The Saskatchewan Anglican, February 2022 by The Saskatchewan Anglican

A baptism dilemma

Saying farewell to St. Luke's, Regina

Bishop McAllister College update

A 20-year look at news from northern Sask.

Saskatchewan The newspaper of the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle • A Section of the Anglican Journal • February 2022

Rev. Ella Frank retires after 20 years of ordained ministry By Mary Struthers

Installing a new incumbent The Right Reverends Chris Harper (right, Anglican Diocese of Saskatoon) and Sid Haugen (left, ELCIC) install Daphne Bender (centre) as the new incumbent of Redeemer Lutheran and St. Paul’s Anglican, Biggar at a service of installation and celebration of new ministry held at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Biggar, on Dec. 12, 2021. Photo by Tracy Harper

Service celebrates new ministry in Biggar By Rev. Peter Coolen BIGGAR (S’toon) — A service for the installation and celebration of new ministry for the Rev. Daphne Bender as incumbent of St. Paul’s Anglican Parish and Redeemer Lutheran Parish, Biggar was held at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Biggar. The service was held on Dec. 12, 2021. The event presented

a unique opportunity to celebrate a joint service as a witness to Christian Unity. The Order of Service for this service was drawn from the liturgical texts of both the Anglican Book of Alternative Services and the Lutheran Book of Occasional Services. The The service was conducted by the Right Reverends Chris Harper, Anglican Diocese of Saskatoon, and Sid Haugen (ELCIC).

Bishop Sid provided the homily; readings were provided by Margaret Wheaton, Janet Mair, Joanne Kral and Rev. Daphne Bender (for the Gospel); and prayers by Cindy Hoppe. Music for the service was provided by Cindy Hope as soloist and Diana Dolack as organist. Presenters for the symbols of ministry were: the Bible, Doreen Itterman and Helen Buxton; vessel of

water, Charlene Genis and Shirley Bennett; anointing oil Norma Back and Glenda Horner; copies of the diocesan canons and Lutheran constitution, Cindy Hoppe and Vera McNeil; keys of the church, Jean Itterman and Janet Mair; prayer Books, Ann Egert and John Bennett; and the bread and wine, Ted Engel and Ray Wood. Who is Daphne Bender? Daphne Bender obtained Continued on page 3

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AVONLEA (Qu’A) — Members of the Parish of Good Shepherd gathered to honour and celebrate the ministry of Rev. Isabella (Ella) Frank, when she retired after 20 years of ordained ministry and decades of lay ministry. The retirement party was held after a parish church service on Oct. 31. Frank was presented with a beautiful lap quilt, handmade by members of the congregations of Holy Trinity, Ogema, and St. Peter, Avonlea; along with a booklet of memories, photos, emails and good wishes from members of the community and surrounding area who were unable to attend due to COVID-19 protocols. Archdeacon Catherine Harper gave Frank a floral bouquet from the Archdeaconry of St. Aidan and a plaque of the diocesan crest from the diocese. Through her tears, Frank couldn’t help but laugh when the Avonlea ladies dressed up for Halloween and presented her with more gifts. Frank grew up in the Ogema area, and together with her husband, Victor, they raised their family of Continued on page 4

The Saskatchewan Anglican

February 2022

The baptism dilemma By Rev. Marie-Louise Ternier

ictional story: Parents Scott and Jane approach the local hockey coach to enrol their two children, Mark and Emily, in the much beloved sport. The coach welcomes them, registers the children’s names and other particulars, and proceeds to explain what is needed in order to play hockey: the list of equipment, the training schedule, the motivation and commitment required to play well in this team sport. At this point Jane and Scott frown, shaking their heads in disagreement. They cannot possibly make such an intense time commitment, and they didn’t plan on investing in much equipment. A hockey stick and skates should be sufficient. They simply want their kids to play hockey in competitions and tournaments. Of course, this is a silly account; no parents would dream of enrolling their kids in hockey without a willingness to commit and invest in all that is required for a meaningful and successful experience of the sport. Yet, pastors and parish priests face this dilemma on a regular basis when parents approach them with the request to baptize their children. A variety of mixed motives and reasons can bring parents to the church door, such as a genuine faith; their own memories of growing up in church or a vague belief in a good God; but also pressure from grandparents; an uneasy sense of spiritual duty; an unconscious need for spiritual life insurance in case the kids mess up; unspecified guilt feelings if the kids are not baptized; or fear of retribution in the afterlife.

Commitment and training

Like a good hockey coach, pastors welcome parents warmly into the fold. They explain all that the church offers to assist them in raising their children as friends of Jesus in the community of Christ’s disciples. No one is expected to go at this

Published by the Dioceses of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon and Qu’Appelle. Published monthly except for July and August. Whole No. 292, Vol. 50, No. 6 A Section of the Anglican Journal SUBSCRIPTIONS For change of address, undeliverable copies and subscription list updates, contact: • Your parish • e-mail: circulation @national.anglican.ca • Or send to Saskatchewan Anglican, c/o Anglican Journal, 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, Ont. M4Y 3G2 RATES $10 in Canada $17 outside Canada Baptizing children has become counter-cultural, since living the promises parents make at their child's baptism requires a lot of effort, writes Rev. Marie-Louise Ternier. Photo courtesy Pexels/Pixabay disciple-making alone. Baptizing children into the Christian faith is to become part of an extended family of faith; to choose a way of life; a way of seeing and interpreting the world; a way of drawing meaning, purpose and mission rooted in Jesus’ witness. This requires intentional commitment and diligent training, just like playing hockey or any other sport; ask any Olympic athlete. Moreover, the family of God accepts its own commitment to accompany the newly baptized and their parents in this spiritual journey. But more often than not, parents do not share this understanding and desire. For whatever reasons they want baptism, yet but without the efforts needed to foster the Christian worldview and discipleship that Baptism ushers in, reflected in the very promises they make in the baptism ceremony to nurture their children in the Christian faith. This risks treating baptism as some magic act of protection against every evil, or as an empty ritual just to satisfy family pressures.

