Saskatchewan
anglican
The newspaper of the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle • A Section of the Anglican Journal • May 2019
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Care home receives award for service By Joanne Shurvin-Martin
Jesus ascends to heaven
So when they had come together, they asked Him, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know the times or the dates, which the Father has fixed by His own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” When He had
spoken these things, while they looked, He was taken up. And a cloud received Him from their sight. While they looked intently toward heaven as He ascended, suddenly two men stood by them in white garments. They said, “Men of Galilee, why stand looking toward heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you to heaven, will come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:6-12, Modern English Version). Ascension Day is May 30.
REGINA — Staff of Qu’Appelle House, an Anglican-affiliated special care home, received an award for the “outstanding, compassionate, respectful and competent care” that it has provided to residents. The Speers Caregiver Award was presented at a luncheon on March 5. Staff who were not at the luncheon were treated to a pizza lunch on March 25. Qu’Appelle House, located next to the Synod Office on College Avenue, provides long-term care to 34 residents (subsidized by the Saskatchewan Health Authority), and 19 suites for assisted living for independent residents (paid for by the residents). The special care home was founded by the diocese in 1966. When speaking about the award, Bev Desautels, administrator and director of care, said it was really a “team thing.” She thanked the Ladies’ Auxiliary, with representatives from Regina parishes, who regularly put on special events at the home, and graciously donate funds for many small items, as well as flowers to plant outside each spring. Some of events include bingo and birthday cake every two months, spring tea and craft sale in May, a picnic in July and tart tea in December. Desautels also thanked Rev. Cheryl Johnson, who leads a weekly worship service at Qu’Appelle House. This year’s spring tea will be held May 14. For picture, see page 2.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2019
Christ calls us to justice and equality Is Christ relevant in politics? By Rev. Matteo Carboni
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hat is the relevance of Jesus in Canadian politics today? When I think about this question, my mind usually goes to the description of the early Christian community in the Acts of the Apostles. After Jesus ascended into Heaven, the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples gathered in Jerusalem. With the power of the Holy Spirit they healed the sick (Acts 4:22; 5:12-16), preached the Good News to the poor (Acts 2:14-40; 15:6-11), and even resurrected the dead (Acts 20:7-12). The Acts of the Apostles tell us that many people, rich and poor, converted to this new Christian movement. “The whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common.” The rich sold their land, gave their money and possessions to the
Apostles, and the Apostles distributed it to people in need (Acts 4:32-37; 2:44-45). As a Christian socialist, I find this description of the early Christian community inspiring. It was egalitarian and communal. In this community the rich discovered they no longer needed to hoard their wealth in order to survive; the poor found relief from poverty and were able to live with security. This early Christian community is the fruit of Christ’s ministry, death, and resurrection. At the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, He read a passage from Isaiah to people gathered in a local synagogue: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free …” (Lk. 4:18-19). Jesus’ ministry was to speak to a society that had pushed Him, and the people He lived with and loved, to the margins. His mission was to bring God’s liberation to the oppressed. Many people who had
Care home receives award
a place in society found Jesus’ message uncomfortable and threatening. In the end, Jesus was convicted as a criminal and crucified for the things He said. Like Jesus, we live in a society that frequently casts a blind eye to the people who have been pushed to the margins. Our political and economic systems, like liberal democracy and consumer capitalism, and our technological advancements have benefited many people, myself included. However, if Christian theology is to call itself Christian, it must emerge out of God’s message of liberation for the oppressed that is at the core of Christ’s ministry and the biblical narrative. The liberation theologian, James H. Cone, put this another way, “If the church… does not make God’s liberation of the oppressed central in its mission…, how can it rest easy with a condemned criminal [Jesus] as the dominant symbol of its message?” In my mind, Jesus’ relevance for Canadian politics begins here: Jesus draws my attention away from myself, my desires,
Staff members pose with the Speers Caregiver Award, recognizing the excellent care provided to residents of Qu’Appelle House in Regina. From left are Louise Thompson, Bobbi Turner, Jillyan Clark, Bev Desautels and Donna Obrigewitsch. Photo submitted
and my comfort, towards the needs and the betterment of my community. As He did to the “haves” in His own society, Jesus draws my attention to the people on the margins of Canadian society, to hear their voices, not matter how uncomfortable they cause me to feel. Poverty is an issue important to many Canadians. I grew up in a white, middle class family; received a middle-class education; and receive a middle-class income. I was raised and taught how to successfully participate in our economic system of consumer capitalism. I can buy a good vehicle, good laptops, and good quality groceries from the stores I prefer. On top of that, I can invest in the stock market and put money away to buy a house. But, consumer capitalism has not benefitted everyone. According to Canada Without Poverty, one in seven Canadians live in poverty. Between 1980 and 2005, the earnings of the least wealthy Canadians fell by 20 per cent. In that time, the population of Canada increased by 30 per cent while the national annual investment in housing decreased by 48 per cent. People living with disabilities are twice as likely to live in poverty. Overall, racialized women earn 32 per cent less at work. Almost 15 per cent of elderly people live in poverty. Residents in Nunavut pay twice as much for food than residents in other parts of the country. These statistics highlight the economic disparity that exists in our country between people of different abilities, genders, races, and geographical regions. Jesus calls to us from the margins and challenges the comfortable lifestyles of people in the middle class and our — often willful — blindness towards poverty and bigotry. This can be uncomfortable and threatening. Yet, the early Christians in Acts remind us that safety and security comes from the health of our community, not personal wealth.
