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promoters. She delights in St. John’s raising up new musicians, exploring new venues, celebrates and extending the love of music with all ages - Cookie its very Concerts, for example, invite our youngest friends to become own music lovers (with cookies!) In the church we benefit from Member of a wide variety of performances, concerts, Lenten and Advent the Order ‘Music and Meditations’, and doesn’t shy away from musical of Canada requests at social events! The scope of her offerings is as Submitted by Laura Marie broad as the smile she always Piotrowitz wears. Barbara is truly a gift to the church, and to music in A mong the saints of the Nova Scotia and beyond. church are the musicians, and especially during this This is why Barbara was challenging COVID time perhaps the only person without group singing, we are surprised when she was all delighting to receive the appointed as a Member of ministry of music in different the Order of Canada “for her ways. contributions to the musical landscape of Nova Scotia, At St. John’s in Lunenburg, notably through her promotion this music ministry has been of numerous concert series a tremendous gift by Organist across the province.” (from and Music Director Barbara the website of the Governor Photo: Organist and Music Director Barbara Butler is recent member of the Order of Canada. Butler. With tremendous General of Canada). flexibility and a love for God, she has been adapting how we This prestigious meritorious can receive the gift of music award was announced at the in the midst of our worship. end of December, and when No challenge has been too big: travel is safe, Barbara will from learning new technology formally receive the award at during lockdown, to creatively a ceremony in Ottawa. Until involving as much music for that time, however, we at St. worship as we can, to exploring John’s reached out with joy safe ways to incorporate other to congratulate “our” Barbara musicians. It is because of during a Sunday service. Her Barbara’s love for God and for smile beamed brighter than the music that St. John’s is known lights; and she has shared that for being a musical home on she hasn’t stopped smiling. the South Shore. Truly, she is an inspiration to Of course, Barbara is well- us all, as she models a powerful known for her music all over faith and Christian lifestyle, Nova Scotia - sharing her embracing the invitation passion for music with as many of 1 Thessalonians 5.11 to Nova Scotians as possible, “encourage one another and through Musique Royale and build up each other, as indeed St. Cecilia Concert Series, you are doing.” Many of our parishes are travelling to places often Congratulations Barbara! struggling to pay their bills overlooked by other music during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please remember to send in your contributions, even if buildings are temporarily closed. Thank you!

Why is the SS Atlantic in The Diocesan Times? See page 6. PAGE 2 FEBRUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES COLUMNIST And so, it continues And so, it continues! The set up some sort of computer In the middle of all of this world is in the midst of this gizmo that he understands ,we have a new Bishop! Jason VOLUME 76 NUMBER 2 pandemic and well into the and sends out the service to did his best to get the service second wave, if not the third any who can access it via out to any who wished to PAUL SHERWOOD wave; and life plods on here in Face book or YouTube . It is witness it. I know my Orin Editor The Bog. a complete mystery to most and I watched it . How strange We got through a very of us, but we appreciate his , there was no one there to Also on the web: www.nspeidiocese.ca different Christmas season at efforts and I have heard that welcome our new bishop folks are watching and singing except for 5 other clergy St. Bart’s. There were some Letters & News Items: decorations up around the along with the few hymns we ,including our three retired Paul Sherwood, Editor church and Lord knows there hear. bishops who laid their hands PO Box 8882, was lots of special effects in Jason seems busier than ever on Sandra’s head and made Halifax, NS B3K 5M5 her our new Diocesan Bishop. [email protected] the churchyard! We saw with all of the special tasks 902.477.3040 the new year in with silence this isolation has sent our She will be a part of our except for the church bell’s way. People still sicken, some prayers as she takes on her new Advertising: role in our lives as Anglicans . Angela Rush sounding out the old year ST. B ART’S BY THE BOG leave this world and Jason and hailing in the new one tries to be there for them and We will continue to make [email protected] 905.630.0390 thanks to Benny Smith who is Sarah Neish their families at such times. our way up the hill to the (Burlington, ON) carrying on the tradition Rev. Funerals are a different thing front door of St. Bart’s .every Billie started years ago. now. No more being with Sunday. We will continue Published monthly except in July the bereaved family, no more to wear our masks and sing I think ,from what I can missed Christmas Eve at St. and August by The Diocesan Times gather , most folks spent shared casseroles . No more hymns softly. We will continue Publishing Company. Bart’s . Even though church comforting hugs ,no more to receive the consecrated Christmas day on the phone attendance has disappeared Online editions available via the visitation or packed church bread from the silver sugar diocesan website: or in front of a computer from their weekly lives, these screen ‘doing their best to at the final service. Now we tongs the Jason has mastered. www.nspeidiocese.ca special times with shared have ‘funeral by invitation We will pray for our new connect with loved ones on worship still remain important the special day. I know we only’ both inside the church Bishop and for our world . We .. And to that we say “Thank and at the grave. The time for will await the arrival of the had some lovely calls from our God”. Printed by and mailed from: children and grandchildren. saying special words of comfort magic of a vaccine and the Webnews Printing Inc., It was not the same as sharing We continue to have short at a reception has gone and return to life as it should be North York, ON the festive table with them, services every Sunday. The we now rely more and more lived . same few people show up and on cards in the mail or phone Opinions expressed do not but we managed to connect We will keep you posted. necessarily reflect the views of the with everyone. All of the take their places ,well-spaced calls. It is such a strange time and wearing masks. Jason has in our lives. Aunt Madge editor, the management board of kids said how much they The Diocesan Times, the diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island or any representative thereof, except where expressly stated.

