Social Justice and Advocacy -- Key aspects of Christian Service

As Christians, we are called to serve others and to work towards a more just and equitable society. This means not only helping those in need, but also advocating for policies and practices that promote social justice. 

At Christ Church in Bolton, all of these things are happening as a part of our ministry.We have established a direct and open line of communication with our Members of Parliament and Provincial Parliament, and challenge them on issues of living wage and the need to raise the rates for those on assistance and pensions.  

Social justice is at the heart of the gospel's message, and the more we look into the life and ministry of Jesus, the more we see that Christ's life and teachings constantly showed that serving others and advocating for justice are essential aspects of Christian service. Throughout his ministry, Jesus showed compassion for the poor and marginalized, and he spoke out against systems of oppression and inequality. 

 Today, as Christians, we are called to continue that work by serving others and advocating for policies that promote social justice. This means working to address issues such as poverty, racism, sexism, and environmental injustice. These are not simply political issues.  They are issues of faith! It means standing up for the rights of marginalized communities, and advocating for policies that promote equal opportunity and access to resources. 

One way to serve others and advocate for social justice is through volunteering with organizations that are working to address these issues. This might include volunteering at a food bank, homeless shelter, or community organization that serves marginalized populations. It might also involve participating in protests, rallies, or advocacy campaigns that call for social justice and policy change. 

Almost any time we are committed to advocate for social justice it will present itself through the need for political engagement. As Christians, we have a responsibility to participate in the political process; to vote for candidates and policies that align with our values. This might involve contacting elected officials, attending meetings, or advocating for policy change through letter-writing campaigns or social media. 

Ultimately, social justice and advocacy are essential aspects of Christian service. By serving those in need and advocating for policies that promote social justice, we can work towards a more just and equitable society, and continue the work of Jesus in our world today.

Finding Joy even in a world that can feel like its falling apart

In a world that can feel like it's falling apart, finding joy can sometimes seem like an impossible task. With so much pain, suffering, and chaos all around us, it's easy to get caught up in negativity and lose sight of the all the good things that are present around us too. Even in the darkest of times, joy can be found when we are willing to look for it.

Focus on Gratitude...

One of the keys to finding joy is to focus on gratitude. Instead of dwelling on what we don't have or what is going wrong, we choose to focus on the blessings in our lives. Gratitude can be found in even the smallest of day to day things. Appreciate a sunny day. take time to enjoy a good book. Focus on a kind word from a friend. By cultivating a spirit of gratitude, we can begin to see the world in a more positive light and appreciate the beauty that is all around us, and has been all along.

Connect with others...

Another way to find joy is to connect with others. During days of the pandemic, we found ourselves cut off from others, but even in times of social distancing and isolation, we can still reach out to friends and loved ones through phone calls, video chats, or even handwritten letters. As our world continues to open up, we need to reach out and rebuild our sense of connection with others. By connecting with others, we share our joys and sorrows; we find support; we feel less alone in the world.

One very important aspect of connection that can fill us with joy is found in helping others. My youngest niece and nephew recently celebrated a birthday. They decided that instead of enjoying birthday cake, they would go and each buy a birthday cake, and deliver those cakes to the local homeless shelter. Rather than saying "Happy Birthday" those cakes bore the message "You are loved." The joy that was found on their young faces was inescapable. Whether you connect through volunteering, donating to a worthy cause, or simply doing a kind deed for someone in need, there is incredible joy to be found in caring for others.

Hope...

Perhaps most importantly, staying hopeful is key to seeing the joy that we often find ourselves needing. It's easy to feel discouraged when we see pain and suffering in the world, but we must also remember that there is always hope for a better tomorrow. By staying optimistic and believing in the opportunity for positive change, we can experience joy in the journey today, even as we work toward a brighter tomorrow.

Finding joy in a world that can feel like it is falling apart is not always easy, but it is possible. The opportunities to live in joy are there. It is actually the heart of the proclamation of the resurrection that we celebrate during these Easter days -- Even at the darkest of places, God intends to break in with hope, new life and joy. By focusing on gratitude; by connecting with others; and by staying hopeful, we can find joy even in the darkest of times. As we celebrate the Easter season and the hope it brings, let us remember that joy is always within our reach, if we are willing to look for it.

Take time for a Meditation...

Take a deep breath and close your eyes. As you breathe in, feel the air fill your lungs, and as you breathe out, release any tension in your body. Allow yourself to sink into a state of relaxation.

Now, bring to mind something in your life that brings you joy. It could be a person, a place, a memory, or simply the feeling of the sun on your face. Allow yourself to fully immerse in this joy, feeling it fill your heart and radiate throughout your entire being.

