Saskatchewan anglican
The newspaper of the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle • A Section of the Anglican Journal • February 2013
Saskatoon accepts PWRDF challenge
‘Coldest Night’ in Lloydminster Nationwide project aims to raise funds and awareness about living on the streets in winter
Contributed SASKATOON – The Diocese of Ottawa PWRDF Committee is challenging every parish in that diocese to hold an educational/ fundraising event during the first week of Lent (Feb. 17-24) 2013, to raise awareness of poverty issues, while supporting PWRDF development projects in Canada and the world. They are also challenging all parishes in other dioceses in Canada to hold similar events. They would like to see which diocese has the highest parish participation rate. All donated funds can be mailed directly from the parish to PWRDF (Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund) in Toronto ear-marked “Lenten Challenge”. The Diocese of Saskatoon PWRDF has put the challenge out to all our parishes. We have a stellar reputation for selling One Voice CDs and for our 50th anniversary refugee sponsorship. We would propose that parishes in this diocese consider taking up the challenge and sponsor a poverty meal (i.e. soup and bun) and have participants donate what they would normally spend on a restaurant meal. For a Sunday, litany prayers could be written to be included in the service. PWRDF place mats could be used and educational components, to stand on each table, will be created for your use. To date there has been a response from St. Paul’s, North Battleford, and St. James’ and St. Mark’s, Saskatoon. The parish of St. James’, Saskatoon, will have a Sunday service on Feb. 24 geared toward PWRDF, to be followed by a soup and bun lunch and a bake sale table. The date in other parishes can be flexible as Feb. 24 is the Family Day long weekend. For more information, contact Barbara Spurr at roxannaspurr@ yahoo.ca or 343-4579, or Mary Ann Assailly at rassailly@sasktel. net or 382-0766. Some suggestions that have been made include: (Continued on page 5)
By Rev. Canon Michael Stonhouse
On Holy Innocents Day, 28 candles were lit during a special service of remembrance for those killed in Newtown, Connecticut. The ecumenical service was held at St. James the Apostle, Regina. Photo – Joanne Shurvin-Martin
Service of Remembrance for Newtown shooting By Joanne Shurvin-Martin REGINA – Holy Innocents Day occurred exactly two weeks after the tragic school shooting in Newtown, Connecticut. An ecumenical Service of Remembrance was held at St. James the Apostle that afternoon, on Dec. 28. It was designed to help people “stand alongside those whose [...] grief is beyond
our imagining,” in the words of a prayer written by Robert Gillies, bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney, Scottish Episcopal Church, in response to the tragedy in which 20 Grade 1 students, six school staff, the shooter and his mother were killed. Three of the Scripture readings – Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23, and Mark 10:13-16 in which Jesus says, “Let the little children
come to me” – were reassuring and consoling. But the reading from Mark 2:1-18 tells not only of the joyful visit of the wise men to the infant Jesus, but also the slaughter of all the boys two years old and younger in Bethlehem, on the order of King Herod. In his homily, Rev. Derek Nicholls said some reports say about 20 boys were murdered, the same number (Continued on page 5)
LLOYDMINSTER (S’TOON) – Folks at St. John’s Minster Anglican Church in Lloydminster are hoping other churches and businesses, clubs, schools and organizations will rise to the bait. St. John’s is planning to field a team, “AngliCan”, as part of a fundraising walk to raise money for the homeless of the city and district. It is part of a nationwide initiative called “The Coldest Night of the Year”. It aims not only to raise muchneeded funds to meet this need, but also to raise awareness of what it is like to live on the streets in the dead of winter. Since the walk takes place Saturday, Feb. 23 for a five-hour period (from 5-9 p.m.), it will give its participants just a wee taste of what it is like to face the elements on a night like this. Participants will be able to end their walk with a warm drink and a steaming bowl of chili and go home to a nice warm house and bed. The homeless, unfortunately, often have no such luck. Donations can be made online (see “Coldest Night of the Year”) and are fully income-tax deductible. According to the ‘Coldest Night of the Year’ website, the event is a non-competitive 5- and 10-km winter-walk fundraiser supporting select Canadian charities that serve the hungry, homeless and hurting in cities and communities across Canada. In 2011, the WALK was piloted in Toronto and Kitchener/Waterloo by Blue Sea Philanthropy. From a standing start in midJanuary until WALK Day 40 days later, a passionate group of 406 walkers signed up and together raised a remarkable $110,000. Seventy per cent of that amount was disbursed to area location partners – Ray of Hope, Yonge Street Mission and Sanctuary Ministries.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
February 2013
Clearing out the clutter By Rev. Cheryl Toth “How do we search for or hear God’s voice amidst the world’s many voices?” REGINA – Every month on the magazine stands you can find articles on getting rid of clutter in your home and organizing yourself so you can find what you need when you need it. Practical tips abound, like having a space where you put what you bring home or using some time every day to sort through things. Even as we read these articles, we know they will only make a difference if we actually follow through and apply the techniques suggested. The same is true of trying to ‘de-clutter’ our inner lives so that we can hear God’s voice speaking to us. Thousands of voices speak to us each day—advertising on billboards and in newspapers, news and information on radio and television, messages from friends or family, work or retailers, by e-mail or Twitter. So much to sort through! How do we hear the still, quiet voice of God in the midst of all these voices? If we look to the example of Jesus we see He wove the practice of prayer into His ministry and He took what He heard in that time into His conversations with others. Luke 9:18 says “One day, when Jesus was praying alone in the presence of his disciples, he
asked them…” (NEB). Alone and yet with others— we can learn from that. Here are few tips on how to begin. Silence. Turn off the radio, television, computer, etc. Let yourself hear the silence and let your mind quiet. Once you are still… Prepare yourself to listen to God by saying a simple prayer asking for guidance. Open yourself to God’s voice as you read a portion of Scripture, perhaps from a daily reading guide or lectionary or by simply choosing one of the Gospels or Epistles to read in small segments each day. Then… Inquire of God and yourself. Ask yourself what you hear in the passage that stands out. Notice if you think about a particular issue, person or concern. Perhaps you might
