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June 2011
ANGLICANLife A Section of the Anglican Journal
in NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
June 2011
QUEEN’S COLLEGE CONVOCATION Class of 2011
For more graduates’ photos and reports, turn to Pages 8 & 9
Doctor of Divinity The Rev’d Dr. Alexander Daley
Master of Divinity (Honours) Paulette Bugden
Master of Theological Studies Andrew Milley
Bachelor of Theology Beatrice J. Hope
Bachelor of Theology Louise Richards
Bachelor of Theology (Distance) Gloria Wendover
SERVI NG THE DIO CE SE S OF WEST ERN NEWFO UNDL AND + CENTRAL NEWFO UNDL AND + EAST ERN NEWFO UNDL AND & LABR AD OR VING IOCE CESE SES STE WFOUNDL UNDLAND WFOUNDL UNDLAND ASTE WFOUNDL UNDLAND ABRAD ADOR
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June 2011
ANGLICANLife
New Rector inducted
The Anglican Charitable Foundation for Children
A New Rector for All Saints’ Church in Corner Brook: Pictured (First Row - left to right)Linda King, Server; New Rector, The Rev. Tanya White; Rev. Roberta Woodman, (Middle Row - left to right) Tom Goulding, People’s Warden; Christina Dumaresque, Server; Brenda Hurley, Eucharistic Assistant; (Top Row - left to right) Archdeacon Edward King; Bishop Percy Coffin; Harry Balsom, Lay Minister; Jim Simms, Lay Minister. Missing from Photo – Libby Reid, Rector’s Warden
The Anglican Charitable Foundation for Children held it’s AGM and Election of Officers on April 8th: Pictured are the new Executive: (left to right) Morris Pinsent (Treasurer); Dennis Porter (Vice Chairperson); Father John Courage (Secretary) and Neil Jacobs (Chairperson). The ACFC is the charity that was formed upon the sale of the Anglican Orphanage in St. John’s and each year distributes grants to each of the three Diocesan Camps, assists those in need, provides assistance to those children requiring medical attention and helps children attend camp totalling approximately $200,000 annually. Submitted by The Rev’d John Courage.
Submitted by Janet Spurrell
On Sunday, February 13th, 2011, All Saints’ Church in Corner Brook held a Service of New Ministry for The Rev. Tanya White, appointed as the new rector. This service included the signing of
the Parish and the Rector’s first-ever Covenant in Ministry. Western Newfoundland Diocesean Bishop Percy Coffin, Archdeacon Edward King, and Congregational Development/Stewardship Education Co-ordinator, The Rev. Canon Roberta
Woodman attended and the congregation participated in bringing forward various symbols of the church. A Soup and Sandwich lunch followed the service hosted by the ACW to welcome The Rev. Tanya White as a part of their church family.
The next issue of Anglican Life will be in September 2011 Any photos and articles must be submitted to the Editor by August 1st You can send them via E-mail to:
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June 2011
ACFC hold 300th trustee meeting
let us pray
A Milestone in Helping Children in Newfoundland & Labrador. Pictured (left to right) are the Trustees of the Anglican Charitable Foundation for Children at their 300th meeting: Father John Courage (Trustee Chairperson), The Rev. Linda Budden, Mr. Neil Jacobs (Managers Chairperson), Mr. Rick Engram (Trustee Secretary), Mr. David Martin (Trustee Treasurer), Mrs. Mary Warren, The Rev. Canon Eli Evans, Mrs. Mary Bugden and Bishop Cyrus Pitman. Submitted by The Rev’d John Courage. PWRDF Sunday at the Church of the Ascension, Mount Pearl. For many years, the First Sunday in Lent has been designated PWRDF (Primate’s World Relief Development Fund) Sunday at the Church of the Ascension in Mount Pearl. Parish representatives Mark and Phyllis Leyte for the past few years have organized an impressive luncheon consisting of soup, sandwiches and dessert. This year was no excep-
tion! Following the Sunday morning worship on March 6, about 250 people enjoyed great food, wonderful fellowship, and the fine words of our guest speaker, Archdeacon Francis Buckle. The amazing response from parishioners in willingly providing all the food, and also the pennies that were brought in at the luncheon, enabled the Parish to raise in excess of $1500 for PWRDF. Submitted by Jean Nash.
30 Roe Avenue, P.O. Box 348, Gander, NL A1V 1W7 Telephone: (709) 651-4100 Fax: (709) 256-2957 email: info@waltershoffe.com
The Anglican Charitable Foundation for Children (ACFC) is successor to the Church of England Orphanage which had its beginning in 1855 during the episcopacy of the late Bishop Feild. For over one hundred years the church operated both a boys’ and a girls’ orphanage in St. John’s. In 1971, all orphanage properties were sold and the funds were invested. During the episcopacy of the late Archbishop Robert Seaborn, the Anglican Charitable Foundation for Children was incorporated. The Charity is the main body of the Foundation while the Board of Managers oversees the work of the Charity. Trustee Committees are appointed in each Diocese by the Bishop. These Trustee Committees meet monthly
to review applications for assistance as submitted by parish clergy and grant funds for expenditures such as clothing, education, medical, camp, and emergency which fall within the guidelines. On April 4th, 2011, the Board of Trustees of the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador marked their 300th meeting beginning with a fellowship meal with Bishop Pitman and Neil Jacobs, chair of the Board of Managers. Bishop Pitman expressed the appreciation of the Diocese to the many who currently sit on the Trustee committee as well as those who served in the past. Mr. Jacobs highlighted the importance of the work of the Charity in all three Dioceses.
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EDITORIAL
ANGLICANLife in NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
A section of the Anglican Journal
Father Sam Rose Editor
Editor-in-Chief: The Rev’d Sam Rose 8 Croydon Street Paradise, NL A1L 1P7 Email: samrose@nl.rogers.com
Like many millions around the globe, I tuned in to watch the nuptials of Prince William and Kate Middleton. I wasn’t really interested in the fancy hats or what the Bride’s dress would be like. I was looking forward to the liturgy itself – the music, the preaching, and the ceremonial. To be honest, I was not disappointed. In fact, it made me proud to be an Anglican! The worship was amazing and the Men and Boys Choir of Westminster Abbey moved me deeply. The Abbey itself looked glorious with very minimal decoration. The Dean seemed to make all the nervous members of the Royal Family at ease. And the Bishop of London’s sermon was not a politically-correct, media-sensitive speech but (surprise!) an actual Christian homily. He actually mentioned the
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ANGLICANLife
Happy and glorious
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.
