Soul Food

Soul Food Videos

Check out some of our Gower Youth talking about Diamond Dots, a fun craft they have been up too!

Reflective Pauses

Lenten Pauses

Spring 2023

Soul Food Posts

January 30, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike

Black History Month

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

As January gives way to February, we prepare our hearts to enter Black History Month, a sacred time to honor the legacies, struggles, and triumphs of Black communities across the world. Today let us share together this Psalm for Black History Month by Akinyi Owegi-Ndhlovu.

From everlasting to everlasting
World without end, You Are!

Wrought in my mother’s womb
And even before then
You knew I would be.
Who I would become―or not…
Where I would dwell―or not…
What skin tone I would have
Especially after the sun had touched me;
All these, you, Creator God, had known.

The language that I would speak
Or how many I would speak, hear, and understand
How I would know to call you
And know that you are still the One
How I would pray, praise, or lament
And hope and trust that you would still hear.

My mother continent is Africa
Vast lands and lakes and rivers created by you.
You were there before many a navigator, an explorer, often a stranger
Created invisible lines, invisible boundaries, unnecessary divisions.
Before I knew to call you God or Dieu,
Languages from across many seas,
I learned to call you in the languages
Of my kin and others, closer, nearer, and dear to me,
Present or gone before me
In the continent of my origin, my birth, my roots.

Nyasaye (Luo)
Mungu (Kiswahili)
Mulungu (Ngoni)
Ngai (Kikuyu)
Enkai (Maasai)
Chukwu (Igbo)
Unkulunkulu (Zulu)
Lesa (Bemba)
Mwari (Shona)
You who sees all, hears all, knows all
You who are many in One,
Present everywhere all at once;
You in whose image I am made,
You whose nature is
Love, Unity, Harmony, Sameness,
It matters not in what land I currently dwell.

To you I pray,

Breathe your nature in me
Breathe courage and wisdom in me
Breathe healing over wounds that may still be open
Breathe over scars that may still be tender
Breathe to soothe the hurt that may still linger
Breathe, so that unforgiveness may not inhabit or overwhelm me

Breathe that I may fully live to
Love and be loved
Understand and be understood
Accept and be accepted
Value and be valued
Listen―and be listened to

That I may not be singled out
Because of mere suspicion or stereotype
That I may not be considered as not belonging
Because a person, a people, a system
Just cannot believe or accept that I do

That I may be viewed neither as a token nor an object of pity
But truly and sincerely be recognized as a worthy and deserving human

In the here and now and beyond now. Amen[1]

Akinyi offers a song of life and breath, creation and belonging—reminding us of the God who has known us from everlasting to everlasting, who crafted us in love, and who calls us to be fully alive in justice, truth, and unity.

Black History Month is a time to remember the richness of heritage, the beauty of diversity, and the courage of those who have paved the way for justice and equity. Yet it is also a call to action. The work of confronting racism, dismantling systems of oppression, and building a world of equity is far from over. As people of faith, we are invited to stand in solidarity with our Black siblings and to challenge any system, structure, or mindset that diminishes the sacred worth of any human being.

This reflection on identity and belonging also speaks to the ongoing pain and hope in the Middle East. As tensions persist, stories of grief, resilience, and courage emerge from both Israel and Palestine. We are called to hold these stories in prayer, not as distant observers but as active participants in the work of peace and justice. The release of captives and ongoing calls for ceasefires are reminders of the possibility of reconciliation, but true peace will require deep, transformative healing.

In the psalm’s words, we hear the assurance that God knows us intimately:

“You who see all, hear all, know all… You in whose image I am made.”

This is a truth that transcends borders, languages, and histories. It is the same God who breathed life into the vastness of Africa, the cradle of humanity, who also breathed life into every corner of creation. God’s breath of justice calls us to stand against stereotypes and divisions, whether rooted in race, religion, or nationality.

As we move into February, let us reflect on how we can embody the psalmist’s prayer:

• How can we breathe love, courage, and healing into the spaces we inhabit?
• How can we ensure that no one is “singled out because of mere suspicion or stereotype”?
• How can we be part of God’s work to bring unity where there is division, and hope where there is despair?

In a world so often divided, God’s Spirit calls us to live out the harmony and unity that are at the heart of the divine nature. As we honor Black history, pray for peace in the Middle East, and prepare to walk into February, let us recommit ourselves to living as God’s people: a people of justice, love, and unwavering hope.

Let us pray:

God of everlasting love and boundless compassion,
You have known us from the very beginning.
You shaped us in love,
wove us together in beauty,
and called us to live in your image of unity and harmony.

As we approach Black History Month,
we honor the richness of heritage and the courage of those who have fought for justice.
Breathe your Spirit into us,
that we may continue the work of dismantling racism,
standing in solidarity and building a world where every person is valued.