read the passage again, listening carefully to what you hear or think. Then… Reflect upon what stood out for you in the passage and why. Think about what that is saying to you. Or reflect upon why you keep thinking about a particular person or concern. Perhaps you are being drawn to pray for an individual, call or visit someone, or get involved in something. Perhaps God is giving you a word to treasure in your heart and guide your actions. Then… Interact with others. God speaks to us individually and with others. Share a thought or insight with a soul friend, someone you trust. Or take a question that came to you to a spiritual advisor or small group of Christians with whom you might meet. The Quaker community has
a tradition of listening circles in which a person takes a question, issue or concern to a small group of fellow believers who listen to the person, occasionally ask a question or two to help the person go deeper and offer the one speaking support as they seek to discern the Spirit. However you choose to interact with other Christians, it is important to remember that God gives us other people to help us discern God’s voice and our path forward. And finally... Take action. The action may be simple, like writing in a journal about what came to you in prayer or conversation with others. It may be calling the person about whom you were thinking. It might be learning more about the issue that kept coming to you in your reflection. And, then, repeat the steps the next day or week. Discerning God’s voice amidst the world’s voices is a continual process. We need to practice dealing with the world’s ‘clutter’ over and over again so we can better hear God’s word to us and our community as we move forward in mission and ministry. And did you notice that the first letters of the steps I outlined spell Spirit? A mnemonic device to help us remember what it’s really all about! Rev. Cheryl Toth is a priest in the Diocese of Qu’Appelle and chaplain at Luther College, University of Regina.
The Great Shepherd never stops looking or calling for us By Rev. Norbert Haukenfrers PRINCE ALBERT – The phone was ringing the moment we walked in. Immediately, I’m wondering, who could it be? Are they calling for me? Will they want or need something? The phone was answered and the caller didn’t waste a moment’s time. They were on a mission. This was a purpose driven call. The caller was focused on a malfunction on our computer, saying they where technical support, calling to help. All they needed was for us to turn the computer on and they would take care of it for us. That’s all we had to do. Truthfully, the caller didn’t get that far; my wife after the first question looked up at me, asking if I was aware of a problem.
With a look, she knew this was a fraudulent caller and replied, ‘Nice try, good-bye.’ I remembered a similar call a friend told me about, telling him he had a malfunction with his computer and if he could just turn it on. Problem is he does not have a computer. A few days later, we were having a cup of tea, with some cookies, when the phone rang. This time I answered and started into a conversation. We checked on each other’s weather – isn’t that how all great Canadian conversations begin? – before we moved on to what was happening in each other’s lives. It wasn’t until we got into the particulars of life that my wife knew who I was talking to and that she was the one who had called, leaving a message earlier in the evening.
I didn’t get to talk long. I handed the phone to her; this call wasn’t intended for me. I think it is the same way with God among the cacophony of voices striving for our attention. Context and relationship authenticate the stories we hear and respond to. Sometimes we recognize God in context, sometimes we recognize Him through relationship. We always authenticate God and His activity by the stories He tells. We recognize God’s stories because we are familiar with the kinds of stories that He likes telling, encouraging others to lean into life. We know the stories God tells are action stories that draw us into participation in His Kingdom activity. And the best thing about God
is that when we do go off on our tangents and find ourselves lost, in a strange kingdom, the Great Shepherd never stops searching, calling us back home. He is always on the prowl, for lost and wayward sheep, hungry for relationship. In fact, it seems like He spends an inordinate amount of time searching and calling for the waylaid and lost to come home. Sometimes we get ourselves so disorientated and lost we lose any confidence in recognizing God or His activity. The best way to guard against this kind of disorientation, or to re-orientate one’s self, is with a habit of regular prayer, daily scripture reading and weekly attendance at worship. Hearing and recognizing God requires having a relationship with Him.
Published by the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle. Published monthly except for July and August. Whole No. 292, Vol. 41, No. 6 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
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SUBMISSIONS Submissions for the April issue must be recieved by the diocesan editor no later than Monday, February 25. All pictures must be sent as JPEGS and 1 MB (megabyte) in size.
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 joannesm@myaccess.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
The Saskatchewan Anglican
February 2013
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The Lenten season By Bishop David Irving Diocese of Saskatoon
Trevor Hawes and Dean Mike Sinclair look around the sacristy at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Regina, as they observe the demolition work taking place. The sacristy and the former server’s room have both been completely stripped to the bare concrete, brick and wooden supports, during the renovations occurring at the cathedral. Outside, the old hall has now been completely demolished. Photo – Shelly Hawes
Walls come a-tumblin’ down By Laura Pogue REGINA – It feels strange to go into your church through a different door. It’s disorienting and people are literally on the ‘wrong’ side of the church. Coming in through the door behind the choir is something of a surprise too. People can no longer simply walk in from McIntyre Street into St. Paul’s Cathedral and plunk themselves down in their favourite pew. They must stop
and figure out just where they are in relation to where they want to be. Somewhat bewildering – yes, but this happens when demolition and rebuilding occur! There is security fencing around the cathedral grounds and parking is still a challenge. Renovations are finally underway at St. Paul’s Cathedral. The hall, meeting rooms and offices have been demolished and will be replaced during the next 18 months or so.
