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WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ IOCESAN IMES DIOTIMES D NOVEMBER 2019 A SECTION OF THE TANGLICAN JOURNAL

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Table of Contents • Front page - 150 years on in Bedford • St Bart’s / Cartoon • Bishop’s message / Gender equality • Authenticity encounter • Hustle & bustle • Climate crisis • Subscription help • Away from it all • Book review: Preaching Punchlines • Pray for a new start • Pipe organ renewal • Deacon’s Bench • Merry Christmas • Bonus coverage Don’t let this “Preaching Punchlines” “Christmas plans?” happen to you! book review See Page 3 See Page 9 See Page 11 THE

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ IOCESAN TIMES DIOTIMES D DECEMBER 2019 A SECTION OF THE ANGLICAN JOURNAL

Serving the Anglican Church in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island Celebrating 150 years Following a year of events leading In December 1904, the second to the celebration of their 150th and current All Saints Church was Anniversary on November 3, 2019, opened and the corner stone was members of the All Saints Parish laid by His Honour the Lieutenant in Bedford, Nova Scotia gathered Governor. Members of the at their Church for a celebration of procession entered to the hymn of the Holy Eucharist. The church bell Onward Christian Soldiers. The rang out 150 times, the choir led a Rector at the time was Rev. V. E. hymn-sing, photos old and new were Harris. All Saints Church was projected onscreen and a welcoming designed by PEI Architect, William piper preceded the liturgy. The Critchlow Harris and cost $5,607. service began with the renewal of At the time, the Church featured baptismal vows. Parish rector, Rev. a unique rounded exterior and a Trevor Lightfoot conducted the rich wood paneled interior which service, assisted by priest assistant, remains a feature of the present Rev. Shirley Carras. Bishop Sue Church. Moxley (ret.) was the guest homilist The opening service was held and the blessing was provided by in 1905 and the bell was rung for the Archbishop Arthur Peters the first time in 1908. All Saints (ret.). Archbishop Peters served as a remained a part of the Parish of postulant in the Parish of All Saints Sackville until 1922 when it became in 1962 and 1963, and was later the Parish of Bedford, Windsor ordained to the priesthood in All Junction and Waverley. Land was Saints Church. purchased for a Parish Hall in 1927 All Saints Anglican Church in and the cornerstone for the Hall Bedford was first located at Fort was laid in 1928. The font was Sackville on what is now Perth donated and dedicated in 1929, the Street, Bedford. The original first Mens Club was formed in 1931 Church opened for Services in 1869 and the All Saints Dramatic Club following the conveyance of land for was formed in 1951. In 1954 a fire a Church and graveyard by George destroyed the Parish Hall and the Lister in 1864. That site is still in movie theatre housed in the Hall. use today as All Saints Cemetery The Hall was subsequently replaced Photo: Jace Lightfoot prepares the baptismal font before the congregation and was originally a Mi’kmaq burial when All Saints Parish purchased a renews their baptismal vows at the 150th anniversary service. ground. hall owned by the Baptist Church. ...continued in the online edition.

Adoration of the Shepherds (1544-45) Royal Collection, Windsor BASSANO, Jacopo (1515 - 1592) The Adoration of the Shepherds is an imposing composition dating from around 1544-45 and the time of the artists early maturity. The main compositional features of this painting are the treatment of the architecture, the Virgin’s expression of concern for the Child, and the figure of the shepherd who acknowledges the Holy Family by removing his headgear. Note the architectural features and the shepherd playing the bagpipes recall the woodcut of the Nativity in Dürer’s Little Passion of 1511. On a general basis the naturalistic aspects of the composition are often compared with Netherlandish painting, particularly the work of artists such as Pieter Aertsen. Such observations perhaps over-emphasise the eclectic elements in Bassano’s art when it is preferable to stress the scale of the work, the firm drawing, the warm colouring and the view of the artist’s home town of Bassano del Grappa. The tree prefigures the death of Christ on the cross. HOME PAGE 2 DECEMBER 2019 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES COLUMNIST Something new for St Bart’s, and it is not red! It has been weeks and months roofing and they assure anyone and the Men’s Club pledged VOLUME 74 NUMBER 10 since Dorian visited us, but who will listen that there are to hold extra fund raisers and we are still feeling the effects no perceptible noise issues. monies raised at the upcoming PAUL SHERWOOD of the hurricane. St. Bart’s We would not want Fr. Jason’s Cranberry Festival would be Editor stands on the top of a hill put towards the new roof. words to be lost to a thousand Also on the web: overlooking the bay and the tiny pings above us as we Colour? Why black of course, cranberry bogs below. It is a worshiped. No noise problems St. Bart’s has always had a www.nspeidiocese.ca wonderful spot for a church. It and the extra savings in years black shingled roof and from Letters & News Items: stands tall and beautiful and to come made the decision to now on it would be a black Paul Sherwood, Editor a witness to the many years get a few quotes on the cost of metal roof. No question, no PO Box 8882, Halifax, NS B3K 5M5 of Anglican worship in the covering St. Bart’s in a strong, discussion needed! My Orin community. Its prominence muttered that this was too [email protected] wind proof metal roof. 902.477.3040 makes it vulnerable to storms easy, I shushed him and said a and the winds that blow over Once that was decided, tiny prayer of thanks. Advertising: colour came up! “No RED” the Bog. Replacing shingles So, the work begins next Angela Rush could be heard throughout [email protected] seems to be an unending week, and we will have a chore and the church building the room. The Chair of the 905.630.0390 St. Bart’s by the Bog bright shiny black roof, secure (Burlington, ON) is forever in need of paint. property committee suggested we wait for the cost estimates from any surprises Mother But there we sit, atop the Sarah Neish Nature sends our way. It will hill, looking out over the and the many brochures he Published monthly except in July was sure we would see. And be finished before Christmas and August by The Diocesan Times community in one direction, arrives in Publishing Company. the Bog and the bay in the the meeting adjourned. The Bog. No more asking for Online editions available via the other direction; St. Bart’s By church was built; when huge Jason called a special parish diocesan website: the Bog! trees could be found in the meeting a few weeks later so brave workers to climb up and www.nspeidiocese.ca woods surrounding the site of that anyone could have some patch, no need for scaffolding Every few years the topic and miss-matched shingles, of Metal comes up when the new church. From them, say in this decision, and we wide planks were sawed into met following a Sunday service just a new lid on our beloved the Parish Council and the church building. We will Printed by and mailed from: Property Committee look the material that still makes in late October. Webnews Printing Inc., up the church. decorate a tree and have it by North York, ON at maintaining the church. I happened to be on the front walk, we will hang For as long as siding has It would break many hearts Fellowship that Sunday along large wreaths on the doors, existed there has been talk of in the parish if vinyl siding Opinions expressed do not with my dear friend Betty. We and we will give extra thanks necessarily reflect the views of the replacing the old clapboards replaced the historic finish talked it over during the week this coming Christmas for editor, the management board of with the product. We hear we so love. The next topic and decided to go all out with the security of a solid place to The Diocesan Times, the diocese of all the arguments for the use for discussion turns to metal lots of sandwiches and some gather and sing and rejoice at Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island or any representative of siding....no more need roofing. And the feasibility of special sweets because we had the miracle of the birth of our for painting bees, better using this instead of shingles. thereof, except where expressly a feeling the meeting could Saviour. stated. insulation. Then someone Someone always asks if it go on for a good part of the points out the need for trim would be noisy in a rain afternoon. We love to discuss May you all have a prayerful paint around the windows storm or, perish the thought, here By the Bog! Advent and a Blessed All material subject to editing. and doors, and another voice a hail storm! There are a few Christmas from us here By Much to our surprise, the talks of the beauty of the old households in the community The Bog. talk was more on the cost clapboards used when the that have switched to metal SUBMISSION DEADLINE: than the colour, but the Guild Aunt Madge The first day of the month BEFORE the month of publication: e.g., the deadline for the January edition is December 1st.

