November 2006 A Section of Anglican Journal
The Prince and the Bishop
60 Years of Music Ministry By the Reverend Wayne Sturgess
Photo contributed by Bishop Anthony Burton
The Prince of Wales shares a joke with Bishop Anthony Burton at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford University, on September 15. Both men were addressing the Prayer Book Society of England. In the background are: (left to right): Sir Michael Peat, the Prince's Private Secretary; Hugo Brunner, Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire; and Roger Evans, National Chairman of the Prayer BookSociety.
PWRDF Workshop Successful by Basil Pogue REGINA - A very successful Primates World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) workshop for parish representatives was attended by 18 people and held September 23 at Living Spirit Centre. Drawn from all parts of the Diocese of Qu’Appelle, some had been representatives for several years while others were quite new to the work. The objective was to bring people together to meet, share ideas and hear about the work of PWRDF in the world outside Qu’Appelle. The group spent some time getting to know each other in a small group discussion. They talked about what they wanted to get out of the workshop, what they do in their parishes to promote PWRDF and shared ideas. These included how to use the resources, questions about what other things might be done, how to get people engaged and how to focus on stories. Dick Peters, Regional Coordinator for KAIROS, the Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives network, provided an overview of whom it includes and the kind of work it does. He explained how KAIROS is linked to and is complemen
tary with PWRDF and how they collaborate and support each other. After a nice lunch, catered by members of St. Philip Church, participants heard a presentation by Beth Baskin who works at PWRDF’s national office in Toronto. She outlined the history, development and mandate of PWRDF and explained how it has evolved from an arm of the Anglican Church of Canada to a free standing organization with a separate board of directors. Baskin explained that PWRDF works by forming partnerships at home in Canada and overseas. It is not operational: it does not send people and resources to do the work. Working in this way, PWRDF is able to empower local people and organizations to carry out projects and achieve self-sufficiency and work towards goals set in their own communities. Baskin also spent some time outlining the role of the parish rep and how the organization fits together in a local, regional and national structure. Workshop participants got a clearer idea of what they are meant to do as well as how to get help and support. Ralph Paragg, Diocesan Refugee Coordinator, gave the group an under standing of what it takes to sponsor a refugee and get a refugee approved for entry to and resettlement in Canada. Getting approval is a complicated process
that requires great diligence and care and sometimes may require money and material resources. Collaboration on an ecumenical level is often a key component in being successful. At the end of the workshop, Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson presided at Eucharist and commissioned the gathering in their ministry to represent PWRDF in their parishes and the diocese. (Note: Portions of the article were first printed in TuesdayNewsday.)
TISDALE (Sk) As the congregation of St. Matthew's Tisdale Sask., begins work to celebrate their 100th Anniversary next year on June the 9th and 10th 2007, Hazel Lamb will observe the 60th Anniversary of her membership in the choir at St. Matthew's. Mrs. Lamb came to Tisdale in 1936 as a young woman where she joined the staff of Saskatchewan Government Telephones, as a telephone operator and has lived in Tisdale every since. She joined the choir in 1947 and surely has as many memories of the church's history as anyone. When asked how she got involved in St. Matthew's choir, hazel remembered it was an invitation from her sister-in-law, Isobel Lamb in 1944-45. Hazel said her sister-in-law was an alto and taught her how to read music and harmonize. Previous to this, Hazel said, she had a few piano lessons but knew absolutely nothing about harmony. Hazel said the choir has been a wonderful learning experience for her. Being there at every choir practice and Sunday service in the past 59 years, she has been under the leadership of many priests and organists, too many, Hazel says, to remember them all. At 92 years old, hazel is not one to sit back and let others do all the work. She still takes an active part in the choir. With her experience as a telephone operator, she has no problem when it comes to numbers as we find out at our choir practice. There are not many hymns in our blue hymnal that Hazel does know the number of. Hazel's favourite hymn is “If I have Wounded Any Soul Today”. The words of this hymn, I believe, also describe this woman beautifully and will give those who don't know Hazel, an idea what a wonderful, kind, soft-spoken and gentle person she is.The congregation of St. Matthew's is truly blessed to have Hazel in our midst as well as in our church choir.
The Poppy According to the Royal Canadian Legion the association of the poppy with those who died in battle has existed since Napoleonic times when it was recorded how thickly poppies grew over the graves of soldiers in the Flanders area. The records indicated how fields that were barren prior to battles taking place suddenly exploded with the blood-red flowers after the fighting had ended.
