history
-
Dec 15, 2025 – “Needles, Drugs, Poverty”: A Poster and What It Misses
I recently came across a poster that read “BC NDP stands for needles, drugs and poverty.” At first glance, it looked like a sharp political statement. But the longer I sat with it, the more it felt like something else. Not an argument, not even a critique, but a reduction. Three words were asked to Continue reading
-
Dec 3rd, 2025 – Standing in Solidarity: Reflections on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Today, December 3rd, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I had the privilege of joining the Richmond Centre for Disability in their celebration. The atmosphere was filled with warmth as staff, volunteers, and members gathered to honor resilience, community, and the ongoing journey toward inclusion. I was grateful to meet again with Chris, one Continue reading
-
Nov 29, 2025 – From Encounter to Education: Listening to A’s Story
Recently, I had the privilege of meeting an individual; let me call them A for privacy. A came to Canada from Jamaica many years ago, carrying with them the hopes and resilience that so many newcomers bring when they begin life in a new country. As we spoke, A shared with me some of the Continue reading
-
Nov 20, 2025- What Does a Victory Look Like? A Shared Mandate for Compassionate Civic Solutions
When Surrey City Council recently rejected a proposed supportive housing project, it followed a rally of over a thousand people, primarily homeowners and business owners, who voiced their concerns with clarity and conviction. Some quickly celebrated the decision as a victory. One Richmond resident even posted, “Congratulations to the residents of Surrey for a well-deserved Continue reading
-
October 24, 2025 – Beyond Lip Service: A Reflection on the Cowichan Ruling
Acknowledging Land—But Do We Understand It? I’ve spoken the words countless times: “We acknowledge that the land on which we gather is the unceded and traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nation.” I’ve also recognized the ancestral claim of the Cowichan Nation to a specific area of land in Richmond, Continue reading
-
September 27, 2025 – One Richmond, Many Cultures: Beyond the Surface of Diversity
Today’s event was filled with color, music, and celebration. But beneath the surface, I found myself reflecting on what it truly means to honor diversity. Many public figures came and went quickly. Most stayed long enough to be introduced, say a few words, and pose for photos. Few lingered to speak with visitors or vendors. Continue reading
-
June 25, 2025 – Reflections from This Afternoon’s “Indigeneity & Intercultural Connection” at KPU Richmond
This afternoon, I had the privilege of being part of a deeply moving gathering hosted by Richmond Multicultural Community Services (RMCS) at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Indigeneity and Intercultural Connection brought together a vibrant circle of voices—Indigenous elders, second-generation immigrants, newcomers, artists, and community leaders. It was a space where we didn’t just talk about connection—we Continue reading
-
June 10, 2025 – When “Anti-Drug” Becomes a Tool for Inciting Hatred: Reflections on the Richmond Incidents
Recent videos circulating in Richmond have brought to light a disturbing phenomenon: individuals are deliberately provoking people who use drugs, recording their reactions, and then disseminating these videos online. Their aim appears to be to incite public disgust towards drug users, often linking it to racial issues. This type of behavior, disguised under the banner Continue reading
-
March 5, 2025 – The Enduring Heart of Chinatown: Reflections on Today’s Conversation with a Young Leader at Yarrow
The warmth of my coffee cup has long faded, yet the profound impact of my conversation with Beverly, a young leader from Yarrow Intergenerational Society for Justice remains vivid. This wasn’t merely a discussion; it was a powerful encounter with the heart of an organization deeply rooted in its community. What struck me most was Continue reading
-
March 2, 2025,- “Welcome to Anglican Church”: Holding Space in the Midst of Contempt
Serving at St. Alban’s Friday Lunch program is always a humbling experience. It’s a chance to connect with our community, to offer a warm meal, and to share a moment of human connection. But sometimes, those moments are tinged with something other than warmth. Several days ago, a gentleman approached me with a familiar mix Continue reading
Fr. Bill's Journal 莫牧師的點滴 