STORYTELLING QUILT DEATH AND INCARNATION SIMPLIFYING CHRISTMAS Justice that heals and restores, PAGE 13 Christmas is not just about the birth of Jesus, PAGE 16 Tips to help families escape the excess, PAGE 23

A section of the Anglican Journal

Much ado about something THEN THE GLORY OF THE LORD SHALL BE REVEALED guess it was fi nally time for me to fi nd out if this Provincial Synod aandnd aallll peoplepeople shallshall seesee itit together...together... was "Much ado about nothing?" I IIsaiahsaiah 440:50:5 arrived in Stratford dutifully pre- pared, but still wondering if this was going to be a good use of my time. In all honesty I thought that a change was as good as a rest and if nothing else I was bound LYNNE CORFIELD to meet some nice people and RECTOR - ST. JOHN'S NIAGARA FALLS catch up on some sleep. With all must admit that over the years the tight budgets and budget cuts II haven't really heard any good that we face each year it seemed reasons to have a Provincial Syn- to me that perhaps Provincial od. I was elected as a lay delegate Synod was in effect 'middle man- in 1994 but as I entered Seminary agement' and in a business model, that year I passed up the chance to this is the layer that can usually go and the alternate attended in my be dispensed with. place. When I was considering if I I am delighted to report that I should attend at that time, the peo- was pleasantly surprised. The lo- ple I sought advice from said that I cal arrangements committee had wouldn't miss much if I didn't go, done a super job of preparing for and they certainly wouldn't miss the arrival of the delegates. We me... I was told, "provincial Synod were seated at pre-planned tables doesn't really do anything!" So, be- with a mix of people from each ing the good and dedicated mature of the seven Diocese that make up student that I was, (alright, geek) Provincial Synod (Algoma, Huron, I decided the best thing to do was Moosonee, Niagara, Ontario, Ot- give it a miss and stay on top of tawa and Toronto). This provided my studies. the opportunity to meet other An- ADVENT LETTER FROM THE BISHOP Fast forward to 2005 and I glicans from a large geographical found myself on the ballot for area, urban and rural, and to hear THE RT. REV. D. RALPH SPENCE grace of God, manifested in his activity and to the warmth of Je- BISHOP OF NIAGARA Provincial Synod as a Clergy about the challenges that face son Jesus, who so wants to be sus Christ who longs to be with delegate and was elected at our people around the Ecclesiastical Dear friends in Niagara, a part of our every day living. I us every moment. It's a time to Diocesan Synod that fall. In Province as they try to keep their During the past few weeks I said that carefully. It's not that realize that no matter how out of the meantime a lot of water had churches going in a diffi cult and have been ill and unable to leave God forces love, care and guid- control we may feel, in any cir- passed under the bridge, and I had sometimes hostile world that does my home. I am hoping that by the ance upon us, but God truly de- cumstance, we know that there been ordained, served a curacy not particularly want to hear our time you read this, I will be well sires to be of service to us. We is a God who loves us and will and a couple of parishes, been the 'Good News'. again, and able to resume my pas- get so busy and so tied up with gently guide us to peace and ful- Regional Dean of Brock and am toral duties. This period of illness ourselves that we forget the gen- fi llment. now a Regional Archdeacon. I How much diversity has given me a great deal of time tle urgings of the Lord and we I'm inviting all to journey dur- also had the opportunity to work is allowed? to refl ect upon my life and my forget how much we really need ing these days of Advent toward on the Liturgy Planning Commit- An opening exercise had 20-25 ministry to the church. I am cer- God to sustain all that we are and the light of Christ. Journey to- tee for General Synod 2004 and delegates gathered around a fl ip tain that you will hear more about all that we do. ward hope and look in every cor- the local arrangements committee chart in four corners of the con- this as time goes on. But let me re- Sickness serves to remind us ner for the goodness of God, the and because of that involvement ference room sharing what chal- fl ect on one thing at this time—the of our dependence upon the God same goodness that was shown to attended the General Synod ses- lenges they face in their church- feeling of powerlessness. of all goodness. Of course this his own Son Jesus throughout his sions as an observer. Although I es. Many people voiced concerns It's a strange thing in life. We brings me to Advent. Like sick- entire ministry. If you open your was not able to vote I found at- about how do we connect with are perfectly aware of our mor- ness, it is such a time of darkness. eyes, you'll see that God standing tending General Synod to be an our youth? Where are they? What tality and of our fragility at least Yet in the midst of darkness there there with arms open longing to exciting experience as the del- can we do differently in order to in an academic sense. From the is a light; a truly hopeful light of walk with you. egates were debating some very make our churches more youth time of my youth, I have known the Christ child who so much In recent days I have known important issues. It was certainly friendly? This laid the ground that sickness and death exist, but wants to lead us along the path that love of God and his Son Je- time well spent. work for us all to listen to many you know, it always seems to of joy and fulfi llment. I do not sus and I will walk through Ad- well prepared and informative happen to other people. When suspect, nor do I hope that many vent struggling to be more aware Pleasantly surprised presentations on topics such as you have infections that cannot of you will be ill for lengthy pe- than ever. Please join me in this So, having read my convening cir- theological education—how do seem to be defeated, you realize riods of time in the near future. pilgrimage. cular and along with three other we fund it? How do we keep the how little control we have and But perhaps we can use this time clerics, four lay representatives, needs of theological education how we must rely on the care of of Advent in the same way. It's a youth delegate and our Bishop before the country? others, and above all upon the a time to open our hearts to the Ralph, I set off one October Tues- day evening bound for Stratford. I See MUCH ADO on page 5 2 PARISHNiagara Anglican NEWS December 2006 Niagara Anglican - December 2006

MAKING A DIFFERENCE. Six-year old Jasmine Henry, a member of St. James Church, Guelph, holds a certifi cate she recently received from A Child's Voice Foundation, acknowledging her donation of a 10 inch braid of her hair which will be used to make a human-hair wig for a child who has suffered hair loss. This year Jasmine has learned fi rst-hand about the effects of chemotherapy and hair loss as she has watched her grandmother, Joanne Henry, progress through treatment for breast cancer. For more in- formation on donating hair, visit www.achildsvoicefoundation.com.

Going forward in faith

ST. GEORGES, GUELPH prepares for its 175th anniversary 160TH CELEBRATION of the Consecration of St. John the Evangelist Church in South Cayuga. The Dunn Anglican Parish shared Harvest Fes- ROSEMARY ANDERSON the church building on Saturday, 28, the church will be open tival and the 160th Celebration of the Consecration of St. John's Church in ST. GEORGE'S, GUELPH April 21, for a tour focusing on the again for guided tours as part of South Cayuga with members and friends! The church was beautifully dec- rom the time the newly refur- stained glass windows and the inte- Doors Open Guelph, a city-wide orated both inside and out. An estimated 160 people attended the service Fbished carillon heralds the New rior carvings. That evening, a gala heritage event. in this lovely frame church, surrounded by lush fi elds just a short distance Year at midnight on December 31, anniversary party at Guelph Place On Sunday, April 29, the Pri- from Lake Erie. Many came from a distance, as far away as Florida. St. George's Church in Guelph has will feature dinner and entertain- mate of the Anglican Church of New Books of Common Prayer were dedicated as well as a memorial its 175th anniversary year packed ment. If they wish, guests can dress Canada, the Most Reverend An- bench in the graveyard. A luncheon and fellowship followed the service. with events to celebrate. in styles of the Victorian era to add drew Hutchison, will preside at The church was consecrated on June 15, 1846 by The Right Rever- From the Bishop's Levée on to the fun. the service and wrap up the week's end John Strachan, Lord Bishop of the Diocese of Toronto. One of the New Year's Day, 2007 will bring On Sunday morning, everyone celebrations. fi rst wardens of St. John's, Lieutenant-Colonel John Johnson became the special music, a liturgical art ex- will gather at St. George's Square, Young people play an impor- founder of Trinity College. (Submitted by F. Hill King Treasurer) hibit, speakers, dinners and enter- in the heart of the city, where the tant role at St. George's, and on tainment, along with visits from fi rst St. George's Church was built May 4, some 120 youth are ex- former clergy to make this a spe- in 1832. The Right Reverend D. pected for the Niagara Diocesan cial time to share with everyone in Ralph Spence, Bishop of the Dio- Youth Synod. the community. cese of Niagara, will offi ciate at Former rectors and curates will Because music is an important a ceremony with civic dignitaries be guest preachers throughout the part of the church, an anniversary and then lead the congregation in year, but among the special guests anthem has been commissioned a procession to the present church will be. The Right Reverend David and will have its world première in which was built in 1873, beside Ashdown, Bishop of the Diocese a Concert of Anthems, on Friday, the Speed River. The Bishop will of Keewatin—which is 'twinned' February 16. The anthem, "Eternal preach at the Eucharist and of- with Niagara Diocese—will be God," is composed by award-win- fi ciate for a tree planting on the speaking on March 4. ning composer Dr. Mark Sirrett of church grounds. Church committees are still Kingston, and will be sung by the On Monday, April 23, St. adding to the programs, including Guelph Chamber Choir and the St. George's Day, a carillon and organ a very special exhibit of contem- George's Choir. The audience will recital by Gerald Manning, organ- porary liturgical fabric art from recognize and enjoy many of the ist at St. George's, will be held at churches across Canada as well as old and new anthems featured in noon followed by the Eucharist. other internationally known speak- the concert. On Wednesday, April 25, ers and musicians. INTERPRETATIONS. Some of the 28 participants in St. Cuthbert's Another concert of sacred music Craig Kielburger will be the St. George's promises a warm adult study group in Oakville this fall pause for a group photo. Participants will be held on Sunday, March 25, speaker at the church. At the welcome to the community as have been exploring various means of interpreting Scripture with an eye at 3 pm, when the renowned Elora age of 12, the boy from Thorn- well as former members and visi- to both understanding what a text meant "back then" as well as it might, or Festival Singers, will sing Bach's hill, Ontario, learned about the tors who would like to join in these might not mean, today. Topics included Exlploring the Historical Setting, "St. Matthew Passion." number of very young children 175th anniversary events. For a Discovering the Literary Context and Audience, Identifying Oral and Lit- The highlight of the year will forced to work in factories in complete list of all church events erary Forms, Analyzing the Structure, Investigating Words and Phrases, be the anniversary week, April Third World countries and with for the year, as well as dates, times and Putting It All Together. These courses are co-facilitated by the Rector, 21-29, 2006. friends, organized Free the Chil- and tickets, visit www.saintgeorge. the Reverend Joseph Asselin and the parish Honorary Assistant, the Rev- Archdeacon Thomas M. Greene, dren, the largest youth organiza- ca or contact St. George by tele- erend Audrey Conard. The parish gets good turnouts for these programmes rector of the parish, will be among tion in the world. phone at 519-822-1366 or email at which are held about three times per year and participants commit to about those welcoming everyone to The following Saturday, April offi [email protected]. ninety minutes of private study and reading between sessions. December 2006 Niagara Anglican 3 David Davis: Legend and Legacy FREDERICK L. FORSYTH his infectious sense of humour, to PROVINCIAL JUSTICE - ST. LUKE'S PARISH, BURLINGTON his spirituality, and to his love of family and friends. In my book Da- n May 6 2006 one of the bright- vid Davis was "Renaissance Man" Oest lights in the musical universe reborn in the 20th century, and yet, was extinguished with the passing in these troubled times, riddled as of David Davis after a lengthy and they are with such global guile, he courageous battle with cancer. was literally a man without guile. To have had the opportunity to David Davis was the very defi ni- serve under David's direction in one tion of a 'man for all seasons.' of his almost innumerable musical Even at the end, David, in the leadership roles was indeed a privi- immortal words of Dylan Thomas, lege the likes of which I expect will "did not go gentle into that dark never pass my way again. When night." When he realized that his I say that, I know that I speak for earthly life was drawing to a close literally thousands of men, women, he turned his mind and prodigious and children who have had that talent to selecting the music and same experience. It may have been the musicians to perform it at his in the Hamilton Children's Choir, inevitable funeral service. the Christ's Church Cathedral choir, And so it was that on May 10 the St. Luke's, Burlington, Angli- 2006, just when we were all stum- can Church choir, the Ars Antiqua bling around in the wake of the ex- Chamber choir, the Canadian Male tinction of that brightest of lights on Orpheus Choir, or as a private stu- May 6, we found it to be rekindled in dent. For those who didn't sing it the most glorious funeral celebration Build it and they will come may have been simply as an appre- which I expect I will ever have the ciative member of an audience at a privilege of attending. It was impos- KEITH BRAITHWAITE so successfully carrying out the tion to our social events, Dr. Gary performance of one of these musi- sible not to feel the very essence of ST. LUKE'S, BURLINGTON Building in Faith project. Warner spoke to us about "Faith cal ensembles directed by David, the Resurrection in the Cathedral dur- ishops, Priests, Deacons, Prior to the dedication ser- in Action" and the youth of the or at one of his resounding organ ing the musical tributes and words of BMPs, MLAs, Mayors, would vice the parish had played host to parish hosted the fi rst Burlington recitals when it seemed as if the eulogy from clergy, friends, and fam- be Mayors, City Councillors, Pa- Synod Council, the St. Michael's Anglican Youth Event. Still to pipes themselves were in danger of ily. For me, as I sang with the massed rishioners, Friends and Families, report meeting, the Affordable come are The Great Fall Hymn bursting loose from their moorings choirs, that was the embodiment of all came to St. Luke's, Burlington Housing Halton's annual meeting Sing with the choirs from West in response to the tremendous en- the legend and legacy of David Da- on Sunday October 22 to help cel- and held a variety of parish and Plains United and St. Matthew's, a ergy and power generated by their vis to all of us. To see the beauty in ebrate the dedication of the new community events as part of our Parish Retreat led by Bishop John master at the grates. God's world, to see the simplicity parish hall. What was to be the Building in Faith Festival. Bothwell, the last Music at St. To say that David injected en- of it and express it through the me- climax of our celebrations, the The celebrations started on Luke's event of the season with thusiasm into all of his endeavours dium of music as it was given to us dedication service with unveiling Sunday, September 10, when the soprano Rachel Snow and last but is to grossly understate the man's by those divinely inspired composers of a plaque was dampened when traditional welcome back from not least the annual concert for personality. He was able to virtu- for the spiritual enrichment of all, to the fl u bug hit Bishop Ralph so summer service was held in the children in need this year featur- ally energize even the most other- bring an island of peace and harmony the plaque is still veiled. On the new hall. During September and ing The Three Cantors. For more wise emotionally inert amongst us to our troubled spirits in this great bright side it will give us yet an- October people feasted on pan- information on these upcoming with his sheer unbridled expres- sea of angst which so often pervades other opportunity to celebrate, cakes and sausages at a Sunday events please visit the parish web- sions of joy for the sublime and the world around us; this is David's when Bishop Ralph can resched- Pancake Brunch, seniors were site at www.stlukesburlington.ca. his immediate detection of a disso- greatest gift to us. Let it not be squan- ule his visit. Bishop John Both- entertained by Adam Timoon at Although the new hall is ad- nance where it ought not to be. dered and left to lie fallow in our own well who was scheduled to be the a seniors celebrate event, Group mired for its aesthetics, acoustics David Davis was not, however, lives. For my part, my fourteen years celebrant at the service was called A held it's annual Victoria Day and modern amenities we have simply a man of music. In fact of singing with and knowing David upon to be the preacher, the cel- Dessert and Card Party a little come to realise that the building there was nothing simple about his have forever changed my life, and ebrant and also asked to bless late but just as successful as ever. is more than bricks and mortar, it diversifi ed talents. He brought his for that, I am eternally grateful. If we the corner stone. With less than Other social events included a has become a symbol of the par- vaunted passionate personality to heed his example, his light will never two hours notice Bishop John de- wine and cheese evening, a Royal ish's conviction that God is lead- his love of his back yard garden, to be extinguished and the terrible void livered a sermon that was witty, Ascot Gala Dinner, a Children's ing us in new directions and call- his gourmet cooking and gourmand created by his passing can become thoughtful, and paid tribute to Halloween Fun Day, a Music at ing us to meet the challenges of eating pleasures, to his sensitively a positive force for the good of all. the parishioners of St. Luke's and St. Luke's cabaret evening and a being the church and proclaiming expressed taste in interior decorat- David's legacy will thereby live and the leap of faith that was made in Family Pot Luck Supper. In addi- the Gospel in this generation. ing, to his love of a good story and grow forever.

THE NATIVITY ON A GIANT SCALE

PAT PUGH ST. GEORGE'S, GUELPH f you attended a Christmas Eve service at St. George's in Guelph, you might be forgiven for thinking Ithat you had stumbled into the wrong season. The church is renowned for presenting the Nativity pageant with giant ten foot puppets. It is more reminiscent of Mardi Gras than of our Lord's birth. The puppets were the brainchild of The Reverend Stephen Berryman and Pat Pugh but the help of many parishioners was needed to actually create them and to mount the annual performance. For several years prior to 2004, the church had presented a Living Nativity which was a mixture of live performers and smaller puppets. Some of the performers had grown tired of doing the same thing and were asking for something new. They probably could not have imagined where that hunger for something new would take them. While you still see two human narrators, all the other actors in the play are puppets. There are three different types; backpack, hat-head and mask puppets. Four of the ten foot backpack pup- pets—so called because they are worn much like a backpack—require the operator not only to wear the creations but also to walk and manipulate arms attached to rods; all the while peering through a small semi-transparent piece of fabric. The hat-head puppets, of which there are two, are worn like hats with enormous veils. The human performers likewise view the world through semi-transpar- ent cloth. The mask puppets are just that; masks which are held in front of the face. These puppets are used by some of the younger members of the congregation who delight in the opportunity to run in the church! This powerful presentation of the Nativity story makes a strong impact on both adults and chil- dren, and is one of the highlights of St. George's Christmas celebrations. Are you thinking you would like to create something like this for your church? Con- tact St. George's by calling 519-822-1366 and leave a message for Pat who would love to talk puppets with you! 4 Niagara Anglican December 2006 Marketing and the Church Journey to wholeness

members of our faith communities and I was innocent and naive the practice of faith has gotten lost in our However, the downside was that the doctor in- modern culture. People perceive our reli- troduced me to homosexual acts. gious institutions as irrelevant and, more At that age I was innocent and naive, and in critically, have no idea at all what the my confusion, for some time I submitted my- message of the Christian Gospel means self to something I knew I should reject. Finally for them or the world. I cut off my ties with this man and his family We can no longer assume that people and after a few weeks my sister and her hus- will understand or appreciate what the band pried out of me the reason. They took im- MICHAEL PATTERSON message of the Gospel is just because we IAN DINGWALL mediate action and hired a lawyer. Within days, DIRECTOR OF EVANGELISM are a Church. A good marketing plan can RETIRED EXECUTIVE ARCHDEACON I was involved in a hearing of the BC College ou may know by now that the Diocese enable us to articulate who we are and eing in my early 70s, one of the things I of Physicians and Surgeons. Yof Niagara is engaged in an experi- what our mission to the world is. It can Bnotice about myself is that I am getting I should mention here my mother. In things ment of sorts. Through Advent, leading up allow our communities to communicate to quite retrospective. By and large that is a good of this nature, she was ignorant. I know she was to Christmas, our Anglican Church will be those it serves and to the world beyond the thing, as long as "one doesn't inhale", as a friend very upset by the whole business, but simply marketing the true message of Christmas immediate congregation. And it can defi ne advises me. To look back and see things from retreated into herself, and told me to do what I through a series of radio and newspaper and articulate specifi c ways the church can the past, but not to indulge too much in "those had decided was best. advertisements aimed at the broadest au- serve a world in need. were the days" but rather to allow past things In those days (1950-51) for a charge to have dience possible across the diocese. This Marketing can feel far away from the to stimulate refl ective thoughts about who we credence in law, at least two boys needed to be campaign will involve fi ve different radio spiritual sensibilities and foundation that are, where we've come from and, maybe even, involved in testimony. But I was on my own. stations and a number of newspapers and most people associate with religious faith where we are going now. Peggy and Bob, having started the process, left has been designed to remind people that communities. However, rather than trying In that spirit I embarked recently in writing me, at age 15, to attend the Hearing alone. I "the best Christmas gifts cannot be put to get people to 'buy into' the Anglican down events and happenings from the time of remember vividly, traveling on the streetcar to into a box." This type of advertising cam- Church, the whole point of marketing our my birth, l934, to the present. This exercise was this event. I was subjected to cross-examination paign has never before been attempted in Church is to present a new means of in- for my own benefi t, although I hope that my by a well known litigation lawyer hired by the our diocese and it is something that will, viting people into a new life with Christ children and grandchildren will fi nd my recol- doctor and, because I was the lone accuser, the no doubt, elicit a variety of responses in the context of a Christian community. lections interesting and worth reading. case was dismissed. To be fair to the system, from people. It is another opportunity to teach peo- Out of it all, I believe one of my more inter- the doctor was given a sharp rebuke. He retired Marketing within the Church is perhaps ple about the way of and to God in and esting times was between age 14 and 20. Let soon after, and died shortly into his retirement. the most controversial aspect of evange- through the body of Christ that we call the me tell you about some of it. I found myself in personal despair. I will lism and communications for our congre- Anglican Church. I was born in Inverness, Scotland and lived always be grateful to my lawyer, Douglas gations. People may perceive marketing There are those who believe that this there until I was almost 14; not a very long time Forin, who was wonderfully gentle and car- as the perfected art of pitching products to form of marketing or out front evangelism but enough to embed in me a profound sense of ing to me during this ordeal. So about to cele- audiences with subtle means of manipu- is not only necessary but is mandated by being Scottish. brate my 16th birthday, I found myself alone, lation, this then causing the unsuspecting scripture. Throughout the gospel, Jesus quite lost and engulfed in personal despair consumer to shell out their hard earned adapts the way in which He proclaims or A diffi cult transition and confusion. dollars on goods or services they neither markets the kingdom of God depending But in 1948, there came about a huge change. I want nor need. There is a sense that re- upon who He might be speaking to. When was the youngest of 6 children and my mother, I tell you all this to share two things ligious institutions should exist beyond confronted by Sadducees or Pharisees, a widow since the year of my birth, decided to First, I have never allowed that experience to the commercial worldliness of traditional He would employ a particular style or ap- emigrate to Canada and join her oldest daugh- convert me to sexual homophobia. In fact, im- marketing and, in fact, should stand in op- proach that was direct, specifi c and chal- ter, who had married and emigrated as a war mediately after that hearing I quit high school position to such worldly devices. lenging. When dealing with the sick and bride to Vancouver, BC. and worked in a Vancouver construction com- Yet the reality remains, congregations Moving from a small, isolated town in the pany offi ce where the most caring and support- are diminishing, fewer people are regular See MARKETING AND THE CHURCH on page 23 north of Scotland to the urban center of Van- ive person for me was gay. He never intruded couver was a huge adjustment for Mum and for his own sexual preference on me but, instead, me. Until that time, I wore short pants or, on was encouraging as I furthered my education at Sundays, the kilt. After my fi rst day in a large night school and got on with my new life. high school, I begged Mum for long pants! But Later I had the good fortune in my early uni- the transition was far more potent than school versity days of meeting someone who became and clothing. Let me spell it out for you. a life long friend. He was gay but our friend- Mum and I were living in my sister and ship transcended all the diffi culties of my previ- brother-in-law's home. Warm and secure in ous experience and, until his death a few years many ways, it was, nevertheless, not "our" ago, we were the close friends. The bottom line place and we had to adapt. My brother-in-law, was that although he was homosexual and I am Bob, having returned home from the excite- heterosexual that never was any kind of issue ment and turbulence of war, did not settle down in our friendship. He died in l999 and I still re- well. He soon became addicted to alcohol and member him with fondness and gratitude. so for our fi rst years in Canada we lived in a Telling you this is my way of saying that I do home that was rife with tension and confl ict. To not consider the Gay Life Style as an abnormal- his eternal credit, Bob eventually joined Alco- ity but simply another way of living. Why we holics Anonymous and for the rest of his life need to become fearful and judgmental about he lived in sobriety. Those fi rst, though, were such is for me a mystery and I wonder why it not serene. occurs. Perhaps it is because so many of us are fearful of anything that is different from our- My sister was completely unaware selves and that we have a somewhat distorted Then, my sister Peggy observed that, compared view of God—not as a Loving and Embracing to contemporaries, I was naïve about things Parent but as an angry being whose fi rst intent Canadian. She felt the simplicity of my Scot- is to "zap" those who appear to be different. tish childhood had, in a fashion, retarded my Second, I would like to share with you growing up and experiencing adolescence. I what was my 'salvation' in that disturbing pe- was fourteen at the time. She therefore asked riod of my life. It was the parish church of her own children's pediatrician to give me some St. Margaret's Vancouver and the Anglican guidance. Peggy was completely unaware that Young Peoples' Association (AYPA). I felt this same physician was homosexual although alone and rudderless and I found myself ab- in a heterosexual marriage and the father sorbed into a caring and celebrative Communi- of a child. ty. Ever since that time I have been committed The doctor invited me to his home and hired to the Faith Community—not because of Doc- me as a lawn mower, which was great, for I trines, Dogmas or Glorious Liturgies but simply then had my own money. Further, he and his through Friendship. And as those friendships wife generously included me in family happen- developed, so did my Friendship with God and ings—cottage weekends, symphony concerts, the things of the Spirit. and social events that included highly educated, I hope that what I have shared here will do socially prominent people. I was introduced to two things: Affi rm that all human beings are the the immense opportunities of life in Canada; I children of God and declare that the Church is a was encouraged to think in terms of extending Community and not a rigorously legal and ex- education to university. This was all very heady clusive entity but rather a compassionate, living stuff for unsophisticated me. Things I would and loving group of people who are not dedi- not have contemplated in Scotland now seemed cated to judgment and condemnation but to the reachable in my new environment. Divine Rule of love. December 2006 Niagara Anglican 5 Youth leave their mark on provincial Synod

