Anglican Life September 2010

ANGLICANLife

ANGLICANLife

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September 2010

A Section of the Anglican Journal

in NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

September 2010

An ‘Enduring Beacon’ since 1836 St. Thomas’ Church invites you to celebrate their 175th Anniversary

This 19 September 2010 the Parish of St. Thomas ’ Church in St. John ’s will begin a year long celebration of their 175th anniversary, culminating in a gala dinner and a final service with our Primate, the Most Reverend Fred Hiltz, the Lieutenant Governor and other dignitaries on Sunday September 18, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. There will be special services and events held every month throughout the anniversary year (please check their website for details www.st-thomaschurch.com).

On Sunday January 23, 2011 at 10:30 a.m., there will be having a special Home Coming service for a number of groups that have had a special relationship with the parish over the years. St. Thomas ’s would like to invite all those who were part of Queen ’s College Alumini, Bishop Jones Hostel, Bishop Feild Alumini, the School for the Deaf, the Anglican Orphanage and St. Thomas ’ School to join them for the service and special Coffee Hour afterwards.

Members of the 175th Anniversary Committee ask readers of Anglican Life to spread the word to all members of these groups and hope that a good number of representatives will be able to be present at the January 23rd service. They invite members of the diocese to come and visit them at some point during the year, perhaps choosing an event of special interest to you. The Parish looks forward to a year-long celebration of God ’s faithfulness to the congregation through the generations, and give thanks for your part in our life together in Christ. Submitted by Members of the St. Thomas ’ Church 175th Anniversary Committee.

An Enduring Beacon. St. Thomas ’ Anglican Church as it stands today (above) and an early drawing of the Church (see right) in the 19th century. Photos submitted by St. Thomas ’ Parish.

St. Thomas ’ Church dates back to the year 1836, when the need was felt for a second Anglican Church in St. John ’s to service the growing population in the east end of the city. The first Anglican place of worship was the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. An early painting of St. John ’s shows the original St. Thomas ’ as a little church with a prominent tower. This tower is still part of the present church. The church was used as a garrison church by the British soldiers sta-

tioned in St. John ’s until the late 1870s, which led to its nickname, “The Old Garrison Church ”.

The church escaped the ravages of the great fire which destroyed much of the town in 1846. A change in the wind direction caused the fire to veer off in another direction. The same year, a violent storm is said to have moved the whole building six inches. In an effort to stabilize the structure, the wings, which characterize the present building, were added five years later. In

1874, the increase in the number of parishioners led to the lengthening of the church by thirty feet. The church was again enlarged in 1883 by extending the chancel and adding a vestry and additional space for the organ. The last alteration to the building was made in 1903, when the chancel was again lengthened to provide seating accommodation for over 1300 people. A second Continued on Page 2 See “History of St. Thomas ”

SERVING THE DIOCESES OF WESTERN NEWFOUNDLAND + CENTRAL NEWFOUNDLAND + EASTERN NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY

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September 2010

ANGLICANLife

Remembering the Rev’d U.Z. Rule Submitted by Anne Keating

On Tuesday, July 13, 2010, the parishioners of St. Mary the Virgin celebrated the 145th anniversary of the arrival of the Rev ’d Ulric Zwinglius Rule. The evening began with a delicious salmon supper and local historian Mr. John Edgar gave some interesting facts about Reverend Rule and his time spent in the area. The gathered assembly then celebrated the Eucharist together.

In his presentation, John Edgar said, “U. Z. Rule was first resident priest in the Bay of Islands and Bonne Bay, and as a consequence, the beginning of what was to become our parish as well as a number of other parishes today. It was 145 years ago today that a schooner dropped him off just up the shore from here. ” John Edgar said that when the schooner, carrying the twenty four year old U. Z. Rule arrived in Birchy Cove there were very few adult males in the area to meet him. So two young boys, James Parsons aged 8 and Willie Bagg aged 6, rowed out to the schooner and rowed U. Z. Rule ashore.

Among the first residents to this area were the Bagg and Parsons families.

Many of the parishioners in the parish today are descendants or ancestors of Willie Bagg and James Parsons. One of the first people to be baptized by U. Z. Rule was Ulric Bagg a brother of the same Willie Bagg who rowed out to meet the schooner. He was also named after U. Z. Rule.

Ulric Bagg gave his daughter the name Ulrica, the feminine form of Ulric.

That tradition of naming a female child Ulrica has been carried on for three generations and they are all part of the parish family.

Rev. Rule left a legacy from the beginning of this church community and it has continued to grow and prosper despite ups and downs because of the commitment, devotion and their love for God by the parishioners of this parish.

Like the naming of the three generations of Ulrica.

The ministry begun by the Rev ’d U.Z.Rule 145 years ago has continued to grow in Western Newfoundland. They have been blessed with many very gifted clergy through the years and God has been faithful.

St. Mary ’s has been a safe haven when needed, a place of worship where the presence of the Holy Spirit has been doing a mighty

work, and a place where the love of Jesus has covered them and helped them to grow as people who, like U.Z. Rule, have given their hearts to God. Parishioners give their heartfelt thanks and praise to God for the many gifted clergy that have served our parish, for the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives and for the commitment of the people who worship at St. Mary the Virgin today.

The evening concluded with refreshments, and there were not one but two cakes to be cut by parishioners over ninety years old.

Many thanks to John Edgar for the research and the work he put in preparing his presentation on the Rev. U. Z. Rule.

Three Namesakes of the Rev ’d Ulric Z. Rule. A common custom for people in the Bay of Islands area is to name their children after the Rev ’d Ulric Z. Rule. Here we see (seated) Ulrica Bagg Taylor, and (standing left to right) Ulrica Taylor Murley and Ulrica Murley Pye. Photo submitted by Anne Keating.

History of St. Thomas’ Church Continued from Page 1

great fire in 1892 led to the destruction of the Cathedral but again St. Thomas ’ was miraculously saved, though most of the city was destroyed.

For a long time, many of the pews in St. Thomas ’ were rented, and on some of the pews the old Victorian number plates may still be seen. Many memorials are found in the church or in the basement museum, the oldest of which are the wall tablets, some of which date from the mid-nineteenth century. A set of tubular chimes, which are still used, were placed in the tower as a memorial following the First World War, and an electronic chime system was

installed after the Second world War. The oak doors and paneling at the west end of the church were placed as a Second World War Memorial. Originally, the inside of the church was very plain, and heated by coal stoves.

In the late 1800s, Canon Wood Church Hall was built next to the church to provide an area for meetings and gatherings. Later, a school was built between the Hall and the Church (1927). In 1966 the Church Hall was destroyed in a fire and in 1974 when the St. Thomas ’ School was closed the building became the “new ” Canon Wood Hall.

In 1936, St. Thomas ’

celebrated it ’s 100th Anniversary, and, as shown to the left, the outside of the church was decorated with flags for the occasion. St. Thomas ’ is one of the largest Anglican parishes in Newfoundland with an active congregation of approximately 550 families. It is a vibrant parish with an outreach extending into many areas of life whose people reach out to the community in their worship and service to Jesus Christ.

Over the years, with the various extensions and many beautiful stained glass windows, the inside has changed dramatically.

In 1922, in an area beneath the church, a space was dug

out by hand for a small chapel for the Brotherhood of St. Andrew ’s, a men ’s service group. This chapel was restored and re-dedicated in 1982. In recent years the congregation has worked to update the interior of the main church for the current needs of the worshipping community without destroying its historic beauty or integrity. A children ’s play area has been added at the rear of the church, pews have been removed from the front and back, making a more welcoming and fluid atmosphere, and an overhead screen for texts for worship discreetly added.

