The Saskatchewan Anglican, Oct. 2012

Saskatchewan Ce leb rat ing 197 2 to

The newspaper of the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle • A Section of the Anglican Journal • October 2012

40 yea rs–

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anglican

And survey results show...

By Jason Antonio Managing Editor

A woman of ‘integrity’, Rev. Carol Adamson passes away REGINA – Carol Adamson, 76, died in Regina on Aug. 18 after a long illness.

Born in 1935 in Moose Jaw, she moved to Regina in 1945.

Active in the Anglican Church throughout her life, Carol was educated at the University of Saskatchewan, receiving a B.A. in English and M.A. in Psychology.

Carol married Rodney Adamson in 1959, and raised her four children in Prince Albert and Regina. During her life she was a social worker, teacher, stay-athome-mum, single mother, and clinical psychologist.

Answering the call to ordained ministry in 1987, Carol attended seminary at the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad.

Ordained deacon in April 1990 and priest that August, Carol was priest at Prairie Cross Parish in southwestern Saskatchewan, serving in Gull Lake, Tompkins, Pennant and Sceptre.

After retiring from parish ministry, Carol was appointed Anglican hospital chaplain for Regina and many patients are grateful for her gentle, caring ministry. Later, she served as clergy consultant, helping the church adapt to modern life.

For many years, Carol was an honorary assistant at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Regina. She had a great love of nature, the outdoors and travel, crossing the Atlantic four times by steamship.

She enjoyed driving to visit her children across the country and taking trips with them.

Her deep concern for people, her insight and problem-solving abilities and her incredible, impish sense of humour will be missed by all whose lives were touched by Carol.

Friend Laura Pogue, from the Cathedral, had this to say about Carol: “It’s really all about cats.

Carol Adamson and I met over cats. We were neighbours (well, (Continued on page 5)

Need a hand with that? Volunteers from the Diocese of Saskatoon are joined by local family, relatives and children in building new homes in Baja, Mexico. A group from the diocese travelled to the Baja Peninsula in June to build homes for two families, as part of the diocese’s major outreach project.

Photo – Saskatoon Synod website

Building homes for needy families in Mexico

By Peter R. Coolen SASKATOON – Editor’s Note: More and more detailed information on the Baja External Aid Project and additional pictures may be found on the website of the Diocese of Saskatoon.

Future editions of the Saskatchewan Anglican will, as well, have additional stories, blogs and letters relating the experiences of those who took part in the project.

During this year, the Diocese of Saskatoon began two outreach projectS: one, an Internal Outreach Program in co-operation with Habitat for Humanity to build low-income housing in Saskatoon, and the second, an External Aid Project to build two houses for two families in Baja,

Mexico from June 4-15.

The site of the second project, Vincente Guerrero, lies 280 kilometres (175 miles) south of the U.S. border crossing at San Ysidro/Tijuana, in the center of the San Quintin (pronounced kin-teen) Valley on the western side of the Baja Peninsula.

Planning for the Baja program began in early 2011, and by early 2012, a list of applicants had been assembled and sorted.

A final group of 28 volunteers from nine different church communities was selected.

Fundraising for travel and accommodations for the volunteers was done by their parishes and the diocese.

WestJet generously contributed to the project by allowing each volunteer to take a second piece of luggage; this additional

luggage was filled by the volunteers with donated humanitarian supplies for the community in which the homes were to be built.

On March 3, the volunteers meet as a group for the first time at the cathedral in Saskatoon, to get to know one another, ask questions and get additional information prior to travel.

Then, on the evening of June 3, the mission volunteers and their families and supporters met for a potluck dinner at the cathedral parish hall, before attending a Service of Commissioning at the cathedral. Approximately 80 people attended the service.

The two families chosen for the project were. One family was Antonio and Ana and their family.

Antonio and Ana have two girls, (Continued on page 8)

Late last spring we asked you to participate in a Readership Survey to help inform us as to what you like and don’t like about reading the Saskatchewan Anglican newspaper and some possible suggestions on how we can improve.

Those results have come back and they paint a picture of who our readers are and what you are looking for when reading this tri-diocesan newspaper.

A total of 139 readers from the Saskatchewan Anglican responded to the survey, which represents 3.17 per cent of the circulation. While small, this number is still “statistically significant” and is actually slightly higher than the national average of 2.9 per cent.

For those who took the time to respond to the survey and send in comments about the strengths and weaknesses of the Saskatchewan Anglican, we extend our thanks to you for participating.

As a tri-diocesan newspaper, we strive to bring news to you from all corners of the province and show how Anglicans in Saskatchewan are demonstrating their faith and carrying out the work of the Gospels.

So who are you, the Saskatchewan Anglican reader, anyway?

Based upon the survey results, you are: • Female, by a margin of 2:1 • Predominantly between the ages of 65 and 84 years • Retired • Attend church 3-5 times per month • Very actively involved in your church Below are some of your comments about the Saskatchewan Anglican.

“It (the newspaper) has been working hard to share events from all three dioceses and include pictures, which is nice. Would like to see each edition balance those in content if possible and if other timely articles are not left behind.”

“We enjoy the articles about other parishes – especially if there are ideas we can apply to our own little church!”

“Definitely getting better (Continued on page 6)

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The Saskatchewan Anglican

October 2012

A strong foundation An active faith is essential for comes with many engaging the world challenges

finally, we are to strive for peace and justice and we are to respect the dignity of all.

SASKATOON – Living out our These last three vows are faith in a pluralistic/multicultural reflected in the parable of the world is not new. Christianity sheep and goats in Matthew 25. has its roots in such a world. It There are no restrictions placed has grown in that environment on who we are to serve. throughout its history. The tools We live in a world where for living out our faith are found we increasingly feel we are a in many places. minority. It is not something to The Bible consists of stories be feared or avoided. The world showing God’s people struggling is not something from which we with how to live out their faith. are to isolate ourselves. One of These struggles We live in a world where we the points of were never in the Incarnation increasingly feel we are a isolation from is that Jesus minority. It is not something engaged the the cultures to be feared or avoided. The world where it and religions surrounding world is not something from was. We as His them. A recent disciples are which we are to isolate example from called to do ourselves. One of the points of the same. the lectionary is the sixth chapter the Incarnation is that Jesus Possibilities engaged the world where it abound. The of John.

John’s comwas. We as His disciples are opportunities munity has for deepening called to do the same. been kicked out our underof the synagogues. They are cut standings are many. The resources off from the community of their for accomplishing the work roots. They are more exposed to inspired by our faith and committhe thinking and influences of the ment to Christ are wider world. The author writes multiplied. It may require a slight to the community, building on re-adjusting of our mindset. its Jewish roots and drawing in Our focus needs to be on understandings from the world accomplishing the work of Jesus around it. as outlined in the gospels. Luke 4 Finally the community is told gives us a short list of what that that life is achieved when we is. It is the healing of people and abide in Christ and He in us. This the work of justice. language is later repeated in the For so many years we have vine and branches language of developed a mindset that we are John 15. aging and shrinking. We have no This is one of our foundational energy to maintain our buildings tools. We are called to abide in and communities. We have Christ so that He may abide in us. increasingly focused inward, John also reminds us that we do drawing on those limited this when we share in the blood resources. and flesh of Jesus.

What if we were to look outThis is reflected in the vows of ward? What if we were to draw our baptismal covenant: “Will you on the energy and resources of continue in the apostles’ teaching anyone willing to work with us? and fellowship, in the breaking of The desire for the world, as Jesus the bead and in envisioned it Living out our faith in a the prayers?” to be, moves pluralistic/multicultural world across cultures This expands is not new. Christianity has its and religions. our formation roots in such a world. It has tools to include Our experiour Christian ence here at grown in that environment communities.

St. George’s throughout its history. The We strengthen has shown us tools for living out our faith that many in our foundation are found in many places. through study, the community fellowship, woraround us are ship and prayer. willing to engage with us when Having a strong foundation is we are willing to engage with essential for engaging the world them. Some are Christians who no in a healthy manner. Our baptislonger have church ties. Some are mal vows don’t stop there. They from different religions. expand out into a way of living When it comes to a project in and engaging with the world that reaches out into the world around us. We are to live our lives around us, they are enthusiastic in so that they proclaim our faith. their support. When it comes to This means matching word and dialogue, we deepen our underdeed. We are to seek and serve standing of them and of ourselves.

Christ in all people. No one is We are slowly learning once again excluded. We are to reach out into what it means to live out our the world around us. We serve not faiths in the pluralistic/multiculjust Christians; we serve all. And tural world outside our doors.

By Rev. Ann Marie Nicklin

“How can we express our Christian/Anglican faith in our everyday lives when we live in a pluralistic/multicultural society?”

By Rev. Norbert Haukenfrers PRINCE ALBERT – There are two common approaches to a living active faith: one can either be accommodating the culture or separating oneself from culture.

Both of these approaches come with there own challenges.

“The more theology and the Church attempt to become relevant to the problems of the present day (accommodating), the more deeply they are drawn into a crisis of identity.

“The more they attempt to assert their own identity in traditional dogmas, rights and moral notions (separating), the more irrelevant and unbelievable they become.”(Moltman, The Crucified God, 1974, 7) Perhaps you are tired and frustrated of trying to make it work. You have come to the place where neither captivity nor irrelevance seems like the suitable answer. There must be a better way, a hybrid, where you can live on the edge, between cultural irrelevance and cultural captivity.

You have come to the place where your faith is not about being trendy, making Christianity somehow seem relevant: It is about following Jesus in a way that has always been relevant.

This is one of the reasons I love being an Anglican within the Christian faith tradition. Our identity has an intrinsic edginess; we are the quarter standing on edge between Protestantism and Catholicism, respecting, valuing and honouring both while being fully engaged here in this place.

