RECEIVING THE HOPE MISSIONAL MOVERS Two Taboo Subjects Pg 3 Pg 6 Pg 7 THETHE

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ IOCESAN TIMES DIOTIMES D JANUARY 2021 A SECTION OF THE ANGLICAN JOURNAL

SServingerving tthehe AAnglicannglican CChurchhurch iinn NNovaova SScotiacotia aandnd PPrincerince EEdwarddward IIslandsland

Photo: The processing to the front steps of the Cathedral to offer prayers for the city. From left, Bishops Susan Moxley, , and newly consecrated . Consecration service highlights the signs of the times: masked, socially distanced and limited attendance

Photo left: Although masked for the service, the four bishops briefly unmasked and stood 6 feet apart for this group photo. Photo right: Bishop Sandra’s husband, Jim Fyfe, joined her at the conclussion of the service to offer his congratulations and to pose long enough for a photo.

Rev. Sandra Fyfe was consecrated Bishop of the Diocese of and Prince Edward Island on Monday, November 30, 2020 7 - 8 pm. The entire service was broadcast live over Facebook and is still availabel for viewing at: www.facebook.com/Diocese-of- Nova-Scotia-and-Prince-Edward- Island-274107035933762 PAGE 2 JANUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES COLUMNIST St Bart’s glows with hope I am surprised that the preparation. The open shelter added spotlights so that we astronauts on the space along with a few animals and really do glow into the dark VOLUME 76 NUMBER 1 station have not reported the empty manger show up on night a new glow from eastern the front lawn at St. Bart’s in Christmas eve came and PAUL SHERWOOD Canada. The holiday lights on mid-December. This year we because of Covid restrictions Editor display in The Bog this year saw it in place before Advent our numbers had to be small are amazing, It is like we are Sunday. enough for proper spacing Also on the web: saying, “ enough is enough, we As time draws closer to but, once again, Jason came www.nspeidiocese.ca are going to do everything we Christmas, more animals up with an invitation to the can to brighten up our world.” Letters & News Items: begin to show up and on the Community to join the service Paul Sherwood, Editor I know that at our house we afternoon of December 24th from around the crèche on the PO Box 8882, have put out every strand of the children of the parish lawn and there were speakers Halifax, NS B3K 5M5 lights we own, and they went [email protected] Sunday School come and up too. We sang the wonderful 902.477.3040 up early too! place the Holy Family around carols of Christmas and we We are not alone either. the empty manger. When could hear the community Advertising: Angela Rush Many houses that had been ST. B ART’S BY THE BOG we arrive for the Christmas singing from the church yard. dark in former years are filled eve service much later that It sounded like the Angels [email protected] 905.630.0390 with “songbirds” grounded by Sarah Neish evening we find the figure of were joining in with the fine (Burlington, ON) the worldwide pandemic. the baby Jesus nestled in the folks from The Bog. straw of the manger and the This need to spread the It is almost time to take the Published monthly except in July Shepherds with their sheep light of Christmas; the season and promise. crèche down for another year, and August by The Diocesan Times of hope and joy seems to are standing there, There is but I think it may remain Publishing Company. be contagious; maybe as Father Jason has encouraged a choir of Angels on the hill up and lighted for a few Online editions available via the contagious as Covid 19! this show of community spirit above the scene and our hearts more weeks. We all need the diocesan website: We are fast approaching the by putting up our Parish are filled with joy. reminder of Hope and Joy www.nspeidiocese.ca Feast of Epiphany when most crèche very early and asking Because Jason suggested that we see when we pass by of us tuck our Christmas us to add to the display with the community feel free to St. Bart’s. I know our home decorations away for another our own contributions. The add to the tableau, we have will keep the lights burning Printed by and mailed from: year, This year we plan crèche is a gift to us from Rev many more sheep, a few cows for now as we await the end of Webnews Printing Inc., to leave our lights up and Billie and her late husband a donkey or two and even a this isolation. North York, ON James. James made the original glowing through the dark days border collie at the ready to I’ll keep you posted, of winter. We will call them figures as well as the shelter do some herding if asked! My Opinions expressed do not Aunt Madge necessarily reflect the views of the Winter lights, lights of hope and they have become a part Orin and Benny Smith have of our collective Christmas editor, the management board of The Diocesan Times, the diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island or any representative thereof, except where expressly stated.

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Dear friends, the high altar. In that instant, my perspective changed. As 2020 was drawing to a close, I was on the brink of my new We have all had to face huge changes in our lives and in our ministry as your . At the time, I was preparing expectations as a result of this global pandemic. It has affected for this new beginning in a variety of ways. I participated in our ability to be with our families and friends, to attend worship, a Zoom orientation session for new and incoming bishops. I and to travel, among other things. By the time you’re reading spent some time apart for retreat and prayer. I started packing this, Covid-19 will also have affected how we’ve experienced things to take to my new office. I prepared to say farewell to a Christmas. What Covid-19 will not affect, however, is the Parish I loved. In the midst of it all, and with the guidance and reality of the incarnation – God taking human form and coming contributions of a great team, I began planning for the official to be among us in the person of Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, God- beginning of my ministry – the service of Consecration and with-us. Installation on St. Andrew’s Day. I suspect there are times over the past nine months when we As life unfolded, however, things got more complicated. have all have felt discouraged or lost or lonely or forsaken in The number of Covid-19 cases began to rise in Nova Scotia, some way. In those moments it’s important to reorient ourselves and it was clear that things would not go as we had hoped to the story of our faith. We are still living in the Christmas for that service. And yet, in spite of all the changes we’d had season (at least until the feast of the Epiphany on January 6th). to make, everything still seemed okay, until the rehearsal. More importantly, we are still living in incarnational times. God Bishop Sandra Fyfe, Gathering there in the Cathedral with former diocesan bishops is still with us. Christ still walks with us. The Holy Spirit still ( Ron Cutler, Archbishop Arthur Peters, and Bishop guides us. We are never alone. God’s love and presence surround Diocese of Nova Scotia and ), Dean Paul Smith and a small tech crew, with us always. Prince Edward Island screens in front of us and no one else I became acutely aware of that yet again on the night of my While I realize around us, the reality Consecration. The Cathedral may have looked empty but it was finally sank in. I’ll filled with the power and presence of God as we were held in that there are admit to feeling a bit prayer and celebration throughout this Diocese and beyond. I many challenges discouraged. Even want you to know that I feel humbled and blessed to be serving after the service as your bishop in these strange times and I am hopeful about the ahead of us as began, it all felt very future. While I realize that there are many challenges ahead of we are trying strange. This was not us as we are trying desperately to figure out the way forward, I what any of us was also know that we can count on God’s guidance and grace as we desperately to used to at all. Then, journey onwards. As the Rev Dr. Joanne Mercer reminded us in figure out the at the appropriate her sermon on that night: we have everything we need. time in the service, As I begin my episcopal ministry among you, I am glad to know way forward, I I moved in place in that this ministry is one that we share. All our gifts are needed. also know that front of Bishop Sue Thank you for everything that you contribute to the life of our to make my vows, Diocese. I am curious to see how God will use the “loaves and we can count on and everything felt fishes” that we all offer for the building up of God’s kingdom in God’s guidance different. I was no this place. longer looking at a Blessings and peace, and grace as we camera, but a real journey onwards. person. I was no longer facing an +Sandra empty Cathedral, but