2010-2011 will mark

the congregation ’ 175th anniversary. We are reminded that St. Thomas ’ Church is the worshipping congregation of the parish and the beautiful building we have been given is to be used by the congregation for the glory of God and the mission work of His Church in this and every day.

Gleaned from the website of St. Thomas ’ Church: www.st-thomaschurch.com

ANGLICANLife

September 2010

QUEEN ’S COLLEGE

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Surrounded by faith Submitted by Allison Billard

Paulette Bugden was born and raised on the West Coast of Newfoundland.

She grew up surrounded by faith, her mother and grandmother both made sure she and her siblings got to church on Sunday and went to Sunday school.

Paulette enjoys discussing the Bible with her dad, who knows the Bible inside out.

Paulette attended the United church growing up and married an Anglican man. They decided that they would both be attending church with their children and so she was confirmed into the Anglican faith.

A full time mom and with a full time office job, life was hectic with three kids and while it wasn ’t always she who took her children to church she would go as regularly as she could.

Now, her children grown and with children of their

own, Paulette says, “There some courses at Queens some way I could live at is nowhere I ’d rather be College. After sometime Queens. ” While it is very busy she spoke with her bishop than at church. ” she loves the Each Sunday at studying and pachurch Paulette per writing. It felt the minister was tough at first was speaking dileaving her husrectly to her and band, children, something awoke grandchildren and in her soul - God parents to study was calling to her. in St. John ’s but She tried to find she enjoyed living more and more on her own for the things to do to get first time, it was involved in her a whole new exfaith - Education perience. Her for Ministry, a four husband has been year program convery supportive sisting of one class throughout the per week; Cursillo; Queen ’s College student Paulette Bugden entire process, his Bible studies and letter of support devotionals. She was becoming increasingly and decided to take steps to impressed the bishop so unhappy at her job, and fi- investigate programs at much he had to call Paulette nally she understood: God Queens and eventually she and tell her about the wonwas speaking to her, telling entered the Bachelor of The- derful letter he wrote.

The provost and profesher in no uncertain terms to ology program.

Paulette couldn ’t help sors were very engaged and “smarten up and get on with but gush about the college. always willing to help at it. ” She attended a vocation “I never want to leave, ” she Queens and there were conference in Corner Brook said with a laugh. “Some- many opportunities to expewhich inspired her to take times I wonder if there is rience what ministry will

Words for the Warlike What would Jesus do, they ask, When, oft, they take His words, to task, And, what did Jesus really say, Still, as a Jew, in that, His day?

Jesus, nearly, said it all, But left, a little, for our call, Since judgement is a human thing, ‘twas not for the birds, he let us sing!

That song of love, was, in the main, Chapter, verse, and yes, refrain, Because His testament, intones, The miracle of healing wounds.

Would that a nation, on its knees, Might see the scars the faithful sees, As, yea, the conqueror turns his cheek, And, every foe, a friend, shall seek.

By Robert LeMessurier Maddox Cove, NL

look like after finishing the program. The Sunday placement taught Paulette about how involved lay people can be in a parish, and the value of having that kind of support. She had high praise for the Chaplains at Queens as well; she really enjoyed the music and resources as well as talented people who took part. She met a great bunch of friends who got to be really close and were very supportive of each other.

Paulette has an internship starting in September, hopefully on the West Coast of Newfoundland, close to home, and will finish up her program next year. She is still figuring out what God is calling her to do, still listening to his voice but she knows it will be parish ministry in the near future but down the road missionary work may be in the picture.

SEND US YOUR STORY samrose@nl.rogers.com or mail: 8 Croydon Street Paradise, NL, A1L 1P7

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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 8 Croydon Street Paradise, NL A1L 1P7 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-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.

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Circulation: 23,058

September 2010

EDITORIAL

ANGLICANLife

One word Father Sam Rose Editor

If you had to use one word to describe the Anglican Church, what would it be?

So, what was the word you came up with? Was it a positive word that evokes a loving, caring community? Or did your word have negative connotations? Did your word stir emotions of anger or pessimism?

I guess your word would also depend on your involvement in the life of the Church. If you are a regular worshipper you would have a different perspective from someone who occasionally attends.

Someone who has very little or no participation would perhaps have a difficult time coming up with a word to describe the Church...or maybe not.

In the Scriptures, words such as “body ”, “temple ”, “bride ” and “gathered ” are given to depict the Church.

What word do you think God has for the Anglican Church? When God looks upon our Church, what do you think comes to God ’s mind? What does Christ see when He looks upon the Church that He built the earth? We already know that Christ prayed for unity in His Church, “that all may be one. ” (John 17) Is Christ ’s prayer being fulfilled in our Anglican Church?

It would be interesting to gather up all the “words ” that you and others are using to describe the Church.

Perhaps putting them all together would paint a rich and colourful mosaic. I am sure that there will be words used that some may find offensive or unpleasant to hear. Others may be surprised to hear certain words used in association to the Church.

Words are powerful.

They have the power to build up and to destroy.

When the Church uses words to speak to the world, they can do the same. People embrace a Church that serves God ’s world. People turn away from a Church that makes no difference in God ’s world. This happens when words turn into action (or inaction).

Just think about the word that you came up with again. Does that word have the power to build up someone in the faith or the power to strip faith away? Will that word bring people into the life and fellowship of the Church or will it keep them away? Will that word make a difference in the world for good or bad?

In case you are wondering, the word I use to describe the Church is “connection. ” A Church that is connected to God through prayer and worship is connected to God ’s world through service and action.

Our connection to the world should shape our prayer and worship of God. It is a give and take relationship.

If you have the time, send me your word to describe the Church. Tell me why you use that particular word and we will share it with the wider Church in a future issue of Anglican Life. Maybe we can start creating that diverse mosaic that is the Anglican Church.

One word. That is all.

All it takes.

ANGLICANLife

September 2010

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COLUMNIST

Trusting Jesus Ronald Clarke

Sudden, totally unexpected, death of a loved one traumatizes body, mind and soul. Never more than when the loved one is a strong, seemingly healthy son.

On the morning of June 24 th our son Kerry, surrounded by students, staff

and parents, in a school he loved, dropped dead to the floor.

His family was told that he had “fainted ”, then a few minutes later, that he was dead.

Dead? Dead? This healthy man, dead???

Our “child ” /man/son DEAD??? The mind cannot absorb the awful, gutwrenching shock.

“How come? ” I asked God. “Why not take me, his 81-yr-old father? ” Friends, countless people, surround us sharing our grief. We cry, pray, bitterly. In agony we finally reach out to God,

to Jesus Christ.

Our beloved Jesus reminds us that God does nothing to us except in his love. Hard as it is to understand at that moment, we realize that God took our son because he loved him, and because he loves us.

Jesus assured us that, at the right time, he will come and “take us into God ’s wonderful kingdom, ” a kingdom so wonderful that it defies imagination. So, how can we, if we really, truly believe in Jesus, be so intensely grieved if our son is with Jesus in glory? And we truly believe that he will

surely come and re-unite us all in God ’s nearer presence.

So, trusting Jesus, we go through the terrible three days, sorrowing but not “as men without hope. ” In the ensuing days we have slowly but surely, “let our beloved son go, ” confidently entrusting him to Jesus Christ.

What a glorious privilege it is to know Jesus Christ, to believe in his promises! His peace that passes understanding soothes body, mind and soul. And what a privilege to be able to tell others of Jesus ’ certain, never-failing

love, available to ALL. And how wonderful to have such a multitude of friends to pray with, and for, us; and to cry with us as well. A shared sorrow is a lessened sorrow.