BILL MOUS op's charge in mind and a genuine DIVINITY STUDENT interest and passion to be part of elegates to Provincial Synod the governance of the Church, Dmet recently in Stratford, On- Chris Miller, youth delegate from tario and for the fi rst time youth the diocese of Ottawa and a stu- and young adults were among dent at St. Paul's University, put their ranks! They were appointed his name forward to be Prolocutor. as members of Provincial Synod The following day he was elected from each of the seven dioceses by synod members and installed at (Algoma, Huron, Moosonee, Niag- St. James' Church in Stratford as ara, Ontario, Ottawa and Toronto) the youngest prolocutor in the his- which make up the Ecclesiastical tory of the Provincial Synod! His Province of Ontario as a result of a election sent a clear message to the resolution approved by the Provin- Church of the Ecclesiastical Prov- cial Executive Council in 2004. ince of Ontario: youth and young Provincial Synod is similar to adult voices are not only welcomed our Diocesan Synod, except that it by the Anglican Church, but they deals with issues pertaining to the are valued as fully participating Church on a broader geographi- members of the Church. cal level—such as provincial gov- ernment advocacy, theological Inclusive language, climate education and sharing resources change, poverty between dioceses. The youth caucus, because this was their fi rst time participating at Pro- Urging youth involvement vincial Synod, was given time to at all levels make a presentation on the last day In his opening charge to mem- to the members of Synod. Instead bers of synod, Archbishop Caleb of choosing to make an oral pre- Laurence ended by imploring the sentation about their experience, youth and young adult members of the youth caucus decided to put synod to become fully involved in their observations, hopes and faith The members of the youth caucus pause for a photograph before presenting their motions to the mem- the synod process and urged them into action by presenting seven bers of Provincial Synod. From left: Sarah Brown (Moosonee), Bill Mous (Niagara), Chris Miller (Ottawa), to voice their hopes, dreams and motions for consideration by Pro- Josh Houle (Huron). fears about the Church to the syn- vincial Synod. od. The following day the Primate, The motions were wide rang- couraged the planners of Provincial tend, to enable effective and con- a list of three nominees, or that Archbishop Andrew Hutchison, ing. One motion called for a stu- Synod tie motions to the numerous tinued ministry with students who youth members to Diocesan Synod also strongly urged youth involve- dent representative on the Ontario information sessions held over the leave their parochial boundaries to select a name from among their ment in the church at all levels, Provincial Commission on Theo- course of Provincial Synod. attend post-secondary education." ranks to forward to the Bishop for noting that he had asked all stand- logical Education (OPCOTE). The youth caucus felt that there is appointment. ing committees of the National Members of the commission ad- A democratic and peer currently a signifi cant gap in min- All seven motions were passed by Church to have at least one person mitted that the omission of a stu- selected process istry for post-secondary students the members of Provincial Synod. under the age of thirty amidst their dent representative was an over- Another motion entitled "Contin- and that this motion might begin to At the end of the day, the youth membership. sight of the Provincial Synod and ued Pastoral Oversight of Post- address that gap. caucus at Provincial Synod cer- One of the tasks of this Pro- that it only made perfect sense to Secondary Students" called for a The fi nal motion that was tainly made an impact on the pro- vincial Synod was to elect a Pro- have such representation on a com- taskforce of Provincial Synod to presented encouraged Diocesan ceedings. By adding their voice locutor. The Prolocutor, or vice- mission that dealt with education. "explore the feasibility of devel- Bishops to appoint their youth to the discussions, offering a can- president, serves a three year term Other motions included the use oping a network whereby parish delegates on the basis of a demo- didate for Prolocutor, and mov- and works in conjunction with the of inclusive language during wor- clergy of the Ecclesiastical Prov- cratic and peer-selected process to ing seven motions, the youth and Metropolitan, who by virtue of the ship services at Synod, calls for ince of Ontario could, with the select a nominee for the position. young adult members of Provincial offi ce is the president of Provincial dioceses to work on raising aware- consent of the student, forward In Niagara, this could take several Synod responded to Archbishop Synod, throughout the three year ness about climate change and to contact information to a parish or forms such as Youth Synod mem- Caleb's charge and assumed their period between meetings of Pro- advocate about poverty issues to chaplaincy near the university or bers elect nominees for the posi- full membership in the life of vincial Synod. With the Archbish- governments, and a motion that en- college where the student will at- tion and the bishop selects from the Church. Much ado about something

Continued from page 1 important issues. kins in the Diocesan Convening Archdeacon Jim Boyle, former circular. Needless to say I did not How do we prepare leaders who secretary to General Synod had us catch up on any sleep during or can adapt to the diversity of its consider the issue of church gover- after the sessions as I found the members? We heard presentations nance. His report had us consider presentations too well prepared, from the Advisory Committee on that we are possibly over governed enlightening and informative, and Postulants for Ordination (ACPO) at the parish level, diocesan, provin- the hospitality suite was fun. I left which is one piece of a discernment cial, national and international level. the Provincial Synod with lots of process on the journey towards We are faced with some hard ques- information, some new friends ordination; an overview on the tions due to declining fi nances, the from around the province and lots Windsor Report and St. Michael heaviness and complexity of church of questions...and so I ask you, report which address the issue of structures, the pace of life. We need our readers, fellow Anglicans same sex blessing that will be dis- to consider the complexity of our in the Diocese of Niagara, if we cussed at the next General Synod Canons, the size of General Synod, could peel the lid of your church in 2007. We thought about ques- its purpose and role, the number of this Sunday during worship what tions like, how much diversity is diocese, the complexity of changing would we see? Would we see peo- allowed within the Anglican com- diocesan boundaries to name a few. ple sleeping or meditating? People munity? On what matters? Who We were left with an invitation to at prayer or planning their shop- gets to decide? What is a blessing? join in dialogue and discussion, and ping lists? People listening to God Where is the Holy Spirit leading to dream creatively about what the or people listless for God? People us? I found out that on our behalf church needs to accomplish the mis- singing with heart and soul and we have people who challenge sion of the church of Christ. voices or people mumbling along the government on issues of wa- with heavy hearts? People leaving ter legislation, prison legislation, An exciting community with more questions than answers hospital visiting and the privacy This is just a small portion of or people questioning why they act, cemeteries, accessibility, etc. some of the information we re- came? People wondering, "is this I was glad to know that someone ceived and you can read more in a good use of my time" or people with know-how takes to time to Bill Mous' article in this issue, wondering how can I become part lobby on our behalf regarding such and in the report from Steve Hop- of this exciting community? 6 Niagara Anglican December 2006 Stewardship and the future of the Anglican Church pondered the case studies, been this approach, and I think it's a great parishes are missing the fi rst of those to major conferences, courses, way to strengthen the David Gordon three things: advocacy! and seminars, listened to many program. Q: How would advocacy work in of the experts, and belonged to Q: So does it work? a parish? the right professional groups. I've also been the Chair of the Ontario JN: There was some interest shown JN: Well, there's a large group of pa- Stewardship Network—a group of by parishes, but not as much as rishioners and the un-churched too Anglican and Lutheran steward- one would think. Most parishes who form what I call a quiet major- ship professionals who share their seem to think they are doing all of ity. Probably less than 50 percent of best practices. All of us see simi- this already. parishioners are aware of all their lar problems in our parishes and parish is doing. The competition for Q: Did you fi nd any other experts congregations. their attention is fi erce. And in turn, with good advice? I decided to revisit the recommen- parishes may not be paying attention dations of the experts, starting with JN: Yes, there's a Presbyterian pastor, to what people love and value. David Gordon. You'll recall that the researcher, professor, church consul- Q: This is starting to sound pretty Diocese of Niagara adopted his stew- tant and speaker named Dr. Kennon commercial. Aren't you concerned ardship program nearly a decade ago. Callahan who has a somewhat differ- this is too secular? It's based on sound biblical teaching ent approach. He says "the churches n October the Synod Offi ce an- ingly insightful list that included: about stewardship that includes the that do the best in church fi nances JN: No, absolutely not. Remember, Inounced Jim Newman's retirement
The plague of consumerism following points: have a rich, full, abiding passion for "We have an advocate with the Fa- from the position of Director of Stew-
Concern about how money would
God created everything, and every- mission. They are motivated by a ther, Jesus Christ the righteous..." ardship and Financial Development be used. thing still belongs to God. Our role is theology of service, not a theology of I believe our model and refer- in Niagara. Jim had a heart attack
Insecurity about unemployment. to be the caretakers or stewards. survival. Their compelling, driving ence point should be our own Lord in September but is now well on the
A deep sense of scarcity
We're stewards of our envi- spirit is one of a giving, serving, and and Saviour. way to a full recovery. Recently the
Uncertainty about the future of the ronment, our churches, others, loving mission." I think parishes need Leader-Ad- Niagara Anglican interviewed Jim church. and ourselves. The church is the Callahan gives an extensive semi- vocates to create common agendas, to chat about his 'tour of duty' with
A lack of sound teaching on stew- basic channel for our personal nar called Twelve Keys to an Effective to develop effective messages and the Diocese. ardship principles stewardship. Church. The content is practical and dialogues, to deliver the right mes-
Need for focus on mission and
Our offerings of time, talent, and his examples are inspiring. One of the sage to the right people, and to cre- Q: Was retirement for a second outreach. treasure are offerings of ourselves in most useful points I picked up is that ate networks of more advocates. We time a diffi cult decision for you?
A sense that the church will always our role as stewards. Our motivation people respond best to three things: have some, but not nearly enough. JN: Yes. I enjoyed working with exist and God will always provide. for giving comes from the realization compassion, community, and hope. Leader-Advocates would speak out the staff at the Diocesan Resource And then we asked, what two Centre; they are an excellent group things will you do in your parish in of dedicated people. I visited many the next ten days to bring it about? I THINK PARISHES NEED LEADER-ADVOCATES to create parishes and met lots of wonderful, Again there were an overwhelming common agendas, to develop effective messages and dia- generous, and committed Christian number of responses, which I've con- people, and I learned so much about densed down to the 21 shown here. logues, to deliver the right message to the right people, and stewardship. But retirement was the They said they would: to create networks of more advocates right decision for me, given the cir-
Preach about abundance. cumstances. I'm taking good care of
Discuss year-round stewardship. myself and getting healthy again.
Write follow up letters. of what God has done and continues I was thrilled to see how well this on behalf of parishes and their role
Present a clear picture of parish fi - to do for us. approach tied in with the work we'd in the community, ensure there is a Q: Let's talk about stewardship. nances to parish council.
Stewardship is or should be a way been doing with narrative budgets. positive public perception of parishes There's been a long term problem
Question how others feel about of life. But of course we can choose Narrative Budgets are a fantastic tool and their value, and provide a forum of inadequate revenue in many stewardship. to accept this role or not. - they focus on telling the parish story for people to work in parish steward- parishes in Niagara. What have
Encourage legacy planning. The David Gordon model pro- about its mission work, and it's true - ship and fi nancial development. you discovered about that?
Publicize planned giving. vided a sound process as well in- most people are motivated by that. Q: So is the overall goal to save par- JN: I discovered that the traditional
Renew story telling. cluding a Stewardship Chair and Q: So whose advice should one ishes or to advance the Kingdom approach to stewardship only goes so
Articulate mission. Committee, a detailed Stewardship follow? of God and carry out the Great far. You may have heard me say that
Highlight accomplishments. Calendar, Parish Planning Days Commission? we need to develop a culture of stew-
Lead by example. to update the parish budget about JN: All of these experts deliver sound ardship in Niagara. That's been the
Give a testimonial. future needs, and a Parish Event advice. It's all scripturally based, it's JN: It's both! A closed or declining number one goal of the Stewardship
Emphasize outreach. to celebrate the response. Initially all compatible, and it all combines to parish is in no position to evangelize and Financial Development Com-
Review their fi nancial position. it worked quite well. But after a make one completely inclusive stew- and advance the Kingdom. mittee for 2005-2006.
Create a will. few years the David Gordon pro- ardship program. But the overall re- Q: You mentioned there's an im- A major breakthrough occurred at
Increase their fi nancial giving gram lost momentum. The prob- sults so far in Niagara are still rather portant role for public relations Synod last year when delegates were
Seek God's will for tithes and lem may have been related to how disappointing. and marketing in a parish. asked to respond in writing to a three- offerings. it was used. Many Parish Planning Q: Where did that lead you next? part question. First we asked, if we
Write cheques. Days were poorly attended, and JN: Yes, "public relations" is about had a Culture of Stewardship in Ni-
Develop narrative budgets. others tended to focus on capital JN; I considered the approach taken getting the message across. In other agara, what would it look like? With-
Institute pre-authorized payments improvements. by universities and hospitals. They words, this is who we are and what we and commitment cards. out hesitation the delegates wrote Q: What else did you do? are exceptionally good at develop- do, this is when and where we do it, comments that in summary said:
Encourage more use of the legacy ing funding. For example, McMas- and for whom. Marketing on the other
Our focus would be on ministry planner. JN: I also revisited the work of ter University receives numerous hand is fi nding out what parishioners and service. A culture of stewardship; in a Terry Parsons, Stewardship Staff gifts in the range of $1,000,000. need, and changing when necessary to
Our churches would be growing. manner of minutes they had de- Offi cer for the Episcopal Church. There are more than 1200 Presi- meet those needs. Who are you, and
More programs would be offered. scribed it, named the barriers to it, She presented a workshop called dent's Circle members who give what do you need, how, when and "Seven secrets to amazing steward- annual gifts of $500 or more. And where can we best deliver it to you, ship" at the Ontario Stewardship in 2004 McMaster received the and what are you willing to support? GOD CREATED EVERYTHING, and Network Conference in May of largest single cash gift in Cana- Canon Michael Patterson, the everything still belongs to God. Our role 2005. Unfortunately that confer- dian history; $105,000,000! Donor Diocesan Director of Evangelism, ence was not well attended by folks Michael G. DeGroote said, "I am is doing extraordinarily good work is to be the caretakers or stewards from Niagara. Essentially the Sev- confi dent of McMaster's ability to in evangelism—that's the church's en Steps are: maximize the impact of this gift word for marketing. He has a whole
God would be working in people's and identifi ed many constructive
Pray: stewardship must be prayer so that its net effect will have far- toolbox of resources, and we are for- hearts. steps and actions to bring it about. based reaching benefi ts." tunate to have his sound expertise in
Parish needs would be seen as op- But the barriers are powerful. When
Engage the Gospel: it's more than the Diocese. Q: It sounds like you are on to portunities, not challenges one considers that our Diocese is lo- reading and listening. Engaging something here... Q: How is Advocacy-Leadership
We would give with thankful cated in one of the most affl uent parts means asking yourself what you are different? hearts; not out of duty. of the world, it seems inconceivable going to do about it. JN: Yes! Universities and hospitals
Normal average giving would be that we would have many more par-
Rebuke scarcity and claim abun- are using Callahan's approach. They JN: I believe there's a big role for 5 percent. ishes struggling than not. And look at dance. understand the importance of focus- Advocacy-Leadership. Tradition-
We'd be working together as a the urban sprawl and changes in de-
Say "thank you" to others and God sing on their mission, and building on ally there's been an expectation that diocese. mographics. One might expect we'd every chance you get. compassion, community and hope. stewardship will be the responsibil- That's an inspired description, don't be planting a church or two.
Teach and nurture holy habits like They are wonderful story tellers. ity of three or four people such as the you think? Second we asked, are praying, tithing. Q: So how do we get there? They also understand the importance Stewardship Chair, the Rector and there barriers to developing it? Once
Set the example you want to see. of advocacy, public relations and again they came up with an amaz- JN: I've read many of the books, It's diffi cult to fi nd fault with marketing. It seems to me that our Continued on next page December 2006 Niagara Anglican 7 The future of the Anglican Church