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
June 2011
name of Jesus! Although I wished the wedding would have been a Nuptial Eucharist, it still showed the world that Anglicans can do liturgy well and with great dignity and reverence. Although, for a moment, I did get worried that Sir Elton John would jump out of his pew and sing “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” All in all, I was inspired and hopeful for the young Prince and Princess. Like Her Majesty, they looked stoic and regal. They certainly carry the weight of much criticism and negativity, but I believe they have broad shoulders to do so. Some feel the Monarchy is outdated and needs to just go away. Not me. “God Save the Queen,” I say. Why not! She has served her country and Commonwealth well in her sixty years as Sovereign. Sure their have been horrible embarrassments and setbacks (and one very awful annus horribilis), but through thick and thin, Her Majesty has remained rock solid in faith and service. Someone once asked me why has the Church stopped praying for the Queen? Good question! She is the Defender
of the Faith and the Head of the Church of England. Instead of being remembered in weekly prayer, she is overlooked in the petitions and replaced by pleas that at least a Canadian team will win the Stanley Cup. Not good enough, I say. Pray for Our Queen and all the Royal Family. Pray for Her Commonwealth. Pray that she may have long life and service to her God and subjects. And when Charles becomes King, pray for him too! ALMIGHTY God, whose kingdom is everlasting, and power infinite: Have mercy upon the whole Church; and so rule the heart of thy chosen servant ELIZABETH, our Queen and Governor, that she, knowing whose minister she is, may above all things seek thy honour and glory: and that we and all her subjects, duly considering whose authority she hath, may faithfully serve, honour, and humbly obey her, in thee, and for thee, according to thy blessed Word and ordinance; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with thee and the Holy Ghost liveth and reigneth, ever one God, world without end. Amen.
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June 2011
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STEWARDSHIP
An old familiar song Kevin Smith Planned Giving Consultant
It is amazing how the mind works! One early morning recently I was driving out the highway headed for Hants Harbour and listening to a local radio station when an old familiar song was played. It was Dominique, a popular song that came out in the sixties and was performed by The Singing Nun. That song is
about Saint Dominic, a Spanish born priest and founder of the Dominican Order, of which the singer was a member. Its refrain went: Dominique went about simply. A poor singing traveller. On every road, in every place, He talks only of the Good Lord, He talks only of the Good Lord. Dominique reached the top ten in eleven countries and even outsold Elvis during its stay on the Billboard Pop Charts in 1963. Why am I writing about this song? Well, in 1967 (Thanks to The Rev’d Murray Randell - Anglican Chaplain of Memorial University at the time) I attended
General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada in Ottawa as a youth delegate. It was a real learning experience for me and I met some wonderful people including Bishop Ted Scott who three years later would be elected as the tenth Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada. Bishop Ted related extremely well with the youth delegates and encouraged our continuing involvement with the Church. He served as Primate for fifteen years and retired in 1986. Now back to the song Dominique! During that Synod, three nuns from the Sisters of Mercy in Philadelphia played guitar and sang a number of songs for the delegates. Their signature song was Dominique – the hit song
from several years earlier. And, it was a real hit with the delegates too. There is an old Latin expression, “Tempus fugit” or “time flies” which is appropriate here because time does indeed pass very quickly. Little did I know that while I was listening to these nuns singing Dominique in 1967, that I would eventually be involved as a gift planning consultant for the church. Maybe Bishop Ted had an influence that I wasn’t even aware of? Forty four years later and here I am in my eleventh year of the ministry of gift planning. It’s amazing how one’s life evolves over the years and the impact of taking one path over another! On a completely differ-
ent subject, we have been fortunate to have the assistance of several able lawyers who have helped with our wills seminars in the diocese. We are eternally grateful to them. They include Glen Roebothan, Mandy Woodland, Stephanie Hillier and John Babb. Thank you folks! We could not have done it without you. Have a great summer!
Kevin Smith is a gift planning consultant for the Anglican Church of Canada. He can be contacted at 739-5667 or k_smith@nf.sympatico.ca
Indian Bay Bible study Indian Bay Bible Study group. This group of people from the Indian Bay Parish are participating in a very interesting Bible study led by the Rector of the Parish, The Reverend David Coffin. Study sessions are based on the Gospel reading for each Sunday. The lessons are very enlightening and a great learning experience. Submitted by Trudy Collins.
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June 2011
Fair Island to mark 50 years since Resettlement
Submitted by Samuel Gibbons
Fair Island, Bonavista Bay was believed to be a French fishing station as early as 1680 but permanent residency did not occur until the late 1700s or early 1800s. Richard Rogers is generally regarded as the first permanent resident of Fair Island. Around the same time or shortly thereafter came families of Picketts, Lanes, Cutlers, Gibbons, Hunts, Ackermans, Ponds, Ansteys and Wicks. Later families of Horlicks, Browns, Firmages, Watermans and Hounsells arrived. When space for fishing rooms got crowded some families moved to the nearby islands and settled on Paul’s Island, or in Round Harbour and Sydney Cove but Fair Island was the hub and where people attended church, school and lodges. In the early 1900’s schools were built in Sydney Cove and on Paul’s Island. The people of the Fair Islands were primarily fishermen and their livelihoods were dependent upon the bounty of the sea. The Labrador fishery, Seal Fishery and inshore fishery were prosecuted until the 1950’s and when those began to diminish many sought work in the lumber woods in the Indian Bay area, other worked at construction work, especially in Gander. Gradually the residents of Fair Island, Paul’s Island, Sydney Cove and Round Harbour began to resettle. Prior to the big thrust, many moved to the nearby communities of Trinity and Wareham while others moved to Catalina, Hare Bay and elsewhere but in the late 1950’s the Provincial Government assisted under the Resettlement Program and created the new community of Centreville. In 1961 the last permanent residents of Fair Island were resettled to Centreville, having moved their homes on rafts or floated them with drums arranged inside to keep them from sinking. The church always played an important role in the lives of the people of the Fair Islands. The first baptismal service recorded for Fair Island was on May 3, 1830
Moving house and home. Two homes from Fair Island, Bonavista Bay are floated across the Bay to their new home in Centreville during the Resettlement era of the 1960s.
when no less than 65 persons were baptized. The Rev’d Nathaniel Allen Coster officiated at that service. The youngest candidate was 5 month old Anthony Hunt. The oldest female was 66 year-old Elizabeth Hunt and the oldest Male was 64 yearold Richard Rogers. Bishop John Inglis apparently visited Fair Island in the 1830’s but it was not until
boughs were erected and hundreds of hand hooked mats covered the pathway from the wharf to the church steps. A second church building was started around 1878 and was consecrated on Sept 11, 1890 by Bishop Llewellyn Jones. Bishop Jones also consecrated the new burial ground on the same day and that evening confirmed 48 candidates.
