Links for May 18, 2025

The prayers and Christian sympathy of the congregation are extended to the family and friends of Joan Beverly Stewart who died earlier this week and whose memorial service was on Friday. Please keep her sons Wayne and Mark, her grandchildren, and all of Joan’s family and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

The prayers of Christian Sympathy of the congregation are extended to the family and friends of Judy Ann O’Leary who died earlier this week and whose graveside service was on Friday. Please keep her children, grandchildren, siblings, and all of her family and friends in your prayers during this difficult time.

This week your Social Justice Collective asks you to note two special dates. 21 May is the World Day for Cultural Diversity and the 22 nd is the International Day for Biological Diversity. The first day asks us to: recognize how cultural diversity enriches our society economically, intellectually and emotionally; understand that culture is key to social cohesion; think about how it creates more sustainable global development; and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms. The second day has the 2025 theme of “Harmony with nature and sustainable development”. Diversity is an important thing to celebrate whether we’re referring to cultures, or animals and plants. Be aware, celebrate!

**Please note corrected date **Reading by Marie Wilson from North of Nowhere: Song of a Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner, Wednesday, May 21st,7pm at the Coady Institute, STFX. Marie Wilson, the only woman and non-indigenous Commissioner and a United Church member, will read from her moving, deeply personal account of the historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission and respond to questions. This is a privileged opportunity for United Church members to deepen our understanding of why the United Church apologized for our part in the deeply harmful Residential School system. This is an important story for all Canadians and all are encouraged to attend. Invite friends and family. Books will be available for purchase and signing. It can also be purchased in advance at the Curious Cat.

Should you have any items – new, please – for the You Matter bags that are distributed to people who are seeking help from the mental health unit of St. Martha’s Hospital your support for the Jordon Myles Foundation will be gratefully appreciated. If you would like to know more about this organization, please read the following article. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/mental-health-jodi-jordon-myles-1.3956255