NATIONAL INDIGENOUS DAY OF PRAYER
June 19, 2022
Sunday services have resumed in-person at 10:30 am.
THE GATHERING OF THE PEOPLE
We give thanks to our Creator for the earth we share with all creatures, and we acknowledge that we are here on the traditional lands of the Mississaugas of the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Wendat. We also recognize the enduring presence of all First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples, and we seek to live respectfully with them and with the earth. We pray for healing between our cultures and healing from settler arrogance. We believe that Black Lives Matter and that Every Child Matters. We know that love is love, and we welcome everybody who desires to join us in worship. You are a beloved creation of God, and you are most welcome in this place.
Please stand, as you are able.
Opening Hymn (Common Praise, #3): Morning Has Broken
Celebrant: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Almighty God,
All: to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hidden. Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Collect
Celebrant: Let us pray.
Creator God, from you every family in heaven and earth takes its name. You have rooted and grounded us in your covenant love, and empowered us by your Spirit to speak the truth in love, and to walk in your way towards justice and wholeness. Mercifully grant that your people, journeying together in partnership, may be strengthened and guided to help one another to grow into the full stature of Christ, who is our light and our life. Amen.
First Reading
Reader: A reading from the book of Isaiah.
To whom then will you compare me, or who is my equal? says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high and see: Who created these? He who brings out their host and numbers them, calling them all by name; because he is great in strength, mighty in power, not one is missing. Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, ‘My way is hidden from the Lord, and my right is disregarded by my God’? Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. [Isaiah 40:25-31]
Reader: The word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
Psalm 19: The Heavens Declare Your Glory (Psalms for All Seasons, #19D)
The heavens declare your glory, the firmament your power;
day unto day the story repeats from hour to hour.
Night unto night replying, proclaims in every land,
O Lord, with voice undying the wonders of your hand.
The sun with royal splendor goes forth to chant your praise,
and moonbeams soft and tender their gentler anthems raise.
O’er every tribe and nations the music is outpoured,
the song of all creation to you, creation’s Lord.
All heaven on high rejoices to do its Maker’s will;
the stars with solemn voices resound your praises still.
So, let my whole behaviour, each thought, each deed I do,
be, Lord, my strength my Saviour, a ceaseless song to you.
THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL
As you are able, please stand.
Gospel Acclamation: Open My Heart (Ana Fernandez)
REFRAIN Open my heart, open my heart. Open my heart, open my heart. (3x)
Gospeler: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Gospeler: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
People: Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, ‘This was he of whom I said, “He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.”’) From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known. [John 1:1-18]
Gospeler: This is the Gospel of Christ.
People: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Homily The Rev. Alison Hari-Singh
May only the truth be spoken and only the truth heard. In the name of God: eternal Source, incarnate Word, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
This week churches – across denominations – all-across Canada, are commemorating the National Indigenous Day of Prayer during this National Indigenous History Month. So, today is a special day – a special service. You’ll notice as we move through today’s liturgy, moments that are set aside to give thanks, repent, and honour the way of the First Peoples of this land.
Some of you might recall that while I was born in the UK and lived there as a youngster, my most formidable years were spent among the canola and wheat fields in Saskatchewan. I have extremely distinct memories of arriving in Canada. You must understand, I was a Londoner. We lived in a small, row house. We took the tube and double-deckers everywhere. We lived in an ethnically diverse neighbourhood where you could get any cuisine imaginable. My brother played footie in Pymmes Park and I spoke with a very clear British accent (BBC 1 was always on in my family’s home).
So, when I arrived in a town of 600 people in the middle of nowhere, I was very much the odd-one out.
I remember clearly my first encounter with Cree kids. My parents had rented a house. While they were setting everything up, my 14-year-old brother was brooding in his room and I was underfoot, so my mum sent me down the street to the local park (which was about 100 yards away). The park was surrounded by pine trees, and I remember they were tall enough that I could walk right under them and into the park. It was empty and quiet. So, I sat on a swing and swung gently, talking, and singing to myself. Suddenly, I could feel the energy around me shift. I immediately jumped off the swing and looked around. I was surrounded by a bunch of kids, probably 5 – 9 years old, and they were all watching me. They were dark-skinned like me and had dark black hair.
“Who are you?”
“My name is Alison”
“No, what kind of Indian are you?”
“East.”
“East Indian! What’s that?”
“My parents are from India.”
“Why do talk like that?”
“I’m from London.”
“Well, you ain’t like any Indian I’ve ever seen.”
And that was it. The ring-leader started chasing me all around the park. Up and down the monkey bars, around the merry go round, between the swings. Eventually, they would have caught me, but an angel came to my rescue. She was about 16 years old and looked just like these kids (it turned out she was their older cousin). Her name was Heather. She came in yelling and screaming and telling them that she was going to tell their mom and they were going to get a “lickin’.” I was quite perplexed because I had no clue what a “lickin’” was. Nonetheless, Heather brushed me off and walked me home. She sat on the porch with me the rest of the afternoon as my mum served us sweet watermelon. I held it together until after she left. Then I cried to my parents, “Why did you bring me to this horrible place?”