Bradbrook. Bishop John Meaden officiated at the last confirmation service on September 20, 1960. The last couple to be joined in Holy Matrimony was Abraham Sylvester Anstey and Sarah Jane Pickett on December 29, 1960. On March 21, 1961 a service was held for the burial of Margaret Julia (Magie) Pickett. On April 2, 1961
St. Barnabas Anglican Church on Fair Island. During Resettlement, members of the community on Fair Island dismantled their beloved Church and moved it to Centreville where it stands today.
September 7, 1846 that Bishop Edward Field consecrated St. Barnabas church. No doubt the church building was used for services prior to its consecration. The visit of a Bishop was a momentous occasion on Fair Island, arches covered with
The last of the church buildings on Fair Island was consecrated on Nov 3, 1946 by the Right Reverend Philip Abraham. The clergy participating in the service were The Rev’ds Arnold Torraville, H. W. Facey, W. A. Anderson, and S.M.
Wanda Coleen Pickett and Clarence Guy Pickett were baptized by The Rev’d Frank Cluett. The final service held in St. Barnabas church on Fair Island was also conducted by Rev’d Cluett on September 3, 1961. After the resettlement of all the fami-
lies in 1961, the building was taken down and the materials were used in the new St. Barnabas church building in Centreville. Education for the earlier settlers of Fair Island may not have been as important as the church. However, according to the records of Robert Dwyer, schoolmaster at Greenspond, in 1846 school was held in the home of the teacher, Moses Cutler before a new school-house was built. It seems that less than half of the school age children attended regular day school but almost all attended “Sunday school.” Obviously, the Sabbath was observed as a day of rest and worship. Most boys by the age of 12 were probably engaged in the fishery with their fathers while the girls helped their mothers at home or were “in service” to earn some much needed money to help the family. With resettlement the three room school also closed in 1961. The last three teachers on Fair Island were Roland Brown, James Hewitt and Samuel Gibbons. This year 2011 marks the 50th anniversary of the final resettlement of Fair Island and a committee is planning a commemoration to mark this chapter of history. The weekend of July 29-31, 2011 will hopefully bring together many former residents of Fair Island as well as their descendants and friends. A number of activities are being planned including a church service on Fair Island on the afternoon of Sunday, July 31. Other activities are planned for Friday, July 29 and Saturday July 30 but those will take place at different locations within the Town of Centreville Wareham Trinity. Further information will be posted on the town’s w e b s i t e www.townofcwt.com or interested individuals may phone Robert John Pickett 709-678-2508 or Sam Gibbons 709-678-2718.
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June 2011
Stew supper at Spaniard’s Bay
Hymn Book mystery in Burgeo
A large group of parishioners and friends had an enjoyable evening at Holy Redeemer Church Hall, Spaniard’s Bay on 17 March 2011 when the ACW held an Irish Stew supper. The women all dressed for the occassion with green hats and aprons. Mr. Tony Menchions, a parishioner, provided some Irish music which added further enjoyment to the event. The meal was followed by a card game. Everyone enjoyed the gathering and loo forward to next year. Submitted by Betty Crane.
Stephenville Hospital showered with gifts Submitted by The Rev’d George Childs
Shower for Hospital Gift Shop. St. Augustine’s ACW, Stephenville, held a Shower for the Sir Thomas Roddick Hospital Gift Shop (which is spearheded by the Hospital Auxillary) on 28 March as part of their Fellowship Meeting with 45 people in attendance. The value of the items received amounted to $1,081.25. Pictured above (left to right) are: Evelyn Davis President of the Hospital Auxillary; Valerie Hulan - ACW President; Marie Brenton - Past Manager of the Gift Shop; and June Smith - Treasurer of the Gift Shop. Submitted by Parish of Stephenville.
Recently, St. John the Evangelist Church in Burgeo received a unique package in the mail. It was a Church of England hymn book in use in the church in 1917. It was sent by a Mr. Mack Furlong from St. John’s who wrote: “I am not from Burgeo nor, am I an Anglican. However, I recently purchased a house and found this book in the basement. It holds no attraction for me but I thought you might be interested in it because of the inscription on the inside cover. As near as I can figure it, “Blanche Fizel” or Truzel” perhaps, signed it in September, 1917.” Actually, the name inscribed on the back cover of the hymn book is “Blanche Touzel.” And it has been discovered that there are two people bearing that name buried in one of the old cemeteries in Burgeo. One of them is Francis Touzel who died in 1942 at the age of 83 years. The other is Harriet Touzel who died in 1956 at the age of 82.
On the front of this hymn book is written “Hymns - Ancient and Modern.” Since the title page is missing, the publishing date is unknown. In doing a little research I discovered that the first edition of this hymnal was published in 1861 by Novello & Co. It was revised in 1875 by William Henry Monk. In 1889 Charles Steggall added several supplementary hymns. In 1904 the new and revised edition was published by Bertram Luard Selby. Unfortunately, people complained about the difference between this and its predecessors to such an extent that in 1906 C. Stegell’s edition was republished in the old complete edition. If anyone has any information about Blanche Touzel, we would appreciate knowing about it. You can call The Rev’d George Childs at 709-886-2938. In the meantime, I am sure this hymn book will find a home in St. John the Evangelist Church where it was used perhaps for the first time in 1917.
