ANGLICANLife
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February 2009
ANGLICANLife February 2009
in NEWFOUNDLAND
&
LABRADOR
A Section of the ANGLICANJOURNAL
A new beginning for Fogo Island East Four churches to become one worshipping community
Various images from the ground-breaking service as well as different phases of the construction of a new Anglican Church for the Parish of Fogo Island East. The new church will replace four existing congregations on the Island. Photos: Blanche Bennett Submitted by Blanche Bennett Parish Secretary
On 26 October 2008,the Right Reverend David Torraville, Bishop of the Diocese of Central Newfoundland, visited the Parish of Fogo Island East to turn the
sod for the beginning of a new church for the parish. The weather was marvellous and there was a very large gathering of many joyous people for the occasion. The youngest person present, a representative from each of the four congregations, and the
Rector the Rev’d David Hewitt, assisted Bishop Torraville with the exciting moment of breaking ground and turning the sod for the new building. Parishioners on Fogo Island East are very excited that a new chapter in the life of the
parish is about to begin. It is the hope that within the coming months, the people of the parish will soon be worshiping together. For the information of current and former parishioners, the deconsecration of the four existing churches within
the parish (St. John the Evangelist, St. Augustine, St. Simon, and St. Peter) will take place on 29-30 May 2009. The new church building’s dedication will take place on the Feast of Pentecost on 31 May 2009.
SERVING THE ANGLICAN DIOCESES OF WESTERN NEWFOUNDLAND + CENTRAL NEWFOUNDLAND + EASTERN NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
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ANGLICANLife
February 2009
News From Parish Bulletins and Elsewhere A Call to Action from the Religious Social Action Coalition: Over the coming few weeks, Canada will be deciding on a course of economic stimuli. Most attention will be focused on two questions: How much? And How fast? But we also need to ask, “For whom?” While bail-outs are planned for large corporations, little is considered for those at the bottom of the ladder waiting for things to “trickle down”. Many religious Newfoundlanders will phone, write letters or send emails to Members of Parliament asking them to promote social justice in the Economic Stimulus legislation and let the economic stimulus :Trickle Up” to those least in need. Join us. Phone, e-mail or send a letter to your Member of Parliament. Also, join us at the Basilica Library on Monday, January 12th at 7:30 p.m. for a Public Conversation between religious
leaders and elected representatives about the session of Parliament that begins in late January. (Parish of the Goulds/Petty Harbour) The Rt. Rev. Percy Coffin announces the following appointments and resignations: The Rev. Canon Gordon Druggett has been appointed Regional Dean of the Deanery of Humber, effective December 1, 2008. The Rev. Canon David Pearce has been appointed Priest-in-Charge, pro tem, of the Parish of Bay St. George, effective December 24 th , 2008. The Rev. James Pratt has tendered his resignation as Rector of the Parish of Cow Head to take up a parish appointment in the Diocese of Montreal, effective March 1st, 2009.
Western Diocesan News: As part of the Congregational Development/Stewardship Education Initiative the Taking Care of God’s Business Task Group has invited The Rev. Ed Dallow to conduct a Workshop on Integrating and Welcoming for persons who would be trained to help congregations to become more aware of their responsibility in these areas. The workshop will take place at St. Mary’s Church on January 23 and 24, 2009.
Grand Bay. On January 12th, we shall again be offering a night out with Coffee and a Movie. The movie this month is entitled, Doubt. It is a powerful and riveting drama that will both entertain and stimulate our thoughts. We will meet at the Tim Horton’s at the Mount Pearl Square at 6:20 pm prior to the movie. (Parish of St. Augustine’s, St. John’s)
The Annual Clergy Retreat for the Diocese of Western Newfoundland will be held at St. Catherine’s Renewal Centre, Grand Falls/ Windsor, on March 16th to 19th. The Retreat will be conducted by the Rev. Mary Ann Boote, formerly of the Diocese of Saskatchewan, presently living in
An intentional effort at stewardship teaching encourages an attitude of gratitude. As a church community we should encourage out children as stewards to share their gifts. Children need to hear that God has truly blessed them with an abundance of good things and they have enough to share. As part of our stewardship education we have given each Sunday School child envelopes
be my favourite poet and I often get more from reading some of his Songs of Innocence than I have from listening to some sermons of late. But it is the tune Jerusalem by Parry that accompanies the hymn that one would have to be weak of spirit not to appreciate the words are only the vehicle for the music, and words are often just metaphor, as indeed is Blake’s reference to Jerusalem in this particular poem. Bishop Torraville is aware of the legend, (and a legend, according to one definition, includes no happenings that are outside the realm of possibility), that Jesus accompanied Joseph of Arimathea, who was a tinsmith, and even his uncle, to Glastonbury, Eng-
land. Blake poses the question, only, wondering if Jesus did indeed visit England. I do not know how implausible that was, but I do know that it wasn’t impossible. Certainly, the Romans were doing it at that time. Of course, Bishop Torraville is in good company in wishing to ban the hymn, because the Dean of Southwark Cathedral some time ago disallowed its being sung there. Meanwhile, St. Paul’s Cathedral has no problem with it at all; certainly not of late. I have a beautiful rendition of that very hymn by the York Minister Choir. Perhaps Bishop David would not be averse to Horatio Bonar’s (1858) hymn and sung to Parry’s tune which was
for their offerings. To make this visual for the children we have erected a tree at the front of the church and for each $5 of total offerings a symbol will be placed on the tree. We truly believe that giving is one of the greatest joys we can experience and this will support our children in sharing their gifts. (Parish of All Saints, Conception Bay South) Just before Christmas, our parish distributed over 60 Christmas hampers to the needy. We thank Don White and his team of caring volunteers, and all who made donations, for making this happen. We especially acknowledge the support of the Community Food Sharing Association. (Parish of St. Michael & All Angels, St. John’s) See Bulletins Page 11
Letter to the Editor I read with some interest Bishop Torraville’s piece on singing in our churches (Anglican Life December 2008) and do concur on most of what he is saying. Like him, I too have little knowledge of, but great love for, good music and singing. I remember a generation or so ago when attending either the Eucharist or Evensong in my parish church in Joe Batt’s Arm was truly, truly, a feast. In the last number of years we have been left devoid of the chants, canticles, special anthems, intoning of prayers, etc. and anything that made the Anglican liturgy such a beautiful experience. Mention Merbecke or Tallis today and one will get a blank look indeed.
