Indigenous Justice

I recently went on a trip to the Yukon, I’m not a big hiker so when my friend led me along the side of a steep slope on a mountain sheep trail I was well out of my comfort zone.  But I was also exhilarated, it was a new experience for me, on a perfect fall day. I was enjoying good conversation with my friend, and we could see our goal far up the hill.  

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.  - Hebrews 12:28

Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. - Psalm 25:5

This is a reflection on human trafficking. 

This is a reflection on more than just human trafficking. 

Because, like many of our world’s justice issues, human trafficking is rooted in other systemic problems and challenges. 

But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. Psalm 5:7

September 6th is National Read a Book Day! With the upcoming Canadian election in mind, the Centre for Public Dialogue has compiled this great list of books for you to read on Sept 6th, or any other day this fall. These titles have been read and enjoyed by our staff and board members as they endeavor to speak hope to elected officials, and to engage our families, neighbourhoods, and church communities in doing justice. 

This article is the third installment of our climate justice series.  Read the other articles here.  

Reading the fifth chapter of Mary Robinson’s book, Climate Justice, introduces us to two women, Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim and Jannie Staffansson. Both belong to groups of native nomads and yet their lives and experiences are worlds apart. 

My favorite duty at our annual June church retreat, high in the Colorado mountains, is waking up early to start the fire in the grand meeting space fireplace. Sipping coffee and waiting for the fire to warm the lodge, I would meditate on the day’s schedule of devotions, studies and prayers which lead to sharing, testimonies, tears and healing.

Participants at the retreat would slowly be drawn to the warm hearth. The warm and dancing flames radiate out the raw power of fire reflected inside of us, which was recognized by our ancients’ ones. 

New York Passes Climate Legislation, Invests in Nation’s Largest Wind Farm

Last week, New York passed legislation — the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act — to pursue the nation's most ambitious set of climate challenges and goals, including cutting emissions 85 percent by 2050 and requiring utilities to get 70 percent of their energy from renewables by 2030. It will also pursue new wind energy projects, which aim to generate 9,000 megawatts with new turbines off the coast by 2035.

“Will you give me a drink?” asked Jesus of the Samaritan woman. This story found in John 4:7-26 illustrates Jesus’ deep love for all women even those rejected by mainstream society. In this story, a Samaritan woman is at the well with Jesus, about to draw water for herself. Jesus asks her to get him a drink. Shocked at his request because Samaritans  and Jews didn’t mix, a conversation ensues.