Ref book 2013 wip2

Passages

Finding the Still Point MUSIC FOR HEALING Vancouver Chamber Choir

Jon Washburn, conductor

Performers and Credits VANCOUVER CHAMBER CHOIR. Jon Washburn, conductor Sopranos Caitlin Bradley, Jemmy Chen, Emily Cheung, Natasha Neufeld, Lorraine Reinhardt Altos Fiona Blackburn, Magali Coustalin, Laverne G’froerer, Violet Goosen, Marla Mayson Tenors Gordon Crozier, Dean Edmundson, Tom Ellis, Thom Geise, Craig Tompkins Basses Peter Alexander, Cameron Haney, Paul Nash, Sorin Tepes, William Vermeulen Heidi Krutzen, harp

Bryn Nixon, organ

BOREALIS STRING QUARTET Patricia Shih, violin Yul Yawney, violin

Nikita Pogrebnoy, viola

Ariel Barnes, cello

CREDITS Executive Producers Laverne G’froerer, Violet Goosen, Jon Washburn Recording Producer & Engineer Grant Rowledge Musical and Digital Editing Grant Rowledge, Don Harder, Jon Washburn Musical Supervision Jon Washburn Booklet Editing Ian Irvine, Laverne G’froerer, Jon Washburn Graphic Design and Typesetting Ian Irvine, Corporate Graphics, Vancouver Cover Photo Shelley Chidlow Recorded May 26, 29, 31 and June 7, 2006 at Ryerson United Church, Vancouver, British Columbia.

Made in Canada. All rights reserved.

The Vancouver Chamber Choir is one of Canada’s national treasures, an outstanding professional vocal ensemble noted for its diverse repertoire and performing excellence. The Choir has been performing to audiences at home in Vancouver and on tour across Canada since it was formed in 1971 by conductor Jon Washburn. International excursions have taken the Vancouver Chamber Choir to China, Hong Kong, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Finland, USA, Japan, Korea, France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Taiwan and Mexico. Honoured with the Margaret Hillis Award for Choral Excellence by Chorus America, the Vancouver Chamber Choir has countless performances, 30 recordings, hundreds of radio broadcasts and many awards to its credit.

Recognized by the Canadian League of Composers as foremost supporters of Canadian music, Jon Washburn and the Choir have commissioned and premiered over 200 new Canadian choral compositions. They have sung nearly 3000 performances of 350 pieces by 120 Canadian composers - in addition to their extensive international repertoire. The Choir’s award-winning educational programmes include the National Conductors’ Symposium for advanced choral conductors, Interplay interactive workshops for choral composers, Focus! professional development programme for college and university singers, OnSite visitations for school choirs and the biennial Young Composers’ Competition.

Page 2

Passages

Life holds many different passages that we are called to travel. All streams – all passages are possible, more wonder-full and more easily negotiated with the support of family and friends, church, mosque, temple – our personal circle of loving community.

In this project we choose to honour, to celebrate, to walk with each other through the difficult times as well as the joyous ones. We acknowledge life’s passages.

Thank you for travelling this one with us and bringing Marwa ‘home’.

May your own passages offer refuge and grace.

Friends from Winnipeg’s Knox United Young Peoples’ Union 50 yrs later … Ian Parker, Lorraine Irvine, Heather and Ian Macdonald and Laverne G’froerer.

Page 3

Translations Ubi caritas Where charity and love are, there is God. We are assembled in the love of the one Christ. We rejoice and take delight in that fact. We fear and love the living God, and in our hearts we love with purity.

Lux aeterna May eternal light shine on them, O Lord. With thy saints forever, for thou art merciful.

Eternal rest grant to them, O Lord: and let perpetual light shine upon them.

Aftonen Still are the woods, radiant the heavens. Dim distant horns fill the air with their echo. The sunset is glowing, slowly disappearing beneath the sea. Through the mountains and the valleys, lingering, the echoes sound. (Herman Sätherberg) In paradisum God's holy angels lead you to paradise: may saints in their glory receive you at your journey's end, guiding your footsteps into the Holy City Jerusalem. Choirs of the angels sing you to rest: and with Lazarus raised to eternal life, may you for evermore rest in peace.

Waldesnacht Darkness of the woods, wondrous cool, I greet thee a thousandfold; after the world's noisy turmoil, oh how sweet is thy rustling! Dreamily I rest my weary limbs in the soft moss, and it is as if I were freed from all my doubts and fears. In thy secret, close confines you will recover, turbulent heart; and peace floats downwards on lightly beating wings. Tender birdsongs, sing me to gentle sleep! Doubts and fears begone; restless heart, good night!