Continued from page 6
And lots of assistance is available from the — RED RESPBERRY HOLIDAY TRIFLE — Diocesan Resource Centre, clergy, stewardship Submitted by Carol Summers Wardens. But it needs to be much wider and chairs, and other parishes. deeper than that. We need parishes full of Lead- Think of the competition—there are more This is has been a favourite with our family for a few years now. My er-Advocates who are working on developing a than 85,000 registered charities in Canada. The son has already reminded me that it is nearly time to make the trifl e! It culture of stewardship. They need to be: old way of asking people to give "because our is rich but not too sweet. It is defi nitely a special occasion dessert but
Supporting, encouraging and building sup- parish needs the money" just isn't going to cut it well worth the effort. (Submitted by Carol Summers) port and awareness incrementally. any longer. Leader-Advocates will work in the
Telling their personal and parish stories. front lines of public relations, marketing, and Ingredients (Makes 15 servings)
Creating conditions that allow others to act. parish advocacy. And most of the time there's
Expanding others' experiences and crea- no signifi cant cost outlay required. The James- 1 purchased angel food cake, sliced ting memories ville Community Centre in Hamilton is a won- 800 g (32 oz) frozen sweetened raspberries
Confi rming their identity as Christians. derful example. The lack of recreational facili- 1 cup thawed raspberry-cranberry juice concentrate
Enhancing awareness and appreciation of our ties and community space available to people 6 tbsp Cointreau parishes and the Synod Offi ce. living in the Jamesville neighbourhood was a 4 cup raspberry-cranberry juice
Creating relationships, partnerships, and co- concern. A group of people undertook a project 2 tbsp cornstarch alitions. spearheaded by Christ's Church Cathedral that For mousse layer
Being responsible as leaders. created a community centre. None of the part- 6 large egg yolks
Giving generously; at least at the 5 percent ners could have done it alone, but together they 3/4 cup sugar level or higher. were able to put together existing space, skill 1/2 cup fresh orange juice I'm talking about modelling a different kind sets, and resources for use by the whole com- 4 tbsp unsalted butter of stewardship. Parishioners who are Leader- munity. The project was about compassion, 2 tbsp fi nely grated orange zest Advocates are willing to show that we have community, and hope. Generous pinch of salt something in our faith that, unlike a commod- Q: So you're saying we have the tools, but 200 g (8 oz) mascarpone cheese ity, has real value. They can visualize their par- what we really need are strong Leader-Ad- 1 cup heavy cream whipped to medium fi rm peaks ish as a strong, viable, and valuable institution. vocates who will keep parishes simmering 1/2 cup heavy cream whipped to medium-fi rm peaks and placed in They understand that people love their parishes, all year round. decorating bag with piping tip or in plastic resealable bag with but parishes can't live on love. corner snipped JN: Yes. There should be at least a dozen in ev- 6 fresh raspberries Q: I'm not sure I have the courage to be a Leader-Advocate. ery parish, and hundreds across the Diocese! Q: How would this happen? Method JN: Remember those 'barriers' to developing a culture of stewardship? What points can you JN: I think we have to re-position our parishes To make the berry fi lling: In a large saucepan bring the 4 cups of rasp- make that are more compelling than the parish's effectively and we have to do it soon! A good berry-cranberry juice to a boil over high heat. Cook until reduced to tendency to preserve the status quo? way forward would be to look in the Diocese about 1 1/2 cups (about 10 minutes). In a small bowl, stir together 4 Leader-Advocates are people who combine for the natural groupings that have a propensity tablespoons Cointreau with the cornstarch. Whisk into reduced rasp- belief, passion, and courage. They are example- toward leadership—for example, all the people berry-cranberry juice and cook on medium until juice thickens and setters, and pace-setters. They use their spiritual who attended The Leadership Conference on becomes clear. gifts and their learned skills. They are generous October 28. I expect they would welcome con- Remove from heat and add the 800g (32 oz) of frozen raspberries. Set with their time, talent, and treasure. The reality tinued dialogue and be supportive of initiatives aside, and let stand until the berries have thawed. is - they're ordinary people doing extraordinary about developing a culture of stewardship. To make the mousse layer: In a heavy non-reactive saucepan combine things through the Holy Spirit. It's a simple choice, really. We can contin- the egg yolks, sugar, orange juice and butter. Cook over medium heat, Q: What about tools and resources? ue to do what we've been doing and risk see- stirring to dissolve the sugar, until the butter melts. ing many of our churches decline, or we can Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir constantly with a wooden JN: We have lots of tools and resources: change. We can continue to spend an inordi- spoon until the mixture thickly coats the back of the spoon (about 5
The Healthy Parish Check List. nate amount of time worrying about the future to 10 minutes).
The Narrative Budgeting Tool. and appearing to focus on church politics and Strain mousse through a fi ne-mesh strainer, to remove any lumps, into
Bulletin inserts and Ministry Moments. scarcity, or we can recast our focus on mission a large bowl. The orange mousse mixture will be very thick. Refriger-
The Parish Assessment Tool and ministry. ate, covered with plastic wrap on the surface to prevent a skin from
The Proportional giving guide. I'm in favour of recasting our focus on mis- forming, until chilled, about half an hour.
The Intention Card and PAG. sion and ministry. Then we'll give from a the- When mixture is chilled, in a large bowl, mash mascarpone cheese
The David Gordon program. ology of abundance. If we do it well, as I be- with a rubber spatula, add 1/4 cup of orange mousse and stir until
Terry Parson's "seven secrets." lieve we can and should, we can be the kind smooth and creamy. Stir in remaining orange mousse and then fold in
The Kennon Callahan program. of church that I think God wants us to be—vi- the whipped cream.
Planned Giving methodologies and materials able, and fi lled with compassion, community, To make soaking liquid: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of thawed rasp-
The diocesan website. and hope! berry-cranberry concentrate with 2 tbsp of Cointreau, Brandy, Grand Marnier or orange juice. Stir until blended and set aside. To assemble the trifl e: In a 12-cup trifl e bowl or a glass bowl with straight sides, layer half the angel food cake slices on bottom, making sure that only the white, cut edges of the cake are visible against the sides of the bowl. Drizzle cake with half the soaking liquid. Evenly spread half the or- ange mousse mixture over the soaked cake slices. Spread 3/4 of the berry fi lling carefully over the mousse. Layer remaining angel food cake slices on top of berry fi lling, cut sides against the glass. Drizzle cake with remaining soaking liquid. Spread remaining orange mousse mixture over cake. Mound remaining 1/4 of raspberry mixture on top of the mousse in the center of the bowl. Pipe whipped cream on top of trifl e to decorate. Garnish with fresh raspberries. Refrigerate 4 to 6 hours or overnight. 8 Niagara Anglican December 2006 Once upon a Christmas my grand parents' home, for this was the centre of the festivities of our small family. We got to take one present with us, so as to play and generally stay out of the way, for this was the day of the great goose and there was much to be done. We also listened to the radio, and I am proud to confess that within my CHARLES STIRLING living memory, I began to listen CANON - CHRIST'S CHURCH CATHEDRAL to Dickens's, A Christmas Carol, hen one seeks to remember and I have not missed a broadcast, Wthe things of yesterday, they television show, or a video of this sometimes get just a little mixed play since. In fact, one of my an- up, perhaps remembering two or nual Christmas preparations is to three different years as one. Oddly sit down with something cold and enough this is not terribly important munchies or two, and watch again to what one is remembering. It all the redemption of Alistair Sim, as seems to fi t comfortably anyway. Ebenezer Scrooge. I love it! I am at an age when remember- One year I had received a card- ing is a good thing and having the board fort. It was not large and I Worship with visual aids courage to jot some of it down is was able to put it together quite even better. For most of us there nicely with my father's help. I had JOHN COURSE to fi nd they no longer required The respondents were asked to are happy remembrances of Christ- it for years. There were also simple RECTOR - ST. DAVID'S WELLAND reading glasses when the screen check one of three choices: posi- mases past, and it seemed appropri- warships and masses of cardboard e started with the local was in use. As was the fact that tive, neutral, or negative. Space ate for me to look at a rather typi- solders. As I seem to recall the war- Wlibrary's portable screen parents holding toddlers lacked was also provided for comments. cal Christmas during the years of ships sailed the living room carpet, and overhead projector. During the suffi cient number of hands to The surveys were conducted dur- the Second World War. This was while the fort defended itself from the second year of our monthly attend to their child and fi nd their ing the services on two consecu- not one of the happier periods of their attacks. It was, as I said, a Sunday-evening services, we pur- way through the service. tive Sundays. life, but for me it was a good time, good time for me, for I had lots of chased a laptop computer—which As using the projection sys- I used the screen during service marked by the common courte- imagination and lots of time in the doubles as my offi ce computer— tem every Sunday morning was times to show the trends revealed sies one experienced, going about innocence of childhood. and a manual screen for an in- a fairly dramatic move, I decided by the survey and to indicate that doing one's business in the com- Fairly often on these occasions vestment of less than $2,000. The to conduct a survey last spring. 97 percent of those respondents munity, and certainly by a fairly friends or relatives were invited to screen is mounted behind a beam First, I explained that the bulletin attending the eight or ten o'clock broad sense of patriotism and fl ag the feast, and I have this sense of on the right side of the building would remain the same, the books service gave their assent to use waving. We had a war to win and remembering how I terrifi ed some and angled slightly to allow peo- would stay in the pew racks, and the screen. By far the majority people put their minds to that goal. older lady with my tank, that shot ple from the far side of the church nothing would be projected that checked the 'positive' box, and we I was quite lucky because no one sparks out of its gun, while wan- to see it clearly. The main ad- was not in people's hands to as- considered a 'neutral vote' to indi- in our immediate family or friends dering around her shoes. vantage of having the screen off sure those wary of such a new cate cautious 'assent'. lost anyone to the war. My father, The meal was, as always excel- to one side is that it remains less development that they could Following the survey, we pur- because of a few minor health and lent, with the goose and all of the obtrusive than if it was suspended choose to ignore the screen and chased the Anglican Liturgy Li- fi tness concerns, was at home and vegetables. There were crackers from the centre of the building. worship as they had in the past. I censing agreement from ABC. The doing 'war work'. He was also, in with hats and trinkets. It is hard to When not in use, a pulley system also made it clear that, if passed, CD contains the complete BAS, our community, an air raid war- imagine how all this came to be in allows the screen to be pulled up we would project the services BCP, and a plethora of resources den and it now seems so distant to a kitchen that had a sink in a tiny behind the beam. on the screen from September to we scarcely use. The price varies recall that when the sirens sound- room at one end and there were Last Christmas, I decided to the end of December of this year with the size of the congregation ed, the lights went out until they no counters, just a Hoosier cabinet project the words of the pageant and that shortly before Christ- using it. At the time of writing, we wailed again. But sound is never and a tall gas stove, and of course onto the screen after being told for mas a second survey would be have used this resource—along erased, just as with the sound of the table and chairs. Grandmother several years many found it dif- conducted to fi nd out where our with two music copyright licens- the Lancaster bomber. Once heard was in charge and believe me it fi cult to hear the children's parts. congregation stands on this issue. ing agreements to enable us to never forgotten. was perfect. The dining room was When we began the Eucharistic Perhaps I should add that I hadn't project the hymns as well—for There was not all that much to usually jammed with folks and it portion of the service, page num- even dreamed of polling those seven consecutive Sundays. buy and for most things Ottawa was a Christmas feast fi t for a king. bers superimposed on Christmas attending our 8:00 am service. I The fi rst Sunday morning the Street seemed to supply most of Good food and Thanksgiving were backgrounds were projected to had always believed there was an screen was used, I watched more the needs of a small boy, with a the order of the day. help the congregation follow the unwritten rubric that read some- and more people put down their small allowance, while downtown I don't seem to recall what peo- service. At the end of the service, thing like, "Trifl e with the early books, and as they did, the re- Eaton's, Robinson's and the Right ple drank on those occasions. There many visitors and infrequent at- service at your own peril." After sponses and singing became loud- House looked after all the rest. sure must have been something, as tendees enthusiastically informed several of our 'eight-o'clockers' er and more robust. Now, we fi nd Sadly, none of the three stores ex- I recall my father putting the fort me that for the fi rst time they could asked why they weren't going to only a few people using the books, ists today, nor in fact do the old together, my sister and I had Cana- actually follow our service. In ad- be polled, I decided to risk it on though page numbers are still an- stores of Ottawa Street. I really da Dry ginger ale, but after dinner dition, even our regulars seemed the grounds that they asked for it. nounced to help those who prefer miss them all. there was sherry and port. We were pleased with the use of the screen. Following an explanatory pre- not to use the screen. We have also But to return to Christmas, we allowed a sip; however it did not Consequently, I approached a amble, the survey consisted of three had two baptismal services since lived a bit further out in the country, take me long to discover where it number of our church groups to questions. The fi rst asked how long early September, and the projec- now well within the city, and my was kept so we had another sip or ask them what they thought of us- the respondent has attended our tion system has made it so much sister and I would waken to stock- two, when no one was looking. ing the projection system every church (visitor, under one year, six better for the extended family and ings and presents, some of which I We were very lucky children Sunday morning and stressed, in years or more). The second estab- friends to follow the service. had already found and investigated. and by the time we were bundled particular, its usefulness in help- lished the respondent's age-group Many churches have used pro- Small boys have their ways. Some- into the car to go home the wealth ing visitors and newcomers to (pre-teen, teenager, 20-29, 30-39, jection screens as worship aids for time before lunch we would go to of the day had overtaken us. follow the service. How many 40-49, 50-59, 60 and up). The re- years now, and recently Roman times have we seen such persons sponses to the fi rst two questions Catholic Churches have begun put down the books and give up in would allow us to see any trends installing such systems in their frustration? Some stated that they to the answers provided to the last church buildings. Based on my were sympathetic to the needs of question, which was worded along experience, I would certainly rec- people unfamiliar with our servic- these lines: "Taking into account ommend our churches try to catch es and, in turn, asked if I had ever visitors and newcomers not fa- up as soon as possible. Hopefully, considered the fact that the books miliar with our pattern of worship the majority of your worshippers are heavy for our own people with as well as those having diffi culty would thank you for it. arthritis, and many of them can- reading the print in our books and/ On a closing note, if the bish- not fl ip through the pages as nim- or following the resources used op's charge were put on DVDs, bly as when they were younger. during worship, how do you feel it would make it much easier for It had never crossed my mind. about having the service projected our congregations so-equipped to Others told me they were pleased onto the screen?" watch it. December 2006 Niagara Anglican 9

TThishis isis thethe storystory ofof thethe birthbirth ofof JesusJesus asas toldtold Questions about Afghanistan bbyy PhillipPhillip DoddridgeDoddridge (1702-1751)(1702-1751) economy and culture has taken blow We see this calling in our bap- HHark,ark, thethe gladglad sound,sound, thethe SaviourSaviour comes,comes, after blow. And there appears to be tismal vows, our renunciation of TThehe SaviourSaviour promisedpromised long!long! just as much resistance to the impos- "the evil powers of this world which LLetet everyevery heartheart prepareprepare a throne,throne, ing of a new vision on Afghanistan corrupt and destroy the children of AAndnd everyevery voicevoice a song.song. by foreign powers as there is in Iraq. God," and our promise to "strive for And these issues don't even raise justice and peace among all people." HHee comescomes thethe brokenbroken heartheart toto bind,bind, the more obvious question about And that is clearly what this conver- TThehe bleedingbleeding soulsoul toto cure,cure, Afghanistan: why is the United sation is about: it is about structures AAndnd withwith thethe treasurestreasures ofof HisHis gracegrace States not now at the forefront of a that are far bigger than any individual TToo enrichenrich thethe humblehumble poor.poor. MARTHA TARTARNIC confl ict that they initiated? person, and those structures are bro- ASSISTANT CURATE - ST. JUDE'S, OAKVILLE Whereas there was a dramatic ken. It is about structures of interna- lthough I try to keep myself lead-up to the war in Iraq, ample tional government, structures of the Aregularly updated on our na- news coverage throughout, a great assumptions and the powers behind tional and international news, there deal of public debate, and many nations going to war, it is even about are many holes in the picture I have staged demonstrations, Canadians the structures of media that cannot pieced together of our country's now fi nd ourselves in Afghanistan, help but to leave large gaping holes involvement in this battle. While I losing soldiers—a recent study con- in the stories that are told about world know that there is a difference be- cluded that a Canadian soldier was events. And although these structures tween the confl ict in Afghanistan six times more likely to lose his or her might be bigger than individuals, it is and the confl ict in Iraq—going into life in Afghanistan than an American very much in our individual hands to Afghanistan had the support of the soldier in Iraq—and we are only now imagine how these structures might United Nations, Afghanistan's gov- beginning to have the conversations be reconstituted to be more healthy ernment had a documented link to about why we are there and what we and life-giving than the current state al Qaeda—it seems that there has should do to address the horrifying of affairs leaves them. been a lot of conversation and de- loss that is steadily tallying up. We see this calling in our tradi- bate about the war in Iraq and very These are not easy conversations tion. We have not been, and are not little about Afghanistan. to have. It is not easy to delve into now, always wonderful at sorting Now the body count is getting the reasons behind our involvement our way through diffi cult subjects to be intolerably high, concern is without appearing to dishonour and areas of concern. We get it mounting and protests are begin- the work of our troops, who are no wrong a lot of the time; we get shrill, ning to rage, and there is still an doubt fi ghting for our country with we get angry, we get defensive, and appalling absence of any probing courage and integrity that deserves we get insulting. But the church has or piercing conversation about this to be recognized and applauded. It is nonetheless operated for two thou- national issue. diffi cult to separate the cause—and sand years, has made some signifi - Iraq stories have gotten great the rightness or wrongness of that cant changes, gone through incred- quantities of attention from our daily cause—from the persons who are ible adaptations, has infl uenced, news, they are the subject of bestsell- giving their lives to fi ght that cause. critiqued, and challenged society for ing movies and books, and the inspi- And so, I write this article, not good and for ill, and has had to make ration for pops hits getting heavy air- because I know the answer to any some radical negotiations as it has play on the radio. We know about the of these questions, but because I come to terms with society's chal- problems that arose when the US and have questions. Because I have lenges, infl uences and criticisms. company overthrew the government questions, and because especially Sometimes kicking and screaming, and tried to impose a vision for op- in the church, we have a calling to sometimes with hearts burning pas- erating Iraq that did not emerge from dive into the questions that make sionately, the church has been at the people themselves. We know us uncomfortable, that do not elicit the forefront of many of the most something of the economic and cul- easy answers, and that lead to con- important conversations of history. tural destruction that has taken place versations that are diffi cult to have. We have a lot of energy for some of in that country that is making recon- We see this calling in the one those important conversations right struction so utterly impossible. The whom we try to follow. Jesus was now, and our willingness to have hypocrisy of the United States going always challenging the barriers of those conversations bears witness to into Iraq to overthrow Saddam's re- who and what was considered ta- this calling. gime, when the United States was so boo or off-limits. Jesus courageous- Hopefully in this important time, much a force in establishing Saddam's ly asked people to talk about the when lives are being lost, when the power in the fi rst place, has elicited places in our lives, collectively and major world confl icts continue to much comment and criticism. individually, where we typically divide people along lines of race, But the United States was also avoid shining the light. And he was religion and culture, when relations instrumental in establishing the Tal- persistent and consistent in his call between nations are dissolving and iban in Afghanistan. Afghanistan is for us all to "not point out the fl eck souring at an alarming pace, we undoubtedly suffering much of the in another's eye while we ignore the can have energy for this conver- same turmoil and upheaval as their board in front of our own." sation also.

Niagara Children's and Family Ministries Event

Mark your calendars!

Love is... a retreat for families February 16-18, 2007 Canterbury Hills Camp, Ancaster

This retreat is a gathering that creates opportunities to enrich faithful, nur- turing relationships and homes. This year's theme is based on the book, "Love Is…" by Wendy Anderson Halperin. There will be campfi res, work- shops for children, youth and adults, hearty meals, tobogganing, lively music, creative worship times, puppet shows, family crafts, and time to connect with loved ones. Everyone welcome, please join us for a fun time.

For registration and information, please contact Christyn Perkons, Con- sultant in Children's and Family Ministries at 905-527-1316, ext. 460 or email at [email protected] 10 Niagara Anglican December 2006 An emptiness that God seeks to fi ll

Matthews in October. I wonder if be told, that we are longing and we and vast emptiness, or a brutal text, blows across the reed of scripture the focus on doctrine might not be, are empty? slashing our soft frailty with its in our midst, might look something at least for some, a form of numb- And what Word does God tempered, absolute blade. The text like this: Broader hospitality and ing racket to avoid an encounter yearn to utter into that longing with which we can woo the world, deeper compassion. with the sort of emptiness that God and that emptiness? Do we have the text that can bear the weight of The Spirit blows across the table waits to fi ll. The separation of the a doctrine that God has spoken human living, is a text that is both fellowship of Jesus, across the for- question of doctrine from the ques- through the scripture, or an expec- frank about the harm we get up to eignness of Ruth, across the blus- tion of longing, while allowing us tancy that God is speaking through and tenacious in its insistence that tering weakness of David, across to have a diffi cult conversation it—a breath of Spirit across a reed there is a new creation afoot, in the building of Solomon's temple MICHAEL THOMPSON more easily, might prevent us from of witness that yields a Word for which we and all that lives may en- and across its ruins, across James RECTOR - ST. JUDE'S, OAKVILLE having the diffi cult conversation us? We know that we need such ter God's future. We will know the and John jockeying for position, hat are we waiting for?" altogether if we are seduced by its a Word. The text of our culture size and shape of that future when and brings us a Word that blesses "WIt's the question that Ad- painlessness. is too thin to sustain truly human we truly know the size and shape us, and that helps us to remember vent poses, asking us to probe our lives. It is all Report on Business of the waiting, longing emptiness what some, perhaps, have forgot- lives at some level deeper than any The world is not standing and People magazine, the stuff of at the deepest part of our lives. ten—that it is not by doctrine but marketplace can reach. The depth on tiptoe the wealthy and the status of ce- In the face of such a hard and by the Word-made-fl esh that we we probe in Advent is a place of For centuries, the Anglican Church lebrities. Or it is just the power of holy work—fi nding and naming are welcome at the table. longing, the "empty cradle wait- has been careful to hold the tension winners to defi ne the game of life the God-shaped hole at the heart ing to be fi lled" we sing of in "She between doctrine and longing, be- so they stay winners. of our lives, knowing and naming God welcomes us to the table Flies On." tween something that sounds full These texts cannot speak to us without fear or shame the empty God knows who we are, who we What we fi nd in that well of and fi nished and certain, and the as we or others we know and care cradle, voicing the longing that struggle to become, whom we re- longing, of waiting emptiness, is 'poverty of spirit' that our Lord for stand in harm's way, when we business and doctrine as usual can- fuse to embrace, and welcomes us something of God—not as answer commends to us in Matthew's be- are the harm's way, as we lose our not groan into words, the question to the table, blesses us. If we knew to our longing, but God as 'noodge', atitudes. Doctrine can seem to loves, our dreams, our bearings, of what we will bless seems fl imsy how deeply that blessing cuts the Yiddish 'persistent nag' who settle things. And settled things our lives. This thin text is the thing against that outlandish truth that across the grain, how little it has will not let us forget our longing. leave little room for hunger, Spirit that turns a eulogy into standup God blesses us. I wonder why God to do with what we deserve, and Because at its deepest point, it is and the kind of newness God an- comedy, a loss into a fantasy, and does that. how much God longs to breathe God's longing too, a path God's nounces in 1 Samuel 3, newness sends every ache in search of a Could it be that it is in us, into our emptiness and longing, longing takes into the world. Per- that will make the ear of everyone prescription. No, the world needs creatures who bear the image of we would not be stuck where we haps God is waiting in Advent too; who hears it "tingle." The world a more substantial text, a more God, and can choose to partici- are stuck. And God could use us to waiting for us to develop a longing is not standing tiptoe to see if we substantial story, in response to pate in the mission of God, there bless the world. so acute, and an emptiness so total, can straighten out our doctrine. a more desperate waiting and a is always a chance that we will "Maranatha" is a dangerous that God's new Word might stand The world is standing tiptoe to deeper emptiness than mostly we make that choice? I wonder if word, because it invites the sov- a chance of being heard above see if God has something new to can fi nd words to name. God blesses us because trees and ereign God to do a new thing, an the numbing analgesic racket of utter into the emptiness and long- rocks do God's will just by being ear-tingling thing that doctrine will our lives. ing that—no matter how good the Bearing the weight of trees and rocks, but our work is never anticipate. Only a patient But the question can come at us weather-stripping of souls—slips human living different work, work that requires fearless probing of the emptiness another way as well: "What are we through the cracks into every life. But God's Spirit cannot woo the constant renewal of our sense of will help us recognize that the new waiting for?" It caused me to refl ect Will we fi ll aching souls with doc- world with a brittle text, shattered God's gracious presence along- thing God does fi ts the emptiness on the 'doctrine' event with Bishop trine? Or will we allow the truth to by the force of our deep yearnings side us. Work that, as the Spirit that awaits it. Funeral pre-arrangements HELPING YOUR FAMILY in a time of stress IAN DINGWALL Be up front about costs. There are RETIRED ARCHDEACON options and you should be aware ere are a few steps which will of same. Htruly help a family at the time
Burial or cremation, and if the of one's death. It's never too early latter, what do you wish done with to look at these issues and to make the ashes—memorial garden, fam- some decisions. Some may well ily plot or other. live to a wonderful old age, but
Do you wish Funeral Home we know that others do not. Take visitation or at Church or other some time and go through this; it options? really will help.
Will there be viewing at the visi-
Write down your plans as clear- tation and do you wish an open or ly as possible to avoid confusion closed casket? when the time arrives for arrange-
Public announcement wording ments to be made. and content.
Name family member or other
Financial matters including In- person(s) you might wish to name, surance should be clear. who will have primary respon-
After the Funeral Service do sibility in ensuring your wishes you wish a reception or some form are fulfi lled of gathering?
When you have completed and
Do you wish fl owers, or dona- printed these plans, share them tions to a particular charity? with your immediate family and allow them to respond and give Consider Church feedback. Service plans:
Make an appointment with the
Will you use the Church or the Rector of your parish and share Funeral Home? your plans with him and ask for his
Will the Casket be present or comments and advice. not?
Choose a Funeral Home, mak-
What kind of service to you want, ing sure that you are confi dent with BAS or BCP? their staff and their approach to
Do you have Hymn selections your wishes. and/or readings that you would like read? Funeral arrangement
Do you wish all to attend the When dealing with the Funeral Di- Cemetery or just family or other- rector let them know that you are wise? in charge of things and that your
Do you wish to specify speak- wishes are priority. Also be posi- ers at Service (family, clergy or tive about what your wishes are. friends)? December 2006 Niagara Anglican 11 Building up the fi scal health of our parishes in service of the Lord al givings, reasonable and predict- that some people give only by en- able gifts. If I even told you that velope but will donate handsomely St. Swithin's through some good once per month. stewardship work balanced their Whatever your parish donor income over the year, you would profi le looks like, parishes should likely be in awe or jealous of their promote the ease and convenience success. Now, if I told you that of pre-authorized gifts as a visible 40% of their total parish income means to support the mission and was from rentals and fundraising ministry of their worship com- events, does your view change? munity. It is a no hassle, donor It should. controlled means of year round So, how can we make St. Swith- stewardship. In the ideal world, in's stronger on the revenue side? the amount received from PAP If your fi rst reactions are to start and those stalwarts who give every a stewardship drive, an every mem- week should equal the amount that ber visitation and hand out pledge goes out each and every month for cards, you are jumping the gun! Par- salaries and the DMM. Even, if ish leaders should be encouraged to your parish is not there; think of it be pro-active in sharing abundance as a fi ve year goal! rather than reacting to scarcity. There is, of course, the big chal- From my experience with par- lenge. We, as Anglican's, do not like ishes in fi nancial stress, they gener- to ask for money. We assume that ally do not have a good understand- whatever is in the budget will appear. ing of the make up of the offering Most often it does but at the cost of income. Yes, the envelope secre- some restless parish council meet- tary can readily tell you who donat- ings. I have said to some parishes ed what but rarely can tell you the that a good target for gifting is about Long synonymous with KFC, members of the Swire family on behalf of the Col. Harland Sanders Foundation broader giving patterns. Unfortu- 3% of gross household income. In presented a cheque for one million dollars to rehabilitate an entire ward at McMaster's Children Hospital. nately, it takes a bit of work to delve most parishes, that would supply all into the receipts. For the computer the necessary resources needed to would be right to share my expe- envelope givings at St. Swithin's savvy, a simple spreadsheet or data sustain and grow our mutual minis- riences with the wider Church. came from 10% of the member- base fi le can solve the mystery. By tries. While that number may appear This article will address some ship, your alarm bells should go entering the weekly gifts by donor high but lower than the Scriptural of the common issues involving off! What happens if a generous and then resorting only by donor, tithe, it is a reasonable benchmark. parish revenues. donor should pass away or a youth- you begin to see how a unique pa- However, we often fail to empha- ful executive gets transferred over rishioner contributes to the mission size the fact that a gift at this level A balanced budget can 1000 miles away, your balanced and ministry of St. Swithin's. You will generate handsome tax sav- go south budget now goes south! would be surprised at what pops ings. In effect, the after tax cost of From time to time, wardens and Now, if I told you that the giv- out from data mining! a 3% of gross income is about 1.8% PETER SWIRE treasurers moan about being in a ings by every group were more or or about the cost of a daily coffee ASCENSION, HAMILTON defi cit. Short term defi cits are not less proportional and St. Swithin's A fi ve year goal and doughnut! ver the past fi fteen years, I an issue if there is a plan to ad- had a balanced budget, should you In a small parish, about 60% of Ohave been invited to look into dress the shortfalls. It is the longer be happy? Maybe yes? Maybe the envelopes purchased every fall A parish can lose its chari- the fi nancial affairs for over seven term perennial defi cits that pose no? If most of the budget comes never get returned. In a large par- table status dozen parishes. Many of them have the greatest concern to the parish, in from October through April, ish, closer to 75% of the envelopes So, why the focus on gifts by pre- resulted in visits or the exchange of the regions and to the Diocese. We how do we fund our vital mission purchased never get used! About a authorized deductions? Firstly, un- phone calls or emails well beyond all want to do the best we can but and ministry from the late spring third of a parish could be described like your insurance, taxes, utilities just looking at the records at the sometimes we don't know how. through the early fall? Do you not as faithful donors. Another third and the like, which are controlled by Diocesan Resource Centre. In my Perhaps these ideas may help! pay your salaries and DMM and let are clearly pay per view! Some others, only the donor controls the travels, I have met a great number Suppose I make the statement the other 100 plus parishes pick up take envelopes so that they can put amount generously given to their of faithful Anglicans who relate that St. Swithin's has an average the interest cost? something on the plate even though parish church. Secondly, it saves stories of fi nancial challenges. gift of $1,000 per year. economic conditions result in noth- money by eliminating the cost of However, I have heard perhaps an Most of you would say, WOW, I Stronger on the revenue side ing put in them. Finally, some peo- envelopes and perhaps eliminates equal number of stories of hope wish our parish could be like them! Finally, if I told you that the parish ple give the same amount now as any line of credit interest. Thirdly, and successes as well. Well, maybe you want to be like leadership at St. Swithin's was held they did in 1960 even though their it reduces the seasonality of givings At the gentle prodding of this them or maybe not. up as a model for the Church with incomes are now four-fold of what paper's editor, I thought the timing If I told you that 30% of the healthy annual givings; proportion- they were then. You will also fi nd See FISCAL HEALTH on page 13