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Dave Walker © 2019 HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - DECEMBER 2019 PAGE 3 BISHOP’S COLUMN Christmas plans? s I write this column there is already some planning for Our diocese is now in the early stage of developing a plan for Christmas taking place in our house. Not that much how we can best use our resources to support the mission and Ayet, at least not on my part, but there is some figuring ministry of the Anglican Church throughout Nova Scotia and about where certain events fall in the calendar. Our lives have Prince Edward Island now and in the next five years. We have somehow never provided much scope to do a lot of advance held a couple of ‘dreaming’ sessions, we have gathered data planning for the festal season. Perhaps I should clarify that “I” and statistics about our life right now and we have asked for have not done much planning except for the extra worship contributions from the members of our diocesan Synod last services... I struggle so much with shopping that I delay it as long May. Early in the new calendar year these various pieces and as possible. the further conversations by different bodies in the diocese We are now in the season of Advent, the great time of planning will begin to be distilled into a plan. While this plan will guide and preparation for Christmas. In the way of God’s kingdom, our decision making as a diocese, it needs to be more than a The Most Reverend Ron Cutler, it’s focus is not on those things which take up so much time and business plan. The church is not a business. It needs to make Bishop of Nova Scotia and attention in our culture. Advent is not about gifts, wrapping and sense at this point in our history and build on our strengths, but Prince Edward Island parties, but quiet reflection, preparing our heart for the great it needs to be more than a strategic plan. It needs to begin with gift of God incarnate. It recognizes that in the birth of Jesus, the an acknowledgement that our purpose is to glorify God and to world is changed. This transformation also involves planning. join in God’s plan (God’s Mission) of transforming the world. It needs to be a Mission Action Plan. “Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God’s grace, which was given me by the working of his power. With this in mind, I am calling the diocese to a season of prayer I wish you To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace throughout the season of Epiphany. In parish worship, in regular was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of gatherings and in personal devotion, I am asking you help and those you discern God’s call to us at this time. Epiphany has traditionally love, blessings Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, so that been a time when we have thought about God’s mission. We in the Advent through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be associate the start of the season with the journey of the Magi, and Christmas made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. the “manifestation of Jesus” and the earliest days of his ministry. seasons, This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized This seems to me to be an appropriate backdrop for us to wrestle in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with questions about how we manifest God’s transforming love filled with in our cities, towns and villages. anticipation with confidence through our faith in him”. Ephesians 3:7-12 We believe that the coming of Jesus is not just happenstance, Over the next month we will provide a collect to focus our and joy which is prayer in the season of Epiphany and a means to gather together realized in the some kind of divine fluke, but is the result of a divine plan. The writer of the letter to the Ephesians, sees this plan as the what you are discerning in your prayers. I also think that this birth of Jesus. extension of God’s love and mercy to the whole world. The will be a good way to lead into parish Annual meetings. coming of the Messiah in a real time and place is not confined In the meantime, I wish you and those you love, blessings in +Ron to one country or culture. Jesus is God’s gift to the world. The the Advent and Christmas seasons, filled with anticipation and “plan” of God is to open up this expansive, generous, loving, joy which is realized in the birth of Jesus. redemptive, relationship to everyone. +Ron

Strive for Five: gender equality Throughout history, women Peltier); (Russian Olga Misik); could be made manifest on have risen to unimaginable • to allow girls to access • to raise awareness of earth. In declaring “Let it be challenges, with an effort education (Pakistani missing and murdered with me, according to your to better the world. Areas Malala Yousafzai); indigenous women and Word” (Lk 1.38) Mary accepts that demand an increase in girls (red-handprint creator her call to ministry. social and ecological justice • to stand against gun violence (US student and Rosalie Fish) As we celebrate Mary in are increasing; and it is these coming weeks, I invite undeniable that women and survivor Emma Gonzalez); I wish to highlight one additional commonality of us to find ways to support the girls tend to be more directly • to oppose child and forced young women around us who and severely impacted by such marriages (Afghan rapper these brave people: these women all began their efforts are also striving to answer injustices. It is good, then, Sonita Alizadeh); Gods call as faithfully as they that we can identify ways that when they were still teenagers • to bring refugee rights can. They are the dreamers women and men are standing (or younger!). Compounding issues to the fore (war-torn and doers; the justice-seekers up together, to respond to the the challenge of speaking Syrian Twitter personality and the peace-makers; the call for justice. against power as women, their Rev Laura Marie Piotrowicz Bana Alabed); message is often overlooked or church regulars and the Especially in this time of Sunday-Morning-Sleepers. Rector, St. John’s, Lunenburg • to speak up for gender undermined because of their Advent, we hear the cry of God is speaking to them rights (transgender age. God’s creation and God’s through their music and musician Jazz Jennings); creatures, seeking justice for At this time of our Christian poetry, their arts and their all. As we pray Come, Lord • to prevent child slavery year, we hear the story of yet bibles, their friends and their Jesus, Come, I invite us to (Indian slavery survivor another young and brave families - and through us. bring to mind some current Payla Jangid); woman, who was willing to risk her health and safety, I pray this Advent we women around the globe, • to ensure representation her own and her family’s will delight in being the who have answered God’s call of people of colour in reputations, her lifestyle and encouragers and supporters for to lead us in areas of justice- children’s literature (US forthcoming marriage: all all who strive to do the will making: student Marley Dias); for the sake of doing what of God. May God keep our • to protect our climate • to speak against unjust was right, and what God was eyes and hearts open to the (Swedish environmentalist governments and calling her to do. Mary, the miracles of possibility in front Greta Thunberg) overthrow dictators Theotokos, the mother of our of us, regardless of age and • to protect our waters (Iranian Alaa Salah); God, was a teenage feminist gender, living the truth that (Canadian Indigenous who allowed her life to be “with God, nothing shall be • to protect free speech impossible.” (Lk. 1.37) Water protector Autumn and democratic processes changed that God’s glory HOME PAGE 4 DECEMBER 2019 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES

NEWS FROM AWAY

Dear Diocese, great things for me, and holy Advent, the beginning of contemplative way. It is about Let us prepare for the Days are short and the is his name. the Christian year, the weeks looking inward and is found in celebration of the birth of weather is much colder as we 50 His mercy is for those who leading up to Christmas, when the stillness that we softly and Christ, for the gift of Jesus, begin the season of Advent, fear him from generation to we desperately grab moments quietly enter into, the stillness focused on Mary’s attitude, her an annual spiritual journey led generation. for spiritual reflection in of Advent. courage and her willingness by young woman, Mary, who 51 He has shown strength the midst of travelling from We know that the serenity, to answer God’s call and be a store to store in search of the major player in shaking up the lived a few thousand years ago. with his arm; he has the quiet and the calm we seek Week by week we reflect on perfect gift. Pausing in the doesn’t come with the race to world. scattered the proud in the midst of scurrying from one her enthusiastic response to thoughts of their hearts. make perfect our Christmas Perhaps this might take us God’s call. “Christmas” celebration to plans. It can be found in to an inner place, of hope, 52 He has brought down the another. She was bold. She was brave. powerful from their thrones, looking beyond ourselves, in peace, joy and expectation We know that the quiet the stillness that we softly that builds over the last seven She was willing to risk it all. and lifted up the lowly; and the calm we seek in the enter into in the simplest of days leading to the birth of She stepped right up to the 53 he has filled the hungry plate the night she had a weeks leading up to Christmas songs as we place ourselves in our Saviour, removing us from with good things, and sent doesn’t come with pushing to Mary’s shoes. the busyness that gets stuck visitor who explained “the the rich away empty. plan”. Then, instead of quietly the front of the line. It isn’t in And, in those few short in our heads, allowing us to (NRSV) disappearing for a few months, getting the best deal. I don’t weeks of this Christian season, experience the inner stillness when this young unmarried What I hear her saying is: I’m have to tell you that. We know we can experience a deeper, of Advent, preparing the way pregnant woman arrived at OK. As a matter of fact I am that it’s about looking inward. richer connection with the of the Lord, building up to the her cousin’s doorstep, she more than OK. And this is the We know that if we pause long God who selected Mary, that joy of the birth of Christ? loudly proclaimed her joy at incredible God I know. enough from our “busyness”, very special young woman, a Advent blessings from the an awkward, even potentially it is found in the stillness teen, to give birth to a very outer world, Mary, the bright spot in that we softly and quietly deadly situation, the time of waiting for the special baby named Jesus, who Rev. Marian Lucas-Jefferies enter into if we approach the would rock the world. for the Mighty One has done Messiah. birth of the Saviour in a more

HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - DECEMBER 2019 PAGE 5 A fellowship of worship, study, and offering

