Saskatchewan
anglican
The newspaper of the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle • A Section of the Anglican Journal • September 2019
DIOCESE OF QU’APPELLE
Group prays as archdeaconry prepares for big changes By Kate Berringer Regional Missioner, Diocese of Qu’Appelle
Elvis tribute artist sings at gospel service
Gill White, an Elvis Presley tribute artist, sang during an old-style gospel service at St. James the Apostle, Regina, in May. This was the first of several gospel services held on Saturday afternoons in the summer. Photo by Joanne Shurvin-Martin
REGINA — For the past year, I have been facilitating a prayer process to support the St. Cuthbert’s regional team as it works with wardens and clergy in our region to discern the future of the Anglican Church in the City of Regina. (The St. Cuthbert’s Archdeaconry consists of seven parishes in Regina, plus Plain and Valley Parish of Lumsden, Pense and Kennel.) When the discernment process began almost two years ago, I attended the first few meetings in my capacity as a regional missioner with the St. Cuthbert’s regional team. It soon become apparent that the Lord was calling me to step back from this group, and instead, spend my time organizing people to pray. I am not a prayer expert. I have never really been involved in a prayer ministry in any capacity. I was a tad skeptical about this call. I had lots of experience with organizing events and people. In fact, most of my adult life, I had successfully avoided spending a lot of time in prayer, preferring instead to get busy organizing for the Lord. But the call was strong so I responded. I put out an email and bulletin announcements, asking for anyone in our region who felt called to join with me in prayer. Individuals from five parishes
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responded. I asked a clergy friend how we should pray. He recommended a few Bible references for our group to consider, and encouraged us to let the Lord set the agenda of our prayer time through Scripture. In fact, it became apparent that no matter what else we did during our time together, it was important that we let the Lord set the agenda for our prayer time. So we began to gather monthly. Each time we gathered, we read Scripture and discussed what we were hearing. Then we spent time in silence and prayer, praying as we felt moved by the Holy Spirit through our study and our listening. We have passed on the wisdom we have heard to the regional discernment group and have continued to pray according to this, believing it to be the Spirit’s agenda. This is what I have learned through this process. Firstly, one need not be an expert to organize a group to pray. I am a lay person, who simply followed a nudge from the Spirit. Reading Scripture as a group, listening and discussing and then praying as the Spirit leads, is not difficult and does not require experts. I am not always excited to pray. Sometimes, I don’t feel like going to a gathering, feeling it is another “to-do” on my list. But I always feel closer to God and quietly amazed at His promises afterwards. I Continued on page 5
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Munden Coates (left) poses for a picture with Rev. Fran Aird and his sister and brother-in-law during a visit to Cornwall Trinity Church in Long Sault, Ont., during a summer trip. Photo courtesy Munden Coates
Don't miss church on holidays By Munden Coates ARBORFIELD (Skwn) — When you are on vacation you don’t have to take a holiday from church. On the contrary: visiting a new church can be a fulfill-
ing part of a vacation. When we visited my sister and her husband in Long Sault, Ont., Holy Communion at Cornwall Trinity Church was on the agenda. The organ in the 235-year-old Gothic church
just boomed out the first hymn, “All Creatures of our God and King.” Now fans of Rowan Atkinson will remember the episode where Mr. Bean attended an Anglican Church service and had
all kinds of troubles with that hymn. He just couldn’t keep time with all those Alleluias. I was sorely tempted to mimic one of his plights but stern looks from wife and older sister kept me in check for four full verses. We attended the second service of the day with 54 graying parishioners; the young couples with children must have attended the 8 a.m. service. The Book of Common Prayer was nowhere to be seen, while many of the prayers were sung. The sermon on temptation was delivered by Rev. Fran Aird. It was uplifting and at the same time challenging. A committee member spoke on how well the church’s outreach program was helping the homeless and hungry in the Cornwall area. The service ended with the last three verses of “All Creatures … ,” and yes, I did mistime the last Alleluia.
Show compassion to neighbours, newcomers What is the Christian response to interfaith relations? By the Rev. Dr. Dave Tyler
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n the years following the end of the Second World War there was an economic surge in England, my birthplace, led by the need to repair infrastructure damaged by war and to accommodate the baby boom. There was a wave of prosperity and optimism as well as an influx of migrants from India, Pakistan, the Caribbean and other parts of the slowly fragmenting Empire. In all places of daily life there were people in colourful clothing, very different in appearance, languages and faith traditions. In contrast, we were also confronted by images of cruelty beyond imagination exemplified by the Holocaust. Integration of refugees and migrants into schools and neighbourhoods was not without problems. There were also politicians and agitators then, just as there are now, proclaiming a
backlash of concern about jobs, taxes to pay social benefits and the desire to return “the good old days.” Fast-forward to the present day, where we are confronted with a wave of migration of proportions far exceeding previously recorded history. People of very diverse origins — escaping war, persecution, genocide, political and economic turmoil — are arriving at our doors. We also see our neighbourhoods, schools and gathering places being transformed into multicultural and multi-faith communities. Just as critically, we in Canada are also responding to the needs of our own indigenous people who inhabited this land before it was overtaken by an earlier generation of migrants mainly from war-torn Europe seeking opportunity and freedom. Many indigenous people were displaced and physically, mentally and spiritually harmed as a consequence. How are we as Christians to respond to the reality of living in a society and country where our
Christian values and expressions of faith differ from those around us, including in our own families? Only one of our four children remain in the Anglican faith, although they all attended church and Sunday school, while none of our grandchildren are church attenders. It has been my experience in talking to other clergy and friends in the church that my family is not unique in this respect. In 2009 Karen Armstrong was instrumental in creating a movement to enshrine “The Golden Rule” — “Always treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself” — into a Charter for Compassion to counter global voices of extremism, intolerance and hatred (charterforcompassion.org). It was shaped by leaders in Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Confucianism. Compassion is at the heart of all major religions and certainly in the Gospel teaching of Christ, such as, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have
loved you, you should also love one another” (John 13:34), “You shall love your neighbour as yourself” (Matt. 22:39), “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me” (Matt. 25:35-36). As Christians we are called to reach out with compassion to our neighbours and families, our community and those newly arrived from distant lands with stories of horror beyond comprehension. To offer hospitality and compassion, not to proselytize but to offer friendship, to listen and learn from them and to be good neighbours. The song “They’ll know we are Christians by our love,” sung by Jars of Clay and written by Peter Scholtes, encapsulates who we are. It is vitally important for us to listen to who they are. The Rev. Dr. Dave Tyler is an honorary assistant at St. George’s, Saskatoon.
Published by the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle. Published monthly except for July and August. Whole No. 292, Vol. 48, No. 1 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 October issue must be received by the diocesan editor no later than Friday, Aug. 30. 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
September 2019
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The bishop's cor ner
Look up! God is at work By Bishop Rob Hardwick
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enry Ossawa Tanner (1859 to 1937) was the first black artist to acquire an international reputation in the last century. One of his most popular paintings is titled The Thankful Poor. It features an elderly father and his little son seated at a table. There’s no fancy turkey, cranberry sauce or sweet potatoes. There’s no pumpkin pie. Instead there is one tiny dish of food for them both to share. Nevertheless, in spite of their limited resources, their heads are bowed in prayer to give thanks to God for what they have. Harvest Thanksgiving is a good reminder to give thanks for the blessings we have, rather than complaining about our lot, even
though this is not an easy thing to do. When there has been a death; when a forest fire consumes your house and all your belongings; when yet another prairie storm heads towards you. When things are not going our way, it is hard to give thanks. Sometimes, we also find it easier to complain to God rather than give thanks for what we have, like the father and son in the painting did. Reflecting on the struggles and challenges of the Church, a Regina
prayer group felt led to share a text from 2 Corinthians 4:17, a translation from The Message. It reads, So we’re not giving up. How could we? Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There’s far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can’t see now will last forever. Yes, there are many challenges for the Church today, but God does not bring us through the waters to drown us, but to save us. God also does not bring us through the fire to burn us, but to purify us. This does not mean God
sends every crisis that comes into our lives. But it does mean God can use present setbacks as a set up for a comeback! To quote a sermon by Tony Campolo, “It may be (Good) Friday but Sunday is a-coming.” Even in the midst of trouble, look up, for God is at work to save us. So even if times are tough, let us be thankful for what we have. Indeed, let us be thankful at all times and in all seasons for the Lord is good and his mercy endures for ever! For God who has been so faithful to us in the past, is the same God today and will be tomorrow. So may our response to such unmerited goodness from the Lord, forever be, not only thanksgiving and praise with our lips, but with lives that culminate in thankful and expectant living. Happy Thanksgiving.
