September 2008 Bishop’s Message Page 2
A Section of Anglican Journal
Saskatoon Photographer Wins National Awards by Peter R. Coolen -- SASKATOON --Congratulations to Dr. Jim Arnold and Mr. Tim Sandell of St. Mark's Church for receiving first prize for a submission to the Anglican Journal's 'Picture Your Faith' photo series. Picture Your Faith is a new feature at the Anglican Journal Web site, found at www.anglicanjournal.com. The photo, entitled “A Prayerful Pause”, appeared as a front page Journal picture in September 2007. The photo won in the colour photo (newspaper) category from the Canadian Church Press Association. The photo has been reprinted in a number of other church publications. Tim (the Reverend Karen's husband) and Jim went on a canoe trip last August and took the picture as their canoe drifted along near Holy Trinity Anglican church, at Stanley Mission, Sask. The church, built in 1856, is accessible by water only and is the oldest building standing in Saskatchewan. Tim said “I saw a call for photos when I was sorting through pictures from the trip”. And as they say, “the rest is history”.
Jim Arnold, St. Mark's Saskatoon; reprinted from the September 2007 issue, www.anglicanjournal.com
God's Music by Doris Turner, St. Stephen, Swift Current (This is a reprint of a poem published in the June issue. The ending was omitted. The Saskatchewan Anglican regrets the error.) I think that God in Heaven above Has made the world to sing, Each little note on Earth that's born Is listened to by Him. photo Phyllis Armstrong
He hears the merry, babbling brook Beneath the hills below, And the whispering of a scented breeze Is an anthem soft and low. The cries of all Creation speak Of Heavenly joy fulfilled, And ever since the world was formed These sounds cannot be stilled. But most of all I know He loves The songs His children sing, Of the praise and worship in our hearts That glorify our King.
1883 - 2008! St. Mary the Virgin Church, Whitewood, Celebrates 125 Years! by Phyllis Armstrong
A Prayerful Pause
It may be just the joyous songs Of birds upon the wing, Or even just a cricket's chirp Is a precious sound to Him.
In Memoriam Page 3
Diocesan Notes and Events Pages 2&3
People gathered at the lychgate to begin the 125th anniversary celebrations for St. Mary the Virgin, Whitewood. The first service was held in a tent in 1883, so a small tent was pitched in the churchyard to symbolize the parish's beginning.
WHITEWOOD (QuA) St. Mary the Virgin Church celebrated its 125th anniversary on the weekend of June 21 and 22. The first Anglican service in the area was conducted in a small tent on July 11, 1883. The first church was built in 1885, and parish records show the cost of the building was $80. The present stone church was consecrated on July 3, 1902. The 125th celebration began at the lychgate in front of a tent which symbolized the church's beginnings. Rev. Cheryl Johnson, present rector, said a prayer for the weekend and welcomed everyone. A greeting from the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan, Dr. Gordon Barnhart, was read. Pamphlets were available for self-guided tours of the church, listing the memorials given by past and present members of St. Mary's. The afternoon events were held in the Legion Hall, conveniently located beside the Parish Hall. “Her Majesty”, Ms Donna Sanders, a humorist from Regina arrived in a horsedrawn carriage and started the afternoon entertainment. Former parishioner Sherrie Meredith was master of ceremonies for the afternoon. Entertainment was provided by local singing groups: Pleasant Company Singers, Ernie and Dianne Veresh, and Connie Maier and Sherrie Meredith. Bishop Gregory, Allison Kydd of Indian Head, and the singing group Take 5 (Park Munroe, Ardith Cook, Gerry Elliot, Laurie Kyle and Dave Matity) from Winnipeg also entertained. Anniversary greetings from past clergy and parishioners were read. Doug Stevenson and Macey Raiwet, Pam Wushke and Dale Danscok, and Les and Janet Blackstock provided horse and buggy rides which were enjoyed throughout the afternoon. More than 200 people enjoyed a roast beef supper on Saturday evening. Two anniversary cakes decorated with pictures of St. Mary's were made by Linda Keeler and were cut by Bert and Doris Page, long time members of the parish. On the same evening, the town held a parade as part of Family Fun Day. The parish float depicted the life of the church from tent to the present stone church. Some people attended the events in period costumes which added to the historical atmosphere. After the parade, Cheryl Johnson celebrated Evening Prayer, using the form of service very similar to that used by the first worshippers in the parish. Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson presided at the Holy Eucharist on Sunday morning, which was attended by 114 people. Visitors from surrounding parishes as well as past parishioners helped the congregation celebrate this momentous
event. The members of the parish thank all those who took part in the weekend events. The anniversary organizers said, "Without our church family, past, present and future, we would not be able to carry on and fulfil our mission to be a caring, loving, worshipping and open community of people, who proclaim the Good News of Christ."
Joanne Shurvin-Martin, new Qu'Appelle Editor Staff Following the resignation of Barbara-Lynn Dixon, Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson has appointed Joanne Shurvin-Martin as associate editor for the Diocese of Qu'Appelle. Joanne worked in the field of corporate communications for 15 years before she "retired" to be home with her three children. The children are now all teenagers, and Joanne has begun working as a free-lance writer and editor. Joanne, her husband Walter Martin, and their family live in Regina. Readers may recognize part of her name - Joanne is the daughter of the late Ven. Howard Shurvin who was a long-time priest of the diocese, and sister of Rev. Peter Shurvin who was also a priest of the diocese before moving to B.C. Joanne was the Qu'Appelle editor from 1979 to 1989, and says that the technology she used then seems like just a short step from Gutenberg, compared to the systems being used today. The Saskatchewan Anglican is indeed fortunate to have on staff a person of Joanne’s experience and capabilities.
