Indigenous foundations: A New Agape (2001)
A New Agape is a churchwide plan, commended by the General Synod in 2001, that sets out a renewed relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Anglicans in Canada grounded in partnership, healing and self-determination. The plan provides five goals that guide the Anglican Church of Canada in supporting Indigenous leadership, strengthening community life and advancing reconciliation across the Church.
- Self-determination
- Justice
- Healing
- Historical reparation
- Walking in partnership, “A new agape”
Alongside the primary text, two related resources support deeper engagement with the vision of partnership set out in A New Agape. A supplementary resource binder, first produced in 2002, gathers background materials, stories from communities and practical tools for study and parish use. A separate resource, Worship in the Vision of New Agape, offers guiding principles for cross-cultural worship and provides prayers, liturgical texts and full services shaped by the commitments of A New Agape. Both resources can be downloaded and used to accompany local study, reflection and formation.
Suggested uses
- Parish or diocesan orientation to Indigenous self-determination within the Anglican Church
- Study groups exploring reconciliation and right relationship
- Background reading for leaders preparing to engage with Indigenous ministries or Sacred Circle
- Reference for justice, formation or partnership initiatives in local contexts
Key themes
- Self-determination
- Healing and reconciliation
- Justice and community well-being
- Shared leadership
- Right relationship
Best suited for: clergy, parish leaders, diocesan staff, educators, reconciliation committees and anyone seeking to understand the Church’s commitments to partnership with Indigenous Peoples.