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Subscription rate for both The Diocesan Times and the Anglican Journal: $20 per year Single copies: $2 THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2021 PAGE 3 From the Inside Out We are fast approaching Ash Wednesday and the beginning of body. It’s been a helpful image for me ever since, and not one the season of Lent, one of my favourite seasons in the Church Ash Wednesday goes by that I don’t remember this yet again. year. Lent is a great time to push the reset button, to consider I’ve shared this story before while preparing to offer the where we may have veered off the path in following what we imposition of ashes at nursing homes and in my Parish church. know to be healthy life and spiritual disciplines, and to clear our There are always gasps and the odd “oh my” as people worry hearts and minds of the clutter that can accumulate and weigh if my son was okay (he was and is and the babysitter is still a us down. beloved part of our extended family). But then we talk about This year, I’m imagining that Ash Wednesday might look what it is that we need cleansing from in our lives; what different for us as we follow public health directives in our “toxins” might these ashes remove from us? For some of us, it’s respective provinces. Regardless of whether or how we might be resentment and old grudges that weigh us down as we carry them able to offer the imposition of ashes, the spiritual significance of with us wherever we go. For others, it’s the inability to accept this holy day is one that has been etched in my mind for many ourselves for who we are and who God has created us to be years now, mainly because of an incident involving my son that (this can be especially hard for those facing decreased mobility offered deeper insight and fresh understanding. or hearing or vision and increased dependence on others, or anyone who has been labeled as different). For others, it’s the Bishop Sandra Fyfe, Many years ago now, while he was out visiting with his babysitter one day, my son found one of those rectangular clinging to what was rather than what might be now; a love of nostalgia that threatens to keep us from enjoying or embracing Diocese of Nova Scotia and pillboxes marked with letters denoting each day of the week. He anything new (how can we if “what was” is always better than Prince Edward Island must have fiddled with the lids of each little box-within-a-box with those chubby toddler fingers until they were all open, and “what is?”). then he swallowed whatever pills were inside. No doubt they This year I know I won’t be celebrating Ash Wednesday in looked like candy to him, but they were, in familiar ways or in familiar places. Yet, no matter where I am, I fact, medicine. will still remember the power of ashes to transform us from the Once it became clear what had happened, inside out. You and I might not be able to receive the imposition our son was rushed to the local hospital of ashes physically, but we can still imagine the sign of the cross What it is where they took stock of the medications being made on our foreheads, with perhaps a few loose ashes he had consumed, did bloodwork and then fluttering down our faces or sticking to our glasses. We can still that we need gave him a charcoal drink. They explained ask God to create in us new and contrite hearts, and to renew a that the charcoal would draw out the right spirit within us. We can still ask ourselves what we’d like chemicals and cleanse the body of the those ashes on our foreheads to remove from us, and use the rest cleansing from toxins in the medications. The toxins bind of the season of Lent to seek God’s guidance and grace to begin to the charcoal, they told me, and, in time, anew. in our lives? carry them out of the body. I stayed with Wherever you are as this new season begins, may Lent be for my son in the hospital overnight as he was you a time of new possibilities and fresh hope. What “toxins” subjected to yet more bloodwork and yet Peace and blessings, more charcoal. While I was grateful for the might these excellent care he received, I was, as they +Sandra say in Newfoundland, a bit “rattled.” NOTICE: An article submitted to The Diocesan Times via the ashes remove The next time I celebrated Ash Episcopal Search Committee for publication breached confidence Wednesday in my parish I did so with a and contained false information. Information in the profile of from us? completely different level of understanding. one candidate, the Rev. Elliott Siteman, contained details about a I had long known the connection between pastoral relationship with a parishioner that allowed the individual ashes and human frailty. There are words to be identified and included false information about a medical said during funerals and graveside services diagnosis. We recognize the harm caused to this individual by that remind us of that. I also knew publishing this article and sincerely apologize. The Diocesan Times that ashes were a biblical sign of repentance and remorse. I Management Board will review the process around publishing remembered stories of people clothing themselves in sackcloth submitted articles and communicate recommendations with and ashes. But until this incident early in my son’s life, I didn’t Diocesan Council. The Diocesan Times Management Board will do all that we can to prevent future occurrences like this. know the power of ashes to remove what is toxic and cleanse the

February is an exciting month!

