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THE MessengerMARCH 2018 www.edmonton.anglican.org

The Rev. Aaron Parsall-Myler, , and the Rev. Danielle Lepine, , assist Jane Alexander as she celebrates the eucharist at All Saints’ Cathedral on January 25, the Conversion of St. Paul. Edmonton welcomes new priest and deacon MARGARET GLIDDEN where Neil Gordon wasn’t the but, in fact, a Edmonton Editor proctologist. Can you imagine a world where Chris s snow blanketed the streets of Edmonton Pappas was not the of Holy Trinity but, on the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, rather, a frustrated member of the Screen Actors’ January 25, 2018, Bishop Jane Alexander Guild disconsolate that the Oscars have passed him A by again? Can you imagine a world where I was ordained the Rev. Danielle Lepine a deacon, and the Rev. Aaron Parsall-Myler a priest, amidst the a Mr. Fix-it handy man?” he said, lamenting that warm glow of All Saints’ Cathedral. the only screwdriver he had succeeded in using The Ven. Lee Bezanson, rector of St. effectively was the kind made with vodka. “Thank Matthew’s, St. Albert, began his homily God for the Conversion of St. Paul. It changed and by explaining the significance of St. Paul’s perhaps saved our world. It certainly gave some of Conversion to the very existence of Christianity Archdeacon Lee Bezanson preaches the homily. us some honest jobs.” today. “As Paul’s life was changed forever by from being the Christian faith’s most dire enemy “Until he embarked on what would be a Christ’s call, so I firmly believe God continues to to becoming, arguably, it’s most important answer. faithful journey to Damascus, Saul truly believed call people to undergo a significant change in their Without Paul’s conversion, which we celebrate he was a good man,” said Bezanson. “He believed lives,” Bezanson continued. “Tonight in this sacred this evening, and his subsequent ministry, well, we in his life’s direction and purpose. Then, during a place, on this Feast of Paul’s Conversion, we some 2018 years later might not have cathedrals three-day window of darkness, Saul encountered celebrate the joyous reality that two young people, or churches. There’d be no , no , no the transformative light of the risen Christ and Aaron and Danielle, have had their own individual communities.” became Paul. On the ground, helpless, unnerved, Damascus experience. They have been called to “Without Paul’s lifelong call to make Christ confused and blinded for three days, he began to service in Christs’ name and for Christs’ sake: known to the gentile world, where would we see with a clarity that is absolutely incandescent,” Aaron as a priest; Danielle as a deacon.” be tonight?” Bezanson asked. Then, in jest, he he said. “He began to see that there must be a invited the congregation to “imagine a world change – a recalibration of his very life. He goes Continued on page 7.

Lay Evangelists p. 3 Community Breakfast p. 6 Black History Service p. 9 2 THE MESSENGER News MARCH 2018 PrayerWorks celebrates life, one meal at a time MARGARET GLIDDEN the city, members of the nearly $30,000 renovation. Edmonton Editor surrounding community Funding was provided by t’s a typical winter morning in downtown and social agencies. the Anglican Foundation of Edmonton. The streets and sidewalks wear a Sesink-Bott says on- Canada, the Hospitallers of Ithin coat of ice. The cold, dry wind penetrating going development of the St John, as well as Anglican my own coat makes the -10 temperature feel more Ice District has displaced churches and individual like -20. The #5 bus pulls up to the 103 Street a transient population that donors. The kitchen is now stop, and I gratefully jump aboard. The #5 is one accesses support services equipped with a separate of the busiest public transit routes in the city. in the downtown core, handwashing sink, a prep My travelling companions are men in reflective sending people as far north table, more electrical overalls, mothers pushing strollers, an elderly as Alberta Avenue. outlets, and a commercial man pushing an elderly woman in a wheelchair, “We’ve definitely freezer that enables them and several men clanking garbage bags full of noticed an increase in to store large quantities of bottles. We head east down Jasper Avenue then the number of guests donations from the Food turn north up 95 Street to 118 (Alberta Avenue). In we serve,” she says. Community members look forward to visits from Bank. The next item the this eclectic and ever-transforming neighbourhood “Some days it’s so busy Duke the dog. PrayerWorks’ team hopes character homes, ethnic restaurants, coffee shops we seat people in the to be able to check off its and art galleries share the street with derelict Narthex. We’re glad to be a presence and grow wish list is a commercial fridge. buildings – signs of the deep poverty and social our community but, at the same, it’s issues that have long been part of Alberta Avenue’s frustrating that people have to trek all the What we give to this community, we story. way up here for support.” In response, the Just off 93 Street, tucked in behind the Nina PrayerWorks team has extended its hours. get back 10-fold. Sandra Arbeau Haggerty Centre for the Arts, is where, especially “When our volunteers are here, our doors around noon on Thursday, supper-time on Friday are open,” she says. “They do good meals here,” says Gary or on Saturday morning for breakfast, I am bound Edwards, a member of the PrayerWorks to meet some of my fellow travelers. They gather community. Edwards, who lives nearby in the in the church home of the Anglican parishes of St. Alberta Ave district, says he and his partner Stephen the Martyr and St. Faith in a space large Theresa joined the PrayerWorks community about enough to accommodate several hundred friends five years ago. for a meal. This is the community of PrayerWorks “I enjoy meeting people and have told many of Common. A community where - as St. Faith’s my friends about this place,” says Edwards, who website says - “we can celebrate the joy and proudly serves on the Canadian Native Friendship beauty of life, and be with those in pain and need. Centre Board. When faced with health challenges, In other words, this is a community full of Gospel PrayerWorks Common provided support for both life, and we are blessed to be part of it.” Edwards, who is in remission from cancer, and At first glance, PrayerWorks is a warm and Theresa who suffered a stroke and seizure in 2016. inviting hall filled with people of all walks of “Arthur was one of the first people I talked to,” life sitting down to a warm cup of coffee and says Edwards. “He was a saviour to both of us. a steaming bowl of soup. Behind the scenes is Sandra Arbeau and a member of the PrayerWorks He took me to the hospital to see Theresa. She a triune of churches, community members and community share a bowl of soup and a hug. was in a coma for six days and I was with her the agencies, that the Ven. Travis Enright, rector of St. whole time.” Now, when their health permits, the Faith and Archdeacon for Indigenous Ministries, All the meals are served by volunteers, from couple likes to volunteer at the Saturday morning describes as “leaning on each another for support,” salad, to the main course, to dessert. “This helps breakfasts. to uplift the ministry. us build a core of hospitality,” says Sesink-Bott. “What we give to this community, we get In 2016, more than 8,000 meals were provided “There are no line-ups. Just like in our own homes back 10-fold,” says St. Faith’s deacon, the Rev. by the PrayerWorks ministry. Community meals people are served on real plates with real cutlery.” Sandra Arbeau. “We learn to share and watch out are served on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, It was a happy day last fall when PrayerWorks for each other. If I need help serving a table all I from mid-September until mid-May. It is difficult had the financial means to purchase a new have to do is ask.” As Volunteer Team Lead for the to predict how many guests might drop in on any dishwasher. The stainless steel appliance sterilizes Thursday Lunch Program, Arbeau has been part of given day or what their needs might be. Some and washes, cutting dish time by several hours. the PrayerWorks community for about six years. “I people come for friendship, others for a good “The dishwasher was always the bottleneck enjoy the company of the people,” she says. meal and most for a combination of both. It takes and we got slower as the night went on,” says Living in the Alberta Ave community has a lot of behind-the- the Rev. Arthur Dyck, helped Sesink-Bott and her husband Dawson scenes work to make who has been helping form relationships with the people who are part PrayerWorks a stable, coordinate community of PrayerWorks. “We are walking alongside our welcoming community meals for seven years neighbours.” In addition to coordinating efforts seven days a week. and currently serves as at PrayersWorks Common for the past two years, The hall is used by 10 PrayerWorks Chaplain Sesink-Bott ministers to St. Mary’s Anglican different community and St. Faith’s Deacon. Church in the Highlands, where she has been groups, including “Now we can keep up curate since September, 2017. Balancing these community kitchens, with the dishes as they roles can be challenging but, she says, St. Mary’s addictions groups, parents come in. It’s made for has been a distribution depot for the Edmonton and toddlers groups, happier volunteers.” Food Bank for more than 15 years and that “has to name a few. The At the same been a blessing, enabling us to work with some of Rev. Ruth Sesink-Bott time the dishwasher the same demographics.” coordinates a network was replaced, the