Published by the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle. Published monthly except for July and August. Whole No. 292, Vol. 47, No. 9 A Section of the Anglican Journal SUBSCRIPTIONS For change of address, undeliverable copies and subscription list updates, contact: • Your parish • e-mail: circulation @national.anglican.ca • Or send to Saskatchewan Anglican, c/o Anglican Journal, 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, Ont. M4Y 3G2 RATES $10 in Canada $17 outside Canada SUBMISSIONS Submissions for the September issue must be received by the diocesan editor no later than Friday, July. 26 All pictures must be sent as JPEGS and 1 MB (megabyte) in size. CONTACT INFORMATION Managing Editor: Jason Antonio SKAnglicanEditor@gmail. com 1501 College Ave Regina, Sask., S4P 1B8 Phone: 306-737-4898 Qu’Appelle: Joanne Shurvin-Martin joannesm@myaccess.ca 6927 Farrell Bay Regina, Sask., S4X 3V4 Phone: 306-775-2629 Saskatoon: Peter Coolen ptrcoolen@sasktel.net 820 Avenue I South, Saskatoon, Sask., S7M 1Z3 Phone: 306-244-0935, Saskatchewan: Mary Brown mary1949brown@gmail.com Box 25, Shellbrook, Sask., S0J 2E0 306-922-5159 Advertising agent: Angela Rush saskatchewan.anglican.ads@ gmail.com 905-630-0390 PUBLISHING DETAILS Published from 59 Roberts Place Regina, Sask., S4T 6K5
May 2019
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Change brings new life, growth, trepidation By Bishop Chris Harper
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You have made the moon to mark the seasons; the sun knows it’s time for setting. You make darkness, and it is night, when all the animals of the forest come creeping out. The young lions roar for their prey, seeking their food from God. When the sun rises, they withdraw and lie down in their dens. “People go out to their work and to their labour until the evening. O LORD, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures” (Psalm 104:19-24). The time and change of seasons are upon us, in new life of spring and the joy of Easter. Time and change are realized in the landscape before us and the seasons of the church.
Change is a good thing, but with change comes the challenge of patience and our personal trepidations, patience in awaiting the awakening of all things: the thaw,
new life and growth, trepidation in the new adventures, and new investment in time, faith, and promise. With spring on our doorstep, many await to plant, with the garden beckoning, trepidation in the last frost. As I sit in the office and write, the back deck calls out to come enjoy the warm sun. Meanwhile, the cool winds of spring still warn of tempering our eagerness. Nature is marvelous, for through nature we are given promises always, promises of better things, peace and renewal. Through nature, the revealing of the power and mystery of God the Creator is also seen. I have known many who by most standards were called to have a “green thumb.” They were able to know which plant grows best in the company of another plant, when the ground was right and what plant gave the best harvest under the right conditions.
True, I was blessed always in the harvest but, truth be told, I found difficulty in the work getting there. Therefore, it is with our call to faith. Leadership prays to the Creator God for guidance in finding the right minister for the right ministry, who has the right skill set for the right place and community. Leadership prays because God Almighty knows, and we are but the labourers in the field. We are called to tend the field, planting seeds of faith, nurturing and guiding as best as we can. Everything else, just as nature reveals, is in God’s purpose and will; here is the need for prayers of patience, faith and trust. Easter prayers ascend for all our ministries, wide and varied. Easter blessings offered for all your families, from all the faithful in the joy of Easter, Happy Easter. “Peace and renewal, the revealing of the power and the mystery of God the Creator.”
University students to walk the Camino trail in Spain VICTORIA — A group of University of Victoria students has been preparing for a pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Co-led by the Rev. Ruth Dantzer, Anglican campus chaplain, and the Rev. Henri Lock, United Church chaplain, the pilgrimage was scheduled to begin April 28 at the monastery along the
ancient Camino Frances route. After two nights of immersion in Gregorian chant and Christian contemplative thought, the students will begin the 250-kilometre trek to Santiago. “Beginning in September, Henri and I facilitated a regular course on the topic of pilgrimage that was held
at the Interfaith Chapel on UVic’s campus," said Dantzer. "We selected eight UVic students to participate in the pilgrimage journey, students who were active in regular programming at the Interfaith Chapel. “Going on a pilgrimage is evangelical in nature, as participants will have the opportunity to walk an ancient path that is
infused with historical, traditional and spiritual significance from the Christian religion.” — Diocesan Post *** Priest launches book on diet, body image NIAGARA — A Diocese of Niagara priest has written a book to offer Christian perspectives on health and diet to churchgoers,
pastors and wellness counselors. The Living Diet: A Christian approach to food and diet, written by the Rev. Canon Martha Tatarnic, “combines personal, communal, and theological perspectives on eating and body image,” according to Church Publishing Inc., publisher of the book. — Niagara Anglican
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2019
DIOCESE OF SASKATOON
Announcements for May 2019 Saskatchewan Anglican online! You can read current and past issues of the Saskatchewan Anglican online at https://issuu.com/ thesaskatchewananglican or on Facebook at www.facebook. com/saskatchewananglican. g Ministry for Survivors: An ongoing ministry open to anyone who is post-trauma in need of prayerful support began in Saskatoon in September. This ministry includes/may include creative expression through dance and painting for healing of the inner child with Common Praise and Taize Hymns, Psalms, sharing circle, grounding meditation and weekly themes; prayers and anointing are also available to anyone who wishes to receive them. Place is St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Saskatoon. Time is every Monday (except statutory holidays) from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The facilitator is Karen Walter. Phone 639-480-6274 for more information. g Cathedral’s Annual Camp Okema Fundraiser: Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist’s Camp Okema annual fundraising dinner will be held in the cathedral’s parish hall on Saturday, April 27 at 6 p.m. with an authentic Italian dinner and entertainment. Tickets are $20. The menu will consist of three salad selections, Italian herb chicken with pasta sauce, and coffee, tea and dessert. (Yes, there will be gluten-free). Proceeds will be used for camp property improvements. To purchase