But the cathedral is still open for business, God is still present and there’s a whole gang of people who will welcome you with open arms. Cathedral folks have been saying goodbye to an aging building for a while. Recently, Dean Mike Sinclair led people on a tour to say farewell, reflect and share memories of the good times. Warden Shelly Hawes noted, “I think people simultaneously remember, grieve and celebrate.”
Dates set for Qu’Appelle bishop consecration, installation By Rev. Winna Martin REGINA – Some concrete information has been released regarding the date, time and tentative venue for the consecration and installation of Qu’Appelle Bishop-elect Rob Hardwick. The consecration will take
place Saturday, March 2 (St. Chad’s Day) at 4 p.m., followed by a reception at a place yet to be confirmed. The consecration will not take place at the cathedral due to renovations. An alternate location will be announced soon. The installation of Bishop-
elect Hardwick will be held the following day, Sunday, March 3 at St. Paul’s Cathedral at the one service time of 10 a.m. The liturgical colour for the consecration will be white. Bishop-elect Hardwick was chosen as the 12th bishop of Qu’Appelle on Dec. 8.
SASKATOON – The season of Epiphany is coming to a close and soon, on Feb. 13, we will begin the season of Lent, a season which will last 40 weekdays beginning on Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday is the seventh Wednesday before Easter Sunday and its name comes from the ancient practice of placing ashes on worshippers’ heads or foreheads as a sign of humility before God, a symbol of mourning and sorrow at the death sin brings into the world. It not only prefigures the mourning at the death of Jesus, but also places us in a position to realize the consequences of sin. Hence, Ash Wednesday is a somber day of reflection on what we may need to change in our lives. The six Sundays during Lent are not part of the 40 days. This is because Sundays celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. I think most of you are aware that 40 days is connected with many biblical events, but especially with the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness preparing for His ministry by facing the temptations that could lead Him to abandon His mission and calling. Today in most of our congregations and in the recent past, Lent has been marked by penitential prayer and Bible study. However, some of our churches or members still observe a rigid schedule of fasting on certain days during Lent, especially giving up of meat or sweets and other foods. Other congregations or individual parishioners do not place as great an emphasis on giving up something but focus on taking up a project or some charitable deed. Whatever way you and your congregation travel through Lent, it is really a time of preparation to celebrate God’s marvelous redemption at Easter and the resurrected life that we live, and hope for, as Christians. In the early days of the church, the 40 days of Lent was not spent in personal prayer and study, it was spent in preparing members who were to be baptized at the Easter Vigil. They were very diligent in concentrated study and prayer and it involved the whole community. At this time those baptisms were not mainly child baptisms but adult or whole families, and since these people were being welcomed into the community of faith, it was expected the community be involved with their preparation and their welcome. Many of our churches will
have baptisms at the Easter Vigil this year, but I have to wonder, how many members of the congregation will be involved with the preparation of the child’s family, will come to study and pray together with the families and how will they support them after their welcome into the Christian community? Over the years we have relinquished the responsibility of family preparation and left it solely to the parish priest. Perhaps if we want to see our parish families grow, we need to be more involved with the mission and ministry of the church, while as congregations we need to re-focus where we place our time and energy. Unfortunately, today many of our churches find this difficult as they are in survival mode, stuck in short-term, day-to-day strategies, trying to maintain buildings and sacrificing ministry. Some members encourage this by being docile consumers unwilling to support their church family with personal involvement and-or financial support. We all need to get out of this mode of thinking because congregations either grow or they die; there is no such thing as the status quo. Moving forward demands committed discipleship on the part of all of us. As Anglicans we are called to confess our faith and put it into practice by worshipping together, actively sharing the Good News with others and tackling today’s justice issues. If we have the courage to respond and recognise we still have a vital role to play in society today, we will experience growth spiritually and numerically. People are searching to be part of something that demands commitment, builds community and can have significance in their lives. Perhaps during this Lenten season, through prayer, we open ourselves up before God and hear anew His call to us. We seek to recognize and respond afresh to God’s presence in our lives and in our world. And we commit ourselves anew to being His disciples in our world today.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
February 2013
A new tabernacle for St. John’s Cathedral By Heather Punshon and Michael Gibson SASKATOON – For many years it was the hope of Bishop Tom Morgan that the cathedral in Saskatoon would one day have a tabernacle for keeping the reserved (blessed) sacrament. Thanks to the generosity of some of our faithful parishioners, this is now a reality. So what is a tabernacle? A tabernacle is the fixed, locked box in which, in some Christian churches, the Eucharist is “reserved” (stored). A less obvious container, set into the wall, is called an aumbry. Some of you know that there is already an aumbry in the cathedral’s Lady Chapel. Within Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy and in some congregations of the Anglican and Lutheran churches, a tabernacle is a box-like vessel for the exclusive reservation of the consecrated Eucharist. It is normally made of metal, stone or wood, is lockable and secured to prevent the consecrated elements within from being removed without authorization. The “reserved Eucharist” is secured there for distribution at services, for availability to bring Holy Communion to the sick and, especially in the Western Church, as the centre of attention for meditation and prayer. The term “tabernacle” arose for this item as a reference to
