anglicanlife
september 2012
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A Section of the Anglican Journal
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
SEPTEMBER 2012
Telling the Good News
Responding in Love
MARK OF MISSION
Keep the Flag Flying
MARK OF MISSION
Warm Outreach in Clarenville
Clarenville ACW offer their gift of hand-made knitted goods for children in the North. Photo by Harvey Locke. Submitted by Harvey Locke
A Lifelong Dream. Mr. Leslie Petten (left) presented his gift of the Compass Rose Flag to his Parish Priest, The Rev. Sheila White (right) of the Parish of All Saints, Conception Bay South. Photo by Parish of All Saints. Submitted by Parish of All Saints
On Wednesday, 25 April 2012, from his bed at the Caribou Memorial Veteran’s Pavilion in St. John’s, Mr. Leslie Petten fulfilled a dream that he had for more than twenty years. He would finally present his home church of All Saints in Conception Bay South with the official flag of the Anglican Communion - the Compass Rose. The flag contains the red cross of St. George on a shield: a reminder of the origins of the Anglican Communion and a unifying link of the past within the communion today. Encircling the cross is a band bearing the inscription “The Truth shall make
you free” in the original New Testament Greek. From the band radiate the points of the compass symbolizing the worldwide spread of the
Anglican faith. Surmounting the shield, at the north, is a mitre, the symbol of the Apostolic Order which is essential to all the churches which constitute the Anglican Communion. The Compass Rose is used throughout the Anglican Communion as a symbol of the Anglican family of churches. Not long after Mr. Petten gave this gift to the parish, he passed away. As they were committing Leslie to God’s gracious keeping, the flag symbolizing our membership within the Anglican Communion was raised for the first time at All Saints, Conception Bay South. The parish will continue to fly it with pride!
At Morning Prayer on 13 November 2011, the Anglican Church Women of St. Mary’s in Clarenville officiated at the worship. Not only did they lead the service that morning, but also showed leadership in what it means to love and serve. The offering that morning was more than the usual collection of coins and envelopes. The ACW presented a special gift of knitted
goods. Multicoloured offerings of hats, scarves and mittens were piled high onto a table and later filled a patio storage box to the brim. It was an offering to God and an offering of warm clothing for needy children in the North. The project, initiated by the Diocesan ACW of Central Diocese, and embraced by the ladies of St. Mary’s took months of commitment and time to complete but will be a warm outreach to children in need.
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The Five Marks of Mission You will notice with the September 2012 issue of Anglican Life, a new focus on the Five Marks of Mission for the Anglican Communion. Certain articles and photos from parishes will be highlighted and identified by a particular Mark of Mission. For those who are unaware, the Marks of Mission are a framework used to describe and encourage ministry throughout the worldwide Anglican Communion. These Marks are: 1. To proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom 2. To teach, baptize, and nurture new believers 3. To respond to human need by loving service 4. To seek to transform unjust structures of society 5. To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth. We have summerized each corresponding Mark of Mission (see chart to the right) to make it easily identifiable and understandable for our readers. It is our hope that as Anglicans, we will see these Marks of Mission as the defining marks of who we are as Christians participating in the Life of God.
Kids have a ‘blast’ at VBS
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Telling the Good News
MARK OF MISSION
Teaching New Believers
MARK OF MISSION
Responding in Love
MARK OF MISSION
Working for Justice
MARK OF MISSION
Caring for Creation
MARK OF MISSION
Teaching New Believers
MARK OF MISSION
The week of 25 June to 1 July 2012 was a very exciting and fun-filled time for the children and adults at All Saints Church in Conception Bay South. They experienced the “Son Surf” Beach Blast Vacation Bible School. Their leadership team consisted of 25 dedicated adult leaders, 17 energetic and fun-loving teenage leaders, and 3 clergy. All were totally on board for a week of teaching, singing, creating, and soaking up the energy. One hundred and five (105) beautiful children ranging in ages from under 3 years to early teens registered for the week. They enjoyed learning the stories of Jesus through games, stories, crafts, music and creative snacks so much so they wanted to come back the following week. It is truly evident that Jesus alive and well at All Saints. Submitted by Parish of All Saints
Phone: 834-2051 Fax: 834-5520 We carry a full line of Building Supplies:
Doors, Wallboard, Paints, Plumbing Supplies and many types of Roofing, Sono-Tube Concrete Forms, Aluminum Doors as well as a full line of
General Electric Products
september 2012
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Working for Justice
MARK OF MISSION
Churches helping Haiti
Submitted by The Rev’d Marlaine Leggo
ACW in the Parish of White Bay make dresses for the children of Haiti. Photo by Marlaine Leggo
Gifts of love Submitted by Harvey Locke
Can a blessing be made from a pillow slip, some double-fold bias tape, and a bit of elastic? The answer is: Yes! That is, if you have the ladies of St. Mary’s ACW, Clarenville, providing the hard work. The ACW in early February 2012 responded to the call to help diminish the effect of poverty in one of the world’s poorest countries, Haiti. The challenge was to
Correction In the June 2012 issue of Anglican Life on Page 16 under the caption, “Confirmation Returns to Clarenville,” the photographer is not identified. The photo was taken by Dana Decker.
make some dresses for needy girls and the challenge was met. Work started on March 2009, with some ten ladies meeting at the Angus Drover Hall to sew and socialize, and after the meeting some took work to their homes for completion. The result was that by Sunday, March 18, the ACW ladies had fifty pretty multicoloured dresses for the offering at Morning Prayer to be blessings for some little girls in Haiti. But the work did not stop there. In the following three weeks before the dresses had to be made ready for shipment, an additional thirty- three dresses were made, bringing the number in the pile to eighty-three. The dresses were transported to Haiti through the kindness of a lady who was travelling to the region for vacation.
30 Roe Avenue, P.O. Box 348, Gander, NL A1V 1W7 Telephone: (709) 651-4100 Fax: (709) 256-2957 email: info@waltershoffe.com
These and other members of St. Bartholomew’s ACW in the Parish of White Bay have turned the church hall into a real beehive of activity this spring. The women engaged in outreach ministry to the people of Haiti. They gathered in the afternoon and made many pillow case dresses for little girls all trimmed with odds and ends of lace and frills, some left over from supplies bought for graduation gowns and other special occasion garments, and donated to this worthwhile ministry. At the time
of this photo, shorts for little boys have been the project, all with drawstrings similar to jogging pants, providing flexibility of fit. As the ladies worked, they also cooked supper and enjoyed a time of fellowship, inviting the Rector to join them for the meal when available. They would conclude the evening with a meeting. Sometimes we forget that our ACW ladies are about more than fundraising. May God bless them in all their endeavours – fellowship, friendship, fun-raising, and fund-raising, to name a few.
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anglicanlife
Newfoundland & Labrador
ANGLICAN LIFE in Newfoundland and Labrador is the newspaper of the Anglican Church in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. A co-operative effort of the three Dioceses in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is published monthly, except July and August, with an independent editorial policy.
The Church is not a building? Editorial
A section of the Anglican Journal Editor-in-Chief: The Rev’d Sam Rose 8 Croydon Street Paradise, NL A1L 1P7 Email: samrose@nl.rogers.com Advertising Rates and other information may be obtained from: Bishop Donald Young 34 Fraser Road, Gander, NL, A1V 2E8 Phone: (709) 256-7701 Email: jointcommittee@nfld.net Subscription Rates: Newfoundland and Labrador: $15.00 Outside the province: $20.00 International: $25.00 New subscriptions, cancellations, & changes of address should be sent to: Circulation The Anglican Journal (attn. Bev Murphy) 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, ON, M4Y 3G2 (416) 924-9192 (O) (416) 925-8811 (fax) Email: circulation@national.anglican.ca Each parish is responsible for maintaining its own subscription list - please notify your parish office of any changes. Changes sent to parish offices may take months to take effect. Please also send your updated information to Circulation at the Anglican Journal (above) or to Don Young at 34 Fraser Road, Gander NL A1V 2E8. Articles and photographs: Send to the Editor-in-Chief (above) Letters to the Editor: Send to the Editor-in-Chief, Sam Rose (address as above). All letters must include the writer’s name, address, and telephone number. Telephone numbers will not be published. Anglican Life does not publish letters under nom de plume. Letters should not exceed 300 words (one double spaced typewritten page), and are subject to editing at the discretion of the editor. These policies were adopted by the Anglican Life Committee. Layout & Design by: Sam Rose Printed and Mailed by: Webnews Printing Inc 8 High Meadow Place, North York, ON, M9L 2Z5
Circulation: 21,851
Editor
The Rev’d Sam Rose
The church is not a building, The church is not a steeple, The church is not a resting place, The church is a people.