tickets please phone Tracey Kelly 306-850-0146 or book online at www.campokema.com. g Spring Choral Concert: Saskatoon Choral Society, 2019 spring concert (tea and silent auction to follow), Sunday, April 28, 2:30 p.m. at Grace Westminster United Church, 505 -10thSt. E., Saskatoon. Adults are $12 in advance, or $15 at door. Children ages six to 10 years are $5, while under six are free. Advance tickets available from choir members of from McNally Robinson at 3130 - 8th St. E. g The Big Shred: The McClure Place Foundation invites your congregation to take part in the sixth annual Big Shred to be held on Saturday, May 4 from 9 a.m. to noon at the McClure United Church parking lot (4025 Taylor St. E. and Heritage Way). The Big Shred is a service to the community. People bring their boxes of old files and personal, private or confidential papers that are no longer of use. Our supporting sponsor, Shred-It, will have their trucks present to shred your documents on site. The purpose of this fundraiser is to pay off the cost of a therapeutic tub at Amy McClure House, the interdenominational Personal Care Home at McClure. For more information contact Les Ferguson, volunteer, McClure Place Foundation at 306-373-1717. g Refugee Sponsorship Training Program: Saskatchewan conference for all those interested in refugee sponsorship. Calling all partners for the
private sponsorship of refugees including sponsorship agreement holders and their co-sponsors and constituent groups; community sponsors; groups of five and settlement service organizations. Program: Friday, May 3, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Open to the public at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 4, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Place: McClure United Church, 4025 Taylor St. E. Saskatoon. Topics: Global refugee situation, collaboration between private sponsors and service providers IRCC expectations of the application and follow-up process for private sponsors and settlement planning and implementation Registration: https://www. eventbrite.ca/e/saskatchewanconference-changes-in-privatesponsorship-of-refugees-programtickets-58601566864 or contact RSTP trainer Helen SmithMcIntyre at 306-343-8303 or email hsmithmcintyre@rstp.ca. g The following events are presented in co-operation with the Prairie Centre for Ecumenism as it celebrates its 35th anniversary: MAY: Spring Coffee Talk, Japanese Tea Ceremony, Brenda Nightingale, Queen’s House Retreat and Renewal Centre, 601 Taylor Street West, May 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. JUNE: PCE’s 35th anniversary celebration banquet. For more information visit www.pcecumenism.ca or phone 306-653-1633.
g Celtic Evening Service in Saskatoon: The Celtic evening Eucharist service begins its second year at St. George’s Anglican Church, 624 Ave. I South, Saskatoon. Services are held every Tuesday night at 7 p.m.; each mid-month service will begin with a pot luck at 6 p.m. g Indigenous Ministry in Saskatoon: St. George’s Anglican Church (624 Ave. I South) provides a monthly Anglican Indigenous Ministry Service the last Sunday of each month. The service begins with a lunch in the parish hall with soup or stew and bannock, followed by a Eucharist and a smudge and sharing circle in the church led by the Rev. Denise McCafferty and others. g Community Coffee House and Bible Study: The Parish of St. George’s, Saskatoon holds its weekly coffee house and Bible study every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The Bible study is held from 10:30 a.m. to about noon. All events are in the Parish Hall, 624 Ave. I South. Deadline To be included in a timely manner, brief notices should be sent to the Associate Editor by e-mail or “snail mail” by the last week of the month, two months before the month in which insertion is desired (for example, December submissions will be in the February issue). Detailed and longer texts of upcoming events will not be included here, but should space allow, could be the subject of article and notices elsewhere in the paper.
DIOCESE OF QU’APPELLE
Saltcoats looking after distribution of 2020 church calendars g 2020 Church calendars: St. Augustine Anglican Church, Saltcoats, will be handling the ordering of 2020 Church calendars. At this time the cost of the calendars is not known, but if you would like to place an order please contact Edith Maddaford at 306-744-2216 or esmadd@sasktel.net, or Sharon Gibler at 306-7442901 or s.s.gibler@sasktel. net. Please place orders before July 31. g All Saints, Regina honours 60th birthday: All Saints Anglican Church at 142 Massey
Road, Regina, has been a witness to Christ’s life for 60 years. May 2019 marks the 60th anniversary of the parish and several events are being planned to celebrate this diamond anniversary. On Sunday, May 5 there will be an anniversary service at 11 a.m. followed by a catered lunch (tickets are $20 and must be purchased through the office by April 28); at 2 p.m. there will be an hour-long concert with the Regina Mandolin Orchestra. On the evening of Wednesday, June 19, All Saints will host a concert with the Common Cup Company; tickets are
$15 and all proceeds go to support the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. On the weekend of Sept. 14 and 15 a neighbourhood BBQ event is planned for Saturday, with a special invitation to the many refugee families that All Saints has co-sponsored over the years. There will also be a welcoming service on Sunday. Please mark the dates and watch for further information. g Cursillo weekend cancelled: The Cursillo weekend scheduled for May did not happen. The owner/operator of the
Woods Acres in Moose Jaw, Dorothy, broke her hip and temporarily closed the building. Other centres were already booked. There were not enough workers for the weekend or candidates registered for it, reports Elizabeth Turnbull. To proceed, Cursillo needs the participation of those who have attended in the past. Cursillo needs enthusiastic Cursillistas to recommend and sponsor candidates. Pray for Cursillo. Pray for a venue whereby Anglicans and other Christians can enjoy the fellowship of the Holy
Spirit. Ultreya! g Shared ministry covenant updated: After 15 years it was time to make minor revisions to the Shared Ministry Agreement among Eastside United, St. Philip Anglican and Bread of Life Lutheran, which share the Living Spirit Centre in southeast Regina. Each year, the men of the congregations prepare and serve an Epiphany Supper of roast beef. This year the event was held Feb. 23, and representatives of each congregation signed the updated covenant following the supper.
May 2019
Rev. Dr. Jay Koyle, congregational development officer with the Diocese of Algoma, led St. Cuthbert’s Archdeaconry Vision Day. He told about 60 participants to “be ready for God’s surprises.” Photos by Joanne Shurvin-Martin
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Participants placed colour-coded stars on a map of Regina, showing where parishioners lived and the locations of the seven Anglican church buildings in the city.