of volunteers from Since the installation of a new dishwasher in the fall, PrayerWorks Common Continued on page 12. volunteers like Rhonda have been able to spend less churches throughout time cleaning up and more time visiting with guests. kitchen underwent a MARCH 2018 3 THE MESSENGER News Lay evangelists ready to engage world for Jesus’ sake he first licensed lay evangelists of the In his homily, Chesterton noted that Diocese of Edmonton were commissioned Anglicans have not always been eager Tto proclaim God’s love to the world during “to receive Christ’s gift of evangelists,” an Evening Prayer service, January 14, at All as described by Alison Hurlburt in her Saints’ Cathedral. reading of the first lesson, Ephesians The Rev. Tim Chesterton, Warden of Lay 4:1-16. “Some people see evangelists Evangelists and Rector of St. Margaret’s, as a nuisance, or an embarrassment, or Edmonton; presented Alison Hurlburt, Christ a theological anachronism. But we’re Church, Edmonton; Corinna Kubos, St. George’s, here to receive that gift and celebrate it Fort Saskatchewan; and Jenny Stuart, St. together,” he said. Matthew’s, St. Albert for commissioning by the He asked the congregation to pray Very Rev. Neil Gordon, Dean of Edmonton. for the new lay evangelists as God Bishop Jane Alexander was unable to preside due guides them in their mission to “live to illness. Also representing the community of lay out the fullness of Christ before the evangelists as participants, teachers and learners world,” as we, the Church, are asked were the Rev. Sandra Arbeau, who completed the to do with the gifts that each one us The Diocese of Edmonton College of Evangelists, from left: Tim Chesterton, Corinna Kubos, Richard King, Jenny Stuart, Stephen lay evangelism formation process and was recently is given. “We Christians believe that London, Alison Hurlburt and Sandra Arbeau. ordained a vocational deacon; the God’s gift of Ven. Richard King, Archdeacon Jesus to the world Sundays and Seasons of Invitation, and working for Mission and Discipleship and is the greatest expression of on other initiatives to help “make Christ Church as Rector of St. Luke’s, Edmonton; the love of God the world has welcoming a parish as we can possibly be.” and the Rev. Stephen London, ever seen…and evangelism is After visiting three dioceses in the Church Rector of St. Thomas, Sherwood all about love. of England, in 2012, Chesterton designed a lay Park. “These three evangelists evangelism formation course in the context of the “Tonight our Lord Jesus are not ashamed of living as Edmonton diocese’s unique geographical setting. Christ has given a wonderful gift Christians outside the walls Through 2016 and 2017, participants attended to His church,” said the Rev. Tim of the church. In the working 12 training sessions exploring such topics as: Chesterton in his homily address. world, and in their daily relational evangelism, helping new disciples “He has given us the gift of Alison, lives with their families and grow, running invitation Sundays, practical Corinna and Jenny to be sent Lay evangelist Alison Hurlburt, a friends, each of them has neighbourhood outreach, dealing with common out as evangelists, to spread the member of Christ Church, Edmonton, taken the step of identifying questions and objections to the Christian faith, good news and to help make new reads the First Lesson. themselves as followers of evangelistic preaching and testimony and running disciples for Jesus.” Jesus. And each one of them inquirers’ courses.” Chesterton connects his own passion for is finding ways of effectively engaging the world “The new lay evangelists will be working on a evangelism to the very beginning of his conscious they live in every day, for the sake of Jesus and volunteer basis in their home parishes on a variety Christian journey. His gospel. of outreach-oriented activities. But at the heart of “I was always a churchgoer, but I made a “Employed in post-secondary education, all they do will be the desire to make the gospel of conscious decision to give my life to Jesus at correctional services and property management, Jesus Christ known beyond the walls of the church the age of 13,” he said in an interview with The Alison, Corinna and Jenny are well placed to, community, and to invite people to become His Messenger. “The one who prompted me to do through their effective witness, help people fall in followers,” Chesterton said. that was my Dad. Through a process of events I love with and follow Jesus amidst the struggles “In the New Testament, evangelism goes had become curious and hungry for a personal of a largely apathetic or unbelieving community,” together with Jesus’ commission to make new relationship with God, and Dad was the one who Chesterton said. disciples - hence the ‘setting our feet on a better challenged me (in a gentle way) to ‘give my “As followers of Jesus, we are called to share path.’ And of course, if the message of Jesus is life to Jesus’. I did, and that led to a whole new the good news of His self-giving love for the true, then sharing it with others is an act of love. experience of life and Christianity for me. whole world,” said Hurlburt in an article for the There are, of course, many ways to spread it. The “One of the things Dad told me after I made Christ Church Connexion newsletter. “Yet often basic way - the one we start with in our course - is my commitment was ‘tell someone about it right we are uncomfortable with how to share our faith one-on-one conversation in the context of good away.’ I was a shy introvert, so it was scary. But with others. We worry about being too pushy and relationships. In my view, everything else flows it was good for me to get going right away and I alienating people, or we simply don’t know where from that,” he said. never looked back. I’m sure I wasn’t a very tactful to begin.” Chesterton plans to start the next two-year lay evangelist in high school, but one of the biggest With support and guidance from Christ Church evangelist formation process in the fall of 2018. To thrills of my early years as a Christian was to Rector the Rev. Susan Oliver, Hurlburt will begin find out more, email [email protected] . be part of the process by which my best friend her lay evangelist ministry at Christ Church by Turn to page 10 for a Q&A with lay became a Christian.” facilitating adult education courses, organizing evangelist Jenny Stuart. SUBMISSIONS DUE 1 MONTH Peter Clarke (Athabasca) THE MESSENGER TEAM PRIOR to PRINTING DATE [email protected] A $15 annual donation is suggested. Please send donations to the EDITORS DEADLINE for April, 2018 Dioceses of Athabasca or Edmonton, Read Online: Margaret Glidden (Edmonton) c/o The Messenger. ISSUE: MARCH 1 www.edmonton.anglican.org/ Peter Clarke (Athabasca) The Messenger is published under blog/the-messenger LAYOUT & DESIGN the authority of the Dioceses of Margaret Glidden Athabasca and Edmonton. Opinions Submissions: expressed in The Messenger are not We welcome letters to the editor, Find Us on Facebook: Shelly King PROOF READING necessarily those of the editor or news, stories (max 500 words), event www.facebook.com/anglican. publisher. notices, book reviews and photos. edmonton Jennifer Wirun REPORTING The Messenger is a section of the Send to: Subscribe: Peter Clarke Anglican Journal, printed 10 times a Margaret Glidden (Edmonton) Margaret Glidden year (no issues July and August) by www.anglicanjournal.com/ Webnews Printing Inc. [email protected] Shelly King or subscribe North York, ON. 4 THE MESSENGER Missional Discipleship MARCH 2018 Mission Action Planning: first question - who are we? purpose of a MAP is to work’ out of a desire to we at (spiritually and the integrity of creation, develop disciples who grow see more young people in geographically)? What and sustain and renew the church and we’ve been church, and quite right, are we good at? the life of the earth praying for Jesus’ guidance. too. But is that ‘who you • Is our ministry aligned These are so important So what’s the next step? It are’ as a church family? with who we are, where that they were added to is to discern what Jesus is Is there anyone gifted we are and what we are the diocesan constitution calling you to do next as a or experienced in youth good at? in 2015. But please note: a Christian community. work? To put items on a • What do we seem to be healthy missional church So what is your vision? MAP for which no one is led toward? has all five marks present. I Perhaps you don’t like that either gifted or experienced • In what health/condition have noted that there can too question. Perhaps the word is to start in such a way is the life of our church easily be a focus on marks ‘vision’ has been over-used. that disappointment community? What 3-5. All are needed and The Ven. RICHARD KING Okay then, let’s look at it and discouragement are is good? What needs necessary. Archdeacon for another way. Trusting as guaranteed. Who are you addressing? Natural Church Mission and Discipleship we do that, because we are and what can you do right The Five Marks of Development tools, as Diocese of Edmonton His people and led by His now? That is the place to Mission are also a good offered to each church by ast month we began Spirit, He will speak to our start. Jesus will never ask us ‘check-list’: Archdeacon Chris Pappas, to put all we have hearts: what is He laying to do something for which • To proclaim the Good are also helpful to highlight been considering on your heart? What do you He has not gifted us. News of the Kingdom what is good and what needs L care about? What direction The following questions • To teach, baptise and improving. into practice as we look at developing a parish Mission of travel do you sense