October 2006 A Section of Anglican Journal
Moving Beyond - An Annual Exercise in Healing and Commitment by Bishop Eric Bays GORDON’S RESERVE (QuA) Elders praying continually in a tipi, horsemen dressed in ceremonial headgear riding from four directions, an impressive concrete memorial unveiled on the grounds of the old Residential School: this was all part of the opening of an event called “Moving Beyond” held at Gordon Reserve from July 2527. This was the third year the event has been held, organized by the Wellness Centre under the direction of the Reverend Dale Gillman. The purpose of the events has been to help people move beyond any personal or social problems, especially those connected with attendance at a residential school. About 175 people registered for the event over the three days. They heard a capsule history of Gordon Residential School when the cairn was unveiled and then moved to the beautiful new school gym for discussions and entertainment. Chief Brian McNabb welcomed the people following the impressive “Ride from the Four Directions” and added his prayers for the effectiveness of the gathering. A panel led by Ed Bitternose, assisted by Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson and the Reverend Arthur Anderson, explained to the people how to apply for the “common experience” compensation the federal government is offering to all former students of the residential schools.
There were a number of questions about this proce dure along with repeated warnings advising people to be wary when signing agreements with lawyers. Ed Bitternose explained the difference between a “contingency” agreement and a “retaining” agreement and the implications involved in giving a lawyer “power of attorney.” He noted that lawyers’ fees are now running as high as $500 per hour and that 75% of the compensation payments to people in the Gordon area had gone to lawyers. Eating is always an important part of First Nations’ gatherings and this event was no exception. One of the suppers was prepared by the local Diner that now operates on the reserve. There was much plain talking the second day about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. Presentations were made by people who had survived serious addictions and who now valued the new freedom they had found. Anger Management and Gang Awareness were other presentations designed to help people to avoid or overcome the perils of domestic violence. Most of the presentations kept the young hearers in mind but there was also one special session designed only for youth. If Gordon Reserve is a typical example it is evident that aboriginal people are working hard at overcoming the social and personal problems that have injured or destroyed many people in past years. There is a commitment among the leaders to help those who have problems and es-
photographer, Bishop Eric Bays
Chief Brian McNabb welcoming people to the gathering. The new cairn commemorating Gordon Residential School is in the background. pecially to encourage young peoplelive healthy and creative lives. This is important work and it is good to see the church leaders doing what they can to assist the process.
All Saints Parish Regina Continues to beActive as Refugee Co-Sponsor by Ralph Paragg REGINA - All Saints’ Church has been involved in refugee cosponsorships for several years. As a matter of policy, only persons who are recognized by the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and who have family in the Regina area who agree to take on responsibility for food, clothing, shelter and related areas are considered. All Saints’ Church is able to act as a backup in case of emergency need through their refugee fund. Most recently Genet Eyob and her husband Eritreans from Ethiopia arrived in Regina in March. Their aunt, Jerusalem Eyob, and the parish are the cosponsors. The couple left Regina in late April to join relatives in Calgary who are assisting them with job finding. All Saints’ Church is also co-sponsoring the application for refugee settlement of John Taban Primo Ojyuk, a citizen of Sudan, with an aunt, Osanta Ogeri. Ojyuk is a lay minister with the Roman Catholic Church and alleges religious persecution by the military and police in the Sudan. He is currently a refugee in Cairo and has been recognised by the UNHCR as a legitimate refugee. photographer, Million Eyob Also this parish is currently co-sponsoring the application for refugee settlement for Yossief Berhe and Hana Mharay with Yossief's older brother Haile Berhe. Under this l to r, Ralph Paragg, Genet Eyob, Henok Fekadu arrangement All Saints’ Church and Mr. Berhe will have equal legal responsibility. Berhe will take on all the responsibility for food, clothing and shelter. He will be assisted by his wife and another brother in Regina, all of whom are gainfully employed. The parish will have back-up responsibility through the refugee fund. Yossief Berhe has passed his interview and is in the process of completing his medical and security check. He will likely join his brother in fall. Another group that the parish is cosponsoring is a Burmese family of husband, wife and two-year old son to reunite them with the wife’s uncle in Regina. The husband age 37 is a former school teacher. His wife age 34 is a tailor/dressmaker. The family is currently in India and have been recognized as UNHCR as refugees. Over three years ago All Saints’ Church undertook the cosponsoring of Daniel Andemariam, his wife Ekaberet and young son Dawit, refugees from Ethiopia in Kenya. They arrived in Canada in September last year and were met by their cosponsor, a cousin who lived in Regina. The cousin moved to Kitchener, Ontario, during the sponsorship process to a better job so the Andemariams have decided to settle and live with the cousin in Kitchener. Canada Immigration has agreed to this arrangement. Over the years, All Saints’ Church has successfully cosponsored and contributed to sponsorships with other organizations. To date the sponsorships have been very rewarding.
