Gospel Jamborees have a long history in Indigenous communities, going back to a time when Indigenous peoples gathered to sing Christian hymns—as a means of coming together, praying for one another, worshipping God, spreading the Good News and also, as a means of faithful and courageous resistance to colonization. Within the Anglican Church of Canada, Gospel Jamborees have accompanied the Native Convocations/
Sacred Circles as well as being used by communities and ministry areas to bring folks together for fellowship, encouragement, worship, community-building, support and fun. The last three General Synods have also featured Gospel Jamborees as ongoing acts of reconciliation and bridge-building.
The Episcopal Diocese of Alaska, where Ginny ministered for many years before coming to work with Indigenous Ministries, shares the following message, which was sent across the Diocese:
Mourning the Loss of The Rev. Canon Ginny Doctor
May she rest in peace and rise in glory!
It is with heavy hearts that we say good-bye to our dear friend and Sister in Christ, The Rev. Canon Ginny Doctor; as we grieve her unexpected death. She was a strong Mohawk women of deep and profound faith and was a force to be reckoned with. She filled the room with love, laughter, passion, conviction, generosity, and compassion. Being in her presence, you knew you were with someone extraordinary and chosen by the Creator. She touched many people throughout Alaska and the world. She is a thread in the tapestry of The Episcopal Diocese of Alaska, a thread that shines brightly.
Her family is working on the details of how to best celebrate her life and honor her “journey to the Spirit World”. They anticipate having an online or “virtual” component with live streaming for all those who loved Ginny far and near. As we learn of those arrangements, we will let you know.
May the God of peace and hope, who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ, the Great Shepherd of the sheep, bless and keep our sister Ginny; may our loving God receive her into Christ’s arms of mercy, and give rest with all the saints.
Giving thanks for the gift of her life, witness, and the tracks she has left on the path. Amen.
http://www.anglican.ca/wp-content/uploads/Ginny-Doctor-Diocese-of-Alaska.pdf