We would be shocked to see it happening today

As we continue to dwell in happening today. legally marry and return with a lower incidence of the joy of the birth of our Or would we? Because some their husband (still as minors). receiving medical care, Saviour, I continue to ponder 650 million women today were Distressingly, many of these higher exposure to on the Holy Family. While married as minors. Every year, foreign marriages take place medical need, a higher our own seasonal busyness 12-15 million girls are married in the United States (where rate of poverty, a higher is comparable to the flurry under the age of 18 - that’s legal age can be as low as 12, incidence of gender-based of festivities in our liturgical around 1 of every 4-5 girls, or lower if the girl has born a violence, and a lower calendar, our recent Advent or at a rate of 23-29 every child). lifespan. journey should be reminding minute. In times of crisis, Part of our response is being us to be watchful and rates of child marriage tend to an educated and aware church: Lord, as we celebrate your intentional, or else we might increase; and early data in this and to hold before God those Son, born of a child bride, miss something. COVID-19 pandemic support times we simply did not see, help us to work towards For example: did you ever this as our current situation. and to ask God to support us ensuring girls may enjoy notice that we don’t hear This is a complex global as we open our eyes: their entire childhood before about how Mary and Joseph becoming brides. transition from being engaged reality, and while Canadian • To recognise that the to being married? law sets the legal minimum euphemism “underage age for marriage at 18; this can woman” actually means And by extension, as last be reduced to 16 with parental girl child. REV LAURA MARIE PIOTROWICZ month I commented on Mary’s consent. This consent is often • To understand the , S T. J OHN’S, L UNENBURG status as a teen mom, we must given, with around 3500 also recognise her here as a correlation between marriages of 16- and 17-year lowering the age of legal teenage bride - and likely one olds (over 85% of these are of an economic arrangement sexual consent and the minor girls to older men) since age for legal marriage. between Mary’s father and 2000. However, we are called Joseph (who, fortunately, we to open our eyes to the reality • To learn how child know was a good guy). And of common-law marriages of marriage generally while child marriage was not girls in Canada; there are also leads to a lower level uncommon in those times, Canadian girls sent abroad to of education, a higher we would be shocked to see it number of children, PAGE 4 JANUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES NEWS FROM AWAY

For me, some of that light came in the form of a group of four artists and the support team who worked with them to bring about the Hope & Inspiration Art Show, now an on-going Gallery (https://www.nspeidiocese. ca/ministries/diocesan- environment-network/pages/ hope-inspiration) inspiring us to care for creation as we look at the beauty that surrounds us through their eyes and their work. It is the faces of growing army of people connected to our Environment Network that light the way for me and give me hope. Not a passive hope, but very active hope. Photos: These are photos from the Art & Inspiration Art Show. The people involved in caring The committee plans on continuing as an on-line gallery in the new year. for creation that I get to hang out with are a light that I believe can travel faster than Dear diocese, As Anglicans committed the speed of dark. I read a book a few years ago to caring for God’s creation, begin to get longer, or recovery? A greener recovery. called “The Speed of Dark” by perhaps we should ponder that So I realized that as people Christmas Eve, and now in Elizabeth Moon. The book is question ourselves. Just as the In this less than “normal” of faith, we are called to be a the last days of the Christmas about an autistic man and the way the dark increased each time, especially in the dark community engaged in active seasons. As we celebrate the story describes the world from day until winter solstice, the of winter, we have been more waiting and active hope. post winter solstice growing his point of view. Very early in darkness we call the climate subdued and more confined. Being in community can help light in our corner of the world the novel the main character emergency may or may not be That can lead to despair. us overcome the darkness and birth of Christ, the light explains that his counselor faster than the speed of light, But could that extra time for of despair, give us hope and of the world, might we view was not at all interested in his the race to turn this crisis reflection bring with it the empower us. As a community, this as a time to be aware of curiosity about the dark and around. That depends on us. opportunity for us to feel the we can be the light that can not just the growing darkness who the counsellor discounts hope and inspiration that overcome darkness as we We are now in the midst of climate change but also the him when he ponders whether comes from the light reflected engage in new beginnings. My of winter, having just potential energy from the light the speed of dark is faster than in the faces of the people who Epiphany moment. passed winter solstice, the we radiate if we are committed the speed of light. actively engage in the climate Blessings from the outer world, tipping point, when the days to a better post pandemic crisis? Rev. Marian Lucas-Jefferies

The art of listening live in a three-tier town second. She listens, hears, what behaviour is activated? Jesus was probably the house. While sitting on and responds. As a result, Admittedly we don’t hear greatest listener, with heart Ithe bottom floor the other behaviour is activated. everything. Sometimes we and ear in tune. Given that, day I began to hum a familiar It could be argued that are selective. Comments like as we pray, we can with tune, well known to Mango one of the most difficult “suppers ready” and “did you certitude believe that with our Duck Toller. She was on yet meaningful and healing take the garbage out “ are great focus he is tuned in to the top tier. I had just begun enterprises in life is found in either tuned in or out. our current struggle. That to hum when I could hear the the art of listening. And we Emotional listening is an can create a calmness in our padding of paws coming at me do listen, and hear, voluntarily art. This is when in tandem, soul, instigating a powerful with frantic excitement, not or involuntarily on a daily, we integrate our ears (our behavioral response. He listens unlike the ferocity of an adult minute by minute basis. We hearing) with the innermost and hears; he hears and listens. moose furiously thrashing listen to beautiful music, birds part of our heart, the In the quiet of your own town through the forest towards the singing, the wind blowing emotional brain. Perhaps our house, house, apartment, sound of a far away mating through the trees, waves partner has had a horrible cottage, park bench, back call. Arriving at my chair coming off the ocean shore, day at work, and only wants forty, third hole, hum the she was highly excited, tail the rain falling on our roofs to express those feelings. No tune of your despair to our wagging, full Mango smile in at night, a pheasant bleating solution needed at this time. Lord. Do you hear Him, is tow. in our backyard green space, So emotionally and actively he approaching, does a calm Bryan Hagerman HAGERMAN a bubbling brook. These are we pursue her/him intently, help push back the fear, the but a small portion of some of ears and heart wide open, as frustration, the disquiet? the music to have any effect, the things that we listen, hear they explain their frustrations. Although found in the Mango who habitually hears and attune to that bring great Choice words like; “I am prophetic writings, we can that specific tune needs to For those who don’t read calm. Then there are other sorry, that must have been with certainty take these words both hear and listen. If it were things that we do not like to horrible, I understand,” as as Jesus words too. Words with music, the tune which I something else, like “three devised is entitled; “Going For hear; a sick baby crying, a dog we make eye contact, can a promise attached. blind mice” or “here comes barking at night, the breaking offer a solace, a safe place, a A Walk With Mango” The Santa Clause” she wouldn’t as “Fear not, for I am with Lyrics are; “going for a walk, of a beautiful object as it calmness, and can activate you; Be not dismayed, much as lift an eyebrow. You falls on the floor, yelling and a positive behavior within going for a walk, gonna have see for Mango that tune ignites for I am your God. I will a walk with Mango, gonna screaming in arguments, and them. They have been listened strengthen you, Yes, I will within her a behaviour, an the sound of sirens as we try to to with both ears and heart. have a walk “ It signals to announcement that something help you, I will uphold you Mango, that she is about to sleep. No solution has been offered. with My righteous right most happy and very exciting That would be the nails on the experience something very is about to transpire. Nothing Although we listen, do hand.” Isaiah 41:10”’ NKJV exciting, the high point of we hear? And although blackboard approach, creating grabs her attention more. a further and helpless response. B ryan Hagerman her day, a walk. In order for “There’s a cat,” comes a close we hear, do we listen? If so, Outreach Counsellor THE DIOCESAN TIMES - JANUARY 2021 PAGE 5 Survive, thrive, lead: follow the servant leader

