Saskatchewan The newspaper of the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle • A Section of the Anglican Journal • May 2016 www.facebook.com/thesaskatchewananglican
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Abbo family mixing into area By Ralph Paragg
Parishioners at Holy Family Anglican Church in Brampton, Ont., display quilts that will be donated to Montreal Lake First Nation and an orphanage in Uganda. Photo by Norma Deacon
Quilts donated to forest fire victims By Munden Coates PRINCE ALBERT — For nine years, Holy Family Anglican Church in Brampton, Ont., has committed itself to a sewing ministry. Modelled after the good deeds of Dorcas (Acts 9), this
outreach teaches youths they can make a difference in this world by using their talents to address a social need. They have completed over 40 quilts which were donated to an orphanage in Uganda. But when members heard about the horrible forest fire
losses in northern Saskatchewan last summer, they decided to send some of their quilts to our diocese. Bishop Arthurson gratefully received the gift of six quilts that were given to families in Montreal Lake who had lost their homes to forest fires.
Pat Fisher, a member of the Holy Family sewing ministry, explained her group accepted the challenge of our need. Committing oneself to serve is not always convenient. Fisher even worked on her quilts during her summer vacation in Newfoundland!
Renewal through shared leadership By Karen McBride Dixon REGINA — The people of St. Matthew gathered in worship to witness the commissioning of the shared ministry team and newly elected vestry. Executive Archdeacon Dell Bornowsky was present to commission Mae Boa, as lay incumbent and lay administrator, and Rev. Anne Marie MacNeil and Rev. Blair Dixon as associate priests. Shared ministry is a new model for St Matthew; the congregation is learning that ingredients for success include respect, trust, openness, innovation and a good sense of humour! The commissioning occurred Feb. 28. At St. Matthew, shared leadership goes far beyond the pulpit and the business office. Grounded in the desire to seek new ways to serve God, renewal is taking many forms: restoring the church building, rethinking priorities and reimagining possibilities.
Archdeacon Dell Bornowsky (left) commissions St. Matthew’s shared ministry team of Rev. Anne Marie MacNeil, Mae Boa and Rev. Blair Dixon. Photo by Karen McBride Dixon Besides the work of the ministry team, music team, vestry, altar guild, ACW and other individuals and work teams, small groups have been meeting on a regular basis to pray and talk about who they are as people of God and to discern where and how they are being called to do His work. It has become increasingly clear that, above all else, the first task of the parish is to be a community centred in love as
modelled by Jesus Christ. The people of St. Matthew are experiencing a new perspective and renewed commitment for living that model through loving one another, reaching out to the community and the world, plus gathering those in need of comfort and care. Not only has the parish been blessed with renewed energy for the long-held traditions of fashions shows, teas and
dinners, but also new leaders have emerged with fresh ideas to launch a friendship and craft club, organize transportation, begin Bible study in homes, lead outreach activities and come together over food for reflection, prayer and conversation. God has blessed St. Matthew with a renewed sense of joy, fellowship and hope. It is clear the Spirit’s moving in new ways. Hallelujah!
REGINA — The Abbo family arrived last November and is composed of Saeed Abbo, his son Amjed, Amjed’s wife Rawan, and their children Sareta and Saemn. The family, Orthodox Christians, fled the Mosul area because of ISIS. They went to Turkey where they found shelter with friends. Saeed is the father of Marleen Abbo, who, along with her husband Safaa Moussa and baby daughter Majdleena, were sponsored by the Diocese of Qu’Appelle in 2011. Saeed, Amjed and Rawan and family now live in Regina’s Rosemont area, close to Marleen and Safaa. The Qu’Appelle diocesan refugee committee thanks Jamie Halpenny, a parishioner of St. James the Apostle, for locating suitable accommodation for the family at a reasonable rent, plus her team for furnishing and readying the townhouse for family prior to their arrival. The Abbos attend St. James the Apostle, which they have found a welcoming place and where they have made friends. Amjed and Saeed began language classes at the Regina Open Door Society on Feb. 1. They are enrolled in the combined Level 2 and 3 class in the morning and early afternoon. Rawan started language classes, combined Levels 1 and 2 on March 1, in the afternoons. Saemn attends playschool at the Regina Open Door Society during Rawan’s language classes. Sareta attends pre-kindergarten at St. Francis Catholic School with Majdleena, who is in the kindergarten class. Amjed obtained his driver’s licence in February. The family acquired a 2003 Dodge Van and use it for shopping. Amjed started working from 5 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. in a Shwarma and Pita Bakery Shop off Park Street and Fourth Avenue.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
April 2016
Let the Holy Spirit work in you when reading the Bible What are some suggestions to more effectively read the Bible? By Rev. Cheryl Toth
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he first Bible I used as a young adult was a New English Bible given a fellow university student who knew I had just committed myself to Christ. When I received the gift I wanted to read it but wasn’t really sure how. I tried starting at the beginning but got bogged down in the law codes of Leviticus. I tried following a “read through the Bible in a year” calendar but missed a few days and felt as if I couldn’t catch up. I tried praying, then opening it at random, which seemed to work sometimes but other times just seemed weird. Like many Christians, I knew I should read the Bible but not how to go about it. Thomas Cramner, Archbishop of Canterbury in the 16th century, understood the problem. In his day people were just starting to read the Bible on their own. Prior to the Reformation, the Bible was in Latin and only for the well-educated. In Cramner’s time, an English translation of the Bible became available for parish churches and lay people and clergy were encouraged to
read the Scriptures. Cramner wrote an exhortation on reading the Bible in which he said knowing Scripture is a way of knowing God and God’s will for us, as well as a way for us to know our duty to God. Cramner wrote, “As drink is pleasant to them that be dry, and meat to them that be hungry, so is the reading, hearing, searching, and studying of holy Scripture to them that be desirous to know God or themselves, and to do his will.” That’s why we read the Bible: to better understand both God and ourselves in relationship to God. How we read Scripture is equally important and Cramner offers us clues here too; clues applicable whether we read on our own or with members of a study group. Cramner believed we should read the Bible in a language understandable to us, so seek a translation that engages you and makes reading pleasant. It seems obvious, yet reading’s crucial. In our daily lives we tend to scan rather than read. But to discern God’s character or voice within a Bible passage, requires us to slow down and actually read the portion open before us. I prefer to read it aloud
because that enables me to go more slowly and to take it in with two of my senses. I hear what is being said; not just the content of the passage but what catches my attention about it. God’s Word is alive with the Spirit and can speak to our situation if we are open to hearing what is being conveyed within the passage. So I look for the plain sense of the text (what is obviously being said) as well as listening to hear what it says to me today. Sometimes that means paying attention to a word or phrase that stands out and prayerfully asking why I noticed what I did. Sometimes it means reading it again (and again) to hear it more deeply. Sometimes it means reflecting on my life in light of what the passage is saying. What can I learn about myself or my relationship with God from this passage? Asking these kinds of questions gets me searching. Searching the Bible means bringing my questions— intellectual, personal and spiritual—to my reading. A good concordance, online or in print, can help in such seeking. So is using a journal to note first what you see in the passage and then what
questions it raises or insights it gives you. Over time, patterns will emerge and you can look back at how you have been growing. Searching the Scriptures means approaching them with a hopeful expectation the Holy Spirit will help you grow in understanding them. So too does studying with others or on your own. Studying on your own with an easy-to-read commentary is one way to go. Choose a book you want to study (one of Paul’s letters or a gospel is a good way to start) and read it with a commentary; try one of Bishop N.T. (Tom) Wright’s “…for Everyone” series. Consider joining an ecumenical or parish study group where you will gain from others comments and questions. Also, remember to pray for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your mind and heart. As Cramner said to those approaching Scripture in their own language for the first time: “In these books we may learn to know ourselves…and also to know God how good he is of himself; and how God maketh us and all creatures partakers of his goodness.” Rev. Cheryl Toth is a priest in the Diocese of Qu’Appelle.
