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November 2011
ANGLICANLife A Section of the Anglican Journal
in NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
November 2011
Is God Calling You?
Bishop Cyrus Pitman Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador Photo by Jean Ellis
Jesus, our Good Shepherd, knows each of us personally, and he calls us by name. His silent and gentle voice calls to the depths of our innermost selves, to our hearts and souls. He invites us to come to him and be close to him. I tell you this precisely because, as our friend, he asks us to share also his humble service. Every single one of us is called to some special service for our Lord. We each have a personal calling, a vocation from Jesus himself, who came not to be served but to serve. There are many ways to serve, and many gifts spread among us. What is Christ
calling you to be and to do for him? We need people in all congregations to use their gifts for servant leadership in the Church. We need the special service of music, of carpentry, of reading, of hospitality, of visitation, and of sharing, to mention a few. Everyone has something Jesus Christ has given them to be shared with the whole community. Among these gifts is a cluster of things that all have to do with taking responsibility for the Church’s growth and direction. While all sorts of different people exercise these gifts in various ways, the Church has always organised itself on the basis that,
for it to flourish and respond to human need, it also needs the leadership and guidance of ordained ministry. In Newfoundland and Labrador, our dioceses recognize a diversity of vocations that include lay ministries, licensed lay ministries and ordained ministries. At this time, I would like to focus on one vocation in particular, the call to be a priest. The priest is a living sign and instrument of Jesus the Good Shepherd. Through the priest, Jesus himself touches the lives of people in their times of pain and trouble, but also in their times of joy and celebration. In our three dioceses, we are blessed with a great body of dedicated clergy, but I have a vital question to ask you: who will be your priest in ten or twenty years’ time? Many clergy will have retired. Thankfully, many will continue to serve on a part-time basis. Sadly, there are fewer men and women entering Queen’s College to begin the journey to replace them. None of this is a reason to become despondent. This can be a wonderful time in the life of our Church, full of opportunity. I ask that we respond positively to this challenge, rather than give way to a gloomy outlook of gradual decline. We need to do a better job at recruiting men and women, particularly younger adults, to ordained ministry. We need to find better ways of communicating that ordained ministry is a wonderful, fulfilling, spiritual journey
with Christ. I would like to ask a very direct and personal question to young women and men in our church, and also to our notso-young. Could Jesus be calling you to be his priest? “So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.” (Romans 12: 5-8) What would be your reaction if your friend, or colleague, or brother, or daughter said he or she was thinking about becoming a priest? Would you laugh it off? Would you think it a waste? Would you be supportive? Surely as Anglicans we see all vocations as blessings from God! Being a priest, or deacon, is indeed a wonderful gift from God. St. Andrew’s Day, November 30, marks the 35th Anniversary of the ordination of women to the priest-
hood in the Anglican Church in Canada. Special services and other events will take place from 30 November to 2 December. Today, there are 2,396 active clergy in Canada, of whom 886, or 37 percent, are female. Locally, since Queens’ College reopened in 1982, there have been 150 graduates who have been ordained for ministry (employed) in the Anglican Church. Of those, sixty, or 40 percent, were female. If you have thought about this calling and feel it is a vocation you would like to pursue, why not have a word with your parish priest. He or she will give you guidance, and will outline the process for you in a more concrete way. I promise that you will not embark on your spiritual journey alone — mentors will provide guidance and direction, assistance will be provided where it can, and supports will be put in place to see your journey unfold. Please give it some thought - God is calling you.
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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New Mission Statement for Queen’s College The task of Queen’s College is threefold: 1) to prepare women and men for the ordained ministry within the church; 2) to provide opportunities to better equip lay people for the exercise of their baptismal ministry; 3) to encourage and facilitate the integration of knowledge, skills, and experience with personal faith in order to foster a growing spirituality. Thus, through its programs and community life, Queen’s College seeks to enable Christian men and women to grow in grace and in knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To achieve the goals of our Mission Statement, our vision of Queen’s College encompasses: - The promotion of an Anglican identity, whose community life is punctuated by its liturgical life, as an educational institution within the Anglican Church of Canada, with a residential model of learning for those in preparation for ordination - Facilitating and achieving full accreditation with the Association of Theological Schools - Achieving financial viability through continuing the work of The Queen’s College Appeal, The Queen’s College Foundation and Planned Giving The Corporation of Queen’s College: Back Row (L-R): The Rt. Rev’d C. Pitman, The Rev’d P. Bugden, Ms M. Jenniex, Mr. G. Roebothan, Q.C., The Rt. Rev’d P. Coffin, The Rev’d T. Caines, Ms C. Graham Front Row (L-R): The Very Rev’d J. Noel, The Ven. S. Tilley, The Ven. E. King, Mr. F. Janes, The Rt. Rev’d D. Torraville, The Rev’d Canon Dr. B. Morgan (Missing Mr. R. Mercer). Photo by Queen’s College.
- Successful governance and respecting its canonical relationship with its stakeholders: the bishops and three dioceses of Newfoundland and Labrador
QUEEN’S COLLEGE STATEMENT OF MISSION
- A plan to market and promote Queen’s College within the church and in the community at large
Ministry is the believer’s response to God’s loving initiative in Jesus Christ and is enacted through witnessing to Him. By baptism each Christian is called to participate in this ministry. However, identity of calling does not imply identity of function. Since the apostolic age there has been within the church a basic pattern of ordained ministry: bishop, priest and deacon. Within this context the ministry of the whole people of God, ordained and lay, is complementary and necessary, the one to the other, within the Christian community.