2 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2008
Bishop’s Message Editor’s Note: The September issue’s message would have been by the Bishop of Saskatchewan. Since Bishop Anthony Burton begins a new phase of his ministry in Dallas Texas effective September 1, with his consent we are re-printing his pastoral letter to members of the diocese of Saskatchewan announcing his resignation. Bishop Anthony’s pastoral concern for members of the Saskatchewan Diocese, his leadership as Bishop and the many contributions he has made in his fifteen years in that position will be a lasting legacy to that diocese. Although there will be many more bishops to follow in his footsteps there will be few with the energy, the grace , the charm and the intellect with which Bishop Anthony has guided its affairs. We wish him and his family Godspeed with every blessing, and know that they will be missed. Dear friends, Photo Archive
The Right Reverend Anthony Burton, Bishop of Saskatchewan
I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the privilege of serving with you these past 17 years, first as Dean and, since 1993, as Bishop. Our sense of call to Texas is a positive one but at the same time I felt that it would be an opportunity for the Diocese to be overseen with a fresh pair of eyes, and to enjoy the excitement and momentum a change of bishop brings. Archbishop Clarke will soon be in touch with our Executive Committee to start the process to elect a new Bishop. The person you will choose to carry this ministry forward will be greatly blessed. This Diocese is well known for the singular spirit of cooperation, good will, and thoughtfulness you bring to the challenges of the day. I have good hope and every reason to believe that God has another fruitful season in store for you. It was said that St. Paul had a thousand friends and loved each as his own soul, and died a thousand deaths when the time came for him to leave them. I suppose every departing bishop feels something of this sense of loss but I feel it acutely today because of the exceptional generosity and openness of heart with which you have consistently encouraged me. I hope to visit with many of you before we go. Anna, Caroline, Peter and I wish you God's blessing as you continue steadfast in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers. Yours in Christ, Anthony Burton
This is a difficult letter to write but I must let you know that I have submitted my resignation to the Metropolitan of Rupert's Land effective September 1, 2008. I begin that day a new ministry as Rector of the Church of the Incarnation in Dallas, Texas. Notes and Events - Diocese of Qu’Appelle September 14 Rev. Arthur Anderson will be inducted as a Diocesan Elder, in recognition of his ministry, wisdom and guidance. Bishop Mark MacDonald, National Indigenous Bishop, will be present for the ceremony, in the Gordon's School Gym on Gordon's Reserve, beginning at 3:00 p.m. September 27 Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson, Deacon Susan Page and Rev. Trish McCarthy will lead an educational event on Distribution of Reserve Sacraments in Care Homes on Saturday morning, September 27 at All Saints Anglican Church, 142 Massey Road, Regina. Topics will include important health care information, basic liturgical instruction, sharing, a brief reflection and pastoral care dimensions. If you are interested in expanding your knowledge in this area or feel called to this ministry please call the All Saints office at 586-4420. October 3 - 4 St. Mary, Regina, will host a Faith Fair. The event begins Friday at 6 p.m. with a Faith Sharing Supper. The workshops are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, and include Liturgical Dance, Mime, Telling Our Stories, Healing Prayer, Contemporary Worship Music and Lectio Divina (a contemplative praying of the Scriptures which provides a means of union with God). See article in this issue for more details. For further information or to register please call 543-8939 or www.stmarysregina.ca Clergy Changes Rev. Dan Fournier, incumbent of Coteau Hills Parish, has submitted his resignation and will be moving to Vancouver Island with his wife, Rev. Joan Scandrett, former incumbent of Big Country Parish. Bishop James Cowan has appointed Joan Rector of the West Coast Mission of St. Columba, Tofino, and St. Aiden On-the-Hill, Ucluelet, in the Diocese of British Columbia. Rev. Blair Dixon, incumbent of St. Matthew, Regina, will retire September 30. Canon Willie Lourens, incumbent of St. Luke, Regina, will retire at the end of the year.
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 2nd month preceeding publication.
Diocese of Saskatoon: Announcements for July, August and September In order to be included in a timely manner brief notices for events should be supplied to the Associate Editor by Fax, e-mail or “snail mail” by the last week of the month, two months before the month in which the insertion is desired. Detailed and longer texts of events will not be included in this section but, should space allow, could be the subject of additional articles or notices elsewhere in the Saskatchewan Anglican. Integrity Saskatoon Meetings are held at St. James on the second Saturday of each month at 7 p.m. beginning in September. For further information: www.integritysaskatoon.blogspot.com . Saskatoon Correctional Centre Anglicans interested in being representatives on a committee working on restorative justice and reconciliation and from church groups interested in leading worship, Bible study etc. on a regular basis are asked to contact Mr. Peter Oliver at 956-8865 or poliver@cps.gov.sk.ca. St. Stephen's Anglican Church, 50th Anniversary Celebrations St. Stephen's Anglican Church, Saskatoon invites all former parishioners and clergy to our 50th anniversary celebrations in Saskatoon, SK., September 13th and 14th 2008. Please contact St. Stephen's Church at (306) 374-4066 or E-mail hab.ststephens@sasktel.net for information about events. The church is open 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday to Friday. Saint Matthew's, Sutherland Celebrates Centenary Saint Matthew's Anglican Church in Sutherland is celebrating its centennial on Saturday, September 6th with a Come-and-Go Tea in the parish hall and a Banquet in Sutherland School. A service of celebration will be held in the church on Sunday, September 7th at 10 a.m. For more information please call Loretta Kolbinson 374 6394 or E-mail kolbinson@sasktel.net. St. George's Annual Fall Bake Sale St George's will be holding its Annual Fall Bake Sale at the 8th Street COOP on Wednesday, September 27th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Diocesan Aboriginal Focus Group The Diocesan Aboriginal Focus Group meets regularly for study and reading stories from the Truth and Reconciliation book published by the Federal Government. New participants are welcome. If you are interested in attending, please contact Mrs. Mary Ann Assailly at: 382 - 0766. Regional PWRDF Conference We will be able to learn more firsthand about the work of PWRDF and share experiences and ideas at the Regional PWRDF Conference that will be held in Saskatoon from October 31tst to November 2nd at St, Timothy's Church. On Saturday evening there will be a closing banquet with a speaker and entertainment at Christ Church. Billets and some help with transportation may be available as well; for more information contact Barbara Spurr, (306) 373 - 4579; roxanaspurr@yahoo.ca . Appointments Etc.: The Reverend Canon Howard Green has been awarded the Archdeacon Harry St. Clair Hilchey Alumni/ae Award for Distinguished service. This award is presented annually to an alumnus/a of Wycliffe College who has distinguished themselves in service to the Alumni/ae Association, Wycliffe College and/or the church. The award was presented at Wycliffe College on Wednesday, May 14th. The Venerable Peter Yeung has been appointed Priest-in-Charge for Unity Central Parish in the absence of a full-time priest for the parish. The Reverend Gordon Lines who has been taking Sunday services in Unity Central Parish and at Humboldt/Watson on a rotation basis will be unable to continue to take services at Humboldt and Watson due to employment commitments. Mr. Lines will continue to preside over the services in Unity Central Parish twice each month. The Reverend Ron Baerg will conduct services in the Humboldt/Watson parish two Sundays per month. The Reverend Dianne Mesh has been appointed Rector of St. James' Church, Saskatoon effective October 1st. Dianne recently completed a term as Interim Priest at Holy Trinity Church, Eaton Centre, Toronto. Prior to that she served for six years as Associate Priest of Christ Church, Deer Park Toronto, as Priest in Charge of the Parish of Orillia South, and as Assistant Curate of the Church of the Redeemer, Toronto. She was ordained deacon in the Diocese of Toronto in 1996 and ordained priest in 1997. Dianne is a graduate of Trinity College, Toronto (Master of Divinity), of the University