Bible stories reveal God to humankind What are some suggestions to more effectively read the Bible? By Rev. Norbert Haukenfrers, D.Min
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here is joy in holding a baby; they are so delicate and dependent. Babies are eager to hear, see, smell, touch and taste, a desire that grows in uninhibited explorations as they become toddlers. Young children through these explorations and observations are learning who they are and why they are here. It is as they participate in the unfolding saga of what it means to be human, they grow in understanding, finding their place of belonging. Children learn by watching others, hearing stories and mimicking others. It is as we prepare meals and sit around tables enjoying meals, reflecting on our day, telling stories, children begin to understand who they are
and of what they are a part. In these stories we speak of our experiences of love, beauty and truth and we tell of our frustrations, disappointments and failures. As adults we continue telling and retelling stories with our friends and families, cementing relationships, nurturing community and building a shared understanding. When we read the Bible we are invited to sit at the table for a meal prepared for us by our forefathers, listening to their experiences of love, beauty and truth. We learn of their frustrations, challenges, failures and victories. Slowly, we recognize their story is our story. Entering this community of Scripture, we begin to find our place in the ongoing story of God. As we read, we are walking beside those who have gone before us and participating with them in the with-God life.
The Bible is full of instances of love, truth and beauty as well as disappointments, conflicts and failures. Within these stories there is the revelation of God to mankind; revealing to us the God who is love, not as an abstract theory but love as the endeavour of God in and through history. For the Bible is the selfrevelation of God who is the Maker of all and who sustains all. The Creator who gave Himself to redeem what He has made, since He loves. This is what makes the Bible the greatest story ever told; it is the story we are invited to live into, out of, and with, drawn into the perichoretic – the relationship between each person of the triune God – dance of love. N.T. Wright uses a fiveact framework to help us understand how we live out God’s Word. He divides the Bible into five acts: I)
Creation; II) Fall; III) Israel; IV) Jesus; V) Church. Only this story is unfinished. We are living in the middle of Act V. In order to faithfully live out Act V, we must be immersed in the previous four acts. It is as if we came across a novel that was missing the last chapters that we are invited to help write. In order to participate faithfully in the writing of the story in our day, we have to learn the parts of the story already written down/revealed. The authority of the Bible, as the living word of God, is in the embodiment of the story versus its summary. Instead of searching for a few quick rules and maxims to follow, we are invited to sit at the table, in community and fellowship with the saints, learning the full story of Scripture, embracing and embodying, allowing it to become the living word of God here in this place and in our life.
Published by the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle. Published monthly except for July and August. Whole No. 292, Vol. 44, No. 9 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 June issue must be recieved by the diocesan editor no later than Friday, May 27. All pictures must be sent as JPEGS and 1 MB (megabyte) in size. CONTACT INFORMATION Managing Editor: Jason Antonio SKAnglicanEditor@gmail.com 1501 College Ave Regina, Sask., S4P 1B8 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: Munden and Linda Coates linda.munden@sasktel.net Box 208 Arborfield, Sask., S0E 0A0 Photo: 306-769-8339 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
May 2016
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Come, Holy Spirit, come By the Right Rev. David Irving Bishop of Saskatoon
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ere we are in May; the year is just flying by and it seems as if Christmas and Easter were only just last month. Yet another important Holy Day is upon us. On May 15 Christians around the world will celebrate Pentecost. For many Christians, Pentecost is not as well-known as Christmas or Easter but it is important. In fact, in many ways it is the birthday of the church. Pentecost commemorates the coming of the Holy Spirit to the early followers of Jesus as it is recorded in The Acts of The Apostles Ch. 2: “When the day of Pentecost had come, the first followers of Jesus were all together in one place.” All of a sudden, a sound came from heaven, like a strong wind, filling the house where the people had gathered. Something like tongues of fire rested on their heads. “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit gave them the ability to speak”. This account from Acts
shows the initial outpouring of the Holy Spirit was marked by three symbolic events. There was the sound of a violent rushing wind that filled the house; there was the visible sign of tongues of fire resting on each person; and there was the miraculous speaking in foreign languages. The sound of the rushing wind was primarily a picture of invisible power. The wind can knock us over as it can be incredibly powerful, but we read the disciples hear the noise but there is no indication they felt its blowing force. It was rather a miraculous sound coming from heaven. Jesus says in John Ch. 3: “The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not
know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” The second phenomenon was the appearance of tongues of fire resting on their heads. Throughout the Bible, fire symbolizes God’s presence. Israel in the wilderness was guided and protected by the pillar of fire. John the Baptist said Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Fire brings both heat and light; the heat consumes and purifies and the light shows God to those in spiritual darkness. The fire on the Day of Pentecost appeared in the form of “tongues of fire resting on their heads” to symbolize God’s holy power through the proclamation of His Word, burning into people. They also began to speak in languages the Spirit gave them. We need to be clear that they spoke in foreign languages and not gibberish. In Acts it is clear the disciples were speaking in languages that others could understand. This was a gift given to them by the Holy Spirit so they could share the
Today in Canada in a post-church culture we are invited to simply be a “witness” and tell our story about how Jesus changed our lives and to invite them to get to know Him. The rest is in God’s hands. Word. God’s purpose at Pentecost was to equip the church with the power of the Holy Spirit so we would be disciples to all the nations. That the church becomes a visible, living embellishment of the Good News. People have to see with their own eyes that the words of Jesus make us different and the fire of the Holy Spirit gives us the power to introduce others to Jesus. Call it evangelism; a scary thought for us Anglicans. It is a partnership with God, as we tell our story and the Holy Spirit does the rest. The Holy Spirit is the main character in the Book of Acts. The book begins with 120 disciples waiting in
Jerusalem. Jesus had promised to send the Holy Spirit. On the day of Pentecost, Jews had gathered in Jerusalem from all over the world. The Holy Spirit enabled the disciples to speak to them all and they simply told a story. They told the people about the promises of God in the Old Testament that were fulfilled in the person of Jesus. In the rest of the Book of Acts we watch as the Holy Spirit creates missionary people to share their story. Philip shared the word of God with the Ethiopian and then shared the gospel with Samaritans. Peter went to the home of a Gentile, Cornelius. Soon afterwards Jesus called Paul to carry the message of salvation to Gentiles and Jews living throughout the Roman Empire. Today in Canada in a postchurch culture we are invited to simply be a “witness” and tell our story about how Jesus changed our lives and to invite them to get to know Him. The rest is in God’s hands. Come, Holy Spirit, come set our hearts on fire.