- An effective model of administration which includes the deployment of personnel
- The nurturing of student life through core values, spiritual development and the attaining of competencies through their studies and corporate life - A commitment to lifelong learning, either at the college or other satellite sites, for laity and clergy, which will provide tools for spiritual growth and development to address the missional needs of the church - A commitment to build relationships in the wider community through affiliations and partnerships with educational institutions such as Memorial University and other theological institutions - A continuing commitment to fostering ecumenical relationships - A willingness to engage and respond to our society and culture
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November 2011
LET US PRAY Good Shepherd Parish Feeding Body and Soul Spiritual Support
let us pray
Submitted by The Rev’d Everett Hobbs
Shepherd’s Cafe: The Parish of the Good Shepherd’s Administrator, Mr. Chris Fowler helped serve up a tasty meal for the Parish’s Wednesday Cafe. Photo by S. Haskell. Submitted by S. Haskell
A hearty helping of Christian Hospitality and Community was served up at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Mount Pearl on Saturday 17 September. Volunteers of the church’s popular Wednesday Cafe got a taste of what is making their ministry such a success. Following a period of quiet time focused around the theme of Christian Hospitality and Community,
they were treated to a meal of Spaghetti Carbonara, prepared by the Parish Administrator, Chris Fowler, and served by the Rector, Archdeacon Peddle, and Wardens, Donna Ronan and Barbara Boone. Altar servers also joined forces with a vestry member to help dish out the carbohydrate laden lunch. The meal was accompanied by live piano music, compliments of Miss Stephanie Sheppard. The event was a fitting way to acknowledge and inspire an outreach minis-
30 Roe Avenue, P.O. Box 348, Gander, NL A1V 1W7 Telephone: (709) 651-4100 Fax: (709) 256-2957 email: info@waltershoffe.com
try which weekly nourishes over one hundred bodies and souls entirely on donations and volunteer manpower. More than 40 volunteers are currently involved in The Shepherd’s Cafe, but there is always room for more! For more information or to volunteer, please call (709) 747 1022.
The Sisterhood of St John the Divine (SSJD) is an Anglican religious order which has houses (communities) in Toronto and Victoria. Its way of life and ministry would be similar to the local Roman Catholic Mercy and Presentations sisters within the context of the traditional vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. Some are surprised that there are monks, nuns and friars in the Anglican Church but it has been so since the revival of religious life in the 19th century. There are about a hundred Anglican religious orders worldwide and some of them would consist of several communities. You will find a complete listing at www.communities. anglican.communion.org with links to web sites. Most of these orders also support those outside who want to share in this way of life in association with a particular order. For instance, you can join SSJD as an associate and locally we have a dozen plus who are involved this way. You can find more information at www.ssjd.ca or talk to a local associate. You can also request information by mail at SSJD, 233 Cummer Ave., Toronto, ON M2M 2E8 There are two other Canadian orders you can join
as an associate or oblate: The Order of the Holy Cross (Benedictine) in Toronto www.holycrossmonastery.com and the Sisters of the Church www.tap.net/csc in Oakville, ON Some other orders to consider: Society of St John the Evangelist in Boston www.ssje.org and Order of St Benedict (St Gregory’s Abbey) in Michigan www. saintgregorysthreerivers.org One of the more familiar and popular saints is St Francis. You can join the Society of St Francis as a Third Order Franciscan. Learn more at www.tssf.org You can also become an Associate of the Sisters of Mercy (738-1894) and the Presentation Sisters (7538340). Telephone for information. Most of the religious orders mentioned above have associates or oblates living in the Province. Over the years there have been some from here who have joined an Order as a fully professed member. The benefit of being an associate is the provision of resources to enable spiritual growth, the framework of a community to give support, and accountability for your Rule of Life. Even if you don’t join, you can avail of these communities for retreats and visits, and for online connection.
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ANGLICANLife in NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
Are you listening?
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. Layout & Design: Sam Rose Printed by: Signal Star Publishing, A Division of Bowes Publishers Limited, Industrial Park, 120 Huckins Street, Goderich, Ontario, N7A 4B6
Circulation: 21,777
ANGLICANLife
Father Sam Rose Editor
It was intentional to put Bishop Cyrus Pitman’s letter on the front page of this month’s issue. Usually good news stories are reserved for prominence on the cover. But is the Bishop’s message a story of good news or is it a warning of the dire consequences that arise with a lack in people coming forward for ordained leadership in the Anglican Church? Certainly given the present circumstances, things do not look good at all. Vocations to ordained ministry are on the decline. With a lack of clergy, ministry has to be exercised by the laity. This can be a good thing since a strong lay leadership in a parish is essential for its growth and mission. Yet, we are not Congregationalists, but have a strong sense of being part of the fourfold order of bishops, priests, deacons, and lay people. All Anglican par-
ishes need to have each of these four components in its identity and function. You cannot have a priest in a parish without the laity or a congregation without a clergy holding a bishop’s licence. With a downturn in membership in the Anglican Church, hard questions need to be asked. And adding to this a decrease in people being ordained, the existence of some parishes is in jeopardy. However, we can either concede defeat or see this as a tremendous opportunity to renew our Church. Imagine wanting to grow God’s Church instead of trying to downsize it. We have a rich history of people establishing faith communities in places where other denominations would not go. Every generation needs to refocus efforts to be faithful and accountable to God’s call to mission. Perhaps this is a time not to fear the end of the Church but to embark on the challenge to make disciples of all nations. Based on St. Paul’s image of the Church as a Body, a theologian once said, “The Church is a living organism, slated for change but forever to remain the same.” Living organisms need the right conditions to grow and survive. But an organism cannot change itself into something
it is not intended to be, even if it thinks it can. The Church of Christ has a clear mission to make disciples. Any church that tries to become something other than this is really not following its purpose. The Anglican Church cannot become something in which God never intended. If it does than, like any organism, it will die. Some may say, “Well, let the Anglican Church die!” Certainly this is a mindset in some circles. But by saying this, it does not mean that the Church of Christ will end even if every church building closed up tomorrow. Perhaps what really needs to die is the negative attitudes and thinking that because times are tough right now that there isn’t any hope for the future. The Old Testament Prophets were always calling people to turn away from the things which were not what God intended. Often these prophets were ignored, ridiculed, or even killed for their message. Human nature has not changed that much. God still speaks today to the Church – yes, even through the bishops. It is our choice to heed what God is saying or not. As Christ himself said, “Let anyone with ears listen!”