Thank you all! God Bless you all!

Call for Nominations - The Anglican Award of Merit The Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador established The Award of Merit in 1992 to be presented annually to one lay person from each Deanery who is deemed to have made an outstanding contribution to church and community life over the years; and to one person each year in recognition of service and leadership at the Diocesan level (and possibly at the Provincial and General Synod levels also). The Diocese has five Deaneries: Labrador, Trinity, Conception, Avalon East, and Avalon West. Nominations for the Award can come from individuals, vestries, parishes, or parish organizations.

The Cathedral Chapter, made up of the Bishop, Dean, Canons and Archdea-

cons, manages the selection process. Once again the Cathedral Chapter is prepared to receive nominations of lay people in the diocese to receive the Bishop ’s Award of Merit for 2010. The Cathedral Chapter has been charged with the responsibility of recommending ONE nominee per Deanery to the Bishop. More than one person in each Deanery can be nominated. The Bishop may choose to present an award to one person in each deanery.

The Anglican Award of Merit Qualifications for Nomination The following written criteria should be included as an essential part of preparing a rationale for the nomination, showing how the individual qualifies for the Award: 1. Nominees must be currently active within their parish. In addition, community service will be an asset.

2. They may have contributed significantly to the life of the wider Church (deanery, diocese, province, and or national) by giving of their time and efforts.

3. Through their work and gifts they shall have advanced the life and work of the Church as a whole.

Nomination should be e-mailed to the attention of Dean Josiah Noel at: cathjnoel@nf.aibn.com or mailed to: Anglican Cathedral Parish Office, P.O. Box 23112, 16 Church Hill, St. John ’s, NL, A1B 4J9 Deadline for nominations to be received by the above is Thursday, 7 October, 2010.

LeDrew Lumber Company Ltd. Kelligrews, C.B.S. Newfoundland

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STEWARDSHIP

September 2010

ANGLICANLife

Gift Planning: Alive and well

Kevin Smith

As I begin my eleventh year as a gift planning consultant for the Anglican Church of Canada, I can state with certainty that gift planning is alive and flourishing in Canada. I make this statement based on my own observations and my unofficial tally of planned gifts in Newfoundland and Labrador churches over the last ten years. And, my

statements have been supported by current results from an accredited research organization taken over the last couple of years sponsored by the FLA Group based in Ontario. One of the principals of this group is Fraser Green whose family hails from the Gander Bay loop. I met Fraser at a conference in Edmonton and he was only too pleased to share these latest statistics with me.

The following is a summary of these statistics by the FLA Group: Highlights 1.4 million Canadians have left gifts to charities in their wills – and an equal number are considering making legacy gifts. This number has held firm from

last year ’s survey – and is up considerably from 2008.

Those (still living) Canadians have made charitable bequests totalling $54 billion.

Who ’s Made Wills?

We definitely make wills as we grow older.

Only 11% of Canadians under 30 have wills – while the percentage jumps to almost 80% of those over 50 years of age.

Women (54%) and men (52%) are equally likely to have wills.

Residents of British Columbia (58%) and Ontario (56%) are most likely to have wills while people in Atlantic Canada (46%) and Manitoba/Saskatchewan (52%) are the least likely.

Who The Gets Money?

60% of respondents have named a spouse.

71% have named children 30% have named family members 6% have named friends 5% have named their church.

Other observations: While other revenue streams have suffered over the past 18 months, charitable bequests just keep chugging along – and growing.

Based on Stats Canada life expectancy tables, 38% of women aged 70 – and a majority of men the same age – will be gone from this earth in ten years.

Finally, Fraser concludes that add to the fact that the average Canadian makes her last changes to her will four years prior to her death, you can hopefully begin to appreciate the urgency – faced not only by churches but other charities as well.

growing up as you read. You tend to believe with him and think along with him “as if it is all so clear now. ” When I was learning how to write as a child, my father would place his hand over mine and guide me. Eventually, I could do it alone. Reading Lewis is as if his mind was placed over yours guiding you as you think. By the time you ’ve finished, his thoughts have become your own.

One must not park on Mere Christianity or assume that having read C. S. Lewis one now has the whole of the faith neatly tucked away. But Lewis demonstrates that one can be a seriously thinking adult and still believe pas-

sionately in Christ. I like that about him. I like it very much.

Kevin Smith is the gift planning consultant for the Anglican Church of Canada. He can be contacted at 739-5667 or by email k_smith@nf.sympatico.ca

Why I like C.S. Lewis Submitted by The Rev ’d Dr. Garry Milley

When I get to heaven I expect to see Jesus and the saints. And right up there on the list of must-see people will be C. S. Lewis. I owe him a great debt of gratitude.

I began university in the fall of 1970 while in a state of rebellion against God. I dated agnosticism and flirted with atheism. I didn ’t think one could be a thinking person and a believing Christian at the same time. I thought faith was for soft heads and sentimental hearts.

I confess to reading most everything he wrote but sev-

eral of his books I reread time and again. I am never far away from Mere Christianity. I know several parts of it by heart and probably quote Lewis more than any other writer, except St. Paul. The seven volumes of The Chronicles of Narnia are still a delight to read. Miracles, The Problem of Pain, The Great Divorce, A Grief Observed, and The Screwtape Letters are among my favorites. Lewis doesn ’t do all my thinking for me on all subjects. There are parts of him I prefer less than others.

I lean more towards some teaching about which he was hesitant and he made more room for some ideas than I

might. However, he protected and nurtured me during the early stages of my spiritual journey back to Christ. He provided the intellectual stimulus that was lacking in my background.

Many people have been brought nearer to Christ by reading Lewis. Many doubters have come to stronger faith by his books. I collect used copies of Mere Christianity to give away “like gospel tracts ” to inquiring young adults with God questions.

I like Lewis ’s humility.

He doesn ’t bully you. He is gentle with his strength of argument. He is the master of metaphor and imagery. He makes you feel as if you are

—Dr. Garry E. Milley taught a course The Spirituality and Theology of C. S. Lewis this past semester at Queen ’s College. He is the Senior Pastor at Park Avenue Pentecostal Church in Mount Pearl, Newfoundland. He is also an adjunct professor at Queen ’s College.

ANGLICANLife

September 2010

7

COLUMNIST

Why is it so hard to say ‘hello’?

Allison Billard

I am a bit of a church hopper in the summertime. It ’s a little experiment of sorts. I will attend my own church on occasion, but also the church where I grew up, and as many of the local churches as I can in the limited number of weekends we get in the summer. If I ’m travelling I like to attend church wherever I go.

My hypothesis prior to setting out was that in some places, if not all, people would be curious to know

who this new person was and would come to find out. Perhaps even better, they might want to make me feel welcome. The findings are somewhat less than I was hoping for.

I ’ve discovered a (nearly) universal truth: The average parishioner will not move out of his or her seat to greet a newcomer/visitor. Of course, I am ignoring the fact that I can introduce myself to others, which I certainly can and I often do. That is not the point. My experiment is to see if others will approach me.

I have for the most part been ignored when attending churches other than my own.

When I attended by myself, or with my husband, I was greeted only by the clergy (with whom I am often familiar when visiting churches close to home) and

whoever happens to be handing out the bulletin/order of service. I will sit in a pew by myself, looking around at

of the time, but 95% for sure. And it is disappointing. In fact, and forgive me if I have mentioned this be-

the stained glass windows, smiling if I happen to catch someone ’s eye, and still nothing.