you always help me sharpen my nurture new believers Once the reflection Action Plan (MAP) based are being led toward? What understanding of what our • To respond to human work is done, using these on Jesus’ discipling model might God be calling you ‘vision’ might be and the need by loving service questions and tools, a sense of Engaging, Nurturing, to do as the people you are? direction that Jesus might be • To transform unjust of your vision – a ‘direction Encountering the power How are you gifted as a calling us. Some are more structures of society, to of travel’ – will emerge. of God through mission church family? relevant at some times than challenge violence of That’s where we’ll pick it up and Growing (see Luke I say all this because others, but it’s good to keep every kind and pursue next time. 7-10). We’ve said that the many churches might, for them together as a set. peace and reconciliation With every blessing, example, want to do ‘youth • Who are we? Where are • To strive to safeguard Richard Being a disciple of Christ means walking, not just talking that my accuser has just where your mouth is.” Part of how I walk the walk prayers are answered. “Thy made a valid point—at least Ok, I get it. If I am a is how I spend my money. kingdom come, thy will somewhat. I can talk the disciple of Jesus, then my In our house, it’s pretty be done on earth through talk, but I also have to walk Jesus-like life has to be easy: the paycheque comes us.” Living what we say we the walk. seen in what I do, as well as in, we move the decimal believe in tangible, visible Of course, this is highly heard in what I say. What I point one digit to the left and audible ways is what poignant for us Christians. say in worship on Sunday and we write a cheque to it means to be a disciple of Sunday by Sunday we say, has to be made visible our parish church for that Christ. As disciples (read “We believe in one God, the in what I do (and say) in amount. It’s funny, in a way “apprentices”) of Christ, we Father…We believe in one the rest of the week—at - the only thing for which become the primary source Lord…We believe in the work, in my relationships, we still use cheques is our of gospel for others as we Holy Spirit…” A couple of and in how I spend my church offering. But we do express and proclaim our The Ven. TERRY LEER Sundays a year we respond discretionary time. “Put it because we know we need own faith through our words Archdeacon for with “I will, with God’s your money where your to walk the walk for our and actions. Mission Development help” to questions about mouth is.” own sake. “Put your money Maybe someday people Diocese of Athabasca continuing in the apostles’ But I also realized that where your mouth is.” around me will remark, hut up and put teaching and fellowship, I have to take this sentence “Thy kingdom come, ‘Say! You really put your your money proclaiming the good literally—“Put your money thy will be done, on earth as money where your mouth “Swhere your news of God in Christ, and where your mouth is.” It it is in heaven.” That’s what is—both literally and mouth is.” We’ve all seeking and serving Christ is an integral part of my we say and it is up to us metaphorically!’ I would heard something like that. in all persons. We talk the discipleship that I put my disciples to be the channel like that—and so would Usually, I don’t feel so good talk. But, “put your money money where my mouth is. through which our own Jesus. afterwards. I usually feel regular ‘messy’ services. decorated by my daughter Messy Church Families Create ‘Holy Chaos’ The evenings parishes spend at Thanksgiving that she ALISON HURLBURT Friday each month, the artistically, and socially; together open many doors continues to adore, tiny Christ Church, Edmonton hall is taken over by small often leaving more than a for people. Messy Church animal figures in the nursery groups are both a place for a from our discussion of ne of the best things children, their parents and little mess behind. new Christian community to God’s creation, bright I’ve learned from grandparents. Tables are full Messy Church was grow and a way for existing finger-paint masterpieces on Rev. Sue (rector of plates of food, sheets with started in 2004 by Lucy O lyrics to campfire songs, Moore, an Anglican woman parishioners to strengthen my friends’ fridges. Susan Oliver) is the term their connections with each All of these things ‘holy chaos.’ and goodies for crafts and living in Portsmouth, UK. other and with God. remind me of evenings spent Messy Church is the activities. We break bread, Over the past decade, Messy I see small traces of with old friends and new ministry at Christ Church pray together, and explore Church has spread far and Messy Church scattered faces, sharing our faith over that most fully exemplifies our faith through activities wide, with several churches throughout my life—a tables as Christians have what ‘holy chaos’ is. One that engage us physically, in Edmonton running miniature pumpkin done for so many years. MARCH 2018 5 THE MESSENGER Athabasca News Athabasca supports lay readers through training weekend The Ven. TERRY LEER with Lay readers serve under license for lay readers, acknowledging that Editor PETER CLARKE from the Bishop as they provide a competent lay reader is also able to Diocese of Athabasca significant ministry across the listen to and follow the promptings n April 13 – 15, the parishes. Lay readers have the ability of the Spirit. Lay Readers of the Diocese to lead services in the absence The conference starts at 7:00pm of Athabasca will gather in of ordained clergy. They are also on the Friday, with a reception at St. O involved in the normal support of Peter’s and ends with a potluck after St. Peter’s Ecumenical Church under the mentorship of the Very Rev. pastoral care in their parishes. the Eucharist Sunday morning. Jason Haggstrom and the Ven. Terry The Diocesan Executive It is important that people Leer for a weekend of fellowship Council, at its meeting in January, planning to attend this conference and education. The conference, voted to support the conference by register in advance. Registration entitled “Competent and Confident,” providing meals on the Saturday forms can be completed and sent and two nights’ accommodation. in through your parish. More is aimed at building capacity for Archdeacon Terry Leer presents background ministry in the diocese as well as Participants will stay in a motel for information on the Bible. information is available from providing meaningful support to the weekend—away from kids, jobs Archdeacon Leer by phone at design and execution of liturgies all those who serve as lay readers, and maybe even spouses. 780-624-2767 or by email at such as Morning Prayer and the including those who are in training Sessions facilitated by the Dean [email protected]. Burial of the Dead. Time will also be or who are candidates to become lay and the Archdeacon will focus on The firm deadline for conference devoted to developing a rule of life readers. creativity and competency in the registration is March 26. Athabasca Diocesan Executive Council maps out 2018 goals in Slave Lake August 17-19. All of this event, including meals and a clear directive for a definitive PETER CLARKE parishioners from across the diocese accommodations. The purpose of response from this diocese. However, Athabasca Editor are encouraged to attend. this gathering is to provide a time of DEC determined that there is a he first meeting of DEC also offered guidelines learning, growth and an appreciation need for our official response to the the new Diocesan Executive for the preparation of a diocesan of the role of lay readers in the Council of General Synod (COGS), Council (DEC) for the Narrative Budget, which is to be diocese; particularly at this time which will be provided later this T produced and shared at each parish when there are a number of clergy year. triennium took place in High Prairie at St. Mark’s Church, January 12-13. annual meeting. The hope is that vacancies in Athabsca diocese. We further discussed ways to The gathering commenced with the this type of document will assist in Please encourage your lay readers to improve communication within our eucharist, Bishop Lawton presiding. outlining and explaining the funds register for the conference. diocese. We determined that we Members of DEC discussed our needed by the diocese and how such Two additional conferences need an effective means of sharing goals including: unity, servanthood, funds are used for the Glory of God. to note are the Youth Leader’s the results of DEC meetings. To this community, building connections A small committee of DEC Conference March 16-18 and the end, it is expected that members and family. Above all, we agreed our members was assembled to look into annual ACW Conference which of council shall fully communicate focus will be on fulfilling the goals all matters relating to clergy housing will take place April 27-29 in what happens at meetings, not just of God and His Kingdom. Many and related costs, including mileage Beaverlodge. The guest speaker for with their own parish points, but also other comments and suggestions etc. This will not include clergy this conference will be the Rev. Chris nearby communities that may not be concerning our goals may become stipends, as the diocese is a member Tapera, Rector of St. Thomas, Fort represented at DEC. points of discussion for future of the Council of the North which McMurray. At the conclusion of the meeting council meetings. sets stipends for member dioceses. During our last diocesan synod many members had a two-six hour An important issue is how to The next few months provide we spent a number of hours talking