The Primate, Archbishop Fred Hiltz, has called for all Canadian Anglicans to pray for the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem on Oct. 23, the feast day of St. James of Jerusalem.
Recently the Anglican Church of Canada has strengthened ties with the diocese, which includes Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria. Work is now focused through the Canadian Companions of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, a national group of volunteers that supports the work of the church in that region. The Primate’s call follows.
“As we celebrate the feast of James of Jerusalem I will be thinking of Bishop Suheil Dawani’s call: ‘Come and meet the living stones in the Holy Land. Come and meet the people. Come and see our ministries of hospitality, health care, education and reconciliation for lasting peace.’ I am delighted with how our church is responding:
“Through the support of General Synod, a Canadian priest, the Rev. John Organ, is serving a three-year appointment as chaplain to Bishop Suheil. A companion diocese relationship between Ottawa and Jerusalem is flourishing.
“A number of people, parishes, and dioceses across the country have become Companions of the Diocese of Jerusalem.
“We are learning about the religious and political context in which the church bears witness to the Gospel. The Canadian companions are supporting a major health care initiative in Zababdeh. They care about the plight of many Palestinian Christians and are standing in solidarity with them.
“This friendship in Christ means so much for the people of the Diocese of Jerusalem. Please join us.”
The Ven. Dr. Richard LeSueur, member of the Canadian Companions of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, commends this prayer for Oct. 23:
Grant, O God, that following the example of your servant James the Just, brother of our Lord, your Church may give itself continually to prayer and to the reconciliation of all who are at variance and enmity; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever. Amen
For more info on St. James, access
- For All the Saints, a Canadian Anglican liturgical companion (search Oct. 23 entry)
- The Lectionary, an online Episcopal resource
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