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February 2010
ANGLICANLife FEBRUARY 2010
in NEWFOUNDLAND
&
LABRADOR
A Section of the ANGLICAN JOURNAL
LENTEN JOURNEY God of the day and of the night, in me there is darkness, but with you there is light. I am alone, but you will not leave me. I am weak, but you will come to my help. I am restless, but you are my peace. I am in haste, but you are the God of infinite patience. I am confused and lost, but you are eternal wisdom and you direct my path; now and for ever. Amen –Dietrich Bonhoeffer, 1906-1945 SERVING THE ANGLICAN DIOCESES OF WESTERN NEWFOUNDLAND + CENTRAL NEWFOUNDLAND + EASTERN NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
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News from the Canadian Church A unique Nativity scene Towards an indigenous northern Ont. diocese The Northern Ontario Region of the diocese of Keewatin took another step toward establishing its own indigenous diocese in November when its General Assembly met to decide how to elect its own bishop in November. Sixteen communities in the region have been working towards the goal of having their own diocese since 2006, using their own financial resources to hold meetings in tcommunities only accessible by air. The way forward became clearer at the June synod of the ecclesiastical province of Rupert’s Land when the canon was amended to allow alternate methods of electing a bishop. In October, another preliminary step was taken when a “bishop’s fund “was established at an elders’ forum. The Keewatin
New church hall in Fredericton With the help of a $115,000 loan from the Anglican Foundation, the congregation at St. John the
Evangelist in Fredericton has started construction of a new church hall. The new facility will contain offices, a professional kitchen and a large hall. While the maximum loan amount granted by the Anglican Foundation loan is $100,000, this was increased after financial market turmoil left St. John $15,000 short of the funding required. The New Brunswick Anglican
Raising the roof at Camp Caledonia Renovations at Camp Caledonia are progressing on budget. Four camper cabins that were sitting on decaying wooden foundations have been raised, squared up and set down on concrete foundations. They have been stripped of the old bunks, re-wired, re-insulated and re-fitted with energy efficient windows. The staff house has also been gutted and redesigned, and will be equipped with a kitchen and wheelchair accessible bathroom. One cabin will also be wheelchair accessible. The 2010
camping season will be shortened to allow for completion before camping begins in August. Caledonia Times
Ministry at Penitentiary
Sask.
Correctional Services Canada selected the diocese of Saskatchewan to provide chaplaincy services at the Saskatchewan Penitentiary. Rev. Joanne Beacon has been appointed to the ministry. “Over the past year, we have provided worship and communion at the Saskatchewan Penitentiary and the Prince Albert Correctional Centre,” Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson reported in his charge to the diocese of Saskatchewan synod in the fall. “Some of our members were involved in a very successful Alpha program at the Riverbend Institution,” he said. The diocese also received a $6,000 grant from the New England Company to assist with prison ministry. The Saskatchewan Anglican
For the past 30 years, St. George’s Anglican Church in Cormack has displayed an unusual nativity scene. Designed and constructed by Warwick Hewitt (pictured above), a member of the congregation and a graduate of the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, these figures made of chicken wire and plaster of Paris were presented to the church in 1979 as a Christmas gift. This original work of art adds greatly to the awe and wonder of the Christmas season. Warwick is quoted as saying that each piece was made with the utmost reverence and love for the Lord. Submitted by Mona Edwards.
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February 2010
stewardship
Hospitality - a home in the world of worship It’s quite common in our churches to have a cup of tea or coffee after a service. It usually gives some quality time for parishioners to chat with their fellow worshipers. However, I recently read an article that takes this fellowship theme and expands it considerably. The article, written by Henry G. Brinton in USA Today Today, suggests that churches are rediscovering the power of hospitality which goes back thousands of years bringing up images of Jesus feeding the 5000 people by the Sea of Galilee. But Brinton wonders what happened along the way: “Christianity suddenly became a more intellectual enterprise after the Protestant Reformation, when churches split into different
denominations over theological issues. Preachers and teachers tried to attract followers with compelling insights and ideas. The focus of the faith shifted from the heart to the head, leaving the stomach behind.” Rev. Brinton goes on to say that congregations are trying to provide more than intellectual nourishment by putting restaurants and coffee bars in their buildings. He says, “In our polarized and fractured society, people of different back grounds are invited to come together in these houses of God to have conversation over a meal or a drink – in spite of their differences.” He quotes Christine Pohl, author of Making Room: Recovering Hospitality as a Christian Tradi-
tion, “When we welcome other people into our lives, we create space in which each person’s gifts and insights can be shared.” As I read that article, I could not help but reflect on the webpage of the Parish of the Resurrection: “The Emmaus Room Cafe is open daily to the community and wider region from 11am to 2pm serving lunch and refreshments. Breakfast is served every Sunday morning at 9am. We host a Senior’s Cafe the 1st Thursday of each month beginning at 2pm; and a youth Cafe the 1st & 3rd Saturday’s of each month. Wireless internet is available. All are welcome.” Much the same goes for the Congregation of St. Thomas who hosts a community dinner following the
St. Mark’s welcomes rector
Christmas morning church service. Their web page states: “This is a chance for anyone in the community to receive a free Christmas dinner with lots of fellowship and musical entertainment. This takes place in the Canon Wood Hall. Reservations must always be made to ensure we have enough food and space for everyone.” Rev. Brinton cautions: “Clearly, shared meals are not a quick fix for the divisions we face in church and society. Theological debates will continue, misunderstandings will still vex us, and not all church-based restaurants will serve a greater good. But every time people sit down to eat and drink together, there is the possibility that commu-
Kevin Smith
nity will grow and people will be reconciled to one another.” I agree with Rev. Brinton that there is much potential of such meals, and certainly something we can all raise a glass to toast.
