Message from the Canadian President, June 2020
Dear Members and Friends
The other day a friend of mine posted a link to the 1968 Gordon Lightfoot song “Black Day in July”. Of course, music has always been a way that can convey deep emotion, feelings and inspiration. Intriguing as the post was in its subtle comparison of the horrifying events of today to the 1967 Detroit riots, it saddened me to realize that not much has changed in the past 50 years.
As devoted Catholics and members of the Sovereign Order of Malta, we are, and have for over 900 years, been at the heart of actions directed to all humanity regardless of colour, culture, or religion. We serve the poor, the sick and the disenfranchised with an impartial, unbiased and unconditional love. We hold the sanctity of life from conception to death in the highest esteem opposing abortion, the death penalty and euthanasia.
In a world today that is very aware of the injustices around the globe and the significant disparity of the haves and the have-nots, it is incomprehensible to me that a portion of our domestic society still possesses hatred and intolerance. A portion of our supposedly highly cultured society that still cannot see our own neighbours as brothers and sisters … all children of God.
During my reflections, the 1964 classic song “Change is gonna come” by the late, great Sam Cook came to mind. I pray that change does come. Soon. It needs to. But until we all start to look at each other as human beings, embrace our differences, and celebrate the gift of life, the road will continue to be long and winding. As the large sign my wife Lisa placed on the front of our house says, “Our diversity is our Strength”.
Our faith is built on love, forgiveness and giving of ourselves. I ask that you continue to pray for humanity, to ask for our Blessed Mother’s intercession, and to ask our Lord to replace those hearts made of stone.
Roman J. Ciecwierz, President
