anglicanlife
January2012
a section of the ANGLICAN JOURNAL 1
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January2012
newfoundlandlabrador
I am willing and rready eady to do so: Newly ordained deacon Sarah Baikie (third from left) is surrounded by clergy and local dignitaries in her home Church of St. Timothy’s in Rigolet, Labrador. Photo: Archdeacon Charlene Taylor.
HISTORIC ORDINATION IN RIGOLET Submitted by Archdeacon Charlene Taylor
“I am willing and ready to do so.” These are the words spoken by each person who enters Holy Orders in the Anglican Church of Canada. For Sarah Baikie these words have been lived out every day of her life in her ministry to the community of Rigolet. On a clear sunny morning on 13 November 2011, surrounded by her family and community, The Rev’d Sarah Baikie was ordained a deacon by The Rt. Rev’d Cyrus Pitman, Bishop of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador. Her five grandchildren, dressed in traditional aboriginal dress of seal and beaver skin boots, drummed the procession
into St. Timothy’s Church. Honouring Sarah’s heritage, the Lord’s Prayer was prayed in the local dialect of Inuktitut. The presence of the RCMP and First Minister Darrell Shiwak from the Nunatisavut Government (Sarah’s nephew) brought faith, culture, and community together in a sacred celebration of ministry. The Rev’d Sarah Baikie is the first woman of Inuit descent ordained in the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador.
Mar ching in the L ight of G od: The grandchildren of newly ordained deacon Sarah Baikie of Rigolet, arching Light God: Labrador drum in the procession with Bishop Cyrus Pitman (centre). Photo: Archdeacon Charlene Taylor
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VICTIM TO VICTOR Bishop David Torraville Diocese of Central Newfoundland
As I write this, I have just returned from the House of Bishops where I was challenged by the words and presence of The Rev’d Michael Lapsley of the Society of the Sacred Mission. Father Michael, born in New Zealand, attended university in South Africa but was expelled by the apartheid government of South Africa for his political and social activism. He became a member of the African National Congress, functioning as a chaplain within the organization. In April 1990 in Harare, Zimbabwe, Michael was sent a letter bomb by the South African Government. In the explosion his eardrums were shattered, he lost an eye and both hands. After many months of recovery his own bishop did not know what to do with him; a priest who had no hands. Archbishop Desmond Tutu invited him to Cape Town where he now serves as the director of the Institute for the Healing of Memories where he works both with victims and victimizers. Michael describes himself as one who was a victim, then a survivor, but now a victor.
For me the most powerful part of his presentation was not merely the words he spoke in such a soft tone but the sound his metal hooks made, as he clasped them together. A priest without hands - a priest who needs help with the most basic of personal care, half blind, hearing impaired, but in gentle, measured and loving tones he proclaims the love and grace of Jesus Christ and the power of that to change lives. January is a time of new beginnings, of turning a new leaf, of resolutions. The truth, however, is that behavior does not change; hearts do not change, unless attitudes change. How often have we been overwhelmed by a fear of what we lack, our faith is not firm, our belief wavers; we have more questions than answers and yet there stands people like Michael, in worldly terms, shattered, broken and incomplete - yet faithful. Few of us go as close to the Cross as Michael has, but as I hear the clicking of his metal hands and the gentle tone of his voice, as I see the glow of his face I hear the Victor’s proclamation - the promise of resurrection. My hope, in this New
Wounded Warrior: The Rev’d Michael Lapsley, an Anglican priest who lost his hands and an eye in a terror attack by the former South African apartheid regime spoke recently with the Canadian House of Bishops. Father Michael is the director of the Institute for Healing Memories in Cape Town, South Africa.
Year, is that we not be so overburdened by what we lack, that we fail to do what I can, in service of our Lord, the People of God and the whole of Creation. My prayer is that we might seek healing of the broken and bitter memories of the past and that the promise of resurrection might find its way into our hearts and lives. Every Blessing as we journey in faith together.
For more information on Fr. Michael Lapsley visit www.healing-memories.org
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January2012
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NEW PRIEST ORDAINED
let us pray
The Rev’d Louise Richards (left) was ordained to the Sacred Priesthood by Western Diocesan Bishop, The Rt. Rev’d Percy Coffin, on 1 November 2011, the Feast of All Saints, at St. James the Apostle, Port aux Basques. A large number of diocesan clergy, congregational members, as well as family and friends joined the new priest for this special day. The Rev’d Louise Richards graduated f rom Queen’s College in May of 2011, and joined the ministry team at St. James Church as an Associate Clergy on June 15th. She is the youngest daughter of Wilf red and Emma Richards of St. Anthony. Submitted by the Rev’d Hannah Dicks.
A FRESH START
Making a F tar t: On 21 October 2011, the Diocese of Western Frresh SStar tart: Start, a program Newfoundland concluded its second group with Fresh Start designed to help facilitate a smooth transition into a new parish or ministry for both clergy and congregations. Submitted by The Rev’d Canon Roberta Woodman.
113TH ANNIVERSARY THANK YOU TIZ
On 1 November 2011, the women of St. James the Apostle, Port aux Basques, celebrated their 113th anniversary. To commemorate the service, dedication and contribution these women give to support the church, a celebration Eucharist was held at the church on 9 November followed by a fellowship lunch in the hall. Submitted by The Rev’d Hannah Dicks.