Managing Editor Fred Stephens, 51 - 10th St. NE, Weyburn SK. S4H 1G8 Phone 306-842-7235 Email: fredrstephens@gmail.com Qu’Appelle: Joanne Shurvin-Martin, 6927 Farrell Bay, Regina SK S4X 3Z4 Phone 306 775-2679 Email: wsmartin@accesscomm.ca Saskatoon: Peter Coolen, 820Avenue I South Saskatoon SK S7M 1Z3 Phone: 306-244-0935 Email: ptrcoolen@sasktel.net Saskatchewan: The Reverends Julie and Steve Page, P.O. Box 1430 Hudson Bay SK S0E 0Y0 Phone 306-865-3488
Email: HudsonBayArborfield@sasktel.net 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: $15.00 in Canada; $22.00 outside Canada A Section of Anglican Journal
In Memoriam
The Saskatchewan Anglican,September 2008 - 3
Diocese of Saskatoon: Announcements for July, August and September (Cont’d) (Bachelor of Arts). Dianne has worked as a classroom teacher in Newfoundland and as a vocational counsellor in Ontario. The Reverend Canon William Christensen, D.D. has resigned as Priest-in-Charge of Holy Trinity Church, Saskatoon effective August 31st (after having served the parish for the last four years) in order to move into a more extensive retirement. The Rev. Dr. Bill Richards has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of Holy Trinity Church, effective September 1st,2008 to June 30th, 2009 (renewable). Mr. Robert J. Gibbings, QC, a Saskatoon Lawyer; Dr. Karen Wright, Assistant Dean, College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan; and the Reverend Dr. Henry M. Comerford, Incumbent, St. George's Parish, Saskatoon have been appointed to the Diocesan Sexual Harassment Response Team. Dr. Arne Paus-Jensen has been appointed Chair of the Diocesan Finance Committee succeeding the Venerable Richard Spencer who recently retired. Mr. Tim Sandell has been elected Chair of the Diocesan Compensation Committee. The Reverend Debbie Ramage has been elected Regional Dean of Saskatoon; she replaces the Reverend Karen Sandell who had been Regional Dean for the last three years. Mrs. Betty Wood, Mr. Bob Halliday and the Very Reverend Terry Wiebe have been appointed to the Bishop's Advisory Committee on Postulancy. The Very Reverend Terry Wiebe has also been elected Chair of the Committee. The other members of the Committee are the Reverend Dr. Jan Bigland-Pritchard and Pastor Jim Halmarson. The Venerable Dan Hughes has been appointed Rector of All Saints Church, Saskatoon and Archdeacon of Saskatoon effective September 15th; Mr. Hughes is currently Rector of the Lintlaw/Endeavour Parish. The Reverend Gary Sinclair has been appointed Rector of the Church of St. Leonardon-the-Hill in Red Deer, Alberta effective October 1st. He succeeds the Right Reverend Derek Hoskin, Bishop of Calgary. Mr. Sinclair is currently Rector of St. Matthew's Church, Saskatoon and part-time Hospital Chaplain for the Diocese and has served in the diocese since 1993.
A Life well lived: Mrs. Flora Charles Staff STANLEY MISSION (Sask) The matriarch of Stanley Mission, Mrs. Flora Charles, died peacefully at her home in Stanley Mission in early June. She was 98. Photo contributed Born Flora McKenzie in 1910, Mrs. Charles lived a Mrs. Flora Charles traditional life, mostly on the trapline with her first husband, Paul McKenzie. Flora was an expert in traditional Cree ways, including the skills of skinning and tanning hides, for example, and making moccasins. As she got older, she took up basket-weaving, for which she became locally renowned, selling her baskets at Robertson's Traders in La Ronge. Family members report that Flora and Paul had about a dozen children, although only two of them, a boy and a girl, survived to adulthood. Mrs. Charles outlived all of her children. Later in life, following Paul's death, Flora enjoyed good years married to the Reverend Samuel Charles. She was a strong support to Samuel in his ministry until his own death a few years ago. Mrs. Charles' sister-in-law, Elizabeth Charles of Stanley Mission, remembers Flora as a life-long devout and faithful Christian. Her sister-in-law says of Flora, “When I was a girl, I would see her go to church.” She also remembers Flora taking her grandchildren with her to church, in order to share her faith with the next generation. Flora and her family would cross Lac La Ronge by boat in summer and snowmobile in winter in order to reach Holy Trinity Anglican Church, as it is located across the lake from the community of Stanley Mission. Flora is also remembered for her gift of encouragement, as she visited those who were sick, talked about the Bible with them and reminded them to continue following God their Father even during the tough times. Sister-in-law Elizabeth Charles also emphasizes that Flora was a woman of prayer, commenting, “I still remember her prayers.” Thanks be to God for Flora Charles' faithful life and witness, and may her devotion to God live on in the lives of her family, friends and community.
The Venerable Richard Spencer (Archdeacon of Saskatoon since 2005) was appointed Archdeacon Emeritus on September 1st. The Very Reverend Glen Burgomaster has been appointed Acting Archdeacon of the Eastern Plains for a period of six months (renewable) effective September 16th. The Reverend Robert Blakeley has sold his house in Saskatoon and will be moving to Prince George, British Columbia; he will however remain canonically resident in this diocese. The Reverend Carlos Roberts, Rector of St. Timothy's Church, Saskatoon has been appointed volunteer Chaplain of the Saskatoon Police Service. The Right Reverend Tony Burton, D.D., Bishop of Saskatchewan has been appointed Rector of the Church of the Incarnation in Dallas, Texas effective September 1st. Bishop Burton has resigned as Bishop of Saskatchewan (a position which he has held for fifteen years) effective August 31st.
Putting the FUN into “FUNdraiser”
Photo Janice Stafford
Auctioneer Faron Ward and Warden Rod Stafford work the crowd at the 2008 All Saints Fun Auction
Lichfield Cathedral on British stamp
By Fred Stephens WEYBURN (Qu’A) All Saints, Weyburn is one of those parishes which, like many others, struggles with finances. To help meet expenses it relies on several major fundraising activities throughout the year. On July 26, the parish held its annual Fun Auction, which, over the years, has become the largest single fundraising activity for All Saints church. Once a year parishioners donate articles, new and like new, to be auctioned. Some of the donations are very creative. Gift certificates from local businesses, certificates for gourmet suppers for parties of six cooked and served by members of the congregation, bottles of home made wine, pies, pizza and garden produce are just some of the items that cry out for the bidders' attention. This year a shirt signed by bishops attending the Cross Talk celebration in the Diocese of Lichfield, (Qu'Appelle Diocese's sister diocese in England,) was one of the more unusual items up for grabs. At the appointed date and time a professional auctioneer arrives at the church and the bidding begins. The attendees have a great time outbidding each other, knowing that many of the items will go for much more than their retail value. It is, after all, a fund raiser. In an hour and a half to two hours the auction is done, the money is paid, and the bidders enjoy coffee and snacks together, congratulate each other on their purchases, and commiserate about those prize articles for which they were outbid. Thus, in a matter of a few hours with little preparation and setup, the congregation is able to raise a substantial amount of money, and at the same time enjoy the fun and excitement of the auction, and the fellowship of each others’ company.
Photo Janice Stafford
Kim Lohse and Debbie Hubick display the CrossTalk autographed shirt auctioned at the All Saints Fun Auction.
QU'APPELLE - Lichfield Cathedral is one of 10 cathedrals featured in the Royal Mail's new stamp series. Lichfield is a companion diocese to the Diocese of Qu'Appelle. The Dean of Lichfield, Adrian Dorber, said, "We are delighted that we have been chosen to be the first class stamp for the new commemorative series on British Cathedrals. I think Lichfield is a bit of an undiscovered gem as far as British cathedrals go and so we are totally thrilled that our profile is raised by this wonderful bit of fortune.... We couldn't have really wished for a better start to Lichfield Inspires, a long program of conservation, repair and renewal. ... I hope this is one of those holy lures which brings people into the place." Philatelists can go to www.royalmail.com/stamps for more details on the stamp series.
