HELLO!

I awoke this morning to this most generous email from Wes, a community partner, someone who has often reached out to me, over nearly two decades, to find resources for the unhoused. He had heard my position was no longer being funded by the provincial government. Hi Kevin, I'm sorry to hear of this. The impact you have had over the past 18 years surely is immeasurable - thank you for all you have contributed. I wish you nothing but the best with whatever chapter comes next! Sincerely, Wesley Smith Outreach Coordinator Shelter Nova Scotia It made my day.

I also plan, on Thursday, to support a family going through the most difficult grief, the death of their adult child. This is every parent’s nightmare. Given the death is posted online, I know I can share it with you and ask you to hold them in your prayers. I have never met them, but a friend of theirs had attended a few funerals where I presided and preached and thought my presence would be helpful. Of course, I said yes. https://www.dartmouthfuneralhome.ca/obituary/samuel-mutch

Today, July 2, is also Lucian’s 25^th birthday. I have explained in the past, but for those who may be confused by references to their name, Lucian identifies as they/them, non-binary. They have explained to Kim and me, they identify as neither and both, male and female, they see our gender identities as fluid, some days they identify more as male, some female. Lucian was chosen as a name to bridge that spectrum. So when you hear “Lucy” or “she” know this comes from 20+ years of church people knowing them in a specific way. I am often caught between people asking me, “why the explanation” and on the other hand, “how come you don’t explain this”. For parents like us, this question is always present, and I confess less patience with either end of this divide, as people who want me to keep explaining don’t think of those who are not at all interested, and those not interested, can’t understand why some people are.

Small world story, Lucian and their roommate, their best friend since age five, Erica, live in the basement apartment of their karate instructor and landlord (there is a studio in the backyard) a five-minute drive from Woodlawn. Further, the instructor/landlord was once a member of our faith community, his name still appears in our church directory. Lucian is an artist, by vocation (their work on Instagram: guiguitheghoul), a black belt many years ago, and now works with pension and health benefits, 11 pm to 7 am, at the IWK in the maintenance department, what the Apostle Paul would call a “tent maker” arrangement, allowing Lucian to pay the bills, plan for retirement, and ample provide space for their passion, art.

We are proud parents. I am grateful for a life full of purpose and love.

Peace, Kevin