I have often wondered if some direction on this at the diocesan level might be given to some of our larger churches that have choirs. It might be as simple as introducing a few new tunes, explaining expression, or advising an organist when it might be appropriate (or inappropriate) to add an Amen! Certainly an anthem (and I am not saying some evangelical ditty, or even a camp-fire song, as seems to be the wont these days) during the Communion would be more appropriate than the several banal hymns that seems to be so common these days. I almost feel sorry for the bishop when he so berates Blake’s “And did those feet in ancient times.” Blake may
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sung as an anthem at President Reagan’s funeral in the Washington National Cathedral. And since I personally would not wish the bishop to miss the opportunity of enjoying the singing and music of it in a secular setting, I would like to recommend to him the CD of the sound score from Chariots of Fire which includes the hymn. Actually, the movie opens and closes with that particular hymn to huge organ strains and the clear high voices of a children’s choir. Meanwhile, though, he shouldn’t worry about it being sung in many of our churches. It would not be typical fare! Benson Hewitt St. Andrew’s Church Fogo, NL
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February 2009
Canadian diocesan news in brief St. James’ Cathedral make-over Historic St. James’ Cathedral in downtown Toronto will undergo a $16 million renovation, which includes the construction of a cathedral centre. The decision, reached after eight years of planning and negotiation with heritage groups, the surrounding neighbourhood, the cathedral community and the city of Toronto, was recently approved by the diocesan council and the cathedral’s vestry. “The new part of the building will be very modern, glassy and light, and deferential to the cathedral itself,” said Dean Douglas Stoute, rector of St. James Cathedral and dean of Toronto. The building will be designed to “open our space to the community and make us more transparent,” said Dean Stoute. He said that the centre would bring “a breath of fresh air to a community that is growing rapidly.” Construction of the new facilities is estimated at $7.2 million, while renovation of the parish house will cost $4.1 million. The Anglican
Bales for the North The diocese of Ottawa’s Anglican Church Women (ACW) is accepting donations for its “Bales for the North” program. Needed items include new quilts, linens, clothing, baby clothes, sundries and children’s toys. The bales will be sent to Fort Chipewyan in Alberta; Aklavik, Tukoyaktuk, Fort McPherson and Inuvik in the Northwest Territories; and to Cambridge Bay, Arctic Bay, Pangnirtung and Pond Inlet in Nunavut, For more information, please contact Evelyn Presley at (613) 445-2089. Crosstalk
Praying for our neighbour Underlying all relationships is love. Central to our Christian life is the call to love God and to love neighbour. One way to express love of neighbour is to pray for them. This engages us not only with those we know but with others beyond our contact. One way I pray for the neighbour is to use a compiled list issued by an organization connected with a particular undertaking. We are familiar with these lists through our Sunday worship where we use listing for the Anglican Cycle of Prayer and the Tri-diocesan Prayer list. We can continue with theses lists during the week when we pray at a more intimate and imaginative level on our own. I put aside a time each day for this kind of interces-
sory prayer. Here are some of the listings I use. Most of them can be downloaded or a paper copy can be obtained through the mail: Anglican Cycle of Prayerwww.anglicancommunion.org Leprosy Mission Prayer www.leprosymission.org USPG prayer diary www.uspg.org.uk Church Army Diary www.churcharmy.com Pray with the Bible Society www.biblesocities.ca I also write letters for Amnesty International for prisoners of conscience and use this as a prayer focus. In a similar way we can pray the daily news. If you watch the nightly news on television,
Compiled by Marites N. Sison, Anglican Journal
The Rev. Everett Hobbs
why not use the commercials to pray reflectively on what you have seen and heard. We can also include in our intercession those we encounter during the day. This would include both those we know and those we deal with in some way - the girl at the check-out, the driver who cuts you off, the ones waiting in the doctor’s office. Basically the more we are informed about our prayer requests, the more real they are which makes us more in touch. This requires practice and discipline but over time you can broaden the scope of your intercessions and find yourself drawn into the needs and pain of our world.
Parish of St. Luke, Springdale welcomes new Lay Minister
Historic hanging donated An historic lectern hanging made from the drapery that adorned Westminster Abbey during the coronation of King George VI in 1937 is moving from St. Mark’s Kitsilano to a heritage log church in Alberta. An historical researcher with the province of Alberta discovered the existence of the pale blue and silver brocade hanging in an Edmonton Journal article dated June 30, 1938 and asked the parish whether he could have a photograph of the historic textile for inclusion in the documentation of the brocade altar cloth. (A larger piece of the brocade had become an altar cloth in St. Aida and St. Hilda Anglican Church in Rexboro, near Lake Wabamun on the Yellowhead Highway, diocese of Edmonton.) The chancel guild of St. Mark’s instead made a gracious offer to donate the hanging to St. Aidan and St. Hilda’s, now a registered historic resource of the province of Alberta. The diocesan bishop of Edmonton, Jane Alexander, presented the hanging to St. Aidan and St. Hilda’s at an advent celebration. Topic
let us pray
Submitted by Larry Moss
At the Sunday Morning service on 14 December 2008, the Rev. Mildred Tobin presented Adam French with his Lay Reader ’s License issued by Bishop Percy Coffin.