Opinion
Doom and gloom, or joy and hope? By Jason G. Antonio Managing editor
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his past spring I attended a joint conference between the Anglican Editors’ Association — of which the Saskatchewan Anglican is a member — and the Canadian Church Press, which is now known as the Canadian Christian Communicators Association. One of the speakers was a professor from the University of Waterloo, Sarah Wilkins-Laflamme, who gave a presentation about religious affiliation in Canada. Her main focus was on the growth of Canadians who have no religious affiliation, or, the “Nones.” Some of the data was depressing since it showed how religious affiliation in this country has declined since 1985. As of 2016, 67 per cent of Canadians called themselves Christians, compared to 79 per cent in 1985. People with no religion, meanwhile, increased to 24 per cent from 11 per cent. Of 19,117 people surveyed in 2016, 23 per cent of people — or 4,397 participants — with no religious affiliation
said having religious or spiritual beliefs in life was somewhat important or very important. Another survey found 3,643 nonreligious people out of 16,559 respondents prayed or meditated throughout the year. This could have been daily, weekly, monthly, three times a year or once a year. Wilkins-Laflamme pointed to some current trends in the Canadian religious and spiritual landscape, such as, most organized religion indicators are on the decline, especially among younger generations and immigrant populations born in Canada, two major segments of the population. However, some religious Nones have more personal-
ized spiritual beliefs and practices, since a few received some form of religious socialization as children. If you’ve kept your finger on the pulse of Churchland for a while, you probably know that fewer people are attending church or calling themselves Christian. Therefore, what WilkinsLaflamme presented shouldn’t be too much of a surprise. However, while a sizeable segment of the Canadian population says it has no religious affiliation, we should really see this as an opportunity for evangelization. In 2015 during Canada’s sesquicentennial celebrations, the Angus Reid Institute conducted a survey to gauge Canadians’ views toward religious belief. The Institute found 30 per cent of people were inclined to embrace religion; 26 per cent were inclined to reject religion; and 44 per cent of people were somewhere in the middle. “They do not see themselves as particularly devout; but they also have not abandoned religion,” said the survey about that
“mushy middle.” Lately Luke 10 keeps coming up in my Bible readings. This is where Jesus sends out the 72 followers to go ahead of Him. His response in Luke 10:2 says it all: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Does this passage come up regularly for you? What about a similar passage in Matthew 9:37-38? This is obviously an indication that God wants us to get out there and talk to people about Jesus. Even our now-retired primate, Archbishop Fred Hiltz, recognized during this past July’s General Synod that the Anglican Church of Canada needs to evangelize. Here’s hoping the new primate will follow up on Hiltz’s comment and also push for Anglicans to engage in evangelization. As an aside, if 67 per cent of Canadians call themselves Christian, but only 30 per cent of Canadians are inclined to embrace religion, that may mean the other 37 per cent need to be
re-evangelized. It’s apparent that individual Christians or groups of Christians may have to take on this task themselves. The statistics might seem like it’s all doom and gloom, but the Angus Reid survey results indicate Canadians are at least open to hearing about Jesus. This should provide us with some joy and hope. Get out those walking sticks and new sandals. It’s time to start acting as the field workers Jesus calls us to be.
Know a student who’s going to college? Send them with a loving prayer and a Hope Bear dressed in a scarf of their college colours. Perfect for graduation too! www.anglicanfoundation.org
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New book published on the diaconate By Canon Michael Jackson REGINA — An international Anglican-Roman CatholicUkrainian Catholic conference on the diaconate held at Campion College, Regina, in May 2018 is having an effect in the print world a year later. A book based on the conference presentations has just been published by Sacristy Press in Durham, England. Entitled The Diaconate in Ecumenical Perspective: Ecclesiology, Liturgy and Practice and edited by conference co-ordinator Deacon Canon Michael Jackson of the Diocese of Qu’Appelle, the book includes 20 essays by 14 contributors from Canada, the United States, England and
been exploring the role of the diaconate in recent decades in order to revitalize a ministry to which people continue to be called by God, as have other Churches. It is time for us to learn from each other more intentionally as we strive to encourage a diaconal ministry which is deeply faithful and creatively responds to the needs of our day. This collection launches us into a life-giving dialogue between our Communions on the diaconate. The Diaconate in Ecumenical Perspective can be ordered from Sacristy Press in the U.K. at www.sacristy.co.uk/books/ theology/deacons. It is also available through Amazon.
Scotland. In addition to essays by Anglican/Episcopal and Roman Catholic/Ukrainian Catholic authors, there are chapters on deacons in the Methodist and Lutheran churches. Topics discussed in the book are the theology of the diaconate, the future of the transitional diaconate, women in the diaconate, ecumenical views, prophetic ministry, the deacon in liturgy and formation of deacons. Archbishop Donald Bolen of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Regina, co-chair of the 2018 conference with Bishop Rob Hardwick of Qu’Appelle, says about the book: Anglicans and Roman Catholics have independently
DIOCESE OF SASKATOON
Announcements for September 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 What is our bishop up to? Check out the Bishop’s Calendar on the redesigned, new and improved diocesan website. g Ministry for Survivors: An ongoing ministry open to anyone who is post-trauma in need of prayerful support is now available in Saskatoon. This ministry includes/may include creative expression through dance and painting for healing of the inner child with Common Praise and Taizé Hymns, Psalms, sharing circle, grounding meditation and weekly themes. Place is St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Saskatoon. Time is the first Monday of each month (except statutory holidays), from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The facilitator is Karen Walter. Phone 639-4806274 for more information. g Celtic Evening Service in Saskatoon: The Celtic Evening Eucharist Service continues in its second year at St. George’s Anglican Church, 624 Ave. I South, Saskatoon. Services are held every Tuesday night at 7 p.m. 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 11:30 a.m. The Bible study is held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with the coffee house. All events are in the Parish Hall, 624 Ave. I South. g Synod 2019 is coming: In accordance with the diocesan Constitution and Canons, please note that the next triennial ordinary session of the Diocesan Synod of the Diocese of Saskatoon will be held in St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, 135-109th Street West, Saskatoon from Oct. 3 to 5, Saskatoon. Preliminary schedule is Oct. 3, at 4 p.m. registration followed by opening Eucharist, supper and first session of business. Oct. 4, all day; Oct. 5, synod ends at 3 p.m. For more information visit www.anglicandiocesesaskatoon; anglicansynod@sasktel.net; or 306-244-5651. Appointments, resignations, etc. g The Rev. Jan BiglandPritchard stepped down as diocesan refugee co-ordinator as of July 31 in order to take up a full-time refugee position with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon. Ms. Tigist Gebeyehu-Ketsela was offered and accepted the post
of refugee co-ordinator for our diocese, beginning in August. Tigist completed a four- month internship with our refugee office at the end of July. She is studying for the L.Th. diploma through the College of Emmanuel & St. Chad. We wish her blessings and all of our best wishes in her new position. g The Rev. Emily Carr, incumbent at St. George’s, Saskatoon resigned, effective Aug. 21, to take up a new position in outreach work with STR8-UP 10,000 Little Steps to Healing, Inc., Saskatoon. g J. Allan Kirk, Feb. 11, 1945 to Dec. 14, 2018. (His obituary is available in the Saskatchewan Anglican February 2019 issue). Allan Kirk was dean of our cathedral for eight years, from 1990 to 1998. A service for family and friends and for the placing of Allan’s ashes in a family niche was officiated by Bishop Tom Morgan, in the Good Shepherd Chapel of the Columbarium in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Saskatoon on July 26. Light refreshments were served after the service. g Volunteer treasurer and bookkeeper positions available: The vestry of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Saskatoon, is now searching for a volunteer treasurer
and bookkeeper for the cathedral. Their current treasurer and bookkeeper will be stepping down at the end of 2019. They are hoping to have these positions filled by the end of the current calendar year. As these are two different positions, one person may assume the responsibility for both, or they can be taken on separately by two persons. The duties for each position are available from the cathedral office. If, after reading the description of duties, you think you may be interested in assisting them, by taking on one or both positions, please prayerfully consider this opportunity to assist the cathedral in this way. Speak to either their People’s Warden (Senos Timon), their Deputy People’s Warden (Darcey Anton) or Dean Scott, or call the cathedral cffice at 306-242-5146. 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.