journey home, which shows the level facilitate meaningful communication ample opportunity for us to gather of the proposed change to the of commitment DEC members have between meetings, which are held together and better engender a Marriage Canon XXI. Many varied in serving God in His Church. three times a year. It is important for sense of family and community. A views were expressed at that time, The next meeting is set for May council members to communicate significant bequest by an individual which it was thought did not give 11-12 at St. Mark’s in High Prairie. with one another, but also to interact in one of our parishes enabled and receive feedback from our DEC to approve funding for a Lay parishes. Readers’ Conference to be held April Athabasca Diocese Connections 13-15 in Slave Lake. The bequest In relating to the sense of Diocesan website: www.dioath.ca was expressly given to help with community, the diocese has planned (includes sermons for lay readers for each a Church Family Camp, to be held lay training in the diocese. This funding will cover most of the costs Sunday) Athabasca Anglican Church Women’s The Anglican Centre (archives for the Annual Conference Diocese of Athabasca) Phone: 780-624-2767 April 27-29 St. Luke’s Anglican Hall, Beaverlodge Fax: 780-624-2365 God is for Guest Speaker: the Rev. Christopher Tapera Email: [email protected] Everyone Rector of St. Thomas, Fort McMurray Parish websites Hosted by the ladies of St. Luke’s, • Peace River: www.stjamespr.org Beaverlodge and Christ Church, Grande • Fort McMurray, All Saints’: www. Prairie allsaintsanglican.ca • Fort McMurray, St. Thomas’: www.sttom.ca For more information and to register, visit: https://sites.google.com/site/anglicanwomenofnorthernalberta/home • Grande Prairie: www.christchurchanglicangp.org or email Ann: [email protected] • Boyle: www.parishnorthernlights.org 6 THE MESSENGER MARCH 2018 Outreach Team Jesus REACHes out to school breakfast club MARGARET GLIDDEN Top left: Wabamun Mayor Charlene Edmonton Editor Smylie, Breakfast Club Coordinator Colleen Atkinson, Mission of St. ecause a great day starts Saviour Rector Coleen Lynch and Team with a great breakfast, the Jesus members Mike Lynch, Wendy Mission of St. Saviour, aka Wiles and Sandy Cornell, Wabamun B School Principal Les Worthington; The Team Jesus, joined parent volunteers, Wabamun School Kindergarten class says staff and students for the Wabamun ‘Thank You!’ to Rev. Coleen. Bottom School Community Breakfast on left: Team Jesus serves breakfast to January 26. 200; Colleen Atkinson enjoys a well- In an effort to provide the deserved break with her family. Kindergarten to Grade Nine students has been helping with of Wabamun School with a healthy the program since start to their day, Colleen Atkinson Day 1. “I’ve seen a lot and a team of parent volunteers run of positive changes a Breakfast Club five days a week. Wabamun School’s 98 students have in the kids,” she says. St. Saviour’s was able to use access to a nutritious morning meal “They have a stronger some of its proceeds from the and healthy snacks throughout the sense of comradery. Edmonton diocese’s REACH day. “At the breakfasts Campaign for ministry and mission “When I first moved here, I you get to see that to purchase a grill for the school didn’t know anyone,” says Atkinson. Wabamun is full of kitchen and food for one of the “I started helping with the Breakfast young families and breakfasts, says Rector the Rev. Club. When the person who brought not just a retirement Coleen Lynch. Several members it here moved away, I just kept on. school day. In addition to offering community,” says of the parish, including Coleen and We’re trying to build community breakfast programs in schools and LaVerne MacDonald, a resident her husband the Rev. Mike Lynch, and I’ve gotten to know a wonderful communities across the country, the of the Parkview Manor retirement braved winter driving conditions in bunch of people in this kitchen.” Breakfast Club of Canada drives community, who also sings with the their pajamas (it was also Pajama Atkinson shops for groceries social change on a larger scale St. Saviour’s worship band. Day) to scramble eggs, chop fruit and creates healthy menus featuring by training volunteers to build Since its formation through the and serve around 200 people at the the likes of breakfast sandwiches, community engagement. Edmonton diocese’s Rural Ministry community breakfast. banana wraps, fruit cups, yogurt “A lot of young families are Initiative (RMI) four years ago, While the school Breakfast Club parfaits, smoothies, bagels, even choosing Wabamun as a smaller, the parish of St. Saviour’s Mission provides a morning meal every day, grilled cheese sandwiches. She also more affordable place to live,” says has been a visible presence in the several times a year the Wabamun fills grab ’n go baskets with fresh Charlene Smylie, mayor of the Village of Wabamun. The parish community is also encouraged to get fruit and granola bars for the school village of 700. “This opportunity to holds regular Sunday worship in to know one another over coffee and office. Throughout the day, anyone bring everyone together for breakfast the Wabamun Seniors’ Centre, pancakes. who is hungry for a snack can stop has made a huge difference to our where members also help out at the Research shows that 60 per by and see school secretary Debbie community, and it just wouldn’t be community thrift store. Team Jesus cent of a child’s learning happens Harris. possible without the volunteers.” organizes an annual Highway Clean- before the noon bell (source: www. Not only does the Breakfast Club School Principal Les up and volunteers for the Dragonfly breakfastclubcanada.org). With provide a place for kids to interact Worthington agrees that the Festival every spring and summer. financial support from the Breakfast with one another before the first bell, Breakfast Club and its success are Throughout the year, Rev. Coleen Club of Canada, as well as donations “It’s nice for the students to go to volunteer-driven. He says having the leads special services like Cowboy of time and money from community class on a full tummy,” says Harris. space to welcome volunteer groups Church, Benedict’s Breakfast and a groups and parent volunteers, “I love the breakfast program,” such as St. Saviour’s church has also Pentecost Pie Party. says parent volunteer been beneficial to the program. A St. Saviour’s is currently offering Candy, pouring glasses couple of years ago, Parkland School the 7th edition of “Come and Ask” - of orange and apple juice Division and community groups a drop-in Bible study held Monday for the kids as they file pooled their resources to convert a afternoons until March 26 - in the one-by-one into the gym. former locker room into a functional parish’s Main Street Marketplace “It’s the only way I can school kitchen. The kitchen is office. People are encouraged to get my son to eat before adjoined to the gym providing easy bring their questions about God, school.” access for volunteers carrying food church, religion and life in general. Breakfast is brain out and cleaning up after breakfast. “Everyone is so accepting of food, and yet, one out “When a child’s basic needs are each other and our questions. It’s of five kids in Canada met, their learning potential is far been awesome,” says St. Saviour’s is at risk of starting greater,” says Worthington. Balanced Treasurer Wendy Wiles. In addition the school day on an meals lead to improvements in to supporting community initiatives empty stomach. The attention span and concentration, like the Wabamun School Breakfast Breakfast Club of Canada memory, interest in coursework and, Club, proceeds from the Reach is endeavouring to ultimately, academic performance. Campaign have helped the parish improve those statistics. Making the grab ’n go baskets purchase study resources for “Come As of July, 2017 there accessible to everyone helps and Ask.” were 118 Breakfast eliminates the stigma of “that’s “We now have 10 regular Clubs in Alberta, 22 of the kid who always needs food,” members, and with two United which provide healthy says Worthington. “Anyone, staff Church people and, possibly, morning meals to more included, can stop by for a banana or someone from the Alliance Church, than 2,500 Edmonton Nutri-Grain Bar.” we could be up to 10 at our next area students every Parent volunteer Lindsay Hall gathering,” says Lynch. MARCH 2018 7 THE MESSENGER The Rev. Danielle Lepine The Rev. Aaron Parsall-Myler have always been was born in Croydon, captivated by the England to wonderful I Anglican religion parents. I come from a because it is truly so I large family on both sides. I very rich in traditions, was christened in our parish inclusive in membership, church, but my family was not and beautiful in a family that went to church celebrations. This love regularly, only on occasions of the Anglican faith such as weddings, christenings stems from being not and funerals. My mum, only a cradle Anglican however, loved telling me and would become a teacher. But, after raised by God-loving whoever was listening that I would with!), coffee groups for fellowship, four years of study, I felt called and God-fearing parents, but also always drag her into churches. I support groups for caregivers, and to a path I had not envisioned for from having a Godfather who was was, according to her, fascinated I have even led Bible Study a few myself. Looking back, especially himself an Anglican priest. Growing with the glass windows and the times. I can honestly say I don’t at this moment as I am ordained to up, my father was in the Navy and architecture, and she would joke that know which demographic I prefer the priesthood, I