Do Justice

In this Do Justice episode, Chris Orme talks with World Renew Disaster Response Services Director, Chris Gibson. Gibson, with a background in youth ministry, discusses DRS's 50-year mission of bringing help and hope to disaster-affected communities through long-term, collaborative recovery. He shares a powerful story from Rolling Fork, Mississippi, highlighting intergenerational service and the Kingdom of God in action. Gibson also addresses common challenges, stressing the importance of being invited into communities and serving the overlooked.

"I think I got a vision of a piece of what the Kingdom of God must look like in seeing these incredibly experienced, incredible talented and gifted older volunteers literally walking side-by-side with these younger college students."

Notes:

In this episode we speak with Bert Adema, Executive Director of Indigenous Christian Fellowship in Regina, Saskatchewan. Bert shares about 32 years of ministry, fostering a vibrant community by addressing spiritual and social needs. He emphasizes an incarnational approach, tackling the "messiness" of the world and advocating for right relations, not just reconciliation. Bert also reflects on finding hope and abundance amidst scarcity, powered by prayer, community, and trusting God's provision.

"If you're sitting there and you have no hope at all, you're really, really in a difficult situation. I think prayer is really, really important. And then when we pray in community... we say, 'What can we do together?'"

Links:

This Do Justice episode features Carol Bremer-Bennett, co-Executive Director of World Renew. She discusses the organization's 60-year history, its community-centered approach to relief and development, and its commitment to Core Humanitarian Standards. Carol shares powerful stories of transformation, including Miri's journey from addiction and the peacebuilding efforts in India, highlighting how hope and abundance emerge through God's work in seemingly desperate situations.

"As somebody who knows that water is sacred, every drop of water is sacred. Go live in the desert for a while and recognize how a drop of water can nourish a seed and help it to flourish and to grow." - Carol Bremer-Bennett

Notes:

Join Chris Orme as he speaks with Andy Harrington, Executive Director of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB). With 37 years in international development, Andy shares how CFGB, a partnership of 15 Christian denominations, works to end global hunger through emergency food relief and long-term development. He recounts impactful stories from Rwanda and Ethiopia, illustrating how simple interventions save lives and restore dignity. Andy passionately counters cynicism, emphasizing that empathy and action are crucial in addressing the immense challenge of food insecurity.

"Empathy is not a sin. It is what we are called to as Christians and I will fight that one to the death with any conversation with anyone. The question isn't: why should we? It's: we are called to and why shouldn't we?"

Gary Timmermans shares about the CRCNA's multicultural cohort. These cohort brings together churches to share experiences, challenges, and successes in fostering intercultural ministry. Gary shares stories from churches that embraced their multicultural congregations.

Show Notes:

In this episode of Do Justice, Jodi Koeman of World Renew joins us to talk about churches engaging in asset-based development. We explore how listening, relationship-building, and justice can help congregations and neighborhoods thrive together. From revitalizing gardens to building trust around bonfires, discover how God’s shalom comes alive when we collaborate with our communities.

Show Notes:

Syd Hielema joins us for this episode about fostering pastoral care and hospitality for the LGBTQ+ community within the Christian Reformed Church. In this episode we hear from participants of the "Hospitality to LGBTQ" cohort. Syd discusses the challenges of fear, the importance of a covenantal approach, and how intentional community learning can shape posture over position.

Show Notes:

Adrian Jacobs and Cindy Stover join us in this episode to explore Hearts Exchanged, an eight-month learning journey fostering reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Discover how participants deepen understanding through storytelling, on-the-land learning, and group reflection, turning education into action and building lasting relationships rooted in justice and respect.

Show Notes:

In this episode Lindsay Wieland Capel, the Disability Consultant for Thrive, an agency of the CRCNA, joins us to explore the transformative work of accessible church ministry. We delve into the Accessible Church Ministry cohort, a group dedicated to rethinking church inclusivity, and share stories of how churches have worked to better welcome people of all abilities.

In this episode we discuss the 'elephants' of church renewal. Rev. Dr. Elaine May discusses her work in church renewal and leadership development within the Christian Reformed Church in North America. She highlights the importance of shifting from ownership to stewardship, aligning church ministry with God's mission, and the challenges and blessings of navigating change and discernment in congregational contexts.