Happy Retirement. After many years of faithful service as the Administrative Assistant to the Bishop of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador, Canon Elizabeth “Tiz” Barnes is retiring from her position. Anglican Life wishes her a long and happy retirement! Photo: The Editor
30 Roe Avenue, P.O. Box 348, Gander, NL A1V 1W7 Telephone: (709) 651-4100 Fax: (709) 256-2957 email: info@waltershoffe.com
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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. 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) Parish Bulletins and 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: Sam Rose Printed by: Signal Star Publishing, A Division of Bowes Publishers Limited, Industrial Park, 120 Huckins Street, Goderich, Ontario, N7A 4B6
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BUILDING A COMMUNITY Allison Billard Columnist
I subscribe to a daily meditation from the Henri Nouwen Society and every morning they send me a little thought for the day. Lots of days the notes don’t really speak to me, but I saw this one recently and wanted to share it: Just as it seems unlikely to us that God chose to become human in a young girl living in a small, not very respected town in the Middle East nearly two thousand years ago, it seems unlikely that God chose to continue his work of salvation in a community of people constantly torn apart by arguments, prejudices, authority conflicts, and power games. Still, believing in Jesus and believing in the Church are two sides of one faith. It is unlikely but divine! I think this hits the nail right on the head, if you’ll excuse the cliché. It is often hard to imagine that the Church that is portrayed in the media has anything to do with Jesus and God’s work of salva-
tion. To outsiders we must seem like a bunch of crazies, no better than crooked politicians or master manipulators. There is a lot of bad stuff going on inside the church, as well as outside of it and for many it is hard to look beyond what they see in the news and maybe have even experienced themselves. It is hard for many to believe in the Church. And I’m not talking about one denomination or a particular congregation. I will limit my commentary to Christianity but I’m sure the same can be said of others as well. The Christian Church in our society has a bad reputation. So I can almost sympathize with those who talk about their faith as separate from the Church, that they don’t need the Church to believe in God. But they are missing an important distinction. The capital “C” Church is not the building people go to on Sundays for worship. If we are calling that a church it is
small “c” church. It is really just a space for prayer, worship, healing, education etc. The Church is the entire faith community. Not just a particular denomination. Not limited by geography, race, language or any other characteristic. The Church is all the followers of Jesus who come together to worship and work together to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Maybe you don’t need the building, but you certainly need the people. We are a religion based on community. From the very beginning when the apostles went out into the world to spread the message, Christianity was about community building and breaking bread together. How can your faith be separate from that?
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January2012
LET US PRAY
Grace at meals The Rev. Everett Hobbs Columnist
The saying of grace predates Christianity. The history of graces can be traced back to Greek and Roman literature and then from the Old and New Testaments to the writings of the early Christians. Later we have records of graces used in religious communities and found in official prayer books and primers. Formal graces were also uses at schools, colleges, universities and other institutions. The use of a grace at meals is universal and is found in most religions and cultures. The word grace comes from the Latin gratias, meaning thanks. One time grace at meals was commonplace in many homes. Today this practice seems to have largely lapsed. There are still formal occasions, such as a wedding reception, when a grace is pronounced. Saying grace at table helps to remind us of the many blessings and gifts we have and to offer thanks. It provides an opportunity to offer gratitude not just for food but for everything we have. Even if it just to pause and bow our heads in silence. Or we can say a short grace, “For what we are about to receive...,” or “God is great, God is good....” Most of us know a few graces and it is good to pass them along to children and grandchildren. Other shorts graces are “Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest and by you this food be blest”, “Thanks be to God for our
food” and “Lord, bless this food.” Or we can just ad lib. Locally we sometimes sing “Be present at our table, Lord ....” At Queen’s College we used to say the Latin grace “Benedictus Benedicat per Jesum Christum Doinum Nostrum.” There are also children’s graces, such as “Thank you for the world so sweet....”..I like this one: “Clean of hands and clean of face, I sit me down to say my grace, God bless the food that here we see, God bless you and God bless me.” Today we try to include a petition for the hungry in the world. Here is a well-known one: “For food in a world where - many walk in hunger; for faith - in a world where- many walk in fear; for friends where - many walk alone, we give you humble thanks, O Lord.” And there are humorous and light-hearted graces: ‘Rub-a-dub-dub, thanks Lord for the grub”; “Lord, bless this food upon these dishes, as Thou didst bless the loaves and fishes. And like the sugar in the tea, May all of us be stirred by thee.”; “Three potatoes for the four of us, Thank the Lord, there are no more of us!; “For rabbits young and rabbits old, For rabbits hot and rabbits cold, For rabbits tender, rabbits tough, We thank thee, Lord: we’ve had enough”. All kinds of graces can be found online. Our great model for grace is the Eucharist where we bless the bread and wine with Jesus as our host. May we invite him to be with us at our own meals.
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor: It was with great interest that I read Bishop Pitman’s article, “Is God calling you?” and your article, “Are you listening?” in the November 2011 issue of Anglican Life. I hope you would agree that it is the Holy Spirit who prompts or calls someone into the priesthood. Would the Holy Spirit call someone into a church with the following characteristics? 1. In March 2009, Primate Fred Hiltz was asked, “What is the Gospel?” His reply was, (a) Parishes having good liturgy, (b) Christ centered preaching, and (c) Telling stories. 2. Bishop Michael Ingram, in his book Mansions of the Spirit, denies that Jesus Christ is the only way to the Father and denies the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. 3. Seven Dioceses in the Anglican Church of Canada now permit the blessings of same-sex unions, which is contrary to Holy Scripture. 4. The Dean of the Anglican Cathedral in Montreal is married to a same-sex partner. 5. Anglican Priests march in the Toronto Gay Pride Parade holding a banner with the words Proud Anglicans on it. 6. The Anglican Church of Hosannas had a sign in front of the church which states, “You may not believe in God, but She believes in you.” 7. An Anglican Church in Toronto, during the Eucharist, gives a communion wafer (the body of Christ) to a dog. 8. In an Anglican Church in London, Ontario, the choir sings the New Age