Kevin Smith is the gift planning consultant for the Anglican Church of Canada. He can be contacted at (709) 739-5667 or by email k_smith@nf.sympatico.ca
The Rev’d Wayne Short (centre) is inducted as Rector of the Parish of St. Mark the Evangelist On 3 December 2009, St. Mark the Evangelist welcomed the Rev. Dr. G. Wayne Short at the celebration and service of Induction and Covenanting with The Rt. Rev. Cyrus Pitman, Bishop of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador. The guest preacher was The Rev. Canon Ralph Billard. The worship concluded with lunch prepared by the A.C.W. and fellowship. The parish warmly welcomes Rev. Wayne, Sheila and their son, Peter, to this church family. Submitted by Stella Evans Photo by Kevin Smith
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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
Do not make assumptions On February 2nd we commemorate the first time the infant Jesus was brought to church! The Holy Spirit had told a devout man named Simeon that he would not die without seeing Christ. Simeon looked at Jesus in the Temple and then said to God, “my eyes have seen your salvation.” For twenty centuries, the Church has existed for this one reason: to show Christ to the world. The Church shows Christ so that people will see the self–defeating emptiness of existence without God, will instead “have life and have it abundantly” (John 10.10), will “die to sin” (stop being separated from God) and become “alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Romans 6.11), and will be able to say with St. Paul that “it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2.20). Bishop Dennis Drainville of Quebec said recently that while the Anglican Church retains the
essence of Christ’s risen life, “we don’t know how to present this to society” (Anglican Journal, December 2009). We do not present Christ in a way that leads those outside the Church to what the Bishop called a “transformational relationship with God.” The Anglican Church has, historically, perpetuated itself by passing on its faith and customs to the next generation as a matter of cultural identity and social order. Attendance at Church was an inherent social good and morally necessary to the unity and preservation of society. But now, as commitment to common social values is replaced by commitment to personal autonomy, this way of perpetuating the Church fails. The principal action of the Anglican Church is eucharistic worship. A very high degree of Christian understanding and commitment is assumed at Sunday worship. The liturgy speaks
guest editorial The Rev. Timothy Parker Rector of Carbonear
to people who know God and it speaks for those people to God. But the liturgy does not speak to people who do not know God. The liturgy is not designed for this purpose. But the Church’s mission is to present Christ to the world so that people outside the Church can have a life– transforming experience of God! With the demise of the Anglican Church a very real and present danger, we are finally forced to re–consider our purpose and our practices. We must be willing to participate in and contribute to radical and wide–ranging change in how we understand ourselves, our faith, and the mission of the Church or we will forfeit our God–given reason to exist. “May we, who share His body, live His risen life; we, who drink His cup, bring life to others; we, whom the Spirit lights, give light to the world” (BAS 214).
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-in-Chief, 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: 22,961
Cursillo workshop in Botwood On 9 January 2010, the Cursillistas from the Parish of Botwood came together for a Cursillo Group Reunion Workshop presented by Mrs. Sylvia Moss and Mr. Norman Purchase (Parish of Salvage). The workshop opened with prayers and singing. All members were reminded of what it means to be cursillistas and of the guidelines that would ensure the success of group reunions. A very inspiring talk was given by Ms. Linda Newhook (Parish of Salvage), on the benefits of being a member of a Cursillo Group Reunion. An interesting sharing session, good fellowship and a delicious lunch was enjoyed by all. It was very refreshing to come together with other Cursillistas to praise the Lord and to experience the presence and love of Jesus Christ. Submitted by Daphne and Myles Parsons. Photo by Marilyn Chatman.