Photo ccourtesy ofthe reverend Wayne Sturgess
Hazel Lamb
2 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, November 2006
Bishop’s Message -A Summer Evening in Saskatchewan
St. John Cathedral Gets a Lift Ann Cox First Rider
The Right Rev. Rodney Andrews Bishop of Saskatoon The simple brochure and the heartfelt invitation did not prepare me for the experience of attending Saskatchewan's version of the Passion Play last July. The advertisement read “In a unique outdoor setting, a cast and crew of sixty plus volunteers create a theatrical and spiritual experience you will not soon forget!” The advertising matched the product. I will not forget our evening at the Passion Play. A retired priest and his wife, Don and Louise Cochrane from Radisson, joined Jacqueline and I in mid afternoon. We drove north east from Saskatoon passing through Wakaw and Domremy, allowing time for supper at Bellevue. We were told that the Passion Play would last three hours and we should be seated by 6:30 p.m... It was a glorious Saskatchewan July evening, perfect for outdoor theatre. The air was warm, there was no wind, and the smell of hay and the sound of cattle reinforced my gratitude that I live in this part of the world. As we entered the theatre area we were approached by a friendly person dressed in Biblical robes. “Welcome, I am James the Less.” To accentuate the universality of the Gospel he greeted us in French and English, and then told us about his nearby farm. On the hillside in front of us a scene reminiscent of Bible times had been created. Soon the action began, and there was lots of it. A revolving stage allowed the setting to change rapidly. The baby was born, surrounded by real lambs and goats. The young man who played Jesus was a masterful actor. He took the words of Jesus and integrated them into the action in ways that presented the message in new and arresting ways. Soldiers on horseback, chariots speeding across the 'stage' and constantly changing scenes and costumes kept us enthralled. When it came time for the crucifixion, the action was almost too real. Three young men were lashed to crosses which were dropped into holes part way up what was originally a ski hill. Jesus is placed in a tomb and the stone rolled across the door. Not long after Jesus is walking to Emmaus with the disciples.
Churchmouse Resource Centre REGINA - The Churchmouse Resource Centre in Regina provides reference materials for individuals and parishes throughout the province. They have books, Bibles, hymn and prayer books,
The Right Reverend Rodney Andrews, Bishop of Saskatoon “How did he do that?” a young voice demands. I wondered the same, but in the spirit of the evening I did not try to figure it out. I don't know how God did it. I simply believe it is true. Jesus died and rose again. We say it every Sunday when we repeat the Creeds. Why should we be surprised when it is presented in a play? It was dusk when the evening came to a close. I allowed myself a few minutes to watch a family of gophers playing in front of our chairs. I came away from the Passion Play deeply moved. I was impressed that such a marvellous production could take place with volunteer actors in a part of Saskatchewan where not many people live. It was a powerful display of creativity, vitality and faith. The Passion Play was produced by Mission Hill Productions of St. Louis, Saskatchewan. I hope it will be presented again next July. I urge you to plan to attend. A few years ago Don and Louise attended the Passion Play in the Black Hills of South Dakota. They said this production by Louise and Maurice Branger compares very favourably. As we drove south on a long, straight gravel road, we were strangely quiet. I don't know what the others were thinking. know that I saw the Gospel presented in a new way and I felt closer to God because of it. + Rodney Bishop of Saskatoon
church and church school supplies, study materials, gift items and greeting cards. The store, at 1501 College Avenue, is open from 1 to 4 pm daily from Monday to Friday. They can be contacted by phone 306 -522-3263, fax 306-352-6808 or email churchmouse@sasktel.net
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.
Photo by Heather Punshon
Anne Cox was the first passenger in the new access lift in the parish hall at St. John's Cathedral, Saskatoon. The lift was dedicated by Bishop Tom Morgan on Sunday, September 10, 2006.
Coming Events Diocese of Qu’Appelle November 3 Luther College will present Tafelmusik, Canada’s world-renowned baroque orchestra. The performance will take place at 8:00 p.m. in Westminster United Church at 3025 13th Avenue, Regina. Tickets are $30.00 each. Please call 585-5021 for information. November 4 St. Mary/Regina will hold an educational/spiritual formational event for kids. Please call 522.6052 for more information.
