What do Truth and Reconciliation have to do with Creation?

At Tuesday's All Nations Canoe Journey, in one of the smaller canoes in our flotilla, the last of seven, I saw a familiar face. David Suzuki, scientist, broadcaster and environmental activist, sat in a canoe and waited along with the rest of our group to be welcomed ashore.

When our group was given a chance to speak, he was asked to say a few words. He spoke of the sacrifices that First Nations people have made to protect the land and their struggles to be included in conversations around development and resource extraction. He called us to learn from their example and join them in their work to protect the environment that sustains us.

He was not alone in this call as many of those who spoke called for more open and inclusive conversations to take place when it comes to development and resource extraction. These calls reflect the 5th Mark of Mission: To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and renew and sustain the life of the earth. The work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, while it is focused on the impact of Indian Residential Schools includes moving forward together towards right relationships of justice and respect between Nations, communities, individuals, but also with creation.

At this National Event, we listen to the stories of those who have been silenced as a first step of moving towards healing. Likewise, we must take the time to stop and listen to the voice of creation - through which our Creator speaks to us.

As a part of our apology for our complicity in the harm that was done through Residential Schools, the Anglican Church of Canada has made a commitment to listen to the stories of as many survivors of residential schools as possible. The truth of their experiences, which before was hidden, must be acknowledged. There are many ways that we can be part of this process of listening and education - whether it is in person, through written accounts or through other media that bring these stories into the light. First of all, we need to open our hearts to hear and be moved and even be broken so that out of all this suffering may come healing and this life that we share may be renewed.