St. Cuthbert's Archdeaconry envisions the future By Joanne Shurvin-Martin REGINA — “We are the Moses generation. We may not see the Promised Land, but we will bring the church across the Jordan (River),” said Rev. Dr. Jay Koyle, facilitator at the Vision Day for St. Cuthbert’s Archdeaconry. About 60 people attended the day, designed to help discern the way forward for the eight parishes in the archdeaconry: seven parishes in the city of Regina, plus the parish of Plain and Valley, which includes Lumsden, Pense and Kennel. Participants were from all eight parishes; most sent eight individuals. The event on March 9 was held at All Saints, Regina. Rev. Dr. Jay Koyle, congregational development officer with the Diocese of Algoma, facilitated the event. He illustrated the nature of biblical hope through Scripture and examples of congregations today. Bishop Rob Hardwick met Koyle during his cross-Canada cycle pilgrimage last year. Important elements of the Vision Day were shown in words such as hope, vision, future, promises and mission. Koyle told participants, “God already has
the vision. What we have to do is figure how to get there.” He explained that being successful as a church is not just having enough money to pay for the priest and the building. Too many parishes are too busy raising money to do actual mission work. He sketched a circle of arrows, showing how people live the mission of the church, which develops a reputation for the church, which attracts more people and resources, which strengthens the church to do mission work. This, he said, is how the very early church grew. Christians of the early Church had few resources and small numbers, but they showed Christianity by their lives, which is effective evangelism. Non-Christians saw that Christians truly cared for each other and also for others in times of sickness, hunger or other problems. This demonstration of Christian life is what drew people to the faith. Koyle said that missional objectives, not finances, should be first on vestry agendas. Parish annual general meetings should not be just a review of the past year, but should also look forward. “Christians thrive when
they allow their lives to be shaped by God’s tomorrow,” said Koyle. To thrive, congregations must recognize the gifts, assets and passions that God has given to them. Koyle encouraged parishes to make an inventory of these gifts, assets and passions, and to look at themselves through a gospel lens. Table groups also discussed the new and hopeful things they see emerg-
ing in their parishes and in the area already, with just a few of the examples cited being Alpha programs, youth activities, and outreach programs. The Vision Day was part of the continuing process to develop recommendations for the future of the Anglican Church in Regina and area. Wardens and clergy have been meeting regularly since early 2018, and a town hall meeting held last Novem-
ber attracted a large crowd of members of all the congregations. It has been acknowledged that the church cannot continue as it has been, with general acceptance that eight parishes are too many. Two prayer groups have been formed, which meet every month to provide prayer support for the ongoing process. The bishop and members of these groups prayed throughout Continued on page 6
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2019
Loving us back to life By Rev. Marie-Louise Ternier
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t was all getting too much. The bitterly cold Prairie winter became an apt illustration of the lifeless landscape that was taking shape in my Lenten spirit. My personal challenges grew. The list of parishioners living their own agony, needing prayers, was getting way too long. Strife and relational tensions at a recent meeting compromised effort at dialogue and resolution. The weight of the world’s suffering through poverty and natural disasters slowly eroded my capacity to hold onto a certain equanimity and strength. Finally, the horror of
human evil inflicted on innocent good people at prayer Down Under sank my heart like a boulder hurled into deep and dangerous water, intent to drown every ounce of hope and faith I had left. The psalmist’s plea became mine: Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in deep mire, where there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and the flood sweeps over me (Ps. 69). No doubt, Lent; darkness; the big void; suffering; evil and, death are all real, but is Easter real? Does God take breaks at the most inconvenient times? In his little book A Cry of Absence: Reflections for the Winter of the Heart,
Martin Marty claims that even our awareness of the absence of God hides the promise of the presence of God. We cannot miss something that we have never had, writes Marty. We cannot feel the pain of someone’s absence if we have never experienced that person’s loving presence. I also realized God is in fact never absent. God’s very nature is to lift us relentlessly out of the holes we dig for ourselves, to pull us out of the bitterly cold winter days of life. I was reminded of this divine nature by the reply God gave to Mack in the popular novel The Shack through the character of Papa: “Just because I work incredible good out of unspeakable tragedies doesn’t mean I orchestrate the tragedies. “Don’t ever assume that my using something means
that I caused it or that I needed it to accomplish my purposes. “That will only lead to false notions about me. Grace doesn’t depend on suffering to exist, but where there is suffering you will find grace in many facets and colours.” It’s tough to remain anchored in hope when tidal waves of despair wash over the globe and flood our own spirits. It’s tough, too, for pastoral leaders whose job it is to help others maintain faith and hope in times of trial. As Papa said in The Shack, I did find grace in the midst of the bitter cold of my Lenten spirit. I decided to share my despair with parishioners in our small weekday prayer circle, adding I was struggling with how to speak God’s hope into their darkness when my own spirit was so despondent. Then that little band of faithful disciples set about doing God’s rescue work: they took my struggling
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spirit and held it gently in the loving blanket of prayer, asking God to lift me from the grave into which I found myself sliding. In that small but significant moment, God’s communion of saints and sinners pulled me into resurrection, making me new. God never promised that we would not suffer or despair or not find ourselves buried alive in sorrow. God only promised that we would not have to face such bitterly cold and deathdealing seasons alone. God fulfilled that promise in Jesus Christ, the Holy One who has gone before us in all things. In Jesus, God opened the way into redemption and freedom, showing us how to hold onto Love in the face of death. He let that Love raise us from the black holes we find ourselves in, over and over again. As Nadia Bolz-Weber says so eloquently in her riveting book Pastrix: “God simply keeps reaching down into the dirt of humanity and resurrecting us from the graves we dig for ourselves through our violence, our lies, our selfishness, our arrogance, and our addictions. And God keeps loving us back to life over and over” (pg. 174). It’s real, this resurrection stuff, more real that all the cold and dark seasons together. Freedom and mercy, salvation and joy, over and over again in small and big measures. Alleluia, Christ is risen again, indeed.