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While parishes in the City of Regina consider their future, a group has been gathering to pray to support the discernment process. From left are Sandra Dowie, Lynda Bowman, Jeanne Tweeten, Gene Packwood, Judy Packwood, Malcolm Tait, Merrilyn Dubreuil and Pat Hall. Photo by Kate Berringer
... Group prays as region prepares for changes Continued from page 1 have changed from thinking of prayer as work of the qualified to knowing that it is an opportunity for God to work in me. I have also learned that prayer is less about listing a series of wants or concerns for God to handle and more about listening to Him and engaging with what He is saying. Then it’s about coming to terms with the expectations He has for me and for His Church in the context of His
plan for creation. It has been so interesting to approach prayer with no set agenda, letting our Bible study and the Spirit bring the words to us. Prayer seems to be about letting God shift my agenda and understanding towards His will for me and my community. Who knew? I have learned that prayer is the first thing. If we act before we find out what God’s plan is, we may be jumping ahead of what He wants. If
we pray first, letting Scripture form our agenda, we end up praying in line with His will. We also know that acting according to His will results in His good purpose for us. I have also learned that I need to be praying a lot more than I do, if I truly want to know what it is that God has planned for me or my family, my church, etc. Prayer is not always my first instinct when I need to discern
the way forward, but it should be. Imagine if we had as many prayer groups operating as we do working groups or committees in the church. Perhaps most importantly, I have come to realize that I am not in control of the decisions the discernment group makes, nor am I required to ensure the wisdom our group has heard is being “followed” to the letter. The main thing is we keep praying. God will do the rest.
Bishop to decide future of Regina churches soon By Jason G. Antonio REGINA — Bishop Rob Hardwick is expected to make a decision soon about the future of the seven Anglican parishes in Regina. Wardens from all seven Regina parishes have met for the past 18 months to determine what options or ideas would strengthen the local Anglican community. This move was precipitated by the fact several parishes have seen a decline in membership, combined with financial stress and rector vacancies. According to information from the Diocese of Qu’Appelle, there are about 378 Anglicans worshipping in seven Anglican parishes in Regina on Sundays. The work of the St. Cuthbert’s Archdeaconry warden’s group was presented to diocesan council during its June meeting. Archdeacon Cheryl Toth and several wardens spoke about the three scenarios that could be presented to the bishop for consideration.
The first scenario is the Modified Status Quo. This is a top-down approach where several churches would be identified for amalgamation or merger into three or four buildings and/or parishes. The second scenario is Rebirth, which involves parishes coming together to see if an amalgamation might be achieved from a bottom-up approach. The third option is One Church, which would see all seven Regina parishes fold into one congregation with perhaps one or two satellite sites. This option is similar to the situation in Moose Jaw when four parishes merged to form St. Aidan. Two Regina vestries preferred modified status quo, according to the presentation. Most vestries supported the one church approach, but they were undecided if this would be one single building or several satellite locations. The wardens have collectively supported the rebirth model, presenters told diocesan council. This is based on the idea that this provides the
best chance of having all concerned churches participate more willingly in any merger with some degree of local control. This would also allow a re-birth or re-visioning of the Church. The modified status quo has the benefit of providing central direction on a subject that is emotional and difficult. The one church proposal was seen as
perhaps an end state in the future, but is unnecessary right now. The next step will be the facilitation of a merger process — or some version of sharing resources — between congregations. Currently, St. Paul’s Cathedral and St. Mary the Virgin Anglican have said they would provide support to such discussions. In
the future, there might be an initiative to encourage congregants to move from a church that is closing to one that is staying open. Coming out of the St. Cuthbert’s Archdeaconry meeting is a renewed commitment to work together more in support of one another. Working groups will be struck soon with the congregations directly involved in tackling specific issues within their parishes.
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Rev. Don Wells enjoyed ministering to smaller parishes Rev. Don Wells, 1932 to 2019 By Canon Trevor Powell REGINA — A large, overflowing congregation at St. Paul’s Cathedral bid farewell to a much beloved and devout parish priest, Rev. Donald Edwin Leonard Wells, on June 15. Bishop Robert Hardwick was the celebrant and Rev. Michael Bruce preached the homily. Born in 1932 at Swift
Current, Wells graduated from St. Chad’s Theological College in 1958 and that
same year was ordained to the priesthood. He spent much of his ministry in the parishes of Major, Mortlach, Ogema, Rocanville, Abernethy-Balcarres, Raymore and St. Peter, Regina. He also served the parish of Biggar in the Diocese of Saskatoon for six years during the 1970s. Following retirement from full-time ministry in 2000, Wells was appointed an honorary assistant of the cathedral and provided services to the
parish of Grenfell until his health declined. Reflecting on his lengthy career, Don was pleased to have been one of “the Qu’Appelle few” who had been born in this diocese, attended our diocesan college and accepted a call to enter Holy Orders. His time serving as a priest in the Mortlach Mission during the late 1950s was remembered with particular fondness and joy. Under the leadership of
Father Eric Potter, priests and lay workers operating from a mission house in that small town, ministered to a number of scattered congregations along and to either side of the CPR main line west of Moose Jaw. This experience of community life led Don to test his vocation to the religious life with the Anglican Franciscans at Cerne Abbas, Dorset in 1961. In the end he decided that parish ministry was more to his liking and returned to this diocese. His wife, Carol, would soon come to play a large part in encouraging and supporting his priestly ministry over the years. Don is survived by his loving wife, Carol, daughter, Sarah and sons, Luke (Nancy) and Andy (Cynthia), and grandchildren.
Mont Nebo to celebrate 100 years By Mary Brown PRINCE ALBERT — St. Luke’s Anglican Church in Mont Nebo is holding a 100th anniversary celebration on Sunday, Sept. 29 at 2 p.m. Bishop Michael Hawkins will lead the service of Holy Communion. A potluck lunch will follow the service.
Do you know someone who is being ordained or someone celebrating an ordination anniversary? Give them a Clergy Bear with surplice and stole in a colour of your choice. www.anglicanfoundation.org
September 2019
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
George Axon helped diocese make good financial decisions Submitted REGINA — George Axon died peacefully on June 14 at the age of 87. Axon served as director of administration for the Diocese of Qu’Appelle from 1981 to 1996. For Axon’s retirement party, Archbishop Michael Peers wrote a letter that said, in part: I am writing, first as Primate, to thank you for your work over two decades for the Anglican Church of Canada. Your record as a lay member in seven successive General Synods, from 1975 through 1992, a record exceeded only once in the history of the Diocese of Qu’Appelle, marks one kind of participation in the church beyond the diocese. Your service on the administration and
Global shortage of incense coming (ANS) — A global shortage of frankincense could threaten production of church incense that some traditions use during worship as a visible sign of prayers ascending to God. The aromatic resin, used to produce incense, comes from Boswellia, a genus of trees and shrubs from the Horn of Africa, Arabian Peninsula and India. A report in a sustainability journal shows there is a danger frankincense supplies will collapse after researchers found the Boswellia trees are being destroyed by cattle farming, drought and conflict. Frankincense is the main ingredient in all church incense recipes and when blended with myrrh, cassia and various natural oils, it produces a unique fragrance when burned. It’s estimated the Roman Catholic Church uses about 50 tonnes of frankincense a year.