We lift before you the ongoing struggles in the Middle East.
We pray for peace, reconciliation, and justice.
Comfort those who grieve, strengthen those who work for change,
and guide us all to be peacemakers in your name.

God of creation,
You who spoke life into the vastness of Africa,
who know every language and every heart,
breathe healing over wounds that remain open,
and courage into all who face injustice.

Help us to see one another as you see us:
beloved, worthy, and created in your image.
May we love boldly, listen deeply, and act justly.
And in all things, may we honor you,
from everlasting to everlasting.

We pray as Jesus taught us: 
The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
           as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the God of everlasting love and boundless grace go with you.
May you walk in the light of justice, rooted in hope, and guided by peace.
And may the Spirit breathe courage, compassion, and unity into your heart,
this day and always. Amen.

[1] https://united-church.ca/prayers/psalm-black-history-month

January 23, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike

Intersections of Faith, Justice, and Community

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

This week, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of faith, justice, and hope as we reflect on significant global and local events unfolding.

Monday, January 20, marked the inauguration of Donald Trump as the President of the United States. His return to power signals a renewed call for us, as people of faith, to stand firm in our commitment to justice, compassion, and inclusion. The gospel compels us to challenge policies and rhetoric that exclude, demean, or harm. For our 2SLGBTQIA+ siblings and all those marginalized by systemic injustice, we reaffirm that God’s love knows no bounds, and our church is a sanctuary of welcome, dignity, and hope.

At the same time, we witness a glimmer of hope in the Middle East. The announcement of a ceasefire in Israel and Palestine and the release of 90 Palestinian prisoners are steps toward peace and reconciliation. These moments call us to pray fervently and act boldly for lasting justice in the region. The psalmist reminds us, “Righteousness and peace will kiss each other” (Psalm 85:10). This vision of harmony is not passive; it demands dismantling systems of oppression, healing historical wounds, and building trust between communities. As we celebrate these small yet significant milestones, we must also hold space for the grief and pain of those still waiting for justice and liberation.

This week is also the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, a time to reflect on Jesus’ prayer “that they may all be one” (John 17:21). In a world deeply divided—politically, socially, and spiritually—Christian unity is both a gift and a responsibility. It does not mean uniformity but rather a shared commitment to living out Christ’s love in ways that transform our communities. Unity is most potent when it inspires action: feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, welcoming the stranger, and advocating for those without a voice.

Amid these global events, on January 29, the Lunar New Year is celebrated, a time of renewal, gratitude, and hope. Rooted in family and community traditions, this celebration reminds us of the beauty of creation’s rhythms and the joy of starting anew. For those in our global and local communities marking this occasion, we pray for peace, abundance, and the blessings of harmony in the year ahead.

As we hold these events in tension, we are reminded of our call as Christians to be bridge-builders and bearers of light. Whether we are praying for justice in Palestine and Israel, standing with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, working for unity among Christians, or celebrating the joy of the Lunar New Year, we do so with a faith rooted in the hope that God is always at work, bringing new life and possibility to our world.

Let us pray:

God of justice and peace,
We come before you with gratitude and longing,
bringing the joys and struggles of our world into your presence.

On this week of Donald Trump’s inauguration,
we pray for wisdom, courage, and compassion to guide all leaders.

Help us to challenge policies that exclude or harm
and to proclaim your vision of a world where all are valued,
especially our 2SLGBTQIA+ siblings and those pushed to the margins.

We give thanks for the ceasefire in Israel and Palestine
and the release of 90 Palestinian prisoners.
May these steps toward peace grow into lasting reconciliation.
Comfort those who continue to grieve and suffer,
and inspire us to be peacemakers in your name.

In this Week of Prayer for Christian Unity,
we pray for healing within your church.
Unite us in your love and guide us to work together
to build a world of justice, inclusion, and hope.

As we celebrate the Lunar New Year,
we give thanks for the rhythms of creation and the gift of renewal.
Bless those who mark this season with joy,
and may peace and abundance fill every home.

God of all times and places,
guide us to be your hands and feet in the world.
May we act with justice, love with compassion,
and walk humbly in your ways.

We pray as Jesus taught us:
The Prayer of Jesus

Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May we go forward this week with hearts open to God’s Spirit, ready to love boldly, act justly, and walk humbly in God’s way.

January 16, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike

World Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

I need to start this week with an apology; I confused my dates last week, and the World Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins this Sunday, January 18^th, not last Sunday. My apologies for this confusion today. Let us reflect and prepare for this communal week of prayer and reflection. We will have daily posts for you to guide your prayer and reflection next week, starting on Sunday on all Gower’s social media.

