Day to day happenings at the Prayer Vigil March 3, 2009
While travelling to Toronto for the first day of the Interfaith Prayer Vigil, the voice of Rev. Susan Eagle came over CBC stating clearly that this Interfaith Prayer Vigil will remember the many in our province who do not have enough to eat nor a safe and affordable place to live. Susan also remembered the difficult role of the Members of the Provincial Parliament as they make decisions about the provincial budget in the midst of this recession.
Mid-morning Christians, Jews, Muslims and Unitarians gathered under the open tent in front of Queen's Park. ISARC Chairperson Susan Eagle welcomed everyone, we introduced ourselves, the prayer candle was lit. Anglican Bishop Colin Johnson reminded everyone of our deep concern for the poorest in our province and led the group in prayer for those who must suffer in the cold as well as for the Members of the Provincial Parliament who will make budget decisions.
A number of people who read The Star or heard CBC joined the group at noon. The noon vigil contained prayers, scriptures, readings, and comments by Fr Paul Hansen, Rev. Brice Balmer, and Rabbi Aaron Levy. Several others shared their concerns. One fourth of the Members of the Provincial Parliament (MPPs) were named in prayer at the opening and noon prayer as well as other prayers throughout the day. Each day one fourth of the MPPs will be remembered in prayer.
Several MPPs stopped by the tent to talk with participants. One was Hon. Deb Matthews, who chairs the cabinet committee to reduce poverty in Ontario.
It was a cold day to begin; chill factor was -15 degrees C. Many thought of Ontarians who are "out in the cold" because of poverty. But the atmosphere of compassion and justice was warm and generous.
Watch for further coverage in newspapers, on radio and television, and in faith media.