Who can fail to appreciate abuse of human rights. While 39% of graduates in STEM Christ, regardless of gender. the gift of Feb 15: Candy-On- this practice tends to have programs, and only 23% Let’s spend every day finding Sale day! higher incidence of practice in of those working in these ways to remove stereotypes, There are a few other United certain geographical regions, industries. In order to meet lift one another up in our Nations “international” dates it is a global problem, and has the Sustainable Development God-given gifts and skills, worth noting, however, such as been reported within Canada. Goals, the UN is working to and delight in the beauty of World Cancer Day (Feb 4) or Pray God we heed the advice address perceived bias that equality in diversity that God World Radio Day (Feb 13). In of UNICEF, UN Population women and girls should avoid has given to us all! the ongoing journey towards Fund, and the WHO, and these fields by increasing gender equality, February offers through education eradicate visibility, for example by us a few options to consider. this practice within our encouraging television and lifetime. film to demonstrate equality Feb 6 is the International Feb 11 is another Day (currently in these roles only Day of Zero Tolerance for 12% are women). The 2016 REV LAURA MARIE PIOTROWICZ highlight equality, as it is Female Genital Mutilation. film “Hidden Figures” is a RECTOR, S T. J OHN’S, L UNENBURG the International Day of FGM is a distressing practice great starting place! which some 3 million girls Women and Girls in Science. endure each year, where for Globally, women make up While some days are non-medical reasons their approximately 30% of those highlighted to raise attention external genitalia is partially studying and working in to specific concerns and or totally removed. These STEM-related fields (Science, opportunities to move closer practices lead to serious health Technology, Engineering, to equality, every day is a complications (even death), and Mathematics). In day to celebrate our full significant indignity, and is an Canada, women represent personhood in the body of PAGE 4 FEBRUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES NEWS FROM AWAY

Dear diocese, If Candlemass day be wet and all creation is at risk. foul. From the day we moved Feb 2 As we refl ect this from daylight savings The half o’ winter gane at Yule Candlemas on Christ, the to standard time, I have light of our souls, may been anxiously waiting each one of us be a shining for the days to get longer Not quite as silly as it example of God’s love, and brighter. Candlemas might seem if you consider lighting the way, infl uencing is a milestone in the time that in 2021, tradition others, part of the climate of waiting for growing Candlemas dictates that the long crisis solution, caring for all light, longer days because range forecast depends on of God’s creation. May we February 2, is also known in the temple, AKA light in the form of a baby the whim of a groundhog. never lose sight of God’s Groundhog Day. Over the Candlemas. presented in the temple that But the other day, I heard light of salvation and peace hump day. The day that On that day, we reflect on day. And their encounter on the radio that people inspiring us to carry out our falls dead center, between with him lit up their lives. who take a more scientifi c commitment to healing in a Winter Solstice and Spring the experience of Simeon and Anna in the story of Extraordinary times then approach than predicting hurting world. Equinox. Part of the natural and extraordinary times the weather by watching a rhythm of the earth as the the Presentation of the May the light of Christ Lord. now. groundhog have concluded grow in us and may Christ’s earth tilts on its axis and we from their studies that continue to circle the sun. There seemed to be Centuries ago, Candlemas light continue to radiate was also when people we now have fewer white from each one of us. As we celebrate sunlight nothing extraordinary Christmases, short winters, about that day in that place, predicted the long-range growing noticeably longer weather forecast: less snow because the planet each day, Christians also at that time. Or so most is warming at a dangerous Blessings from the outer take time to celebrate the people thought. But people rate. world, of deep faith, Simeon and growing light of Christ If Candlemass day be dry In the beginning our Rev. Marian Lucas-Jefferies in our lives, marked by Anna knew better. Those and fair, two very special people loving God created the the celebration of The The half o’ winter to come earth, an Eden, for us. Now Presentation of our Lord had been waiting for the and mair