Hymn: We Are the Church. Author: R.K. Avery 1972
Many Christians love to sing this hymn with great gusto, especially from the confines of their own church building. But imagine not having your own sanctuary for worship or parish hall for fellowship? I can because that is exactly what I’ve been doing for three years. Believe me, it has not been easy. I will never complain
about a leaky church roof ever again! My parish has been renting space for worship - a funeral chapel - and spaces for fellowship and fundraisers - a local Shrine Club and a sister church hall - since we sold our church and parish hall in late 2009. Every Sunday morning a faithful band of parishioners literally bring what we need for worship - even the Altar in a van which is assembled before the faithful gather at Carnell’s Funeral Chapel. It is literally a church in a box! Now all of this is done in the view of the eventual opening of our new church home for our parish family. We know that all this moving around dragging vestments and dishes is a temporary measure. We will soon settle in a permanent space to worship and fellowship in a new growing area of St. John’s in the near future. So, we can tolerate it
for a few more months. However, not having your own building has taught me one important thing - the church is indeed not just a building! My congregation has demonstrated what is really important to them is being together no matter where it is - even if it means celebrating Holy Eucharist in a funeral chapel. ‘The church is a people,’ as the hymn suggests, is actually correct and, when you are forced to practice what you sing, you will see the true character of God’s people the Body of Christ. However, buildings are important. Not because they are just buildings, but because they are like the homes we live in. When I say that my parish is building a church, I mean reaching out to new people (flesh and blood) with the Good News of Jesus Continued on Page 5 See: We are the Church
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Responding in Love
MARK OF MISSION
Gussie’s Gang fight cancer
Members of St. Augustine’s Church, Hare Bay, entered a team called “Gussie’s Gang” in the Cancer Relay for Life held in Gambo on 11 May 2012. St. Augustine’s Choir sang at the Luminary Ceremony which honoured those who have lost the battle with cancer, those who have survived the disease and those who continue to struggle. A total of $25,000 was raised by the teams who participated in the event. Submitted by Clyde Seaward.
We are the Church Continued from Page 4
Christ AND constructing a physical building (bricks and mortar) to house them. The church is a people, but it is also a very much a building as well. The great churches in our country and beyond were built to signify the glory of God in creation. They had high steeples that pointed heavenward to show forth the direction where we are heading as Christians. They were large structures to accommodate not just worship but provide social gatherings for a community. As Anglican Christians, we believe that sacraments are outward signs of inward grace, instituted by Christ for our sanctification. Church buildings are indeed modeled after this definition. They are visible
symbols of the greatness of our God. But so are the people inside those four walls. We are called to incarnate the Kingdom of God in our daily living - to be walking churches - in the world we live. Perhaps we can all agree that one line of that hymn above should be sung with strong conviction - ‘the church is not a resting place.’ That is so true, even from a person who worships in a funeral chapel. The church needs to be always on the move, reaching continually outward with the love of God. We can’t stay inside our buildings and expect people to come to us - we have to be on the move and go to them. God is not only found in beautiful cathedrals but, as Scripture says, God is found within each one of us.
“Remembrance and Thanksgiving” was the theme for the annual cemetery service held on 15 July 2012 which was led by The Rev. Malcolm Palmer. Held at the cemetery in Meadows, the service included the parishioners from the Church of Holy Trinity and St. James in Gillams. Worship was very uplifting and the performance of the Holy Trinity Singers was enjoyed by everyone who attended. Article & photo submitted by Sheila Tucker
Fogo ACW ladies recognized
Long-serving ACW members, Joan Collins (left) and Marie Snow (right). Photo by Lisa Snow.
On 12 June 2012, St. Andrew’s ACW in Fogo prepared a pot luck meal followed by a card game to recognize our honourary members. The Rev. Canon Margaret Hall and ACW President Margaret Oake presented Marie Snow with a fresh carnation and a certificate for 60 years of service with the ACW and Joan Collins for 55 years of service. An evening of fellowship was enjoyed by all. Marie and Joan appreciated the thoughtful gesture from the ACW ladies and enjoyed the wonderful evening. Submitted by Lisa Snow.
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Telling the Good News
MARK OF MISSION
Women’s Retreat in Bonavista
Submitted by Debbie Ryder
On 6 April 2012, the women of the Parish of
Bonavista enjoyed a Spirit-filled day at the Seaside Escape. Despite the chilly weather, all the participants felt the warmth of God’s
presence in a beach-like atmosphere. The theme Biblical verse for the day was “Be still and know that I am God” from
Psalm 46:10. The women had a chance to relax and bask in His presence. There was also time for fun, sharing, and discussion as groups reflected on the story of Sarah and Haggar and how it related to their lives. The women worshipped and sang new, upbeat songs as well as some traditional ones. Fresh punch and Barbecue chicken was on the menu at Seaside Escape. A part of the day consisted of performing outreach in mission. All women made a promise bracelet with a special message attached. Sandra Durdle and Cathy Harris accepted the bracelets and will deliver them to women in Africa when the two go on a trip there in October. The retreat enabled women to come together
in the presence of God to worship and experience fellowship in a relaxing place where all other responsibilities was put aside. The Parish was blessed to be able to host this event for the second time and thank the Lord for its success.
Teaching New Believers
MARK OF MISSION
On Sunday, 3 June 2012, Bishop Cyrus Pitman joined twentyfive eager candidates at St. Peter’s Parish, Upper Gullies to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation. The afternoon started with the Bishop posing with the children for photographs, followed by a reception, complete with cake-cutting, in the parish hall. The day culminated with a lovely worship service including the Sacrament of Confirmation. Pictured above are the 2011 – 2012 confirmation class with the Right Reverend Cyrus Pitman, Father Mark Nichols (rector), and Confirmation teachers Mr. Andrew Greeley & Ms. Amy Anthony. Submitted by: Andrew Greeley & Amy Anthony. Photo by Cyril Boone.
Repair the breach Bishop’s Message Restore the streets
september 2012
Bishop
The Rt. Rev’d Cyrus Pitman Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador
As summer draws to an end, we greet the fall with excited anticipation. After a summer rest we look forward to the colours, sounds, and tastes of the autumn season. We will return to our fall routines and to a continuation of our spiritual journey as we pray and share
in ministry together. Take a moment to remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001, being mindful of those for whom the painful realities of that horrific day continue. Today, eleven years later, is still a time for prayer. We remember the countless families and friends who still mourn the deaths of loved ones; those for whom the trauma revisits in terrifying dreams; those who still experience the haunting images and sounds; and those who live with the loss of income and the disintegration of community during these harsh
economic times. We pray for those who know the isolation of being suspect simply by virtue of their ethnicity. More than ever, today is a time for dialogue. Together we must repudiate terrorism, persecution, and violence. We need to turn to God and to one another in hope. Hope is not a matter of optimism, but a source for strength and action in demanding times. We have a responsibility to teach and live out in our time the challenges of Jesus found in the Beatitudes. We are to comfort those who mourn,
feed the hungry, seek justice, and be peacemakers. With gratitude to God, we remember you who continue to proclaim the Gospel. You who works to heal fragile lives, and who have been “called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to live in” (Isaiah 58:12). With you, we are joined in our resolve to build a world of justice and peace. With you, we are at the table of the Eucharist where Christ reconciles us and sends us into the world with the ministry and message of reconciliation, healing, and hope.
