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GAMELAN BEAUTY
Jia Liu, of the Every Kid Choir
Yu, EKC Mom
PERFORMING OUR VALUES... ON THE STREET! Stories Without Borders workshop with Devora Neumark: How do you interact with others? What values lie behind those interactions? Do you erect or dissolve barriers between yourself and others you see as strangers? These were some of the questions we explored at our last Stories Without Borders workshop on April 25th. AND – we explored these questions by performing them in public. Our assignment was to find a “gesture” that embodied one of our values—something that would elicit the participation of passers-by.
One group stationed themselves in front of a sign reading “Are you willing to stop and consider…” and asked strangers if they would swap shoes with one another.” My group staged a convivial table with refreshments to share, and empty chairs to be filled by passers-by—which was inviting, but which also obstructed the sidewalk. The exercise investigated the borders between public and private space, ourselves and the perceived “other”, and brought us to deconstruct some of our assumptions.
What better preparation than this for our upcoming trip to the Middle East this July, where we will collaborate with Israelis, Palestinians and Jordanians on an art project. Our workshop with Devora was a testament to the power of art to ask important questions and to forge new connections across borders. Eva Boodman, Stories Without Borders participant
SMUDGING AT ZONE LIBRE What better way to introduce newly arrived refugees to Canadian history and culture, than through a smudging ceremony. Mr. Kelly Running Wolf, of Mi’kmaq origin, leader of the Sweat Lodge and Keeper of the Pipe, graciously performed the honors for Project Refuge staff and residents last March 16th at our weekly meeting of Zone Libre. The ceremony was a great learning experience for all present and the workshop accomplished more than we could imagine; in addition to familiarizing ourselves with First Nations’ customs, everyone came away with a greater appreciation and sensitivity of cultural differences. Heather Whalen, MCM student intern (Memorial University, Newfoundland)
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As the Every Kid Choir (EKC) loaded minibus pulled out of the parking lot, little did we know what an exciting day lay ahead. The forty-minute trip to Wyman Memorial United Church in Hudson was enhanced for the driver by the rehearsing of these angelic voices. During the service, the Choir performed several of their songs under the leadership of Allison Carpenter. When they were finished, the EKC and Sunday School kids went out to rehearse a special presentation. Meanwhile Paula Kline spoke to the congregation about the work that the Montreal City Mission is doing with refugees and inner city kids.
After the service, a Lenten Luncheon of soups, breads and goodies was waiting in the hall. As the congregation arrived, the combined group of choristers presented their program of songs, which was greatly appreciated by the Luncheon attendees. The kids then dug into their soup getting ready for the afternoon activities.
Through the generosity of the members of the Wyman congregation, the EKC was treated to the Ecomuseum in Ste-Anne de Bellevue. Even though it was raining (a rain poncho for each kid was provided by an EKC parent) the children had a great time exploring the cages, visiting the animals on site, viewing snakes, frogs and fish, and celebrating the first birthday of the Ecomuseum’s baby wood turtles (the cake was delicious). During the return to St. James United, where Montreal City Mission is located, the driver was again regaled with more songs. Sadly saying farewell, the minibus left the members of the Every Kid Choir in the hands of their parents and guardians after a very eventful day. John Pichovich – minibus driver, Wyman member
Some EKC members sing First Nation song at St. James United Church
Over 60 people – students, professors, guests, jammed into the Wendy Patrick Room at the McGill Social Work Department for a singular experience on April 6th. We gathered to celebrate Refugee Rights Day as well as the 40th anniversary of Canada signing the Geneva Convention on Human Rights. The Project Refuge Music Band put on a breathtaking performance of Rwandan drum and dance. If not for the small space, we would have been up dancing with these magicians of the air. The unveiling of a painting by a resident from Maison Haider (PR3) added an extra touch to the event.
Painter Rousseau Denis & Paula Kline Following the music, a dynamic panel of Montreal refugee advocates addressed issues ranging from immigration and policy procedure to personal testimony. Emotions ran high as former PR resident, Diolément Sassa, spoke about his journey through the Canadian refugee claimant system.
Mr. Diolément Sassa, Me Rick Goldman & Me Annick Legault Raising awareness, and putting into perspective the trials and tribulations many face when fleeing to Canada, was what we set out to do and it was welcomed with great success. We would like to thank all of those who participated in our event and we hope to see you again at our future gatherings. Bianca Tetrault, MCM student intern (McGill University) ON THE ROAD Dawson College “Under the Blue Sky – Between Exile and Asylum” once again hit the road. In collaboration with the Dawson College Social Service Department and its teachers, this unique exhibit was presented at our downtown CEGEP last March 25th – 27th. During that time, college students had an opportunity to learn about the journey of asylum seekers, from their country of origin to the recognition of their refugee status in Canada. The opening presentation allowed many different voices to be heard; teachers, students, a UNHRC* rep and Project Refuge residents shared their thoughts, impressions, questions and experiences. (*United Nations High Commission on Refugees)
For most, it was a new experience, learning about the pain, joy and hope of the immigration and refugee claimant process. One thing for sure, this instructive and poignant presentation did not leave anyone indifferent. Julia Jankovsky, MCM intern (Dawson College) Mountainside United Church I have learned some valuable lessons in hospitality this past winter from the New Canadians Project*, sponsored by Montreal City Mission and Mountainside United. Over the weeks and months of meeting, eating, sharing, and learning, I began to appreciate in a practical way what I had only treated as an intellectual exercise: Radical Hospitality. I use this term as a way of expressing the Christian way of being found in the New Testament Letter to the Hebrews 13.1f, where the love of sibling (philadelphia) includes and is defined as the love of stranger (philaxenia). In its simplest form, it is being able to see that all, without exclusion or qualification, are truly our sisters and brothers.