Cantique de Jean Racine O divine Word above, our hope and consolation, Eternal Light of the heavens and the earth: the peaceful night is past; our voices greet the morning: look down, O Lord, and hear thy people’s prayer! Inspire us, Lord, we pray, with power of thy Spirit, that hell may flee before thy mighty word. From slumber waken us, our weary soul reviving, that we may never forget thy laws! Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on thy congregation now gathered here in the sight of thy throne; receive the hymns they offer to thy eternal glory: renewed by the gifts may they go forth in peace! Word of God, one with the Most High, in whom alone we have our hope, Everlasting Light of heaven and earth, we break the silence of the peaceful night; Saviour divine, cast thine eyes upon us! Pour on us the fire of thy mighty grace, that all hell may flee at the sound of thy voice: banish the slumber of a weary soul, that brings forgetfulness of thy laws! O Christ, look with favour upon thy faithful people now gathered here to praise thee; receive their hymns offered to thy endless glory; May they go forth filled with thy gifts! (Jean Racine) Ave Maria Hail, Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Thou art blessed among women and blessed is Jesus, the fruit of thy womb. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and in the hour of our death. Amen.

Bogoroditse Devo Rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos, Mary full of grace, the Lord is with Thee. Blessed art Thou among women, and blessed is the Fruit of Thy womb, for Thou hast borne the Saviour of our souls.

Page 4

Locus iste This place was made by God, a priceless mystery, it is without reproof.

O sacrum convivium! O sacred communion! In which the body of Christ is consumed: the memory of His passion is renewed, the mind is filled with grace. O sacred communion! In which the body of Christ is consumed: the mind is filled with grace: and a pledge is given us of the glory to come.

Alleluia.

Ave verum corpus Hail true body, born of the Virgin Mary, who has truly suffered, was sacrificed on the cross for mortals, whose side was pierced, whence flowed water and blood: be for us a foretaste (of heaven) during our final examining. O Jesu sweet, O Jesu pure, O Jesu, Son of Mary, have mercy upon me. Amen.

Bist du bei mir If you are with me, then I will gladly go to my death and to my rest. Ah, how satisfying will my end be, for your dear, fair hands will shut my faithful eyes!

Kyrie eleison Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us.

Sanctus Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are filled with Thy glory. Hosanna in the highest.

On suuri sun rantas autius Thy shore is wide and desolate, I ever long to be there: to hear the call of the wild duck through the rushes in the deep of night. It is some lost and lonely soul, weeping for the cold, wandering among the rushes, not finding its mother. I have watched thy grey waters with many a tear; my young life did weep its first sorrow on thy shore. Thy image is deeply engraved within me, and I ever long to be by thy side: I have listened to the call of the wild duck in many a dark night.

Elegische Gesang Gently as you lived your life, gently it has ended, too holy for pain! No eye is weeping for your heavenly spirit has returned home.

Agnus Dei Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world, have mercy on us... grant us peace.

Page 5

Music for Healing - the Series

The Vancouver Chamber Choir has broken new ground with Music for Healing, a series of three discs designed to accompany people facing serious life challenges. It has been funded entirely through generous donations by individuals and organizations who are offering an important, ongoing gift to the therapeutic process in their communities.

The first CD, Finding the Still Point, was created for use with alternative therapies and to accompany those facing their mortality. The repertoire chosen is serene, sung in many languages and shaped by the interspersing of Gregorian chant. It has been an unprecedented success, for many find in it a window to inner stillness. One doctor wrote, "I continue to listen to Still Point – it is a gift of the soul to my soul." A family wrote, "The music made that hospital room a sacred space."

The family set of the second CD, Unexpected Gifts, intersperses seven segments of dialogue with beautiful folk songs. Our intention is to support families going through the loss or serious illness of a child. It also can be a catalyst for reopening lines of family communication and intimacy - providing a safe “permissionto- talk� time when anything can be brought to the table. The commitment of the Choir and its supporters is to donate this family set to healthcare professionals dealing with families in crisis.

And now we are excited to introduce A Quiet Place, the third in the series. Our intention with this CD is to honour the lives of wonderful people who struggle daily with debilitating illness and also the circle of family and friends who walk with them. The music has been chosen to provide an island of peace amidst the many challenges they face, acknowledging difficulties, but evoking a spirit of trust and healing. It is our way of saying, through music, "You do not stand alone."

Page 6

Bringing Marwa Home

“Marwa” - is a young woman, who like her mother and grandmother before her had to flee for her life.

Marwa - Iraqi born, is trapped in the chaos of Damascus, Syria. She can’t seek safety in a neighbouring country because she has no travel documents. Marwa is both a refugee and stateless because of her Palestinian heritage.

For me, Marwa embodies my hope of safety and peace for all refugees; my dream of justice - a homeland that recognizes them with citizenship - for all stateless people; my belief in the future of a diverse and dynamic Canada.

Marwa is youth, beauty, strength and courage - she is also beloved.

Marwa is the fiancée of Wissam, my friend and ‘adopted’ grandson.

Thank you for helping us bring her home.

