination, said during an interview aired on NPR (National Public Radio) that Christianity is in a "crisis" due to the current state of right-wing politics. He suggested that the political landscape in the U.S. is fractured to the point where some Christian conservatives are openly denouncing a central doctrine of their religion as being too "weak" and "liberal" for their liking.

And it appears that due to the influence of conservative politics, some ministry personnel are wary of speaking about social justice issues because of a deep-rooted fear of being labeled “liberal,” “progressive,” or “secular.” They have even been challenged by more conservative members for preaching directly from the gospels.

"Multiple pastors tell me, essentially, the same story about quoting the Sermon on the Mount in their preaching—'turn the other cheek'—[and] to have someone come up after to say, 'Where did you get those liberal talking points?'" Moore said.

"When the pastor would say, 'I'm literally quoting Jesus Christ' ... The response would be, 'Yes, but that doesn't work anymore. That's weak," he added. "When we get to the point where the teachings of Jesus himself are seen as subversive to us, then we're in a crisis."

I know that not everything that is happening with our Southern neighbours will be seen here in Canada, but I also know that there are some Canadians who will frequently look to the cultural and political influences of the US to shape our society. I would like to know just how we can keep the dialogue open with the conservative churches in our neighbourhoods and communities and avoid the polarization we see to the South. 

The Bible tells us that Jesus cared deeply about the social causes around him.

Even though Jesus loves everyone, he went out of his way to intentionally help specific groups of people — the alienated, mistreated, and those facing injustice. So participating in a movement seeking justice, positive reform, and empowerment is one of the most Christ-like things we can do.

Christians must recognize that our society is filled with numerous groups and communities facing systemic oppression, and we must act. We must be willing to admit and address the complex realities within our world that create such problems.

Throughout the New Testament Jesus was more complex than we give him credit for.

He intentionally, purposefully, and passionately addressed very specific causes. He radically addressed the diverse and complicated conflicts of the time and shattered the status quo. He helped those who were being abused, violated, and oppressed.

Involving ourselves within these issues — serving those who need justice — is an example of following Jesus that today’s Christians must adhere to, because throughout the world there are millions of people who are suffering. 

Participating in social justice is a Christian tradition inspired by Jesus. It’s a deeply spiritual practice. When we acknowledge and actively participate in movements which address racism, immigration, gender equality, and a litany of other issues, we are following in the steps of Jesus.

It’s not a matter of pitting social causes against the gospel message of Christ; it’s a matter of realizing that these causes ARE actually an important part of that gospel message.

Blessings,
Kathi
Thanks
Thanks to:

  • All who read and participated in summer services
  • All who volunteered to host coffee on Sunday mornings
  • Cathy Kiteley, Doreen Sims, Sandy Hayes, Mike Ogilvie, and their teams for organizing the Book, Boot, and Bake Sale held in June
  • Sandy and Tim Hayes, Derry Bunting, and all who helped with the picnic Sunday and the Bike Tune-up event
  • Joanne Hines and Theresa Morris for arranging EMUC’s participation in the Pride Parade
  • Larry van Goozen for leading the Bunch for Lunch in July
  • Sylvia Arnold and the AV Tech Team for all the work in live-streaming our services in the spring and throughout the year
  • Debby Sturgeon and Joanne Hines for administering and interviewing candidates for the Ian MacRae bursary
  • Leadership Circle and Worship for planning the welcome back Sunday for Rev. Kathi
  • Brian Takayesu for looking after the purchase of a new projector to replace the damaged one. 
  • Brian Takayesu for upgrading the livestreaming computers and hosting laptop this summer.
  • Karen Colwell who organizes the scripture readers for each Sunday
  • Tim Hayes, David Brignall and all who helped paint the lines in the parking lot

From the Leadership Circle
I hope everyone has enjoyed a happy and restful summer holiday time. EMUC and all its volunteers also use this time to take a breather and regenerate. Taking this rest has worked. The Leadership Circle met this week and they are ready to forge ahead on achieving our strategic direction of growing our church in the community. We have accomplished many things so far this year and there is more to come.

Before the summer break, the United Church of Canada sent out a request that every church vote on whether or not to allow the Indigenous wing of the church to operate independently. This would allow the Indigenous people to structure their organization in a way that best promoted their involvement in the United Church. It is also part of the ongoing reconciliation process between the United Church and the Indigenous community. In our June meeting the Leadership Circle voted unanimously to allow the Indigenous wing to operated independently. 

We welcome back Kathi from her well-deserved sabbatical as she is integral to helping us move forward. Morar exposed us to new ideas and proved that we are adaptable, but it is not the same as when Kathi is here.

Virtually all of our many activities will be starting this September and most will be in person. We are excited to see the start of a men’s group this fall.  

Watch for information on our Welcome Back event this September which will be fun and we hope will attract the community.

One of the first things that Morar observed when she came to us is that we are a “church of plenty”. We can see this in all our events at EMUC and it is something we should happily remember and strive to continue.

