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At AFC we love, more than anything, to say Yes! and to help our parishes imagine more. The Foundation has been saying yes steadily and unfailingly—through good times and bad—for more than sixty years.

In the Diocese of New Westminster, since 2010, we have said Yes! to nearly $400,000 in grants for some of the Canadian church’s most innovative projects. We have supported investments that have reduced physical barriers, nurtured community gardens, and promoted spiritual renewal. AFC has invested in Sacred Earth Camp for young adults, a Lay Spiritual Renewal Project, Urban Aboriginal Ministry, a Reconciliation Feast, “Feather Dance” Liturgical Textile Arts, and Climate Action Training. AFC’s commitment to theological education has resulted in $60,000 to the Vancouver School of Theology and $35,000 in student bursaries in the past 10 years.

This past May, in spite of the challenges of the COVID-19 crisis and the impact on AFC’s investment portfolio, we said Yes! to Canuck Place Hospice and Urban Aboriginal Ministry in Vancouver. We also said yes to Salal + Cedar for their Growing Change through Climate Action Training.

For nearly ten years now as Executive Director of the Foundation, I’ve had a front row seat to some of the Canadian church’s best ideas: the ministries and programs parish visionaries might undertake if only they had some strategic funding to help them get started. Knowing what I know about the innovative and compassionate character of the church, nationally, I cannot help but feel hopeful about the future.

Please be assured that AFC will continue to be a force for stability: we have been there and will continue to be there no matter what the future may hold. In order for AFC to remain strong and vibrant, however, I am asking those who can continue to partner with us to do so. If you are a member I ask you to renew your membership. If you have never been a member of the Foundation before, please accept this invitation to pay-it-forward.

The social and economic impact of COVID-19 on people and communities will undoubtedly give rise to compassionate and innovative responses on the part of our churches. To those currently discerning how to meet a real and pressing need in their communities—faithful leaders in the Diocese of New Westminster among them—we want to respond as generously as possible.

Join us and help AFC continue to be able to say Yes! to the dreams and aspirations of the people and parishes in your diocese, and to so many more across the country.

To donate to the Anglican Foundation of Canada visit anglicanfoundation.org.