Spirit and the press of the 5. Lead like Jesus, with a external situation. Such were towel wrapped around Moses and David and the Old your waist, washing feet. Testaments prophets. I think Be a servant. there was hardly a great leader from Paul to the present day Biblical Passages to Explore but that was drafted by the  Servanthood: John 13 Holy Spirit for the task and  Creating an Environment commissioned by the Lord of Where People Feel Free the Church to fill a position to Be Themselves: he had little heart for. I believe Ephesians 4 it might be accepted as a fairly reliable rule of thumb that  Listening to the Needs of the one who is ambitious to Others: Philippians 2 lead is disqualified as a leader.  Becoming Partners in the The true leader will have no Process: I Peter 5: 1-4 desire to lord it over God’s Photo Credit: Inbal Malca, Unsplash Rev. Cathy Lee heritage, but will be humble,  Letting Go, With Cunningham gentle, self-sacrificing, and Affirmation: I By Cathy Lee Cunningham, things from God, the seekers altogether as ready to follow as Thessalonians 5: 11-14 Rector, Church of the Good request them from “The And I’m not talking about to lead, when the Spirit makes  Exercising Power FOR Shepherd, Beaver Bank Universe”. the John Lewis “good” kind of it clear that a wiser and more Others: Colossians: 3:12, As Christians, we know this trouble. I’m talking about the gifted one than himself has 13 “Sing of God made manifest same teaching: “my-way-or-the-highway” kind appeared.” As this new year dawns when at Jordan John of trouble we get into when we Finzel’s Five Practices of for our leadership, may we confessed, “Ask, and it will be given to adopt a top-down leadership you; search, and you will find; Servant Leadership manifest all good things for “I should be baptized by you, attitude. 1. Embrace the kind of God and lead from the River, but your bidding I will do.” knock, and the door will be opened for you.” As Christian leaders, like participatory management like John. - Carl P. Daw Jr., “Sing of John at the River, we start that seeks feedback from God Made Manifest” Matthew 7:7-8, New Revised When we ask, believe and from the bottom-up, not the all members of the parish receive, may we always Standard Version top-down. When we start team before action is I don’t know if you’ve noticed remember that these gifts The difference for us is that everything out of the memory taken. lately, but “manifesting” is big come not from “the universe” when we ask for anything that we are first of all followers business in the world today. 2. See yourself as a facilitator but from the heart of the One to be manifest in our lives, of Jesus, it becomes highly With the best-selling works who offers the support that whom we follow, Jesus. especially through our unlikely that we will make this of Esther and Jerry Hicks on members of your parish leadership roles in the Church, leadership mistake. In the February Issue, I The Law of Attraction and team need to effectively we ask it of God, because we continue my exploration of the later work of Rhonda Counter to the Top-Down carry out their ministry believe in God and we trust the Top Ten Mistakes That Byrne in The Secret (which Leadership Attitude roles. that we are in God’s hands. Leaders Make, with a focus has sold over 35 million copies Hans Finzel addresses this 3. Live out the principles of on leadership, love and worldwide), masses of devotees And, it’s not — I hope — a truth in his book, The Top democratic leadership by resonance. from around the world repeat new shiny car that we’re Ten Mistakes Leaders Make, building the strengths of this mantra daily: asking for. If we stretch it, first quoting the work of A.W. the team to collectively perhaps we might ask for a If you need any help, Ask. Believe. Receive. Tozer and then outlining decide and work for the assistance or resource “new” van to transport food, five servant leader practices future direction of the They claim that this process clothing and furniture to those suggestions to move through and accompanying biblical parish in shared faith and this time of pandemic, contact will help you manifest in need. passages to explore (pp. 34- service. anything you want: a shiny me directly at cathylee@ We also know that as the 37): new car, a lottery win, a trip 4. Don’t view yourself as cathyleecunningham.com and baptized we are called to around the world, a dream “A true and safe leader is sitting at the top of a fi nd me on social media @ follow before we lead and lead home, early retirement. You likely to be one who has no hierarchy, rather as sitting vocapeace. as we continue to follow. It is name it, you practice the desire to lead but is forced into at the base of the pyramid, when we stop seeing ourselves formula and it’s yours. And, a position of leadership by the working alongside as as the follower of Jesus that instead of requesting said shiny inward pressure of the Holy equals. we get ourselves into trouble.