2 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2006
Bishop Greg Enjoys Swift Current Parish and Ministry
EDITORIAL By Fred Stephens
by Janet Neubauer SWIFT CURRENT (QuA) This past July we enjoyed Bishop Greg’s first visit to the Parish of Swift Current, not as a guest to our parish but rather as a welcome to his parish. There were many plans and activities that our new bishop was involved in during the weekend. He arrived Friday afternoon to meet and rehearse with the confirmation candidates and later that evening he had supper with the vestry members and their spouses. On Saturday morning he enjoyed a game of golf with Archdeacon Rob Hardwick and some members of the congregation and then, over lunch, he encouraged and ministered to a couple seeking to discern God’s call to full-time ministry. At our parish picnic in the afternoon he visited with the people, engaged in a water balloon game with the children and took his turn riding a photographer Janet Neubauer horse and in the evening he learned about the agril to r: Archdeacon Rob Hardwick, Erin Medforth, Logan Wall, cultural sector as he toured a farming operation. Andrea Wall, Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson Early Sunday morning Bishop Greg led the Eucharist service and met with the congregation at St. John/Pennant and later that morning he officiated at the confirmation service at St. Stephen/Swift Current. He enjoyed the food and fellowship at a potluck lunch after the services and before leaving he participated in healing prayers for someone in our congregation. As I reflected on the weekend what stood out for me was that amidst all this activity, Bishop Greg is one in whom we see the light of God and it was evident that the presence of God is with him. For some the confirmation rehearsal was a time of practice but for Bishop Greg this was a time of worship and at the same time as he was explaining the service to us, he was also engaging in worshipping our Lord. Throughout the weekend, I could see that he came as one wanting to walk with us, to share our struggles and our joys, to teach, to encourage and to challenge us. During the vestry evening, as well as affirming us in what we are doing at St. Stephen, he also challenged us to stretch further, to be bold in proclaiming and sharing the love of God with those in our city who don’t know God. As Bishop Greg spoke to the congregations Sunday morning, he taught what it means to be part of the family of God. He explained that we are anointed with the power and presence of the Holy Spirit and that being a Christian means being a “little anointed one.” He encouraged us in our call to speak out and act out that anointing of God. Everyone appreciated how he blended Scripture, stories and laughter in his teaching. Our congregation was blessed by Bishop Greg’s first visit and we look forward to joining with him as "little anointed ones" to participate in the work of God in this diocese.
Upcoming Ultreyas - Diocese of Saskatoon
The Order of St. Luke the Physician Region 14 Conference
September 15, 2006, 7 pm St. Mark's Church, 1406 8th Avenue North, Saskatoon Talk: 2006 Cursillo Weekends Eucharist Dessert Potluck
October 13 & 14, 2006 Central Lutheran Church, Moose Jaw
Setting the Captives Free
October 20, 2006, 7:30 pm St. Matthew's Church, 135 - 109th Street West, Saskatoon Grouping with lay talk and discussion
Guest Speaker: The Reverend Dale Gillman, Director, Gordon's Wellness Centre Registration fee: $50 (single), $90 (couple) A limited number of billets are available. For further information, contact: Maureen Whalley - mbwhal@sasktel.net or The Reverend Joanne Beacon, Regional Director - beaconsfolk@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.
November 24, 2006, 6:30 pm St. Timothy's Church, 2101 Lansdowne Avenue, Saskatoon Welcome to new cursillistas Potluck supper Grouping followed by singing of weekend favourites
For more information, contact: Betty Lloyd (3436959) or Loretta Hartsook (934-2520) [leave a message, and they will return your call]
Managing Editors: Fred Stephens, 51 - 10th St. NE, Weyburn SK. S4H 1G8 Phone 306-842-7235 Email: candfstephens@sasktel.net 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:
With any newspaper it is important for the editor to have some sense of his readership and their preferences. With this in mind, it must also be pointed out that the mandate for this newsletter was set out some years ago, and charges the Saskatchewan Anglican to “Stimulate, Inform, Observe, Report and Encourage: 1. Stimulate the mission of the Church by the vital presentation of our faith and its relevance to life today; Inform the Anglican community 2. of Saskatchewan about its affairs, problems and progress in the light of the mission of the Church; 3. Observe, report and comment on any local, diocesan, provincial, national or world news and issues which seem to the editor to bear on the spiritual and general education, welfare or interest of the readers - emphasis will be given to the diocesan and parochial communities; 4. Report and reflect in particular on issues which will inform and stimulate the policies and programs current in the three dioceses; 5. Encourage dialogue and the expression of a wide range of viewpoints among its readers.” Within the context of these guidelines there is sufficient latitude to accommodate all things Anglican, from local parish events and concerns to a consideration of world news and international issues. While the Saskatchewan Anglican has served the Dioceses of this province well for many years, perhaps now is a good time to begin to look at the newsletter over all, and ask ourselves how well it is meeting the needs of both clergy and laity today. As with any endeavour there are some constraints with respect to budget, space, and resources, and we cannot expect to be all things to all people. It becomes even more important to the editorial staff and board. therefore, to know the needs and desires of readers as well as communicators. If you have any thoughts, suggestions or ideas concerning the Saskatchewan Anglican, its content, layout or relevance in today's ever-changing world, please forward them in writing to the Associate Editor in your diocese for consideration. Positive endorsements as well as any suggestions for change will be equally appreciated. All submissions will then be reviewed and considered for their suitability for application in future editions. The editorial staff looks forward, with God's guidance, to continuing to bring you a quality newsletter that is dynamic, informative, and well worth reading.