Opinion
Porn kills love By Jason Antonio Managing Editor
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orn kills love. That's the message from an online organization, Fight the New Drug, as it attempts to give people the opportunity to make an informed decision regarding pornography. The group wants to raise awareness about porn's harmful effects using science, facts and personal stories to highlight how harmful porn — “the new drug” — is on people young and old. “After further study, we began to find porn not only had negative effects on the individual, but pornography’s influence was causing huge problems in relationships, tearing apart families and production of pornography was often inseparably connected to the world of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation," explained the website's university-age
founders. “The research was clear that pornography has negative neurological effects, is damaging to relationships and is impacting our society as a whole ... . “We are the first generation in the history of the world to face the issue of pornography to this intensity and scale. “We’re also the first generation with a scientific, fact-based understanding of the harm pornography
(does).” The issue of pornography popped up on the Anglican radar after comments from Archbishop Fred Hiltz, primate of the Anglican Church of Canada (ACoC), during a meeting of the Council of General Synod. Hiltz expressed frustration that the ACoC had spent an “inordinate” amount of time discussing homosexual marriage and not enough “attention and conviction and passion and voice and action” on other, more pressing, sexrelated issues. Pornography was one of issues he listed, along with sexual exploitation, genderbased violence and human trafficking for the sex trade. The primate is right. The Church should be speaking up about how harmful and destructive this new drug is on men and women, on the young and the old. Angus Reid released poll results on Jan. 13 that
highlight the morals of men in Canada. The results show: • 52 per cent of men believe watching porn is always or usually morally acceptable • 47 per cent of men believe high schoolers having sex is always or usually morally acceptable • 43 per cent of men age 18 to 34 believe buying sex is always or usually morally acceptable • 48 per cent of men 18 to 34 believe selling sex is always or usually morally acceptable So from where do Canadians get their morals? Angus Reid's results showed: • 37 per cent say using reason/rational choice • 30 per cent say parents, close family or a role model • 13 per cent say from their instinct • 13 per cent say
religion/God The Bible informs us that each of us has violated the law of God, so we shouldn't be too surprised when sinners are sinners. The good news, however, is Jesus desires to take what is broken in our lives and restore us as children of our gracious and loving Heavenly Father. While it is important to pray for healing, porn addiction is also a brain chemistry issue. But Fight the New Drug is also correct: science is needed to help people break their addiction. According to Dr. Ted Roberts, watching porn releases neurochemicals, which bonds our brains to the pornographic images. This is why Satan attacks our sexuality so much. It's also why, according to Charismamag.com, 68 per cent of Christian men and 50 per cent of pastors are hooked on pornography. See "PORN" on page 12
CORRECTIONS: Incorrect information appeared in a cutline in the November issue. The flowers on the front page are roses. Also, the April article entitled “Shrove Tuesday at St. George” was incorrectly credited to Rev. Emily Carr. She contributed the photo by not the article. We regret the errors.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2016
Jones a ‘great testament to God’s hands at work’ By Nancy Carruthers
Five deacons were ordained in Saskatoon on March 8. From left they are the Reverends Gordon Yarde, Matteo Carboni, Barbara Forsyth, Trevor Malyon and Janice (Jan) Trost. Photo by Peter R. Coolen
Five ordained to diaconate in Saskatoon By Peter R. Coolen SASKATOON — A joyous service of ordination was celebrated in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Saskatoon on March 8 by the Right Rev. David M. Irving, Bishop of Saskatoon, for the ordination of five candidates to the diaconate. The candidates were Matteo Carboni, Barbara Forsyth, Trevor Malyon, Janice (Jan) Trost and Gordon Yarde. Yard and Trost are the first ordinands to come from the diocese’s Locally Raised Clergy Program; Yarde was ordained to the vocational
diaconate while the other four ordinands were ordained to the transitional diaconate. The sermon for the ordination service was given by the Ven. Dr. Henry M. Comerford, executive archdeacon of the diocese. In commencing his sermon, Dr. Comerford said when the bishop asked him to give the homily he requested he “say something useful” to both those entering the diaconate and also for those others present. His sermon had three main points: first, an admonition and directions to avoid issues related to even the appearance
of sexual impropriety; secondly, to always make time, no matter how busy, for God. Thirdly “to use sunscreen”; always be gentle with yourself and protect yourself from damage from the demands made of you by those under your care. There will always be more demands of your energy and time than you can respond to without endangering your physical or mental health. Allowing yourself to be stretched too thin will risk both your health, the amount and the quality of the service you provide to others and the service you give God.
CHRISTOPHER LAKE (Skwn) — Stella Jones received the Order of Saskatchewan in 2000. At the time, she and her husband Blake attended worship at St. Christopher’s Church in Christopher Lake. The list of involvement that Stella had within the parish and community is a long one! Just an example of how dedicated she was to give of her time, while working on the addition to St. Christopher’s Church in the late 1990s, she worked tirelessly through the day doing whatever needed to be done, then go home and bake through the evening to bring back coffee snacks for the next day for all the labourers! Stella and Blake moved from our community in the fall of 2000 to the town of Shellbrook.
There they found St. Andrew’s parish. They both quickly became involved with not only the church choir, but also the community choir, as well as singing at the care home. Stella was always more than willing to help out with church functions. They both cut grass at the church for a long time, hauling their mower over to the church, as the church didn’t have one. Up until the last year which brought health struggles to both Blake and Stella, they were active members in the senior’s club as well as fixtures around the curling rink. They both are still very active canasta players (and are really good at it!). Stella celebrates her 85th birthday this year! She’s a great testament to God’s hands at work within!
DIOCESE OF SASKATOON
Announcements for May 2016 Saskatchewan Anglican online! You can read current and past issues of the Saskatchewan Anglican online on the Diocese of Saskatoon website or on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ saskatchewananglican. ERRATA: In the April edition of the Saskatchewan Anglican, the article entitled “Shrove Tuesday at St. George” was incorrectly credited to The Rev. Emily Carr. The Rev. Carr contributed the photograph that accompanied the article in the paper but did not contribute the article. g New west side city Native Ministry: The Native Ministry groups at Holy Trinity Anglican Church and St. George’s Anglican Church of Saskatoon have come together to offer a new ministry for the west side of the City of Saskatoon. Once a month this new ministry will gather for a Sunday afternoon Eucharist service, which, to date have been led by the diocesan
indigenous bishop, Bishop Adam Halkett, or the Rev. Wilfred Sanderson, indigenous minister from the Diocese of Saskatchewan. These gatherings are open to all, occur in a circle and incorporate Cree language in the prayers and music. If you or someone you know would like to get involved, please contact the Rev. Emily Carr, at St. George’s Anglican, or The Ven. Ken Watts, of Holy Trinity Anglican (please see photo elsewhere in this issue). g Welcoming newcomers: Imagine how it would feel to arrive in a new country where you don’t speak the language, don’t understand the culture and don’t know anyone. Saskatoon Open Door Society is recruiting volunteers for its mentoring program. Mentoring volunteers meet once a week with a newcomer to Canada to provide an introduction to the community and culture, friendship and sometimes language assistance. If you are interested in helping someone feel
comfortable in their new home, while at the same time broaden your horizons by learning about another culture, contact Iryna at 306653-4464 or izamchevska@ sods.sk.ca. Orientation and training provided. g Women in Ministry Friday luncheons: On Fridays, May 13 and June 10, from noon to 1:30 p.m., Women in Ministry Friday luncheons will be held at the Queen’s House at 601 Taylor St. West. The cost for the lunch is $10. The luncheons are intended for women who are employed in professional ecclesial ministry; retired from an employed ministry position; and/or studying for professional ecclesial ministry. The main purpose for the luncheons is to create an informal relational space where women working professionally in ministry (lay and ordained, pastoral work, congregational work, chaplaincy, retreat work, etc.) can connect across denominational lines and form networks of friendship
and communication. For more information please call 306-242-1916. g L’Arche Workshops: L’Arche, Saskatoon, an ecumenical organization supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, has recently started a creative workshop with a vision of “Making art, making friends, making peace.” If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Wyndham Thiessen, community leader, at 306262-7243 or wthiessen@ larchesaskatoon.org. g The Parish of St. George’s, Saskatoon, Community Coffee House every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Join them for a warm social time with coffee, tea, toast and some type of baked goods at no charge. The coffee time is followed by a weekly Bible Study from 11 a.m. to noon. All events are in the Parish Hall, 624 Ave. I South. g Seniors’ Lunch in Battleford: The Friendship Committee of St. George’s, Battleford invites all seniors to join them for lunch the
first Monday of each month until June; each seniors’ lunch begins at noon. g Volunteers needed at the Saskatoon Friendship Inn: The Friendship Inn needs help serving breakfasts and lunches every day. If anyone is interested in this opportunity or if you’re parish wishes to become involved, please contact the Saskatoon Friendship Inn at 306-242-5122. g Diocesan Synod 2016: The next session of Synod of the Diocese of Saskatoon will held Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. Deadline To be included in a timely manner, brief notices should be sent to the Associate Editor by e-mail or “snail mail” by the last week of the month, two months before the month in which insertion is desired (for example, December submissions will be in the February issue). Detailed and longer texts of upcoming events will not be included here, but should space allow, could be the subject of article and notices elsewhere in the paper.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
