May 2007 - 1 A Section of the Anglican Journal
Bishop Burton named Co-Chair of AnglicanRoman Catholic Dialogue of Canada by Staff PRINCE ALBERT (Sask) - Bishop Burton has been appointed Co-Chair of the Anglican-Roman Catholic Dialogue of Canada. Established in 1971, the Dialogue gathers theologians twice a year for three days of prayer and serious theological reflection. The Dialogue has borne much fruit addressing pastoral concerns between the two churches. For example, it developed common Canadian guidelines for the pastoral care of interchurch marriages (1987); guidelines for the transfer of clergy from one communion to another in Canada (1991). It has made significant contribution to North American and international agreements as well - notably on Salvation and the Church (1990); Reflections on the Experience of Women's Ministries (1991); an Agreed Statement on Infallibility (1992); a Reply to the Vatican Response to the Final Report (1993); Life in Christ: Morals, Communion and the Church (1994); The Gift of Authority (1998). It issued its own response to the 2000 letter of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Dominus Iesus. The Canadian Dialogue hopes to complete this fall a response to the most recent ARCIC document, Mary: Grace and Hope in Christ (2006). It also has contributed to other interchurch dialogues. For example, the
proposals for full communion between Anglicans and Lutherans were brought to this Dialogue for comments at every stage of the process leading up to the Waterloo Declaration. Members of the Dialogue exchange information on behalf of their Churches and make friends across their denominational boundaries. The Dialogue has given public forums on its work and has participated in forums held by the Canadian Council of Churches. This theologians' meeting has been complemented for much of its history by an annual meeting of Anglican and Roman Catholic bishops at the national level. In the future, the Dialogue will likely engage Ecclesiological issues related to the Windsor Report and the St. Michael Report. The Roman Catholic Co-Chair is the Most Rev. Francois Lapierre, Bishop of St. Hyacinth, Quebec. The other members are Roman Catholics Dr. Cathy Clifford, Rev. Luis Melo, Dr. Susan Brown, Rev. Gilles Routhier, Rev. Jacques Faucher, and Ms. Janet Somerville; and Anglicans Ms. Ann Cruickshank, Rev. Kevin Flynn, Rev. Dr. David Neelands, Capt. the Rev. Michelle Staples, Dr. Joe Mangina, and the Rev. Canon Alyson Barnett Cowan (Secretary). Bishop Burton succeeds the Most Rev. Bruce Stavert, Archbishop of Quebec, who has served as Anglican Co-Chair since 1998.
St. Mathews Regina Mothering Sunday Pie Social an Established Tradition by Brenda Machin REGINA - The Mothering Sunday Pie Social at St. Matthew's church was a great success. This annual event with a forty year history was brought here when St. Michael/Regina closed and some of the members moved to St. Matthew bringing with them the activity. This tradition has become a highlight of spring. The Pie Social is an event with an amazing number of pies baked, eaten and sold to those who want to continue to enjoy the taste of a home made pie when they eat home. All members of the church get involved in organising and hosting its annual event. The willingness to provide fresh-baked pies, especially the favourite
l emon meringue and the much sought after saskatoon berry, makes organising easy. Pie is cut, ice cream scooped, coffee and tea poured, dishes gathered: all in a welcoming atmosphere of sharing. There also are prizes for those who attend. Guessing the number of jellybeans in the rose bowl at each table can add to the sugar that is taken home. Thanks to the congregation and local businesses great raffle prizes are also awarded. These too are part of the tradition. The Pie Social is special for more than just the opportunity to enjoy home-made pie. It is an example of how traditions can be embraced and continued as Anglicans join in worship and community.
Bishop’s Message from the Right Reverend Gregory Kerr-Wilson, Bishop of Qu’Appelle
Photo Contributed
The Right Reverend Gregory KerrWilson, Bishop of Qu’Appelle I am aware that most folk will be reading this piece in the middle of the Easter Season, while I, because of printing deadlines, write on Maundy Thursday, on the verge of the celebration of our Lord's Passion and death. It seems odd, but at the same time very right. The Easter season stretches on for a full 50 days in the life of the church and it has always interested me that in a culture that values celebration and partying as high points in human life, we are rarely able to carry our Easter celebrations much beyond the first couple of weeks. On one hand, it may be because we have a very limited notion of what celebration is all about. After all, there is only so much chocolate and cheerfulness we can take before we need a rest and recuperation. On the other hand, I wonder if perhaps it is because we are not really clear on what the resurrection is really all about. Certainly we know that “Christ is risen,” and we know the lines about sin and death being defeated, which means that when our lives end on this earth, there is more to come in heaven. Unfortunately it is far too easy to slip into the mindset that this is all about life after death, about something that God does to assure us that death is not the ultimate end. In fact, the resurrection is not, in the first place, about life after death at all. The resurrection is
Regina Hospital Chaplains On Call by staff REGINA - The hospital chaplaincy is available to all Anglican people from out of town who are patients in the Wascana Centre and the General and Pasqua hospitals says the Reverent John Matheson. Regina stipendiary clergy and a number of retired priests in rotation attach them-
TO THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER SEEN THE FLOW AND EBB OF GOD'S GRACE IN THEIR LIVES, IT MEANS NOTHING.
TO
THOSE
WHO HAVE SEEN IT, EVEN FLEETINGLY, EVEN ONLY ONCE
(ADEODATUS)
-
IT IS LIFE ITSELF.
Therefore having been justified by faith,we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1
about Life in this life, about our relationship to the one who is Life itself - and then, as a result, about the continuance of that relationship through this earthly life into the next. Paul reminds us that “in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself.” (2 Corinthians 5:17) At the heart of the resurrection is reconciliation. Not in the mundane human sense of two individuals laying aside their disagreements in order to get along, but in a far more profound, life and death kind of way. In the offering of himself upon the cross for the sin of the world, the “sundered” relationship between God, the source of life, and us, the created recipients of that life, is healed in Jesus. The passion, death and resurrection are all one event. Resurrection is living out the triumph of Christ in our own lives and allowing that life to pervade us more and more, until we are transformed. As Paul says, “if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” and “he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." (2 Corinthians 5:17, 21) We celebrate then, not only in words, songs and banquets, but in living and proclaiming a whole new and different way of life in Jesus Christ, worked out in us by the power of the Holy Spirit. It's a long way from chocolate and cheerfulness and a whole different way of looking at celebration. In the coming months, we as members of dioceses that help form the Anglican Church of Canada will be addressing issues through our General Synod which have been divisive and contentious. For many, this will be a difficult time, but even more importantly, a time to remember this gift of resurrection life in Christ. I pray, and invite you to pray, that we will remember that we are a new creation, that the old ways of being - of politics and rancour and wilfulness - will be laid aside, so that whether in agreement or disagreement, “we might become the righteousness of God.”
selves to the
chaplaincy cell phone
(306.535.3115) and maintain a high level of availability.
There is also a message manager for occasions when the cell phone must be temporarily laid aside.The number may also be used in the case of urgent need for an in-town patient when the local clergy cannot be reached. It is important for out of town patients, especially emergency cases, that clergy, friends or family call this number to advise the chaplain that a patient is coming to a hospital in Regina. An element of continuity is provided as only the first chaplain making contact will continue to visit the patient.
2 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, May 2007
Around the Province Up coming events Qu'Appelle - May and June 2007
Maple Creek Karaoke Rocks! by Colleen Kennedy
May 4 Grandmothers 4 Grandmothers Regina presents An African Evening at the Royal Canadian Legion, 1820 Cornwall Street with cash bar at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30. There will be entertainment and a silent auction. The Mistress of Ceremony is Sheila Coles. All proceeds raised will go to the Stephen Lewis Foundation Grandmothers for Grandmothers Campaign for the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa. For tickets call Karen at 306.586.2173 or Sheila at 306.781.946. May 5 Cypress Deanery Anglican Church Women (ACW) will be holding it's 89th annual spring conference at St. Mary/ Maple Creek. Presently there are four ACW groups in the deanery: Gull Lake, Maple Creek, Shaunavon and Swift Current. The day will include guests, business meeting, entertainment and Holy Communion led by the Reverend Dick Kennedy. May 5 St. Paul Cathedral will present the 19th annual Strawberry Fair, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There'll be a bake table, collectibles, jewellery books, deli, children's corner, plants crafts, clothing and strawberry crepes. Order strawberries, 1/2 or full flat, by calling 306.522.6439, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come to the fair! May 5 St. Michael's Retreat Centre/Lumsden will offer a mini retreat experience 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. entitled, Creativity in Worship, Devotion, Prayer, Choices with David Kaiser of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada. Mr. Kaiser is a pastor, a poet, a puppeteer, a missionary and a teacher. The cost is $25.00. Family rates are available. For more information please telephone 306.731.3316. May 24 to 27 A three-day silent retreat experience for women will be offered by St. Michael's Retreat Centre/Lumsden from 7 p.m. Thursday to 1 p.m. Sunday. Entitled Nurturing the Spirit Within this retreat is to nourish your soul, stimulate your mind and enhance your prayer life. The richness of solitude and silence combined with talks. Marcia McGovern, Roman Catholic; Cara Driscoll, United Church and Marilyn Scheske, Lutheran will facilitate the retreat. The cost is $200.00. Please telephone; fax: 306.731.3807 E-mail: office@stmichaelsretreat.ca
MAPLE CREEK (QuA) - St. Mary church hall was alive with the sound of music recently where 28 people gathered from inside and outside our church community and some were in costumes. They came to watch and sing along with the karaoke version of the movie, The Sound of Music. Prizes given for the best two costumes went to Will Gill as Captain Von Trapp and Josie Squire as a Lonely Goat herd. There were no prizes for singing but it was all good, especially the singing of Julie Andrews.
