THE PRESIDENT’S PAGE

Welcome to the Atlantic Ecumenical Council:

Since January 1,  we have been confronted with a variety of strong emotional events.  Horror surged when we heard the news of the earthquakes in Haiti and Chile;  disappointment and frustration when we heard the news of the cuts to Kairos funding;  and elation and pride during the games of the Olympics.

What has all of this to do with the Ecumenical Council of the Atlantic Provinces?  It reminds us that our hearts are moved by situations and concerns both here at home, and worldwide.

We are reminded what it means to be the Church.  As a child I learned and sang this short chorus that says:

I am the Church; you are the Church; we are the Church together

All of God’s children; all around the world

We are the Church together!

Scripture makes it abundantly clear that although we may differ in our doctrines and our traditions, our mandate is to honor God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength, and others as ourselves.  Jesus said:  ‘A new commandment I give you; love one another as I have loved you.’   Very simple; in these we do not differ.

In light of these commandments, it is my prayer that we can go forward together, with a focus on the One who has created, redeemed and sustains us.  As the chorus tells us, let us ‘Turn our eyes upon Jesus.  Look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.’

We have been jolted emotionally into this year, and so, now that we are awake, let us take steps to be open to one another;  enjoying the richness of our worship;  serving and sharing resources with one another in love,  and embracing our differences in light of our similarities!

Shalom

Rev. Marlene Knowles

President of Atlantic Ecumenical Council