REVIVE YOUR FAITH REVIVE is published by REGISTER: E-mail Forward Movement and [email protected] or Kindle the warmth of your The first module is titled, created by Rev. Canon phone 902-789-4840. spiritual life by exploring Communicating with God. Dr. Dawn Davis, who has various prayer disciplines Topics include: family roots in St. Luke’s, with friends this winter. Dartmouth. REVIVE is being hosted as  What is prayer? Create in me a clean a Zoom series starting Jan  Does God answer Anyone may register for heart, O God, and put 13. prayer? REVIVE and there is no  Prayer spaces, cost to join. Participation a new and right spirit This safe, small-group meditation and is limited to 12 people. The setting helps participants contemplation online program runs over within me. gain confidence in praying,  Pray with music 7 sessions on Wednesdays, – Psalm 51:10 while sharing in deep  Praying through the hurt from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. discussions with others  Methods and tools for a about God in their lives. rich devotional life PAGE 6 JANUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES MISSION (is) POSSIBLE: Diocesan stories of people responding to God’s call and enthusiastic enough mission awareness,” Rev. Like the Parish of New to share the Good News as Catherine said. “It’s so much Germany, St. James’ at we recognize opportunities easier and more fun to pool the Armdale Roundabout beyond. We also are well ideas, resources and share the distributes care packages to aware that we need to work work load!” youth and children. Military more at being and making In urban Halifax, St. James’ people on deployment also disciples.” Armdale has MELT - Missional receive cards, treats and words The three-congregation rural Engagement Leadership Team. of encouragement. parish also received a Diocesan The group came together One of the dynamic ways mission grant for Christian when Alice Galpin Nicholson that MELT is encouraging Foundations Workbooks from The Connectors One, all parishioners to learn and (produced by Wycliffe invited the congregation to a live their baptismal vows College, Toronto, ON). “After meeting to talk about mission. missionally is through their Photo: Laughter Yoga online at St. James’ Armdale with Rev. Katie adjusting to the pandemic weekly Missional Moment. “Those who showed Taylor-Flynn, Brenda Clark (leader), Alice Nicholson and Bertha and considering the various Each Sunday at worship, interest were like-minded Galpin. options, we have begun a congregation members are Zoom group…,” said Rev. and missional who wanted invited a share a short one Catherine. “We hope to start to be intentional in sharing or two-minute story about our faith and helping others Missional movers and shakers together and then be open to how they have been either others who may want to enter both inside and outside the a recipient or giver of an By Rev. Canon Lisa G. diocesan missional leaders into this study with us, with a church building,” said Alice. intentional act of mission. Vaughn learning cohort. She said, partner or in small groups (in “We have between 5-8 people They are videotaped and “Shortly after The Connectors person or Zoom).” involved on a regular basis. posted on St. James’ Facebook There are others that are Mission-shaped churches TWO began, I realized that During 2020 the Mission page. don’t happen by accident. mission in our parish could happy to help when projects or Squad sent out seasonal ideas come about.” For the last couple of years These outward-oriented not be a one-person effort. letters to all the children St. James’ Parish Council flourishing congregations So I prayed about and talked and young people connected MELT began their work first approved budget funds to are intentionally nurtured with a number of parishioners in any way with the parish. by identifying the parish’s purchase needed supplies for to be that way. One of the and asked if they’d consider Scores of packages were passions and gifts. Alice said, their missional initiatives. approaches for some parishes is being part of a team to explore delivered at Easter, Pentecost, “We prayed on developing Meanwhile, MELT has more starting a mission group. mission.” Thanksgiving and Advent/ our group and ways to post-COVID plans. “Outdoor A team of passionate and The Parish Mission Squad is Christmas. promote missional ideas in the musical/talent days, evening community.” focused missionally-active made up of a mixture of eight Building on their strengths, summer chats, offering blessing people can act as a catalyst for lay people and three clergy the group works to enhance The mission team at St. bags to the homeless, and this ministry. Not that they who have an openness to existing ministries. Rev. James’ began several initiatives breakfast/lunch/supper clubs, take on these initiatives by mission. Together they study Catherine says, “We also in 2020, including God’s Tickle just to mention a few,” said themselves, nor that mission missiological articles and pray. support things already Trunk. This is an outdoor Alice. is just one small branch of a “We … consider what God is established and try to look for cupboard, located on church The lay leader says their congregation’s ministry. A doing and may be calling us the missional opportunities property, just a few feet from a Missional Engagement mission group ensures that to be doing in our parish and in them. For example, our busy sidewalk. The principle Leadership Team has blessed mission is at the centre of area,” said Rev. Catherine. seasonal gifts and visits to sick, is simply take what you the neighbourhood and parish parish life and decisions, as “We try to work together in shut-in and bereaved people.” need, leave what you can. in many aspects. “Not only well as facilitates opportunities carrying out mission projects The shelves are chock full does it build a strong group to for others to join in. and activities as we discern The South Shore rural parish of non-perishable groceries, also does weekly deliveries discuss ways of doing God’s At least two faith how we’re being called.” personal hygiene items, books, work here on earth and telling of church bulletins to those inspirational messages, and the communities in our Diocese New Germany’s group without Internet, free funeral about his kingdom,” Alice have struck up such a team. started with some Anglican inspirationally painted Jesus explained. “It also encourages receptions and hosts the Rocks. It is used regularly. The Parish of New Germany foundational basics. The priest popular Community Café, everyone to share their talents, is known for trying innovative explained, “We’ve looked where residents socialize and MELT has organized virtual passions and ideas.” approaches to vibrant ministry at the Marks of Mission and patronize local entrepreneurs. community to meet the needs St. James’ rector, Rev. Katie like a ukulele music group, realized we have much to do “The community is noticing of people who are feeling Taylor-Flynn is enthusiastic barn worship and community in ‘proclaiming the Good and people are feeling cared isolated and troubled. Living about MELT. “It is one of the cafe. Now they’ve started News of the Kingdom’ and in for,” said the priest. through the Pandemic Support most uplifting groups I have ‘teaching and nurturing new Group is hosted twice weekly what they call a Parish Mission She highly recommends ever been a part of,” she said. Squad. (and old) believers’. We have online and in-person when “Everyone is so filled with much growing and learning establishing a mission-focused restrictions are lifted. Laughter Associate priest, Rev. team. “In many parishes, it excitement and creativity. to do ourselves (current Yoga with a trained instructor, We are so fired-up to share Catherine Robar helped kick- parishioners) and we need could be a great benefit to is another popular session held start it when she joined the have a group to help raise our love of God and all God’s to become knowledgeable online weekly. children with the world.”