Michael Ryneveld (Mcgill, UTC, & Action Réfugiés Montreal) and Richard Asare (MCM) At a closing luncheon on March 29th, refugees, workers and congregation members were thanked, celebrated and connected in new ways through what has become a beautiful expression of Christian welcome. I wanted the luncheon to speak to the realities of the refugee experience and connect that to the opportunities we all have to be Christ’s presence in the world. In addition to hearing form refugee rights advocates, three students from the congregation, Richard, Raymond and David, shared a bit of their respective journeys as well as their struggles, hopes, and gratitude. The congregation was deeply moved and there was a feeling of connection I will never forget. I witnessed strangers beholding each other as family. Philippe Read (Theology intern, Mountainside United) Boston University Lessons learned from Montreal City Mission’s innovative approach to management were recently featured in a new effort underway at Boston University School of Theology (BUSTh). MCM director, Paula Kline, conducted a mini-seminar here as part of the School’s burgeoning emphasis on global engagement that includes practical ways of learning with and from others. Master’s and doctoral degree students, many of whom are pursuing studies in mission studies and practical theology, first enjoyed a down-to-earth presentation concerning MCM’s day to day operations. Speaking on Living Organization Tools for the 21st Century, Paula explained many policy specifics that are designed to ensure support of MCM staff to one another and accountability to people they serve, to funders and to the wider community. Students then benefited from an historical look at how the notion of “mission” itself has evolved for MCM and the United Church of Canada over the past century.
Beyond the mini-seminar, there may be other opportunities for association between MCM and BUSTh. While in Boston, Paula spoke with School representatives about the possibility of establishing MCM as a field education site for our students. She also met with BUSTh alumnus, the Rev. Daniel Velez-Rivera, who oversees a multi-faceted Latino ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, about issues of mutual interest.
Rev. Velez-Rivera, Paula Kline & Liz Parsons It was a special delight to me that the visit took place, since it is something Paula and I have been working towards for several years. Many thanks to Paula, the MCM staff, and board for all your good work in Montreal and your willingness to share lessons learned with others! Elizabeth Parsons, Lecturer, BU School of Theology, MCM intern (summer 1996) Queen's University “Coming from a rural area, I didn’t think I would relate to a big urban church and mission, but now I see that I have a lot in common with your vision, struggles and practical approach. Thank you.” So where do urban and rural ministries connect in the present and dream the future? At the Shaw Transformational Leadership Program of Queen’s Theological College, where today’s leaders gain knowledge and develop new skills for engaging in effective planning, and meeting the leadership challenges in a dynamic church environment.
Many thanks to Montreal City Mission (MCM) Director Paula Kline for providing, during the week long course, a day’s workshop on the exciting partnership MCM is building with St. James United Church. The story of radical transformation and renewal at St. James United combined with the MCM learning/action model kept the participants busy asking questions, reflecting and making links with their own context. It was definitely a rich encounter at the enlivening and dynamic edge where passion, skill and the Spirit’s guidance all intersected! Patty Evans, Shaw Program Coordinator Union United Church Unit Wide Committee at Union United: In seeking to live into the intercultural commitment of the United Church, the Unit-Wide Committee of the Intercultural & Diverse Communities in Ministry met in Montreal from April 29 - May 2. The educational component of the meeting sought to explore and understand the challenges of ethnic minority peoples in the context of Quebec, in addition to understanding the Francophone Protestant reality. Montreal City Mission was a significant contributor to this event. The group had stimulating and insightful exchanges with Project Refuge staff and residents. One consequence of this conversation was the awareness on the part of our constituencies to build stronger relationships with Community Ministries. We celebrate the work of MCM! Rev. Michael Blair, Executive Minister Montreal committee members are: Rev. Emmanuel Ofori (chair) who currently serves the historic Union United congregation., Rev. Pasquale Castelluccio (Italian United), Rev. Molly Mangana (Montreal Japanese United) and Ms. Erene Anthony (Union United).
The academic year Fall 08 – Winter 09, has already drawn to a close. Our heartfelt thanks and best wishes go to parting interns: Bianca Tetrault & Yolaine Williams (McGill U Social Work), Julia Jankovsky (Dawson Social Work), Heather Whelan (Memorial U Social Work), Sam Walker, Josie Marks, Nathalie Drolet, (McGill Law), Carmela Argentino (United Theological College). By the same token, we welcome our new summer interns: Joey Berljawsky (McGill Social Work) & Andrew Deak (McGill Law) who have already begun their work at Just Solutions, and our summer students employees: Andrea Dawes and Yolaine Williams.
Sylvain Thibault, Paula Kline, Marie-Eve Couture, Heather Whelan, Julia Jankovsky, Bianca Tetrault, Yolaine Williams, Alfredo Lombisi, Natalie Drolet, Richard Asare, Josie Marks & Eva Boodman
Have a great summer!
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