A pastoral dilemma

Pastors are caught in a dilemma of their own on the baptism question, some

of which is theological. Our pastoral heart leads us to welcome all without judgment, and to trust the working of the Holy Spirit in the child’s life. Declining to baptize is seldom done — we tend to simply say, maybe not yet — lest parents experience rejection and judgment, while we could be accused of doubting the power of the Holy Spirit. Yet baptizing without a clear indication that parents are prepared to live out the very promises made in the baptism ritual risks fostering hypocrisy and meaninglessness, leading to names on the parish books and empty pews in the church. Indeed, baptizing children is like planting a seed that will sprout and grow in its own good time. But even seeds need the right conditions to sprout, grow and bear fruit. A prolonged drought yields nothing; we on the prairies know this all too well. It’s a spiritual version of the chicken and the egg and which comes first: baptism or faith?

Walking together

I tell parents honestly that baptizing children for reasons of genuine Christian faith and discipleship is rare today. Baptizing children has become counter-cultural;

living the promises parents make at their child’s baptism requires a lot. In our current secular world values and truth are determined by the number of hits on social media. Moreover, Christian churches are reckoning with their own sinful historical part in colonialism that brought the cultural and spiritual destruction of indigenous ways. The current Christian landscape brims over with reasons not to join this institution. Yet, if children are not guided intentionally in how to understand and interpret the world, if they are not equipped with spiritual tools for mercy and healing, the world will gladly fill the vacuum. The world will provide false and inadequate lenses of meaning that will eventually fall short of delivering life-giving hope and healing, guidance and purpose. Parents would do well to examine not only their personal reasons for baptizing their children, but also to consider that they are joining a faith family that, while walking together on a road to holiness in and through Jesus Christ, comes with significant sinful baggage that cannot be ignored, Continued next page

SUBMISSIONS Submissions for the April issue must be received by the diocesan editor no later than Feb. 25. All pictures must be sent as JPEGS and 1 MB (megabyte) in size. CONTACT INFORMATION Managing Editor: Jason Antonio SKAnglicanEditor@gmail. com 1501 College Ave Regina, Sask., S4P 1B8 Phone: 306-737-4898 Qu’Appelle: Joanne Shurvin-Martin joannesm@myaccess.ca 6927 Farrell Bay Regina, Sask., S4X 3V4 Phone: 306-775-2629 Saskatoon: Peter Coolen ptrcoolen@sasktel.net 820 Avenue I South, Saskatoon, Sask., S7M 1Z3 Phone: 306-244-0935, Saskatchewan: Mary Brown mary1949brown@gmail.com Box 25, Shellbrook, Sask., S0J 2E0 306-922-5159 Advertising agent: Angela Rush saskatchewan.anglican.ads@ gmail.com 905-630-0390 PUBLISHING DETAILS Published from 59 Roberts Place Regina, Sask., S4T 6K5

February 2022

The Saskatchewan Anglican

The Bishop's Corner

Responding to crisis and change By the Right Rev. Christopher Harper Bishop of Saskatoon

“

Then one of the leaders of the synagogue named Jairus came and, when he saw him, fell at his feet and begged him repeatedly, ‘My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live.’… ‘While he was still speaking, some people came from the leader’s house to say, ‘Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the teacher any further?’ But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the leader of the synagogue, ‘Do not fear, only believe’” (Mark 5:22-23,35-36). As we enter into the month of February and continue in the season of Epiphany, we of the church have the calling of faith and belief, peace of heart and patience in all things. My goodness, and this is where I take a moment to remind you that no one said our journey was to be an easy one! The Christian calling is to persevere when all else would weaken or hesitate. Epiphany is when we journey in faith to seek understanding in the depth and grace of God Almighty, through His Word and Scripture. Sunday by Sunday and week by week, we journey together in the

... The baptism dilemma Continued from page 2 having acted too often like Judas instead of Jesus. Baptism challenges us all to live the saint and sinner reality deep in our own flesh and bones. Jesus said, “The gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and there are many who take it. The gate is narrow and the road is hard that leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:13-14). Yet as Yann Martell says in his award-winning book “Life of Pi” choosing the better story is still to die for. Just like playing hockey is worth all the blood, sweat and tears that go into a great game.

church; yes, even virtually, through the many platforms we today employ. It is to this I would like to speak for a few minutes. This season of uncertainty has proven that nothing is for certain or set in stone and that our society has had to adapt and struggle through new restrictions and needs week by week. The church, across this land and in all denominations, has had to learn and adapt and respond at amazing speed, not always comfortably, especially for those who find difficulty in accepting change at breakneck speed. But change is a reality before all of us; if we do not change and adapt, we very well might slowly diminish or die out. In these past seasons we have seen the strength, courage and blessing of those who believe and are steadfast. I have lifted my thanksgiving prayers for those who continued to work in health care and those striving for the common good of our communities.