Anglicans in some way are multicultural and have been long before it became popular in Canada. We’ve called it the via media, ‘the middle way’. This multiculturalism is practiced every time a rural, urban or indigenous congregation gathers for worship.

Each Anglican parish is culturally unique, called to function with respect and love in its community, using the Book of Common Prayer to inform our public and private expressions of faith. The difficulty comes when our diversity begins to put into question the central tenant of Christianity, where hope is found in the saving work and activity of Jesus of Nazareth.

That “created as we are in the image of God who is love, we can live genuinely flourishing lives only when we also love – love God with all our being and love our neighbours as ourselves. . .

“At its core love is not a feeling at all, but an action, a way of being, in active care for others – for the integrity of their bodies and souls, as well as for their flourishing.”(Miroslav Volf, Against the Tide, 2010, x, xi) That is similar to what Thomas Oden did when he resigned his chair as Professor of Theology at Drew University to care for his wife, who was struggling with and dying of cancer, being a bow for the flight of another.

Like a baker preparing bread, our hearts need to be kneaded by the love of God, as Christ in us crafts an artisanal faith for this place.

A faith wrought in our hearts where the yeast of God’s love rises in us, through us and out of us, as we join Him in loving our neighbour.

New first nations diocese to be created in Rupert’s Land

By Diana Swift, Anglican Journal Editor’s note: During the 47th Synod of the Province of Rupert’s Land, members made history by voting unanimously to create the first independent indigenous ecclesiastical diocese in Canada.

BRANDON (Man) – In the fulfillment of an aspiration long held by indigenous Anglicans in the north, the ecclesiastical province of Rupert’s Land is poised to have a new diocese by 2014.

The 47th session of the provincial synod, held in Brandon, Man. from June 7-10, unanimously approved a resolution from the Diocese of Keewatin to divide the diocese and create a fully independent indigenous diocese from the

portion known as the northern Ontario region.

“We have been walking together and now we are dancing together,” said Rev. Wayne McIntosh, after seconding the motion at the synod. The region’s current bishop, Lydia Mamakwa, will head the as-yet unnamed diocese.

“It is important to note that we are not talking about separation here. We are talking about growth and development,” said Archbishop David Ashdown, the current, and almost certainly the last, bishop of Keewatin.

Two-thirds of the diocese is First Nation and five languages are spoken there. A new name will take some time.

The only step left in this journey will be to receive the concurrence of the General Synod when it meets in 2013.

Published by the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle.

Published monthly except for July and August.

Whole No. 292, Vol. 41, No. 2 A Section of the Anglican Journal SUBSCRIPTIONS For change of address, undeliverable copies and subscription list updates, contact: • Your parish • e-mail: circulation @national.anglican.ca • Or send to Saskatchewan Anglican, c/o Anglican Journal, 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, Ont. M4Y 3G2

RATES $10 in Canada, $17 outside Canada.

SUBMISSIONS Submissions for the December issue must be recieved by the diocesan editor no later than Friday, October 26.

CONTACT INFORMATION Managing Editor: Jason Antonio SKAnglicanEditor@gmail.com 59 Roberts Place Regina, Sask., S4T 6K5 Phone: (306) 737-4898 Qu’Appelle: Joanne Shurvin-Martin wsmartin@accesscomm.ca 6927 Farrell Bay Regina, Sask., S4X 3V4 Phone: (306) 775-2629 Saskatoon: Peter Coolen ptrcoolen@sasktel.net 820 Avenue I South, Saskatoon, Sask., S7M 1Z3 Phone: (306) 244-0935, Saskatchewan: Mary Brown synod@sasktel.net 1308 Fifth Avenue East Prince Albert, Sask., S6V 2H7 Phone: (306) 763-2455

PUBLISHING DETAILS Published from 59 Roberts Place Regina, Sask., S4T 6K5

Printed and mailed by Webnews Printing Inc. 8 High Meadow Place North York, Ont. M9L 2Z5

October 2012

The Saskatchewan Anglican

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Opinion

Give thanks to Qu’Appelle, you need God for blessings to pay more for the next not yet apparent

bishop you elect

By Dean Michael Sinclair Editor’s note: With Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson leaving the Diocese of Qu’Appelle after being elected bishop of Calgary, Dean Michael Sinclair is now the Diocesan Administrator in charge of the diocese. His columns will appear until a new Qu’Appelle bishop has been elected.

REGINA – October brings with it many things.

For those of us in Saskatchewan, we likely encounter the true death of fall and step tentatively into the months of winter.

This is a time between seasons, a seasonal doorway where we (or maybe just I), for a few brief moments, can either look back longingly at the skeletal remains of summer, or forward to what we believe winter will hold for us.

At this time we engage in the cultural celebration of Thanksgiving, where we typically stand in that seasonal doorway and give thanks by looking backward.

Traditionally, this is centred around prairie realities like harvest.

There is strength in this, as it rightly gives credit to God for providing for our needs, after they have been provided. It is meet and right so to do.

However, it is possible that only looking backward in thanksgiving limits us in our journeys of faith.

There is something incredibly courageous about giving thanks to God before blessings become apparent.

By Jason Antonio

In standing in the seasonal doorway and boldly offering thanksgiving for the things that God will be about with us in the future, when we don’t yet know the ‘how’, the ‘where’, the ‘what’, the ‘who’, or the ‘why’.

The yet-unseen ministries, opportunities, blessings, challenges and situations in which God’s loving presence will, time and time again, be revealed to us and through us.

Looking forward in thanksgiving challenges us to look beyond that which we can count, touch, taste, or see, inviting us instead to rely only on the promise of God. The promise that “...nothing in all of creation can ever separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:39) Anticipating and expecting God’s goodness and provision for us with pre-emptive and faithful thanksgiving helps us to remain open to the possibilities that only God can bring in us, through us, and for us.

REGINA – People of Qu’Appelle, we are in the process of looking for a new bishop, after Gregory Kerr-Wilson was elected in June to lead the Diocese of Calgary as its shepherd. This is a great opportunity to bring up a topic that continues to get batted around our diocese: clergy stipends and salaries.

With this column, though, I only want to focus on one thing: we need to seriously consider increasing the amount of money we pay our bishop.

If we want the best possible candidate to step forward and enter the election – someone who is experienced, knowledgeable, personable, has strong values and can provide the pastoral guidance and leadership necessary to continue guiding us in a positive, Christ-centred direction in the future – we need to “open the purse strings” and increase the bishop’s salary by at least $5,000 to $10,000.

This would put the salary for the bishop of Qu’Appelle in the range of other dioceses such as Newfoundland and would pay him more than every bishop in the Council of the North (which has 10 dioceses).

So with my proposed increase, our new bishop would make around $75,000 to $80,000, as compared to the roughly $70,000 currently. (There are whispers from sources who say Diocesan Council may be looking at such an increase at

its Sept. 22 meeting, but I am unable to confirm such whispers.

And besides, this column was written two months in advance of the October newspaper, so such matters of salary increases may not actually transpire or even make it on the Council agenda.)

Let’s first examine why our next bishop should be paid more, based on some examples from the actions and activities of Bishop Kerr-Wilson.

(This is not to say the new bishop will do things exactly like Bishop Greg, but as we look at what was done, we can see why increasing the salary of our next bishop would benefit the people in the diocese and, by extension, the people in our communities).

Firstly, over his six years as the pastoral leader of the Diocese of Qu’Appelle, Bishop Kerr-Wilson was able to visit every parish in the diocese and get to know people on a personal level.

This is impressive considering there are 87 congregations in 81 communities, stretching from the

Alberta border to the Manitoba border, and from the United States border all the way up to Davidson. This is geographically roughly one-third of the entire province of Saskatchewan, or 217,300 square kilometres.

Secondly, Bishop Kerr-Wilson has helped boost morale to such a degree, it has led to a more positive attitude amongst people in this diocese. This has led to an increase in giving in Fair Shares during the last couple of years, reversing a trend that had developed over decades.

The Synod office has received nearly every Fair Share offering it requested of each church.

Obviously Bishop Greg’s travellings of the many highways and byways in the diocese, and his interactions with various parishioners, are paying off.

With the diocese financially stable, we are in a position to make this salary increase possible before the next person is elected bishop, and hopefully before the job advertisement is sent out.

However, by not increasing this salary, we most assuredly run the risk of attracting individuals who do not have the experience, strong skills and attributes, or who, in general, may not be the best person to lead and guide us.

With these few examples, I make the case that the Diocese of Qu’Appelle should increase the salary of the bishop, so we can attract the best and most suitably talented candidates, one of whom will be able to lead us in a Christcentred direction into the future.

Diocese discusses sharing, amalgamation and church planting in the City of Saskatoon

By Peter R. Coolen SASKATOON – On May 12, the rectors, wardens and treasurers of the parishes within the City of Saskatoon met with Bishop David Irving and Executive Archdeacon Henry Comerford at the parish hall of St. John’s Cathedral, in two sessions to discuss parish amalgamation and/or sharing and church planting.

In the first session, Bishop David, assisted by Archdeacon Comerford, detailed that the need for parish amalgamation and sharing within the diocese and within the parish was being driven by several realities.

Those realities include: there are 11 parishes within the city, contrasted with other Canadian

cities of similar size with five or so parishes, and that the majority of the 11 parishes are dealing with declining congregations, financial inadequacy and increasingly unsuitable buildings.

The majority of the parishes in the city have indicated they are interested in discussing amalgamation, sharing or both.

Bishop David suggested that three parishes on the east side and three on the west side of the river appeared to make sense when considering the number of current parishioners and parish income.

Discussions relating to amalgamation can be started informally by a parish at whatever speed is comfortable.

If formal discussions begin, the synod office will also be repre-

sented at the table.

Discussions on formal parish union would involve the establishment of a board consisting of the wardens, the rector and two lay representatives from each parish and a synod representative (for a total of 11).