Vision Day Continued from page 5 the Vision Day, supporting the discussions and discernment of the group meeting in the All Saints hall. Participants at the Vision Day generally agreed that the visioning process was valuable, but some individuals expressed impatience at how long the process was taking before any decisions were made. The wardens, interim priests and incumbents met with Koyle for three hours on the Sunday following the Vision Day. They reviewed the discussions from the previous day and considered the next steps needed to make recommendations to the bishop before the summer.
May 2019
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Worshipping God in the everglades of Florida By Mary Brown PRINCE ALBERT — I was in Venice, Florida on Feb. 24 and went to the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd’s to the Holy Eucharist: Rite II Service. Upon entering the church, I was greeted by a woman who shook my hand to welcome me, and who handed me a large service bulletin, an events bulletin and another page entitled A Blessing of the Holy Land Pilgrims. The service was from the Book of Common Prayer beginning on page 355. It wasn’t the book we use in our diocese, but basically the same. There was a choir of about 15 people with probably about 100 people in the church. The average age of the congregation was probably around 60 to 70. This would have been a sung service, as we sang many of the prayers and responsorial prayers. The hymns were out of the 1982 hymnal. The gospel for that day was from Luke 6:27-38, which ended with, “For the measure you give will be the measure you get back.” The priest spoke about “rules of thumb,” his favourite being sleepwalkers should wear PJs. In the prayers of the people we prayed for their women and men in the armed forces; their names were listed in the events bulletin. There were six of them. What I found unusual was before Holy Communion there were announcements and welcome. Part of the welcome included
anyone new to the church standing up and introducing themselves; that would have been me. After that, a woman spoke about the parish’s upcoming trip to the Holy Land and how she figured out the best way to keep everyone — 28 of them — organized: get a long rope for everyone to hold onto. Everyone laughed. (I think she used to be a day care teacher). When communion finished, they sang a post communion hymn, Ubi Caritas (Jacques Berthier): Ubi caritas et amor, ubi caritas, Deus ibi est. Live in charity and steadfast love, live in charity, God will dwell with you. Afterwards was the sending forth of lay Eucharistic visitors. A couple came forward to receive a home communion kit. The service ended with the blessing.
Everyone was invited for coffee after the service and I’d say probably more than half of them stayed. There were baskets of various types of bread for people to take to give to people in need. A local bakery donated the bread on Saturday night. Some of the items in the event bulletin included upcoming dates for different groups such as: finance committee, vestry executive committee, prayer warriors, Christian Women’s Fellowship, grief group, memorial garden and grounds crew, altar guild/flower guild, acolyte training, and food, fun and fellowship. There is a beautiful memorial garden in the church yard. If you have travelled anywhere this past year and visited a church, please consider telling us about your impressions.
Saskatchewan editor Mary Brown worshipped at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Venice, Florida during a recent trip. Photo by Mary Brown
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2019
Some of the Friends of Nazanin at St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser lunch held at St. Stephen’s Church, Saskatoon. From left are Patrick Skinner, Rev. Jan BiglandPritchard, Lauren Matthews and Tigist Gebeyehu-Ketsela. Missing are Ruth Skinner, Julia Davies, Nancy Wilson, Jean Keeley are Susan Skrypnyk. Photos by Rev. Jan Bigland-Pritchard, diocesan refugee co-ordinator
Some of Nazanin’s art that is being sold to raise funds for the Diocese of Saskatoon’s refugee sponsorship program. All proceeds from the sales of these artworks go to the Friends of Nazanin refugee sponsorship account.
Refugee sponsorship program provides quality support By the Rev. Jan Bigland-Pritchard Diocesan refugee co-ordinator SASKATOON — We have had our first arrivals of 2019: an Iraqi family of six. That brings our total number of arrivals since June, 1 2018, to 59. We are going to be very busy with following up on all these arrivals. The federal govern-
ment has now instituted a very thorough and time-consuming level of monitoring, which is causing plenty of stress for sponsorship agreement holders. In light of the new monitoring requirements and the fact we have about 100 people still waiting to arrive, the bishop, with Jan’s full agreement, has decided to accept only a very small
number of new refugee applications in 2019. This is disappointing in light of the great demand for sponsorship places, but is realistic in terms of getting our potential liability down to a manageable level and providing quality settlement support to the families to whom we are already committed. Jan is looking forward to having Ms. Tigist Gebeyehu-Ketsela work with her on a three-month, part-time training internship in refugee sponsorship; this internship began in April. Tigist is from Ethiopia; she is a student at the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad and worked for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees when she lived in Kenya. Augustana Lutheran Church will be beginning a new sponsorship this year, while Christ Church is working towards a sponsorship in 2020. St. Stephen’s volunteers are now hosting one of the Open Door Society’s 11 weekly conversation circles.
This is a great place for refugees and other newcomers to meet new people and practise their English. A big thank you to St. John’s, Borden and Borden United Church for their fundraising lunch on March 8 for one of our incoming refugee family sponsorships. Thank you to Watrous parish for its Lent fundraising efforts and to St. Stephen’s, Saskatoon for its St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser lunch. Thank you also to the quilt makers of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Radisson for its promise of handmade quilts for all the beds for a family of seven. Thank you, as well, for those considering, or having already made, spontaneous donations of funds in support of this effort. We also have packs of note cards each with five of the Nazanins’ daughter’s designs for sale — pack of five cards for $10 — and two original framed paintings — $80 and $100 — for sale. All proceeds from the sale of these artworks go
to the Friends of Nazanin refugee sponsorship account. If your parish wants to do something to assist refugees, but does not want at this time to do a full sponsorship, please consider making a donation to the diocesan refugee fund, or contact the diocesan refugee co-ordinator, Jan Bigland-Pritchard, at the Synod Office.