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November 2011
D.N.R. tattooed over her heart
Kevin Smith Planned Giving Consultant
A recent story on ABC NEWS reported that a British grandmother resorted to something different to ensure that her living will was followed. Joy Tomkins of Norfolk, England had the
words “Do Not Resuscitate” tattooed over her heart in large blue capital letters. The story continues that just in case Joy collapsed forward and medics only had a chance to look at her back, she had an additional tattoo inked on her upper right shoulder reading “PTO” for Please Turn Over – with an arrow below it pointing toward her front side. The 81 year old is not terminally ill but she was adamant that if the medics find her and she can’t speak, she wanted them to know that she did not want her life prolonged. The mother of two and grandmother of six
said her children understood her decision and would not protest. Joy said, “The P.T.O. is a little joke but I’m very serious about the one on the front.” From the context, I would assume that you know what a living will is. However, just in case, here is how one legal source puts it: A “living will” contains your written instructions about what level of medical treatment you want in the event that you are unable to express your wishes verbally. For instance, you may want all possible measures taken to keep you alive – or you could instruct that
nothing be done to keep you alive. I’m also told that the phrase “living will” is not a legal term in Canada. But it is used to describe the legal directives each province sanctions that deal with your medical care wishes should you be unable to communicate them. In this province, living wills are called advance health care directives, and the proxy is called a substitute decision maker. You have to be at least 16 to be considered competent to draw one up. The person you appoint to make decisions for you must be at least 19. This Advanced Health
Care Directive must be in writing, signed and witnessed by two people like a Will. Note that it is not effective until you are incompetent and if you don’t have one, it is too late to make one once you are incompetent. Perhaps the story about Joy and her tattoo will help people become more comfortable with discussing death and end-of-life options. 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
Canon Sid Davies turns 100 Submitted by Denise Rees
Canon Sidney Davies was born on September 1, 1911 in Plymouth, Devon and as a young man came to Canada and trained at Queen’s University P.Q. On September 18 th he celebrated the 73rd anniversary of his ordination as Deacon. His first curacy was in Prince Edward Island. He came first to Newfoundland as the travelling District Secretary of the British and Foreign Bible Society. He was invited to take a curacy at St. Thomas’ Parish (St. John’s) as a result. Married by then to Muriel he accepted and upon Canon Howlett’s resignation he became Rector. He began diocesan wide
“Sunday School by Post” programme with Ora Rodway – now Rendell. It made a significant contribution to the children of the diocese of those times. He was always a dedicated teacher/preacher. During this year of St. Thomas’s celebration of 175 years they have invited all former rectors back in turn. Canon Davies was here on May 1, 2011. Bent and sitting in a wheelchair he preached from the chancel steps with a powerful voice. He ended with this message – a Christian should be lively, open, have vision and be energetic/evangelist. Love above all. He served at St. Thomas Parish in the 1950’s/ 60’s and moved to Nova Scotia where he has been in
several parishes, the last being St. James, Kentville. His wife Muriel died after 62 years together. He began his 90th year when he took a worldwide trip alone visiting family and friends on four continents. Soon after that he married Ruth and they live now in Canning , just outside Kentville. He still takes services and preaches at several churches in the area. (See the Primate’s Column in the March 2011 Anglican Journal.) His century of life and service was marked in style by his family on September 1st with many friends on September 2nd and September 11th when St. James had a special day with a band and the present and past Bishops of the Diocese.
Canon Sid Davies and wife Ruth.