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 A Section of Anglican Journal
The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2006 - 3
Bike-Run-Walk-a-thon Held for St Michaels Retreat
Left and Above: People from Stanley Mission, an Anglican community north of La Ronge, stayed in the residences of the University of Saskatchewan for several days at the beginning of July due to heavy smoke and the threat of fire in their home area. Bishop Rodney Andrews and other local clergy presided at a communion service on July 9.
LUMSDEN (QuA) - On a beautiful sunny day in August over 100 people walked, ran and biked along the Qu’Appelle valley to raise funds for St. Michael’s Retreat Centre. The Centre was established in 1963, by the Franciscan Friars of Western Canada at the request of the then-Archbishop Michael O’Neill. Presently, the Franciscan Friars of St. Michael’s together with the Roman Catholic, Anglican and Lutheran communities operate the Retreat Centre through an Inter church Board which oversees the whole operation of the Centre. Located on 248 hillside acres overlooking the Qu’Appelle Valley St. Michael’s Centre provides a year-round haven for a variety of retreatants in an environment of peace, quiet and prayer. Offered are a variety of retreats and programs designed to lead photo: Susan Page men and women, young and old, into a deeper relationship with God. Also a number of Page, St. Luke/Regina; Wendy Kraushaar, Holy Cross Roman l to r: Terry groups of all faiths and occupations come to the Centre for seminars and workshops. Catholic Church; Ann Molson, St. Mary/Regina; Pat Kohli, St. Luke/Regina and After the event over 200 people attended the ecumenical service officiated by Bishop Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson were some of the participants. Greg Kerr-Wilson.
Diocese of Qu’Appelle Coming Events
October 13 - 14 Lift your spirits, and connect with God in a new way, at eMerge 2006. This event is dedicated to youth in Grades 9-12 who wish to connect with other youth and worship God outside of the traditional church setting. It’s a fun-filled, 15-hour event with live music, gym and swim activities, and more! eMerge takes place October 13, 2006 (beginning at 6 p.m.) and continues through the night until 9 a.m. on October 14th at Luther College, University of Regina. This is the 2nd year for eMerge, which is a joint initiative of RELY (Regina Evangelical Lutheran Youth) and Luther College, University of Regina. The cost to attend eMerge is $30/youth and $15 for each additional immediate family member. Please register by September 30, 2006. For more information contact: Pastor Murray Halvorson, Faith Lutheran Church, Regina at 543-0118 (w), 586-0341 (h), e-mail: mhalvorson.faith@sasktel.net; or Pastor Dennis Hendricksen, Christ Lutheran Church, Regina at 352-4832 (w), 949-1310 (h), e-mail: dennisdh@sasktel.net. October 13 -14 The Order of St. Luke ((Region 14) is holding a conference at Central Lutheran Church in Moose Jaw beginning on Friday at 4 p.m. and ending Saturday after the 5 p.m. Eucharist. The theme of the conference is “Setting the Captives Free” with guest speaker the Reverend Dale Gillman. For further information please contact Maureen Whalley 306. 682.4109 or e-mail mbwhal@sasktel.net. October 27 - 29 The ICQ Youth Event will be held at All Saints/Regina,142 Massey Road. It will be for ages 13-18 and will be focused on deepening the understanding of and connection to God. The weekend will feature learning, growing, fun, live music, prayer, worship, great food and new friendships. The cost for the weekend will be $25. Cut-off date for registration is October 23. For more information please contact the Reverend Mike Sinclair 306.634.4113, office or 306.634.2260, home or by e-mail mrsinclair@sasktel.net. To register contact the Reverend Catherine Harper at 306.842.3125 or by e-mail cah@sasktel.net. October 27 - 29 A workshop entitled “Enhancing the Ministry of the Baptized,” basic part 2, will be led by the Reverend Dr. Trish McCarthy at Holy Trinity Church, Yorkton. Registration is on Friday at 4 p.m. and ending on Sunday at 3 p.m. Topics for this training event include: Grief Work and Ministry in the Context of Death; Ministering to Elders; Pastoral Ministry of Prayer and Supervision While Doing Pastoral Care. For further information please contact the synod office, 306.522.1608. November 5 Plain & Valley parish will host "One Last Dance" at the Lumsden Centennial Hall from 1:30 to 5 p.m. Len Gadica will play the music. Cost is $10 per person and proceeds will go to the parish. For more information call 306.731.3171 or 306.731.2516.
The good person brings good things out of a good treasure, and the evil person brings evil things out of an evil treasure.
Matthew. 12:35
PWRDF - St.
Stephen’s Parish Swift Current by Pam Speir SWIFT CURRENT (QuA) - St. Stephen's Church is committed to help raise awareness and funds for the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) Partnership For Life: For a Generation without AIDS Campaign. The PWRDF group has hosted five luncheons this year after Sunday worship with all proceeds from the a free will offering going directly to the HIV/AIDS Campaign. The first luncheon, held in September, featured home-made soup and buns on the menu. There was shown a short video explaining the origins and works of the PWRDF. In October, with more people attending, soup and sandwiches were served again. Shown that day was the Stephen Lewis video and many people were greatly moved by the message he shared about the HIV pandemic. Sloppy joes and buns were served in January and in March beef on the bun was served to a filled parish hall and more tables had to be set up. The success of our PWRDF luncheons was apparent at the May barbecue as the numbers had grown significantly throughout
the year. The lunches have been great and have brought together a community to help make a difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The Partnership for Life web site (partnershipforlife.ca) offers ongoing educational and worship resources, links, and analysis for the Anglican and broader communities of faith.