see that behind the we moved quite frequently. My I was likely to become a priest. to work with, as I love the different scenes God was preparing me for a mother continuously sought out new On October 7, 2017 I married energies in each and every group. vocation in the church. Anglican churches to attend and my wonderful wife Erika who, This diocese has some of the most In 2011, I moved to Edmonton where she would also teach Sunday since we met and I became part of amazing people within it, and being and began attending St. Augustine school. My mother has truly been her family, has been by my side on able to work with so many different Parkland, Spruce Grove, where my my example of the selfless offering this journey. We love to escape the demographics has truly been a discernment began. I was appointed of oneself to the building of the city, and spend time when we can in blessing to me. theological student/ youth minister Kingdom of God. mountains, especially Canmore. One I look so forward to seeing what for St. Matthias, Edmonton in I have truly been blessed in of my interests is films, but I also God has in store for me in my future 2013. While I was at St. Matthias I my adult life with not only three enjoy reading. within this amazing diocese and I started working with the Salvation fabulous children: Jory (16), Paul Jr. My journey in knowing God eagerly await to be witness to the Army as Assistant Manager for their (13), and Emily (11) and supportive began while I was in high school. I amazing blessings He has in store Residential Centre in Edmonton; family, but with an amazing diocese was involved in a couple of noon- for each and every one of us. I have helping men 18+ with transitional which has supported my desire to hour clubs: one of which spoke been Parish Administrator at Good housing. I became a Canadian be able to reach out and help others about Christianity, and the other Shepherd Anglican Church for 3.5 Citizen on March 18, 2015, and I in the name of Jesus Christ. With which spoke about raising money years now and will be continuing the was ordained a deacon by Bishop this amazing support, I have been for a youth shelter committed to role as long as I can. Jane Alexander at All Saints’ able to organize vacation Bible helping young people living on the I would like to thank the entire Cathedral on March 25, 2015. In schools for children, youth groups streets learn skills and transition to Diocese of Edmonton for their April, 2016, I became the chaplain for teens (The Rev. Jordan is going living and working on their own. tremendous support, encouragement, at the Salvation Army. to be taking over the youth group, I then started going to church, prayers and presence within my life. I eventually left the Salvation however I will be helping plan at first to a Sunday night youth I look forward the amazing things Army to gain more experience and I truly hope I am able to lead group run by the Baptist Church. we will do in the future in the name in parish life, first as the Deacon a youth group again because the Gradually I became more involved of God, our heavenly Father. at the Cathedral and then, on youth are way too fun to not be in the church. Eventually I became November 5, 2017, I was appointed a member of Emmanuel Anglican Curate at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, South Croydon, where I felt Church, St. Albert. One of my Edmonton diocese welcomes new a sense of belonging and found what main focuses while I am here is to I had been missing. I became a fully connect with those who are unable priest and deacon continued active member of the youth group to attend regular Sunday services, Continued from Front Page. a substantial portion of humility and and then youth leader. but also to learn from Archdeacon a healthy measure of terror,” said In 2007, I moved to Canada to Lee (Bezanson) and the Parish “Aaron and Danielle, I sincerely Bezanson. study English and history at Cape about what it means to be a priest, hope that you come to the moment “As we heard mentioned by Breton University. I thought that I especially in this day and age. when the Bishop pronounces her a man named Jesus in our Gospel affirmation and official blessing, selection, Matthew 10:16-22, read Curate, St. Augustine’s Parkland, they would not be alone. For you, there will reside within both of you by the Rev. Billy Isenor (Assistant Spruce Grove), Jesus did not Aaron and Danielle will have the sugarcoat the costs and the demands presence of God through His Holy involved in being a follower, a Spirit. Because God has called you, disciple in the establishment of His He will never leave you. You are also kingdom. He sent His disciples supported by each and every one out into a less than calm, less than of us in this building. We play the tranquil, less than harmonious world. role of that great cloud of witnesses He knew that there would be times that Hebrews 12 talks about. We are ahead of challenge and hardship, your Bishop, we are your Dean, we times of confusion, maybe even are your Archdeacons, we are your times of despair, hatred and death. Priests, we are your , we are Yet, Jesus sent them out regardless. your Laity. We are all here tonight “But in the sending, there was to support you and, in any way also a very powerful reminder that possible, help sustain you. Never wherever they might be called, forget that as you set about your whatever they might be asked to do, ministry.” 8 THE MESSENGER MARCH 2018 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity We need each other’s strength to make a difference Editor’s Note: During the Week of Prayer that one group of people can own and control oppression of the for Christian Unity, an ecumenical initiative another group of people, regardless of which poor and suffering celebrated globally from January 18-25, the Rev. people are the oppressors and which are the in the name of Dr. Scott Sharman, Canon Theologian in Mission oppressed. And this recognition enables us to God, the more for the Diocese of Edmonton and Ecumenical and understand why this passage has been a source God will draw Interfaith Relations Animator for the Anglican of inspiration and hope for enslaved peoples at us closer to each Church of Canada, preached the homily at St. many different times in human history since. other, because we George’s by the U of A, Edmonton. He reflects on In numerous other places throughout will need each the theme: “Liberation from Slavery,” chosen by Old and New Testament Scriptures slavery other’s strength the churches of the Caribbean. is addressed. The bible reflects that it is the and support to f course, product of particular times, cultures, and make the kind of we know worldviews, in that it seems to accept it simply difference that Othat the as something that exists without outright is needed. We Caribbean Islands condemning it. However, Scripture does are struggling have a deep and clearly view slavery as a societal structure that against evil in painful history is detrimental to human dignity, and it takes secret places and in deeply entrenched networks in connection some quite counter-cultural stands against it in of malice and cruelty. No one of us is strong with slavery. It outlining very strict guidelines and regulations enough, but together we are ready for the is thought that over it. The Law even went so far as to say that challenge God is placing before us today, and between about if slavery was permitted within the Israelite we know that he will strengthen us so that all 1650 and 1800, system, all slaves should be given their people may live in freedom and dignity. more than million freedom after seven years so as not to give the Ending human trafficking has also been West Africans impression that one human being truly owns made a key priority of our Primate Archbishop were taken from another. Fred Hiltz in recent years, as well as our Canon SCOTT SHARMAN their homelands, Later in Church history the slavery full communion partners in the Evangelical Honorary Assistant shipped across abolitionist movements of the 17th, 18th, Lutheran Church of Canada, our dialogue St. George’s, Edmonton the Atlantic, and and 19th centuries often did have a strong partners in the United Church of Canada, and bought and sold Christian basis in both Europe and North and the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. to work on plantations in the colonial Empires South America, and regularly saw diverse The leading national ecumenical organization of the British, the French, the Dutch, and the Christian denominations working together in known as the Canadian Council of Churches, Spanish. The practice of migration through this common cause – Baptists, Methodists, whose membership represents 85% of the indentured servitude also continued from Anglicans, Catholics, Presbyterians, etc. It was Christians in Canada, are also very active in this other places for some time after this – China, an early anticipation of social justice oriented cause. India, etc. To some degree these practices were ecumenism, you might say. At the same time, Now few of us living in Edmonton in 2018 based on the idea that some lives, European however, it also needs to be admitted that are likely to have any first-hand experience with lives, were more valuable, more human, than there were also examples of some Christians slavery, or with being enslaved ourselves. So other lives, and therefore those others could be and Christian denominations in certain parts perhaps this is a theme some might feel is rather commodified and used. of the world that actually sought to perpetuate difficult to connect with in a personal way. But Slavery is also something that comes up a the slavery system rather