Heather Macdonald

Donors: Allan Stewart, Lloyd Axworthy, Tom Axworthy, Trevor Axworthy, Gloria McArter, SBUC Women, Barb/Ken Tunnicliffe, Common Cup Company, Innes & Co., Roger Nickel, Marie Boyce Brian/ Laverne Gfroerer, Shawna Bedard, M.A. Cadegan, Lee Drake, Dorothy Gfroerer, Sarah Best, Rick Poliquin, Heather Macdonald, Val Innes, Howard/Pat Elliott, Avis Elliott, Ian Parker, Russ/Lee Anthony, Martha Lou Henley, Phyllis Bottomer, Bob/Joan Burrows, E.A.Gallant, Highlands United Church, Judy/David Brear, Greg Kennelly, Russell/Bev Thacker, Julie Alava, Anne McCannel, Ken Martin, Lillian Peterson, G.Jacques, Donna Dawson, Bill/Kay Cumming, Marie Stevens, Janet Woron, Shannon Baird, Neil Assmus, Alison deHaan, Scott Montgomery, Jim Revill, Agnes/Renzo Pieracci, Spirit Singers of Highlands United, Ruth Heine, Joan Sturdy, Scott/Kathy McDonald, Joanne Chambers, David Holehouse, Peggy Wyatt, Morgan Wilks , Jackie Henry, Gordon Light, Doug Smart, Brian Campbell, Rajesh Prasad, Margaret Turner, Mt. Seymour United, Lynn Valley United, St. David’s United, Mary Rutherford, Joan/Ernie Baird, John Baird, Frances Reid, Randolph Bruce, Doreen Lamb, West Vancouver United, June David, North Lonsdale United, St. Agnes Anglican, St. Catherine’s Anglican, St. Clement’s Anglican, Stan/Gladys McBride, Bev/Bill Shippam, Mark/Tammi Kitching, Elizabeth McVicar, Lorraine Irvine, Norman/Marilyn McCutcheon, Sheila Ramsay, Joan Guthrie, Lesley/Mark Tourigny

Page 7

Honouring Heather Macdonald MARIANNA HARRIS AND LORRAINE IRVINE

For many years Heather has worked on refugee issues – for the Canadian government and for the United Church of Canada. When budget cuts eliminated her position, she continued this work as a volunteer. In 2009 she worked with several B.C. churches to bring 50 Palestinian refugees to Canada. Their families had been dispossessed from Palestine in 1948 to Iraq. The war in Iraq brought more persecution and they fled to Al Hol refugee camp in the desert of Syria.

In 2011-12, through a network effort which kept growing, another 15 families from Al Hol were sponsored. Many United Churches responded. Heather becomes personally involved with the families. She is particularly attached to one family. She is awaiting the imminent arrival from Syria of the fiancée of a young man whom she has “adopted”. Passion. Persistence. Expertise.

Encouragement . These are the hallmarks of Heather’s commitment to helping the dispossessed, and through helping them making Canada a better place.

- Marianna Harris I am sure Heather’s refugee families wonder if all Canadians are as persistant, opinionated and loving as Heather. I am equally sure that they realize after a short time that she is unique.

HEATHER, IAN and LORRAINE

Heather has been a life- long friend, and a loving enigma. She approaches life with a strong creative energy, and pulls those around her into the wake of that energy. She is always there to listen, encourage and to provide the occasional push as needed

In a recent speech, she asked her audience to consider why they should help refugee families; her answer was simple-. “We should help, because we can”. I think that might be close to her philosophy of life, whether it applies to contributing to the girl guides collecting outside the grocery store, helping a friend or family member in need, or helping a refugee find a new home. She will do all she can, and encourage others to recognize what they can do.

The energy and passion she expresses for life, in her own unique and generous way, makes my life and the lives of many others fuller and more complete.

- Lorraine Irvine

Page 8

Honouring David Stefanovic LORRAINE IRVINE AND HEATHER MACDONALD

David was a man who could walk on water my guide to the crossing of the Port Moody mud flats. No saint he who hovered above life, but a stubborn and kind man willing to get his feet muddy. He would try anything; he was determined to succeed. His life bore that out.

As a young man, David fled his homeland of Yugoslavia for the refugee camps of Austria.

He arrived in Canada with $4.00 in his pocket and headed west for work on farm and forest. His first years were hard but he had the skill and the determination to thrive.

David was a hunter gatherer – trips into the wilderness to bring home the elusive moose and trips to the orchards to bring home stores for the long hard winter. I think they were both really an excuse to get out into the great outdoors. He loved to be in a forest, on a hiking trail or exploring a beach in Mexico or Cuba.

He was a builder and a fixer: Sometimes big projects like houses and ravine banks. Sometimes he’d just focus on cutting a key to fix a lock that he may or may not ever use. He often shared his knowledge and skills to help a friend, neighbor or family member plan or finish their project.

He was a collector. He recognized the value in restoring and using things until they were done being what they were, and then he would try to think of how else they might be used, the original recycler.

Sometimes, the collecting got a little ahead of the fixing, but as he would say – it was all “good stuff”.

Many of us learned to ask David for something we needed to complete our own projects. He was generous about sharing his collection of “good stuff”.

He was a philosopher. He always had a unique perspective to offer. When you were sure there was only one real way to look at an issue, or problem, he would offer you another.

He was a father and grandfather. His children and their children were central to his being. He loved them all dearly and considered them the most important contribution he made during his life.

He was the love of Lorraine’s life - her partner and best friend for 33 years; father of her child.

He was/ is beloved; he is David.

Page 9

Tribute to Mom and Dad

Do you know about our father?

Teaching us to love each other He finds the words for every story Beams with laughter, sings the glory Do you know about our mother?

