The
Caledonia Times March 2015 Edition, Vol. 47 Issue 3
The Diocesan Section of the Anglican Journal
Training in “Timothy Program” for Lay Readers and Deacons Recently there was an article put out of the National Church, concerning the training process that is going on in the Nass Valley, for those who are interested in getting more involved in the ministry of their local Church. To this end, Archdeacon Ernest Buchanan of Terrace and the Rev. Luke Anker of Kitimat has been working with a group of people in the Nass, who are training to be lay readers and will eventually become so if they are accepted by their local Church Committees and licensed by the Bishop. What is not perhaps more widely known is that the Bishop along with the senior clergy (the Archdeacons and the Dean), are working on this process to expand it to create groups or “cohorts” in other points of the Diocese so that more people can train for local ministry. At this point there is one more cohort in the planning stage and that is for the Bulkley Valley. It is hoped that eventually, there will be another cohort in the Eastern half of the Diocese for people in Vanderhoof and The Peace River area.
The newly dubbed “Timothy Program” will be delivered in a way which is both formational and educational. The cohort will meet weekly the format of the session is: 5:00pm Eucharist with the students serving in various liturgical roles; 5:45 Supper with discussion of seminar questions; 6:30pm a 15 minute break; 6:45pm, a lecture from the supervising clergy; 8:30-9:00pm, the group is dismissed. The aim of the program is to provide a sense that the cohort is a Christian community of learners through shared worship, meals, lectures and also challenging
first module and the Deacon in Parish ministry at the end). That way all students receive the Lay Reader Training. Only those who feel a call to the vocational diaconate need to take the final module. They will also enter into a discernment period with the Bishop and the Examining Chaplains, to consider whether there is a call to the Diaconate (Order of Deacons).
The Ven. Ernest Buchanan of Terrace is heading up the the development of the new training process for the Diocese. He is currently leading the first group in the Nass Valley - Ed
each other through the seminar questions. The program will follow the outline of the course books provided by Trinity Episcopal Extension Ministries- with adaptations for Canadian culture. The materials from Trinity include modules on: Old Testament, New Testament, Systematic Theology, Church History, Christian Ethics and The Anglican Way. Additional modules on the ministry of the Lay Reader and the Deacon in parish ministry are included at the beginning and the end of the programme (Lay Reader at the beginning as the
The purpose of this process is to train Lay Readers and vocational deacons to assist the parish priest in the ministry of the church. This assistance will come through liturgical assistance, occasional preaching, hospital visitation, and, (for the lay readers) other non-sacramental ministries in the church (i.e. Youth Ministry, Catechesis, and Bible Studies). All training is to be provided at the university level so as to be able to also assist the student who are interested in going to seminary discern their vocation. The bulk of the materials are being used under an agreement with Trinity School for Ministry in Ambridge, PA. These materials have been successfully used for lay and diaconal ministry training in a variety of settings around the world. While discussing the process, Archdeacon Buchanan noted, “Our desired outcome is not to replace the theological college. Instead what we are purposing to do, is mobilise people as effective lay ministers and vocational deacons. These folks will assist trained priests in their respective parishes. After completion of this program, if an individual discovers a call to the priesthood, they would be sent to an approved theological college or seminary for specialised training.”