Kathy Andres
LC Chair
Life at EMUC
Welcome Back, Rev. Kathi!
Rev. Kathi returned from her sabbatical and vacation on August 8 and the congregation celebrated her return at the service on August 13.
Regional Council Representative

The Leadership Circle is happy to announce the appointment of Brian Takayesu as EMUC’s Interim Regional Council Representative (Horseshoe Falls), effective immediately. Brian has graciously agreed to cover the duties of this role until the end of March, 2024. Thank you, Brian, on behalf of the LC and the entire EMUC family.
Picnic Sunday and Bike Tuneup Event
On June 11, the Membership and Pastoral Care committee hosted the EMUC Annual Picnic. A BBQ was held and this year, to highlight our Inspire intentions, we invited the community and offered free bicycle tune-ups (and minor repairs happened, too), courtesy of Derry Bunting and Tim Hayes! Five or six bikes were attended to and declared roadworthy, and several people attended from our neighbourhood. Our EMUC family also rallied and supplied an abundance of delicious add-ons to the BBQ. About 35 people came out to enjoy the day. M&PC would like to express our sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make this a successful, fun event, and special thanks go to Derry and Tim.
Report on our First Boot, Book, and Bake Sale
EMUC is known for its successful annual garage sales. However, post Covid the goal was to plan something a little less physically taxing and preferably outdoors. And that’s when we decided a Trunk/Boot sale would be a great idea. 

On June 24, 21 renters showed up with their bric-a-brac and enjoyed a fun morning of selling their wares to the community at large in the church parking lot. Accompanying the Boot sale was a very successful Bake and Book sale which took place in the narthex of the church. We came up with the slogan “BBB” to stand for Boot/Book/Bake sale which was used in all our advertising.

The day was filled with excitement and laughter (and a little drizzle) as buyers and sellers exchanged conversations about the items for sale. Several folks were quite interested in learning more about EMUC and what we have to offer. A post survey revealed that all respondents would be interested in receiving information about future Boot sales. They also provided recommendations to enhance future Boot sales.

In total, the BBB brought in $2,017.14 which was good for our first BBB. The funds go towards the continued life and work of our beloved church. However, a church is nothing without its people, and with reference to the BBB, thank you to the many, dedicated volunteers, sellers, and the community which is really what made our first of many BBB’s a tremendous success.

Doreen Sims and Cathy Kiteley
Pride Parade

On Sunday, June 25 a small group from EMUC, joined a larger group from Shining Waters Regional Council and walked in the Toronto Pride Parade. One of our goals when we became an Affirming Congregation was to be public about our belief that God’s love includes Everyone. Representing our congregation at this large event was an honour, and our group was excited and exhilarated as we walked through the streets of Toronto. We were met with smiling, cheering people as we celebrated the 2SLGBTQ+ community. It was a day to turn our words, goals and intentions into actions and our group was moved to be part of this special event. Thank you to Brian, Cindy, Theresa, Donnie, Karen, Coda and Joanne for walking with Pride.
Mayor's Pride Event
On Friday, June 30, Mayor Bonnie Crombie hosted her annual Pride Social at the Crooked Cue in Port Credit. EMUC was invited to attend by Reverend Joanne Hedge of Applewood United. Sandy Hayes and Joanne Hines represented our Affirming congregation, and it was wonderful to meet members of the community and representatives from key 2SLGBTQ+ organizations in Mississauga. Friends and allies shared stories and information, and provided education on how we can work together to provide safe spaces for all.
Ian MacRae Memorial Bursary - Two Awards in 2023

The Ian MacRae Memorial Bursary has been offered annually since 2000 to young people in financial need who are planning to attend a post-secondary institution, to gain skills and knowledge which will assist them in achieving their career goals.

Ian MacRae, as a member of EMUC, volunteered at the Springfield Gardens Breakfast Club and helped raise funds for the Erin Mills Youth Outreach Program. He enjoyed interacting with the young people who participated in the programs. At the time of his death, two gifts were donated to the church by his daughters and the insurance company he worked for. These funds were invested and are managed by the Trustees of Erin Mills United Church. One or more bursaries is granted annually from the interest.

This year Joanne Hines and I had the pleasure of awarding two bursaries to very deserving candidates from the Erin Mills community. In addition to academic achievement, both recipients are active in extracurriculars, volunteer both in their schools and the wider community, and hold down part-time jobs. Meeting and interviewing such gifted young people and receiving their thanks is very rewarding. This is what one of our recipients had to say:

“I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the McRae Bursary that I recently received. The timing of this support couldn't be more perfect, as it just arrived when I needed it the most. Your generosity has lifted a significant burden off my shoulders, and I am truly grateful for this opportunity. Thank you for believing in me and for your unwavering support.

With heartfelt appreciation,"
 
This has been an important community outreach ministry for the past twenty years and will continue for many more.
 
Submitted by Debby Sturgeon
Refugee Family Update

Welcome to Canada!

The Jamal family - Samer, Nour and their children, ten-year-old Salma and six-year-old Alkaram arrived in Canada from the UAE in July. They are co-sponsored by Nadeem and Tarek with the support of the Northwest Mississauga Constituent group. They are happy to be here and have spent the summer familiarizing themselves with the city and getting ready for the coming school year.

Samer would like to add his personal thanks: 
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the help and assistance you’ve provided. Your efforts have been invaluable in making our journey successful.
To everyone who has contributed, a “big thank-you” from our family.