For one year or more, the new congregation would keep both parish treasurers and separate envelope and membership lists and bank accounts, in case it was decided to terminate the process of amalgamation.

The new parish could use either or both churches, or vote to sell them and locate elsewhere and would have a new name (initially the name of the area that the new parish was located in and later, a new name, voted on by the

members).

In the second session, lead

by Archdeacon Comerford, the process of church planting was detailed.

This city has grown rapidly over the past several decades and seen equally significant growth in all directions.

Growth is expected especially to the north, northwest and northeast in the next few decades.

However, over this same time period, there have been no new successful Anglican parishes in the city.

At least two new church plantings could be possible.

The exact process of church planting has not been decided on.

However, it will probably initially include: a study of the

demographics of the area selected; a community core of 20 Anglicans (from one parish is best) willing to move to form the core of the new congregation and parish and willing to commit five years to a new church; and some initial financial support from parish(es) and the diocese.

The process will also include: an incumbent with significant experience (or training in church planting); and, at least initially, low cost and perhaps temporary and non-exclusive rental space.

Group discussions, from both sessions, produced a list of positives and negatives in regard to amalgamation, sharing and planting, that will be distributed to parishes by the synod office for reference and discussion.

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The Saskatchewan Anglican

October 2012

Further reflections from the TRC gathering in Saskatoon Edited by Peter R. Coolen and Mary Ann Assailly

SASKATOON – Editor’s note: From June 21-24, the Fourth Truth and Reconciliation National Event was held at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.

The event was attended by more than 30,000 people, of whom 15,000 were registered residential school survivors.

This is Part 2 of the reflections. Part 1 can be found in the September Saskatchewan Anglican.

Roger Assailly “It was very important to me to be part of the Saskatchewan National Event and a listener at community Hearings. I had volunteered for a day of golf cart driving. This turned into golf cart co-ordinator from 7 a.m. to closing time each day, with little opportunity to attend any of the sessions.

“But I had the experience of a lifetime, becoming new friends with a mix of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginals, as we busily commandeered the flight of the golf carts to wherever people wanted to go. We embraced the opportunities to listen, share, cry with, hug and laugh one on one with all who needed us to listen.

What a gift from God. “I have said it was important for me to volunteer. For many years I have carried the private burden of watching the children being taken by train and also working on trains from northern Manitoba.

“I too needed healing and this I found forgiveness through the

powerful aboriginal spirituality in the Cedar Wash, eagle feather brushing and Smudge ceremony.

I wept, was lifted and understood that my faith and the Aboriginal ceremony were one with the Creator ‘god’ who freed me of my memories and made me stronger as I continue on the path of reconciliation.”

Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck “Part of my role as an Anglican priest at the gathering was to be available to hear the stories of the survivors and to offer apology on behalf of the church. I was also privileged, on behalf of KAIROS (our ecumenical church social and ecological justice group), to be part of an Expression of Reconciliation, placing a small symbol into the Bentwood Box (which reminded me so much of the Ark of the Covenant!).

“All in all, it was an exhausting but utterly uplifting experience for me. I went in somewhat skeptical, knowing the depth and force of racism and apathy in our dominant society. But I was so moved by the courage and the resilience of the survivors of the schools. I was honoured to be present there among them.

“The Truth and Reconciliation Commission is not an end, but a beginning of this process of national healing. I have faith that the work accomplished in the spirit world through this event will echo out into our nation and our churches, and especially throughout Aboriginal communities, in ways beyond anything we can ask or imagine. It was truly a spiritual event. For the

Happy birthday, happy birthday! In recognition that celebrations of the birthdays of students did not happen at residential schools, a celebration was held on the last day of the National Event. School children sang happy birthday in Cree, Sunday School children carried in colourfully decorated Happy Birthday letters, we all sang Happy Birthday and then, beautifully decorated cupcakes – more than 3,500 – were handed out to all present.

Photo – Peter R. Coolen TRC, thanks be to the Creator.”

Yvonne Vermette “Throughout the TRC, I was impressed by how happy and beautiful many of the survivors, Aboriginals and Metis were. There seemed to be a flow, teamwork and a grace on all the events. It was easy to strike up a conversation with anyone. Being involved with registration, I found that all the survivors were friendly and many were open about their past. I was grateful and blessed to be a part of TRC. I now have a greater compassion and empathy for the survivors. I believe that many were set free and others made a start towards healing.

God was truly at work the TRC weekend.”

Rev. Dave Tyler “Mary and I emigrated from Britain 44 years ago. In early June we, like many, were celebrating 60 years of the Queen’s rule.

The TRC showed the dark side of colonial thinking and its consequences. It was a very real turn-about. We pray that we have learned from such a devastating error, never to be repeated.”

Margie Gruber “The Onion Lake and Saskatoon Truth and Reconciliation events…were my first witnessing of the breadth of horror that First Nations children experienced in the hands of the Canadian residential school caregivers, teachers and church members.

“I was moved to tears by each person who talked publically that day, and I felt compelled to write down their stories so I will never forget them.

Each had many experiences to share as they courageously and graphically described the physical abuse, rape and torture they experienced, the constant fear, the confusion and loneliness for family and their language and culture, the lack of modelling on caring for children in a loving way, and the anger and grief for what they lost of their lives and for how their experience resulted in alcoholism and in abuse of their own children and families…

“I felt honored by their courage at sharing these stories, living through these experiences, and at their wish to move forward and heal.

I realized first-hand the importance that this recounting and witnessing is to Canada’s

and Saskatchewan’s healing from colonialism and the legacy of the schools.

“What sticks strongly in my mind from the Saskatoon hearings is the importance of the church even today to some First Nations and Metis people, and the sudden decision by several people to tell their stories after they had listened to others. They felt emotionally safe at the TRC to do so.

“Earlier that day, I sat outside the hearings with a First Nation friend and also heard how important the church is to her. Their loyalty to God our Creator is truly astounding and shows the healing grace and love that arises when someone truly acknowledges and values the experience of others.

“Two powerful events for me at the Saskatoon hearings were the birthday party for residential school survivors and a talk by Robbie Waisman, a victim of the Holocaust. Celebrating the birthdays of child survivors of the schools at the end of the four days and Robbie’s talk was overwhelming; such a joyous event. I was so glad I was a part of it.

And I have no words to describe the amazing resilience and hope of (the) survivors.”

Rev. Ivan Church a ‘solid Christian’ with an ‘abiding faith in God’ REGINA – Rev. Ivan Joney Church died in Regina on Aug. 5.

Born in Star City, Sask., in 1924, Ivan attended Normal School in Regina before joining the Royal Canadian Navy.

Following his war service, he received a degree in education from the University of Saskatchewan.

He married Doreen Thomas in

1951 and moved to Creighton where he was first principal of Creighton School.

Summers were mainly spent at the family cabin at Denare Beach.

After joining the Saskatchewan Department of Education in 1957, Ivan’s career took Doreen and their daughters to Prince Albert, Canora, Hudson Bay and Tisdale.

After retiring in the 1980s, Ivan’s keen interest in God and religion led him to study theology at Trinity College in Toronto.

He was ordained deacon in 1987, a priest in 1991 and made an honorary canon of St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Brandon in 1996.

During the 1990s, Ivan and Doreen began spending their winters in Regina where they became members of All Saints.

Although still affiliated with the Diocese of Brandon, they

moved permanently to Regina in 2004 and started attending St. Paul’s Cathedral where they were warmly welcomed.

At the memorial service held on August 13, his family reflected that “Ivan loved God, life, family, the lake, lake water, people and how proud he was of his wife Doreen, his children and grandchildren.”

Rev. William Portman said later, “Ivan was a solid Christian.

What more needs to be said?”

Ivan listened closely to

the Prayers of the People and encouraged lay people struggling with their composition as well as those exploring a call to ordination.

He will be affectionately remembered for his abiding faith in God, his church and all people.

He and Doreen were staunch supporters of the work of the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) to which gifts in their memory should be sent.

October 2012

Teen’s faith developed, guided by ‘amazing’ Christian leaders Editor’s note: Owen Chevalier is a 16-year-old Grade 11 student at Dr. Martin LeBoldus High School in Regina and attends church at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

By Owen Chevalier REGINA – When choosing a school for kindergarten 11 years ago, I chose a Catholic school, because that was where my best friend was.

I didn’t know it then, but the education I received there would help shape my perspective of my own faith and Christianity.

I think it’s very helpful to see a different view of my religion, even if most of the time I don’t agree with it, because I have been given a clearer sense of what others believe, as well as the divide between Anglicanism and Catholicism.

It’s also nice to have a sense of the church calendar even during the school day, so I never actually have to leave that church setting.

For example, during Advent there are wreaths in all the classrooms, we pray and have services and I get to stay in that mindset that I would normally just leave at church.

I like being able to have something to challenge and

question, because it helps me gain a deeper understanding than if I were to just get an hour of church every week.

I find the real trouble comes from the other students who go to my school, because the majority of them have completely given up their faith. I’m not sure quite what it is, but it seems like the constant reminder about God in every class has brought up a generation of skeptics.

Therefore, if some like me are open about their faith, they are ridiculed for it.

Generally, I’ve learned to keep quiet about Christianity at school, because it’s just not worth the effort to talk about it.

I still know what I believe and will never give that up, though, regardless of everyone else’s opinion.

Of course, if my entire knowledge of Christianity came from the Catholic School System, I would be pretty skeptical too.

Personally, I think there are many flaws in their teaching.

I firmly owe a lot of my faithfulness to the ministers at my church, St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Since we started going there, we have been treated to some really amazing deans and bishops who have helped guide

me through my faith, showing it in an intelligent and interesting perspective that goes deeper than the Christian Ethics class my school provides.