Refugees sponsored and assisted by the Diocese of Saskatoon’s refugee sponsorship program are welcomed with hugs upon arrival at Saskatoon airport.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2019
9
DIOCESE OF QU’APPELLE
Rev. Deacon Krista Dowdeswell, recently appointed diocesan Safe from Harm implementation officer, addresses diocesan council, while Dean Mike Sinclair and Bishop Rob Hardwick listen. Photos by Nigel Salway
Rev. Philip Swan from the Diocese of Lichfield offers reflections on the readings for day at Morning Prayer prior to diocesan council. Swan was one of five curates from the companion Diocese of Lichfield who visited Qu’Appelle in the spring.
Council discusses finances, archdeaconry future By Nigel Salway REGINA — Many diocesan programs, as well as finances, were discussed at Diocesan Council, held March 23 at St. Philip, Regina. Five curates from the companion Diocese of Lichfield joined the meeting, which followed breakfast and Morning Prayer, led by Deacon Rita Brann and Rev. Nancy Yee. Finances The meeting commenced with a financial report by the diocesan financial officer, Amanda Sather Page. Sather Page spoke on the diocesan Fair Share and reviewed the financial reports for the year ended Dec. 31, 2018. The Fair Shares for 2018 have largely been received. Prompt and regular payment of the Fair Share is necessary to fund the day-to-day operations of the diocese, including payroll. Diocesan council thanks the parishes of the diocese for their Fair Share contributions. The Fair Share total for 2019 will be less than 2018. Un-audited financial statements for the 2018 fiscal year were reviewed. The diocese operated at a modest loss for the fiscal
year, although this may change as a result of the audit. Some increased expenses in the past year include a new telephone system at the synod office and higher housing expenses to house Catherine Louise Crawley, St. Chad Volunteer from Diocese of Lichfield. There have been some changes to financial reporting practice. Previously, some operating lines such as the Qu’Appelle School of Mission and Ministry recorded some items as net items. For 2018 and coming years, these will now record all expenses and revenues in the books, rather than a net item. Trust funds Canon Trevor Powell has been reviewing the trust funds in the diocese. He presented a discussion of the work he has done so far. The purpose of this review is to document the terms and conditions of trusts in the diocese. Documentation since 1970 has been hard to find. Some trusts refer to entities that no longer exist. Powell’s work is roughly 70-per-cent complete and the completed report will be
delivered to the bishop in the next two months. Archdeaconry review Archdeacon Cheryl Toth provided an update on the work of the St. Cuthbert’s wardens’ group. She has met with each congregation and presented their self-assessment data in the context of the other churches in the archdeaconry. A Vision Day was held with Rev. Dr. Jay Koyl from the Diocese of Algoma, which included other parish members in addition to the wardens. The goal is to provide a plan to move forward to the bishop in May. Safe from Harm Deacon Krista Dowdeswell briefed the committee on the Safe From Harm initiative. Last November Dowdeswell was named the program implementation officer, taking over from Michelle Josephson. Josephson had determined that the Safe From Harm document should be implemented as part of the more comprehensive Ensuring Sustainability framework written by Bishop David Anderson. In addition to this work, Josephson wrote policies specific to sexual misconduct, bullying and harass-
ment. These three policies should be implemented by the Diocese. Training for parishes is to commence soon. The sexual conduct policy needs to be updated, but should be implemented prior to updating. It is recommended to move away from the name Safe From Harm, as this is the name of a Salvation Army course. The name Qu’Appelle Safe Church Leader has been suggested. Refugees Ralph Paragg provided an update on refugee sponsorship. The program helped 48 people come to Canada in 2018. For 2019 and forward, it is recommended that all new applicants for sponsorship pay the estimated cost of sponsorship, less in-kind deductions. This is in line with the policies of the Archdiocese of Regina and the Central Mennonite committee. General Synod Bishop Rob Hardwick reported that he will not be attending this year’s dialogue of African and Canadian Bishops. This will free up funds to cover the expenses of this year’s General Synod, which will be higher
than 2016. Bishop Rob also notes that his wife, Lorraine, has decided not accompany him to the 2020 Lambeth conference. Shelley Baron, diocesan executive officer, reported that all changes required by motions at Synod 2017 have been applied to the diocesan canons and regulations. Theology The doctrine and worship committee has prepared a spiritual commentary for both the Book of Alternative Services and Book of Common Prayer communion service. All diocesan clergy have a copy of these commentaries. Archdeacon Abraham Malith Deng sent a letter of thanks to the diocese for the support he has received for his education. Deng has successfully completed his four-year theological education course, and is continuing to minister in the Kakuma refugee camp, South Sudan. Youth ministry Julie Moser provided a written report on youth ministry. Upcoming programs include a Grand Day Out, two summer camps and Crosstalk summer day camps at various parishes in the diocese.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2019
Archives being organized after big move By Rev. Peter Coolen Diocesan archivist SASKATOON — Over the past several months your diocesan archives has been involved with arranging for the identification and packing of all the diocesan registers of baptism, confirmation, marriage and burial, as well as all diocesan vestry books/service registers held within the Provincial Archives Board offices at the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon. All of these registers have now been relocated to the diocesan archives in the synod office. New metal shelving has also been purchased to house these records in their new home. This transfer involved more than 60 boxes containing 180 service registers and more than 200 other registers totaling over 40 linear feet of shelf space. Currently these registers are being checked and crossindexed to incorporate them into the sequences of registers already held in the synod office’s collection. Prior to this recent move, the synod archive collection was divided between two sites: The Provincial Archives Board office and the synod office archive. This consolidation of our records to one location was necessitated by the planned move of the Provincial Archives Board’s Saskatoon office, located on the campus of the University of Saskatchewan, and all of the records contained
The diocesan archivist with some of the synod archives collection of registers now moved to new shelving within the synod office archives. Photo by Rev. Peter Coolen therein, to Regina. Since December, due to the on-going packing and organization for the move to Regina, only limited access to the Provincial Archives was possible. Therefore, requests for searches, which required our registers stored there, were delayed. By May we hope to have completed integrating our registers into one uniform system within the synod office archives. We will then be able to begin, once again, doing searches and filling requests. As a result of this move,
all diocesan non-register archive acquisitions, made since 2006, as well as all diocesan registers from the 1880s to the present, are now held within the synod office archive storage. The non-register synod files, still held by the Provincial Archives Board, which cover the period from the 1880s to 2006 and that occupy several hundred linear feet of shelf space, will be moved to Regina. Obviously, having much of our archive material stored in Regina is not an ideal arrangement.