than resist it, to our our Caribbean sisters and brothers, who chose fair bit in the bible. One of the most defining collective shame. this theme for us, also know that there is another experiences of the story of the people of Israel Slavery has by no means disappeared in the kind of slavery that we relatively wealthy and in the Hebrew Scriptures has to do with their 21st century; it has simply morphed into less comfortable people in the global North can time as slaves to the Egyptian Empire, of their obvious forms. Chief among these is the scourge become caught up in subtly. It is a mental and crying out to God for liberation, and of their of human trafficking. It has been estimated that social slavery that each person is susceptible to, eventual salvation from that system. In reading between 12 and 27 million people have been which, because they benefit us, see us perpetuate from Exodus 15 we hear the song of Moses trafficked across borders. Every year upwards unquestioned privilege, gross inequality, and his sister Miriam, who praise God for the of two million are trafficked for the purposes of systemic racism, xenophobia, sexism, and so newfound freedom from oppression which their prostitution and sexual abuse, and as many as on. It is a slavery of our minds and hearts into people had suffered for generations. “Pharaoh’s 20,000 a year are manipulated into trafficking patterns of division, isolation, exploitation, and chariots and his army he cast into the sea; his for the purpose of human organ harvesting. lack of concern. picked officers were sunk in the Red Sea. The This is a huge worldwide problem in our day, One of the central themes of the Gospels, floods covered them; they went down into the and it is growing. It exists in Canada as well, and the New Testament in general, is that the depths like a stone. Your right hand, O Lord, and has a disproportionate effect on Indigenous things that we human beings use to place people glorious in power—your right hand, O Lord, communities in this land. into categories of in and out, good and bad, shattered the enemy.” Once again we are seeing divided churches holy and unholy, friend and enemy, valuable This can be a difficult passage to listen to working together in the name of their common or worthless, etc., actually have no reality and because it seems to be extoling God for the faith in Jesus and in the Gospel’s message of have no power unless we allow them to; they’re violent end that befalls the Egyptian army in salvation and liberation. Just three years ago, the a bit like what the bible calls demons, in that their attempt to restrain their fleeing slaves as Archbishop of Canterbury and Pope Francis of way. And Jesus repeatedly comes to free people they make their exodus. But when we remember Rome launched an initiative to use the Church’s from those kinds of chains, as seen by the kinds the context, and that this is a very raw and vast resources and global spread to help root of people he talks to, the kinds of people he guttural expression of a group of people who out trafficking, and they have since been joined touches, the kinds of people he eats with, and have been enduring tremendous abuse and by other denominations and faith communities; the kinds of people he treats with dignity and hardship, it helps us understand where those it’s called the Global Freedom Network, and respect. God will not be bound by racism and feelings are coming from. While it is true that, I would urge you to check out their work. classism and ideologies that justify domination in this particular text, it is the Egyptian army To quote Justin Welby on the ecumenical and subordination; God will break through. that is thrown into the Sea to save the Israelite dimension of this initiative: “All [Christians] are slaves, surely we need to recognize that the real called to join common cause to end this crime Continued on next page. enemy that God is acting against is the idea and suffering. The more we share the pain and MARCH 2018 9 THE MESSENGER Unity in Diversity Black History Month Service Celebrates Friendship MARGARET GLIDDEN servant… I’ll call you friend. You have not Edmonton Editor chosen me but I have chosen you. I have t. Faith Anglican Church in Edmonton called you by name. You are mine. My hosted an ecumenical church service friends I command you: Love one another on Sunday, January 28, to launch Black and seek the best from each other.’” S She warned that social media - an History Month festivities in Edmonton. Members of the National Black Coalition of Canada artificial substitute for interpersonal (NBCC), Edmonton Chapter, and a dozen church relationships – is actually creating a social communities in Edmonton, Calgary and Camrose void. were welcomed by the Rev. Adenike Yesufu, “We live in a culture of isolation, our deacon at St. Faith’s, presiding. future determined by the stroke of a finger, Joanne James brought greetings of love not by relationships, not by conversations, and friendship from NBCC Vice-President but by likes and dislikes,” said Latty- Hackett who is married to Bishop Joseph Above: the North Edmonton Seventh Day Adventist Joy Thomas, who acknowledged Bishop Jane Church Men’s Choir. Below: the St. Faith’s Singers. Left: Hackett, Senior Pastor of the Berean Church Alexander and the Edmonton diocese for hosting travelling evangelist Cecile Latty-Hackett of the Berean this joyous celebration of worship and praise for a of God in Calgary. Church of God Calgary. fourth straight year. “You are not defined by how many “We are people from many walks of life, likes you have. You are not defined but and fellow Christians to remain focused on their with different cultures and practices, yet we are what you do, or what you say, or how you look,” purpose as defined by God. “You are the answer to connected as one in Christ,” she said. “You are defined by the one who loves someone’s prayers. Be a friend,” she said. Thomas said. you unconditionally and Every February, Canadians are invited to Cecile Latty-Hackett, an everlastingly. We need more participate in Black History Month festivities ordained travelling evangelist, than Instagram, Facebook to honour the legacy of Black Canadians, past preached on friendship – and Twitter. We need people. and present. Alberta has a rich Black history, continuing the service’s running We need faith, but we also originating with the African American pioneer theme of unity in diversity, need friends. Do not fool farming families of Amber Valley and Keystone fellowship and community, yourselves – you need people. (later named Breton). Premier Rachel Notley and individual and collective In this era of isolation, we officially recognized Black History Month in peace. Raised in the hills of need human connection. 2017. Clarendon in Jamaica, she began Britain, a nation of more participating in campus ministry than 66 million people, just at the age of 16. This experience appointed a Minister for became the catalyst for an evangelism ministry Loneliness! Oh the joy of the loving hand, the spanning 35 years in the Caribbean, Canada and depth of the body that produces warmth. When the US. you let Jesus be your friend, then you can be a Latty-Hackett made reference to Jesus’ friend. Before you can be a friend, you must first message in the Gospel of John 15:9-17 (read by fill your void. If you’re empty you have nothing Eze Chukwuemeka Obiajunwa, a member of the to give. You are not a mistake you are loved. So Good Shepherd Catholic Parish in Edmonton): much so that Christ would die for you.” “Jesus says to His disciples ‘I will not call you In closing, Latty-Hackett urged her friends We need each other’s strength continued Continued from previous page. primary identity that binds us together is that we But the reason this message has to be repeated are all become children of God in Christ. When so many times and in so many ways in the we recognize this, all of those self-imposed and Scriptures is because it doesn’t match our own humanity-created barriers between people and lived experience. These things, these dividing people groups come down. As the Romans 8 lines and identity markers feel entirely real to us, reading from Sunday, January 21 says: “For all and they seem to exercise a great deal of power who are led by the Spirit of God are children of over us and over our relationships and interactions God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to with others. We can be bound by them, both in fall back into fear.” It is fear that leads is to see terms of accepting an identity that others want and to place ourselves over against others, which to place on us that keeps us on the edges and so often leads to violence and oppression. This is on the outside, and in being a part of a system not what God wants for us as God’s children, nor that perpetuates placing those kinds of chains as God’s Church. on others. It’s the kind of dehumanizing act of The Week of Prayer for Christian unity “othering” that allows for an evil like slavery, or matters because the unity in diversity and its modern equivalents, to exist at all. diversity in unity that we are called to try to Many of the social groups we belong to are live out first with other Christians in the one self-selected and allow us to be with people Church of God is meant to be a dress rehearsal, who are like us, who think like us, who act like a foretaste, and a microcosm of something that us. The Church, on the other hand, is meant to God wants to call us to live into more and more be a society in which we find ourselves drawn with all people. It starts with reaching across the together with people from every place and walk lines of Anglican and Catholic and Pentecostal of life and point of view, and where none of the and Mennonite. From there it overflows beyond, things that so often have the power to define seeking to draw us across every line that would who we are have a hold on anyone because the hold people apart. 10 THE MESSENGER MARCH 2018 This is Us

