Chris Mah Poy reflects on the kind of Canada we are building for our children and future generations, with gratitude for those who engaged in the recent Referendum and a reminder that the church’s work of justice continues.
Through the past months, I am immensely grateful for the work and solidarity of my neighbours in the Calgary Alliance for the Common Good, for the particular engagement of my community of faith at Scarboro United Church, for the wisdom and care of my pastor, Rev. Erin Klassen, and the support of my team at Chinook Winds Region, United Church of Canada. And of course, the constant support of my loving spouse, Brie Nelson.
When Brie and I put our children to bed on October 19th, 2026 we knew we would wake up Canadian.
That in the morning the sun would shine on Mohkinstsis-Guts’ists’i-Wîcîspa just the same.
Albertans, by a large majority, voted to remain Canadian.
But what “Canadian” means, what “Canada” means is far more uncertain. What kind of province, nation and communities our children will inherit is far less clear.
The work of justice is intergenerational work. My parents built their section of the path, as their ancestors did before them. I know that I will be able to look my children in the eye and they will know I acted honorably and that I laid some good stones on the path for them during this time.
The work of citizenship is participation, and I am so very grateful for the good faith participation of our members, leaders and communities.
The work of the church is to stand with those on the margins, to see human dignity defended, to heal and repair the world. That work continues unhindered by the outcome of any referendum or vote. That work continues today, tomorrow and so long as there are people of good will to share the burden.
Christopher Mah Poy (he/him/his)
First Third Ministry, Justice and Ministry Networks Coordinator
Chinook Winds Region