This is not the case 100%

fore, the first time I attended what is now my home parish, a gentleman informed me I was sitting in his pew and could I please move. If I

had been someone other than who I am I would not have gone back to that particular parish right away, if at all.

As it was I thought it good fodder for...well, this column I suppose.

My point is, if we want to encourage new people, particularly young people who don ’t necessarily feel welcome or comfortable in church we need to adjust our approach just a bit. Smile at them when they smile at you, or even if they ’re looking a little uneasy. It doesn ’t cost you anything to just say hello. You don ’t even have to introduce yourself if you don ’t want to. Just say hello.

The visitor will think you friendly and encouraging and just might want to find out more about the church family as a whole.

Greetings from the new Eastern Diocesan Archivist

Peter Chalker Honourary Archivist

The Diocesan Archive is the beneficiary of the labour of love given to it by the former archivist, Ms. Julia Mathieson and all those who have volunteered before her. May 2010, Peter Chalker was appointed to follow Ms. Mathieson.

He was a former educator and administrator with The Eastern School District Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Archive is located in The Diocesan Centre in St. John ’s. It houses a large

collection of textual material that ranges from Baptismal, Marriage and Death records to photographs. The Archive contains all of the Diocesan Synod papers, minutes and financial statements. We also have the papers of clergy and former Bishops.

The Archive is open Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9-12 AM. Researchers are welcome and can make an appointment by calling The Diocesan Office. The Archive ’s

website is www.anglican.nfol.net and you can reach the archivist through the Archives email address: archives@anglicanenl.net All parishes regardless of size should be thinking about starting their own archive. All you need is a dedicated person to begin.

Form a small group to help you, find a safe place to store your treasures and begin to document what you have. There are many people to help you get started.

The Association of Newfoundland and Labrador Arwww.anla.nf.ca/ chives (www.anla.nf.ca/ index.php index.php) is a wonderful resource and the people there are very helpful.

Please look for future articles about archiving and our Archive in particular in future editions of Anglican Life.

Peter Chalker Honorary Archivist Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador 19 King ’s Bridge Road St. John ’s, NL A1C 3K4 Phone: 576-6697 Fax: 576-7122

CHURCH LIFE

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September 2010

ANGLICANLife

Bishop Torraville visits Fogo Island East

An Ascension Day visit from Bishop David Torraville to the newly reformed Church of the Holy Spirit on the Parish of Fogo Island East was a busy occasion with the Induction of the new Rector, the Rev ’d Terry Caines, a dedication of new stained glass windows, and recognition of long-serving Lay Minister Harry Jacobs.

Article and Photos submitted by Blanche Bennett

Ascension Day marks the day when Jesus Christ ascended up into heaven.

After his suffering, Jesus showed himself to the apostles and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive.

He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. If you begin with Easter Sunday (April 4, 2010) and count 40 days, you end up on Thursday, May 13. On this Ascension Day (May 13, 2010) the “Church of the Holy Spirit ” in the Parish of Fogo Island East gave God thanks not only for what Jesus had done but also for His promised return.

The service began with Bishop David Torraville presenting Lay Minister Harry Jacobs with a certificate for 30 years of dedi-

cated service to God ’s services at our new church serve in God ’s Church. church and God ’s people. - Church of the Holy Spirit.

During the service Harry received his licence Harry has either led or as- Bishop David, Regional on May 18th, D e a n Yvonne 1980 under Thistle Bishop Mark Parish of Genge. The Gander rector at the Bay, Rev. time was Stephen Rev. Neil Adkins Kellet. DurParish of ing this peFogo West riod of thirty (who reyears Harry cently celhas held servebrated 40 ices at St. years of orJohn the dained Evangelist – ministry) Joe Batt ’s and Church Arm; St. Warden Simon ’s – Melvin Shoal Bay; Dawe inSt. Augustine ’s – Sel- Thirty years of service. The Bishop (left) presents Harry Jacobs with d u c t e d Rev. Terry dom; St. Pe- a Certificate of Recognition as a Lay Minister.

Caines into ter ’s – Stag our Parish.

Harbour; St. Paul ’s – Island Harbour; The sisted in all forms of Angli- Rev. Terry came to us from Good Shepherd – Deep Bay can Liturgy. It has truly Queen ’s College and we are and now assists and leads been a blessing and joy to excited to have him and his

family in the Parish. We pray that Rev. Terry, Deanne and Katelynn will be with us for a long time to come.

Bishop David also dedicated our newly installed stained glass windows to the glory of God. The center window focuses on our Lord and Saviour the Great Shepherd and the side windows focus on the two great sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Eucharist.

Bishop David during his address spoke on our responsibility as Christians and the need to understand the importance of growing the Kingdom of God as we prepare for His promised return. These windows will certainly be a reminder to us during our services how blest we are to be children of God. The Parish is truly alive and we believe God is truly blessing us!

ANGLICANLife

September 2010

A.C.W. NEWS

9

Cow Head A.C.W. very active Article and Photo submitted by Karen Bennett

They did it again! Last Year, St. Mary ’s ACW divided into two teams and collected over $1000.00 worth of pennies for PWRDF. Inspired by the positive results, the ladies counted coppers again this year, and made over $2000.00 for Daffodil Place. To celebrate, the team with the least pennies cooked a turkey dinner with all the trimmings for both groups. A rewarding evening, indeed!

For several years, St. Mary ’s ACW has chosen Secret Sisters. Each woman draws a name and for one year, she becomes a special but unknown “sister ” to another woman, sending her

cards or perhaps a small gift on occasion, and remembering her in prayer. In February, at a Valentine ’s Day dinner, the secret was out!

Sometimes the ladies guess correctly the name of their sister, other times they hadn ’t a clue. All in good fun, to honour and bless a friend.

In April, the ACW served dinner for a Deanery Meeting held in St. Mary ’s Church hall. It seems the hall has become a popular site for religious as well as community events, such as birthday parties. In June, the hall will again serve lobster dinners during the annual Cow Head Lobster Festival.

Oh, look at all the lovely pennies! Rachel Hutchings, Olga Payne and Frances Brown of St. Mary ’s ACW in Cow Head helped count the pennies that they and their fellow members collected on behalf of Daffodil Place. The group, with help from their friends, gathered $2,135.00 for the organization.

Boyd’s Cove A.C.W. give thanks Article and Photo submitted by Ruth Freake

Radiant, smiling faces, stories – old and new, food in abundance, preparations galore – stitching, cooking, baking, chattering, all to welcome in our year of celebration 1909 – 2009 - one hundred years of thanksgiving was celebrated by the ACW in Boyd ’s Cove in June 2009.

We are a little late in getting our writing done but we assure you we had a joyous, exciting time as we reflected on the many glorious moments in our history. The share joy of reaching this milestone caused many members to share old stories of how it was and new stories about how it will be. We are grateful to God for gifting us with the many opportunities we have had over the years to be witnesses of his graciousness to us.

We walk each day in the joy of knowing that God holds us in the palm of His hand. When we meet, we greet all in charity and love.

We are a people set apart to share our gratitude by the way we touch the lives of each other and the lives of those we meet on our way.

We celebrate in truth and thanksgiving and pray that our legacy will be passed on to future generations as the legacy of the Church of England Women ’s Association was passed on to us the Anglican Church Women of today.

Our future has no limit. We have a dream to pass forward - a life filled with expectancy – God ’s abundant blessing to all women through the ages – today, yesterday, and forever.

Let us give thanks to the Lord for He is good!

Many hours of stitching went into the making of the 100th anniversary banner which recognizes the change from the Church of England Women ’s Association to the present Anglican Church Women.