4 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2006
St. Mary’s Parish Cupar Celebrates a Century of Faith and Worship photographer: Robynne Smith
l to r: front row: Archdeacon Helena Houldcroft, Elaine Blundell, Tyler Blundell, Dillon Blundell, Dylan Ban, Bailey Lorence, Luke Blundell, Amber Ban, Jesse Lorence, Sharon Casteel back row: the Reverend David Nevett, Ron Cox, Derek Harrison, Agnes Robertson, Iris Strudwick, Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson, Sue Boxall, Diane Morris, Velva Squire, Carol Machniak
by Betty Smith CUPAR (QuA) A beautiful morning with the chimes playing was thesetting for celebration of the little white church that has bloomed here it was planted in 1906. On Sunday, July 16, St. Mary' s congregation and friends celebrated her 100th birthday, 100 years ofservice to Cupar and district Anglican families. Over 130 people were in attendance, coming from all over Canada.
The pews were filled and many people sat outside as they were able to hear the whole serviceby way of the public address system. The celebrant was Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson; Archdeacon Helena Rose Houldcroft was preacher and the Reverend David Nevett, interim priest. Reading the scripture were Carol Machniak and Elaine Blundell. Giving the prayers and administrant was Sharon Casteel. Jesse Lorence
was crucifer and torch bearers were Luke Blundell and Bailey Lorence. Book bearer was Amber Ban and servers were Dylan Ban and Di11onBlundell. The offertory procession was led by Amber Ban and Tyler Blundell. With organist, Derek Harrison, the St. John/ Fort Qu'Appelle choir offered beautiful music and guitarist, Ronald Cox, added to the event.After the service everyone retired to the Cupar Town Hall for lunch
and a short program which began with a history of St. Mary given bythe master of ceremonies, Bob Turner. Greetings and regrets were readand several people spoke including Bishop Kerr-Wilson. There werebooks such as the parish register which many were looking in for familiar baptisms, marriages and other important moments in their lives. As well tables held memorabilia for everyone to enjoy. The congregation of St.
Mary’s is looking forward to another 100 years'presence in Cupar.
St. Margaret’s Church in Manor Celebrates 100th Anniversary by Sharing with Lutheran and United Church Ministries MANOR (QuA) In celebration of 100 years as an Anglican presence here, the congregation of St. Margaret was delighted this past June to have Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson make his first visit to Manor in the Greater Parish of Oxbow. As well the celebration included the confirmation of Dakota Lorne Rose and Colby Ken Potapinski. The service was held in Knox United Church marking St. Margaret's shared ministry with the United Church. St. Margaret’s Church has a rich and varied history. The congregation began Anglican worship in 1904 in Maltby’s Hall and within two years funds were raised to construct a church building. In June, 1906, the first service was held in St Margaret’s Church with the Reverend Shelly of Cannington Manor celebrating. Through the years clergy and lay leaders have continued having services but in 1992 it was necessary to rent space in St
Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church during the winter months as St. Margaret’s building was deteriorating. In the spring of this year, due to the condition of the building, the congregation decided that it was time to ask the diocese to have the church building deconsecrated and disposed of. Now St. Margaret’s community has joined the UnitedLutheran Shared Ministry and worships in the Knox United Church in Manor. The United Church in Manor is part of the Redvers-Manor United-Lutheran Shared Ministry (RMULSM). Pastor Greg Kiel of Redvers has three churches: Dannevirke Lutheran, the United Church in Redvers and Knox United in Manor. Knox United has a service every first and third Sunday while St. Margaret's Anglican congregation worships every second and fourth Sunday. Two women from the area, the Reverend Michelle Moore and
photographer Craig Savill
l to r: Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson, the Reverend Michelle Moore,Lucille Dunn, Al Dunn, the Reverend Marlene Haygarth, the ReverendGreg Kiel the Reverend Marlene Haygarth, are locally raised up Anglican priests. For St. Margaret’s special occasion the United and Lutheran churches in Manor and Redvers cancelled their services and attended the Anglican event. Lutheran intern Rick Laurendeau and Pastor Greg Kiel robed and joined in the celebration.
A beautiful new sign proclaiming the dual identity of this house of worship was donated by Al and Lucille Dunn and stands near the front door, welcoming everyone to the Christian services. St. Margaret’s congregation is excited about the possibilities of another 100 years with future joint ventures with their friends
in Christ.