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February 2010
straight talk
Christian apologetics Christian apologetics may be defined as that branch of Christian theology which seeks to provide rational warrant for Christianity’s truth claims. Essentially it is a rational defence of the Christian faith against critics. Those who argue the truth of Christianity and recommend their faith to outsiders are called apologists. Christian apologetics have taken many forms over the centuries starting with Paul of Tarsus (Apostle Paul). Tertullian (ca 155230), one of the earliest Christian apologists, was the first who qualified Christianity as the ‘vera religio’ (“True Religion”) over against other accepted
cults and religious practices of his day. Twentieth century author and apologist, C.S. Lewis, made a similar claim. In his defence of the person of Jesus Christ he argued that he was either a lunatic or the person he claimed to be, the Son of God. There is no half measure. Either you believe it or you don’t. It seems that today in this post modern, pluralistic society in which we live this message has gotten watered down, diluted, semitasteless. In our attempts to be polite and to be politically correct – dare we offend anyone! – The truth(s) of Christianity has become an ‘idea’, one claim among many. After all, we all be-
lieve in the one God, do we? My argument is that we don’t. Christ has revealed to us such a radical nature of God’s grace, forgiveness, compassion and mercy that no other religion stands to compare. While there are elements of all major religions that overlap, Christianity is unique in many ways. Religion by its very nature is ‘exclusive’, i.e., you do it our way and abide by our rules. Those who do are in and those who do not are out. This is not the nature of God manifested in Christ. Christianity is ‘inclusive’ and has always been. Jesus rejected no one, absolutely NO one. The poor, the persecuted, the
prostitute, the leper, the marginalized, the demon possessed, you name them, they all found acceptance through the grace of Christ. Jesus’ battled religious exclusivism. The only people Jesus encountered and were in opposition to were those who adhered to religious rules and regulations (barriers) at the exclusion of others seeking God. And the amazing thing is that he still loved them; still he forgave them. “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” I am all for ecumenism and interfaith dialogue. Talk we must to learn from and about each other, to appreciate each other’s religion and to remove any sus-
The Rev. Greg Mercer
picion that may give rise to threat. And cooperate we must, especially on those evils that destroy God’s creation – poverty, terrorism, etc. But let’s not apologize for what we believe, but rather, be duly prepared at all times to defend our faith in the true spirit of Christian Apologetics.
HMCS Fredericton - an answer to prayer Article Padre Lt(N) Jennifer Gosse and Lt(N) Chris Grant
Mombasa, Kenya - Ringing in the New Year took on special importance for HMCS Fredericton. On January 1st, during a port visit to Mombasa, Kenya, 30 members of Fredericton started their year by volunteering to help out at a girl’s hostel in need of help. Run by the Mother’s Union, an international Christian women’s organization, the hostel was founded in 1996 to create a safe place where girls could stay in Mombasa while receiving an education. Traditionally, Kenyan girls are often married at a very young age or sent to the cities to look for
work as a housekeeper. Many end up living on the streets and become sex trade workers. In 2004, a cornerstone was laid for a two-storey hostel. The ground floor was completed and houses 32 girls. The second storey was built, but not habitable. The Mother’s Union did not have the money and asked various levels of government for support; their requests were turned down. That is where Fredericton stepped in. Using funds designed to
advance the Government of Canada’s fostering of good governance, development, reconstruction and humanitarian assistance, Fredericton requested and received the
years to come. On New Year’s Day, volunteers from the ship arrived at the hostel, armed with scrapers, paint, rollers and brushes and all set to work.
necessary money to help. This project was identified as it will have far reaching impacts in Mombasa and for the girls living at the shelter for
The walls were prepared, plastered, primed and painted. By the end of the day, eight rooms were in “move in” condition. The Ship’s
Company also donated several boxes of gifts, items from the canteen as well as personal items for the girls when they returned after their New Year’s break. However, much more work remained to be done. Using additional funds, Fredericton’s Logistics Officer, Lieutenant (Navy) Chris Grant, organized additional projects with a local contractor for the hostel, focused on safety and hygiene items. Projects will include completion of all washroom plumbing and ceramics, electrical conduits, a septic field, windows, doors and locks, anti-malarial mosquito netting, and painting of ground floor rooms. And to make life a little more comfortable, the ship purchased 64 new mattresses, pillows and linen and an additional 32 solid wooden bed frames for the girls. This means that when all this work is finished, 64 young girls will have a safe place to stay, to go to school, and become productive members of their communities. The staff at the hostel was overjoyed at the work already accomplished and what is yet to be done. The matron described Fredericton as an “answer to prayer” and that they received their very own miracle on the first day of 2010. The members of the ship’s company who volunteered described the day as a most fitting way to begin 2010.
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Multi-generational baptism Article and Photo Rev’d Canon John Meade
Three generations baptized in one day: The Rev’d Canon John Meade (right) of the Parish of Deer Lake had the honour of baptizinginfant Luke, his father, Winston and his great-grandmother, Shirley.
On Sunday, December 20th, St. Michael’s and All Angels, Deer Lake was the scene for the Sacrament of Holy Baptism with multigenerational candidates, all from the same family. Along with the infant Luke,
his father, Winston and his great-grandmother, Shirley, were presented and baptised. What a moving experience this was, not only for the immediate family, but also our entire Church family. Such an event is
uncommon, thus we give the Holy Spirit thanks and praise for bringing each of these candidates to the waters of baptism and into the household of God.