Cynthia Pilichos, rather, it is affinity to a is very appreciative that joining with the men to have Anglican Church Women cause. This shows itself in regions continue to hold the parish reach out into the Board a reluctance to serve as a these regional gatherings community. In so doing, they In the beauty of the soon- standing member of the group and parishes within the are helping to give life to the to-end fall season, with its or organization, although regions continue to host final verse of the Anglican glorious colours and crisp there may be a willingness to the meetings. As anyone Church Women hymn in days, Anglican women in commit energy to a specific who has done any hosting Canada: “. . . that God, with many of the regions of the project, event, or program that knows, such events do not men and women, may so diocese gather at regional has definable parameters with happen without considerable transform the earth . . . “ meetings for a fellowship respect to start and end time. planning and organization. It is clear that in participating time of worship, learning, What one sees with the Thanks are extended to in this “fellowship of worship, and offering. Many of these women who attend and all, lay and ordained, who study, and offering” the women regional gatherings will see participate in these regional make the “coming together” do strive “to deepen and most, if not all, the parishes is the opportunity to hear gatherings in our diocese opportunities possible. strengthen their individual of the particular region, and share stories of amazing is a deep commitment on At these regional “coming spiritual lives” and to further or portion of the region, ministry and mission many levels: to their specific together” opportunities of the their commitment to “God’s represented. Increasingly, emanating from the parishes. group or groups within the women, it is usual for there mission and Christian service these regional gatherings for While it is true that women parish, by whatever name; to be an opening worship, in the parish, community, Anglican women focus on the have always given of their to their parish; and to their usually a Eucharist, that sets diocese, nation, and the Anglican Church Women time, talent, and treasure community. Because of this the tone. There is a shared world.” It is a privilege Board’s Annual Project. To in support of God’s mission, engagement, the women do meal, followed by a program for the Anglican Church say that the Board appreciates what makes these stories live out the annual theme of / presentation. There are Women Diocesan Board to this focus and support is an particularly noteworthy is that the Anglican Church Women both formal and informal encourage and support all the understatement. they defy current trends in Board, Mission is Possible: opportunities to share stories women in the diocese in their In the fall of 2019, women “volunteerism”. Empowered by God. of the ministry of the women commitment. Moreover, we have had the opportunity There is considerable In an age when so much and that of their particular give thanks that these women to hear the incredible and research and experience connecting with one another groups and parishes. It is not are dedicated to the church inspiring story of the King’s to show that the approach is done electronically, these uncommon, by the way, for as an organization and the Kikima Grannies and why these days to volunteering women value the opportunity this ministry to be carried out mission it inspires in them – support for the 2019/20 in the not-for-profit sector to be together in person, to by a very small core of women, amazing persons of faith! Project: Education – a life (secular and faith-based) is not share in worship, learning, most representing a senior age changing gift! is so important. generally because of a strong and offering. The Anglican demographic. As well, in many Just as outstanding, however, affinity to the organization; Church Women Board of the parishes, the women are

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2020 update for MORE Mission Schools

Module #4 called MORE Bold, explores themes related to articulating our faith story and being able to more confidently share God’s good news story of hope with others. This session of our Diocesan regional mission schools provides an opportunity for participants to consider what is most valuable about our experience of God, especially related to our Anglican identity. This module is chock full of personal exercises and table discussions.

Archbishop Ron Cutler and a team of lay and clergy facilitate each workshop. Each run from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Registration is required at www.nspeidiocese.ca or phone 902-420-0717. REGIONS: • Chignecto - Nov. 30 - All Saints’, Springhill (Registration Deadline Nov. 27) • Dartmouth - Jan. 11 - St. Peter’s, Eastern Passage (Registration Deadline Jan. 8) • Fort Sackville - Jan. 18 - St. Nicholas’ Westwood Hills (Registration Deadline Jan. 15) • Chebucto - Jan. 25 - Trinity, Halifax (Registration Deadline Jan. 22) • Northumbria - Feb. 1 - St. James’ Pictou (Registration Deadline Jan. 29) • South Shore - Feb. 29 - St. James’ Mahone Bay (Registration Deadline Feb. 26) • Valley - March 14 – Christ Church, Berwick (Registration Deadline Mar 11) • Eastern Shore - March 21 - St. James’ Seaforth (Registration Deadline Mar 18) • Cape Breton - March 28 - T.B.A. (Registration Deadline Mar 25)

MORE is based on God’s desire to give the world MORE of what it really needs – hope, love, and freedom. Bring a team! HOME PAGE 6 DECEMBER 2019 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES An Authenticity Encounter “Getting in touch, being in touch!”

Camping under the stars, by a difficult dance to do because “And then there is the why of For example, loved ones. That fire, in The Great Rift Valley it requires important elements the feeling. Usually we know in and of itself makes sense in Kenya will always bring of vulnerability, risk, courage, sometimes we don’t, unless on its face. And once we are, back some special memories. and emotional openness. The we mine down deep. The why once we give the big reveal, For example; hearing the roar- goal of emotional authenticity is key. This is the vulnerable we feel better. There is some- ing of lions in the distance as is to get in touch with one’s part. Perhaps we don’t get in thing beneficial about being in we lie near the fire, drinking inner self, at the core level. To touch with the why because touch with those we love that our cow boy coffee. The sound say this is difficult for most of we are uncomfortable doing draws us closer to each other. of the jackal, hyena, zebra, as us is a classic understatement. so. Or we have either not done And of course it is risky. they curiously surrounded us But when we do, a deep inner so or have never seen it mod- A real truism may exist here. If from a safe distance through- authentic encounter takes eled for us. Going deeper takes we are able to be in touch with out the night. Then there was place. The benefits are un- trust, courage, openness, vul- ourselves, and with our closest the time a meteorite passed knowable for us and those we nerability. It’s kind of like the human contacts, we can also over head coming to a crash are in relationship with at the turtle taking their heads out be in touch emotionally with nearby. The constellations deep level. of the shell. I am told that in our creator God. He loves this Orion, or the Southern Cross But, how do we get in touch order for the feet to come out sort of contact, this emotional were amazing. But there was with ourselves, emotionally? the head needs to come out reveal. He after all desires to one event that surpasses all. Bryan Hagerman I have thought about this a first. If this is true a real lesson know us deeply. The Christian One night while camping by great deal. I must admit it is can be learned here. In order religion is set apart from all a beautiful thorn tree, and not an easy task to accom- to move deeper into human others by the fact that our God under a full moon, we were moon light they looked down plish for any of us. But it has relationships and in our own desires relationship. David is awakened with what sounded at us like extra- terrestrial be- its rewards. There is here the self- awareness, our emotional our example of a person who like thunder. Under the starry ings on stilts. This will be one reality of how we feel, not feet and head need to emerge was open with his God. Such night I knew this was impos- of my greatest African memo- how we think, and it must and in that order. Let the head a relationship creates a deep sible but wondered where the ries. Then slowly they moved be expressed that way. For represent the emotion, and bond, and a feeling of being sound was coming from. Off as if in slow motion, walking example someone may ask us the feet the why. And it’s not spiritually complete, centered. in the distance about 50 Yards back to where they had come how we feel. The answers will as if our Amygdala is shouting Now that’s being in touch! A away, I saw it. It was three from, as if dejected in their vary given the context. My “danger, danger, danger. “ The real authentic encounter. So full grown male Giraffe trying quest. It was a real authentic best guess is that most of us fear is within and feels real. “let’s Get in Touch, let’s Be in to run past our camp. They encounter. will dodge the query. But if we The antidote is again the risk Touch.” stopped immediately when we Authenticity, realness, being felt open and trusting, we may of being vulnerable and open. stood up to look. The face-off real, is a key element in hu- say “I feel sad, low, frustrated, Admittedly we should choose lasted a few minutes, as in the man existence. It is also a very lonely, unhappy, afraid, scared. who we are vulnerable with.

Religion distributions around the globe

HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - DECEMBER 2019 PAGE 7 It’s A New Day! Hustle & bustle that connect with the congregation can uniquely wider community? Are they do that will make a effectively serving people definable difference in your with grace and generosity? neighbourhood.