Show Notes:

Mark Vanderwees from Diaconal Ministries Canada joins us to talk about his journey to becoming a deacon and suggestions for best practices for deacons. This episode discusses the evolving role of deacons, community engagement, and practical support for church benevolence and justice initiatives.

Show Notes:

Pastor Dave VanderWoude from City Hope GR shares insights on creating an inclusive church for people of all abilities. He discusses his personal journey, challenges in fostering belonging, and the transformative power of inclusivity. Don't miss these interesting stories and insights.

Show Notes:

In this episode we're joined by Bev Stephenson, a dedicated volunteer in refugee resettlement in the US. Bev shares her experiences co-sponsoring Afghan and Cuban refugee families alongside her church. Bev shares insightful stories highlighting the challenges, joys, and profound impact of building cross-cultural relationships and supporting families through their resettlement journeys.

Show Notes

In this enlightening episode host Chris Orme has a candid conversation with Tom Jantzi, Director of Congregational Assistance Plan and Clergy Care at Shalem Network. Tom shares invaluable insights on destigmatizing mental health within church communities, emphasizing the importance of normalizing conversations and acknowledging the holistic nature of well-being. From practical programs like CAP to fostering safe spaces for vulnerability, they explore how churches can authentically support mental health while integrating faith and professional psychotherapy.

Show Notes:

Host Chris Orme welcomes Greg Houldcroft, founder of Cross Town Impact, a ministry dedicated to serving at-risk youth. Greg shares his journey of faith and the challenges faced in establishing the organization. Cross Town Impact provides safe spaces for children, offering support and mentorship. Greg highlights lessons he's learned along the way especially for churches.

Show Notes:

In this compelling episode host Chris Orme sits down with Dan Veeneman and Marcel de Regt from Gateway Community Church in Abbotsford B.C. Together, they delve into the church's transformative journey of hosting an extreme weather shelter for the homeless. Dan and Marcel share stories about the realities of participating in this ministry. From confronting addiction to offering hospitality, their experiences underscore the power of saying 'yes' when someone knocks on your door.

"There's a story that goes with every person that comes to our shelter... Take the time, pause, slow down. And hear their story, because when you hear their story you see the person for who they are." - Marcel de Regt

Show Notes:

George de Vuyst, is a missionary with Resonate Global Mission.  He has been serving in Ukraine since 1998. George trains pastors and facilitates healing and reconciliation through “Healing Hearts, Transforming Nations” (HHTN) workshops and trainings for facilitators.  In June 2021 he traveled to Michigan and planned to return overseas in June 2022. Russia’s war against Ukraine changed that. We pray for the war to end and for opportunities to serve and minister to Ukrainians now and in the future. 

"And we say, you know. We're fathers. And we're sorry for what a father did to you. That's not what fathers were supposed to do. We see these things happen again and again and again."

This episode is graciously sponsored by Resonate Global Mission.

Show Notes:

When Stacey Campbell talks about reconciliation she knows what she's talking about. Not only because of her work with Prison Fellowship Canada but also because of the reconciliation she has worked through in her personal life. Stacey vulnerably shares stories about both with us.

"Good self-care isn't about more bubble baths and chocolate.  It's about learning how to build a life you don't need to escape from."

Show Notes:

Marlene was born In Burns Lake BC to an Indigenous father and a white mother. Her father joined the military when she was 18 months old and she was raised in a variety of towns and Air Bases throughout Canada and Germany. In this episode Marlene tells us about what it has been like to embrace her Indigenous AND Christian identity.

"I did bring my hand drum to church. I felt very uncomfortable bringing my drum for a number of reasons. It kind of made me sad why did I feel like I had to mask the drum almost make sure it was received as a Christian drum."

Show Notes:

Harouna Issaka is the regional director for West Africa with World Renew and also works with Timothy Leadership training. In this episode Harouna speaks with us about how the Timothy Leadership Training has build relationships across unexpected divides.

Show Notes:

In this episode we talk with Shannon Perez about what reconciliation looks like in light of her personal story and her First Nation's story. Shannon is the director of the Indigenous Family Centre (a CRC ministry with Indigenous people in Winnipeg). Shannon is a member of the Sayisi Dene First Nation, and lives in Winnipeg with her husband and children.