AARTWORKRTWORK BYBY JJOHNOHN BELL,BELL, COPYRIGHTCOPYRIGHT 1998-20061998-2006

— SHORTBREAD — Submitted by Carol Summers Ingredients (Makes 12 portions) 200 g (8 oz) unsalted butter 100 g (4 oz) white granulated sugar 200 g (8 oz) fl our 100 g (4 oz) cornstarch

Method Set oven temperature to 170¡C (325¡F) TThishis iiss thethe storystory ofof tthehe birthbirth ofof Cream together the butter and sugar until light and creamy. JJesusesus asas toldtold byby JohnJohn DonneDonne (1572-1631)(1572-1631) Sieve together the fl our and cornstarch and gradually work into the creamed mixture. Knead gently on surface lightly dusted with cornstarch until smooth. SSalvationalvation toto allall thatthat willwill isis nigh,nigh, Divide the mixture in half and roll each out to a circle 15-18cm (6-7") TThathat AAll,ll, wwhichhich alwaysalways isis AllAll everywhere,everywhere, WWhichhich cannotcannot sin,sin, andand yetyet allall sinssins mustmust bear,bear, Place on baking sheet, mark each into 6 portions, prick well and fl ute the edges. WWhichhich cannotcannot die,die, yetyet cannotcannot choosechoose butbut die,die, Bake at 325¡F (170¡C) for 30 to 40 minutes until cooked but not browned. LLoe,oe, faithfulfaithful Virgin,Virgin, yieldsyields himselfhimself toto lielie Cut into portions while still warm and cool on a wire rack. IInn pprison,rison, inin thythy wwomb;omb; andand thoughthough hehe therethere Dust with granulated sugar. CCanan taketake nono sin,sin, nornor thouthou give,give, yetyet he'willhe'will wearwear This can also be cooked in a shallow oblong tin and marked into fi ngers. Cut when hot and TTakenaken fromfrom thence,thence, fl esh,esh, whichwhich death'sdeath's forceforce maymay try.try. leave in tin to cool. EErere byby thethe spheresspheres timetime waswas created,created, thouthou WWastast iinn hishis mind,mind, whowho isis thythy Son,Son, andand Brother,Brother, Variations WWhomhom thouthou conceiv'st,conceiv'st, conceiv'd;conceiv'd; yeayea thouthou artart nownow TThyhy mmaker'saker's mmaker,aker, aandnd thythy Father'sFather's mother,mother, For added fl avour add 50g (2 oz) chopped almonds to the creamed mixture or dip the cooked TThouhou hasthast llightight inin dark;dark; andand shutstshutst inin littlelittle room,room, shortbread fi ngers in melted chocolate. IImmensitymmensity cloisteredcloistered inin thythy deardear womb.womb. 12 Niagara Anglican December 2006 www.niagaracursillo.org OUTREACH Niagara Anglican - December 2006 Make a real difference SHARE YOUR CHRISTMAS with a family in need

WENDY ROY gift certifi cates from A&P, The DIRECTOR - ST. MATTHEW'S HOUSE Barn, Fortino's or No Frills to hristmas is coming but it won't cover the cost of meat. You can Cbe an easy time for hundreds also supply potatoes, vegetables of families that registered with and dessert. St. Matthew's House Christmas As a suggested guideline, you Adopt-a-family program in No- should be able to sponsor a family vember. If you, your family, par- of four for 150-175 dollars. ish or group are looking for a spe- St. Matthew's House provides cial way to share your Christmas sponsors with fi rst names of fam- with a family experiencing hard ily members, plus ages and sizes times, St. Matthew's House offers of children. Sponsors will bring you an opportunity to make a real the food and gifts to the Christmas difference. program site located at: Wentworth Last year St. Matthew's House Campus, Mohawk College, 196 Christmas program helped 4,273 Wentworth St. North, Hamilton on family members and individuals. December 12, 13 and 14 for distri- Based on the growing numbers of bution to families. families suffering from the impact Families registered at St. Mat- of poverty in Hamilton (at least thew's House are eligible for as- one in fi ve), unemployment, and sistance from only one agency, fi nancial hardships, we expect to thereby avoiding duplication. help even more families to enjoy Please call Debra House at the a happier Christmas. Too many Christmas Program at 905-522- of them are at risk of becoming 4584 if you wish to sponsor a fam- homeless. Ways you can sponsor a ily or to obtain more information. family include: Thank you for remembering chil- Coins for Cuba
Provide the food for Christmas dren and families most in need at dinner for a family. St. Matthew's House this Christ-
Provide new unwrapped toys for mas. We send our best wishes for CONTINUING OUR MISSION FROM LAST MONTH children or gifts for teenagers. every blessing at Christmas to you St. Matthew's House suggests and yours. JOHN PAGE The Anglican Church of Canada I was aware of the plans for our OUTREACH COORDINATOR has long supported the Episcopal Canadian Primate to visit Cuba to he height of our Cuban visit Church of Cuba and a number of be present for the Diocese of Cu- Twas to have the opportunity congregations have and continue ba's annual Synod in early Febru- Donations can be made to: of sharing Communion with our to pray for and provide material ary 2006. Contact was made with St. Matthew's House Christmas Adopt-a-family Program Cuban brothers and sisters in that support for Episcopal parishes in the Primate's offi ce and the funds St. Matthew's House small mission church in Jobabo. Cuba. Now, through the efforts we had collected are now safely 414 Barton Street East And I can truly attest for all of of this site, we desire to recognise being held by the Bishop of Cuba Hamilton, Ontario L8L 2Y3 those who went on this trip from ongoing efforts and to signifi cantly for the time when the renovations Income tax receipts will be provided. Grace Church this cemented a re- build that level of support. In Cuba at San Pedro can take place. lationship and created a bond that at this time there are just over The goal of the Coins for Cuba will never be broken. twenty ordained clergy, including project is to recruit at least 100 An- The idea of supporting the the Bishop of Cuba, serving 10,000 glican churches in Canada willing Episcopal Church of Cuba, while worshippers in 34 distinct parishes. to match or surpass the level of certainly nothing new, is some- At this time, the site covers the fol- funding raised by Grace church. thing that every Anglican Church lowing areas: Once this target is achieved we in Canada is able to do by simply
The concept for this initiative. will be able to provide the Diocese emulating the method tried and
The History of the Episcopal of Cuba, through our Primate's proven by Grace Anglican Church Church in Cuba. offi ce, a minimum of $200,000 in Milton. This concept has been
A comprehensive list of clergy, per year. shared with the Niagara Diocesan parishes and the communities in The use of the funds raised Outreach Committee as well as the which they are located. would be placed at the discre- Primate's Offi ce in Toronto. These
An On-Line form to register your tion of the Bishop of Cuba and two, together with my own parish congregation. could be applied to a number of in Milton and the experience of the
A list of clergy and parishes to- needy projects: trip to Cuba were the inspiration to gether with their supporting Cana-
Renovations to church and mis- take this project nation-wide. dian churches. sion buildings; How will this be achieved? I The method used at my home
The provision of supplies to en- wonder if the Lord ever realized parish of Grace Church, Milton, hance worship services; the potential impact of the internet. Ontario was so very simple and
To help support theological stu- While so much negative informa- certainly not unique as a fund rais- dents studying in Cuba; tion is disseminated over the world er, but one that helped us achieve
To help support the Seminario wide web I fi rmly believe it is our goals while still maintaining Evangelico de Teologia in Matan- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR also a tool that can bring together our other parish outreach projects. zas, Cuba mighty global forces that can and In fact, with greater awareness of Once our target is reached it will benefi t the human race. This the needs beyond our parish giving is our prayer that we will be able Financial advisory committee (FAC) and subcommittees: is certainly true for the Coins to such projects actually increased to duplicate our efforts in support Finance/budget committee for Cuba web site, www.coins- and we believe that in return our the Episcopal Church in many Insurance and risk management committee forcuba.ca. parish has itself been blessed. other Central and South American Investment committee The focus for the Coins for Cuba Between late 2004 and the end countries. web site is to raise awareness of the of 2005 approximately $2,200 in The funds for the Coins for Audit committee needs of the Episcopal Church in loose coins was collected. Of this Cuba web site were provided joint- Cuba, congregations, clergy and amount the Grace Outreach Com- ly by Grace Anglican Church and church buildings. As an off-shoot mittee allocated $1,600 to go to- the Niagara Diocesan Outreach For information please contact Bob McKinnell, the diocesan Coins for Cuba will also look at wards the renovations required at Committee. Blessings and thanks treasurer, at [email protected] or by dialing ways and means to support Cuban the San Pedro mission church. The to both. 905-527-1316 (ext. 520) students in seminary and studying renovations include a new roof, And now I've got only one more towards ordination in the Episco- new window shutters and a fresh thing to say: Ladies and Gentle- pal Church of Cuba. coat of paint. men, start counting your coins! December 2006 Niagara Anglican 13

A LITANY FOR RESTORATIVE JUSTICE From A Justice That Heals and Restores: A resource on restorative justice jointly produced by the Church Council on Jus- tice and Corrections and the Anglican Diocese of Toronto's Working Group on Restorative Justice in collaboration with the EcoJustice Committee of the Anglican Church of Canada. A Decade to Over- come Violence project. September 2005.

THE JUSTICE STORYTELLING QUILT Holy and incarnate one PHOTO: DAVID PIJUAN NOMURA who longs to set the prisoner free and to heal the broken hearted: We pray for our brothers and sisters who are offenders, who stand accused in our courts and who serve time in our prisons. Let justice roll down like waters, And righteousness like an ever fl owing stream. We pray for our brothers and sisters who are victims of crime, and who, like many victims, are re- victimized by our criminal justice system. COLLEEN SYM across Canada. A touch on any patch activates Restorative Justice Week SOCIAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR a two minute audio testimony by its designer Each year in November, Corrections Canada Let justice roll down like waters, ast month I attended a fundraiser in sup- describing the criminal event that took place in sponsors a Restorative Justice Week. The quilt And righteousness like an ever fl owing Lport of an outreach program. Part of the his or her life, what happened and how it felt. was unveiled as part of the ceremonies in 2005. stream. evening was devoted to an auction of Men- Dave Nomura, a Toronto computer artist A sermon prepared for this year by the Church nonite quilts that had been donated to help who specializes in interactive media, wired Council on Justice and Corrections guides us We pray for our Church, raise money. However, the most impressive the quilt. on how we can foster true justice: remembering that in our corporate history quilt I saw that night, you could not bid on. The quilting of the textile was done by Su-
By truly living together in community and we have been both offender and victim. Its value was "priceless." This was the "Jus- sannah and David Shantz. David is a Protestant caring for the whole as much as for ourselves tice Storytelling Quilt." Chaplain in the Quebec prisons. Through the as individuals. Let justice roll down like waters, The quilt was the result of a project spon- Mennonite community he and Susannah be-
By seeing things from a new perspective. And righteousness like an ever fl owing sored by the Church Council on Justice and came involved in victim-offender encounters We do this by widening the circle to get more stream. Corrections. The Church Council on Justice and it is also through the Mennonite commu- diverse opinions and perspectives, and by giv- and Corrections is a national faith-based co- nity that they inherited the art of quilting. ing these new perspectives due consideration. We pray for all those in our criminal alition of eleven founding churches, created
By turning the world upside down, as Je- system who try to do justice: in 1974, to promote a restorative approach A fl yer describing the quilt explains sus did. In Matthew 20:16 we read, "So the for police offi cers, judges, lawyers, to justice with an emphasis on addressing "A quilt reminds us of comfort, warmth and se- last will be fi rst, and the fi rst will be last." chaplains, and for corrections, the needs of victims and offenders, mutual curity. It protects us from the cold and hostile We take ourselves much too seriously and parole, and probation offi cers. respect, healing, individual accountability, elements. There was a time when quilts were are personally offended if we believe that community involvement and crime preven- made from the scraps of material left over from life has treated us unfairly. Let justice roll down like waters, tion. The Anglican Church of Canada is a sewing dresses and shirts. There was also the
By asking the question, "Even if I have not And righteousness like an ever fl owing member of the Council. delight of seeing how these pieces could be put received all that I believe I should, do I have stream. enough?" Is God truly merciful and just? Restorative justice is based on a vision of together to make a beautiful artistic design. We pray for our neighbourhoods, our
By learning more about our neighbour. justice that heals and restores. It is based on an These concepts are also found in this quilt. communities, and our society, We can only truly know ourselves through understanding that crime is a violation of people It tells the stories of forty very sorrowful and where the impact of crime and the fear our being in relationship to others. If our im- and relationships and that justice is served when horrifying events and has a way of bringing us that it breeds mediate circle is narrow, our perceptions of those most directly involved in an offence are together as a community. Since quilts represent harm people, damage relationships, and ourselves will also be narrow. given opportunities to redress the harm caused. a safe place, we fi nd courage to listen to peo- tear at the human spirit. ple share the details of the murder of a family
By forming new, creative partnerships and Produced by victims and offenders member. The artistic image helps to portray the acting together to ensure that God's will is in- Let justice roll down like waters, Meagan O'Shea, a multi-media artist and per- violence in an unthreatening manner. Just as the deed done, here on earth—thus bringing the And righteousness like an ever fl owing former, interviewed and worked with each par- scraps have purpose and meaning when they are Reign of God, the Peaceable Kingdom and stream. ticipant in the project to create the quilt patches pieced together, so the wounded bits and shat- true justice closer to a lived reality on earth. and help them tell their story. Stories include tered pieces of our lives can be brought together In 2007 Restorative Justice Week is No- Blessed are you, Lord our God, those of the parents of a son who killed their to project a powerful and peaceful message of vember 18-25. To have the Justice Story- who sent your Son among us daughter, the mother who survived an attack by forgiveness and reconciliation. telling Quilt displayed in your community to bear the pain and grief of humankind. her son after he murdered her two other chil- The purpose of the quilt is not primarily to contact the Church Council on Justice and Receive the prayers we offer this day dren, the wife of a man killed by a teenager. sensitize us to the pain of victims and offenders Corrections. Or better yet, if there are issues for all those in need in every place In all there are forty stories told in the blocks which could make us very angry and vindictive. of confl ict in your community or simply and grant us strength on our journey. of the quilt. Each patch of the "Justice Story- It is designed, rather, to bring us together so that to build community, think about your own telling Quilt" is a symbolic descriptive image we may empathize with the suffering, hope and quilting bee to work towards reconciliation Amen. produced by both victims and offenders from courage of victims and offenders." and forgiveness or inclusion and diversity. Building up the fi scal health of our parishes in service of the Lord

Continued from page 11 makes sense to establish a separate nally, some parishes let out their are worth more than that. Charge out. Do a few things well and the non-for-profi t corporation. How- space for little or no compensation enough so that the costs are fully community outside of the walls so the wardens can assist in long ever, that is just another adminis- as part of a broader outreach activ- covered and any amount above that will support it! Finally, fundraising term planning rather than griping trative layer that most would not ity. If this is the case, parishioners is the reward for the donated time. I for a major purchase such as a re- over the summer doldrums. Final- want to undertake. Secondly, par- must give extra to cover the added have also found that parishes tend to pair or building renovation is great ly, it is both a very subtle way of ishes often do not charge enough costs involved. Again, this is often raise money from themselves rath- but if a parish needs to fundraise stewardship and commitment that to cover the added costs of heat, not considered. er than from the community. Pro- more than 10 percent of its total re- we do not see in pledge cards. hydro, cleaning staff, etc. let alone mote the event so that it effectively ceipts within its operating account, The rental of underutilized space the lost opportunity to use Church Do a few things well brings in dollars from the commu- you are at risk. A minor hiccup in is very problematic for parishes. owned space for parish needs. From my experience, fundraising nity. I know of parishes where they weather or competing events may Firstly, parishes are at risk of More often that not, wardens see events can be both living giving and just do that and can make $3,000 in result in a defi cit. losing their charitable status if the the cash received as going to the life draining. I have witnessed par- less than half an hour! Fundraising For next month, I will offer gross rental receipts exceed 10% bottom line when in fact the added ishes charging a mere 2 or 3 dollars events should be limited in number some thoughts on how to trim par- of total parish income. If it does, it costs are rarely acknowledged. Fi- for a fruit pie when the ingredients so that our volunteers do not burn ish operating costs. 14 Niagara Anglican December 2006