I find that much of what is being taught doesn’t work in a modern perspective; so I do understand if someone no longer believes in the teachings.

One of the biggest challenges I have had to face in the past couple of years was with the conflict between other commitments and going to church. For example, my Water Polo team had a trip to L.A. planned for the week of Easter, beginning on Good Friday.

No one else seemed to see a problem with this, but after much thought, I decided I had to cancel the trip. For me, it just wouldn’t have been right to go, but my teammates still make fun of me for my decision.

On top of that, my team used to practice Sunday morning, and I definitely had to miss those because I serve at the church most Sunday mornings.

I’ve never been concerned about my faith, because I’ve always had a pretty strong sense of my religion.

Ever since a very young age, I’ve been very devoted to Christianity, and I look forward to many more years of growing my faith.

Saskatoon holds a locally raised priest retreat

By Joan Irving SASKATOON – The candidates enrolled in the Diocese of Saskatoon’s Locally Raised Priest (Curate) Training Program met on retreat on the weekend of May 5 in Bruno, Sask.

During the retreat, a session on spirituality was lead by Rev. Ann Marie Nicklin. Ven. Don Byrt lead a session on evangelism and

Bishop David Irving of Saskatoon held an informal question and answer session.

The weekend was arranged and managed by Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck, co-ordinator for the program. This was the second retreat for the LRP Program. The next retreat will be held in October.

During the weekend of learning, fellowship and worship, the candidates continued to form

a supportive community which assists in their development and training as locally raised clergy.

In the picture, from left, are: Ven. Don Byrt, Chris Luby, Bishop David Irving, Peter Coolen, Sharon Buchinski, Alvena Oryszczyn, Etta-Marie Green, Gordon Yarde, Jan Trost, Jim Siddons, Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck. Missing is Rev. Ann Marie Nicklin.

The Saskatchewan Anglican

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Reflections about Carol Adamson (Continued from page 1) one house apart) and both of us had kitties. Ours went in and out through the milk chute. Carol’s cat decided our house was a cool place to hang out where he could sleep in the sun on the sofa.

After work my job was to scoop up this plump, spoiled, and much-loved cat named Cocoa, and haul him back down the street to his own house.

Cocoa was very gentle, he never bit or scratched.

Carol’s kids were sure to take him in when I rang the doorbell; if not, he was stuck on the doorstep until someone let him in. It’s a great way to meet your neighbours when you’re new in town!

Carol and I got to know one another – over cats – until we found each other at church one Sunday. We became good friends.

We laughed together (and occasionally cried), debated God, life and all the ups and downs we encountered. We moved on in different ways – Carol to ordained ministry and I into pastoral care and Stephen Ministry.

We continued to connect. And we both still had cats! Carol was a solid presence in my life – always ready to help, or offer an opinion.

She had a rock-steady faith and a serenity about her, never losing her sense of humour and interest in what was happening around her. I will miss her dearly.

By Duncan Wallace, retired Bishop of Qu’Appelle

When Carol was appointed Hospital Chaplain, I remember writing to her not only to say congratulations but also to let her know that if ever I was in hospital, I could think of no one better to be my pastor.

I must confess that I also invited her to become an Honorary Assistant at the cathedral in Regina. She was warned that my perception of Honorary Assistant put the emphasis on assistant rather than honorary. She would take her turn at presiding and preaching.

Later on Carol was appointed a member and then, chair, of the Committee on Ordained Ministry.

Her years as Hospital Chaplain can be attested to by countless numbers of Anglicans and others as well. Sometimes, for people from outside Regina, Carol was their only visitor.

To all she gave devoted, faithful and caring ministry.

Alongside her personal, pastoral dedication Carol was also one of those who developed further an ecumenical hospital ministry of co-operation while, at the same time, maintaining her Anglican

Christian persona.

Carol’s assistance at St. Paul’s was greatly appreciated by all, not the least by me. Her thoughtful preaching and gentle presiding were a welcome part of the mix of those who also did those things.

Her pastoral skills often played an effective, helping part in many relationships and situations within the congregation.

Her diocesan committee work exemplified her commitment to our catholic tradition and an openness to developing that tradition in ways to meet present needs and opportunities.

Carol’s attention to detail, frustrating at times, was, in the end, wise and helped to avoid future mistakes.

As Dean, and even more so, as bishop, I was always grateful for and appreciative of any advice Carol could give especially in matters involving individuals and human relationships.

Not only was her advice astute, I knew it was given with discretion and firm but caring concern for others. I consider myself blessed to have known and worked with this woman of great integrity. Thanks be to God.

By Rev. William Portman

Carol Adamson’s service in and to the church did not begin with her ordination in 1990. She was a member of the Anglican Young People’s Association, and an active layperson, serving as a churchwarden at All Saints, Regina, and on Diocesan Council.

While raising her children as a single mother, she practiced as a clinical psychologist, then entered the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad to prepare for ordination.

She was truly multi-talented.

One of Carol’s great, though largely unrecognized contributions to diocesan life can be seen in the Churchmouse Resource Centre.

This came while she was still a layperson and member of the Program Committee and Diocesan Council. A proposal was made to divert funds earmarked for developing educational resources in the diocese to instead pay for a stewardship program.

Carol led the opposition to the proposal both behind the scenes and during the heated debate in Diocesan Council and the money was saved for its original purpose.

It was subsequently used to take over the Churchmouse from St. Mary’s, Regina, and expand its work as a diocesan resource.

Carol’s greatest memorial though, will be among those to whom she ministered as Chaplain to Anglicans in Regina hospitals.

There are many stories telling of her empathy and support to patients and their families during crisis times. A private person, she bore her own crisis of terminal illness with grace and dignity.

May she now rest in peace.

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The Saskatchewan Anglican

October 2012

Saskatchewan takes part in the Sacred Circle

By Mary Brown

It’s three-and-a-half bishops! Bishops Kito Pikaahu of New Zealand, Lydia Mamakwa of Keewatin, Griselda Delgado Del Carpio of Cuba and Bishop-elect Adam Halkett, gather during the Sacred Circle in Manitoba in July.

Photo – Contributed

PRINCE ALBERT – The Diocese of Saskatchewan sent a strong and happy delegation to the Seventh Sacred Circle in Pinawa, Man., in July.

The delegation was led by Bishop-elect Adam Halkett, who was joined by Bishop Michael Hawkins and 20 clergy, laity and youth from the diocese.

Saskatchewan had the strongest youth representation at the Sacred Circle, and three of our delegates led the youth in their Circle and in preparation of a top-quality video, which was presented to the entire circle on the Thursday afternoon.

Bishop Gregory Kerr Wilson

joined diocesan Elder, Rev. Arthur Anderson, and his wife Elaine from Qu’Appelle.

One delegate has famously referred to Sacred Circle as a vacation for indigenous ministers.

While the Sacred Circle was very busy, delegates were refreshed by the teaching, sharing, worship and fellowship of the week, all centred on the Gospel.

There was a sense of unity and urgency in the Gospel mission we have to the people of this land, which permeated the meeting.

It was a great experience of being “Together in the Gospel” with indigenous Anglicans across the country and the world, along with non-indigenous brothers and sisters.

Qu’Appelle Spirit and Song – 50 years of choir school

By Rev. Malcolm French REGINA – The red cassocks and white surplices have long since been replaced with dark pants and T-shirts – a different colour of T-shirt every year.

And while the original participants – many of whom are now eligible for their Canada Pension – were all boys, for Choristers and leaders of Qu’Appelle Spirit and Song – formerly known as the Bishop’s School for Choristers – several years, girls have been in the majority. pose in their official T-shirts. The choir school celebrated 50 years this summer. At its inception 50 years ago, the After half a century and two school was originally called the Bishop’s School for Choir Boys. name changes, it was time for a Photo – Bill Van Sickle celebration. current choristers for a final in the catechism, to creating Qu’Appelle Spirit and Song encore. The choir also participated model “Holy Houses” from craft – formerly the Bishop’s School in the main Sunday service at St. materials. for Choristers, and even more Paul’s Cathedral.

(It was common in the anciently, the Bishop’s School In addition Middle Ages for people to build for Choir Boys to several recreations of the house where It was common in the – was held at (Continued from page 1) “My greatest disappointment hours of the Angel Gabriel appeared to All Saints, Middle Ages for people to under the new editor, with much is the lack of positive faiththe Virgin Mary as places of Regina this past build recreations of the house singing each more theological ‘meat’ and building material, articles that day, Chaplain pilgrimage.

August. engagement with important are not all mission and outreach where the Angel Gabriel Malcolm (The Shrine of Our Lady of Musical issues.” or argumentative or churchianity. appeared to the Virgin Mary as French led Walsingham is well known in Director “I would like to see more Instead, something that would places of pilgrimage. the group the Anglican tradition. Who Rev. Christa thought-provoking, social justiceencourage our faith in Jesus knew that Mary’s parents had a The Shrine of Our Lady of in Morning Eidsness (a oriented articles.

It’s useful for Christ. swimming pool and a hot tub?)

United Church Walsingham is well known in and Evening keeping up with general diocesan “Even a few testimonials Prayer each Former choristers Jean-Noel minister) put the Anglican tradition. news, though.” might be great. I often read day, as well as Brodland, Brianna Levesque, together a “I don’t think the Anglican the Journal and Saskatchewan Who knew that Mary’s a Chaplain’s Jenna Ackerman and Devan challenging Journal or Diocese have been Anglican and wonder if a stranger Ackerman participated as choral program parents had a swimming pool Hour each open enough or provided to Christianity read this, would and a hot tub? afternoon. program director, accompanist for 17 young resources for people who want a he know anything about the love The and counsellors. choristers more modern, liberal approach to of God shown through His Son. liturgical calendar for the week, Deacon Anne Marie MacNeil ranging in age from six to 15. the Christian devotion.”