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The fall is the time of the year when Sunday Schools and other parish ministries begin again. If you haven’t already done so, I hope you will consider giving your time to help support these vital ministries in your local parish. The education and support of faithful leaders gives life to our church. Thanks to all who make this happen. May God continue to bless you with strength and courage as together we live our faith in action.
Working for Justice
MARK OF MISSION
Ministry in and out of the “Big House”
Prison Ministry. Rick Tessier relaxes in the HMP Chapel before a weekly Bible study with inmates. Photo by Parish of St. Thomas. Submitted by Parish of St. Thomas
Exciting things continue to unfold in the ministry our church is able to provide to inmates at Her Majesty’s Penitentiary in St. John’s.
Working together with the other denominational chaplaincies, the Anglican Church offers the hope and promise of the good news of Jesus Christ to those who find themselves incarcerated and isolated from
family and community. St. Thomas Parish, appointed and supported by Bishop Pitman of the Eastern Diocese, has expanded its prison and outreach ministry to our community. Parishioner Rick Tessier, under the direction of Chaplain John Paul Westin, has been given lead responsibility for an expanded ministry to ex-offenders. Tessier works an average of ten hours a week in his mission. While continuing to connect with inmates at worship and in meetings inside the walls of HMP, is now providing a new bridge ministry when men get out of prison. His focus is to help former inmates to get established in the community, connect with churches (if they so desire) and offer assistance and encouragement in a more practical and “hands on“ way than was possible earlier. “Rick’s ministry is really one of being an advocate for those released from prison or staying at the CCC (Community Correctional Centre in Pleasantville). He meets with guys before their release and helps get them ready for a life back in com-
munity. I see his as a clear ministry of the Holy Spirit in the body of Christ”, said Rev. Westin. “He ‘walks the walk’ as a paraclete for these guys both during incarceration and as they prepare to re-enter the community. It really does show the world what it looks like to bear one another’s burdens and fulfil the law of Christ.” As part of this new bridge ministry the Prison Ministry has partnered with Lori Rogers of Right Turn Investments Inc. (finding your way home) www.rightturninvestments.com to provide furnished housing for those who usually have the most difficult to find good housing: those suffering from mental illness and ex-offenders. A heated storage space has been rented at local U-Haul, to store donated furniture until it is needed by those moving into their new homes. If readers in the St. John’s-Mt. Pearl area have good used furnishings to donate, pickup is available in St. John’s. Contact the St. Thomas’ Church Office at 576-6632. In June Rick attended a workshop in Fredericton, NB for the Celebrate Re-
covery program which has met great success in helping those struggling with addictive behaviour. Based on the Twelve Step Program of A.A., and developed by Rick Warren and the Saddleback Church, the significant difference is that Jesus Christ is clearly identified as our “higher power”. An eight step program, based on the Beatitudes, will soon be available for inmates. Anglican Life readers are invited to keep your eyes open for the movie Home Run, featuring Celebrate Recovery, coming to local theatres in St. John’s in 2013 (www.homerunthemovie.com). Please keep Rick and all those who minister in correctional institutions in our province in your prayers as together we continue Christ’s ministry “to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free” (Luke 4:18).
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Church camp counsellor
Columnist
Cynthia Haines Turner
The alarm goes off and your first thought is that there’s no way it could be morning already. You step out of bed, painfully aware of every muscle and joint in your body. It’s your job to lead flag break so, from some reserves you weren’t even sure you had, you manage to access enthusiasm and energy to lead the campers with a prayer, a psalm and their best attempt at ‘O Canada’. Thus begins a typical day at the Intermediate Girls’ Camp at Killdevil, a day that will be 17 or 18 hours long and will include organizing, mediating, patrolling, talking, listening, dealing with the ‘drama’ that is the stuff of everyday life when 70 adolescent girls try to co-exist in close quarters for a week and always, the unforeseen. Through it all, as you fight fatigue, you will be expected to be pleasant and patient and to live up to your camp name, Smiley. It’s 2012 but it could be any of the 18 years that I have been leading this Camp. So why? What brings me back, year after year, long after my own daughter has been a camper and has moved on? What is it that brings any of the leaders back? Someone told me recently that ‘it gets in your blood’. It must do because more than one person has sacrificed one of their two precious weeks of annual leave to come volunteer. Or planned family vacations
around it. Or this year even taken time off from their university courses to come. Maybe the ‘why’ is found in that rare moment when you pause, take a step back and just look at the girls in the midst of an activity and they’re totally engaged or excited and yes, happy. Perhaps it ’s found in something I noticed myself saying one year - ‘It’s like someone went out and rounded up 70 of the nicest, most polite and most fun girls around and brought them to Killdevil.’ Did they start out that way or did the camp experience bring it out in them? It could be that you are part of helping young girls experience life in a way they haven’t before. It might be the chuckle you get the day a girl says to you, ‘but I don’t know how to broom.’ For sure, no one can be unaffected by the way some girls truly come alive during the week at camp. It has something to do with it being a Church camp, though, of that I am certain and I am equally certain that God’s Holy Spirit is present and active the whole time. As we offer prayers in the chapel in the evening that the girls have written, remembering family members who are sick or who have died or giving thanks for them or sharing with us, in prayer, some of the tough stuff they deal with, we are often moved to tears. It is, without doubt, a week that is transformative for leaders and campers. It is for sure more than the sum of its parts. Maybe the ‘why’ is not so elusive after all, maybe it’s simply because you do get to be part of something larger than you are. And maybe, in the final analysis, while the toll on your body is temporary and disappears after a well-deserved rest, the benefits to your spirit last forever.
Queen’s Jubilee
Submitted by The Rev. Canon William Strong
A special ser vice to commemorate the The 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II was held at St. Peter’s Church, Upper Island Cove on 22 April 2012. The event was organized by a volunteer special committee under the leadership of Evelyn Adams
which received a grant from Heritage Canada to help with the celebrations. The Lieutenant Governor John and Lady Jane Crosbie as well as Bishop Cyrus Pitman and Archdeacon Gerald Westcott were in attendance along various church and community organizations. Many people enjoyed having their picture
with the life sized pictures of Her Majesty as well Prince William and Princess Kate. The congregation was about 500 people strong. The service was held in addition to other events taking place such as a Tea Party and various children’s events. Long May She Reign.
Edward Cameron McLean; Petty Officer, 1st Class/Acting Chief Petty Officer, 2nd Class Norbert Joseph Steele; Lieutenant Charles Edward Vennall; and CPO2 Paul Walker. Following naval tradition, the names of each of the 24 Royal Canadian ships lost during the Battle of the Atlantic were read out, followed by the ringing of the ship’s bell. It is worth noting that a former Charlottetown is included among that number. There was a palpable sense of peace and reverence amongst those gathered, especially during the moments of silence which solemnly punctuated the ceremony. However, in those very same moments, below decks, HMCS Charlottetown was alive with activity as OSPREY (the codename for her Sea King helicopter) and the operations room continued to search the seas in support of Combined Task Force-150. While taking time to
remember the past, Charlottetown’s crew was also actively undertaking her current mission to help set the conditions for security and stability in the Arabian Sea, while complementing the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations to build a better future. Military life in general and naval life in particular unfolds in a constant tension of innovation and tradition – present and past. Canada’s military members proudly serve and proudly remember. In the midst of a mission that fulfills the role “to be a security for such as pass on the seas upon their lawful occasions” – which is a quote from the Naval Prayer – Charlottetown also took time to pay her respects to those who fought and died in the Battle of the Atlantic and bear witness to the passing of six proud members of the Royal Canadian Navy
Battle of the Atlantic Submitted by
Rev. Lt. R. John Hounsell- Drover Chaplain HMCS Charlottetown
On the morning of May 6, over two-thirds of the crew of HMCS Charlottetown gathered on her flight deck to commemorate Battle of the Atlantic Sunday while sailing in the Arabian Sea. Despite the fact that the day was very hot and humid, almost every member of the ship’s company not on duty volunteered to take part in the event. All departments and all ranks played a role in the preparation for and execution of the morning’s commemoration. During the ceremony, respects were paid to six former sailors whose ashes had travelled with Charlottetown from Halifax to the Arabian Sea. Those whose remains were reverently committed to the sea included Able Seaman Robert Gordon Boehk; Petty Officer, 2nd Class Garth Trevor Crawford; LSRP2
september 2012
Telling the Good News
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MARK OF MISSION
Celebrating ministry
Submitted by Betty Crane
Lay Reader and Eucharistic Assistant Commissioning. On 15 July 2012 at the 7:00 p.m. service of Holy Eucharist, St. Mary Magdalene Church in Jeffrey’s, welcomed, recognized, and commission Lavinia Curnew (right) as a Licenced Lay Reader & Eucharistic Assistant. The Parish of Bay St. George pray and offer God’s blessing on Lavinia, and thank her for offering herself for this new ministry. Submitted by The Rev. Terry Rose.
