Testimony

There is an encouraging piece in the latest United Church Observer tucked away at the back of the magazine. It really should be closer to the action of feature articles and available online as well. It is under the heading of "Testimony" and that is exactly what it is, the faith story of Jessica Hetherington, who was raised as a Christian, became critical of organized religion for a number of reasons, then rediscovered "the God who speaks to me in my innermost depths."

Jessica's renewal of Christian faith has included intentional exploration of eco-theology, through doctoral studies. Her dissertation explored how changing patterns and behaviour in response to the ecological crisis can be a form of Christian discipleship. She has joined the United Church (hurray!) with her husband and children. She is a university lecturer and director of the Galilee Retreat Centre near Arnprior,Ontario. http://www.galileecentre.com/gallery/

I was taken by Jessica's story, and immediately picked up the phone and called her. We had what was for me an uplifting conversation about a number of things, including the value of connecting United Church folk who are passionate about caring for Creation. We haven't developed a way of doing this in the UCC the way other denominations have.

When we finished I was grateful that Jessica has found a home in the United Church.

Do we need to provide more opportunities for people to tell their stories of faith, of giving their testimony? Are you intrigued about reading Jessica's story? (October Observer, p.46) What about developing a way for those of like-mind on Creation Care to connect?