100 Years of Anglican History Celebrated by Holy Trinity Parish in Kamsack by Nora Clyde KAMSACK (QuA) Holy Trinity Church celebrated 100 years of its presence here with a service of Holy Eucharist on June 11. The congregation was honoured to have Bishop Gregory KerrWilson as celebrant. The service was attended by more than 60 members and visitors with Mrs. Charlotte Nadane and Mrs. Gay Tower presiding at the organ and piano. Servers were Sally Bishop and Milena Hollett. Readers were Rance and Lynda Airriess. Following the service the congregation retired to the lower hall where a catered hot luncheon was served. This meant that for once in a hundred years the ladies did not have to man the kitchen! Following the luncheon, Rick Aikman, as master of ceremonies, introduced our new bishop, who was warmly welcomed on his first visit to Kamsack. Bishop KerrWilson was invited to make the first cut in the large birthday cake, which was beautifully decorated with sketches of both the old and new church buildings. This was then served to all present. Letters read by Nancy Brunt had been received from a number of past rectors and members who sent congratulations and their regrets at being unable to attend. Visitors who signed the register came from Saskatoon, Moosomin, Canora,
Making All Things New a Success Story
photographer: Pastor Ian Nestgaard-Paul
John Bell in session REGINA - There was a noticeable energy in the air as 205 participants gathered in July for “Making All Things New,” the second National Worship Conference cosponsored by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC) and the Anglican Church of Canada (ACC). From the opening Eucharist at St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral on Wednesday evening, through the closing Eucharist at Trinity Lutheran Church on Saturday morning, all in attendance were immersedin the many and varied aspects of worship. The keynote speakers, John Bell and the Reverend Richard Leggett, explored the concept of Making All
Regina, Kamloops, Yorkton, Raymore,Pelly and Togo. Included in those present were the Reverend Betty Garret, who so ably took care of the congregation while the rectorship was vacant and Miss Violet Dethridge, daughter of the first engineer in the Kamsack power house who was on her first visit to Kamsack since 1923 when her family moved away. Accompanying Miss Dethridge was her niece, Mrs. Marian Di Geso of Kamloops, British Columbia. In concluding the program Nora Clyde spoke on the history of Holy Trinity Church from 1906 to 2006. She noted that there have been more than 25 incumbents there during the past 100 years. For many years in the early days, the clerics took services in the surrounding centres and often travelled by train or even walked. With the coming of the CNR railroad a one-room building was provided for the housing of the clergy as well as for Sunday services which was called the “Church House” and the parish was referred to as the “CNR Missionary District.” Through the years the church building and rectory have had many changes. Now the present rectory is a very fine building of red brick to match the church. “It is our sincere prayer.” she said, “that Holy Trinity Church will continue to have a successful and holy presence in the future of Kamsack.” Things New through word, mission, song, culture, community, worship and space. Both speakers provided thought provoking insight in their plenary sessions and lively discussions in the presenter’s dialogues. There were opportunities for people to participate in the conference choir, attend a broad range of practical workshops and to have a variety of worship experiences. On Friday evening the banquet was held at the Norman MacKenzie Art Gallery. The guests were treated to a buffet of Saskatchewan culture through food, drink, entertainment and worship. The epicurean delights began with a rhubarb punch and included, among other delights, roast baron of bison, perogies, cabbage rolls and, of course, Saskatoon pie. Before dinner five Anglican and Lutheran youth played a selection of familiar hymn tunes on their cellos and during dinner participants enjoyed the sounds of a local jazz quintet under the leadership of Pastor Dennis Hendrickson from Christ Lutheran Church in Regina. This same quintet then played for the Jazz Vespers serviceollowing the conferral of the Companion of the Worship Arts upon Debbie Lou Ludolph. “Making All Things New” brought together lay people and clergy from across Canada (as well as a seminary student from Atlanta, Georgia) and from a number of worshipping traditions including Lutheran, Anglican, United Church, Presbyterian, Methodist and Pentecostal, to learn, to discuss and to worship God in community. The next ELCIC/ACC National Worship Conference will be held in Montreal in June, 2008. Mark it on your calendars now.
The Saskatchewan Anglican, September2006 - 5
photo: photographer, Sally Bishop
l to r: Carole Pollon, Ashley Hollett, Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson
McIntyre’s Watershed Stories Touches Audience by Mary Wallace REGINA- David L. McIntyre, organist at St. Paul’s Cathedral, has added one more success to his many musical works. His latest gift to the music world is Watershed Stories. Under Mr. McIntyre’s direction the Prairie Pride Chorus delighted a nearly packed house at Globe Theatre recently with music and stories about the lives and loves of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people. Music composed by McIntyre ranged from whimsical to exotic with words that were at times trite (maybe purposefully), most often profound and always moving. Accompanied by the talented Kari Neufeld on piano and conducted by McIntyre, the choir of 36 took the audience on a spiritual journey telling in words and music the human stories of the gay community. The extraordinary language of the music touched the hearts of the audience forcing listeners to experience the gamut of emotions. The audience laughed, cried, cheered, clapped and, in turn, they were encouraged, provoked, inspired and entertained. The performance began with a musical romp through the province. They opened with Saskatchewan, a choral setting of the provincial map. Beginning with the A’s the choir sang about every town from Abernethy to Biggar, from Climax to Zehner. Half way through the audience wondered if the singers could possibly keep up the pace and continue the fun until the last town was named. Snickers were heard from time to time as people identified with their own home towns. Watershed Stories describe the human condition. They tell of falling in love, of hate, of acceptance, of loss, of intolerance, of prejudice. The music hooks the listener in with the familiar, soft sounds of a lullaby and irritates and challenges through the difficult dissonant chords in songs such as Taunts. The audience comes to understand the painful experience of so many. The Watershed Project began in 1999 when McIntyre visited friends and listened to the stories of their lives. He understood that stories can transform
photographer: Bruce Vasselin
David L. McIntyre, creator of the Watershed Stories , unite and inspire. He intended through his retelling of the stories through music and words to empower members of the choir. Notably, one of the most enchanting pieces is “Singing in the Choir.” This simple yet moving piece talks about the opportunity of sharing a common experience and making friends. The experience, taken for granted by most in our society, is a challenge for those who are gay, lesbian, transgendered or bisexual. The music has the power to transform and make the world a better place. The first set of Watershed Stories premiered in June, 2002 at Government House. Two years later Watershed II premiered in a concert at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Regina. Since then the work has been performed across Saskatchewan, as well as Toronto, Calgary, Medicine Hat and Vancouver.