It was a great day of rejoicing on 27 May 2012 at Holy Redeemer Church, Spaniard’s Bay. It was a celebration of 121 years of faithful service in the community. The occasion was marked by a celebration of Holy Baptism when two infants, Lily Jane Cynthia Mercer and Peyton Desiree Major were welcomed into the Church and the Family of God. It was also a day of sorrow since the Rector, The
Rev. Marilyn Moore, was beginning her retirement. At the close of the worship, a special Prayer of Blessing was sung by the Choir to honour Rev. Marilyn and following, parishioners from Spaniard’s Bay and Tilton served a potluck dinner. A beautiful grace was sung to the tune of ‘Jingle Bells’ and gifts were presented to the retiring rector by the ACW, Vestry, Parish Council, and Choir. A retirement cake was made and decorated by Jackie Smith. The Parish is sad to see Rev. Moore leave,
but wish her good health and happiness in the future. Before she retired, Rev. Moore welcomed three new Lay Readers at Holy Redeemer in April 2012. In the above photo (left to right) are: Clyde Drover, Joyce Chipman, Rev. Moore, Olive Strickland, and Mabel Trowbridge. Mrs. Chipman, age 89 years, also has been a choir member for over 70 years and Eucharistic Assistant for over 20 years. Missing from the photo is Robert Mercer, also installed as a Lay Reader.
New chaplaincy ministry Submitted by Harvey Locke
Sunday 3 June 2012 was the official start of a new ministry for Licenced Lay Minister Sheila Sceviour. Ms. Sceviour was presented with a special licence by The Rt. Rev. David Torraville, Bishop of Central Newfoundland. This allows her to exercise her ministry as Diocesan Chaplain to the G.B. Cross Memorial Hospital, the Dr. Albert O’Mahoney Centre, and the Clarenville Correction Centre. Unofficially she
began this chaplaincy ministry in November, 2011 at the invitation of the Bishop and has been ever since very active in providing pastoral care to these institutions. Sheila is a retired teacher from the Eastern School District and a graduate from the Education for Ministry Programme. She has been a long-time active member of the Parish of St. Mary the Virgin in Clarenville and a Licenced Lay Minister for nine years. She resides at Clarenville with her hus-
band. The photo is of Sheila (right) receiving her licence to conduct this new ministry from Clarenville Rector, The Rev. Daphne Parsons (left).
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anglicanlife
Teaching New Believers
MARK OF MISSION
The first Parish Confirmation Service for the Parish of Harbour Grace was held at St. Peter’s Church, Harbour Grace South on 24 May 2012, with Bishop Cyrus Pitman officiating. Six young people from St. Paul’s congregation and four candidates from St. Peter’s congregation as well as one adult received the Laying on of Hands. Sonia Williams & Beverly Facey taught the confirmation classes. The Rev. Hugh Fudge was Interim Priest. A time of fellowship followed the service. Submitted by Elsie Fudge.
Confirming St. Michael & All Angels Confirmation in St. David’s. On Sunday 15 April 2012, The Rt. Rev. Percy Coffin, Bishop of Western Newfoundland, confirmed 11 candidates from the Parish of Bay St. George at St. Michael and All Angels Church in St. David’s. Family and friends gathered after the confirmation for presentation of certificates and bibles. The parish wishes them well in their faith journey. Submitted by The Rev. Terry Rose
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Teaching New Believers
MARK OF MISSION
Confirmation in The Parish of Grand Bank. Father’s Day was an extra special day this year for the proud parents of these six who were confirmed in Grand Bank by Bishop David Torraville. Congratulations to Reannah Oldford, Zachery Peach, Megan Barnes, Kelly Baker, Eric Hillier and April Barnes; pictured here with Bishop Torraville and Reverend Tim Graham. Submitted by The Rev. Tim Graham. Photo by Valerie Peach
the Faithful At St. Boniface Anglican Church in Ramea on 10 June 2012, 16 young people were confirmed by The Rt. Rev. Percy Coffin, Bishop of Western Newfoundland. 1st row: (left to right) Paul Green (confirmation teacher and lay reader), Alexis Young, Summer Green, Megan Warren, Brianna Warren, Bobbie Rose, The Rev. Mary Rose Colburne. 2nd row: Brandon Keeping, Jeffrey Giles, Hunter Skinner, Kyle Giles, Shannon Young, Noah Mugford. 3rd row: Nicole Walsh, Mackenzie MacDonald, Keisha Skinner, Sarah Walsh, Stephanie Hatcher. Submitted by Arthur Marsden
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Burgeo celebrates 100 years St.Michael’s Cornerstone laid
Submitted by George Childs
On 10 June 2012, the congregation of St. John the Evangelist Church in Burgeo celebrated the 100th anniversary of their church building. The parish, however, is much older than that. The Church of England at that time was started when the first clergy, The Rev. Martin Blackmore, came in 1842. He stayed for six years and had the first church and school built. He was succeeded by The Rev. John Cunningham and he stayed for 46 years. He was described as a “Friend of the Fishermen.” Since the population was rapidly increasing he had a new church constructed. The Rev. John Cunningham was succeeded by The Rev. Thomas Allsopp in 1895. By that time because of the increase in population the second church had become too small so a third church was erected around 1899. This church, h o w e v e r, b l e w down in a violent gale on 1 December 1909. A building committee was immediately constituted and met for the first time on 13 December 1909.
Their first order of business was to clean up the debris from the fallen church. All material they could savage was used in the construction of the new church. The rest was sold. Construction on the new church began on 1 April 1911. It was decided to construct it exactly like the old church with two towers and spires. However, it would be built on a concrete basement rather than shores. Although they had a master carpenter and labourers to construct the church, much free labour was provided. For example, the sand used for the basement
was brought free of charge by the men of Hunt’s Island. The first service in the new church was conducted by The Rev. E. E. Fletcher
on 14 July 1912. It was consecrated by Bishop Lewellyn Jones on 4 August 1912 at the 11 a.m. service. At 3 p.m. on that same day, 92 females were confirmed and at 7 p.m. 103 males were confirmed. The approximate cost of construction was $5000.00. In 1967, while The Rev. Mark Genge was rector, the church underwent major renovations. It was called a “Work of Renewal.” The two towers and spires were taken off, the central roof was removed, the walls were repaired where necessary and the two wings were extended to the peak. It gave the church an entirely new look. In addition, the church was completely re-decorated on the interior with panel board. As in all churches, women played an important role. Around 1943, a branch of the CEWA (Church of England Women’s Association) was formed with seventeen members. At first they met in a classroom but later held their meetings in the rectory. In 1949 they began raising money to build a Parish Hall. This was opened in 1953. In 1966 the Altar Guild was formed. They undertook the work the Women’s Association previously did. Until 1970’s there were certain aspects of the church the women were not involved in. For example, it was in 1977 when the first women were elected to vestry. The first female became rector’s warden in 1990 and the first female lay reader was commissioned in 1993. Today, all of our lay readers are female. In fact, the church would not function without the support of women. Although the population of Burgeo has dec lined substantially since the collapse of the fishery, the church is still vibrant and supported by faithful parishioners. As they celebrate the centennial, their ancestors would be proud to see how beautiful and well maintained our church is both by the men and women.