Building community through gardening By Sharon Pratchler REGINA — Regina Seedy Saturday is a mid-winter seed and garden event, now in its sixth year. The event is part of a national series of Seedy Saturday events inspired by the non-profit group, Seeds of Diversity. The goal is to provide an opportunity for small seed growers to sell heirloom seeds, facilitate a seed exchange in the community and share information on gardening in Saskatchewan, to ensure a rich diversity of seeds in the community. For the first five years, St. Mary’s Anglican Church hosted the event, but due to the growth in recent years a new venue was needed to accommodate the numbers of people attending. Dean Mike Sinclair and Elvira Beday kindly agreed to host the event this year at St. Paul’s Cathedral. Both greatly contributed to the success of the event. Over 550 people attended, including more than 100 children. Events and activities included a wonderful selection of homemade soups and baking in the kitchen, a children’s area with sensory and tactile experiences with seeds and sand, as well as an opportunity to plant and take home bean seeds, rock row marker painting for the garden, a beehive and f lower craft. Exhibitors ranged from seed producers, composters and the Regina Horticultural Society. For the first time this year, there was a garden design table in the event, the creation of Joanne Havelock of Regina Permaculture. This innovation is very much in keeping with the vibe of the event, which is grassroots and community oriented, and designed to encourage and support everyone in acquiring knowledge of gardening and assisting in caring for God’s Earth. Given the increase in interest in home gardening, there were three well attended presentations. Phil Johnson spoke on how healthy soil grows healthy plants, healthy
May 2016
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Learning important to Canon Derwyn Shea Rev. Canon Derwyn S. Shea, M.A., D.D. (1937 to 2015)
The United Nations has declared 2016 “The Year of the Lentil.” An area farmer displayed some of her lentils and grains for cooking. All photos by Margaret Ball
By Don & Florence Dugan
Heirloom and organic seeds were available at Regina Seedy Saturday.
food and healthy people; Laureen LaBrash shared her knowledge on garden design and planning; and Jim and Rachelle Ternier spoke on choosing seeds for your garden. If you have any interest in bringing the event to your community, please contact Sharon Pratchler at sharonandtom@sasktel.net or 306-539-5892. Locations for Seedy events in Saskatchewan now include Moose Jaw, Estevan, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Humboldt, Yorkton, North Battleford and for the first time this year, Ponteix.
Dean Mike Sinclair uses a cowbell to announce a new presenter in the cathedral on Seedy Saturday.
PRINCE ALBERT — Even though Derwyn served in the Diocese of Saskatchewan (MacDowell, St. Louis and Royal) from 1966-68, almost 50 years ago, he never forgot his roots in Saskatchewan and always inquired about how things were going. He was ordained in 1966 by Bishop Crump. One can only imagine the adjustment coming from Toronto, where he lived since he was two, to living in MacDowell. However, adjust he did, and the prairies definitely took hold of him. In 2002, he was installed as a canon in the Diocese of Toronto and this year he was inducted as a fellow of Wycliffe College (University of Toronto). He was still the parish priest of St. Hilda’s Church, and CEO of St. Hilda’s Towers, a retirement condo for seniors, when he died. Education was important to Derwyn; as a result, part of his estate is directed to Wycliffe College to fund a chair in urban ministry. His vestments will go to an African diocese and the Diocese of Saskatchewan. He also bequeathed money to St. Stephen’s Church in MacDowell for a stained glass window. Derwyn’s motto for one of his political campaigns was “Hard work works” and it certainly worked for him. Photo courtesy the Dugans
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2016
Alberta Anglicans fund Burundi maternity ward Hospital needs upgrades to meet 5,400 births yearly; was built in 1940s
A Blessing of oils on Maundy Thursday
On Maundy Thursday, March 24, a Eucharist service and Service of Renewal of Baptismal and Priestly Vows and Blessing of Oils was held in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Saskatoon. The Bishop of Saskatoon, the Right Rev. David Irving, presided at the service. During the service, the Rev. Canon Ken Watts was collated as executive archdeacon of the diocese; the Ven. Ken Watts provided the sermon for the service. Pictured are the Right Rev. David Irving, Bishop of Saskatoon, blessing the oils during the service assisted by the Rev. Matteo Carboni, deacon at the cathedral. Photo by Peter R. Coolen
Happy retirement, Rev. Pat Langlois By Traci Mueller MELFORT (Skwn) — Rev. Pat Langlois retired from the ministry on May 1. She and her husband, Allen, moved to Allen’s hometown of Winnipegosis, Man., where Allen has built their retirement home. Before attending the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad and entering the ministry, Rev. Pat enjoyed her work as a teacher assistant in a classroom with profoundly handicapped children. She was ordained a deacon on April 19, 1998 and a priest on March 7, 1999. The Langloises arrived in Melfort at midnight in the middle of a cold spell in February 2011. Both had the flu. They were happy to find the rectory had a well-stocked fridge and fresh cinnamon buns. Rev. Pat had promised All Saints’ Church that she would stay for five years. She promised herself she would never again move in February, so we managed to keep her for an additional two months. Rev. Pat set a new precedent in Melfort. In our 107 years of history, she became the first female priest to serve this parish. Her years here have brought a new dimension to the life of our church. For many of us, she was more than our priest; she was our friend. We will miss her. As Rev. Pat looks back on Melfort, she remembers a
Burundi hospital will be growing and upgrading, thanks to funds raised by the Diocese of Edmonton, explained Rev. John Gee, the diocese’s community development facilitator. In late February, the diocese presented a cheque for $47,450 to The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) to pay for renovation and expansion of the maternity ward at the hospital in the Diocese of Buyé in Burundi, Gee said. “Like most of the infrastructure in Burundi, the hospital has not been kept up to date because of the disruption from the lengthy civil war that ended in 2005,” he said. “As a result, the maternity ward is tremendously
overcrowded. “Rooms designed to hold four beds now contain 10.” The ward is also plagued with cracked walls, a leaky roof and an operating room that poses an increased risk of infection to patients because of its closeness to the rest of the unit. The hospital was built in the 1940s, when the area’s population was much smaller. Currently, some 5,400 women give birth in it each year. The money donated by the Diocese of Edmonton, Gee said, will allow the hospital to double the size of the maternity ward, from three rooms to six, add another delivery room, repair the walls, ceiling and roof, plus make several other improvements. The Messenger
A sacred place to stimulate your mind and nourish your spirit through:
Rev. Pat Langlois welcomes a newly baptized child into All Saints Anglican Church, Melfort. Picture by Allen Langlois community where something is always on the go. Melfort has much to offer for a community its size. Allen joined the carving club and both Allen and Rev. Pat bowled each week. Fourteen of the 17 churches in town belong to the Ministerial Association. Rev. Pat enjoyed being part of this association and their work to promote the community. They put on Thanksgiving suppers, provided ministry to the Mustangs hockey team, organized community-wide Lenten lunches and Good Friday services, plus held services at the care homes. Rev. Pat’s contribution as chaplain to the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion
was much appreciated. When asked, she and Allen called Friday night bingo at the branch. Rev. Pat provided the religious component on Decoration Day at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. She also co-ordinated the ministerial portion of the local Remembrance Day ceremony at the high school. Rev. Pat served twice on the selection committee for Habitat for Humanity. It shocked her to see the conditions in which some people live and she would like to have been able to provide them all with a house. Rev. Pat’s dedication to her calling and to our church and congregation was truly inspiring. See LANGLOIS on page 8
Ecumenical Encounter & Prayer
Silent Retreats & Spiritual Direction
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Fellowship, Celebration, Worship MAKE YOURSELVES AT HOME WITH US “Come away to a deserted place and rest for a while …” (Mark 6:31)
For program details, contact your local Anglican parish, or visit www.queenshouse.org To register, please call 306-242-1916 or email receptionist@queenshouse.org Do you need a facility for:
In-services, seminars, workshops, retreats, celebrations or any other occasions? Check our website for facility & booking details. 601 Taylor Street W., Saskatoon, SK S7M 0C9
The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2016
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Learning from rural congregations By Darlene Polachic
G
iven the number of struggling churches today, the lecture given recently at St. Andrew’s College by the Very Rev. Dr. Iain Luke, Dean of St. James Anglican Cathedral, Peace River, Alta., was timely indeed. Luke has first-hand experience in both rural and urban parishes. He calls himself the product of and an advocate for small town parishes which, he says, have valuable lessons for urban congregations. “Both face the challenges of shrinking attendance, dwindling human and financial resources, failing infrastructure and congregation fatigue,” he says. “Dioceses across Canada have had to develop strategies to amalgamate and/or re-organize churches.” Challenges in city settings include non-denominational congregations, ethnic and cultural pockets, affluence and a general move away from religious element in life. Rural parishes have depopulation, population mobility (in the Peace River area where Luke works, the median residency is five years), long distances to work or church, remote work sites and awkward shift work. The questions in rural or remote areas become not how many churches are needed or if there will continue to be a church building or a congregation. The question is, in multiple-point charges, how much time should the minister spend with each congregation to maintain viable Christian fellowship? He says some congregations faced with these challenges have transformed; others didn’t survive. The ones that transformed are valuable role models for urban congregations facing parallel challenges. “Long-term ministry is a pipe dream,” Luke says, “mostly because there just aren’t the funds any more to make that possible.” So how real are the differences between large and small parishes? “There’s no difference in the character of individuals, their spiritual needs, or their consumer choices (which style of church each prefers),” he said.
Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Ogema.
Photo from Saskatchewan Anglican archives
Dean Iain Luke, St. James Anglican Cathedral, Peace River, Alta. Photo courtesy Darlene Polachic “When I moved from a small town parish to one in Winnipeg,” Luke continued, “I definitely believed I would get to know many more people in the city. “Instead, I found the reverse was true. In the smaller centre, you encounter fewer people, but more often. “The person who is your bank teller may very likely be at the curling rink the next day and grocery shopping at the Co-op the following week. “You don’t get that overlap in the city. “In urban settings, deeper acquaintance requires much more effort. “The thing that brings disparate people together is shared faith. “The fact they’re coming from all over the city further compounds the problem of lack of connection in a congregation.” Luke says the current re-organizational strategy within the Anglican Church is finding ground in both camps via three pillars.
St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Kyle, Sask. Photo from Saskatchewan Anglican archives Social action functions on asset-based community development where teams of local church people focus on an aspect of ministry and identify and utilize gifts within the congregation to meet specific community needs.
Parish nursing and homeless initiatives are examples. The missional pillar involves finding out what God is doing and joining Him in that work. The sacramental and monastical pillar brings
together and sends out common vocations to serve the community. Luke says discernment of individual gifts and vocations, plus discernment of purpose, are required here. “In a small town, familiarity can’t be underestimated,” he says. “It’s amazing how leaders can identify the marginalized and determine the church’s mission in serving them and offering hope. “In the urban scene, this requires intention and effort. “The congregation can trade on its activities in the external community and network to make such identifications, thereby extending the church’s mission outward.” Luke believes the most effective avenue is seeking one another out and hearing what each has to say. “In other words, get to know one another. Move away from anonymity.” He says it is important to recognize the impact of the church and its mission go beyond the church. He tells of a young woman whose church attendance was irregular. When questioned, she said, “My kids are in sports and I am involved in community organizations. “Don’t tell me that’s not a mission field.” Luke says rural and urban congregations often feel shame and grief when their numbers dwindle, they can’t maintain their building, or the church falls short of perceived success in some other way. He gives the example of one church that couldn’t maintain its impressive building. “While there was a certain amount of sorrow and shame over losing it, the group remained strong. “The parish didn’t close. “Instead, it let the building go, rented space in a strip mall and is now a stronger and more vibrant congregation than they were in the big building. “This is inevitable with the decline and depopulation of a community or church, but just because they don’t have a treasurer, or an organist, or a robed choir doesn’t necessarily mean anything is significantly wrong. “The focus needs to be on what is still working for the group.”
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2016
‘Warden emeritus’ Howe almost 100 By Mary Brown
Monologues for Lent
“I heard a voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!’” Jan Cowie performs the role of Lazarus, one of six dramatic monologues she presented at St. James the Apostle, Regina, during Lent. The monologues featured characters from the gospels telling the story from their own point of view. Other performances portrayed the paralyzed man who Jesus healed, Peter’s mother-in-law, Mary Magdalene, Thomas and Martha. Photo by Joanne Shurvin-Martin
PRINCE ALBERT — David Howe received the Order of Saskatchewan in 2002. On March 14 of this year, he celebrated his 95th birthday. David now lives in a senior’s home in Speers, Sask. He was the proprietor of the Star Café in Marcelin with his mother and father from 1929 to August 2002. He acted as lay reader and warden in the parish of Leask for as long as anyone can remember. He was given the title of “warden emeritus.” There are many stories of his generosity and kindness to everyone he knew. Every day he would
write a blessing for meals on his special board in the restaurant. He also provided a service of remembrance for those who passed away in the area communities, as well as those from Marcelin, by providing a card-signing service and collecting and forwarding memorial donations. One of my neighbours told the story of their car breaking down on their way to the Saskatoon airport and lucky for them it happened in Marcelin. So David loaned them his own car! To show his devotion to the Anglican church he wore an Anglican church tie at all diocesan functions. Happy birthday, David.
Prominent Anglicans sign right-to-life petition
T
he bishop of Fredericton and one of his predecessors were among the prominent Anglican clergy who gathered in Fredericton to sign a petition against physician-assisted suicide. Bishop David Edwards,
retired Bishop Bill Hockin and several other Anglican clerics joined dozens of their fellow citizens to sign the petition supporting the Declaration on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide jointly released by the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada and
the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. “The basic ethical question is, ‘How should we live?’” Edwards said. “We need to pause and consider the implications of this act and ask, ‘Is this how we want to live?’” N.B. Anglican
‘Warden emeritus’ David Howe celebrates his 95th birthday with friends. Photo by Sheila Miller
LANGLOIS Continued from page 6 Her faith in God was evident in all she did and said. She personalized her sermons, making them interesting and easy to understand. She often used stories about Allen to illustrate her points. Her work ethic made her available to everyone as she spent countless hours in the church office, doing much more than her position required. Rev. Pat was very conscientious with regards to visiting shut-ins and those suffering from various maladies. Her caring ways were very evident as she also took Communion to those same folks. Rev. Pat and Allen celebrated their 50th anniversary on Dec. 18, 2014 with a surprise party in the All Saints Church hall. Their son and daughter, four of their seven grandchildren and all three
of their great-grandchildren drove from Alberta to attend. Sadly, Rev. Pat and Allen’s daughter, Barb, passed away in January, just over a month later. All Saints Church is a better place for having both Rev. Pat and Allen here. We feel very privileged her last parish before her retirement was with us at All Saints, Melfort. We will continue Allen’s very popular annual spring Fish-Fry. Rev. Pat, we will remember you for your dedication to our church, your warmth and compassion, your willingness to make tough decisions and for your puppets that came out for Children’s Chat! Remember that we love you, we already miss you and we didn’t want you to go. But we wish you and Allen every happiness in your new home in Winnipegosis.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2016
9
Camp Okema news By Steve M itchel l I n t h i s 4 0 t h a n n iver s a r y ye a r of t he Okem a S o ciet y for Ch r i st i a n D evelopment , ple a se che ck out ou r c a mp sche du le, pl a n ne d event s a nd ot her i n for m at ion.
