With so many other things screaming out for our attention over the past week, we may not realize that other things are equally deserving of awareness and care.
Below is the letter sent out by our own United Church of Canada Foundation:
-Beryl
Black history is Canadian history! Black History Month seeks to be inclusive of the many historical experiences in the Black community in Canada, and the rich contributions the community has made to the foundation of our country. The United Church of Canada Foundation proudly celebrates the history of Black Canadians, including those in our United Church.
The United Church of Canada has an abundance of Black History Month resources on their website. Whether you are leading your congregation in worship, engaging in study and discussion with a small group, or simply want to learn more for yourself about the strong and vibrant history of Black peoples in Canada and The United Church, I encourage you to check out the collection. These prayers, testimonies, stories, songs, worship services, pictures, videos and essays can be found here: united-church.ca/worship-special-days
It is also a time of lament, as we mourn the injustices of the past, and those that continue today. As a Church, we believe in forgiveness, reconciliation, and transformation and the potential to learn from stories and experiences. The Foundation is committed to listening deeply to these stories and working to remove the inequity and injustices created by racism to create a more just planet where everyone can share and celebrate God’s abundance.
In June of 2020, Rev. Dr. Paul Douglas Walfall, member of the United Church of Canada Foundation Board, called on White people in the Church to put their love into action to counteract racism. You can read his words here: unitedchurchfoundation.ca/dear-white-people/
I hope that this Black History Month is meaningful and transformative for you.
With blessings and solidarity,
Sarah Charters
President