Bishop lays Cornerstone for new Church. The Bishop’s Chaplain, Ms. Jessica Hunt (left) watches as The Rt. Rev’d Cyrus Pitman sprinkles Holy Water to bless the Cornerstone for the new Church of St. Michael & All Angels located on Kenmount Road & Ladysmith Drive in St. John’s, NL. The building is under construction and expected to be open in 2013. Pictured below is a closeup of the Cornerstone which was donated to the Parish by Muirs Marble Works. Submitted by The Rev. Sam Rose.
The Deadline for Anglican Life is October 1st. Please email your articles to samrose@nl.rogers.com
september 2012
13
Teaching New Believers
MARK OF MISSION
Worshipping at St. Martin’s Cathedral. This year’s confirmation class from the Parish of Fogo Island East spent the day and night in Gander before attending Sunday morning worship at St. Martin’s Cathedral. The Parish Priest, The Rev. Terry Caines, believed it was important for the Confirmation candidates to know where the Diocese’s Cathedral is located and the home church of Bishop David Torraville. Before attending Sunday morning worship the candidates spent all-day Saturday in Gander taking part in activities such as swimming, going on a walking trail at the Thomas Howe Forestry Interpretation Centre, visiting the Silent Witnesses Site, bowling and watching a movie at the church. This trip provided an opportunity for our youth to meet and spend time with some of the youth of the Cathedral. The Rector of the Cathedral, The Rev. John Watton, presented the class with wooden crosses made from the pews and kneelers that had been removed from the Cathedral in earlier years in order to create a fellowship space. The class has been together since September 2011 and are looking forward to their Confirmation in June 2012 when Bishop Torraville will visit them. Submitted by Donna Sibley
New Hope Youth. On Sunday May 27, 2012 seventeen Sunday School Children of St George’s Church in Petty Hr (Parish of New Hope) went to Mt Pearl Swimming complex followed by a meal at MacDonald’s. It was a great afternoon of fun and fellowship. Submitted by The Rev. Lynn Courage.
Synod Office Grand Re-Opening. After months of renovations, the Synod Office, the headquarters for the Diocesan Synod of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador located at 19 King’s Bridge Road in St. John’s, re-opened in May 2012. The renovations included a brand new Diocesan Resource Centre and Bookroom located on the main floor as well as a revamped Bishop’s Office, Chapel, Archives and meeting spaces. Submitted by The Rev. Sam Rose.
anglicanlife
14
Praying with St. Dominic
Let us pray
Columnist
The Rev’d Everett Hobbs
S t Dominic (11701221) was the founder of the Order of Preachers, commonly called the Dominicans. The Order consists of friars, nuns, active sisters and a lay component, and continues the mission of its founder. A basic principle of St Dominic was to seek the truth, and then to teach and preach this truth. The mission of the Dominicans is to praise, to bless and to preach. The constitution of the order is formulated from four pillars: community life; common prayer; study; service/ ministry. There is particular emphasis on learning (seeking the truth) and charity. Fundamental to S t Dominic was to find the truth no matter where it may be. His call to live in poverty and to share with others is illustrated in the selling of his library and giving the proceeds to the poor, with the comment, “Why would you have me study these dead skins (parchments) when living skins (people) are dying of hunger.” St Dominic described spirituality as keeping partnership with the divine. His prayer life is outlined in a document called The Seven Principles of Prayer . He emphasizes the involvement
of the body in prayer, suggesting a particular posture for each way of praying. Inclination. Bow towards the altar (or symbol) as if Christ were present in person. Bow when passing a cross or crucifix, and at the naming of the Trinity. Prostrating. This posture is used in confession as an act of penitence. Penance. Confession should be followed by a form of discipline to keep before us the seriousness of our sin. Genuflecting. This is used when you spent time gazing intently at Christ on the cross - a picture, a crucifix, in your imagination. Contemplation. Standing in the presence of God with open arms or joined hands or outstretched arms shoulder high. Earnest Intercession. With arms stretched out in the form of a cross, imitating Christ on the cross interceding for the whole world. Supplication. Stretching the body upward., pleading for divine grace. Thoughtful Reading. Sitting and reading with meditation. [Dominic spent short periods after meals and the daily common prayer] Praying On A Journey. You are not to neglect your prayer life when on a journey or holiday. Among noted Dominicans were Thomas Aquinas, Meister Eckhart and Catherine of Siena . To search further , you can Google “St Dominic” or “the Dominicans.”
Responding in Love
MARK OF MISSION
Bonavista youth reach out to seniors
Submitted by Debbie Ryder
The Bonavista Youth Group make sure they have fun whenever they get together. While trying to keep their gatherings entertaining, much of the content of the meetings revolve around how the Lord can work in their lives and how they can
work for the Lord. As part of a community service in December 2012 the group held a “cookie crusade.” They baked homemade cookies and delivered them to those who were sick. In addition, the youth also visited several seniors homes to sing Christmas Carols. Working with young people can be very demand-
ing but it can also be very rewarding. The parish has seen how many of their young people have opened their lives to allow the Lord to intervene in different circumstances. They grow in their faith and develop a close bond to one another as they learn to serve the Lord.
Toonies for Cuba
In response to Bishop David Torraville’s challenge to the parishes of the Central Diocese to contribute a Toonie towards the purchase of motorcycles with side-cars as a means of transportation for Clergy in Cuba, a cheque was presented towards this worthy cause by The Rev. Tim Graham on behalf of the Parish of Grand Bank. Submitted by The Rev. Tim Graham. Photo by Valerie Peach
september 2012
15
Teaching New Believers
MARK OF MISSION
Godly Play is growing Submitted by Jennifer Renouf
“I love learning about Jesus in a fun way!” This is a quote from a young child in the Parish of St. James, Port Aux Basques, when they were asked what was the best part of Godly Play. The Godly Play program in the parish started last fall in place of the Sunday school. St. James currently has over 85 participants registered for this interactive story telling program. Godly Play is an engaging program that uses storytelling, wooden figurines, ‘I wonder’ questions, creative time, and a feast. These elements of the program provide the children with an experience using the discovery model of teaching. Each session starts with a prayer with the story being told using different objects/ props. After the story the children are presented with, ‘I wonder’ questions. These questions allow the children the opportunity to talk freely about what they heard in
the story; one of the older children said they liked how Godly Play allowed them to speak more about what they thought of the stories that were told. After the question period is over the children are given time to reflect on the story in creative ways; arts and crafts, retelling the story themselves, or reading. The Godly Play session concludes with a feast: at St. James this feast is an animal cracker and a cup of juice. Godly Play is more like a worship time for the children where they experience a relation with God instead of being just told about a relationship with God. Jennifer Renouf had the opportunity as the Youth Committee Co-chair to visit the Godly Play at St. James parish last November 2011. There is excitement booming in that Parish from Godly Play. The excitement is not just in the children, but the story tellers and the congregation are full of energy as well. A gentleman from the congregation volunteered to make all the wooden figurines for each
Godly Play in Port Aux Basques. Children gather around to hear a story from the Bible as told through the Godly Play method of Christian Education. Photo by Jennifer Renouf.
of the Godly Play rooms. The storytellers are enjoying Godly play far more than teaching Sunday school. They are discovering, worshipping, and building community with the children in their Godly Play rooms. The
Confirmation class help by serving the feast to the children, and by helping in the rooms where they can. This was an amazing parish visit where children’s ministry is alive and well. I would recommend that other parishes
look into this wonderful method of sharing God’s Word with our children in our church.