George Axon finance committee and the Journal trustees was a source of real help to the financial decision-making of General Synod, and very well remembered by
the staff of those days. But I also want to speak as a former diocesan bishop, the bishop in whose time you came into the Synod Office. It strikes me that your appointment was one of the best examples in the life of the church of a “volunteer” becoming a “professional.” The committee who recommended you was convinced that what we needed was a person who had a proven record of knowing the church and caring for the church; that any further technical skills for the position could be learned on the job, and they were right. … You brought to the job a clarity of explanation which I found very helpful, because (even to this day) a balance sheet can unnerve me. Axon worked for the church at many levels: the parishes of St. John,
Moose Jaw and St. Luke, Regina, the diocese, and the national church across Canada. In recognition of this work, he received the Anglican Award of Merit presented by the primate, Archbishop Michael Peers. Axon said another career highlight was co-ordinating the royal visit of the Queen, Prince Philip and Prince Edward to St. John’s in 1978. Axon was born in Regina and moved to Moose Jaw as a young boy, where he attended school. He became a journeyman printer and worked at Western Press and the Moose Jaw Times-Herald. Axon is survived by his loving family of wife Pat; daughters Janice (Dale) Smith, Judy (Shell) Smillie; son Joe (Jeanny) Axon, nine grandchildren
and five great-grandchildren.
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Elaine Anderson, wife of diocesan Elder Rev. Arthur Anderson, died on June 25.
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Veronica Pasterfield, widow of Rev. Dunstan Pasterfield, died May 15, at the age of 97. Born in England, she immigrated to Canada with her family in 1953. She lived in Shaunavon, Estevan, Regina and Calgary wherever her husband served, and was very active in parish life. + + + + Ralph Rockabar, husband of Rev. Eleanor Rockabar, Maple Creek, died July 12 at the age of 84.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
New directions By Rev. Dr. Iain Luke Principal, College of Emmanuel & St. Chad
T
his month’s column marks an anniversary. It’s been three years since I became the principal of Emmanuel & St. Chad, so that means three years of monthly columns in the Saskatchewan Anglican. The columns have taken us through the full range of subjects in the college curriculum, which is apt, since three years is also the length of a typical theology degree! I always caution our grads, though, that three years of theological education doesn’t mean you learned everything you’ll ever need to know. That caution applies equally to the college and the theology curriculum. It would be a mistake to think of the content of theological studies as fixed, timeless and complete, so that once you’ve worked it all out, you’re done. There’s another threeyear cycle that can supply a useful analogy, and that’s the Sunday lectionary. As we go to church regularly throughout years A, B and C, we hear the whole story of the Bible, or at least the highlight reel. But when we get to the end, we don’t stop and look for something else to read. We start again, and deepen our understanding as we work our way through the cycle once more. The same cycle is part of teaching and learning in the college. The same material looks very different when new students are in the classroom, interacting with it. Or a course might suddenly become a hot topic, because of a crisis or transformation affecting the world. Instructors revise their work to reflect new research, which is often triggered by an insightful question someone asked in class. Over a longer stretch of time, the whole curriculum can change shape. Headings like Apologetics and Dogmatics anchored our degrees in the 1950s and earlier, but we don’t use
them any longer as titles for courses. On the other side of the coin, no one in that period anticipated the need to cover subjects like social media ministry, ecotheology, or the outcomes of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
These changes are not just tweaks to a fundamentally stable program of study. They reflect deep shifts in the church’s understanding of itself, its mission, and its relationship to the rest of the world. For example, as we embraced a picture of the church as “all the baptized,” theology schools refocused on areas like adult Christian education, collaborative leadership, and communication skills, to enable clergy to strengthen their communities of faith. Other shifts are in progress right now, that affect the way we think about theological study for the future. The next set of columns will focus on these developments more fully. For now, I will introduce the one that affects us most immediately and directly:
indigenization. This term reflects a shifting understanding of our society, and of the church. For a long time, there was an image of Canada, and the Canadian church, as essentially “English,” with some diversity added through the presence of minorities, including indigenous peoples. That image is changing. The work of reconciliation still has a long way to go, but one of the first steps is for us to recognize the way we teach has an effect on our image of ourselves. Indigenizing the curriculum starts with acknowledging the presence of indigenous peoples in our classrooms, in the places we prepare people to minister, and in the stories and histories we teach.
September 2019
But it’s more than that. Recognition of the partnership between indigenous people and newcomers is a fundamental shift in understanding who we are, including as a church. We saw that in a new way this summer, when General Synod accepted and celebrated the reality of a “selfdetermining community” of indigenous ministries within the Anglican Church of Canada. As a result, we need to start thinking in more than one way, about all the elements of faith and ministry that are part of the life of the church, and all the subjects taught in our college. Indigenous ways of teaching about the land, about human community, about Scripture, and so on, Continued on page 10
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
Sask. Anglican wins six awards By Jason G. Antonio
Rev. Jeremy Boehr and Bishop Michael Hawkins gather with Mathew and Ava Edwards after their confirmations in Arborfield. Photo by Munden Coates
REGINA — The Saskatchewan Anglican picked up six awards during the Canadian Church Press’ annual awards banquet in Winnipeg in May. Awards included first place for news photo by Nigel Salway; first place for feature photo by Rev. Peter Coolen; third place for in-depth treatment by Joanne Shurvin-Martin; third place for news story by Rev. Dr. Iain Luke; third place for edition layout and design by Jason Antonio; and third for feature layout and design by Antonio. Salway’s news photo, entitled Praying for the faithfully departed, worked because, “This photograph is beautiful, full of emotion and extremely well composed. “I am really drawn into your subject’s face lit only
by the candle light, (while) the look on your subjects face is wonderful,” said a judge. “I even like the framing of this work. The colour is soft and beautiful.” A judge liked Coolen’s picture, entitled Getting to know Saskatoon’s new bishop, because Coolen “chose not to emphasize the bishop first, but to compose such a wonderful photograph that grabs my attention. Well exposed with beautiful and such subtle colours (and) very well framed.” Luke’s news story, entitled Anglican, Lutheran colleges hold first joint service, worked because, “This is a significant story that details the joint worship of different communions,” said a judge. “The story is an appropriate length and informs the reader of the significance
of the event — especially for Saskatoon, as it is the only site in Canada where Lutheran and Anglican seminaries are in partnership.” Antonio’s feature layout for the bishop of Muyinga’s trip to the Diocese of Qu’Appelle worked, said a judge, because there was a “big headline and jump head, interesting photos, fulsome captions (and) subheads help the reader navigate the story. "(An) inverted pyramid design on (the) spread gives the page dynamism.” The edition layout for the September 2018 newspaper worked, said a judge, because there were “large, engaging photos, differentiation between three diocesan news sections, clean, big heads, and cutlines that pop, (making) this a good design.”
Confirmations held in Arborfield By Munden Coates ARBORFIELD (Skwn) — When children are born within a year or two, they often get to do things together. They may play on the same ball team, share the same multi-grade classroom or work in the same 4H groups. Well, Mathew and Ava Edwards did another special project together. They completed catechism over the winter with Father Jeremy Boehr at Church of the Ascension and received
the laying on of hands by Bishop Michael Hawkins earlier this spring. We have seen these children grow up in the church. They have attended most events like Vacation Bible School, children’s lessons and Sunday school. Mathew has taken on the responsibility of receiving the offering. Now we have seen them exercise their own discretion and take on for themselves the vows that were made on their behalf at Baptism.
... New directions Continued from page 9 need to become more fully part of how the church sees itself. In addition, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action No. 60 asks us to listen carefully to indigenous spirituality “in its own right,” knowing it forms an integral part of the identity of people in and beyond the church. The Call to Action also highlights the need for church leaders to better understand how we have
failed indigenous people in the past, through the residential school system, the creation of religious conflict within Aboriginal communities, and the spiritual violence that accompanied them. Each of these aspects of indigenization raises new questions for teaching theology, along with new questions for the church’s life. Over the next few months, I’ll take a look at how we are trying to find answers for those questions.