In this episode Andrew Reinstra joins us to talk about what it's like to reconcile his experiences his birth and adoptive families. We get into the questions *not* to ask an adopted person. If you've wanted to think about the intersection of justice and adoption this is the episode for you.

Andrew Rienstra works for World Renew. In 2017, Andrew founded the group West Michigan Adopted People. A group that provides a safe and positive community for adult adoptees to discuss their collective journey, mitigate feelings of otherness, and share experiences with peers.

Show Notes:

Our host Chris Orme introduces you to the theme of this season of the podcast. Stay tuned for episodes from great guests.

“But Esau ran to meet him and embraced him and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept.”  Genesis 33:4

September 30th 2023 is the third time Canada will mark a National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. It coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots commemoration marked by the wearing of Orange Shirts for children forced to leave their families and attend residential schools.

This reflection is designed to take approximately half an hour and we recommend that you take space to listen and reflect.  You will be guided through one call to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission with prayer and reflection prompts.   Engage in this podcast in the way that allows you to fully immerse yourself in this material: find time in the day when you can walk in solitude and listen, or enjoy a beautiful drive while you reflect. Curl up in your favourite chair to draw and journal while you connect with this podcast.

This community in Philadelphia, while full of families and individuals working hard to make ends meet, is taking action in their own backyards to address climate change.  In this bonus podcast episode hear from film maker Nathan Roels and local climate organizer Allen Drew about how this storytelling project came together.  And be inspired to see how you can take action for creation in your own backyard.

Show Notes:

The best job description according to Roy Berkenbosch is “whatever the day needs.” In his life this has meant jobs in both bricklaying and Bangladesh. In the episode Roy shares stories from his development work with World Renew and his experience at King’s University with the Micah Centre.

Show Notes:

John Lamsma has spent over 25 years in prison…ministry. He shares how pastoral care can ease the pain of incarceration, the origins of restorative justice as a focus in the CRCNA and the importance of affirming the image of God in every person, always.

Show Notes:

Jenny Yang has been on the long journey advocating for just immigration policy for over 15 years. As the Senior Vice President of Advocacy & Policy with World Relief she shares her experience speaking with Christians about immigration reform, talking with her kids about race, and how a speaking opportunity in Amish country led to mutual mind changing.

Show Notes:

John Klein-Geltink is a long term coach for deacons and passionate foodie—as in food banks. In his work with Operation Sharing in Woodstock Ontario John has helped switch from food donations to food gift cards. This approach gives more agency to people involved and John talks about how he can see the fruit of this change from his long involvement.

Show Notes:

Rev Dr Ben Lowe wrote the book on doing good without giving up. (Literally.) He works as Deputy Executive Director of A Rocha International. Ben shares the practices that sustain his work and an inspiring example of grassroots Christian communities in Ghana uniting to protect creation. Ben gives encouragement for those feeling climate anxiety and how to join the work God is already doing.

Show Notes:

Jonathan Nicolai-deKoning (is the director of the Micah Centre at King’s University, which helps students explore ways of seeking justice in today's local and global contexts. He joins Chris to talk about the lines of thought in two of his recent blogs on Do Justice which lent inspiration to the theme of this season.

Show Notes:

Joyce and Katie join us again to talk about what shaping worship justly has looked like in their contexts as well as practical suggestions for ways worship leaders can shape justice and worship in their own congregations.

Show Notes:

September 30th 2022 is the second time Canada will mark a National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. It coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots commemoration marked by the wearing of Orange Shirts for children forced to leave their families and attend residential schools.

This reflection is designed to take approximately half an hour and we recommend that you take space to listen and reflect.  You will be guided through the calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission about education with prayer and reflection prompts.   Engage in this podcast in the way that allows you to fully immerse yourself in this material: find time in the day when you can walk in solitude and listen, or enjoy a beautiful drive while you reflect. Curl up in your favourite chair to draw and journal while you connect with this podcast.

Claudio Carvalhaes has sat at tables with people around the world, listening to their communal expressions of joy, lament, and doubt in worship.  From these experiences he shares ways to lead worship in solidarity with communities experiencing suffering. Claudio is the author of “Liturgies from Below” and he has a PhD. in Liturgy and Theology.