New Godly Play graduates The latest Godly Play Core Training graduates. A three-day training session for the Godly play program was held at the Parish of the Good Shepherd in Mount Pearl from 31 May 31 to 2 June 2012. In addition to nine graduates from the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador there were four graduates from the Diocese of Western Newfoundland. This was also the first such training led entirely by newly-certified Godly Play Trainers for our province, Kathy Peddle and Donna Ronan. Submitted by Parish of the Good Shepherd.
Want More Information on Godly Play? You can contact the Parish of the Good Shepherd in Mount Pearl to learn more about Godly Play and upcoming Traning Events. Phone: 1-709-747-1022 (o),709-747-1045 (f) Email: geoffpeddle48@gmail.com
16
John Clinch and the War of 1812
Our History
Columnist David Davis
Toward the end of the war between the French empire of Napoleon Bonaparte and most of the countries in Europe, a secondary conflict began between the British Empire and United States. The main affect of this war, which continued for the period 1812 to 1814, was an American invasion of the British colonies in North America. This year marks the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. The main conflict of this war was the land and sea battles in central Canada. The Royal Newfoundland Regiment, as a fencible force, was posted to Central Canada for this conflict. The activities of the Newfoundland Regiment have been noted in this year’s celebrations but there was another aspect of the war which seems to have been forgotten, the threat of commerce raiding by American privateers in Newfoundland waters, ships were being taken close to shore. The Napoleonic wars were still at full fury in the period 1812 to 1814. The ships which had traded with Newfoundland from ports such as Boston now became privateers raiding the coasts they knew so well. In addition, the local people having a close association of trade with Boston, New York and Philadelphia experienced a rapid increase in the cost of the food and goods needed to live. The prices Mr. Clinch quotes are very high for necessities such pork and flour, beyond the reach of most people. This war had greatly aided the Newfoundland-based English merchants in gaining a monopoly of the supplying trade eliminating competition in trade from America. Mr. Clinch, being an official of the government and wanting to keep his positions in law and customs, needed to visit the newly-appointed governor, but the privateers were a menace. However, he was determined to go to St John’s even if he was in danger of capture by privateers and being carried away, and leaving his family with little financial support. From Trinity on 23 July
1813, Mr Clinch wrote: Thank God myself, Mrs Clinch & family without experiencing any domestic losses or misfortunes have arrived to the termination of another (in addition to the many we have already passed) long severe & boisterous Winter- the spring was very backward owing to the large quantity & long continuance of field Ice on the Coast- Since the Summer commenced we have been greatly annoyed by Privateers from the United States, several Vessels close in with the shore have been taken by them & it is much to be feared that others will fall into their hands before the close of the season- myself, as do many others, greatly feel the sad effects of our present unhappy contest with America particularly in great advance on the necessary articles of lifePork Ten guineas per Barrel, Flour nine do per Barrel, 80S Per hundred weight & every other Article in proportion.– The War with that country I am inclined to think will be protracted to a longer period than many are disposed to believe- In Upper Canada, the British I hear have again been successful I am now waiting a favorable opportunity of visiting St John’s in order to pay my respects to Sir Rich G. Keats our new Governor- I do not like the undertaking, as in the event of my being captured by an American Privateer would be productive of the most serious consequences to myself and family- But as my presence cannot well be dispensed with, I hope I shall be favored with a good Passage thither. This was not a new situation as the world had been troubled by wars since the French Revolution twenty years before. Privateers had been a useful tool for all the countries that had been engaged in these wars. Since the British had been in the midst of the wars and had the largest maritime commerce, they were very vulnerable. These experiences were a fact of life for people living in the colonies like Newfoundland. In a letter of 1793 Mr Clinch.makes the following remarks about the state of travel across the Atlantic during wartime. : As the Vessels that sailed from hence last July were deprived of convoy for England
- I was hereby induced to send you a duplicate of my letter of the 3 rd of that monthI meant to have availed myself of the indulgence granted me by the Society of visiting Eng’b this Autumn- had not the present unsettled state of affairs in Europe deterred me from that undertaking, & as I have no prediction for, much less a wish to visit the land of Liberty and Equality- I must content my self till a more favourable opportunity offers- Thank God we have hitherto remained unmolested- but are much afraid that our Neighbours will, before the year is over, take an active part against us. However, we must hope for the best, & must not despair in the most dangerous situation of the All protecting Hand of Providence. This fear of being captured by a commerce-raiding ship from America was very real to travellers. If a person was captured and carried off to the ship’s home port then a person like John Clinch might be imprisoned until the war was over. For a person of his age it might be death sentence to be locked up in a foul prison cell for months or years. The only way out was if the prisoner had someone to visit him with food and other necessities of life or better to have someone to spend some money to buy his freedom. These were not likely to be options that would have been available to an elderly clergyman from distant Newfoundland. This is a situation which brings to mind ‘rotting in prison’ only those who could be ransomed would interest to the captors, everyone else cost money to maintain. Also, at the separation of the American colonies from Britain, the Church of England in America was seen as a loyalist body and as such not welcome in the new country of the United States. Mr Clinch from his writings was a loyalist in sympathies and would not have comfortable in an American prison.
anglicanlife
Telling the Good News
MARK OF MISSION
Good Friday Family Service
The Resurrection Eggs. Children from the Parish of Indian Bay participated in a Good Friday Family Service. Photo by Trudy Collins. Submitted by Trudy Collins
On Good Friday 2012 the youth committee of the Parish of Indian Bay presented an amazing Family Service With Resurrection Eggs. The Service began with prayer. Then twelve scripture readings, read by parents and children, told the Easter Story from Palm Sunday to the Empty Tomb. Following each reading an egg was opened. The meaning of which follows: The first Egg - the blue egg - contained a donkey, portraying Christ’s ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The second Egg - the pink egg - contained the silver coins symbolizing Judas’ betrayal. The third Egg - the light purple egg - contained the cup, representing the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples. The fourth Egg - the orange egg - contained the praying hands, a symbol of Jesus deep prayer to his father in the Garden of Gethsemane on the night of His betrayal. The fifth Egg - the green egg - contained the leather whip, a symbol of the whip that was used by Pilate’s soldiers to Flog Jesus. The sixth Egg - the yellow egg - contained a crown of thorns, which stood for the crown of thorns that was placed on Jesus head before His crucifixion. The seventh Egg - the light orange egg - contained
a cross, signifying the fact that Jesus was nailed to the cross to be crucified. The eighth Egg - the light green egg - contained two dice which represented the fact that the soldiers cast lots for Jesus’ tunic . The ninth Egg - the purple egg - contained a spear, scripture says that one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear. The tenth Egg - the light blue egg - contained a piece of linen cloth which exemplifies the linens in which Jesus was wrapped following his death. The eleventh Egg - the pink egg - contained a stone, representing the stone that was rolled away from the tomb. The final Egg - the white egg - was empty, symbolizing the empty tomb on resurrection day. Hymns following the theme were sung at intervals during the service. The Service closed with prayer and the singing of the hymn “Jesus Keep Me Near The Cross.” It was indeed a very beautiful and spiritual service. The Indian Bay Youth committee is to be commended for their devotion to the children, and their creativity in presenting God’s word through symbolism and their dedicated service to Jesus Christ our Saviour. Many Thanks to the parents who participated in the service and to the Rector, The Rev’d David Coffin, for his support and guidance.
september 2012
17
What is God Spirituality and dying like? Straight Talk
Columnist
Ronald Clarke
Little children can be so sweetly inquisitive! Often they can surprise you with difficult, even profound questions. Five year old Billy had just finished the Lord’s Prayer at his mother’s knee the other night when he asked her “what does God the Father look like?” Puzzled, his mother found him a picture in an old illustrated Bible. “He looks older than grandpa” Billy stated. “And he doesn’t look friendly like grandpa. And does God ever smile?” The picture Billy saw was the traditional one found in most Bibles and religious places. But is that image really what God looks like? Nobody has ever seen God, Jesus stated. So, the traditional image portrays what so many people only PRESUMED what God the Father looks like. Jesus also said that if we had seen Him we have seen the Father. So, then, can we assume that the Father looks like a first- century, Middle Eastern male, as Jesus was?