Would they read about salvation ranging from St. Mary the Virgin and Tonya Condo provided They wowed the crowd when “I believe it is evolving into a and forgiveness? to 20th century martyrs Dietrich significant administrative they performed at Qu’Appelle more interesting publication.”

“In saying this, we are all at Bonhoeffer and Maximilien leadership. A special thank you to House on Friday afternoon.

“Far too many pictures of some time in our faith journey Kolbe, provided the starting point All Saints, the hosts for the week, The Saturday concert at St. clergy in full dress staring at the Strangers to Christianity. We need for discussing things like forming and to the Regina parishes who James the Apostle, Regina, saw camera.

This is especially so for the Good News as well.” a Rule of Life, as described contributed snacks each day. a handful of alumni joining the bishops.”

Readership Survey comments from readers

October 2012

The Saskatchewan Anglican

7

Diocesan ACW members discover that the Ancient Faith is the Anglican Faith

By Marion G. Pope, past president, Diocesan ACW SASKATOON – For ACW members in the Diocese of Saskatoon, developing the conference theme, “The Ancient-Future Faith”, meant threading into the day’s agenda the elements of fasting, prayer and worship, used by early Christians.

The diocesan ACW meeting was held April 14 at St. John’s Cathedral in Saskatoon.

Sixty-eight participants were served breakfast at St. John’s Cathedral, then moved into a day of modified fasting. Morning and noon prayer replicated ancient regular prayer times, and the closing Eucharist was stylized in the ancient Celtic tradition.

Co-president Marion G. Pope, with the assistance of vicepresident Nancy Yee, chaired the conference as co-president Elaine Hrycenko was recovering from back surgery. Patroness Joan Irving, also recovering from recent surgery, joined us later in the day, with our patron Bishop David Irving of Saskatoon.

Nancy Young was our music leader, Lauren Jardine led us in stretches at coffee time and Jacqueline Plante orchestrated an excellent series of displays.

What is an ‘Ancient-Future Faith’? Marion explained: “An ancient-future faith is a faith that is carried on the winds of God’s love from the beginning of time into eternity.”

Ancient scripture testified to

God’s love in action amongst early Christians, pointed to Christ’s coming and points to things yet to happen, things about the Church, world and eternity.

Nancy Yee gave a very thought-provoking talk on the theme, saying that “the AncientFuture Faith is the Anglican faith. If worship is at the core of what it means to be Christian, then Anglicans have got it right.

Anglicans trace their historical roots to the early church, early Christians and to the apostles.

“Anglicans have sustained their catholic theology and worship and are therefore ready to receive those seeking a worship tradition that is catholic, rich and theologically sound.”

She said we can only move ahead into an uncertain future by listening to the Holy Spirit and living, praying and serving “on the leading edge of the present” while maintaining our unique Anglican style of faith. In the words of St. Paul, “Now is the time of God’s favour, now is the day of salvation.”

“We want to begin a conversation about what our identity as Anglican women, as Christians and as ones who are sent from God to fulfill a mission on this Earth, are,” Yee said.

Rev. Paula Foster, in a time of meditation, silence and music, reflected on the ministries of Dorcas, Lydia and Priscilla. She asked us to examine our own ministries, and find ways in our busy lives to centre ourselves.

The incoming board of the Diocesan ACW of the Diocese of Saskatoon for 2012: In the back, from left, are: Kathy Chase, Alvena Oryszczyn, Betty Ann Horbay, Bev Otsuka, Betty Lloyd, Merce Montgomery, Eva Shabits and Bonnie Milman. In the front, from left, are: Joan Irving, Elaine Hrycenko, Barb Forsyth, Marion G. Pope, Nancy Yee and Jacqueline Plante.

Photo – Marion G. Pope Baja, here we come Adventures of Hope Bear”, Spirit are transformative. There Edie Belesky, of the Endeavour featuring the Hope Bear’s travel are many ways of ministering. area, represented the women of the across Canada visiting parishes.

Some microphone-projector diocese on the team that went to Lay volunteers in a religious combinations don’t make “joyful” Baja in June to build two houses. community noises. Tight schedules sometimes Twelve of our afghans also went.

Barb and Lynne Clay, who mean dropped agenda items.

A new look at finances are associate members of both Jacqueline Plante A new document, “2012 the Community of St. John commissioned Edie Belesky, our Recommendations for Financing the Divine in the UK and the Baja representative, as well as the work of Diocese of Saskatoon Sisterhood of St. John the members of the 2012 Board.

Anglican Church Women”, Divine in Toronto, gave personal Board members include: was adopted. Under the new reflections on their six-month President Elaine Hrycenko; recommendations, a new Thank stint in the “Alongsider” program Past President Marion Pope; Offering replaces the pledge at the convent house of St. John Secretary Bev Otsuka; Treasurer system and year-end tax receipts the Divine in the UK. This is a Bonnie Milman; Public Relations will be issued for accumulated program where they volunteer and Convenor Kathy Chase; offerings of $20 or more given live with the sisters in community. Program Convenor Jacqueline throughout the year.

Truth and Reconciliation Plante; Devotions Convenor Meet the Hope Bear Mary Ann Assailly spoke on Barb Forsyth; Life Members The Anglican Foundation is behalf of the TRC and what was Convenor Betty Ann Horbay; selling Hope Bears to raise money to occur during the June event.

Book of Remembrance Convenor for the “Kids Helping Kids Trust “What is the Spirit saying to Eva Shabits; Archivist Merce Fund” in support of children in the the Church?”

Montgomery; Eastern Deanery Anglican Church of Canada.

The women broke into groups Representative Alvena Oryszczyn; At the 2011 National to discuss what the Spirit is saying and Saskatoon Deanery President’s Conference, presidents to them, and to vision a faith for Representative Elaine Ogilvy. were challenged to come to the the future which would increase There was no representative 2012 conference with the most love, hope and faith within our declared for the Western Deanery. creatively dressed bear. If any of churches and our diocese.

The 2013 Women’s Spring you can knit, crochet or sew an What did we learn?

Conference and AGM will be outfit for ‘our’ bear, please contact We were excited to learn hosted by members of Christ Elaine. Also available is a the Ancient Future Faith IS the Church, Saskatoon, on Saturday, children’s book called “The Happy Anglican Faith. Hearts full of the April 13, 2013.

Diocese of Saskatoon: Announcements for October 2012 To be included in a timely manner, brief notices for events should be supplied to the Associate Editor by fax, e-mail or “snail mail” by the last week of the month, two months before the month in which the insertion is desired (for example, October submissions will be in the December issue).

Detailed and longer texts of events will not be included in this section but, should space allow, could be the subject of additional articles or notices elsewhere in the Saskatchewan Anglican.

Happenings at St. James’ with the Refinery: The “Re[de] fining Church” Service: 7 p.m.

Sunday; Refining Readers: meets one Wednesday evening a month; The St. James’ Farmers’ Market and International

Bazaar: Wednesday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

International Drop-Ins are held on the second Sunday of every month, 2-5 p.m.. Also see www. stjamesrefinery.org for more information Integrity/Saskatoon: Meetings are held at St. George’s, Saskatoon, on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.

For more information contact, Tom and Rose Rogers at (306) 373-5165, or Rev. Ann Marie Nicklin at (306) 381-9780 or benjie60@gmail.com.

For further information and to view related articles, links and photographs of Integrity events, visit www.integritysaskatoon. blogspot.com.

Coffee at St. George’s,

Saskatoon: All are welcome to join the Parish of St. George’s Community Coffee House, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. for coffee, muffins and fellowship.

The address is St. George’s Anglican Church, Parish Hall, 624 Ave I S., Saskatoon. For information call 242-7973.

Seniors’ Lunch, St. George’s, Battleford: The Friendship Committee of St. George’s, Battleford, invites all seniors to join them for lunch on the first Monday of each month.

A Healing Service with Anointing and Laying on of Hands is held on alternating basis monthly in the two Battle River Parishes.

Please contact Rev. Peter Norman at (306) 445-4155 or by

e-mail at stpaulnb@sasktel.net for dates and times.

Please note the Diocese of Saskatoon’s gathering entitled “Outside The Walls, A Diocesan Gathering”, announced in June as taking place from Sept. 14-16, at Manitou Beach, Sask., has been cancelled.

Another diocesan gathering for 2013 will be announced in the future.

Back To Church Sunday (BTCS): Sunday, Sept. 30, is Back To Church Sunday.

Please invite and encourage friends, family and those you know or meet and who do not normally attend church or do not have a church of their own, to come, as your guest, to your church.

Appointments and News: There will be three ordinations at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 30, at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Saskatoon.

Jessica Latshaw will be ordained to the priesthood, and Emily Carr and Nancy Yee will be ordained to the diaconate. Pray for them as they begin their new ministry.

Rev. Scott G. Pittendrigh has been appointed the next incumbent of St. John the Evangelist Cathedral, Saskatoon.

Rev. Pittendrigh is currently the incumbent in a parish in Cobble Hill, Vancouver Island.

He and his wife Sarah will move to Saskatoon in October, and Sunday, Oct. 7, will be his first Sunday at the cathedral.

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The Saskatchewan Anglican

October 2012

Saskatoon helps out in Mexico (Continued from page 1) Esmeralda (18) and Natividad (14), and one son, Jesus (17).

They have owned and lived on their land for many years and lived in a tiny concrete house with a small wood addition; both parents work in the fields and make about $150 per week; Jesus has Down Syndrome.

The second family is Angelica.

Angelica has three children, Victor (7), David (6) and Maria (5). Angelica works in the fields and makes $50-60 per week.

She also sells raffle tickets to help cover the medical bills the family incurred when her son David was run over by a water truck. One of David’s legs had to be amputated above the knee.

They also lived with

Angelica’s mom and other extended family next door to the property they own.