First female Bishop in UK consecrated By: Church of England Press Office
The Rt Revd Libby Lane has been consecrated as the first female bishop in the Church of England in a packed service at York Minster today attended by more than 100 bishops from the Church of England and women bishops from across the Anglican Communion. In a statement shortly after being consecrated, Bishop Libby said she had been encouraged by the thousands of messages of support she has received since the news of her appointment was announced. She said: Archbishop Sentamu has observed, “the way that we show our faith and our love for one
another is with two simple things, prayer and parties.” Today is an occasion of prayer and of party - and I am thrilled that so many want to share in both. I cannot properly express how encouraged I have been in the weeks since the announcement of my nomination, by the thousands of messages I have received with words of congratulation, support and wisdom. I’ve heard from people of all ages, women and men - people I have known for years,
and people I have never met; people from down the road, and people from across the world... Many those who have been in touch have little or no contact with the Church of England; not all have been people of faith, but every one of them has felt this moment marks something important. That all this personal and media - attention has centred on me has been a little overwhelming: I cannot possibly live up to everyone’s expectation. And so today, at my consecration, I hold on to words of promise from the Bible, a reassurance that all this does not depend on me … “The God who calls you is faithful: He will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
The Caledonia Times: Informing and inspiring the Faithful in Northern British Columbia since 1905
Bishop’s Notes Consider Saints and their Service Before I sat down to write this article, while I was trying to settle on a theme, I picked up my church calendar to check what notable feasts fell in March this year. Sometimes this prompts my thinking in a particular direction. Sure enough, looking through my calendar something did stand out to me. Beginning on March 1st, the names of people being commemorated – that is, for whom we offer prayers of thanks, began. David, Archbishop of Wales, Chad, Missionary Bishop of Lichfield John and Charles Wesley, Priests and Evangelists Edward King, Bishop of Lincoln Gregory of Nyssa, Bishop and Teacher Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of Theology Patrick, Bishop and Missionary in Ireland Cyril of Jerusalem, Bishop and Teacher This is just a partial list because the list goes on. You may recognize some of the names, but others probably not. As to where and when they lived, or why we should give thanks for them, I doubt many of us have these facts foremost in our minds with the possible exception of St. Patrick, and that only because he is associated with St. Patrick’s Day pa-
rades and green beer. Many of those listed, you might note, were bishops but that is not why they made the list. They represent people from all across the Christian world in their times, and indeed they represent centuries in the life of the Church; David of Wales lived in the 6th century. Cyril of Jerusalem lived in the 4th century. Edward King lived in the 19th to 20th centuries. So why do we do this? We do this because each, in their time, was considered by people whose lives were touched by them, to be a particularly holy person. Some expressed that holiness through their teaching, some through their pastoral care of folks, and some through lives of prayer. However expressed, their holiness was something that attracted the notice of people they encountered – they stood out from many of their compatriots who were doing similar work in their time and place. When you consider that all of those listed lived in a time before the instant communication we take for granted with Facebook and the Internet, this is no small thing. These were not people who took selfies of themselves to vainly advertise how important they were. On the contrary, they were people who lived notable lives that involved sacrificing self for serving God and those whom they met. They didn’t set out with the goal of achiev-
ing sainthood. But they were driven by a passionate desire to serve God using whatever skills and opportunities God had given them. And this is why we give thanks for them. Theirs were lives of service to people in God’s name which enabled the Gospel to be passed from one generation to the next, and across ethnic and political borders to all people. They lead, not by force, and not by intimidation but by lives of deep prayer from which sprang their service to mankind. Compared to the worlds in which these saints lived and worked we live in a time that for them would be unimaginably luxurious. We can travel in the comfort of a heated car where they had to walk or ride horses. We have the protection of police and medical services, where for them the world contained considerable danger from violence, accident or disease. So when we look at our calendars, and we see these names listed, let’s do more than simply offer a brief prayer of thanks for their life and work. Let us also pause and think about the fact that they lived their lives in such a way that people saw God working through them, and then let us try to live lives that similarly draw others to God.
+William Caledonia Bishop William Anderson is the eighth Bishop of Caledonia and is serving in the 14th year of his Episcopacy. He became Bishop of Caledonia in 2002. - Ed.
Dave Ridsdale June 8, 1937 - January 20, 2015 It with sadness that we announce the death of the Late Dave Ridsdale of Prince Rupert. He was 78 years old. Dave is survived by his wife of 53 years, Doreen, his son David (Taeko) and daughter Christine Desautels (Gord Davis) and grand children Kaytlyn and Jeffery Desautels. Dave and Doreen met when they joined the Cathedral Choir in 1957. Dave had a number of passions in his life, in particular family, friends, and music. He was a long time member of both the Cathedral Choir and of the Prince Rupert Community Choir. He has recently sung with the Community Choir, Handel’s “Messiah”. He enjoyed the many activities at the Senior’s Centre and participated in carpet bowling at the BC Seniors Games for several years. Dave was most at home in the outdoors. He loved to hike, go fishing and to spend time at the cabin. He worked in the wood room at the local pulp mill for 40 years, retiring in 1997 as a supervisor. Dave served for a number of years as the Bishop’s Warden, traveling throughout Caledonia with Bishop Douglas Hambidge and later for a time with Bishop John Hannen. He also functioned for many years as a Diocesan Synod Delegate for St. Andrew’s Cathedral. He built the pews and the altar that are in St. Peter’s Chapel . He also built tables for the Nave and made collection plates for the sidespeople to use.
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Dave’s funeral was held at St. A n d r e w ’s Cathedral on January 29th, 2015. The service was officiated by Dean Jason Haggstrom. During the liturgy, the congregation sang the well k n o w n hymn, “The day thou gavest, Lord, is ended”. This hymn was chosen becuase it was the last hymn that Dave sang as a choir boy in England before he left to come to Canada. The fourth verse held special meaning and connection for Dave, as it spoke of the sun waking the faithful under the western sky, and the praise of God never fading away. The Community Choir sang with the congregation and did a special piece of music called “Ave Verum Corpus” by Mozart, to honour their departed tenor.