Intermission provided a welcome chance to stand up and move around (Those parish hall chairs are hard.) And there was punch, coffee, tea and cheesecake to eat. CBC Saskatchewan's Morning Edition even provided a little extra promotion the week before by running their best movie of all time contest. The Sound of Music was the winner. Several people in the community are already talking about next year so this may have been the First Annual St. Mary's Sing-along Sound of Music Screening.
Murder At Christ Church in Saskatoon! By: Thomas Nieman SASKATOON-- Sometimes temptation is hard to resist. Christ Church Anglican in Saskatoon could not resist becoming the scene of a murder and Saskatoon playwright Donald B. Campbell couldn't resist playing a the role of a playwright. “Rehearsal For Murder”, a wonderful murder mystery that combines drama and comedy, will be one of the special events included in Christ Church's 100th anniversary celebrations. It's based on a teleplay by Richard Levinson and William Link; two men who wrote many episodes for the television detective series “Columbo”. This is the first time in several decades that Christ Church has presented a full-
length play, and 2007 is the perfect year to do it because the church originally started a “dramatic society” in 1907. Donald B. Campbell, who has a wealth of writing and acting experience at Fringe Theatre Festivals and other venues (in addition to a drama degree), is part of a talented cast that includes several members of the Christ Church congregation. Director David Creelman has an impressive amount of theatre training and experience and has presented many plays within church settings. Performances will be at Christ Church (Ave. E and 28th St. W) on May 10, 11 and 12 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $10.00. They're available at McNally Robinson or by calling the Christ Church office at 242-0165.
May 26 St. Matthew/Regina will be hosting the annual Lawn Sale from 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. June 2 The ordination to the priesthood of Vicky Young will take place at Gordon's First Nations. Please call 306.522.1608 for more information. June 9 and 10 St. James the Apostle/Regina invites all past members to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the church in its present location at 1105 Empress Street, Regina. Please contact Shirley at 306.543.3397 or Dorothy at 306.949.5548 to help make this reunion a memorable event. June 13 St. Matthew/Regina will offer a Cold Ham Supper beginning at 6 p.m. There are plans for a musical entertainment. For further information please call the office at
For change of address, undeliverable copies and subscription list updates contact: your parish, circulation@national.anglican.ca or send to Saskatchewan Anglican c/o Anglican Journal, 80 Hayden Street Toronto ON M4Y 3G2 Published by the dioceses of Qu’Appelle, Saskatoon and Saskatchewan. All submissions must be sent to the Associate Editors by the beginning of the last week of the month preceeding publication.
New Consecration Sunday for Church of the Holy Cross in Eston by the Reverend Joan Scandrett EASTON (QuA) - Members of the Church of the Holy Cross, Eston, participated in the New Consecration Sunday financial stewardship process. Recently 18 members placed their pledge cards in the baptismal font as a sign of their commitment to the life and work of the parish. Of those pledges 16 were increased.
Managing Editor: Fred Stephens, 51 - 10th Street NE, Weyburn SK S4H 1G8 Phone 306-842-7235 Email:skeditor@yahoo.ca Qu’Appelle: Barbara-Lynn Dixon, 41 Angus Crescent Regina SK S4T 6N1 Phone: 306-525-6935 Email:bldixon@accesscomm.ca Saskatoon: Peter Coolen, 820 Avenue I South, Saskatoon SK S7M 1Z3 Phone 306-244-0935 Email: ptrcoolen@sasktel.net Saskatchewan: The Reverend Christopher Snook, Box 198 Paradise Hill SK S0M 2G0 Phone: 306-344-5405 Email: snook.chris@gmail.com
Following the worship service, a delicious lunch was served and a time of fellowship was enjoyed by all. Thanks were given to the treasurer, Kerry Japp, and vestry members Sandra Robertson, Corlyn Lambert, Shirley Japp, Sandra Robertson, Heather Piett, and Margaret Irwin for their time and effort. Tanya Condo was the guest speaker.
Published monthly except July and August Published from 51 -10th Street NE Weyburn SK S4H 1G8 Printed and mailed from Signal Star Publishing A division of Bowes Publishers Ltd. Goderich ON N7A 4B6 Subscription rate: $10.00 in Canada; $17.00 outside Canada Whole No. 290, Vol. 33, No. 3
The Saskatchewan Anglican, May 2007 - 3
Around the Province photo Dick Kennedy
Maple Creek Karaoke front row: left to right: Josie Squire, Jan Connaroe, Dorothy Eccleston, Sybella second row: left to right Bernard Isabelle, Isabel Gordon
DIOCESE OF SASKATOON: UPCOMING EVENTS
New Warden for Diocese of Saskatchewan Lay Readers' Association
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 to begin in the paper. For example, notices supplied in the final week of August would appear in the October edition. Detailed and longer texts of events will not be included in this section but, should space allow, could be the subject of articles or notices elsewhere in the Saskatchewan Anglican. Christ Church, Saskatoon Centennial Celebrations “A Light Shines Forth” While many of the events for this celebration were held in April the following events are still to come (see articles elsewhere in this issue for details): The play “REHEARSAL FOR MURDER”; May 10th, 11th and 12th at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $10.00. They're available at McNally Robinson or by calling the Christ Church office (242-0165). “ECLIPSE” GOSPEL CONCERT; May 26th at 7 p.m. , Tickets $15 for adults and $12 for students. They're available at McNally Robinson and through Christ Church (242-0165).
Photo contributed
College of Emmanuel & St. Chad and the Lutheran Theological Seminary, Saskatoon “SPRING FESTIVAL”; May 1st, 2nd and 3rd, Guest Speakers: Dr. Dairmaid Macculloch (Theories and Personalities in the English Reformation) and the Rev. Dr. Eric W. Gritsch (The Continental Reformation as Revision and Reveille).
The Reverend Christopher Harper by Staff PRINCE ALBERT (Sask) - The Bishop of Saskatchewan announced that he has appointed the Rev. Christopher Harper as Warden of the Diocesan Lay Readers' Association. The Reverend. Harper knows the Association well, having been a Lay Reader of the Sir Geoffrey Paul Church, Onion Lake First Nation, before being called to ordained ministry. A graduate of Wycliffe College, Toronto, Mr. Harper is the Rector of the Parish of Birch Hills, Muskoday and Kinistino. With his wife Tracy,
children and a one-year-old granddaughter. He serves on both the Diocesan Executive Committee and the Diocesan Indian Council. At the moment he is heading up a project to produce a baptismal preparation video for First Nations' families. The Lay Readers' Association has the largest active membership of any organization in the Diocese with the exception of the Anglican Church Women. He succeeds as Warden the Rev. Dr. David Smith who has served in this office since 2005. The Reverend Harper is currently preparing a manual to assist Clergy with the work of training Lay Readers.
23rd Annual Fundraising Dinner, LutherCare Foundation, Wednesday, May 2nd, “Don Griffith Orchestra, Vocalist Colleen Carr”. St. George's, Saskatoon Garage Sale, Friday May 4th, 2 to 4 p.m. and Saturday, May 5th, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. George's, Saskatoon, Mothers' Day Lunch, Sunday May 13th, noon, adults $5, 12 and under $3. Anglican Cursillo Weekend, St. Peter's Abbey, Munster, Women's Weekend, May 3rd to 6th, Men's Weekend May 10th to 13th. For information or to register: Brian Hartsook, ph. 934-2520 or E-mail hartsook@sasktel.net. A Celebration of New Ministry for the Rev. Canon Michael Stonhouse; the celebration for the new Minister for the Parish of St. John's and Associated Parishes, Lloydminster, will be held on Sunday June 10 (Eve of St. Barnabas Day) at 7:00 p.m. at St. John's Church, Lloydminster.
Camp Okema 2007 Schedule Opening Work Weekend Counselor Training Work and Worship Family Camp Small Fry 1 Junior 1 Small Fry 2/Grand Junior 2 Teen Adult Camp
Les Martin Janice Kerr and Diane Otterbein TBA Janice Whitbread Dave and Janice Kerr Steve Mitchell and Gerry Warren Heather Groat and Linda VanderKamp Diane and Alan Otterbein Yvonne Mitchell and Joni Gray Barbara Deck
May 19 - 21 May 19 - 20 (begins Sat - 10 a.m., ends Sun. - 4 p.m.) June 29 - July 2 July 2 - 6 July 9 - 13 July 15 - 21 July 23 - 27 July 29 - Aug. 4 August 6 - 12 August 20 - 23
Brochures are available in parishes in the Diocese of Saskatchewan and the Diocese of Saskatoon. Register by May 15 and receive an Early Registration discount of $20. Receive the “Bring A Buddy” discount of $20 by bringing a new (to Okema) camper. For further Registration Information contact Deborah Tomyn at registrar @okema.ca or 382-8447.