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Inviting Donations for from parishes, Parish Diocesan Bishop on If you’d prefer to make Vestments Fund. You will Episcopal Vestments: groups and organizations, November 30th, we’d like a donation directly to be issued a charitable and individuals to offset to do the same. the Diocese or through receipt by the Diocese. Becoming a Bishop can the costs of the special your Parish, please send Thank you for your be expensive! In the past, vestments and other To make a donation, click your cheque payable to: support. when we’ve elected a items that are required. on the DONATE tab from Diocese of NS and PEI new Bishop, the Diocese As we prepare for the any page of the Diocesan and note in the memo line has invited donations consecration of our new website, or click here. that it’s for the Episcopal THE DIOCESAN TIMES - JANUARY 2021 PAGE 7 Two taboo subjects.... Creating a welcoming atmosphere

this welcoming way. This toolkit is for all members complete part Sometimes we do not see of every congregation, not just of our church a need staring us right in those with a Mothers’ Union. community the face. After the 2019 If you wish to welcome parents and that Fall Mothers’ Union Rally, and their children into your includes the branch at St John the church then this article is for feeling Evangelist, Middle Sackville, you. comfortable in thinking of ways to Becoming a Breastfeeding if they wish support young people in their Friendly Church is not as to breastfeed neighbourhood, realized simple as placing a rocking their children. that there was something chair at the back of the church As we enter 2021, now is an they could do right in their but requires each congregation excellent time to establish 0717 to obtain your In- own church hall, something to follow specific steps to your church’s breastfeeding ternational Breastfeeding By Mary Stone so simple and yet never ensure that your church policy and to create a warm symbol and icon of Mary addressed. They decided to is obviously and TRULY welcome to those in your feeding Jesus. Submit a Two subjects that are provide free sanitary products. breastfeeding friendly, not just surrounding community who copy of your signed policy. so natural and essential They raised funds to purchase to pay lip service to the idea have, might have , or may be 8. create the necessary space to humans are often two clear wall pockets and but to actually engage in the having, a baby. Aim to have in your church and imple- embarrassing and difficult to have pledged to keep them process outlined in the toolkit your breastfeeding policy ment initial and ongoing talk about. The first of these filled. The Parish Council and to make a commitment completed by Mothering education for key positions is menstruation, a natural agreed to purchase and install to encourage breastfeeding in Sunday, March 14 or Mother’s (greeters, council mem- function of the female body. the proper receptacles for your church. Day, May 9. bers, etc.) Have you ever been in the disposal. Many churches 9. display the BFC logos It may sound a bit bizarre to 10. On Mothering Sunday or washrooms at IKEA? If you provide these products for some, to need a commitment Getting Started: have you may have noticed their congregations and many Mother’s Day, read your or policy around breastfeeding 1. establish who in your policy to the congregation, in the female washroom have not even thought about for your church, but to first- church will be responsible the availability of feminine it...which congregation are post it on your parish web- time unsure parents it would for reviewing and imple- site and Facebook page, products and diapers, free you? be reassuring to know that menting the BFCT. Two of charge! (Free diapers print it in your bulletin The second taboo subject is everyone welcomes them into heads are always better and celebrate! are also available in the breastfeeding, another very church and that you support than one. male washroom.) What natural function of the female and want to accommodate 2. download and print the message does this give to the For more information or body. them, if they so desire, to carry toolkit from the NSPEI concerns, please contact patrons of IKEA? – that they on this most natural of all Diocesan website recognize parenting as a family Is there a comfy rocking Rev. Mellanie Cohoon chair and a cozy blanket in motherly acts. 3. read the toolkit [email protected] or responsibility and that they are 4. establish your church’s willing to financially support your church somewhere? If Not all persons feel 902-644-2260 there is, then that is a sign comfortable with the idea breastfeeding policy as per that by providing at no cost the one in the toolkit Correction: The photo of the baby/childcare essentials. that you are on your way to of mother’s breastfeeding in becoming a Breastfeeding church or any other public 5. consider and address any poppy banner making from We also can be sure that obstacles to enacting the girls and women appreciate Friendly Church. As Mothers’ space. We need to help them the December issue is NOT Union, an organization that understand that breastfeeding policy of residents at the Oakwood the availability of pads and 6. present your Breastfeeding tampons at no cost to them. promotes healthy families is a Human Right, that Terrace Nursing Home. It is and encourages parents to businesses are mandated Policy to the Parish Coun- of Mothers’ Union members The need for them is the same cil for approval and sign- as the need for toilet paper. develop the faith of their to welcome breastfeeeding at Church of the Holy Spirit children, supporting the new mothers in their communities; ing working on the poppy banner for The message to women and 7. contact offi ce@nspeidio- Breastfeeding Friendly Church churches are no different. We them. girls? IKEA wants them to be cese.ca or call 902-420- there and supports them in Toolkit (BFCT) is a perfect fit. want these families to be a Still bringing awareness... the 16 Days of Activism worked with the St. Margaret’s of Activism Against Gender Against Gender Based Bay Rails to Trails Association Based Violence. On December Violence (Nov 25 - Dec 6). and Silent Witness Nova 5th, 2020, the worldwide The family of Paula Gallant, Scotia on the placement and Mothers’ Union promoted a well-known mother and dedication of a vivid purple a Global Day of Action elementary school teacher in bench on the trail in Paula’s with an online protest and Timberlea, has participated memory. Purple is a symbol of awareness campaign entitled in this event to help raise courage, survival and honour, No More 1 in 3. Mothers’ awareness and to honour all and has come to symbolize Union as a leading women’s the women in Nova Scotia the fight to end violence organisation believe this to who have lost their lives to against women. This bench be unacceptable. For more Domestic Violence. Paula is part of the Silent Witness information please visit was killed by her husband Nova Scotia, Barb’s Bench https://www.mothersunion.org/ although there was no known Project. Communities are now We encourage everyone to Photo: Dedicated memorial bench to Paula Gallant history of violence or abuse able to place purple benches go visit Paula’s bench on Mill in her relationship but sadly featuring a plaque showing By Lynn Gallant- by her intimate partner. Rates Lake which is past the Bike and tragically, she is part of a emergency numbers to and Bean towards Head of St. Blackbu of gender-based violence were growing statistic. contact for people experience high in Canada before the Margaret’s Bay. We would like Due to COVID-19 and the domestic violence and the to thank the Parish of French Even though the 16 Days of pandemic but now thousands physical gathering restrictions, commemoration of Barbara Village, the St. Margaret’s Bay Activism Against Gender- of women, girls, and trans the outdoor vigil and bench Baillie and other domestic Rails to Trails, Silent Witness Based Violence is Over, and non-binary people face dedication, which was planned homicide victims. For more Nova Scotia, our community violence against women and a heightened risk of violence for December 5th, Paula’s information please go to: and family and friends who girls is not! at home with COVID-19 http://silentwitnessnovascotia. isolation measures. birthday, did not take place continue to keep Paula’s story According to The Canadian this past year. ca/about-barbs-bench/ and her voice active in our Women’s Foundation, For the past several years, the In their efforts to continue to There were still many fight to end violence against approximately every six days, Parish of French Village has raise awareness, Paula’s family events that took place women. a woman in Canada is killed held an outdoor vigil during virtually during the 16 Days THE DIOCESAN TIMES - JANUARY 2021 PAGE 8 It’s A New Day! Vital virtual visits about the unique approaches desperately craving deep For now we see to nurturing honest, trust- relational connections. If only a refl ection building and mutually this is an intimate pastoral rewarding interactions. As a visit or a support-type as in a mirror; host, you have to work extra group gathering, affi rm and then we shall see hard to ensure interactions remind folks of the need face to face. Now are meaningful and genuine. for confi dentiality. Give Here are some tips and permission to grow trust I know in part; suggested practices to apply within the group and model then I shall know to your next virtual visit or vulnerability by your own fully, even as I am gathering that can improve honest sharing. relating: fully known. Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn, Diocesan REINFORCE THE - 1 Corinthians 13:12 ENGAGE: Parish Vitality Coordinator GOOD STUFF: Intentionally draw people Treat these online visits Ask each participant what out of their shell/device and By Rev. Canon Lisa G. together like an in-person they gained from the virtual encourage them to share. Vaughn meeting. Always have your gathering that day. What Ask open-ended questions camera on as people need to are the blessings or helpful PHOTO: Virtual - Nicole Geri - and follow-up inquires. Unsplash.jpg Screens can be cold. They see you engage with them takeaways as you wrap up Many people are having https://unsplash.com/photos/ can also act as a window (audio alone is not ideal). the session? This draws out fewer deep conversations mmmyiQj8Yvg into deeper relational Ensure you are centered the graced moments and these days. Invite them connection and most in the digital screen, the reinforces that holy God to type comments in the details about their church importantly, with The Holy. camera is appropriately shows up even in digital affi liations, family context, Chat Box and deploy the positioned and there’s settings. Online meetings, worship etc., lest they get scared available reactions, like proper lighting. Prepare and other faith gatherings TANGLING WITH off . One idea is to share clapping hands, thumbs- in advance your materials, are here to stay for most TECHNOLOGY: a link to a simple Google up and Party Popper coff ee, etc., so you can be parishes. As a means of If your participants are Forms questionnaire. Ask (celebration). By engaging totally present to the others joining together, whether for new to online gatherings them if they have any your participants they will on screen. a one-on-one pastoral visit, sense they’ve become part or to your host platform, prayer requests, are in a congregational coff ee of a group who are having BODY LANGUAGE: off er them separate time need of a pastoral visit or hour, a council session, a shared experience. This is Make eye contact with to work out their glitches. have questions about your Bible study or children’s belonging to community. your guests and be very Help them get their camera congregation, etc. program, the Internet attentive to their words and operating and their audio Research about faith provides a convenient, REMINDER & behaviors. Watch your non- appropriately set. Suggest community integration over relatively low-cost and FOLLOW-UP verbal cues to ensure you they use Gallery view (or the past several decades COVID-safe way to MESSAGES: are not slouching or have Brady Bunch Grid) so as reveals that people show connect. Send an e-mail (and/or post your arms folded. Present to see all the group on their up at our worship and other Live streaming or hosting on Facebook) to remind yourself as one who is device. church gatherings for all your participants about an open and immersed in this kinds of reasons, but they a gathering on a real-time TIMING: video conference platform upcoming virtual gathering. relationship connection. stay and grow roots into the provides an environment Include a comment or two Even though many of us congregation because of one VOICE: to nurture relationships. about your interesting topic are still ‘staying the blazes thing – they are nurturing In these virtual spaces or an intriguing question. Monitor your voice and home’ during this pandemic, meaningful relationships participants can interact This helps build excitement remain within the range we all have time constraints with others. Virtual with one another and have and anticipation for this of your microphone. Can and other commitments. church gatherings are a a level of spontaneity. online group. A follow-up you be heard clearly? Be sure to say upfront great opportunity to grow (This is unlike prerecorded message may include a Participants staring at a how long your online live authentic faith community, videos.) Facebook Live, few summary notes about screen are looking for your session will be. Keep to but it does require Watch Parties, YouTube the session and the date positivity, passion and this agreed-upon time and intentionality and time. and time for the next one. enthusiasm in this online people will trust that for the Live, Zoom, Go-To-Meeting Rev. Canon Lisa G. Vaughn Building relationships in environment. Ensure your next session. The maximum or some other group hosting is the Diocesan Parish community these days tone, speed and vocal time for virtual gatherings is platform, invites participants Vitality Coordinator. For requires more frequent infl ections radiate care and typically 60 to 90 minutes. to experience people-to- more ideas to navigate personal connecting. Most compassion. A monotone, Shorter gatherings for 20 people gatherings and off ers pandemic restrictions, visit people are super busy mumbled delivery of or 30 minutes are highly an element of intimacy. the Diocesan COVID-19 and so a warm greeting your words will bore and appreciated too. Although there are obvious Resource pages – www. received between gatherings frustrate your participants. limitations with sound and FIRST CONTACT: nspeidiocese.ca. reinforces the sense of the viewer screen, these For additional articles, belonging. Communication STAY ON TOPIC: Always invite your fi rst- virtual visits can foster a inspiration and insights on amongst parishioners should If your online gathering time guests to share their feeling of warmth and a congregational vitality and enlist more personal words is a personal check-in time contact information so sense of the sacred in faith mission see the Facebook than business language. or for fun and socializing, you can keep in touch. At community. page “Parish Vitality Our messages need to then don’t allow ministry minimum get their name The challenge for lay Coordinator – Diocese refl ect the love of Christian business to creep in. Save and e-mail address. During and clergy people who are of NS & PEI”, and the community. church work for another their initial visit refrain from Anglican Net News, “Six- holding gatherings in this session. People are asking too many personal digital space is learning BE FULLY PRESENT: Minute Study”. THE DIOCESAN TIMES - JANUARY 2021 PAGE 9 Teach Us to Pray: “Pray as you can, not as you can’t” by heart, there can be times when another way of praying may help us to deepen our relationship with God. Lectio Divina (the prayerful reading of scripture) Visio Divina (praying with art, the use of images), ending the day well with the Examen, using a Labyrinth (a kind of walking meditation), journaling, the Ignatian exercises – all these are threads in the richly woven tapestry of our conversation Rev. Frances Drolet-Smith with God. Diocesan Representative, the Anglican Fellowship of The response to the first Prayer “Pray as you can” series led to a second and we are now meditation. The collection in the throes of planning for is full of practical advice the third. We’ve both been on prayer, virtues, vices, heartened – and humbled – friendships, and the spiritual by the participants’ desire to life, since used by Christians learn. in every walk of life and As a new year unfolds before across every generation. This us, a year still in the grip One of the things that this own holy habit of prayer. and so the first series of “Pray classic spiritual ‘how-to’ book of pandemic, perhaps now column has taught me is that In mid-March 2020, as we As You Can” was launched. demonstrates how every is a good time to consider people want to learn how were confronted by the impact The title “Pray as you can, person, regardless of their exploring new ways of prayer to pray. I sometimes receive of Covid-19 and the Church not as you can’t” comes from calling, can come closer to – not so much to replace emails – or even phone calls moved “on-line”, clergy and a quote attributed to St. God by simple acts of faithful what you are already doing, – from people who have read lay people alike began offering Francis de Sales (1565-1622), intention. but rather to enrich your something here, saying they not only worship services, a Bishop of Geneva in the The title seemed appropriate experience. A helpful tool want to know “more”, and but also study groups, book 17th century. He wrote the for what Heather and I hoped prepared by the Anglican after a conversation or a few clubs, coffee hours, choir celebrated “Introduction to to convey: that there are many Fellowship of Prayer is a emails back-and-forth, they practices, Sunday School, as the Devout Life”, a collection ways to “talk” to God and “Prayer Inventory”, a resource may begin to explore another well as Meditation and “how of some letters addressed that not everyone prays the aimed at helping us examine way to pray or they may ask for to pray” classes. My friend to “Philothea” (Lover of same way. As Anglicans, we’ve our current practice and more guidance. Heather Carter and I were God), believed to be his been blessed with the poetic determine if there are some The fact that people want invited by another friend in cousin, Marie de Charmoisy, language and rich imagery of ways in which we can stretch to learn how to pray is Good London, Ontario to an on- and to others to whom he the Book of Common Prayer. ourselves. You can access it, News for the Church! It is line “Quarantine Retreat”, offered spiritual direction. Those who have grown up and many other supports for also a challenge to us, not a weekly hour and a half He maintained that “Our in the tradition speak of the your prayer life online at http:// only those affiliated with the interactive prayer time – via relationship with God is prayers of the BCP (along with anglicanprayer.org/index.php/ Anglican Fellowship of Prayer, Zoom. When the four sessions rooted in prayer” and he gave the Psalms and Canticles) resources/ but to the whole Church, to concluded, we wondered instruction of a variety of as being “grafted in their May this year be blessed with be providing opportunities for if we could step out of our ways to communicate with bones”. And while we love springs of refreshment as we people to learn how to pray – technological comfort zone the Divine, including lectio the cadence of the language seek to draw closer to God and and to also be faithful in our and offer something similar, divina (spiritual reading) and and know many of the words to one another through prayer.