However, the non-register synod archive files, which will continue to be stored with the Provincial Archives Board, are referred to infrequently. Our diocesan registers, which we have now completely moved to the synod office archives, are referred to constantly and frequently. Moving of all synod records stored within the Provincial Archives Board to the synod office archives was not considered due to space, cost and infrequency of use for these files. Requests to view the
diocesan archive material may be made to the diocesan archivist. However, those materials stored at the Provincial Archives Board that will be housed in Regina will not be accessible until they are unpacked in August. Viewing of the files stored in Regina will either have to be done in person in Regina, or the required files will have to be sent by courier to the synod office in Saskatoon for viewing. They will then be returned to the Provincial Archives Board in Regina.
Government of Canada to match donations for Cyclone Idai crisis Fund will amplify response of individual Canadians, ensure more help for survivors OTTAWA — The Government of Canada will match donations from individual Canadians to the Cyclone Idai appeal of the Humanitarian Coalition. Severe flooding related to Cyclone Idai in Zimbabwe, Malawi and Mozambique has devastated the lives of millions. Many people have lost their lives. Roads, homes, schools, and crops have been destroyed, leaving survivors in need of basic
necessities. About three million people across the three countries need urgent humanitarian assistance. The Foodgrains Bank is a new member of the Humanitarian Coalition, a united effort of leading Canadian aid agencies to provide Canadians with a simple and effective way to help people in times of emergency. The Humanitarian Coalition works together
to reduce unnecessary fundraising competition, increase the effect of humanitarian responses, and reduce admin costs. “We are grateful for the contribution of the Government of Canada in providing a matching fund to multiply the contributions of individuals who want to help people affected by this disaster,” says Foodgrains Bank executive director Jim Cornelius.
“We know Canadians are generous—and look forward to seeing the impact of so many coming together to make a difference,” he adds. The Foodgrains Bank’s share of the Government of Canada matched funds will be used to scale up the efforts of its members and their partners to help survivors in the coming weeks and months. The match was made known April 1. It’s retroac-
tive to March 15, and runs until April 14. To donate, please visit together.ca. The Humanitarian Coalition (HC) brings together 10 leading aid organizations to provide Canadians with a simple and effective way to help during large-scale humanitarian emergencies. Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of 15 churches and church agencies working together.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2019
11
The gift of prayer belongs to all of us By Rev. Dr. Iain Luke Principal, College of Emmanuel & St. Chad.
T
he most gruelling set of exams I ever sat through came at the end of my theology degree. In just seven days, my classmates and I wrote 10, three-hour papers, based on two whole years of study. There were no midterms, quizzes, or essays to get you some marks ahead of time. Everything depended on those seven days. As a result, we spent the last 10 weeks of our program doing nothing but studying. Each subject got one week, while we frantically wrote down a small set of notes we would read over the night before — or the morning of — each exam. It wasn’t a good atmosphere for spiritual growth. There was plenty of prayer, to be sure, but most of it in short bursts, such as “Oh God,” or “Help!” Even those of us who had the habit of spending time each day in silent prayer, began to feel like we couldn’t really take that time away from studying. There was one psalm verse that spoke to us, Psalm 35:11, which in the prayer book of the time said: “I am questioned
about things of which I know nothing.” Afterwards, I realized God had become nearly invisible to us in that last term. What an irony! Ten weeks of thinking about nothing but God, without any actual sense of God’s presence. The paradox of being in the God business, and yet losing your awareness of God, is a professional hazard for clergy. It’s another reason why spiritual formation is a core value in clergy training and theological education. The way we approach spiritual formation, though, has changed much in my lifetime. As a student, I lived in college, and attended services two or three times a day. Attendance was expected at morning and evening prayer, and optional at daily communion and
night-time compline. Once a week the whole college gathered for a community Eucharist, while on Sundays we all went to our placements. Even in that environment, spiritual formation could not always be taught. Spiritually speaking, you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink. The habits of formal daily prayer were worth acquiring and have helped me through some challenging times. However, I had to look elsewhere to learn what would make those formal prayers — on my best days — rich and full of meaning. Some of that learning came from congregations where I had placements and internships, while much of it came from fellow students. At one point a group of us gave up hoping that the college faculty would “teach us to pray,” and instead started to teach one another. One member of the group gave a workshop on intercession, another
on contemplative prayer, another on the rosary, and so on. Each of us knew some practice of prayer well and shared it with the rest. In today’s college, and in today’s church, we rely on that mutual teaching and learning even more. Theological students at Emmanuel and St. Chad, or in diocesan training programs, can’t realistically participate in one service a day, let alone three. Most have jobs, homes, and family lives to sustain, at the same time as they pursue their studies. Perhaps they are less tempted to think about nothing but God! Yet it is more important than ever that people get the chance to acquire habits of prayer. The best way to do that is to learn from people who practise those habits. In today’s church, that means the laity as well as the clergy. Clergy mentors can pattern traditional practices of prayer, such as the daily
office, and show how they are taking new forms. There is actually an app for that. There are also new resources that shift the rhythm of daily prayer, so it relates more closely to the weekly gathering of the church on Sunday, rather than going off in its own direction on weekdays. More importantly, though, we are all now in a position where we need to learn from one another how to practise our awareness of God, through prayer, action, silence, and many other ways. The ministry of spiritual direction is one tool that helps our students — and many others — find methods that work for them. Still, the work of prayer belongs to all of us, so the biggest gift you can offer a theological student is the opportunity to be part of the community of prayer in your parish. You can also offer that gift to one another. Formally or informally, how do you pray? How can you learn from your neighbour how to pray more deeply? How can you, and your community, also be a sign of the presence of God for people who are new to discipleship, or are learning how to be “in the God business” while still nourishing their souls?
