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Let us not become weary in doing
good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we
do not give up.
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people,
especially to those who belong to the family of believers. |
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As MCC Manitoba, we are mandated to address the social issues
that are important to all our members and supporters. This involves
working with and walking alongside those who seek change for themselves
and their community. Although our aim is to support others in
their needs, we can often be challenged and changed as well.
The Renewing Relationships program promotes a model of respectful
relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people that
will enable both cultures to address particular areas of concern
within their respective communities. Through dialogue, education
and the bringing together of resources, Renewing Relationships
seeks to encourage and mobilize efforts that will renew a sense
of God's presence in the world alongside the establishment of
social change. Over the last year we have helped some Aboriginal
churches in Winnipeg acquire much needed computers and audio-visual
equipment. Renewing Relationships has also assisted by providing
seed funding for programming for Aboriginal marriage and family
renewal. It has been our privilege to work in relationship with
inner city Aboriginal churches regarding leadership, team, structure
and church development and to support them as they carry on this
work in their congregations.
Renewing Relationships aims to make Aboriginal issues relevant
to a variety of church and cultural groups. Part of this includes
educational visits, sharing circles or discussions around Aboriginal
history, culture and current concerns. What is close to our hearts
becomes important. I aim to make the work of Renewing Relationships
become relevant and meaningful to individuals, congregations and
communities of Manitoba so that it invites us all to take on the
challenge required to begin restoring Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal
relationships in our province.
The reality is that programs, institutions and government cannot
hope to respond to the complexity or magnitude of the issues at
hand without committed and inspired individuals working through
them. As MCC Manitoba works for peace and justice we must acknowledge
the responsibility of bringing restoration not only to the Aboriginal
community but to us as well.
Donovan Jacobs, Program Coordinator
Advisory Committee;
Deborah Martin-Koop,
Dietrich Desmarais,
Dan Murdock,
Larry Wilson,
Eric Rempel,
Barbara Shoomski
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