• Easy engagement: Identify • Celebrate and Rest: If your the events or programs parish has gone through a that are strong because the particularly hectic season congregation members and of ministry and activity it is participants are passionately appropriate to carve out a involved, share creatively period of time to pull back and are committed. (If you on the meetings, to celebrate have to plead for people to and give thanks for an active be involved it may be time to period. Take some time to end it.) ‘play’ and have fun together in a time of Sabbath rest. • Name and claim that your church is not called Practicing these principles to do everything. Rest in will help parishioners the assurance that if your discover more joy and life in congregation does a few the Christian community, things really well, that is especially when they see enough. that their efforts really do contribute to the Photo: Busy Christmas bustle. • Recognize and build on transformation of lives. Doing your strengths: God has given a few ministries well is the your parish gifts in ministry difference between a narrow By Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn practices for congregations – a space and place in which focus with excellence and a who are seeking to reduce to undertake ministry, people wide focus with mediocrity. The holidays may be hectic, the exhaustion of an over- with skills and interests, and Success God’s way in but often our churches are stuffed calendar and be just enough resources (money, congregations is realized in a hustling and bustling all year. better positioned as Christ’s equipment, etc.) to carry this people who are experiencing As God’s people who are instruments for transformation out. Lean into your health energy, satisfaction and called to make time for prayer, in people’s lives: and strengths. meaning as they are being contemplation, scripture the feet, hands and heart of study, deepening relationships • Yes and No: Prayerfully Christ. and Sabbath rest, how are • Start with ‘why’. Clearly discern (sift) which activities Jesus said, “I came that they we doing modelling this for analyze the following should continue or start, may have life, and have it others? questions: Why are we and which ones to stop or abundantly.” - John 10:10b hosting this program? What decline. Just because someone North American culture has outcomes or goals are we shaped many of us to believe has a great new idea doesn’t striving for? Who are we mean you have to take it on. that to be busy means we Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn, Diocesan serving, really? How will we are successful. Sometimes Parish Vitality Coordinator And just because something Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn is the measure the ‘spiritual fruit’ has been done for a long Diocesan Parish Vitality a calendar busting full of from this? Get clarity on activities is perceived as time doesn’t mean it has Coordinator. For articles, “Busy churches are deemed this and keep it before your to remain. Choose wisely, inspiration and insights on a measure of high status planning team. or a mark of importance. to be churches of value. And and remember timing is congregational vitality and busy, exhausted, and frustrated everything. mission see the Facebook page However, is that how we wish • Courageously evaluate to approach our ministry life church members are deemed “Parish Vitality Coordinator to be Christians of value.” and critically review all your • Note your niche: If another – Diocese of NS & PEI. and together in our congregations? congregation’s activities. Somehow that doesn’t sound church or organization is Anglican Net News, “Six- Frequently when I visit Which ones most contribute already doing a program Minute Study.” churches around our like something Jesus would to making a difference in have taught. well, don’t duplicate. Pray diocese and listen to their the world God loves? What for them. Then explore announcements or read Another congregational are the missional ministries and invest in what your their meeting agendas, I’m consultant, Jeff Cochran, blown away by the myriad of says churches that make a activities that are going on. difference in the lives of This surely shows passion and people are usually the ones excitement in parishes, but I doing a few things well. In wonder about burn-out for the his article Simply Successful lay and clergy leaders. Churches, he writes, “More Researcher Thom Rainer has often than not, the more written several articles about a church does the less it this feverish phenomenon will accomplish! When we in congregations. “Many try to do too many things, congregations are too busy it becomes difficult to do to be effective,” he says. anything well.” “Many have a hodgepodge of Cochran continues, “The seemingly unrelated activities. best churches I know are As a consequence, there also the simplest ones. They is no clear plan or process are making a greater impact of discipleship in these on their communities and churches.” reaching more people because The American author and they are doing less! They head of LifeWay Christian are focused on what matters Resources says that activity is instead of being distracted.” frequently equated with value. Here are some best Photo: Celebrate and rest. HOME PAGE 8 DECEMBER 2019 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES

Photos: Inua, the polar bear, who is an educational ambassador teaching children and adults about climate change and species at risk. Climate crisis Sunday at St John’s, Truro

By Lori Ramsey teaching about ways that to take steps that would make we can make a difference to a difference. These included St. John’s Parish, Truro climate health in our own signing a pledge to make recently held a Climate Crisis homes and communities. changes in our everyday lives, Sunday. When the Anglican Central to the worship were educating ourselves with a list Communion became the first the music and videos showing of good websites and resources religious body to declare a the beauty of the planet on climate issues and taking climate emergency, churches and the beauty in our own home an acorn or a chestnut all over the world were invited backyards. A highlight was to plant as a sign of hope. We to hold a climate focused a visit from Inua, the polar encourage other parishes to liturgy. Our liturgy included bear, who is an educational hold a Climate Crisis liturgy praise to God for the beauty ambassador teaching children soon! of creation, penitence for and adults about climate our part in the degradation change and species at risk. of the environment and Inua encouraged the people

Dartmouth Region hosts Ten Thousand Villages Festival by Dawn Skene and Ethel shoppers were able to purchase Nelson unique gifts or something The Anglican churches in the special for their homes. There Dartmouth Region held a Ten was something for everyone, Thousand Villages Festival as we had jewellery and Sale at the Church of the Holy accessories, wood, metal, Spirit, on September 21, 2019. stone, paper, toys, Christmas, In their brochure, they say, lawn and garden, linens, “Ten Thousand Villages baskets, books, music, and creates opportunities for the everpopular coffee, tea, artisans in developing spices and chocolate! We countries to earn income also offered free coffee, tea by bringing their products and mini muffins, so shoppers and stories to our markets could have some refreshments through long-term, fair and conversation. The coffee trading relationships.” They and tea were donated by Just buy products from over 60 Us! Coffee Roasters Co-Op artisan groups in more than located in Hortonville, NS, 25 countries. The sale of these Canada’s first Fair Trade coffee products, using fair trade roaster. standards, not only respects For more information about the dignity of the producer but Ten Thousand Villages, also enables them to feed and or to shop for some of clothe their families as well as the lovely products, visit send their children to school. their website: https://www. The sale had an air of tenthousandvillages.ca. excitement as the enthusiastic Photo: Some of the many unique items from the Ten Thousand Villages Festival sale. HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - DECEMBER 2019 PAGE 9

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Fundraisers at the parish of St. John’s Anglican, Milton & Rustico