More stories about the Anglican Church Women (A.C.W.) can be found on Page 11

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September 2010

LET US PRAY

ANGLICANLife

Anglican Spirituality The Rev ’d Everett Hobbs

I understand “Anglican spirituality ” to be “Christian spirituality ” as it is perceived, presented and practised in the Anglican Communion. In this respect, Anglican spirituality has a long and glorious history going back at least to St Augustine of Canterbury, and possible Celtic influences even earlier.

Anglican spirituality has been shaped by many influences. Chief among them: The Benedictines, the liturgy and the Bible in English. St Augustine and his companions were Benedictine monks and as Christianity was re-estab-

lished in Britain, Benedictine monastic communities were the centres which made it happen. For several centuries most of the cathedrals were Benedictine establishments and the outreach of the monks was a considerable influence on British Christianity. The Rule of Benedict gives a common sense and balanced approach to the Christian life which influenced the via media of Anglicanism.

While the Medieval Church throughout Europe followed a common liturgy, different regions developed their own style. In England

this Rite or Use was called Sarum. It was the main source used by Cranmer in compiling the Book of Common Prayer. Liturgy plays a major role in affecting Anglican sensitivities, allowing for both a common mind and a diversity of practices.

Latin was the official language of the Medieval Church. Although parts of the Bible had been translated into English earlier, the first full translation was in 1384 headed by John Wycliffe. This was hand written which meant that there were few printed. The first printed Bible in Eng-

lish came from the hands of William Tyndale in 1537.

The Authorized Version (King James) was published in 1611 and over the centuries has been a major influence on spirituality.

One word used to describe Anglican spirituality is “incarnational ”. This represents the truth that God loves his creation and in Jesus Christ he came among us. It is expressed in the call to serve, symbolised by the basin and towel.

Incarnational spirituality recognises the goodness of the natural world. It recognises the sacramental nature of creation as a doorway to

the divine. It includes the doctrine of theosis or deification that God became human that we humans can become divine, emphasising our participation in the life of God. In summary Anglican spirituality refuses to separate the sacred from the secular, the head from the heart, the individual from the community, the Protestant from the Catholic, and the Word from the Sacrament.

Holy Trinity in Memorial Service in Ramea Bay Bulls celebrates 40 years Submitted by Michelle Power

2010 marks the 40th anniversary of Holy Trinity Church at its present site on the north side of Bay Bulls.

The previous structure had served the Anglican people of Bay Bulls for over 100 hundred years. But in the mid 1960 ’s the congregation decided that the old structure required too many repairs and that the more feasible option was to build a new Church.

In April, 1969, work began on the new building. The land was donated by a pashioner. Many items required for the building were donated. All the labor was given by the members of the Holy Trinity congregation which consisted of less than 15 families. Through the hard work and determination of the people of Holy Trinity and the generosity of other patrons the building was constructed without any finan-

cial assistance. Some items from the old church were preserved and used in the new church, including some doors, windows, and some parts of the altar area. These items remain there today.

Other items preserved from the old Church building are displayed in the present Church such as the organ, Chalice and Paten, and an old window that was recently mounted for display and donated to the Church by the family of a deceased parishioner.

The first service in the new building was held on January 25, 1970 with the Rev. Jacob Rodgers as officiant. The Church was consecrated on May 3, 1970

by Bishop R.L. Seaborn. This celebration was attended by various Church and community dignitaries.

A Memorial Service was held at St. Boniface Church in Ramea on Sunday, June 20th. The cemetery was started in 1993 and today there are 73 souls laid to rest here. Rev. Colburn is the parish priest who is stationed in Burgeo. May the souls of the dearly departed rest in peace. Submitted by Arthur Marsden

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ANGLICANLife

September 2010

A.C.W. NEWS

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A few good women Submitted by The Rev ’d Jessie Broaders

On September 18, 1969, within the Diocese of Newfoundland, the inauguration of the Anglican Church Women took place. Since that time many Anglican Women have stepped up in faith and have united in worship, learning, and offering.

Over time, many forms of ministry have come and gone, but the ACW continues to stand firm and strong for the Lord.

In this regard, The Parish of Smith Sound is blessed,

as a total of 49 Anglican Church Women continue to serve God within the church and throughout the community.

Service is the optimum word to describe the ACW, where would we be without their hospitality and love, especially in moments such as: Hot soups and sandwiches served, after a loved one has been laid to rest. Delicious meals served for visiting clergy, confirmation celebrations, and more. What would Christmas be without Christmas puddings, baskets and greeting cards extended to the shut-ins and the sick

from our Anglican Church Women?

As well, these women also serve in our choirs and in the reading of God ’s word.

They toil and are masters in the beautification of our churches. Then, on the other hand, where would we be without the energy they give toward church finances. Finances that often times need a little extra boast to help make ends meet.

Of course, women are truly blessed by the way they express their thoughts and feelings with each other. Yet, even this gift is shared, as invitations of fun and compan-

ionship are often extended to women of other denominations.

In 1992, a movie entitled A Few Good Men was produced in which honour and trust was the central theme.

That year, because of its focus on goodness and truth A Few Good Men won many awards.

I would like to take a moment now to offer a sincere tribute to A Few Good Women within the Parish of Smith ’s Sound whose honour and trust and goodness speak, by way of service in action.

Your beauty and love of God is very visible and you abso-

lutely shine in the church and within the community. You deserve more than an award; you deserve a medal for all that you do. One day a crown of glory will be your reward.

Meanwhile, thank you for living out the Gospel of Christ. I encourage you to carry on in the name of the Lord, and know that you are saints, and therefore part and parcel of that great cloud of witnesses who has gone on before. May God Almighty continue to bless you with strength and encouragement, today and forever more.

Topsail A.C.W. celebrates 60 years Submitted by Helen Barnes

In a school room on Cherry Lane, Manuels, on February 3, 1949, some 60 years ago, a Church of England minister by the name of Rev. Evelyn Clench, along with Mrs. Noel (then Diocesan President), also Mrs. Kirby (Diocesan Treasurer) and ten ladies from the mission of Topsail, gathered to form the Church of England Women ’s Association or the C.E.W.A. An election was held and Mrs. Valda Berg became the first president of the then Mission of Topsail. Among the ladies that night was Mrs. Olga Barnes who is still an active member with us today.

Members then elected their executive as they do today; however, they addressed themselves as Sister Olga, Worthy President Valda, etc.

They used a password and gave a secret sign identifying an exclusive membership.

When I attended my first meeting 46 years ago, a hall had been built called the Goodland Memorial Hall.

The password and sign were still being used. Also, you would have to have your name forwarded to a previous meeting and a vote taken to see if you were accepted and could attend the following meeting.

A few years later, our hall was destroyed by fire so we had lost our meeting place as well as a place to raise funds to help the Parish financially. Our neighbour, Father Jackman, a Roman Catholic Priest for Villa Nova came to our rescue and offered our

Parish the use of their hall to perform social functions thus enabling us to keep growing our Parish financially. We were also allowed in those days to use the school gym.

We met at Chamberlains School to have our meetings and sometimes met at the Rectory on Rectory Road.

(This has since been removed.)

It was during the time when Rev. Sydney Bradbrook was here that the Mission of Topsail became known as the Parish of St. John the Evangelist. We saw a movement coming all the way to today ’s ACW (Anglican Church Women).

In 1965, at the time of becoming part of the Anglican Church of Canada, the Newfoundland Church had to struggle with having two official organizations for women. The CEWA with its strength and its rich history was well known here, but the Women ’s Auxiliary was also well known and very active in the rest of Canada.