song The Age of Aquarius during the Eucharist. 9. At St. Cuthbert’s Anglican Church in Toronto, the pagan ritual of celebrating Earth Hour is held. 10. In the Diocese of Niagara the pagan rituals of the Sacred Circle and the Labyrinth are used. 11. Imams are permitted to read from the Koran during the installation of a Bishop. 12. Mission for the Anglican Church of Canada now means social justice not evangelism. I could go on and give you many more examples of how the Anglican Church of Canada has departed from the truth of Scripture. You may say well none of this is happening in the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador. I will give you two examples: 1. I attended a funeral at a Parish in this Diocese about six months ago. Before the Bread and Wine was distributed the Rector announced that, “it is the policy at our church that all are welcome to the communion table.” That would include the unbaptised, atheists, Muslims, Hindi, Buddhists etc. What a mockery this makes of the Creed which was prayed before the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Baptism. I understand that the House of Bishops has since voted no to open communion. 2. In 2002, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams made the following statements regarding Free Masonry, “I have real misgivings about the compatibility of Masonry and Christian
profession. I have resisted the appointment of known Masons to certain posts.” And also, “I am worried about the ritual elements in Free Masonry which some have seen as possibility satanically inspired and how that sits uneasily with Christian beliefs.” In the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador I have witnessed Grand Master Masons read the lessons during the Eucharist, hold special Church services, take part in funerals and take leadership roles on vestries. This is happening even though the Archbishop of Canterbury will not appoint Masons to leadership roles and is worried that their rituals are satanically inspired. Mr. Editor, in your article you mention the downturn in membership in the Anglican Church. In fact the Anglican Church of Canada is losing 2% of its membership every year. With the above mentioned theology. Is it any wonder? When a church does not proclaim the good news of the saving Grace of Jesus Christ it will die. Social justice does not add anyone to the kingdom. Mr. Editor, I look forward to the refutation of any of the Truths I have listed above. Tolson Chapman St. John’s, NL Anglican
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CHRISTMAS SHOEBOXES
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Many thanks to all who have donated Christmas Shoe Boxes this year at St Boniface Church, in R amea. The Service was conducted by Clyde Dominie. The following prayers were used to bless this outreach effort: O Lord Jesus Christ, who has taught us that it is more blessed to give than to receive, and that to whomever much is given, of them, shall much be required. Pour into our hearts the spirit of thine own abundant generosity, and make us ready and eager to share with others what we ourselves have so richly and freely received; for the honour of your name, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. Heavenly Father, Giver of all good things, who has taught us that it is more blessed to give than to receive; We dedicate these Christmas Shoe Box offerings to the service of your church, humbly asking that all we have and are may be used for your glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen Submitted by Arthur Marsden
2012 - A GLORIOUS YEAR? Ron Clarke Columnist
Is this the year Jesus Christ returns in glory – His Second Coming? Uncle Sam, my old friend, says, “Yes! Definitely yes!” Naturally old Uncle Sam
is only a few years older than I, but his white hair and beard makes him look like one of the Biblical prophets. Uncle Sam is very religious. He has read the Bible through and through. He has
studied Biblical history. And he’s always on top of current world events. “This has got to be our last year,” Sam predicts, “because all the Biblical predictions of the End Times – earthquakes, floods, wars, etc. – are happening right now. “Besides,” he states, “if Jesus doesn’t come real soon, we stupid human beings with our global warming and our nuclear weapons will, one way or another, destroy our world and us with it. There are the facts!” Uncle Sam reminds the doubters that the First Coming of Jesus was predicted long before he came; so long, in fact, that many people were
convinced he’d never come at all. But, of course, in God’s proper time, he did come in great humility. “So, as he promised,” Sam states emphatically, “He will come again, real soon, and this time in amazing glory. God is certainly not going to wait for us to destroy his beloved creation. That’s for sure!” “Since, as the Bible warns us, we know not the hour of Jesus’ coming, shouldn’t we Christians be thoroughly prepared for that amazing event?” Sam asks. Good question. Maybe 2012 will really be our glorious year?
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January2012
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LITTLE BOXES OF LOVE
Women’s Home Mission Association celebrates 130 years of ministry
Submitted by The Editor, The Rev’d Sam Rose with files from the Anglican Cathedral
Little Wooden Bo Boxxes such as these ones above have helped sustain the work and ministry of the Women’s Home Mission Association (W.H.M.A.) since 1880. Funds collected by Women Mission members help support ministry in various areas, especially in the Parish of Battle Harbour in Labrador. Photo: The Editor.
The Women’s Home Mission Association (W.H.M.A.), which celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2011, is believed to be the oldest continuing organization in the Cathedral parish of St. John the Baptist in St. John’s, NL. The W.H.M.A. was founded in 1881 by Archdeacon Botwood to help further missionary work within the Diocese. The object of the W.H.M.A at that time was to support a missionary at Battle Harbour in Labrador. The W.H.M.A. would raise money annually for the missionary’s stipend and support other similar missionary work as approved. Over time, their mission has evolved to include the following ministries: Altar Guild, Emmaus House Food Bank, Ministry to the Deaf, Parish of Battle Harbour, Primate’s World Relief and De-
velopment Fund, Queen’s College, Sleeping Children around the World, and scholarships for university students from Labrador. Traditionally, funds are collect by the Women’s Mission through small wooden gift boxes. On 26 November 2011, the W.H.M.A. invited former clergy and catechists from the Parish of Battle Harbour to an Anniversary Eucharist at the Cathedral along with a traditional Cup of Tea. Each invited guest was given opportunity to share reflections of how the W.H.M.A. was influential in their ministry and to the people of Battle Harbour Parish. Also, the W.H.M.A. presented one of its annual scholarships to Daniel Johnson from Mary’s Harbour, Labrador. Mr. Johnson is studying Engineering at Memorial University.
Funding the F utur e. Members of the Executive of the Women’s Home Mission Association award one of two Futur uture. scholarships to Mr. Daniel Johnson of Mary’s Harbour, Labrador. Pictured (left to right): Donna Hiscock, Vice President, Jessie Abraham, Treasurer, Daniel Johnson, Elizabeth Mullett, Secretary, and Elizabeth Stewart, President. Photo: The Editor.
Archdeacon Francis Buckle (above) who served the Anglican Church for over 30 years in Labrador brought greetings and shared stories about the work of the W.H.M.A. Photo: The Editor.