The Edward family includes Sam, Crispin, Meg, Steven and Gethin. Gethin ministers in the Melfort Deanery of the Diocese of Saskatchewan. Photo by Mary Brown
Young priest has contributed much By Mary Brown PRINCE ALBERT — The Rev. Gethin Edward, his wife Meg and their three boys came to St. Matthew’s in Tisdale in 2010. Meg and Gethin met at Kings College in Halifax where she was the organist in the chapel. He was a student. They married in 1999 and moved to Toronto, where Gethin received his degree in ministry. In 2006 they moved to New Brunswick, where he was assistant curate at St. Andrew’s for three years. They have three boys: Steven born in 2003, Crispin in 2006 and Sam in 2009. All three boys are interested in
music; not surprising with Meg as their mother. All of them take piano lessons, with Steven also playing clarinet and guitar and Crispin playing the drums. Steven was confirmed this past Pentecost. They go to school in Tisdale and play in school sports. Meg teaches full-time at Vincent Massey Elementary School in Nipawin. She is the resource room and prekindergarten teacher. Before they arrived in Tisdale the parish sold its rectory to raise funds to build a new house for the family. Gethin is very involved in the diocese. He is chairman of the constitution and canon com-
mittee and regional dean for the Melfort Deanery that includes Cumberland House, Pelican Narrows, Melfort, Birch Hills, James Smith Reserve, Tisdale, Hudson Bay, Arborfield, Deschambault Lake, Shoal Lake and Red Earth. In the last two years he and Chris Dow organized two youth campouts. Along with the parish of Tisdale he also ministers to Hudson Bay, Arborfield and Melfort. Years ago, the youth prayer book society held a retreat at Camp Okema and Gethin attended this camp. Maybe this was why he came back and has made such a contribution to the diocese.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
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The parishioners of All Saints Anglican, Watrous pose for a group picture in front of their newly renovated parish hall with the Rev. Marie Louise Ternier (far left) and the Right Rev. Chris Harper, Bishop of Saskatoon, (far right). Photos contributed
A newer Anglican hall welcomed in Watrous By the Rev. Marie-Louise Ternier SASKATOON — On a sunny June Sunday All Saints Anglican Parish, Watrous had much to celebrate as it began a new chapter in its community presence in Watrous. After seven months of major work, the church hall was officially opened and blessed by the Right Rev. Chris Harper, Bishop of Saskatoon. An impressive display of photos, articles and documents chronicled the history of the hall and the church, while a great crowd enjoyed a lavish potluck lunch. As a token of partnership and friendship with the Anglicans, Lutheran Church members gave a beautiful clock to be installed. The large cross now adorning one of the walls, and blessed by Bishop Chris, came originally from the Anglican church in Colonsay. This cross connects the renovated building with
The Right Rev. Harper, Bishop of Saskatoon, and the Rev. Marie -Louise Ternier celebrated the newly completed renovations to the parish hall in Watrous in June. the past, signifying the presence of Christ and the parish’s call to ministry and outreach. While the church building is marking its 110th year of existence this year, the hall dates from a later
Workshop on Christian unity A workshop in Regina in May considered the nature of Christian unity and practical commitments to common mission. Taking part were Archdeacon Cheryl Toth (Anglican), Father Vasyl Tymishak (Ukrainian Catholic), retired pastor Lindsay Hognestad (Lutheran), Archbishop Don Bolen (Roman Catholic). Photo by Nigel Salway
time and has undergone various metamorphoses. The original part initially served as the dwelling of the local parish priest and was later repurposed into a full hall when the house next door was
built as the new rectory. The hall’s shape is odd or unique, depending on one’s point of view. Some minor renos were done decades ago, but structural work and significant upgrades had never been addressed. This all changed this past winter. Much meticulous work was done to stabilize and level the floor, ceiling and walls, securing them for long and trustworthy use. New windows after the pattern of the old ones were installed, as well as new doors with code locks. The kitchen underwent a complete redesign, while the new washroom is now wheelchair accessible. The welcoming and fresh space is equipped for a new season of activity for the next decades. Financing for the renovations was provided through a substantial loan from the Anglican Diocese of Saskatoon, which needs to be paid back in the coming years. Roughly eight per cent of the total cost was covered through a grant of
$15,000 from the Anglican Foundation of Canada. Besides using the hall for parish meetings, educational gatherings and fundraising projects, it now has the potential to increase its reach in the community. Already home to AA meetings and yearly art displays during the Spirit of Manitou Studio Trail, other groups are encouraged to consider it as a suitable home for their events and activities. By far the church’s most popular community event is the free weekly barbecue suppers in July and August that attract a wide range of people from Watrous and area, including tourists/ campers from Manitou Beach. Average attendance has hovered around 100, filling the hall with a crowded but happy buzz of activity and socializing. The renovated hall is now available as an attractive mid-size rental building for various occasions, with or without kitchen use.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
St. Mark's, Outlook celebrates 110 years in community By Lauren Featherby OUTLOOK (Qu’A) — The congregation of St. Mark was joined by community members and Anglicans from the Parish of Coteau Hills on May 5 to celebrate the milestone of 110 years of worship in Outlook. In 1909, a small group of Anglicans purchased two lots on a main street in Outlook. A few months later, the building was done; on Aug. 1, 1909, the first Anglican church in town was opened. With the construction of the Gardiner Dam, the town’s population increased and new buildings were needed to provide for the growing congregation. The old building was sold and in 1962 the name of St. Mark was transferred to the building on Selkirk Street; the congregation still uses it. The feast day of the patron saint of the parish was included in the service in May. Rev. Lauren Miller from Rosetown presided at the afternoon service, during which parishioners took time to remember the past and look to the future. Among the items that brought back memories for many present were the altar table made by a
local craftsman, the hymn board given in memory of Billy Lazar, the altar cloth handmade by Annie Quincey, and the tower bell purchased just after the First World War. Of special note were two windows from the original building that were rededicated at the service. When the original church was demolished in 1987, Harold (Bud) Arthur, a long-time member of St. Mark’s, rescued the windows and stored them at his farm. In 2018, his daughter, Barb Arthur, returned them to St. Mark’s. With the help of Merv Dewing and Derek Warren, two members of the congregation, the windows were restored and hung at the back of the church. After the service, coffee and cake were served. Everyone enjoyed the fellowship, laughter and memories of the day. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the 110th anniversary of the church. Whether holding a Garden Gathering in the spring, a Carols by Candlelight Service in Advent, or just making sure the doors are open each and every Sunday for worship, St. Mark’s hopes to continue serving Outlook for many more years to come.
Catherine Featherby, long-time member of St. Mark’s, and Barb Arthur, whose father saved windows from the original church building, pose with one of the rededicated windows, and a bell that is nearly 100 years old. Photos by Louis Ponak
Rev. Lauren Miller officiated at the service to celebrate the 110th anniversary of St. Mark, Outlook.
Saskatoon hosts 18th joint ecumenical convocation By Lisa McInnis Registrar/administrative assistant, College of Emmanuel & St. Chad SASKATOON — Zion Lutheran Church in Saskatoon, The University of Emmanuel College-College of Emmanuel & St. Chad, The Lutheran Theological Seminary and St. Andrew’s College of the United Church, celebrated the 18th joint ecumenical convocation of the Saskatoon Theological Union on May 3. The day started with the graduation Eucharist at the seminary chapel. The presider was Bishop Robert Hardwick, chancellor of the college, and preacher was the Rev. Dr. Iain Luke, principal of the college. During the Eucharist, prizes were awarded to the students. This was followed by a lunch, with the graduates, honorees and their guests along with students, staff, faculty, and council members. It was a memorable time of shared food and festivity. A master of divinity degree was awarded to Rosemary Mathews. An honorary doctor of canon law was given to Canon Trevor Powell of Regina. Thank you kindly to all who made this event a glowing success.