Then in 1969, a draft proposal by Bishop Robert Seaborn was drawn up for women ’s organizations for the Diocese of Newfoundland, namely the ACW Associations with membership being open to all baptized women and the officers to be communicants of the Anglican Church.

At the Biennial Session of the Diocesan Council in May, 1969, the motion was made giving approval to the proposed constitution of the ACW (Anglican Church Women) in the Diocese of Newfoundland.

The purpose of the ACW

is to unite women in a fellowship of worship, study and offering which will deepen and strengthen their own spiritual lives and will lead them into Christian service everywhere. We are a primary branch which is the basic unit of Anglican women. We work to fulfill the purpose and aims of the ACW within its congregation and Parish in cooperation with the Deanery and the Diocesan Council. Under the umbrella of the ACW, we have committees: the Altar Guild; Social Concern; Family Life Worship- and some parishes have Youth as well.

A few years ago, during

the time when Joan Brophy was President, she had asked the members if we would start serving a lunch in the hall after the funeral committal if the family so desired.

We have been doing this ever since and realize what a blessing it has been to so many families. On Saturday, November 21st 2009 we were able to do this on the death of Bertram Barnes whose wife Olga was one of the first members to join this group.

We remember those past presidents of the CEWA and the ACW who have departed and thank God for all their help in bringing us to where we are today: Presi-

dent Valda Berg, Annie Eason, Sadie Bartlett, Alma Chaytor, Minnie Fowler, Mary Bradbrook and Verna Reid. Thanks go out to our past Presidents: Alma Evelly (Budgen), Sandra Squires, Millicent Morey, Nina Taylor, Linda Butt, Emily Carter, Joan Brophy, Helen Barnes and our present President Marlene Coffin.

“We share a bond that cannot be broken, Lord, lead us together in love. ”

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A visit to Roncontre East

September 2010

ANGLICANLife

CANADIAN NEWS BRIEFS

Back to Church Sunday helps Shelter

Talk about one good act achieving two positive outcomes.

Back to Church Sunday, which the diocese of Toronto celebrates for the second time on Sept. 26, “is doing more than bringing people back to church, ” according to The Anglican, the diocese ’s newspaper. “It ’s also helping Eva ’s Phoenix, a shelter for homeless and at-risk youth in Toronto. ” Last year, the shelter ’s print shop – which employs professional staff and trains youth for a job in the printing industry – produced 350 Back to Church Sunday kits for the diocese. The kits include posters, invitations and postcards.

Youth from 16 to 29 participate in the 14-week program that trains them how to use printing equipment and teaches them basic layout and design. Upon completion of the program, the shelter helps them with their resume and prepares them for job interviews to help them land work in the printing business.

“It has tremendous value for youth, ” said Alexandra Djukic, business manager of the training program.

Suicide Prevention Program

On Sunday May 16, 2010, the Rev ’d Ken Abbott with The Bay L ’Argent Parish Choir and Band and Roy Hillier (lay minister for Harbour Mille) along with members from various congregations from the parish of Bay L ’ Argent attended a service of prayer and praise at St. Stephen ’s Anglican Church, Rencontre East in the Parish of Belleoram. Before the service the choir from Bay L ’ Argent Parish was served a wonderful meal by the congregation of St. Stephen ’s. The group would like to thank Capt. Howard Penney and the crew of the ferry “Northern Seal ” for a wonderful trip from Bay L ’Argent to Rencontre East and back. We would also like to say a big thank you to the residents of Rencontre East and the congregation of St. Stephen ’s for the outstanding hospitality shown to us during our visit. Submitted by June Smith.

Parish adopts a park

St. Matthew ’s, diocese of Ottawa, has become the first parish in the Anglican Church of Canada to partner with the Council of the North in support of suicide awareness and prevention in remote communities of the north.

“Suicide has become one of the great spiritual battles of our time, ” said National Indigenous Anglican Bishop Mark MacDonald, who signed the agreement May 9 on behalf of the Council. The Rev. Canon Pat Johnston, and people ’s warden Richard Trites signed the two-year agreement on behalf of the congregation.

“The suicide rate in First Nations communities is twice the national average, and 11 times higher than the national average in Inuit communities, ” reported Crosstalk, the newspaper of the diocese of Ottawa.

Bev Jensen, chair of St. Matthew ’s outreach committee, said the parish ’s support will help the Council “to bring together grassroots leaders from parish communities to share, learn and develop local and regional partnered-prevention responses to the critical issue of suicide. ” The partnership will also help train parish volunteers in suicide awareness and prevention, and suicide crisis intervention.

Also on hand for the signing ceremony were Cynthia Patterson, the Council of the North ’s project co-ordinator for the suicide prevention and awareness program.

New Knitted Kneelers

The next time you visit St. Thomas, in Kingston, Ont., check out the newly hand-stitched altar-rail kneelers and think of the hands who laboured over them for hours on end.

Mary Anne Wright said the inspiration for the needlepoint kneelers came from a booklet about kneelers made by the Artisan Guild of St. Peter ’s Church. Upon receiving the blessing of the church ’s rector and parish council, she recruited seven other women for the project.

“From the beginning, we made all decisions jointly – on size, number, colour and theme (the church seasons throughout the year), ” she wrote in Dialogue, the newspaper of the diocese of Ontario. “We wanted the work to reflect simplicity and openness, while incorporating nature. ” The rector, Archdeacon Bill Clarke, contributed the wording for six of the kneelers. Unused wool was obtained from St. Peter ’s Artisan Guild, and other parishioners helped with measurements and drawings.

“It has been a wonderful journey. Not only will these kneelers serve a purpose, they will enhance our worship space and last for many years, ” said Wright.

Under the City of Mount Pearl Adopt-A-Park Program, the Parish of the Good Shepherd has adopted all of the green space around it and will care for it and keep it clean and tidy in the future. This is the “cleanup crew ” from the parish and the results! Submitted by Archdeacon Geoff Peddle

ANGLICANLife

September 2010

STRAIGHT TALK

Pluralism & Relativism The Rev. Greg Mercer

It would be fair to say that most people are familiar with the term pluralism and that we live in a pluralistic society. But what does that mean? To say that we live in a pluralistic society simply means that everyone has a right to believe as they

choose. Pluralism simply denotes a variety of views or opinions and stands in opposition to other interpretations. This is not the same as relativism. The claim of relativism is that there are no absolute truths, especially when it comes to religious truths. To quote Harold Percy from his book Your Church Can Thrive , “Relativism says that ultimately it doesn ’t matter which set of beliefs a person chooses because they are all of equal value.

As Christians we can willingly embrace the concept of pluralism, but the particularity and uniqueness of

the claims about Christ do not allow us to embrace relativism. ” To use my pluralistic right, I agree.

To believe in Jesus Christ is to believe in that which mattered to him and that for which he lived and proclaimed: forgiveness, reconciliation, the idea of Church, mission, eternal life and all those unique claims that we profess in the Traditional Creeds. And yet, the irony is that while we do not embrace the notion of relativism as understood as all beliefs being equal, the challenge of The Church is to present the Gospel in ways that people

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can relate to; to make it relative to the places and circumstances in the daily struggles of people ’s lives.

When a person graces our church doors on a Sunday morning, whether that be a long standing worshipper or a newcomer, and that person is broken, can we place our arms around his/her shoulder and say “you have come to the right place? ” Dare I say that all too often we are preaching religion (in more ways than one) rather than helping people find healing and to discover the joyful adventure of kingdom living.

