A preacher for the homeless
August 27th, 2024
In Muddy Water: Stories from the Street (WIPF and Stock Publishers $25.00), Rev. Al Tysick, a United Church of Canada minister, shares vivid stories from his experiences working with homeless individuals, ranging from despair to humor to hope. The book sheds light on the issues of homelessness, addiction, mental illness and poverty that are often overlooked in mainstream media. Enhanced by Elfrida Schragen’s drawings, the text provides insights into street life and highlights the impact of Canada’s residential schools on Indigenous people among the homeless. Rev. Tysick advocates for dismantling colonialism, racism and sexism to address inequality and poverty, urging a shift from self-centered to community-focused living.
The following is an extract from an interview with the author:
Why did you write this book?
After 30 years of working with the homeless, I had an important story to tell, not an analysis of the problem or a ten-point plan to solve it, but an understanding of what life on the streets means. It is the rough truth about the lives of so many who face often insurmountable challenges, but at the same time show great generosity and compassion for their fellow human beings. All the emotions are laid bare for us: anger, despair, anxiety, confusion, and yes, lots of humor.
Illustrations by Elfrida Schragen for Muddy Water by Rev. Al Tysick
What do you hope readers will take away from reading your book?
One of the most perplexing yet pressing topics today is homelessness, along with all its related issues. As you grapple with it, contemplate how to best deal with it. You may find a deeper understanding and fresh ideas. Voices of street people are seldom found in print, yet homelessness, addiction, mental illness, poverty, and other factors are major issues today, making these stories timely. Muddy Water is about understanding those who live on our streets. Significant references to the long-detrimental effects of Canada’s residential schools highlight why so many street people have Indigenous heritage. The often positive and powerful aspects of that heritage are also featured.
What do you hope to achieve with your book?
While I plan to donate the proceeds from book sales to the Our Place Society in Victoria, this is not a money-making exercise. I am supported by a hard-working group of volunteers who are united around one goal: to increase the awareness of as many people as possible about the situation on our streets. If our efforts lead to a better understanding among the public and motivate those with the authority and resources to act, then we will have succeeded.
Who is the book for?
I can honestly say that it is for everyone, but essential reading for those interacting with and serving the homeless in any capacity. Politicians and bureaucrats carry much of the responsibility to make changes, but people from all walks of life have a part to play: health workers, first responders, social workers, teachers, ministers, church members, volunteers, donors, and board members. If you care about the human dignity of people, this book is for you.
Illustrations by Elfrida Schragen for Muddy Water by Rev. Al Tysick
Why did you leave paid ministry to work with the homeless in the first place?
I grew up on welfare with a violent alcoholic father and a devout mother. I felt called to the ministry, but after serving in a paid church position for ten years, I had a stronger calling. I left to establish The House of Lazarus in a pocket of rural poverty in Dundela, Ontario. Initially, I served without salary, being fed at the table of the poor. This experience was transformational and led to my work with the homeless in Victoria, British Columbia for the next 30 years.
Why did you spend so much time working on the streets with the homeless? Did you ever lose faith?
While I spent many years running the Open Door drop-in centre and the Our Place Society centre, the boardroom table was not where I really belonged. When I turned 65, I was reminded of this by a long-time street resident named Vince. I resigned from Our Place and established the Dandelion Society, providing ten years of service on the street to those in the greatest need.
If you do this work, your faith will be challenged constantly, as was mine. I had many anguished conversations with the Creator. And I often questioned why “Sunday Christianity” finds it easy to walk around, rather than to, those with the least.
While Muddy Water: Stories from the Street is based on my experiences in Victoria, BC, Canada, it is applicable wherever there are unhoused. Can we help you increase the awareness of people where you live about the challenges faced by so many living rough on the streets? Talk to us. Maybe you can use our book to help with your local fundraising or community efforts. We can sell you books at a discounted rate which you can then resell to support your work.
The content of this pivotal book will linger with you. It will change the way you view society in general, as well as the varied individuals who deal with poverty, homelessness, addictions, spirituality, and mental health. This storytelling packs influence!
Thanks go to BOOKLOOK for creating awareness.