It is now 2020 and a good time to reflect on the work of Rupert’s Land Wechetowin since 2012. We are in the process of discerning God’s continuing call to us and to dream forward on how to build towards next steps and goals. God is calling us as Anglicans to embrace reconciliation. We need God’s help to see how to work together so Indigenous people in Rupert’s Land can continue to heal and thrive in the midst of challenges and opportunities. This letter is an invitation to all Anglicans in Rupert’s Land, Indigenous or Non-Indigenous, to recommit to the work of Wechetowin (People helping People). Our hope is to have one or two people from each parish community to be involved in Wechetowin efforts. Come answer the call to actions, using the gifts God has given you. Come be a part of a coordinated ministry team.
- Pastoral and prayer ministry: Anglicans are a people of prayer. Indigenous people from remote areas are often in Winnipeg for medical treatments and appointments. For many, the reason for their trip to Winnipeg is traumatic. Pastoral Care is a blessing during difficult times. Wechetowin is called to provide pastoral care, fellowship, and offer prayers as the needs arise.
- Care Bags for the Children: We have had some material donated as a gift from the UW Aboriginal Student Services Centre. Now we need people who can sew these Care Bags. We need people to collect/donate colouring books, crayons, activity books and assorted items. We need to gather together as a ministry team to stuff those Care Bags, pray over them, and gift them to children who are either in the hospital for care, or the little ones hanging out with their families at the hospital.
- Healing Circle Supports: Continued ministry by Elder Velma Orvis has been taking place at Riverview Health Centre. How can we support her in her efforts?
- Fundraising opportunities: We will work together to help raise some dollars to cover the costs of those who are visiting the hospitals (mileage, parking, incidentals, care bags etc).
I am reminded of the hymn by Jason Upton: “We are one in the Spirit.”
We are one in the Spirit
We are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit
We are one in the Lord
And we pray that all unity
May one day be restored
And they’ll know we are Christians
By our love, By our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians
By our love
We will walk with each other
We will walk hand in hand
We will walk with each other
We will walk hand in hand
And together we’ll spread the news
That God is in our land
We will work with each other
We will work side by side
We will work with each other
We will work side by side
And we’ll guard each man’s dignity
And save each man’s pride
All praise to the Father
From whom all things come
And all praise to Christ Jesus His only son
And all praise to the Spirit
Who makes us one
Make us one, Lord!
At Faith Horizons 2019, we learned that Anglicans are working towards the TRC 94 Calls to Action and are looking for ways to contribute towards the work of reconciliation. Please consider your involvement in Wechetowin. God is giving us a great opportunity to grow this ministry and in so doing, receiving so much more than we can ask or imagine. Please contact Rev. Deacon Tanis Kolisnyk or call 204-663-5453. A coordination meeting will be arranged very soon.
pdf letter