Managing Editors: Fred Stephens, 51 - 10th St. NE, Weyburn SK. S4H 1G8 Phone 306-842-7235 Email: skeditor@cashette.com Qu’Appelle: Barbara-Lynn Dixon, 41 Angus Crescent Regina SK S4T 6N1 Phone: 306-525-6935 Email:bldixon@accesscomm.ca Saskatoon: Penny McKinlay, 6 -1223 7th Ave. North Saskatoon SK S7K 2W1 Phone: 306-978-2939 Email: penny@axonsoft.com Saskatchewan: The Reverend Christopher Snook, Box 188, Paradise Hill Sk. S0M 2G0 :306-344-5405
November 12 To mark the fifth anniversary of the Anglican Church of Canada and the Evangelical Lutheran Church being in full communion this date has been designated for celebrations across the country. Information is available from the synod office. November 18 St. Matthew/Regina will have their annual Anglican Church Women tea and bazaar. November 26 The Sugar and Spice Concert, a popular Regina chorus, is tuning up for a unique program to be held at St. Matthew/Regina. Please call Gail Ridgway at 306.761.0967 for further information.
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. 292, Vol. 35, No. 5 A Section of Anglican Journal
The Saskatchewan Anglican, November 2006 - 3
Art By the Park Attracts Neighborhood Children by Jill Chapman Thirty-two children, ages 5 - 12, were attracted to the art based Vacation Bible School, called Art by thePark, run at All Saints' Anglican Church, Melfortthis summer. Of these children, only four were from families that regularly attend the parish. Art by thePark ran for four days from July 17 - 20. The morning long program consisted of two sessions of art as well as games, bible lessons and a snack time. Younger students participated in a dance session and a pottery session. Older students had the opportunity to choosefrom puppet making, dance, pottery and cartooning fortheir activities. Volunteers from within All Saints'Anglican church ran the snacks and art sessions, whileMatt Koovisk, a student hired by the diocese of Saskatchewan, led the bible lessons and games. On thelast day, parents were invited to share lunch with thestudents and volunteers and several chose to do so. Parents expressed their appreciation for the Art Camp,and children were excited to display their variouscreations. The parish felt it had accomplished itsgoal of making a first contact with families in the community who do not attend a church, and buildingrelationships with their children.
Backpack Blessing Helps Students Prepare for New School Year
Backpack Blessing by Arleen Champion MOOSE JAW (QuA) Students of all ages, pre-school to university, were invited to St. Aidan for a blessing of backpacks and lunch bags as the students prepared to return to school. During the Sunday worship at the end of August the Reverend Allen Doerksen blessed each student with his/her bag and blessed also those who work in the schools. At the end of the worship all members of the congregation were commissioned to support and encourage the students this school year. The backpack blessing was a wonderful way to bless part of their everyday lives, to connect Sunday with the rest of the week and to lift up gifts and vocation. It was a Sunday of excitement, joy and blessings.
Diocese of Saskatoon updates The Rev. Canon Wilson Tibbo, a retired priest of the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador, has been appointed Interim Priest for the Battle River parish effective October 1, 2006. Wilson and his wife Lillian will spend the winter in the parish while they search for a new rector. The Tibbos will be living in the rectory in North Battleford. The Reverend Tibbo was rector of the Greater
photo by Arleen Champion
l to r: front row: Elise Melanson, Katie Brander, Crystal Brander, Aidan O'Dowd, Annie O'Dowd, Patrick O'Dowd, Walter Woodroffe-Brown back row: the Reverend Allen Doerksen, Katherine Melanson Watrous Parish from 1967-1970. The Reverend Joe Ponic has been appointed interim priest of St. James Church, Saskatoon, until December 31, 2006 during the leave of absence of the Rector, the Reverend Canon Michael Stonhouse The Very Reverend Glen Burgomaster, retired Dean of All Saints Cathedral, Halifax and his wife Jennifer have moved to their retirement home at Theodore, Saskatchewan. While Theodore is close to or within the boundaries of the Diocese of Qu'Appelle, Bishop Rod Andrews has licensed the Reverend Burgomaster to officiate in the Diocese of Saskatoon. A new leadership team for the Primate's World Relief and Development
Fund work in the diocese has been appointed. The members are Mary Ann Assailly, Barbara Spur, Jeanette Dean and Ella Smith. One of the team's first tasks is to identify a person (or persons) who will be the contact person for PWRDF in each parish. If you have not done so, please advise Mary Ann at 306-382-0766 as soon as possible .Last spring each diocese received a DVD entitled “Together We Can Stop AIDS�. The video connects the work of the Primate's Fund to the Diocese of Saskatoon (Bishop's Tractor Trek). It is a professionally-made video with a moving message. I have heard from several parishes as to how they are using the video, but I would like to hear from each
parish individually as to what you are doing to help PWRDF reach the goal of $2 million for AIDS Africa by the end of this year.The video is available is DVD or VHS format. The video is not long (11 minutes), but it will generate a much longer discussion.