Show Notes:

Jacqui Mignault is one of the writers behind weekly Do Justice prayers. As a pastor, she talks about what it’s like to practice bringing current events before God.  If you’ve ever wondered how to acknowledge current events in worship, this is the episode for you.

Show Notes: 

Songs about the end of the world and stuff.  [Actually] we have a great conversation about ways churches in North America can think about their relationship with creation in a new way through the music offered in the Climate Vigil Album created with The Porters Gate.

Climate change can feel heavy and dark. The Climate Vigil is a project to bring prayer and light to the topic. Global participants met during COP21 in Glasgow to sing and pray for creation.  Isaac Wardell and Peter Fargo are guests.

Show Notes:

In 1995, Jonathan Maracle, a Mohawk from Tyendinaga Territory in Ontario, Canada, decided not to sing Amazing Grace at the Sacred Assembly in Ottawa, as he had been asked. What he didn’t know was that listening to the Spirit in that moment would inspire a band and ministry that would shape the rest of his life [and the church.]

Show Notes:

We welcome Dr. Kenny Wallace to the show.  Kenny is an African American Choctaw Pawnee from the United States living in Canada. He teaches nationally and internationally about multi-ethnic worship with his organization Kingdom Reflections Multi-Ethnic Worship Ministries and today he unpacks with us how multi-ethnic worship can shape our spiritual imaginations.

Show Notes: 

It’s a party! The Do Justice podcast has new partners and friends. Joyce Borger and Katie Roelofs with CRCNA Worship Ministries join us to set up the focus for this season: how worship can orient our hearts toward justice.

P.S.  Throughout this season you may hear our producers names' Megan and Victoria come up.  They're on each call to make sure that the sound quality etc. is great for your listening ears.  

Show Notes:

In the final episode of Season 4, Edgar Aguilar, senior researcher with La Asociación para una Sociedad más Justa, or the Association for a More Just Society in Honduras joins us. Edgar shares how organizations and communities advocating for Covid-19 vaccine equity have resulted in increased vaccination rates in Honduras. Chris and Edgar also talk about running—(Edgar likes running to be present in the moment; Chris likes running to the fridge for pizza)—and how work toward increased integrity in the energy sector can help meet both immediate and long-term needs for people in Honduras.

(Note for our English-speaking listeners: the abbreviation “ASJ” is pronounced “a” (ah) - “s” (EH-say) - “j” (HOH-ta) in Spanish.)

Show Notes:

Dena Nicolai, chaplain and refugee support mobilizer with the Christian Reformed Churches of British Columbia, shares the simple starting place for much of her engagement with people who have been refugees: joining them for a cup of coffee and saying “tell me how you’re doing.” Dena and Chris also talk about the ministry of sharing in lament, the importance of advocating ‘with’ and rather than ‘for’, and how the advocacy of faith communities and sponsors alongside newcomers changed government policy to provide a more “full” welcome for refugees in Canada.

Show Notes:

In this episode, Kyle Meyaard-Schapp, vice president of the Evangelical Environmental Network (EEN) shares how he got involved in climate advocacy as a Christian - including the middle-school humor nickname for the lake near the town where he grew up! Kyle and Chris also talk about lament as a necessary component of hope, how to encourage folks wherever they are on their justice journeys, and taking the long view when it comes to bringing about change.

Show Notes:

Julia Beazley, Director of Public Policy for the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, tells the story of the survivors, church communities, and policy makers who advocated to instate Bill C-36 into law. Chris and Julia also talk about the responsibility to stop treating people in vulnerable circumstances like the problem and address the systemic problems that make people vulnerable.

Show Notes:

You don’t have to be a history geek to appreciate the vintage vibes in this episode! Susan VanLopik, Director of Program Excellence with World Renew joins Chris Orme to look at the broad overview of how (and how long) the CRCNA has been involved in working toward justice throughout its history. Chris and Susan talk about words from a 1973 report to Synod that still pack a punch today and Susan shares the powerful stories that inspire her (and all of us) to keep working toward justice for the long haul. (Sadly, we never get the details about Susan’s finger tattoos. Maybe next time.)

Show Notes:

Our colleague Cindy Stover joins Chris Orme to geek out about the word “shalom” and set the groundwork for our next season exploring the intersections of charity and advocacy.