Canterbury Tales 2.0 Day Eleven August 6, 2022

Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah’—not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, ‘This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!’ When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen. Luke 9:28-36

Today was a day of insights and some tender moments as well. We have all moved closer to one another, even though we do not agree. The air seems charged with possibility, and the day dawned cooler and dry. Our bible study group has grown to trust and openly shar with one another. This day was topped off with a conversation between the Indigenous Bishops and the Archbishop of Canterbury. He listened while we all took turns sharing our local stories. We were from Canada, US, Australia, New Zealand and Argentina. The Archbishop listened intensively, then spoke at the end that his experience in his visit to Canada several years ago was life changing. He reiterated his apology for the colonialization by the church and the poor treatment of Indigenous people. He also strongly encouraged the work of the Anglican Indigenous Network and encouraged us bishops to support one another. We ended in prayer, followed up with requisite photos. Many of us were moved to tears. I was and grateful for an honest and heartfelt response. 

Gracious Creator, we are your people

your children, beloved and redeemed

we often hurt the ones we do not understand

and try to make them live and speak like us.

Help us to see you face in every person

help us to listen to the witness of the outcast

and make us your family as we pray together

and imbue with your loving spirit

that we may see your glory in the other. Amen.