that have been recycled. As we celebrated All Saints Day on Nov. 4, 2012, the cathedral received and dedicated the new tabernacle and tabernacle table, exquisitely made by one of our congregation craftsmen, Gus Jacek. The tabernacle is situated to the left of the high altar (as you are facing it). Everyone is encouraged to come forward to see it and spend time in prayer. The “presence lamp” (indicating the presence of the blessed sacrament) was also dedicated at this service. The inscription on the tabernacle reads as follows: This Tabernacle is given to the glory of God and in thanksgiving for the ministry of Thomas and Lillian Morgan by Robert and Lura Mae Meeds Sider and Gus and Jean Jacek. Feast of All Saints, 2012
At the dedication of the new tabernacle and the presence lamp in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Saskatoon, were (from left): Robert Snider, Lura Mae Snider, Gus Jacek, Jean Jacek, Bishop Thomas Morgan and Lillian Morgan. Gus Jacek made the tabernacle table and the tabernacle itself. Photo – Heather Punshon the Old Testament tabernacle, which was the locus of God’s presence among the Jewish people; hence, it was formerly required (and in some churches is still generally customary) that the tabernacle be covered with a tent-like veil or curtains across its door when the Eucharist is present within. Many Anglican parishes use
tabernacles, either fixed on the altar, placed behind or above it, or off to one side. As in Roman Catholic churches, the presence of the reserved sacrament is indicated by a “presence lamp” – an oil or wax-based flame (or an “electric flame”) in a clear glass vessel – placed close to the tabernacle. When the tabernacle is
vacant, it is a common practice to leave it open so the faithful will not inadvertently perform an act of devotion (such as bowing or genuflecting). Tabernacles are customarily lined with, if not constructed from, oak or cedar. Some of the oak in the cathedral’s new tabernacle has come from old cathedral pews
After the morning worship service, a special lunch was held in St. John’s Hall. At that time, as a thank you from the congregation for their ministry with us, churchwardens Bob Halliday and Michael Gibson presented Bishop Tom and Lillian with a copy of the special book of photographs taken at the Cornerstone Celebration Weekend [compiled by Derek and Heather Punshon]. Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck and his wife Janice were also thanked for their assistance to Bishop Tom Morgan during the last 18 months.
Diocese of Saskatoon: Announcements for February 2013 Happenings at St. James’ with the Refinery: The “Re[de]fining Church” Service is at 7 p.m. Sunday; Refining Readers: Meets one Wednesday night a month; The St. James’ Farmers’ Market and International Bazaar is 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. Living the Questions: an Introduction to Progressive Christianity at St. James’, Saskatoon: Tuesdays starting Jan. 15, 7-9 p.m. $25 for seven sessions. Call 653-3549 to register. Each session features a 20-minute DVD show, followed by group talk exploring the best of today’s theological thought and what is next for Christianity. Listen to leading voices of faith speak on many aspects of Christian belief and practice. Participate in rich talks with
others who are on a spiritual journey. This is a continuation of the series which began in the fall of 2012 and will cover Sessions 8 to14. Having seen Sessions 1 to 7 is not required or necessary to get something out of this program. For other classes offered by St. James’ with the Refinery, see the Saskatoon Leisure Guide which came out on Dec. 6, or check out our website at www. stjamesrefinery.org. 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 contact 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) 4454155 or by e-mail at stpaulnb@ sasktel.net for dates and times. Advance Notice: The Diocesan ACW’s Women’s Spring Conference will be held on Saturday, April
13, 2013, at Christ Church, Saskatoon. Please note a change of date for the Diocesan Anglican Women’s Retreat, which will be held at the Mineral Springs Resort and Mineral Spa, Little Manitou Lake, near Watrous from Sept. 27-29, 2013 (rather than Sept. 20-22). As a result of the date change, the rate charged at the Mineral Springs Resort has been reduced by 10 per cent. The theme for the Women’s Retreat will be “Angels Amongst Us”. More info on these events will be provided in future issues of the Saskatchewan Anglican. Appointments: St. James’, Saskatoon, has a new Co-ordinator of Youth Ministries, Debbie Gibbons, who has joined its staff with responsibility for co-ordinating services to children and youth 11 years and up. Debbie is a full-time
University of Saskatchewan student, majoring in Sociology. She has been involved with the Anglican church all her life and is the current Youth Delegate from the Province of Rupert’s Land who is also on the Council of General Synod. She will be working 15 hours a week at St. James’ and can be reached at debbie@ stjamesrefinery.org. In order 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, February submissions will be in the April 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.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
‘Sounds of the Season’ in Saskatoon By Rev. Quenton Little SASKATOON – On Dec. 14, the very talented and stunningly gorgeous Martha Cowie-Little (right of harp) along with soloist Kathleen Brannen (left), gave a concert as a benefit for PWRDF, entitled “Sounds of the Season”, at The Cathedral of St. John The Evangelist in Saskatoon. The concert presented a selection of classical, contemporary and Christmas pieces. Barbara Spurr, Cathy Tickner, Kathy Storrie and Mary Ann Assailly spoke about the ongoing work of PWRDF in many parts of the world. Tina Cilistro made cookies and hot apple cider which were greatly enjoyed during intermission. Dean Scott Pittendriegh and Sarah Donnelly were a huge help in providing the space at St. John’s and printing up the programs. Thanks also go to Rev. Quenton Little, who acted as the harp lugger. A total of $770 for PWRDF was raised from the concert. Thank you to all who made this concert such a success! Martha Cowie-Little will be recording a CD in 2013. She looks forward to returning to St. John’s Cathedral for another concert in December 2013. Photo – Ken Tickner