As you bask in this feeling of joy, take a moment to reflect on the blessings in your life. Think about all the good things that you have, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Perhaps it is the support of loved ones, the beauty of nature, or the simple pleasures of life. Whatever it may be, allow yourself to feel grateful for these blessings and let that gratitude deepen your sense of joy.

Now, expand your sense of joy by thinking about how you can bring joy to others. Consider how you can share your blessings with those around you, whether through a kind word, a gesture of support, or simply a smile. As you think about bringing joy to others, feel your own joy grow even stronger.

Finally, remember that even in the midst of difficult times, there is always hope for a brighter future. Allow yourself to feel a sense of optimism and possibility, knowing that positive change is always within reach.

As you slowly come back to the present moment, take with you this sense of joy and hope. Know that you have the power to bring joy to yourself and others, even in a world that can feel like it is falling apart.

Prayer...

Dear God,

In a world that can feel like it is falling apart, we come to you seeking joy and hope. We thank you for the blessings in our lives, both big and small, and for the joy they bring us.

Help us to focus on gratitude, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. May we find joy in the blessings that you have bestowed upon us and let that joy fill our hearts and radiate throughout our lives.

Guide us to connect with others. May we reach out to friends and loved ones, share our joys and sorrows, and find support in one another.

Help us to be beacons of joy in the world, bringing joy to others through our actions and words. May we find ways to serve others, bring smiles to their faces, and show them your love through our deeds.

Finally, we pray for hope in the midst of uncertainty. May we stay optimistic and believe in the power of positive change. Give us the courage to work towards a brighter future, knowing that with your help, all things are possible.

We ask for your blessings and guidance as we seek joy and hope in our lives. May your love and grace surround us always. Amen.

Celebrating Earth Day!

A portion of Christ Church Bolton's Community Garden in late fall

Earth Day is a time to reflect on our connection to the natural world and the ways in which we can work to preserve and protect our planet for future generations. One of the most fulfilling ways to connect with the earth is through gardening. Whether you have a small balcony or a large backyard, there is something truly special about getting your hands into the soil and growing your own plants.

At our parish, we have a community garden that produces tons of fresh vegetables that are donated to those who are struggling in our community. It's a wonderful way to give back to those in need while also promoting sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices.

As well as producing vegetables, we have chickens to produce eggs, and this year we will be adding bees to produce honey.

There is a deep sense of satisfaction that comes from watching a tiny seed grow into a

Flowers from my home garden

thriving plant, and it's even more fulfilling when you know that the food you're growing is going to help feed someone in your community. By growing our own food and donating the surplus to those in need, we're reducing our carbon footprint by eliminating the need for transportation and packaging, while also promoting healthy eating habits and community engagement.

In addition to the environmental and social benefits, gardening can also have a positive impact on your mental and physical health. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress and anxiety, and gardening specifically has been linked to

Fresh cilantro

improved mood and increased levels of physical activity. It's a great way to get outside, get some exercise, and work towards a tangible goal.

One of the things I love most about gardening is the opportunity to experiment with new plants and techniques. There is always something new to learn, whether it's trying out a new variety of tomato or testing out a different composting method. It's a never-ending journey of discovery and growth.

Another aspect of gardening that I find particularly rewarding is the ability to preserve herbs and spices. By growing your own herbs and spices, you can ensure that you always have fresh, flavourful ingredients on hand. Whether you're drying herbs for use in teas or preserving spices for use in cooking, it's a great way to extend the life of your garden and create delicious flavours that can't be replicated by store-bought alternatives.

Gardening is a wonderful way to celebrate Earth Day and connect with the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there is something truly special about watching your plants grow and thrive. And when you're able to use your gardening skills to give back to your community and promote sustainable practices, it's an even more fulfilling experience. So grab your gloves and your trowel, and get ready to dig in!

Fore! Golfing with Crazy Print Pants

Teeing off

As an Anglican priest, you may not think of golfing as a particularly religious activity. But let me tell you, when you're out on the course wearing crazy print pants, it's like you're spreading joy and laughter to all those around you.

Picture this: You're on the green, about to take your shot, and your opponents are staring in disbelief at your neon green and purple paisley pants. They may be thinking, "What is he wearing?" or "Is that a rainbow on his pants?" But

The Green and purple paisley ones.

little do they know, your bold fashion choice is actually helping to lift their spirits and bring a smile to their faces.

As you swing your club and hit the ball, your pants swirl around in a beautiful display of colours and patterns. It's like a fireworks show, but on your legs. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good fireworks show?

Plus, wearing crazy print pants on the golf course is a great way to show off your unique style and personality. You're not afraid to stand out from the crowd and make a statement. And in a world where conformity is often praised, it's refreshing to see someone who is willing to break the mold and do their own thing.

It isn't always just me...