A wise old priest used to say that his parishoners were either like pillars or caterpillers.. The pillars held up the church by their work. The caterpillars just crawled in and out ..
4 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, November 2006
Holy Trinity Weldon Reaches Centennial Milestone by Don Kent WELDON (QuA) - Three miles west and seven miles north of Grenfell on the rural road locally referred to as the Tyree road that goes into Neudorf, there sits the Church of the Holy Trinity built in the 1880s by pioneers at the hamlet of Hyde who were encouraged to homestead by the coming of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The building was later purchased by the Weldon congregation, moved to its present site and dedicated to the Holy Trinity on July 26, 1906. To celebrate 100 years of the worshipping life of this community, a service of Holy Communion was held on August 20 at 11:00 a.m. with Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson presiding. Approximately 50 people attended, filling the church. Patricia Ward accompanied the singing on her key board and Faith (Hubbard) Hall, a former parishioner, read the lessons. After the service a potIuck lunch was enjoyed by all. Miss Dorothy and Mr. Cyril Hodge cut the anniversary cake. George Hubbard, a long time parishioner, gave an interesting history of the church and surrounding area. The name Weldon comes from the former rural
school district near Grenfell in which the building is located. The people of the Weldon district purchased the church building from the Diocese for one dollar and moved it by horses and sleigh to its present site on land donated by Mr, and Mrs, R. J. Parsons. It sits on about two acres of land by itself on the edge of a large field. The grounds are fenced and surrounded by trees and caraganas. Regular services stopped many years ago; Holy Trinity/Weldon, is now served once a year by the laity of the congregation of St. Michael and All Angels/Grenfell. There never has been electricity in the building and the stove which provided heat in inclement weather was stolen some years ago. The annual service takes place in either July or August. A cemetery fund has been established and a care taker hired to mow the grass. Many former parishioners and their families have chosen to have their earthly remains brought to this peaceful churchyard. No matter what befalls the church building, the cemetery will always remain as a tribute to and a reminder of the pioneers who relocated the building and have worshipped in it so faithfully for the past 100 years.
St. Luke Church in Broadview Bid a Sad Farewell
photo Shirley Santo
l to r around the outside: Pastor David Hanes, George Schmidt, Alex Wylie, Verna Wylie, Helen Donaldson, Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson, Irene Stouffer (masked by Sharon Schmidt standing directly in front of her), Neil Kemp, May Edwards, Sadie Gathercole, Margaret Nelson front centre: Les Stouffer, Myrna Gathercole by Irene Stouffer BROADVIEW (QuA) - The church which is 115 years old is no more: St. Luke Church simply ran out of people. Sunday, August 20, was a sad day for the St Luke members when Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson led the service of de-consecration. The church had been closed for five years, having only a
yearly service for three years and nothing for the last two years. Three of the oldest members were present for the service. Attending were Sadie Gathercole with her daughter, Myrna; May Edwards; and Helen Donaldson with her daughter, Sharon and husband. Also present were Alex and Verna Wyllie, Les and Irene Stouffer and George Green
Bishop’s School for Choristers Memorable By Morina Rennie REGINA - During the week of August 21 - 27, twenty-two young people gathered at All Saints Church for the 44th Bishop’s School for Choristers. The choristers had a memorable week of music, fun and friendship under the supervision of program director Jillian Paragg and music director Dr. Bev Tillman with accompanist Jeff McLeod. And on Sunday, August 27, the remarkable results of the choristers’ hard work were heard at the morning service at St. Paul
Prayer ministry training
photo Mrs. Peggy Fitzgerald
Holy Trinity/Weldon
SASKATOON The Saskatoon chapter of the Order of St. Luke the Physician will present a prayer ministry training workshop at St. Stephen's Anglican Church, Saskatoon, on November 7, 14, 21 and 28 at
Cathedral and at an afternoon service at All Saints Church. The residents of Qu’Appelle House were also fortunate enough to hear the young singers at a performance during choir school week. Throughout the week, the choristers benefited from the spiritual direction of the Reverend Joyce Hilton, the choir school chaplain, and also enjoyed games and swimming under the supervision of recreation directors Courtney Hamill and Jack Rennie.
