Dear friends,

As we reflect on the results of the referendum in Alberta, I suspect many of us are holding a mixture of emotions.

There is relief and gratitude that Albertans have voted by a significant majority not to pursue further conversations about separation from Canada. At a time when there is so much division and uncertainty in our world, this is welcome news.

At the same time, there is deep concern about the results of the other referendum questions and what they may mean for the people and communities affected. For some, these results will bring fear and uncertainty about the future. It is possible to feel both relief and sorrow, gratitude and concern. We don’t need to resolve those feelings today.

As people of faith, we are called to love our neighbours, to stand alongside those who are vulnerable, and to seek justice. Our United Church has a long history of faithful public witness, and that calling remains as important today as ever.

I am mindful that within our own communities of faith, people will have approached these questions from different perspectives. We are not all of one mind, but we are called to remain in relationship, to listen with respect, and to remember the humanity of those with whom we disagree. That does not mean setting aside our convictions, but allowing our faith to shape how we engage with one another and with the world.

I want to express my particular gratitude to Chris Mah Poy and the many others who have offered leadership throughout this referendum process, especially those who worked to develop the Region’s toolkit resource.

I am also thankful for the many community of faith leaders – both lay and ministry personnel — that chose to engage thoughtfully and faithfully with these important questions. This has been an important expression of the church’s commitment to informed and faithful public witness.

In the days ahead, I encourage you to reach out to those who may be feeling particularly vulnerable, to offer care and reassurance, and to continue building communities where all are welcomed and valued.

The prophet Micah reminds us of what God requires of us: to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). These words seem important in this moment. We do not know all that the future will hold, but we know that God is present with us, calling us to live out our faith with courage, compassion, and love.

May we continue to be the church that our communities and our world need us to be.

With gratitude for your faithful witness,

Treena Duncan (she/her)
Executive Minister, Chinook Winds & Pacific Mountain Regions