I have even given prayerful thanksgiving for our political leaders; to be a leader in any form in this time and age is problematic at best, so we need to give grace and patience for those appointed and called to make the tough decisions. Never before has the social microscope focused on leadership to the degree that it is at present. It is especially now that we need to prayerfully lift them up with our support and encouragement. So, continuing in that vein … . I prayerfully offer thanksgiving for those who serve the church in these present days, in so many and varied ways, especially our Sunday school teachers, online ministry teams and priests, liturgists, prayer leaders, choirs, organists and musicians, servers, acolytes and altar guilds, wardens, treasurers and vestry members, councils and leadership circles and the faithful of the church. I mention these few, but please know there are so many more who make up the church and enable the church to move forward. We all have a ministry and God calls us all, diverse as we are, to be one in Christ. With so many peoples and ways to do things, can we not find a place for our voice in the choir of God? For we, in truth, share a common root or path in faith, so much so, that this is what we can say together ‘we believe.’ The church consists of the many, and the choices of

leadership are to better the greater and common good rather than just the few who like it their way. Our faith and life journey are intertwined, so we together need to listen, respect and honour each other in support of our common ministry. I have faith and believe that God Almighty is going to do something amazing in 2022. I believe that we will look back on this time and lift up our prayers of thanksgiving, giving glory to God who is always faithful. We should be able to prayerfully look back and say we did all we could within our scope, for the greater good of our weakest and most vulnerable, and that we have been tested and reminded of what and to whom our ministry is for. So, in closing, I ask your prayers and patience in what comes before us. I ask that you look back, only to glimpse what was and acknowledge the need to change. May we walk the present with the awareness of the others around us. May we also strive to see the future with faith and knowledge that God is with us in all things. Even when others speak to dissuade or to challenge, I ask that we, in response, be not afraid, but believe that our Lord has this and that all will be well and all will be made right. For in Christ comes life and hope in abundance. Do you believe? May God bless us all as we the church seek to walk in faith, for all the children of creation.

... Service celebrates new ministry in Biggar Continued from page 1 her master of divinity degree in 1993 from Lutheran Theological Seminary, Saskatoon. She has 28 years of ordained ministry; her previous parishes were all in Saskatchewan, including Rose Valley (1993 to 2000), Rhein

(2000-2012), and Langenburg (2012-2021). Daphne’s hometown is Neudorf, where she was raised with three older siblings. Immediately after high school she ventured off to the University of Saskatchewan and eventually enrolled in

the College of Nursing (bachelor of science in nursing, 1983). After working for three years as a public health nurse in Melfort, she moved back to Saskatoon to work as a parish worker at Redeemer Lutheran, which led her to

In 2021 you helped us raise

enrolling at the Lutheran Seminary. Daphne enjoys watching sitcom reruns, playing piano, and games on her iPad. She looks forward to taking in some of the concert series at the Majestic theatre and attending community events.

In 2022

we’re aiming higher!

over $100,000 to benefit children and youth.

Keep watching!

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The Saskatchewan Anglican

February 2022

... Rev. Ella Frank retires after 20 years of ordained ministry

Archdeacon Catherine Harper (left) presents a diocesan plaque to Rev. Ella Frank on her retirement from the Parish of Good Shepherd. Photos by Ted Struthers

This handmade quilt was presented to Rev. Ella Frank at her retirement celebration in Avonlea.

Continued from page 1 four. She was a dedicated organist for Holy Trinity, a leader in Junior Auxiliary and Girls’ Auxiliary, an active member of the ACW and the deanery. Along with running a small business and serving on local volunteer boards, she served on vestry and parish council. In 2002, Frank answered her calling into ordained ministry, with the support of her family, congregation and the diocese. This brought new life into her small parish. Frank’s ministry extended beyond regular services and meetings. She was dedicated to bringing song and prayer to the personal care homes in Radville, Pangman, Bengough and Avonlea. She visited shut-ins and patients in hospitals. Her 20 years of ordained ministry were appreciated in the community. She was always available for someone in need, and her outreach will be missed.

DIOCESE OF SASKATOON EVENTS

Announcements for February 2022 g Saskatchewan Anglican online! Did you know you can read current and past issues of the Saskatchewan Anglican online? Visit www.anglicandiocesesaskatoon.com/ saskanglican or on Facebook at www.facebook. com/saskatchewananglican. g As we pass through COVID-19, recordings and live streaming of services are available from the diocesan website and Facebook and YouTube pages, as well as on individual parish websites and social media pages, and locally (for Battle River Parish), on radio. When considering attending church services in person, check on service availability and requirements for preregistration that exist. If attending services in person, please follow all the indicated seating, movement, distancing, masking, and sanitization instructions in order to safeguard yourself and to protect others. g School of Disciple-

ship Ministry Preparation Program: The diocese's School of Discipleship Ministry Preparation Program is a part-time three-year Licentiate. Courses for the 2021 seasons have now been announced (see the syllabus posted elsewhere in this issue). Students may take a course part-way through the three-year cycle unless pre-requisites for a specific course are stated. The first full complement for the ESC Licentiate in Theology is planned to be completed by spring 2023. People wishing to take one or more of these courses should consult with the School of Discipleship co-ordinator. People who sense a call to diaconal or priestly ordination will go through the diocesan discernment process at some point before the midway point. If you have any questions about our Ministry Preparation Program, please contact the School of Discipleship co-ordinator, the Rev. Dr. Trish McCarthy at tmccarthy@

sasktel.net or 306-3708378. See also notices posted elsewhere in this issue. g Ministry of Supervision Certificate Course: Presented by the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad and the diocese’s School of Discipleship; April 5 to 8 and May 16 to 19; 9 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.; hybrid delivery model; led by the Rev. Dr. Trish McCarthy. For further information please contact the Rev. McCarthy at 306-370-8378 or tmccarthy@sasktel.net, and see the notices posted elsewhere in this issue. g Safe Church Workshops: Mark your calendars for two Safe Church Workshops: No. 1 “Nuts and Bolts” and No. 2 “Preventing Sexual Misconduct.” Please note that if your parish still needs to participate in the “Nuts and Bolts” workshop, that these can be set up as a Zoom meeting for your region. Safe Church Workshop No. 1 called “Nuts and