7:30 pm. This is a refresher course as well as training for new prayer ministers. The training will be based on the Alpha tapes on prayer ministry with Sandy Millar. Phone Betty Mitchell at 306-343-6649 to pre-register.
whose parents were members years ago. Several members of Grace Lutheran Church attended with Pastor David Hanes and assistant Neil Kemp taking part in the service. At the present time the building is up for sale by the Diocese of Qu'Appelle and hopefully another church community will buy it and it may be used again as a place of worship.
Good Sermon! After a very long and boring sermon the parishoners filed out of the church, saying nothing to the priest.. Towards the end of the line was a rather thoughtful person who always commented on the sermons, regardless of the topic or the content. “Reverend, today your sermon reminded me of the peace and love of God”, he stated. The rector was thrilled. “Thank you so much for those kind comments. Please tell me why it reminded you of that”. “Well, it reminded me of the Peace of God because it surpassed all understanding, and the Love of God because it endured forever”.
The Saskatchewan Anglican, November 2006 - 5
Victoria Young Ordained a Deacon at George Gordon First Nation
Reflections on the Ordination of Women by the Reverend Betty Garrett
photo Sheila Doidge
l to r: Bishop Kerr-Wilson; John Young; the Reverend Vicki Young; Wylie Young; Tyson Young (son-in-law); Leilani Schmidt (daughter); Stewart Young (son). by the Reverend Vicki Young GEORGE GORDON FIRST NATION (QuA) - On August 18 history was made at George Gordon First Nation, the Parish of the Cree People, Punnichy, when Victoria Young was ordained transitional deacon. This was the first ordination to take place in the community and the first ordination for Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson. The ordination took place in the gymnasium of George Gordon Education Centre. The gym was transformed into a suitable venue with the use of red rave petunias and potted palms. Beautiful paintings, donated to the parish by professional artist Bryan Covington from a church in our sister diocese of Lichfield in England, graced the pulpit and altar. Crucifer and server Darian Jessop led the procession into the gym carrying a birch wood cross made from a tree which had grown close to St. Luke Church, Gordon First Nation. Chief Bryan
2007 International O.S.L Conference and tour of Great Britain Every five years, the world-wide Order of St. Luke hosts an international conference in one of the countries in which the Order of St. Luke is active. In 2007, the conference will be hosted by the mem
(grandsons); Reuben Schmidt
McNabb of George Gordon First Nation welcomed all to the gathering. The Bishop’s Chair was brought in from St. George, Kutawa which is Cree for “the gap” or “clearing in the woods”. St George is the second oldest church in the diocese and the former church home of the Young family. The altar decorated for the ordination was the former altar from St. Peter, Daystar First Nation. Chalices and patens used for the eucharist were from Gordon as well as from St. Luke and St. George, Kutawa. One was donated to the St. Luke Church from the church in Niagara in 1913. The presenters were members from all the First Nations in Nehiyawe, the Parish of the Cree People. These included Rachel Kinequon of Day Star First Nation, Edna Kay of Kawacatoose First Nation, The Reverend Arthur Anderson, (Mrs. Young’s supervisor), Ruby McNabb, Irene Walter, Patti Pratt of George Gordon First Nation and her husband John Young.
The Saint Day of the celebration was Saint Mary the Virgin. Readers were Tyson Young, grandson of Mrs. Young, and Patti Pratt. Irene Walter of George Gordon read the Gospel. The Ordination Litany was led by Rachel Kinequon from Daystar and Wilfred Anderson from George Gordon. The preacher for the occasion, the Reverend Carol Adamson, very gently reminded all those gathered that a locally ordained person is only one member of the team. All members work together to do the work of our Lord in the parish. All the priests and friends from the diocese, friends and family from the surrounding communities and friends and supporters from all the parish made this a very memorable day. A delicious supper served to all brought a close to a very special occasion. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.”
bers invitedof the Order in England at the Hayes Conference Center in Swanwick, Derbyshire, June 4-8, 2007. Members of the Order from every country where the Order is active will be represented. Eminent people involved in the healing ministry around the world will be invited to speak. Following this conference, the Venerable Larry Mitchell and his wife Betty invite you to join them on a tour of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. As well as visiting some of the famous places of Great Britain, they also hope to visit some of the healing sites and homes, such as Glastonbury, Holy Island, Iona, and many more. The tour coordinator will be Ernie Snook from San Diego, California. For more information, contact the
Mitchells at betty.mitchell@sasktel.net or phone (306) 343-6649. Although the tour will follow the conference, people do not have to attend the conference in order to join the tour.
