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Uniting MinistriesConnecting and supporting the diverse ministries of The United Church of Canada. July 2010 | Issue 12
| In This Issue |
Up Front
—by Omega Bula, Executive Minister, Justice, Global and Ecumenical Relations Unit I learned about the power of stories from my grandmother, educated in the "school of life." She shared wisdom stories about systems of domination such as patriarchy; African religious and cultural rituals that value womanhood and self-esteem; stories dealing with loss and life transitions; and important beliefs and practices. They still nurture me on my journey. How stories shape "reality" in God's mission has ethical implications. We need to ask whose voices are heard and how they are used; what experiences are privileged; why and how stereotypes are formed; and about consent and control in using and interpreting a story. Stories are sacred, representing feelings, struggles, reflection, hopes, and a deep sense of spirituality rooted in struggles for justice. To honour them we must work for justice in solidarity with the storyteller. Cultural Storytelling and Oral Tradition—by Emmanuel K. Ofori, Union United Church, Montreal, Quebec In African churches, it is common for listeners to intersperse a preacher's message with song and other commentary. So during one of my sermons when I was serving Ghana Calvary Methodist United Church in Toronto, it came as no surprise to hear "Oheneba Mesaya, wo mma retwen wo o o, …!!" ("Your children are waiting for you, Messiah the Prince") echo through the congregation. The Connecting CommunityAwakening to a Painful Reality We've all heard the quaint missionary cliché "I went to change their world but when I got there they changed me," or a variation thereof. I've heard it enough that it almost annoys me to write it down. It certainly annoys me that it applies to me! Rebirth at First United First United Church has undergone a rebirth these past three years. Unable to support a dwindling congregation, it has reinvented itself as a different kind of church—providing a place of belonging for marginalized people in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Today First United is home to almost 300 people, and for hundreds more, it's a place of welcoming and acceptance. Profile: Storytelling across GenerationsAt the Consultation for Racialized Youth, November 2009, the youth told stories about culture and identity. There were animated debates, laughter, and learning. Youth shared that they felt caught between themselves and their parents and/or church. Some attended a church representative of their cultural community; others were in a minority position. Everyone had much to share. First Nations youth shared that while some of their elders were very traditional, they also listened to young people's opinions. First-generation Canadians shared that their elders were accepting of change. Second- and third-generation Canadians shared that things tend to run by the "lifers," and that change would come only with a change of leadership. It was clear that across cultural lines, and generational lines, there are many stories to be told. You Wanted to KnowUnited Church Women Faithfulness. One group that calls that word to mind in our church is the United Church Women. Though the number of units across the country is shrinking, and their membership is aging, these faithful women continue to faithfully support the work of the United Church and the M&S Fund. Last year, UCWs contributed $1,895,000 to M&S. Thank you. Over the years, women's groups have contributed $122,000,000 to the church's continued work. The UCW helps the United Church to support partner agencies in Canada, global partners around the world, and the core work of our church. Through their witness, our church is able to share the good news of the gospel. Without the UCW's generous support, our work would not be possible. News and Resources from General Council Office |
Coming EventsMission Trip Leaders Training Worship Matters 2010 Creating a Culture of Generosity: A Stewardship Event with a Twist Worship Ideas for Special DaysHiroshima Day: Lose the Nuclear Ambivalence Season of Creation Recommended ResourcesUCRDstore » AfricaFiles » Edinburgh 2010 Global Gathering » Non-Profit Storytelling » Bonjour-dieu! » Mission and Service Fund OnlineLearn about how we fund the work of the church » Find worship resources for your M&S Sunday » PAR: Pre-Authorized Remittance » General Council Office Links |
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