There has been so much anxiety, loss, and sorrow during the past unlucky 13 months of the pandemic that we could easily miss the astonishing breadth of kindness, courage and generosity exhibited by so many. As an example, at this very moment dedicated health professionals are caring for those who are ill in hospitals and other institutions, despite the risk to themselves and those they love.
Last March many faith groups were stunned to discover that they would have to cease worshiping in person, yet they quickly figured out how to be the gathered community even though they couldn't actually gather. Even when some of us were able to come back to the sanctuary for stretches of time there were restrictions and protocols which seemed odd, to say the least, but we did it.
I"ve been hugely impressed by congregations which figured out how to continue important outreach ministries such as meal programs. The Friday meal at our Trenton United Church has been feeding people all through the pandemic with various levels of restriction during different periods. Along the way they broadened the scope to provide delivered meals to members of the congregation who have been house-bound, or close to it.
We live 23 kilometres and 21 stoplights from the church so Ruth, my wife has volunteered faithfully at the lunch ministry offered through Bridge St. United Church, our former congregation. Often they are sharing more than 200 meals a day, which says a lot about the need amongst those who are less visible in our community.
Not long ago the meal ministry organizers sent out a message to all involved informing them that in the year of operation, every single day including Christmas and Easters, 40,000 lunches had been shared, along with just over 7,000 frozen meals.
This all takes time, and physical energy, and a willingness to risk well-being, as careful as the participants are as they prepare and distribute the meals.We know that similar efforts are being made across the country, carried out by compassionate people of different faiths, and no faith other than the importance of human kindness and decency. Virtually every week Ruth comments on the gratitude of those receiving meals and the meaningful exchanges which occur despite the limitations. They are reminders of our shared humanity.
I think it would be wonderful if the scales dropped off the eyes of governments so that they might provide a Guaranteed Livable Income, and affordable housing for all Canadians. It is still important that people are responding in the ways they can, as they can. God bless them and keep them safe.
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