For 2025, the prayers and reflections for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity were prepared by the brothers and sisters of the monastic community of Bose in northern Italy. This year marks the 1,700th

anniversary of the first Christian Ecumenical Council, held in Nicaea, near Constantinople in 325 AD. This

commemoration provides a unique opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the common faith of Christians, as expressed in the Creed formulated during this Council; a faith that remains alive and fruitful in our days. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025 offers an invitation to draw on this shared heritage and to enter more deeply into the faith that unites all Christians. The guiding biblical text was chosen – John 11:17-27. .

In John 11:17-27, we find Martha, weighed down by grief, meeting Jesus with a mixture of sorrow and faith. Her brother Lazarus has died, and yet in her anguish, she expresses profound trust: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.” Martha’s words echo the tension we often feel as Christians: the pain of waiting for God’s promises to be fulfilled and the hope that God’s power will bring life even amid death.

Jesus responds to Martha with a declaration that resonates across time: “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” This is the heart of our faith—the assurance that life in Christ transcends death and that in him, all things are made new. Martha’s response is equally striking: “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God.” In this moment, her faith bridges the gap between present sorrow and future hope.

This passage is deeply significant for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity because it speaks to the divisions we face as the body of Christ. Like Martha and Mary, we may share the same faith but experience it differently, sometimes feeling isolated or disconnected. The divisions among Christians—whether theological, cultural, or historical—can feel like a kind of death. Yet, the promise of resurrection reminds us that unity is not a human achievement but a gift from God.

The Nicene Creed, which has been a cornerstone of Christian belief since the fourth century, affirms this shared hope. When we proclaim, “We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church,” we are reminded that our unity is not based on uniformity but on our shared confession of Christ as Lord. The creed draws us back to the essentials of our faith, reminding us that, despite our differences, we belong to one body, one Spirit, one hope.

This week invites us to confront the reality of our divisions while holding fast to the hope of reconciliation. Like Martha, we are called to bring our honest questions and struggles to Jesus, trusting that he can bring life where there seems to be only death. Unity in Christ is not simply about agreeing on every point of doctrine or practice; it is about being rooted in the love and life of Christ, who is the resurrection and the life for all.

What does it mean to live out this unity?

It begins with humility. We must listen to one another, recognizing that no single tradition has a monopoly on God’s truth. It requires repentance as we acknowledge how we have contributed to division through pride, misunderstanding, or apathy. And it demands love—the kind of self-giving love that Christ demonstrated on the cross, a love that transcends boundaries and calls us to serve one another.

As we reflect on this week’s theme, let us also consider the broader world. The divisions within the Church are mirrored in the divisions of our communities, nations, and world. A divided Church cannot fully witness to the reconciling power of Christ. Our unity is not for our sake alone but for the sake of the world, that all may see and believe in the God who brings life from death and hope from despair.

May this week be a time of prayer, dialogue, and renewed commitment to the unity Christ desires for us. Just as Jesus called Lazarus forth from the tomb, may we hear his call to step out of the tombs of division and into the light of new life together.

Let us pray:

God of all life and hope,
You created us to live in unity,
to reflect your love as one body.
Yet we confess that we have allowed divisions to grow,
building walls where you have called us to build bridges.
Forgive us, God, and lead us into your way of peace.

Jesus, the resurrection and the life,
you call us from the tombs of separation and fear.
Give us the courage to respond,
to seek reconciliation where there is discord,
and to celebrate the richness of our diversity.

As we proclaim the Nicene Creed,
remind us of the foundation of our faith:
one faith, one baptism,
one God and Father of all.
Help us to live out this unity,
not only in words but in action,
that the world may see your light shining through us.

Holy Spirit, breathe new life into your Church.
Renew our hearts, strengthen our resolve,
and bind us together in love.
May our shared faith in Christ unite us,
so that we may bear witness to your grace and truth
in a world longing for hope.

We pray as Jesus taught us:
The Prayer of Jesus

Our Father,* who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name,

thy kingdom come,

thy will be done on earth,

as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.

Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
May the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all, now and always. Amen.

January 9, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike

Baptism, Unity, and the Call to Care

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

This Sunday, we will explore Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, a moment of profound revelation. As Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the voice of God declares, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” This moment affirms Jesus’ identity and mission, connecting the divine to the earthly and setting Him on the path of ministry, healing, and sacrifice.

This sacred moment invites us to reflect on our own baptismal identity. Baptism is more than a ritual; it is a reminder that we, too, are God’s beloved, called to live with purpose, compassion, and justice. It marks our entry into a community of faith and our commitment to care for the world around us. As the waters of baptism wash over us, they carry promise and responsibility—a calling to love God, one another, and all of creation.

Today, our hearts turn to the devastation wrought by wildfires in Los Angeles. The land, once abundant with life, is now scarred by flames. Families are displaced, ecosystems are destroyed, and the air is thick with smoke. The fires are a stark reminder of our fragile relationship with creation and the urgent need to address the causes and impacts of climate change.