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THE ANGLICAN CHURCH WOMEN BOARD Invites yyou to a V rtual F th & Fellowship (live streamed and recorded) DoDo JusticeJustice . . . LLoveove KKindnessindness . . . WWalkalk hhumblyumbly withwith youryour GodGod SATURDAY,SATURDAY, FEBRUARYFEBRUARY 6THTH 20212021 10:30 am to 12 noon ST.ST. JOHN’SJOHN’S ANGLICANANGLICAN CHURCHCHURCH 2187 Larry Uteck Blvd., Bedford Alternative date, if needed, due to weather conditions will be Saturday, February 13th Participate (with limited in-person attendance) in a fellowship of worship and learning, featuring special guests

Register with Marjorie Davis (902-462-3637 or [email protected]) to receive further details THE DIOCESAN TIMES - JANUARY 2021 PAGE 11 To challenge all that limits Cynthia Pilichos, Anglican The Anglican Church parenting program in support for Anglican Church Women Church Women Board Women Board will be of the Board’s 2020/21 Annual in recent years, as it speaks relying on Tanya’s expertise Project, Supporting Parents: very directly to “swiftly The Anglican Church as they plan and execute a Stories That Matter, will changing days”, the need to Women Board has drawn virtual Faith & Fellowship, be Kathleen Snow from be “God’s co-creators in new inspiration from its special live streamed and recorded, Fredericton. Highlighting and wondrous ways”, that hymn, The Love of Jesus with the 2020/21 theme for the Mothers’ Union ministry women and men together Calls Us (CP 434), written by Anglican women from Micah will be Diocesan President, must “transform the earth, Canadian, Herbert O’Driscoll, 6:8 : Do justice . . . Love Mary Stone. The following [such] that love and peace formerly Dean of the Diocese kindness . . . Walk humbly day, Sunday, Feb. 7 is Women’s and justice may give God’s of New Westminster and with your God. The date is Ministry Sunday, and a major kingdom birth”. So, yes, we occasional visitor in our Feb. 6, 2021 (Feb. 13 in case focus of this Sunday in 2021 are challenged in many ways, Diocese. Each verse seems of inclement weather); 10:30 is the ministry of the Mothers’ but we will not allow these to have something to say – 12 noon at St. John’s, Union. For the Eucharist on challenges to limit us. Rather, that is particularly pertinent. and the Mothers’ Union on 2187 Larry Uteck Blvd., Feb. 6, the Celebrant will be with our love of Jesus as our While the opening two verses the diocesan website: www. Bedford. You are invited St. John’s Rector, Rev. Randy guide, we will see them as stand for all time, the first nspeidiocese.ca. Just click to participate on-line (with Townsend and the Homilist opportunities “to change, with its expression of joy and “Ministries” on the diocesan limited in person attendance) will be the Board Chaplain, to learn, to grow”, a great thanksgiving for unsolicited website and these webpages in a fellowship of worship Rev. Lori Ramsey. resolution to start the new blessings that are gratefully are there. and learning, featuring special The fi nal verse ofThe Love calendar year. received, as well as for the In speaking about the need guests. Presenting on the of Jesus Calls Us hymn has many generations of faithful to be adaptable to change, Mothers’ Union’s positive been a particular inspiration Christians, the second verse would anyone before the world continues with the sense changed in mid March 2020 of joy that Christians, as have imagined that a virtual “companions on a journey”, Electoral Synod for a new have in serving Christ. bishop would be needed, let The third verse asks us to alone a virtual Ordination ANGLICANNGLICAN CHURCHHURCH WOMENOMEN BOARDOARD follow Jesus such that we and Consecration of the DioceseDiDiococesese ofof NNovaovova ScSScotiacototiaia & PrincePririncnce EdwardEdEdwawardrd IIslandslslanand “challenge all that limits [in Bishop-elect? By the time you order] to change, to learn, are reading this, the virtual to grow”, knowing that to Consecration, with all Covid those seeking his kingdom, precautions in effect, will 2020-2021 PROJECT every door is opened. Well, have taken place (November certainly current times present 30, St. Andrew’s Day). The numerous challenges and organizers of this event did not SupportingSupporting PParents:arents: SStoriestories TThathat MatterMatter we are being asked not to be let challenges limit them, and limited by these challenges; there were many to address! Parents Supporting Parents Facilitator Training indeed, to see these challenges With our 17th Diocesan as opportunities for new Bishop, Rev. Sandra Fyfe, duly The National Project 20/21 has the learning and growth, relying installed in her Cathedra with on our faith in Jesus to open Anglican Church Women Diocesan Board the diocesan crozier in hand, partnering with the Canadian Mothers’ Union the door in order for change to we can look forward to an occur. in-person celebration at some to raise funds for the Mothers’ Union An immediate challenge point in the future. Supporting Parents Facilitator Training Course in the Council of the North. to the Anglican Church As Diocesan Mothers’ Women Board’s ability to Union President, Mary Stone, Participants from Indigenous Communities with a passion for children promote its Annual Project, noted in the Mothers’ Union and family, once trained as facilitators, Supporting Parents: Stories December 2020 column in The will return to their respective communities That Matter, has been the Diocesan Times, the challenge to engage their local parents in a free forum absence of in-person regional in organizing a virtual Rally that encourages the sharing of stories and experiences, gatherings of women at was to retain the essence of while building a lasting support network. which those attending would the Mothers’ Union Rallies have had the opportunity Supporting Parents: Stories That Matter – the praying, listening, is an equal opportunity initiative in the to be inspired by a dynamic learning, participating, and presentation regarding the enjoyment - but via an online Council of the North. value of the Project. To meet platform! Lots of factors Your support is welcome! this challenge, we are very ensured a successful outcome appreciative that a short of the Rally with its theme, Please make cheques payable to Anglican Church Women Board, Annual Project noted in presentation available at the Hope & Confi dence, not the memo line. Mail to: Mothers’ Union Rally on least being the technology Nov. 7 by Positive Parenting Marjorie Davis, Treasurer guidance and support of Anglican Church Women Board Program Coordinator, Maxine Tanya Moxley, who, as Mary 204 – 111 Pebblecreek Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2W 0L1 Simpkin, is now available has noted, “makes all things The board will be accepting donations for this project until April 2021. on both the webpages of the technical seem easy”. Anglican Church Women