Asking us to help each other She carries hope, to mosque, to steeple She changes lives, she rescues people Do you know Ian and Heather Macdonald? Their way through the world has touched and continues to touch many peoples’ lives. Maybe you know them. You’d know then that these words can only hint at the incredible people they are, and how much more praise they deserve.

If you were to drop in on Heather on any given day over the last 4 decades, there would be some things you could be sure of. Mom would be doing laundry, there would be a repainting or renovating project on her mind, and she would also be working hard to help people in need.

Quirky in her humour, careful in her counsel, “radical” in her sense of justice, our mother has dedicated much of her life to helping refugees. She has worked to raise peoples’ awareness and bring the attention of government to the plight of refugees, and has long spoken for a more open and welcoming Canada. She has taken young Canadians to experience first-hand the conditions in refugee camps in Africa. She has grown cross-cultural networks of people willing to sponsor refugees. She has rescued families fleeing war and brought them to safety. She’s been the welcome at the airport, and been friend and support as they resettle and readjust in their strange new country. She has been and is an inspiration.

Similarly, if you were to drop in on Ian on a random day in the last 40+ years, you could also be sure of a few things. You would receive a boisterous welcome and be made comfortable, and he’d be working on a new song.

If you were lucky, you’d get to hear it.

“Loving” Portaits from the Mcdonalds Page 10

The boys write about their parents

Our father is very good at welcoming and putting people at ease, he’s done it professionally. Wellcast as a spiritual leader, he found the words for celebrations and memorials, protests and peace marches and led the conversation each Sunday. Always a song in his head, he has used music and drama to push the positives and possibilities, and inspired dreaming and action. He formed a band with three other Ministers called the Common Cup Company. For many years now, they have performed and recorded songs about the wonder of life, about love, and about speaking truth to power. Some of these are now in the hymnbook. Our father’s creativity has occasionally led people to ask his children what it was like to grow up with him. He told wildly inventive bedtime stories. He wrote and sang funny songs. To use a favourite word of his: it was wonderful.

This publication marks another moment in time. There are some changes: some new joys, some fresh sorrows. We’ve a new cousin; we’ve lost our Grampa. There are also some new challenges.

Our father is brave in the face of deteriorating health, with the grace to accept the future and the wisdom to know that that there are still joys ahead, people to help, songs to write. And there are some constants. A concert held in a United Church on June 29th 2013 featured Ian Macdonald and members of the Common Cup. Heather Macdonald spoke about why and how we can help refugees.

The funds raised (together with the funds from this publication) will support the sponsorship of Marwa, stranded for the last two years in Syria, and the fiancée of Wessam Nassar, whose family our parents also sponsored to Canada. We expect her arrival in September.

Mom! Dad! Congratulations on sponsoring Marwa. What a story you’ve written! We know you won’t look at this very often, but whenever you do, know that you are a force for good in the world and that your sons are still learning from you, are proud of you, and love you always.

Dear Reader, we hope we’ve given you a small glimpse into our family.

Drop by the Macdonald house. Our father will give you a warm welcome.

Our mother will be doing laundry and saving people.

Jamie, Rory and Derek Macdonald

Living proof that life is meant for

enjoyment Page 11

Common Cup dedication to Ian Macdonald

In thanksgiving for the songs and for the many occasions to share in music-making together, In thanksgiving for opportunity to share in ministries of justice and compassion, In thanksgiving for travels together from Vancouver Island to Atlantic Canada, In thanksgiving for years of foolishness and general hilarity, In thanksgiving for God’s grace in the midst of tears and shared sorrows, We join in dedicating this page to Ian.

Ian, you have been the heart of Common Cup and the spark that has kept us going. You have called forth the best from us, dreamed dreams that we had barely imagined, opened doors we didn’t know were there, captivated hearts with your vitality and vulnerability.

During concerts, your glasses are likely lost in your hair, your capo is often on the wrong fret and your music is rarely in order – often falling from your music-stand to paper the floor around your feet.

A happy chaos usually fills the air when you are present, but it always generates laughter, joy and creativity. We bless God for all of this.

We delight to share in this project that lends heart and hand to Marwa as you and Heather work to support her. And we delight in our ongoing friendship.

God bless the river of your soul, flowing from love’s own deep sources Go be broken, go be whole!

God bless the river of your soul.

From “God Bless the Earth Beneath your Feet”, Ian Macdonald, June 2010 Every blessing, Bob, Gord, Lloyd, Richard and Scott

Page 12

In Honour of David Kimpton - BORN 1931

David has been a conscientious, hard-working volunteer in numerous organizations in the greater Vancouver area for more than 50 years.

Since retiring in 1988 after 34 years as a respected and well-loved Social Worker, he has been a fulltime volunteer with many church and community groups. His time has been given unstintingly to organizations which are working to improve the quality of life for people in our communities – whether residents of the Downtown Eastside through “The Dugout” and First United Church, young people at Camp Fircom, fellow parishioners in St. Albans Anglican Church, tennis and golf friends, or seniors supported through the Health and Home Care Society of B.C. David is trusted and respected by everyone with whom he is involved. He is sensitive to people of all races and cultures, and patient with those who are struggling in any way. He has amazing commitment and resilience, carrying on with causes he believes in throughout inevitable changes and disruptions. He is a good listener, works exceptionally well with others who have quite different backgrounds and perspectives and is a gracious host of public events, treating everyone with dignity and respect. He is also a cherished friend to many.