Governor General announces appointment of Getting to know you Three New Heralds Extraordinary Governor General announces the appointment of three new Heralds THE REVEREND SUE-ANN WARD Assistant Curate, Christ's Church Cathedral Extraordinary Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor ation, paying attention to poverty Another responsibility for Sue- General of Canada, announced today the appointment of three new issues around Hamilton, [and dis- Ann is "the privilege of helping to Heralds Extraordinary within the Canadian Heraldic Authority. covering] how to reduce poverty organise and MC events at the Ca- Mr. Roger A. Lindsay of Toronto, Dr. Helen K. Mussallem, C.C., and strengthen our communities." thedral, [such as] the celebration of of Ottawa and Vancouver, and the Right Reverend D. Ralph Spence, Soil in "brownfi eld areas is con- Confi rmation, Ordination and the of Hamilton, have received the titles of Herald Extraordinary for taminated so children cannot play Order of Niagara." Echoing Bishop their particularly notable contributions to Canadian heraldry over there, and there were no local rec- Ralph, she says fi rmly, "I strongly many years. reational facilities and little green believe that those services should The appointment of these new honorary heralds will bring the space. We approached the Roman all happen here, to bring people number of Heralds Extraordinary to six. On occasion, these persons FRAN DARLINGTON Catholic School Board to ask if together, to function as [the Dioc- can perform duties on behalf of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. HONORARY - ST. JAMES, GUELPH we could use some of their space." esan] family." The Canadian Heraldic Authority, which is headed by Her Excel- he Bishop of Niagara, the St. Mary's School now provides Acknowledging that she "sort lency the Governor General, is responsible for the creation of coats TRight Reverend Ralph Spence, space after school and on week- of replaced [the Reverends] Dan of arms, fl ags and badges for Canadian citizens and corporate bod- consistently encourages Anglicans ends, "every day but Sunday: four Brereton and Ann Turner," past ies and for units of the Canadian Forces. It was created in 1988 to across the Diocese to explore con- classrooms, a seminar room, an of- Cathedral Vicar and Deacon re- ensure that all Canadians who wish to use heraldry have access to it. nections with Christ's Church Ca- fi ce, a kitchen, and the gym after spectively, Sue-Ann also does It also encourages good heraldic practice consistent with an interna- thedral and the people who bring it 4:00 pm." "regular priestly wonderful things. tional level of heraldic excellence. For more information about the to life in the name of Christ. One of Her eyes dancing, Sue-Ann I visit people in their homes, bap- Authority, please visit www.gg.ca. those people is the Reverend Sue- explains, "We want to work with tise, marry, bury, do Confi rma- Ann Ward, Assistant Curate. other individuals and groups in the tion preparation." At the recent With primary duties in pastoral community to provide programs, Diocesan Leadership Conference, care, outreach and Christian edu- crafts, arts, dance, music for all Sue-Ann shared her experiences in cation, Sue-Ann has brought new ages, chess, sewing, table tennis, a presentation on outreach and em- JOURNEY OF THE MAGI energy to the Cathedral's ministry leadership for teens, and summer powering a parish. She says, "We This is the story of the birth of Jesus as told by T.S. Eliot (1888-1965) in Hamilton's central core, which camps!" Cathedral members and all need a reason to get out of bed reaches well beyond the congrega- staff have organised a clothing in the morning. A parish is no dif- tion, particularly through St Mat- cupboard, and Sue-Ann is "work- ferent; it needs a reason to be too." thew's House and SISO, the organ- ing with [McMaster University] to Sue-Ann also appreciates minis- isation which assists immigrants provide child minding while immi- try deeply shared by the Cathedral and refugees, women, youth and grant women take classes." Dean, the Very Reverend Peter racial minority peoples integrate Wall. "I'm very blessed to have a into the community. But there's more to come! Rector who has entrusted me with Sue-Ann's fi rst project has be- Now, supported by the Hamil- many other duties." come the Jamesville Breakfast ton Association for Residential Club, nurturing children of three and Recreational Redevelopment Where would Jesus be? local schools. "The principal at St. Programs, the hope is to purchase "[Unlike most curacies] I'm not Mary's [Elementary School] made property to provide better housing, here to do a two year curacy and us aware of the need, and asked for recreational and gathering space. A (then) move on. I'm here!" That support. Now we feed sixty plus Board has been "formed to provide means stability for Sue-Ann and children and a handful of adults oversight, to foster various neces- those she serves with great enthusi- A coldcold comingcoming wewe hadhad ofof it,it, every morning!" A large sign wel- sary skill sets, to facilitate protec- asm and real humility, doing "lots JJustust tthehe wworstorst timetime ofof thethe yearyear comes all, and the local crossing tion for the Diocese in terms of and lots of different and wonderful FForor a jjourney,ourney, andand suchsuch a longlong journey:journey: guard even comes early to enable liability should something go dras- things! This is the best place to do TThehe waysways deepdeep andand thethe weatherweather sharp,sharp, the children to arrive safely. tically wrong, and to enable grants ministry. Christ's Church Cathedral TThehe veryvery deaddead ofof winter.'winter.' With many volunteers from the the Diocese could not apply for." needs to be here!" Asking, "Where AAndnd thethe camelscamels galled,galled, sore-footed,sore-footed, refractory,refractory, Cathedral congregation along with Sue-Ann grins, "I've learned how would Jesus be?" she answers her LLyingying downdown inin thethe meltingmelting snow.snow. Diocesan staff, "help is provided to write funding proposals!" own question, "With the most dis- TTherehere werewere timestimes wewe regrettedregretted with assignments and tutoring. With Sr. Michael, CSC (Com- advantaged! We can do so many TThehe summersummer palacespalaces onon thethe slopes,slopes, thethe terraces,terraces, Some volunteers do the shopping, munity of the Sisters of the Church), ministries without spending money AAndnd thethe silkensilken girlsgirls bringingbringing sherbet.sherbet. others provide games." A former who volunteers for twenty hours a if we just bring resources together. TThenhen thethe camelcamel menmen cursingcursing andand grumblinggrumbling teacher in Special Education and week is Simon Mach, a Sudanese There's money out there. If you can AAndnd runningrunning away,away, andand wantingwanting theirtheir liquorliquor andand women,women, Behavioural Intervention in Juve- refugee hired as Community Cen- show people they're touching lives, AAndnd thethe night-finight-fi resres goinggoing outout andand thethe lacklack ofof shelters,shelters, nile Court, Sue-Ann reads with the tre Supervisor. He has "done won- they'll open their wallets. People AAndnd thethe citiescities hostilehostile andand thethe townstowns unfriendlyunfriendly children, and represents the com- derful things in this community! need to know what they can do." AAndnd thethe villagesvillages dirtydirty andand chargingcharging highhigh prices:prices: munity on St. Mary's Parent Coun- His background is in nursing, he For someone who, when she re- A hhardard timetime wewe hadhad ofof it.it. cil. She was warmly welcomed, has a lovely family, with a wife vealed her strong call to ordained AAtt tthehe endend wewe preferredpreferred toto traveltravel allall night,night, but as an Anglican priest in a Ro- and four children, and speaks at ministry, was laughed at by her SSleepingleeping inin snatches,snatches, man Catholic school, "at fi rst there least six languages. He's teaching high school guidance counsel- WWithith tthehe vvoicesoices singingsinging inin ourour ears,ears, sayingsaying were questions. 'Are you a priest? me Arabic!" lor, Sue-Ann Marilyn Alexandra TThathat tthishis wwasas allall folly.folly. Tell me about that!" Sue-Ann is quick to recognise Ward, nee Jones, has offered en- TThenhen atat dawndawn wewe camecame downdown toto a temperatetemperate valley,valley, Sue-Ann enjoys watching "old- contributions by many other peo- ergy and commitment and taken on WWet,et, bbelowelow thethe snowsnow line,line, smellingsmelling ofof vegetation,vegetation, er children integrate with younger ple, and her enthusiasm bubbles: responsibilities that would intimi- WWithith a runningrunning streamstream andand a water-millwater-mill beatingbeating thethe darkness,darkness, ones in ways they can't in class... "This is all out of identifi ed needs date many others. Earning a B.A. AAndnd threethree treestrees inin thethe lowlow sky.sky. [It's] building community, getting within the community. We're in Science in 1992, and a B.Ed. in AAndnd anan oldold whitewhite horsehorse gallopedgalloped awayaway inin thethe meadow.meadow. to know each other, and sharing a not doing stuff for people, but 1993, Sue-Ann became a teacher, TThenhen wewe camecame toto a taverntavern withwith vine-leavesvine-leaves overover thethe lintel,lintel, meal. We encourage any children with people!" but never forgot that call. Sue-Ann SSixix handshands atat anan openingopening doordoor dicingdicing forfor piecespieces ofof silver,silver, to come, and for parents to allow married Jeff Ward, who became AAndnd feetfeet kickingkicking thethe emptyempty winewine skins.skins. them to come," all part of the effort A Vicar, a Deacon, and an an engineer, and a senior manager BButut ttherehere wwasas nono information,information, andand soso wewe continuedcontinued to keep children in school. Assistant Curate with the technology fi rm Celestica. AAndnd arrivedarrived atat evening,evening, notnot a momentmoment tootoo soonsoon Local businesses generously sup- Sue-Ann's energy is also directed Together they have four children FFindinginding thethe place;place; itit waswas (you(you maymay say)say) satisfactory.satisfactory. port this outreach: "We're getting to to other areas, such as Pastoral of their own—Danielle, Michael, know so many people from the Care. "The Cathedral has a won- Justine and Zachary, who are now AAllll thisthis waswas a longlong timetime ago,ago, I remember,remember, community, businesses, markets, derful team. They're absolutely ter- young adults—and have been fos- AAndnd I wwouldould dodo itit again,again, butbut setset downdown and organisations, too many donors rifi c, all twelve of them, going out. tering "mostly special needs chil- TThishis setset ddownown to name them all! We're able to do Some take communion to those dren for years." Sue-Ann and Jeff TThis:his: wwereere wewe ledled allall thatthat wayway forfor this because of partnership! Partner- unable to attend the Cathedral have also been caregivers for Jeff's BBirthirth oorr DDeath?eath? ThereThere waswas a Birth,Birth, certainly,certainly, ships are so much stronger when we for worship." younger brother who was severely WWee hadhad evidenceevidence andand nono doubt.doubt. I hadhad seenseen birthbirth andand death,death, work together. The Roman Catholic For Christian Education, brain-injured in a car accident BButut hhadad thoughtthought theythey werewere different;different; thisthis BirthBirth waswas Church asked for help—Amen!" "There's a team of leaders. We in 1991, "but now he's making a HHardard andand bitterbitter agonyagony forfor us,us, likelike Death,Death, outout death.death. got input from parishioners about new life." WWee returnedreturned toto ourour places,places, thesethese Kingdoms,Kingdoms, Growing opportunities topics and scheduling, so it varies Sue-Ann reads "just about any- BButut nnoo longerlonger atat easeease here,here, inin thethe oldold dispensation,dispensation, This ministry has evolved into through the year." Bryan Stopps thing," makes music on the piano WWithith anan alienalien peoplepeople clutchingclutching theirtheir gods.gods. the Community Centre, which supports Sue-Ann in offering and guitar, actively participates I sshouldhould bebe gladglad ofof anotheranother death.death. began as a development project Youth Ministry for "about a dozen" concerned with housing and recre- young people. Continued on next page December 2006 Niagara Anglican 15 Church decline a myth — KING'S CHRISTMAS PUDDING — on a somewhat regular basis. Submitted by Carol Summers It was also interesting to note that MacLean's reported that This pudding recipe is, as its title implies, a royal one. It dates from the reign of King church brings us together more George 1 when it was used in the royal kitchens. I don't know if it still graces the royal than sports and recreation, more table, but I thought it might fi nd a spot on a few of ours. You could have one to eat and two than School or community, and to give as gifts, or to save for next year! even more than politics. What was the most signifi cant, I believe, was that 43% of all Canadians have Ingredients (Makes three puddings) GRAHAME STAP attended a religious service in ST. ALBAN THE MARTY, GLEN WILLIAMS the past six months not including 675 g (1.5 lbs) fi nely shreded suet hen I wrote the article on weddings, funerals, or holidays 450 g (1 lb) small raisins WChurch Decline I had no idea and that 62 percent of Canadians 450 g (1 lb) demerara sugar I would get such a response, both believe in heaven. 450 g (1 lb) stoned plum halfs verbally and via email. The main I believe we need to accept that 110 g (4 oz) thinly sliced citron response seemed to be that I did society is looking for answers that 110 g (4 oz) thinly sliced candied peel not know what I was talking about. it cannot fi nd. One of the reasons 1 tsp mixed spices "Of course the church is in decline for the huge success of The Da Half a grated nutmeg we have only half the congregation Vinci Code is that it seems to an- 2 tsp salt we had only fi ve years ago." swer questions in a way people can 450 g (1 lb) breadcrumbs There seemed to be an accep- accept. It is not the truth but it fi lls 450 g (1 lb) sifted fl our tance that as long as the church is in a void until the reader realizes that 450 g (1 lb) eggs weighed in their shells decline, it is normal for a particular it is based on wishful thinking. 1 wineglass of brandy church to be in decline. However if The Anglican Church is ide- 10 oz (half pint) of milk decline is a myth, then why is our ally situated to fi ll the void people congregation not growing? feel with the truth that God loves It is a very good question. How- all things God created. We ac- Method ever the answer is more compli- cept that baptism in any Christian cated. There are many areas where denomination is valid and that all Beat the eggs to a froth and then add to them half a pint of new milk and mix the various demographics have changed and people are welcome at the table ingredients. Let the mixture stand for 12 hours in a cool place, and then put in moulds and the surrounding neighbourhood of the Lord. Even more that this, I boil for eight hours. is no longer Anglican. It could hope I am right, we do not judge Three ordinary sized puddings can be made by any culinary member of a family from the be there is no parking or because people but accept them where they aforementioned recipe. of a change in area development are and not where we expect them where the church is now hidden to be. We allow people to fi nd their and hard to get to. There are many own place within the church. We legitimate reasons why a church is make people feel welcome and we not growing. reach out to those that are seek- This does not change the fact ing. What we are not so good at that church decline is still a myth. is inviting people to share with us In the July issue of MacLean's the love that God has for each of Love came down at Christmas Magazine, the following was re- us. So let us make every Sunday, ported. In 1975, 41 percent of Invitation Sunday. the streets, something did happen. image, the Logos, the Beloved Im- Protestant and Catholic Canadians December 3 is the fi rst Sun- While he was still a young man he age that he had for mankind? Love attended church once a month or day of Advent, the fi rst Sunday left an indelible mark upon the his- came down at Christmas, the love more. This dropped in 2000 to 30 of a new year in the church. Let tory of the world in a remarkably that God wants us all to exhibit and percent and rose again in 2005 to us make it, and the fi rst Sunday short ministry of no more than that, up to date, we have failed in so 34 percent, an increase of 4 per- of every month, Invitation Sun- three years. His life has proved to miserably. Jesus is the model that cent. The gallop poll I reported on day. Let us all invite a friend, col- be a model for us all. we should be following. The early earlier showed a 3 percent increase league, and/or neighbour to share What can we learn from the life church knew that and lived the life over the same period of time. So the with us the love of God. If we do that we celebrate as having begun (vide the Acts of the Apostles) but increase is getting larger and even this we will soon see that Church is SUSAN C. HUXFORD-WESTALL at Christmas? What lessons has it was not long before worldly poli- ALL SAINTS PARISH, HAMILTON more people are attending church indeed a myth. God for us in the life of Jesus of tics entered the picture and the true ome two thousand years ago an Nazareth? Is it not that God dem- church went off course. Sextremely signifi cant event oc- onstrated his love for us in reveal- Where, then, should Love lead? curred. It doesn't matter whether it ing to us the true vision that he had The Greeks had three words for was 2006, 2009 or 2013 years ago. for humankind at the beginning love. The purely animal nature of Getting to know you The fact is that it happened. It doesn't of creation? The Old Testament love was eros, from which comes matter whether it happened in Beth- repeatedly tells us that God has all our erotica, played on by Hol- Continued from page 14 doing wonderful things, let's work lehem, Nazareth or anywhere else in wanted us to go one way, but we lywood until sexual satisfaction together! We can learn from wis- Palestine. It happened. have insisted upon going our own has become the primary purpose in and/or coaches various sports, dom, and support each other." Ac- What happened? A child was way. God has been blamed for giv- of love. Phylia expresses that fi lial walks, hikes, runs, and loves to knowledging that "anxiety is natu- born. So what? It doesn't matter ing us freewill so that we could do love that should exist in a family, laugh! Four plates on her offi ce ral when we feel threatened," she whether it was born in wedlock or as we like, but had he not done so between brothers and sisters, par- wall say a lot about this serene, continues, "if we demonstrate that out of it. We are told that the moth- we would be nothing but puppets ents and children. The highest level gracious woman: Mother Teresa, we're doing God's work, if people er was betrothed to an older man on strings held by God or, as some of love is agape, the deeply mutual the loaves and fi sh of Capernaum, see generosity and loving out there, and the respectable clergy of the would have it, the Devil. Through- love that all creation should have a ballerina, and one from Cooke's they'll want to be involved." day said that the child was a bas- out the Old Testament God sent for humankind, a love that was cel- Presbyterian Church in Toronto, Last year, the editor of this tard, born of fornication. prophets to direct people into the ebrated in the early church in the where Sue-Ann's Grandfather was newspaper, Christopher Grabiec, We know very little of his child- right way, but again and again they Agape, the love feast that was in- an elder and she was baptised. wrote, "Advent is about hope and hood. Were his early years spent in wandered off course. We have of- tended to show the love and care living a life anticipating and work- Egypt where he could have been ten interpreted the scriptures to suit for each other that existed in the Change, challenge, and gift ing toward the fullness of God's under the infl uence of the Septua- ourselves, whether we have been early congregations and ultimately God had more in mind for this reign on earth. It's about growing gint, the Greek Old Testament that Hindus, Buddhists, Confucians, became the Eucharist. gifted couple. Following studies in our understanding of the im- he often seems to have quoted? Did Jews, Christians, Moslems or any How, then, should we exhibit at Trinity College, Toronto, Jeff manent presence of Christ and he ever travel with his presumed other faith in which the Spirit of the Love of God, shown in that and Sue-Ann were ordained to- God's spirit among us. It's joyful uncle, Joseph of Arimathea, and God may have been seen to have child that was born so long ago? gether as Deacons in May, 2005, and hopeful." visit the famous well at Glaston- had infl uence. Have we any right to deny love and as priests in December, 2005. The Reverend Sue-Ann Ward's bury as William Blake has asked? where it exists, whether it be be- The Dean commented fondly that joy and hope in her life and work Or did he work in his father's car- The highest level of love tween parents and child, brothers it was the fi rst time he had seen shines in her eyes as she proclaims, pentry shop in Nazareth preparing But God so loved the world that he and brothers, sisters and sisters, two candidates for ordination hold- "I love it, love it, love it!" Indeed lumber for crosses? Does it matter gave his son, as we are reminded in men and women, man and man, ing hands! Jeff is now serving as "anticipating and working toward or are these legends to encourage St. John's Gospel. What does this woman and woman. If love comes Assistant Curate at St. Simon's the fullness of God's reign on our own conceits? mean? Does it not mean that, in his from God should it not be blessed, Church, Oakville. earth," she is a gift and inspiration, love for his creation, God sent the is it not already blessed, by the God Reiterating her advocacy for not only for this holy season but The true vision for humankind very image that he had fi rst pictured who is Love? If love came down partnership, Sue-Ann says, "We every day, not only to the Cathe- In spite of all the doubts and ques- at the Creation, the thought or image at Christmas, have we any right to are very, very blessed with the dral and the community around it, tions that arise among scholars and that was in his mind, the Word that send it back again a few days later folks we have. We've got parishes but to us all, and we are thankful. the ordinary man and woman in he could have uttered to express that (Holy Innocents)? 16 Niagara Anglican December 2006 Death and incarnation God Moments since I cannot remember the exact "We have now come to the end CHRISTYN PERKONS we are prompted to evoke our own PROGRAM CONSULTANT, DIOCESAN RE- words he used): of the funeral service; we have SOURCE CENTRE stories of becoming. What events "We have arrived at the point cared for our loved one who has were formative for us? What are our in the service which we, as Jews, died and we are now called to move he word advent comes from hopes? Who are our prophets? What recognize to be sacred; that is, the on. Henceforward, our focus shifts Ttwo Latin words; 'ad' and 'vene' are our values? Do our daily activities burial of the dead. For us, it is a from the care of Seymour to the meaning 'come to'. In the four refl ect those values? Where are our duty that we lovingly perform, be- care of those who are left to carry weeks of Advent, we focus on the communities? How are we contrib- lieving that it is inappropriate to on without him. To symbolize this, God who comes to us. We celebrate uting to the well being of our com- leave the burial of our loved ones I would ask all those who are pres- God's coming to liberate us, to care munities? How are we living out our NISSA BASBAUM to strangers. For this reason, each ent to form two lines facing one an- for us, and to be in an intimate, per- experience of God Within? RECTOR - TRANSFIGURATION, ST. CATHARINES one of us here, as you feel com- other, from the graveside to the end sonal relationship with us. Our faith communities use litur- t the end of September, I at- fortable, will assist with the burial of the cemetery grounds. Members Our celebration is centered on the gy and ritual to help us reconnect to Atended my uncle's funeral. His of Seymour's body. Please dig up of the immediate family will walk story of the Nativity; the conception our stories and to our God moments death was sudden. While in New the dirt three times and scoop this between these two lines. This is a and birthing of Emmanuel, God With on Sunday mornings and with mid- York City to present a paper—my onto the coffi n. The fi rst time you sign of the sacred duty we are called Us. Each Sunday, we highlight a seg- week programs. But we need to cre- uncle was a retired paediatrician— dig up the dirt, use the back of the to act out in the days ahead. Having ment of this very familiar story. We ate that holy space for ourselves and he began having trouble swal- shovel rather than the front, an act done what we are meant to do with share the delightful absurdity of Eliz- our families during the week as well. lowing and decided to have this which symbolizes that we are not the person who has died, we are abeth and Zechariah's pregnancy. We There are endless ways in which we checked out at the hospital where just shovelling dirt but undertak- now asked to show compassion for shout the message of repentance and can create sacred intervals that al- he once worked. Diagnosed with ing something which has far more those who are left behind." preparation for the coming Messiah lows us to access our stories and our melanoma of the liver, he died four signifi cance than this. There are along with their son, John the Baptist. God moments between Sundays in days later. four shovels available. Once the We run away from the real- We tremble in awe at the angel Ga- our homes, in our workspace and in It was a shock for all of us in my members of the immediate fam- ity of incarnation briel's message to Mary. We marvel our communities. extended family. Seymour was the ily have taken their turn, anyone The liturgy in which I participated at Mary's acquiescence to the will of youngest of my mother's siblings else who wishes to participate on that day did what I understand God. We are indignant at the towns- Here are just a few ideas: and always seemed to have energy may do so." liturgy is intended to do; that is, folk of Bethlehem who cannot fi nd
Look at family photos or videos to burn. Until the end of his life, at make real, both death and life. Iron- room for the weary teenager about to together—with your children, your 78 years-old, he was still driving The act of burial was sacred ically, it was the most incarnating give birth, and we rejoice that the inn- parents, your siblings, etc. Have long distances from Florida, where I'm not really sure why but I did not theology I have yet to experience in keeper offers the warmth of the stable. those "Remember when…" con- he lived, to New York and Toron- take a shovel myself. Instead, I was a funeral service. Isn't it odd that it We wonder with the shepherds at the versations. If family members live to—journeys which had become completely focused on the actions was Jewish? Aren't we Christians night sky full of celestial messengers far away, record the sharing memo- telling of the birth of Christ. We trail ries time and send it to them. You after the Wise Men as they follow the might want to focus on Christmases CHRISTMAS IS NOT JUST ABOUT THE BIRTH OF JESUS. unusual star in the Eastern sky. We past or on faith journey milestones It's about the human face of God in every aspect of our ex- know this story through and through. like baptism and confi rmation. But Advent is more than re-telling
Create some quiet alone time in istence, including death... the story of the birth of Jesus. your daily or weekly schedule; time for you to experience, to identify legendary in our family, journeys of others, actions which probably the ones who have supposedly cor- Missing the celestial and to ponder your God moments. that meant more to him than prob- took somewhere in the neighbour- nered the market on the Incarna- messengers
On your family night, play a new ably anything else. A gifted and hood of 45 minutes. The process tion? Isn't Christmas, the season Each of us has a story, too—unique, game or work on a puzzle together— brilliant doctor, dedicated to his was not fi nished until the body was we are about to enter, all about how powerful, and full of pain and beauty or if you don't have one, commit as a work, he always seemed even more completely buried in the ground. God incarnates, or makes real, the just as Jesus' story is unique, power- family to spending one night a week dedicated to his wife, children, sib- I have never been to any other divine presence in our world? ful and fi lled with pain and beauty. doing something fun together. lings, nieces and nephews. funeral service—Jewish or Chris- All too often, and especially at the We have birth and conception stories.
Make special cards for family tian—where this has been done. time of death, Christians run away We delight in life's joyful absurdities. members or friends who live far away Jewish funeral I think what had the most impact from the reality of the incarnation, We are indignant over social injus- and write individualized messages of This lifetime commitment to his on me were the words of the rabbi whether it be in the manner in which tice. We feel deserving yet unreward- caring and support. family was evidenced by the num- when he talked about the inappro- we deny death by saying our loved ed. We cry aloud over our misdeeds.
Go for a night walk with family ber of us who came from across priateness of allowing strangers to ones have "passed on" or "passed We are forced by the decisions of our or friends and re-discover the night North America to be at his funeral. bury our loved ones. I couldn't help away" rather than "died," or in the government into circumstances that sky. Find the brightest star and en- I was one of these relatives and, but remember all the burials I have manner in which we often watch as try our patience. We are awestruck courage each other to share how you while I certainly wanted to go to the done since being a priest where the the funeral director sprinkles a vial and wonder-fi lled, but… experience being led by God. service, I confess to a good deal of body hadn't even been lowered into of sand on the coffi n in the shape of The Nativity story is also strewn
Invite a family that's different from ambivalence about actually being the ground in front of the family, a nice, tidy and sanitized sign of the with God moments; moments when your own for dinner; a family from there. My family is Jewish and my let alone buried by the members. cross. There is nothing nice or tidy God's interaction with the world is your church or neighbourhood that experiences, heretofore, of Jewish Just as the rabbi had suggested, or sanitized about death, or about clearly visible. Our lives are full of you don't know well whose composi- funerals had not been positive, in- I experienced the act of this burial life for that matter. God moments, too, but we're often tion doesn't refl ect yours. Ask about cluding my own mother's burial a as sacred and, perhaps even more unaware of them. We're just too their faith community experience, few years ago. If I'm honest about than sacred, as incredibly real, The human face of God busy, too caught up in the minutiae their rituals around family time, or this, perhaps it's not so much that more real than most of us are ever In some ways, I guess, speak- of daily life to stop and listen for their Christmas rituals—or Decem- the funerals are Jewish, but rather prepared to be when it comes to ing of funerals and burials at this God's still, small voice. We're so ber Holy Day if they're not Christian. that I often think I could have done the subject of death. As I watched time of year seems an odd thing preoccupied taking care of business
Design a quiet prayer ritual for your them better myself! the faces of people when they to be doing. After all, isn't Advent that we miss the celestial messen- family; either as you awaken, over a To my surprise, however, my un- took the shovel, as I watched the about the expectation of birth, and gers; we miss God's absurd mo- shared breakfast or as you leave for cle's funeral proved to be different. coffi n gradually disappearing into Christmas about this expectation ments. We miss the signs of God's your day. Generate for yourself and The service itself was as it should the earth, I couldn't help but feel being realized? Surely, a conver- relationship with us. your children an expectation that they be, a celebration of his life, and it that this was the way every burial sation about funerals and burials Advent is a time in the church will encounter signs of God's pres- quickly became evident that his had should be carried out. The rabbi might more appropriately be saved year during which we are particularly ence throughout the day. been a life that was even bigger than referred to this as an act of duty; I for Holy Week or, at the very least, encouraged to slow down and recog-
Use activity books like Before and most of us had probably imagined. might have called it an act of love. for the season of Lent. Still, I can- nize our God moments. We are in- After Christmas by Deborah Trafton Yet, the liturgy in the synagogue Perhaps in this particular instance, not shake off the impact on me that vited to see the angels in our lives; to O'Neal or Twenty Four Days Before didn't strike me as much as the buri- the two are one and the same thing. my uncle's burial had, a burial that hear the voice of God. The Nativity Christmas by Madeleine L'Engle to al at the cemetery following the ser- Whatever, those 45 minutes were more than epitomized the hardcore story challenges us to recognize the plan Advent-related family time and vice. It was like nothing I had ever fi lled with compassion, both for my meaning of the Incarnation. mysterious stars leading us to God in- to discuss what's important to your experienced in the 22 years since I uncle who had died and for all of us Christmas is not just about the carnate. Shepherds herald good news family members about their rela- have been ordained and presiding at who were suffering the loss. There birth of Jesus. It's about the human all around us and entice us to see tionship with God. funeral liturgies myself. was no opportunity to run from the face of God in every aspect of our new life. We are encouraged to pon- Create space in your life so you Many of the people who had fi nality of the situation; there was existence, including death, and until der all of these signs in our hearts so can notice the angels declaring God's been to the service at the synagogue no opportunity to escape the real- we are prepared to deal head-on with that we can say "Yes." Advent helps glory, attend to the shepherds pro- went to the cemetery. We formed ity that this was the end. Whatever this reality, we are forever destined to remind us that we can't say "Yes" claiming the Good News, pursue the an enormous crowd at the grave- loose ends there might have been, as a faith community to run from all to God if we are too busy to see and stars leading to God Incarnate, heed side. The rabbi began by saying the they were more than likely tied up that is real and divine in our midst. hear God trying to interact with us. the voice of God in your life, and appropriate Jewish prayers, just as in this one sacred moment. Surely, it must be time to look open the door of your stable to the any Anglican priest might recite the My surprise did not end with for God around us instead of look- Creating sacred intervals Christ. It's easy to see what God has standard Christian prayers at the the burial, however. When this part ing for God beyond us. Isn't that Advent is also a time to reconnect done. Practice noticing the God mo- time of a burial. Then, he said the of the liturgy was complete, the what is meant by the proclamation with our own incarnation stories. As ments so that you are ready for what following (somewhat paraphrased, rabbi continued: "the kingdom of God is at hand?" we hear the familiar Nativity story, God promises is yet to come. December 2006 Niagara Anglican 17 Let the little children come to me A journey in faith writing, through mediums that the and activity of the parish is framed etc.) do not observe Advent at all. child can't access or needs help to to include the greatest diversity of Indeed, some of them may be com- access. The child may have aged people rather than limiting those pletely unaware of its existence in out of the nursery but be devel- involved. People who are differ- the wider Christian world. opmentally unready for a Sunday ent from the majority of the con- School classroom as it currently gregation are treated with dignity Advent as a time for growth exists. The parent may need anoth- and respect; that includes sexuality We are incredibly blessed to have er adult who is responsible solely differences, mobility differences, Advent as part of our faith-journey. for her special needs child during intellectual differences, chromo- By preparing for Jesus' coming at CHRISTYN PERKONS the Sunday School time. The real- somal differences and the list goes MATT ARGUIN Christmas time, Advent gives us PROGRAM CONSULTANT, DIOCESAN RE- ST. CHRISTOPHER'S, BURLINGTON SOURCE CENTRE ity is that you may not have spe- on. And fi nally a culture of inclu- an opportunity to think about what cial needs children because those sion views every member of the s I am writing this article on God means to us. ow welcoming is your faith children and their families may congregation, every visitor and ev- AOctober 31, I fi nd myself I would like to present you with Hcommunity to children with not feel like they have a place in eryone outside of the parish as in- somewhat overwhelmed. In the af- a thought-exercise. There is a point disabilities and special needs? your community; they may not dividuals with individual strengths ternoon, I went to the mall, bought to it at the end, I promise, and hope- Do you have trained volunteers feel welcome. and challenges. Inclusivity is about some candy and rented a scary fully it's one that you will enjoy. to teach special needs children in Do special needs children need seeing a person without the labels movie to partake in the festive Picture yourself as a young church school? Can a wheelchair our faith communities? Yes. Do and accompanying assumptions. spirit of Halloween. Jewish person living in Jerusalem move easily through your halls and these children have spiritual needs? Inclusivity is more than tolerating Little did I know, I was about around the fi rst century CE. You aisles? Is there space beside a pew Yes. Do the families of special differences; it's about celebrating, to witness something more terri- are likely profi cient in some kind so that families with a member in needs children need the support of affi rming and appreciating that we fying than the Exorcist or Freddy of trade, whether it is basket-weav- a wheelchair can sit together? Are our faith communities? Yes. Do we all look, talk, think, act and learn Krouger combined. Christmas ing or carpentry, or any number of spiritual experiences and faith have a responsibility to meet those in different ways…and we are all decorations were already being things. Your modest wage is taxed learning shared with children in spiritual needs? Yes, I believe we gifts of God to each other. displayed in the major department heavily by a foreign government. stores at Burlington Mall! I had en- The government's military pres- tered the mall wishing for a simple ence is so powerful that any vocal LET THE CHILDREN COME TO ME and do not hinder them, for short-lived sugar high, and now left resistance to Judea's administrators the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. the mall with an incredible sense will likely result your being pun- of anxiety. ished or even killed. Mark 10:14 Now I have to start thinking Your family lives in constant about what presents do I have to fear of becoming destitute. You're multiple learning styles? Do you do! Spirituality is an innate part of Of course, in the end, if the faith buy? What decorations do I need not even sure as to whether the offer a support group for parents the human condition. It does not community is inclusive of the spe- for the apartment? And above all, promises of a Messiah that local or siblings of children with special depend on intellect or physical mo- cial needs child and is committed I fi nd myself thinking, "Wow time rabbis have told you about are ac- needs? Does your children's minis- bility or sight or emotional facility. to meeting that child's faith journey has fl own by." tually real. They could just be there try refl ect the needs of all children? The signs of a healthy spiritual life needs, then that congregation will But in the hustle and bustle as a child's story to give enjoyment Wait, you may respond—we are not to be found in the ability to also be committed to including and of preparing for the holidays, and a sense of hope that will never don't have any children with dis- memorize verses of the Bible or supporting the faith journeys of where has the celebration of Ad- really be fulfi lled. abilities or special needs! The the ability to stand up and sit down special needs adults. What a rich vent gone? You know, those four What would we be like if Jesus reality is that parents tend not to in unison with the congregation on blessing that walk could be for all weeks before Christmas actually had never come into the world? bring their special needs children Sunday morning. Rather, the rela- of us. Living faithfully as the body arrives? Don't they have some- What if we were still searching to a church that doesn't have a pro- tionship with God is always there, of Christ is not easy. We are asked thing to do with a wreath and four for a Messiah, like so many Jews gram in place already, unless they and we are called to help each to love and embrace all people just candles? What does it all mean? in the fi rst century CE? Would we have received a particular invita- child of God grow into that rela- as Jesus did with those set apart Why even bother observing it view the world in a different way? tion that commits to making the tionship in whatever ways are pos- from the society of his day. We can at all? Are we willing to let God into our faith community experience work sible. Special needs children can be learn a great deal from Jesus' focus lives now, even if it seems silly for their family challenges. Many taught strategies and practices to on people's strengths instead of Advent in different church at times? of us may have had special needs help them live out their spiritual- their weaknesses; on what children communities These are all questions I children born into our congrega- ity in their daily lives. Families of and adults can do rather than what From my own personal experience, would invite you to explore dur- tions. Those families may continue these children need more than our they can't do. Living, learning, I've learned that Advent can mean ing this Advent season. I also to attend church as long as there prayers; they need us to actively praying and worshipping together different things to different people. have some helpful ideas that may are no behavioural challenges with include them and their children in benefi ts everyone. The child with a As a child in the Roman Catholic help to stimulate further thought, their child. In most parishes, those the life of the church; they need to disability or special needs fi nds a Church, I was taught that Advent and provide a little fun for the families disappear as soon as the see us embrace their children as we faith community where s/he is ful- was a season for repentance and whole family. child is expected to conform to a welcome them into every aspect ly included, where his/her spiritual inner refl ection. It wasn't really un- norm that they are unable to meet. of the faith community. Parents gifts are nurtured and utilized for til the 3rd week—when the candle Tips for celebrating advent It may be an autistic child who has need to know that their children building the body of Christ. And of 'joy' was lit—that kids would
Buy an Advent Calendar. These managed the church environment are safe and well tended while they those who are developing typically start to get excited for Jesus or are available at many stores for a well as a baby but begins to scream are in our care, and they need to have wonderful opportunities for Santa Claus. relatively good price. Even at the for long periods of time as a tod- see that we believe their children growth—opportunities to see past Although it's not a common age of 24, I still count down the dler or preschooler. It may be that are deserving of the joy, hope what's on the outside, past the dif- practice anymore, Advent is also days until Christmas! It makes a mobility challenge didn't emerge and love that the practice of our ferences, and to perceive and nur- a time when Catholics may choose me feel like a kid again. Also, on until the child moved from parents' faith brings. ture the child of God on the inside. to alter their diet—similar to that a spiritual level, it makes me think arms to supportive equipment that The foundation for this kind of If you are interested in a training of Lent—to exclude eating meat of how God can bless us everyday, doesn't fi t the church environment. welcome is a culture of inclusion. workshop on this topic for Sunday on Fridays. even with something as small as It may be that the child has reached A culture of inclusion holds fi rm School teachers and other church When I came to the Anglican a chocolate. Sunday School age and can't fi nd to the principle that everything leaders, please contact Christyn Church, I was astonished at the
Construct a Jesse Tree. Using a way to connect to the material in church refl ects a commitment Perkons at 905-527-1316 (ext. difference in tone when it came to paper, felt, construction paper, or because the faith learning is all to thinking, seeing and saying, 460) or christyn.perkons@niag- observing Advent. For one thing, whatever you have handy, create expressed through words, through "People fi rst." Every opportunity ara.anglican.ca. the candles were blue, not purple. a tree with several bare branches. In the Roman Catholic Church, On each branch, hang a symbol purple is worn in both Lent and that represents God, your family, Advent. It is generally treated as a or something extra-special about colour to convey a somber tone in yourself. Have each member of Youth Leadership Training Program is coming the liturgy and sermon. your family take turns creating JOYCE WILTON YLTP or the Youth Leader- can also be reached by email at Although it may seem trivial, and hanging their symbols on the PROGRAM CONSULTANT, DIOCESAN RE- SOURCE CENTRE ship Training Program is one the [email protected]. the change to blue candles was Jesse tree. The Jesse Tree helps diocese's premier youth ministry The registration deadline is Janu- a welcome change for me. It is a to remind us that God loves all of his is the time of the year to programs and takes place from ary 18, 2007. much softer colour to look at, and I us, and is working through every Tlook around your parish and Sunday to Wednesday during the Just a reminder to all those in think it is a great way to treat Lent generation to bring hope and joy see if you have any young people March Break (this year March 11- Year 2 or Year 3, your year group and Advent as separate, yet equally to everyone. grades 8 to 10 who would make po- 14). We accept 12 new applicants leaders will be contacting you special liturgical times.
Have an Advent wreath at home. tentially great leaders in your par- a year for this amazing three year about your upcoming year activi- One of the things I fi nd most By having a short and simple can- ish and community. Do you know program. Applications are now ties, so stay tuned! So calling all interesting about Advent is that dle-lighting service at home, God's someone who would thrive in a available in your parishes or you parents, youth leaders and clergy, it is not universally celebrated in presence is no longer limited to community of their peers, as they can call the Diocesan Resource look around, see who would thrive all Christian communitie. Many church on Sunday mornings. develop leadership skills and grow Centre at 905-527-1317 (ext. 430) with this opportunity and encour- people in other Protestant de- Together, let's make this Advent in understanding of what it means to and Joyce Wilton will assist you age them to make the contact. We nominations (Baptist, Pentecostal, a wonderful spiritual journey fi lled be a leader of faith in these times? with the application process. Joyce look forward to hearing from you. Anabaptist, Jehovah's Witnesses with hope and joy. 18 Niagara Anglican December 2006 Liturgical resource for a new year Lutheran Church in America and the unveiling of the book and its con- the Anglican world (USA, New Zea- believe that we should both know and Evangelical Lutheran Church in Can- tents over almost a full 12 months of land, England, Ireland) and books be supportive of this book—there is ada. Over six years in the making, congregational use, this has been a from other traditions (Catholic Book much in it to commend it to us; there this book of worship has benefi ted carefully crafted process - both the of Worship, Gather, Voices United, is much to learn from reading it; there from extensive research and testing creative process and the process of etc.) this new Lutheran book should is much that we can adapt to our An- and has involved the whole church, introduction and initial use. I have have a place of honour. Simply from glican realities. throughout the USA and Canada, been very fortunate, largely because the point of view of hymns alone, As full communion with our in its development. Like its prede- of my responsibilities representing there are some great additions to our ELCIC brothers and sisters con- cessor, The Lutheran Book of Wor- the Anglican Church to the Lutheran already rich treasury of hymns. Be- tinues to deepen in our experience, PETER WALL ship—and indeed like several North DEAN - CHRIST'S CHURCH CATHEDRAL American Roman Catholic worship s a new liturgical year dawns resources—this new book serves as AS FULL COMMUNION WITH OUR ELCIC BROTHERS AND Awith the beginning of Advent, a comprehensive worship resource in SISTERS CONTINUES… we are benefi ting from the richness many clergy, church musicians, wor- one volume, rather than the more fa- ship planners, worship and liturgy miliar Anglican practice of a separate of each others' experience committees and others charged with prayer book and hymn book. creating liturgies in parishes will be This new book contains various National executive, to have been in- yond hymns, the ten Eucharistic set- more and more parishes and com- looking at the season of Advent and forms for Daily Prayer, Holy Bap- vited to participate in special events tings are all excellent, the complete munities across this country are ex- looking for new prayers, hymns, tism, pastoral offi ces for healing, preparing for the new book's arrival Psalter is included, with 16 psalm periencing shared ministries, either and other elements of the liturgy ex- marriage, and funeral; Lutheran this fall, and also have been invited tones, all accessible and pointed for two congregations (Anglican and pressed in new ways. The four Sun- Confessional documents, 10 set- to be part of a group introducing it congregational use. Lutheran) worshiping together or days of Advent provide a perfect op- tings for the Eucharist, the entire to Lutherans in southern Ontario—I Daily prayer services (Morning congregations of one church being portunity to experiment, to try some Psalter, extensive service music, guess that really is ecumenism! Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Com- served by a cleric from the other new things, to re-fashion those things and over 650 hymns, all in one vol- I believe that those of us who pline) all include the service as part church. We are learning more and which we love so much. ume! It is indeed impressive! plan liturgies must include a number of the services. Without in any way more about each other's worship This year we have in our midst This book has been very careful- of resources on our bookshelves; not diminishing the importance and the lives and materials; we are each a tremendous new resource which ly prepared, and the church is being just the predictable and very neces- serviceability of our Anglican books, benefi ting from the richness of I highly recommend for perusal by equally carefully prepared for its in- sary Anglican resources but also this particular Lutheran volume each other's experience. all. Evangelical Lutheran Worship troduction. Using a DVD sent to each other sources from different times strikes me as a cut above, simply be- As we begin a new year, may is a superb new worship resource, congregation, a sampler of hymns and different traditions. Along with cause of its comprehensive nature. I these rich new resources be a much produced jointly by the Evangelical and service music, and a scheduled books both from other provinces of strongly recommend buying a copy. I valued gift to us!