4 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2008
Guyana and Saskatchewan Sisters; “One Body in this One Lord”
Photo contributed
Photo Marion Pope
Photo Marion G. Pope
Zandra Hafeez with the Right Reverend Fred Hiltz, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada. photo Marion Pope
Lauren Jardine, Diocesan A.C.W. President, accepts a plaque from Zandra Hafeez and Barbara Thomas of the Mothers' Union, Diocese of Guyana. Marion G. Pope, Public Relations Coordinator, Diocesan ACW Board From exotic flora to brown grass and snow, from resplendent every-day birds to returning black crows, from a warm climate to minus temperatures, from driving on the left to driving on the right, Zandra Hafeez and Barbara Thomas experienced a touch of Saskatchewan while in Saskatoon from April 2nd to 18th, 2008. Quite a contrast for Zandra and Barbara of the Mothers' Union of Guyana who were visiting here by invitation from the Diocesan A.C.W. Board, Diocese of Saskatoon, with the blessing of the Right Reverend Rodney Andrews, Bishop of Saskatoon and with the assistance of Partners in Mission of the National Church, They lived among us and learned about our culture, not only through the elements which helped mold us, but through prayer, song, laughter, fellowship and food; just as Elaine Hrycenko and Jacqueline Plante from the Diocese of Saskatoon had done during their earlier trip to Guyana in January, 2007. Women throughout the Diocese generously opened their homes and their hearts to Zandra and Barbara to help show them who we 'are' as Christ's own. Zandra and Barbara attended our Synod and the Annual General Meeting of our Diocesan A.C.W;Toured from North Battleford to Preeceville, enjoying food, teas, lunches and suppers and conversation with
the Western, Saskatoon and Eastern Deaneries They visited many places in Saskatoon (the Saskatoon Community Services Village at the YWCA, the Mendel Art Gallery and Conservatory, the Agriculture Building at the University of Saskatoon, Royal University Hospital, Boomtown at the Western Development Museum., Dutch Growers, and St. Timothy's Nu-2-You Boutique) and visited rural Saskatchewan including a farm and a school and the “Little Bit of Country” Antique Store in Delisle.. Zandra and Barbara stopped in Biggar, Wynyard, Lake Manitou (with its Danceland and Spa), All Saint's Watrous. They visited the working pottery shop of Linda Leslie and experienced small town life in the Lintlaw, Endeavour and the Preeceville area and the Sturgis High School, visited the Promises Christian Store, and mixed with seniors. And saw buffalo. Most preciously, we, in the Diocese of Saskatoon, gained two new friends. We also learned from each other how much Christ's love knows no bounds. John Foley, in his hymn, “One Bread, One Body” speaks so well of this: “One bread, one body, one Lord of all, One cup of blessing which we bless We, though many, throughout the earth, We are one body in this one Lord” Thanks to everyone who helped make this visit possible and so memorable for everyone.
Barbara Thomas and Zandra Hafeez in hockey uniforms preparing to face off.
Bidding farewell to Zandra Hafeez and Barbara Thomas, April 18, 2008 at Saskatoon Airport. (left to right) Betty Ann Horbay (Diocesan A.C.W. Past President), Barbara Thomas (Mother's Union, Guyana), Eva Shabits (Book of Remembrance), Zandra Hafeez (Mothers' Union, Guyana), Elaine Hrycenko (Mission Projects and Social Action), Lauren Jardine (Diocesan ACW President), Jacqueline Plante (Patronness), Betty Lloyd (Treasurer); seated, Marion Pope (Devotions) and Elaine Ogilvy.
Parish celebration brings distant churches together By the Reverend Julie Golding Page HUDSON BAY (Sask) -In Saskatchewan, it is said that a farmer will drive 50 miles for a good cup of coffee. That may well be true, but on Sunday, July 20, the Anglican Mission of Hudson Bay and Arborfield outperformed this statistic. Some parishioners drove 85 miles (120 km) to participate in a parish event that included a joyful celebration of the Eucharist, followed by a delicious barbecue. The gathering was a special event because while the two small churches in Hudson Bay and Arborfield share one parish, they are located approximately as far apart as Prince Albert and Saskatoon. The distance between the churches makes parish events a challenge, especially when combined with unpredictable weather in the winter and parishioners' sowing and harvest schedules in the spring, summer and fall. The day began with a service of Holy Eucharist, aptly named for the festive occasion, as “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving” in New Testament Greek. The Reverend Julie Golding Page celebrated communion and preached, making references to Indiana Jones, the British Museum and the Rosetta Stone during the sermon. The Reverend Steve Page led congregational singing and provided accompaniment with his guitar, playing a mix of traditional hymns and new praise and worship songs. Mr. Page also gave a children's chat to an enthusiastic group of elementary- and preschool-aged children, explaining how the many shapes, sizes and colours of marshmallows in his bag resembled the variety of gifts and people in both the parish and God's wider church. Congregational involvement continued throughout the service, with Rae Granberg (Hudson Bay) and Marge Hainstock (Arborfield) presenting the Scripture readings, Linda Coates (Arborfield) offering the Prayers of the People, Sharon Washburn (Hudson Bay) assisting Mrs. Golding Page at the altar and Liam Washburn (Hudson Bay) acting as crucifer (cross-bearer). The festivities continued after the service, with a barbecue on the church lawn. Parish barbecue chef extraordinaire Rob Granberg served up hot dogs, hamburgers and cheeseburgers on the grill, while the ladies of the parish prepared salads, desserts and beverages. Lunch followed, accompanied by much laughter and conversation. “It was a wonderful get-together and we should do it more often,” commented Dora Thack (Hudson Bay). Linda Coates (Arborfield) echoed this sentiment, saying of the people of Hudson Bay, “It is a pleasure to get together with them, and we feel more of a connection with them now.” Leonard Gray (Arborfield) agreed, “The fellowship's the thing I enjoyed the most.” The parish service and barbecue was therefore pronounced a great success and the two churches are already planning another such gathering in the coming months. Although the distance between the two churches can be prohibitive, this day together shows that the “communion of the saints,” as the Apostles' Creed puts it, is a gift from God that can be experienced in a profound way in our two-point parish. Photo contributed
Parish BBQ chef Rob Granberg serves up burgers and hot dogs
Photo contributed
Parishioners from Arborfield and Hudson Bay enjoying food and fellowship
Photo contributed
A BBQ with all the fixins!