Adam attended training on Sunday evenings since September in preparation for his Lay Reader’s License. Adam, who turned sixteen in March 2008, has been involved in the Parish of St. Luke since moving to Springdale in
2004 where he was a server until 2007. Before coming to Springdale he was a server in the Parish of Harbour Breton at St. Bartholomew’s Church. In 2007, he was licensed as a Eucharistic Assistant. Adam has been the youth representative on the Parish Council for the past two years and attended his first synod in May as the youth delegate for the parish. He was also a member of a youth committee for the Diocese. St. Luke’s is pleased to now have two Lay Readers and three Eucharistic assistants. Photo: Adam French (left) receives his Lay Minister’s Licence from the Rev’d Mildred Tobion (right)
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ANGLICANLife in NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
ANGLICAN LIFE in Newfoundland and Labrador is the newspaper of the Anglican Church in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. A co-operative effort of the three Dioceses in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is published monthly, except July and August, with an independent editorial policy. A section of the Anglican Journal Editor-in-Chief: The Rev’d Sam Rose 45 Tildacane Place Conception Bay South, NL A1X 3C7 (709) 834-9190 (h) Email: samrose@nl.rogers.com Advertising Rates and other information may be obtained from: Bishop Donald Young 34 Fraser Road, Gander, NL, A1V 2E8 Phone: (709) 256-7701 Email: jointcommittee@nfld.net Subscription Rates: Newfoundland and Labrador: $15.00 Outside the province: $20.00 International: $25.00 New subscriptions, cancellations, & changes of address should be sent to: Circulation The Anglican Journal (attn. Bev Murphy) 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, ON, M4Y 3G2 (416) 924-9192 (O) (416) 925-8811 (fax) Email: circulation@national.anglican.ca Each parish is responsible for maintaining its own subscription list - please notify your parish office of any changes. Changes sent to parish offices may take months to take effect. Please also send your updated information to Circulation at the Anglican Journal (above) or to Don Young at 34 Fraser Road, Gander NL A1V 2E8. Articles and photographs: Send to the Editor-in-Chief (above) Parish Bulletins and Letters to the Editor: Send to the Editor-inChief, Sam Rose (address as above). All letters must include the writer’s name, address, and telephone number. Telephone numbers will not be published. Anglican Life does not publish letters under nom de plume. Letters should not exceed 300 words (one double spaced typewritten page), and are subject to editing at the discretion of the editor. These policies were adopted by the Anglican Life Committee. Layout & Design: Sam Rose Printed by: Signal Star Publishing, A Division of Bowes Publishers Limited, Industrial Park, 120 Huckins Street, Goderich, Ontario, N7A 4B6
Circulation: 25,702
Angry at God This past Christmas was a heartbreaking one in our province. A horrible house fire on Bell Island claimed the lives of three young children. Two teenage boys were tragically lost to an ATV accident in Upper Island Cove. Another Newfoundland soldier was killed in Afghanistan. An up-and-coming talented musician from Portugal Cove died in a car crash on her way to university in Nova Scotia. It seems that many were robbed of the joy of the season. When tragedies like these occur, it is very easy to get angry at God. Questions and doubts arise which can destroy any remaining faith in a loving Creator: How could God have let this happen? Where is God when I need Him? Why is God punishing me? Sometimes when we try to help people who are angry at God, we may try to deny their anger and emotion. It is tempting to say to them, “You shouldn’t be mad,” or “You can’t be angry at God.” Instead of bringing comfort,
it actually may cause more infuriation. All human emotion, including anger, is understood by God. The Bible is full of people who were angry with the Almighty. Take Job, for example. He lost everything and, although he didn’t curse God, he certainly was irritated with the injustices committed to him. The prophet Jeremiah also grew angry with God because of his persecution and the lack of response to his preaching. The Book of Psalms is filled with outbursts of rage and frustration against God. Is it wrong to be angry with God? No. But all anger, when not handled correctly, can lead to inappropriate bitterness and rebellion. The Bible realistically portrays the frustration and anger of God’s people when things go wrong or when they cannot understand why certain things happen. Perhaps the greatest comfort we can face when we get angry with God is to know that God does understand. Despite our bitterness, God’s love for us
February 2009
editorial The Rev. Sam Rose
remains. When Jesus faced the death of his friend Lazarus, he wept openly. God is not ambivalent towards our emotions; He intimately is involved in them. God shares in our anger. But God also wants to bring healing to our pain as well. That requires surrender or letting go of any bitterness or resentment which separates us from God and others. St. Paul in Ephesians wrote, “In your anger, do not sin.” It may be perfectly legitimate to get angry about certain things, but we have to be careful not to cross the line into sin. It may simply take a prayer to help get us started back on the road toward God: “Lord, I can’t handle this. I hand it over to You.”
Diocese of NS & PEI Hosts Justice Camp 2009 Submitted by Maylanne Maybee Anglican Church of Canada
This August, the Diocese of NS & PEI invites Christians aged 18 and up to gather together in the Maritimes for Justice Camp 2009. From August 9 to 15, beginning in Halifax and then spreading out throughout the Maritimes, we’ll spend time exploring the issue of poverty so we can then return to our homes, churches and communities better equipped to serve our broken world. An initiative of the Partners in Mission and Eco Justice Committee of the Anglican Church of Canada, Justice Camp is a weeklong immersion experience centred on a specific social justice issue, which is reflected upon in the light of biblical study and prayer. Unlike a conference, Justice Camps are interactive with learning through immersion experiences with local justice partners and guided reflection time with small group facilitators. Each camp is hosted by a diocese and is
planned and organized by a local coalition of partners. There have been three previous Justice Camps: in Winnipeg on food justice (August 2005), in Ottawa on advocacy (May 2006) and in Victoria on environmental justice (May 2007). The Poverty Justice Camp 2009 will follow the model set by previous Justice Camps. Our week will be busy! The first two days we will gather together in Halifax, at the University of King’s College, to pray and worship, build community, study the Bible, and develop education and advocacy skills. Then, for the next three days, we will split up into “Immersion Groups” and spread out far and wide across the Maritimes to Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton, the Annapolis Valley, Shelburne, Antigonish, Halifax Regional Municipality, and Nova Scotia’s South and North Shores. While in the Immersion Groups participants will explore poverty by examining a particular issue in depth and by getting
hands-on experience. Immersion Group issues include Urban, Rural and International Poverty, Housing and Homelessness, Employment, Disability, Education, Trade, Immigration and Race. To finish off our week we’ll gather again in Halifax for the final two days where we’ll share what we’ve learned and reflect on our experiences together— and perhaps dare to ask the questions, how have we been changed by this week, and what’s next? Part of the initial vision for Justice Camps set by the Partners in Mission and Eco Justice Committee was to bring together a diverse group of people at each camp. This diversity is encouraged through an attempt to have: 50% of the participants be 18-30 and 50% be over 30; 50% of the participants be local and 50% be from away; 50% of the participants be male and 50% be female. For more information, see our website: justicecamp.ca
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February 2009
“What is man that you are mindful of him?” Psalm 8:4 July of this year marks the fortieth anniversary of the first lunar landing with Col. Neil Armstrong making that giant leap for mankind. I find a place for this anniversary in Christian thought because Scripture, history books, most literary works connect humankind’s spirituality with heavenly bodies...sun, moon, stars, the planets in their courses. It is fair to make that claim since it is not uncommon for human beings to worship that which we least understand. The space age, which has now gone beyond the Rover’s landing on Mars, has led us to think that earthlings may be capable of exploring not only the Solar System but the Universe! In the early days of space travel we were not only afforded new challenges and opportunities for scientific dis-
New deacon for Good Shepherd, Mount Pearl The Rev’d Bill Somerton (left) received his licence to function as a deacon in the Parish of the Good Shepherd in Mount Pearl in early January 2009 from newly appointed rector, the Ven. Geoff Peddle (right) Photo submitted by Geoff Peddle.