TThishis iiss tthehe sstorytory ooff tthehe bbirthirth ooff JJesusesus aass ttoldold bbyy SSamuelamuel CCrossmanrossman ((1624-1683)1624-1683) Canada Volunteerism Initiative HHee ccameame ffromrom HHisis bblestlest tthrone,hrone, Colleen has written this article to bring to the attention of our readers recent funding cuts made by the SSalvationalvation ttoo bbestow;estow; federal government. Funding has been cut to federally funded programs that supported volunteers and BButut mmenen mmadeade sstrange,trange, aandnd nnoneone those seeking to enforce equality and human rights under the Canadian Constitution. We all should be TThehe llonged-foronged-for CChristhrist wwouldould kknow.now. concerned as these programs enhanced the abilities of those serving people in need and those striving BButut OO,, mmyy FFriend,riend, for a more just society. MMyy FFriendriend iindeed,ndeed, WWho,ho, aatt mmyy nneedeed HHisis llifeife ddidid sspend!pend! simply means the government has against them or deny them their a better plan for how they will in- language rights. They cannot go vest in volunteerism. forward without lawyers to rep- The federal government now has resent them, since constitutional the opportunity to develop a new challenges are legally complex. way to support the engagement of When a country like Canada en- Canadians in their communities of acts constitutional rights it takes for volunteering and volunteerism. Dis- granted that residents, when they cussions should as soon as possible. believe the government is violat- COLLEEN SYM ing their rights, can and will chal- SOCIAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR Court challenges program lenge the offending law or policy. ach year, twelve million Cana- The Canadian Constitution es- If residents cannot use their rights Edians volunteer with 161,000 tablishes important constitutional because of fi nancial barriers, then non-profi t organizations that provide rights, including the rights of of- Canada's constitutional democracy critical services to citizens. The qual- fi cial language minority groups to is hollow. Governments must care ity of life of every Canadian is better education and government services that the rights they embrace are not because of the work of volunteers. in their primary language and the meaningless, and the CCP has pro- Many volunteers are doing the rights of everyone to equality be- vided a simple and modest way of work that society expects non- fore and under the law and to equal ensuring that they are not. profi ts to deliver. We cannot take protection and equal benefi t of the Critics of the CCP dislike some of volunteerism for granted. Yet in a law without discrimination. How- the cases that it has supported: cases recent motion, the Government of ever, these rights are empty unless related to same sex marriage, voting Canada has done just that. the individuals and groups they are rights for federal prisoners, criminal Over the past 5 years, the Cana- designed to protect can exercise law provisions regarding hitting chil- da Volunteerism Initiative has been and enforce them. dren. The fact that some individuals effective in bringing strength to Since the Charter of Rights and or groups do not agree with some of this movement. Volunteerism, the Freedoms was adopted 25 years the test cases funded by the Program movement that supports, engages, ago, successive federal governments is not a reason to cancel it. and retains volunteers, requires have recognized that they have a The point of a constitutional hu- support at all levels of government. responsibility to ensure that disad- man rights regime is to ensure that The federal government has vantaged minorities have funding to diverse claims, perspectives and life eliminated funding for the Canada take Charter cases forward. experiences are respected and taken Volunteerism Initiative (CVI). This The Court Challenges Program, into account in the design of laws sudden and surprising decision will by providing modest contributions to and policies. The equality guarantee impact organizations all across the the cost of important test cases deal- and the language rights in the Con- Anglican Diocese of Niagara. ing with language and equality rights, stitution were designed to help mi- The CVI was cut as a "non- has made these constitutional rights norities, whose views and needs may core" program—a program that accessible to Canadians. Without the not be refl ected by governments, to doesn't meet "the priorities of the Court Challenges Program, Canada's be heard on issues that affect them federal government or of Canadi- constitutional rights are real only for closely. Cancelling the Court Chal- ans." This surely cannot mean that the wealthy. This is unfair. lenges Program mutes their voices the federal government places no The benefi ciaries of the CCP are further, and makes Canada a mean- value on Canadians being involved individuals and groups who believe er, less tolerant society. Funding for in their communities. It is hoped it that laws and policies discriminate this program ought to be restored. December 2006 Niagara Anglican 19 The changing face of Christmas