So the next time you hit the links, don't be afraid to rock those crazy print pants. Embrace your inner fashion icon and let your legs be a beacon of joy and laughter to all those around you. Who knows, you may even inspire your opponents to ditch their boring khakis and join you in the world of bold and beautiful golf fashion.

So, whether you're on the golf course or in the pews, it's important to embrace your unique style and let your true self shine through. And if that means wearing crazy print pants while you pray or putt, then so be it. Let your light shine, my friends, and may your pants always be bright and bold.

I’m going to laugh again: reflections on the journey of healing through forgiveness

 This morning I found myself on the highway headed for St. Andrew’s, Wellington.  As I drove down that road, (as is often the case when I have quiet driving time) I was carefully going over the various points for my Sunday Sermon.  

Out of the blue, an old memory entered my mind.  In my early years of ministry, I attended a big diocesan event with the Ladies’ Guild of my parish that was held at the Diocesan Cathedral.  As the event was wrapping up, our group realized that a few of the Ladies had wandered off and were nowhere to be seen.  We began to search for them so that we would be able to catch our bus back to Cambridge on time. 

All those great times of joy in the ordinary things of life.

Suddenly, the lost appeared from behind us.  When they told the story of their search for the rest of the group, they simply said, “We just followed the sound of Fr. Don’s big laugh.”  The memory came back with a smile, but then the thought struck me that in the last year, I really haven’t laughed very much. In fact, I’ve spent much of the last year angry, and I can’t even remember the last time that I had one of those moments of cathartic laughter.  I have felt wounded, betrayed, abandoned, but joy and laughter have simply not been a part of my experience of the past year. My next thought was, “I don’t want to be angry anymore.”

At Señor Frog’s in San Juan Puerto Rico with good friends and loads of laughter

Granted, it has been a difficult time.  It has been almost a year since my ministry took a very painful turn.  I’ve said throughout that time, that through this pain I was feeling, my faith held on unwavering.  I realized this morning that this wasn’t entirely true.  For a year, my faith has struggled, because I was allowing my own anger to shut down a piece of my soul; to shut down that piece of my soul that I enjoy the most; that part of my faith life that included joy and laughter.

This kid has been able to make me laugh since she was tiny.

That cynical part of my brain quickly answered back that it’s fine to say that I don’t want to be angry anymore, but how do I make that happen?  In that same moment, the dam broke, and the gospel words that I was preparing a sermon on finally made that long journey from my head to my heart.  The road to being whole again for me, is the road called forgiveness.  

Stephanie’s first communion. Happy times with folks who are like family.

Perhaps most of those whom I might identify as having hurt me deeply, don’t even know the level that I have felt wounded, or even that their words or actions contributed to that wound.  Many of those who do realize that they have played a part in the great pain I have gone through likely don’t care that I have been angry with them.  My anger has done nothing to them, but what it has done is rob me of a whole year of living the joy of my faith, and that is far too high a price. Sadly, it is a price that I have chosen for myself through this entire year though.  

Some of those with whom I have been angry have

On board a ship on formal night, after perhaps blowing the budget on Sint Maarten

reached out to me during this year, and I fear have often received very curt replies. It seems that I have had so much hurt within myself that I always had an abundance to share with others. For this, I am sorry, and ask for forgiveness. I came to realize at the heart level, a truth that I have long known in my head, that I need to forgive, not because those others need it, but in order to heal my own soul; to find the peace that leads me back to joy.

In this priestly vocation there are words that are used to assure the world of forgiveness.  They are the promise and assurance of God’s forgiveness, but if God has forgiven already, who am I to remain angry?  So, “May Almighty God, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.” And even as I let go of this woundedness, please pray for me, a sinner.

But I want to laugh again.

Why a True Lenten Fast This Year

Those that know me well, know that I am a man that is not easily separated from his meals.  I enjoy food.  I enjoy the fellowship that happens at the meal table.  I think that is likely why for all these years I have avoided the idea of a true fast for Lent.  The thought of not eating, even for a controlled time, is a very difficult thought. It has always been far easier for me to give up chocolate or coffee.

Today is Ash Wednesday, and as I reflected on how I would keep a Holy Lent, I was bombarded with troubling things.  I saw images of the Ontario Provincial Police using tear gas on Indigenous protesters at Tyendinaga -- a part of this Diocese -- who were protesting on their own unceded land.  I read articles that said that reconciliation in Canada is dead. I woke on Ash Wednesday with the realization that I was waking up in a very troubled, broken and hurting nation.