nn Marie Nicklin, where were Creator has for them. I feel that all else you born and what does the word flows out of the security and response A“home” mean to you? I was born in to the full knowledge of that love. Beaverlodge, Alberta. Home, to me, is usually Where in the world are you most at wherever I am at the moment. I am at home peace? I am most at peace sitting on when I am with my family in Saskatoon. I rocks in front of a somewhat angry sea am at home when I am with the people of or standing on a river bank in a strong Wainwright and Edgerton. Home is also a wind. holiday cottage in the Azores or on the edge of What/who inspires you? I am inspired the rainforest in Hawaii. My favourite “home” by people such as MLK Jr., Dietrich that calls me constantly is standing at the grave Bonhoeffer, Mahatma Ghandi, of 12-Foot Davis (pioneer miner and trader) in Desmond Tutu, Oscar Romero and, Peace River and looking out over the joining especially, Malala. of the Smokey and Peace rivers. It is there that What are you afraid of? My biggest my roots call to me. fear is how we normalize and accept What is your favourite season? I think there is the evil of intolerance, racism, beauty in all seasons. I have to say that winter individualism, sexism etc. is my least favourite. But then in winter I What might people be surprised to usually try to get away to sun and sand which know about you? I am an open book. is my favourite season. I am not sure people would be very What is your favourite passage from the surprised by anything I might say Bible? My favourite passage is the Valley of or do. Although, I have had a few need to acknowledge the Divine. the Dry Bones – Ezekiel 37:1-14. It has such a colleagues in the past look at me and say: ‘Ann What is your most memorable meal? powerful message to any of us that have been Marie, you are a deeper thinker than most My most memorable meals are the Sunday there in life. The breath of God has given me people realize.’ family potlucks I use to host for my father life again and again. What is the best book you’ve ever read? when he was in independent living. The love, What is your greatest desire? My greatest My favourite book was James Michener’s The laughter, and passionate discussions made desire is for people to know, as fully as Source. The chapter titled “The Bee-Eater” had Sunday supper my favourite meal of the week. possible, the height, depth, etc. of the love their a profound effect of my understanding of our Q & A with newly licensed lay evangelist, Jenny Stuart Jenny Stuart was licensed as a Lay Evangelist in there is a God who loves them and wants them Edmonton Diocese in January, 2018 (page 3). She to have a meaningful relationship with them. first learned about the diocesan training program I believe that on a Sunday morning we have for lay evangelists through the Synod Scene and a wonderful, welcoming and loving Christian followed up with the Warden for Lay Evangelism, family at St. Matthews. I hope to find new ways the Rev. Tim Chesterton. Here, Jenny answers of bringing others to share in this experience and Messenger editor Margaret Glidden’s questions to have the resources to help them to enrich their about her journey: relationship with God. How has God been at work in your life? Pictured left: Jenny Stuart, with fellow lay evangelists. What did you learn in the training and what JS: God has been active in my life since I went also have a favourite verse from Mark’s gospel: resonates with you? to Sunday school as a little girl. I just wasn’t fully “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to JS: I know it is important to pray for myself and aware of His presence. God started to work more the whole creation.” I love God and experience so for others; to be willing to plant seeds and to trust actively in my life after attending a Christian much because of my relationship with Him. That is in God to nurture those seeds. Studying scripture Women’s Lunch. It was as if the guest speaker why I want to share. also helps. When others ask challenging questions, was talking directly to me. At the end of her talk What gifts do you have that this program has it is important for me to rely on scripture to be she encouraged the women present to invite Jesus helped you recognize and develop? able to answer questions. It is also important for into their lives and this was the first time I had JS: The one that has become very important is the me to be real, vulnerable and honest; to be able to made a commitment to do that. The very next day gift of listening. Everyone in my life and those I say that I don’t have the answers, but that does not there was a change in my life. From that time on, have yet to meet have a story. I hope that with an affect my faith or my relationship with God. I was more aware of the presence of God in my open and caring heart they will share their stories Can you share an example of how you have been life and open to the endless opportunities to enrich and I will be able to assist them in seeing how able to share your faith in your everyday life? my relationship with God and Jesus. I attended a much God wants to be part of their lives. I also JS: I have two recent experiences. Two co-workers Cursillo weekend which was a very powerful and know that God is working in their lives, whether I have been struggling with situations in their lives. healing experience for me. I then became actively can see it or not. I shared with them that, even in the challenging involved with Alpha at St. Matthew’s which How do you hope to be able to share those gifts? times of my life, I can still experience the peace brought more life-changing experiences. JS: According to many of my Christian friends, and joy that I encounter in my relationship with Evangelism is a word / concept many people find I have been sharing these gifts for many years, I God. They are aware of that joy and would like a bit scary. What does it mean to you? just have not been fully aware of that. The Lay to understand it more fully. I have let each of JS: It means being open and bold to share the love Evangelist training has given me a myriad of skills them know that I am willing to attend a church and grace of God with others; to invite others ‘To to recognize the gifts and to continue this path service with them near to where they live. We have Come and See.’ I know that Jesus walks alongside with more confidence and knowledge. Our Parish also talked about holding an Alpha course in the me on this journey and what better friend to travel has just completed a successful Alpha Course workplace. At Christmas my new boss gave me a with. Whenever I hear the Baptismal Covenant I and I have been part of the leadership team. With gift of a journal because she knows that I keep a am reminded that I will “proclaim by word and the support of my parish priest, Archdeacon Lee daily journal. I told her that I would use her gift example the Good News of God in Christ.” One Bezanson, and the parishioners of St. Matthew’s, as a prayer journal. I let her know that prayer is an of my favourite verses is found in Paul’s Letter to I hope to continue with Alpha as a means of important part of my life and that her gift would the Romans: “And how are they to preach unless outreach. I hope to find other resources and be a daily reminder of her, as well as an important they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are programs to bring an awareness to the people of tool to track how God has answered those prayers. the feet of those who preach the good news!’” I the communities of St. Albert and Morinville that MARCH 2018 11 THE MESSENGER Social Justice PWRDF global partnerships contribute to food security the famine! Culture often has partnered with the that regard. work addressing hunger determines what you hear Canadian Foodgrains Bank One way the Canadian and are matched by Global when you read scripture. in its response to this great Foodgrains Bank is funded Affairs Canada at a rate We read the Bible through need. is through growing projects; of 4:1. When funds are western eyes. Those living Canadian Foodgrains farmers donate a portion withdrawn from the bank, in areas of historical famine Bank is a partnership of of their crop or work with food is purchased near the remember the horror of 15 Canadian churches and a community of farmers. area where the famine is long periods of hunger church-based agencies Together they donate time, occurring. This both reduces in the past and relate the working together to end equipment, seed, crop inputs, transportation costs and parable to that reality. These global hunger. It is involved as well as the land to grow a supports the local economy. are places where times of in supporting partners to crop. Proceeds from the sale In the past 10 years more great hunger are still within meet immediate food needs, of the crop are donated to than one million dollars has living memory; places like reduce malnutrition, and the Foodgrains Bank. Often been donated to the PWRDF Russia, Ukraine and parts achieve sustainable food local businesses donate crop Foodgrains account. DOROTHY MARSHALL of Africa. Famine is not just security. It also works to inputs and services such Working together PWRDF Representative Diocese of Edmonton one person feeling hunger; influence improvements in as trucking, insurance, or with partners such as the everyone is hungry for national and international promotion. Canadian