The best of times, the worst of times
DEAR FOLLOWERS of the Gospel through PWRDF,
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”
You may recognize this famous opening from Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities. Although penned 165 years ago, these words could just as easily describe our world today. We live in a time of unprecedented wealth, communication, information, and technological achievement. And yet, poverty, global hunger, forced migration, housing insecurity, and acts of racism are on the rise. Climate change is fueling more frequent natural disasters, and too many nations seem intent on war. It is indeed the best of times for our potential to meet the world’s needs, yet the worst of times as fear and hate pull people inward.
In moments like these, our faith in the Gospel is an anchor. It compels us to let light shine in the bleakest places and to extend Christ’s hand to those who might otherwise be forgotten.
The work of the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) is all about hope. This hope is not some wishful thinking, nor a turning away from what is uncomfortable. To the contrary, the hope we engage in is an active hope rooted in faith. Each time we direct our energies into both grand and subtle acts we spread hope across the world. That hope has the power to transform lives. Thanks to your unwavering support of PWRDF, the world is a better place. There are individuals and communities across the world that experience profound and dramatic change for the better, thanks to your contributions. At the heart of PWRDF is partnership, and these connections enrich all involved.
When we join PWRDF’s mission, we enter into meaningful collaboration with local partners around the world who intimately understand the cultural, social, and political dynamics of the communities we seek to support. Their deep-rooted knowledge helps guide our collective efforts. Together, we concentrate on key program areas:
Health, Food Security, Climate Change, and Empowering Women and Girls: Though these might appear as distinct challenges, they are deeply interconnected. Smallholder farmers, often among the world's most vulnerable, confront the impacts of climate change, lack of educational opportunities, and insufficient healthcare. We back projects like conservation agriculture, while also reinforcing healthcare systems and dismantling barriers, especially for women and girls, so everyone can flourish.
Indigenous Programs: Indigenous communities in Canada continue to experience the devastating legacy of colonialism and both current and historical injustices. PWRDF is committed to supporting programs that protect and revitalize Indigenous cultural heritage, alongside urgent issues like access to clean water.
Humanitarian Response: This year, the United Nations estimates that 186 500 000 people worldwide require humanitarian aid. While the needs mount, global funding is decreasing. In the face of this escalating crisis, PWRDF remains steadfast, delivering vital relief and fostering resilience in communities shattered by conflict and disaster.
Supporting Refugees: The global refugee crisis, driven by conflict, persecution, and human rights abuses, presents an increasingly complex challenge. We are committed to providing safety, protection, and assistance to the most vulnerable, particularly women, children, and the elderly.
In-Canada Emergency Response: This year, wildfires in Canada have burned 5.3 million hectares (13.1 million acres) and more than 600 fires are still raging. In July, this included the destruction of the historic Anglican church of St. Mary and St. George in Jasper. PWRDF has established a special fund to address emergencies within Canada, building on our long-standing tradition of compassionate action that began with the Springhill, Nova Scotia mine disaster in 1958.
Your unwavering support, grounded in faith, helps create a more just and equitable world. Together, we weave hope and resilience into communities both near and far.
As we launch our annual Fall Appeal, with support from the Synod, Diocesan Office, and Huron Church News, we invite you to continue standing with us, as individuals and parishes.
Thank you for your enduring commitment to God's work through PWRDF. With your partnership, we look forward to another year of transformation and hope.
In Gratitude and Solidarity,
Rev. Canon Greg Jenkins,
on behalf of the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF Huron)