Yes we can- when, and if, he wants to appear that way. But, unlike Jesus, who is BOTH human and divine (God and man), God the Father is NOT human. He is a SPIRIT. So, he can, if he desires, take ANY FORM He wants to. In a very interesting book I read recently God assumes the form of a lovable, middle-aged African-American woman, a guise entirely appropriate for that particular occasion. Far fetched, you ask. Maybe. While we can only guess what God looks like in our current life, there are so many things we surely know about Him. God is LOVE. God loves EACH ONE of us PERSONALLY! Our ABBA Father loves us EVERY SINGLE MOMENT of our lives. Our Father is OMNIPOTENT- Able to do ANY and ALL things. NOTHING is too big for God. He is a God of miracles! How wonderfully encouraging believing in and utterly trusting, our ABBA FATHER! NO MATTER HOW DEVASTATING the situation may be! And, when we eventually meet him face-to-face surely we shall be overwhelmed by his magnificence, be totally enveloped in his charm! And, of course, we shall all feel like we’ve known Him all our lives! Alleuia!
Columnist
The Rev’d Gregory Mercer
Young or old, when a person is faced with a life-threatening illness they are forced to deal with many issues concerning the meaning of life – spiritual questions that can sometimes be quite exhausting to the individual and/or the family. I sometimes ask the dying person, “Are you at peace?” It is important that a person be at peace when they are dying, that is, to be reconciled to dying just as much as they were reconciled to living. A person’s ability to say “yes” to dying often comes after some difficult spiritual struggles and many tears. One of the very first matters that come to light after asking such a question concerns itself with the dying person’s integrity and worth. “I didn’t do too badly, I raised a fine family,” one elderly gentleman said to me. Another kind of laments when she said, “I have always tried to live a good life, to be kind and fair to others.” These are deeply fierce concerns, deeply spiritual. People want to be assured in some way that their life meant something, they lived for something, and they made a difference in another person’s life. Note that these issues
have to do with relationships. As a person is faced with the end of life they have many thoughts and feelings about those whom they have shared their lives with. They want those people close to them when they are dying. In some cases there is a need for people to reconcile with one another, to say they are sorry and to seek forgiveness. Being in a right relationship with those you love and having a clear conscience is extremely important for the dying. In fact, questions concerning relationships are probably the most common spiritual concern for those faced with life-threatening illnesses. Being remembered is also important. Dying can be a very lonely time that often leads to questions about identity and remembrance: “Who am I and what will I be remembered for?” This is where a person’s story takes on added significance; after all, their story is really all that they have. To deny a person’s story is to deny that person. It is therefore critical that the dying be affirmed in as much that their legacy lives on in their family and that their spirit is alive and well. People have all kinds of questions and concerns – Why me? Why not me? Will I suffer? Will my family be okay? And so on. Again these are deeply fierce spiritual questions. In the midst of their life-threatening illness they are looking
for hope. It is difficult to find realistic hope when your life is teetering between life and death. This is where religious faith plays an important part. We must understand of course that spirituality predates any form of religion or expression of religious faith. Religion is but one way that many choose to express their spirituality. Christianity is a hopeful religion and serves as quite a unique expression of one’s spirituality, especially when that person is faced with the prospect of dying. Among the most profound spiritual struggles is the belief in life after death. We want to know what happens when we die. That is to say, there is a strong element of uncertainty about the unknown, even for those who have a firm belief in life eternal. Nevertheless, for those who belief in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, finding the peace they are looking for comes much easier. Knowing that their whole life has been and continues to be in the grip of God’s grace, and soon to be reunited with the loved ones they have so longed to meet again, they are able to say “yes” to dying. “God of all consolation, in your unending love and mercy You turn the darkness of death into the dawn of new life...Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, by dying for us,Conquered death, and by rising again, restored life. May we then go forward eagerly to meet him, and after our life on earthBe reunited with our brothers and sisters Where every tear will be wiped away.We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.” (Excerpt from the Book of Alternative Services, copyright 1985 by the General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada.)
anglicanlife
18
Ministry in 1958 the way it was
Telling the Good News
MARK OF MISSION
Ministry in 2012 the way it is Submitted by The Rev’d Robert Cooke
Three Faithful Priests. (Left to right): The Rev. Canon Carl Major, The Rev. Jacob Rogers, and the Venerable Owen Coffin. Photo by Carl Major. Submitted by Archdeacon Owen Coffin
On 8 June 8 1958, four deacons were ordained at the Cathedral of St John the Baptist in St John’s and sent forth. Bishop Meaden had to be a man of faith to do so because they were given an awesome task. Their first incumbencies were daunting. The Rev. Basil Pafford was sent to the mission of Cow Head, The Rev. Jacob Rogers sent to the mission of Flowers Cove, The Rev. Carl Major to Battle Harbour, and The Rev. Owen Coffin to Bonne Bay. They were responsible for worship and service in about seventy communities covering the Northern Peninsula from Chimney Cove, near Bay of Islands in the south, to the southern part of St. Anthony Parish, and coastal Labrador to Frenchmen’s Islands in the north. The nearest priests were The Rev. George Gruchy in Deer Lake, and The Rev. Martin Mate in St. Anthony. The first task for these Deacons was to build a new rectory in each Mission. Travel included a lot of walking, some driving on bad roads, boat travel and flying. Most of the time was spent away from homes staying overnight in various communities. The salary was supplied by Synod Office at $150.00 a month with nothing extra for travel or heat. There was no electricity to be paid for. There were ferries to contend with at an
extra expense. For the last number of years three of these clergy, along with their spouses, get together on the anniversary of their ordination for a meal, sharing and reflection. The sharing always seems to reflect on the amazing kindness, hospitality, friendship and faithfulness, which nurtured and loved us. There was such respect and confidence given to four young inexperienced men of the cloth, who were expected to give leadership, chair school boards, hire teachers, handle payrolls, build schools and other duties assigned. One of the four, The Rev. Basil Pafford has passed on to his reward. The remaining three remain great friends, and love each other’s company as much as when they marched to the Cathedral fifty four years ago under their Black Hats.
I love my job. I love what I do, my vocation, calling, whatever word you want to use. I get to do so many amazing things and meet interesting people in all kinds of circumstances. They say that priests are the last of the great generalists, and that is so true. Some days I go home at the end of a long day and I am overwhelmed by the scope of my day. So I thought I would open up my calendar so you could have a glimpse of a week in the life of a parish priest. Sunday: What greater joy is there for a parish priest than to share in the worship life of the Christian community? Seeing young and old, male and female, rich and poor gathered to share in the sacred meal is extremely moving for me. The privilege and responsibility of preaching in a way that is meaningful and relevant for people is one that I do not take lightly but one that I thoroughly enjoy. Monday starts bright and early with breakfast at Virginia Park Elementary. We go and serve breakfast to a wonderful group of children who other wise might go to school hungry. It’s a wonderful opportunity to build relationships with students, parents, and teachers. Monday means getting ready for the coming Sunday as I read the upcoming readings. I like to “marinate” in them and let them soak into all the experiences I will have this week. Tuesday: I go for coffee
with a university student who is home for the summer. We talk about the plans that God has for his life and his place within the church. In the evening I visit with a couple who are preparing to have their child baptized. We have a deep theological conversation about the significance of baptism, who and what is the church, what it means to be a Christian, and what is God like. Wednesday: I meet for breakfast with other priests and deacons. This is no business breakfast just a chance to get to know each other as people without the labels that we often attach to each other. Wednesday evening is Confirmation Class. We have three young leaders who not too long ago were being confirmed themselves. They help our youth minister with the Confirmands, while I talk with the parents about faith, the church, and what these mean to their lives. Thursday: I share in Morning Prayer with my friend, colleague, and rector of our parish. Him and I pray for each other and discuss the scripture together. It is truly a sacred time in my week. In the afternoon I accompany a family from Sudan as they get a tour of a local junior high where their teenage daughter will attend a special program for refugee students. We go back to their house for tea and Sudanese food (Did I mention I love my job). Later I am called to the hospital to pray for a dying 90 year old woman. She loves God and her church and has been
faithful for so many years. I remind her that God loves her too and is ready to welcome her home. Friday: My day off. It’s time to relax and enjoy the company of family and friends. Saturday: I celebrate with a young couple and their families as they publicly declare their love and commitment to each. This is the culmination of many hours spent in preparation getting to know them, treating them with respect and welcome, and sharing the good news that God is for them, not against them. I preach a conversational sermon at our Saturday worship, where people ask questions and share their own insights into the biblical texts. We praise God in contemporary songs, with guitars and drums, with enthusiasm and passion. Afterwards we share in a meal of soup where everyone brings something to share. This is our response for people’s desire for a more informal, relational style of worship. Well there you have it, or at least part of it; a glimpse into the life of a parish priest. For me people and relationships are at the heart of a vital parish ministry. My days are filled with encounters and conversations with all kinds of people, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Is God calling you to this type of vocation? What would your ministry look like? Dream it, equip it, live it!!