SASKATOON – Lent is the time the church asks us to ponder our relationships in all their manifold wondrousness, or perhaps lack thereof, and how they shape us into who we are and even more, who we can be as People of God. It is a 40-day window to intentionally view our connection with the Creator, others and ourselves, in a focused and prayerful way. It is a time to discern those things that bring us closer to God and others, along with what alienates us from all that inspires, all that calls us to be whole. It is a time of personal stewardship, growth and exploration that is not just financial but completely relational! “One does not live by bread alone.” Yes personal stewardship goes far beyond mere money management; it goes much further down the path made straight for us as we strive to live in right relationship with God. It is a path that, if taken, is paved with the understanding that the Earth, even with all its beauty, is not our true and
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28 candles for 28 victims of school shooting in U.S. (Continued from page 1)
Smiling through the Lenten mirror By Alex Parsons Diocesan Stewardship Officer, Diocese of Saskatoon
February 2013
ultimate home. Sisters of St. John the Divine Heaven is. If we follow this are the hands of Jesus as they path, trusting the promise of give an old, lost, hurting, lonely its maker, then a significantly woman a bath as the first step different understanding of in aiding her to reclaim her our walk is humanity and possible. In dignity. It is a time for fact our lives A bath that giving thanks for all was a baptism, can become with which we have amazingly a foot-washing, different in a resurrection been blessed and to doing so. and a promise reflect on how we may of new life Generosity better use our time, and warmth enclosed in a of spirit come talents and treasure as steel tub after naturally when the clothes of God’s trusted servants. her old life had we are not so worried about been stripped accumulating for ourselves lovingly away. alone, but actively become Truly a ransoming of conduits in sharing what has captive Israel, as the haunting been entrusted to us. soundtrack portrayed, and The flow goes both ways, a Lenten pointer directing with God generously flowing our thoughts towards Easter through us and to us in our captured in the most common of relationships with others. We rituals. have been given much to share The focus of Lent leads us and that includes the ability to to just such a cleansing bath show kindness, simple human of reflection ourselves, where kindness. we see beyond the raggedness One of the most moving of daily life, and into the great scenes I have ever witnessed promise of what life here can in a TV show was during the truly be as a foreshadowing of Holiday Special episode of Call even greater life to come. the Midwife. A simple scene It is a time for giving thanks really, but one nevertheless so for all with which we have been touching it gave me blurred blessed and to reflect on how we vision. Two smiling Anglican may better use our time, talents
and treasure as God’s trusted servants. We are called to wisely care for the goods of the Earth of which we have temporary control, as well as our body and spirit. Kindness and empathy often cost nothing in worldly monetary terms, but are priceless acts of redemption both to the giver and receiver. Prayer, fasting and inward reflection are marvellous ways to mark this season for personal devotion. How about adding the simplest act of kindness we can offer as an outreach ministry to all we meet? Instead of finding something to give up for Lent, why not actively spend this time being stewards of our smile, a simple smile. Plan to give away as many as possible a day, for a smile is the universal human connector, no matter from what background or culture we come. It is God’s gift imprinted on silent lips telling us we are all one in His image. I can think of no easier way for us to communicate that message of love in such an unmistakeable act of Grace. A smile at the right moment can change a life, and that moment may be right now!
as the students killed on Dec. 14. Rev. Nicholls, who is honorary assistant at St. James, proposed the idea of a memorial service, at which he and the rector, Rev. Malcolm French, officiated. The service featured Scripture readings, prayers and the lighting of 28 candles from the Paschal candle, in recognition of the 26 children and adults in the school and the mother of the shooter, as well as the shooter himself. Thoughtfully chosen music included Guide me O thou great Redeemer, God sees the little sparrow fall, I cannot tell and Praise, my soul, the King of heaven. Margaret Nicholls sang a solo, When mothers of Salem their children brought to Jesus. A floral bouquet donated by Gale’s Florists was later taken to the paediatric wing of the Pasqua Hospital and the offering received was sent to Transition House, a shelter for battered mothers and children in Regina.
Saskatoon PWRDF project (Continued from page 1) 1. Hold a poverty lunch or dinner with a simple menu (i.e. soup and buns) and have the participants donate what they would normally spend on eating the same meal at a restaurant. It might work well if you do this in conjunction with your annual Vestry Meeting. It would be a great activity for the Sunday School or Youth Group! 2. Have a bake sale with funds raised going to PWRDF. 3. Have a used book sale with funds raised going to PWRDF. Have the Sunday service with a focus on the work of PWRDF. Excellent worship resources are available from www.pwrdf.org, as are special offering envelopes. What other parishes in the Diocese of Saskatoon are going to join St. James’ in this challenge?