St. Thomas’ Christmas Dinner Article & Photo Jean White-Coady
Wow, what a party was held at St. Thomas’ Parish Hall on Christmas Day to celebrate Christ’s Birthday. It was truly amazing! We could all feel the spirit of warmth, hospitality, laughter, music and kindness. For the last eight years, St. Thomas’ Church on Military Road in St. John’s has hosted a community Christmas Dinner following their Christmas morning church service. This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone in the community to receive a free Christmas dinner, on Christmas Day, with lots of fellow-
ship and musical entertainment. It is also an opportunity for spiritual fellowship and the need we all have at this time of the year for human contact. This year 393 dinners were served either on location in Canon Wood Hall or delivered to people in their homes, hospitals, hotel rooms, or boarding houses. The success of this outreach ministry is dependent solely upon our dedicated volunteers and donations from the community-atlarge, both individuals and businesses.
Five generations of faith St. Michael’s
Olympians
Five Generations: (left to right) Gladys Brophy (95) Formerly of Daniel’s Harbour, NL now residing at the Interfaith Home in Corner Brook, Inez Hall, Daniel’s Harbour, NL, Lorraine Dimmer, Pasadena, NL, Robyn Dimmer, Sylvan Lake, Alberta, Bella Stevie Brake (6 Months), Sylvan Lake, Alberta. Bella Stevie Brake was Baptised atHoly Trinity Anglican Church in Meadows on January 3rd, 2010 wearing her Great-Great Grandmother Gladys Brophy’s 95 year old Christening gown. Submitted by Lorraine Dimmer.
St. Michael’s Olympians: Parishioners of the Church of St. Michael & All Angels in St. John’s, Phyllis Weir and Egbert Walters were selected as Torch Bearers when the Olympic Torch relay came to the Capitol City. Phyllis ran from the Basilica to Rawlins’s Cross, and Egbert ran the last challenging stretch up Signal Hill to Cabot Tower. Submitted by Georgia LeMessurier.
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February 2010
New Layreader in King’s Cove Article Colleen Abbott
Photo Paul Abbott
Newly commissioned Lay Minister Colleen Abbott (left) stands with her priest The Rev’d Jim Pollard and her son Joshua.
Rev’d Jim Pollard, the Priest in Charge in the Parish of King’s Cove, commissioned Colleen Abbott as the first Lay Minister in that parish on The Third Sunday of Advent (December 13, 2009) at her home congregation of St. Mark’s Church in Summerville. She was presented with her scarf by her
son, Joshua and her husband, Paul. Joshua has cerebral palsy but is a very important part of the congregation of St. Mark’s. Joyce Fry, also of St. Mark’s congregation presented Colleen with her certificate. May God’s blessing be with her as she ministers His way to the people in this Parish.
40 years a priest Article and Photo Stella Walsh
On Sunday, November 29, 2009, St. Martin’s Cathedral in Gander held a celebration service and cup of tea to mark Reverend Harvey Bullen’s fortieth anniversary in the Priesthood. Experiencing a call to serve the Lord while still a youth is one of the factors that contributed to Reverend Bullen’s many years of dedicated work in ministry. Others include being raised in a very supportive environment, being encouraged and supported by his wife and children, and staying centered in knowing that service is a vocation of following Jesus. Reverend Bullen was deaconed on September 22, 1968 and priested on May 15, 1969. He began his service in Flowers Cove (19681970), and then moved to Gander, where he remained. During the seventies, he served as the Priest-incharge (Pro-tem) for the parishes of Gambo, Lewisporte and Gander Bay. During his forty years of service, Reverend Bullen has been involved in many and varied ministries, some
The Rev’d Harvey Bullen
of which were considered fairly innovative at the time. One such position involved working with the Gander school board as Supervisor of Religious Education. The congregation of St. Martin’s was delighted to celebrate this milestone with Reverend Harvey. He
is a strong and calm anchor in the sometimes-turbulent waters of church life. His family and friends want to thank him for all of his years of dedication and wish him every blessing in the future.
Prayer is on the menu in Rocky Harbour Article and Photo Shirley Dominie
For the past five years, a group of women, led by Doris Pittman, have been meeting monthly in the basement of St. Matthew’s church for a prayer brunch. Each month, we gather to read scripture, sing hymns and pray. We have a special time of prayer where we go around the table and each person has an opportunity to pray for friends and family. There is a time for sharing as well. We bring little things that have caught our attention. It might be a short story, a poem or a joke. We have shared laughs and tears over the years.
Attendance ranges from twelve to twenty-five during any given month. We have welcomed women from other congregations as well. There is no commitment demanded. No one is asked to “join” something. All are welcome to attend one brunch or every brunch. We meet at 11 am and break for lunch at about 12 noon. Our time together offers a wonderful opportunity for all to share in fellowship as well as a meal We are grateful to Doris Pittman for her leadership and for searching out new materials on prayer for us to use.