An Irish stew luncheon
Church of the Ascension in Arborfield held an Irish stew luncheon on St. Patrick’s Day, with 50 people in attendance in various pieces of green. In the picture, from left, are Colleen Walton, Betty Edwards and Bernice Gray. Photo contributed
Looking at Liturgy
The Prayers of the People By Canon Michael Jackson
T
he Prayers of the People, or Prayers of the Faithful, or Intercessions, are the culmination of the Ministry of the Word in the liturgy of the Eucharist. Those who compose and lead the intercessions fulfil a major responsibility on behalf of the community, which, as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), offer to God prayers for the Church and the world. The Book of Alternative Services (BAS) notes (p. 176) that “a deacon or lay person, rather than the priest, is the appropriate minister to lead the Prayers of the People.” In The Book of Common Prayer, however, the priest alone says the intercession. Leaders of the Prayers of the People need to be sensitive to the needs and concerns of everyone in worship. Intercessors are not solo performers; they pray on behalf of the assembly. We keep our own preoccupations for our private prayer. We do not express political or social views. We should also avoid personal and poetic eloquence; this may offend or embarrass some of the congregation. We also need to prepare the intercessions carefully and in advance, not arrive at church and improvise! Intercessions normally include prayers for the Church, the nation, the world, the local community, those in
need and the departed. It is customary to remember the local bishop(s), other clergy (bishops, priests and deacons) and lay ministers. The leader offers intercessions in the form of “biddings,” “petitions” or “intentions,” each followed by a response from the assembly. An opening sentence introduces the prayers and indicates what the response will be. There should be a phrase, such as “Lord, in your mercy, (hear our prayer)” to trigger the assembly’s response. They can’t be expected to guess the cue! Biddings/ responses need to be brief, clear and easy to follow. We can group special intentions (for example, those who have asked us to pray for them) at the beginning, or incorporate them in the biddings. The intercessions usually end with a collect offered by the intercessor or the presider; good examples are found in the BAS on pages 111, 127 and 130-131. The Book of Alternative Services is, in my opinion, one of the best Anglican liturgical compendiums. However, there are weaknesses in the Prayers of the People. Of the litanies on pages 110-128, only #1, #6, #9, #13 (Incarnation), #14 (Lent), and #15 (Easter) have cues for the responses. The others should be avoided unless they can be adapted with clear cues/ responses. In any case, we should
avoid repeating word for word the sample litanies in The Book of Alternative Services, which are intended as a guide, not as a repetitive text (as in the BCP); and we should not invite the congregation to follow the text in the book (except for litanies 17 and 18, which incorporate detailed responses). Anglicans arguably spend too much of their worship time following books, rather than listening and looking – but that will be the topic of a subsequent column! Let’s keep the petitions short. No lengthy rambles or harangues! Let’s keep them to a reasonable number – six to 10 petitions at the most. The intercessor is not there to give a sermon; that is the preacher’s job. Do not make our prayers sound like the television news or the parish bulletin. If we mention specific events, concerns or individuals, let’s do so with restraint and sensitivity. And, as when reading the Scriptures, check in advance the pronunciation of words, especially names. We may also allow a short period for members of the community to offer intentions, either in silence or audibly. We should always remember that we are voicing the corporate prayer of the Christian community. Canon Michael Jackson is deacon at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Regina.
Summ er C amp S ch e dul e : Ju ly 3 to 7: Cabi n L e ader T ra i n i n g (a ge s 14 a nd up) Ju ly 10 to 14: Sm a l l F r y 1 (a ge s 7 – 9) Ju ly 17 to 2 2: Ju n ior 1 (a ge s 10 – 1 2) Ju ly 2 4 to 2 8: Sm a l l F r y 2 (a ge s 7 – 9) Ju ly 3 0 to Au g. 1: C elebrat ion Ca mp L on g We ekend (a ge s 18+ a nd fa m i l ie s) Ju ly 3 0 to Au g. 4: C elebrat ion F u l l Ca mp (a ge s 18+ a nd fa m i l ie s) Au g. 7 to 1 2: Ju n ior 2 (a ge s 10 – 1 2) Au g. 14 to 2 0: Te en Ca mp (a ge s 13 – 16) Event s D e sser t Event s: T h i s spr i n g, severa l pa r i she s w i l l host Okem a de sser t event s a s pa r t of ou r 4 0 t h a n n iver s a r y c elebrat ion s. Che ck ou r website, at w w w.c a mp okem a.c om for det a i l s. Work a nd L ei su re We ekend: M ay 21 – 2 3 . A l l a re welc ome to joi n u s i n prepa r i n g t he c a mp for t he rent a l a nd c a mp se a son. For more i n for m at ion, c ont ac t Da r r yl McR ae at 3 0 6 -2 70 518 2 or renos@you rl i n k. c a. C elebrat ion Su nd ay on
Ju ly 31. I n t he m id st of C elebrat ion Ca mp, we a re i nv it i n g g ue st s to joi n ou r c a mp er s for a d ay of ac t iv it y at t he c a mp, i nclud i n g a wor sh ip ser v ic e, ba nquet , b e ach ac t iv it ie s, v i sit i n g a nd a n e a rly c a mpf i re. B a nquet t icket s w i l l b e ava i l able for ou r g ue st s a nd mu st b e pu rch a se d i n adva nc e of t h i s event . Che ck ou r website for more det a i l s. Oth er Inform ati on Rent a l s: T he c a mp i s ava i l able for rent a l i n M ay, Ju ne, l ate Au g u st a nd e a rly S eptemb er. Pa r i she s a re enc ou ra ge d to c on sider a we ekend rent a l a s a n exc el lent way to bu i ld c om mu n it y a nd develop le ader sh ip. For more i n for m at ion a nd ava i l able d ate s c ont ac t A ndy Tomy n at 3 0 6 - 3 8 2 - 8 4 47 or c a mp okem a@ hot m a i l. c om. M a n n a Hou se P roje c t: We a re cu r rent ly f u nd ra i si n g to m a ke ne e de d renovat ion s a nd i mprovement s to M a n n a Hou se, ou r m a i n bu i ld i n g, i nclud i n g k itchen, d i n i n g h a l l a nd wa sh ro om s. O u r goa l i s $15,0 0 0 a nd we i nv ite a ny i ntere ste d p er son to m a ke a don at ion t h rou g h ou r website or by m a i l (Ca mp Okem a, B ox 14 0, Ca ronp or t , S a sk., S 0H 0 S 0). A l l don at ion s w i l l re c eive a t a x re c eipt .