Well, it turns out, where I grew up in Canada is not in the middle of nowhere. It is a territory governed by something called Treaty 6. Treaties, as you know, are formal agreements negotiated between two or more sovereign Nations. The parties involved in Treaty 6 are the Cree, Saulteaux, Nakota, and Dene First Nations and the Dominion of Canada on behalf of the Queen of Great Britain. Treaty 6 was singed on August 23rd, 1876 at Fort Carlton and Fort Pitt on September 9, 1876. There were later adhesions to the original treaty.
Under this treaty, the Cree, Saulteaux, Nakota, and Dene believed they would receive (in perpetuity) assistance to the transition of a new lifestyle, maintenance of their cultural and spiritual rights, right to hunt, trap, and fish, education, medical assistance, reserve land, agricultural tools and support, and peaceful co-existence with newcomers. Newcomers would receive peaceful co-existence with First Nations people, access to lands for settlement, farming, railways, and future industrial development.[1]
Sounds pretty good, right?
It may be different today, but in the 8 years I lived in Saskatchewan, I never once heard about Treaty 6. Want to know what I did hear? “Dirty Indian.” “Drunk Indian.” “Lazy Indian.” “Stupid Indians.” “They’re always looking for a handout.” “We built this country.” “This land is our land – we own it.” “Why don’t they pay taxes?” “We just give ‘em houses.” “Ungrateful Indians.”
“Why did you bring me to his horrible place?”
I don’t talk much about these experiences because they are difficult and, frankly, they are met with so much resistance that I just keep my mouth shut. It’s easier that way. But it doesn’t solve anything.
So, what will?
I have spent this past week thinking about why the lectionary readings we just heard were selected for today. I think the reason is that in 2008 when the first meetings of the Truth and Reconciliation began, the purpose of that work was not to shame anyone, but to hear the truth about this country’s history – its work of genocide, both cultural and physical. The fact of the matter is this: there can be no reconciliation without taking ownership of history and how we benefit from it.
Christians follow a God of reconciliation: the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. The incarnate Word dwelled with us so that whatever rift existed between human beings and God could, in fact, be reconciled. Our work, at every turn, whether it be about issues of race, ecology, gender, sexuality, economic disparity, must always be about reconciliation. That’s what it means to follow Jesus and to “be about the Father’s business.” (Luke 2:49)
The great author Maya Angelou is often quoted as saying: Once you know better you do better.” How right she was! Unlike our forebears, we have the great privilege of knowing better. So, what are some actions we can take that will permit us to “do better?”
First, I would encourage all of us to learn the context and history of the treaties lands we are currently existing upon. We are on Treaty 13 land – also known as, the Toronto Purchase. Second, and this is something we are already doing together, I would encourage every Settler and Newcomer to read the 94 recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission – which concluded its work in 2015. Thirdly, and this is a very difficult one, I would encourage us to not take the legitimate grievances of Indigenous people personally. These issues are systemic and need to be addressed as such. The last thing I would encourage us to do is to open our hearts, minds, and friendship circles to Indigenous people and their lives. Attend a powwow. Visit the Woodland Cultural Centre outside of Brantford on the Six-Nations Reserve. Become acquainted with Toronto Urban Native Ministry which is an ecumenical partnership between our Diocese and the United Church of Canada – I know they need financial support. Make connections with the First Nations People who exist here on this island for they never ceded this specific land to the British Crown.[2]
This is not easy work. In fact, it is onerous and tiresome work, for there is always someone who will deny, justify, and ignore. But we don’t give up. We press on because “those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” Amen.
Silence is kept.
THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
As we prepare for the prayers of the people, let us hear and reflect on the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (#53): Reconciliation
53. We call upon the Parliament of Canada, in consultation and collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to enact legislation to establish a National Council for Reconciliation. The legislation would establish the council as an independent, national, oversight body with membership jointly appointed by the Government of Canada and national Aboriginal organizations, and consisting of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal members. Its mandate would include, but not be limited to, the following:
Intercessor: Remembering this Call to Action, in peace, we pray to you, Lord God.
Silence
Intercessor: Creator and Redeemer, as we approach you in prayer, make us walk in beauty and balance, make us open our hearts and minds, make us speak the truth. We pray first for your Community, the Church, The Body of Christ. We pray for all our relatives in the circle of life throughout all Creation; for those chosen to be our leaders and teachers.