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Becoming an Anglican - part 1 Article Debbie Kaba
This is the first in a threepart series of one woman’s journey into the Anglican Church through participating in the Liturgy. The Rev. Joe Burton, retired United Church pastor, has observed my transition from non-denominational, charismatic Holy Roller to Anglican wannabe and suggested I use the writing skills God has blessed me with to reflect on this. He reminded me that during the 70s, many people migrated from mainline denominations to non-denominational churches; during this current decade God is calling many people back. This article depicts a small part of my personal journey. My prayer is that my words may build bridges of understanding and acceptance within the Christian community. I didn’t push open the heavy, glass door because Father Westcott was already opening it as he offered me a big smile, a handshake, a hug and what seemed like sincere joy that I was there. After talking to me a few minutes, he asked one of the women to show me around. Having arrived early, I sat quietly in the beautiful oratory experiencing the solitude yet feeling a bit of discomfort at the strange surroundings. A couple moved into the pew behind me and after prayer, introduced themselves. When I told them this was my first time in an Anglican church; they moved beside me and offered to help me find my place in the printed liturgy hand-out. The first several weeks, Ruth and Bill Wells, took this charge seriously and greeted me, sat by me, helped me find my place in the liturgy hand-out, encouraged me and answered question after question. The gift of their time and attention may have felt like a minor thing to them; but it was major for me. The liturgy is now on multimedia presentation so newcomers don’t need so much handson training. After each liturgy, people came up, shook my hand, looked me in the face and showed a
sincere interest in me. From peg in a square hole? Could preschooler because most of the very first day, I felt val- they accept some of my my conversations started ued as a person and at home “weirdness” and awkward- with “Why?” But each pain the parish. I felt loved, ness as I adapted? Could tiently supplied answer accepted and not recruited. they accept any “weirdness” deepened my understanding I wanted more of that ac- if there were areas where I of the Anglican experience. ceptance and love; not only couldn’t adapt? Could I ac- As I grasped the elementary because it made me feel cept their opinions, rituals elements of the liturgy, I good; but I wanted to learn and beliefs? Would my had the choice to observe by by example how to give God’s love to others. When I first felt God leading me from a charism a t i c church to Parish of the Resurrection, I wondered how I’d ever adapt to the rituals of the liturgy. Would I always feel lost and needing others The entrance to the Oratory of the Church of the Resurrection in South River to help me find my place on the hand-out? change to Anglican cause rote or discover ways to Would the liturgy move me to lose my friends from participate with intentionfrom the hand-out to heart- the charismatic church? Af- ality. Below are several of felt? Would I become ter two years of being ac- the answers to my questions bored? How long would I tive in the parish, I can only that enriched my experience sense God after the weekly say God is doing a miracle. of the liturgy: One of my first quesroutine became familiar? God feels more alive in my Would my spirituality dry heart and I believe He’s tions was “Why do people up and die? Would I feel I growing my faith to new touch the baptismal water?” had a niche in the liturgical heights through the Angli- I was told it was a way to church community or can Church and the liturgy. renew and recommit to our would I feel like a round At times I felt like a baptismal vows. Of course,
I needed to ask what vows. I’d heard of the Apostle’s Creed so I looked it up on the Internet and printed it out. I loved the words and read them several times a week so when I’d touch the water, I realized my act of recommitment when I would pray for a greater faith to believe the creed and to have it actively growing and working in my life. This is now one way I intentionally prepare my heart to receive the graces of the liturgy. As I touch the water and cross my forehead with it, I am also declaring myself God’s own as is done during baptism. Touching the water when leaving the oratory reminds me that my “service” does not end when the liturgy is complete but through the liturgy, my service to God and to others is refreshed, renewed and ready to begin again with new vigor. I have attended liturgy in Anglican parishes that do not have an open font; however, when I see the font, it is my signal to mentally recommit and renew my baptismal vows and to choose to intentionally participate in my spiritual journey.