covery but a strong opposing viewpoint that human beings had no place in space. Early on in the space program U. S. Astronaut James Irwin, on his return to earth after standing on the moon, said, “The most significant achievement of our age is not that man stood on the moon but rather that God in Christ stood upon this earth.” In a very big way we recently celebrated the coming to earth of the Prince of Peace. In a much smaller way on the second of February we celebrate the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple; an occasion also known as Candlemas. The Gospel for Candlemas includes the proclamation by the old priest Simeon: “Lord, now let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled. My
own eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared in the sight of every people; a light to reveal you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel.” To reach for the moon or any other celestial body is a sign of our spirituality because we need to authenticate our divine nature and trace our origins to something beyond this fragile earth. For what other reason would we seek like beyond planet Earth? Perhaps as teachers of the faith we have failed to relate God to humanity and humanity’s inner longings. John the Baptist did ask us to prepare within ourselves a home for such a mighty guest. If there is evidence of life somewhere out there what will it do to our spiritual beliefs? If life is not found will our spir-
ituality fade away or seek sustenance elsewhere? We desire wisdom but this language is too difficult. However understanding is fundamental to the astrophysicist and the disciple alike. Above all else we must be prepared to accept the notion of a divine creation of Earth and humankind before we can expect to grow spiritually with each new discovery. Ask Irwin, Armstrong, Salk, Curie, Scott, Galileo, or Cabot. Discovery, colonization or exploration is not meant for human glorification and technical achievement. Instead we must see them as extensions of God’s revelation, first to Israel then to the nations, and a tribute to God’s creative genius. It is only when we stand in awe of the greatness of God who came to this earth
bishop’s letter The Rt. Rev. Percy Coffin Diocese of Western Newfoundland
in the person of Jesus the Christ that we learn to gain a full understanding of the divine miracle which is made manifest in the relationship between Creator and creature. The miracle is that it did not seem too small a matter for the Almighty God ‘to be mindful’ of humankind and lovingly ‘to care’ for us by sending his own Son to redeem us and to use earthen vessels to tell the story of our salvation. This is our faith.
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“Five Alive” youth bring life to Mount Pearl parish
February 2009
Silent Auction at St. Michael & All Angels, Corner Brook
Parishioners of St. Michael & All Angels: (left to right) Harriet Williams, Ruby Randell, and Pat Small. Photo submitted by Debbie Ford Submitted by Debbie Ford
Members of “Five Alive,” the youth group of the Parish of the Ascension in Mount Pearl, on their way to the Vincent de Paul food bank. Photo submitted by Jean Nash Submitted by Jean Nash
Five Alive - the Church of the Ascension Youth Group in Mount Pearl - is making its mark in the church community. Members consist of youth in Grades 5 and up and they meet every Sunday evening at the church. Under the guidance of the Rev. David Burrows, the Rector of the Parish, Susan Moore, our Youth Coordinator, and several volunteers, this fun-loving and ever-growing group has had an awesome fall. Throughout the past few months, the group has been involved in activities that promote fellowship, stewardship, and goodwill. There was the ‘Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup’ in September, when the group went to a pond in Conception Bay South and practiced being good stewards of God’s earth by
cleaning up the local area. In October, they had a Thanksgiving/Hallowe’en wake-a-thon for the food bank. The following day they went on a field trip to Vincent de Paul Food Bank to have a guided tour and to present food donations. This resulted in the group becoming more conscious of those in need and realizing just how thankful they should be. Aiming to have fun and be more attentive to the marvels of God’s creation, a visit was made to Lester’s farm. In addition to these outside activities, on several Sunday evenings, it was a welcoming sight to have the youth of our Parish lead the worship. Entering into the Christmas spirit in the month of December, the youth went Mummering to the Seniors’ Social, they lent a hand at the Breakfast with Santa, and went Caroling at the Masonic Park Seniors’
30 Roe Avenue, P.O. Box 348, Gander, NL A1V 1W7 Telephone: (709) 651-4100 Fax: (709) 256-2957 email: info@waltershoffe.com
Residence. Equally as important as the activities themselves, is the fun they had and friends they made. Five Alive will meet again in the New Year for more exciting activities on the agenda. In other parish news, on 9 December 2008, the Church of the Ascension seniors were treated to a special evening by the Parish Network Visitors. Following Holy Eucharist, some 115 parishioners enjoyed a soup supper with desserts. There was a surprise visit by a hilarious group of mummers followed by Santa himself. Many of the folks tapped their feet or sang along to the traditional songs and music provided by Ed Miller and his band as they entered into the spirit of the season.
St. Michael and AllAngels recently held their Annual Silent Auction. Under the leadership of the Stewardship and Finance committee, the Auction was considered a huge success. The tables were filled with almost 200 items! Many items were the handiwork of our multi-talented parishioners. There were doilies, knitted goods, seasonal craft items, etc., along with quite an array of baked goodies! There was something for everyone! Many thanks go out to all the individuals and businesses who gave of their time, talents and treasures. And it certainly couldn’t
be a complete event at St. Michael’s without having some food involved. All kinds of sweet goodies and flavoured coffees were made available to everyone who wanted to take a break from the brisk bidding of the night. There was a room decorated café style to entice those weary feet! We were also blessed to have volunteers from Joan Parson’s class at the local College of the North Atlantic lend us a hand, looking after the bidding sheets and items up for grabs! Thank you so much ladies for your wonderful assistance! Bless you! Thanks to all who lent a helping hand! May God richly bless you!
Students from the College of the North Atlantic helped the parish with their silent auction. Here they are with the Rector, the Rev’d Gordon Druggett (rear). Photo submitted by Debbie Ford.
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February 2009
Alive & Well at St. Mary the Virgin, St. John’s joyed a presentation of the Committee’s plans for Anniversary Year 2009, beginning with a special launching event in January and continuing with a major event for each month during the year. Parishioners and friends can look forward to sharing in the festivities.
The United Church Choir from Carbonear performed at St. Mary’s Church, St. John’s on Sunday, November 30, 2008 at the 10:30 a.m. service. The “guest choir” sang four pieces on their own and joined in supporting St. Mary’s choir for the remainder of the service. A number of family and friends of the Carbonear Choir accompanied them on the visit to St. Mary’s. Lunch and fellowship followed in the Canon Stirling Auditorium.
