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Remember: God Loves the World  
Part 3

This is ‘Part-3' of a three-part series from the ‘Faith & Leadership’ article by Peter Storey, on the topic of ‘Reconciliation, Justice, Missions & Community’.

The 3rd question posed of Peter Storey by  'Faith & Leadership' was:

Do you think that something like a truth and reconciliation commission, as you had (in South Africa), would be helpful in our context?

Storey’s response was that he thought it could, and it would be very different.

At the time, he was working with the “Beloved Community” in North Carolina, USA, in a truth and reconciliation process.

(The USA has yet to consider a national program of truth telling. Here, in Canada, we have the TRC report, and we are in the process of its implementation.)

In the article quoted, Peter Storey made a profound statement. “We’ve got to get beyond the kind of hatred that is generated between people.”

As Christians, we need to recognize who we serve—The Prince of Peace. As we serve, we also need to be prepared to walk a path whereby we walk closer toward the other (person). We cannot walk away from the hard work of truth and reconciliation.

What are some steps that we might take?

  • Take opportunities to walk together;

  • Take time to listen;

  • Attend public opportunities to hear the story;

  • Take time to listen to the anger;

  • Take time to have tea together.  

As a Church, we are required to think deeply about reconciliation, and we have talked “reconciliation” in our rituals for generations.

Now, is the time to focus on this theology in our everyday lives. 

This past week, we witnessed Charles III taking time out of his schedule (nearly immediately before the Coronation) to listen to the people of Canada representing the indigenous people of our country.

We need to continue to listen.

Blessings for this week,
Archdeacon Brian+