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THE REV’D ALEXANDER DALEY equally true of the Church. The third literary work to which I refer is Shakespeare’s play “The Merchant of Venice”: In the court scene in Venice, Portia who poses as a doctor of laws at Shylock’s trial says the well known words, “The quality of mercy is not strained, it droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven, upon the place beneath: it is twice blessed, it blesses him who gives and him that gets”(4:1:184). Mr. Chancellor, Dr. Daley has been kind Convocation Oration by and generous to Queen’s ColThe Rev’d Dr. Canon Frank Cluett lege, its faculty, students and Retired Provost of the Church in these dioceses Queen’s College over the past 35 years. Time will not permit me to go into the details of his generosity Mr. Chancellor, Provost nor would he approve were I Morgan, Members of the to attempt to do so. The Corporation of Queen’s Colwords of the ancient Roman lege, Faculty, Students, Dispoet, Virgil, “timeo Danaos tinguished Guests, Alumni, et dona ferentes,” Ladies and Gentle(translated, “I fear the men: Greeks even when Mr. Chancellor: It they bring gifts”) is with great honour would not apply here. that I present the reDr. Daley’s generoscipient of the seventh ity has no ulterior honorary Degree to be motives. For though awarded in the 170generous to many, he year history of is never condescendQueen’s College. ing to any. That, too, At the outset, I is a mark of stature. I must say that I am hope that his generosdeeply conscious of ity, like the quality of the fact that tonight I mercy, is twice blest, continue in the footblessing those who steps imprinted by the have benefited from late Dr. Thomas it and blessing him in Pope. Those of us the act of giving. who were privileged Mr. Chancellor, to be among his in honoring Dr. friends have long recDaley, Queen’s Colognized the fairness lege is also honoring in judgment, honesty the cordial relationof opinion and steadiship of The Episcopal ness in moving forChurch with The Anward which he emglican Church of bodied along with Canada, the long reA good friend of the Church in Newfoundland & Labrador. The Rev’d Dr. Alexander Daley (centre) received many other characthe Degree of Doctor of Divinity (Honoris Causa) from Queen’s College. He is pictured here with friends and lationship of Newteristics of a gentlecolleagues, The Rev’d David Coffin (left) and the Rev’d Perry Cooper (right) both of the Diocese of Central foundland and Labraman. Queen’s College Newfoundland. Photo by the Editor. dor with the United has really benefited States of America, from his involvement in its life and work. Since our – which began when he was would easily qualify as a son have received and how un- and all those graduates of this last convocation, Dr. Pope appointed as the Rector of the of Anak, as one of great stat- worthy they are of them”(p. College who since 1841 have has crossed that horizon be- Parish of Stephenville in ure. But, Mr. Chancellor, the 219). Mr. Chancellor, Dr. served as priests in The Epissame Authorized Version Daley is one who is always copal Church – and that is tween time and eternity. We 1975. Mr. Chancellor, to focus also uses the word stature in reminding us in the Church no small number. remember him this evening, And so the person who and assure his wife Rose and more clearly on these quali- another sense (which has of what we have received and nothing to do with height). In of how our theological for- stands before you is a native ties, I refer to three books: his family of our prayers. The first book to which I the Epistle to the Ephesians mulations must be rooted lest Bostonian, a priest, an amMr. Chancellor, now to the task at hand. It is indeed refer is The King James Ver- the writer says that we must we stray on to Forgetful bassador at large for this Colan honour to present to you sion of the Holy Scriptures, mature “until we all attain to Green.. He does it with sin- lege, this Church and this The Rev. Dr. Alexander (this being the 400th anniver- the measure of the stature of cerity, integrity, and respect. Province, a friend of so many Spottswood Daley to receive sary year of its publication). the fullness of Christ”(4:13). Dare I say in these politically here and a “person of stature”. the degree of Doctor of Di- In Anglican style, we refer to This stature has to do with charged times that he is one Therefore, Mr. Chancellor, I vinity, honouris causa. Dr it as the Authorized Version, character. Dr. Daley embod- of those small “c” conserva- present to you The Rev’d. Dr. Daley is well known at though as that spoof on Brit- ies (albeit in the frailty of tives, who keeps us as the Alexander Spottswood Daley Queen’s College as he is ish history entitled “Ten human flesh) the love, joy, church attached to our roots, for the degree of Doctor of throughout the three Dio- Sixty-Six and All That” says, peace, respect for the intrin- though not in any narrow or Divinity (Honoris Causa). I ceses of Newfoundland and “it was so called because it sic dignity and equality of all closed sense. This quality is certify that he has been duly Labrador. We are also de- was never authorized” – by persons, which are all marks also a mark of stature. And, selected for the said degree, lighted to have some mem- parliament, that is. Nonethe- of Christian stature. Dr. Mr. Chancellor, it is a truism and request that you admit bers of his immediate family less, its language and style Daley is, indeed, a person of that plants need firm roots to him thereto. and some of his American has given it a greater authori- stature – in both senses of the grow and blossom. It is friends in the audience this evening and we welcome them warmly. Dr. Daley is a Bostonian by birth, a priest of The Episcopal Church by profession, a linguist, a world traveler, a graduate of Harvard University, The Episcopal Divinity School and Pittsburg Theological Seminary as well as a raconteur of no mean ability. He is a retired Lieutenant Commander of the United States Navy and serves as honourary chaplain to The Association of Veterans of Colonial Wars. His interests and abilities are wide ranging. For all these reasons (and more which I have not mentioned) he has been chosen to receive this honour, but more particularly he has been chosen for his love for this Province, this College and our Church
zation than any parliament could have. In its translation of the Book of Numbers it recounts the story of the leading by Moses of the people of Israel out of Egypt into the land of Canaan. It was a journey of 40 years during which the Israelites encountered many natural obstacles and human enemies. Standing with the people on the border of the land of Canaan, Moses sent out spies to scout out the land ahead (a tactic not unknown even in our time). They reported back to him that “all the people we saw in the land were men of great stature, the sons of Anak and we seemed to ourselves like grasshoppers”(13:32). (The writers were obviously not opposed to the use of hyperbole!) Mr. Chancellor, the person who stands before you
word. The second book to which I refer is The Pilgrim’s Progress: This book recounts John Bunyan’s dream while he was in jail, a dream in which a pilgrim is journeying to the Celestial City (which is neither Boston nor St. John’s – though, the Bostonians amongst us will understand that if a choice had to be made for that place between these two cities, why I think St. John’s would have the edge). There is a point in the story where Great Heart, the guide, speaks to a pilgrim. He says that there is a place on the road named Forgetful Green. “And indeed that is the most dangerous place in all these parts. For if at any time the pilgrims meet with any brunt, it is when they forget what favors they
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June 2011
QUEEN’S COLLEGE CONVOCATION Class of 2011
Certificate in Youth Ministry (L) The Rev’d Neal Buffett (R) Beverly Buffett Associate in Theology Donna Coish-Matchim
Associate in Theology Christine Lynch
Highlights from the Provost’s Report
The Rev’d Dr. A. Boyd Morgan Provost Queen’s College
History & Future
Curriculum
“Queen’s College is among those venerable North American institutions whose roots reach well back into the nineteenth century...In 2011, as Queen’s College celebrates 170 years of history in this province, we remain committed to providing students with a rigorous academic program within a residential model, face-to-face education...We are committed to creating a safe space in our classrooms where students may bring their whole selves to the study of theology, and not only a safe space, but a space where all are respected and valued.”
“We have begun the process of offering our Associate in Theology program on-line...We have begun working with the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador in providing faculty for their deacon’s educational program. We have begun offering workshops, four during this year, in church and choral music. We have begun the process of offering our three-year Diploma in Theology and Ministry in Clarenville. We have established our commitment to professional development for caring professions such as social work, nursing, medicine and pastoral workers. In September we will offer our one-year Certificate in Pastoral Leadership.”