Bolts” by ZOOM will take place on Saturday, Feb. 5, from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. To register, contact our Safe Church co-ordinator, the Rev. Dr. Trish McCarthy, at 306-370-8378 or tmccarthy@sasktel.net, or see the notice posted elsewhere in this issue. g Courses at the College of Emmanuel & St. Chad: The College of Emmanuel & St Chad welcomes inquiries and applicants for its fall 2021 and spring 2022 courses. All teaching is planned to be offered only online. See the course listing for the fall of 2021 and 2022 posted elsewhere in this issue. For information on courses available through the Saskatoon Theological Union, please also contact their office at 306-975-1550 and see the course listing for the summer and fall of 2021 and for 2022 posted elsewhere in this issue. Awards The Rev. Canon Colin Clay has been announced as Saskatoon CTV’s

“Citizen of the Year”; congratulations Colin! In Memorium The Rev. Canon Howard Green died on Nov. 30, 2021. His obituary may be found in this issue. The Very Rev. Glen Burgomaster died on Dec. 27, 2021. An obituary for Glen will be included in the March issue. g To be included in a timely manner, brief notices should be supplied to the associate editor by fax, email or “snail mail” by the end of the month, one month before the month in which the insertion is desired (i.e. February entries will be in the April issue). Detailed and longer texts of upcoming events will not be included in this section, but should space allow, could be the subject of articles and notices elsewhere in the Saskatchewan Anglican.

February 2022

The Saskatchewan Anglican

'God is still writing this story': Parishioners say farewell to St. Luke's, Regina By Joanne Shurvin-Martin

Crucifer Pat Abd-elmessih leads the clergy at the conclusion of the farewell service at St. Luke on Dec. 11. From front to back are Rev. Winna Martin, subdeacon Nigel Salway, Canon Susan Page and Rev. Michael Bruce. Photo by Joanne Shurvin-Martin

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REGINA — “It is fitting that we say farewell to this building in the hopeful time of anticipation of the Advent season,” said Rev. Winna Martin in a sermon during the farewell service in St. Luke on Dec. 11. St. Luke is one of the five Regina parishes that combined to form Immanuel Anglican Church. The church building and hall are currently for sale. About 50 former parishioners attended the service, and many looked through the photo albums displayed in the narthex before and after the service. The Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Michael Bruce. The readings were those for the Feast of St. Luke. Canon Susan Page was the deacon, with Nigel Salway serving as sub-deacon and Pat Abd-elmessih as crucifer. Valerie Hall was the organist. Martin spoke of the importance of connecting with what came before, but to remember what God is doing now in the church, and what will be done in the future. “Lives were touched by the ministry that happened here (in the St. Luke’s building), and those stories are carried in us. … We are all part of St. Luke’s story. God is with us in this story and will be in the future,” she

St. Luke's Church building has been a distinctive part of south Regina since it was built in 1962 and dedicated in June 1963. Photo contributed concluded. At the end of the service, Archdeacon Cheryl Toth spoke briefly, bringing greetings and prayers on behalf of the diocese and the St. Cuthbert’s Archdeaconry. She thanked the St. Luke’s leadership for their initiative and clearsightedness, which Toth experienced during the process of bringing the five parishes together and closing the individual parishes. She said she was grateful for the perseverance of St. Luke’s people, and acknowledged that it is not easy to lead people into the unknown, with the pandemic greatly complicating the process. Toth said the leadership knew that not everyone would be happy with the process or the outcome, but “they were faithfully

aware that what they were trying to do was God’s will.” She said that when she looks around the new parish of Immanuel, she sees the presence of St. Luke’s. There are physical signs like the altar, which has been moved into the sanctuary on Massey Road. Programs that had begun in St. Luke’s are also continuing in Immanuel, and Toth mentioned the program that provided generous hampers and gifts to 17 families including 37 children. Rev. Michael Bruce also spoke, and thanked St. Luke’s people for the six years he spent as the parish priest. “It is sad that this chapter is over, but God is still writing this story,” he said.

The Saskatchewan Anglican

February 2022

Bishop McAllister College in Uganda has gone through a construction boom during the pandemic. At left is the new library, while what was once a hole in the ground (top) is now an outdoor auditorium where students and staff can gather for meetings and special events. Photos courtesy New Brunswick Anglican

Bishop McAllister College gives upda Editor’s note: The Diocese of Saskatchewan has a partnership with Bishop McAllister College. Article courtesy the New Brunswick Anglican. By Rev. Canon Paul Jeffries UGANDA — Dear friends, throughout late 2020 and into 2021 things were going well and slowly beginning to normalize. Senior students at each level were preparing for national exams, while other classes were studying at various intervals. The plan was to have the normal school year

back in place within two years. We were feeling pretty optimistic, despite what was going in the rest of the world. The library compound is finished. Some of you may have been left wondering what we would do with the large hole in front of the library. Even I was left wondering for a long period of time. Then it became obvious to me. It would become an outdoor auditorium. We were blessed in early March 2021 with an informal visit by Bishop Johnson Twinomujuni, who checked on the school and encouraged us in

these difficult times. A highlight, and a moment of personal encouragement for me, was when I was recognized for my years of service by the Diocese of Ankole in late May 2021. It was a tremendous honour, and I continue to be so grateful that God has called me to serve in this particular part of his vineyard, along with for his abundant grace and blessings for the past 23 years.

Good news

Some good news: in those first months of 2021, all the finalists successfully completed

their examinations, and are now preparing for their next level of studies. The bad news is that a second wave of COVID-19 hit us in May 2021, while in early June 2021 the president put the country under full lockdown. Once again, we were to stay in our homes apart from getting necessities, but the use of cars and other forms of passenger transport were banned. The good news is that the lockdown worked and restrictions were partially lifted. A curfew of 7 p.m. remained, and churches and schools remained closed. Churches were

eventually allowed to re-open at the end of September and universities as of November. The availability of vaccines in Uganda is improving slowly. The government was optimistic that it would have as many as 12 million doses by December 2021. The actual process of vaccination was problematic for a while, but there has been much improvement and there have been an increasing number of mass vaccination exercises.