We honour this true gentleman and his lifetime of community service.

Submitted by friends Joan and Bob Burrows, and Lesley and Mark Tourigny

Page 13

A Tribute to Rev. Kenneth Ian Macdonald MINISTER OF SOUTH BURNABY UNITED CHURCH 1995-2011 ….WITH LOVE AND APPRECIATION

18 years ago… a minister with no dog collar, a beard and a guitar???…sons in a Rock Band??? …oh my!…and so Ian arrived…and soon after Heather….then Jamie, Rory and Derek….

Ian, you quickly endeared yourself, doing the unexpected: offering your beard to be shaved off and your face as a target for cream pies, all for a fundraiser. From blessing pets ( even a horse ), to donning the back end of a donkey costume, you were very much a part of our community…one of us… full of enthusiasm, humility and joy. Here is a collective memory of your ministry with us…...

A truly compassionate pastor, of exceptional and sound theology, he lived his faith from the heart. While walking side by side with all he met, he shared his love of God inclusively.

Ian enhanced worship through his ability to see the presence of God in everyday circumstances, and his knack of communicating this through his storytelling. When he preached he could often blind-side you, get you to see things from a totally new perspective, with a deeper, more spiritual outlook. He brought us closer to God and one another through his gift of laughter.

Ian’s creativity, insight, people skills and perceptive theology guided our study groups. He balanced his serious passion of the message with a light touch of humour to create a comfortable learning experience. He could keep “the heart of the story” beating.

Ian, with his big, kind heart, felt like part of everyone’s family…..sometimes the crazy uncle, sometimes the wise elder, always the caring brother. He naturally gravitated to our children and included them in every aspect of church life. Families mattered to Ian. His passion for outreach was evident in Ecumenical and Interfaith gatherings, on poverty and homeless committees, in refugee sponsorship, in reaching out to our First Nations neighbours, at L’Arche, St. Michael`s Center and Fairhaven Homes. Ian`s presence always made a difference !

Minister, mentor, friend…. for the young people of South Burnaby United, Ian has been an influential and beloved figure. Through music, prayer, ritual, and many a shared experience, Ian has facilitated the spiritual and personal development of youth and young adults. Ian is a source of wisdom, and a fountain of silliness. He has always included and respected the youth of the church, recognizing that we have important contributions to our church and global communities. We have countless fond memories of Ian, from Sunday services and special events, to creative and musical experiences, retreats and social gatherings, and personal chats. Ian is young at heart, and he is in the hearts of the young!

Page 14

Presbytery was uplifted when Ian created and chaired the Vision Committee. He brought life and joy to our meetings, discernment to our processes and creative thinking to our planning. We thought ``outside the lines`` and many of Ian`s risky ideas are now being implemented across Canada.

As pastor, friend and team partner, you found in me tiny seeds of leadership that you nurtured and brought to life…we made a complete team. In weekly struggles to find perfect worship words, in risky adventures taking 30 youth to Cuba, and in spirit filled meetings around tables, you embodied the grace of God and love of Christ. There is no better gift! Thank you, from your sidekick Barb.

Celtic Roots, Prairie shoots, Compassionate heart, right from the start, Insightful preacher, engaging teacher, Bold musician, word magician, Inspiring leader, avid reader, Talented songster, forever youngster, Story teller, regular ``feller``, Humour to spare, playwright extraordinaire, Visionary risk-taker, messy desk maker, Gifted poet, don`t we know it, Creative writer, injustice fighter, Faith sustainer, entertainer, One of a kind, our lucky find, Like water from rock, you tended this flock, Like a river runs deep, these memories we`ll keep.

Page 15

Honouring Joan Bunting Ferguson - PHYLLIS FERGUSON BOTTOMER

Happy 90th birthday Mum! Joan Bunting Ferguson, having lived her life in small towns and villages, has always been an active volunteer in the communities in which she has lived in rural Manitoba.

Over the years she has served as an Explorer leader, taught crafts to 4-H members and spent many social hours preparing and serving food at the local rinks and churches. One of the volunteer commitments she most cherishes, however, was serving on the Refugee Committee at St. Paul's United Church, Boissevain in the late seventies when they sponsored the father and four teenagers of the Nguyen family.

As a retired teacher, she spent several afternoons a week helping the two youngest boys learn English.

Even though the family have all long ago moved to urban areas, the bonds she formed with them have been long-lasting as she was honoured to be invited to family weddings and still exchanges Christmas cards with the only daughter, Chinh.

As she celebrates her 90th birthday on July 22, 2013, our Mum continues to volunteer in a variety of ways. She assists the residents of the local seniors care facility at their weekly Bingo games and serves on the phoning committee for St. Paul's where she also crochets a small white stole for each baby brought for baptism.

Years ago she told me that one of her favourite hymns is The Servant Song. She has indeed tried to the best of her ability to personify the words "we are here to help each other walk the mile and bear the load."

Page 16

Betty Kerr - WRITTEN BY CHRIS ROBERTSON

Every Sunday I would see her as she came to sing in the choir.