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February 2010
let us pray
A Rule of Life Living your Baptism requires a life-long commitment, a plan and a discipline. A Rule of Life is a form of discipline to help you follow Jesus and become his disciples. It provides a context and creates an atmosphere to help you imitate Christ. It is not just a set of rules: it is a personal covenant with God to live your baptism step by step. It is a decision to live your life under God in intentional and specific ways. It consists of promises you make to God to undertake this way of living aided by his grace. You can make a Rule for a set time, e.g. six months,
and at the end review and gauge your faithfulness to it. You may then renew your Rule keeping it the same or reducing it if it has proved too demanding or expanding it if you want to take another step. The Rule attempts to give direction to your life to ensure balance and to be as inclusive as possible. Here are some suggestions to consider: Worship and prayer; Bible and spiritual reading; ministry/service re parish, workplace, community and use of your skills/ gifts; good health re exercise, diet and leisure; using your intellect re reading, radio, television, courses
The Rev. Everett Hobbs
and computer; witnessing to your faith; social justice issues; relationships re family, friends, others; morality and ethics re values, temptations, integrity; journal and dream work; stewardship, retreat, solitude, fasting, soul friend, care of the environment. Here is an example of how to make a Rule: • I will worship at least once a Sunday; I will pray daily (at set times); • I will read the Bible daily; I will do other spiritual reading; • I will serve in the parish; • I will volunteer in the community;
• I will exercise ___ minutes/hours a day; • I will make Sunday a day of rest; • I will engage in one creative activity • I will read one hour a day • I will witness to Jesus by... • I will support at least one initiative re social justice • I will keep regular contact with family and friends • I will examine my moral values in light of God’s purpose and will, and act on them • I will make an annual budget, and give ___% of
columnist
Sharing God’s love Love is the greatest thing in the world. We w r i t e about it, talk about it, and sing about it. “Love is as strong as death” (Song of S o n g s 8:6). Who can resist the power of true love? N o t everybody experiences or exercises true love. We may love others because they once showed love to us. We may
love others because we want them to love us in the
future. We may love those who are attractive. We may love those who agree
with us. But true love is unselfish, unconditional, and sacrificial. It has to do with God. True love is a free gift from God to unmerited people. God loves all people everywhere, not just the favoured ethnic or religious groups. Unfortun a t e l y many people do not believe that God really loves them. They need to take a few
my income to Church and charities • I will protect the environment. • Your signature and the date. Include any of the above that are relevant. Don’t try too much first time. Why not do it for Lent? Remember the words of Thomas Merton:”To obey it is not necessary to love, but to love it is necessary to obey.” Some books: The Cost of Discipleship (Dietrich Bonheoffer); Discipleship (David Watson); St Benedict’s Toolbox (Jane Tomaine).
minutes to read the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son (Luke 15:3-32). In these parables, Jesus illustrated God’s love for us. Jesus showed us how to love. While He was on earth He cared when people were hungry or thirsty. He saw people both as souls to be saved and persons to be served. His fourfold ministry of preaching, teaching, healing, and redeeming was God’s love in action. Jesus showed us how to live. He gave us life beyond death. Beyond the grave He gave us hope: “Because I live, you will live also” (John 14:19b). He also showed us the immortality of God’s love. Our eternal home is a gift of God’s
30 Roe Avenue, P.O. Box 348, Gander, NL A1V 1W7 Telephone: (709) 651-4100 Fax: (709) 256-2957 email: info@waltershoffe.com
The Rev. Michael Li
love. God provided the gift of eternal life for those who would believe (John 3:16). Some Christians are said to be so spiritually minded that they are not of any earthly good. In other words, they do not have time to love or care because they have their heads in the clouds. We should not be cloud sitting. We should share God’s love with others. God loves us first. We are employed in the business of sharing God’s love with others. Our response to God’s love leads to action. Love is eager to serve and to give. We may take special care to love our neighbour, or to nurture a special love for our friends or the members of our household. Indeed, with God’s love flowing through us, we can build homes, churches, and communities, and live in harmony with God and each other. No one is perfect. No one loves and cares all the time. The real issue is wanting to love more and care more today than we did yesterday. Let us continue to share God’s love with others in God’s world!
ANGLICANLife - www.anglicanlife.blogspot.com
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Thomas Grantham - yet again Our History David Davis
The document below was found by the writer while looking at the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel (SPG) Nova Scotia records on microfilm at the Provincial Archives/ the Rooms. In a previous article in this publication (March 2007) we were introduced to Mr. Thomas A. Grantham who was meant to be the missionary at Placentia. However, that mission had virtually no Anglicans and there was a strong desire by the people for a mission at Burin, across Placentia Bay. Mr. Grantham was chosen to go to Burin (c.1816-17). Mr. Grantham did not stay long at Burin because
he didn’t think the people were supportive of his efforts. So he obtained a move to the mission of Yarmouth, on the southern tip of Nova Scotia, almost in the Tropics. Mr. Grantham came to St John’s on his way to Yarmouth and agreed to fill in for the missionary there so that he could go on leave to England. However, Mr. Grantham had developed the habit of spending money before the parishes and the SPG had approved. These expenditures seem to have started in Burin and may have been why Mr. Grantham stayed there only a couple of years. The treasurer of the SPG challenged
some of his spending and the way he drew his salary. He soon built up £120 in expenses that were being challenged. There seems to be another issue: Mr. Grantham had left St John’s before the new missionary, Mr. John Carrington arrived. There was probably an understanding that Mr. Grantham would not leave St. John’s without a priest. This may have raised issues about Mr. Grantham’s drawing his salary in advance. All this trouble and Mr. Grantham had not reached Yarmouth. The steps in his progress from Burin to St John’s to Halifax only caused him more grief.
