Tuesday, April 22, 2025

MUSINGS April 22, 2025

Rev. Wendy Paterson | Pastoral Care Coordinator

This morning I woke up to the news that Pope Francis had died. I expect many of you did as well. We knew he wasn't well but I was amazed that he died so soon after participating in the Easter celebration at the Vatican just the day before. That must have been important for him before leaving this life and moving on to the next.

As I listened to news reports throughout the day, I was interested to hear what people close to the Pope thought were some of his most important contributions during the years he served as Pope. He wasn't particularly interested in doctrine or church politics or finances. Instead, his heart was with the poor and marginalized, and he lived very simply himself. He was also very concerned about Climate Justice and God's creation. It was suggested that he chose the name Francis because of St. Francis of Assisi who gave up wealth and prestige to live in nature, with the poor and others whom society had rejected. Thirdly, he cared deeply about the harm caused by colonialism, especially the horrible abuse in residential schools and their continuing impact. You likely remember his recent visit to Canada and his apology to our Indigenous siblings.

As I thought about what I was hearing, it struck me that Francis valued many of the same things that are priorities for St. Andrew's – the poverty issues in our community and all that goes along with it like inadequate housing, mental health problems, addictions, etc. We support projects like Adopt-a-Room and The Roy Street Project to name just a few. Many of us are deeply concerned about the Climate Crisis and our response. And the Land Acknowledgment we hear every Sunday reminds us of our ongoing need for reconciliation with Canada's First Peoples and of our responsibility to care for creation. As we worship and serve God, we remember these values.

We have just celebrated the glorious season of Easter and the hope it brings. We have thought about resurrection, rebirth, re-creation, renewal. We see new life all around us in the coming of spring. We are encouraged to think about new life within ourselves as we shed our winter clothing and listen to the song of the birds, smell the fragrant perfume of the Easter lilies, feel the warmth of the sun upon our face, and see the brightly coloured spring flowers. Go for a walk (or ride) and take in all God's newness and beauty. Offer a prayer of thanks and experience God's closeness and love. Know that new life is God's gift to you today and everyday. Celebrate God's goodness, love even those who may be challenging to love, and care for God's world. Amen

Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22. You are invited to a screening of BEYOND CRISIS, a one hour climate action documentary in the film theater at Kitchener Public Library at 5:30. Hosted by MPP Aislinn Clancy. The filmmaker Kai Reimer- Watts, will answer questions. A free event but please register here if you would like to attend.

Rev. Wendy Paterson
Pastoral Care Coordinator