On October 5th the Sunday (https://www.samaritanspurse. school of St. John’s Anglican, ca/). Each child who receives a Milton and Rustico, PE, held shoe box also receives lessons their first annual Animal in coming to know God, and Blessings service at Miltonvale they get their own copy of the Park. In honour of Saint story of Jesus to keep as well. Francis of Assisi dogs, cats, and Thanks to the Sunday school even a bearded dragon, were children for all of their hard blessed by Rev. Ralph Moore. work organizing contents, Donations were accepted on folding and packing boxes, behalf the Humane Society and for writing letters to be (www.peihumanesociety.com). included in each box that tell A big thank you to Superstore of the love and blessings Jesus of Charlottetown for providing shows us daily! a donation to cover the cost of hotdogs, buns, and drinks. We were able to raise $120, plus New this year! For the pet food, treats and toys! Christmas season the Sunday school will be accepting Chek out more photos of donations for the very worthy this and other events on Primate’s World Relief and www.facebook.com, Parish of Development Fund (https:// Photo: DYC early morning breakfast. Milton and Rustico. pwrdf.org/). Beginning in December, we will be For further information eastlink.ca. activities along the theme of accepting monetary donations It’s Samaritan’s Purse time on donating through our Other information from the spiritual hunger and thirst. again. This year the Sunday and any pop cans and bottles parish please contact Everyone was taught about that can be traded in for a Parish of St. John’s Anglican, school raised through Lenore Hayward, lenore. Milton & Rustico, PE. the marks of the mission donations and bake sales, refund. Just bring your blue [email protected] from the Anglican church of enough money to send 20 shoe bags to church each week Canada, and in supporting boxes, packed full to the brim, (we’re actually collecting until This year was the first year and protecting creation we all for Operation Christmas Child January 6th, 2020). As a parish we are once that youth from our church enjoyed cleaning the beach again collecting shoe boxes parish participated in the and making art from the for Mission to Seafarers, to Diocesan Youth Conference refuse (https://www.anglican. be distributed throughout (DYC), October 25-27, 2019, ca/marks/about/). Bishop Christmas. Mission to at Malagash Bible Camp in Ron was in attendance for Seafarers “...provides an Nova Scotia. A wonderful the campfire/talent show, interdenominational time was had enjoying great and officiated at the Sunday chaplaincy ministry of facilities, food, and making service. All three participants practical, emotional and lots of new friends in Christ. from our parish brought their spiritual support to all We were especially blessed instruments and made up seafarers passing through to have Sue McLeod, Youth the worship team along with Halifax, regardless of faith Engagement Coordinator from worship leader Zack, they had or background” (http:// Primate’s World Relief and a blast. Thank you to God missiontoseafarershalifax. Development Fund (PWRDF) working through the Diocese ca/). Thanks to everyone participating in the weekend of Nova Scotia and Prince who participated last year, we of fellowship, including a Edward Island for making this had 17 boxes donated, and group activity on how PWRDF awesome weekend possible! we would like to see even operates (https://pwrdf.org/). more this year. If you need to We are all looking forward to The theme of the conference attending DYC 2020, and next make alternate arrangements was Hunger & Thirst, and we for shoe box pick up please time we’ll bring more friends. Photo: Cabin cupboard filled to capacity. had multiple bible studies, contact Anna Carr, acwcarr@ worship services, and group HOME PAGE 10 DECEMBER 2019 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES AFIA - Away From It All can enjoy a holiday together The morning unfolds with throughout the year. lots of chat and the telling of Families hoping to have an stories. This is followed with AFIA holiday don’t have to a program; then a there is a be a member of a church or a lunch prepared and provided by Mary Stone, Mothers’ Union organisation. by the volunteers; and in the Mothers’ Union They can apply themselves or afternoon there is another In the United Kingdom, be recommended by someone activity. The programs can Away From It All (AFIA) else for a holiday. range from pickle making is a Mothers’ Union holiday to jewellery making, from One of the Mothers’ Union African drumming to scheme, primarily funded by branches in the Diocese of NS Mothers’ Union members, meditation, from gardening and PEI has become involved and planting to theatre games, to give the opportunity for in a kind of mini AFIA in a break to those who are from wreath making to a day their community. Three at the beach - all in the name experiencing stress in their years ago the opportunity family life. On average, 2,500 of getting away from it all. arose for the Parish of French The focus is on acceptance people are helped to have a Village Mothers’ Union to holiday each year. Families are and appreciation and having a join with St Luke’s United good time together. The day able to spend time together Church in Upper Tantallon away from their stressful ends with many expressions of in the implementation of a gratitude and good-bye hugs. situations at home, engage in once a month ‘away from activities together and have Over the last few years the it all’ day for women living Mothers’ Union members have fun. They often experience at the Marguerite Centre. healing in their relationships come to realize that addictions The Marguerite Center is a affect all levels of society, all by spending this quality time live-in residence for women with each other. ages and all circumstances. recovering from addictions. It When a new volunteer There is at least a 50-year can accommodate 12 women joined the group one day she history behind this wonderful who can stay up to one year. commented that she couldn’t initiative. Mothers’ Unions This in itself is an amazing tell who were the clients of the involved with AFIA may: AFIA experience for these Marguerite Center and who help fund part of the cost of women who are working hard were the volunteers – a sign of the holiday, cover a family’s to overcome whatever their a job well done. Everyone is travel expenses, pay for a addictions are. respected and treated equally. whole holiday or day trip, and/ One day a month the women Through this project members or organize family weeks for are picked up and driven of Mothers’ Union and United groups of families to have a to St. Luke’s United where Church Women have become break which includes activities they are welcomed with friends and share a bond in and outings. hugs, tea, coffee and treats. the work that they are doing Photo: Wreath making at St Luke’s United at AFIA event. A number of the dioceses Everyone leaves their troubles together in Jesus’ name. even have mobile homes they at the door and enters into fund so that numerous families a wonderful time together.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rev. Katie Flynn appointed or by calling 902-638-3017. Christian Scripture, also called and congregations, as they Ministry is one of the most rector of the Parish of St. Admission for students is $5. the Hebrew Bible or Old represent new and ongoing rewarding professions and James Armdale, effective Testament, is a fundamental life. calls to serve and also one of December 1st, 2019. Katie part of Christian tradition the most challenging! In this NEWS from AST comes to us from the Diocese and durable rule of faith and The Challenges of Ministry course we will explore self- of Western Newfoundland. AST is excited to offer variety practice. Leadership PT 2153 care for the active minister of credit and continuing Instructor: R. Bartlett (On with topics including self- education courses for the campus only) awareness, healthy boundaries, Rev. Andrew Cooke resigned winter semester! Please see the Worship Foundations (W-20) emotional wellness, and as rector, from the Parish list below. All courses have WF 1000(Int) Using a combination of healthy practices. of Hackett’s Cove effective both for-graduate-credit and Instructor: S. Willhauck readings, case studies and January 15th, 2020. Continuing Education options (Online only) presentations, this course will unless indicated otherwise. Worship beats at the heart of engage with crucial aspects of Pilgrimage in the Holy Land leadership in congregations Instructor: S. MacAlpine- A Royal Consort community Please click on the links below every Christian community. to see the start dates for each This course will explore and parishes in this time of Gillis and J. Campbell choir presents NOËL NOËL: flux and change. a program of Christmas music course. worship as a ‘practice’ of Join Susan MacAlpine-Gillis including pieces that are very Don’t forget, if you already Christian discipleship, looking and Joan Campbell and some familiar and a few that will have your MDiv your MA is primarily at elements of Non-Christian Religion in AST students who are doing become your new favourites. only 8 credits away! If you’re various worship traditions and Canada ST 2162 this trip as part of a course Please take a break from your looking for more information styles. Instructor: L. McKeen (On for credit, on a ten-day study- holiday preparations to join us on the credit courses please campus only) abroad experience in Israel and the Palestinian territories, in celebrating this most sacred contact Susan MacAlpine- Re-Imagining Ministry with This course is an introduction and wonderful time of the Gillis at smacalpinegillis@ a land whose history and Children and Youth (W-20) to non-Christian religious major cities and sites allow a year. astheology.ns.ca or David PT/ST 2144 (Hyb) traditions and contemporary The concert will be held on Deane at ddeane@astheology. unique opportunity to explore Instructor: D. Csinos (Online Canadian perspective. the history and development Sunday, December 8th, 3 ns.ca and campus) p.m., at St. Louis Catholic of the biblical literature, as Biblical Foundations: Hebrew well as of the three major Church. Tickets are available Children and youth occupy Cultivating Self Care Bible (W-20) BF 1001 (Int) monotheistic faiths: Judaism, for $15 at the door, or $12 an ambivalent space in our in Ministry Practice – Instructor: D. Driver (Online churches – and our world at Christianity, and Islam. in advance from Bainton’s only) Continuing Education only Tannery, Annapolis Royal; large. On the one hand, we Instructor: D. Brewer (Online from any ARC choir member; The first Testament of want them in our communities only) HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - DECEMBER 2019 PAGE 11 Book Review: ‘Preaching Punchlines’ by Laura Marie Piotrowicz variation in voice or volume Author: Susan Sparks or even location. She reminds Paperback: 136 pages New preachers seem to be preachers of the importance of Publisher: Smyth & Helwys given 2 rules when it comes to prayer, of our dependence on Publishing, Inc. (April 3, 2019) how to begin a sermon: God’s grace, of how worship Language: English ISBN-10: 1641731389 1. Never tell a joke. (with few somber exceptions) ISBN-13: 978-1641731386 should evoke joy in the 2. Always tell a joke. hearts of all gathered, and on Author bio: With that dichotomy, the how we’re not all going to As a trial lawyer turned role of homiletic humour can change the world every time standup comedian and be a conundrum. we open our mouths. Sparks Baptist minister, Susan Sparks invites preachers to re-read is America’s only female It is exactly this confusion scripture with an openness comedian with a pulpit. A that Susan Sparks seeks to its humour, as “the Bible North Carolina native, Susan to address in her book spans the gamut of our human received her B.A. at the Preaching Punchlines: The existence.” (p. 46). University of North Carolina Ten Commandments of and a law degree from Wake Comedy (Macon, GA: Smyth Overall, this is a book Forest University. & Helwys Press, 2019). designed to re-energise Approachable and brief at preachers who have spent After ten years as a lawyer 120 pages, this book breaks many years standing in pulpits. moonlighting as a standup, the never/always dichotomy It is hoping to inspire new she left her practice and spent with abundant external preachers to find their unique two years on a solo trip around resources (shared by QR voice and style in an authentic the world, including working codes), quotes, and try-this- way that will help relate the with Mother Teresa’s mission at-home exercises. Sparks Good News of God to the in Calcutta, climbing Mt. knows her material: a former world that we’re living in. Kilimanjaro, and driving her trail lawyer turned standup Jeep Wrangler solo from NYC Mostly, this book is an to Alaska. Upon returning comedian turned Baptist offering and reminder that Pastor, she has faced a wider home, she entered Union we, who are preaching, are Theological Seminary in New variety of captive audiences privileged with sharing the than most. The commonality York City, where she earned a Gospel: and that place of Master of Divinity and wrote in all those settings, she posits, honour, granted to us by the is that a little joy goes a long an honors thesis on humor and people listening from the religion. way to conveying a message pews, should be approached authentically. with reverence and with joy. In May 2007 Susan was Within the book, each “We have to show up every installed as the 15th Senior ‘commandment’ serves time with the fullest sense of Minister of the historic Madison Avenue Baptist as a pointer from Sparks’ preparation and delivery of getting to the point, using joy we can muster... because Church in New York City as experience. This is not the good news. She offers movement, connecting with what we bring into the pulpit, the first woman pastor. intended as a comedic suggestions from her previous the people coming in the the congregation takes away.” handbook, but as a tool careers that can enhance a door, practicing our prepared (p. 104) to assist preachers in their sermon’s delivery: basics like material, preaching with News from around the dioceses