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Queen’s College
on the road
Theological Education on the Move: Diploma in Ministry & Theology candidates gather with Queen’s College instructor Dr. Carmel Doyle (centre) at St. Mary’s Church Hall in Clarenville. Photo by Harvey Locke. Submitted by Harvey Locke
Saturday 19 September 2011 was an historic day for Queen’s College and the Parish of St. Mary the Virgin at Clarenville. On that day the three-year Diploma in Theology and Ministry Program was launched at the Angus Drover Hall at St. Mary’s. Of course there’s nothing novel about the program, it’s been around for some years; but, the fact that this is the first time a complete program is being offered outside of the St. John’s campus in the 170 years of the college makes this an historic event indeed. The college, encouraged by the Diocese of Central Newfoundland, and supported by St. Mary’s, is embarking on the Diploma in Ministry and Theology program in this way to encourage lay education in the faith and to help partici-
pants realize their Baptismal ministry. The thinking here is that if the students find it hard to get to the College, then perhaps the college can get to where the students are. The College is going out to the students and making it easier for more people to participate in theological education. This course of study, which covers a wide variety of material in theology and ministry, is offered over a period of three years with students attending seminars on a total of eight weekends. Students will usually convene on Friday evening, meet through Saturday and end the session in the afternoon. Four of the weekends will be in the fall and four will be in spring to avoid the difficult winter travel. This represents a threeyear commitment for the students and a minimum of a three year commitment for the college. There is potential for longer term commitment on the part of
the college as Queen’s will start another class next fall if there are at least eight registrants by then. This year’s students, the first students, are from a number of different parishes in Central Diocese. Seated at the table in the photograph, from left to right, are: Stella Mills (Boyd’s Cove), Kathy Russell (Lethbridge),Steward May (Belleoram), Dr. Carmel Doyle (Queen’s College), Carol Ann Budgell (Clarenville), Norma Smith Spurrell (Clarenville). Missing from photo Gerald Giles (Port Blanford). St. Mary’s is very pleased and excited to be host to Queen’s staff and the students of the Diploma in Theology and Ministry Diploma program.
To Learn More About Queen’s College visit
www.mun.ca/queens Email: queens@mun.ca
Phone: (709) 753-0116 Toll Free: 1-877-753-0116 Mail: The Provost Queen’s College Faculty of Theology 210 Prince Philip Drive - Suite 3000 St. John’s, NL, A1B 3R6
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Breaking New Ground St. Michael & All Angels embark on a new, yet familiar, journey
Breaking New Ground: The Parish of St. Michael & All Angels began an exciting phase of their congregational life with the breaking of the ground on their new site located on Kenmount Road in the City of St. John’s. The Right Rev’d Cyrus Pitman dug the first hole to kick-off the construction of the new Church & Parish Hall Facility. (Left to right): The Rev’d Fr. Sam Rose (Rector), Buster Bradbury (Past Warden), Patrick Peddle (Crucifer), Bishop Pitman, The Rev’d Fr. Michael Horlick (Bishop’s Chaplain). Photo by Jean Ellis. Submitted by Jill Rose
In spite of overcast skies and wet weather, spirits were not dampened when the congregation of St. Michael & All Angels broke ground for their new Church and Parish Hall facility. The parish sold its former church in January 2010 and have been using rented space to hold worship and fellowship events. A successful Capital Campaign goal of $400,000 was reached in the spring and the Diocese gave permission to build in September. Moving to a new area is not something new for St. Michael’s. Orginally located in a small school room on New Gower Street, the Mission Church began in 1885. The following year, it relocated to a larger chapel on Springdale
Street. In the early 20th century, a temporary church was built on Casey Street. Yet another move was made in 1956 with the opening of the former St. Michael’s Church on St. Clare Avenue. This new site will be the fifth location in over 125 years that has housed the Parish family. The Parish made the bold decision to relocate once again and land was purchased in the growing area of St. John’s on Kenmount Road. Calling the event “an historic day for St. Michael’s,” the Right Rev’d Cyrus Pitman reminded the gathering that breaking ground for a new Church home, “is nothing new for this Parish. Once agian, history is repeating itself.” About 170 parishioners and people from the area witnessed the Ground Breaking Ceremony.
A Sign of Hope: Happy parishioners from The Parish of St. Michael & All Angels unveil the Sign marking where their new Church home will be located. Photo by Jean Ellis.
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OUR HISTORY Bishop Feild in Bonne Bay, 1849 Readers of Anglican Life have been exposed to Bishop Edward Feild’s journal of his pastoral voyage on the coast of Newfoundland and the Labrador Straits in 1849 in two previous articles last year. The writer has been conscious of the desirability of making more of this remarkable work available to readers of Anglican Life. However, the extent of the journal, book length, makes this desirable action very difficult when one remembers the size of each article in Anglican Life. However, the writer has taken the decision to make one further article on this subject. This article covers the time just before those previously published in this newspaper. This article describes the area of Bonne Bay on the west coast of Newfoundland, north of Bay of Islands. In the proceeding part of the journal describing the Bay of Islands Bishop Feild points to the very sparse population, a few Brakes whose population came from the county of Dorset in England. The writer did an article for the Newfoundland Ancestor magazine (published December, 2006) on a survey of the west coast of Newfoundland in 1839 which emphasized the small population and the fact that most of this population had been born elsewhere, first generation immigrants. The presence of native peoples is recorded that almost all the wives of families were of native ancestry. They were often from Cape Breton via St George’s Bay or the south west coast of Newfoundland. But all-inall Bishop Feild and his people met very few inhabitants and mentioned very few other in the whole area of Bay of Islands. One of the problems which Bishop Feild raises as to visiting remote frontier areas of the British colonies is the fact that the settlers in these areas from the more established places in Europe, in this case the British Isles, tended to lose their level of civilization when they came to Newfoundland and often became soli-
tary families in the middle of the wilderness. However this illustration is not so simple, there were large rural areas of abject poverty in England mixed with illiteracy not all that different from the colonies like Newfoundland where the writer’s family came from in central Dorset in south west England. Bishop Feild does restrain himself somewhat by seeing some of the reasons for privation (he was an inspector of prisons in England) so he had lots of experience with poverty. He is intelligent enough to realize that he is passing through these areas and he cannot stop to fix the defects such as marital informality. People lived ‘according to the customs of the country’. This situation is further illustrated by the lack of any church rites such as Baptism and marriage. Baptism was wanted by everyone and the bishop was happy to oblige. Those who had baptized their own children wanted it redone by a real bishop. There was no missionary in the area although as readers will remember from a previous article in this series (October, 2010) Mr. Gifford had been designated as a future missionary at Forteau. Women were no doubt in short supply and people did what they could, not the way the way the bishop would like to see things in an established Victorian society.