On June 4, volunteers arrived at Saskatoon airport at 4 a.m., had a layover in Calgary and arrived in San Diego, Calif., at 2 p.m., where they spent the afternoon at SeaPort village and Balboa Park, and where spent the night.

On June 5, they left San Diego, took a half-hour to get through the border and after following the coast for eight hours, arrived in Vincente Guerrero.

On June 7, construction on the homes began; work started early with breakfast by 7 a.m.

The volunteers split into two groups of 14, with each group assigned to building one of the houses. Construction proceeded

quickly, with assistance from relatives of the families and members of the community.

On June 10, the volunteers bought furniture, two stoves and food for both houses, and left the diocesan donations and the gifts with the families that had been collected by parish members.

There was a great celebration and the volunteers spent quite a bit of time with the families for the dedications and home blessings. The volunteers did have some spare items that were left with the centre to give out to other families in the area.

Following a day of rest, the volunteers then travelled by bus back to San Diego and their flight home, arriving back in Saskatoon on June 15.

Consecration of indigenous bishop for Saskatchewan PRINCE ALBERT – By the Grace of God, Adam Samson Halkett will be consecrated the Indigenous Bishop of Saskatchewan on Friday, Oct. 12, 2012, at 4 p.m. in the Senator Allen Bird Gymnasium in Prince Albert.

The bishop, Synod and General Assembly of the Diocese of Saskatchewan request your prayers and presence. MAMUWE ISI MIYWACHIMOWIN – “Together in the Gospel”.

To celebrate this event, Bishop Michael has requested that one of the following prayers or a special sentence in the Litany be used at every Sunday service in the diocese as we prepare for the Consecration of Adam Halkett on Oct. 12.

Prayer 1 HEAVENLY Father, send your Holy Spirit to anoint our new Bishop-elect Adam, that he may continue the work of healing and renewal in your Church and unite your people in love, truth and wisdom.

Give him a true shepherd’s heart like that of Jesus, that he may give strength to the weak, heal the broken-hearted, console the lonely, bring back the wandering and be a power against the evil of our day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer 2 ALMIGHTY God, giver of all good things, who by thy Holy Spirit hast appointed divers Orders of Ministers in thy Church: Mercifully behold thy servant Adam called to the work and ministry of a bishop; and replenish him so with the truth of thy doctrine, and adorn him with innocency of life, that both by word and deed he may faithfully serve thee in this office, to the glory of thy Name, and the edifying and well-governing of thy Church; through the merits of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, world without end. Amen.

The first group of volunteers to the External Aid Project in Vincente Guerrero, Baja, gather together in front of the house they built, along with Bishop David Irving of Saskatoon (standing at far right).

Photos – Saskatoon Synod website

‘Christmas in July’ at VBS

By Fr. Christopher Snook

The second group of volunteers for the External Aid Project gather in front of the house they built; Bishop David Irving of Saskatoon joins with them, standing far right.

REGINA – This summer St. Luke’s partnered with Lakeview United Church to run its second annual week-long vacation Bible School. The theme was “Christmas in July.”

Throughout the week the children explored the mystery of Jesus’s birth in song, craft and activity, culminating in a closing service and reception for friends and family on Friday afternoon.

For the second year in a row, the camp was led by a team of young leaders from CrossTalk Ministries in Montreal.

Each year for over two decades, CrossTalk prepares

teams of three leaders to offer camps across the country with a tried-and-tested curriculum brought to life by the energy and commitment of these volunteers.

The school was attended by children from congregations located throughout the Lakeview neighbourhood and beyond.

Volunteers from both churches gathered every day to ensure that the camp ran well, from registering children, to assisting with snacks and meals, to taking photographs and more.

Three teenagers from St Luke’s and Lakeview also helped lead the camp. This year’s camp saw tremendous growth in the number of children registered, with 23 participating.

October 2012

The Saskatchewan Anglican

9

Eleventh Bishop of Qu’Appelle looks back

By Joanne Shurvin-Martin

The newly ordained deacons, Tracey Taylor (left) and Susan Anholt (right), with Bishop Greg KerrWilson.

Photo – Nigel Salway

Two deacons ordained at St. Luke’s

By Nigel Salway

to explore it further over time.

REGINA – Members of the Diocese of Qu’Appelle gathered on the feast of St. Mary (Aug. 15) to ordain Susan Anholt and Tracey Taylor to the diaconate.

Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson was assisted by Rev. Christopher Snook, who acted as Master of Ceremonies.

Rev. Ella Frank delivered the homily and Deacons Susan Page and Arleen Champion acted as Vestors. Organist was Jennifer Klippenstein. St. Paul’s Cathedral was unavailable for the service due to construction, so the ordination was held at St. Luke.

Both Susan Anholt and Tracey Taylor are members of St. Columba, Kenaston. Susan’s presenters were Rev. Don Wells, Lorne Anholt, Shirley Hartman and Lynda Pillipow. Tracey’s presenters were Rev. David Nevett, Doug Taylor, Calvin Taylor, Kaitlyn Taylor and Morgan Taylor.

St. Columba Anglican Church in Kenaston turns 100 this year and will be celebrating its centenary in November.

The Saskatchewan Anglican asked the two candidates several questions about their plans and their call to the ministry.

How did you ascertain you were being called to the ministry? I believe all Christians are called by God, and I have always felt that call. I have long sensed the call of God’s Spirit to serve in a pastoral role.

I have explored this call through long-standing service in my congregation and community.

Through my involvement with the Diocesan Summer School I have sensed a growing and compelling inward call to the sacramental ministry.

I am honoured and humbled that my church community recommended me for local ordination.

I have a strong sense of purpose and total commitment knowing that God will continue to use me as a servant within my congregation.

At the very core of my calling is the belief that our faith is grounded in the Sacraments, and that through the sharing of the sacramental ministry, in combination with the scripture and tradition of the church, we can continue to grow together in faith. I seek to answer God’s call in this place.

Tracey shares the following:

Susan shares her plans: Will you be seeking ordination as a priest? At this time, it is my intention to seek ordination as a priest. Of course, this is an open conversation that shall continue between God, myself and my parish.

Will you be seeking ordination as a priest? Yes, I will be seeking ordination to the priesthood.

When I met with the committee on ordained ministry, they did discern a calling to priestly ministry, which is humbling yet gratifying and scary as heck.

Do you have any plans for your future ministry? My intention is to continue to respond in love, to the people around me.

I believe that God will guide me to specific places where I am to serve. I have an ongoing interest in the healing ministry and intend

Do you have any plans for your future ministry? My hope is to serve Christ and His church to the best of my abilities and to continue to minister to the people of this parish, both in and out of the church.

I know that this seems like a

pretty generic answer but its all I’ve got. You know the old saying, “Want to make God laugh? Tell Him your plans”? I plan to go where God plans to take me, and with His help I pray I can go there gracefully.

How did you ascertain you were being called to the ministry? I have always known God, and known that I was not alone. When people would give their stories of finding Christ, I always felt a little jealous; I never had that ‘ah ha!’ moment.

But as I have grown in my faith (I hate to say older), I realize how blessed I was to be given this gift from the time I was born.

I felt that God was calling me to serve and that I had been given some gifts that I was to use, but I wanted to use them on my own terms.

I had been serving as a lay leader in St. Columba, Kenaston; when the congregation put my name forward as a candidate for local ordination, my first reaction was a resounding, ‘No.’ My excuse was, I feel I can serve just as good as a lay leader, but I want to be the best lay leader I can be.

When I repeatedly felt the stirring of a calling, the best excuse I could come up with was, ‘God has given me this wonderful family. I am sure that He doesn’t mean for me to go off and put my time to something else.’

I believed that if I could bring up these three wonderful people that God sent for me to care for (my children, Calvin, Kaitlyn and Morgan) with the same knowledge that they are beloved children of a wonderful God, then that would be good enough.

But as is often the case, God kept calling and putting people in my life to help me go where He needed me to go. And so here I am, finally, ready and willing to go where God will lead me.

REGINA – By the time readers have this paper in hand, Gregory Kerr-Wilson will have been installed as ninth Bishop of Calgary.

But when he spoke to The Saskatchewan Anglican at the beginning of August, he was still Bishop of Qu’Appelle, and busy with regular diocesan and national church activities, as well as details such as buying and selling the family homes in Calgary and Regina, respectively.

He made time in his schedule to look back on his six years as Bishop of Qu’Appelle.

He talked about many things which he described as high points in his time as bishop and said, “the number one thing was the ability to visit and see so many congregations; to worship and pray with them; to encourage them.”

He spoke of the diversity within the diocese with urban, rural and First Nations congregations. “Personally, it has been a real privilege to participate in ministry with First Nations people in the diocese.”

Bishop Kerr-Wilson said that an issue which was a challenge when he arrived in Qu’Appelle, and which “continues to be there in the background, is the ongoing issue of resources.

“What I saw a lot of when I first arrived was the sense of despondency, of ‘what can we do?’”

He said he saw parishes which had “gotten into institutional survival mode.” But he has seen a change as they see the real hope of the Gospel.

“I’ve seen an improvement in that. There is a greater sense that ‘all will be well.’ Declining numbers are not a reflection negatively on the Christian faith, but rather a reflection of how we speak that faith in different and changing contexts.”

He continued, “I really loved how we’ve shifted what we do when we gather as for synods and meetings.

“It’s a prayerful setting, and we begin with bible study. It’s not frothy optimism but deeper prayerfulness.

“We have not gotten over survival mode completely, but it

is a lot less strong.”

Bishop Kerr-Wilson said he was pleased to see the continued cultivation of the diaconate during his time as bishop, and to see that people understand the importance of that ministry.

Another positive development has been theological education, and in particular the Qu’Appelle School for Mission and Ministry, and the ordination of local people for their parishes.