For years I did not even know her name. Who was this feisty lady? Over time she aged and gradually became dependent on a cane, but still she showed up at choir practice and told me her goal was to sing in the choir when she was 100! I started to comprehend just how feisty she was!

What a fascinating life she had! She had been licensed to fly small planes since the 1940s and had flown commercially as well as privately over 40 plus years. Once grounded, wheels took her attention and she and her husband cycled in many countries with the highlight being a cycling trip through Switzerland. Soaring through the skies was replaced by flying down the slopes of the mountain roads!

Her lifelong love of music, a gift in her genes, began at the age of seven with piano lessons. She went on to play both piano and organ at home and for various churches. She was an ardent supporter of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, attending concerts regularly until a month before she died. CBC radio was a constant part of her home life.

As her vision failed and her legs became weaker, Betty continued to participate in the choir, memorizing the words of the songs and playing the music by ear on her piano. Sadly, a heart attack signaled the beginning of the end for Betty and she spent the last month of her life in the hospital.

When I visited her I was greeted with such a wonderful smile as she snuggled into the beloved prayer shawl provided by a group at the church.

Shortly after she was moved to the palliative ward I felt compelled to visit her there after church one Sunday. I found her alone in a room with an amazing view of the mountains she had loved to soar over years earlier. As I sat with her I calmed her by telling her about the view and humming the tunes of some of our choir songs. Eventually it became evident that her life was drawing to a close.

I left her with her family gathered around her, driving home with a sense of great privilege and the feeling that Betty’s spirit would soon be soaring to heights unknown as she joined her husband beyond the blue horizon.

Page 17

Honouring Ian Macdonald “ THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST ALWAYS SHINING THROUGH”

The music ministry band Tapestry, along with many of their support team / friends, have a long history with Ian and the Common Cup Company. In the mid 90’s a group from St. Thomas Anglican Church, Sherwood Park, Alberta took a course presented by the CCC at Sorrento Centre where they learned various new songs and ways of dramatization. Yes, Ian had a hand in helping them embrace their inner child and be silly – even in church!

In the late 90’s during a music festival and another course at Sorrento the bonds were strengthened when the CCC borrowed and later purchased for the price of $1.69 (still kept in the original plastic baggie as presented) Tapestry’s drummer Scott McDonald. Clearly the CCC took off for even greater heights of fame and fortune soon after and Tapestry is always pleased to take partial credit!

Many more encounters of hosting the CCC in the diocese of Edmonton for concerts and workshops and more summer weeks at Sorrento kept them all in touch. Tapestry has used many songs of Ian’s and the CCC over the years at the worship services at St. Thomas and various other parishes and venues in the Edmonton area, finding deep joy in sharing the words and music of so many meaningful pieces. We have laughed and cried our way through some of the musicals that Ian has had a hand in producing and they have touched many parishioners of all ages.

Page 18

Ruth Heine, long time music director of Tapestry has been able to tag along over the years on some of the CCC trips and be part of the conferences, worship and the fun that only Ian and the CCC can provide. Ian has stayed at the Heine house on occasion while passing through Edmonton and Ruth has great memories of songs like Get Counting being worked out at her kitchen table while being written. The song Deep Peace was finished on the sanctuary steps of St. Thomas before a concert with Ruth helping work out some of the chording and that song has been a special and calming part of her spiritual journey.

Tapestry

Ian’s love of melody, words, God and people, along with his great soaring imagination and distinct personality has led him to create music and story that has touched others beyond what he will ever really know. Ian is a dedicated friend and fellow musician who has inspired and encouraged many of us to be who we are and to follow our dreams of music and the arts and our passion for spreading the Gospel. We feel privileged to be able to help support the refugee project of bringing Marwa home, and Ian and his family as they support her.

We send our love and our prayers and our gratitude for Ian’s friendship and ministry.

On behalf of Tapestry and friends, Ruth Heine

Page 19

Brendan Patrick Higgins AUGUST 7, 1928 - APRIL 12, 2013

Dad had several names in his life of 84 years: Brendan, Bren, Dad and Pops. His mischievous grin and knowing look betrayed his intelligence and wit.

He was an original character.

Dad grew up during WW II in England. He had exciting adventures dodging the Home Guard, building tree houses and sailing a raft on a duck pond.

One of his close friends will never forget Bren’s happy smiling face, particularly when he and another ‘musketeer’ fell off the raft into the pond one day.

Dad’s laughter was at its heartiest when others were in a pickle.

As a family man, Dad was devoted to his daughters in his inimitable way. He was proud, loving and caring.

His protective nature was evident one evening when there was an incident on a tugboat at Lund Marina in the late sixties. We girls were sleeping below deck and Mom and Dad were nearby on the dock partaking of wine when a deafening noise erupted from the boat. Someone was using a generator to save a sinking boat right beside the sleeping girls. Dad rushed to the tugboat hurling expletives at the offending sailors in an attempt to save his three little girls!