4 - The Saskatchewan Anglican,
May 2007
Around the Province Three Churches Celebrating Significant Anniversaries From June to September of 2007, three Churches in the Diocese of Saskatchewan are celebrating significant anniversaries. Each celebration includes social events, special presentations, and times to offer prayer and thanksgiving for God's goodness in sustaining his missions in this Diocese. The first celebration is the 100th anniversary of St. Matthew's, Tisdale. The Mission to Tisdale had its first church constructed under the guidance of the Reverend Mr. Claud Parkerson of England in 1907. This Church was consecrated in 1925 by Bishop Lloyd. The decision to build a new Church closer to town was made in the 1960s and came to fruition on June 6, 1971, when the new St. Matthew's Church was dedicated. On June 9th, the parish invites parishoners new and old, as well as members of near-by communities who no longer have active Anglican churches, to gather for afternoon tea at the parish hall. There will be displays on view describing the history of the Church and Anglican missions in the area. That evening at 6pm the 100th anniversary banquet will be held at the Tisdale & District Golden Age Centre (1117 98th St). With a guest speaker from British Columbia, music and fellowship, the evening promises to be delightful. Tickets are $15 and must be purchased before the end of May. At 10:30 am on June 10th the community gathers for worship to give thanks for God's many blessings, and then gathers for a luncheon. Please contact Bernice Lawrence (873-2197
balawrence@sasktel.net) for details.The summer's second celebration takes place at St. Christopher's Church, Christopher Lake. Alice Pataryn (982-3733) is chairing the 75th anniversary committee and cannot wait for people to see what is happening at St. Christopher's. From the Church's renovations over the past ten years, to the recent appointment of the Rev'd Tracey Lloyd-Smith as Priest-incharge, what is happening at St. Christopher's “is encouraging to the Christian Church.” With enthusiam Mrs. Pataryn notes that the “possiblities are endless for outreach in our community.” The celebrations at St. Christopher's begin on Friday July 6 at 2pm. Refreshments will be served in the parish hall alongside displays and a powerpoint presentation on the parish's history. On Saturday there will be a pancake breakfast followed by activities throughout the day at nearby Camp Okema. In the evening there is a banquet at the local Legion, including a presentation on the Church's history, supper, and special guest Larry Kraus. Sunday morning's worship is followed by a soup and sandwich dinner. “I'm really excited!” says Mrs. Pataryn. From September 7-9, St. George's, Prince Albert celebrates its 100th anniversary. Beginning with a square dance at the East End Hall on the evening of Friday, September 7, the weekend continues with a banquet on the 8th and a special worship service the morning of the 9th. The banquet will be held at L'école Valois and features a very special guest speaker. Please contact the Rev'd Dr. David Smith for details (764-6553).
Fort Pitt Anglican Mission Sponsors Drug Awareness Programme by Christopher Snook PARADISE HILL (Sask) Beginning early in the new year a group of parents and community members gathered weekly at the Paradise Hill library for a six week intensive seminar on drug awareness. Led by Kerri Robb of Maidstone's Addiction Services, the programme followed a textbook on addictions prepared by Focus on the Family, Drug Proofing Your Kids. The programme included introductory classes on the types and effects of street drugs, a presentation by a local constable on the actual drug-use situation in this region, and consecutive classes on drug use in families. Some of the questions addressed included: how do you know if a child is experimenting with drugs? how can parents best address suspected drug and alcohol use with their children? what are the signs of addiction? what strategies best support a person who is trying to give up their drug dependency? Throughout the month and a half long series there was a consistent emphasis on the importance of spending time
with family in constructive and supportive ways. Role-playing and homework helped participants bring their learning into their homes where they were forced to think concretely about their relationships with their children and spouses. The idea for this seminar came from Elaine Reeve, a member of the vestry in Fort Pitt Anglican Mission. In response to the Mission's desire to serve its community in concrete forms of outreach, Ms. Reeve (who has herself conducted workshops on crystal meth) organized the seminar with the help of Mrs. Marjorie Steele. Fort Pitt Mission paid for the expenses of the seminar's participants and was also responsible for advertising the evening series. The series concluded on Monday, March 12. A sign of its success was the group's unanimous decision to continue meeting once a month to speak about youth issues. Others also expressed a desire to form an ecumenical youth group in Paradise Hill. All of the seminar's participants strongly encourage other communities to hold simil
ar seminars with the addictions workers in their areas. Kerri Bradshaw noted a number of reasons why these seminars are important: “I think parents need to be more informed than their children about what kinds of drugs there are because of how harmful they are to them. Parents need to help their children with self-esteem and peer pressure as well. The more the parents are equipped the more they know what to watch for in their children. The biggest reason is that most parents think that their children won't be affected and they need to know that it could be their children even if they are brought up in a good home and then they also need to know how to cope with the issues if they do come up.” The seminars are wonderful opportunities to learn about the pressures facing our youth. In additon to this, they are an ideal way to share with other parents the struggles and concerns of raising a family. Fort Pitt Mission hopes that the friendships deepened during this six-week seminar will bear fruit in the service of our community. CORRECTION: The article on St. David's Church, Prince Albert, which appeared in April's edition of the Saskatchewan Anglican was written by Noreen Hareuther, not by the Rev'd Guy Bellerby. GRANDMA'S AGE: Little Johnny asked his grandma how old she was. Grandma answered, “Thirty nine and holding! Johnny thought for a moment, and then said, "And how old would you be if you let go?"
Photo Contributed
Moonlight and Roses in Fort Qu’Appelle
Fort Pitt Drug Awareness Participants
Moonlight and Roses in Fort Qu’Appelle (cont’d) by Sue Boxall
photo Ross Cowan
left to right: Lily Ellis, Jeff Sawatsky
FT. QU'APPELLE (QuA) - It was a cold, blustery night when most would not venture outside but the hall at St. John Church in Fort Qu'Appelle was full on the evening of February 3, 2007. Despite the weather, people had ventured out from as far away as Regina to be at this fourth, annual gourmet dinner, Moonlight and Roses. There was a sense of antici
pation in the air as people found their tables then, cocktail in hand, went to look at all the items on display for the silent auction. Sharp at 7 p.m. the Master of Ceremonies, Ross Cowan, made a few introductions then the main part of the evening began: a sumptuous, five-course meal prepared by Andy Frank of Franks ProBarbecue. A small army of volunteers worked as his assistants in the kitchen while the Fort Qu'Appelle Sea Cadets and
other volunteers served the wonderful delights. Between courses, guests were encouraged to place bids on the auction items, all donated by local businesses and individuals. Soon the meal was over and all sat back with a glass of wine ready for the incredible voice of Jeff Sawatsky to serenade them. And what a voice it was. Jeff has sung in many venues around the country so it was a treat to have someone so talented to entertain the group that evening. After a while he was joined by the beautiful soprano voice of Jodi Scott. They ended the evening with a lovely sung prayer and all set off for home with a warm glow in their hearts.
The Saskatchewan Anglican, May 2007 - 5
Around the Province Mystery Meal hosted by St. Mary Confirmation Class in Kindersley by the Reverend Joan Scandrett KINDERSLEY (QuA) - On Sunday, March 25, the members of the St. Mary confirmation class hosted a mystery meal for their parents and mentors. Place mats were hand decorated by the candidates and, to help them become familiar with using their bibles, included a bible verse. The adults were given black garbage bags to wear, to cover the possibility that eating may be a messy business. The menu consisted of nine items, each with a disguised name. The adults chose three items at a time and much hilarity ensued as the meal progressed as people attempted to eat spaghetti with different kinds of utensils and spoon up meat sauce with lettuce leaves because they had ordered no eating utensil.
Full House for Nash Lecture by the Reverend Malcolm French REGINA - Cinematic retellings of the story of Jesus were the focus of the 28th annual Nash Lecture at Campion College. Professor Lloyd Baugh, SJ, a Canadian, teaches theology, spirituality and film studies at the Gregorian University in Rome and is the author of Imaging the Divine: Jesus and Christ Figures in Film. Speaking to a full house, Professor Baugh began by contrasting scriptural and film accounts of Jesus: "Cinema invents a Jesus of its own and serves him up to the spectator in a clear, precise and concrete way, artfully designed to be easily and quickly digested during the two hours of the show," Baugh said. "The filmic portrait of Jesus in its style, its content and its reception is radically different from the Jesus encountered in and through the Gospel text.?" Baugh looked at specific examples of Jesus in film, including The Last Temptation of Christ (Scorcese), Jesus of Nazareth (Zefferelli), The Gospel According to Saint Matthew (Pasolini) and The Passion of the Christ (Gibson). In each case, Baugh's focus was on the problem of source. Even Pasolini's film, acknowledged as the most faithful to the Gospel text, finds the story influenced by Pasolini's Marxism, which, according to Baugh, "makes Jesus into an intellectual revolutionary leader."Baugh identifies a more common problem in the tendency to make Jesus as inoffensive as possible. Thus, for example, Zefferelli's Jesus is "a superficial saviour, with neither spiritual or moral authority," according to Baugh. Gibson's Passion, while avoiding that pitfall, faces its own problems with sources. Despite claims that it is faithful to the Gospel text, Gibson relies very heavily on medieval sources, including the visions of the German mystic Anne Catherine Emmerich, from whom Gibson draws such elements as Satan's appearance in Gethsemane and the bribing of the crowds by Jewish
Photo by Joan Scandrett
Denise Hanley with her plate of spaghetti and meat sauce and no utensils; Maxine Donaldson showing a unique way to eat spaghetti; Wayne Kelley eating meat sauce with a soup ladel
Photo by Joan Scandrett
Garth Weinhandl modelling his black garbage bag Photo by Joan Scandrett
Nash Lecture (cont’d) authorities. As Professor Baugh observed: "these elements . . . woven together, heavily modulated by the most recent technological innovations that cinema offers . . . seduce most spectators into believing that what they are experiencing is the exact reality lived by Jesus, the authentic Gospel." Next, Baugh examines the use of allegorical depictions of Christ in movies as diverse as Shane (Stevens) and Superman Returns (Singer). Among the most overt and yet most authentic of the metaphorical representations Baugh identifies is the character of Aslan in The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Adamson ). According to Baugh, "it is the powerful moral energy of the film's narrative and the visual representation of its elements that allow us to glimpse behind the allegory, the essence of the Christian Gospel, and that convinces us absolutely." The authentic story of Jesus will continue to provide a rich source for film makers. As our society becomes less and less literate about scripture, distorted presentations of the Jesus story will go unchallenged or even unnoticed by moviegoers. But this challenge is also an opportunity. From a Christian perspective, any element of popular culture that makes people curious about Jesus creates an opening for mission. It was because Jesus was something of a pop culture phenomenon in Roman occupied Palestine that a group of Greeks approached the disciple Philip to say, "Sir, we would see Jesus." The Nash Lectures honour Peter Nash, SJ, the first President of Campion College upon its federation with the University of Regina.