Photos and Article submitted by Sue Ann Tilley & Canon Ralph Billard
Fall Fair a Huge Success What a wonderful day was Saturday, November 29! Many in St. John’s and
of St. Mary The Virgin which held its Annual Fall Fair on that day. Nor did the weather deter the good will of the many “Sale” patrons who were determined to attend the event. The Fall Fair Team, under the leadership of Everett Russell and Austin
Members of the 150th Anniversary Committee for St. Mary the Virgin. The Parish celebrates the event in 2009.
area will remember that day as one during which there was, as we Newfoundlanders would say, “A wonderful rainstorm”. One hundred millimetres of rain fell during a few hours. But that did not dampen the spirits of the people of The Church
Benson, generated such a welcoming atmosphere as to be contagious amongst the sponsors and customers alike. The enthusiastic and generous response from parishioners to requests for food, knitted goods, crafts, flowers, vegetables, home-baked
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items, and other “stall” goodies was almost overwhelming. Morning coffee, lunch and turkey teas highlighted the day. Everett Russell, Chair of the Fall Fair Committee, said, “The financial success was great but the sense of fellowship generated by the event was of far greater value than the monetary rewards.” Congratulations to all who contributed in any way to this wonderful event. Major Maintenance Projects Underway Elevator: People with difficulty in ascending and descending stairs and those who prefer the convenience of an elevator will be pleased to hear that the elevator which has been out-of -service for a few months has been restored and is working fine again. West End Window: The huge stained glass west end window/s is undergoing extensive repairs and change of concept. These two projects are expected to cost in excess of seventy thousand dollars, of which about onethird has already been generously provided by members of the congregation.
Outreach Ministry Continues The Outreach Ministry to the Waterford Hospital continues under the leadership of Dorothy Westaway and her Committee.
Deacon Ordained at St. Mary’s & For St. Mary’s On Monday, Dec. 8, at 7:00 p.m., Donna Louise Mercer was ordained Deacon by the Rt. Rev. Cyrus Pitman, Bishop of Eastern Nfld. and Labrador. The church was nearly filled to capacity with many laypeople from Donna’s home parish of The Good Shepherd,Mount Pearl, people from The Ascension, Mount Pearl, and neighbouring city parishes, along with parishioners of St. Mary’s, and some thirty diocesan clergy, plus several deacons and students from Queen’s College. The
The new deacon, the Rev’d Donna Mercer (left) with Bishop Pitman (right) joins the staff at St. Mary the Virgin.
150th Anniversary The 150th Anniversary Committee has been active for a couple of months with planning for the big celebration year. The 10:30 a.m. congregation on Sunday, Dec. 7 th en-
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preacher for the event was The Rev. Robin Barrett, former Rector of The Good Shepherd and now Rector of the Parish of The Goulds/Petty Harbour. Ms. Christine Tiller, organist and choir director at St. Mary’s, provided the music for the service and the adult choir contributed their enthusiastic singing. A goodly number of people remained for the reception in Donna’s honour which took place in the Canon Stirling Auditorium. The Rev. Donna Mercer will work with the Rector, the Rev’d Greg Mercer and be a member of the staff at St. Mary’s.
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ANGLICANLife
Henry LeMessurier and the St. Thomas’ brochure In 1928 there appeared a brochure describing the history of St Thomas’ church in St John’s. The author of this brochure was Henry W. LeMessurier, just retired from the office of head of the Customs department in the Newfoundland government. There are a number of brochures of varying age that have been published on the life of some of the older churches
in Newfoundland. It is always useful to have a history of a church and parish to remind people of its place in our collective history and, of course, to make it available to visitors to our province. The LeMessurier brochure about St Thomas’ is probably the best-known of these. The writer was surprised to find that original copies of the brochure are still available from
February 2009
our history David Davis
the church office. Henry LeMessurier began his career in the British Army Commissariat department in St John’s but after the Imperial forces left North America in 1870 he was jobless so he went into private business, he had probably established many business contacts while working for the commissariat. Of course the commissariat office was next door to where
St Thomas’ church was to be built. In 1885 he entered politics successfully (District of Burin) but was defeated in the next election in 1889. He then took the position of editor of the Evening Herald newspaper; a newspaper opposed to the administration of Whiteway, Bond and Morris which had just taken office. He ran for election a third time but
was unsuccessful and accepted a position in the Customs department of the colonial government. He was made head of the Customs in 1898. LeMessurier is perhaps best known as the author of the song: “The Ryans and the Pittmans” At this point it is appropriate to introduce a number of portions abstracted from the brochure:
A fund was raised and the makers of the Cathedral organ, Willis, agreed to build one according to specification; it arrived here in the month of October, an organ builder coming with it, and it was erected in the East gallery. On the 25th November it was first used in wor-
strument which was usually the step before a church obtained an organ.
being helped along by the fishermen of each place, who readily put themselves and their boats at his service. In this way she reached Sandy Point, ministering to the people as he went, and finally returned to St John’s on August 4th, having been absent seven months, having endured many hardships, and like St Paul having been in peril oft.
The Document CONTRACT FOR THE CHURCH
MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENTS
The original Contract for the building of St Thomas’ is still in the archives of the church, and from it I am able to quote the name of the Contractor and obtain the details of its design and construction. The Contract is dated 14th September, 1835, and signed by Patrick Kough as Contractor and accepted by the Venerable Archdeacon Edward Wix. Mr. Kough came to Newfoundland in 1824 as Superintending Constructor of Government House, and after it was finished he elected to stay here and enter into business, hence it is that we find him engaged as a contractor fir the building of this church.
The form of worship was the same as used then in all churches of the Anglican Communion, the Psalter used being of Tail and Brady. A barrel organ that played eight sacred tunes was used for a time in the services and was afterwards supplanted by Seraphim. The old barrel organ was in the store of Mr. Geo. T. Rendell, where I saw it, and was, I believe, burnt in the fire of 1892. In a news item of the 1st October, 1860, occurs the following:”A person robbed the Roman Catholic Cathedral last night of two golden candlesticks and a golden chalice, the latter a gift of the Roman Pontiff. St Thomas’s Church was broken into at the same time, and Seraphim forced open, the guilty or parties believing it to be a box containing plate.
Patrick Kough was born in Ireland, came to Newfoundland as a boy and became a carpenter and building contractor. He built the court house in Harbour Grace and the Colonial Building in St John’s as well as other buildings. He was builder to the colonial government for a fee of £50 per year. He had an active political career in the 1830’s, moving between the Liberal and the mercantile groups and thus incurring the displeasure of his bishop, Michael Anthony Fleming. He had a large estate called Ken Mount and was interested in agriculture. Another section of the brochure is as follows:
The Congregation of St Thomas’s had been content with the barrel organ for a time, and then as we have seen had obtained a Seraphim, but in 1860 they felt that a larger and better instrument should be obtained to help them praising God.