Baptism, with its waters of renewal, stands in contrast to the consuming fires. It calls us to respond to destruction with restoration, to counter despair with hope. How can we, as followers of Jesus, live out our baptismal calling in the face of such crises? How might we offer the healing waters of compassion, advocacy, and action to a world in need?

This Sunday also marks the beginning of the World Week for Prayer for Christian Unity. In a time when division seems to define much of our world, this is a call to remember the unity we share in Jesus. Across denominations, languages, and cultures, we are bound together by the waters of baptism. Unity does not mean uniformity; it means coming together with our differences, united by love and a shared mission.

As we reflect on these themes, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of all things. The same Spirit that descended upon Jesus at His baptism dwells within us. The same waters that flowed in the Jordan River sustain life across the globe. And the same light that shone at Jesus’ baptism continues to shine, even in the darkest of times.

In the baptismal waters, we find our identity as God’s beloved, our hope for renewal, and our calling to live as agents of love and unity. Let us step boldly into this calling, bringing healing to creation, reconciliation to our relationships, and light to the world.

Let us pray:
God of the waters and the wilderness,
We come before You in awe and humility,
grateful for the gift of baptism and the calling it represents.
In the baptism of Jesus, You revealed Your love and purpose.
Help us to hear Your voice, calling us beloved,
and to live out our calling with courage and faith.

We lift up the people and lands affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles.
Comfort those who have lost homes, livelihoods, and loved ones.
Protect those who risk their lives to fight the flames,
and renew the earth scarred by destruction.
Teach us to care for creation with wisdom and compassion,
to recognize the sacredness of the world You have entrusted to us.

As we look forward to the World Week for Prayer for Christian Unity,
we ask for Your Spirit to move among us.
Break down the walls that divide us—walls of denomination, culture, and history.
Help us to see one another as siblings in faith,
bound together by the waters of baptism and the Spirit of love.
May our unity inspire us to work together
for justice, peace, and the flourishing of all creation.
In a world often marked by division and despair,
help us to be bearers of Your light.

When we face the fires of hardship and fear,
may we remember the waters of Your grace.
When we encounter division,
may we work for reconciliation and peace.
When the road is uncertain,
may we trust in Your guiding presence.
Renew us, O God, in the waters of baptism.
Strengthen us for the work ahead,
and remind us always that we are Your beloved children,
called to love and serve in Your name.

We pray together, as Jesus taught us:
The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
As you go forth, may the waters of baptism remind you of your identity as God’s beloved.
May the Spirit guide you to bring healing to creation, unity to the church, and light to the world.
And may the grace of Jesus, God’s love, and the Holy Spirit’s fellowship
be with you today and always. Amen.

January 2, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike

Following the Star

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Epiphany is a season of light, a time to reflect on the revelation of Jesus to the world. The story of the Magi, travelling from afar to kneel before the Christ child, speaks of faith, perseverance, and hope. Guided by a star, they left behind the familiar and journeyed into the unknown, trusting that they would find something extraordinary.

As we begin a new year, the Magi’s story resonates deeply. Like them, we stand at the threshold of a journey. The past year may have brought joy, growth, or success, but it may also have carried challenges, loss, or uncertainty. Epiphany promises that God’s light continues to shine, guiding us through every twist and turn of our lives.

The Magi’s gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—were symbols of honour, worship, and sacrifice. Yet, their journey itself was a gift, an offering of trust and devotion. In the same way, we are invited to bring our gifts to Christ in the year ahead. These gifts may not be tangible, but they are just as precious: acts of kindness, a forgiving heart, a commitment to justice, or a willingness to serve others.  I invite you to take a moment to reflect on the gifts you are bringing into 2025?

Epiphany also reminds us that God’s light is not reserved for a select few; it shines for all people, in every corner of the world. As the Magi represented nations beyond Israel, so are we called to see the universality of God’s love and share it freely. In this new year, how might you embody this love? How might you be light for others in a world that often feels overshadowed by division and despair?

As we journey through this season of light, let us trust in God’s guidance, seek God’s presence in unexpected places, and step into the new year with hearts open to transformation. Like the Magi, may we be bold enough to follow the star, wherever it may lead.

Let us pray,

God of light and revelation,
We give thanks for the journey of the Magi,
who followed the star to find Your Son.
As we begin this new year, guide us with Your light.
Help us to leave behind the burdens of the past
and to walk forward in faith, hope, and love.

Teach us to see Your presence in the world around us—
in the beauty of creation, in the kindness of others,
and in the quiet moments of prayer.
May we offer the gifts of our lives to You,
serving with humility and compassion.

When the road is uncertain, grant us courage.
When we falter, remind us of Your grace.
And when we are weary, renew us with Your strength.

We pray together, as Jesus taught us:

The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the light of Christ guide your steps in this new year.
May your heart be filled with hope, your spirit renewed with joy,
and your path illuminated with peace.
Go in God’s grace and love. Amen.