Faith Fair planned
Ramesh Ferris Cycle to Walk
photo Heather Brownell
Ramesh Ferris during his stop at St. Philip (Living Spirit Centre), Regina, on his cross-Canada "Cycle To Walk" raising funds and awareness to erradicate polio.
by Ivan Millard St. Philip, Regina - Ramesh Ferris from White Horse, Yukon began pumping his hand-cycle from Victoria to Cape Spear, Newfoundland on April 12, 2008. He arrived in Regina on May 31 after completing 2000 of the planned 7200-kilometre trip. The 28 year old polio survivor is crossing the country to raise funds to help eradicate polio through continued immunization, to educate adults about polio and to help rehabilitate polio victims world wide. Members of St. Philip parish billeted Ramesh and his support team in Regina and hosted a potluck supper so people could meet them and learn about Ramesh, his cause and his hand-cycle. Ramesh was born in India and contracted polio when he was six months old. His legs were paralyzed. A year later he was adopted by Ron Ferris, then Bishop of Yukon, and his wife. The inspiration for Ramesh's “Cycle to Walk” came from a visit to the orphanage in India where he once lived. He learned of polio survivors like himself who are left to crawl on the ground because they lack necessary medical attention and support. They cut up pieces of tires for kneepads and use old sandals for hand protection. Polio is endemic in India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria. A one-day blitz in India immunized 2.5 million children. Canadian parents don't always get their children immunized, which is part of the reason 11% (3.5 million) of Canadians are not immunized against polio, even though “A country is not free of polio until the world is free of polio,” said Ramesh. The group came into Regina with three flat tires on two of their hand-bikes. They were particularly appreciative of Dutch Cycle who replaced the tires at a discount and didn't charge for the labour. Ramesh said, although the mountains are tough, “the most challenging was fighting the headwinds between Lloydminster and North Battleford.” Three-quarters of the funds Ramesh raises will go to Rotary International and the remainder to education and rehabilitation. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has dedicated $100 million to Rotary International's Polio Plus program if Rotary can match it within three years. When Ramesh finishes the tour he intends to continue working to eliminate polio in the world.
The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2008 - 5
REGINA - St. Mary's parish is planning a diocesan Faith Fair on October 3 and 4. Pastor Tom McCullagh of Glencairn Alliance Church, Regina, will be the speaker at the faith sharing meal to start the fair. Guests will hear his story of God's love and faithfulness, and the evening will conclude with a time of praise and worship led by Anthony Packwood. Workshops will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The goal of each workshop is to provide instruction and hands on experience in the many ways in which Christians may express their worship and love for God. The Contemporary Music workshop is a full-day event, the others are half-day sessions, so participants may choose two to attend. The Lectio Devina workshop will provide teaching on a contemplative method of reading, listening and praying the scriptures, providing a means of hearing God speak into personal lives and circumstances. Leader will be Carol Marz of Regina. The Mime workshop will allow the participants to put on the ''white face of the Mime'' and tell a story without speaking. Margaret Brady from Shaunavon will lead this intergenerational workshop for people from school children to seniors. The Liturgical Dance workshop will teach those taking part how to worship in movement and dance. Participants will learn movements for one piece of sacred music. Older children to seniors are welcome to participate. Instructors and choreographer are Sharon Worden and Rhonda Cerno, both from Regina. Participants in the Telling Our Stories workshop will have assistance as they search for and find God's story in their own lives. Jan Harris of Estevan will lead this session. The Healing Prayer workshop, led by Lorna Cross and Malcolm Tait of Regina, provides teaching and hands-on experience in prayer for healing and setting up a prayer team ministry. The Contemporary Worship Music workshop is set up for young people who are either already involved in or hoping to start a Christian Youth band or music ministry. Adults, especially music ministry leaders, are also welcome to attend. This workshop will consist of both instruction and time to jam. Please bring your instruments. For information on leader Anthony Packwood and his music, go to www.anthonypackwood.com or www.holytrinitycalgary.org. Faith Fair organizers are inviting parishes to tell others about their outreach projects and congregational life ministries by setting up a visual display on tables provided. If you are interested in setting up a table, please contact St. Mary's church office at 5226052. For more information please call Lorna Cross 543-8939. To register please call the church office 522-6052 or go to www.stmarysregina.ca.
Anglicans and Lutherans confirmed at Rosetown
Food and theatre a good mix at St. Christopher's Church stage performances By Merv Benson CHRISTOPHER LAKE (Sask) -More than 160 Lakeland-area residents feasted and laughed together at the St. Christopher's Anglican Church theatre nights on June 20 and 21 in Christopher Lake. The Friday crowd was treated to a fullcourse supper prior to viewing a series of comedic stage performances. On Saturday, a dessert menu preceded the theatrical presentations. The series of short plays were performed by 17 volunteers from the St. Christopher's (Christopher Lake) and St. George's (Prince Albert) congregations. The eclectic crew was directed by the Reverend Tracey Lloyd Smith, the Rector at St. Christopher's Church, and the unique fund-raising project was a great success. The appreciative audiences laughed and clapped their way through the series of plays, starting with “How do you like it here so far?” where four newcomers were introduced to their new heavenly home. A mother-daughter skit, “A moral a day keeps your conscience away,” focused on a mother's heart-to-heart chat with her daughter around the biblical commandment against stealing. A three-act play called “Honey? Yes, Dear?” introduced the audience to a succession of three couples - a pair of newlyweds discovering they were about to become parents; a middle-aged couple celebrating the absence of their teenagers on a get-away weekend at the cottage; and a couple waiting in the hospital to identify their new grandson. The finale featured a group of four “gal pals” gathering for their weekly card party, who wind up foiling an attempted robbery and then set about to “Christianeducate” the would-be robber. The actor participants got a standing ovation as they took their final bows at the conclusion of the dinner/dessert theatre party presentations.
photo - Rev. Joan Scandrett
Ringing the bell for confirmation (l - r) Confirmation candidates Michelle Dawn Hettrick, Joleine Mary Dahl, Kailyn Sophia Davis, Shelby Brette Meyer and Breanne May Champion ring the bell at St. Andrew's Anglican/Trinity Lutheran Church, Rosetown, just before the service when an Anglican and Lutherans were confirmed together. by Rev. Dan Fournier ROSETOWN (QuA) A special service was held on Monday, June 23, at St. Andrew's Anglican/Trinity Lutheran Church in Rosetown for the Affirmation of Baptism and the Sacrament of Confirmation. The celebration was co-presided by Bishop Gregory KerrWilson and Rev. Daniel Fournier. This service was a very full expression what it means to be in full communion as a result of the Waterloo declaration. Bishop Greg confirmed an Anglican candidate and Fr. Dan confirmed the Lutheran Candidates. The five candidates being confirmed took part in various ministries during the service. A sixth candidate for confirmation, Tyrel Litzenburger, was unable to be present for the original confirmation date, but was confirmed by Fr. Dan on July 20. All were invited to stay following the service for a time of sharing and refreshments with our confirmands and our many special guests.
Photo Ted Walker
Les and Pat Martin portray a couple about to become grandparents as they wait in the maternity ward for the blessed event that will allow them to get a glimpse of their new grandchild. It was one of a series of skits staged as part of a dinner/dessert theatre production at St. Christopher's Church in Christopher Lake.