Chapel Life
Finances
“Our chapel life, for those in our ordination programs, punctuates our corporate life in the daily liturgical celebrations. With care and humility, we gather to celebrate common prayer, which ultimately is formative and is an indispensable source of faith. We are committed to providing our ordination candidates with a chapel life in which they may become ‘at home’ with various liturgical forms and (they may become) effective presiders. This forms the core of our corporate life and has been one of our strengths over the years. We are grateful to all those who come to join us in our chapel each semester.”
“With a downturn in the markets and subsequent drop in our investment income and fewer students, we have experienced serious financial difficulties...many good things have nevertheless happened this year. Our three dioceses now remit all Queen’s College Appeal dollars to the College in addition to their diocesan grants. Many more are contributing to the Queen’s College Appeal, both individuals and parishes. Others have included the College in their wills and others have taken out annuities for the College...While our financial situation is serious, it is not unmanageable.”
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ANGLICANLife
What is Cursillo? Submitted by Stella Walsh
I joined the Cursillo Movement during the weekend of May 21-24, 2010 at Mint Brook, in the Diocese of Central Newfoundland. Before I joined Cursillo a couple of things caught my attention. First of all, I found that people who were already members were very supportive of my efforts to grow in my faith walk. The other thing that caught my attention was that there seemed to be some confusion as to what exactly the Cursillo movement is all about. Recently, after listening to Reverend Chuck Lockhart give a detailed and informative talk about the history of Cursillo, I felt moved to give some explanation of this Christian movement for people who may be considering joining. The word, CURSILLO (pronounced coor-SEE-oh), is a Spanish word that means “a short course of lectures.” The full title is CURSILLO IN CHRISTIANDAD, translating to “short courses in Christian living.” The Cursillo
movement is rooted in the Young Men’s Catholic Action of Spain and was intended to prepare young men for a pilgrimage to the Shrine of St. James in Compostela. The movement as it is known today began on the island of Mallorca (Majorca) in the 1940s, and was refined during the 1950s. Eventually the movement spread throughout Spain, and then to many other parts of the world. Reverend Lockhart’s talk provided much more detail about the founders and Spanish origin of the Cursillo movement and how it made its way to the Diocese of Central Newfoundland. I will save a more detailed description of that for next time. First of all, before a Cursillo three-day weekend takes place, committed Christians might be approached by current members of Cursillo to see if they are interested in attending. Because it is a method, it is not the only way for a Chris-
tian to deepen their faith walk or engage in spreading the Kingdom of God. As with all decisions, it needs prayerful consideration. In short then, Cursillo is a method that helps Chris-
tians to deepen their understanding of Christianity, while carrying out their Christian duty of spreading the gospel message. The three day weekend is conducted by lay people of the movement, with members of the clergy acting as spiritual advisors. Fifteen talks are given during the weekend, centering
on the doctrine of Grace, the Sacraments, and the Cursillo Foundations of Piety, Study and Action. These talks are framed by the activities of celebrating the Eucharist, prayer, confession, spiritual direction, fellowship, sharing meals, music and singing, and meditation. The time following the three-day weekend is called the “Fourth Day.” This is when new members will join with current members in Group Reunions and Ultreyas. A group reunion is a small group of friends who meet once a week to have sharing and support each other in their spiritual journey and the purpose of Cursillo. An Ultreya (an encouraging Spanish word meaning “onward”) is a monthly reunion of Cursillistas (members of Cursillo) from all of the different parishes. Parishes take turns hosting these Ultreyas. There is celebration of the Eucharist, a witness speaker, sharing and discussion, singing, a meal and fellowship.
Anyone can attend an Ultreya and it is a great opportunity for non-members to explore whether or not they feel moved to attend a three-day weekend. Sometimes there is speculation that Cursillo is a secretive organization or has secrets about its work. Simply put, it is not the case. As stated in the National Episcopal Cursillo information sheet, “There are not secrets about Cursillo or its goal and purpose. Some of the joyful activities on the three day weekend are experienced as surprises.” On the website for the Diocese of Central Newfoundland (http:// centraldiocese.org/) there is a link to the Anglican Diocese of Central Newfoundland Cursillo website. This website provides more information and additional links for those who are interested in this Christian movement. For myself, Cursillo has provided me with a positive and supportive experience in my faith journey. The only mystery that I have encountered is the mystery of our Christian faith, which the Cursillo movement fully embraces.
St. Mary’s Church in Herring Neck held its Annual Pancake Supper, an event supported by the church congregation and enjoyed by all who attended. Submitted by Evelyn Reddick .
ANGLICANLife
June 2011
BISHOP’S MESSAGE
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Checking our rearview mirror Bishop David Torraville Diocese of Central Newfoundland
The other day, as I drove up Airport Boulevard here in Gander, I experienced a moment of “righteous ire”. For those unfamiliar with Airport Boulevard, in places it is a four-lane street. Looking in my rearview mirror, I saw a car behind me, weaving in and out of traffic, well above the speed limit. I was driving in the centre lane and the car passed me on the right. It cut across me, forcing me to slam on my brakes, and immediately turned left, onto
another street. As he passed, I could see that he had a Cross hanging from his mirror and a “Jesus” fish shaped sign, on his bumper. I have to admit to a burst of righteous indignation, some might even say wrath and an inadvertent “breath prayer,” calling on the Lord to mete a measure of God’s own wrath upon the offender. In my anger, it also occurred to me that people displaying crosses and Jesus signs on their bumper, ought not to drive like (please pardon the language) “bats out of hell”. It gives Jesus a bad name! People driving unsafely,
while displaying the outward decorations of faith, with no care for the other of God’s creatures, bring little glory, or even good will, to the Lord whose symbols they dis-
play. Humbling for me, however, is that my most enjoyable moment self righteous fantasy quickly gave way to the awareness that I, and indeed the church I love, display and carry the symbols,
but do not always live up to the call of Jesus Christ. At the last General Synod of our Church, we passed a motion “Repudiating the Doctrine of Discovery”, a medieval doctrine which gave European rulers a right, in law, to claim the land they “discovered”, with dire consequences, with death and destruction, for indigenous peoples all around the world. This is something of a special challenge for Anglicans in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our Baptismal covenant calls us to proclaim the Good News, to strive for justice and respect the dignity of every human being. Now, our
Church has called us to repudiate a doctrine which historically offends the Good News, offends faith and betrays justice! So what are we to do? On June 24th we will celebrate “Discovery Day”. The name has a history, it carries a pride in the people who came and wrestled a living from our rocky shores and land but it also glosses over darker elements of that history. As a Church, and as a Province, we are like that driver blithely barreling our way forward with little regard for what, and who, we have left behind. It is not enough for our buildings to serve as landmarks and carry the signs of faith we have to live that faith even when it means our repentance and perhaps, yes, even changing the name of a provincial holiday.
