The Regional Council of the United Church of Canada asked United Churches across the region to light a candle and to post a photo on Facebook at #Light4NovaScotia. On Monday, April 20, Rev. David Lefneski lit the Christ Candle at Emmanuel United Church in Cowansville and posted it to the website. Darlene Halfyard and Samantha St. Onge helped to co-ordinate this gesture of solidarity with the people of Nova Scotia after the terrible shooting incident which resulted in the loss of twenty-two innocent lives.
Bells were also rung on Friday night at various locations at 5 p.m., which coincided with 6 p.m. Atlantic time. Many of the towns affected are the size of towns in our region. In each town each victim was known by many people. The towns affected were Enfield, Milford, Portapique, and Truro. The effect of such a tragedy lingers long after the event has occurred.
During this pandemic people are taking time to think over what is really important in our day to day lives. There is a lot of our “normal activity” that has been put on hold, but what has emerged from our forced time for contemplation is the realization of the importance of social contact and the value of family and friends. Nothing and no one can be taken for granted. Make sure to keep in touch with those you value during this time and in the future.
Bells and candles for Nova Scotia
By Louise Smith