Rey Dahlen Ordained
6 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2008
The Reverend Canon Howard Green wins Distinguished Service Award Staff TORONTO -At the 2008 annual meeting of the Wycliffe College Alumni/ae Association, the Reverend Canon Howard E. Green received the Archdeacon Harry St. Clair Hilchey Alumni/ae Award for Distinguished Service. The President of the Association, Reverend Lyn Youll Marshall, presented the award for Canon Green's many years of service and ministry. “It's rather nice to be recognised and to have nice things said about you when you're still living!” Canon Green said, in response to the words of introduction and summary of his career. Canon Green is known and remembered in the Diocese of Saskatchewan for his eleven and a half years as Rector of All Saints' Church in Melfort, where he played a role in building a new, larger church. He remembers Melfort as “a wonderful community in which to raise our family,” which includes his wife Jean and his children Heather and Ian. Canon Green also served for five years as the Outreach Coordinator for Evangelism, Church Growth and Development for the Diocese,
The Reverend Canon Howard E. Green receives Wycliffe College's Archdeacon Harry St. Clair Hilchey Alumni/ae Award for Distinguished Service, accompanied by his wife, Jean. spent a couple of years as the Priest-in-Charge of Holy Trinity Church in Prince Albert. He is currently Canon Emeritus of the Diocese of Saskatchewan. In the early 1990s he moved to Saskatoon, where, while officially retired from active ministry, he has been serving as an Honorary Assistant at St. John's Cathedral for nearly 16 years. Canon Green's ministry began in earnest when he committed
his life to Christ at the age of 19. He left Barrie, Ontario and moved to Toronto, graduating from Wycliffe College in 1954. He was ordained a priest in the fall of that same year. In 1957, his ministry extended to Japan, where he lived and worked for 18 years. Among his many roles while in Japan, Canon Green served as Priest-in-Charge of St. Mark's Church, a Japanese Anglican Church in the city of Asahigawa, and later of the Parish of Muroran and Usu, on the southern coast of Hokkaido. He also served with the Hokkaido Radio Evangelism and Mass Communications ministry, an agency that proclaimed the Gospel through radio and TV. One of the many passages that Canon Green has adopted as a guide for his life and ministry is Ephesians 4:11-12 - “some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” In his life and ministry, Canon Green is passionate about putting into practice the training and equipping of the whole body of Christ, to enable all to share in the work of ministry.
Govan (Qu'Appelle) - Rey Dahlen was ordained April 27 at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Saskatoon, and has moved to Govan to serve as pastor for the newly formed Quad Country Parish which includes St. Martin Anglican Church, Raymore; Trinity Lutheran, Quinton; Prince of Peace Lutheran, Govan; and St. Paul Lutheran, Duval. For the past four years, Pastor Dahlen has been completing his internship and serving as a student pastor for the Anglican church in Raymore, and Lutheran churches in Quinton and Wynyard. Friends from all these communities attended the ordination service. Rev. Don Wells was very pleased to read a selection of scripture at the ordination, and brought congratulatory greetings on behalf of Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson. Don Wells had been travelling to Raymore for communion services once a month, and Rey had
Photo by Pat Benson
Pastor Rey Dahlen at his ordination.
The Reverend Isaac Graham Celebrates 50 years of ordained ministry
By The Reverend Rob Stringer MEADOW LAKE (Saskatchewan) - On Trinity Sunday, the congregation of Holy Trinity, Meadow Lake welcomed the Reverend Isaac Graham and his wife Sheila to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of his ordination. Mr. Graham was ordained in Prince Albert on May 15, 1958, and celebrated his first service in Meadow Lake on May 18. Mr. Graham served in Meadow Lake for five years and has maintained a close relationship with the congregation as his sister, who followed him from Ireland, married a local man (Malcolm and Elizabeth McCrimmon) thus providing the Grahams many opportunities to visit Meadow Lake over the years. Thus, it was with great joy that the congregation welcomed the Grahams to celebrate this special day. Mr. Graham presided over the Eucharist and shared reflections from his relationship with Christ and his 50 years in ministry. He retold the story of his arrival in Meadow Lake: his newly purchased used car stalled 30 kms outside of town because of an undiscovered hole in the gas tank. Isaac sought help from a member of the parish, Alfred Summerfeld, who traveled out to the car with a can of gasoline. When they ran out gas again, Mr. Summerfeld pushed Isaac and his car into Meadow Lake. That night, Mr. Summerfeld told Isaac, “I have pushed you into town; I hope I do not have to push you out of town.” In his message, Mr. Graham challenged and encouraged the congregation to be open to the change that Christ brings into our lives. It was a faithful message of one disciple of Christ to another. Following the service, the congregation enjoyed a potluck lunch and Mr. Graham expressed his appreciation to the parish for giving him a start in ministry and for being a gracious place where a young minister can find his or her way. Following Mr. Graham's time in Meadow Lake (with St. Cyr's Church, Green Lake and Rapid View); he continued in the diocese of Saskatchewan to serve at St George's Church, Prince Albert (with St Catherine's Church, St Luke's Church, Lily Plain and Holy Trinity and Stanleyville) ; followed by Shellbrook Regional Parish (with Holbein, Sturgeon Valley, Briarlea, Canwood and Leask).The Grahams now reside near Kelowna, BC.
Photo contributed
“Holy Trinity, Meadow Lake, celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Reverend Isaac Graham. L to R: Laurel Rascher (lay reader), Sheila Graham, the Reverend Isaac Graham, and the Reverend Rob Stringer”
Grandmothers for Grandmothers by Sue Boxall Regina - Four members of the Diocese of Qu'Appelle who are also members of the Regina branch of Grandmothers 4 Grandmothers (G4G) met up at the group's May meeting to hear how well the recent African Evening had done. Everyone at the meeting was thrilled to hear that over $17,000 profit was made. G4G, sometimes also known
as Grandmothers to Grandmothers, was started only four years ago by a group of women in Ontario who had heard of the plight of African women whose children had died of AIDS and were now left to raise their grandchildren. Many of these women are at the age where mostof us would be contemplating retirement, less work and more leisure time. In many cases their husbands have left them or have died, they live in one-room
shacks and have little food or other necessities to share with their grandchildren. Steven Lewis heard about the Ontario group and a few others that had formed across the country. He was amazed at the spread of this concept and persuaded all groups to become part of The Steven Lewis Foundation. The Regina group started about two years ago and now has about 75 members. They have worked hard to raise funds for this
Photo Sue Boxall
(l - r) Shirley Jzosa, Rosemary James and Rita Bramn look at some G4G merchandise, which raises money for African grandmothers who are raising AIDS orphans.
worthwhile cause and were able to send $30,000 to the Foundation last year. This year 12 women from across the country made a trip to sub-Sahara Africa to meet the African 'grannies' and came back with wonderful, heartbreaking but uplifting stories of their lives. The Regina G4G group wel-
comes anyone who would like to join them in making life a little easier for so many women living so far away. For more information call 781-2946 or go to www.stevenlewisfoundation.org/ granmothers.htm.