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
February 2013
Celebrating 100 years of ministry in Midlakes Parish By Rev. Susan Anholt
Celebrating Midlakes Parish centennial in Davidson are (from left) Lana Johnsson (warden), Archdeacon Rob Hardwick, Deacon Tracey Taylor, Archbishop David Ashdown, Bill Northrop (warden) and crucifer Morgan Taylor. Photo – Susan Anholt
From left, Doug Taylor (warden), Lorne Anholt (warden), Archbishop David Ashdown, Deacon Susan Anholt and Archdeacon Rob Hardwick gather in St. Columba, Kenaston, during the parish centennial celebration. Photo – Morgan Taylor
KENASTON (Qu’A) – The weekend of Nov. 3 and 4 saw many parishioners and former parishioners gather in Kenaston and Davidson to celebrate 100 years of ministry in Midlakes Parish. In Kenaston, construction of St. Columba’s Church began in 1911 and opened in 1912. Construction of the church in Davidson began in 1911 as well, with All Saints dedicated in 1912. The St. Columba celebration began on Nov. 3, with an open house at the church and many conversations about ‘remember when,’ and debating the dates of the various refurbishments, furnishings and renovations. Archbishop David Ashdown, metropolitan of the ecclesiastic Province of Rupert’s Land and archbishop of Keewatin, presided at an afternoon service of Holy Communion, assisted by Archdeacon Rob Hardwick and Deacon Susan Anholt. The worship service in Kenaston was followed by a dinner and social at Kenaston Place, emceed by Doug Taylor. Following a delicious roast beef dinner catered by the Evangelical congregation, Sharon Taylor presented an overview of 100 years of ministry, complete with a quiz. Deacon Tracey Taylor offered a humorous reflection on the goals of the planning committee and read messages from former parishioners and retired bishops of the diocese. An open mike revealed many more stories and well wishes. The evening ended with a photographic presentation created by Deacon Susan Anholt and Tara Rink depicting 100 years of ministry in Kenaston. The All Saints Davidson service of Holy Communion commenced in the morning of Nov. 4. Archbishop David Ashdown
presided and preached, assisted by Archdeacon Rob Hardwick and Deacon Tracey Taylor. The Davidson congregation was joined by members of St. Columba, as well as many of the former parishioners of the now closed St. Agnes Anglican Church in Craik. Lunch and a time of visiting followed the service. Archbishop David Ashdown was the incumbent of Midlakes Parish from 1986-92. During his message, Archbishop Ashdown reflected on the construction and renewal of St. Columba and replacing the old church building in Davidson with the Lutheran Church from Rosetown. As usual, his message was full of humorous recollections from their time within the parish. It was great to have Penny Ashdown back to celebrate with the parish. She came armed with an album of wonderful pictures of their three grown daughters, and many grandchildren. This was a weekend full of memories and laughter. The faith message shared throughout the weekend included the celebration and acknowledgement of a shared past with the encouragement to look forward to the future with a renewed sense of faith, recommitment and renewal. One-hundred years of continual ministry in these small communities is something to be celebrated and honoured. It was also an opportunity for the church to look back as well as forward, recognizing that every member who went before has built and strengthened the foundation on which the parish now stands. The parish looks forward to a bright future, where by the grace of God they will, laugh, cry, pray and worship their way through the next 100 years of faithful ministry.
Census in England shows fewer call themselves Christian LONDON – The Office for National Statistics recently released data from the 2011 Census relating to ‘Religion in England & Wales’. The key statistics are that Christianity remains the largest religion in the Lichfield Diocese area (63.3%) followed by Muslim (3.5%). Of those who responded, 22.4% stated they
were of ‘no religion’. Nationally, those compare with Christian (59.4%), Muslim 5.0%), No religion (24.7%). The religion question was the only voluntary question on the 2011 census and 7.2 per cent of people did not answer the question. The Diocese of Lichfield is a companion diocese of the
Diocese of Qu’Appelle. The 2001 census reported Christian (71.7%), Muslim 3.0%), No religion (14.8%). Bishop Mark Rylands of Shrewsbury said, “The statistics are not particularly surprising...I think we now have a society where people are more honest about their beliefs...I know from countless conversations that
people are still full of questions about God, Jesus Christ, life, death, heaven and hell. It is ok to have doubts and questions.” Nearly three-quarters of those who answered have some religious affiliation. “What is interesting is while those identifying themselves as Christians has fallen, actual church attendance has risen. In
the Diocese of Lichfield, we have seen some remarkable year-on-year increases in church attendance, for example 18% more people in churches at Christmas 2011. The statistics demonstrate deeper commitments to Jesus Christ, particularly a significant increase of nearly 20% in adults wanting to be baptised.”
The Saskatchewan Anglican
February 2013
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‘The Man Behind the Red Suit’ By Rev. Canon Michael Stonhouse
The youth and adults of St. John’s Minster, Lloydminster, put on a Christmas play titled ‘The Man in the Red Suit’, which explored both the traditional and the real story of St. Nicholas, intertwined with the story of the birth of Jesus. Rev. Canon Michael Stonhouse and Bishop David Irving are in the rear, far right side, of the picture. Photo – Joan Irving
LLOYDMINSTER (S’TOON) – Ever get really tired of all the ‘Santa this’ and ‘Santa that’? As if Santa Claus is really what the Christmas season is all about? Of course, it is really about Jesus. And who was the original St. Nicholas, but a person who truly loved Jesus. So, in keeping with this, on Dec. 16 the children and adults of St. John’s Minster, Lloydminster, put on a play to a full church called “The Man Behind the Red Suit”, the real story of St. Nicholas, a man who loved Jesus, and it might be said, truly knew how to keep Christmas well. The original play, written by Colleen Stonhouse, was based on a short story by John W. Cowart in the December 1982 issue of “His” magazine (a publication of Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship). Youth and adults together acted out the expected story of St. Nick bringing gifts to children in need, intertwined with the Christmas story of the
birth of Jesus. But the play also told the story of a St. Nicholas that very few people know. For instance, the final act of the play had Nicholas punching out the archheretic Arius and being kicked out of synod for his trouble. In the play, Nicholas also stands up against injustice, stares down an emperor who threatens his life if he does not disown Jesus, saves distraught sailors and rescues girls from being sold into slavery. It certainly gave a more different image of Nicholas – that being one of a devoted follower of Jesus and a person passionate about people – than that which our usual ‘Santa Claus’ impressions would give. As a special cameo in our play, we had our bishop, David Irving, joining the illustrious cast to play the role of the Emperor Constantine. The play was followed by a slideshow on the Baja Mission trip, presented by Joan Irving, and a lovely festive ham dinner put on by the women of the parish in the hall.