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon the earth, our Mother and home, with its beautiful depths, soaring heights and deep waters, its vitality and abundance of life, and together we ask that it:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon the mountains and tundra, the high green valleys and prairies filled with wild flowers, the snows, the summits of intense silence, and we ask that they:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon upon the land which grows our food, the nurturing soil, the fertile fields, the abundant gardens and orchards, and we ask that they:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon the forests, the great trees reaching strongly to the sky with earth in their roots and the heavens in their branches, the fir and the pine, the cedar and the maple, we ask them to:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon the creatures of the fields and forests and the waters, our brothers and sisters the wolves and deer, the eagle and bear, the great whales and the fish. We ask them to:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon all those who have lived on this earth, our ancestors and our friends, who dreamed the best for future generations, and upon whose lives our lives are built, and with thanksgiving, we call upon them to:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: Creator, you made the world and declared it to be good: the beauty of the trees, the softness of the air, the fragrance of the grass speaks to us; the summit of the mountains, the thunder of the sky, the rhythm of the waters speak to us; the faintness of the stars, the freshness of the morning, the dewdrops on the flower speak to us. But above all, our heart soars, for you speak to us in Jesus the Christ, in whose name we offer these prayers. Amen. (*Prayers of the People, The Church of the Four Winds, Portland Oregon)
Intercessor: Let us set down the heavy things we carry with us, putting us in right relationship with one another and with God.
Silence
Intercessor: For all that separates our hearts from God and from all that closes our eyes to God’s love
Silence
Intercessor: For what we have done, left undone, and what has been done on our behalf
Silence
Intercessor: For the pride that prevents us from forgiving others, as we have been forgiven
Silence
People: Jesus, forgive us. Create in us clean hearts, O God, and renew rights spirit within us. Amen.
Silence
Celebrant: The Lord enrich you with grace, and nourish you with many blessings; the Lord defend you in trouble and keep you from all evil; the Lord accept your prayers, and absolve you from your offences, for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.
The Peace
As you are able, please stand.
Celebrant: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
Celebrant: God the Creator is here.
People: God’s Spirit is with us.
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts
People: We lift them to God the Creator.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to God
People: It is right to offer our thanks and praise.
Celebrant: God the Creator, our Great Spirit, from the depths of our hearts we give you thanks. We say thank you, now and forever. From the place of the rising sun in the East, to the South where the warm winds blow, from the West where the soft rain comes, to the coldness of the North. We unite with all creation from the four directions to join in the everlasting thanksgiving and praise for the gift of Jesus Christ. With hearts lifted, we join with the angels, the guardian spirits, the saints, and all our ancestors as we say
Sanctus (Gather, #201)
All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
Heaven and earth are full are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest! Blessed is he who comes in
the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!
Celebrant: Holy God, source of life and goodness, all creation rightly gives you praise. In the fullness of time, you sent your Son Jesus Christ, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Creator of all. He healed the sick and ate and drank with outcasts and sinners; he opened the eyes of the blind and proclaimed the good news of your kingdom to the poor and to those in need. In all things he fulfilled your gracious will. On the night he freely gave himself to death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread, and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Gracious God, his perfect sacrifice destroys the power of sin and death; by raising him to life you give us life for evermore.
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
All: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
Celebrant: Recalling his death, proclaiming his resurrection, and looking for his coming again in glory, we offer you, this bread and this cup. Send your Holy Spirit upon us and upon these gifts, that all who eat and drink at this table may be one body and one holy people, a living sacrifice in Jesus Christ, our Lord. United in Christ with all who stand before you on earth and heaven, we worship you, God the Creator, our Great Spirit, in songs and dance of infinite praise. Blessing, honour, and glory be yours, here and everywhere, now and for ever. Amen. (*adapted from NZ Maori PB)
The Lord’s Prayer
Celebrant: As our Saviour taught us, let us pray,
All: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
Silence is kept.
Celebrant: We break this bread to share in the body of Christ.
All: We, being many, are one body, for we all share in the one bread.
Celebrant: The gifts for God, for the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God.
Angus Dei (Gather, #207)
All: Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Prince of Peace, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Bread of Life, you take away the sins of the world: grant us peace.
Communion Music (Common Praise, #292): We Cannot Measure How You Heal
Come up to the altar following the lead of those ahead of you. If you would like a blessing, as well as, or in place of the bread, indicate this to the priest.
The Silence
A longer silence is kept for listening and reflection.
Prayer after Communion
As you are able, please stand.
Celebrant: Jesus Christ, you are the Son of the Creator. Today we are your children. We will live as you have taught us. We will follow your commandments. Watch over us. Speak to us from the trees, from the grass and herbs, from the breeze, from the passing rain, from the passing thunder and the deep waters. Beauty surrounds us. Allow us to walk a long life in happiness completed in beauty. Amen. (*adapted from the Liturgy of St. John’s, Red Lake, MN)
Celebrant: Glory to God,
All: whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory to God from generation to generation, in the Church and in Christ Jesus, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Blessing
Celebrant: Send us anywhere you would have us go, only go there with us. Place upon us any burden you desire, only stand by us to sustain us. Break any tie that binds us, except the tie that binds us to you. And the blessing of God; the eternal Source, who made and knows us; the incarnate Word, who redeems and befriends us; and the Holy Spirit, who enlightens and sustains us, be with you this day and always. Amen.
