Reflecting on the All Voices testimonies: faithfulness and hope

By Lanette Vawter, Director of Leadership Development

Recently, I read through the All Voices testimonies gathered from Community of Christ members across Canada in 2021. These testimonies revealed how faith and community are essential for nurturing hope and progress in the church, and I felt heartened and hopeful about our future.

Over and over again, I read testimonies from people both young and old who spoke of the deep meaning and value of being in community with both God and others. I was touched by the faithfulness expressed in times of challenge and the hope for the future. In one testimony that deeply resonated with me, Doug Middleton says, “I am overjoyed at being a part of a progressive church, not a stagnant church—a church that works toward the fairness and equality of all people.”

One of my mother’s favourite scriptures is Ecclesiastes 3:1: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” It reminds me that while seasons change, our response to God’s call for goodness and mercy continues to be possible. Our faithfulness and hope are so needed in our weary world.

Watch the All Voices Testimonies