Ep. 35 / Land as Relative: The Gospel through Indigenous Eyes ► Ray Aldred

What happens when Indigenous identity meets Christianity? For Rev. Dr. Ray Aldred, Director of Indigenous Studies at Vancouver School of Theology, this intersection has been both painful and profoundly illuminating.

Ray's story begins with generational trauma - a grandmother lost to alcoholism, a murdered uncle, experiences of racism that as a child he simply thought were "how it is with everybody." His journey through addiction to Christian faith, and eventually to deeper healing, reveals the gaps in how many churches address cultural shame and historical wounds.

"When you feel ashamed of who you are," Ray explains, "you think you're too bad to receive God's love. You spend most of your Christian life trying to do more religious stuff so God will actually love you." This breakthrough realization transformed not only his personal faith but his approach to theology and reconciliation.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Ray describes reading scripture through Indigenous eyes. Suddenly biblical humour comes alive, community connections deepen, and creation itself becomes family. His interpretation of Adam as "son of God" led to the revelation that the earth could be understood as mother - not in an idolatrous sense, but as a relative deserving care and respect. "If people could feel that about the land," he suggests, "maybe we could make different decisions when it comes to how we live upon it."

As Canada continues its journey toward reconciliation following the devastating legacy of residential schools, Ray offers wisdom for moving forward: tell the truth completely, listen with your heart to understand pain, then develop a shared plan to heal the damage. His approach places "the gospel in the center" while honoring Indigenous identity and addressing historical trauma.

For anyone seeking to understand Christianity beyond colonial frameworks or wondering how faith communities might participate meaningfully in reconciliation, Ray's insights illuminate a path that requires courage, honesty and deep listening. 

You can learn more with Ray Aldred through his books and the Vancouver School of Theology. 

And you can share this episode using hashtag #Evangelical360 and join the conversation online! 

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