We were lucky to have a father who comforted us in times of distress. We were lucky to have a father who was so proud of us. Although we had some very unlucky times in our family, we were very lucky to have him as our father. Monica Higgins --------------------------------------------------Brendan was the patriarch of a number of long time accountant friends that felt like a family. After tax time we would all meet at the pub to enjoy his hilarious sense of Irish humour – or head to the golf course for 9 holes of embarrassing drives. Those who worked for him found him a delightful mentor, and his clients of 30 – 40 years thought the world of him. It was a mutual caring, as his motivation was never around ‘making money’ but rather about helping them through their challenging times.

Brendan was one of a group of four rebels that stood in support of a colleague when challenged by the ICABC. His principles were strong and he lived by them.

A music lover with a wide spectrum of musical tastes, his face radiated joy when listening. He was a multi-faceted and lovely man. Allan Innes, Marie Boyce, Shawna Bedard, Roger Nickel, Laverne G’froerer Page 20

Honouring Laura Wells

Corvus corax principalis The tips of Sword ferns bounce as their fronds dip into the glistening stream. The seasons of summer, autumn, and winter have passed as I’ve hiked the stream’s edges daily with a singular purpose.

The curled leader of the Western Hemlock receives our majestic Raven. She teeters precariously on this vantage point to survey the wood’s expanse. Her voice is strong, clear, and guttural. Her abdominal feathers are tinged with royal purple.

Corvus corax principalis is a grand name for this distinct bird. Her call regularly heard at seven a.m., consistent with my hikes. I look at the Raven and draw a parallel between my isolation with breast cancer and this solitary bird. She musters up her energy to tackle the elements each day as I muster up my energy to tackle the side effects of strong toxins. She is as persistent with her call as she is loud in expressing herself. She is teaching me to know my principles, to sing them loudly with determination, and in the process I will be transformed. Yes, transformed from congested, curled-up, stagnated old energy to a free flowing force with vibrant potential.

As we move into the spring season I predict her call will be answered, as I know mine will be. She has accompanied me for almost a full year. She will not abandon me yet. She is the driving force that fills me with excitement and anticipation.

Corvus corax principalis is the leading overseer of my spirit.

Laura Wells

Page 21

Celebrating 34 Years of Welcoming Refugees:

Highlands United Church celebrates the many individuals and families who have found new homes, new lives and new friends in Canada as part of our direct or collective sponsorship.

Over the years, you, our new friends from North & South Vietnam, Ethiopia, El Salvador, Afghanistan, Laos, Iraq, Bosnia, Guatemala, Bulgaria, Croatia, Colombia, and Syria have brought a unique cultural richness into our lives.

Page 22

Highlands United Church

We’ve applauded as you’ve settled into our communities, raised your children and worked in many different jobs --carpentry, pharmacy, dry cleaning, paper delivery, restaurant, laboratory, cleaning, construction, grocery, daycare and retail.

There will always be a special place for you in our hearts

Page 23

Highlands United Church – A RICHNESS OF REFUGEE SPONSORSHIP SINCE 1979

In the summer of 1979, with televised images of Vietnamese boat people fixed in their hearts and minds, Highlands United Church congregation decided to sponsor a refugee family. And so began the first of more than 65 individuals to be welcomed to a new life in Canada through direct sponsorship or joint assistance by Highlands, thanks to the dedicated support of – Jean Gabrielse, who chaired the Highlands Refugee Committee for over three decades and led the team from the first sponsorship application to fundraising, finding housing, furniture, clothing and other resources as they settled each family. She was also instrumental in engaging other churches to participate in joint sponsorship opportunities. Jean says the most special part for her has been the wonderful relationships developed over the years with people of such rich cultural diversity.

Mirv Harper, who from the very beginning took action with his trademark hands-on approach. Mirv was there to welcome families at the airport, help them find their first jobs and even drove one couple to the hospital for a Christmas Eve baby delivery! Mirv and his wife, Ginny, opened their hearts to help smooth the transition to new lives in Canada.

Irene Strong, who has been a constant supporter and resource person due to her extensive background teaching ESL and daily contact with newcomers from different countries. Irene brought an understanding of the cultural issues, needs and challenges that refugee families experienced as they settled in their new communities.

Marilyn & Dave Shanks, who served for many years, helping with everything from getting contributions for fundraising events to driving refugees to dental appointments or a job site. Just taking the time to chat with newcomers of all ages was often the best way they could help them feel welcome and comfortable.

Page 24

Laughing Towards Bethlehem THE JOY OF IAN MACDONALD

The religious temperament is routinely negatively portrayed in our popular culture as self-serving (Elmer Gantry), hypocritical (Canterbury Tales), repressed (Carrie) or even sinister (The Da Vinci Code). Reading St. Augustine or Tertullian does little to dispel this impression.

Thank God, then, for the ministry of Ian Macdonald, whose life is a testament to the joy of belief. I first met Ian in United College, where he, Ian Parker, and Bob Haverluck entertained the incoming class of 1964 with an impromptu evening of skits, satire, and song: their material comforted the afflicted, and afflicted the comfortable. Amazingly enough, thanks to students like Ian and professors like Carl Ridd, theology became, for a brief time, United College’s “cool” discipline. The Macdonalds’, father Donald Bruce, long at Knox United, and Ian’s siblings, Jim and Cathy, were a family so exuberant that at the dinner table (to which I was lucky enough to be invited) Ian was sometimes the least voluble – a description his future congregations would find hard to believe! Ian, of course, went on to serve churches in Cartwright, Manitoba and at Augustine, Westworth, and Norwood United (all in Winnipeg) and South Burnaby United in British Columbia.