The future

So, what does the

February 2022

The Saskatchewan Anglican

Clockwise from top, the administrative building under construction; Rev. Joseph Tusinguire, a former student and now chaplain, teacher and co-ordinator of theology programs, as he weds Praise; Paul Jeffries' award given to him to honour his 23 years at Bishop McAllister College; and construction of the dance, drama and music buildings.

ate about students, building projects future hold for primary and secondary schools? Recently, the president announced that everything, including schools, would open up fully in January 2022. It was news we were happy to receive. Previously there were conditions set that had to be met before this could happen. One was that five million people must be fully vaccinated. This group are the vulnerable, those over 60, and so on. (Those over 65 years of age comprise just under two per cent of the total population). The second condition was that all teachers, staff

and students over 18 be fully vaccinated. It’s a big task but I’m becoming optimistic. About 3.5 million doses have been administered so far. The argument behind the decision not to open the schools is that the children will catch COVID-19 and spread it to the unvaccinated adults in their families, potentially creating another generation of orphans as AIDS did.

Projects progress

We are now beginning to prepare the school for reopening soon, although we have yet to be told the specifics of how it

will happen. Theological studies have already resumed recently. So there are signs of normalcy returning at the school. Despite the hardships, we were able to make good progress on some of the school projects before we were closed again. We were able to reach the roofing stage on all three of the music buildings, with the concrete also poured in the choral rehearsal room, as well as construction of a new administration building to keep up with our growth these past 20 years. We were very pleased to complete the first phase

of construction, including roofing. While 2021 was not the year we anticipated, and it brought further difficulties for the school, our staff and students, we have much to be thankful for just the same. Because of the tremendous support we received in 2020-21, the school continues to be in great shape and we will be able to re-open in the coming months with minimal difficulties. We are grateful to have been able to celebrate with Rev. Joseph Tusinguire, our student for six years, and now chaplain, teacher, and co-ordinator of

theology program, as he wed Praise. We congratulate Joseph and Praise and wish them all the best in their new life together. On this happy note let me close. I can’t tell you how much we appreciate everyone’s support for so many years, and particularly in this difficult period. With your help we are truly making a difference. May God continue to bless and keep you! Rev. Canon Paul Jeffries is the rector of Bishop McAllister College and Anglican Seminary. Jeffries is originally from New Brunswick.

The Saskatchewan Anglican

February 2022

Beaded Gospel cover blessed By Mary Brown MUSKODAY (Skwn) — At Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve in St. James Anglican Church in Muskoday, a book cover was blessed and used for the first time. Dennis Bear has been quietly and industriously working on a great work of art. He created a beadwork cover for their Gospel book, from which the Gospel is read during every Holy Communion. His design draws on ancient symbolism of the four Gospel Writers, including St. Matthew symbolized as a winged man; Mark as a winged lion; Luke as a winged ox; and John as an eagle. The four symbols occupy the four quadrants of the cover, front and back. The entire surface is covered in intricate and beautiful beadwork.

Obituary

Howard E. Green often displayed his faith and caring attitude Rev. Canon Howard E. Green, July 11, 1927 to Nov. 30, 2021 Submitted SASKATOON — The Rev. Canon Howard E. Green died peacefully on Nov. 30, 2021, at age 94. Howard is survived by children Heather (Alan) and Ian, grandchildren Rachael, Sarah (Brody), Nathan, and Jordan & Ryan. He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Jean (nee McArthur) and his parents Arthur and Amy (nee Srigley) Green. Howard was born and raised in Ontario and after teaching, was ordained as an Anglican priest, having received a bachelor of arts (University of Toronto) and a bachelor of theology (Wycliffe College). Later he received his master of arts in Far Eastern Studies (University of Michigan). He and Jean spent 18 years serving with the Anglican Church of Japan in Japan. Upon their return to Canada, Howard served in the Diocese of Saskatchewan and then, in 1992, moved to the Diocese of Saskatoon. Howard was a diocesan representative in the Anglican Fellowship of Prayer; he was involved in the Order of St. Luke; for many years he was an honorary assistant at St. John’s Cathedral and was also involved at the national level of the Anglican Church. In 2008, Wycliffe College granted him an honorary doctorate for his life-long ministry and awarded him the Harry St. Claire Hilchey Alumnae Award for distinguished service. In retirement, Howard enjoyed being active in

Rev. Canon Howard E. Green. Photo courtesy the Cathedral of St. John woodworking, skating, golfing, pattern dancing and travelling with Jean. He also delighted in spending time with family and friends while remaining active, at a reduced level, in ministry at St. John’s Cathedral, where he and Jean remained as active members. He will be fondly remembered for his faith, evangelical spirit, and for his caring and thoughtful contribution to the mental, physical, and spiritual lives of those around him. A celebration of Howard’s life was held at St. John’s Cathedral, Saskatoon, on Dec. 16, 2021, and was also livestreamed and can be viewed by accessing the link on Howard’s Tribute/ obituary page at www. saskatoonfuneralhome. com, where condolence may also be left for the family. Memorial donations in Howard’s name may be made to Camp Okema, St. John’s Cathedral, or PWRDF. Arrangements were entrusted to Saskatoon Funeral Home at www. saskatoonfuneralhome. com or 306-244-5577.

