Memorial for "Irish Mike"

Yesterday a memorial was held for a long term member of the First United Church Community. "Irish Mike" was well known and well thought of. Community members are generally very accepting of each other including those who are deeply troubled and prone to act out when they are using alcohol and other drugs.

Pictured playing the guitar is my friend and colleague Layton Peck. Layton is the night manager of the hosts who are the "front line" contact with those staying at the church. The hosts become very involved personally as well as keeping a sense of direction and supervision in the sleeping and dining areas. They are some of the finest people I have met with hearts of service that helps keep my heart soft and motivated. At least three were former residents at the church and now are living clean and sober lifestyles of service.

Layton, originally from Eastern Canada has been a business leader, minister, entertainer, and has a gigantic heart for the displaced and marginalized who reside at the church. For those who stay more than a few days he knows their names and a major part of the stories that bring them to the Downtown Eastside (DTES). For me he is also an expert on the criminal element that supplies drugs behind the scenes in the 10 block area.

Even though it is safe to walk the streets in the daytime, he tells me it is a different story at nights. Drugs are supplied by gangs and organized crime. It just occurs mostly out of sight. The visible signs of drug dealing I have seen on the streets from time to time in the day time are the secondary dealers, not the primary suppliers.

Layton was a major influence in the life of "Irish Mike." Layton recalls the first time he met Mike was to break up a fight. Then he became a night time confidant as Mike would seek him out when troubled. Layton has memories of holding Mike when he would have emotional collapses, counseling him, and taking him to secluded areas in the church to pray with him.

Mike passed away from natural causes which so sadly is not the reason for the other memorials I have attended at the church. Everyone in attendance was given an opportunity to share their thoughts and memories, and it gave me a sense of how much of a community exists in the DTES. It provides meaning and belonging in spite of the rampant addiction and mental health problems.There is an authentic element to their relationships that is very appealing and the sense of loss and grief was tear jerking.