Some of those attending the 18th joint ecumenical convocation of the Saskatoon Theological Union, held in Saskatoon on May 3, include in back Dr. Adam Wright, the Rev. Dr. Iain Luke, the Rev. Dr. Trish McCarthy, and the Rev. Dr. Bill Richards. In front are the Bishop Robert Hardwick, Rosemary Mathews, Canon Trevor Powell and Lisa McInnis. Photo courtesy timkip Imaging
The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
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Participants of the Camp Okema men's retreat included (in back) Garry Miller, Steve Mitchell, Rev. Jeremy Boehr, Saurav Rokaya, Keith Schell, Neil Tomyn, Bill Duncan and Andy Tomyn, and in front are Darryl McRae hopes the fish are Tim Lenko, Jeff Takagi and Tim Vellacott. Missing were Rev. Andrew Hoskin and Darryl McRae. biting at Anglin Lake. Photo by Darryl McRae Photo by Garry Miller
Fun and adventure during men's retreat at Camp Okema By Steve Mitchell PRINCE ALBERT — There we were, a group of men in three vehicles on a cool and cloudy Saturday morning in June, heading down a narrow trail called
Poacher’s Road in search of a fishing spot on Anglin Lake. The road, barricaded with a “road closed” sign last year but now open, started out pretty good, then got narrower and
rougher, but we were confident we’d get through. Our confidence took a hit when we hit a dead end. The road was washed out with a large pond separating us from where the road continued on the other side.
Not deterred in the least, most got out and began exploring the area until our fearless leader said we’d better turn around and take the long way to our destination — which would actually have been the short way if we’d gone that way in the first place! Welcome to one of the adventures of the inaugural Camp Okema men’s retreat! Thirteen men gathered at Camp Okema on the evening of June 7 for a weekend of fellowship, teaching, worship, outdoor adventure — fishing, hiking, paddle boarding, axe throwing, and horseshoes — and really good food under the able direction of Garry Miller, Darryl McRae and Keith Schell. The theme of the retreat was “Real Men – Real Faith,” considering God’s call on the lives of men from the Old Testament: men such as Abraham, Jacob, Moses, David, and Joshua. The Rev. Jeremy Boehr led the teaching sessions and sparked some lively and serious discussion about God’s call on our lives. Tim Lenko from Nipawin Bible College led us in
worship music and singing, playing an old pump organ that had seen better days but was ably brought to life for this occasion. The retreat wrapped up on Sunday morning with Holy Communion, a group photo of everyone in their new complimentary Okema T-shirts, and a brief meeting seeking input regarding future men’s retreats at Okema. We anticipate that there will be an Okema men’s retreat in 2020, and invite all interested men to watch for details in the new year! Oh yes, we did make it to our fishing spot at Anglin Lake, and we confidently cast our hooks into the water hoping to catch something. We’d been told we needed to catch our supper, but all we caught were weeds. Miraculously on our return to camp, there were fish in the fridge and we enjoyed a magnificent feast of fish for supper. Garry won’t share his secret fishing spots but he will share his fish. Perhaps this doesn’t quite measure up to the miracles of the fishes and loaves in the Bible, but it was good enough for us!
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
Creating a prayer wall at St. Luke’s, Regina St. Luke’s recently inaugurated a prayer wall. Located in the breezeway outside the church, it is designed to permit ribbons with prayer petitions to be attached. It is accessible to the public and anyone can add a petition. The wall was blessed at a special service as part of the
annual parish barbecue. Following the blessing, parishioners wrote their prayer requests and attached to the wall. Since the blessing, children from Kids’ Club and campers at the summer day camp also added their prayer petitions to the wall. Photos by Nigel Salway
The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
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Women reflect on childhood influences during retreat By Mary Brown PRINCE ALBERT — For more than 30 years the Diocese of Saskatchewan’s ACW has been hosting a ladies’ retreat at Camp Okema usually the beginning of June. This year the theme was Women and God. Noreen Hareuther, a parishioner at St. David’s Church in Prince Albert and a spiritual care provider at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon, led the retreat. On the first day there were 14 women present. I was there for the first session that Noreen led. The participants were asked to introduce themselves and to share which person most influenced their life in their early years up to the age of 10. Eva Shabits, who has been coming to Ladies’ Days Out Retreat for 10 years, is from St. John’s Church in Saskatoon. Her most memorable person was her great-aunt, a spinster school teacher who was regarded as the family saint. Her mantras were 1) Remember wherever you are that there is always good and evil, and 2) Before you do something think, “Would I do this if I could see Jesus with me?” Marge Kirkby from St. Matthew’s in Saskatoon
Some of the participants from the Ladies' Day Out retreat gather near the fire during an evening session. Photo by Mary Brown has been coming for a long time. Her first time at the camp was with Jean Greene at a 10-year reunion put on by the Melfort ladies. She remembered her grade 2/3 teacher Mrs. M.M. Hasty who taught the children Bible verses. In those days religion was taught in the schools; her teacher was probably Baptist. This is the second time Betty Dolman from St. John in Saskatoon has been to the camp, although she did come as a little girl years ago. She remembers Mrs. Harrison, who served with the Junior Auxiliary. She
was bubbly and lively and took time with the kids and did not bully people. Inga Brown came with her sister Betty for the first time. She goes to the Scarborough Baptist Church. Inga’s mother set an example as a peace maker, who was quiet and not a gossip. Missy comes from St. George’s Church in Prince Albert. This is her second time at the retreat. Her granny was her religious guide. She did not attend church at home, but every summer she visited her grandma she would attend
two Vacation Bible School sessions. Every Sunday she and her granny went to two different churches for services. The longest-standing member of the retreat is Doris Bazley, who has been coming since the beginning more than 30 years ago. Doris belongs to Christ Church in Canwood. Her parents influenced her the most in her childhood. They taught her and her siblings to pray. She remembers when she visited her grandparents that her grandmother would say, “You say your prayers here too. God is at both houses.”
Another long-time member is Violet Goodfellow from St. John in Glaslyn. She has been coming since before 2002. She remembered her kindergarten teacher as being gentle and kind. She wanted to be just like her. Trudy Vander Ziel is from the Baptist Church and came to the camp 10 years ago. She grew up in Holland during the Second World War. She was raised in a Christian environment in a Christian school with nine siblings. She loved the Bible stories.
Common Cup Company concert On June 19, an enthusiastic crowd braved the rain to attend a concert by the Common Cup Company at All Saints Anglican Church, Regina. The Company is composed of Gordon Light, Bob Wallace, Scott MacDonald, Richard Betts and Lloyd Maclean. Gordon Light is the retired bishop of the Anglican Parishes of the Central Interior
in British Columbia. The group has been making music and spreading the gospel for the past 35 years. The concert raised $700 for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, an agency representing 30 denominations and working toward the goal of a world without hunger. Photo by Nigel Salway
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
DIOCESE OF QU’APPELLE
Bishop postpones bike tour g Cycle tour postponed Bishop Rob Hardwick’s planned cycle tour across the south of the diocese has been postponed until 2020. g Diocesan Stewardship Officer Archdeacon Cheryl Toth began her new role as diocesan stewardship officer on Aug. 1. Parishes may contact her by email at stewardship@sasktel.net. g Harper receives Doctor of Ministry Archdeacon Catherine Harper has completed her doctor of ministry in theological education studies and has successfully defended her thesis, “The Formation of Locally Trained Clergy in the Diocese of Qu’Appelle Based on TEAC (Theological Education in the Anglican Communion) Grids.” Harper convocated in June.
Pitching in to help in Borden The Village of Borden joined Pitch-in Week that Tim Horton’s sponsored so we could show our support for positive environmental choices while being a part of Canadas largest cleanup campaign. Upon signing up with Pitch-in Week we were sent garbage and recycling bags that Borden used for collecting recycling and compost materials. St. John’s Anglican Church participated in Tim Horton’s Pitch-in and this picture was taken on Sunday
morning after church and before the Monday pickup. We were excited to be a part of this initiative and to catch our community in action as it continues to keep Borden beautiful. Members of St. John’s, Borden who took part in the Tim Horton’s Pitch-in were Benjamin Clark (in the stroller), Brianna Clark, Tim Latimer, Tom Hernkiw, Rosann Carr, Sandi Long, Emily Saunders, and Rylie Saunders (facing Mom). Photo by Rev. Sheldon Carr
g Clergy moves Archdeacon Trish McCarthy (formerly Parish of Saskatchewan Gateway) and Rev. Warren Huestis (formerly in Teachers of the Faith Parish) have moved to new ministries outside the diocese. Rev. Gene Packwood, formerly of Medicine Hat, Alta., has moved to Regina. He has been given permission to officiate in the Diocese of Qu’Appelle. Packwood and his wife, Judy, are very active in the Cursillo movement. g Clergy retirement Rev. Brian Woods of Weyburn retired as of July 1. He will still be available for Sunday supply and occasional offices.