Ivan’s story:
Looking into the eyes of Christ Editor’s note: This is one of a continuing series of articles based on the impressions and experiences of the members of the Diocese of Saskatoon’s Baja Group, who travelled to Mexico last June to build two homes for families living there. By Ivan Katzell Battle River Parish (North Battleford) NORTH BATTLEFORD (S’TOON) – There is a song we sing and the main line in it is, “Change my heart O God make it ever new, change my heart O God may I be like you”. Little did I realize what the meaning of this song would do to me as I spent 10 days in Vicente Guerrero, Mexico. There were 28 of us on this mission journey, and our first day was spent travelling to San Diego, California, where we got to know each other better. In San Diego, we overnighted and whiled away the hours from late Monday afternoon to Tuesday morning by touring around. Tuesday, after breakfast, we boarded our big yellow school bus and headed south to Mexico. We passed through Mexican customs easily. We continued our journey through very hilly country on a very twisty twolane highway. Eventually this got to be less, but all along the way it was cactus and scrub brush, fences and no cattle and absolutely no water ponds, creeks or rivers. Ensenada was a fairly clean and
Ivan Katzell helps build a house, during an outreach trip to Mexico in June. Photo – Ivan Katzell prosperous city, but as we travelled south the places became poorer looking, dirty, dry and then very dry. Vicente Guerrero is not a prosperous looking city. We lodged in a facility called the Emma Fennel Foundation. Men’s and
women’s dorms were separate, but on the lower floor there were a few rooms for couples. The morning work started around 7:30 a.m. as determined by the leaders, followed by lunch at noon and then back to work at 1-1:30 p.m. and finishing the day at 3 p.m. The early mornings were cool, but by 11 a.m. or noon at the latest it got quite hot. The building went very quick, so much so, our leaders were somewhat surprised and said as much to us. When the houses were complete and the last nail driven and the paint brushes put away, it was time to spend some money, for what is a new house without a housewarming celebration with new furniture and plenty of food. The new owners of these homes had some idea that purchases were being made for them, but they did not see anything before hand, so when they were handed the keys and entered their homes they were overwhelmed by the generosity shown. Bishop David Irving blessed each home and all the family members, and for me, this was the crowning touch to a work God directed for His children. There were many personal observations from various team members. So many spoke with much emotion and insight as to what this mission came to mean to them at various stages of the project. At one point in my studies, I came across a verse from Philippians that
summed up, pretty well, how I was to look at this project. It surprised me to realize the verse not only included the families of the new homes but also included every team member of the project. This is the verse from Phil. 2:4 “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” I quickly came to understand that this project first was God’s interest and could I do any less than be interested in what God is interested in. My most memorable moment came as a bit of a surprise to me, as it was not with a member of the family for whom we were building the house, but with one of our own team members. It was not over anything great or large or obvious, but through simple words spoken with pleading and a need for understanding: “Can you help me? Will you help me?” She had taken on a small project for the house but was having trouble driving in nails in an awkward position. I said sure and without any further adieu, the small project was completed, but two hearts were changed as I learned a new point of view in helping others. This mission was not about displaying or showing off talents but tucking down ego and vanities to do simple things for others. Looking into the eyes of another person and seeing Christ looking back at you when they say, “Can you help me?” changes everything.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
February 2013
The Bible: It’s all Greek to me! By Jason Antonio REGINA – At the Soul-Full Living retreat, participants learned how to improve their spiritual lives in a busy world by looking at historical biblical examples. The weekend retreat was one of a series of courses recently offered by the Qu’Appelle School for Mission and Ministry. Former Qu’Appelle Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson provided historical context for several important words by looking at what the Bible has to say. The Old Testament came to us in Hebrew and Greek, while the New Testament came in Greek only. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word “nephesh” is used throughout to talk about having the breath, or the life. It is God who does the breathing and gives us the life. Some Scriptural verses which use nephesh include: Exodus 23:12; Genesis 27:25; Jeremiah 3:11; Genesis 9:4; Leviticus 17:11; and Numbers 19:13. Nephesh can also be used to refer to a person’s mental state (Proverbs 24:14), character (Ezekiel 4:14), will and appetite. “Nephesh is the breath of life. God breathed into material stuff (clay) to bring it to life,” the bishop added. The next word was “basar”, which in Hebrew means flesh, or also weakness and transitionness. Some Scriptural verses include: Psalm 84:2; Genesis 6:3; and Jeremiah 17:5. Flesh can refer to people, as well as refer to the material of the body.
Qu’Appelle School for Mission and Ministry 2013 schedule Jan. 26 (Saturday only) – Being Church Facilitators: Bishop-Elect Rob Hardwick and Rev. Catherine Harper April 13 (Saturday only) – He Came Down From Heaven: Athanasius and the Incarnation Facilitator: Rev. Christopher Snook June 7-8 – An Overview of Church History Facilitator: Dr. Brian Gobbett (Associate Professor of History at Briercrest College) July 15-19 – Summer school Sept. 13-14 – Evangelism and Church Growth Facilitator: Rev. Kim Salo Nov. 8-10 – Vocations weekend: A look at call Facilitators: Bishop Rob Hardwick and Catherine Harper Venues to be determined The cost of weekend classes (Friday/Saturday) will be $50.