Caledonia Times Publication of the Diocese of Caledonia
Publisher: The Bishop of Caledonia Editor: The Dean of Caledonia Published monthly, except July and August by: Diocese of Caledonia, 200 – 4th Avenue West Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1P3 (250) 635-6016 or (250) 600-7143 Address correspondence and copy to the address above or to caledoniatimes@gmail.com Submissions must be received by the 1st of the month for the following month’s issue. Send subscription orders, address changes Diocese of Caledonia c/o Anglican Journal 80 Hayden St. Toronto, Ontario M4Y 3G2 Printed and mailed by: Webnews Inc., North York, Ontario
Caledonia Times — March 2015
might require an apology. It could require that your pride take a lump or two. But you need to make the time to go and make amends, as best you can, and then return to the altar so that you can worship right and make sure your offering to God is holy.
Editorial Notes
What are you taking on for Lent? “What are you giving up for Lent?” It is a question that has been often asked in the past but I don’t hear it much in anymore. It used be a discussion in our house when I was growing up. What were we going to deny ourselves for Lent as part of our self examination? Some give up chocolate or junk food. I know people who, these days fast from things like television and other electronic things... so I would have to ask myself, would I do this and make it a challenge for me for the six weeks of Lent. Who would like to give up there X-Box or Playstation 4 for Lent? Anyone? Who would fast from using their car, truck or van and find a less convenient, more public way of getting around? Therein lies the rub: Nature itself abhors a vacuum. Lent is not just about giving up things, things we could often give up and permanently remove from our lives. I had a friend a while back who gave up tea and coffee for Lent and has never drank either tea or coffee again. Such a venture must remain difficult because when you’re clergy, it is part of the visit to parishioners. You always serve the Vicar his tea! So let me ask you a better question... what have you taken on for Lent? In the service on Ash Wednesday, we were challenged by the call to observe a holy Lent (in the BAS) to do certain things: self examination, penitence, prayer, fasting (self denial) and almsgiving. Most of all, we are called to read and meditate upon the Word of God. We are reminded that “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof,
for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Tim 3.16 ESV). The vast majority of our worship and our prayer life, through the liturgies of the Eucharist and the Offices are based on Scripture. We pray and breathe out God’s word just by participating in worship. We learn the words of Scripture by praying in worship and we have it read to us during worship. Therefore, as Anglicans we are people in the word and we are become people of the Word. How do you take on penitence? Is there a relationship in your life that could use some mending? Some might start by working on their relationship with God by getting back to Church because they have not been there in a while. Others will choose to read the Bible more and really get into the Word. While still others will covenant with God to spend more time in prayer, to listen and not just to shove a laundry list of demands in his direction to be fulfilled. But what about your relationships with other people? Jesus himself told his disciples, “Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.” (Matthew 5.23,24 NIV). Here is something that is important for you to remember and to practice: you cannot worship right if things are wrong with someone in your life. It
Books on the Way By Ruby McBeth My mother was very wise. When I was a teenager she told me that as a teen herself she didn’t like her mother, but Grandma understood that she was just going through a phase. Mom was letting me know that she had been brought up with unconditional love, and she meant to carry on the tradition. In some cultures growing up is not graced with this kindness. In her book A Complicated Kindness Miriam Toews tells the story of a girl coming of age in East Village - a strict Mennonite community in Manitoba. Although East Village is fictional it closely resembles Steinbeck, Manitoba where the author grew up. The author’s background makes her characters authentic. The book begins with Naomi (Nomi) at 16 looking back on her life. A Complicated Kindness is a bitter sweet novel. It is bitter in the way diversity is not tolerated and it is sweetened by gentle humour. To understand the dark side of this novel it helps to know about the practice of shunning. People who do not conform to the teachings of the church are voted out of the fellowship. Other church members including their family are not Caledonia Times - March 2015
allowed to associate with them until they repent. The children are taught that these people will go to hell. Various characters in the story have their lives and relationships broken by this practice. The light side of the story comes from it being told in the first person by a typical teenager - loving and vulnerable, whimsical and serious. Nomi’s life is complicated by having been brought up to believe she has no right to make her own choices. What is special about this novel is that it tells about harshness in a gentle way. Nomi, the main character, believes enough to have nightmares when her sister Tash (Natashia) turns away from their religion. She is detached enough to go on her merry way experimenting with drugs, sex, shaving her head etc. The “complicated” part of the kindness comes through the women of the community who are shown more as victims of the rules than as enforcers. They attempt to love unconditionally, but in their culture that’s an uphill battle. Nomi’s older sister Tashia leaves with her boyfriend for the city. The author makes the connection between Tash’s search for a place to grow in freedom and the Mennonite ances-
Do you know what almsgiving is? In Jesus’ day, you gave two percent of your entire income for the upkeep of the Temple. Then you give to God the top 10% of your income as a gift to God. Together, these two are what is know as a tithe. Form there then, you can give gifts or alms to people who need help or to work that you needed to support and in particular the poor. This is what God expects of us and calls us to: have you tried it? Wouldn’t giving God that much make your prayer life and your worship with fellow Christians a little more exciting and intersting? And if there is a discipline that we could all take up and keep up all year round, I would encourage, reading and meditating on the Word of God “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4.12 NIV) Ask your parish priest where to find books that can help you understand what you are reading and actively consider how you are going to participate in God’s kingdom as a response. Have a happy Lent!