ROGER HARRIS Spiritual affi nity to the Lord the movement away from Jesus is nate the true meaning and occasion pleted when He returns to claim ANGLICAN FELLOWSHIP OF PRAYER The superlatives for the Christmas a movement towards nonfulfi ll- of Jesus' birth for the Christian God's own. What a celebration for t does not feel like a year since occasion have already been writ- ment, because, like the presents we community and the faithful to God. all who will witness His return, and II wrote about Christmas and ten, and it is gradually becoming receive, there is no spiritual affi n- As the secular world moves in to be able to celebrate his birthday three individual journeys in par- diffi cult to maintain the impor- ity to the Lord or the occasion of diminish the importance of this with Him. ticular. Each December 25 pro- tance of this occasion in the light His birth. event, Christians around the world With the changing patterns in vides us with an old birth to cel- of changing social and secular be- The commercialization of Chri- are being strengthened by the the world about us we need to ebrate—a placing in the hands of havior. Each year, more emphasis stmas appears to have gained knowledge that these happenings communicate with God through God all that has taken place over seems to be placed on 'bringing in strength in the last quarter of a cen- are in keeping with, and part of, the scriptures and prayer, so that the past year and looking for- the new year' with the partying and tury. A few decades ago, there was all that we have been made aware our lamps may always be lit, and ward to a new year of challenge revelry, instead of the celebration little in the marketplace that could of for the future. There is no doubt we will always be aware of what and progress along the path we of the birth of an age of salvation, be considered unsuitable for giv- that our faith is being diluted by the God wants us to know about His have chosen. with the opportunity to embark ing as a present at this time of year. secular world, but in Jesus we have plans for us through His Son Je- Every January 1, new resolu- upon, and bring new life to the Not so today. With the introduction the whole unity of creation with us sus. Whatever the future has for tions are made to enhance our per- gifts from God that we have been of electronics and the creativity of in song, praise and adoration, joy us while we wait for God's word sonal well being, to try and come blessed with. the human brain, we see more and and good tidings, as we journey to be revealed, will not be sup- to terms with things about us that With each successive year, the more movement from the giving of once more to the manger and into portable unless we have His spirit we want to change. The difference birth of our savior is taking second peace and goodwill, to giving sat- His presence. within us to help and guide us between the 25th of December and place to Santa Claus, and the atti- isfaction to mankind's need for self To some the celebration of Je- day by day. If we begin to look the 1st of January is the differ- tude seems to be 'okay, it's Boxing worth. Out goes the 'reason for the sus' birth is one of visiting a glo- forward, 'the hope that has been ence between the spiritual and the Day lets throw out the Christmas season' and in comes 'the biggest rious past. This is of course abso- set before us' that we fi nd in our physical. Both are a time of cel- tree, and get ready to party.' In- bang for the buck.' lutely true, but in that past were not journey into the past to see Je- ebration, and both provide a start- stead of meditation on where the only the birth of a savior, but also sus, will be supplanted by 'the ing point to move forward. One to next step on the path is going to Our lamps must always be lit the start of a mandate from God, hope that we now see with us' for seek out the will of God, the other take me, it is 'what can I make my Well, that's the bad news, now for which has to come to a conclusion. those who journey into the future to seek out the will that we want New Year's resolution be for next the good. For all mankind's fi ckle- This mandate did not end with the to meet Him and to celebrate His for ourselves. year.' The sadness in all this is that ness and error, nothing will elimi- death of Jesus, but will be com- birthday with Him.

A section of the Anglican Journal Preaching and practicing grace The offi cial, independently edited publication of the Anglican Diocese of Niagara. Published 10 times a year (no issue in July or August) CHRIST CHURCH, NIAGARA FALLS offers solutions to our problems by The Dunham Group in Hamilton, Ontario. Printed by Signal Star Publishing, Goderich, a ALAN L. HAYES faith will discover another door opening. rubbing. A parishioner made it from a life- division of Bowes Publishers Limited. THE ITINERANT CHURCHGOER She took the job. "I realized that God had a sized monumental effi gy of a Cluniac monk ome churches are wrapped up in their purpose for me here," she told me. in Sussex. Editor own problems, while other churches Christopher Grabiec S At the communion rail you'll fi nd fi ve 905-312-8444 (ext. 101) offer solutions to other people's problems. Stranger welcomed exquisite kneeler cushions, handcrafted by [email protected] Thanks be to God for Christ Church, Ni- I also met someone who had belonged to St. two dozen parishioners between 1986 and agara Falls, which belongs to the sec- Martin's. She recalled that the fi rst Sunday 1990. They were dedicated by Bishop Jo Advertising ond category. she came to Christ Church she could barely Fricker, a son of Christ Church. Ted Manning Not that Christ Church hasn't had its own muster the courage to enter—Do you know 905-680-0615 problems! In recent years, it has suffered how diffi cult it can be to enter a strange Conservative tradition [email protected] 'upheavals' and 'ups and downs.' church by yourself? I do. Liturgically and theologically, the congre- Layout: Kayn Leduc Those terms were used in one of the Afterwards, as she was leaving, several gation is on the conservative side of the most memorable articles that the Niagara women came after her, introduced them- spectrum, although in my youth it would Proofreading: Bryan Stopps Anglican has published in recent years. In selves, and invited her to coffee. As it hap- have been called centre-church. Since St. a candid, sensitive, articulate, and compre- pens, they quickly discovered a common John's, Niagara Falls, steers in a more lib- Mailing Address hensive report in November 2005, Archdea- Cathedral Place bond: they were all recent widows. And she eral direction, Anglicans in the northern part 252 James St North con Lynne Corfi eld described how Anglican knew she had found a new church home. of the city have the choice of two equally Hamilton, ON L8R 2L3 life in Niagara Falls was being reorganized. Let me tell you an experience I had at fi ne churches with distinct styles. Six churches, some of them struggling, had Christ Church that encapsulated its spirit. The Prayer Book Eucharist is used two Website: www.niagara.anglican.ca entered a painful but redemptive process When I was walking back to my pew after Sundays out of four. When there's a fi fth which was creating a very viable team min- taking communion, I glanced at the people Sunday in the month, the "page 230" Eu- Circulation: 16,175 istry of three or four churches—I say "three who had already returned to their places. A charist is used from the Book of Alterna- Subscriptions: $15 per year or four" because the last chapter of this par- very large number of them were smiling in tive Services. This was the service when I ticular story is still being written. a quiet, peaceful way. That probably sounds visited. It's our Prayer Book Eucharist, but Deadlines for Submissions like a small thing. But seeing so many peo- re-ordered according to the precepts of the February 2007: Jan. 2 Strong identity ple glad to be there, taking in the sacramen- Liturgical Movement, which was popu- March 2007: Feb. 1 April 2007: Mar. 1 A few weeks ago I joined the people of tal assurance of God's love and pardon, re- lar in the 1970s. The liturgy was led with Christ Church for worship. I was wondering ally struck me. perfect reverence. Publishers Advisory Board how they were feeling after the reorganiza- I particularly liked the choir's "Nothing tion which Lynne described. I discovered A little history can trouble" before the sermon. This is the Pam Claridge a healthy, loving community with a strong Christ Church has a stone building in gothic translation of a Spanish hymn by St. Teresa, 519-941-6804 sense of its Christian identity and direction. style on River Road, just north of downtown set to a Taizé tune, found in our Common John Janisse Fortunately, Christ Church was able to Niagara Falls. The core of the present build- Praise hymn book. 905-312-8444 (ext. 102) recognize that, whatever its own problems, ing was completed in 1865, when the area Geoffrey Purdell-Lewis two other churches in Niagara Falls were was called Clifton. Transepts and chancel Gospel sermon 905-628-4176 facing worse. St. Martin's and St. Stephen's were added in 1894, substantially increas- Since I hear too many sermons telling me were closing. Christ Church reached out ing the seating. Two church halls were add- what I need to do in order to be a better Canon Charles Stirling to them. ed in 1910. A ten-bell carillon was installed Christian, it was a welcome thing to hear the 905-383-1088 After the service I spoke to a woman in 1912. preacher proclaim the good news of God's Carol Summers who had been the Sunday school superin- In 1988 a large legacy came to Christ assured love and surplus mercy. 905-772-5641 tendent at St. Stephen's, and had every rea- Church, and serious renovations and repairs After the service, I joined a very large son to be disappointed when it was getting were undertaken on the roof, interior walls, fellowship in the parish hall for some fi ne Let Your Voice be Heard ready to close. Then at a meeting of synod and pews. fresh pie, unusually good coffee, and friend- The Niagara Anglican welcomes submis- she was approached by folks from Christ If you visit, you'll fi nd a long, hand- ly conversation. sions from readers as Letters to the Editor. All Church who warmly invited her into the some gothic interior with fi ne stained I didn't ask anyone what they thought of submissions must include a name, telephone congregation. She gave it a try, liked it, and glass windows and a high peaked ceiling the rector, but several volunteered that he number, and email or physical address of the made friends. in warm dark woods. The plaster walls are was pretty wonderful. I'm sure that he de- author for verifi cation purposes. The newspa- A year and a half later, a position opened per reserves the right to edit submissions. relatively chaste and unadorned, except that serves at least a little share of the credit for at Christ Church for a Sunday school super- on the north wall there's a very tall frame the positive social chemistry of this historic intendent! Often when God closes one door, containing a meticulously executed brass Christian community. 20 Niagara Anglican December 2006 The grace of giving EDITORIAL gratitude. By living in gratitude mutual friends. This generous act we see the gifts our lives hold and led to the forming of new relation- fi nd ourselves acknowledging our ships. In addition, another friend, A season of hope blessings in an unceasing way. In Laurel, gave up her future in the this boundless and joyful place all family business and went to India CHRISTOPHER M. GRABIEC felt when he spent time thinking is possible and giving is the prime to assist in the set up and running EDITOR alone, but I imagine that he felt as intention of our life. of the home. Meghan and her dad, t the time of writing, there is a confused as some of us. But there Brad, began having weekly story Akind of weariness that seems was something that kept on driving Giving with personal times with Laurel and the girls to be weighing upon me and per- him—it was indeed his faith in the LINDA MOORE commitment through video conferencing. In haps many others. Things are go- establishment of the reign of God CANADIAN CENTRE FOR LEADERSHIP AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT I am struck by the juxtaposition of this way the girls stayed connected ing on in the world—and we don't on earth. He knew that people of this intention of giving and that of and also are improving their Eng- seem to have much control. "good" will had the power to make grandmother places a gentle the material "giving" fraught with lish. All this and there is more! A few months ago I wrote about that real and he spent most of his Akiss on the soft spot of her the stress of shopping, limited fi - Meghan's school friend, Nata- my opposition to war and in par- time encouraging us to do that. new granddaughter's tiny head. In nances, guilt purchases and ritual lie, went home and told her mom, ticular to the war in Afghanistan. He knew that hypocritical reli- a refugee camp a boy no more than responsibilities. Perhaps we can Anne, all about the adventures in There have been a few folks write gious and political leaders would four, shares his nutritious bowl of consider shifting our perspective India. Anne was so touched by in (and I respect their opinions) continue to exert power over the milk with a friend. A thirteen year so that the grace of giving can be the story and the commitment of about my extreme form of paci- masses, but he also knew that old student reaches across the table present. Imagine what might be others that she felt a great desire fi sm. Perhaps it is an extreme form, the masses could fi nd hope in to hold the hand of a school mate possible if instead of buying a ma- to give. She immediately wrote a but more young people have come God's reign and would be ulti- who cries silently in despair. A terial gift for another we asked if substantial cheque which helped home in body bags since. It just mately victorious. young woman massages the feet of we could provide them with an ex- to refurbish part of the home for doesn't make any sense to me. We are very fortunate, in faith, her tired husband. A man stooped perience meaningful to them that the girls. She did this quietly and Recently the Rev. Ted Hag- to have discovered the value of our with arthritis joyfully picks a riot- did not cost money. A friend of with love. She was being drawn gard, a strong opponent of same "seasons" and their power (through ous bouquet of spring fl owers from mine, Dorothy asked her fi ve year into the magic of it all because it sex marriage and homosexual rela- symbol) to make a difference in his garden to give to his sweet- old what she could do with her that was a personal story involving tionships in general had to resign our lives. We'll be starting Advent heart. A concerned father wraps would make her especially happy. individuals she knew and cared because he has been involved with in a few days. There are choices an arm around his teenage son in Her daughter replied, "You're al- about. Since then she has taken the comfort for his defeat on the foot- ways so busy. Please stay home time to speak to her own friends ball fi eld. An old woman crawls and play with just me, all day!" and family and has solicited their WE HAVE NO REASON TO ASSIGN POWER into a hospital bed to bring solace, There was plenty of room for the support in this endeavour as well. to political and religious leaders who do noth- as her dear husband takes his last grace of giving in that reply! This connection to one another is breaths. Through the whole cycle There is also quite a difference simply fostering the desire to con- ing but create hopelessness and despair of life there is a reverend gracious- when we simply write a cheque to tribute. Anne has discovered the among us. ness in giving, for us to discover a favourite charity and experience grace of giving and in doing so, and rediscover in the course of ev- no sense of personal involvement. has brought joy to those who are ery day. With this evolved perspective an the direct recipients of the giving. a gay prostitute. Frankly, I don't here. One is to ignore the power of This grace is gentle and en- amazing woman, Anne has found Frankly she has also given as much really care about his personal life, the symbol, and it will be rendered folding, spacious and effortless. the grace of giving that comes with to those of us who have witnessed but he has been doing so much to powerless in your life. The other is It is as if, in the cupped hands of personal commitment. Her con- the story unfolding simply through destroy other people's lives in his to engage in the power of that sym- Spirit, we were bathed in uncondi- tribution is part of a sequence of her actions! political and so-called religious op- bol and to allow it to change your tional love; and faith in ourselves gracious giving that continues to Each day I am stunned by our position to the gay community over directions and indeed your very and one another renewed. It is unfold into this moment. human capacity to give. May we the years. This man was in regu- life itself. intimate and precious. The grace fi nd the grace of giving in those lar contact with the president of Purple or blue candles, wreaths, of giving also opens up an unlim- The human capacity to give intimate and precious moments the United States, counseling him greenery, lights and trees are all ited groundswell of prosperity in a Last February my young seven throughout our day to day lives. to legislate against gay marriage symbols of hope in a confused mystical way that heeds the princi- year old friend Meghan took her May we transform into a place and any furthering of gay rights. world. When Advent hits, we ples of the law of circulation. Give Barbie dolls and clothes to a newly and space where graciousness Yet, he himself has been seeing a have the opportunity to transcend with grace and love, with attention opened home for abandoned young and gratitude guide our way to gay prostitute and buying drugs political and religious infl uences to "other", and we begin to live in girls in Lucknow, India, started by giving, always. from him! that are threatening to destroy our This past week, the newspa- inner selves. There is a hope that pers have said that Saddam Hus- comes with faith and creates a love sein will be hanged for his crimes. that is beyond imagining. Advent What a horrible criminal he has is the great meditation leading us been. He's destroyed so many to understand and experience the lives and threatened the peace of — PLUM CHRISTMAS PUDDING — incarnate presence of God in our our planet. Having said that, does lives. Yes, it's true that God does Submitted by Carol Summers it make any sense for us to take his not live in the distance, but God life, the very same thing that he is incarnate through his Son Jesus This is a Canadian recipe by Doris Cummings. People line up for her elderberry pies at has done to others and for which and chooses to walk among us. Caledonia Fair. She and her husband Jack are still energetic workers and involved in all we he stands accused? The president We have no reason to assign do. I would not organize anything at the church without talking to Doris fi rst. of the United States, a staunch op- power to political and religious This recipe might be good for those of you who want a recipe that is a little lighter than the ponent of abortion, feels that Mr. leaders who do nothing but create Kings Pudding... but still good. Hussein's sentence is a victory hopelessness and despair among for the world of goodness. I am us. When we realize the immanent Ingredients so confused. presence of God among us, we I could go on, but perhaps these need only look to and rely upon 1.5 cups of fl our examples are enough. The world that presence. In so doing, we fi nd 1 cup of brown sugar around me seems so wrong, in so hope and that hope combined with 1 cup of raisins many ways. Good young Canadian our faith, drives us to live the life 1 cup of nuts men, coming home in body bags, of love. That love can be lived 1 cup of breadcrumbs moralistic and extremist religious out in our every day lives and 1 cup of suet leaders accused of the very thing ultimately, that love will change 1 cup of milk that they condemn in others, and our world and the world well 1 tsp of baking soda people rejoicing over the capital beyond us. 1 tsp of cinnamon punishment and murder of a man In all of this, I'm saying that I do Half cup of molasses who murdered others. It doesn't get overwhelmed by what appears make sense. to be some pretty evil structures in Method But then again, when has the our society. I need Advent. I need world ever made sense. It didn't the power of this symbol help me Mix all together. make any sense to Jesus either. He (and us as a church) to gain per- Put into pudding bowl or casserole dish battled the church (of his day) and a spective. The perspective that I Steam for three hours government that was imposed upon gain is about the true power on him and his people by a foreign na- earth, which is God's loving pres- tion. He battled complacency and ence. I can only hope and believe warped views of religion. Yes, he that this perspective will drive me battled extremism both religious joyfully through another year in and political. I don't know how he this world of confusion. December 2006 YOUR NiagaraOPINIONS Anglican 21 Niagara Anglican - December 2006 Closure of ABC walk-in bookstore MAILBOX E.M. HANBURY not the ABC!" revenue to the National Offi ce to help fund BURLINGTON, ONTARIO
This brings to mind that the senior man- other programmes of outreach and evange- Your editorial, "They are coming agers, not the bookstore staff, have ignored lism and not general running expenses. home in body bags," denouncing our Christ's message from St. Matthews Gospel Finally I am disturbed by the quote in the involvement in Afghanistan, cries out (chapter 5, verses 14-15) about not lighting a online edition of the Anglican Journal by for rebuttal on so many grounds that lamp under a bushel basket! Archbishop Hutchison who is quoted as say- it's diffi cult to know where to begin.
At a time when more people are searching ing "Some of the staff, should they decide But here are a few points in response for spiritual guidance as Anglicans we ap- to look elsewhere [for employment], there is to your statements. pear to have missed the boat by not looking nine months in which to do it." You say "We are more peaceful QUENTIN JOHNSON at the ABC as a major asset and an opportu- This sounds as if he is encouraging staff than almost anyone else in the world." ROCKWOOD, ONTARIO nity to raise the profi le of Anglicans and as a to leave so that the church will not have Nonsense! Our Canadian forces have am writing to you regarding the recom- tool for Evangelism. I am surprised that with to pay severance packages and save more as proud a record of fi ghting in sup- Imendation to close the walk-in bookstore a little planning and some thoughtful advo- money on the backs of employees who have port of freedom as any in the world. of The Anglican Book Centre (ABC) in To- cacy by senior Church House managers to worked hard to make the ABC work under Even in peacekeeping operations, ronto. This news was posted on the Anglican senior corporate managers and senior execu- less than ideal conditions. The working con- many have died. Journal website in October 2006. tives who are Anglicans that the ABC could ditions for the staff over the past few months "The Middle East absolutely hates I am disturbed and concerned that this not have lobbied for assistance to get a retail can hardly be called ideal and they need to our interference. How much longer recommendation has been made for the fol- location in a high traffi c area such as Union know that some Anglicans feel they deserve until we become the targets of hatred lowing reasons. Station/Front Street and Yonge/Bloor or at better treatment—and our prayers! as well?" We already are the targets
There has not been any opportunity for least in a visible nearby location. Will those in senior management posi- of hatred and attempted attacks by the customers to provide feedback and comment
It is surprising to note that in Guelph with tions who seemed to have mismanaged the Islamicists who are dedicated to the on the current format for the ABC. Well-run a population of 100,000 people there are two ABC over the past few years be called to ac- destruction of western civilization and organizations and commercial companies al- Christian Book/Gift Stores which seem to be count for their actions as well? the forcible conversion of the world ways take measures such as customer surveys thriving. Yet we cannot make a go of it in What assurances do Anglicans in Canada to Islam, and who hate us simply for and feedback to determine that customer ser- Toronto where there is a population many have that the planned on-line store will be being non-Muslim. And we have been vice remains at the client's expectations. times the size of Guelph. properly managed? warned by Osama bin Laden himself
The move of the ABC to Hayden Street From my viewpoint it is clear that to run I urge that the committee members to expect attacks. Our troops are in Af- can only be described as ill planned and ill a retail operation successfully you need to meeting in November pay very close atten- ghanistan in support of a rebuilding ef- conceived. It is astonishing that the ABC have managers who have retail experience. tion to the ramifi cations of the closure and fort. Should we back off in fear of the in the current location is so diffi cult to fi nd I am not convinced that this has been the that the plans for the proposed new format Taliban, who ran one of the most brutal that the neighbouring United Church had case in the past few years for the ABC. A have been properly drawn up. Is there a and murderous regimes in the world, to place a sign on its doors saying "This is properly run retail outlet could be a source of viable alternative? and who denied basic human rights, including medical care and education, to women and girls in Afghanistan? "We don't need military toys." No, but what we do need is military Challenging the New Assessment Formula equipment—including suitable air- craft—so that our military can do WILLIAM LIDKEA due to dwindling membership and/or lower Now, if this isn't robbing the poor to en- their jobs effectively; equipment that DEPUTY PEOPLE'S WARDEN - ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST, has long been denied to them. THOROLD average contributions. hance the rich, pray tell me what is? It is important to note that the last insti- I also found fault with the new formula's "The church should cry out in a loud have studied the document submitted by tution I can recall proposing a fl at tax rate intention to tax all additional sources of in- voice that God does not want war and Ithe Financial Advisory Committee and the was the Canadian Alliance Reform Party. come beyond what is put on the collection killing." Sadly, there are a lot of Islamo- Diocesan Treasurer and CFO at the Regional That institution has since faded from the plate. Much of this income comes from the fascists in the world today who believe Budget Meetings held from September 20 to Canadian scene, partly due to its far right less well-to-do people of the community, that is exactly what Allah wants. September 28 at length. I feel that I must fi scal policies—like robbing the poor to en- and is depended upon by parishes that can- "Maybe the church should try to write to you about my concerns. I feel that hance the rich. Heaven forbid that the same not get enough income from the collection broker a peaceful settlement, no mat- this Assessment Formula, without intending should happen to the Anglican Church plate. For example, members of AA, CA ter who we need to talk to. It's time to be, is terribly unfair. of Canada. and Alanon groups who are seeking sobri- to turn over the tables of our gov- I know that the FAC was trying to sim- I studied the DMM Income Summary ety and straightness in their lives have not ernment..." Well, you can certainly plify the Diocesan Mission and Ministry comparing the net income and DMM assess- been known for their wealth. The parents advocate that, but I would think it's formula and make it fair to all parishes. ments for the various parishes of the Diocese of youngsters attending teen dances do not doubtful that you'll fi nd many takers, But all they have proven is that good in- of Niagara under the old system and the come from wealthier classes. Many people except in some political circles, for tentions do not guarantee good results. In newly proposed fl at tax system. I was both attending our bazaars are people desper- this extreme pacifi sm. ately seeking bargains. When a church puts on a dinner for its parishioners, it has to be THERE IS CONSIDERABLE VARIATION amung the careful that the price is not too high as to parishes in terms of yearly income and in their profi t exclude those in the community who are on fi xed incomes. levels after basic expenses. In view of the above picture I would sug- gest that it's a good time for the FAC to go its preamble, the FAC states that the DMM amazed and horrifi ed at what I found. back to the drawing board. submitted by the parishes of the Diocese of I found that 27 parishes had a reduction Perhaps they could look at the progres- Niagara tended to vary from 10% to 25% of their DMM under the new system. This sive taxation as a fairer and better method of their net income. The FAC stated tat this list included some of the wealthiest parishes of levying taxes through the DMM. My was unfair to those paying the higher per- in the Diocese of Niagara some of whom 2004 income tax form tells me that my tax centage and that a 20% fl at tax would be would enjoy huge decreases in their DMM level goes up from 16% to 29% as my tax- much fairer. Assessment. One large parish, for example, able income increases from $35,000.00 to There is a problem however with the fl at would receive a whopping $16,000 in their $113,804.00 in four stages. Under this sys- tax rate. This is the assumption that all par- DMM, a parish that is not currently suffering tem deductions are allowed for eligible ex- ishes have an equal ability to pay and that fi nancial diffi culty. penses and incomes. their profi t levels after basic expenses (sala- I also found that there were 76 parishes I believe that if FAC would apply pro- ries, utilities, etc.) are all relatively equal. being forced to increase their DMM up to gressive taxation as in the above example, We all know that this is not true. There 5% each year under the new system. Many most of our parishes would end up with is considerable variation among the parishes of these parishes only receive one quarter to a DMM that was more easily within their in terms of yearly income and in their profi t one third of the net income of the more well- means. Our churches, suffering hardship levels after basic expenses. Some parishes to-do parishes in the fi rst list. Included on the would receive a welcome reduction in their are comfortable fi nancially with numerous second list were a number of parishes who are DMM. The well-to-do churches, who could parishioners giving a high average contri- having tremendous diffi culties with meeting afford to pay more for their DMM, would in bution. Other parishes are struggling to sur- their expenses including their DMM, and are fact pay more. This system would be much vive and threatened with disestablishment literally hanging by their fi ngertips. fairer than the FAC current proposal. 22 EVENTS INNiagara THE Anglican DIOCESEDecember 2006 Niagara Anglican - December 2006