Closing Hymn (Common Praise, #572): Let There Be Light
Celebrant: Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Resources for National Indigenous History Month
Na-Me-Res Traditional Pow Wow
Location: Fort York Historical site, 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9 June 18th and 19th, in person.
The Na-Me-Res Annual Traditional Pow Wow returns Saturday, June 18 with drummers, dancers and food vendors. On Sunday, June 19 enjoy the Indigenous Food Market and main stage performances. Shop at the Craft Vendor Market both days and also enjoy month-long art installations.
Indigenous People’s Celebration- Richmond hill
June 25th 1pm-5pm Elgin Barrow Arena, 43 Church St., in person.
Join Indigenous People’s Celebration, with live music, drumming, food, vendors, and speakers.
National Indigenous Day of Prayer- Anglican Church of Canada
Check out this resource page, featuring prayers and liturgical readings for community observation of National Indigenous Day of Prayer. https://www.anglican.ca/im/nidp/
The Anglican Healing Fund
This resource provides funding for Indignous led organizations in the work of cultural and community revival, healing the wounds of Indian Residential Schools. https://www.anglican.ca/resources/anglican-healing-fund/
Toronto Urban Native Ministry
An ecumenical ministry between the Anglican Diocese of Toronto and the United Church of Canada. Founded in 1996, TUNM interacts with more than 8,000 lives each year. We reach out to Indigenous people on the street, in hospitals, in jails, shelters and hostels, providing counseling, Ceremony, spiritual care and referrals to community services.We are always looking for financial and physical donations for Toronto Urban Native Ministry's life saving and life sustaining work of emergency relief. To sustain the life and work of Toronto Urban Native Ministry, make a one time donation or consider becoming a monthly donor here: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/52915.
Sunrise Ceremony (Nathan Phillips Square)
Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day with the City of Toronto’s annual Sunrise Ceremony. Come together to give thanks for all of creation and Mino Baamodziwin (The Good Life). Elder Garry Sault from Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation will lead the traditional ceremony, which will also feature a Water Ceremony and teachings by Knowledge Keeper Kim Wheatley. June 21 at 5:30 am. All are welcome to attend this free event. Registration required. https://nowtoronto.com/events/other-national-indigenous-peoples-day-sunrise-ceremony
Reading Group – Through the month of June we will be reading and reflecting on selected sections of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. This 1-hour reading group will be held on Zoom beginning on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at 7:30 pm. If you are interested, please contact Rev. Alison at alison.hari.singh@utoronto.ca.
Hymns for Ordinary Time – As we approach “ordinary time” in the church’s calendar we are looking to create a repository of favourite hymns. If you have a favourite hymn, please let Rev. Alison or Jane know. We will compile this list and use these selections throughout the next number of months.
PWRDF – The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund is working support refugees fleeing Ukraine. For more information, go to: https://pwrdf.org/pwrdf-supports-ukrainians-forced-to-flee/.
Ferry Information as of June 10, 2022 - Summer Schedule
Ward's Island
Departs City
9:00 am - Need to be picked up at Ward's? Call/Text Bella at 416-203-4142
9:30 am (and each hour thereafter) - Church van meets this ferry
Departs Ward's Island
11:45 am (and each hour thereafter)
Centre Island
Departs City
9:00 am
9:30 am
10:30 am (and each half hour thereafter)
Departs Centre Island
11:45 am (and each half hour thereafter)
The walk to the church takes around 20-30 minutes. Service begins at 10:30 am.
For other ferry times go to: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/toronto-island-park/all-ferry-schedules/.
Amber Stage Guidelines (Diocese of Toronto)
Click on the link above to see the Diocesan Guidelines for safe worship in Church under Stage 2 Covid protocols.
Ways to support St. Andrew’s
· Bring a Friend
· The Collection Plate
· E-Transfer – email: standrewbookings@gmail.com
· PAR - Pre-Authorized Remittance. You direct your bank to deposit your donation into the church account on the 20th of each month. To apply contact Joyce Rogers at standrewbookings@gmail.com.
· Canada Helps – Visit the St. Andrew by-the-Lake website, go to the Home Page and click on the Donate button.
[1] https://treaty6education.lskysd.ca/treaty6basics.html
[2] https://history.torontoisland.org/tag/first-nations/
We give thanks to our Creator for the earth we share with all creatures, and we acknowledge that we are here on the traditional lands of the Mississaugas of the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Wendat. We also recognize the enduring presence of all First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples, and we seek to live respectfully with them and with the earth. We pray for healing between our cultures and healing from settler arrogance. We believe that Black Lives Matter and that Every Child Matters. We know that love is love, and we welcome everybody who desires to join us in worship. You are a beloved creation of God, and you are most welcome in this place.