ANGLICANLife
David Davis Columnist
The Document The wind was light, but the night beautifully fine, and soon after midnight we had taken leave of Bay of Islands, and were creeping gently along the shore towards Bonne Bay. Mr. Gifford had not accompanied us, in consequence of his hands being too sore to admit of his pulling any more; and it was providentially ordered that during his stay two families were brought on board the Church ship, that the children might be baptized. One was the younger Blanchard, who had come with his wife and children in an open boat, all the proceeding day and night: and the other Lorder, whom we have seen at Blandard’s, senior, who with his wife had rowed some fifteen miles, to bring his children for baptism. I do not how to be thankful enough for this and the many other mercies of this eventful week. The weather has been uninterrupidly fine; and out various very hindrances and discomfitures seem to have been ordered to promote and complete my desired ends I should have had only reason to regret if I could have departed one hour sooner. O! That man would therefore praise the Lord for His goodness. Sunday, August 5th. - I do not know that our pilot had contrived or would contrive it so, but it was so that at 7 o’clock this morning we were just off his residence at Trout River, I sent him off to make preparation, and he returned with three others to row us to the land, the vessel standing on and off. At 9 o’clock the morning service commenced, the congregation consisted of Mr. Crocker’s family, with some Blanchards and Brakes from Bay of Islands- seventeen in all. The three Clergymen wore their surplices, and my little font was used, with the usual ornamental covering of the table. Baptisms in the hypothetical form were solemnized after the second lesson. Nine of Crocker’s family were so baptized, and three of John Brake’s, the widower. Crocker has good deal of land under cultivation, and grows turnips, barley, &c. His garden is well cultivated, and apparently he is very comfortable circumstances, but he grumbles like an Englishman, and declares he has a hard matter to keep his family. He had himself baptized all his own children but one. His wife, however, was urgent that all might now be baptized, and he concurred; and therefore the hypothetical form was used. We returned on board immediately after the service, leaving Crocker behind on his own petition. At eleven o’clock we celebrated divine service in the large cabin; the captain with two sailors, with my servant, attended. At two o’clock, p.m. we entered the Little (or Rocky) Harbour, just to the east of Bonne Bay, and close to the entrance. This is rather a roadstead than a harbour, but it is protected, except from the north-west winds. At three o’clock my friends went on shore, and were very kindly welcomed by an old Englishman named Paine. His wife is an Englishwoman, the only one, I believe, on the shore, and they were married in St John’s by parson Harries, forty years ago. Since then he has constantly resided at this place, and has seen two generation grow up around him. He can read and produced his Prayer-Book and “New Manuel,” which appeared to have been well used. He is very anxious to obtain a new copy of the “Manuel” and I regretted that I could not supply him. On the return of my friends to the Church ship we celebrated the evening service-all the crew in attendance. At five o’clock we went ashore, and in Mr. Paine’s house said again the evening service, and after the second lesson baptized the children which had never participated in that sacrament. I addressed the congregation after the service, and had much conversation with them, and was greatly pleased and thankful to find them apparently very earnest and serious. Great regret was expressed that more of their friends and relatives had not been able to attend, and they could not attend more frequently and regularly enjoy the benefits and blessings of the ministrations of the Church. With the children there were no fewer than thirty persons present at the service, besides my party. The whole number of inhabitants, (exclusive of a Roman-catholic family, the head of which rejoices in the name of Xavier Jardinier) must be nearly fifty, and alas! This is the first time any minister religion has visited them, or any of the holy offices of the Church been duly celebrated among them. After the services I examined the garden, and found fine peas and other vegetable in abundance. We then walked abound the harbour. There seems to be good slate on the coast; the interior is thickly wooded, with beautiful streams of water. This has been a holy day, if not, if not in every sense a sabbath. Two services on shore and two at sea on the same Sunday seldom fall to the lot of a Bishop or any Clergyman in these days, and I desire to be duly and truly thankful for such a privilege. Some of the people came on board in the evening, and were supplies with children’s books and tracts. Monday, August 6th - We got underway about seven o’clock, after the men replenished the watercasks at Mr Paine’s clear spring in his garden. ..................................Our men assembled at five o’clock, and Mr Paine reading to them the tracts I had sent yesterday. The wind was light the whole day, and part of the fay a-head, and we did not reach Cow Cove (twenty miles) till nearly seven o’clock in the evening. The cove is a roadstead to the south and west of Cow Head; to the north of the Head is harbour, but it is not of easy access, in consequence of some rocks lying at the entrance. The neck of land which divides Shallow Harbour from Cow Cove is not more than a quarter of a mile across, and on this neck lie the houses, five or six in number. We found most of the inhabitants at home, and besides them two families from Daniel’s Harbour, a place twenty-one miles to the northward; and one family from St Paul’s Bay. We called on most of the people,..................................... We arranged to have a service and baptize the children to morrow (if it pleases God) at nine o’clock, in the house one Vincent, who appears a respectable old man, and respected by all his neighbours.
