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May 1, 2025 – A Morning at the Drop-In: New Faces, Familiar Challenges in Richmond
This morning, I made my way to the drop-in center here in Richmond. It’s always a place that offers a glimpse into the diverse realities of our community, and today was no exception. Stepping inside, I was greeted by some new faces among the staff. It’s always nice to introduce myself and connect with the… Continue reading
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April 30,2025 – A Heartwarming Afternoon: Finding Connection in Unexpected Places
This afternoon unfolded in a way I hadn’t quite anticipated, leaving a gentle warmth in its wake. I had the opportunity to visit a local nursing home, and the experience was profoundly touching. From the moment I stepped inside, I was met with such genuine warmth. Smiles radiated from both staff and residents, many greeting… Continue reading
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April 30, 2025 – Bridging Cultures: Understanding Different Approaches to Addiction Treatment in British Columbia
Recently, a meaningful conversation unfolded after I reached out to a therapist’s manager following a poignant reflection on a family’s tragic loss in Surrey, British Columbia. As a member of the BC community, witnessing such grief underscores the importance of understanding the diverse experiences within our multicultural landscape. While the manager rightly upheld client confidentiality,… Continue reading
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April 28, 2025 – Standing Together in Grief and Hope
This afternoon, I stood in front of John Oliver Secondary School, at a memorial overflowing with flowers, candles, and messages of love. I came to pay my respects to those impacted by the tragic accident during the Lapu-Lapu Day block party. The rain could not wash away the sorrow. Every flower and every flickering candle… Continue reading
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April 26, 2025 – Walking Alongside Grief: Reflections on a Family’s Tragic Loss and Our Call to Listen
Today, I had the solemn privilege of sitting with a Mandarin-speaking family in Surrey, British Columbia, who are navigating unimaginable grief. Earlier this year, their 14-year-old daughter died from an overdose. As I entered their home, I felt the weight of sorrow in the air—a mother’s heartbreak, a father’s silence, and the empty space that… Continue reading
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April 24, 2025 – An Afternoon in the DTES: Beyond Headlines, Embracing Humanity
This afternoon, I had the profound experience of sharing a glimpse into Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES) with a journalist seeking to understand the complex realities of homelessness and addiction. Often portrayed through a lens of fear and despair, the DTES revealed a different narrative as we walked the streets of Hastings – one woven with… Continue reading
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April 23, 2025 – The Sacred Trust: Serving as a Listening Presence in Richmond
As a priest serving our community here in Richmond, I am often granted the profound privilege of bearing witness to the raw and vulnerable stories of individuals and families. Today’s encounter at the Chinese cafe, sharing fragrant oolong tea while listening to a mother’s heart alongside another Christian, was yet another reminder of this sacred… Continue reading
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April 22, 2025 – I Am Not an Expert—I’m a Pastor and a Companion: Why I Carry a Naloxone Kit
My name is Yu-Ching Mo (my Chinese name in Mandarin), and I am a pastor who cares deeply about the community and offers spiritual/pastoral counseling to those in need. I was recently interviewed by Sing Tao Daily about why I always carry a naloxone (Narcan) kit with me. To me, this small kit is more… Continue reading
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April 13, 2025 – The Unexpected Gift of Being an Open Book: Reflections from the Human Library in Richmond
Today, in Richmond, British Columbia, I had the profound privilege of being a “book” in the Human Library. For three hours, eight individuals chose to “borrow” me for twenty-minute conversations, my title: “Wounded Healer: Helping Overcome Personal Suffering by Helping Others.” As I sit here reflecting on the afternoon, I’m struck by the unexpected gifts… Continue reading
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April 12, 2025 – Journeying Together: A Reflection on Sharing, Emotion, and Healing from an Online Workshop with the Chinese Support Group at Pathways Clubhouse
Today, I had the privilege of serving as a guest speaker for the Chinese Support Group at Pathways Clubhouse in an online workshop. The group brings together individuals living with mental and emotional health challenges, along with their committed and compassionate family members. The theme of my presentation was “Coping with Negative Emotions and Thoughts.”… Continue reading