candidates: Jaret Ternes, Dane McNichol, Blaine Donaldson, Janaya Hanley, Nicole Crump
Saskatoon Diocesan Council Meeting By: Peter Coolen -- SASKATOON - In addition to discussing Reports, the Fair Share Levy, External Grants, Clergy Supply Rates and General Synod items the March 3rd, 2007 Diocesan Council Meeting discussed the Hospital Chaplain Ministry and a presentation from Integrity Saskatoon concerning the “Study and Discussion Guide on Same Sex Blessings for use in the Diocese of Saskatoon”. A brief presentation was also made by Mrs. Elaine Hrycenko on the results of the “Guyana or Bust” trip made by her and Ms. Jacqueline Plante to visit the Mothers' Union in our companion Diocese of Guyana. In regard to the Hospital Chaplain Ministry it was noted that the Rev. Joe Ponic had made a presentation at the 2006 Diocesan Synod concerning the Hospital Chaplain Ministry and the need for it to be made a full time, rather than a half-time position. Later discussions within Council in the fall of 2006 had looked at removing the Hospital Chaplain Ministry completely as a cost saving measure in view of the Diocese's financial situation. Following discussion at the March Diocesan Council meeting it was concluded that the Hospital Chaplain Ministry was both a very valuable and necessary part of the Diocesan 's outreach and that it performed a very vital service to those in hospital. Therefore it was decided that the Hospital Chaplain Ministry should continue to be funded to at least its present half-time level. All of this however bearing in mind
the fact that the position of Hospital Chaplain is now vacant, the Rev. Joe Ponic having resigned the position of Hospital Chaplain to assume the position of Interim Rector In Charge at St. James, Saskatoon. In 2006 Integrity Saskatoon attended the autumn Diocesan Council Meeting to request that it be allowed to comment on the “Study and Discussion Guide on Same Sex Blessings for use in the Diocese of Saskatoon” distributed in 2006. Integrity Saskatoon was concerned that the Guide did not have input from representatives of the gay community in its preparation and lacked a gay Anglican perspective. Following discussion Integrity was asked to make a more complete presentation at the next meeting of Council. At the March 3rd, 2007 Diocesan Council Meeting Integrity Saskatoon made a presentation and tabled several papers for review and discussion. After the discussion Council decided that it would rescind the current guide and that it would consider a process for developing a new guide which would include input from representatives of the gay community and Integrity Saskatchewan. The following motion was passed at a meeting of the Diocesan Council: “That all parishes in the Diocese, and any groups outside the Diocese that were forwarded the study guide, be informed of the Diocesan Council motion to rescind the current study guide.”
6 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, May 2007
Around the Province Easter Joy in Onion Lake First Nation by the Reverend Christopher Snook ONION LAKE FIRST NATION (Sask) - Onion Lake First Nation concluded Holy Week this year with a joyful Easter celebration and parish supper. Holy week in the community began with Evensong on Holy Tuesday, and continued with services on Thursday, Friday and a latenight vigil on Saturday. Daniel Watson, who joined the parish six months ago, sang the ancient Exultet beautifully at the Vigil, and the small group of parishoners in attendance were deeply moved by the blessing of the new fire, of water, the reading of the prophecies and the First Communion of Easter. "Beautiful," said the
New Priest for All Saints Church, Regina
parish wardens, Florence Harper and Ivy Houle. Fifty people attended the Sunday morning Easter Eucharist which included eight baptisms. Following service the parish hosted a turkey and ham "Meet the Priest" supper. One of the parish children declared that the Easter service was "the best Church service ever!" The supper is the third event in a series of outreach initiatives undertaken by the parish. The first was a parish newsletter distributed to 810 households in Lent; the second is monthly rummage sales in the Church basement; and there are further plans for Mother's and Father's day suppers as well as a summer parish BBQ and day camp. May God continue to bless the people of Onion Lake First Nation.
Photo contributed
Easter at Onion Lake First Nations
photo Grant Schellhorn.
Cannon Herbert O'Driscoll, the Reverent Patricia McCarthy, Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson
Staff REGINA - "Be among us as preacher of the Word of God and teacher of the faith" was the invitation to the Reverend Dr. Patricia "Trish" McCarthy as she was presented with a bible at her induction at All Saints Church March 25. Her response was: "1 invite you all to join with me in proclaiming the Gospel of life." A large congregation was present to celebrate the official start of her ministry as their new priest. Presiding at the Sunday evening celebration was Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson assisted by Archdeacon Helena Houldcroft and the Revered Dr. Carlos Roberts, Regional Dean of Wascana. They were joined by other deanery clergy and ecumenical guests .Preacher for the service was Canon HerbertO'Driscoll, retired Dean of New Westminster
(Vancouver) and former warden of the College of Preachers in Washington, DC. He told the congregation "It's not just the task of the priest and not just for the vestry and wardens. Moving forward in the parish's life requires the gifts and ministries of all of you. A mysterious thing happens when we put all our ordinariness together: the ordinary becomes extraordinary." One by one, representatives of the parish, young and old, presented their new priest with gifts symbolic of her ministry. Among them were: the Water of Baptism, the Oil of Anointing, the Canons (rules) of the Diocese, the worship books used in the congregation, the Chalice and Paten of the Holy Eucharist and a lighted candle symbolizing ministry with all generations. Each gift was given with "Be among us..." and words appropriate to their use; the new priest' s response began "1 invite you to join me..."
As the Keys to the Church were presented the new priest was told "Let the doors of this place be open to everyone," with the response "I invite you to join with me in welcoming all who would come into the fellowship of the people of God." The Reverend Arthur Anderson of the Parish of the Cree People presented a copy of the bible in Cree in recognition of the special relationship developing between All Saints Church and Gordon and Daystar First Nations. A special presentation was a copy of the Lutheran Book of Worship by the Reverend Jeff Tank of Our Savior Lutheran Church honouring the relationship of full communion between the Anglican Church of Canada and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada. The Reverend Doug Ponto of Whitmore Park United Church extended an ecumenical handshake of welcome. The Reverend Trish McCarthy was ordained deacon in the Diocese Toronto in 1992 and priest the following year in the Cathedral Church of the Redeemer in the Diocese of Calgary. She has served parishes in the Dioceses of Calgary and Niagara. She holds degrees from St. Michael and Trinity Colleges, University of Toronto, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee. In addition to parish ministry, she has served on many diocesan committees and has led training sessions in ministry development and spiritual growth. Her husband, Art Howell, a westerner by birth, is an agrologist.
“The joy is what I will remember.” by Ivan Millard REGINA - One of the three ministers who began the shared ministry at Living Spirit Centre has retired. Pastor Jerry Borkowski, who served Bread of Life Lutheran Church for 18 years, had his last services on Saturday and Sunday, February 24 and 25. Both services were shared with St. Philip Anglican. All three congregations celebrated Pastor Jerry' Borkowski's years of service with a supper and an acknowledgement program attended by nearly 300. Archdeacon Helena Houldcroft from St. Philip said, “Any pastor or priest wants to think they helped even one person fallin love with God. Jerry has helped
many, many people fall in love with God.” The minister of Eastside United the Reverend Dawn Rolke told Jerry, “You have a pastor's heart.” The evening included a message from Lutheran Bishop Cindy Halmarson, hymns and songs by the joint choir, a power point review of his ministry, a Youth Ministry skit, and a “roast.” Gifts were presented by each congregation with a laptop computer and golf tour certificate from all of Living Spirit Centre. Pastor Jerry Borkowski and his wife Vi had the last word. Jerry said, ”I didn't realize how hard it is to retire. The joy is what I will remember.” The evening ended with everyone singing Farewell to Vi and Jerry.
photo submitted
photo Derwin Arnstead
left to right Vi Borkowski, Pastor Jerry Borkowski
left to right, Dominique Chartrand, Katrina Currie St. Paul Cathedral, Regina, offered the Passion through dance and song for the Good Friday service with original music composed by David L. McIntyre, organist at the Cathedral.