ANGLICANLife
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November 2011
No Lasting Peace
The Rev. Michael Li Columnist
It is easier to fly to the moon than to make peace on earth. There seems to be wars somewhere on our planet at any given time. We are living in a world of violence. War is always horrible and tragic; it is never good. Between 60 and 72 million people died during the Second World War (1939-1945). Today we have enough weapons of destruction to eliminate all of us many times
over. We are spending far more money on wars and arms than on wars against hunger, disease, homelessness, and poverty. God is the Author of Life. In the Old Testament times, God used war to punish His people (Deuteronomy 28:4957) and to judge the nations (e.g. I Samuel 15:1-3). War was a constant feature in the history of Israel from its beginning up to the destruction of the second Temple. Long periods of peace seldom occurred. Then, war seems to be incompatible with the Sermon on the Mount and all Jesus stood for. Jesus is the Prince of Peace. His life and teachings seem to promote love and nonviolence. Because of His love for all humankind, Jesus died on the cross.
The New Testament writers maintain that God has brought government into being for the purpose of maintaining justice. Every government has the right to protect its citizens from aggres-
sion. Each nation is justified in protecting its own territory. Was the settling of Canada an act of aggression against a nation? If so, should the Canadian government return the whole territory to its original owners? The Bible does
Being “old” is great! Ronald Clarke Columnist
Would you believe that I actually enjoy being “old”? Thank God, at 82 years of age, I’m still active. My health, despite sleep apnea and a “bum” leg, is still very good. The long years, through the good and the bad, have developed in me patience, love, faith, and yes, even wisdom. Age brings maturing of the mind and soul. Being “old” is like being near the end of an exciting journey. It is like standing on a hilltop overlooking it all. It allows one to see meaning and purpose for everything along the way. Having a personal relationship with God has made all the difference. God has been with us all the way. In the good days, God is en-
riching all pleasures. In the bad, God helps bring comfort and peace. Doing God’s will by serving and pleasing Him, is such pleasant work. Loving and serving others – especially the unlovable – brings great satisfaction. Because of this we can, from the hilltop, look back on it all with deep gratitude. Late in life we can
peacefully anticipate our future. Will our loving God give us years to do His will? If so, good! If not, then as the old hymn says, “We taste even now the hallowed bliss of our eternal home.” How wonderful it will be to hear Jesus’ welcome” “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of the Lord. Being “old” is great!
not give cut-and-dried answers to these questions. The early church has taken a pacifist stance. It was not until the eleventh century that pacifism died out. In 1095 Pope Urban II urged people to undertake a holy war to free the Holy Land from pagan control. The First Crusade was launched with the conquest of Jerusalem in 1099. There were more crusades to the Holy Land, but by 1291 the last of them had fallen to the Muslims. Then, the religious wars that followed the Protestant Reformation were some of the most violent in all of “Christian” European history. People who actually believed in the same God killed each other.
Today, not all Christians agree that war should be fought to secure justice and to re-establish peace on earth. Peace is the church’s business. We are followers of the cross, not crusaders to eliminate pagans. Engaging in warfare poses significant problems for our Christian discipleship and evangelism. Each person we face in battle is either a Christian or nonChristian. If we kill a Christian, we kill a member of the Body of Christ which is the community of reconciliation. If we kill a non-Christian, we take away any further opportunity to let him or her receive salvation. There can be no lasting peace until the Second Coming of Jesus. We look for the renewal of all creation, marked by everlasting peace. All true Christians will be given resurrected bodies. Heaven and earth will be one (Revelation 21:1-3).
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November 2011
Thanks-LIVING Your heart can be empty because you can’t see him (her) Or you can be full of the love that you shared You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday... The Rev. Greg Mercer Columnist
In October, Canadians celebrated Harvest Thanksgiving. Later this month our American neighbours will probably celebrate it with much more feasting and gusto than us Canadians. But how much of that thanksgiving translates into “Thanks-LIVING?” We are all quite familiar with the story of the ten Lepers (Luke 17:11-19) proclaimed in our churches across the nation on Sunday, October 9. Emphasis is often placed on the one, who having realized he was healed, turned back to God to give thanks. I am sure that all ten were thankful. I mean, if your flesh is falling off your bones and all of a sudden you are healed and restored to your community, you have something to be thankful for. And so the story of the leper is our story. That is to say, if you are a cancer survivor, you are thankful – or at least you have something to be thankful for. If you have been given a second chance in life because of open heart surgery or heart reconstruction, then you have something to be thankful for. If you have been through any kind of ordeal in life, be it sickness, loss, financial, family breakup, or whatever and you have been healed, comforted, restored, reconciled, that is, your hope has been given new life, then you have a great deal to be thankful for. Even if in the midst of loss – and I do not wish to diminish anyone’s loss or their grief – we can be thankful. The words of a poem by David Harkins (1981) come to mind: You can shed tears that he (she) is gone Or you can smile because he (she) has lived You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back Or you can open your eyes and see all that he (she) has left
The point is that even in the midst of loss there is LOTS to be thankful for and much to live for. And not unlike the leper in the story who returned to give thanks to God, anytime there is a light at the end of tunnel when you have been healed, saved, or given a second chance in life, you are thankful. The Apostle Paul says to be ‘thankful in all circumstances (1st Thess. 5:18). Notice that it doesn’t say FOR all circumstances – a small but important detail. One of our parishioners lost one of their adult children in the last twelve months. It has been a most trying time for them and a real test of faith. In a manner of recognizing the blessings amidst the tragedy he shared with me how the death of his son had actually saved the life of his other child and grandchild. (now that’s a familiar story, isn’t it?). Apparently they had the same rare heart condition but wasn’t aware of it until after his son’s death. The death of his son had also transformed the community in which he lived and recently has erected a stained glass window in honour of his contributions to the community and in thanksgiving for his life. Would they want their son back? Sure they would. But the point is exactly as Saint Paul says, “to be thankful IN all circumstances” since there are blessings even in the midst of tragedy. But what about all the little things in life that we often take for granted. And more importantly, what do people see when they look
at you? Do they see a thankful person? Do they see Thanks-LIVing? Back to the story of the Ten Lepers — I am sure that all ten were thankful but only one showed it; only one demonstrated it. For most of us our cupboards and fridges are full with goodies. Does it occur to us to ‘thank God’ when we open the fridge door? Better still, are we willing to give any of it away in a manner of ‘thanks-living?’ My guess is that if we ever took the time – really took the time – to sit down and count our blessings (which is practically impossible) we would quickly realize just how blessed we are. Now where do I start? Thank God for a warm bed, my pillow and my slippers. Thank God for the robins outside my window and for the ray of sunshine through the window that reminds me of the LIGHT of Christ and the assurance of the Resurrection. Thank God for our grandchildren and for their different personalities. Thank God for a roof over my head, the person I share my life with and our three beautiful daughters. Thank God for my computer, my newspaper, friends, my guitar and accordion, my tools, my golf clubs... Thank God for all of you reading this article. May God richly bless you and may you avail of every opportunity to minister for the cause of Christ. Blessings and Thanks-LIVING go hand in hand.
