Letter from Treena Duncan

Dear Friends,

Today I, and all of you, are holding in prayer all those affected by the wildfires burning across British Columbia, and especially the people of Summerland and surrounding communities. Our hearts cry out for the people and communities affected, and for the earth we share and are called to cherish and protect.

We pray for those who have been evacuated or are waiting anxiously to know what comes next; for firefighters, emergency personnel and all those working to keep people and communities safe; and for those who are facing loss and uncertainty.

I am grateful, too, for the many ways people are stepping up to care for one another. Within our church and across the wider community, neighbours are helping neighbours, offering shelter, food, practical support and simply being present. In moments like these, we are reminded of the strength and generosity that emerge when we recognize our responsibility for one another.

And even as we respond to the immediate crisis, we cannot ignore the larger reality in which these fires are happening. We are living with the consequences of a changing climate, shaped in part by the choices we have made as human beings. Our faith calls us not only to care for one another, but also to care for the earth that sustains us.

May this be a time not only of prayer and compassion, but of renewed commitment to the stewardship of creation and to the choices, large and small, that honour the world entrusted to our care.

For all who are in harm’s way tonight, and for all who are responding with courage, generosity and care: you are in our prayers.

Blessings, Treena Duncan
(PMRC Executive minister
United Church of Canada)