Jason+ Editor, The Caledonia Times.
tors’ search for a place to practice their religion freely. It is ironic that the Mennonites (like the Pilgrims in the United States) escaped persecution by emigrating only to persecute those who did not conform to their ideas. While this novel is not a diatribe against religion it is a plea for gentleness and for a religion based on positive values. The reviewer came away sad that people can ruin others lives with a rigid type of Christianity, and yet hopeful for youth who continue to grow despite the adults around them. Miriam Toews won the Governor General’s medal in 2004 for this book. This book is recommended generally for adults. It is suitable for a discussion group. Toews, Miriam. A Complicated Kindness. Toronto: Alfred A. Knopf, 2004. Page 3
Parish Life: in North Peace: A Journey through time and space By the Reverend Enid Pow, Priest in Charge, Parish of the North Peace It has been exactly a year now since I first left England with a certain amount of trepidation, two suitcases and with hope in my heart, to commence a new ministry in Fort St John, BC. The journey itself was grueling having to fly first into Toronto before flying on to Vancouver and then by very noisy propeller aircraft to Fort St John. So I arrived weary and probably looking like nothing on earth hoping the kind person coming to the airport to collect me at midnight would be wearing the equivalent of a carnation, so that I would be able to recognize him and not cause a scene by trying to accost some innocent stranger. Luckily I must have looked English enough and tired enough to be recognizable as Arvid Myhre my Warden greeted me on arrival and whisked me off to my Rectory for my first night on Canadian soil. My welcome to Fort St John was a very warm one and my heart was touched by people’s willingness to make my transition as easy as possible. However, I confess that following my licensing in the parish I was nervous, because although I am an experienced priest, this was a completely new culture for me (yes it is different in England!) Not only that the services and order of service are completely different, so I was pedaling fast to try and learn what was both expected and needed by the congregation. I don’t think I shocked too many people but I am quite sure that I am ‘different,’ but then I have probably never been a typical priest, if any such animal exists. I am also still getting used to and trying to understand some of the customs and expressions used here and equally I know that I perplex people sometimes too, when I say and do certain things I take for granted – e.g. it’s certainly a bit parky here (its cold here!) or we need to crack on (we need to hurry up)
There have been a few land marks along the way for me to learn about; Canada Day, learning precisely why Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving (I had assumed that was an American thing) trying to learn the Canadian national anthem for Remembrance Day and yes there really are bears in the woods so be careful! However, it is not quite as bad as my mum was certain it was going to be. She honestly thought I should learn to shoot a gun before I came here. because she was terrified that I was in imminent danger of being eaten by a grizzly bear. I am still here and have never see a grizzly bear (yet) and my mum is reassured that I might make it through another few years. I now drive fairly happily on the wrong side of the road which of course is the right side! However, driving in the snow can still make me feel a little nervous so I am very, very careful. Probably just as well as one of the less pleasant experiences for me was discovering that ICBC would not accept the fact that I had driven for twenty years without an accident or insurance claim. However, I am now the proud possessor of one Canadian years no claims and so I am beginning to be a part of the system.
used to and learning to love my new church family. It has been a very busy year, which has seen much change both for the congregation and for me; it has also been a very productive one, and even the times which have been hard have been bearable when I remember some of my favourite words of scripture ‘Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9) So here’s to another productive year! Picture Below: Bishop William clebrates the morning Eucharist at St. Martin’s, Fort St. John. He is assisted by the Rev. Enid Pow, the priest in charge and other members of the congregation. - Ed.