By Anglican Journal Staff - residents of the building and a redevelop its property for a Diocese of Edmonton helps stay because of the 80% cost October 30, 2019 new pedestrian path running decade when he arrived there provide medical coverage in reduction, and 52-year-old across the church’s property, in July 2018, Leggett says. Burundi Barengayabo Daphrose from B.C. church to replace old connecting a nearby Skytrain —Topic Parishes in the diocese of Gashikanwa parish, a widow parish hall with 30-story station to the street. Edmonton are raising funds to who often has to sell food building Income made by the project Dean of Niagara retires support an initiative in their in order to afford medical A Vancouver-area parish will go toward renovating Peter Wall, who served as companion diocese of Buyé in care when her children get is planning a property the cathedral, building the rector of Christ’s Church Burundi. sick. “As I get this card, I redevelopment project that new parish hall and buying a Cathedral in Hamilton, Ont., Through the $5-5 Ways am hopeful that my family will see its existing parish share of the market-rate rental and dean of Niagara since Challenge, parishes are will not have any struggle in hall replaced by a 30-story apartments in the building, 1998, and held numerous raising money in support of paying the medical bill. I do skyscraper for affordable Leggett says. positions with the Anglican an initiative by the Buyé not have anything to pay back housing, market rental and A key principle of the project Church of Canada, retired Mothers’ Union, which helps this noble assistance, but I will ownership housing and the will be that it focuses “on Sept. 30. seniors and low-income serve my Lord up to the end of new parish hall and offices. ‘growing communities of Wall’s service to the church families purchase a $5 medical my life because it is showing Richard Geoffrey Leggett, faith’ rather than institutional over his 30-year ministry card that grants them 80% me how far God loves us,” archdeacon of Westminster survival and preservation of has included membership of medical coverage for a full Daphrose said. and vicar of Holy Trinity the status quo,” he says. While General Synod (including year. —The Messenger Cathedral in New much work needs to be done serving as co-chair of the This is the second year Westminster, B.C., says the on Holy Trinity Cathedral, General Synod Planning donating to the project. Diocese of Ottawa leader parish has been working with “the renewal of the physical Committee); the Council of In 2018, the diocese raised presented with key to the city Conwest Group of Companies, fabric of this architectural General Synod; the Faith, $5,460, enough to provide Canon Sue Garvey, who a local development icon will point beyond itself Worship and Ministry medical cards to 1,092 seniors recently retired from her corporation, on a plan to God’s work in the world in Committee; the Liturgy Task in 20 parishes. The total for role as executive director to replace the cathedral’s and through the parish in the Force; the Joint Anglican- the 2019 giving is still being of Cornerstone Housing 120-year-old parish hall with past, in the present and into Lutheran Commission (where tallied. for Women—a community the multi-use residential the future.” he has been co-chair); and Several messages of thanks ministry of the diocese of tower. The project, Leggett The parish—which served as the board of directors of the were shared with the diocese, Ottawa—was presented with says, will also involve the the diocese’s cathedral until Anglican Foundation of including one from Uwimana the key to the city of Ottawa construction of a community 1929 and retains the name Canada. Charlotte, 59, from Mwumba Sept. 12. plaza, 4.5 levels of parking “cathedral”—had already —Niagara Anglican Parish, who was able to pay for —CrossTalk for parishioners, visitors and been involved in planning to her husband’s 41-day hospital HOME PAGE 12 DECEMBER 2019 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES Preparing to be vulnerable By Cathy Lee Cunningham, Rector, Church of the Good Shepherd, Beaver Bank

Greetings and peace to you, in the name of our Coming Messiah, Jesus! Embracing fear Has a fear of feeling vulnerable ever stopped you from doing the right thing? From speaking up in the face of indignity or injustice? From pursuing positive change because it might rock the boat? Rev. Cathy Lee You know the fear is real Cunningham when the what-if playlist starts playing in your head (or at your Parish Council meeting). stand for the good. It goes something like this: Being “prepared to be “It is not the critic who counts; Roosevelt’s speech. daring-greatly-by-brene- not the man who points out brown/9780593105108/ • What if we fail? Offend vulnerable” seems to be a It seems to me to be the how the strong man stumbles, excerpt someone? Make someone prerequisite for the job. perfect read to accompany our or where the doer of deeds could angry? Like Mary, the Mother of Advent contemplations. She Watch the TEDx Talk “The have done them better. The writes: Power of Vulnerability”, • What if they criticize me? Jesus, when the Angel Gabriel credit belongs to the man who is viewed over 44,369,088 Don’t like me? announced to her that she actually in the arena, whose face “Vulnerability is not would bear the Messiah, in a weakness, and the uncertainty, times • What if they leave the is marred by dust and sweat and world where pregnant women risk, and emotional exposure https://www.ted.com/ church? Stop giving blood; who strives valiantly; who out of wedlock were stoned to we face every day are not talks/brene_brown_on_ money? errs; who comes short again and vulnerability?language=en death. again, because there is no effort optional….When we spend • What if this hurts my Like Joseph, who was without error and shortcoming; our lives waiting until we’re 12 Session Audio Course, feelings? going to quietly break the but who does actually strive to perfect or bulletproof before “The Power of Vulnerability” • What if this causes a engagement with Mary until do the deeds; who knows great we walk into the arena, https://www.soundstrue. conflict? the visitation of the angel in enthusiasms, the great devotions; we ultimately sacrifice com/store/the-power-of- his dream changed his mind, who spends himself in a worthy relationships and opportunities vulnerability-2917.html Science tells us that we are that may not be recoverable, at a critical turning point in to push through his doubts and cause; who at best knows in Free Downloadable judgement, to journey with the end the triumph of high we squander our precious Resources history, where — depending time, and we turn our backs on what we choose to do both her in love. achievement, and who at the https://brenebrown.com/ worst, if he fails, at least fails on our gifts, those unique individually and collectively Like John the Baptist, downloads/ while daring greatly, so that his contributions only we can as a human race — we will preaching a message of radical See you back here in the place shall never be with those make.” determine the fate not only life-change at the River January Issue, with an article cold and timid souls who neither of generations to come, but of Jordan, while taking on the This Advent I’m diving in, to on leading from the waters of know victory nor defeat.” the very planet. corrupted power of Herod, explore and learn more about baptism. my own fear of vulnerability These are Advent times, knowing it might cost him his - Theodore Roosevelt, freedom and his life. Citizenship in a Republic, and how vulnerability affects when the litany response, our missional work in the “Lord Jesus, come soon!” Paris, April 23rd, 1910 Photo credit: Jeremy Thomas Like the early Christians, parish. on Unsplash resonates so deeply. who risked their lives to share the Good News of Jesus, no Here are a few good ______Such times — thanks be to Vulnerability as strength places to start: God — can amplify not only matter the personal cost. and call Need any further assistance or our fears and vulnerabilities, Read an Excerpt of Daring Called into the arena A quick Google search led resource suggestions? but also our courage. They Greatly A favourite quote comes me to the work of Brene Contact cathylee@ beg us to be prepared to be https://www. to mind (forgive the gender- Brown, and her book, Daring cathyleecunningham.com vulnerable. They beg us to penguinrandomhouse. exclusive language of the time): Greatly, which was inspired by ca/books/310307/ Buying or Selling? Call me... John D. Steele’s Sons Limited Doug Mullenger, B.Comm Manufacturers of Marble, REALTOR® Granite and Bronze Plaques, Monuments, Tables, 902-292-2244 Slabs and Markers Write or call for a Free Booklet: [email protected] PO Box 173, North Sydney, NS 3845 Joseph Howe Drive, Suite 100 B2A 3M3 Halifax, NS B3L 4H9 www.SuttonHalifax.ca Telephone: 902-794-2713 Office: 902-453-5552 Independent Member Broker