“I’m pleased how the Four Pillars have found a home in people’s consciousness.”

(The four pillars were introduced in the Bishop’s charge to Synod in March 2007, and are worship, small groups, outreach and evangelism.)

He spoke of watching with interest as parishes developed their Mission Action Plans.

“It’s been a privilege to be involved with the companion dioceses of Lichfield and Muyinga, and West Malaysia, which is no longer an official companion but we still have a connection,” said Bishop Kerr-Wilson.

He commented that the Diocese of Calgary, which is larger in population than Qu’Appelle, has only one companion diocese, as do most other Canadian dioceses.

The Anglican-Roman Catholic covenant is “another high point. It has been wonderful to share in joint services and to work alongside them,” said the bishop.

“The shared ministry with Lutherans in various places in the diocese is another great experience.”

Bishop Kerr-Wilson said there are many things which are unfinished, but “things are working along and someone else will take them on and make them go.”

Among the things in progress are people working through the ordination process.

“I would love to see them begin their ordained ministry,” he said, “because of course they have already been involved in ministry.”

Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson was consecrated the eleventh Bishop of Qu’Appelle in May 2006, and was elected Bishop of Calgary on June 16, 2012.

10

The Saskatchewan Anglican

October 2012

Summer fundraiser supports St. Michael’s Retreat

By Frank Flegel LUMSDEN (Qu’A) – A late morning rain in Regina kept the numbers a little lower than usual, but several hardy souls were not deterred, climbed on their two wheelers and made it all the way to St. Michael’s Retreat Ministries for the annual Spirit of the Valley Fundraiser on Aug. 11.

“It was a little tough in the beginning,” said cyclist Rev. Brad Fahlman of Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, who cycled from his Regina home.

“It was wet and against the wind, but outside the city and after the turn off (from Hwy. 11 to Condie Road) it was good.”

The group gathered at Evraz Steel plant on the north side of Regina, then travelled along Highway 11 to the Condie road, followed by Friar Kevin Lynch driving a half-ton truck with a huge sign on the rear warning motorists of the cyclists ahead of him. It took the group about one-and-a-half hours to make the approximately 30 km trip.

Another group walked, jogged and ran a route from the Lumsden camp ground through the town and up the south side road, then down again to the Retreat House nestled on a slope on the south side of the Lumsden/ Qu’Appelle Valley. A breakfast of fruit, yogurt, bagels and coffee was available for them.

About 50 participants took part in the event and stayed for a prayer service conduced by Evangelical Lutheran Bishop Cindy Halmarson.

Franciscan Brother Gerry Clyne played guitar and led the singing for the service and Rev. Catherine Harper, resident Anglican priest, played the organ.

The grounds were still wet so the service was held in the chapel.

Bishop Halmarson’s homily focused on the Gospel of John in which Jesus talks about being the living bread sent from heaven.

“It is the living bread that never grows old and never grows stale,” she said. “The bread nurtures us and gives us life. In the hills around Lumsden, here at St. Michael’s we have been fed and not just from the kitchen.”

She also spoke of the need for support of St. Michael’s.

The amount of money raised was not known at presstime, but past events raised around $12,000.

St. Michael’s is owned by the Franciscan Friars but operates with an ecumenical board of Anglicans, Evangelical Lutherans and Roman Catholics.

Josh and Jordyn sit on a bicycle built for two (at right), along with their grandfather Fred Exner (at left), are happy at the end of the bikea-thon. The bike-a-thon was part of St. Michael’s Retreat Centre’s annual ‘Spirit of the Valley’ fundraiser.

Photo – Frank Flegel

‘All Are Welcome’ at ACW annual meeting

By Sharon Gibler SWIFT CURRENT (Qu’A) – “All Are Welcome” was the theme of the 47th meeting of the Anglican Church Women of the Diocese of Qu’Appelle, held at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church on April 21.

Guest speaker Rev. Ella Frank, chaplain for the Diocesan ACW, spoke on that theme. All are welcome – how can we get others involved? Do we make people welcome? We say “yes” but probably should say “not always.”

A song by Red Selvine tells about a man who tries to enter a church dressed in jeans, wearing a big black hat, beard, long hair and sandals, but is refused entry.

The song ends with: “Wasn’t that a picture of Jesus in the front and didn’t He have long hair?”

St. Paul’s letter to the Romans says, “Accept one another then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” Can we agree on everything? No. We are to make each feel loved and comforted. We don’t like

change. To be part of the Christian Church, or any organization we have to welcome others into our midst, regardless of their colour, creed, religion or background.

We need to show kindness, be forgiving and show love. As followers of Christ we are given a commission; we can make a difference in the lives of others.

When we welcome others we see a community full of God’s blessings. Welcoming is walking in the light. Welcoming should never be random but because we love God. ACW members did an exercise in which they were asked to find someone they didn’t know, speak with them and make them feel welcome within their community.

Rev. Frank gave them these questions: In your conversation could you make friends within that church community within the first four to six months? If no, why not? What were your first impressions of the person who was welcoming you? Is there a place where you can fit in?

After your welcome in the church, what are your feelings?

Does that church really want you?

Did the person welcoming you find out what your interests are, what gifts you have and tell you there was a place for you to use those gifts within the church?

Reports were then received from all officers and departments.

The national conference in Ottawa in September 2011 was a very full and busy conference.

The national convention will be in Calgary in 2012 and PEI in 2013.

The Qu’Appelle ACW prayer partner is the Diocese of Algoma.

Following lunch, Sandra Hill introduced guest speaker Ica Siana, executive director from the Welcome Centre in Swift Current.

She is from the Philippines and has a Catholic background.

She has been here three years and her husband was here two years earlier. The Welcome Centre has been open since 2007. At least 38 cultures and languages are represented in the city.

Sixty per cent of immigrants

Organist celebrates 50 years at St. Thomas, Vernon

By Christine Whitaker VERNON (Qu’A) – On Sunday, July 29, 1962, Bruce Farrer began his career as organist at St. Thomas Church, Vernon, near Qu’Appelle. There were 17 parish members there that day.

On Sunday, July 29, 2012, a congregation of 47 family members, friends and neighbours gathered at the church to celebrate Bruce’s 50th anniversary as church organist.

Bruce played the organ (at right), accompanied by Barbara Herman on flute and David Gustilov on bass. They played a musical prelude and four hymns,

two of which Bruce had played 50 years ago.

Readings and psalms were appropriate for the theme of

praising God with music and song. Readers were Cathy Farrer, Patti Sherk and Darlene Tyson.

The service was led by Christine Whitaker and Bruce delivered the sermon, during which he shared memories of 50 years as organist.

Bruce has been a lifelong member of the St. Thomas congregation. He was baptised there, as were all of his children and grandchildren. Bruce and his wife, Cathy, were also married there. Bruce has served not only as organist, but as custodian of the church and cemetery, and as historian of the church and the Vernon district.

Photo by Christine Whitaker

are from the Philippines, and now a large number are also from Ukraine. Most are in the service, hospitality and manufacturing industry. Most are here because of the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program. Why have they come to Canada? Because there are better opportunities, better work, better quality of life.

Unfortunately, since so much more is available here, some get into financial trouble.

Swift Current has been welcoming to newcomers. When people say “hello” or smile, it is welcoming. Most difficult for immigrants is the climate, food and clothing. Some teens struggle to relate with friends and communicate.

Elections saw all officers for 2012 staying the same. The budget was discussed. This year 32 afghans, quilts and shawls were dispersed in the diocese, with the rest given to members. It was mentioned if branches close, members should be notified of meetings and can still vote.

St. David’s, Prince Albert turns 50 St. David’s Anglican Church 500- 24th Street East th 50 Anniversary Celebrations Saturday, Oct. 6 Coffee at 1–3 p.m. at St. David’s Church. Banquet at 5:30 p.m. at “My Place” Prince Albert Golf and Curling Club.

Sunday Oct. 7 Holy Communion at 10:30 a.m. at St. David’s Church.

For info and tickets, phone (306) 764-1310.

October 2012

The Saskatchewan Anglican

11

Stewardship and the longest journey Stewardship creatively channels resources to help relieve suffering and proclaim the Good News

By Rev. Alex Parsons, Diocese of Saskatoon Stewardship Officer

Volunteers of the Diocese of Saskatoon’s Internal Outreach Project raise the framing at the Habitat for Humanity home build in Saskatoon during the summer.

Photos – Joan Irving

Habitat becomes a habit in Saskatoon

By Peter R. Coolen SASKATOON – This year our diocese began two outreach programs, one an external aid program in Baja, Mexico and the second, an internal outreach program, which works with Habitat for Humanity and uses volunteer labour to build houses for low-income families.

Most of us have heard of Habitat for Humanity, the worldwide program which uses former U.S. President Jimmy Carter as one of its spokespeople and builds houses throughout the world using volunteer help.

Habitat is busy here in Saskatoon, as well, and is

presently building several homes.

Locally, the Habitat Re-Store also serves as a collection and selling point for recycled building materials.

The first one-day building session of the diocese’s Internal Outreach Program began in June, and has continued with more oneday building sessions in each of the months of July, August and September. The building sessions to date have concentrated on a multi-unit building at Nos. 1, 2 and 3 Ave T. South.

Each phase in the building has attracted up to 10 volunteers from the diocese, many of whom have attended several or all of the building sessions. Some of the volunteers also worked on the

Baja, External Outreach Project in June.

During this summer’s building sessions, Primate Fred Hiltz even visited the construction site to encourage the volunteers while he was in the city.

Future building sessions will continue throughout the winter and into the spring until the present project is completed, at which point another Habitat build may be started.

If anyone is interested in more information regarding the Internal Outreach Project, or is interested in volunteering, please contact the synod office (244-5651 or anglicansynod1@sasktel.net) or Rev. David Tyler (374-3175 or dave.tyler@shaw.ca).

Lunchtime finds the volunteers at the Habitat build taking some badly needed cool-down time, in the shade of the walls of their project.

Those who followed in his footsteps did not do so because they were personally in danger or SASKATOON – “Even the only looking out for themselves. longest journey must begin where Rather, Weston’s you stand” is one version of initiative touched at a different Lao-tzu’s famous quote. But it is level. true. Action arises from stillness I think that deep down was which, in a faith setting, is the the realization this was part of a stillness of listening to that small mission that meant something, quiet voice of God. a mission whose goal, whether For it is this voice that speaks spoken or not, was the restoration of compassion, reason, wonder of the human spirit that was being and love, all the while reminding so overtly degraded overseas. A us of our place in caring for what mission that was successful in is entrusted to us. doing so.

We are called to act, not just Sadly, such degradation is not to be. Actions speak louder than gone and springs up through other words and so often it is the outlets. The fight against misery, response of one person who tyranny, loneliness, boredom and decides to take the journey and all that afflicts the soul of the steps out of the stillness that creature made in God’s image is makes a difference. ever with us.

I was just As ChrisThe fight against misery, reading a story tians we are tyranny, loneliness, boredom ongoing parabout Garfield and all that afflicts the soul of ticipants in a Weston, who the creature made in God’s continuing in August 1940 went to the mission of image is ever with us.

Ministry of resistance, As Christians we are Aircraft Produccarried out in ongoing participants in a tion, and started different times continuing mission of what became an and places and incredible ways, for “God resistance, carried out in fundraising efhas sent the different times and places fort throughout and ways, for “God has sent Spirit of his Canada, to supSon into our the Spirit of his Son into our hearts.” (Gal ply equipment hearts.” (Gal 4:6) to win the war.

4:6) Distressed StewardStewardship allows us to at the loss ship allows us creatively channel of life in the to creatively resources into the goal of re- channel reearly stages of lieving suffering and proclaim- sources into the Battle of ing the Good News.

Britain, Weston the goal of told the relieving sufminister that “only God can fering and proclaiming the Good replace those boys. I’d like to News. It is a stand against a hardreplace the machines.” He then ness of heart. Stewardship in a handed over a blank cheque, very real way, through concrete allowing the minister to fill in action, helps straighten paths what was needed. made crooked. It is practical His gift prompted many spirituality. others to follow suit and Weston’s planes gave hope to ultimately involved nationwide those who were oppressed that fundraising teas, car washes, fairs, it need not always be so. His act raffles, dances and the like. of sharing resources in a timely By stepping out from where he manner brought out the best in stood, Weston got so many others others who rose to the challenge invested in helping build aircraft alongside him. One person can that the project took on a life of make a difference. its own, touching people in Each of us is called to be that virtually every community in person when the need arises. Each Canada. of us has the chance to participate This was amazing to say the in the work of mission. To do so least. Weston was doing nothing we ask that the Holy Spirit give new; even the precedent of fundus courage and wisdom to follow ing aircraft had already been set, Jesus without counting the cost but his actions were a heartfelt and to guide us in stewardship as response to suffering. a way of life.

12

The Saskatchewan Anglican

October 2012

Diamond Jubilee service unites many faiths

By Joanne Shurvin-Martin REGINA – “In families, different children may call their father by different names; one may call him Papa, another may call him Dad, but it is the same father,” said Gagan Deep Singh, who offered prayers from the Sikh community at the Interfaith Celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, held at Knox-Metropolitan United Church in Regina on June 3.

In describing how appropriate it is for many faith communities to come together to celebrate the Queen’s jubilee, Mr. Singh gave another analogy: “The clay is all the same but the fashioner has made us differently.”

The service was sponsored by the Saskatchewan Diamond Jubilee Committee, along with Multi-Faith Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Branch of the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS).

Michael Jackson, RCS chair, who is also a deacon at St. Paul’s Cathedral, acted as master of ceremonies and introduced the official party, which included representatives the provincial and federal governments, First Nations and Métis peoples, RCMP and the Assemble communautaire fransaskoise.

Officiant at the service was

Rev. Robert Kitchen, minister of Knox-Metropolitan Church.

The scripture reading was John 4:5-14, used at the 2012 Commonwealth Day service in Westminster Abbey, and read

by Fredrick Mantey, chair of the Saskatchewan Diamond Jubilee Committee.

The lieutenant-governor, Hon. Vaughn Solomon Schofield, addressed the gathering. She said that although the Queen has led an uncommon life, she shares many common experiences with us, such as the joys and challenges of children and grandchildren.

She said one of the great values of the monarchy is that it provides consistency in political systems with constant change.

“Political parties come and go, but the Crown stays the same,” she said. She quoted from thenPrincess Elizabeth’s speech from South Africa when she was 21, in which she pledged to spend her

life in service to her people, and gave examples of public service by members of the Royal Family.

Dr. Muhammad Moolla offered prayers in Arabic on behalf of the Muslim community, which he translated into English. He commented that he had been born in South Africa, where he was not recognized as a person.

He expressed gratitude that he was able to move to Canada and be educated and be a part of a united humanity.

Joanne Yeo, representing the Bahai community, read prayers

which emphasized unity and forgiveness.

Dr. Lawrence Clein of Beth Jacob Synagogue recalled how, as a child, he had stood in the rain outside Buckingham Palace at the Coronation.

He said that members of the Jewish diaspora who live in Commonwealth countries are more fortunate than those in many other places, and credited the influence of the Royal Family in helping create a religiously-tolerant society.

Intercessions, in English and French, were led by representatives of the Christian community: Sister Anastasia Young (Roman Catholic), Canda-Leigh Habonimama and Anna Tunison (United Church) and Very Rev. Michael Sinclair, Dean of the Anglican Diocese of Qu’Appelle.

Dr. Shreedhar Jachak of the Hindu community chanted prayers and translated them as prayers for peace and blessings

for the Queen.

Rev. Dale Gillman of Gordon’s First Nation sang a song which God gave her 10 years ago, which speaks of people from every nation gathered around the throne of God. She reminded the congregation of the treaties which First Nations’ ancestors made with the Crown, in the person of Queen Victoria, and spoke of the unity of spirit.

René Archambault, representing the Francophone community, congratuated the Queen on her reign, saying it was “characterized by wisdom and vigour.” He also referred to Queen Victoria, under whom linguistic rights were protected in Canada.

Music was a key feature of the Diamond Jubilee service.

Before the service began, the sound of church bells filled the air as the Regina Bell Ringers entertained with a selection of tunes, including three from the original Commonwealth Service and five by Regina composers.

Knox-Metropolitan and St. Paul’s Cathedral choirs joined to form a 40-member choir, accompanied by pipe organ, cello and horns. The musical highlight of the service was “Benedictus” from The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace, by Karl Jenkins, with soloist Cameron Lowe on cello.

Aboriginal churches recipients of ‘pews for Saskatchewan’ project

By Mary Brown PRINCE ALBERT – There is a saying that “every cloud has a silver lining”.

If you were a member of the congregations of St. Columba, Strawberryvale, All Saints, View Royal, St. Alban’s, Victoria, St. Martin’s, Victoria and St. Saviour’s Church, in West Victoria in the Diocese of British Columbia, you may think differently.

For anyone who has had to attend the service of the de-consecration of their beloved church where they may have been married, baptized all of their children, and held the funeral of their mother or father or child you would know how difficult it has been for the churches that had to close in the Diocese of B.C. With the help of Archdeacon Robert MacRae and the Guthrie Brothers, Jim, Laurie, Doug and Jack, the ‘pews for Saskatchewan’ project began in January of 2012.

After many phone calls and e-mails between the Diocese of Saskatchewan and the others involved, including the generosity of Matco Transportation, a large moving van arrived in Prince

Albert on April 23.

Four storage lockers were rented and the van containing 52 pews, with vanity panels, an altar and other church furnishings, was unloaded. In the next two weeks, two of the lockers were emptied and by the end of the month nothing was left.

If only the people in B.C. could have seen the happiness on the faces of the recipients of their pews. The 12-foot pews were given to the Church of St. Simeon and St. Anna on the Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation, where they had built a new church a few years ago, but were using smaller pews from their old church.

St. Bartholomew’s Church in Pelican Narrows, part of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, took 14 of the nine-foot pews.

Their old pews were too flimsy and some had cracks in the boards, which pinched the congregants when they sat down.

The rest of the pews went to St. Thomas’ Church in Shoal Lake Cree Nation, where they have begun plans to build a new church.

The other items were given to the congregations in Little Red River Reserve and Montreal Lake Cree Nation.

Need a pew? Friends and members of the Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation gather with a trailer-load of pews destined for churches on the reserve. The pews came from B.C. churches which were de-consecrated.

Photo – Terry Loehr

Three north Winnipeg parishes pull together WINNIPEG – This year, the parishes of St. Martin-in-theFields, St. Barnabas and St. Anne’s agreed to become one parish and share a common vestry, set of programs and staff.

This working group is to be known as Trinity Anglican Ministry.

Over the summer, Rev. Bob Webster and Rev. Rod Sprange retired from St. Martin’s and St. Barnabas. Rev. Liz Richens,

formerly of St. Paul’s, Middlechurch and St. Anne’s, will continue her work in the Trinity Anglican Ministry.

This fall, she will be joined by Rev. (Deacon) Michael Bruce, as well as part-time mentors Rev. Rick Condo and Dean Jim Dugan.

Trinity Anglican Ministry is excited to have the opportunity to continue this new endeavour with vigorous and energetic new priests.

“Christ said, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few,’” Rev. Richens pointed out.

“Therefore we ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into the fields.

“There is much to do to reap the blessings we have been given, but together, we hope, Trinity Anglican Ministry can reap the fruit that so many have laboured to bring in alone; together we can share God’s blessings.”