september 2012
19
St. Lazarus Ecumenical Scholarship
Is the Church relevant?
Columnist
The Ven. Gerald Westcott
Queen’s College Scholarship. The Rev. Canon Dr, Boyd Morgan (left), Provost of Queen’s College presents The Rev’d Gordon Sutherland, Lead Pastor of West End Baptist Church in St. John’s with the St. Lazarus Ecumenical Scholarship. The other recipient was The Rev’d John Paul Westin (pictured below). Photo by Queen’s College. Submitted by Queen’s College
The Order of St. Lazarus the Provost of Queen’s ColEcumenical Scholarship lege. Interest from a small is available to residents of investment is paid towards Newfoundland and Labra- scholarships, as determined dor or graduates of edu- by the Scholarship Commitcational intee. Clergy of stitutions in any Christian Newfounddenomination land and resident in Labrador Newfoundwho wish land and Labto pursue rador seeking ecumenical to pursue studies in graduate studthe Chrisies elsewhere tian faith in Canada or and religion. in other counThe scholartries are eligiship is adble to apply. ministered The latest by Queen’s recipients of College on The Rev’d John Paul Westin the St. Lazarus behalf of the Scholarship are Ne wfoundthe Rev’d John land Commandery (New- Paul Westin, Rector of St. foundland Provisional Del- Thomas’ Anglican Church, egation) of the Order of St. St. John’s and the Rev’d Lazarus. The scholarship Gordon Sutherland, Lead committee includes a rep- Pastor of West End Baptist resentative of the Order of Church, St. John’s. St. Lazarus, a representative Congratulations to John of the St. John’s and District Paul and Gordon. Council of Churches, and
I read on Twitter recently a story and opinion about the irrelevancy of the House of Lords in the English political system, and similarly the irrelevancy of the Church in the United Kingdom. Although our political system in Canada is not as weighed down with historical baggage as in the United Kingdom, we can still ask the question: Is the Christian faith and the Christian Church relevant or irrelevant to our Canadian society? In the Hebrew Scriptures we can read the stories of Abraham and Moses and how their faith, in response to their openness to God’s Divine Life, gave birth to a nation and helped form a people. In
the Christian Scriptures we can read that there is neither Greek or Jew, male or female, but that all people are one in Christ. In the Gospel we read Jesus saying that “I am in the Father and the Father is in me, I am in you and you are in me.” These Scriptures tell us that we are one nation, one people, free and equal, sharing in God’s one life. It is not enough to know about such ideas, it is a truth that needs to be experienced. In the Christian Church there is a sacramental and corporate oneness that is experienced by those who participate in the Holy Communion. For those who practice meditation and contemplation, there is a mystical oneness with God and all of humanity that is experienced. These experiences are meant to change us and the people around us. “I am in the Father and the Father is in me, I am in you and you are in me.” There is TRUTH, that has developed with the evolving of the human consciousness “...In the fullness of time..” and that is fully revealed in the Christ event. That truth is that we all share
the ONE DIVINE LIFE. As we come to this awareness, the baptismal promise to “respect the dignity of all people” takes on new meaning. Our faith is not only for personal wholeness - though it is that. Our faith is designed for the transformation of society. Our faith is about building nations and peoples that are free and equal. The Christian faith provides the principles and foundation on which the Canadian Constitution is built upon. As our own heart and mind is changed by the Gospel of Relational Love - that we are made to be aware of being loved and loving God and neighbour - we become part of the process of the transformation of our society and world. There is nothing more meaningful and relevant than personal and relational transformation. It is at the heart of the human experience. It is at the heart of the Christian Gospel. It is at the heart of the Church’s mission. Is the Church relevant in today’s society? You better believe it is!
Endowment Funds
Columnist Kevin Smith
The dictionary defines endowment as a principal sum, permanently put aside and invested by a charity, with only the income used for charitable purposes. Frank Minton and Lorna Somers, in the manual, Planned Giving for Canadians, suggest that the “practice of endowment - committing private wealth to a charitable purpose – has long been a part of western civilization and can be observed as far back as Egypt and Greece. Many modern institutions – especially universities – can trace their roots directly to such gifts.” A number of the larger churches in Canada have endowments but it is generally rare for parishes to possess such an endowment
fund, However, the practice is growing as the number of planned gifts such as bequests in wills have been increasing in recent years. In fact, some dioceses have rules that suggest that if a parish receives a large amount of money from a will, these funds have to be invested and only the interest used on an annual basis. A number of parishes have approached me in the last year seeking information on the establishment of such a fund. Endowment funds, if structured properly, empower ministry now and in the future. They are not savings accounts; that is, something set aside for a rainy day to protect us from the uncertainties of the future. Jesus did not talk much about putting aside for a rainy day or being cautious lest there not be enough to go around. In fact, the opposite is true. Through his teaching and miracles, Jesus shows us the ultimate generosity of God. He warned us about the consequence of accepting the world’s message of scarcity; how the accumulation and worship of wealth will separate us from God. I suspect the same holds true corporately in most parish
communities. A key component of an endowment fund is the development of a statement of purpose that reflects the parish’s response to the question: “Why are we doing this?” The parish must be able to articulate the purpose of this endowment fund and the use of its income, placing full emphasis on what the Lord is calling the parish to do. In other words, what are the mission and ministry of the parish and how will these funds be used? I am aware of a number of bequests on the books which are designated for the endowment fund of particular parishes and we invite others to prayerfully consider doing the same. The establishment of an endowment fund is a wonderful opportunity for your parish to corporately exercise good Christian stewardship and to respond effectively to Jesus’ call to carry the Gospel into the world. I would sincerely recommend that all parishes adopt an endowment fund policy and procedures. One never knows when you will need such a document.
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anglicanlife
Teaching New Believers
MARK OF MISSION
Confirmation in St. George’s Joint Confirmation Service. On Sunday 29 April 2012, The Rt. Rev. Percy Coffin, Bishop of Western Newfoundland, confirmed 7 candidates from the Parish of Bay St. George, as well as from the Parish of Stephenville Crossing, at St. Mary the Virgin Church in St. George’s. Family and friends gathered after the confirmation for presentation of certificates and bibles. The parish wishes them well in their faith journey. Photo Submitted by Rev. Terry Rose.
Confirmation in Isle Aux Morts St. Augustine’s in Margaree - Fox Roost and Holy Spirit in Isle aux Morts celebrated Holy Confirmation on Sunday 22 April 2012. Candidates were confirmed by the Rt. Rev. Percy Coffin, Bishop of Western Newfoundland. 1st row: (left to right) The Rev. Duncan Granter, Jasmin Walters, Amber Warren. 2nd row: Kelsie Hodder, Dylan Farrell, David Stone and Trudy Walters (teacher). 3rd row: Maria Warren, Noah King, Bishop Coffin & Samantha Dominix. Submitted by Karen Simon