But there is a danger in

making the Gospel relative to the struggles of daily living and it is what some people would call “watering down the Gospel. ” This criticism is justified since there is the danger of diluting the Gospel to such an extent that the unique claims of Christ no longer matter; they merely equal that of other claims. As someone said to me recently, “We all believe in the same God. ” Do we?

Corner Brook parishes hold joint Confirmation seen in photo: (St. Mary the

Mollon; Darryl Henry

Virgin);The Reverend Karen Laldin, Laura Sandra Allen; Erin Elizabeth Bellows; Adam Dennis Blackwood; Patrick Douglas Kevin Boland; Chelsea Verna Colleen Buckle; Katie Butt; Kody Butt; Michaela Jones; Miranda Lynn Leggo; Alexandra

Murley; Andrew Maxwell David Payne; Nikki Margaret Petten; Joshua Benjamin Gerald Shears; Ash-Lee Debbie Ida Walsh; Allison Patricia Wight: (All Saints); The Reverend Derek Thomas; Lindsay Ericka Batt; Daniel Franklyn Humber; Daniel

Article & Photo submitted by Anne & Bernie Keating

The City of Corner Brook joint Anglican Service of Confirmation was hosted this year by St. Mary the Virgin Church, 456 Curling Street, Corner Brook on Sunday May 16, 2010. There was an atmosphere of excitement and joy as over three hundred family and friends of the twenty-five young people from the four parishes in Corner Brook came together to offer their love and support as these young people publicly reaffirmed their baptismal vows.

A photo session was held prior to the service for individual pictures as required by the confirmands and their families.

Sixteen of the confirmands are parishioners of St. Mary the Virgin Parish, five from All Saints, three from St. Michael and All Angels and one from St. John the Evangelist. The following list of confirmands and clergy is in alphabetical order by parish not as

Power; Matthew Alexander Thomson; Alexandra Anna Wicks; (St. Michael & All Angels); The Reverend Canon Gordon Druggett, Micheal George Pinder; Jeffrey Sheldon Quilty; Daniel Whitten; (St. John the Evangelist); The Very Reverend Michael Rice,

Nicholas Jeffery Hynes.

We concluded the worship with a lunch provided by the families of the Confirmands and fellowship in the church hall where confirmation certificates and bibles were presented to the confirmands

by Bishop Percy and a special cake was prepared by Mrs. Shirley Peddle, grandmother of Laura Allen We pray that these twenty-five young people will continue to grow in the love of Jesus as they follow Him as their Lord and Saviour.

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September 2010

Thoughts on Prayer Bishop David Torraville Diocese of Central Newfoundland

Many years ago, just after I was ordained, I was at my desk around 8:00 a.m. saying the Morning Office, saying my prayers. Like most of us I was, and am, conditioned to answer the ringing of a phone. The phone rang as I recited the

Te Deum and, automatically, I picked it up. The first words of the caller was to apologize for calling so early and then ask what I was doing. “I was saying my prayers ”, I said. “Good ”, he said, “you aren ’t busy, can I get a baptism certificate ”.

Prayer is like the air we breathe, we take it for granted, to the point of forgetting how important it is.

Yet, in the baptism service we ask the parents and sponsors, “Will you by your prayers and witness, help this child to grow into the full stature of Christ? ” In the ordination service of a bishop we ask, “Will you be faithful in prayer? ” At

the ordination of a priest, the ordinand is asked, “Will you persevere in prayer, both in public and in private? ” At their ordination a deacon, is asked, “Will you be faithful in prayer? ” Prayer is part of baptism and ordination promises.

Prayer is not always planned or liturgical, it sometimes just happens. For me it often happens in nature or on the road. For some of you it may happen, reading a book or in bed or while you are cooking a meal, working in the garden or sitting in a quiet spot at home. To be prayerful is not necessarily a set agenda, it

is an attitude. And yet an agenda is helpful.

Our Synod Office staff says the Daily Office every morning. At 8:30 a.m. we gather, each of us taking a turn presiding, doing the readings. The phone is left unattended for the 15 or 20 minutes duration our prayers take. Every day starts in prayer, because prayer sets the agenda.

The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church points out that Christian prayer sits on two foundations - belief in the transcendent and personal nature of God, who is revealed in the Bible as Lord of History and Creator of the

ANGLICANLife

world and in the acceptance of the intimate relation of humanity and God in the Incarnation of Christ.

God is more than I can imagine yet I am within that History, within that Creation, not merely as an object of history, an object of the Father ’s creating, but through the incarnation, beloved by God, cherished by the Father. An heir, by adoption and grace.

That is who we are, heirs, children by adoption and grace. We are never more aware of that when prayerfully in God ’s presence.

A Poem for Haiti Submitted by Minnie Janes Badgers Quay, NL

A Greek man said, “we can ’t give up ” The work is not all done.

I will not give up searching, Until I find my son.

They moved cement, they moved debris, “What ’s that? I hear a sound, “ And after much more digging, The Greek man ’s son was found.

On January 12th in Haiti, All was safe and sound, But shortly after 4 p.m.

There was a shakin ’ in the ground.

An earthquake had hit the city Seven on the Richter Scale Buildings fell and thousands died, How many was hard to tell.

They found him lying on his back.

When asked how he survived, He told the doctor, cola, water and cookie.

Was what kept him alive.

Two brothers were there from Glovertown, A meeting to attend.

They heard the noise, they felt the shake, The rook was caving in.

They managed to get out the door, And both of them survived.

They ’re both safe back in Glovertown, And glad to be alive.

The fundraisers have started, A concert here and there, Cause millions of dollars are needed, Their homeland to repair.

People from other countries, Worked with heart and hand, So many different ways and means, To build a stronger land.

But others from our homeland Were not as fortunate, For in that awful earthquake They met a fatal death.

Help seemed to come from everywhere As survivors staggered around.

Doctors were needed, people were bleeding As more survivors were found.

We pray that God will strengthen them, The task to undertake.

“As we do it for the least of these, ” Said Jesus, “You do it for my sake. ” We all can ’t go to Haiti, But we can do our part.

Let ’s send them cash to do their work, And give it from the heart.

Every now and then you ’d hear Another survivor is found, As people searched with all their might, Through cement and mangled ground.

Eight days into the searching, A five year old boy they had, A joyful sight it was to see, He reunited with his Dad.

We have a roof, we have a bed.

We have a table and we have bread.

They have nothing, what can we do?

Just think, what would Jesus do?

Let ’s dig down deep, let ’s do our share, Let ’s let them know that others care.

Let ’s help our neighbours in distress, Let ’s do our best and nothing less.

A baby here, a senior there, We ask, how come and why?

Thousands lost their lives that day, In the twinkling of an eye.

Ten days later word went out, The search would have to end.

Survivors needed attention, And to them we must attend.

Those volunteers are very brave, They risk their lives, others to save.

May God enrich them from above, With strength and courage, faith and love, For those who suffer pain and loss We pray for strength to bear their cross.

Let ’s be a strong link in the chain So Port Au Prince can rise again.

ANGLICANLife

September 2010

15

COLUMNIST

Far from perfect The Rev. Michael Li

Our second grandchild Lucas Michael White, born on May 15, 2010, was baptized at St. John ’s Anglican Church in Port Hope, Ontario on July 11, 2010. Now Lucas is a member of the universal church in our complicated world. Let me trace his Christian heritage back to the first century Jerusalem (Acts 2:5-11). The Book of Acts of the Apostles recounts the first thirty years of the church.