I HAVE BEEN ALL THINGS UNHOLY. IF GOD CAN WORK THROUGH ME, HE CAN WORK THROUGH ANYONE.

ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI

HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - DECEMBER 2019 PAGE 13 Teach us to pray: for a new start Let me tell you about La “up” there, but rather in their good news is that God is in Befana. Her story is most often midst, in the crowd with them. our midst, in the crowd with told in Italy at Epiphany but us, on the bus, in the pew, in I think there are echoes of our hearts. God continues to Advent anticipation in this meet us face to face and is not tale. Befana was sweeping her content to call to us from afar. house when the Magi, having These Advent days are full of followed the Messiah’s star preparations, of getting ready, from the East, come asking for family returning home; for directions to Bethlehem. hectic with house cleaning, Befana obliges and they invite cookie making, gift-giving. her to join them on their Despite Advent’s invitation journey. She declines, saying to be watchful and waiting, she has too much work to do. to be prayerful and reflective, After giving them a meal, pondering the meaning of she sends them on their way. Rev. Frances Drolet-Smith Christ’s coming, our activities Returning to her chores, seem to accelerate. We can Befana notices a bright star in easily become distracted and the sky; and begins to think The Baptism John prescribed overwhelmed. Prayer, living perhaps she should have was no longer merely a ritual thankfully and caring for gone with them. She places cleansing, but rather a new others not only changes the baked goods and gifts in her start. world, but can also change us. basket for the baby and takes So often we don’t seem to In fact, it may even change her broom to help the new understand that starting over the world because it changes mother clean - much more means that the guidelines us. If this pattern of new-starts practical gifts than the Magi change. We cannot continue becomes a daily feature in our reportedly brought! She sets to be and to do what we’ve relationship with God, our out and despite her searching, been doing. The relationship relationship with one another, never finds him. It is said that we have with God, and God we might actually see the she still searches today, even has with us, changes direction change. It doesn’t happen after all these years, stops at when we start over. Perhaps because we suddenly get things each home and leaves a gift, this is why we must start over right, but because God has believing Christ is to be found daily. We have trouble getting come to make things right for experience of the God who isn’t about to let that happen. in every child. it right and sometimes we mess us. loves us so deeply, willingly That’s why God comes again, experiencing both human and again, and again – and Advent is the start of a new up. The stories we hear in the year; a time for starting over. birth and death, is also the keeps on coming. We’re not unlike the children season of Advent remind us of experience of the God of It’s a time when we remind of Israel, gathered on the God’s coming into our world ourselves that our God is a resurrection and new life. It’s banks of the Jordan, wanting and our lives. But God does God’s love and forgiveness Rev. Frances Drolet-Smith God of new beginnings, who change, but not wanting the not restrict his incarnation starts over with us, patiently that leads us to seek new Diocesan Representative, cost. New beginnings are not to one day or one season, nor starts each day, just as John the Anglican Fellowship of and generously, every time free. They mean letting go of does God limit our new starts we run away. John the Baptist signalled a new start for those Prayer the old in order to be grasped to the four weeks of Advent. he encountered. Like them came to invite people into a by the new. We must face God comes to us daily, renews new relationship with God. we may be tempted to see our our past with courage and us daily. We seek God out, not Photo credit: Vicki Fioratos, He came to tell them that new starts as the opportunity honesty in order to live into a just to assuage our guilt or to Dartmouth, NS God wasn’t “out there” or for others to change and for us new and different future. The be forgiven, but because our to remain the same. But God

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HOME PAGE 14 DECEMBER 2019 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES Bible 2019 December Puzzle Clues Crossword ACROSS: DOWN: by Maureen Yeats -1- Church season before Christmas (6) -5- Old Testament major prophet (6) -2- “We played the flute … and you did not DECEMBER Puzzle -10- “Do not be _____ to this world.” (Rom. _____.” (Luke 7:32) move rhythmically (5) 12:2) forced to agree (9) -3- “O my Lord, I have never been _____.” -11- Test (5) (Exod. 4:10) fluent speaker (8) -12- Document authorizing transfer of money -4- “A _____ for every matter under heaven.” (6) (Eccl. 3:1) prescribed period (4) -13- Particular event (8) -5- “At that time, the festival of the _____ -15- Emotional stability (10) took place.” (John 10:22) setting apart (10) -17- “Hallowed be your _____.” (Luke 11:2) -6- Old Testament prophet who anointed appellation or title (4) Solomon king. (1Kings 1:8-45) (6) -19- New Testament book (4) -7- Remove (9) -20- Collection of various items (10) -8- Mass of ice formed by freezing of dripping -23- Substance used in non-gas barbeques (8) water (6) -24- The number of the disciples (6) -9- Look briefly (6) -27- Boredom (5) -14- Agents sent on a mission (10) -28- Embodied in flesh (9) -16- “I may be _____in speech.” (2Cor. 11:6) -29- Venomous snakes (6) not taught (9) -30- Not celebrated (6) -18- Managers (8) -19- One who uses a bow and arrow (6) -21- Topics (6) -22- Copyist (6) -25- Acquire knowledge (5) -26 – Very light brown colour (4)

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HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - DECEMBER 2019 PAGE 15 St. Mary’s pipe organ receives historic designation

By John DeCoste at the time). their duties, and a stop The congregation had, labelled ‘Pedal Check’ which The 157-year-old pipe over a period of 10 years, disengages the pedals by organ at St. Mary’s Anglican cut and sold wood from its engaging a lock mechanism. Church in Auburn, Kings glebe lands on the North Also interesting is a pedal Co. has received designation Mountain to raise funds for coupler draw-knob labelled from the Royal Canadian the purchase of the organ. ‘Pedals and Keys’. College of Organists Following his installation as According to the R.C.C.O. (R.C.C.O.) as a significant Rector in June of 1852, Rev. certificate, the St. Mary’s historic instrument. Richard Avery had identified organ was awarded the Class At the annual R.C.C.O. the procurement of an organ A historical designation convocation held July 10 as a priority for the church. “in recognition of the at St. Matthew’s Church in The St. Mary’s organ was highly original state of Halifax, the St. Mary’s organ originally installed upstairs in this American instrument, was awarded the Class A the rear gallery and required which retains all its original historic designation due to some minor structural pipework, original hand- its age and largely unaltered alterations to make it fit the blowing equipment and has state. space. In 1891, it was moved not been altered in any way.” The organ dates from 1862 downstairs into a recently One of the oldest and was built by George extended chancel area to consecrated Anglican Stephens & Co. of East allow it (and the choir) to be churches in Canada, Cambridge, Massachusetts. viewed by the congregation. construction on St. Mary’s It is unique, possibly one of a The organ was pumped by was begun in 1789 and kind in that it was originally hand until the early 1960s completed in 1790. The built as a special order, and is when an electric motor church was consecrated Oct. considered by the R.C.C.O. was installed to operate the 10, 1790 by Rt. Rev. Charles to be “a very rare example of bellows. Inglis, the first Church of its kind in Canada.” England Bishop of British Some items of interest North America. Photo: With the 157-year-old St. Mary’s Anglican Church pipe organ The one-manual tracker include a stop labelled in the background, organist and choir director Evelyn Keddy (seated) organ with a short, 18-note ‘Bellows Signal’ which and church warden John DeCoste hold the Class A historic designa- pedal board was purchased alerted the hand-pump tion certificate the organ received from the Royal Canadian College of new by the church for 150 operator to commence Organists. (Twila Robar-DeCoste) pounds Sterling (about $450