Hope Bears are reading AFC books. books You can order books through the AFC Store.

anglicanfoundation.org/store PAGE 12 JANUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES This pandemic affects every one of us in some way or another

by Deacon Heather Shelters and Family Centers I would like to point out is, MacEachern see the numbers each time while this seems, and is, a As I write this, I, and I we help in these ministries. huge mountain to overcome, suspect many others are We do not have to go to a it is a mountain we have help preparing for Christmas. In soup kitchen , food bank or with. Each time we prepare a the HRM we are one week anywhere enclosed to realize meal for a soup kitchen, each into our second COVID-19 this; we just have to walk time we put a can of soup in lockdown. There are down the street or drive the food basket, each time many questions as to what though an intersection! we take a minute and buy a Christmas will look like this The number of people who coffee for someone around us, year; will we be able to get are homeless in Halifax has we are helping. It may seem together with family and more than doubled in the last like very little, but as my friends? Will there be in- year and COVID-19 is only mother always said,” every person church services? Will part of the problem. How can little bit helps”. I be able to shop for a few View from the Deacon’s Bench you not have food issues if We are called to see Jesus gifts? Well, by the time you you do not have a roof over in everyone we meet and He read this, all those questions your head to prepare it? is the light at the end of this importantly, the faces that food insecurity, which they will be answered as it is now We are facing a global tunnel we are in; indeed, He January and that part of we see all around us, moving define as inadequate or walks with each of us every the ‘faceless impersonal insecure access to food due health crisis unlike any in 75 the journey is complete, for years according to the United step of the way. better or for worse. numbers, to actual people; to financial constraints. In men, women and children, is the first two months of the Nations COVID 19 response. As Rev. Dr. Joanne Mercer What will not be complete more than heartbreaking, it global outbreak the CFCC But it is much more that a mention in her homily is the serious crisis in is a sin against our Lord! said that number had grown health crisis, it is a human, (at the Ordination and Canada, indeed worldwide, by 39 percent, meaning food economic and social crisis. Consecration of Rev. Sandra that impacts our brothers and “One in seven Canadians This pandemic is affecting Fyfe as our Bishop) it was are experiencing food insecurity affected one in sisters physically, mentally, seven people, particularly each and every one of us in Andrew’s faith that brought and socially. A month ago, insecurity during the some way or another. the boy to Jesus with the pandemic according to a those in low-income Deacon Ray preached a communities.” I am not trying to send you fi sh and bread to feed the sermon in the Cathedral new report that examined fi ve thousand. (John 6:1- the impact food insecurity It is hard to believe there are into a total dark depression, giving some statistics around especially during this time 13) Shouldn’t we have as food insecurity, mental and has on people’s lives. The hungry children in Canada, much faith that with Jesus report by the non-profit but I can assure you, it is of stress of not knowing how physical health issues and long this pandemic will last. guiding us we too, can make how they negatively impact Community Food Centers sad but true. Food insecurity a difference if we try? Canada (CFCC) stated affects 1.15 million children I am not trying to drown you our neighbors and likely, in statistics (there are plenty The question is: Are we many who may be reading that before the pandemic –one in six- in Canada. an estimated 4.5 million Those of us who minister in more on the Government willing to get past our own this article. The numbers and NGO web sites). What needs to try? are heartbreaking; but more Canadians experienced Soup Kitchens, Food Banks,

Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: January 2021

JANUARY 3 JANUARY 17 St. Paul’s, Charlottetown, Prince Edward As we come to the first Sunday of the New Year, Milton and Rustico, Prince Edward Island Island we say special prayers for our Bishops and Rev. Ralph Moore and Bonnie Archdeacon John Clarke and Teresa their families of our Diocese: St. John the Evangelist, Milton Rev. Jay Macdonald, Associate Parish Priest, and Carol For Retired Archbishop Ron, and Marianne Crapaud, Prince Edward Island For Retired Archbishop Arthur, and Elizabeth Rev. Margaret Collins, On Leave JANUARY 31 For Retired Bishop Sue, and Bruce Rev. Cathy Pharo, Priest-in-Charge St. John the Evangelist, Crapaud St. Peter’s Cathedral, Charlottetown, Prince PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND REGION Edward Island New London, Prince Edward Island Rev. David Garrett JANUARY 10 Rev. Margaret Fagan and Darroch Rev. Ralph Moore and Bonnie St. Mark’s, Kensington St. George’s, Montague Alberton, Prince Edward Island St. Stephen’s, Burlington St. Peter’s, Alberton St. Thomas’, Spring Brook St. Mary and St. John, Prince Edward Island St. Luke’s, O’Leary St. Elizabeth’s, Springfield Rev. Colin Nicolle and Shannon Christ Church, Kildare Capes St. Mary’s, Summerside Holy Trinity, Alma JANUARY 24 St. John’s, St. Eleanor’s Christ Church, Cherry Valley, Prince Port Hill, Prince Edward Island Edward Island Rev. Ann Bush Rev. Dr. G. Wayne Short, Priest-in-Charge, and Rev. Gordon Bush, Deacon Sheila St. James’, Port Hill St. John’s, Ellerslie St. Peter’s, Foxley River