Pre-Xmas Giant Penny Sale 17th Annual Wassail Party Victorian Christmas Celebration 905-681-6097 for more details. Parish of St. Luke, Hamilton Grace Church, St. Catharines Holy Trinity, Hamilton Cost: $20.00 plus a non-perishable food item. The Ladies' Guild is holding a party and pen- Grace Church Choir invites you to join them The celebration will include a family Christ- December 13, 8:00 pm ny sale extravaganza. There will be the usual in welcoming the festive season with refresh- mas variety show, games, activities in Fa- great prizes, food from the roaring kitchen, ments and song. ther Christmas' workshop, High Tea, a coun- A Christmas Carol bake table, crafts, draws, fun and good times try store, and Christmas carols. All ages December 3, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm St. Columba, St. Catharines for all the penny sale fans of Hamilton. are welcome. Add to the fun by wearing a period costume. Ticket will be available in A dramatic reading of Charles Dickens' A December 2, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Advent Parish Supper advance. Christmas Carol starring our Bishop, Ralph St. Andrew, Grimsby Spence, as Scrooge. Tickets will soon be avail- Christmas Bazaar Cost: $7 per person, $15 per family (2 able through the church offi ce. All proceeds will St. George's, Niagara-on-the-Lake All are welcome to our Advent Parish Supper. Adults, 2 Children), $1 per child (Ages 5-12), be donated to a community charity. After the supper, join us for our traditional Ad- Children ages 4 and under are free. We will have mixed gift baskets, crafts, jams, vent Carol Service at 7 pm. Cost: $10.00 per person. chicken pies, a bake table, a deli, books, chil- December 9, 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm Cost: Optional donation dren's items, and a candy sale available. Lunch December 14, 7:00 pm will be served at a cost of $7 per person. December 3, 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm Community Carol Sing St. George, Guelph Social Night December 2, 11:00 am - 1:30 pm Christmas Lounge St. Columba, St. Catharines Take a break from your Christmas shopping St. Simon, Oakville Christmas Bazaar and join St. George's Choir and the Salva- Another night of cards, fun, laughter, snacks, St. Philip-by-the-Lake, Grimsby Come for an evening of Christmas music fea- tion Army Band for an hour of carol singing. and prizes. Couples and singles welcome! turing Sidebar. There will be a good mix of Refreshments will be served in Palmer Hall Crafts, jewelry, baked goods and penny sale Cost: $2.00 per person. traditional carols, and old and new contem- following the carol singing. There will be a December 2, 9 am - 12 pm porary Christmas music. A great opportunity free-will offering in support of the Salvation December 18, 7:00 pm to wish friends a Merry Christmas and have Army Christmas Hamper Fund. The Feminine Face of God Building in Faith: Christmas Market some Christmas Cheer. December 9, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm St. Luke, Burlington Christ's Church Cathedral, Hamilton Cost: $15.00 per person English Folk Music Benefit Concert An exploration of biblical images of God, the With a theme of "Christmas Traditions at St. December 3, 7:30pm Luke's" this event will bring old and new op- St. John's, St. Catharines role of women in the medieval Church, our own spiritual journeys in the church and the portunities to get into the spirit of the season. Best Kept Secret St. John's Anglican Church in Port Dalhou- vital role of women in the Church today. On Church of the Ascension, Hamilton sie, St. Catharines is thrilled to be host- December 2, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm December 13 we will have a special guest, ing this benefi t concert. The concert will Forget the worry about all you need to do for The Reverend Canon Lucy Reid. Rummage Sale be performed by Patricia Tothe of Granby, the Holiday Season and let us do it for you! All Saints, Hamilton Montréal, a professional folk singer and December 6, 13 and 20 at 7:00 pm and For more details, see page 4. guitar player. The concert is a fundraiser December 7 and 21 at 11:00 am December 2, 9:00 am to 10:30 am for the St. John's Building Fund, which Redeemer Express Family Christmas Party St. Nicholas Day supports the new addition completed in Redeemer, Stoney Creek 2003 and dedicated in January of 2004 St. Cuthbert's, Oakville St. Cuthbert's, Oakville by Bishop Ralph Spence. Patricia is of- Join the Redeemer Express Bus Trip for Ro- Join us for pizza and a visit from our friends fering her time and talent at no charge in Join us as Cuthbert's K.I.D.S. remembers the mantic Castle Ancient Melodies. Enjoy a holi- at Reptile Party. A Christmas party like you've the true spirit of ecumenism to help raise man behind the legend. Food drive for the day buffet meal followed by entertainment never seen before! funds to support St. John's, which is the less fortunate in our community and surpris- and a wine tasting. es will appear in our young people's shoes. home church of her mother Betty Tothe. Cost: Donation for food, crafts, entertainment. Cost: $81.00 per person Learning, fun and prayers as we commemo- The event is being hosted by the St. John's December 22, 5:30 pm rate the Patron Saint of children. December 8, 8:30 am Women's group, there will be refreshments and goodies served in the Lower Hall dur- December 3, 10:00 am Annual Carols on the Green St. John's Christmas Tea ing intermission and the concert itself will St. John the Evangelist, Niagara Falls Bishop Ann Tottenham Visits St. John the Evangelist, Niagara Falls be performed right in the church. Tickets are available by calling the church offi ce at There's nothing like singing Christmas car- St. John the Evangelist, Niagara Falls Join us for an English High Tea. We will be 905-935-6021. ols outside under the stars. Throw in some On Advent 1 join us in welcoming Bishop serving sandwiches, scones with cream and candles, hot chocolate and a live donkey and Cost: $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for chil- Ann to St. John's to kick off our year of cel- jam, assorted desserts, coffee, and of course you've got the makings of a great Christmas dren under 10. ebrations in honour of the 50th anniversary tea! Please call Wendy at 905-371-2335 to tradition. Join us on Stamford Green (across of 'new' St. John's. A reception will follow the reserve your table! December 9, 7:00 pm from St. John's) for a night of wonder. 10:30 worship service. Cost: $7 per person St. Andrew's Christmas Dance December 23, 6:00 pm December 3, 10:30 December 9, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm St. Andrew, Grimsby New Year's Eve Party Come along for a fun evening of dancing, St. Cuthbert's, Oakville door prizes, cash bar, and a light snack. Our Join Cuthbert's K.I.D.S. for worship when we Looking for a FESTIVAL OF LESSONS AND CAROLS, CANDLE DJ, John De Jager, will have music for ev- will ring in the New Year with some special eryone. LIGHT SERVICE, or CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS SERVICE ? activities for children, grade 6 and under. Cost: $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Activities will include a countdown, snacks, games, singing and prayers. Find them all at www.niagara.anglican.ca December 9, 8:00 pm to 12:00 am December 31, 10:00 am Christmas Tree Lighting St. Christopher, Burlington A Pilgrimage Parish of St. Luke, Hamilton December 10, 6:30 pm New Year's Eve and what a better way to start Blue Christmas the festivities than high tailing off to our sister St. John, Burlington high church, Saint Luke's of Brantford on El- gin Street for the fi rst Sunday after Christmas A healing Eucharist for those needing com- Mass. Our own Father Hudson will be up in fort during this season, due to a loss or grief the pulpit with one of his end of year sermons in their life. that makes one sit up and take notice and af- December 13, 7:30 pm terwards we all get to gather in the cozy hall, where tea, coffee, and other snacks and re- Building in Faith: Three Cantors freshments will be served All sorts of friendly St. Luke, Burlington spikes will be there and our lot will be in the thick of things. Rides are being laid on and The annual Christmas concert for children in everyone is welcome. need. All net proceeds go to St. Matthew's House and PWRDF. Call Jackie Maver at December 31, 7:00 pm December 2006 Niagara Anglican 23 How to Simplify Christmas TIPS TO HELP FAMILIES escape the excess and focus on Christ's birth

KAREN STILLER old daughter sat by the tree and Catalogue has changed how Cyn- WORLD VISION cried. "No matter how much we thia gives to extended family and n the national lampoon fi lm gave her, there was always one co-workers. A card with a goat on IChristmas Vacation, a weary thing she didn't get. We seemed to the front and a witty note such as: Ellen Griswold turns to her com- be chasing a rainbow," remembers "I bought you a goat for Christ- plaining daughter, Audrey, and Cynthia. mas, and then gave it to somebody sighs, "I don't know what to say The Roscoes and the Callaways else," amused recipients and made except, it's Christmas and we're all decided to cut back on gifts and the Roscoes feel better about their in misery." look for ways to give to people gift-giving. The Callaway family Many of us can relate to sea- who really need it at Christmas. looks for ways to reach out in their sonal misery caused by too much Both families emphasize the im- hometown of Three Hills, Alberta. of everything. Whether it's decora- portance of parents or grandpar- Christmas Eve fi nds them drop- tions and demands, presents and ents presenting a united front. "Do ping off surprise packages on the pageants, even too much family it together," stresses Phil. "Be as doorsteps of those in need. "We and fun, we get buried under to-do agreed as you can be on [gift-giv- ring the bell and then run away," lists longer than Santa's and credit ing]. Then sit your children down says Phil. card bills higher than a Newfound- and tell them they're not going land snowbank. Even the effort to get a whole bunch of presents, Find strength in numbers to simplify can seem like just one but a few really good things that Most churches and local charities more thing on the list. Further, they're going to love." Phil sug- welcome volunteers during the if we are concerned with global gests helping children or grand- Christmas season to assist with poverty, then the way we do (or children focus on people who don't outreach programs in their own communities and overseas, such as organizing Christmas toy drives or FOCUS ON SPENDING TIME WITH collecting toiletries for the home- less. That is one of the ministries YOUR FAMILY instead of attending ev- that changed Christmas for Linda ery event or even entertaining at home Rivera of Halifax. Members of her church have been involved with a with perfection. That's really going to Sunday supper for homeless men matter down the road? and women for years, but at Christ- mas they wanted to do something a little extra. overdo) Christmas can seem even have much at Christmas, "instead Linda and her team contacted more incongruous with our every- of the kid across the road who gets 50 local churches and asked them day values. 16,000 presents." to donate toiletries and treats. They Simplifying Christmas does not collected enough items to stuff need to make us Scrooges or take Give gifts that really do work socks and gift bags for 350 anything away from our children keep on giving men and women. "To see adults or grandchildren. Instead, it can Kathy Mitchell-Hay and her hus- who are wounded or hurt and have help us realign our celebration of band, Bob, decided to reform no big plans for Christmas receive a big table with friends and family. Eschewing perfection and cut- the season with what is truly im- their Christmas and ended up these gifts was really something. The things that matter have nothing ting back on gifts for people who portant to us. transforming their children. The It really got down to being about to do with big Christmas presents. don't need them—while giving to St. Catharines, Ontario, couple love," says Linda. They have to do with people." those who do—is not a one-way Whose birthday is it anyway? wrapped up the address of the That's the approach Cynthia ticket to Scrooge-ville. Talking That's the question Phil Callaway, World Vision website and put it Keep love simple takes as well, as she battles ev- with our families and friends about Alberta-based speaker and author under their tree. On Christmas Focus on spending time with ery year against "the biological what we do at Christmas, and why, of Making Life Rich Without Any morning, Sarah and Nicholas, your family instead of attending imperative to turn into Martha can help us forego expensive and Money, and his wife, Ramona, then aged nine and 10, opened every event or even entertaining Stewart at Christmas." She puts stressful customs, and replace asked themselves as well as their their gift and headed to the com- at home with perfection. "What's perfectionism on the shelf and in- them with new, enriching tradi- three teenaged kids. "We were puter to select two children to really going to matter years down vites her young daughters to help tions that our kids, grandkids, and crowding Christmas with gifts for sponsor. "Realizing that there are the road?" asks Phil. "That I spent her prepare food, gifts, and deco- friends will remember long after the wrong people," Phil explains. children out there with so much time with the people who are go- rations. "Christmas Day is still the sweater we gave them shrinks "This really isn't my child's birth- less has transformed our children's ing to cry at my funeral, or that I fabulous, even if I don't have gold and the Lego has been sucked up day. Things were out of balance." lives," says Kathy. "I highly rec- went to a bunch of parties? I only oak leaves lining my mantel and by the vacuum. Toronto mother Cynthia Roscoe ommend it to parents who want to remember one or two gifts I got the stockings are hung crooked," Karen Stiller, a writer in Port had her wake-up call one Christ- change Christmas." as a child. she says. "You can't make this Perry, Ontario, does her Christmas mas morning when her fi ve-year- The World Vision Christmas What I remember is sitting around event perfect." shopping in August. Marketing and the Church

Continued from page 4 ing campaign, the most critical to look out for new faces in our factor to the success of such a midst and make a point of greet- lame, He would offer the mes- program is to remember the im- ing them. Make an extra special sage in an accessible, softer and portance of truth in advertising. attempt to have the social time af- personal manner. And to His dis- So as this marketing 'experiment' ter worship refl ect your commit- ciples He would implore, teach, in our diocese unfolds, it is criti- ment to being a warm, welcom- challenge and prod in the hope cally important that all parishes ing Christian community. Lastly, that they might soon be bearers of in Niagara prepare themselves to in this season as the word of our that same message. Jesus' innate welcome the stranger and to pro- Church spreads across the air- ability to adapt in a manner that vide the warmth and love that the waves, take the time and fi nd the would allow the hearer to relate message of the Christmas sea- courage to invite someone you on a personal level, regardless son promises. Greeters and hosts know and care for to church this of circumstance, is something should be prepared to provide Advent and Christmas season. from the Gospels that we might information and direction about There is no better time of year to begin to utilize for our selves our parishes. Newcomer infor- be a Christian and there is no bet- when dealing with marketing mation packets should be current ter time to invite people into the and evangelism. and available. Everyone in the joy we experience through these With any successful market- congregation should be prepared seasons. Peace be with you! 24 Niagara Anglican December 2006 INVITING ANYONE TO YOUR People in the news HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

Mr. Jim Newman submitted his resigna- Marcus, his wife Karen, and their daughter tion as Director of Stewardship in Niagara. Monica, to Niagara. Thanks for your special ministry to us and
Canon Laurence Duby submitted his in- for your wisdom to so many parishes in tention to resign from Grace Church, Water- this diocese. down on January 31. He will be retired from
Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mi- full time ministry on February 1. chaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada,
Lay Reader's License issued to Lynn Bru- announced on October 27 the appointment baker from Grace Church, St. Catharines on of three new Heralds Extraordinary within October 1, and Kate Snider and Sylvia Far- the Canadian Heraldic Authority. Mr. Roger rell from St. Paul's Church, Hamilton on A. Lindsay of Toronto, Dr. Helen K. Mus- October 29. sallem, C.C., of Ottawa and Vancouver, and
Five new Canons were installed on Sunday, the Right Reverend D. Ralph Spence, of November 5: Paul Charbonneau, St. Hilda's, Hamilton, have received the titles of Herald Oakville; Robert Fead, St. George's, St. Cath- Extraordinary for their particularly notable arines; Sharyn Hall, St. Luke's, Burlington; contributions to Canadian heraldry over Lynda Kealey, St. Michael's, HamiltonStu- many years. art Pike, St. Andrew's, Grimsby; and Lynne
Canon Kristine Swire, Rector of Church Thackwray, Hagersville and Cheapside. of the Ascension, Hamilton, was sworn in
Joyce Rogers, a long time and faithful mem- as Regimental Padre for the Royal Hamilton ber of St.John's, Ancaster, died on August 20. Light Infantry (RHLI). Joyce is the mother of Diane Taylor (spouse
The Reverend Diane Beaman was elected of Canon Paul Taylor). The graveside service Regional Dean of Brock, effective October was held on October 7. Our belated sympa- 10 and the Reverend Dr. Michael Thompson thy to Diane and the bereaved family. was elected Regional Dean of Trafalgar ef-
Archdeacon Paul Jackson, retired from fective October 10. full time ministry, died on November 7.
The Reverend Donald Eustace was issued Paul Jackson continued with interim min- a Bishop's Permission as Honorary Assistant istry, Director of the Continuing Education a St. John the Evangelist, Hamilton, effective Plan and Chair of the Bishop's Task Force October 25. The Reverend Dr. Peter Widdi- on Church Buildings. Our thoughts and combe and the Reverend Tom Wilding have prayers are with Judy and the Jackson and been reissued Bishop's Permissions at St. Walton families. John the Evangelist, Hamilton.
The Reverend Roger Forster, on medical
The Reverend Carman Wilson was reli- leave from full time ministry, died on No- censed at St. John the Evangelist, Hamlton, vember 7 in Burlington. Roger resigned in effective October 25. 2005 as Rector of St. Elizabeth's, Burlington.
The Reverend Dr. Richard Ruggle submit- Our thoughts and prayers are with Kathy and ted his resignation from St.Paul's, Norval, the Forster family. and retired October 31. The Venerable Peter
The Reverend William Phipps, Deacon at Moore has been appointed Interim Pastor at Nassagaweya, died suddenly on Friday, No- St.Paul's, Norval, effective November 1. vember 3. In addition to his ministry at Nas-
Canon Marni Nancekivell has been ap- sagaweya, Bill Phipps was Deputy Director pointed Interim Pastor at Church of the of Deacons for the Diocese. and a Justice of Epiphany, Oakville, effective November 1. the Peace in Milton. Our thoughts and prayers
The Very Reverend Marcus Germaine, are with Wendy and the bereaved family. The Dean of Moosonee and Rector of St. Mat- funeral service was held at Christ's Church thew's Cathedral, Timmins, has accepted the Cathedral on Wednesday, November 8. In- position to be Rector of the Hamilton East terment was held at St. John's Church Cem- Ministry, effective January 7. We welcome etery on November 9.

TToo fi nndd thethe timestimes forfor AdventAdvent andand ChristmasChristmas LLiturgiesiturgies acrossacross oourur ddiocese:iocese: www.niagara.anglican.ca

NOW IN OUR FOURTH YEAR OF OPERATION, WE CARRY A LARGE VARIETY OF BOOKS, NEW AND USED GIFTS AND PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL ITEMS.

WONDERFUL NEW ITEMS FROM BETHLEHEM SOME WONDERFUL NEW ITEMS FROM BETHLEHEM CARDS OF CATHOLIC WINDOWS HOW ABOUT INVITING THEM TO YOUR SPIRITUAL HOME FOR A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION?