By the Reverend Canon Judy Rois
At the Anglican Foundation of Canada we love, more than anything, to say Yes! and to help our parishes imagine more. The Foundation has been saying yes steadily and unfailingly—through good times and bad—for more than sixty years.
In the Diocese of Niagara, since 2010, we have said Yes! to more than $200,000 in grants for your parishes. The vast majority of that has been invested in buildings and programs, including projects that reduce barriers and make it possible for those with mobility issues to continue to participate in church life.
This past May, in spite of the challenges of the COVID-19 crisis and the impact on AFC’s investment portfolio, we said Yes! to St. John’s Church Burlington and Grace Church in Waterdown for their Building Resilience with Grace project.
Previously, the Foundation has provided significant support for the outreach ministry to migrant farmworkers, Community Justice Camp, International Justice Camp in Cuba, community gardens, prayer gardens, and an interfaith community outreach kitchen
For nearly ten years now as Executive Director of the Foundation, I’ve had a front row seat to some of the Canadian church’s best ideas: the ministries and programs parish visionaries might undertake if only they had some strategic funding to help them get started. Knowing what I know about the innovative and compassionate character of the church, nationally, I cannot help but feel hopeful about the future.
Please be assured that AFC will continue to be a force for stability: we have been there and will continue to be there no matter what the future may hold. In order for AFC to remain strong and vibrant, however, I am asking those who can continue to partner with us to do so. If you are a member I ask you to renew your membership. If you have never been a member of the Foundation before, please accept this invitation to pay-it-forward.
The social and economic impact of COVID-19 on people and communities will undoubtedly give rise to compassionate and innovative responses on the part of our churches. To those currently discerning how to meet a real and pressing need in their communities—faithful leaders in the Diocese of Niagara among them—we want to respond as generously as possible.
Join us and help the Anglican Foundation of Canada continue to be able to say Yes! to the dreams and aspirations of the people and parishes in your diocese, and to so many more across the country.
To donate to the Anglican Foundation of Canada visit anglicanfoundation.org.
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