Another resource for readers By Canon Michael Jackson
I
n my column on “Reading the Scriptures” in the March issue of Saskatchewan Anglican, I suggested that a useful resource was the Roman Catholic Workbook for Lectors, Gospel Readers and Proclaimers of the Word, while noting that the RC lectionary is not always the same as the Anglican/ Episcopal. Deacon Arleen Champion, of St. Aidan, Moose Jaw, has drawn to my attention another publication that does
follow the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL): A Lector’s Guide & Commentary to the RCL, by J. Ted Blakley (St. Mark’s Press). Similar to the Workbook for Lectors, this Guide is published in three volumes, for each year of the liturgical cycle (A,B,C). Unlike the RC Workbook, it does not include the texts of the readings. However, these are available in a companion publication from the same publisher, the Revised Common Lectionary, Episcopal Edition.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2016
Book of Acts offers important ideas for mission: Hardwick By Joanne Shurvin-Martin REGINA — “When I read that Paul preached through the night at Troas, I got quite excited,” quipped Bishop Rob Hardwick at the Troas dinner on March 11. “But don’t worry, I trimmed it down for tonight.” The evening featured a meal, preaching and teaching by the bishop, a Eucharist service and anointing with oil. Troas refers to the ancient Greek city where St. Paul and his disciples stayed for seven days. As recounted in Acts 20, Paul spoke until dawn. All the parishes in the Archdeaconry of St. Cuthbert (Regina and area) were represented among the more than 30 people at the dinner held in Bagnall Hall at St. Paul’s Cathedral. In his address, Bishop Hardwick drew comparisons between the missional practices recorded in the Acts of the Apostles and what the church is doing today. He described the experience of merging parishes in response to shrinking membership and financial pressures. He acknowledged it makes sense financially, but asked, “Is that the missional way?” The bishop spoke of the possible dangers of using the Bible to justify current actions. “Luke may not have written a detailed document specifically highlighting the missional strategy of the early church in order that the Church 2016 AD might know what to do. "Nevertheless, in his theological treatise he may have indicated important activities and principles that we in this diocese would do well to note and apply.” Hardwick showed how the apostles went out from Jerusalem to spread the gospel, but repeatedly returned to Jerusalem and remained in communication with the original community. He gave examples of how the Diocese of Qu’Appelle followed this model in earlier decades, with the Railway Missioners who lived, studied and prayed
radical reform of many of our churches. “I am not sure that our leadership or the people are ready for the dramatic changes required. Nevertheless, Acts offers key insights necessary for growth, which the Church in the western world will ignore at its peril. … Are we happy with the status quo…?
“Even though we have few resources and a number of churches and communities in our diocese are still struggling financially, congregationally and numerically, God is moving amongst us, like ‘sparks in the stubble,’ stirring and waking us from our slumber.”
Bishop Rob Hardwick speaks during the Troas Dinner, held at St. Paul's Cathedral in Regina for St. Cuthbert's archdeaconry. Photo by Joanne Shurvin-Martin together at St. Cuthbert’s House on the diocesan grounds and travelled to rural areas on the railway, plus Sunday school mission vanners spent the summers visiting rural areas. “In recent years we have stopped those missional works.” The bishop recounted the many instances in Acts that tell how people became interested in the Christian faith, often by witnessing “signs and wonders,” but also by hearing the Apostles talking about Jesus. He described how Paul “took to the marketplace every day and spoke with those who happened to be there.” He asked, “Where are our marketplaces? Are there altars to an unknown god in this society? “At your gatherings or suppers are you only interested in making money or do you inform all visitors about your vision … or offer
invites for people to find out more about the Christian faith? “Do you make good use of those gathering times?” The bishop pointed out that, in contrast to areas where the church is growing rapidly, the Diocese of Qu’Appelle recorded only three converts in 2014. He asked, “Are any of the churches in this region offering Alpha, Emmaus, Pilgrim or other Christian basics courses in such a way that they are for inquirers, not a nice refresher course for church members? “Do any of you offer classes on Christian spirituality, prayer, fasting, contemplation, the spiritual gifts?” Speaking of the church today – which cannot go on as it has been – the bishop said, “In the Acts of the Apostles we see key missional components and strategy that will demand a change of emphasis and
“If not, how will we move from maintenance to mission in Regina? “What could a regional mission plan look like? “Can we, dare we, work together as a church in Regina and let another model or models emerge? “… Even though we
have few resources and a number of churches and communities in our diocese are still struggling financially, congregationally and numerically, God is moving amongst us, like ‘sparks in the stubble,’ stirring and waking us from our slumber and calling His church like that in the Acts of the Apostles, to grow and be about His business. “Not just go to church, but be the church. “We will find ourselves pioneering new ways which do not fit into our Canons: pub church, café church, popcorn church, God and Guinness church, Kidz Club and new start churches. … “However, for all its messiness it is truly amazing to observe this ‘more than we could have asked or imagined’ change.” The bishop concluded by saying, “These are challenging times which demand much from us. “As we look at the missional Acts of the Apostles may we journey onward and ‘live the Mission’ God has called us to, in our generation, with a sense of adventure. “So, in the words of Joshua 1:9, Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Saskatoon’s Locally Raised Clergy Program Do you love God? Do you love the church? Have you been involved in lay ministry in your parish for quite some time and wonder about going even deeper? Perhaps God is calling you to diaconal or priestly ministry! “Who, me?” you might say. Yes, YOU! Stranger things have happened you know. God needs workers in the vineyard, including priests and deacons. Perhaps now is the time for you to consider it. The Diocese of Saskatoon has a program for training clergy…for training Locally Raised Clergy.
The program takes three to five years to complete, depending on how much time you can devote to it. There is no cost to you, as the training leads to a non-stipendiary (voluntary) ordained ministry. The program includes reading courses, in-house training sessions, spiritual formation and a supervised apprenticeship. The path to Holy Orders is an awesome spiritual adventure. Take the plunge now! For more information, please contact the Diocesan Training Officer, the Reverend Shawn Sanford Beck, at greenpriest@hotmail.ca.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2016
11
Turkmani family arrives in Regina By Ralph Paragg REGINA — The Turkmani family arrived in Regina on Feb. 12 to a rousing welcome from 30 people, comprised of the Mitri family and friends, people from “I will help Regina,” Regina Open Door Society, plus a couple of parishioners from All Saints, Regina. It was a happy occasion with lots of hugs, tears of joy, smiles, laughter and colourful welcome signs in Arabic and English. The Turkmani family includes husband (Hicham), wife (Anteonette) and two teenage children, daughter (Nawal) and son (Joseph). All Saints Regina co-sponsored the family in August 2015 with Sali Mitri, the cousin of Anteonette. Under this family-linked sponsorship, Mitri and her family undertook to provide food, shelter, transportation and other settlement assistance to the Turkmanis. Sali Mitri’s parents are owners and operators of the well-known Abstraction Café on 14th Avenue and Rose Street. Sali and her brother Noor work in the restaurant. The Turkmani family are Orthodox Christians. The
The newly-arrived Turkmani family pose with their welcome group at the Regina airport. (back row) Son Joseph is the tallest; father Hicham (with beard) is farthest right; (front row) daughter Nawal is farthest left in white jacket; sponsor Sali Mitri is third from left; mother Anteonnete is in the centre holding flowers. Photo by Sarah Abbas family owned and operated a clothing store in Syria. Business fell drastically because of the war. The family found it prudent to flee to Lebanon because of the war, and more importantly because, as Christians, they were targeted by both ISIS and the other Sunni rebels. Moreover, their son Joseph suffered from diabetes and they found it very difficult
and expensive to obtain his daily medication in Syria because of the war. The war also interrupted the children’s education; high school in the case of Nawal and first-year university for Joseph, who had planned to study geology. The family stayed with relatives in Lebanon, supporting themselves with their savings, help from relatives outside Syria, plus
occasional employment. The family had no legal status in Lebanon. The Turkmani family started evening language classes at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Institute on March 21. LeBoldus High School has interviewed and assessed Nawal and she expected to start school in mid-March. Joseph has found a training position with
Butterfly jasmine flowers, sugar cane and maracas adorn the Cuban-themed table in Arborfield for World Day of Prayer.