Ecumenical unity on Fogo Island East Dresses for Haiti project unties all Christians During Lent, the ladies of the Parish of Fogo Island East decided that they wanted to take up a ministry for Lent and that was to challenge the congregation to make 300 dresses for Haiti. Word quickly spread throughout the Island and before long their sisters in the United and Pentecostal churches were on board to help out in this ministry. Palm Sunday saw the blessing of 381 dresses and 147 pairs of shorts for the girls and boys who live at the orphanages in Haiti which exceeded the challenge. The dresses and shorts were made from pillow cases and materials donated by various people. The Rector, The Rev. Terry Caines, commented during his sermon that we as Christians may have different styles of worship but we all understand the need to support and reach out to all of God’s children. (Photos and story submitted by Deanne Caines)
ATTENTION ALL CLERGY!!! Clergy are invited to call (902) 962-3511 to reserve a Cabin in Iris, PEI (6 miles from the Woods Island Ferry). A donation of $20 per day is requested. To ensure a smooth transition between tenants, “check out” is 10:00 a.m. and “check in” time is after 3:00 p.m. (Please NO PETS) Clergy can also contact Western Diocese Synod Office
(709) 639-8712
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June 2011
Good Shepherd parish gets good news Submitted by Archdeaon Geoff Peddle
Provincial Homelessness Funding Announced for Non-Profit Community Partners In Mount Pearl, the Honourable Darin King, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment and Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, announced $1.74 million under the Provincial Homelessness Fund (PHF) for 15 non-profit organizations working to curb homelessness in their communities. The recipients are among 18 nonprofit community partners throughout the province benefiting from nearly $2 million in PHF grants over the past two years. The Provincial Government previously announced $247,000 for three projects in Corner Brook in February. “Through the Provincial Homelessness Fund, the Provincial Government continues to deliver on its commitment to prevent and alleviate homelessness in our communities,” said Minister King. “This funding is in keeping with the vision of A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador, Secure Foundations, and will give these organizations the ability to continue and expand their programs and services to help people build a stronger future.” “I am pleased to see this investment supporting such worthwhile causes throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, including the Parish of the Good Shepherd’s free lunch program which started last year and now draws over 100 people each Wednesday,” said the Honourable Dave Denine, Minister for Intergovernmental Affairs and the Volunteer and Non-Profit Sector and MHA for Mount Pearl South. “This grant will assist with upgrading
their kitchen space as they work towards expanding their lunch program – a great investment by our government.” Today’s announcement was held at the Anglican Parish of the Good Shepherd, whose free community lunch program received a $33,450 grant to assist with kitchen space upgrades. Details of other projects are included in the backgrounder below. “This support will enable us to grow our lunch program – what we call our ‘ministry of hospitality’ – to better serve our community,” said Archdeacon Geoff Peddle, Rector of the Anglican Parish of the Good Shepherd. “Our lunches are open to everyone regardless of religious affiliation and many stay for hours and find both fellowship and encouragement. On behalf of them I say thank you to the Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation for making this possible.” Under the PHF, registered non-profit groups can receive up to a maximum of $200,000 per recipient in a given fiscal year. The funding helps cover capital costs associated with developing space to provide on-site or
outreach services that promote housing stability for those at risk of homelessness. In addition, non-profit groups may qualify for up to $10,000 towards the purchase of kitchen appliances. This funding would typically be used by groups who operate soup kitchens, food banks or similar programs. Non-profit groups who do not own the property they are proposing to renovate may also be eligible for a maximum of $25,000 for renovations. A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador, Secure Foundations outlines a long-term vision for social housing aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping to create healthier communities. In Budget 2010: The Right Investments – For Our Children and Our Future, the Provincial Government has invested $27 million for housing infrastructure projects, affordable housing and increased maintenance funding.
ANGLICANLife
Book Review: A Life in Letters: Thomas Merton A Life in Letters, the Essential Collection: Merton. Edited by William H. Shannon and Christine M. Bochen. Ave Maria Press Inc., Notre Dame, IN 1-59471-256-5 $21.95
A Life in Letters is a collection of Thomas Merton’s letters to various people from some unknown persons, to religious leaders, to well known people. Each letter is dated and gives one the essence of Merton’s personality, convictions, and his love of the Hermit life. It also gives us insight into the age in which he lived. We learn about his concern for the possibility of nuclear war, and how adamant he was in writing against it. Some of his letters were so politically charged that his superiors would censor them. Merton also writes about his poetry, and how he saw himself as a poet. He especially loved the poetry of Latin American writers. He wrote to Popes, Soviet Union writers, and even Ethel Kennedy when both John and Robert were assassinated. He also wrote to Jacqueline Kennedy expressing his compassion to her at the time. A Life in Letters is an intimate look at the person of Thomas Merton. His letters reveal so much about him and how dedicated he was to his chosen way of life. A Priest, a Monk, and a Hermit is how
he described himself. But he especially loved the Hermit life. A cottage was built on his Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky where he was allowed to live much of his time as a Hermit. But according to his letters he was a much sought after advisor not only on spiritual matters but matters concerning writing as well. Merton also corresponded with those of different faiths, especially Muslims and those involved with Zen. He saw himself as having much in common with these people whose way to God was different than his, but nonetheless it was the same God they all sought. There is much more that one could say about A Life in Letters, but may I say it is a must read for those who would like to know more about Merton the man. It is a window into the life of one of the twentieth century’s great writers and spiritual leaders. This book is currently available at The Diocesan Resource Centre Book Review by The Rev’d Gary Hussey, Team Rector, Parish of the Holy Spirit, Unit 2.