When reviled,we bless; when persecuted, we endure
1 Corinthians 4: 12
6 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2006
Bishop’s Message - How God Speaks to Us The Right Rev. Anthony Burton Bishop of Saskatchewan There was a time when Anglicans thinking about worship or prayer would naturally gravitate to the image of Jacob's ladder from Genesis 28: Jacob left Beersheba, and went toward Haran. And he came to the place and stayed there that night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven; and behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it! This image, which involves a communication from heaven to a human being and from a human being to heaven is used to be a central image of Christian and Anglican spirituality. It was at one time one of the favorite subjects of stained glass windows in Anglican churches. The image is vertical one and depends on the idea of heaven as something above us and out of this world -- and it has passed almost entirely out of fashion. It is today considered too 'heavenly' and thus unbelievable, escapist and socially irresponsible. This attitude is nicely expressed by the Presbyterian spiritual writer Kathleen Norris in her best-selling book Amazing Grace describing a sermon she heard in a Roman Catholic church on the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary: A monk who is a physics professor preached on this feast. In his homily he reminded us that while our bodies are indeed made of 'star stuff,' modern cosmology has eliminated any direction called 'upward.' He went on to say that Mary's journey might not be seen as upward so much as inward, a lifelong journey toward the kingdom of God within. Before I had experienced the celebration of this dogma, I had thought it to be suspiciously escapist and otherworldly… I am glad she had the authority of a professor of physics to share that brilliant insight into 'up' and 'down' that 'modern cosmology' has given us, but it does go to show how deeply ingrained this prejudice against the idea of revelation which comes to us from above has become. Even to argue for the possibility of the 'God's Word Written,' as Article XX, puts it, (and thus a word we haven't written ourselves) is to be lumped in with hillbillies, bug-eyed fanatics, shoe-bombers, and jihadists
of all stripes. Augustine argued that God was able to engage us through his 'outer word' speaking to an 'inner word' inside of each of us. The inner word (which he called the word of the heart - verbum cordis) was built into our souls when God created each of us. It is present in every human being, whether they have yet heard of Christ or not. When the inner word hears the Word of God from without, the inner word rejoices and says, “it's true.” For example, when an evangelist proclaims the Gospel and people respond for the first time, this is what is going on. The evangelist is not telling the hearer something he or she doesn't already know. Deep down, unarticulated and unexpressed, the hearer already knows it, but the idea is awakened within him. This is related to Plato's idea that all knowledge is a form of remembering. This idea finds its most explicit scriptural expression in the beginning verses of the Gospel of John. The human soul has a heavenly character. As a result the soul will be moved by heavenly things and will find itself when heavenly things are presented to it. So our conversation with God begins with God speaking to us from without and our response from within. The priority then is with God. This has tended to be forgotten in recent years. When we construct churches, we no longer construct towering pulpits which symbolize the Word descending to us from above. (A wonderful example of this, for example, is the pulpit at St. Stephen's, James Smith Reserve). Today most new churches are designed to express the gathered community facing inward in a circle or a semi-circle; they stress hospitality to be sure but at the expense of holiness in their architecture. The interior of few new parish churches evoke wonder and awe in the way that the interior of a church like, for example, Holy Trinity, Stanley Mission, does. Rather than thinking of ourselves as being fitted in this life below for the next one above, and on a pilgrimage to heaven, we now gravitate more to the imagery of an open-ended earthly journey. The novelist Walker Percy has observed that “the modern world has ended ….The Christian notion of man as a wayfarer in search of salvation no longer informs Western culture. What most of us seem to be seeking in its place are such familiar goals as maturity, creativity, autonomy, rewarding
Archbishop of Canterbury and Chief Rabbis sign historic agreement Reprinted from Anglican Communion News Service
interpersonal relationships, and so forth. Most contemporary novelists have moved into a world of rootless and isolated consciousness where … 'the covenant with memory and history has been abrogated in favor of the existential self.” The idea of the revelation in which the Word from above comes first, the idea of verticality itself, has been supplanted by the horizontal circle. We are much less comfortable with the idea of the revelation of the mind and will of God than we are with self-revelation and selfdiscovery. And yet St. Irenaeus said that “The glory of God is the living man, but the life of man is the vision of God.” “Be it unto me, according to thy word,” said Mary. The word which heals us comes from above and draws us to our heavenly home because it speaks to the word of the heart which God implanted in us - the story of the child in the manger; the story of the serpent lifted up; of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil at the beginning of the Bible and the story of the tree of life at the end; the story of the innocents massacred and Rachel, weeping for her children; the story of David and Absolom, his son; the story of the prodigal and his father; the story of the tears like great drops of blood and of the God who shall wipe every tear from our eyes; the risen Christ as a traveler along the road, recognized only in the breaking of bread; and finally the story of the descent of the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven all of these have been given to heal us.