Before I left the UK, people in my congregation, friends and family all anxiously enquired of me, are you sure you want to take such a risk at this stage in your life (a polite way of saying I am no longer twenty!) The truth is giving away most of my possessions was hard, at least to start, but by the end it felt almost liberating. Leaving behind family, friends and a familiar way of life was also hard, but exciting and in many ways a real adventure. However I am human and all I can say is, thank goodness for Skype, it makes the distance between friends and family so much smaller being able to see the ones you love as well as hear them. I still have episodes of homesickness from time to time, but can honestly say that I am both growing On January 25th, 2015 (The Feast of the Converion of St. Paul) the congregation of St. Martin’s Anglican Church in Fort St. John were pleased to welcome the Bishop. Front Row from left: Jewel Bacon, John Murphy, Freida Murphy, Kathy Murphy, Randy Haugen, Robin Kirk, Jean VonHollen, Eira Lucas, Darlene Thomas, Obika, Middle row: Charlene Barr, Bev Rodowski , Kathy Murphy, Janine Filmer, Heather Haugan, child, Mararet Seguin , Jo Stewart, Juanita Rohim, Tony VonHollen, Back row: Mildred LeClerc, Julia Kowalski, Brad Filmer, Rene Giesbrecht, Gerry Giesbrecht, the Rev. Enid Pow, Bishop William, WDiana Glover Leakey, Murray Farquhar, Connie Haugan, John Doll and Kim Corbett. After the service, there was a potluck Lunch in which people partook and then the Bishop had a Q&A session with the congregation about plans for the future of the parish. A new rectory was recent purchased form the sale of the church, rectory and properties to the Local Credit Union. Not in the Picture, is Parish Treasurer, Margaret Farquhar. She was a busy lady at that moment! Thanks to Murray and Ruby for the pictures - Ed.
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Caledonia Times — March 2015
Parish Life: in the Bulkley Valley
At the end of this past September,2014, the Parish of the Bulkley Valley celebrated the 100 Anniversary of the congregation of St. John the Divine, Quick. There were a number of events to help observe the Centenary. The Rev. Mike Monkman (ret.) of Telkwa planted a tree near the church as a thanksgiving for the years of ministry from the little rural church. There was also a meal and a concert held at the church building. People came in period dress with instruments and voices to rejoice in the accomplishment and to partake of an excellent meal served el fresco. – Ed.
Diocesan Life: Camp Caledonia - Summer 2015 The Bishop is requesting that the that parishes throughout the diocese observe May 3rd 2015 as “Camping Sunday”, with special prayers for those involved in the Camp ministry at Camp Caledonia this year. This should include the members of the board, the many volunteers and benefactors of the camp, the staff for the upcoming season, and of course, the campers. Lord Jesus, You welcomed young people and blessed them, and reminded us that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are the children of God. Bless the men and women who work with young people at Camp Caledonia. Guide them in their projects, fill them with patience and love, and help them to inspire all with whom they work. Let your Spirit of wisdom and understanding be with them and give them joy and peace in their hearts. We ask this in Your name. Amen.
Come join in the fun this Summer! We’ll see you at Camp!
Caledonia Times - March 2015
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Freeeing up $50.00 for The Anglican Foundation Under the executive directorship of Torontobased Rev. Canon Dr. Judy Rois, the AFC is currently running its “Free Up $50” campaign. The goal is to get each one of the country’s roughly 1,650 Anglican parishes on board with a $50 donation. “Since the campaign began this past November, 65 new parishes have become AFC members,” says Rois. “Added to the 400 existing members, that leaves just 1,185 to go!”
“With 465 member parishes, we just have 1,185 more to go,” says the Rev. Canon Dr. Judy Rois, Executive Director of the Anglican Foundation of Canada.
By Diana Swift, Journal Staff Let’s face it. Nowadays, $50 doesn’t buy a body very much—certainly not an annual membership in most national organizations. But for a parish, just five purple Sir John A’s will buy it an annual membership in the Anglican Foundation of Canada (AFC), the church’s national charitable organization that funds a wide variety of projects in support of Canadian Anglicanism. In the past few years, the AFC has awarded half a million dollars in grants for ministries across the Anglican Church of Canada.
Give the Gift of
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This year, make a gift to provide a faith community the unique opportunity to encourage their creative potential and build a strong future for Canadian Anglicans.
Rois is optimistic about expanding AFC membership. “I believe most Anglicans are ready and willing to give to their Foundation so that it can be there for them when they need it,” she says. “For various reasons, I think the entry fee of $50 a year per parish may have simply fallen off people’s radar.” The AFC has been working hard to raise its profile and make people aware of its significant capacity to support Anglican ministries from infrastructure improvements to youth ministry and lots more in between.