February 2022

The Saskatchewan Anglican

Feeling the Holy Spirit

Being cautiously charismatic By Rev. Gene Packwood

esus came down and “stood on a level place,” says the Gospel (Luke 6:17-26) for Sunday, Feb. 13 — close to when you’ll receive this issue — before a great crowd and multitude of disciples and people. They had come to hear Him, to be healed of their diseases, to be cured of unclean spirit troubles and to try to touch Him because “power came out from Him and healed them all.” Power still comes out from Jesus and heals

DIOCESE OF SASKATCHEWAN

2022 calendars available at synod office g The 2022 Calendars are available at the synod of f ice for $ 8 each. Please call 30 6 76 3-2455 for more information. g Prince Albert Anglican Youth Group (grades 7-12) meets on Wednesdays. Food and fellowship begin at 5:30 p.m. Please contact Father David at 306 922- 0044 or Father Rick at 306 -764-1310 for information. g Canon Howard Green, whose obituary can be read in this paper, was Sarah Albers’ grandfather. He worked in the Diocese of Saskatchewan, in the parish of Melfort, and in the synod off ice in missions and evangelism under Bishop Tom Morgan for over 20 years.

people. I haven’t see it very often but I know people who have. I’d like to see it more. We at Anglican Renewal Ministries Canada pray that we would all see power coming out from Jesus more often. One of our prayers, with St. Paul, is that our speech and our message would not just be “in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration

of the Spirit and of power” (1 Cor. 2:4). Please God, may that also be so in our church services. It’s a bit of a balancing act in the Anglican world, however. People can be put off by strange or loud manifestations of God’s power. So, just as Jesus chose that level place on which to stand, we try to stand on level ground in our theology and practice and be level-headed in our approach to the supernatural charismatic gifts — cautiously charismatic, you might say. We want to take a balanced approach. To say that someone is level-headed is usually a compliment. We Anglicans, particularly,

pride ourselves for being level-headed, cautious and reserved. We like to think we are stable and trustworthy. No unseemly spinning, tilting or shaking for us! We’re standing with Jesus securely on that level place. Don’t get me wrong. Level is good. Jesus always comes to meet people where they are. At their level. Jesus always helps us out of the ditches and valleys we dig for ourselves in our sin. Then He helps us to fill them in, level things out and set us straight. But what about the power that came out from Jesus and healed them all in St. Luke’s account? How do we Anglicans access

that? Should we even try? We at ARM Canada think we should. We believe it’s for the common good, to build up the church and it’s what St. Paul was on about all through 1 Corinthians; especially chapters 12, 13 and 14. Here’s a good way to start: First, decide to believe that there is such power. Supernatural power that caused a virgin to give birth, calmed storms, multiplied loaves and fishes, healed people and raised Jesus from the dead. Second, confess all known sin. Third, pray for power to come out from Jesus to Continued on page 11

The Saskatchewan Anglican

February 2022

'Love came down at Christmas' and gave hampers By Margi Hollingshead REGINA — A favourite Christmas hymn, based on the 1885 poem by Christina Rossetti, is “Love came down at Christmas.” Immanuel Anglican Church put that into action as parishioners gave their time, resources and talents to provide hampers for six families from the Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Society and 10 young mothers and their babies in the Young Parent Program at Balfour Collegiate High School. People knit for months, such as delicate baby sweaters, dozens of toques and mitts. Others gave money to provide diapers, formula and baby products for the young mums. People “adopted” the 37 children and bought gifts. Still others donated food and toiletry items. Tables in the church lounge filled until there were more than 1,000 boxes and cans of fruit, soup and vegetables, pasta, sauce and cereal, pancake and cake mixes, juice, cookies and crackers, toothbrushes and toothpaste, toilet paper and shampoo. And a bit of candy … . The steering committee purchased and wrapped warm socks, toques or mitts for the 36 adults; bought gift cards at the recipients’ preferred grocery store for fresh items; and obtained myriad brands and sizes of diapers the young mothers requested. Every item was inventoried and checked

Margi Hollingshead (centre) and Anita Laryea are surrounded by items donated for Christmas hampers for the students of the Balfour Teen Parent program and families of the Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Society. Seventeen hampers were filled with presents, food, even a turkey, toiletries and baby supplies. A total of 73 people were helped by this ministry. This is an annual ministry of Immanuel Parish. Photo by Nigel Salway for expiration dates in preparation for packing and delivery on Dec. 15. The church was a-buzz that morning as parishioners came to show their love in yet other ways. Several women wrote Christmas cards for each hamper. Others acquired a clipboard and packing list

for their chosen hamper and “shopped” for the items from the laden tables. Large boxes filled the pews in the sanctuary, awaiting the items selected by the packer. Lists were doublechecked and boxes filled. Three people donated the use of their vehicles and the loading began as a

light snow fell. By about noon, strong arms had carried our love to half a dozen giggly young mums at Balfour, who helped haul in the two truckloads of Christmas bounty, and the eager staff at Deaf and Hard of Hearing welcomed our newly-learned rendition of “Merry Christmas” in sign language, along with our

stash of gifts for them. The third verse of Rossetti’s hymn is: love shall be our token, love be yours and love be mine, love to God and others … . As they stand in solidarity with those who struggle for basic necessities, the people of Immanuel have tangibly expressed the truth of God’s love this Christmas.

Saying hi to Rev. Brody and Sarah Albers By Mary Brown PRINCE ALBERT — If you were at Camp Okema this summer you met Sarah, as she was working there. She is also on the board. The Rev. Deacon Brody Albers served under Canon David Butorac at the cathedral in the fall. They were in Meadow Lake until the end of January helping there. They are now in Toronto, where Brody will complete his master of divinity at Wycliffe College, while Sarah will acquire her master of theological studies in community development. Question Favourite book of the Bible Birthplace What you love most about God Favourite place on Earth Farthest you’ve been from home Favourite Meal or dessert Biggest Fear Hidden Talent Favourite Book or Movie Your hobby

Sarah and Deacon Brody Albers. Photo courtesy Mary Brown

Three things always in your fridge Favourite sports team

Brody’s answer John Saskatoon That He became Man Churchill River Xi’an, China Pickled beets A sick family member Art Lord of the Rings Working on his ’79 Chevy truck and hiking and camping Pickled beets, corn, milk Roughriders