The Saskatchewan Anglican, -September 2008 7
Watrous ACW Members Recieve Life Memberships
PWRDF News - Diocese of Saskatoon by Jeanette M. Dean; Diocesan PWRDF Coordinator The grave situation in Burma and China created by the terrible effects of nature in the spring touched the hearts of us all. Anglicans throughout the Diocese of Saskatoon gave generously to assist the PWRDF in its work with its partners in both countries to bring food, shelter and medical help to those who had lost everything. Over $300,000 poured in from across Canada; this money matched by the Federal Government. It is wonderful to be able to help in times of crisis, however, we sometimes tend to overlook the work that PWRDF does every day to make life better for those in need in other countries. Generally the PWRDF partners with other organizations in programs and special projects. Ella Smith, one of the PWRDF coordinators from Endeavor, together with the Reverend Dan Hughes, has made the parishes in the area very aware of PWRDF. Ella wrote a special PWRDF prayer for our diocese, which was in the PWRDF newsletter earlier this year. On April 25th, Bob Drayer gave a wellattended concert of classical piano music. It was greatly enjoyed by everyone and all the proceeds were donated to PWRDF. Bob has recently come from Montana (where he was a church organist and choir director for 35 years) and has also just bought a tree farm near Sturgis and is loving Saskatchewan.
:- File photo
- Bob Drayer gave a concert of classical piano music; all proceeds were donated to PWRDF
by Marion Pope, Public Relations Coordinator, Diocesan A.C.W. Board
Five members of the Watrous A.C.W. received Honorary A.C.W. Life Memberships at the Eastern Deanery Meeting, held in Watrous, on April 29th, 2008. The recipients were: Margaret Burkitt, Valerie Hinde, Mae Randall, Linda Leslie and Alice Inkster. The presentations were made by Lauren Jardine, Diocesan A.C.W. President, and Bonnie Milman, A.C.W. Coordinator for Life Memberships. Photo Marion Pope
Photo Jeanette M. Dean
- Basil Pogue, PWRDF Coordinator for the Qu'Appelle Diocese In May the keynote speaker at the Diocesan Outreach Network Annual Meeting, Basil Pogue made us aware of the work of PWRDF in Mexico. Basil is the PWRDF coordinator for the Qu'Appelle Diocese. He was a member of a nine-person delegation that went to Mexico in March. He saw work being done in the areas of justice and human rights in Mexico City, Chihuahua City and Ciudad Juarez, and visited projects for helping indigenous communities in Southern Mexico. PWRDF partnered with the Diocesan Outreach Network for this meeting; those of us who were able to go to Humboldt enjoyed Basil's presentation and display. We will be able to learn more firsthand about the work of PWRDF and share experiences and ideas at the Regional PWRDF Conference that will be held in Saskatoon from October 31tst to Nov 2nd. Representatives will be coming from all over Rupert's Land and the National Office. We are fortunate that we will have Farida Akhter, the Pacific/Asia representative on the Board with us at this time as well. Meetings will be held at St, Timothy's Church; parish representatives and indeed, anyone interested in the work of PWRDF is invited to attend. We are hoping to provide billets and some help with transportation. On Saturday evening there will be a closing banquet with a speaker and entertainment at Christ Church.
Photo Colin Clay
(L to R) The Reverend Alex Parsons, the Reverend Canon Colin Clay and the Right Reverend Rodney Andrews, Bishop of Saskatoon with parishioners and guests outside St Matthias' Church, Colonsay.
Lichfield Partnership Signing
(L to R) The new Watrous A.C.W. Life Members: Margaret Burkitt, Valerie Hinde, Mae Randall, Linda Leslie with Lauren Jardine, Diocesan ACW President and Bonnie Milman, A.C.W. Coordinator for Life Memberships. Missing: Alice Inkster.
Joint Celebrations at St. Matthias, Colonsay By Murial Johnson Editor's Note: this article appeared previously in the Watrous Manitou and has been edited by the Reverend Alex Parsons for content with her permission. Muriel Johnson is a member of the United Church and is good friends with one of St Matthias's parishioners. On June 1 St. Matthias' Anglican Church and Colonsay United Church jointly celebrated 100 years of ministry to the members of the community of Colonsay. Services were held at both churches for congregation members, both current and past, along with local guests and those travelling from afar. The service at St. Matthias' was led by the Right Reverend Rodney Andrews, Bishop of Saskatoon assisted by the Reverend Canon Colin Clay and the Reverend Alex Parsons. Joan Ayres assisted with Communion and the Reverend Gordon Cranch of Calgary, a former resident of Colonsay, played the organ. Following the church services members and friends from both churches gathered at the Colonsay Community Hall for a luncheon. Several members of the congregations of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Colonsay and St. John's Lutheran Church off Highway 2 were also in attendance. History of both St. Matthias' and Colonsay United Church, including pictures, albums, artefacts and various notes were displayed for viewing. A program emceed by June Garner and Bob Rugg was highlighted with presentations and greetings from various clergy and members of the community. Congratulatory greetings were passed on by Mayor Jim Grey of Colonsay and many others including the Reverend Mel Melashenko from St. John's Lutheran Church. The Reverend
photo Anita MaricNewsteam.co.uk
Companionship Service at Lichfield Cathedral where the renewal of diocesan partnership took place. From the left are Dean Kaan Kim Seng, Singapore; Bishop Bolly Lapok, Kuching; Bishop Gregory Kerr-Wilson, Qu'Appelle; Bishop Na Moon Hing, West Malaysia; Bishop Steve Diseko, Matlosane; Bishop Jonathan Gledhill, Lichfield and Canon Wealands Bell. More on the events in Lichfield will be printed in future issues.
Melashenko presented inscripted wooden inspirational plaques to each church in commemoration of their 100th anniversary celebrations. Bishop Andrews made a presentation to the Reverend Canon Colin Clay bringing greetings from Clay's parishioners. June 1st was 50 years to the day when the Reverend Canon Clay began his ministry in England. Barry Rugg, a warden at St. Matthias', presented the Reverend Canon Clay with a certificate showing a donation to the Primates World Relief Development Fund in honour of his fifty years of dedication to ministry. Bev Garner, a member of the Colonsay United Church made and beautifully decorated anniversary cakes; a picture of St. Matthias' was on one cake and the United Church on the other. Joan Ayres and Barry Rugg had the honour of cutting the St. Matthias' cake. Approximately 180 people were served at the luncheon. The tables were adorned with placemats drawn and coloured by Colonsay School students. After the luncheon the crowd was entertained by Tim and Debbie Hill from Elstow playing and singing. The community choir also entertained the crowd. Throughout the event, numerous people recalled the community spirit that abounds in Colonsay. They noted how everyone works together to support one another, regardless of religious denomination. Many worked very hard in making this celebration a meaningful event and many names have not been mentioned. Please accept our apologies. You know the day would not have been what it was without you. “… we are fortunate to have dedicated people who have carried on the work of the pioneers who made sure that the spiritual needs of the people were met by establishing churches in Colonsay.”
