On September 15-17, 41 Presbyterians and Indigenous colleagues gathered from across Canada to listen, share and inspire one another in the church’s reconciliation journey. The event was opened and closed by Jake Charles, a member of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. Participants heard presentations from Dave Mowat (a historian from Alderville First Nation), Ry Moran (director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and member of the Métis Nation) and Dr. Marlene Brant Castellano (co-research chair for the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples and member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte First Nation). The Gathering also provided opportunities to reflect on the church’s journey thus far and ways we can support one another in the ministry of reconciliation. The following are Stephen Allen’s concluding remarks from the Gathering.
Consider the number of occasions when Jesus’ followers expressed awe; awe at the power of Jesus’ resurrection, awe because they were afraid, awe because of Jesus’ gift of healing even if it meant breaking the rules of the Sabbath and inducing the wrath of the Pharisees. Awe because they were beginning to understand the enormity of what Jesus had been preparing them to do.
I am in awe of the ministries carried out by our colleagues in National Native Ministries. I am in awe at their strength in the face of the racism that those they serve encounter. I am in awe and I am grateful to Indigenous brothers and sisters who are Survivors of residential schools or who are inter-generational Survivors who choose to remain committed to the church.
I am in awe of those whose families settled in this land generations ago and in awe of those who have come to Canada more recently because of your commitment to healing and reconciliation even when you receive little encouragement and support.
I am in awe of God the Creator who loves us, who comforts us, who gives us strength when we are discouraged and tired. I am in awe and grateful knowing that on this long walk, Jesus is with us. I am in awe that the Holy Spirit is present as we discern the steps to take on this long walk.
For this I give thanks to God and I give thanks to you for your commitment to this journey of healing and reconciliation. Chi-Miigwetch.
Amen