The Saskatchewan Anglican, May 2007 - 7
THE REV. SHAWN SANFORD BECK ISSUE By: Peter Coolen --SASKATOON -- On February 7th, 2007 the Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck of Saskatoon sent an open letter to the Diocese stating his resolve and the reasons behind his decision that he would, when asked, officiate at same-sex marriages and offer blessings on same-sex unions. This letter has resulted in numerous articles, aroused much comment and letters to the editors in the local and national press and on television. However in all of this information and discussion the actual text of the letter which would help in developing a proper discernment of the author's intent and his defense of his position has been omitted. To help provide this missing context to the discussion the text of the Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck's letter follows. “AN OPEN LETTER TO THE CHURCH Conversion of St. Paul, 2007 Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, As you are no doubt aware, our church finds itself in a turbulent, confusing, and painful time. Many issues are involved in our current struggles: authority, hermeneutics, ethical and theological visions and convictions, and the complex relationships of gender, power, and patriarchy. Though the “presenting issue” is the place of LGBTT folk in the Body of Christ, the roots of our conflict go much deeper. As a priest in the midst of this struggle, it has become clear to me after much prayer and soul-searching, that my spiritual conscience can no longer abide by the laws which I am required to uphold in regard to the blessing of same-sex unions and marriages. It is my conviction that our current ban on such practices is theologically problematic and fundamentally unjust. Upholding such a position (even unwillingly) forces me to bend severely (if not break) my priestly vows, my baptismal covenant, and the Word of God inscribed within my heart. I therefore publicly declare that I will, when requested, officiate at same-sex marriages and offer blessing upon committed same sex unions. I will no longer discriminate against homosexual people when it comes to the exercise of my priestly duties. I am aware, of course, that the stance I am taking will likely lead to serious consequences, and I am prepared to face these consequences openly and publicly. It may be helpful to consider my action a form of ecclesiastical civil disobedience. With conflict and rhetoric rising in the worldwide communion, too many queer brothers and sisters are being further marginalized and excluded. In some parts of the world, this takes the form of outright violence: as I write, the coordinator of Changing Attitude (a sister organization of Integrity) in Nigeria is living under a death threat from his “fellow Christians”. Here at home, it is often a more subtle form of oppression: exclusion rendered invisible. As a priest and leader in the
Letters church, my complicity in upholding our current law makes me at least partially responsible for the ongoing suffering of LGBTT Christians, and I can no longer take part in that. If my current action helps render visible that which has been made invisible, then I will be happy to bear the consequences. I too will stand “outside the gate”, where so many other queer Christians have been sent. To be clear, there are three main reasons for my choice of taking this stance. On one level, this is a clear issue of justice, solidarity, and human rights. On another level, this is an issue of evangelism: our church's continuing discrimination against LGBTT people is a scandal which keeps many of my peers from being able to hear the good news of Jesus. And finally, this is an issue of personal integrity: I can no longer, in good conscience, uphold a law which I consider unjust, as well as theologically deficient. Some might say that my actions sidestep the legitimate process of discernment underway in the church. I understand that concern, and I have wrestled long and hard over what to do, working within our established canons and structures to the best of my ability. However, I also see my current course of action as being part of the wider church's discernment. We have heard many arguments about the cost of blessing same-sex marriages and ordaining unclosetted queer folk; we also need to recognize that there is a cost as well to not moving in this direction. The cost is a huge amount of suffering for LGBTT Christians who are pressured to remain silent. The cost is that some of us, straight and gay, will no longer be able to abide the status quo, and we will simply cease to obey an unjust law. The cost is that others will quietly leave. That reality needs to be part of our church's discernment. In this, I am not leaving the church, nor relinquishing my orders. Instead, I offer my current action, with all its consequences, for the ongoing discernment of the Body. Yours in the unquiet peace of Christ, The Rev. Shawn Sanford Beck” As a result of this letter and subsequent conversations between Shawn and Bishop Rodney Andrews, Shawn's license in the Diocese was cancelled and replaced with a temporary license which expired at the end of March. Bishop Rodney offered to extend Shawn's license beyond March 31st if he was willing to refrain from performing same-sex marriages however Shawn was unwilling to make such a commitment. Although conversations may continue between Shawn and Bishop Andrews, Shawn is now no longer licensed in the Diocese and is considered “on leave with no permission to officiate”. Shawn has resigned his position with the Saskatoon Native Ministry. Shawn will continue however to teach a course at St. Andrew's College, will continue his involvement with Integrity Saskatoon and intends to continue to be active in the religious life of our community while focusing more energy and time on his family.
The Editor, The Saskatchewan Anglican Re: The first stone church in Western Canada. While admiring the beautiful, newlyrenovated stone church Holy Trinity, Deer Creek, SK. as featured in the March, 2007 issue, I am obliged to claim St. Lucy's Anglican, Dilke, SK. as the earliest "little stone church" to be built in Saskatchewan, if not in the whole of Western Canada. Begun on August 14, 1914, St. Lucys was dedicated December 13, 1914. (My father, Henry S. McArton helped to cut the stones for this church.) (See article from "The Sask Anglican," 2004, encl.) Sincerely, Eleanor Long.
PRAYERS: The Sunday Scool teacher asked, “Now Johnny, tell me, do you say prayers before eating?" "No sir," He replied, "we don’t have to. My mom is a good cook!”
“GUYANA or BUST”, a THANK YOU By: Jacqueline Plante and Elaine Hrycenko Editor's note: This is the third in a series of three articles the first two having appeared in the March and April editions of the Saskatchewan Anglican. Jacqueline Plante is Patroness of the Diocese of Saskatoon's ACW and the wife of Bishop Rodney Andrews; Elaine Hrycenko is Convener of Mission Projects and Social Action, Diocese of Saskatoon ACW and the Diocesan ACW link with the Mothers' Union in Guyana Greetings to all: We sincerely thank the Diocese of Saskatoon for the support given to our Mission to Guyana. It was an honor to be representatives of the Diocese of Saskatoon in the Diocese of Guyana. We were officially sent by the Diocese of Saskatoon ACW to our Sisters, the Mother's Union, in the Diocese of Guyana. The Mother's Union had planned a very interesting, intense and safe 2 week itinerary which we enjoyed immensely.
As stated in the purpose of this trip's plan, we did celebrate together the faith we share in our Lord Jesus Christ, we did affirm our fellowship in the Gospel within the Anglican Communion, we did learn from each other, and we did find ways to support and encourage each other in mission. This was done in our visits, planned and implemented by the Mother's Union, to the many parishes, congregations, vestries, youth groups and especially the Mother's Union gatherings. Wherever we went, were warmly received and welcomed, honored as visiting Sisters from the Diocese of Saskatoon, Canada, given gifts and given many hugs and kisses. We felt so loved. Testimonies and witnesses of God working in our (Elaine, Jacqueline and Mother's Union leader) lives were shared. We prayed, sang, danced, laughed and cried together - the Mother's Union of the Diocese of Guyana and the ACW of the Diocese of Saskatoon. To God be all the glory. With much thanks to the entire Diocese of Saskatoon, Jacqueline Plante & Elaine Hrycenko
ECLIPSE KICKS OFF CENTENNIAL CONCERT SERIES AT CHRIST CHURCH By: John Seib -- SASKATOON -- Christ Church's rafters will ring with the sounds of Eclipse, Saskatoon's hottest entertainment chorus! This first of a series of performances to celebrate Christ Church's centennial will feature Eclipse's program of gospel, pop and a rousing repertoire guaranteed to have audiences clapping, tapping and singing along. The popular group is directed by Wes Froese and BJ Harris and features the talents of 35 singers. This first concert of the Centennial Concert Series will be held on Saturday, May 26th at 7 p.m. in Christ Church's Parish Hall. The Centennial Concert Series will continue throughout the year and feature both local and 'imported' talent. Angie Tysseland, well-known composer, performer and musical director at St. James' will present her newest song collection, “The Gospel of Mary Magdalene” in June
and more performances are being scheduled. Proceeds from the concert series will build Christ Church's 'Centennial Fund' which will be used to provide support for community outreach and program development. Direct donations to the 'Centennial Fund' are also most welcome; an information package is available by contacting the church at 242-0165 or email christanglicanst@sasktel.net. Tickets for Eclipse will be available at McNally Robinson and through Christ Church (242-0165) at $15 for adults and $12 for students. Get your tickets early, seating is limited!
8 - The Saskatchewan Anglican,
May 2007
A Matter of Doctrine... Chair of the Primate’s Theological Commission Addresses theQu’Appelle Diocese Synod The Right Reverend Victoria Mathews, Bishop of Edmonton, is chair of the Primate’s Theological Commission. That Commission, having been asked to determine whether the issue of the blessing of same sex unions is a matter of doctrine, arrived at their decision inApril 2005. Bishop Victoria has travelled many miles and spoken to many audiences in an attempt to educate Anglicans about this issue. Because the matter will be debated at the General Synod in Winnipeg this June, and a determination (with respect to due process, at least) will be made, it is important to understand the issues. Her address to the Diocese of Qu’Appelle Synod is therefore reproduced, for the most part, below.