HOME PAGE 16 DECEMBER 2019 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES You’re a what? Most are familiar with the cooked enough.” Lawrence, to the diaconate men who story in Acts 6: “Now in those with grill in tow, can be were not candidates for days, when the number of found in a carved form in our priestly ordination was again the disciples was multiplying, Cathedral.), Francis of Assisi, permitted beginning in 1967, there arose a complaint Ephrem of Syria and Vincent and at the next Anglican against the Hebrews by the of Saragossa. Lambeth Conference of 1970 Hellenists,[a] because their The word deacon is derived the Order was revived in the widows were neglected in from the Greek word Anglican Church. By 1980 the the daily distribution. Then “diakonis”, which means Anglican Church of Canada the twelve summoned the “servant”, “waiting-man”, was ordaining men and women multitude of the disciples “minister” or “messenger.” to the diaconate. and said, “It is not desirable Beginning around the fifth While the deacon has a role that we should leave the century, there was a gradual in liturgy, the main role of a word of God and serve tables. decline in the diaconate modern deacon is as a link Therefore, brethren, seek out as a permanent state of life between the secular world and from among you seven men View from the Deacon’s Bench in the Latin church. The the church. The deacons of of good reputation, full of development of a sequence of the Diocese of Nova Scotia the Holy Spirit and wisdom, offices found men entering the and Prince Edward Island pleased the whole multitude. Stephen and Philip. Stephen clerical state through tonsure, spend more time being a And they chose Stephen, was famously stoned (not in then ordination to the minor servant, waiter, minister or The word a man full of faith and the a good way) for preaching orders of lector, porter, messenger in the community deacon is Holy Spirit, and Philip, the word of God, and Philip exorcist, and acolyte before than they do in church on Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, who baptized the Ethiopian ordination to the major orders Sunday. And when we are derived from Parmenas, and Nicolas, a Eunuch ( Acts 8:26-40). of sub-deacon and deacon, in church, we are probably the Greek word proselyte from Antioch, One woman, Phoebe, is later all stages on the path to telling everyone of a need of whom they set before the mentioned in Romans 16: 1-2 priesthood. Only men destined the community; bringing the “diakonis”, apostles; and when they had as a Deacon. There were nine for priesthood were allowed world to the church. In my which means prayed, they laid hands on deacons who were considered to be ordained deacons. community you can probably them. Then the word of God Saints by the Roman Church: As seminaries developed, find at least one deacon “servant”, spread, and the number of the Stephen, Philip, Lawrence of following the Council of marching in the Pride parade, “waiting-man”, disciples multiplied greatly in Rome ( who is remembered Trent, to contemporary times, or at an environmental event “minister” or Jerusalem, and a great many for presenting the Prefect of the only men ordained as or serving dinner at the soup of the priests were obedient to Rome with the “ Treasure of deacons were seminarians who kitchen; bringing the church “messenger.” the faith.” the Church” – that is, the were completing the last year to the world. And no, you And yes, this was before there poor, the sick, the lame, the or so of graduate theological do not have to be ordained a were priests. So, scripture old, and all those who suffer. training, so-called “transitional deacon to do most of the work whom we may appoint over tells us these deacons were to For this he was slowly roasted deacons.” of a deacon. But a deacon is this business; but we will serve tables and their fellow alive on a giant gridiron, all accountable to the church and give ourselves continually to the while keeping his sense of Following the Christians. We know little recommendations of Vatican their bishop and is visible as prayer and to the ministry of about these seven, except for humour, telling his torturers such to the world. the word.” And the saying to “turn me over, this side is II, the practice of ordaining Merry Christmas to all ... s the year comes to an and photographs of parish on prayer, the environment Aend, it is time to pause events and activities. So and social justice give a more and reflect on all those reasons ‘Thank you’ to all who made expansive view of our world. we have to be thankful. this newspaper their own by sending in articles, columns Finally, if you have not Editing The Diocesan Times and stories that resonate already done so, please take is a task made much easier within our diocese. the time to complete the with the contributions of renewal notice on the top of more than a dozen regular Publishing the stories of page 9 and send it in. columnists and writers. And our diocese is important to dozens and dozens of parishes share with fellow Anglicans. See you again in 2020! that send in their stories And having regular columns

Paul Sherwood Photo: Daniel Seßler on Unsplash Editor ... and to all, a good night!

HOME All Saints Anglican parish celebrates 150 years of service

Photo: All Saints choir during the 150th Celebration service.

Continued from front page the 3rd of November and Single Parents, Square Roots Prepared by the 150th look to the future, we desire and various support groups; Celebration Committee to continue being a vital faith offers a Vacation Bible School community for generations to and a Prayer Service in the come.’ Park during the summer; and In 1967, the Parish of Today, the Parish continues extends a warm welcome Photo: Rev. Trevor Lightfoot Waverley was created and to serve the greater Bedford for all to take part in a All Saints became its own area. It provides a variety community outreach program an opportunity for families to community. one point Parish. A major for Seniors called Coffee and enjoy the worship experience In his remarks to members renovation became the focus outside the traditional format, and guests of All Saints, Dr. of a five year plan with the in a relaxed and casual French, Chair of the 150th 80th Anniversary of the All setting. It is not only about Committee, expressed his Saints Church beginning an opportunity for children thanks to all for their ongoing in 1984. Subsequently to learn about and experience leadership, support and with the benefit of various God, but it provides an engagement. He connected enhancements and opportunity to build and his remarks to a part of the refurbishing, the current strengthen our relationships Anniversary Prayer that Church, Parish Hall and as a community. In addition referenced our legacy of parking area emerged much in to these activities, services the work and generosity the way it exists today. and supports, All Saints of those who came before also participates with other The many stories and events us. Equally importantly, he partners to support groups throughout the 150 year drew attention to the fact and individuals in the wider history of All Saints Parish are that our Anniversary Prayer community such as through intertwined with the history looks forward to maintaining Beacon House, Metro Turning of the Church of England an open heart and mind Point, Adsum House and the and the Anglican Church of as we embrace new and St. George’s Dinner. Canada in Nova Scotia as creative ways in answering well as the history, culture and Looking forward beyond the call to service, as well roots of Bedford, Nova Scotia, the 150th Anniversary, as having the courage and Canada and what was known Warden Clarence Hewitt resolve to continue in our as the British Empire. noted that our Visioning journey of faith and service. Photo: Welcoming visitors to sign the guest book. and Discernment Process Dr. French spoke about the Rev. Lightfoot commented for the Future of All Saints reputation of All Saints as that ‘As we gather to of community supports to Conversations, a Bookclub, a will be a prime feature of our being a welcoming Parish. He celebrate, it is important to groups such as the Boy Scouts/ Christian Meditation group, a Annual Meeting in February concluded that continuing note that we are not doing so Venturers, Girl Guides, and Faith Explorer’s group, and, a 2020. The discernment and our legacy of inclusive to celebrate the building but the local AA group and its Bible Exploration group. As visioning process has been welcoming, and sharing our rather the people, the faith affiliated associations. As well, well, through the leadership evolving over the past year gifts through our thoughts, community, of All Saints.’ He the Parish Hall is home to the of Rev. Lightfoot, a family and has been guided by a set of our words and our deeds as went on to state that ‘The Bedford Players Community and child-friendly service on key questions that have been a part of our renewed vision community of All Saints is, Theatre, originally All selected Sunday afternoons presented to all individuals and discernment, will be and has been, an important Saints Players. As part of known as Messy Church. and groups for comment. He challenges that we must meet lifeline to many throughout its missional activities, All Beginning in May, 2014, noted that this will help lead in real and sustainable ways. the ages, and as we celebrate Saints has hosted sessions for Messy Church has provided us forward as a Parish and as a MORE than just history on

Photo: Some of the many parishioners and well-wishers who attended the service. Photo: Bedford Players presented the parish with an anniversary cake. HOME