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BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE Fogo Island East committed to youth
Opening a new space. The official opening of a new addition to the Church of the Holy Spirit on Fogo Island East. Pictured above are church warden Walter Vaters (centre), the youth of the parish, and the rector, The Rev’d Terry Caines (left). Photo: Deanne Caines Submitted by Deanne Caines
The Parish of Fogo Island East is committed to its youth. On the last Sunday after Pentecost (Reign of Christ Sunday 20 November 2011), the Church of the Holy Spirit was excited about the opening and dedication of their new Parish Centre. The addition was considered necessary by the Vestry and congregation after the realization that the space for youth in the church was not adequate. During the service, The Rector, The Rev’d Terry Caines, commented on the commitment of the parish to its young people and that this was evident by the new addition. The connecting of the two buildings is only a reflection of our connection to God. The Rector also said that the children are a big part of the church today and we need not worry about the future of the church if we are not committed to the youth now. The Parish Center is equipped with a 50 inch flat screen TV and DVD player which will provide many new opportunities to learn about God and His church in an ever changing world.
A Welcome A ddition. Only a few years after the opening of their new Worship Space, The Church of the Holy Spirit on Fogo Island East had to Addition. to build an extension on their building to accomodate the growing youth population. Photo: Deanne Caines
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CONTINUING THE TASK ENABLING THE FUTURE
Setting up SSynod. ynod. Members of Synod (left to right) Archdeacon John Dinn, Bishop Cyrus Pitman, Chancellor Brad Wicks, and Canon Elizabeth Barnes.
Eastern NL holds Diocesan Synod in Harbour Grace The Diocesan Synod of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador has attempted to chart a new course in the mission of God. Under the banner of “Continuing the Task - Enabling the Mission,” the Synod was held in the historic Parish of Harbour Grace from 18-19 November 2011. The Synod dealt mainly with Constitutional changes which would reflect a Church more focus on mission and ministry as opposed to administration. The creation of a new Mission Committee in the Diocese also highlighted this effort. The new trial constitution will be in effect for
the next four years. In his Charge to Synod, the Rt. Rev’d Cyrus Pitman called on the Diocese to continue the mission that God has given to the Church. The Bishop said that there needs to be a renewed focus on what God is calling the Church to do and to be. God is calling the Diocese to make new Disciples of Christ in each and every parish. A balanced budget was presented by Canon Elizabeth Barnes, Administrative Assistant to the Bishop.
Most of the income for the Diocese comes from the parishes through proportional assessments. A new Diocesan Chancellor, Mr. Bradford Wicks - a lawyer from the firm of Roebothan, McKay, and Marshall - was installed at the opening worship at St. Paul’s Church. Mr. Wicks succeeds retiring former Chancellor Mr. Rhodie Mercer. Each Archdeaconry in the Diocese was given the opportunity to highlight important ministry and mission
Synod H osts. Synod delegates from the host Parish of Harbour Grace. Photo: The Editor. Hosts.
projects ongoing in their regions. This sharing of stories was a positive sign of the good things happening in the Diocese. This was also the last Synod for Canon Barnes as she was retiring from her position. The Bishop thanked Canon Barnes for her lead-
ership and support during her time with the Synod Office. The Bishop promoted Archdeacon Sandra Tilley to the position of Executive Officer of the Diocese. Synod delegates were treated to the wonderful hospitality of the people of Harbour Grace.
Setting the Course. Bishop Pitman delivers his Charge to the Synod at the historic Church of St. Paul in Harbour Grace. Photo: The Editor.
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STEWARDSHIP UMBRELLA Submitted by The Rev’d Roberta Woodman
Preparing for ordination is an exciting and overwhelming time in one’s life. In May, 1996, just prior to my ordination to the diaconate, Aunt Cass asked what she could give me as a gift. In thinking about it, I suggested an umbrella, as that would be a big asset for internments at funerals. Her gift was a wonderful, large royal blue umbrella which had a rounded, wooden handle like that of Mary Poppins. After 15 years it is still being put to good use. Most recently, during my travels from parish to parish, the ‘umbrella’ concept has been talked about and reflected upon as a tool that encompasses ‘stewardship’. During the past year and a half, our Diocese has been focussing on the stewardship
element of our Congregational Development/Stewardship Education Initiative. We’ve now presented three Stewardship weekends and follow-up f rom them in some of those parishes. In that follow-up, the idea of a ‘stewardship umbrella’ has been discussed. How we take care of all that God has entrusted to us is like an umbrella whose many sections make up the whole. It is like St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, chapter 12, in which he describes the Body of Christ: many members in the one body. The various sections of the umbrella can represent the many aspects of ministry in which we all participate: worship, Christian education, pastoral care, youth, congregational development, mission and outreach, evangelism and renewal, communications,
tithes and offerings, administration, family and senior ministries, ACW, men’s groups, Fresh Start, Covenant in Ministry, strategic planning, and so on. All of these
Image: Irina Matskevich
work together for the greater good to build up the Body of Christ. All have a purpose. All are used to equip the
saints for the work of ministry. We are to become caretakers of each other, to nurture each other in the faith, to encourage one another, and to care for God’s creation. We are to be good stewards following the example and teaching of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Next time you see someone using an umbrella, reflect on what it means to you – how useful it is by providing shelter; how, when turned upside-down by the wind, it can symbolize what happens when discontentment arises within our churches, communities, and homes; how, when all the sections are intact, it works together for its intended purpose – shelter from the storm; how, the various sections remind us of our call to minis-
try within the church and the world, and the responsibility that it entails – taking care of each other, and loving each other in the name of Jesus, the One who calls us by name and equips us for our baptismal ministry. By the time you read this article, my ministry as Program Coordinator for the Diocese of Western Newfoundland will have drawn to a close, and another ministry as priest-in-charge of the Parish of St. Michael and All Angels will have begun. Taking my umbrella with me, I’ll be able to reflect more deeply on its function and purpose. It has become much more than a shelter from the storm, providing me with an opportunity to think of it as my “Stewardship Umbrella”.