As a long-time member of the Winnipeg community, he conducted the service at the weddings of my brothers, Lloyd and Bob, christened my nephew Stephen and niece Jane, and led a memorial service for our mother, Gwen, at Victoria Beach. In all these events, Ian provided solace at sad occasions by sparking memories of better times or qualities and wisdom at happy ones, with a reminder that responsibility, not self-indulgence, was necessary to any life worth living.

In his book, Living Waters, daily reflections for Lent, Ian writes, “water ripples, crashes, pours, and laps its way through the biblical story, sometimes seen as a symbol of chaos, but more often as a sign of creation or evidence of God’s providential wisdom.”

W EDDING OF L LOYD AND D ENISE A XWORTHY

Ian Macdonald, himself, is like the bubbling spring he describes – fresh, buoyant, playful, and above all, an embodiment of optimism and renewal. Just being in his company made one feel better, like coming upon an effervescent brook on a very hot day.

May his joyful spirit long continue to bring comfort to those in pain, and may his own pain from tthe disease of Lewy Body be cleansed by the showers of love that envelop him.

Thomas S. Axworthy

Page 25

Peace..... seeing a sunset, and knowing who to thank.

Author unknown

Ian .. Enjoying the sunset Victoria Beach (Mb) 2009

Page 26

My Journey IAN MACDONALD

As I write this my father-in-law prepares to enter palliative care. I envy him his 92 years; they illuminate my own dilemma. At 68, I have an uncertain future. A year ago changes in my behavior prompted visits to psych wards and referrals to specialists. The likely verdict is Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) - a mind and body wasting disease. Since the disease affects the “executive function of the brain” I have difficulty making decisions. My family is afraid to leave me alone for any length of time for fear of decisions I might make. Our life has changed dramatically this past year, particularly my role in the family.

We are in two exercise programs; we gave up driving; we are taking a cruise to Alaska with old friends; Healing Touch is a weekly event; a retired opera tenor, convinced that music can forge new pathways for the brain, teaches me music and songs from Les Miz; friends phone and offer walks through the ravine or a shopping trip to Safeway; other friends - as technologically challenged as I, learn how to use SKYPE to keep in touch: I am upheld in more ways than I can list.

I write this for Heather to thank her for the “tough love” she offers to keep me on track and for the ways she keeps the core issues of life constantly present in our home and conversations. We live a rich life through and with families and friends we have met through Heather’s work with people who pin their hopes on a Canada that cares and welcomes. Heather has grown her soul and formed a rich life in the gifts and struggles culture to culture and heart to heart.

I write this for my sons and the women who love them in the hope that LBD never comes to be passed on to any one of you three. If it does I know you have the character and spirit to live it through. You have rich resources in your partners and one another; I trust the grace and courage that has led your lives so far will be present every step of the way. I am learning to trust that every moment is a blessing, even these moments. Love abides.

I write this for you my friends and testify that no one else has had such joy in friendship. We have shared laughter and tears, spirit and play, projects and dreams. I confess to you my fears about the way ahead but know these must be faced. I believe there is still more life to bear and appreciate, more love to share and to speak.

Bless you all.

Ian

Page 27

Finding the Still Point VANCOUVER CHAMBER CHOIR, – JON WASHBURN, CONDUCTOR

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Page 28

Ubi caritas Maurice Duruflé (2:23) Lux aeterna Gregorian chant (:32) Aftonen Hugo Alfvén (3:13) sung in Swedish In paradisum Gregorian chant (:51) In paradisum Gabriel Fauré (3:21) from Requiem, with string quartet, organ and harp Waldesnacht Johannes Brahms (3:22) sung in German Cantique de Jean Racine Gabriel Fauré (5:08) sung in French with organ Ave Maria Gregorian chant (:48) Bogoroditse Devo Sergei Rachmaninov (2:37) from the Russian Orthodox liturgy, sung in Church Slavonic Locus iste Gregorian chant (1:13) Locus iste Anton Bruckner (3:05) O sacrum convivium! Gregorian chant (2:02) O sacrum convivium! Olivier Messiaen (3:37) Ave verum corpus Wolfgang A. Mozart (3:00) with string quartet and organ Bist du bei mir JS Bach/arr. Jon Washburn (4:07) sung in German, with organ and harp Kyrie eleison Gregorian chant (1:14) Kyrie eleison Healey Willan (1:25) from the Missa Brevis No. 4 in E Major Sanctus Gregorian chant (1:19) Sanctus Franz Schubert (2:24) from the German Mass, with string quartet On suuri sun rantas autius Matti Hyokki (2:21) sung in Finnish Ave verum corpus Gregorian chant (2:02) Ave verum corpus Imant Raminsh (5:47) Elegische Gesang Ludwig van Beethoven (5:22) sung in German, with string quartet Agnus Dei Gregorian chant (:52) Lamb of God Jon Washburn (3:05) with harp