Peace cannot be achieved through violence; it can only be attained through understanding.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Reflecting on the Second Sunday of Advent
“God has done great things for us…” (Psalm 126)
“Prepare the way …Every valley shall be filled… the rough ways made smooth...” (Luke 3)
The Second Sunday of Advent strengthens our longing for the God of Peace to come swiftly to our shattered world, bringing compassion and light to many troubled areas: Ukraine, Russia, Gaza, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, etc. Would we not surrender our petty grievances if peace could be had in the devastated areas of our world, in the troubled hearts of the lonely and addicted, in the trauma of those burdened by homelessness and financial concerns? How we long to reconcile Conservatives and Liberals, Democrats and Republicans. Can we open our hearts wide enough to seek understanding without judgment?
We ask God to restore the fortunes of those despondent who worry like watercourses in the desert. Can weeping be turned into carrying and sharing of sheaves?
Healing hearts and lives, and divisions within and between countries are the crooked ways that need straightening out and uneven ground that requires leveling. Such acts are the great things that God longs to do for our world.
As we immerse ourselves in the purple of Advent, may we walk with the people in our troubled cities and world; may we claim the pain that is within our own minds and hearts and lift it to the light, safety and compassion of God’s presence. As the writer of Philippians was confident “that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Christ Jesus,” may we claim with confidence God’s compassionate presence and healing, both for ourselves and for our world.
Our country and the world are not broken; we need to rediscover and believe God’s promise of ongoing presence living in our hearts. We need to claim the strength, hope and commitment to prepare the way of God in our world today- an important task and not one done alone.
“… teach us, O God, to judge wisely the things of earth….” (Prayer after Communion)
-Sister Helen Russell, CSJ
Images: Grant Whitty @grantwhitty/ Kelly Sikkema @kellysikkema Unsplash
Celebrating 40 Years of Ark Aid's Dedicated Service to our Community
As November faded into December, a special gala evening of fun and fundraising was held at the Marconi Club on November 29th to mark the 40th anniversary of Ark Aid. As one of London, Ontario’s landmark shelters, Ark Aid serves as a crucial facility at 696 Dundas Street where people in need will receive a warm welcome, good food, and overnight accommodation in safe surroundings.
Honoring Ark Aid’s 40 years of compassionate service, party goers in festive dress were welcomed to the venue with singing and Christmas music. Red poinsettia dressed each white-clothed table in the cavernous dining room. Hundreds of volunteers, staff and supporters mingled and shared stories of the part they played in keeping Ark Aid the thriving outreach that it is for people in need.
In addition to sparkling drinks and a delicious dinner, several musical groups entertained the crowd. Sarah Campbell, executive director of Ark Aid, presented a detailed account of what has been accomplished during the past year as well as Ark Aid’s hope for the future. It is interesting to note that the London Free Press, in a recent article, reported on Ark Aid’s request to extend funding for winter beds. After some back-and-forth consultation and public outcry, the funding was granted.
Ark Aid Street Mission with its dedicated staff and volunteers are committed to recognizing the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual needs of each person they encounter. Caring staff assist clients to move forward in life by helping them to make connections with other agencies.
As cold winds whip around our city streets and snow announces that winter is here, we are grateful to Ark Aid and the warm welcoming refuge they have been for 40 years!
-Sister Jean Moylan, CSJ
Spreading Goodwill - Giving Tuesday
True giving from the heart is an expression of love.
~ Cara Stein
Spreading Goodwill
Each year, businesses capitalize on the media frenzy surrounding Black Friday and Cyber Monday, hoping to lure in early Christmas shoppers. These high points of consumerism, however, are the opposite of what Giving Tuesday represents. Giving Tuesday, held on the first Tuesday after American Thanksgiving, is an international day of giving that kicks off the Christmas and holiday season. It has grown in popularity and received positive reception, with large corporations like Google and Microsoft acting as supporters and promoters.
On Giving Tuesday, individuals are invited to respond to the calls for support from a wide spectrum of charitable organizations, contributing funds that enable these groups to continue providing vital, supportive services.
This December 3rd, consider yourself invited to participate in the spirit of the season by contributing to one of our local charities, thereby gifting neighbors and spreading goodwill in our community.
-Sister Nancy Wales, CSJ
Image: Unsplash/Lina Trochez @lmtrochezz