Confirmation held at St. James, Regina
g General Synod At the recent General Synod, Michael Siebert of Swift Current and Luke Gobbett of Moose Jaw were elected to the Council of General Synod. COGS is the governing body for the national church.
When George Clark (centre) was a small child, he attended an Anglican church, but then drifted far away from the church. He says when he first attended St. James the Apostle in Regina, “I felt
g Bikes for Burundi After the bishop from the Diocese of Muyinga in Burundi asked for
as if I had come home.” Clark and his wife, Lois, quickly became active in the parish, and on May 19 he was confirmed by Bishop Rob Hardwick. Photo by Joanne Shurvin-Martin
support so his diocese could purchase 17 bikes for his priests — each walks 20 kilometres to their parishes, while each bike costs C$205 — parishes from the Diocese of Qu’Appelle donated enough money to meet this need. g Postulants named Bishop Rob Hardwick has named Jesse Miller of Midlakes Parish and Brody Albers of St. Aidan, Moose Jaw as postulants for the Diocese of Qu’Appelle, following their recent recommendation by the Advisory Committee on Postulants for Ordination. Brody will begin master of divinity studies at Wycliffe College, Toronto this September. Jesse will be assigned studies in preparation for ordination. g Anglican Studies Program The Qu’Appelle School for Mission and Ministry, in partnership with the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad, will offer an Anglican Studies Program. Classes will be taught by Rev. Dr. Iain Luke, principal of the college, but will be held in Regina (venue to be decided). Sessions will cover Anglican history, theology, spirituality and polity. The dates are: 1. Sept. 20 to 21 2. Oct. 18 to 19 3. Nov. 1 to 2 4. Nov. 29 to 30 Class times will be Friday from 7 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Credits from the successful completion of this programme will count toward a certificate or degree offered by the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad. Program cost is $1,080 payable to the college by Sept. 13. Registration deadline is Sept. 13. For more information, contact Archdeacon Catherine Harper at 306-570-8837 or email at archdeacon.catherine@ sasktel.net.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
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Mark your calenders for women's retreat The Lutheran-Anglican women's retreat for 2019 presents "We Journey Together." When: Friday, Oct. 18, 7 to 8:30 p.m.: Evening Social and Saturday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.: Retreat Proper We will use Friday evening as a social time, to hear a brief overview of the retreat and to close with Holden Evening Prayer. Where: St. John’s Anglican Cathedral, 816 Spadina Cres. E. Saskatoon Retreat Facilitator: The Rev. Dr. Jessica Latshaw For more information or to request a registration package (available at the beginning of September) please contact Yvonne Butterfield at rybfield@sasktel.net.
“For the Love of Chicks: a first-ever Robin Nite” at Christ Church, Saskatoon was an evening for celebration all things Robin led by Jan Shadick with baby robin in hand, Jody Cason, Robin superfan Stacey Shadick, Pastor Mark Kleiner, Brennan Risling, and Len (Robin Hood) Turple, fresh from the forest.
Wasn’t that a time! A Robin Nite “after party” moment includes Pastor Mark Kleiner, Jan Shadick (with baby robin), and Len (Robin Hood) Turple. Photos by Rev. Peter Coolen
Bobbin' along at Robin Nite at Christ Church in Saskatoon By Pastor Mark Kleiner and the Rev. Peter Coolen SASKATOON — At Christ Church Anglican, Saskatoon on June 7,“For the Love of Chicks: a first-ever Robin Nite,” was a worm-munching, villain-crushing, sockpow-punching triumph, as pop culture met ecology once again, as a follow-up
to the phenomenal success of last winter’s Bat Nite with the spring celebration of Robin(s). Thanks to our friends and to everyone who came out to celebrate, especially Jan Shadick, from Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation, who talked robins in nature and brought a feathered friend to chirp along with her and Jody Cason, from Amazing
Stories, and Brennan Risling, who shared about the evolution of Robin(s) in the D.C. Comics. The evening was free of charge with donations gladly received for Living Sky and for church roof repair. About 50 Robinophiles attended and shared in the fun, door prizes and best costume awards. Thank you!
Summer work in New Sumner
Alexa Wallace (front, in white alb) was commissioned as the summer student in the Parish of New Sumner on June 9. Wallace is a student at the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad, Saskatoon. After the service in St. Augustine, Saltcoats, she posed with Rev. Nancy Brunt, regional dean, Rev. Kim Sherwin, and Archdeacon Trish McCarthy. Photo by Bill Johnston
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
Collegiate takes over church-run thrift shop By Claire Bishop KAMSACK (Qu’A) — The Kamsack Thrift Store grew out of community need and the desire of the local Anglican Church congregation to meet this need. It has been in operation for well over 40 years, including the past 15 in its downtown location. Previously it operated out of the basement of Holy Trinity Anglican Church. It is run entirely by volunteers and donations from the public. Now it is time to pass the civic torch on to a younger generation. The Anglican Church has teamed up with Kamsack Collegiate Institute (KCI). Students in the Career Work Experience Programs will be working in the store as Sparty’s Thrift Store. The benefits of the school running this operation are numerous. The skills involved will translate directly to the curriculum for Career Work Experience, Entrepreneurship, and Life Skills (at the
Volunteers, teachers, staff and students gather in Sparty’s Thrift Store. Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Kamsack ran the store for more than 40 years, but now the operation has been handed over to Kamsack Collegiate Institute to provide work experience and continue to serve the community. In the back are Kyler Allen, Joan Barron, Milena Hollett, Sue Aikman, Alva Beaushamp (ACW president), Marge Orr, Lisa Kuba and Nicole Larson. Kneeling are Jessie Gigan, Claire Bishop, Raiden Jeffery and McIvor Ketchemonia. Photo by Julie Gareau regular, modified and alternate levels). It will also provide a great partnership opportunity for Transitioning Youth to Employment Program. All students need
to learn the core value of civic responsibility and community engagement. Sparty’s will give students that firsthand experience they need.
The Thrift Store also works with the local victims’ services organization and provides free clothing and household items for victims of fire,
crime and relocation. KCI is very excited to take on this opportunity to continue to serve and connect with the surrounding community.
A Bible study with a difference By Bill Johnston CHURCHBRIDGE (Qu’A) — Members of New Sumner Anglican Parish took part in a “Bible study with a difference” on July 3 in Christ Church. Bishop Rob Hardwick set the tone for “the difference” even before the date, asking that rather than calling it a Bible study it be announced as a “day of renewal through the Scriptures.” The approximately 12 participants from the three operating churches in the parish quickly saw that it was going to be a different type of event than what they had been expecting. Upon his arrival, and as he man-handled his travelling sound system, guitar and study materials inside, Hardwick asked the group to remove the table covers, fold up the tables and lay them flat on the floor of the church’s meeting space. Who’s to question the bishop? After an opening song and brief meditation,
Hardwick took the participants on a tour of Christ Church that left even long-time members of Christ Church’s congregation admitting, “I didn’t know that.” While a small town prairie church is very different from a grand cathedral in England, Hardwick explained how both share specific details, based on the church’s longestablished, faith-based traditions. Some were about the contents of the church — which candle on the altar is lit last and put out first? Answer, the Gospel candle on the left — while others were about the basic layout of the church, such as the nave or central aisle represents Christians’ journey through life towards God. The topic of the afternoon’s Bible study was the Last Supper. Hardwick explained it has little to do with the version depicted in Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic
mural, which has become commonly associated with one of Christianity’s most important events — a cornerstone of our modern faith and an enduring connection with God. The bishop pointed out it was unlikely the disciples sat, as da Vinci depicts, at a table. Rather they would more likely have reclined on the floor, in a U-shape with the host, guest of honour, closest ally, and steward in specific places, sharing the bread and wine as part of a typical meal together. Perhaps reviving some of his skills as a former British police officer, Hardwick drew upon the four Gospel versions of the Last Supper as chronicled by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. He used clues in those writings — particularly Luke’s description — to get a better glimpse into what may have happened. Laying out the three tables on the floor in a specific pattern, he envisioned where Christ would
Bishop Rob Hardwick (standing) describes where guests and host would have been placed for a dinner in Jesus' time. This was part of a "Bible study with a difference" in Churchbridge. Photo by Bill Johnston have been seated and from there where the disciples were in relation to Him, and how that translated into His feelings towards them in terms of trust and expectations. As one participant commented following the
study’s early afternoon wrap-up, “It was definitely like no Bible study I’ve ever attended!” A freewill offering taken during the day in lieu of a lunchtime donation was earmarked for Bicycles for Humanity.