Please stand, as you are able.
Opening Hymn (Common Praise, #3): Morning Has Broken
Celebrant: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Almighty God,
All: to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hidden. Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Collect
Celebrant: Let us pray.
Creator God, from you every family in heaven and earth takes its name. You have rooted and grounded us in your covenant love, and empowered us by your Spirit to speak the truth in love, and to walk in your way towards justice and wholeness. Mercifully grant that your people, journeying together in partnership, may be strengthened and guided to help one another to grow into the full stature of Christ, who is our light and our life. Amen.
First Reading
Reader: A reading from the book of Isaiah.
To whom then will you compare me, or who is my equal? says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high and see: Who created these? He who brings out their host and numbers them, calling them all by name; because he is great in strength, mighty in power, not one is missing. Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, ‘My way is hidden from the Lord, and my right is disregarded by my God’? Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. [Isaiah 40:25-31]
Reader: The word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
Psalm 19: The Heavens Declare Your Glory (Psalms for All Seasons, #19D)
The heavens declare your glory, the firmament your power;
day unto day the story repeats from hour to hour.
Night unto night replying, proclaims in every land,
O Lord, with voice undying the wonders of your hand.
The sun with royal splendor goes forth to chant your praise,
and moonbeams soft and tender their gentler anthems raise.
O’er every tribe and nations the music is outpoured,
the song of all creation to you, creation’s Lord.
All heaven on high rejoices to do its Maker’s will;
the stars with solemn voices resound your praises still.
So, let my whole behaviour, each thought, each deed I do,
be, Lord, my strength my Saviour, a ceaseless song to you.
THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL
As you are able, please stand.
Gospel Acclamation: Open My Heart (Ana Fernandez)
REFRAIN Open my heart, open my heart. Open my heart, open my heart. (3x)
Gospeler: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Gospeler: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
People: Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, ‘This was he of whom I said, “He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.”’) From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known. [John 1:1-18]
Gospeler: This is the Gospel of Christ.
People: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Homily The Rev. Alison Hari-Singh
May only the truth be spoken and only the truth heard. In the name of God: eternal Source, incarnate Word, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
This week churches – across denominations – all-across Canada, are commemorating the National Indigenous Day of Prayer during this National Indigenous History Month. So, today is a special day – a special service. You’ll notice as we move through today’s liturgy, moments that are set aside to give thanks, repent, and honour the way of the First Peoples of this land.
Some of you might recall that while I was born in the UK and lived there as a youngster, my most formidable years were spent among the canola and wheat fields in Saskatchewan. I have extremely distinct memories of arriving in Canada. You must understand, I was a Londoner. We lived in a small, row house. We took the tube and double-deckers everywhere. We lived in an ethnically diverse neighbourhood where you could get any cuisine imaginable. My brother played footie in Pymmes Park and I spoke with a very clear British accent (BBC 1 was always on in my family’s home).
So, when I arrived in a town of 600 people in the middle of nowhere, I was very much the odd-one out.
I remember clearly my first encounter with Cree kids. My parents had rented a house. While they were setting everything up, my 14-year-old brother was brooding in his room and I was underfoot, so my mum sent me down the street to the local park (which was about 100 yards away). The park was surrounded by pine trees, and I remember they were tall enough that I could walk right under them and into the park. It was empty and quiet. So, I sat on a swing and swung gently, talking, and singing to myself. Suddenly, I could feel the energy around me shift. I immediately jumped off the swing and looked around. I was surrounded by a bunch of kids, probably 5 – 9 years old, and they were all watching me. They were dark-skinned like me and had dark black hair.
“Who are you?”
“My name is Alison”
“No, what kind of Indian are you?”
“East.”
“East Indian! What’s that?”
“My parents are from India.”
“Why do talk like that?”
“I’m from London.”
“Well, you ain’t like any Indian I’ve ever seen.”
And that was it. The ring-leader started chasing me all around the park. Up and down the monkey bars, around the merry go round, between the swings. Eventually, they would have caught me, but an angel came to my rescue. She was about 16 years old and looked just like these kids (it turned out she was their older cousin). Her name was Heather. She came in yelling and screaming and telling them that she was going to tell their mom and they were going to get a “lickin’.” I was quite perplexed because I had no clue what a “lickin’” was. Nonetheless, Heather brushed me off and walked me home. She sat on the porch with me the rest of the afternoon as my mum served us sweet watermelon. I held it together until after she left. Then I cried to my parents, “Why did you bring me to this horrible place?”
Well, it turns out, where I grew up in Canada is not in the middle of nowhere. It is a territory governed by something called Treaty 6. Treaties, as you know, are formal agreements negotiated between two or more sovereign Nations. The parties involved in Treaty 6 are the Cree, Saulteaux, Nakota, and Dene First Nations and the Dominion of Canada on behalf of the Queen of Great Britain. Treaty 6 was singed on August 23rd, 1876 at Fort Carlton and Fort Pitt on September 9, 1876. There were later adhesions to the original treaty.