Fools despise wisdom and instruction Proverbs 1:7
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams and the Chief Rabbis of Israel, Chief Rabbi Shlomo Amar and Chief Rabbi Yonah Metzger today signed a joint Declaration which sets out a framework for continuing dialogue between them. Dr Williams described the agreement as historic: “This is a most significant step in developing better mutual understanding and trust between the Anglican Communion and the Chief Rabbinate and worldwide Judaism.” The Archbishop was supported in the meeting by the Coadjutor Bishop in Jerusalem, The Rt Revd Suheil Dawani and by Bishops Michael Jackson and John Stroyan. The Chief Rabbis were supported by Rabbi David Rosen and by the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations, Sir Jonathan Sacks. The Archbishop paid tribute to Sir Jonathan and to Bishop Suheil for their constructive roles in the discussions leading to this meeting. The agreement adds to the growing network of bilateral and multilateral dialogues between religious leaders in the Middle East and in the wider world. This network of dialogue is a major contribution to a world in which religious faith is an increasingly important dimension of people's lives and of national policies. At a reception to witness the signing of the joint declaration, attended by 70 leaders of the Jewish and Christian communities of England, the guests heard a presentation by the Chief Executive of the Council of Christians and Jews and by the Director of the Centre for the Study of Jewish Christian Relations. The presentations illustrated the range of new initiatives taken by these two complementary organisations to take forward relationships between Christian and Jewish communities in England. Dr Williams said that the agreement would help to advance inter faith relations: “This is a potentially fruitful development for relations between Christians and Jews in general and for the peoples of the
Holy Land in particular. What we've agreed today will provide a framework within which both practical and sometimes challenging issues can be discussed on the basis of mutual trust and respect”. The Archbishop and the Chief Rabbis also agreed on the need for a renewed sense of urgency in the search for long term peace, justice and security in the Middle East in general and in Israel and the Palestinian territories in particular. The Archbishop and Chief Rabbis called for the greatest possible response to the need now for reconstruction and rebuilding both of the physical infrastructure and of the emotional and psychological relaions of Christian, Jewish and Muslim believers in the region. Dr Williams said that the dialogue would make trust and cooperation easier to establish: “We have acknowledged the tensions that shadow the present situation particularly the ongoing tragic conflicts in the Holy Land. But our hope has rested very firmly on this; that without friendship andmutual confidence, without the ability to speak to one another candidly and lovingly, we shall never be in a position where our relationship can change things and challenge things and move the situation forward.” The Chief Rabbis emphasised the responsibility of religious leaders to do their utmost to ensure that religion is not abused for violent ends.
Emmanuel and St Chad sells buildings to U of S SASKATOON - On August 23, the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad and the University of Saskatchewan announced the sale of the College's three buildings on the University of Saskatchewan campus to the University for $1.1 million. Negotiations have been underway for several months, after Emmanuel and St. Chad announced in May 2005 that it would be seeking to lease space from Lutheran Theological Seminary as part of a long-term business plan to stabilize the College's operations and to pursue a long-term vision that would seek to house all three theological colleges on campus in a common space. “We believe that we have reached a good arrangement with the University,” said Dr. Walter Deller, Principal of Emmanuel and St. Chad. “Our relationship (continued on page 7)
The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2006 - 7
Archbishop of Canterbury and Chief Rabbis sign historic agreement (Cont’d)
Thanksgiving Day - The History of a North American Tradition by Fred Stephens
Photo Credit: ACNS Rosenthal
Photo Credit: ACNS Rosenthal
Emmanuel and St Chad sells buildings to U of S (Cont’d) goes back nearly a century to the earliest period of the founding of the University and the establishment of the Saskatoon campus. We moved here from Prince Albert and joined as the first of several affiliated colleges. The negotiations honoured that history but also recognized the fact that our buildings were aging and pose some challenges for any future user.” University Vice President Finance and Resources, Richard Florizone, said: “We are delighted with the outcome of the negotiations. Plans for the building are not yet finalized but are expected to complement developments to the student space near Place Riel.” Dr. Deller added, “Our Council had to grapple with the fact that we would be letting go of old and beautiful properties in which many generations of students from England and elsewhere made their first home in Canada. People feel deep affection for our chapels as places of prayer and beauty.
But Council also recognized that the time had come to say good-bye and let go. We could do this, in part because the University's planning process has made clear to us that it is seeking to be a wise steward of this campus and its potential as a place of community, beauty and learning.”