The Document Halifax, Nova Scotia July 14th, 1819 Dear Sir It is with much concern I continue to avail myself of the indulgence granted to me by the Board - Removals are very expensive and I was obliged to add to it by coming to this place - I have drawn for the half year’s Salary in advance - I wrote to you from St John’s stating the account I received from the Treasurer who appears to be unacquainted with the circumstances and the allowances granted to me by the Board for my removals - You will have the kindness to explain two him & lay before the Society my grateful thanks for their liberality Mr. Carrington was daily expected when I left St John’s on the 16th of last month - I was obliged to take this place on my way to Yarmouth - there was no probability of a vessel direct & I am now delayed here from the same cause - I was one & twenty days upon the Passage - I hope & trust I shall not be detained for any considerable time I have the honor to be Dear Sir - Yours Obed’lly Thos. A Grantham
Prayer and visitation vital to All Saints’, CBS Article Mona Caines
How important is prayer on your faith journey? As believers, we surely cannot live without that connection with our Heavenly Father. In the Old Testament, David asked for courage to fight Goliath; he asked for forgiveness for his adultery affair with Bathsheba. Also Daniel prayed to God on a regular time each day even though it was forbidden to pray. In Thessalonians 5: 17, the early Christians were told to pray without ceasing. Jesus would go to a quiet place and spend time talking to His Heavenly Father. Here at All Saints Church in Conception Bay South, we have three Prayer Teams. The first group is called the “Along-Siders.” They are senior members of our congregation. Some are active workers and some are unable to attend Church. A list of activities in the Parish is passed to this group for prayer. The Second group is the “Parish Prayer Group.” They are contacted by
phone. Each request is passed on to one another making up a Prayer Chain. Knowing that a person is prayed for is very comforting to that individual. At 10:00 a.m. Sunday morning, there is another prayer ministry. It is called “The Chapel Prayer.” All are welcomed! Each who attends participates in a special time of prayer for the worship that morning, for each one who will lead in the service and pray for the sick. We also pray for worldwide leaders of our Church, for our congregation and youth/children. Sometimes there may even be a crisis that morning and so this request is given unto the Lord. Some may wish to be quiet and pray alone. The music, the laughter of the people coming in for worship, gives us such a joyful feeling. What a gift if the chapel is full - but just one will be so welcome! Prayer is the foundation of our Christian walk. It enables us to keep striving to love the Lord with all our heart and mind and body and to show His love for others. Another vital ministry at All Saints’ Church is our
visitation to the Personal Care Homes in the area. We are in our 27th year of active ministry. Isn’t it amazing how God continues to use us when we are willing to give ourselves to Him in service to others? Our weekly visits take us to one of the thirteen homes in Conception Bay South. Some residents have been here since I was a little girl. In 1981 I felt God was calling me to active ministry to those people. For me it is living out the instructions that Jesus gave to His disciples in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5) and as believers today this should still be part of your mission. “Jesus said blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven...Blessed are the
peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God” When we arrive at the home, the residents are at the door or looking out the window waiting for us. Seeing their faces when we sing a favourite hymn or read a familiar Bible passage, you know they have been blessed. Some may nod their heads or fall asleep, some may not be attentive to the worship, but when the Eucharist is given out, it is received with such humility. When possible, we are joined by a member of one of our praise bands. This certainly adds to the pleasure. We usually end with a couple of “hand-clappers.” Sometimes before we leave, some will want you to come to their room to show you
their latest gift or some pictures from their family. If there is someone too miserable to get out of bed, they expect you to say hello and have a prayer. Prayer and Visitation are just two of the many important ministries in our Parish of All Saints. Both are truly rewarding and we are blessed by God to serve Him in these ways.
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ANGLICANLife
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February 2010
columnist
Unto the least of these... Retirement presents so many opportunities to enjoy service to others. Serving others, as I discovered, brings as much joy to the one serving as to those served. I have had amazing experiences myself. As a “Friendly Visitor” I see many wonderful people in the hospitals and senior’s homes each week. The sick, lonely, and elderly residents respond so warmly to a “Friendly Visitor.” Leaving them with a smile is, I believe, a major achievement. Often a visit to the sick can provide an unexpected spiritual experience. I want to share with you this personal encounter. One afternoon while visiting patients at the Waterford, I entered a small
room where a middle-age woman was laying on a single bed. I was told that this lady could not speak. I approached her smiling warmly but she kept staring straight ahead. She gave me no response. I spoke kindly to her, but again no response. I held her hand and the same non-reaction. After a while I decided to leave to make visits to the other Wards. As I walked away, I had an urge to go back to this lady, so I did. Still there was no response. I left again. I got to her door when it seemed that a voice in my head told me to go back to her once more. I felt I was wasting time and I that I should be visiting the other residents. But I went back. When I spoke
to her this time, the lady cried heavily. I tried to comfort her, as if she was a child. I embraced her as she sobbed. I wiped away her tears. Then she looked straight into me it seemed. Her eyes bored into my soul. She licked her lips, I asked if she was thirsty. She nodded yes. On a small table nearby there was a glass of juice. I held it to her mouth and she gulped it down. The she looked at me with the most radiant smile, as her eyes glowed. I hugged her and hurried towards the door concerned that I must now visit others before closing time. My thoughts were of the other residents I had to visit. Then that same voice
stopped me in my tracks. It said clearly, “In as much as you have done it unto one of the least of these, you have done it unto Me.” I took Jesus’ statement literally. Looking back at the woman I thought that as I comforted her, I was comforting Jesus himself. I have Him a drink when He was very thirsty. I was you might say “transfixed.” This feeling went through me that still defies description and has stayed with me for a long time. You might be thinking that I have a hyperactive imagination. Perhaps so. At the time however I was not really thinking about Jesus. I was anxious about being late to the other Wards.