Archbishop Percy Coffin
Aware that supporting the AFC ultimately benefits their parishes, diocesan bishops are among the AFC’s strongest proponents.
“What goes around, comes around,” says Archbishop Percy Coffin, when asked why every single parish in his Diocese of Western Newfoundland is an AFC member. “The practice of each parish in the diocese being a member was started a long time ago by Archbishop Stewart Payne. He motivated the parishes by reminding them, ‘As you have received funding from your Foundation, you ought to give something in return.’” The other two dioceses in Newfoundland & Labrador (Central and Eastern) have also signed on. As Bishop David Torraville of the Diocese of Central Newfoundland puts it, “The Anglican Foundation is a way of saying that we are in this together.”
“Investing in the Anglican Foundation of Canada is like investing in our own family, and who wouldn’t do that?” asks Bishop David Parsons of the Arctic.
Bishop Geoff Peddle of the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador is another staunch supporter of the AFC. All congregations in Bishop Peddle’s jurisdiction are members, and the diocese’s Rev. Dr. Alex Faseruk is an AFC board member who has served on the finance committee. Looking to the Far North, both the Diocese of Yukon and the Diocese of the Arctic purchased AFC memberships for all their parishes before Christmas 2014. “The Anglican Foundation has always been a fantastic partner with the Diocese of the Arctic,” says diocesan Bishop David Parsons. “Investing in the AFC is really investing in our own family, and who wouldn’t do that?” Adds Bishop Larry Robertson of the Diocese of Yukon, “For over 35 years and within two northern dioceses, I have seen the great benefits that many parishes have received from the Anglican Foundation. I am proud to be a member and to encourage the parishes I serve to be members.” The Diocese of Yukon’s executive committee considered it important to support the Foundation fully through every parish’s paying its membership because of the AFC’s generous support over the years. “We felt that if a parish couldn’t afford a membership, then the diocese would come to its aid,” says Sarah Usher, diocesan administrative officer. Rois is hopeful that other Anglican jurisdictions across Canada will be inspired by the examples of these sparsely populated dioceses in Canada’s most easterly and northerly regions. “They have really stepped up to the plate with all their parishes becoming annual donating members,” she says.
foundation@anglicanfoundation.org Page 6
Caledonia Times — March 2015
Wider Church Life: Canada in Brief
Toronto church to sponsor Syrian refugees
St. Matthew, First Avenue, diocese of Toronto, has launched a fund-raising and awareness campaign in the hopes of sponsoring a refugee family from Syria, where continuing violence has displaced millions of people. “Jesus would do it immediately and would want his people to do it,” said the Rev. Ajit John, incumbent. An estimated 6.5 million Syrians have been displaced within Syria and another 3 million have sought refuge in Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey, according to the UN. The church, which formed a small group to handle the goal of sponsorship, has learned from a representative of AURA (Anglican United Refugee Alliance) thaWt sponsoring a family with three children would require about $27,000. “For a small, growing parish, it’s a stretch,” said John. Parishioners were also made aware of other facts about sponsorship: the process could take months or years and sponsors would need to help a refugee family get settled once they arrive in Canada. St. Matthew’s decided to step up to the challenge. It has held craft and bake sales, secured Advent pledges and contacted nearby churches for contributions. The goal of sponsoring a family has had a positive effect on the church, said John. “It’s the sort of issue that brings people together tremendously. They see the news clips of children being gassed and shot, and realize [helping to sponsor a family] is something they can do,” he said. “It moves people beyond being silent observers. That’s turned out to be very energizing. We’ve noticed in the intercession that people are praying for refugees and the homeless more often.” The Anglican ‘Sharing Bread’ in Cuba Two representatives from the diocese of Ottawa will take part this month in “Sharing Bread,” a visit to Cuba organized by the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF), which will focus on food security. The tour, scheduled March 14 to 21, will look at how the Cuban Council of Churches, a long-time PWRDF partner, is responding to the challenges of people’s access to healthy, sufficient and nutritious food. PWRDF is the relief and development arm of the Anglican Church of Canada. Rosemary Parker and Valerie Maier will represent the diocese and share their experiences on their return. Parker is a member of the PWRDF Youth Council, a postulant for the diocese of Ottawa and a theology student at Huron College. Maier is a member of Epiphany Church and diocesan PWRDF representative for Ottawa. More information about the visit can be found at http://fredsays.ca/fredism/lets-jam. Crosstalk
Caledonia Times - March 2015
Clergy must devote 60 hours every three years to study, says Montreal bishop
Every licensed clergy of the Diocese of Montreal will now be required to devote 60 hours to continuing education activities over the next three years in order to get his or her licence, Bishop Barry Clarke has announced. Continuing education “is one of the places in which theological reflection may be structurally encouraged and where that reflection may be structurally encouraged and where that reflection can lead to new shared insights and practice,” said Clarke in a letter. Clergy will also be required to keep a Clergy Continuing Program log, which they will file with the diocese. The 60 hours—which can include attendance at training seminars and courses, conferences, discussion groups and reading, among others—must be taken over a three-year period in calendar years 2015 to 2017, followed by similar three-year periods in the future. Continuing education activities must be related to “competencies” in three categories: basic requirements for ordination by the General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada, managerial (planning, budgeting, organizing, leadership) and “other related competencies.” Montreal Anglican Anglican youth to spend summer in Burundi Young Anglicans from the Diocese of Edmonton have accepted the invitation to join the annual youth camp this summer of the diocese of Buye in Burundi. The two dioceses are in a companion relationship. The camp will take place August 3 to 10. Participants will see firsthand how the diocese of Edmonton has been assisting with the ministry in Buye, which includes the Buye Bible College. The college, which suffered a blow when financial support from the Church Mission Society ended several years ago, has become operational again with financial assistance from the Edmonton diocese.