ANGLICANLife
Letter to the Editor In his September 2011 article, ‘A Different Kind of Decline’, The Venerable Geoff Peddle recommended that we engage deeply “passive members” of the Anglican Church and discover who they really are as a means of encouraging them to attend church. I agree, but with a little challenge. About fifteen years ago, I conducted a study of Anglican demographics in the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario. At the time, I asked Mr. Reginald Bibby, a sociologist who studies religious life in Canada, about whether being affiliated with a Christian denomination actually encouraged people to come to the church of their denomination when invited. Mr. Bibby believed that it provided “an open door.” While attending a Synod of the Diocese of Algoma that same year, I
asked Rev. Canon Harold Percy, an Anglican priest who specializes in congregational development, the same question. His response was, “It’s easier to have a baby than it is to raise the dead.” (The woman beside me retorted, “He hasn’t had a baby!”) My parish priest assured me after, “The Lord will do both.” Perhaps in Newfoundland and Labrador people still identify with a religious denomination even though they do not attend church. But I believe that the important thing to do is to keep on inviting people into a relationship with Jesus Christ through his Church regardless of their religious affiliation. Thank you for the article. Yours in Christ, Rev. Shaun O’Connor Parish of Greenspond Newtown - Pound Cove
In Flanders Fields In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields. - Col. John McCrae
ANGLICANLife
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November 2011
The Anglican Fellowship of Prayer Submitted by The Rev’d Gregory Mercer AFP Representative
“Excellent, informative, call to action!” “Uplifting, refreshing!” “Totally satisfied!” “Awesome!” “All inspired me!” “Excellent workshop. When is the next one?” These are just a sampling of the 100 percent positive response to our Anglican Fellowship of Prayer (AFP) weekend. On the weekend of September 30 and October 1, 2011, the AFP, Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador held its first conference in a number of years. In many ways it was a fresh start. The whole intent of the conference was to introduce and educate both clergy and lay parish representatives about the mission and importance of the AFP. Friday evening was an open invitation to the whole diocese to join our Bishop, The Right Reverend Cyrus Pitman along with our spe-
Music was provided by the local music team and Jordan’s Light, a gospel band from the parish of Upper Island Cove. Bishop Gary gave the homily after which an invitation was given to the congregation to come forward for the ministry of healing and anointing. It was of no surprise that many came forward to be anointed. The service concluded with a celebration of the Eucharist followed by a time of fellowship in the adjacent parish hall. The conference continued with an all-day event on Saturday at The Lavrock Camp and Conference Centre. Again the focus of the workshop was to educate lay people and nurture them into their role as parish representatives. Essentially the role of a PR is to support their clergy by encouraging and enabling the ministry of prayer in their parishes thereby extending the Bishop’s call to prayer for the whole diocese. The conference began and ended in prayer. It included a Bible
United in Prayer: Participants of the Anglican Fellowship of Prayer Conference gathered to learn more about the ministry of prayer. Photo by AFP.
church service and to commission those who are ‘Alongsiders’ – a prayer ministry for our seniors and shut-ins. Our Bishop concluded the conference with
and exists to encourage and enable the ministry of prayer in Canada. It is inclusive of all forms of Christian church life, whether they be lay or clerical, catholic or evangelical, monastic or secular, formal or informal. AFP (Canada) is resource based and seeks to be a teaching aide to assist both individuals and congregations to grow in the life of prayer. As for the AFP (Diocese
of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador) this is a good start at getting re-organized. Future plans would certainly include responding to our Bishop’s prayer requests, organizing a prayer vigil for our upcoming Diocesan Synod and organizing other workshops on the archdeaconry level to address the local congregation as a means and a center of prayer.