8 - The Saskatchewan Anglican, September 2008
Lay readers raise funds for St. George's Church, Baghdad PRINCE ALBERT (Sask) - The Cathedral Church of St. Alban the Martyr in Prince Albert hosted the annual Diocese of Saskatchewan Lay Readers' Licensing Service this spring. The collection was donated to Canon Andrew White and his work at St. George's Memorial Church in Baghdad, Iraq. With well over $300 collected, Bishop Anthony Burton rounded up the total contribution to $500 through his discretionary fund. Our Lay Readers in Saskatchewan were keen to support this cause. They were moved to hear of the challenges faced by St George's Church in Baghdad, especially with the kidnapping of one lay minister and the killing in 2005 of the lay readers of the church. St. George's Church is currently the only Anglican church in Iraq. As a result, Canon White, who has served the church since 1998 and been the Anglican Chaplain in Iraq, has been playfully nicknamed “the Vicar of Baghdad.” He oversees the spiritual and physical needs of the Anglican community in Iraq, both at St. George's Church and in the Coalition chapels in the 'International Zone.' Canon White established the Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East (FRRME) in 2005. The FRRME works with religious and political leaders in the Middle East to provide humanitarian relief and economic assistance in areas where conflict has caused poverty and hardship. In late June of this year, they opened a new health clinic on the grounds of St. George's Church. The clinic, filled with modern medical and dental equipment, will serve the health needs of people of all faiths in the local community. The page for St George's Church, on the website of the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf, calls it “the most dangerous parish in the world.” It is located on Haifa Street, in the “red zone” of Baghdad. Killings
Generation 2008 Youth Ministry Forum by Jennifer Andreas DAVIDSON (QuA) Rev. Mike Sinclair from Estevan and I were chosen by the Diocese of Qu'Appelle to take part in Generation 2008. The National Anglican Youth Ministry Forum was held at Huron University College in London, Ontario, June 10-15. Over 150 people, ranging in age from 16 to 75, gathered for a time of sharing and learning. Generation 2008 brought people passionate about youth ministry from across the country together to empower, renew and equip. Because Mike and I had been selected as Base Group leaders, upon arrival at the college we were taken directly to the leader training where we learned why we were meeting as small groups, where each group would be living in the dorms and what our role as leaders would be throughout the week. After dinner, we attended an opening plenary session and Eucharist service, then gathered in our base groups for a chance to meet and greet before heading off to the evening's social. The rest of the week seemed to fly by. Our time was filled with community building, worship, base group time, workshops and time for open discussion. One of the highlights for me was a night of African drumming. Everyone got to take a drum and learn to play it. After learning to play the drums we were given dancing lessons as well. Another part of the week that was really memorable was the time labeled on our schedule as Open Space. Nobody really knew what that meant. Some
thought it might be free time and others had heard it was discussion time but weren't sure how it was going to work. The time was actually spent in small or large group discussions about a variety of topics. It was very interesting and the topics ranged from Girls' Ministry to Rural Ministry to Camp Ministry to so many more. It gave us an opportunity to talk about whatever we felt was important that hadn't been covered enough in other parts of the conference. This is where a lot of connections were made, allowing people to leave knowing people they could keep in touch with and find support from on issues that were important to them where they do ministry. Generation 2008 was all about connections: people meeting new people and people reconnecting with old friends; making connections between our faith and our lives; discovering how different forms of ministry work together; what the parish level can do as well as what the national level can do; figuring out how all of that fits together and how to use it to further youth ministry.
Photo contributed
Canon Andrew White with street kids in Baghdad regularly take place in their neighbourhood and sometimes Photo contributed touch members of the congregation. Canon Andrew White with Baghdad The people of St. George's Church, Baghdad, take seriously teens. the biblical call to look after the fatherless and the widows. To this end, they joyfully offer material, financial and spiritual support to the surviving family of staff and congregation members who have been kidnapped and killed. They invite other Anglicans and Christians around the world to join them, by responding and con- by Doris Turner, Swift tributing to one of their appeals. This year, the Lay Readers of the Current Diocese of Saskatchewan were happy to join in common cause with St. George's Church, Baghdad. I have a little piece For more information about how to get involved through prayer and of earth to call my own, financial contributions, see www.frrme.org. A sunny square of fragrant soil That I can say is "home." A place where gentle flowers by Ivan Millard grow And shed their sweet perRegina - On a rainy Sunday the confirmands and a couple dozen fume, others from St. Philip, Regina, went on a diocesan historic pilgrimage. And leafy trees can spread At each church the Rev. David Nevett led a Celtic prayer service. their arms The first stop was at St. Peter, Qu'Appelle, built in 1884 and the To catch the silvery moon; diocese' original pro-cathedral. After an indoor picnic lunch, Eileen And in the morn a sleepy Herman, an energetic and attentive host, described the early history of bird St. Peters. With the coming of the surveyors in 1881 Qu'Appelle To sing away the night, quickly became the main trading centre. From1884 to 1911 when So I can rise to meet the day And know that all is right; Regina was designated the See City for the diocese, the bishops lived For when I kneel to let my at Qu'Appelle and at Bishop's Court in Indian Head. While the adults admired the pump organ bought in 1891, the carved oak reredos hands brought from Oberammergau Germany, and the wrought iron roodWork in the sun-warmed sod, screen, among other century-old items, the young people played the I feel within this heart of chimes in the belfry. The church and lower hall are still in use for regmine ular services. The very heart of God. The next stop was All Saints church, built on the southeastern shore of Lake Katepwa in 1886. Here the local historian was Agnes ROMTHE DITOR Salter, whose ancestors were among the founding families. A barn for eighteen horses was built in 1895. The church wasn't wired for electricity until 1982. The family names of many of the first settlers are A reader from the Oxbow area found on the headstones of the graves in the churchyard along with phoned me one day to ask for three of information. several marked “Unknown.” The church is now open for Sunday ser- pieces Unfortunately her message wasn’t vices from the May long weekend to the September long weekend. At Lebret the more ambitious of the group climbed the muddy path entirely clear on my answering machine, and I missed her name. along The Stations of the Cross to the chapel on the hill. The last stop was at St. John, Fort Qu'Appelle. Incumbent, the Rev. Before I could return her call the Mary Gavin, led the prayer service and Derrick Harrison provided the message got erased, and I was local history. The first recorded visit to the Qu'Appelle Valley by an unable to respond. Anglican clergyman was in 1822, but it wasn't until 1883 that the The first piece of information “first church meeting” was held. A vicarage was built in 1884 (it is requested was the last line of Doris still in use as a residence) and St. John's church in 1885. It is the old- Turner’s poem, God’s Music, est Anglican stone church in the diocese still in regular use. The cen- which is reprinted in full in this tre of the large stained glass window at the back of St. issue. Second, she wanted the patJohn's church depicts their first warden, Captain French tern for the prayer shawls made by ladies of St. Mary’s Parish Regina. of the NWMP in uniform on his horse. St. John's ACW completed the day by treating the She should contact Hilary pilgims to a fine fowl supper. The group thanks all the Schroeder, c/o St. Mary the Virgin local hosts for making their trip such a fun learning Church, 3337 - 15th Ave. Regina experience, and thanks David Nevett for arranging the SK S4T 1T3. Third, she wanted the tour and for his informational and entertaining com- recipe for cornmeal porridge. She should contact Rev. Julie Goldingmentary. Page, P.O. Box 1430 Hudson Bay SK S0E 0Y0, who can put her in touch with Betty Edwards who prepared it.
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Photo by Rachael Pollesel
Jennifer Andreas (Qu'Appelle) and Jen Schwartz (Nova Scotia and PEI) met at Ask & Imagine 2006 and reunite at Generation 2008.
Fred Stephens Managing Editor