A BRIGHT C.L.B. LIGHT HAS GONE OUT Submitted by Adrian Heffernan
Like the beautiful Irish ballad says, “The tears have all been shed now and we have said our last good-byes,” but the memories of one Major Walter F. Learning still cling so vividly in our minds. To his CLB family, he was more than just a bandmaster, an officer, and a marvelous leader. Major Walt, as he was affectionately known, was not a sophisticated person, yet his presence made a very strong impression on anyone who met
him. His sense of sincerity and that of his humor and wit was unique. The commitment and dedication he made to the CLB was remarkable and priceless. His whole family became a part of a wonderful package that they gave unconditionally to the Brigade. A member of the trumpet section of our Regimental Band readily admitted that he was not an emotional person but felt several tears roll down his face as the band played one of Major Learning’s favorite marches, “The
Pentland Hills”. At the Cathedral service a well known friend was seen to uncontrollably shed tears for Major Walt as his final tributes were expressed. Such was the regard that people held for one Walter F. Learning, CM. We never will forget him and the good news is the fact that we did not leave any thanks unsaid. As a final salute at the Cathedral, the CLB Regimental Band played like at no other time, and with great vigor and inspiration, the wonderful hymn “Onward Christian Soldiers.” Then with additional enthusiasm they sounded the last verse as Major Walt was going home. Well done thou good and faithful servant, come and share your Master’s happiness.
Major Walter F ning F.. Lear Learning Rest in Peace
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THE HAPPY ADVENTURES OF HOPE BEAR If yyou ou ishop, II’’ll rread ead yyou ou a bedtime stor ou’’re a good B Bishop, storyy. In the picture above, Bishop Percy Coffin (right) cuddles Hope Bear, who he affectionately called Chaplain Bear, dressed as a military chaplain while Dr. Alex Faseruk (left) reads the book. Photo: Saskia Rowley Fielder.
On October 28, 2011 the Anglican Foundation launched its book The Happy Adventures of Hope Bear with two representatives f rom Newfoundland & Labrador in attendance. The Anglican Foundation is a nationwide arm of the Anglican Church of Canada chaired by the Primate of Canada, the Most Rev. Fred Hiltz, and supported by an Executive Director, the Rev. Canon Dr. Judy Rois and a Board of Directors from across the country. Representing Newfoundland are the Rt. Rev. Percy Coffin, Bishop of Western Newfoundland, and the Rev. Dr. Alex Faseruk from the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador. All parishes from the three dioceses of Newfoundland are members of the Anglican Foundation, along with many individual members. In 2011 the Anglican Foundation established Kids Helping Kids, a trust fund to support youth programs including summer camp, bereavement counseling, educa-
tional resources, ramps for wheel chairs, performing arts, drama and music programs and other initiatives. To fund Kids Helping Kids, the Anglican Foundation introduced Hope Bear as its mascot. For a donation of $20 to the Anglican Foundation, the person receives their very own Hope Bear and the knowledge that they have helped children in need. Archbishop Hiltz invites, “May Hope Bear wind his way into your heart as he has mine.” For a further $20, contributors receive The Happy Adventures of Hope Bear. The book starts with Hope Bear’s favorite Bible verse “May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace” (Romans 15:13) and chronicles the travels of Hope Bear to many locations that have received support. If both Hope Bear and The Happy Adventures of Hope Bear are ordered at the same time, the donation is only $35. The Anglican Foundation was founded in 1957 to support the Church beyond the scope of their own parishes to lend support to new
initiatives across the country and to help places in Canada where there simply was not the financial means to upgrade church facilities, renovate a parish hall or finance a major repair. Since its beginnings with an anonymous contribution of $25,000, the Anglican Foundation has
raised and distributed money for programs across the country. It has provided more than $26 million in grants, scholarships and loans to clergy and students for theological education, to parishes for the construction, renovation, maintenance and improved accessibility of church build-
ings, resources in Canada’s North, support of a bishop for the Canadian Forces, youth programs, and initiatives in sacred arts, music and liturgy. To learn more about the Anglican Foundation to make a contribution or apply for funding visit www.anglicanfoundation.org
The group picture shows the Board of Directors of the Anglican Foundation and its staff. Included in the picture are the Primate in the middle of the back row and Canon Judy Rois, front row far left, the Executive Director and author of the book. Photo: Saskia Rowley Fielder.
January2012
12
OUR HISTORY
anglicanlife
David Davis Columnist
Bishop Aubrey George Spencer, part 2
In the first part of this article which appeared in the previous issue of this newspaper, we looked at the history of the Rev George Aubrey Spencer. In this article we will look at his time spent in Newfoundland. Before coming to that point we need to review briefly the state of the Church of England in Newfoundland in the first half of the nineteenth century. In the eighteenth century the few missions in Newfoundland: Trinity, Harbour Grace and St John’s and sporadically Placentia staggered along sometimes having priests, sometimes having substantial periods of vacancies. Newfoundland had had missionaries early in the life of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel (SPG) in North America. It had been listed with the missions in the American colonies. As time passed Newfoundland was listed with the Diocese of Nova Scotia. The joining together of the missions in what is now called Atlantic Canada into the Diocese of Nova Scotia did not benefit Newfoundland, it gave the missionaries in Newfoundland a place to move to better their prospects. This was concurrent with the problems caused by the American Revolution when anything English was in disfavor after the American colonies became independent. In fact for much of this period the Church of England in Newfoundland was languishing in a state of neglect. In the early 19th Century Bishop John Inglis of Nova Scotia made an effort to publicize the state of the church in Newfoundland and made efforts to visit Newfoundland, when possible (1827 and 1832), but little beneficial was happening in Newfoundland. It was into this environment that Aubrey Spencer arrived when he came to Newfoundland as a missionary in 1819. He was firstly sent to Placentia, the former French capital of Newfoundland. The area had changed since the defeat of the French and the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713. There were still a few French settlers there but it had been altered by the arrival of Irish
people to replace the French. There was only a hand full of English in the town of Placentia, not enough to warrant a missionary. Mr. Spencer was then moved to the Ferryland to try to reverse the decline of the Church of England in that area, mostly due to the lack of missionaries and influx of Irish people. This was also a futile exercise. After two missteps Mr. Spencer was sent to Trinity to replace the Rev John Clinch who had died recently. Mr. Clinch had performed many roles in Trinity, Trinity Bay and Newfoundland: priest, physician, pharmacist, government official, etc. Unfortunately the same difficulty that plagued Mr. Spencer when he entered the Royal Navy happened again, he could not function in the hardships of his work environment. He was transferred to the tiny island of Bermuda off the coast of North America. Twenty years later, Mr. Spencer responded to the call to be the first bishop of Newfoundland. Little of what the SPG had tried in Newfoundland had worked so Newfoundland was separated from the Diocese of Nova Scotia and given its independence. In1839, beginning in Bishop Spencer’s short period as bishop(1839-43), finally something started to happen to the church in Newfoundland, especially with the recruitment of priests as missionaries. Bishop Spencer really was the founder of the modern Anglican Church in Newfoundland. It was no doubt important that for the first time a person of social prominence, an aristocrat, was associated with the church in Newfoundland. He made it respectable for priests and others to aspire to come to Newfoundland. And no doubt this to led Bishop Spencer being followed by Bishop Feild who built the church on Bishop Spencer’s foundation Again the hardships of the climate affected Mr. Spencer and he was transferred to the Diocese of Jamaica, but he had done his work and the church in Newfoundland had new life.
