There has been a lot of unrest surrounding our neighbour to the south in recent months, and understandably so. At my time of writing, we are approaching a federal election here at home, as well. The election may be over by the time this issue reaches mailboxes, but even so, a new government can bring feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. No matter the result, we are looking at a new and different dynamic of power within the House of Commons, and on the world stage. There is so much at stake in this election. There is so much going on in the world around us, many concerns that weigh on our hearts, both at home and abroad. Our new government will hold much responsibility in determining how these concerns and other various affairs are addressed, not only over the next few years, but also beyond, with whatever longer-term impacts actions will yield. We are entering a new era of Canada. The political composition of our government will be different. There will be change, and with that, new challenges may arise, adding to what may seem like an every-growing list of worries. Having this awareness, and addressing it, is not meant to perpetrate more fear, or hopelessness.
I have always been and will always be a huge advocate for political literacy, and political participation. Like faith, political engagement is a fundamental pillar, one to be nurtured. Exercising our autonomy to engage in work that will propel our society forward and shape our future is important and meaningful. Having the opportunity and right to do so without fear is a privilege that not everyone in this world has. It is something that I am continuously grateful for and knowing that I am lucky to have that ability impassions me even moreso to exercise it.
It is a way of fostering hope into action.
While some might consider politics to be a divisive mechanism, I would argue that it can also be the opposite. Our political systems are not without fault, and we will also not always be in agreement with one another, but the ability to come together to mobilize, to use our voices, to advocate for our beliefs…it is a reminder of the care and compassion we possess.
Whatever various uncertainty or anxieties we may be feeling in the aftermath of this election, I find solace in the fact that we will continue showing up for our neighbours in need. We will continue advocating for a better world, for peace and for justice. We will continue putting in the work to effect necessary change in our communities. We will continue living out God’s grace, and leading with our hearts.
Our feature story this issue, Welcoming the Stranger, is a strong example of that. Despite the challenges and policy changes that have impacted immigration and refugee sponsorship in Canada, our communities continue to show up for, and lend support to, our newcomer neighbours. As well, the Q&A explores what the Holy Spirit teaches us about hospitality. In the BC Synod pages, you can find a story about Rev. Jim Whaley, and how the Lord prepared him for service to his community in a way he had not originally anticipated. It is incredibly moving, and one of my favourite inclusions in this issue.
As always, if you have any reflections you would like to share about the issue or have any photos you would like to submit for our in sight page, do not hesitate to reach out to editor@elcic.ca! I enjoy hearing your reflections and seeing snapshots of the exciting happenings in our congregations.
Wishing you all a blessed and joyful Easter.
Sarah Malina
Editor
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