ST. MICHAEL REPORT: AN INTRODUCTION On June 2nd, 2004, General Synod was slated to discuss the blessing of same-sex unions' by means of a resolution, which read in part: “That this General Synod affirm the authority and jurisdiction of any diocesan synod, with the concurrence of its bishop, to authorize the blessing of samesex unions” This “section 2” was deferred to the 2007 General Synod with an amendment that said that this General Synod “Request that the Primate ask the Primate's Theological Commission to review, consider and report to the Council of General Synod, by its Spring 2006 meting, whether the blessing of committed same-sex unions is a matter of doctrine”. At this point let me explain my own rather strange relationship to the amendment. During the time . the General Synod was debating the resolution and the amendment to defer, I was under general anesthetic having a bilateral mastectomy! When I came to, not absolutely right away but fairly soon after, I asked how General Synod had
voted. I was told that it was deferred to the Primate's Theological Commission. I thought to myself that they meant Faith, Worship and Ministry and went back to sleep, But the next morning I called my secretary Barb White from the hospital and asked the same question. I got the same answer. I have to tell you I have found it quite amusing that they handed it to thte person who absolutely couldn't refuse at the moment! Of course the request was really to the then Primate-elect (Andrew Hutchison) and I appreciate his willingness to do as he was asked. Later in June he did ask the Primate's TheologicalCommission to decide if we thought the matter of the blessing of same-sex committed unions was doctrinal. He also asked that we try to have our answer by the Fall of 2005. The Primate's Theological Commission decided that was still too late and we put enormous energy into having the report by the Council of General Synod meeting in May 2005... The Report was finished in early April 2005 and we sent it for printing. In early May, Lisa Wang and Madeleine Urion joined me at the meeting of the Council of General Synod, meeting in Mississauga. I was surprised that the Council of General Synod had allotted only 20 minutes for the Report. Consequently we simply read aloud the Brief Overview and of the Report to back up each of those statements. There were few questions. In fact, almost immediately, questions were addressed to Ron Stephenson, the Chancellor of General Synod, about the implications of our “opinion”. How many General Synods does it take to change doctrine? The Chancellor replied that General Synod did not have a mechanism per se to change doctrine but that we understood some canons, such as the General Synod canon #21, to enshrine doctrine, and it took two Synods to change a canon substantially. Indeed it requires a 2/3 majority in each house, each time. Do you see what happened at Council of General Synod? There was very little interest in really engaging the Report. There was much more energy for figuring out if the Report was a barrier to, or an aid for, the passing of a resolution about the blessing of committed same-sex unions. Such is the anxiety in our denomination! However today we are not here to debate how “canoni cal”
Photo by Sue Boxall
The Right Reverend Victoria Matthews, Bishop of Edmonton of the Eucharist. And we along because our church is still get along because our able to embrace both. church is able to embrace both. In terms of the sacrament of In terms of the sacrament of baptism we live with a BCP that baptism we live with a BCP that requires parents and godparents requires parents and godparents to take responsibility for their questions are variously handled children's confirmation when by General Synod. I am here to they reach a certain age; but in invite you to engage theologithe BAS we have a view of bapcally with the large question of tism that clearly says that it is a how you understand doctrine as complete and final sacrament of an Anglican and secondly, initiation. Confirmation in the where you perceive the question BAS is a renewal of baptismal of the blessing of committed vows, and has prayers for the same-sex unions to lie, vis-à-vis strengthening and defending other doctrines of the Church.. power of the Holy Spirit, rather Just how big an issue than the giving of the Spirit as is the blessing of committed presented in the BCP. The BCP same-sex unions? It seems assumes confirmation is normahuge because it has rocked our tive prior to the reception of holy Communion so hard. But I communion, the BAS says all invite you to think about the who are baptized may receive. theological differences (about The list goes on. We already live some really, really important with differences, but they are difissues) we live with day in and ferences that we don't trip over. day out. So when I hear that the To give a couple of examPrimate's Theological ples: the sentence in the BCP Commission should never have for the administration of bread said that the blessing of commitat the Eucharist is “The Body of ted same-sex unions should not our Lord Jesus Christ, which be a communion breaking issue, was given for thee, preserve thy I ask you to consider what it is body and soul unto everlasting that is truly upsetting people. Is life: Take and eat this in it that third world Primates are remembrance that Christ died suggesting that North American for thee, and feed on him in thy Anglicans aren't faithful heart by faith with thanksgivChristians and are threatening to ing”. close ranks? I find that pretty That sentence has two parts: upsetting. Is it the realization the first half boldly declares the that the absence of a central sacrament as “the Body of our teaching authority for the Lord Jesus Christ”. The second Anglican Church sometimes half speaks of reception “in thy leaves us feeling like a ship withheart by faith with thanksgivout an anchor? I find that pretty ing”. In that one sentence we upsetting. Is it that we realize have side by side two different that faithful, praying, Bible-readunderstandings of the Eucharist. ing, church-going Anglicans can We live as Anglicans with do everything they can think of people and clergy who hold to convince other Anglicans of quite different theologies of the their point of view on this Eucharist. And we still get (Anglicans who
also pray, read Scripture and go to church) and we are still divided? What does that say about the diverse ways in which we read Scripture and hear God speak? Or, does it mean that we are engaged in a power struggle with neither side swayed by the actions and statements of the other? hat we do know is that there is a sense of urgency to this discussion. Many on both sides of the question believe, in good conscience, that the Holy Spirit is calling the church to take a stand on this. (Mind you they don't agree on what the stand should be). Thus the Commission is agreed that this matter must be addressed as a matter of doctrine, i.e. it involves the vital teachings of the Gospel. Not the doctrines that declare who God is and what God, the Holy Trinity, does, but nevertheless the teaching of the church about the life of Christian discipleship. We know that there are those who claim that the question of the blessing of committed samesex unions is of the “highestimportance”, because there are those who believe same gender relations involving sexual activity is such a serious sin that it puts “the salvation of people in such relationships in jeopardy” (para graph 23). That is a pretty harsh reading of Scripture (1 Corinthians 6.9) and it is inter esting that we do not hear the other sins listed in that verse being held up as being “salvation breakers” for those who commit them without repentance. One of the sins in that list is greed. Some would say Anglicans could almost claim a monopoly on the sin of greed. But we don't fret! And what about drunkenness? Again we don't get as upset as we do over sex. On the other hand, there are other Anglicans who “argue that we fail the Gospel mandate when we uphold social taboos and systems that serve to keep people who seek such from fellowship with God (Romans 3.21-25; 2 Corinthians 5.1621)”. In light of this great divide in our interpretation of Scripture, the Primate's Theological Commission believes there is an urgent need for a dialogue where participants agree to pay full and careful attention to Scripture and especially to the authority of the whole witness and its claim upon the Church.
The Saskatchewan Anglican, May 2007 - 9 One of the very important arguments of the St. Michael Report is found beginning with paragraph 13. It addresses the development of doctrine. “The history of Christian theology demonstrates that over time doctrines have developed and changed. Some such developments are viewed as true and some as false”. How can this be? Well, let me give an example: In the early centuries of Christianity, baptism was the sacrament of spiritual birth into the Body of Christ and the way one's sins were forgiven through the death and resurrection of Christ. What that meant was if you were baptized and then committed what was understood to be a very serious sin, such as offering a sacrifice to pagan gods in order to save your life, thereby denying Christ, there was no recourse to further forgiveness. Over time it was realized that the Cross of Christ and baptism in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit open up the possibility of forgiveness time and again for those truly repentant. So the doctrine of reconciliation (the forgiveness of sins) was developed and embraced as “Gospel”. Another and perhaps the most important example is usury - the loaning of money for personal gain, i.e. charging interest. In the Middle Ages this was a hard and fast rule, i.e. Christians were not allowed to do it. But now we know Christians loan money for interest both as the church (the Anglican Foundation for building projects) and as members of secular society (e.g. bankers) .My last example is the Sabbath. Keeping the Sabbath is one of the Ten Commandments and a key piece of the Law. Think how Jesus was criticized for healing people on the Sabbath. And remember it is Jesus in the Gospel who says “The Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath”. Growing up I remember lots of peers who were not allowed to go to movies on Sunday. Not so today. Has Scripture changed? No. Has society changed? Yes. Has how we read scripture changed? Yes. Are we sure we now have it “right”? Not at all, but we keep going. If there is one conviction I hope you will carry away with you at the end of today, it is that there are faithful, believing, praying Bible reading Anglicans on all sides of the present debate. Not every person who says no to the blessing of committed same-sex unions is a fundamentalist. Nor is everyone who holds this conviction over the age of 50. Nor are they homophobic. On the other side, not every one who is “in favour” of or open to the blessing of committed same-sex unions, is irresponsible about reading and studying Scripture. I know people who radically disagree about this issue who are, without exception, some of the finest Christians imaginable. So please let's not demonize or characterize the other side as 'simply wrong'.Culture: The role of culture is an important consideration when we struggle with this issue. It is important because from the early days of Christianity, it was understood that preaching the Gospel demands that the preacher understand the local culture. And because you need to stand alongside and preferably inside the culture if you are going to evangelize for the sake of the Gospel, the expression of the Gospel has always been influenced by
local culture. Let's talk about “Christian” marriage for a moment. Think how many different models of marriage we have in Scripture and Christian history. Models which we do not require or even recommend in our culture. 1. In Scripture and various cultures today there are numerous instances of polygamy. 2. There is the instance of Abraham asking Sarah his wife, to pretend she is his sister so he isn't killed by local tribesmen (Genesis 20). 3. We have Mary, mother of our Lord, who is in her early teens and betrothed to Joseph but not married. When it is discovered she is pregnant she is in danger of being stoned. 4. In numerous cultures marriage is a contract involving the exchange of property. One important piece of property is the woman. Our own church has changed 5. from believing that marriage is to help people avoid the sin of fornication and for the sake of having children, to an understanding in the BAS that children are a probable but not necessary outcome, and that marriage is largely about the couple's “mutual comfort and help, that they may know each other with delight and tenderness in acts of love” . . . . caring for each other in good times and in bad”. That reflects huge changes of perception...So in conclusion, why does this issue of the blessing of committed same-sex unions matter so much? It matters because it addresses who we are as the children of God, in relation with one another and with God, and helps us determine how we are meant to live by the two great commandments “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength; and love your neighbour as yourself”. Getting that right is truly important. The Marriage Canon of General Synod states that marriage is a doctrine of our church. It has to do with the teaching of the Gospel. It isn't the heart of the Gospel - on that I hope we can all agree - but there is in the Gospel a lot of teaching about marriage and the marital relationships. For its day it is extremely progressive. When we were asked, as the Primate's Theological Commission, to determine whether we thought the blessing of committed same-sex unions was doctrinal (a matter of doctrine), we said yes! And I will conclude with briefly listing some of our reasons: 1. We believe it is a matter of doctrine because what is proposed in the blessing of a same-sex union is analogous to marriage. (Sometimes called the duck test: if it walks like a duck, looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, then?) i.e. two people profess their love for each other, make a commitment to the exclusion of all others, promise life long fidelity; exchange vows and ask a blessing. Sounds like marriage . . . . and marriage is a doctrine. 2. We believe it is a matter of doctrine because the doctrine of creation claims that the creation of man and woman is the pinnacle of creation (Genesis 1.31; 2.18,19). The two genders seem made for one another and are necessary for the procreation of children... The fact we are created by God, redeemed by Christ and invited into lives of holiness through the power of the Spirit means we have a share in the divine life, i.e. God's very self (2 Peter 1.4). Is there something;
anything, about recognizing same-sex unions and blessing them that is inherently wrong because it necessarily moves away from the gender complementarity of male and female? Does the extraordinary grace of participating in the divine life come to an abrupt halt if the genders are the same and not different? Is the grace or gift of participating in the divine life open to Christian heterosexual couples and single people but not same-sex couples? 3. By determining that the matter of the blessing of same-sex unions is doctrinal, the Primate's Theological Commission is not denying that it is also a huge concern pastorally. Nor do we think we can separate doctrine from pastoral concern. In whatever direction our church proceeds, we need to find ways to be doctrinally vigilant and pastorally present. It is essential to who we are in Christ, i.e. forgiven sinners each and every one of us, that we proceed in ways that are deeply respectful of the dignity and integrity of the gay and lesbian members of our church (and those who are not members of the church).