It was a time of soul-searching when the debate was going on in the Canadian Church about the Ordination of Women to the Priesthood. Some, like myself, had spent as much as 20 years, ministering in parishes, preaching, teaching, giving pastoral care, but not able to administer the Sacraments to those people who often lived far from a priest. Here in Western Canada, some of us had that interesting title: “Bishop’s Messengers.” We felt called to the Ministry of the Priesthood yet we wanted to respect the Tradition of the Church and the sensibilities of clergy and people who were not yet ready for this step. It was not our wish to create divisions in the Church or to create problems in ecumenical discussions. Yet, it seemed that God was calling us to this Ministry and people who had experienced the Lay Ministry of women were urging the Church to go forward. I really believe that in the Diocese of Qu’Appelle none of us who were ordained in those early years consented because we felt it was our right, but because we felt the call of God and His Church. Personally, the prayers, love and support that I experienced, even from those struggling with their personal views, was very precious. In 1993, I had the privilege to meet with women deacons in our companion Diocese of Lichfield and found they struggled in the same way, as they awaited the decision of the British Parliament on the matter. And now, only a short 30 years later, the ordination of women is a given in a large part of the Anglican world, though not yet everywhere. God has blest our ministry and we have been blessed in being called to this ministry. (Note: the Reverend Betty Garrett was ordained deacon in May, 1975 by Archbishop Fred Jackson in the Cathedral of St. Paul, Regina, and was priested in June, 1979 by Bishop Michael Peers in St. Alban, Moosomin. She served as incumbent in the parishes of Saskatchewan Gateway, Whitewood and Melville. She was made archdeacon of Moose Mountain deanery in 1992. After retiring in 1994 she serves now as honourable assistant in Saskatchewan Gateway parish.)
Child’s Letter to God
.
Dear GOD: It rained for our whole vacation and is my father mad! He said some things about You that people are not supposed to say, but I hope You will not hurt him anyway. Your Friend. (But I am not going to tell you who I am.)
photo by Sheilagh Garrett
The Reverend Betty Garrett, Diocese of Qu’Appelle
6 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, November 2006
St. Nicholas Is Calling Many Have Heard
EDITORIAL LEST WE FORGET by Fred Stephens
Photo courtesy of the Reverend Doon Wells
St. Nicholas, Kennell by the Reverend Don Wells KENNELL (QuA) - Welcome to my Church. My name is Nicholas but you can call me Nick for short. Actually it isn't my church or anyone else' s; it belongs to Jesus of Nazareth but he is also Jesus of Kennell, Saskatchewan. The church is called Saint Nicholas but that is on!y because 1 have had the privilege and honour of following in Jesus’ footsteps and been accorded the title Saint. But so have you. So you have been called to follow in Jesus’ steps, just like those wooden letters on the face of the altar that say the name Jesus: IHS. I've been here in this lovely Qu'Appelle Valley for over a century now and in that time thousands of people like yourself have entered this sanctuary, this holy space, out of curiosity perhaps but here have found such serenity and peace. Sometimes it gets lonely here. Especially in winter or when the road is muddy and impassable. I'm sure glad when Spring comes and so do the people. They come not only on
Dangerous Dog One day a mailman was greeted by a small boy and a very big dog. “Does your dog bite?” asked the mailman. “No”, replied the little boy. Just then, the dog lunged and bit the mailman. “You told me your dog doesn;t bite!” yelled the mailman. “He doesn’t. That’s not my dog!”
church occasions for a wedding, funeral or communion but during the week as well. The doors are unlocked and everyone is welcome; and I mean everyone. I read the new names everyday in the guest register and notice that since August 5, 2004, well over 3500 names have been added. People have come here as my guests from different countries. Just this past summer there have been those from Argentina and Hong Kong, Ireland and the Northwest Territories, from sea to sea in this great country. And they come also from our neighbours to the south. As well they come from Thailand and China, with some even writing in their native language a prayer or a thank you. This place is not really a denomination but a holy space in which one can find the peace and love of God and be surrounded by such magnificent creation. Thank you for your visit and wherever your journey may lead you may you find that peace and serenity that you so much desire. “May the grace of Jesus and the love of God and the companionship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Thanks be to God.
