Hello, my name is Rev. Rebekah Duncan. I am currently the president of Western Ontario Waterways. Thank you so much for trusting me with this position. It’s been a long journey, from finding passion for faith through my parents and youth forum (Maritime Conference), to gaining support through mentors such as the late Rev. D’Thea Webster, Rev. Neil Parker, Rev. Michael Kooiman, Rev. Sarah Giles, and the many talented and called classmates and professors I had at the Atlantic School of Theology. There are many other names I should list, friends, family, my discernment committee, the congregations of Bethel, Richview, Badjeros, Rob Roy, and Temple Hill United Churches, and even some strangers. I thank God for bringing them to me, and me on this journey to this place.
I heard God’s call sitting at the water’s edge, quiet, nudging. Over time it became the roar of a waterfall too loud and insistent to ignore. So, I followed the beckoning, and I found myself listening for God’s voice then, as I do now, and God responds, “Do not doubt what I have chosen for you.” There have been many moments of weeping and gnashing of teeth throughout my short time in ministry, and I suspect there are many more to come, but with that comes unexpected joy, love and even some tangible moments of peace.
I feel called to rural pastoral ministry but also called to serve the broader church. Stepping into the role of president comes with challenges and great footsteps to follow in. The support of our brilliant regional staff and the wonderful members of the executive have already been invaluable.
I hope to be able to meet you where you are, make time to sit with the clergy of our region, and figure out how to maintain the connections already made while continuing to foster new relationships. I hope to encourage us all to work towards the future of our church which will often mean choosing the road less travelled. Change is necessary for our church to remain, and that will be uncomfortable at times. We are meant to be each other’s inspiration and support as we move into our next 100 years. I pray we all find our way together, keeping what works and moving away from what isn’t anymore with careful discernment.
Blessings! Love! Light!
Rev. Rebekah Duncan
RMT, MA, M.Div, OM
President, Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council of The United Church of Canada