...Whatever is true, whatever is hoourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8
Contrary to popular belief, the history of Thanksgiving in North America did not begin with the pilgrims in 1621, subsequent to their landing at Plymouth Rock. In fact, the first recorded thanksgiving in North America did not take place in the United States. It dates back to the year 1578, when the English explorer Martin Frobisher arrived in what is now Canada. Frobisher, after whom Frobisher Bay is named, was searching for a northern passage to the Orient.. In that venture, however, he was unsuccessful, but he did succeed in establishing a settlement in this new land.. In 1578 he held a formal ceremony in what is now NewfoundlandLabrador to give thanks for surviving his long journey. Today this is considered both the first Thanksgiving in Canada, and, indeed, in North America. In the United States, “Thanksgiving Day”, dates to 1789 when George Washington declared Thursday, November 26th as a day when “we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks...” From 1777 to 1783 Thanksgiving day was celebrated in December, by Congressional mandate. From 1774 to 1778 there was no mandated celebration. The link between the Pilgrims, and the American thanksgiving celebrations wasn’t made until 1841 when the American writer Alexander Young made the association in his book, Chronicles of the Pilgrim Fathers of the Colony of Plymouth from 1602 until 1625. From 1789 on various presidents declared their own dates for Thanksgiving, but a national day of Thanksgiving did not occur again until 1863 when President Lincoln, following decisive wins by the Union armies at Gettysburg and Vicksburg, declared the fourth Thursday in November a National Day of Thanksgiving. In Canada, the citizens of Halifax held a special day of Thanksgiving in 1763 to celebrate the ending of the Seven Years’ War which resulted in Canada being handed over to the British. The reasons for a Thanksgiving Day in Canada have varied through history. In Lower Canada, for example, from 1799 until 1838 there were only nine days of Thanksgiving in total, the reasons for which included: “In signal victory over our enemy and for the manifold and inestimable blessings which our Kingdoms and Provinces have received and daily continue to receive”; “For God’s mercies”; “for glorious victories over our enemies”; “End of sanguinary contest in Europe and to give the Dominions blessings of Peace”; “End of war between Great Britain and France”; “Cessation of Cholera”; “End of quarantine of ships at Grosse Isle”;
“For termination of the Rebellion”. During the same period, Upper Canada celebrated four Thanksgivings: “End of war between Great Britain and France”; and on three occasions, “To continue God’s mercies”. The first Thanksgiving Day after Confederation occurred on April 15. 1872, and was held to celebrate the recovery of the Prince of Wales from a serious illness. No record exists of another Thanksgiving day until 1879, when it was declared for November 6 to celebrate the “Blessings of an abundant harvest”. The holiday was observed until November 18, 1886 for the same reason, and always on a Thursday in November. On June 21, 1887 a day of Thanksgiving was held to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Her Majesty’s Accession to the Throne. On Thursday, November 17, the now traditional celebration of “Blessings of an abundant harvest” was also held, and they continued until1920, with the exception of 1902 which was proclaimed as “a day of General Thanksgiving”. In 1921 the Armistice Day Act was passed by Parliament, which fixed Thanksgiving Day as the same day as Armistice Day-the Monday of the week in which November 11 fell. This statute remained in effect until 1931, when an Act to amend the Armistice Day Act was passed, which provided that Armistice Day would be observed on November 11, and would be called Remembrance Day. Thanksgiving Day was again to be set by Proclamation, From 1931 until 1956 Thanksgiving Day was proclaimed annually to be the second Monday in October, with the exception of 1934 when it was changed because of a general election. In 1957 a proclamation was issued permanently fixing Thanksgiving Day on that day, and declaring it to be “...A day of general Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed...” We celebrate Thanksgiving usually with a big family meal. Turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie are traditional foods. Although the reasons for giving thanks have varied through the years, a bountiful harvest has been the most prevalent. We are admonished, however, in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 that we should “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you”. Have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving, everyone.
The heavens are the Lord’s heavens, but the earth he has given to human beings. Psalm 115: 16
8 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2006
Partners in Mission Reprinted from the Anglican Church of Canada Web Site The Anglican Consultative Council, at its second meeting held in Dublin in 1973 adopted the principles of Partners in Mission so that Anglican churches could consult and share in God's mission within the larger communion. The following statement was adopted and Partnership in Mission was established: The missionary task of the Church continues to be that of reconciling people to God, to each other and to the environment. The oneness of the missionary task throughout the world has been emphasized in recent years in all parts of the Church. The emergence everywhere of autonomous churches in independent nations has challenged our inherited ideas of mission as a movement from "Christendom" in the West to the "non-Christian" world. In its place has come the conviction that there is but one mission in all the world, and that this one mission is shared by the world-wide Christian community. The responsibility for mission in any place belongs primarily in that place. However, the universality of the gospel and the oneness of God's mission mean also that this mission must be shared in each and every place with fellow Christians from each and every part of the world with their distinctive insights and contributions. If we once acted as though there were only givers who had nothing to receive and receivers who had nothing to give, the oneness of the missionary task must now make us all both givers and receivers.
Personalization of mission In 1986 the World Mission Sub-Committee of the Anglican Church of Canada, recognizing the need to make a mission vital for Canadian Anglicans, adopted the following statement: We affirm the concept and practice of the personalization of mission. The mission of the church is God's mission. Our call to participate in that mission strengthens our faith, leads to changes in self-understanding, and builds deeper relationships with our partners. Our response is personal and corporate, near and global. Experiences of international Christian community are essential to growth, hope, and the unity of the Church. Therefore we: believe that all people are called to be in mission, to reach out and continue to grow, and that the church is called to be the remnant in the society in which it lives. respect the principles of Partnerships in Mission, and the autonomy and dignity of our partner churches and Canadian dioceses. support the development or strengthening of the following programs: o people exchange, and long term exchange of Christian leadership; o Companion Diocese relationships; o Volunteers in Mission; o support for diocesan mission education committees; o exposure experiences, and support for diocesan exposure experiences; o diocesan recruitment for overseas service; o use of public media.
I have appeared unto you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness
Acts 26:16