The following is part of Mr. LeMessurier’s comments on St Thomas’s most famous rector: ARCHDEACON WIX
ship, Mr. Smyth being organist. This instrument was subsequently sold to the Church of England people of Heart’s Content and is still used in the Church of St Mary the Virgin in that town. A seraphim or serapine was a reed-based musical in-
One of the most interesting records of his work, he left behind him in a Journal printed in 1836, and which was circulated in England, in order to interest people in the motherland in the spiritual welfare of their brethren in the Colonies. This journal records a tour of visitation to the Southern and Western shores of this Island in 1835, during which he kept a diary of his travels. Starting in the month of February he walked overland to Placentia Bay visiting all the settlements along his rout, crossed to Fortune Bay, by way of Bain Harbor, took boats from settlement to settlement and finally arrived at Bay du Nord where he attempted to travel through the country to Bay St George, but was compelled to return and finally coasted from harbour to harbour
The results of Archdeacon Wix’s visitation can be found also in the parish registers of St Thomas’s which contain the names of people of all ages who lived along the south and west coasts of Newfoundland and who may never have seen a priest or missionary of any kind for their whole lives. When the south westerly parts of Newfoundland had been French territory, before 1713, there would have been shore activities associated with the huge French ship fishery on the Grand Banks. Any parish records of this period would have been registered in France. The brochure ends with sections on the other past rectors of the Parish of St Thomas.
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ANGLICANLife
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February 2009
columnist
Straight talk on... Memorials I make no special claim on church architecture or interior design but I have to admit that I have visited enough church buildings of different denominations to say conclusively that there are none with so many memorials as that of our Anglican Tradition — everything from stained glass windows to door facings. Now some people may take great pride in that. But as author Howard Clinebell once said, sometimes our churches look more like “museums” than “a hospital and garden of the spiritual life.” The issue is not whether we should honour
our loved ones, both the living and the dead. Our Lord himself at the Passover meal said to his disciples, “Do this in memory of me.” But should it be about THANKSGIVING and not Memorials? A memorial is about some past event and in the case of a person, someone who is dead and gone. Is that what we believe of our loved ones – dead and gone? My wife and I lost a child and most recently lost our fifteen-year-old nephew to a tragic accident in Upper Island Cove, and to be quite honest it makes me rather mad to think that they are but a memorial.
That’s not what I believe. I believe that they are living, that’s what my faith tells; that they are a new creation, transformed from the old body to a new spiritual body. As difficult as the hurt might be, my faith guides me to rejoice and be thankful in all circumstances. Even the Eucharist itself is not a memorial in the way that we understand a memorial. Unfortunately, the English work “memorial” or “remembrance” does not do justice to the Greek word anamnesis which it translates. When Jesus said, “do this in remembrance of
The Rev. Greg Mercer
me,” it wasn’t simply to remind us of PAST EVENTS. Anamnesis has as much or more to do with recalling and a “representing” of the events of our Lord’s Passion. It is a special way of remembering that brings his LIVING presence before us. Even the word Eucharist comes from a Greek word meaning Great Thanksgiving. Did Jesus die for nothing? “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile... Then those also who have died in Christ have perished” (1 Cor. 15:17-18). “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give
thanks IN all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thess. 5:16-18). So Honour our loved ones, but enough of this memorializing as if Christ died for nothing. Let’s stop living in the past and living more gratefully. Anything less is a dishonour to what we believe.
AWARE Weekend to be held in May 2009 Theme: “Mary Has Chosen….Sitting At Jesus’ Feet in a World Demanding Us to Be Marthas.” Submitted by Olive Grunert Conference Convener
The second annual AWARE (Anglican Women Alive Renewed Enriched) Women’s Conference is being held at the Lavrock Centre on the weekend of May 23, 2009. Women seeking a spiritually relaxing, soul searching weekend are invited to come and listen to guest speaker Emma Marsh. The Conference invites women to “go together, women ministering to women, in the beauty of
nature where we will, through scripture, praise, prayer, and teachings come closer to our Saviour.” Last year’s conference was a spiritual blessing to all who attended both from Newfoundland and other provinces of Canada. Those interested can obtain an application o n l i n e : www.awareconference.org. This year, the organizers are inviting all Anglican Church Women groups (ACW) to make a real effort to come along
to AWARE so that they will be better prepared to work
together in their parishes when they return. AWARE conferences are a once a year event and women of all faiths are encouraged to attend as they learn to sit at the feet of the same Lord of all, united in his name. An AWARE preparation day is also being planned for February 21, 2009 for all women to come together and prepare for the AWARE Conference weekend (watch for details in church bulletins). Women who play an instrument or
A NGLICANLife Old L is Lis istting
would like to share the talents God gave them are invited to come along and offer these for the conference. This is an all day get together with lunch served and a program available. The AWARE Conference literature concludes with the following: “God bless us all as we look forward to our soul’s nourishment at AWARE where all women become one, alive renewed and enriched and go back to our parishes better equipped to work to HIS Glory.”
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ANGLICANLife
Youth Ministry Part 2: Outreach in the Twin Cities Christianity is about DOING; helping and loving others to help make the world a better place. There are a lot of great things going on in the churches in St. John’s and Mount Pearl. The CLB is very strong and very involved in reaching out to the local community. At St. Augustine’s, the CLB has brought the Good News to many families that would not otherwise be involved in the Church at all. Through the CLB some of the kids who have lived in the city their whole lives have seen the ocean for the first time. This, in a province surrounded by water! This has been a very powerful ministry for kids and adults alike. Several of the parishes,
including St. Augustine’s and the Church of the Ascension, are going to be involved in “Dancing with the Priests.” Similar to TV’s “Dancing with the Stars,” 12 local priests will pair up with 12 dance coaches and train for 9 months. Then in May 2009, they will have a full day of dancing at Mile One Stadium having a dance-off with celebrity judges and everything! The goal is to raise $100,000 for “Vibrant Communities” which is a non-profit organization that works to provide increased opportunities for individuals to finish high school and gain
employment. St. Michael and All Angels have spent a great deal of time focusing on growth lately. Fr. Sam
Rose was hired at St. Michael’s to attract young families and has been working very hard to that effect. Thye are definitely seeing some reward for the work. In terms of community outreach, they have recently started reaching
out to a program called Choices for Youth - a group that works with troubled teens, kids dealing with drugs, violence, alcoholism, and homelessness. In other words, not the kind of kids parishes are used to seeing in church. It was an eye opening experience for parishioners involved in this initiative, and bridges were built during this early encounter. Hopefully a relationship will evolve because these teens need the support of the church. They need to know someone cares about them, and this type of work is what the Church should be about. After all, Jesus sought out the sinners and outcasts, and commissioned us to
youth voice Allison Boone
do the same. Local churches are also reaching out to charities and programs around the world. Primates World Relief and Development Fund, Side by Side, Off the Grid, are all popular initiatives being undertaken by the youth in my area. Some youth groups are even sponsoring a foster child through programs like World Vision. Youth really do want to be involved, to help others and to feel like they’re making a difference. We all understand the frustration of “all talk, no action” and these kids are taking action, taking a stand and making a difference. They really do represent what our faith is about, theirs is faith in ACTION!
