Re: "Clergy should stick to theological matters," Aug. 22.
If the writer suggests that clergy are out of order speaking on matters of social and environmental importance, I beg to differ. In the protestant tradition, which includes United, Anglican and other churches, there is a long history of public social engagement.
Discussion around publicly funded health care originated in United and other prairie congregations. Evangelical reformers in 19th-century Britain brought an end to the plight of working children, and the role of Quakers in the abolition of slavery cannot be overstated.
Public discussion around the Northern Gateway project requires the input of faith communities, especially at this time. Such discussion will not be univocal. At its best, it will offer moral perspectives which will challenge the prejudices and attitudes of citizens, investors and First Nations.
Application of the Jewish notion of Sabbath, much cherished by Christians, brings essential elements to resourcedevelopment discussions. If we say that because we have the technology to build a pipeline in order to maximize profit through connection with a foreign energy market, then sabbath (rest, restraint) suggests that limits to growth, respect for the gift of creation, and a Godly challenge for humanity to care for creation whose integrity is challenged on all fronts offers a powerful, timely and essential check and balance to the discussion.
So yes, as an Anglican priest, I will offer my own statement at the Victoria review process in January. I will continue to preach on such themes in church and community as opportunity permits. The question for me is not so much, "Should I say something?" but "Why would I not say something?"
Canon Kenneth Gray
Church of the Advent (Anglican) Colwood
