A Living Apology

The final apology that I have found was offered is the apology from the Anglican church. As the other apologies began with listening to stories from survivors, so do this one. Each sentence that Michael Peers, the Anglican Primate, said began with "I." This apology is very personal to him, even though the apology is offered on behalf of the Anglican Church. He acknowledges that many words of apology have been empty, as they have not been accompanied by action (Anglican Church, 1993).

Peers also acknowledges how sacred the stories that were shared are, which shows a level of cultural understanding that is not present in many other apologies. The response to this apology was received with these words: "It was offered from his heart with sincerity, compassion and humility. We receive it in the same manner. We offer praise and thanks to our Creator for his courage" (Anglican Church, 1993). It does take courage to apologize, courage that I think Harper lacks in how he interacts with those who live in Canada and who have suffered because of its racist policies.

Peers also acknowledges the limits of words when offering an apology. He often says "I am sorry, more than I can say" (Anglican Church, 1993). This demonstrates the he is aware of the limits of a verbal apology and how important it is to ensure that more than words is offered to truly show remorse for what has occurred. Apologies are more than words, they are actions and the Anglican Church continues to show their awareness of this through their commitment to creating a Living Apology.

The definition of a living apology is one that is not constant prostration for forgiveness, but rather a journey of walking together in order to fulfill promises of reconciliation. There are many interesting ways in which this living apology is being lived out.

The Anglican Church has given monetary support to the Anglican Healing Fund. They have distributed $3 million to support projects that promote healing and wellness. These programs support training cultural supports for communities who have been effected by residential schools. A National Indigenous bishop Mark MacDonald has been appointed in order to meet the unique needs of First Nations communities in Canada (Anglican Church, 2008). He also explores ways in which to establish self-government for First Nations communities. Mark also works to establish positive opportunities for the development of faith and ministries for those who have been greatly harmed by Christianity.
This apology is one of my favorites because they are so clear about how they are continuing their work of apology past the "official" aspect of it. I hope to follow how they continue to do so in the future.

References
The Anglican Church of Canada. (1993). Anglican Church of Canada's apology to native people. Retrieved June 11th, 2011 from http://archive.anglican.ca/rs/apology/apology.htm

The Anglican Church of Canada. (2008). A living apology. Retrieved June 11th, 2011 from http://archive.anglican.ca/rs/apology/index.htm