“Levav” means heart, or the middle. An example is when the Israelites went through the Red Sea and they were halfway through it. Levav can denote the inner person. Biblical examples include: 1 Samuel 1:8; Psalm 13:9 (pain in the soul); Daniel 14:16 (reason); and 1 Samuel 25:31 (conscience). Bishop Kerr-Wilson pointed out all these words come together to present a reflection of what God did in the lives of people in the Bible and is doing for us today. One of the big Old Testament words is “ruah”, which is the spirit or breath of God. God’s ruah comes over people to give them strength in everyday life. The nephesh continues and is sustained in a person as long as God continues to ruah in the person. Hebrew was then translated
into Greek around 200 B.C., where nephesh became psyché (p-soo-kay), which was constantly translated as “soul” in Greek but stays true to what nephesh is. Psyché, which can also mean the mind, is the root word for psychology. Biblical verses to illustrate this include: Acts 20:10; Acts 27:22; Mark 10:45; Luke 26:14; and Mark 13:34. Psyché “is life as manifested in individuals and it’s the human self that lives before God,” the bishop explained. “Although we are asked to lay down our very selves – not just our bodies but our selves – the New Testament also assures us that in doing that, our psyché is in the hands of God and it continues on after death… . “Buried in the heart of the New Testament of faith is we do not simply live on as mortal
souls, or spirits, but rather that God preserves our psyché, our life, in some way that is not complete until we come to resurrection when the fullness of the gift is given.” There were also two schools of thought in the Greek world around the soul, as postulated by philosophers Plato and Aristotle. Plato said that souls are pre-existent and immortal. What is interesting for us as Christians, Bishop Kerr-Wilson explained, is that we have assumed the soul left the body upon death. This is Platonic thinking. Aristotle, on the other hand, felt the soul is the life principle that produces the character of a person. The soul then is the product of our physical bodies. Therefore, when the body dies, so does the soul. Something
might survive, but not the soul. With the New Testament written in Greek, this is where the Apostle Paul comes into the picture and brings with him a Christian approach to the Greek language. He uses the word “pneuma” (puh-num-ah) to describe the breath and spirit of God. This word is almost the same as ruah. Paul ends up using the language of the day – Greek – to say almost the same thing as what is said in the Old Testament in Hebrew. Nephesh didn’t make sense to the new people (Greeks), so Paul reframed the words and message into understandable language. Bishop Kerr-Wilson explained Paul never uses psyché to refer to the life that survives death. That wasn’t part of his theology. Instead, eternal life is a wholly divine gift on the basis of a new creative act by God. Death is not the end, but we enter into new life because of Jesus Christ. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the Holy Spirit dwells in and gives new life (1 Corinthians 2). So Paul’s message throughout his writings focused on the body, psyché (mind) and spirit. Looking after the body is important. We should give alms and feed others as an affirmation that the body is good because it is from God. This takes us full circle to today and how our physical selves affect our minds. What goes into our body affects our psyché and will be shaped by the pneuma.
A letter of thanks from Saskatoon’s new dean By Dean Scott Pittendrigh Editor’s note: Rev. Scott Pittendrigh was installed as the dean of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Saskatoon on Oct. 21. SASKATOON – Dear parishioners of St. John’s: It was wonderful to join with all of you on Oct. 21 as we celebrated our new ministry together in the service of induction and installation. I was very moved to have had so many of you present at the service and for those (unable to be here in person) who supported all of us with your prayers. It was particularly meaningful to welcome among us those from other Christian denominations. We were especially blessed to welcome representatives from the Jewish and Islamic communities of Saskatoon who brought their greetings. I am grateful for all who took
The four booklets that were put together commemorating the cornerstone celebrations will be a wonderful way for us to learn more about the meaningful history of this great Canadian cathedral. part in the liturgy and those who presented the symbols of ministry during the service. I also want to acknowledge and thank Greg Schulte, the choir and the soloists for their exquisite music that was a wonderful gift to all of us. And I thank the members of St. Cecilia’s ACW, who put on the reception following the service in the cathedral hall and provided all the delicious baking and refreshments. Finally, Sarah and I offer you our heartfelt thanks for the very thoughtful and generous gifts that our wardens, Bob and Michael, presented on your behalf. The “Anglicans Have More Fun!” T-shirts tell us this is indeed a community which can
celebrate the joys in life and “have fun” together. The four booklets that were put together commemorating the cornerstone celebrations will be a wonderful way for us to learn more about the meaningful history of this great Canadian cathedral, as well as see the wonderful photos of the cornerstone weekend. Thank you one and all for your kindness and thoughtfulness. After the symbols of ministry were handed to me during the induction service, the people offered their response. This response to each of the symbols speaks of our shared ministry: “...We have good news to share...May we all grow into the full stature of Christ....
In forgiveness and healing we find new life...We are the Body of Christ...May we greet Christ in all who come...In quietness and confidence will be our strength...May we know the Lord Jesus in the breaking of bread.” After this, Bishop David Irving said a prayer with the following words: “This ministry will continue the good work done through the years in this cathedral and diocese and is part of the work and witness of the whole church...let us pray that grace will be given to all of us in this ministry, that we may fulfill the responsibilities which are ours.” Our work and ministry now begins together. We can only do this by God’s grace and with God’s help. Thank you all for celebrating this meaningful beginning of our life together. May God bless us all as we begin our shared journey of ministry at this time in history.