Blaze Cucksey: “There Is Peace in Knowing”

For Blaze Cucksey, a first-time General Synod delegate from St. Brice’s North Bay and a youth delegate from the Temiskaming Deanery, the experience of participating in this national gathering has been both grounding and inspiring.

When asked about a standout moment so far, Blaze doesn’t hesitate: it was receiving communion during the opening worship service at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. “Although the choir was really quite lovely during the opening worship service, receiving communion was the highlight for me,” he said. “I stood in one of various lines within the cathedral, leading to one of many bishops ministering to us. And although it was quite busy and a bit disorganized in there, I knew where I was going. And that was to receive Jesus. Even in a crowded room, which was quite intense, there is peace in knowing where—and to whom—I’m going.”

Blaze also reflected on a growing conviction about inclusion within worship. One idea he hopes to bring home is the use of more languages in liturgy, as a way to more fully reflect the diversity of the Church and create greater feelings of welcome and belonging. “I’d like to encourage my diocese and my parish to be more inclusive of other languages during our worship services especially,” he said. “It can help bring about a greater sense of belonging—not just in individual parishes, but in the Church as a whole.”

Early in the Synod gathering, Blaze admitted to being surprised at the lack of debate on the floor—though he noted the importance of reserving judgment until after the upcoming vote for Primate. “Perhaps this might be because we’re still early on,” he said, “but I am surprised that there’s less debate than I was expecting. I’m not entirely sure it’s because we are all of one mind regarding resolutions and whatnot, but I look forward to seeing how or if this observation will be reflected in the votes during tomorrow’s primatial election.”

One of the most encouraging parts of Synod for Blaze has been connecting with other young lay delegates from across Canada. Despite not being part of an official youth delegation, he’s been welcomed into the network of younger Synod participants, and it has expanded his view of leadership and discipleship in the Church. “It has been wonderful to speak with other laity delegates who are also young—to see how enthusiastic they are about being involved in their parishes and on a broader scale. Getting to know them for who each of them are and what they bring to the table has been inspiring.”

He added that the experience has challenged some common assumptions: “So often people lump youth together as if we have one opinion or viewpoint as a collective. But getting to talk one-on-one with a few of them breaks down those age-based assumptions—and it specifically inspires me to be more creative in my evangelistic discipleship.”

As General Synod continues, Blaze’s reflections offer a thoughtful window into the experience of a new delegate discerning how national conversations can shape local ministry. With grace and quiet conviction, his voice adds to the tapestry of Algoma’s contributions to this important gathering.