A growing partnership
The partnership that began over the past year between the Anglican Parish of the Church of the Epiphany, Surrey, B.C., and a group of Chaldean Christians has been bearing fruit. The Chaldeans—some of them recent immigrants to Canada from Iraq, many who came to North America via Syria and elsewhere—have been sharing the space and worshipping together with the Epiphany congregation. In January, the Patronal Feast Day of the Church, more than 180 worshippers from both communities gathered for a Chaldean Rite of Baptism in the context of an Anglican Church of Canada eucharist. Chaldean congregation leader, Fr. Ayoob Adwar, baptized three infants, while Archdeacon Stephen Rowe, Church of the Epiphany rector, helped administer the sacrament. Topic Mission accomplished The Diocese of Saskatoon’s External Mission Project announced that it has completed its 2014 goal of building three houses in and around the community of Vicente Guerrero, Mexico. These homes are in addition to two others completed during the diocese’s 2012 project. A team of 26 workers from every corner of the diocese—ages 15 to 76—completed the project in June. Participants later spoke about how the experience offered them opportunities for fellowship, as well as spiritual and personal growth. Members of the team included diocesan bishop David Irving and his spouse, Joan. For more information about the project, visit www.anglicandiocesesaskatoon.com Planning is underway for the next project. Saskatchewan Anglican
“…The college was able to open at full capacity this fall for the first time in many years,” said John Gee, community development facilitator for the diocese of Edmonton. “Our hope is that, in time, the severe shortage of clergy and catechists in the diocese and throughout northern Burundi will be alleviated.” The group is also planning to visit a new HIV Centre, which was funded by the diocese and the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF), the relief and development arm of the Anglican Church of Canada. “The centre is now the jewel of the Buye hospital complex and serves many hundreds of clients each year with HIV testing and treatment and pastoral counselling,” said Gee. The Messenger
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Diocesan Intercessions List - Updated March , 2015 -
Day 1 and every day) THE BISHOP: William (Margaret) Anderson Day 2) PRINCE RUPERT: The Congregation of the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew. The Very Rev. Jason (Nova) Haggstrom, Rector and Dean of Caledonia, the Rev. Dr. Canon James Nuzzo, Honourary Assistant; The Wardens, Lay Readers, and Church Committee. 3) PORT EDWARD: The Congregation of Christ The King. The Rev. Sam (The Rev. Bertha, Deacon) Lewis, Priest in Charge, The Rev. Canon John (Lorna) Martinson, Rector Emeritus, The Revs. Thelma Hill, Yvonne Hill, Anthony Adams, Peter Nelson, Associate Priests; for the Wardens, Lay Readers, Catechists and Church Army Officers. 4) KITKATLA: The Congregation of St. Peter’s; for The Rev. Matthew Hill (Joanne), Priest in charge, the Wardens, for the Lay Readers and Church Army Officers. 5) OLD MASSETT, HAIDA GWAII: The Congregation of St. John. The Rev. Lily Bell, Priest in Charge; for the Wardens, Lay Readers and Church Army Officers. ST. PAUL, MASSET INLET MISSION: The Congregation of St. Paul. For the Wardens and Lay Readers. 6) KINCOLITH: The Congregation of Christ Church. The Rev. Harry (Florence) Moore, Priest; for the Wardens, Lay Readers and Church Army Officers. 7) TERRACE: The Congregation of St. Matthew. The Ven. Ernest (Corrina) Buchanan, Priest in charge and Archdeacon of Caledonia West; for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 8) STEWART: The Congregation of St. Mark’s. For the Wardens and Lay Readers. 9) AIYANSH: The Congregation of Holy Trinity. The Rev. Gary (Colleen) Davis, Priest in charge and for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 10) GREENVILLE: The Congregation of St. Andrew. The Rev. James Moore, Priest; for the Wardens, Lay Readers and Church Army Officers. 11) KITIMAT: The Congregation of Christ Church. The Rev. Luke Anker (Sandy), Priest in charge; for the Wardens and Lay Leaders. 12) HAZELTON: The Congregation of St. Peter. For the Wardens and Lay Readers and leaders.
