Summer is here, in full swing! While I can be caught complaining about heat, I absolutely love the summer. Creation is just so alive! All the green of the trees and plants never fails to amaze me, every year — those small things, such as seeing green leaves on the trees and hearing the birds and the bugs fills me with so much joy and gratitude for creation. The aliveness of the world this time of year washes over me in a way that uplifts my energy, but also simultaneously calms me. Summer makes me feel so connected to creation, the Spirit and God.
But, summer also reminds me of why my heart aches for creation. Creation offers us so many gifts. And creation is resilient. But the effect that our collective actions have inflicted upon the environment is undeniable, especially this time of year. Our country is burning. Every summer, it seems, that we are facing record-breaking wildfires, that are having devastating impacts on individuals, communities, and nature. For those of you dealing with the effects of the wildfires right now, my prayers are with you. The beauty and aliveness of these summer months serves as a good reminder of why it is so important to advocate for creation and take action in protecting our environment and fighting climate change. Summer is a busy time of year, but I will be trying to elevate my stewardship this season, and invite you all to do the same.
This issue, we are saying a heartfelt goodbye to Bishop Susan Johnson, as her time as National Bishop comes to an end and she begins her new chapter of retirement. The feature takes a dive into Bishop Susan’s ministry over the past 18 years: reflecting on her contributions, guidance and support, as well as all of her abundant gifts that she has shared with us across her tenure as National Bishop. She has led and represented our church with grace, courage and heart. We are so blessed to have had her leadership! It is with profuse gratitude that I extend my thanks to Bishop Susan for her leadership and her service, and wish her the best in her retirement—rest and relaxation, but also new and exciting endeavours. I had the honour of partaking in bountifully engaging conversation with Bishop Susan and some of her close colleagues and friends, while crafting her retirement feature. It was so heartwarming and inspiring to listen, learn and bear witness to the reflections, memories and ample appreciation shared in these conversations. While it is a challenging task — encompassing 18 years with the reverence it deserves into one sole article— I do hope this feature inspires you to take a trip down memory lane and reflect fondly upon Bishop Susan’s ministry and our journey as a church throughout her time of leadership, and inspires the sharing of your own fond memories with one another.
As well in this issue, we get to hear from Ben Johnston-Urey, the recipient of the 2025 ELCIC Leadership Award, in the In Mission pages. The insights on faith, mission and general outlook on life that he shares were truly inspiring to me, stirring up much contemplation and introspection. Maybe his words will rouse similar ruminations and resonation for you as well.
Rev. Tuula Van Gaasbeek, who was recently selected as a recipient for the King Charles III Coronation Medal, shares her experience with interfaith work and devotion to fostering interfaith and ecumenical relationships, in Practicing our Faith. The work she does is extremely interesting to learn about, very impressive and so very important.
Truly—this issue is so full of stories highlighting the amazing work being done all across the ELCIC and faithful initiatives being pursued. It fills my heart with so much joy, encouragement and inspiration.
Sarah Malina
Editor
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