Our scripture invites us to be one in Christ. But how can we be one when only some are heard?
Deepening Our Engagement
A 1-minute version of the video is available on YouTube. Consider linking to it from your church website, e-newsletter, or social media.
Prayer
Compassionate God,
Thank you for stories,
stories of compassion and care,
stories of vulnerability and healing,
stories of discomfort and hope and love.
As we find parts of ourselves reflected in our biblical stories, may we always know that we are part of your story and the story of the church in the world.
May we always know that we are loved by you, God.
It is you, God, who gather us together as community.
Help us be a transformed church together.
Help us be people who reflect on ourselves and our place,
who reflect on you and your love,
and who reflect your love into the world.
God, we pray for people among us in our churches,
people who are living with pain or wounds or racial trauma.
May our churches become spaces of healing and spaces of belonging.
May your Spirit inspire us
to co-create churches where all voices are heard,
Indigenous and racialized,
refugees and settlers,
young and old,
people on the margins and people in the centre of privilege,
people of all genders and identities,
people who have been excluded and people searching for a place to belong.
Help us at times to pause and to really listen to one another and remember our unity in Christ.
May our churches be faithful ones, communities of disciples following in the ways of Jesus and helping to share love of neighbour and world.
God who is ever near,
help us to learn to be companions with one another along this life journey.
May we be present with one another as you are present with us
This we pray in faith,
Amen
Congregational Responses
- Jenni names the importance of having all voices heard, and that at times Indigenous and racialized voices are among the ones that are undervalued. She also reflects on the idea of the table being set, and everyone finding a place at the table. The United Church of Canada has launched the 100 Tables initiative; it is about creating 100 tables of welcome. It’s described as: “Interactive, meaningful experiences that meet neighbours where they are—honouring their stories and rhythms while celebrating what it means to belong—to have a Place at the Table.” Perhaps your community of faith is already a host! If you are not already a host, how could your community of faith get involved? You can find a table or host a table! What are some other ways that your community of faith might “set a table” where everyone has a place of belonging in your church?
- Jenni also reflects on church policies and the church building itself. She asks: How do we reflect, respond, and make space for all so that all voices are heard? One way to do this is to do an audit—or detailed review—of your church policies and buildings. Is there an explicit anti-racism policy? Is there a policy about other equity issues? How might a policy be further developed or lived out? What does your physical space look like? What art is on display? Is it accessible? How would people know they are welcome when they enter your church building?
- The results of your review may give you ideas on how to make space for all.
Credit
Prayer and congregational responses: Adele Halliday
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