ANGLICANLife
June 2011
STRAIGHT TALK
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Cast the first stone The Rev. Greg Mercer
I recall vividly at about the age of ten getting into trouble with my mom. Apparently, my younger brother had told her that I was making fun of someone who couldn’t defend himself. One thing my mother had no time for was this kind of disrespect for people. Needless to say she was “ripping” when I arrived home. My dear mother, who never in her life time laid a hand on me, grabbed me by the shoulders and with her two hands gave me a good “shaking.” Literally! I mean she shook
me over and over again. It was more damaging to my pride than anything else, and I might add rather comical as well. But it was a lesson I never, ever forgot. Fast forward about 12 years. Here I am in a new job (before I was ordained). I am the new kid on the block and with my colleagues slowly making a few new friends. It is break time and we are sitting around a table enjoying a cup of coffee. The conversation changes abruptly and my new found friends start cracking jokes about some mentally challenged people in a certain hospital. While I refused to participate in the conversation or to laugh at their cheap jokes, I should have at least had the guts to rebuke them. But the need for friendship was greater and so I just sat there and said nothing, all the while thinking about the incident with my mother years
before. My friends, too, needed a good shaking but I wasn’t the man to do it. However, I vowed that day, not only would I refuse to participate in any kind of conversation that is demeaning or negative, but that I would not keep silent either. That is to say, some people need someone else to defend them. Who are we to judge? Does it make us feel better about ourselves to banish the defects of somebody else or to slander their reputation? We have no right to judge. Are we not playing God when we do? Christ and Christ alone will be the judge of us all. Moreover, Jesus makes it quite clear that we are not to judge. I keep thinking of what Jesus said to an angry crowd of men who were about to stone an adulterous woman: “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her” (John 8:7). Who
among us is without sin, and yet every time we slander a person’s name with negative connotations we are, essentially, throwing stones at them. Who among us is without defect or fault? It is rather interesting how quickly we can see the faults of someone else and with the same breath get very defensive when confronted with uncomfortable truths about ourselves. Probably if we spent a little more time praying about what irritates us about others we may learn to understand more of ourselves. My father-in-law, who was not much of a church going man, was certainly religious in his own right. I can hear him now quoting me a passage of Scripture from the Gospel of Matthew where Jesus confronts a bunch of hypocrites, “Why do you see the speck in your neighbour’s eye, but do not notice the log
in your own eye” (Matt 7:3). One problem with judging is that it prevents us from seeing the good that lies beyond the appearance. I think it was Mother Teresa who said, “If you judge people you have no time to love them.” To be honest, it is not easy to avoid getting caught up in the trap of negativity. We all have good intentions but we all at some time or another will fall from grace again only to inwardly confess, “I detest myself for allowing that to happen.” The best we can do when we find ourselves judging and throwing stones is to seek forgiveness. And equally important to pray for the individual(s) – Lord, help them, bless them. And then pray for ourselves – Lord, put more compassion into my heart and guide my tongue.
The Rev’d Paul Rideout of the Parish of Port-de-Grave was Ordained into the Sacred Priesthood on November 19, 2010 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. He held his first communion on Saturday, November 20, 2010 with a Parish service. Parish members from St. George’s North River, St. Mark’s Barneed and St. Luke’s Port-de-Grave gathered together at St. Luke’s to help Rev’d Paul with this celebration of Holy Communion. Members of Rev’d Paul’s family were in attendance including his brother Aaron who was a Server. Pictured (left to right): The Rev’d Paul Rideout, Aaron Rideout, and Karen Dawe, Eucharistic Assistant. Submitted by Karen Dawe.
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COLUMN
June 2011
ANGLICANLife
On vacation Ronald Clarke
After a long winter, and a rather cold, damp dreary spring, we are finally into summer - at last! And, how wonderful summer can be, and usually is, in our beautiful province. Warm sunshine, not really hot enough to be
unbearable, brings greenery and flowers, birds and young wildlife, in abundance. Newfoundland in summer is, as close as you can come to a natural paradise. And, do we enjoy our lovely summers? Yes, Amen! Off we go “on vacation”, to the parks, the beaches, and, of course, to our “cabins” in the wilderness. Relax, eat-drinkand-be-merry, “fun-in-thesun”, are all the joys of the season. Congregations, unfortunately, seem to be shrinking all year round. But, in summer we are left with only a
“corporal’s guard”. “Everybody is on vacation,” we are told. That’s fine, but how come many of the vacationers from other areas aren’t in our church these lovely summer mornings? And, how come some of the vacationers from our church probably aren’t in churches elsewhere either? Surely God, our Abba, personal, God wants his sons and daughters to come to his family church every Sunday, whether they are on vacation or not. And, then to be thoroughly practical our churches really suffer financially in the
summer time. Church expenses, obviously, don’t take a holiday in the summer. Things must be paid for in July and August. Bills don’t take vacations. Suppose somebody cut off your income for two or three months every year. How on earth would you manage? Shouldn’t we vacationers make sure we find a church to worship God each Sunday? There must be one not too faraway: And, surely, most of us have vehicles. Most of us would enjoy being in a different church sometimes,
with a “new” priest, and a “new” congregation. New, lasting friendships are often made that way. And, shouldn’t we, before we leave, arrange to provide our own church with our usual offerings for the time we are away? Good stewardship, we must all realize, is necessary, not just for nine or ten months, but all year round. Have a happy, healthy holiday!
Closing down a parish The Rev. Michael Li
The Anglican Church of Canada is a small Province in the worldwide Anglican Communion. Some Canadian dioceses are no bigger than a deanery in the larger dioceses. Many parishes today have less than fifty families on the membership list. Closing some of these small parishes may become a reality in Canada. I know that closing a Parish is a very emotional issue. Is it a sin to close a non-viable Parish? Is it a sin to maintain a Parish where most of the money is used for maintenance and repairs? Shouldn’t all Parishes be financially self-sufficient? If a Parish cannot afford to pay its own way, it may consider one of the following four options. 1. Save money by providing a part-time ministry. I believe, though, that part-time ministry would not save a Parish in the long-term. It would slowly disintegrate because there is no firm root planted.
2. Make good use of church facilities and property to generate income. It is a service to be involved in community activities, but the idea of using a church property as a business to generate revenue for the maintenance of its religious function is highly questionable. 3. Let the Diocese subsidize the Parish to preserve the presence of the Anglican Church in a particular area. It is important to give financial support to put a new Parish on its feet, but indefinite subsidization will create a “welfare state”. The local incentive to survive or grow will be lost. 4. Let the Bishop appoint a priest to revive the dying Parish Parish. Unfortunately, there are very few priests in Canada who can provide the necessary leadership to bring new life to a
dying Parish. If we cannot choose any of the above options, then merger with a neighbouring Parish would appear to be the most suitable procedure. Apart from financial considerations, a Parish may be non-viable even though it affords to pay its own way. To be “viable” means capable of living, growing or developing. A viable Parish is the one which leans on Jesus, not the clergy or man-made traditions. Those who make a viable Parish impossible will make a non-viable Parish inevitable. Every Parish must ask itself these questions: Does the Parish express the Christian faith adequately? Is its proclamation of the Gospel related to the pressing need of the community? Is it spending more money on maintenance or in interest on church building debts than helping the members to
grow spiritually for mission? We need to evaluate our Christian responsibility, role, effectiveness and vi-
ability. Let us all set a review process in motion and plan for our future.