Ronald Clarke
Sharing a very personal experience like this can be difficult. But it does clearly imply that visiting the needy is a Godly thing to do. The rewards to the giver are truly substantial and worthwhile. You may be thinking, “I can’t do that!” But you can! All you need is a genuine love for others. I am certain that God will tell you what to do or say. Just show people that you love them.
Organist retires after 50 years Article & Photo George Kean
Mrs. Pearl Kean of Pound Cove, Bonavista Bay recently retired as organist of St. Mary’s Church after 50 years of playing and serving the Lord. Pearl is a very active member of her parish and she is involved in every capacity of Church life. From Superintendant of Sunday School to a long
Pearl Kean
time member of ACW, Pearl could be counted on for anything. When not in Church, Pearl could be seen playing her guitar and singing hymns to other seniors while visiting retirement home. She is an inspiration to everyone who knows and her faith and belief in God shows in everything she does. Her eld-
est son George said, “When we were young lads, Mom would make sure we attended Church in morning and afternoon. If there was Church somewhere else in the night we were required to go before we went out anywhere.” Her ministry as organist will be surely missed.
ANGLICANLife - www.anglicanlife.blogspot.com
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You hLife youth ministry news
Wanted: Children in Church? Don’t drop your cupcake!
We are all familiar with the “traditional” way of things, service for the adults, nursery for the little ones and Sunday school or “children’s church” for the bigger ones – until they’re old enough to be quiet during the service. I know it may seem outlandish, but maybe we’d best move on from the sentiment that children should be seen and not heard in church. We are all called to worship, and the children are an important part of the family of God. I read a lot about what is happening in the more, shall I say, contemporary realm of churchgoing. I read an interesting article recently all about the place of children in the church service. The writer commented on some of the things she discovered churches are doing to help integrate children into worship, rather than sending them off to play while the adults have a more solemn service. We don’t have to dumb down the whole service, but rather fashion it to be a teaching experience for everyone – I’ve seen our bishop do this very nicely with his
message during a confirmation service, explaining just what all those prayers and stuff means – I think I even learned a thing or two! A service incorporating children doesn’t necessarily have to be entertainment oriented with projection screens and guitars and songs with actions. One church learned that just by having multiple shorter messages rather than a single long sermon everyone was more engaged. And it’s really easy to have children take part in the service doing some of the readings. My favorite suggestion had to be this one: mention children’s concerns in the prayers along with those of adults. That’s brilliant! It will help to demonstrate the value placed on all God’s children, and let the kids know that all of their prayers and concerns are heard. Ok, I know you might be thinking that this is a bit radical. Don’t get me wrong - I love the traditional form of service too, but in order to appeal to those young families we all want to see join the church we will have to embrace
Allison Billard
new ideas. I’m not saying these things would work everywhere, and certainly churches don’t have to change all their services to a new model, but it’s time we start thinking outside the box. Maybe it’s time for a new service, at a different time (like those Saturday services we’ve heard so much about) or maybe it’s something we could try once a month during a traditional Sunday service time. There are lots of options; we just need to explore them. There is one thing I know for sure: the segregation must end. Being a part of the service will help the little ones and their families to grow together in God’s love and form a right relationship with Him – which, after all, is part of the mandate of the Church, right?
Confirmation in Lark Harbour
The traditional Christmas Pageant is alive and well at St. Augustine’s Church in Margaree - Fox Roost. On December 20, 2009, the church full was filled with children dressed in their finest to entertain family and friends with songs and a skit. In the above photo, Emma examines her cupcake while sister Hayley ensures she doesn’t drop it. Submitted by Karen Simon.
Questions for God Dear GOD, Did you mean for the giraffe to look like that or was it an accident? -Norma Dear GOD, Instead of letting people die and having to make new ones, why don’t You just keep the ones You have now? -Jane Dear GOD, Who draws the lines around the countries? - Kim Dear GOD, I went to this wedding and they kissed right in church. Is that okay? -Neil Dear GOD, What does it mean You are a Jealous God? I thought You had everything. -Jane Dear God, Did you really mean “do unto others as they do unto you”? Because if you did, then I’m going to fix my brother! -Darla Dear GOD, Thank you for the baby brother, but what I prayed for was a puppy. -Joyce Dear GOD, It rained for our whole vacation and is my father mad! He said some things about You that people are not supposed to say, but I hope You will not hurt him anyway. Your friend. (But I am not going to tell you who I am) Dear GOD, My brother is a rat. You should give him a tail. Ha ha. -Danny