The early disciples were known for their love, even towards those who persecuted them. They were

called to evangelize the world. Of course there were blemishes. There were conflicts between Jewish and Gentile Christians. The Jewish believers felt constrained to observe dietary laws and sacred days (Romans 14:2-6), and felt the Gentile believers should do the same.

The letters of Paul, Peter and John testify to intrachurch conflicts over leadership and theology. Factions had developed in the church at Corinth (I Corinthians 1:11). Moral irregularities existed in the church (I Corinthians 5-6). There were false teachings in the church at Colosse. It is likely that the Colossian heresy was a mixture of an extreme form of Judaism and an early stage of Gnosticism. In the Second Letter of Peter, Peter told his readers how to deal with false teachers and evildoers in the church. The New Testament church was far from

perfect. St. Augustine of Hippo called the church “a mixed body ”; it always has believers and unbelievers within it. He believed the imperfect church is still the vehicle of God ’s grace.

In the 17th century, the Puritans felt the Church of England was not sufficiently biblically pure. Today ’s worldwide church, with about two billion adherents, is also far from perfect. The majority of today ’s Christians live in Asia and Africa. Unfortunately we still have false teachers and evildoers in the church.

Most of the problems that confronted the church at Corinth are still with us - problems like immaturity, divisions, jealousy, envy, lawsuits, marital difficulties, sexual immorality and misuse of spiritual gifts.

Anglicans have different opinions on biblical interpretations, atonement, war, glo-

balization, euthanasia, sexual ethics, heaven and hell, etc.

General Synod, the triennial meeting of the Anglican Church of Canada ’s governing body which met in Halifax in June 2010, did not pass any motion that would break the second moratorium in the Windsor Report, authorising public rites of same-sex blessing. Instead it passed a motion affirming a statement regarding human sexuality. The current policy of ignoring a growing number of dioceses that allow same-sex blessings may not meet the expectations of people who are on either side of the issue.

It is so easy to part ways due to different theological positions. We must not forget that the Reformers, Martin Luther and John Calvin, did not wish to break from the church, but to reform it.

The reformation of the church is a never-ending

task. The church is always reformed and is always reforming. This task takes perseverence, study, prayer, and humility. The existence of so many Christian denominations keeps us humble. John Calvin once said that we are partly unbelievers until we die. Philip Yancey wrote: “I rejected the church for a time because I found so little love there. I returned because I found grace nowhere else ” (What is so Amazing about Grace, 1997, p. 16). In our imperfect church, we need to learn how to deal with our conflicts in a godly manner. We must speak the truth in love and live in a different manner. We must proclaim the Gospel to protect the faithful from false teachings.

A General Synod Reflection Submitted by The Rev ’d Brian Candow

During the General Synod we were presented with the first presentation of the wonderful play called “Roots Among the Rocks. ” This powerful drama, presented by the Anglican/Lutheran youth under the direction of Jenny Salisbury, portrayed the struggles of a number of youth with their issues of identity and acceptance in the Church. It displayed the various ‘common ’ spiritual struggles of youth and their feelings of acceptance in the church as a solution for their identity struggle. It was not without forethought that the drama included a scene of ‘intimacy ’ between two females, who then sought the acceptance of their relation-

ship in the church. When they were ‘received ’ they were happy and well.

The problem with all of the ‘solutions ’ of acceptance in the Church was what I call the entrenchment of identity. There was no sense of repentance, in that one states, “This is where I am today, ” rather than, “I desire to be more in You, LORD Jesus. ” The lack of repentant, penitent, confessional language, not only in the drama of ‘Roots Among the Rocks ’, but also in the whole of the Anglican General Synod, is a reflection that the Anglican Church of Canada has truly lost its way. We are demanding that God accept us where we are and as we are, rather than in the confession of our brokenness and our need to be more deeply found in the

“ALMIGHTY and most offended against thy holy fullness of Christ by the empowering of the Holy Spirit. merciful Father, We have laws, We have left undone The classical, Biblical, and erred and strayed from thy those things which we traditional language of ways like lost sheep, WE ought to have done, And we Anglicanism was notice- HAVE FOLLOWED TOO have done those things ably abwhich we ought sent durnot to have done; ing GenAnd there is no e r a l health in us. But Synod. thou, O Lord, Our crisis have mercy upon today is us, miserable ofp r o fenders. Spare foundly thou them, O rooted in God, which conthe quest fess their faults. for selfRestore thou identity them that are rather penitent; Acthan the cording to thy quest to be promises defound in clared unto manthe Christkind in Christ identity Jesu our Lord. through And grant, O self-demost merciful nial and Father, for his personal sake, That we transformay hereafter mation. live a godly, Perrighteous, and haps the sober life, To the ‘ w e a k ’ glory of thy holy confession Roots Among the Rocks. A drama reflecting the struggles of Name. Amen. ” of the being a young person in the Church was presented at General BAS needs Synod. Photo from www.rootsamongtherocks.blogspot.com to be strengthened by the sturdy MUCH THE DEVICES words of the Book of Com- AND DESIRES OF OUR OWN HEARTS, We have mon Prayer:

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You hLife

September 2010

ANGLICANLife

youth ministry in newfoundland & labrador

Pa r king l o t pa r t y Confirmation in Rose Blanche

Youth Parking Lot Party at Parish of the Good Shepherd. It was an evening of B-boyz, burgers, and bands on the parking lot of the Parish of the Good Shepherd in Mount Pearl on Saturday, June 26th. Featuring musical performances by seven different local bands as well as a break dancing competition, better known as a B-boy battle, the free barbeque and concert ran from 6 -10pm. The event drew a crowd of about 150 young people and marked the end of a successful year of youth ministry through Youth Cafe. It was also an occasion to raise funds for the Children ’s Wish Foundation. A collection was taken up throughout the evening to support their valuable work. Submitted by S. Haskell. Photo by Joe O ’Quinn.

On Thursday, April 22, the congregations of St. Michael and All Angels ’ Church in Rose Blanche and St. George ’s Church in Burnt Islands were invited to come together for a meal and a worship service in observance of the feast of St. George. The Parish Event, held at St. George ’s Church, also served as an opportunity to bring together the Confirmation candidates of both communities, during which time they had a banquet and presentations were made. During the worship service, the presidents of the Anglican Church Women groups presented the candidates with Bibles. Pictured (left to right, front row): Linda Keeping (ACW President, Burnt Islands), Kendra Thorne, Ryan Francis, Emily Ball, Nicholas Courtney, Kyle Anderson, Randie Keeping, Kelsey Walters; (left to right, back row): Jeffrey Porter, Jonathan Porter, Chantel King, Victoria Keeping, Daniel Keeping, Tori Neil, Vera Clarke (ACW President, Rose Blanche). Father Andrew Nussey is standing at the very back. The candidates were confirmed by the Right Reverend Percy Coffin on Saturday, April 24 in Burnt Islands and on Sunday, April 25 in Rose Blanche. Submitted

by Parish of Rose Blanche.

SOUL SEARCHERS SLEEP-OVER Soul Searchers Sleepover.

A Friday night sleepover was help at All Saints Church in the Parish of FortuneLamaline for the Youth group.

The youth were placed into three groups and each was in charge of preparing a meal or snack. The young people took pride in their preparations by serving their meals very efficiently. The night began with a large Easter egg hunt and continued with other activities and games

concluding with a few games of spotlight. The group settled down at 2:00 a.m. and was up the following morning for a delicious breakfast.

Later, we gave each youth a t-shirt. Different logos, which were drawn by some of the group, were cut out and ironed onto the shirts. They ended the sleepover with lunch and the youth asking if they could stay a little longer and play a few more games.

Submitted by Beverly Buffett.