In Genesis 39, Joseph’s garment is used as evidence against him. The garment is real, but the story told about it is false. Joseph is condemned without being heard and imprisoned for something he did not do.
On one hand, there are the devastating consequences of a false story.
On the other hand, we hear the steady promise: “The Lord was with Joseph.”
As we observe Orange Shirt Day, another garment asks us to listen. Phyllis Webstad’s orange shirt was taken from her when she entered residential school. Her story became part of a much larger truth shared by Survivors, families and Indigenous communities.
For generations, Canadians were given a false narrative that residential schools were benevolent institutions helping Indigenous children. Survivors knew the truth. Children were separated from their families, cultures, languages and communities. Many suffered neglect, cruelty and abuse. Some never returned home.
The truth was always present, but those with power often refused to listen.
Churches must acknowledge that they were not simply observers. Christian institutions participated in the residential-school system and too often protected themselves instead of listening to the children and families who were harmed.
Truth and reconciliation begin when we listen—not to defend ourselves or hurry past discomfort, but to allow the truth to change us.
Moving forward does not mean leaving the past behind. It means carrying the truth forward differently. It means listening to Survivors and Indigenous communities, challenging harmful stereotypes, teaching an honest history and supporting meaningful action toward reconciliation.
On one hand, we have inherited a painful history.
On the other hand, we are responsible for what we do with the truth today.
May God give us the humility to listen, the courage to face difficult truths and the faithfulness to help build a more just and reconciled future.
This Week’s Invitation
This week, practise listening before responding. Learn one truth shared by an Indigenous Survivor or community, receive it without defensiveness, and ask: What must this truth change in me? Then take one small, concrete step toward reconciliation.
Blessings,
Rev. Pastor Barb