13) BULKELY VALLEY PARISH: The Congregations of St. James, Smithers, St. Clements, Houston and St. John the Divine, Quick. The Rev. Jake (Kelly) Worley, Priest in charge; for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 14) STUART NECHAKO LAKES REGIONAL PARISH: The Congregations of Holy Trinity, Vanderhoof, St. Patrick’s, Fort St James and St. Wilfrid’s, Fraser Lake. Roy Andrews, Priest in Charge; Gwen Andrews, Associate Priest; for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 15) MACKENZIE: The Congregation of HopeTrinity. The Rev. Henry Dunbar, Priest; for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 16) HUDSON’S HOPE: The Congregation of St. Peter. The Rev. Fay Lavallee, Deacon; for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 17) CHETWYND: The Congregation of Chetwynd Shared Ministry. Marlene Peck, Lay Missionary; for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 18) NORTH PEACE PARISH: The Congregations of St. Martin, Fort St. John, St. Mathias, Cecil Lake and Church of the Good Shepherd, Taylor. The Rev. Enid Pow, Priest in charge; for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 19) SOUTH PEACE PARISH: The Congregations of St. Mark, Dawson Creek and Christ Church, Pouce Coupe. The Venerable Timothy (Bev) Johnson, Priest in Charge and Archdeacon of Caledonia East; for the Wardens and Lay Readers. 20) Diocesan OFFICERS AND SYNOD OFFICE STAFF: Audrey Wagner, SecretaryTreasurer; Donna Demers Accountant; Cliff Armstrong, Diocesan Archivists. REGISTRAR: Desiree Read; CHANCELLOR: Deborah O’Leary; A.C.W. PRESIDENT: Susan 21) DIOCESAN EXECUTIVE AND ALL OTHER DIOCESAN COMMITTEES 22) RETIRED CLERGY: Lance Stephens, Mike Monkman, Lorna Janze, Peter Hamel, Mary Parslow, Charlie Parslow, Fay Lavallee, Ray Fletcher. SPECIAL MINISTRIES: Brent Neumann, 23) HONORARY CANONS: Lance Stephens, Peter Hamel, James Nuzzo, Gary Davis; HONORARY LAY CANONS: Jennifer Davies, Camilla Haines, Eleanor Kustas.
24) For our National Indiginous Bishop, the Right Rev. Mark MacDonald and for the Rev. Canon Ginny Doctor; for the Anglicn Council of Indiginous Peoples and those who minister with them amongst the First Nations of Canada. 25) CAMP CALEDONIA: The Camp Board, Camp Director and Staff, Volunteers and Campers. 26) BENEFACTORS AND CONTRIBUTORS OF THE DIOCESE. 27) BISHOPS OF THE PROVINCE OF BC & YUKON The Rt. Rev. Melissa Skelton New Westminster The Rt. Rev. Larry Robertson Yukon The Rt. Rev. Logan McMenamie British Columbia The Most Rev. John Privett Kootenay and Metropolitan of BC-Yukon The Rt. Rev. Barbara Andrews, Bishop Suffragan to the Metropolitan For APCI 28) THE PRIMATE & METROPOLITANS of other Canadian Provinces: Vacant Rupert’s Land The Most Rev. Colin Johnson Ontario The Most Rev. Percy Coffin Canada The Most Rev. Fred Hiltz Primate of All Canada 29) ALL THEOLOGICAL COLLEGES AND TRAINING CENTERS And For those discerning calls to various kinds of ministry, especially those considering ordination and those who will discern them; for the Bishop, the Examining Chaplains, and local clergy. 30) The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (pwrdf) 31) for Diocesan ACW Executive and the Local branches in the Parishes
Comic Life
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Caledonia Times — March 2015