One of the Member's Concerns: Bishop Gregory and fellow synod delegates, My name is Ray Russell. I am a lay delegate from St. James, Regina, I would like to make a comment for the consideration of all delegates and in particular those who will be attending as representatives of this diocese at the upcoming general synod. My comment follows from Bishop Victoria Matthews' presentation yesterday on the matter of performing and blessing same sex marriages. If we sincerely believe, as we proclaim to do, that all humankind is created in the image of god. and if we sincerely believe, as we proclaim to do, that all humankind is equal in the eyes of God, what are we afraid of? NEVER
GOD -- GRACIE ALLEN
PUT A PERIOD WHERE
HAS PUT A COMMA
The Diocese of Qu'Appelle's Camp Harding is situated in the beautiful Cypress Hills Provincial Park in southwest Saskatchewan. The Cypress Hills are approximately 30 km southwest of Maple Creek on Highway 21. This unique forest environment of lodge pole pine encourages the campers to grow spiritually and socially through an appreciation of nature and Christian fellowship. The camp has four updated cabins with each cabin sleeping eight campers and two counsellors. The counsellors are under the direction of a trained director who oversees all camp related activities. Add to this a chaplain, a crafts coordinator, and a certified cook and you have all the makings of an excellent camp. Co-ed camping activities include worship, swimming at the Cypress Hills Pool, mini golf, games, horseback riding, beach activities, canoeing, archery, campfires and religious education: all with a focus on building a healthy Christian lifestyle. Camp Harding Needs You! Adults are always needed. Come and enjoy the great outdoors; bring your family and share the fun. Share your talents with the children: be a counsellor; teach crafts; lead the religious education; bring your guitar for campfires. Everyone has the ability to work for Jesus, to spread the gospel the way Christ intended. At Camp Harding we offer campers a unique opportunity to grow in faith while enjoying Christian fellowship. We provide the opportunity for everyone to explore and share his or her gifts and learn how we can better serve God in our daily lives. Registration form: A $15.00 non-refundable registration fee must be sent with this form. The remaining $135.00 is due the first day of camp. (total $150.00) Junior Campers pay $25.00 per day or $150.00 for the week. All campers must register between 2 and 4 p. m. on Sunday. Surname_____________________ Given Name_______________ Date of Birth_________________ Gender M F Age at time of camp______ Address_____________________________________________ Phone Number(s) ____________________________________ Camps attending: Juniors: 6 to 9 years; July 15 - 21 Junior Campers must be born before December 31, 2001 [ ] For Junior Camp Only: Full week [ ] Days Only [ ] circle which day(s) Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed, Thur, Fri, Intermediate: 9 to 12 years; July 22 - 28 [ ] Teens: 12 to 15 years; August 5 - 11 [ ] Parent or Guardian _____________________________ Address___________________________________________________________ ____ Phone________________________ Signature_____________________ Please mail this form to Ev. Southwood,P. O. Box 1030, Maple Creek, SK, S0N 1N0. For further information about the camp please contact Beth Williams, 428 Eighth Avenue, Eston, SK S0L 1A0, telephone 306.962.4107 or the Diocese of Qu'Appelle, 306.522.1608.
10 The Saskatchewan Anglican,
May 2007
Diocese of Qu’Appelle 73rd Synod Emphasizes the Need for a Christ-Centred Culture of Grace by Sue Boxall REGINA - As old friends greeted one another and others bustled to find the registration desk, the 73rd Synod of the Diocese of Qu'Appelle got underway. It began Friday, March 8, with the gathering Eucharist and bishop's address at St. Paul Cathedral. From the start this synod had a different feel. No procession of robed clergy and delightful young candle bearers who innocently gazed at their flames. Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson's address set the tone for the weekend. He called us to listen and follow where the Spirit leads. Think intentionally , he said, about being Christ focused, not church focused; think about not being about running churches but about building community; shift from a culture of guilt to a culture of grace; gladly take on responsibilities in response to God's love for us; be called to mission in words and care and be called to be the presence of Christ in our community. The following morning there was an air of anticipation as people congregated in the auditorium at SIAST. Participants having received the synod package electronically realized that the gathering worship was another example of the” greening” of synod. The large screen and PowerPoint were used extensively during the weekend.Bishop Gregory's teaching sessions reflected the gospel reading “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). In his three reflections he said in Jesus we find the way, the truth and the life; in Jesus we have what God is and, therefore, what life truly is. Biblical teaching, sessions with guests from other dioceses and storytelling (reports from different areas of the diocese) were interspersed throughout the two days. Storytelling took different
forms and began with Swift Current Archdeaconry's PowerPoint presentation beginning with Bishop Gregory's ride into town on horseback. The Youth's story gave an account of Ask and Imagine and of the event I Seek You. The First Nations' storytelling began with two youth singing Just a Closer Walk With Thee accompanied on guitar by Elder Walter Anderson. The Reverend Arthur Anderson spoke of the First Nations people as being resilient. Assiniboia Archdeaconry is geographically the largest in the diocese and includes, perhaps, the most people so it is not surprising that it's first joy is its people. In contrast Moose Mountain Archdeaconry has only one part time stipendiary priest at the moment. There are many ecumenical arrangements going on however. Synod was blessed to welcome Bishop Victoria Matthews to explain the findings of the St. Michael Report. That committee had been charged to decide if same sex blessings were a matter of doctrine. The committee concluded that they were. Bishop Matthews spoke eloquently to this subject and answered questions from the floor. Fiona Brownlee from The Council of the North opened all eyes to the geographical space this council covers and the challenging ministry involved. This area, consisting of 11 dioceses, stretches from coast to coast. It was fascinating to hear about the difficulties but also the good news. Archdeacon Helena Houldcroft reported on the Healing and Reconciliation meetings that are ongoing. She reminded synod that there is a need for more people to volunteer to listen and minister to those coming before the commission. An interesting and thought provoking leadership training began with a vignette of a vestry meeting. Transforming Vestry:
The Vision, led by the Reverend Allen Doerksen, suggested that members are called to do God's work in this special ministry; that an attitude of prayer and discernment should pervade the work and that members serve the church, not tell the church what to do. It was suggested that the use of Robert's Rules and businesslike format might need adjusting and perhaps the financial report should be at the end of the meeting so that ministry becomes the emphasis, not financial restraint. Only one motion created lengthy discussion. It requested diocesan council to consider the use of a percentage of the Harding-Jackson fund for specific ministry needs. Without a visual financial report it was difficult to discuss knowledgeably. Eventually the motion passed as stated: that diocesan council look at the suggestion.Coffee breaks gave an opportunity to chat and look at the great displays. As well the Friday night reception was just what was needed before going separate ways for sleep. The Saturday turkey supper was sumptuous and the play, Dr. Doolittle, by Gale Bowen and performed by the Cathedral Players, was a wonderful ending to the evening. Synod closed on Sunday with Eucharist and people stepped out into the brilliant sunshine to contemplate all they had heard.
Elected delegates in order of election and alternate delegates to Diocesan Council Lay Clergy Sue Boxall Lionel Neubauer Malcolm Tait Ray Sass Arleen Champion Jennifer Andreas Shauna Brown Barbara Compton Susan Haacke Karen Wilson Nelson Haygarth Pearl Haygarth
Mike Sinclair Dan Fournier Cal Macfarlane Claude Schroeder Joan Scandrett Isabella Frank Dale Gillman Trish McCarthy Cheryl Johnson Malcolm French Vicki Young Cheryl Toth
Matthew Andreas Ken Nagel Eunice Patterson Eleanor Kitzul Fred Stephens
Photo by Sue Boxall
George Piett, Big Country Parish
Photo by Sue Boxall
the Reverend Arthur Anderson
Photo by Sue Boxall
the Reverends Winna Martin, Joan Scandrett, Daniel Fournier
Delegates elected to General Synod Lay Marilyn Dean Malcolm Tait Janet Neubauer Jennifer Andreas Patricia Pratt Shauna Brown Rita Brann Carol Marz Dawne Peterson
PALM SUNDAY:
Clergy Rob Hardwick James Merrett Helena Houldcroft Joan Scandrett Dan Fournier Dick Kennedy Claude Schroeder Winna Martin } tied Jim Tait} tied Trish McCarthy Cheryl Johnson Photo by Sue Boxall
the Reverend Dale Gillman
Photo by Sue Boxall
Fiona Brownlee, Diocese of Keewatin
It was Palm Sunday and because of a sore throat, fiveyear-old Johnny stayed home from church with a sitter. When the family returned home , they were carrying several palm branches. The boy asked what they wre for. “People held them over Jesus’s head as he walked by”, he was told. “Wouldn’t you know it”, the boy fumed; “the one sunday I don’t go, He shows up!”