THE DOCUMENT The following obituary appeared in Mission Life, Vol. III (new series) (1872), pages 218-220. In Memoriam - Bishop Spencer (Prepared partly from private sources and partly from a notice in the John Bull of March 9th, 1872. Continued from the last issue) The Bishop was devout, of a genial and affectionate disposition, a warm and unchanging friend; unaffectedly kind and generous, and largely charitable; in manner and feeling a true gentleman; elegant in his tastes and habits, yet simple in his daily intercourse; accessible and courteous to every one. He had a remarkable memory, and with his large experience and varied reading was a charming literary companion; full of quotations and anecdote, playful and wise. As a poet he was perpetually pouring forth bird-like snatches of song-some gems of lyrical sweetnesson every occasion and subject befitting his sacred office, but withal he never aimed at any great lyrical work. His prose in a charge, sermon, in other form was vigorous, clear and accurate, with the charm of an antique classical ring throughout. He was a frequent contributor to Blackwood and The Guardian. The verses below were copied from the latter by Canon Trevor, in the reprint of Anglo-Catholic Theology. ON THE HOL Y COMMUNION HOLY Well we know our heavenly Father With the bread of heaven supply, From whose grace alone we gather Strength to live and calm to die. Kneeling at the sacred altar, Prone in penitence and prayer, With a love that cannot falter, We shall find our Saviour there Of His Body-for us broken, Of His blood-for us outpoured, Take we then the blessed token, And confessed a present Lord Mortal eyes may not discern him. Mortal sense may not receive, But within the faithful bosom Dwells the Presence we believe. His private charities were very large in proportion to his means. “I have never forgotten,” writes one of his friends, “how he took in some poor, deplorably starved, neglected, ignorant children of a drunken, reprobate clergyman, and treated them quite as loving guests-as if they had been the children of some dear friend-and his kindness ceased not until he had entirely provided for their every need.” The Bishop held no preferment in England after leaving Jamaica, but, within six months of his death, he had offered to him, under very gratifying circumstances, as a testimony of esteem for his ministry at Torquay, a living of large value, which his broken health prevented him from accepting. His last illness had been borne with the sweetest calm and resignation; but the past year has been a year of much physical suffering. He was attacked by severe illness while staying last summer with his beloved old friend and fellow curate at Prittlewell, the Rev. Almaric Belli(now in his eighty-first year), the Rector of South Weald, Essex. This was succeeded by frequent attacks and recoveries; but though his health had been feeble and failing, the last few weeks brought no additional cause for alarm, beyond the increasing weakness of old age, until a few days ago, when congestion of the lungs set in and rapidly spread, until life so dear and precious to us passed away from this earth, on Saturday, St Mathias’ Day, at one o’clock. The Bishop and his wife have been companions for nearly fifty years. Their golden weddingday would have been this year, and a few days before his death he told he would try to live for it. During his illness he repeatedly spoke of his grateful affection for those who loved him, as they were many in Torquay. He lamented the feebleness which prevented his expressing to them by word or letter all that he felt; and the kindly attentions with which he was greeted, day by day, were to him, the last welcome to him. The evening of his life, a long and eventful one, has been very happy in this place. And Lord Derby wrote very lately: “He must-though active men rarely reconcile themselves to repose-feel that he has done more than one life’s work already, and is well entitled to his rest.” These words pleased and touched him, but his rest is well beyond all that earthly joys could give. His has been the perfect faith, the unshaken hope, the love that never failed, and his Lord and Master has taken him to His arms in peace.
anglicanlife
January2012
13
BEING ANGLICAN
The Rev’d Greg Mercer Columnist
It has been said that “Anglicans, on the whole, are a company of grossly uninformed Christians.” Not the most sobering thought and certainly not a good way to start the New Year – with an identity crisis. It is a difficult statement but one that probably contains a lot of truth. Twenty years ago if someone had asked me why I am Anglican I probably would have said, “Ask the Rector.” Not so with a Roman Catholic or a Pentecostal. They can tell you exactly who they are. My dear mother had it figured out. She loved the Anglican Church. “Why?” I would ask. “Moderation”, she would say, “moderation.” She wasn’t too far off the mark. But then ask her what she meant by that she would qualify: “My religion doesn’t tell me what I can do and what I can’t do. It doesn’t tell me I can’t dance, or have a drink, or even have a smoke if I wanted to.” Bless her departed soul! I thought she was onto something there for a moment. But the truth is, to ask any Anglican who they are or what defines them and most of them are unable to give you a definitive answer. This is partly due to the fact that we are not a confessional church. By that I mean that we are not defined by any single doctrine or that we have to swear to any set of doctrinal statements (confessions) to be a part of its membership. We do have the thirty nine articles of faith but some parts of the Worldwide Anglican Communion don’t even recognize them anymore. Anglicans are really defined by their liturgy. What we pray is what we believe. If you really want to know what Anglicans believe, come and worship with us. This is why the Prayer Book plays such an important part in our spiritual development. Ah! Now I have to commend my mother
because even thought she couldn’t quite put it into words what defined her as an Anglican, she knew her prayer book – every word of it. She could even recite all the “Collects” – word for word from memory. Anglicans have always prided themselves as maintaining the “middle way,” the “via media,” “moderation.” That is to say, we have no particular theological stance but have tried to keep an open mind by embracing a wide spectrum of belief. For instance, are we catholic or protestant?
