“Jesus called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”

A big part of taking up the cross of Jesus is being willing to speak out against injustice and hatred. In Canada, hate crimes against Jews, Muslims, indigenous people, black people, as well as against others, continue to grow. The year 2017 began with a violent mass shooting that left six men dead at a Quebec City mosque.

As a church and as individuals, we need to continue to speak out against all forms of hatred and to build bridges with people of all faiths. Following Jesus requires us to speak a clear message of love, respect, tolerance and understanding.

Prayer

Jesus, in the face of hatred and intolerance, give to us the courage and commitment to speak out for peace and love and stand with our neighbours. Amen.