Nanotech and plans to work for a couple of years both to earn some money and to improve his language skills before entering university. He plans to attend language classes in the evening. Hicham is seeking to get his driver’s licence and improve his English to start working in either landscaping or construction. Anteonette is looking forward to working in the service sector after she completes her English classes. Thanks to Naomi Hunter and friends from “I will help Regina” for making the welcome signs and helping to greet the family. Thanks also to other greeters: Georgette Sadaka and family who came from Indian Head; Sarah Abbas from Regina Open Door Society and her family; Sali’s mom, Hayat Fahoukry, and her dad, Farid Mitri, for the Syrian sweets shared with the greeters; and above all, Sali Mitri and her husband, Mustapha Itani, for sponsoring the family. All Saints parish and the Diocese of Qu’Appelle extend a hearty welcome to the Turkmani family and wish them every success in settling in Regina.
Photo by Alice Carpentier
World Day of Prayer By Alice Carpentier ARBORFIELD (Skwn) — World Day of Prayer is a worldwide movement of Christian women who come together on the first Friday of March to observe a common day of prayer. This year it was the Church of the Ascension’s turn to host in Arborfield. The program was written
by the World Day of Prayer Committee of Cuba: “Receive children. Receive Me.” The women of Cuba call us to explore the depths of God’s love and accept the invitation to receive the realm of God as a little child. The morning began with refreshments and fellowship. Fourteen women were on hand representing different denominations in the
Arborfield area. The service began with a video on the history of Cuba. Several participants assumed the roles of Cuban women of different ages and lifestyles. They testified to the importance of God in their lives. Beth Gray, who recently visited Cuba, spoke of her impressions of living conditions in Havana and on
outlying farms. Music was provided by Colleen Walton (banjo) and Elaine Ralph (organ). We thank God for the opportunity to meet in His name to learn about women of other countries. Benediction God blesses us and sends us To receive the children
With prayer, faith, perseverance, Commitment and joy. At each day’s dawn, We receive the blessing And welcome the mission Of caring and celebrating The miracle of inspiring All life, in prayer. Voice of women, your light Gathers us and invites us To receive life We receive Jesus.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2016
The Eucharist and the Passover By Ivan Millard REGINA — A special Maundy Thursday service at the Living Spirit Centre helped Christians understand the connection between the Jewish Passover and the Christian Eucharist. The centre houses congregations from three denominations – St. Philip Anglican, Eastside United and Bread of Life Lutheran – and members of each attended the Seder. The evening began with readings from Exodus, telling the story of the Israelites’ flight from Egypt, and from Mark’s Gospel, describing Jesus’ Last Supper. With patience and humour, Rabbi Jeremy Parnes from Beth Jacob Synagogue led more than 70 people through the Seder supper celebration. The Passover Seder is a Jewish ritual meal remembering God’s mighty deliverance of His Hebrew people from slavery in Egypt. Dishes of matzah, maror, charoset, zeroa, beitzah, karpas, salt water and
Kocher wine were set out on each table. Rabbi Parnes explained the significance of each as the group followed the prayers, blessings and reflections with the help of a handbook. It included stories of the Passover and the rituals that have been observed by Jewish ancestors at Passover Seders for centuries. Each year the story is retold, involving the children, as a reminder of the details and to ensure the oppression of their ancestors and the freedom God gave them is not forgotten. In addition to the plate of ceremonial foods, four cups of wine are to be consumed. Since three represents sufficiency, the fourth represents the abundance of joy at being liberated. It also references the four promises of redemption in Exodus 6:6-7. The service concluded with a Eucharist, stripping of the altar and the reading of Psalm 22 as the lights were slowly extinguished. Passover facts 1) Passover (Pesach
in Hebrew) is the oldest continuously celebrated Jewish festival. 2) The seder is based on passages from the Torah, made up of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. For Jews, the Torah is the most holy of all the biblical writings. 3) The Hebrew word seder means order. The seder is traditionally celebrated in the home, although community seders are also popular. 4) The Haggadah is a book containing the entire service for the Passover seder. In the Haggadah, the name of Moses is mentioned only once, in order to prevent Moses from becoming idolized. 5) On every seder table is a symbolic fifth cup of wine called the “Cup for Elijah.” There is a teaching that Elijah will answer Jewish legal questions the ancient rabbis could not resolve. One question is whether we drink four or five cups of wine or grape juice at the seder.
The Seder supper plate (clockwise from bottom): lettuce leaf is karpas, a vegetable or herb signifying the arrival of spring, which is eaten on matzah bread with maror. Charoset – a sweet mixture of grated apples, nuts, raisins, cinnamon and a little red wine, representing the bricks and mortar of the Egyptian construction projects, yet even in slavery, being God’s people brings a sweetness to life. Parsley – more karpas, which is dipped in salt water (below) representing the sweat and tears of the slaves. Maror – horseradish,
a bitter herb symbolizing the harsh and bitter times endured by the slaves. Beitzah – hard-boiled egg is a symbol of mourning and a symbol of daily offering at the temple; it also symbolizes new life and the bravery of the midwives who defied the law that every Israelite baby boy “shall be drowned in the river.” Zeroa – a roasted bone of a lamb, symbolic of the Passover lamb whose blood marked the doorposts of the faithful in Egypt and of God’s mighty arm that convinced the Egyptians to free the slaves. Photo by Cheryl Conly
PORN
New ministry for Saskatoon
The Native Ministry groups at Holy Trinity Anglican Church and St. George’s Anglican Church of Saskatoon have come together to offer a new ministry for the west side of the City of Saskatoon. Once a month this new ministry will gather for a Sunday afternoon Eucharist service, which, to date have been led by the diocesan indigenous bishop, Bishop Adam Halkett, or the Rev. Wilfred Sanderson, indigenous minister from the Diocese of Saskatchewan. These gatherings are open to all, take place in a circle and incorporate Cree language in the prayers and music. If you or someone you know would like to get involved, please contact the Rev. Emily Carr, at St. George’s Anglican, or The Ven. Ken Watts, of Holy Trinity Anglican. Pictured at a gathering for the afternoon Eucharist are (left to right) the diocesan indigenous bishop, Bishop Adam Halkett, Diocese of Saskatchewan; Bishop Tom Morgan, Diocese of Saskatoon; and the Ven. Ken Watts. In the foreground is Denise McCafferty, rector’s warden, St. George’s. Submitted by the Rev. Emily Carr
Continued from page 3 Two interesting articles were written on the ACoC's “The Community” website by Rev. Kyle Norman in 2013. His first article discussed how pop culture is more of a porn culture. Norman presented stats that showed: there are more than one million videos and images of child pornography on the web; most children view their first pornographic by age 11; one in three visitors to adult websites are women. There are also 42 million websites dedicated to porn, representing over 370 million pages that make up 12 per cent of the entire Internet. Also, the most popular time to view porn is Sundays. “Perhaps what is going on is not a glorification of sex, but a struggle to come to grips with the countless broken relationships and lives that occur because of the glorification of sex,” Norman wrote. “How do we engage with people who struggle to see sexuality as a gift from God, but are continually told sex is nothing more than that which can be exploited?” he
continued. “How can the Church respond to countless teens and adults who struggle with the heartbreak, the loneliness and the shame felt when they realize the cultural ideal of consequence-free sex is blatantly non-existent? “When all the viewed, imagined, or played out scenes of pornographic pleasures lead to nothing but personal and relational destruction, how does the Church breathe a message of healing and wholeness to the one who finds his or her life and reputation shattered?” Is the issue porn? Norman wondered. Sexuality? Barelyclad men and models? Or are these issues products of deeper issues of love, identity, acceptance and the meaning of relationships? “In addressing the issue of sexuality in our culture, we must be willing to wrestle with the deeper issues and conversations at work,” he added. Let us ponder these questions as we attempt to help minds and hearts broken by porn receive healing from Jesus Christ.