Together on the Journey:
A Weekly Blog 

What does it mean to open a door?

This weekend, we will be opening our doors in a slightly different way than we normally do, because this weekend, we are participating in Doors Open, an annual festival that invites the general public to explore places that are normally not so open. It’s an invitation to get out and explore the city and see behind closed doors.

I have to admit, I always find it slightly odd that churches participate in this festival because the very name of the festival implies that these doors that are not normally open are open for the weekend. Which means they are not open most of the time. But aren’t churches always open to the public? While I wish this was the case, I know this cannot be so. Just for security reasons you will not walk by any church at 2 am and find it open, even if this would be when people might like a church to be open to pray. It’s a product of our modern era that churches are not ‘open’ the way they used to be. This is why festivals like this are so great because it gives people permission to come in, to stay awhile, and to learn about a landmark in their community.

And so, as we open our doors this weekend, let us remember that it is a sacred opportunity for the general public to come in and not only meet us but perhaps even meet God. While I don’t think churches are the only place this happens, there is something about being in a church that tends to make people more open to this experience. You just never know who you will encounter: a friend, a neighbour, or even Jesus. My favourite blessing reminds us to be open to seeing the face of Christ in others, and this is the perfect opportunity.

So whether you’re new to St. George’s or have been here for years, I encourage you to come this weekend for Doors Open. You may learn something new about the church that you never had any idea about. I’m particularly interested in the cemetery tour because I’m told we have some good ghost stories! Come join us: May 23 (10:00 am – 5:00 pm) and May 24 (12:30 – 5:00 pm). There will be an organ demonstration at 1:00 pm on both days.

For more information about the festival, please visit: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/festivals-events/doors-open-toronto/