Under this treaty, the Cree, Saulteaux, Nakota, and Dene believed they would receive (in perpetuity) assistance to the transition of a new lifestyle, maintenance of their cultural and spiritual rights, right to hunt, trap, and fish, education, medical assistance, reserve land, agricultural tools and support, and peaceful co-existence with newcomers. Newcomers would receive peaceful co-existence with First Nations people, access to lands for settlement, farming, railways, and future industrial development.[1]
Sounds pretty good, right?
It may be different today, but in the 8 years I lived in Saskatchewan, I never once heard about Treaty 6. Want to know what I did hear? “Dirty Indian.” “Drunk Indian.” “Lazy Indian.” “Stupid Indians.” “They’re always looking for a handout.” “We built this country.” “This land is our land – we own it.” “Why don’t they pay taxes?” “We just give ‘em houses.” “Ungrateful Indians.”
“Why did you bring me to his horrible place?”
I don’t talk much about these experiences because they are difficult and, frankly, they are met with so much resistance that I just keep my mouth shut. It’s easier that way. But it doesn’t solve anything.
So, what will?
I have spent this past week thinking about why the lectionary readings we just heard were selected for today. I think the reason is that in 2008 when the first meetings of the Truth and Reconciliation began, the purpose of that work was not to shame anyone, but to hear the truth about this country’s history – its work of genocide, both cultural and physical. The fact of the matter is this: there can be no reconciliation without taking ownership of history and how we benefit from it.
Christians follow a God of reconciliation: the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. The incarnate Word dwelled with us so that whatever rift existed between human beings and God could, in fact, be reconciled. Our work, at every turn, whether it be about issues of race, ecology, gender, sexuality, economic disparity, must always be about reconciliation. That’s what it means to follow Jesus and to “be about the Father’s business.” (Luke 2:49)
The great author Maya Angelou is often quoted as saying: Once you know better you do better.” How right she was! Unlike our forebears, we have the great privilege of knowing better. So, what are some actions we can take that will permit us to “do better?”
First, I would encourage all of us to learn the context and history of the treaties lands we are currently existing upon. We are on Treaty 13 land – also known as, the Toronto Purchase. Second, and this is something we are already doing together, I would encourage every Settler and Newcomer to read the 94 recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission – which concluded its work in 2015. Thirdly, and this is a very difficult one, I would encourage us to not take the legitimate grievances of Indigenous people personally. These issues are systemic and need to be addressed as such. The last thing I would encourage us to do is to open our hearts, minds, and friendship circles to Indigenous people and their lives. Attend a powwow. Visit the Woodland Cultural Centre outside of Brantford on the Six-Nations Reserve. Become acquainted with Toronto Urban Native Ministry which is an ecumenical partnership between our Diocese and the United Church of Canada – I know they need financial support. Make connections with the First Nations People who exist here on this island for they never ceded this specific land to the British Crown.[2]
This is not easy work. In fact, it is onerous and tiresome work, for there is always someone who will deny, justify, and ignore. But we don’t give up. We press on because “those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” Amen.
Silence is kept.
THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE
As we prepare for the prayers of the people, let us hear and reflect on the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (#53): Reconciliation
53. We call upon the Parliament of Canada, in consultation and collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to enact legislation to establish a National Council for Reconciliation. The legislation would establish the council as an independent, national, oversight body with membership jointly appointed by the Government of Canada and national Aboriginal organizations, and consisting of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal members. Its mandate would include, but not be limited to, the following:
- Monitor, evaluate, and report annually to Parliament and the people of Canada on the Government of Canada’s post-apology progress on reconciliation to ensure that government accountability for reconciling the relationship between Aboriginal peoples and the Crown is maintained in the coming years.
- Monitor, evaluate, and report to Parliament and the people of Canada on reconciliation progress across all levels and sectors of Canadian society, including the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.
- Develop and implement a multi-year National Action Plan for Reconciliation, which includes research and policy development, public education programs, and resources.
- Promote public dialogue, public/private partnerships, and public initiatives for reconciliation.
Intercessor: Remembering this Call to Action, in peace, we pray to you, Lord God.
Silence
Intercessor: Creator and Redeemer, as we approach you in prayer, make us walk in beauty and balance, make us open our hearts and minds, make us speak the truth. We pray first for your Community, the Church, The Body of Christ. We pray for all our relatives in the circle of life throughout all Creation; for those chosen to be our leaders and teachers.