Icon painting workshop being offered in July Submitted
Icon of Jesus.
Photo contributed
REGINA — In a week-long course, iconographer Symeon van Donkelaar, founder of The Conestoga Iconographic Studio, will teach 12 participants to make an Orthodox icon using traditional methods and materials. The workshop provides the experience of making an icon by carefully copying one of Christ the Pantocrator created by Symeon for this purpose. Such work from a prototype makes room for new students to train their eyes to look carefully and gain the skills their hands need to learn. The class includes all
the materials and tools needed for completing the icon. The course is sponsored by St. Mary the Virgin Anglican Church, Regina, and the Diocese of Qu’Appelle. It will be held at St. Mary, 3337 15 th Avenue, Regina. The cost for the entire workshop is $350. The course will begin with a public lecture at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, July 14. The workshop will run Monday to Friday, July 15 to 19, with each day beginning with Morning Prayer at 8:30, and work beginning at 9 a.m. There will be a half-hour lunch break, with work resuming at 1 p.m. Evening Prayer will be held at 4:30 each
day. To register, or for more information, please contact the parish office of Saint Mary the Virgin Anglican Church at 306-522-6052 or stmarysanglican@sasktel.net. For additional information, see www. conestoga.com.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
May 2019
CrossTalk day camps coming to Qu'Appelle this summer Luke Street: Visit the houses where Jesus healed, taught and shared with disciples and friends By Laura French REGINA — Five CrossTalk day camps are planned for the Diocese of Qu’Appelle this year. The theme of this year’s camps is called Luke Street. It is a continuation of stories from the Gospel of Luke. Last year’s camps focused on Jesus’ early life; this is the beginning of His adult ministry. St. Luke, Gordon’s First Nation, has held a camp for many years. St. Luke, Regina, is holding two camps this year due to strong interest and a full camp last year. St. Giles, Estevan, and St. Stephen, Swift Current, both hosted last year and are going into their second year. CrossTalk Day Camps 2019 July 8 to 12 — St. Luke, Regina July 15 to 19 — St. Luke, Regina; July 15 to 19 — St. Luke, Gordon’s First Nation July 22 to 26 — St. Giles, Estevan July 29 to Aug. 2 — St. Stephen, Swift Current
Some of the 21 campers who attended CrossTalk Day Camp at St. Cuthbert, Dysart, last summer, listen to Rev. Michael Bruce (standing, right), who assisted at the camp. Maynard (seated, centre with ukulele) was one of the CrossTalk Ministries’ leaders who came to Saskatchewan last year. Volunteer Laura French (standing, background) also assisted with the day camps. Photo by Grant Sharman
DIOCESE OF SASKATCHEWAN
David Butorac appointed to cathedral g The Parish of Birch Hills, Kinistino and Muskoday is pleased to announce that Jordan Draper has been appointed to the parish of Birch Hills, Kinistino and Muskoday effective June 1. g The Cathedral Church of St. Alban the Martyr is also pleased to announce the appointment of David Butorac as curate to the parish effective June 1. g On May 30, Ascension Day, Jordan and David will be ordained to the diaconate at St. Alban’s Cathedral. g Sunday, April 28: The 14th annual spaghetti supper at St. George’s Church in Prince Albert from 5 to 7 p.m. Adults $15, children ages six to 12 are $7.50 and under six are free. g Sunday, May 26: Supper of ham, scalloped potatoes, vegetables and dessert, from 5 to 7 p.m.
at St. George’s Church in Prince Albert. Prices as above. g The Bishop’s Action Appeal Dinner will be held bi-annually, and so, there is no supper this year. g Vacation Bible School If you would like a team of two to three people to provide support for your VBS this summer, or want to help with VBS in the diocese, please contact the Synod Office by April 30. g At the executive committee meeting on March 21, Fr. Gethin Edward made a motion — seconded by Miles Nachbaur and unanimously carried — that the executive express its commitment to prayer for the upcoming meeting of the Canadian House of Bishops, and extend a call to prayer on the meeting’s behalf by the Diocese of Saskatchewan.
DIOCESE OF QU’APPELLE
Spiritual care and pastoral education program offered in Qu'Appelle Submitted REGINA — The Qu’Appelle School for Mission and Ministry is pleased to announce a five-part course on spiritual and pastoral care in homes and health-care agencies. This program will begin with a week-long Summer School and continue with four weekend sessions in the fall. Topics to be covered will include: • defining spiritual care • the theology of
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pastoral care offering spiritual care to those in private homes, nursing homes and hospitals praying and sharing Scripture with the sick ministering to persons with physical, sensory and cognitive challenges confidentiality, boundaries and ethics in pastoral care effective communication skills in pastoral care
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dealing with diversity ministering in times of loss and grief ministry to the dying
Summer school runs Monday through Friday, July 8 to 12. The weekend sessions each start on Friday and conclude on Sunday. The starting dates are Sept. 6, Oct. 18, Nov. 8 and Dec. 6. For more information, contact Archdeacon Catherine Harper at archdeacon.catherine@ sasktel.net or phone 306-522-3103.