Consider the architecture of our church buildings and the placement of the church furniture. What does it say about who we are? Front and center of the sanctuary and occupying a full third of the space is the altar, and then as you enter the church you will usually find a huge baptismal font. It defines us as sacramental, i.e., Catholic. You will not find that in any protestant church. And yet, protruding from the chancel area of our church buildings and
towering above our people is a huge pulpit. Most Roman Catholic churches do not even have pulpits. But as Anglicans we have embraced the reform of the Protestant Reformation and placed great emphasis on the proclamation of the Word. Both then go hand in hand – Word and Sacrament. We cannot say that we are one without the other. We are a “via media.” It is rather interesting that in recent years some Anglicans have participated in educational type courses and Bible studies. But, by and large, Anglicans have never been much disciplined in these areas. And to be honest they don’t particularly like any sermon that goes over ten minutes, as good as it might be. Moreover, evangelical language like “Lord” and “Jesus saves” tends to be rather uncomfortable for Anglicans. They prefer to talk about God in more general terms. All this is to say that defining who we are as Anglicans can be rather confusing at the best of times. “Getting it together” can be quite difficult. Now the Archbishop of Canterbury – who’s that guy? What does he do? And why do we all turn and face the altar when we say the creed? And why are some “Canons” and others “Archdeacons” and what have that got to do with being “Regional Dean?” This is all too much. Mom you were right. Let’s just stick with “moderation” and dance the night away.
A HELPING HAND
Sharing the Wealth: The Rev’d Sam Rose (left), Rector of the Parish of St. Michael & All Angels receives the generous gift of $3800 for their Church Building Fund from the Rector of the Parish of the Good Shepherd in Mount Pearl, The Venerable Geoff Peddle (right). Photo: Parish of the Good Shepherd. Submitted by William Bradbury
In a sign of Christian unity, the Parish of the Good Shepherd in Mount Pearl recently gave $3800 towards the building of the new Church of St. Michael & All Angels. The Good Shepherd Parish decided to donate a portion of the proceeds from their Annual Dinner Theatre to help St. Michael’s reach its goal. The event was a fun-filled
evening with great food, fellowship and fun at the Reid Community centre in Mount Pearl. Entertainment was provided by local comedian Glenn Downey. St. Michael & All Angels is building their new Worship Centre on the corner of Kenmount Road and Ladysmith drive in St. John’s. The building is expected to be open in December 2012.
OOPS! Dear Editor: Re the October 2011 issue of Anglican Life: I found it amusing when I read the headline on the front page: “Priest peddles for Parish”. Actually one pedals a bicycle, which is what Ed Keeping did when he pedaled from Whitbourne to St. Philip’s. A peddler is one who goes door-to-door selling or “peddling” his wares. Having taught school for thirty years, I have always been a real stickler for spelling, and an error in spelling stands out like a sore thumb. The Rev’d Reg Frampton St. John’s, NL
January2012
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anglicanlife
QUEEN’S COLLEGE RECEIVES GIFT OF ANNUITY Kevin Smith Planned Giving Consultant
The charitable gift annuity continues to be a popular way for many Anglicans to support their church while at the same time benefiting while they are alive from their assets. The website for the Anglican Church of Canada has an excellent description for what an annuity is. A charitable gift is something you give to an organization that you believe in and wish to support. An annuity is a fixed sum of money that is paid to you each year. Put them together and you have a charitable gift annuity, “the gift that pays you back.” The gift annuity is an arrangement under which you make a contribution to your
church and receive, in turn, guaranteed payments for life. It’s a way of giving that allows you to make a substantial gift to a church or charity even though you may need ongoing income from your assets. The practice of transferring property to a church in exchange for life payments has a long history. According to a memorial plaque in England’s Winchester Cathedral, in the year 1321 Sir William de Lillebone surrendered lands to the Priory and received an annuity worth about ten pounds yearly. Some Canadian churches including the Anglican Church of Canada have been issuing gift annuities for many years. They invest the donated assets and use the earnings on the assets, and the capital if necessary, to make the annuity payments. Whatever portion of the donated assets remains at the death of the donor or other beneficiary is used for church purposes. The Angli-
can Church is said to self-insure their gift annuities. The amount of the annual payments will depend on the amount transferred, the ages of the beneficiary(ies) (or annuity term), and the annuity rate schedule in effect at
the time of the gift. Once the annuity is established, the payments will remain fixed, regardless of changes in the economy. This makes the gift annuity especially attractive to older donors who like the security of fixed, guaranteed
payments.The annuity agreement will also specify how often payments are to be made and when they are to begin. Those who wish may have the payments made directly to their bank account. An illustration of one of the annuities purchased last year is as follows: Mildred R, who was 79 years old in 2011 contributed $50,000 to Queen’s College for a gift annuity. Her annuity rate is 7.029 percent, so she receives fixed, guaranteed payments of $3514.56 per year as long as she lives, entirely tax-free. She also received a donation receipt for $17,092.46. The most notable tax benefit of a gift annuity is that the annuity payments will be largely or entirely tax-free. This means that your annuity payments have significantly more purchasing power than an equal amount of taxable income. Furthermore, tax-free annuity payments will not cause a reduction of Old Age Security
(OAS) payments through the “claw back” tax. The amount of the tax-free portion depends on the rates in effect and on the age(s) of the annuitant(s) at the time the annuity is established. One final word, I asked Mildred why she purchased this annuity and this is what she said: “Queen’s College is a very important asset for me and for the Anglican Church in Newfoundland and Labrador and I want to see it thrive and continue in its ministry of educating priests and deacons. By purchasing this annuity, I am doing what I can do to insure tthat Queen’s will be around another 100 years from now.” Thank you Mildred very much. To receive a quote on an annuity, please contact me.