columnist
Change Fifteen-year old Zackary had never been inside a church door since his confirmation, not even to attend the weddings and funerals that his father and older siblings usually attended. This Christmas, though, his sincere Christian mother finally persuaded him to go. “How was it?” the anxious mother asked upon his return. “Same old stuff,” Zack replied with obvious indifference. “Same old carols we’ve been hearing since the middle of November. Same old people saying the same old stuff. Same old boring sermon. Same old, same old!” Zack’s very disappointed mother tried in vain to convince him of the spiritual importance of Christmas, of worship, of God himself. Zack listened for a little while, then, obviously not impressed, scurried off to play his new computer games. The church urgently needs Zack, and the young generation he represents. Without them the church will obviously die “of natural causes,” since its entire base of existence now rests upon our “elders”. The dedicated support today consists almost entirely of “old” people, and unfortunately, “old” people soon die. What then? Since young people are not coming to church in
February 2009
Ronald Clarke
any significant numbers, what can we do to attract them?? First, I suggest that we sincere, devoted “old people” have a responsibility to clearly demonstrate that going to church is far more than merely attending Sunday services for an hour or so each week, all dressed up, and looking pious. Far too many of us are all too satisfied with giving God his “hour and a half ’ Sunday worship, avoiding any or all other times of worship. Don’t we spend far more time than that brushing our teeth? Or napping in front of the TV?? Then too, surely, we must demonstrate God’s presence in our lives ALL
WEEK LONG, so that young people, as well as everyone else in our lives, will clearly see that knowing and loving God truly transforms us into really GOOD, loving lovable people. Our behaviour as Christians should convince, and entice, those around us that living for God is wonderful. And, how about our worship being so “dull” for young people? Must we persist in worshipping God exactly the same way that we have for centuries? If that’s the way we like, and want to hold on to, shouldn’t we ask ourselves if that’s the way, and the ONLY way, that God wants to be worshipped??
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If our manner of worship is “uninteresting” to most of our youth, keeping them away from church, wouldn’t God approve of some “modernizing”? Using other musical instruments than the organ as one example. Or introducing some livelier “modern” hymns. Our new generation obviously likes lively music?? And, dare we suggest it, introducing more “emotion” into our services??? Love is a very powerful emotion, so powerful that it generates “lively” action in almost everyone. If we really, REALLY love someone, we must show our love in actions. When some churches have attempted to “mod-
ernize” their worship, to be more attractive to the younger generation, we faithful and devoted “old” worshippers have too often strongly objected. But shouldn’t we follow the great example of Jesus Christ, God’s beloved Son, when He had to face a conflict on Interest? “Not my will,” he pronounced, “but THINE be done!” So, if God’s will seems to require change, how can we dare to resist it?
ANGLICANLife
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February 2009
guest columnist
Some thoughts...on Baptism I once toyed with the idea of having a month long moratorium on baptism and confirmation in the diocese. My plan was, in that month, to invite the clergy to challenge each congregation, individual and church group to consider how they fulfill the vow they make at each baptism. At each baptism the following question is asked: “Will you who witness these vows do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ?” As individuals and as a congregation we respond, “We will” There are certainly expectations of parents and godparents who bring their
children for baptism but there are just as certainly expectations of those of us who sit in the congregation. I decided against such a moratorium because, while shock may have value in some teaching circumstance, shock value is not a good theological rational for such a move. Nevertheless it is, in my opinion, very important for clergy, congregations, church groups and individuals to consider, when we answer that question, what exactly we mean by our answer. Is our answer “we will”, merely a cursory liturgical response, given without consideration for what we say, or do we intend what we
say? Some congregations follow up with cards on the anniversaries of the baptism, others give the infants, baptismal gifts, including a growth chart that can be posted at home. As the child’s growth is noted the name and address of the church is visible, a sign of welcome to the child and family. Some parishes make follow up visits of laity and clergy, send invitations to special events held for the newly baptized and their families. Regardless of what we do, I truly believe we need to do something meaningful and effective. While baptismal preparation for parents and godparents has become part of the program of
columnist
Formula for success Our first grandchild Matthew Orlando White was born on September 11, 2008 in Cobourg, Ontario. We all wish Matthew success in life. Nobody wishes him to be a failure. No one is born a failure. Most people would like to do well in life. Very often we have failed to live up to our full potential. We may fail to develop healthy relationships with other human beings. Our marriages may fail. Our business may fail. We may fail to live a healthy lifestyle. We may fail to love our own family. We may fail to graduate from university. We may fail to find a job. Some people believe
that Christians who are walking in God’s will basically cannot fail. They believe that God would not allow His followers to fail. But, this is not true. In 1983 Dr. William Craig (now research professor of philosophy at Talbot School of Theology in southern California) failed to pass the oral examination in theology for his doctoral degree at the University of Munich, West Germany. Dr. Craig believes that God’s will for our lives includes failure. We need to learn from failure rather than be defeated by it. We should analyze our failure to see what lesson we can learn from it. Ask ourselves what we could do differ-
most parishes I would suggest it also ought to be a part of the congregational educational program as well. As members of the congregation and members of the Anglican expression of the Christian faith, we need to be fully aware of where we are welcoming the newly baptized. We need to carefully plan what our congregational “life in Christ” will look like for these children and their families. This act of baptizing is our “Great Commission”, our reason for being. This sacrament ought to be the focal point of our parish planning at Vestries, Worship Committees, and parish groups.