Driving in to the Cathedral, bits of scripture ran through my mind. (Isaiah 58) "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen; to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and to break every yoke?" (Micah 6) "He has shown you, O mortal what is good.  And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

As I gathered with the Cathedral community for worship, I heard in the Litany of Repentence words that rang true to my earlier thoughts. "Our self-indulgent appetites and ways, and our exploitation of other people, we confess to you, Lord."  "For our waste and pollution of your creation, and our lack of concern for those who come after us, accept our repentance, Lord."  "Accept our repentance, Lord, for the wrongs we have done, for our blindness to human need and suffering, and our indifference to injustice and cruelty." These are not abstract things.  These are the very sins that have created the broken and hurting reality that I had been thinking on before.

In the face of such thoughts,  I remembered the call of the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church in the United States, calling people to a fast and to pray for their nation, and in that moment felt that I must also keep a fast, and pray for this nation.

Every Wednesday in Lent,  I have decided that I WILL not eat,  and that whenever I feel the pangs of hunger throughout the day,  I will stop, and take time to pray for Canada; for our leaders, our people,  and the issues that seem insurmountable today.

Whether or not you should choose to observe such a fast for Lent, I would ask that you do take time to pray for our country during these 40 Lenten days.

A Day of grace: On finding time for the little things in ministry... which often take surprisingly little time.

I often find that I sort of dread coming in to the office on Tuesdays. There is always the inevitable number of things that need to be seen to from Sunday; calls to be made, follow-ups, etc.  There is the regular weekly staff meeting to go over the calendar for the coming week, and on at least two Tuesdays of the month, there are two institutional services that need to be celebrated.  As well,  I try to discipline myself to start each new week by writing at least 5 thank you cards to people in the Cathedral community who have given themselves in ministry.

Today was a Tuesday much like the others.  It was going to be packed with all manner of activity.  I sat to write the Thank you cards.  I wasn't really ready for the staff meeting.  I thought, "Couldn't I just take a pass on the cards this week so that I can get myself caught up on other things?"  Just then a parishioner passed by in the hall talking with a friend.  she said, "You know, I've been going through a really down time lately,  but just the other day I got a hand-written thank you note from the Dean,  and it just turned that whole day around."  I heard that and realized,  perhaps its far more important for the administrative things to take a back seat.  Its far more important to find the time for that little note of thanks.

I ran off to the first of the two Eucharists that I have to celebrate today.  It is held in the Library at St. Lawrence Place.  The congregation was rather small,  but they are such a lovely and dedicated group. They told me that one of their number was missing from the group because she had been in hospital for quite some time,  and though she was back to St. Lawrence Place,  she was just not feeling all that well today,  and wondered if I might be able to bring her communion in her room when I was finished the service with the others.  I adjusted the amounts to be consecrated and had the celebration with the gathered group.  Afterwards, Canon Tony Capon led me to the room of our missing friend.  When I gave her the Eucharist,  it was obvious how very much it meant to her to have been included in the prayers and in the sacrament.  It took so little time from my already busy day to go to a room in a Retirement Home and to share the sacrament,  but to one person,   it meant the world.

As if God had not delivered the message of the importance of simple acts of love,  I went off after lunch to take the service at Providence Manor.  Our usual congregation gathered, including one woman who arrived at the Cathedral at the age of four,  and has continued as a member there for almost 106 years since.  Her eyesight is failing,  and she gets confused when she is brought into a Roman Catholic Chapel and told that she is at the Anglican service.  Today, she began the service a little agitated, but gradually settled in to the familiar words of the Eucharist.  When the service was done she called me over as she usually does.  She raised her hands toward my face,  and I expected the usual drill.  She usually pulls me in close so that she can examine my face and make sure that I truly am who the volunteers have told her that I am.  So I leaned in close and said,  "I'm the Dean, Margaret."  She got a funny twinkle in her eye,  and she said, "I don't give a damn if your the Dean, or who you are, I'm still gonna kiss you."  After she kissed me,  she thanked me several times for coming and bringing her Communion. Once again it was clear that this most simple of offerings made such an amazing difference in one person's life.

Returning to the Cathedral, I bumped into another member of the Cathedral who was there doing her regular work of service. She called me over, and said,  "I was so moved to get your Thank you card this week.  I've been doing this job under six music directors,  and I don't think I can even count how many Deans,  and I don't think anyone before has ever taken the time to SAY thank you, much less to write a card".  A few minutes spent composing a note can help someone feel that what they are doing really does make a difference and truly is important.

So often in the busy-ness of our day to day living,  we tend to rush by, and miss those tiny opportunities that would allow us to truly make a difference. I know that I am far from perfect.  i know that I often find myself over-scheduled; overly rushed, and quick to lose sight of those little opportunities to share God's love.  I guess that today I was just fortunate enough to have seen how God might be calling me to share God's love in a couple of tiny encounters. Keep your eyes peeled today.  Who knows where God might be planning to put you to work.