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon the earth, our Mother and home, with its beautiful depths, soaring heights and deep waters, its vitality and abundance of life, and together we ask that it:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon the mountains and tundra, the high green valleys and prairies filled with wild flowers, the snows, the summits of intense silence, and we ask that they:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon upon the land which grows our food, the nurturing soil, the fertile fields, the abundant gardens and orchards, and we ask that they:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon the forests, the great trees reaching strongly to the sky with earth in their roots and the heavens in their branches, the fir and the pine, the cedar and the maple, we ask them to:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon the creatures of the fields and forests and the waters, our brothers and sisters the wolves and deer, the eagle and bear, the great whales and the fish. We ask them to:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: We call upon all those who have lived on this earth, our ancestors and our friends, who dreamed the best for future generations, and upon whose lives our lives are built, and with thanksgiving, we call upon them to:
People: Teach us and show us the way.
Intercessor: Creator, you made the world and declared it to be good: the beauty of the trees, the softness of the air, the fragrance of the grass speaks to us; the summit of the mountains, the thunder of the sky, the rhythm of the waters speak to us; the faintness of the stars, the freshness of the morning, the dewdrops on the flower speak to us. But above all, our heart soars, for you speak to us in Jesus the Christ, in whose name we offer these prayers. Amen. (*Prayers of the People, The Church of the Four Winds, Portland Oregon)
Intercessor: Let us set down the heavy things we carry with us, putting us in right relationship with one another and with God.
Silence
Intercessor: For all that separates our hearts from God and from all that closes our eyes to God’s love
Silence
Intercessor: For what we have done, left undone, and what has been done on our behalf
Silence
Intercessor: For the pride that prevents us from forgiving others, as we have been forgiven
Silence
People: Jesus, forgive us. Create in us clean hearts, O God, and renew rights spirit within us. Amen.
Silence
Celebrant: The Lord enrich you with grace, and nourish you with many blessings; the Lord defend you in trouble and keep you from all evil; the Lord accept your prayers, and absolve you from your offences, for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.
The Peace
As you are able, please stand.
Celebrant: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING
Celebrant: God the Creator is here.
People: God’s Spirit is with us.
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts
People: We lift them to God the Creator.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to God
People: It is right to offer our thanks and praise.
Celebrant: God the Creator, our Great Spirit, from the depths of our hearts we give you thanks. We say thank you, now and forever. From the place of the rising sun in the East, to the South where the warm winds blow, from the West where the soft rain comes, to the coldness of the North. We unite with all creation from the four directions to join in the everlasting thanksgiving and praise for the gift of Jesus Christ. With hearts lifted, we join with the angels, the guardian spirits, the saints, and all our ancestors as we say
Sanctus (Gather, #201)
All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
Heaven and earth are full are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest! Blessed is he who comes in
the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!
Celebrant: Holy God, source of life and goodness, all creation rightly gives you praise. In the fullness of time, you sent your Son Jesus Christ, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Creator of all. He healed the sick and ate and drank with outcasts and sinners; he opened the eyes of the blind and proclaimed the good news of your kingdom to the poor and to those in need. In all things he fulfilled your gracious will. On the night he freely gave himself to death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread, and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Gracious God, his perfect sacrifice destroys the power of sin and death; by raising him to life you give us life for evermore.
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
All: Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
Celebrant: Recalling his death, proclaiming his resurrection, and looking for his coming again in glory, we offer you, this bread and this cup. Send your Holy Spirit upon us and upon these gifts, that all who eat and drink at this table may be one body and one holy people, a living sacrifice in Jesus Christ, our Lord. United in Christ with all who stand before you on earth and heaven, we worship you, God the Creator, our Great Spirit, in songs and dance of infinite praise. Blessing, honour, and glory be yours, here and everywhere, now and for ever. Amen. (*adapted from NZ Maori PB)
The Lord’s Prayer
Celebrant: As our Saviour taught us, let us pray,
All: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
Silence is kept.
Celebrant: We break this bread to share in the body of Christ.
All: We, being many, are one body, for we all share in the one bread.
Celebrant: The gifts for God, for the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God.
Angus Dei (Gather, #207)
All: Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Prince of Peace, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Bread of Life, you take away the sins of the world: grant us peace.
Communion Music (Common Praise, #292): We Cannot Measure How You Heal
Come up to the altar following the lead of those ahead of you. If you would like a blessing, as well as, or in place of the bread, indicate this to the priest.
The Silence
A longer silence is kept for listening and reflection.
Prayer after Communion
As you are able, please stand.
Celebrant: Jesus Christ, you are the Son of the Creator. Today we are your children. We will live as you have taught us. We will follow your commandments. Watch over us. Speak to us from the trees, from the grass and herbs, from the breeze, from the passing rain, from the passing thunder and the deep waters. Beauty surrounds us. Allow us to walk a long life in happiness completed in beauty. Amen. (*adapted from the Liturgy of St. John’s, Red Lake, MN)
Celebrant: Glory to God,
All: whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory to God from generation to generation, in the Church and in Christ Jesus, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Blessing
Celebrant: Send us anywhere you would have us go, only go there with us. Place upon us any burden you desire, only stand by us to sustain us. Break any tie that binds us, except the tie that binds us to you. And the blessing of God; the eternal Source, who made and knows us; the incarnate Word, who redeems and befriends us; and the Holy Spirit, who enlightens and sustains us, be with you this day and always. Amen.