some religious matters. Unfortunately some of them regard us who remain in the Anglican Church of Canada as apostates. What is wrong with friendly disagreements in the church? Do all Provinces of the Anglican Communion agree on everything? The answer is no. Anglicans always have different opinions on many issues including biblical authority, tradition, infant baptism, theories of atonement, humanism, theistic evolution, Christian unity, abortion, female priests and bishops, Prayer Book revisions, musical instruments in church, hymn books, common law marriages, remarriages after divorce, interracial marriages,
gay relationships, manipulative preaching, gambling, etc. Unanimity on most issues is impossible. It is very sad that there is so much animosity between religious groups. We should agree to find some common ground. Two thousand years ago Jesus did not destroy the Samaritans who rejected Him. He wanted to turn His enemies into friends. Can we agree to disagree on those second order issues and leave the final judgement to God?
Kevin Smith is a gift planning consultant for the Anglican Church of Canada. He can be contacted at 739-5667 or k_smith@nf.sympatico.ca
AGREE TO DISAGREE The Rev. Michael Li Columnist
Two thousand years ago the Samaritans and the Jews hated each other. The Samaritans were not actually excommunicated by the Jews until about A.D. 300. Yet, there was so much in common between the two groups. Both considered themselves to be true Yahweh worshippers. Both placed the supreme emphasis on the first five books of the Bible. Both emphasized circumcision, the Sabbath, and the Kosher law. Both looked for a Messiah, and a final judgment. The major difference between the two groups had to do with the location of the central sanctuary of God. The Samaritans believed it should be the temple at Mount Gerizim, while the Jews believed in the tem-
ple at Jerusalem. They were unable to agree to disagree on this matter. Jesus had decided to go to Jerusalem (Luke 9:51). The direct way from Galilee to Jerusalem led through Samaria; but most Jews avoided it. Because of the animosity between the Jews and the Samaritans, it was unusual for Jesus to travel through Samaria. Most likely Jesus was travelling with a party of at least twelve, He sent messengers into a village to find food and accommodations for His group. But the Samaritans did not receive Jesus “because He was heading for Jerusalem” (Luke 9:53). We must not interpret that all Samaritans rejected Jesus. Jesus had Samaritan followers ( John 4), but they live in another village. Some Samaritans rejected Jesus’ request for a place to spend the night. James and John became so angry that they asked their Master for permission to call down fire from heaven to destroy the residents of this Samaritan village. The disciples did not really understand the very es-
sence of the ministry of Jesus. Jesus was on His way to die for all humankind, and the disciples wanted to kill the people Jesus tried to save. Jesus had not come to destroy people but to try to save them. It was no wonder that Jesus rebuked His disciples. Today is still the day of salvation. God’s punishment will come later. Very often we ourselves are too quick to pour out fire on the other person’s head, while we beg for God to be patient with us. From the beginning of Christianity, the church has arrived at no mutual agreement over many doctrines. Many believe in a revealed faith, while others believe faith is still being revealed. We should learn to debate serious matters without becoming enemies. Disagreements can broaden our horizons. How we handle our disagreements is a sign of vitality and maturity. To remain in an imperfect church or to form or join another imperfect church is not an easy decision. For the past ten years we have witnessed the departure of people from our church due to differences on
anglicanlife
January2012
15
BUILDING BELIZE
Teaching Tools: Principal Myrna Smith (left) of Queen’s Square Primary School discusses the school’s need with Sue Harris (right), the Resource Development Director of the Anglican Schools of Belize. Photo: Sue Harris Submitted by Sue Harris
2011 has been a busy year for the Anglican Church of Belize with, as usual, lots of challenges. Belize has been, in common with many developing countries which rely on inward investment, badly hit by world recession. Laden with debt, Belize has over 40% of the population living below the poverty line and the unemployment rate at 27%, plus of course much underemployment. Increasing poverty and the influence of the drug trade has made Belize one of the murder capitals of the world, and death by homicide is the number one cause of death for men. We often feel quite overwhelmed by the poverty and despair which the clergy, church workers, teaching
staff and congregations meet every day. But faith carries us through, and this year, following on from a very successful Synod in October last year, we have been building our Committee structure to carry more of the burden of developing and carrying out the Church’s plans. The main contact committee for Newfoundland and the Outer Banks is the Companion Relations Committee, headed by Rev. Eric Richards and Ms. Lillith Soberanis. The coordinator for this Committee and contact person is Sue Harris, who can be reached at anglicanschoolsbz@gmail.com. One of our greatest examples of outreach is our network of twenty schools, from preschool to High School. We are trying to build feeding programs in each school – many children, especially in
the City, arrive at school hungry. I heard just today of a family of twelve children who have just lost their sole parent, their mother, to cancer. The eldest child is only 25 years old – how can such a young person take on this burden? These children go
hungry – friends and relatives are poor themselves - and there are many other stories like this. Although we are of course interested in how our Companion diocese can help us, we are very concerned with building relationships and
spiritual bonds, and what we can offer to you. Our informal motto is, “Building people, not buildings.” The Diocese of Belize is currently in a companion relationship with the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador.
Deadly G Grround: These lovely children attend Queen’s Square Primary School, located in one of the most dangerous parts of Belize City. They are all too familiar with the sound of gunfire in the streets, every child will know someone who has been shot, many will have witnessed violence. Photo: Sue Harris
January2012
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anglicanlife
youthlife newfoundlandlabrador
GODLY PLAY AT ST. JAMES lay This year, the children of St. James in Port Aux Basques were introduced to a new way of learning the biblical story through Godly P Play lay. A creative storytelling and learning method that allows the children to interact with the story through wonder and play, using their own imagination and creativity to experience what they learn. St. James has attracted about 70 children that attend Godly Play regularly and they, as well as the teachers, and helpers are loving it! Submitted by The Rev’d Hannah Dicks.
FUN IN THE SUN These Belizean School children have fun with their teacher in their playground. Photo: Sue Harris