The Rev. Michael Li
ently next time. When we encounter failure, do not give up. It is so easy for anyone to give up. Ask God for the strength to go on. That is what Dr. Craig did in his case. He spent the next year preparing again for the oral examination. He was prepared to answer questions on any area of systematic theology. He passed the examination in 1984. Dr. Craig was not finished when he failed in 1983. As a result of that failure he became theologically equipped for serving God in a way that would never have been possible if he had passed. During that year of intense study he learned more about systematic theology
than he did during his entire theological education. Christians and Christian leaders do not live a life without failure. Moses, Elijah, Jeremiah, Jonah and Job all reached a point in their lives when they prayed to die. They felt they had failed. Yet they were among the great leaders of all time. We should learn from our failure and never give up. That is the formula for success.
Bishop David Torraville
How many times have we answered “we will” when asked the question, “Will you who witness these vows do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ?” I would suggest that we each need to consider the demands that this answer has placed on us and our congregations and the fundamental call to ministry which it is!
Bulletins Continued from Page 2 The Corporation of Queen’s College is pleased to announce that it has granted the Provost a partial sabbatical for the winter term 2009. Dr. John Mellis has been eligible for this leave for the past couple of years, but only now able to avail himself of this opportunity. Although he will continue some of his administrative responsibilities during this time, the Corporation has appointed the Venerable Geoff Peddle to oversee the day-today operation of the College on a part-time basis until Dr. Mellis returns in April. During his time away, Dr. Mellis intends to read and reflect on contemporary thinking with respect to missional leadership, especially as to how it might inform future curricular directions at Queen’s College. Archdeacon Peddle is familiar with the operation of the College, since he has been teaching there on a regular basis for the past few years. The Corporation is also grateful to Bishop Pitman for his support and encouragement to Dr. Mellis and Archdeacon Peddle in arranging this sabbatical. (Queen’s College) On Christmas Day, St. Thomas held its 7th Annual Christmas Day Dinner, for the community. We were joined by people of all walks and Faiths, to celebrate the Birth of Christ and feed them with not only food, but much needed fellowship and companionship as well. The Holy Spirit was very much in evidence, spreading the message of the Birth. (Parish of St. Thomas, St. John’s)
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ANGLICANLife
A gift for Queen’s College
Harvey Locke (left) and Rev’d Daphne Parsons (centre) presenting a cheque to Queen’s student Juanita Freeman (right). Photo: Harvey Locke Submitted by Harvey Locke
On 25 October 2008, St. Mary’s Parish, Clarenville, held its annual Thanksgiving Supper from which was realized a small profit. Instead of putting the money into the general operational funds for the Church, the Vestry decided to donate the money to a worthy cause. While there are many worthy causes, it was felt that it would be good to recognize the commitment and needs of students at Queen’s College. In keeping with the spirit of thanksgiving and realizing
their need for financial support, it was decided to offer the money as a gift to the Queen’s College Student Association to help with the needs of their membership while at the college. At a lunchtime meeting at Queen’s College on 25 November 2008, the Rev’d Daphne Parsons, Rector of the parish, accompanied by Harvey Locke, presented a cheque for six hundred dollars to Ms. Juanita Freeman, the treasurer of the Queen’s College Student Association.
February 2009
feature Queen’s College Student Profile: Terry Caines
Meaghan Whelan
It began with missionary work in Honduras and lay ministry at St. Paul’s church in the parish of Lewisporte. Terry Caines began to realize that God was calling him to ministry, but with a young family and a well-paying job, Terry didn’t pursue his calling immediately. Instead, he began a conversation with his family that eventually led him to study at Queen’s College in St. John’s. His wife, Deanne Caines, says it was a gradual process that led them to where they are today. They discussed moving to St. John’s for Terry to attend Queen’s, but they wanted to wait for the right time for the whole family, including daughter Katelynn. “We’d talk about it as a family and try to figure out what would be best for all of us,” she explained. “We decided to pray more about it and see what doors God would open for us.” Terry agreed. “I didn’t come home one day and say to Deanne and Katelynn ‘I think we’ll pack up and leave in September’. Everything we did, we did as a family, and we talked about it as a family and the things that would change and we made a decision to let God lead the way.” After Terry completed the Associate in Theology (from Queen’s) via distance education, and attended ACPO, the family realized it was time to move to St. John’s for him to become a fulltime student at
Queen’s. Katelynn, who was starting grade 7 at the time and is now in grade 8, says it was definitely an adventure. “It was a good experience to go from somewhere that you’re comfortable and step outside your comfort zone and realize everything is alright,” she said. “I knew that someday we would be moving and we talked a lot about it, so I think that The Caines family, including dog Kisi, helped a lot.” are looking forward to the new adventure. It’s clear Photo: Meaghan Whelan that the Caines family is a team. “In order for in the spring of 2009 receivme to be a good steward to ing his Bachelor of Theology God I have to be a good stew- degree. Although the family ard to my family, they play a doesn’t yet know when his major role in my life,” Terry ordination will take place or in said. “Deanne married me 17 which parish they’ll be placed, years ago. The path we’ve they are prepared for the next chosen has been interesting phase of their adventure. As and also very affirming. Katelynn said, “We have each We’ve had tremendous sup- other and we will make home port from our home parishes wherever we are.” (Lewisporte/Grand Bank) and “We just want to love God of course our families. The and love the people, and Queen’s community is very hopefully they’ll love us too,” sharing and welcoming.” said Terry. Terry is set to convocate
Celebration of a new ministry in Seal Cove parish The Rev’d Jason Haggstrom was inducted into the Parish of Seal Cove in the Diocese of Western Newfoundland last December 2008. Rev’d Haggstrom’s Covenant in Ministry was the first to be implemented in the Diocese under a new system . The Parish is preparing a stragetic plan through the spring of 2009. In the picture in the back row (left to right) is Archdeacon Ed King (Diocesan Executive Officer), Bishop Percy Coffin and the Rev’d Jason Haggstrom (Rector). In the middle row is Glen Banks (Parish Council CoChair and Warden), Gary Rideout (Warden - Seal Cove), Alymer Osbourne (Parish Council Treasurer), The Rev. Canon John Meade (Regional Dean - Deer Lake). The front row is Eric Robinson (Warden- Seal Cove), Havelock Jacobs (Warden Westport-Purbecks Cove), Annie Jacobs (Warden Westport-Purbeck’s Cove), The Rev. Canon Roberta Woodman (Co-ordinator for Congregational Development and Stewardship), and Vera Burton (Warden - Baie Verte). Photo by Golda Rideout