Closing Hymn (Common Praise, #572): Let There Be Light
Celebrant: Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Resources for National Indigenous History Month
Na-Me-Res Traditional Pow Wow
Location: Fort York Historical site, 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9 June 18th and 19th, in person.
The Na-Me-Res Annual Traditional Pow Wow returns Saturday, June 18 with drummers, dancers and food vendors. On Sunday, June 19 enjoy the Indigenous Food Market and main stage performances. Shop at the Craft Vendor Market both days and also enjoy month-long art installations.
Indigenous People’s Celebration- Richmond hill
June 25th 1pm-5pm Elgin Barrow Arena, 43 Church St., in person.
Join Indigenous People’s Celebration, with live music, drumming, food, vendors, and speakers.
National Indigenous Day of Prayer- Anglican Church of Canada
Check out this resource page, featuring prayers and liturgical readings for community observation of National Indigenous Day of Prayer. https://www.anglican.ca/im/nidp/
The Anglican Healing Fund
This resource provides funding for Indignous led organizations in the work of cultural and community revival, healing the wounds of Indian Residential Schools. https://www.anglican.ca/resources/anglican-healing-fund/
Toronto Urban Native Ministry
An ecumenical ministry between the Anglican Diocese of Toronto and the United Church of Canada. Founded in 1996, TUNM interacts with more than 8,000 lives each year. We reach out to Indigenous people on the street, in hospitals, in jails, shelters and hostels, providing counseling, Ceremony, spiritual care and referrals to community services.We are always looking for financial and physical donations for Toronto Urban Native Ministry's life saving and life sustaining work of emergency relief. To sustain the life and work of Toronto Urban Native Ministry, make a one time donation or consider becoming a monthly donor here: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/52915.
Sunrise Ceremony (Nathan Phillips Square)
Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day with the City of Toronto’s annual Sunrise Ceremony. Come together to give thanks for all of creation and Mino Baamodziwin (The Good Life). Elder Garry Sault from Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation will lead the traditional ceremony, which will also feature a Water Ceremony and teachings by Knowledge Keeper Kim Wheatley. June 21 at 5:30 am. All are welcome to attend this free event. Registration required. https://nowtoronto.com/events/other-national-indigenous-peoples-day-sunrise-ceremony
Reading Group – Through the month of June we will be reading and reflecting on selected sections of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. This 1-hour reading group will be held on Zoom beginning on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at 7:30 pm. If you are interested, please contact Rev. Alison at alison.hari.singh@utoronto.ca.
Hymns for Ordinary Time – As we approach “ordinary time” in the church’s calendar we are looking to create a repository of favourite hymns. If you have a favourite hymn, please let Rev. Alison or Jane know. We will compile this list and use these selections throughout the next number of months.
PWRDF – The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund is working support refugees fleeing Ukraine. For more information, go to: https://pwrdf.org/pwrdf-supports-ukrainians-forced-to-flee/.
Ferry Information as of June 10, 2022 - Summer Schedule
Ward's Island
Departs City
9:00 am - Need to be picked up at Ward's? Call/Text Bella at 416-203-4142
9:30 am (and each hour thereafter) - Church van meets this ferry
Departs Ward's Island
11:45 am (and each hour thereafter)
Centre Island
Departs City
9:00 am
9:30 am
10:30 am (and each half hour thereafter)
Departs Centre Island
11:45 am (and each half hour thereafter)
The walk to the church takes around 20-30 minutes. Service begins at 10:30 am.
For other ferry times go to: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/toronto-island-park/all-ferry-schedules/.
Amber Stage Guidelines (Diocese of Toronto)
Click on the link above to see the Diocesan Guidelines for safe worship in Church under Stage 2 Covid protocols.
- Masks must be worn at all times
- You may sit where you are comfortable – allow space to those who desire it
- A single individual may remove their mask for the purpose of liturgical speaking (e.g., reading, preaching, leading said intercessions, making announcements).
- Congregational singing is allowed – please remain masked
- Use hand sanitizer before and after taking the Eucharist
Ways to support St. Andrew’s
· Bring a Friend
· The Collection Plate
· E-Transfer – email: standrewbookings@gmail.com
· PAR - Pre-Authorized Remittance. You direct your bank to deposit your donation into the church account on the 20th of each month. To apply contact Joyce Rogers at standrewbookings@gmail.com.
· Canada Helps – Visit the St. Andrew by-the-Lake website, go to the Home Page and click on the Donate button.
[1] https://treaty6education.lskysd.ca/treaty6basics.html
[2] https://history.torontoisland.org/tag/first-nations/