ANGLICANLife
June 2011
15
&Outreach
Do you need the MISSION church anymore?
Allison Billard
This is a question I posed some of my confirmation students a few weeks ago. I was not all together surprised with the answers I got: “Well, it’s good to have...” “We don’t NEED it, but it’s important to learn about the history and stuff.” I have to admit, I probably thought those same things at their age. But the more I think about their responses the more I wonder: how many others, young and old, feel this way? What was more surprising to me was the conversation that led me to ask this question. We had somehow wandered into talking about holidays like Christmas and Easter and the commercialization of what were once entirely religious events. The same young people were remarking on how most “little kids” these days don’t associate those occasions with anything other than presents. They don’t even think about the fact that we celebrate Christmas to mark Jesus’ coming to earth or that Easter marks the beginning of our entire religion. “It’s all about what toys they get, or how many, and they’ll cry just because they didn’t get what they wanted,” one student remarked. “It’s like people just figure they don’t need the church anymore,” commented another. Well, colour me sur-
prised. I was not expecting that level of insight from these adolescents. So I asked them if they thought THEY needed the church anymore, and you can see the response I got above. Mixed reviews, maybe we don’t need it, but it’s good to have. I then pointed out that one time society revolved around the church: it provided the health care and the schools as well as the things it does now. It didn’t really change their view. The conversation then turned to other things and we had other matters to attend to. But I’ve been carrying it with me ever since. I don’t know if all young people feel this way, but these folks do indeed think the church is just a nice option. It is not a necessity in their lives. And these are people who are very involved in the church right now, helping out with all manner of activity and taking in all we have to offer. It bothers me. It doesn’t surprise me, not really. But it bothers me. Or at least it did. Then the more I thought about it, the more I realized that at least they think it’s good to have the church. They do see some role for it in society. And if we play our cards right, and plant the seeds, someday they might realize, as I do, that they do NEED the church, that the faith community is a necessary part of their lives, that their faith is enriched and made whole through their participation in the church. I guess the challenge for us is to continue to make sure that while they’re figuring that out, there are still things happening that are at least nice to have.
sharing stories from the diocese of western newfoundland
30-Hour Famine at St. Mary’s CornerBrook
Five young people from St. Mary the Virgin Anglican Church in Corner Brook raise over $1700 in a 30-hour Famine to alleviate hunger. They are shown here with two of their leaders, the Rev. Karen Laldin and Shirley Peddle. (Picture courtesy of Irma Moores)
What inspires a group of young people, ranging in age from twelve to fifteen, to give up food for thirty hours – not to mention a treasured weekend – to raise money for World Vision? For a group at St. Mary the Virgin Church in Corner Brook, the seed was sown last year, when some of the confirmation candidates chose doing a 30-hour Famine as their project — and raised more than $1300. Those that participated decided then and there that this was something they wanted to do again this year! The date was set for April 8-9, 2011 with the fast starting at midnight on April 7. While some of the original group were unavailable, two new participants joined in. When asked about the project, the participants explained it in this way: “You don’t eat for thirty hours to raise awareness of world hunger.” “It gives us a chance to know what it feels like to be hungry.” “We played games, watched a movie”... “had a scavenger hunt... in the dark”. “We were so occupied it went away and we didn’t feel hungry till we smelled the food!” In reference to the one potato they were allowed to eat halfway through, one student said, “It was the best potato I ever had!” “With half as many people we raised ... more than last year — $1700.19!” The event culminated with a hearty breakfast prepared by their leaders, the Rev. Karen Laldin, Shirley Peddle, David Taylor, and April Piercey, the Youth Co-ordinator. The group would like to thank all who sponsored them and helped them not just reach, but surpass their $1500 goal. The Mission and Outreach Committee of the Diocese of Western Newfoundland, in its mandate, seeks to build awareness of, promote, and support mission and outreach in the Diocese. In connection with this, the committee is undertaking to facilitate the sharing of mission and outreach efforts being carried out in parishes and by groups throughout the diocese. One way we will be doing this is through running a column in every second edition of the Anglican Life featuring stories of mission and outreach in the Diocese.
If you have a story to share, please contact Irma Moores via email at imoores09@gmail.com
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June 2011
ANGLICANLife
YouthLife
youth ministry in newfoundland & labrador
Caring for Creation
Shoreline Clean-up: (left) Rory , age 7, and Aidan, age 6, O’ Connor clean up trash along the landwash in Templeman, New-Wes-Valley on Monday in Holy Week as part of Earth Day. Along just one kilometre of shoreline near their home, they picked up eight large buckets of garbage. Hopefully other people will consider cleaning up the shorelines and raodways in their communities in order to help the health of our environment. “The Lord took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” (Genesis 2:15) Submitted by The Rev’d Shaun O’Connor.
One soldier at a time Submitted by Adrian Heffernan
It was Sunday morning, February 20th. It had snowed throughout the night, leaving it very difficult to get around St. John’s. Nevertheless the Baptism service scheduled at St. Michael’s & All Angels would go ahead as planned. The turnout of Company # 4512 for the service would be smaller than usual and that disappointed all members. When the time came for the Celebration of Holy Baptism, Father Sam Rose took great care to explain what would take place. You see, a young 15 year old C.L.B. boy would be getting baptised rather than the usual month
old baby. That boy was Pte. Joshua Breen who initiated the whole idea on his own, after seeing his younger baby brother, Cairan, baptised some weeks earlier. Being from a dedicated Brigade family, where his mother is a Civilian Instructor Melissa Breen, obviously had a strong bearing on his decision. In his words he stated that he wanted to be of the same family of Christians as his much younger brother was. Members of St. Michael’s Company stood next to Pte. Breen as he was baptised, as an expression of their support. Ceremony completed, Father Sam excitedly took Pte. Breen by the hand and led him through the congre-
gation to show him off. As is also the custom at Baptism, Father Sam gave Pte .Breen the kiss of peace, whereupon the whole congregation responded with an outpouring of applause. One could not help but notice at this point that C.L.B. Assistant Chaplain, Deacon Emeline Coffin-Strickland was overcome by the event and some tiny tears were seen to flow. Other members of the congregation, to include Father Reuben Hatcher, were also seen to become emotional as well. To add to the St. Michael’s C.L.B. contribution to this service, two former Company members Mr. Jim Hillier and Mr. Paul
Mercer came out of the congregation to assist in the Celebration of the Holy Eucharist that followed. Whoever
thought that such church services could be so inspiring and heartwarming.