The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of the year 1918…A war to end all wars…Mustard gas, air power, mechanized armies…new and innovative killing machines…what a way to inaugurate a new century which held so much promise for the betterment of the human race! Twenty one years later, the length of time it takes to turn an infant into full-fledged adulthood…buzz bombs, rockets, gas chambers and attempted genocide…and the weapon which would end all wars and guarantee peace in the world-the atomic bomb… Another twenty years go by…napalm, killing fields, agent orange, a raging cold war, intercontinental ballistic missiles, nuclear stockpiling… The beginning of the twenty first century bears the hallmarks of other innovative ways for mankind to do harm to himself and his fellow man. The human race is now confronted with terrorist attacks, suicide bombers and Gihad (so called by those who would use the guise of religion as a pretext for their miserable and cowardly acts against innocent people). And so it has continued. Israel versus Palestine; Islamic fundamentalists and extremists against the nations of the west; North Korea held in suspicion by its neighbours to the south and east.,
Rwanda, Turkey, Indonesia, the Congo, Darfur, Georgia, Afghanistan, and numerous other countries...are now or have recently been hotspots of oppression, terror, destruction and/or loss of human dignity and life. Will we ever learn? November is the month we honour our war dead and cherish their memory. We wear the poppy. We fondly recite “In Flanders Fields”. We lay the wreaths to remember their heroic sacrifices. And the honour rolls keep getting longer. The Silver Cross mothers again are getting younger. We of the Christian faith, however, can and do take great consolation in knowing that these young men and women will live again in the house of the lord. We have been taught that “man has no greater love than this; that he lay down his life for his friend”. We are also told in Paul's first letter to the Corinthians that: 'Death has been swallowed up in victory”. He asks, 'Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O Death, is your sting?' Let each one of those whose life has been cut down be a further resolve to us to reach out to those who bear the yoke of oppression. With the aid of the Almighty and the strength and will of the Holy Spirit, let us continue to work for peace in those troubled lands, and to provide for the security and basic necessities which we so often, without a thought or a care, callously and flagrantly enjoy.
A New Dean for St. John Cathedral St. John's Cathedral, Saskatoon, welcomed its new Dean, the Venerable Terry Wiebe on Sunday, September 17, 2006. There was a Celebration of New Ministry on Wednesday, October 11 at the cathedral.
Photo by Heather Punshon
The Venerable Terry Wiebe, the new Dean of St. John Cathedral and family
The end of Summer Services By Tracy Harper Walk with me into yester year as we open the door to an old rural church. The smell of lemon cleaner and fresh flowers hit your senses. As you look around you see names and photos of weddings, veterans, ACW members, Sunday School attendance sheets, grave yard plots; you see a piece of history. You see the heavy velvet curtain that covers the sacristy. Looking further in you see the rich wood, the kerosene lamps, the wood stove, where you can almost feel and smell the warmth of wood burning gently within it. You see the windows with just a pane of coloured glass, and the deep texture of the wooden pews. You notice the pulpit, the carving in the wood, the baptismal font -delicate and full of memories at the front of the church -- and then the pump organ in all its splendour. You then focus your gaze on the altar against the wall and the small sanctuary. You see the preidieu (kneeling bench) and the old chair, just out side the sanctuary, the lectern extra high, and you are taken back in time. You seat yourself into one of the rich dark wooden pews, watching of course for nails or cracks, and listen. As you listen, you hear a distant sound of a church bell ringing. Service is about to begin. The parish of Birch Hills, Kinistino, and Muskoday ended their summer services program with a last service at St. Phillip's, Coxby. The summer services started with clean up of the three rural churches, St. Saviour's, Holy Trinity, Brancepeth, and St. Phillip's, Coxby. These churches have no power so the only time services are held is in the summer months. The plan was to have two services at St. Saviour's, one in late May and one in July. As it turned out the service scheduled for May was cancelled due to rain. However, the service held in July was a big success with attendance of thirty-two. Father Chris held a Holy Communion service with extra prayers offered for the up and coming harvest season. At the time the start of the Bertha Army worm was upon the area and the fear of anthrax discovered so near worried farmers. Prayers were offered for them as well. After the service there was a get together with plenty of food, drink, and excellent conversation. A special thanks goes out to Olive Cromartie for making sure the church was decorated in the seasonal colors and making it look so beautiful. Also (continued on page7)
The Saskatchewan Anglican, November 2006 - 7 The people who have always lived in the area ,or surrounding area, attend. Even if they have moved, people still come to the yearly summer service. It is very important we try to keep our rural churches open . They are our history. In all these churches, you find reminders of events that have gone on there. They are a great part of our our Saskatchewan heritage. If anyone has an interest in seeing, donating to, or having a special service in any of these old churches, please feel free to contact Father Chris at the Anglican Rectory in Birch Hills.