Sarah’s answer Esther Saskatoon God cares for those in need Forest of northern Saskatchewan Kurdistan, Iraq Fish fry Being away from family Classical violin Pride and Prejudice Cross country running Soya sauce, vegetables, cheese Roughriders

February 2022

The Saskatchewan Anglican

Decolonizing the classroom By the Rev. Dr. Iain Luke Principal, College of Emmanuel and St. Chad

long time ago, I spent six years living and studying in a different culture. To be clear, it wasn’t all that different. The language was the same, the people were friendly, and once I’d learned some slightly odd ways of doing things, I was able to fit in pretty well. Even so, I kept bumping up against unforeseen clashes between my upbringing and the expectations of the people around me. It took me three years to find out that when I joined in a new activity, I wasn’t supposed to introduce myself to my new friends. It was both a little confusing and a little embarrassing to make that discovery. Some of the other issues that came up, though, went deeper. There were basic assumptions about how the world works, which I had to learn to identify and navigate. Sometimes those were refreshing new perspectives, which helped me to see my own biases shaped by the culture I

grew up in. At other times I felt I needed to offer a critical voice on what I was seeing. The idea that people could belong to different classes, for example, which gave them higher or lower status in life, never sat well with me. I was glad that, as a foreigner, I somehow stood outside that system. One lesson I took away from my student experience is that our culture is something we typically don’t see. Like the air we breathe, culture is invisible, but we rely on it, and we only really start to notice it when it’s not there, or when something about it changes. I’ve been thinking about that experience lately, as our college and its STU partners really dig into the work of examining how a particular culture has shaped theological education, both the content

of what we teach and the way we organize ourselves to teach it. In common with so much of the educational sector in Canada, the phrase we use to talk about this is “decolonizing the classroom.” The word “decolonizing” highlights a couple of key elements. First, our educational strategies come to us from somewhere else: primarily England, with a few French and American ingredients thrown in. Second, they represent an effort to impose cultural order on a new place, where there were already people who had their own ways of knowing, doing, and being in the world. This background means that our system of instruction contains a cultural power struggle. We don’t notice it on a day-to-day basis as we teach and learn unless,

of course, we are outsiders to the system. From within, it just looks like we’re doing what educators always do. How else would we do it? That question, “how else,” is the key to unlocking a whole treasure house of new possibilities. To begin with, we can work to create the conditions where people of many cultures are truly welcome on an equal footing in the classroom. This is a matter of justice, but it also brings mutual benefits, as different perspectives add shared light, and new critiques, to our ways of talking about God, the church, and the world. Another part of the process involves working with teachers, places, methods of instruction, and philosophies of learning, that have not been part of “settler” education in the past. This is an aspect of reconciliation, highlighted in the TRC’s Calls to Action 62 through 65, as well as Call to Action 60 directed specifically to theological colleges. As this work unfolds, my hope is that we will be able to identify and

stand apart from cultural assumptions, embedded in our way of learning, which serve no one. Instead, we will pursue a way of learning appropriate to the place where we live, the people with whom we share the land, and our identity as an institution seeking to know God through Christ. The first generations of Christians understood that the gospel was to be shared in every language and culture of the world, with no one standing in a special place of privilege. Their first creed, “Jesus is Lord,” challenged the strength of the Roman Empire and Caesar’s dominating lordship. Instead, Christians turned to a Lord who entered into people’s daily life, loving and serving us where we are. Our Anglican church is learning to wrestle with a history in which we have sometimes served one lord, and sometimes another. We were the church of England, of Empire and Establishment, as well as the church of Jesus and His Good News. I look forward to all the ways the church and our college can share in relearning our history, and our calling.

... Being cautiously charismatic Continued from page 9 heal and release the gifts of Holy Spirit among us. Fourth, repeat. See Luke 18:1-7. Jesus meets us on the level place of our liturgy where we come to hear Him and be fed by Him, to be healed of our diseases, cured of unclean spirits, to touch Him, and for

power to come out from Him and heal us all. In the meantime and in return, we worship the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit with heartfelt gratitude and wonder. This is why we go to church, right? Visit the ARM Canada website at www.armcana-

da.org for a complimentary copy of Taste and See…, our quarterly magazine. Visit and like us on Facebook at www.facebook. com/AnglicanRenewalMinistries. Check our Wind and Fire series out at http://kiwirev.blogspot. com/2021/04/wind-andfire-encounters-with-holy. html.

Grow in Faith

Course Delivery: Two four-day modules, four weeks apart with reading and homework.

• Amazing selection of books • Gifts for baptism, confirmation and more! • Devotional articles • Candles including 100% beeswax • School and church resources

by Rev. Dr. Trish McCarthy from April 5-8 and May 16-19 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., 1:30-3:30 p.m. Hybrid This course is designed for those in the ordained ministry for five years or more with interest in passing on their wisdom and insights to parish interns. Guest speakers will cover some of the technical areas.

Find the resources you need to

• Home decor

The Ministry of Supervision Certificate Course

437 2nd Avenue North Saskatoon, SK S7K 2C1 Local 306.384.1924 Toll Free 1.888.316.8648 info@ucssask.com www.ucssask.com

Pre-Requisite: Five years of half- to full-time ordained ministry or comparable based on consultation with course co-ordinator. This is a third-level STU course and could be applied to a ministry enhancement or a D. Min. program. (306) 370 8378 / trish.mccarthy@saskatoontheologicalunion.ca

The Saskatchewan Anglican

February 2022

A look back at news from northern Saskatchewan By Mary Brown PRINCE ALBERT — Every year around Christmas time the Diocese of Saskatchewan puts together a newsletter. I thought I would do a synopsis of over 20 years of news. This is part 1.