The Eucharistic Prayer: AFP Conference Leader, Bishop Gary Woolsey (left) joins with Eastern Diocesan Bishop, The Right Rev’d Cyrus Pitman, for the Conference Eucharist at Holy Redeemer Church in Spaniard’s Bay. Photo by AFP.
cial guest, The Right Reverend Gary Woolsey, retired Bishop of the Diocese of Athabasca, for a special worship service introducing the ministry of healing and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The service was held at the Parish of Holy Redeemer, Spaniards Bay, and was well attended.
study on Prayer, presentations by Bishop Gary on the mission and vision of AFP, as well as a number of presentations by clergy on AFP resources and other topics such as prayer and confidentially. Rectors were encouraged to commission their lay representatives during a regular
a number of acknowledgements along with a list of challenging prayer requests for the diocesan team and the newly appointed PR’s. All-in-all it was quite a success with over 40 clergy and lay people in attendance. AFP (Canada) is part of the International Anglican Fellowship of Prayer (AFP)
Diocesan AFP Representative, The Rev’d Fr. Gregory Mercer speaks to the Conference participants. Photo by AFP.
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November 2011
ANGLICANLife
Cursillo celebrates 25th year Submitted by Stella Walsh
Cursillo Turns 25: The Cursillo Movement celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary in the Diocese of Central Newfoundland. A special Anniversary Banner was made to mark the occasion. Photo by Stella Walsh.
On Saturday, August 20, 2011, the Anglican Diocese of Central Newfoundland Cursillo celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary of service. The day started with a Eucharist at St. Martin’s Cathedral, followed by encouraging talks given by Bishop David Torraville and John Barnes. The morning activities concluded with a refreshing lunch provided by the St. Martin’s ACW and Ways and Means Committee. After lunch Sheri Durdle gave a heart-felt witness talk, sharing her Christian journey. This was followed by Sheri and Johnny Gillam singing a beautiful duet. The afternoon activities continued with an inspiring and educational Bible study presented by Emmie Marsh. Following the afternoon schedule, the St. Martin’s ACW and Ways and Means Committee again provided a delicious meal in the form of a cold plate buffet. At the conclusion of the day, Fred Pafford, the lay director, gave thanks to Hazen Walters, the very first lay director for Cen-
tral Cursillo, for performing the duties of emcee. He also thanked Thelma Stockley and her committee for organizing the celebration; Ruth Hunt for baking and donating a beautiful and delicious cake; Marilyn Chatman and her sewing group from Botwood for creating the beautiful anniversary banner; and the many people of the St. Martin’s family who prepared and served wonderful meals. Finally, Fred thanked all of the approximately one hundred fifty Cursillistas who came out to share in this celebration. Throughout the day, those present enjoyed an abundance of musical praise led by Beryl Boland, Reverend John Watton, John Barnes, Johnny Gillam, Sheri Durdle and Gerald Waterman. Cursillistas were also delighted to see in attendance Bishop Mark Genge, Reverend Ron Lee and Reverend Walter Hammond, who together introduced the Cursillo Movement to the Central Diocese twenty-five years ago. The day was an uplifting and renewing experience for all who participated.
A Good Christian Soldier Submitted by Col. Adrian Heffernan Church Lads’ Brigade
Abide with me, fast falls the eventide were the very poignant words that rang throughout the beautiful Anglican Cathedral on August 17th as C.L.B. , Old Comrades and others laid to rest one of the Brigade’s finest. Roy Ash had an unshakeable faith and belief in a Commander in Chief who never ever let him down. At every residence he had the name JESUS prominently displayed in wood and in outline fashion. Honourary Colonel Ash was the essence of a Christian and this was very evident in everything he did. Unknown to most was his great charity and generosity that knew no bounds. He had a fleet of clergy who would dispense monies anonymously to destitute people everywhere, as they saw fit. He was a very active member of his Church, St. Michael & All Angels An-
glican Parish in St. John’s. Here he worked tirelessly, not only at the Parish level but at the provincial level. He had a great foresight and believed very much in his church’s work and as a result of his efforts and others; a new St. Michael’s Church will very shortly adorn the Kenmount Road area. His sense of loyalty was remarkable and this showed itself a mere three weeks before his passing when he rose from his hospital bed at the DVA to put on his uniform, see that his shoes were shined, and in a wheelchair, attended the ceremony to rename the Quidi Vidi Bandstand in honour of his friend and C.L.B. comrade Major
Walter F. Learning, CM. At 92 years of age, a Rev. Wes Oake (a United Church Minister) of Gander who
CLB Colonel Roy Ash Rest in Peace
served with Colonel Ash in the 166th, motored all by himself via a CN Bus to be at the funeral of his com-
rade. In a very emotional voice he told the C.L.B. that he had promised Colonel Ash that he would be there and had to keep his word. Brigade Chaplain, Father Sam Rose, kindly asked Rev. Oak to be a part of the service procession attended by our Regimental Chaplain, Bishop Cyrus Pitman, and numerous other Brigade Chaplains. At the appropriate time the notes of “The Last Post” reverberated from the trumpet of the very best, CLB, WO1, Tom Snow. Then after a period of silence, the notes of Reveille moved us to reflect deeply on the life of a man for whom we came to pay our last respects. Might I share with you an e-mail reply from Mr. Billy Kingsley, (grandson of
our founder Harold R. Blackler). “My thoughts and prayers are with Col. Ash’s family and the CLB at this time. How fortunate we are to have had him to enlarge our lives during his. God Bless.” Our very first Honourary Colonel is now at rest and we will miss him and his style of leadership, as we offer him our final salute. And now, in the words of a great Brigade Chaplain, “May Colonel Ash rest in peace and rise in glory. In the C.L.B. we never forget that Reveille comes after the Last Post.”