The end of Summer Services (continued from page 6) thanks to all those who mowed the grass, brought the food, and helped, make the service a great success. St. Saviour's is about three miles southeast of Birch Hills and music was played on the pump organ. Holy Trinity, Brancepeth, was built in 1905. We had weekly Wednesday evening services, alternating Holy Communion and Evening Prayer. The services started the first Wednesday in June at 7:30 pm and ran until the 9th of August. The last service was a Holy Communion Service. Having no electricity made the last few services fairly dark by the time we where finished. So on the last day, Father Chris brought along one of his new toys, a portable power supply, and tried to change the bulb in an already existing electrical light. It only took the three men twenty minutes to figure out how to replace the light bulb. The engineers for that event where Les Stobbs, Stan Bliss, and supervisor Father Chris. As we waited Barb Stobbs played the guitar in between all our helpful encouragement and giggles given to the great engineers. The service started late, but was well worth the wait. After service, we stayed for a chat and more laughter over some snacks. It was a wonderful way to end services. Attendance ranged from fifteen to thirty each week. Having services in the mid week made it possible for the area residents to attend their church and still be able to be at the lake on the weekends. A special thanks goes out to the Brancepeth ACW, to all the area residents that helped clean, repair, cut grass and make services go so well. Holy Trinity still has the kerosene lamps on the walls; we did not use them this year, because we were not sure how old the oil was. It also has a pump organ, which is in working condition. There is an organist that plays but this year she had prior obligations. St. Philip's was built in 1900 at Coxby, which is north of Brancepeth. We finished the season with a very full and hot church on the 19th of August. The service of Holy Communion was attended by seventy parishioners. After the service there
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Child’s Letter to God
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Dear GOD: We read Thomas Edison made light. But in Sunday School they said You did it. So I bet he stole your idea. Sincerely, Donna. St Saviour Church, near Birch Hills was a joyful gathering with renewed acquaintances and a potluck lunch. A big thank you goes out to all who helped make the service possible, especially Percy and Grace Turner (for making sure every thing was ready) and of course to our organist, Renee Thorlakson, who played the pump organ in the church. These are all old rural churches in very good shape for their age. Of course because of their age they are in need of some repairs, the most obvious being windows and shingles. When opening any window it is done with great care for fear of losing a pane of glass. However, because they were closed up for most of the year and this summer was so hot, we had to try to open them so that we could get a cross breeze.It is the hope that we can continue this again next year. It helps to validate the cost of paying insurance and repair costs. These churches are area churches so usually the families of that particular area would have attended them. This is what keeps them going to this day.
Holy Trinity Church, Brancepeth
Inside St. Saviour Church
Electricians inside Holy Trinity Church
8 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, November 2006
The End of Summer Services (Continued from page 7)
In Flanders Fields By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918) Canadian Army IN FLANDERS FIELDS the poppies blow Between the crosses row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.
St. Philip Church, Coxby
Advanced care directive education program SAKATOON - St. Paul's Hospital Ethics committee is offering a parish-based advanced care directive education program for clergy and their parishioners, church workers, lay pastoral visitors, caregivers, and people who are facing end-of-life issues. The program will be held at St. Timothy's Anglican Church, 2101 Lansdowne Avenue, Saskatoon, January 24, 31 and February 7 and 14, 2007. The program will be delivered in four 2-hour sessions, and each session will consist of: prayer, reading sacred text, introduction to the content of the teaching video followed by a discussion. The program is based on four videos and a presentation by Father Mark Miller: 1. The Journey of Suffering Harold Kushner, “When bad things happen to good people.” 2. When the Journey Ends “Gordon facing terminal illness” 3. Preparing an Advanced Health Care Directive, “Introduction to advanced health care directives by Father Mark Miller 4. Story of Sister Thea “Almost Home”
Inside St. Philip Church