Foodgrains bank was recently preparing extended periods of time, policies that contribute to Another way funds enables the PWRDF to be a Sunday school lesson due to drought, conflict, or ending global hunger and are raised is through more effective in its work I about the well-known natural disaster. increase and deepen the special urban projects like and together we can all have parable, “the Prodigal Son.” Food security is one engagement of Canadians in community garden sales, a much greater impact in I thought about the father’s of the focuses suppers and fighting world hunger. This heartbreak as his son deserts of the Anglican other innovative is faith in action! If you the family, the son’s wild Church’s fundraising would like to learn more living and reckless spending, Primate’s World events. The about PWRDF and its many and the father joyfully Relief and bank is projects please check out our running out to meet him on Development ecumenical, and website at his return…and, of course, Fund (PWRDF). funds raised www.PWRDF.org . You the elder brother’s anger We have are deposited can also donate on that site at his father’s generosity. responded to a into one of the or through your church People in some parts of the series of ongoing “accounts” as envelopes. If you would like world see the focus of this famines over the chosen by the to be involved in PWRDF parable as the famine and years. Ending donor. Funds at a parish level, please talk the father’s faithfulness global hunger is designated to to your rector or contact in delivering his son from a daunting task, the PWRDF Dorothy Marshall, the that hopeless situation. Not and for the past account can PWRDF Representative for once had I thought about 10 years PWRDF Naba Gerung of PWRDF (right) distibuting food in Nepal. be used for its the Diocese of Edmonton at Social Justice Committee member honoured with award MESSENGER Staff Centre, Executive Director Gurnett. the life of Rev. Marilyn to continuing ecumenical with multiple contributors of the Edmonton Mennonite Julien Hammond, McClung, who passed education for herself and Centre for Newcomers and Ecumenical Officer for the away on February 7th, others…” im Gurnett, an is the founding Executive Roman Catholic Archdiocese 2001. Marilyn had served After receiving the ambassador of Director of The Hope of Edmonton describes as EDCC representative award, Jim shared his Jecumenism, has been Foundation. He has been Jim Gurnett as a “social for the Anglican Diocese thoughts about his long presented with The Rev. actively involved with the justice legend and ecumenist of Edmonton under the commitment to ecumenism: Marilyn McClung Memorial Good Friday Outdoor Way extraordinaire.” leadership of Bishops “I grew up in a very Award in recognition of his of the Cross for 20 years. As written in the Ken Genge and Victoria small corner of Christianity, “outstanding contribution Gurnett served as the Spirit Annual Reports of the Matthews. Marilyn served in a movement called to the ecumenical landscape River-Fairview MLA in EDCC: “The Rev. Marilyn on the executive of the the Christian Brethren. of Edmonton.” Gurnett 1985-86. He even has his McClung Memorial EDCC as Secretary and Unlike many Christian received this award during own Wikipedia entry: https:// Award for Ecumenism Vice President; tragically, communities, we did not the Annual General Meeting en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_ came into being to honour however, because of health worship in a space with a of the Edmonton & District concerns, she was front and a back, but rather Council of Churches unable to take on the in a circle, with the Host (EDCC), held February 4 at role of President. on a table in the middle. McDougall United Church. In her ecumenical And those childhood years Jim currently works as endeavours, Marilyn nourished my pleasure in a pastoral associate at Inner served on several ecumenism. The circle City Pastoral Mission and committees helping spoke of a whole world attends the Community of to organize dialogue of diversity, no one more Emmanuel fellowship there. days, prayer services or less than another, each He is also a member of and was a key leader worshipping in their own the Diocese of Edmonton behind the Jubilee way, but also linked to each Social Justice and 2000 “J2K Festival” other to create the whole Advocacy Committee. He in Edmonton. circumference.” was Director of Community Marilyn also Services at the Bissell Jim Gurnett, left, among other leaders at 2016 Outdoor Way of the Cross walk. devoted her energies Continued on page 12. 12 THE MESSENGER Community MARCH 2018 St. Luke’s fresh expression celebrates Messy baptism SHELLY KING the ritual of St. Luke’s, Edmonton baptism into the aturday, January 13 saw a context Messy first-of-its-kind event at St. Church. “It Luke’s Messy Church. The was important S to honour the Messy Church family gathered round to celebrate the baptism elements of of 4-year-old Carter Reddy. All the ritual that the Messy crafts and activities we absolutely that day focused on the theme of cannot do “Jesus, the Light of the World” without, but and each person held a candle to equally, to share in that theme as Carter was honour the baptized. unique context The celebration presented that is Messy Church, and an opportunity to explain the the people who have made triune nature of God and of holy it their church home. It baptism in a uniquely “Messy” was because of his love of way. The Ven. Richard King, Messy Church that Carter Rector of St. Luke’s, placed came forward for the three circles on the floor as baptism.” reminders that baptism is done in baptismal oil and a dove. All who took part said the name of the Father, the Son and King, who is also the it was a profound blessing the Holy Spirit. One circle held the Archdeacon for Mission and to be part of this ceremony baptismal water, a candle was placed Discipleship in Edmonton Diocese, with Carter and his family. in another, and in the third were the said it took careful thought to bring Social Justice Committee member honoured, continued Continued from page 11. concern that Christian communities of Jesus, who called a widely stumbling followers of Jesus share were more intent on being identified varied group of people to be his a common reality, the life of the “And as I got a little older I read by what they witnessed against in companions as they walked the roads Comforter within. I experience this about one of the people who began the practices and theology of others, of Israel 2,000 years ago. These each year as we walk and pray in the Christian Brethren, a man named focussed on what they felt others people had nothing else in common the streets during the Good Friday Anthony Norris Groves, and I took were doing wrong, than in what they but their commitment to Jesus. Outdoor Way of the Cross. And I for myself some words of his in witnessed for-- the love of Jesus “Today, still, there is joy and pray that the call of ecumenism will writing to a friend in 1836. Groves and the redemptive power of his learning to be experienced in the grow and strengthen in every corner wrote, “... I would infinitely rather message. commitment to ecumenism, a of Christian community.” bear with all their evils than separate In our commitment to freedom and excitement in knowing from their good.” He wrote of his ecumenism we are using the model that, for all our differences, all we Thanks from the PrayerWorks Common celebrates life, cont. Bloxham Family Continued from page 2. peace – a place where The family of John Bloxham wishes they can relax in what to thank all Part of what makes is sometimes a very who prayed, PrayerWorks sustainable difficult world.” visited, called is the ministry’s large There are many or attended support base, including ways to help support the Memorial a strong network of the PrayerWorks Service of individuals, churches, Common ministry. You John’s life in youth and community can become a monthly Christ. groups. “Collaboration donor through the We extend a special thanks and a sense of ownership Edmonton diocese’s to the staff of the diocesan and are very important to Pre-Authorized cathedral offices, the musicians, our community,” says Giving (PAG) the College of Clergy and to Bishop Sesink-Bott. “Isolation program by visiting Jane. is not going to lead to Ruth Sesink-Bott and Arthur Dyck (center) share a meal with St. Faith’s website Our family was deeply touched stability. Folks on the PrayerWorks Common Community Members. at stfaithsanglican. by the large number of people who margins often from these resides in the Alberta Ave transition as they move org. Complete an came from former parishes we attended, the Cursillo and Natural amazing communities neighbourhood. “Some from living independently online giving form and much stronger than the designate PrayerWorks Church Development communities, of these people have been to being dependent on as well as those who simply communities many of here as long as I have. others. We’re each other’s as the beneficiary. If you us belong to. It might would like to volunteer recognized John’s servant heart. We pray for the Oilers support. One of the We were blessed. We pray the seem like they don’t have for the community meals every week. I hear their wonders of PrayerWorks celebration blessed each of you resources, yet they give stories of celebrations and is that it brings people ministry, please email us: also. each other so much.” grief. I’ve helped people together. I hear people info@stfaithsanglican. Sheila, Mark and Lara “This is my family,” through difficult times of describe this as a place of org or phone the church at and our extended families says Dyck, who also 780-477-5931.