The Saskatchewan Anglican,
May 2007 - 11
Photo by Sue Boxall
Rita Brann, St Philip/Regina; Pat Hall, All Saints/Regina
Photo by Sue Boxall
(seated) the Reverend Mike Sinclair, Bryanna Sigurdson (standing) Sabrina Craik, Matthew Andreas, Jennifer Weiss, Jennifer Andreas, Carson Harris
Photo by Sue Boxall
SIAST hall, place of synod meetings
Photo by Sue Boxall
Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson
Photo by Sue Boxall
the Reverend Allen Doerksen; Janet Cockerell, St. Aidan/Moose Jaw; Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson Photo by Sue Boxall
the Reverend Ella Frank, Dean James Merrett
Delegates elected to Provincial Synod Lay Shauna Brown Darla Nault-Tait Janet Neubauer Malcolm Tait
Clergy Rob Hardwick Blair Dixon Dan Fournier Joan Scandrett Claude Schroeder Carlos Roberts Dick Kennedy Jim Tait Cheryl Johnson
The Saskatchewan Anglican - A Paper for Saskatchewan Anglicans The Saskatchewan Anglican is a newspaper that is a section of the Anglican Journal, and is published ten times per year. Each diocese in the Province of Saskatchewan has an associate editor, who gathers material
from parishes, edits the material, and forwards it to the Managing Editor for inclusion in the paper. The managing editor has the final say as to what is published. As a supplement to the Anglican Journal, our focus is the three Saskatchewan Dioceses, local parishes, and human interest stories, articles, book reviews, and other content of specific interest to Saskatchewan people. Many parishes have a Communications
Coordinator who will accept articles and forward them to the Associate Editor. If your parish does not have a communications coordinator you may send articles about your parish, its events, or its people, to your Associate Editor. Names and contact information is available on the masthead of every edition of the Saskatchewan Anglican, at the bottom of the second page.
The Saskatchewan Anglican, May 2007 - 12
Profiles of People The Wonder of Smitty Kent
Reverend Geoff Hopper- 85 and still going strong
by staff GRENFELL(QuA) - “I enjoy life; it's meant to be fun. I enjoy life to the fullest.” says the Reverend who has just recently celebrated her 95th birthday and has taken time out from her busy schedule to visit Regina. Usually she drives her new car (known to go 100 miles per hour when pushed) but this time she arrives with her younger cousin, Don Kent, as her impromptu musical jam session, held in her home most Sunday evening for friends, finished late last night. Smitty Kent is a wonder. Born on a farm near Kennedy with seven siblings and a house full of banjos, organ, piano, guitars and violins, she went to a small rural school, to Kennedy high school and in 1929 she began teacher training in Moose Jaw. Her first job was in a oneroom school named Audley near Bangor. She next taught in Kipling, Craik and Oakshela where she had 56 students from grades one through 11 in one room. In 1944 she taught in Regina at Qu'Appelle Diocesan School (QDS). She married a Grenfell farmer, Alfred (Buck) Kent, in 1945. After 13 years of working on the farm she went back to teaching at Grenfell High School as a 14-day replacement teacher and stayed for 14 years. Brought up in the United Church community, her first encounter with the Anglican group was in 1948 when an uncle came out to the farm and asked if she would play the organ at the church because the organist was away on holidays. “Well”, said Smitty, “it was to be the Thanksgiving service at St. Michael and All Angles at Grenfell and I didn't know anything about Anglican services coming from the United Church. So he said, 'We'll help you.' Then, after a rehearsal, I went in, played the first hymn and went blank. I turned to the lady helping me and said, 'What do I do now?' She got me started again and I was fine. I went as a two-week replacement organist and played the organ in that church for 35 years.” Along the way Smitty Kent has had time for ten cruises. She has travelled to China, Japan, Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Russia, Italy, France, England, Alaska, Caribbean Islands, Hawaii, the Holy Land and Morocco where she accomplished the feat of riding a camel. At the age when most people are retired Jennie-Eleanor Kent was made deacon in 1981 at St.
by the Rev'd Christopher Snook
photo Jay Jenkins
The Reverend Jennie-Eleanor (Smitty) Kent Michael and All Angels, Grenfell, by Bishop Michael Peers and priested in 1983 at St. Paul Cathedral by Bishop Peers as well. She was licensed in Qu'Appelle diocese in 1981. In 1991 she completed a theology certificate from Thorneloe University, Sudbury. Smitty Kent served the former Pipestone parish as assistant and then honourary assistant until 2005. She also served as supply priest to Indian Head, Qu'Appelle, Vernon and McLean congregations. She recently presided over the wedding of a great-nephew and, three years ago, baptized a great-great-niece. She also provides communion to Anglican residents in the local nursing home. As she now plays the piano for the Presbyterian Church weekly service she is sometimes called on to 'take the service' there as well. Music has filled Smitty Kent's life. Continuing to play for benefits, last year she and two fiddlers (their total ages were something more than 260 years) presented a musical evening in the church hall to raise money for a new nursing home in Grenfell. She played piano for various combinations of the local Jock Thomlinson band for 50 years. Most Sunday nights now find her offering a musical jam session in her home for anyone who wishes to drop in. When people need her, she says, “ I come for a little while and stay as long as they want me.” Any wonder Smitty Kent is called a “wonder”? The Reverend Jennie Eleanor "Smitty" Kent is to be made an Honourary Fellow by the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad, Saskatoon, on May 4, 2007.
Busy Weekend for Canon Herbert O'Driscoll Staff REGINA - It was a busy weekend for Canon Herbert O'Driscoll when he was in Regina for the Induction of the Reverend Trish McCarthy as priest at All Saints Church. The author of more than 80 books on Christian faith was keynote speaker at several events in the Diocese of Qu'Appelle. On Saturday, March 24, All Saints Church and the Diocese jointly hosted a seminar for clergy and lay people with the theme "Tell me the timeless story." The well-attended event was based on some comments by Canon O'Driscoll: "One of the most significant developments for Christian preaching is the return of 'story'
as a powerful and effective way of communicating. Whether it be for persons, families, churches, communities or nations, possessing a shared story gives meaning to the past and present and gives hope for the future. In this recovered world of story, scripture can become a magnificent instrument for communicating." On the Sunday morning, Canon O'Driscoll preached at St. Paul' Cathedral. At a Sunday afternoon gathering of lay leaders of All Saints, Regina, Canon O'Driscoll warned that "For the first time in a thousand years, Christianity isn't 'the only game in town'...We belong to the last generation to whom Christianity came to us by inheritance; now people will come
PRINCE ALBERT (Sask) - When asked to reflect on the significance his 85th birthday, the Reverend Geoff Hopper recently commented: “I feel like Tennyson's brook, 'memory come and memory go, but I go on forever.'” With that - and a tell-tale chuckle - the Reverend Hopper began the story of a rich and challenging life. Born on February 27, 1922, in the village of Strood, Kent County, England, the Reverend Hopper was educated at the second oldest public school in England. Discipline, he says, was the order of the day at King's School, Rochester, and this made his transition to the Air Force in 1941 much easier than it might otherwise have been. Stationed in Nova Scotia for three of his years of active service, he left the forces in 1947 and studied to become a teacher. He returned to Canada in August of 1957 to take up teaching duties in Saskatchewan. Encourage by the late Reverend Jerry Steele to become a lay reader in his new parish, he completed the year of required studies in the evenings under his minister's guidance and supported his parish for some years before moving to Montreal Lake First Nation as principal of the local school and, subsequently, to Prince Albert where he taught at Queen Mary's. While in Montreal Lake, the Reverend Hopper continued as a lay reader at St. Joseph's Church, taking up the same duties at St. David's Church in Prince Albert. Arriving in Prince Albert in 1965, he has lived in or near the city ever since, often worshipping at St. David's Church where he currently serves as honourary assistant. He is, he says, “a fixture” there and has had the blessing to see the parish grow and change over time. He is especially keen to praise the parish's strong and active lay leaders, noting as well that the current Rector, the Reverend Guy Bellerby, has to stay for a long time yet because, at his age, the Reverend Hopper couldn't possibly break in a new priest! During Bishop Short's episcopacy there was a shortage of clergy. Along with several other committed lay readers, the Rev'd Hopper was encouraged by the Bishop to pursue nonphoto Submitted
Canon Herbert O'Driscoll
to faith by experience and choice.” He referred to comments by University of Lethbridge sociologist Dr. Reginald Bibby that the children of the "baby boom" generation were returning to faith and the church should be ready to respond to them. When challenged with a faith question like "do you believe in...?" he urged his listeners: "Our first reply must be simply 'yes'; later we can discuss why and how. Don't let's die the death of a thousand qualifications."
stipendary ordination. Under the guidance of the Dean and others, the lay readers undertook an additional 18 months of study in preparation for ordination and in 1972 the Reverend Hopper was ordained Deacon and, the following year, Priest. At the time that his priestly vocation was being discerned, the Reverend Hopper's wife passed away unexpectedly, leaving him in 1971 with three children to raise, significant volunteer commitments, work and study. It was an overwhelming time during which he remained as active as possible. When he retired from teaching in 1980, the Reverend Hopper served St. Bridget's parish for four years and then returned to St. David's. He also assisted at St. George's, Prince Albert and was priest-incharge of Big River for five years. Since his time at Big River, he has been an honourary assistant at St. David's. It is important, says the Reverend Hopper, to remain as active as possible as you age. He has certainly done this! At 85 he has been the Legion chaplain in Prince Albert for three years, continuing with his responsibilities at St. David's as well. In addition to this, he has also been actively involved in scouting for sixty years. For this incredible achievement he received the Silver Wolf medal in 1993, presented by then Governor General Ray Hnatyshyn in Ottawa. By the time someone reaches 85 years of age, they have seen a great deal. The Reverend Hopper's own experience - from boy's school in England, to the military, to teaching, marriage, parenthood, and priestly ministry - has exposed him to countless people, places and events. And yet, he is quick to note, one thing happened on the morning of his 85th birthday he had never experienced before. Early that morning the telephone rang and when he picked up the phone he heard, he says, “a melodious voice” singing happy birthday. It took no time to realize he was being serenaded -- for the first time in his life -by a Bishop. May God be praised for the life and witness of the Reverend Geoff Hopper. O LORD our heavenly Father, mercifully hear our prayers, and grant a long and happy life to thy servant Geoff, whose birthday we remember this day. May he grow in grace as his years increase, and ever live so as to please thee; in the power of thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
13 - The Saskatchewan Anglican,
October 2004