Change is the air. What to expect?

Earlier this week, Monday, citizens went to cast their vote for change.  London Free press run an article the very next morning highlighting that 11 out of 14 war councillors are new and 7 out of 15 City Council members are under 40, and the mayor-elect is 41, so far the youngest council among Ontario cities!

That is a sweeping change!  Only three incumbent councillors are returning: Bill Armstrong (Ward 2) Paul Hubert (8) and Harold Usher (12).  A “representative” of old politics, Joe Swan, with 28 years of public service, had only about 4% vote!  He said in the LFP interview that it is evident that Londoneers are dissatisfied with the past politics.  About 93% of voters voted for change! 

Jared Zaifman (Ward 14) is the youngest of the group at 27.  28-year-old Mo Salih is London’s second-ever black Councillor; Harold Usher, who was re-elected on Monday, was the first in 2000.

The new mayor, Matt Brown says that the top priority is unity, for the City Council to be working together.  Fresh ideas are expected, yet the outgoing “old guard” is concerned, that the new generation has no idea, there are fears of not knowing what to expect.

Mississauga got the new mayor in 36 years, also a young person.  So did Windsor, Woodstock, Brampton, Toronto.  Some are concerned that with many newly elected being Liberals it would be move “left” instead of forward.

As we prepare for the Cultural Diversity celebration Sabbath on December 6, together with congratulations, I had sent invitations to the Mayor and Councillors of wards 1, 3, 12, & 14 to join us for service.  It is our spiritual duty to pray for our leaders, to pray for those who agree to serve and lead the community.  Many have young children, and it is our hope that the new attention will be given to family values and parenting, that an added care will be given to children services.  As one journalist said “Swapping grandparents for parents would affect the budget.”

Mo Salih experienced racism while campaigning door to door.  Together with Harold Usher they represent the 16% of black community living in London.  There are expectations for more cultural awareness and appreciation.  As the new City Council will take office on December 1, please pray that God’s will would be done in our city.

Also, consider our congregation, and pray that more young adults and youth would also be passionate about leading, serving, using community resources we have to impact our neighbourhoods and families for God’s Kingdom.  Young adults should not be “missing in action” at our church, and taking responsibilities and lead. And above all, let’s listen to our young people, let’s keep the dialogue open, so we are relevant to their needs, that we may offer mentoring and discipleship they need.