The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
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Crosstalk Ministries leads kids through Luke's Gospel By Nigel Salway REGINA — Fifty excited young people converged on St. Luke’s Church on July 8 to start a week-long day camp of faith-building and fun. The theme for the day camp was Luke Street, while each day featured a different reading from the Gospel of Luke. The content of the daily sessions was facilitated by Crosstalk Ministries. Leading the camp at St. Luke’s were Crosstalk leaders Kelvin Alvarado, Mariejoy Castille, Charisse Flores and Mikaela Cuaycong. In addition to learning about Jesus through Luke’s Gospel, the campers enjoyed an afternoon at the Kinsmen Park splash pad, played interesting roleplaying games, had some great snacks and enjoyed fellowship with their peers. The last day concluded with a concert where they performed a song they had been learning all week. The scene described above was repeated on July 15 with a new batch of 50 campers. In addition to the two camps at St. Luke’s, camps were held at Gordon’s First Nation, Estevan, Maple Creek, and Swift Current. The production of the two day camps was a joint effort by all the Regina parishes. Volunteers from each of the parishes provided snacks, supervision and administrative support to the camps. Financial support was also received from the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation and a number of other individual donors. This financial support helped to ensure the camps were free to all campers. Leaders and participants all had a great time, while everyone is looking forward to next year’s camps.
Crosstalk leader Charisse Flores (left) brings the ever-popular Lamb to visit the campers while Mikaela Cuaycong watches. Photos by Nigel Salway
Archivist, historian Trevor Powell receives honorary degree Submitted
Take a trip down Luke Street during the annual Crosstalk Ministries' summer day camp.
Crosstalk leader Mikaela Cuaycong leads the campers in an interactive song.
REGINA — Long-time diocesan archivist, Canon Trevor Powell, received a doctor of canon law (honoris causa) from the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad on May 3. The principal of the College of Emmanuel and St Chad, Rev. Dr. Iain Luke, wrote: Canon Trevor Powell, MA, is a distinguished archivist. He worked for the Saskatchewan Archives Board for 33 years, 20 of them as chief archivist, and after retirement served as chair of its board of directors. A dedicated lay member of St. Paul’s Cathedral in Regina, Trevor has served the church in many capacities in his parish and diocese, on General Synod committees, and currently as archivist for the Province of Rupert’s Land. His professional skills have secured and preserved church records, but those skills are more than matched by his personal commitment to inspire the church to understand and remember its own history. In lectures and presentations, articles and books,
Canon Trevor Powell prepares to walk into the convocation ceremony, where he was granted an honorary doctor of canon law by the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad. Photo by timkip Imaging Canon Powell has delivered insights into the Church of England’s role in agricultural settlement in the Prairies, and how it was shaped by the great transformations of world wars, immigration, and Great Depression. His work in progress includes a biography of the Diocese of Qu’Appelle’s first bishop, as well as shepherding to publication (with the Right Rev. Eric Bays) a completed history of the College of Emmanuel & St Chad.
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The Saskatchewan Anglican
September 2019
Women visit Maple Creek to 'bee blessed' in life By Janet Rhodes MAPLE CREEK (Qu’A) — The Parish Hall at St. Mary the Virgin was a buzz on June 7 when the ladies of Chinook Parish enjoyed the annual ACW Ladies’ Night. This year 35 women were in attendance, and the theme for the night was “Bee Blessed,” with a special focus on our buzzing friends. The Ladies’ Night honours and gives thanks to the women with Chinook Parish who give tirelessly of themselves, year after year, to the church. Whether it is baking for the ACW bake sales, baking for or serving at a funeral tea, or helping plant flowers around the churchyard, the ACW knows it has a group of dependable women who are willing to help. ACW past president Ev Southwood was M.C. for the evening. Peggy Needham, a member of St. Mary’s congregation and a honey producer, spoke to the women about bees and honey. The women learned that the taste and colour of the honey can change depending on the flower used, while one worker bee makes one teaspoon of honey each season. Needham had different
The parish hall in Maple Creek was buzzing when women of Chinook Parish gathered for the ACW Ladies’ Night with the theme “Bee Blessed.” From left are Rosalie Zanidean, Joy Anderson, Arlene Briggs, Linda Magnusson and Lorna Wells. Photo by Janet Rhodes types of honey on hand that the women could try. There was even one variety from New Zealand. Riddles based around the honeybee were also shared by various ACW members. There was a prize table where everyone was able to take home something special, plus door prizes at the end of the night. Delicious food was shared: homemade buns with honey butter and fruit. If you wanted to keep yourself “busy as a bee” there were bee-themed
crossword puzzles at each table to enjoy and each guest was given a small rock, with a honeybee hand-painted on it. Guests were told this honeybee rock could go in their garden, flowerpot or maybe on their window sill as a reminder of the night. This was an evening of laughter and fellowship. At the end of the evening, guests were thanked by ACW member Sally Chant. She reminded the women how special we are as God’s children and the individual
gifts He has us bring forth. Chant said, “Just as honeybees have different work in the hive, so do we have different work to do depending on our gifts. You may think that you have no special gifts, but honeybees are proof that each of us makes a contribution for the good of all. “Consider that a worker bee makes less than a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime, but the bee colony can produce 60 to 100 pounds of honey per year. “Never underestimate
the value of your work. Maybe your gift is baking. Maybe it’s your green thumb or your love of singing. Maybe it’s your gift of hospitality. Or maybe it’s your knack of visiting. We can look for, celebrate and encourage each other to use our gifts. “We can, together, make a difference.” Thank you again to the women of Chinook Parish for all the work you do and thank you to St. Mary the Virgin’s ACW for a wonderful evening.
Vespers service honours ARC covenant By Nigel Salway REGINA — The annual celebration of the Anglican and Roman Catholic ecumenical covenant was celebrated in May with a service of Byzantine Vespers at St. Athanasius Ukrainian Catholic Church. The venue was chosen to recognize the work toward an expanded covenant that will include the Saskatchewan Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada and the Eparchy of Saskatoon of the Ukrainian Catholic Church of Canada, in addition to the Anglican Diocese of Qu’Appelle and Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Regina. The expanded covenant is expected to be inaugurated at Pentecost 2020.
Rev. Vasyl Tymishak, the incumbent at St. Athanasius parish, presided. Tymishak is the Ukrainian Catholic rep on the Covenant Implementation Committee. Representing the Diocese of Qu’Appelle, Archdeacon Cheryl Toth read the lesson, Ezekiel 37:1-14. ELCIC Saskatchewan Bishop Sid Haugen gave the homily, referring to the lesson of the valley of dry bones. He invited the congregation to recognize the Spirit of God blowing into the dry bones of the churches and ministries and revitalizing them. Qu'Appelle Bishop Robert Hardwick assisted Tymishak in the service. The draft covenant is in the study phase and can be found at https://bit. ly/2V5vQQy.
Representatives of the four parties to the proposed LUARC covenant include Roman Catholic Archbishop Donald Bolen, Lutheran Bishop Sid Haugen, Anglican Bishop Robert Hardwick and Ukrainian Catholic Rev. Vasyl Tymishak. Photo by Nigel Salway