New church

The first issue was dated Advent 1995. The headline reads “New Church Built in Grandmother’s Bay” and described a lovely log building with a wood stove that can accommodate about 100 people. Imagine that! Meanwhile, St. Martin’s Church in Houston, Texas gave US$8,200, which was one-third of their Christmas offering, to fund Archdeacon Ross’s travel for two years. There was also mention of the people in Red Earth fundraising to build a new church. Unlike the 1995 issue, which was cream coloured legal paper with black and white photos the next issue, done in 2003, was in colour and glossy paper. And once again the headline was another new church (the third one in 12 years) to be built at Grandmother’s Bay and paid for by the Lac La Ronge Band. Sharing the front page was a dedication of a new

church in Meadow Lake. The Vacation Bible School that year reached 600 children across the north. It was also the year of Bishop Anthony Burton’s 10th anniversary. The next issue’s headline is of a new church at Ahtahkakoop, and there’s a great picture of Angus Sewap. That year the diocese hired a youth co-ordinator, Capt. Shawn Branch. Canon Danny Umpherville died that year and a letter he had been composing was on his desk. It was a letter to Bishop Burton, reminiscing on his life in the diocese. In 2005 the news shows an ordination picture, one of the ordained being the now Bishop Chris Harper, along with over 20 priests and bishops including Archbishop Mark MacDonald.

A musical prodigy

There was also a picture

and story about Margaret Sanderson (nee Constant) a member of Holy Trinity Church in Prince Albert. In the 1930s she attended the Onion Lake Residential School where she was tutored in music by a sympathetic teacher. She was a musical prodigy. Once a year she went to Lloydminster to be examined by the Royal College of Music. She was proud of her certificates and the principal framed her three certificates and hung them in his office with a promise to send them to her “one day.” The school burned down and the certificates were lost. Margaret’s records were found in a little box in the basement of the conservatory building in Toronto. The bishop returned the certificates to her. She was so happy and thankful. Another ordination the following year was of Wilfred Sanderson of James Smith Reserve. He would be serving as a nonstipendiary deacon. He worked full-time driving the community water truck and I remember him saying, “It will be holy water I’ll be hauling now." That year there was a diocesan youth retreat, St. Michael’s Youth Camp and an evangelism conference that 125 Anglicans

Anglican Diocese of Saskatoon and Other Interested Folks

Safe Church Workshop #1: Nuts and Bolts"

Saturday, February 5, 2022 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. with 45 minute lunch Physical Location: In Saskatoon Internet Access: ZOOM Content: After each of four video viewings, we have some break out groups to discuss the content. Review Material: "Responsible Ministry Position Templates" and letter template summarizing our Safe Church program for Church Facility Users and Renters to read, followed by a form on which the contact person of the group would acknowledge that they have read and understood the Safe Church policy. Ultimately, we encourage you to set aside the time for this crucial workshop designed to help you set up, guide and manage your parish Safe Church program! Please contact Rev. Dr. Trish McCarthy to Register: tmccarthy@sasktel.net / 306 370 8378

from across the diocese attended.

First convocation

In 2007 the James Settee College held its first convocation on the 10th anniversary of its founding. First level certificates were awarded to 16 students with the advanced certificate for the second level of studies given to Mary Ballantyne and Adam Halkett. The Rev. Ivan Stonestand and Rev. Geoffrey Hopper died that year. Sixty-three young people were confirmed at Stanley Mission. The new church in Ahtahkakoop First Nation, the Church of St Simeon and St. Anna, was consecrated to God’s glory and in memory of Chief John Ahtahkakoop (1816-1896), who was responsible for seeking out a missionary for the community. Bishop Burton left the diocese in 2008 for the Church of the Incarnation in Dallas, Texas. It was also the year Bishop Arthurson retired at age 71. Wilfred Sanderson was ordained to the priesthood as were Steven and Julie Golding Page.

A new bishop

On March 6, 2009, Dean Michael Hawkins was consecrated as the 12th bishop of the diocese. He was elected as bishop by an overwhelming majority on the first ballot. In July he attended the official sod turning for a new church in Red Earth. Furnishings were donated all the way from Meota courtesy of Ed Conacher from Mervin. Sadly

Archdeacon Percy Ross died on May 15 that year. Mamuwe isi Miywachimown, Together in the Gospel, was the title adopted by the Indigenous Council Working Group as the basis for their work. Four married couples went to Wycliffe College in Toronto in 2010 for a month of classes through the James Settee College. It was quite an experience for them. On May 30 a new church was consecrated at Red Earth. More ordinations took place in 2011 with five new deacons and one new priest. Thirty children and adults were baptized in the gym at Big River First Nation. Eight years before, their church was burned by arson. Construction of a new church was completed and they will furnish the new building to be ready to be consecrated. VBS continues every summer. Also, the diocese continues to license lay readers (100). The diocese made history the following year by electing its first diocesan indigenous bishop, Adam Halkett, on July 28, 2012. He commented at his election that it was wonderful to see the vision of the elders fulfilled. The healing journey with the elders, the youths and the whole church continues mauwe. On Oct. 12 he was consecrated as Bishop of Missinipi with more than 250 people gathered at the Senator Allen Bird Gym. Eliza Sewap and Clyne Harradence died in 2012. Meanwhile, Christ Church in Big River was consecrated.

DIOCESE OF SASKATOON

Classes being offered for Saskatoon's ministry prep program SASKATOON — The Diocese of Saskatoon’s School of Discipleship “Ministry Preparation” Program is a part-time three-year Licentiate. The following class is being offered this winter: Ethics I and II held by ZOOM and in-person on Friday, March 4, from 7 – 9 p.m. and Saturday, March 5 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and

Friday, May 13, from 7 – 9 p.m. and Saturday, May 14 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. If you have any questions or want to register, contact the School of Discipleship coordinator: Rev. Dr Trish McCarthy: tmccarthy@ sasktel.net / 306 370 8378. Or snail mail c/o School of Discipleship: 1403 – 9th Ave. N. Saskatoon, S7K 2Z6.