The purse Queen Elizabeth II is a the one thing that can say, it has been a projection at us side step psychological first class, wonderful human “I am like you, and I relate all. projection. It can help being, and a Jesus follower. to you. I am human. Let this The one thing that would us to adapt to our mood Many would agree with be our commonality.” be most helpful to carry, positively, and to create this assessment. Apart from The rest of us several in order for us to achieve within us a response that media reports, and various billion humans carry personal growth and to gain offers the opposite to the books written about her things, physical, and closer trusted relationships anger and rudeness that we don’t really know her. internal emotional things, could be, daily self sometimes arises when we Reports and books are often daily, minute by minute. awareness, and with that are bumped emotionally. slanted to some degree by Internally it may be the personal responsibility for I am sure Jesus felt the one writing the account. latest slight, a bad memory actions. That commonality emotional turmoil. But we What we do know is found from yesterday, a jingle could create environments have no record of him ever in her Christmas addresses going around in our head, of peace and stability projecting his anger on which are personally a chronic pain, a thing wherever we are, at home, another. He was self aware. spiritual and Christ left undone, work stress, on the job, at leisure. With centered. Everyone seems to The why of the inner an emotional pain. We self awareness comes the turmoil can be journaled. get better than the last one. all, including the Queen, ability to know oneself But there is one thing about Bryan Hagerman HAGERMAN Or speaking with a trusted carry within us some form personally in an intimate friend might help. Prayer her that many will always of emotional distress. and existential emotional know, have observed. That probably hands them off is a wonderful way of That distress may affect way. seeking an inner resolve as one thing, and some thing to someone else. There us unconsciously or even that reminds me of my own are other people who carry When we know our moods, we take every concern to consciously. When it affects and are aware of our current God our Heavenly Father. dear Mom, is that Queen all sorts of other things us, it most usually affects Elizabeth in her public for the Queen. But, not inner turmoil, we then This is what Jesus did. others. The response to that can adjust all responses in The promises of scripture forays always carries a purse. the purse. So, for me, the pain may be a psychological Remember, this is a person purse symbolizes something relationship to the various affirm a God who listens, is projection upon another, others we connect with concerned and cares about who and again, always has important regarding her someone close to us that people doing things for majesty, something that on a daily basis. A buffer any inner turmoil we feel we love and care for. It is developed. Yes, we are and face. her, and has had her whole she can do, something will show itself in a form of life. That’s part pf being that allows her, her irritable. A specific stress John 14:27 “Peace I leave anger, irritable responses, has created this feeling. Queen, and it’s not a lazy independence. impatience, curtness, blame, with you; my peace I give characteristic. It may be so bad that you you. I do not give to you as Something where she is perhaps a physical response. just want to strike out at the world gives. Do not let When you watch her at saying even if covertly, I am When we psychologically whatever or whoever passes your hearts be troubled and functions people are there a human like you. Let the project, we offload our pain in front of you. It could the do not be afraid.” to take the flowers others purse characterize this. It is upon an innocent other, person at the local coffee have given her. She has the one symbol which says who has done nothing to drive in, or someone driving Dr. Bryan Hagerman learned to deftly hand off she can do something for deserve it. Later we realize slowly in front of you. those and other gifts to a herself, even if not carrying our mistake and apologize, St Paul’s Outreach Lady in Waiting who most flowers, or an umbrella. It is or we don’t even know that Self awareness and Counsellor emotional control can help www .bryanhagerman.ca THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2021 PAGE 5 Survive, thrive, lead: the way of resonant leadership

“Becoming a resonant  Am I inspirational? leader does not happen and by accident. . Great leadership comes as a result  Do I create an overall of hard work… It requires positive emotional tone discovering our own noble that is characterized by purpose, living it every day, hope? and being fully aware of and ourselves and other people  Am I in touch with as human beings — mind, others? Do I know what body, heart, and spirit…. is in others hearts and Great leaders are resonant minds? Do I experience within themselves and and demonstrate attuned to others…” compassion? According to Boyatzis and and McKee there is one  Am I mindful — element that separates the authentic and in tune great leaders from the bad with myself, other and ones: Great leaders TRULY the environment? CARE about ALL people, about their well-being, safety and dignity. One thing in this life is Photo Credit: Reuben Juarez, Unsplash certain: While most of us do not have the position By Cathy Lee Cunningham, what will happen as I write THE CHALLENGE: IT or power to control the Rector, Church of the this, when you read this, ALL STARTS WITH outcome global events, Good Shepherd, Beaver history will have been YOU we do have the power to Bank written. I wonder now, what At this time in the Church transform our own thoughts, will our leaders do with year we hear once again the choices, and behaviors, no “Resonant leaders live their their words to either amplify invitation to “observe a holy matter how much stress values, and they truly care or avert this growing crisis Lent”: we’re under or how dark about people. They create a in the United States that the challenge we’re facing sense of hope about the future will — in one way or “by self-examination, seems. and excitement about the another— impact all of us penitence, prayer, fasting and present, for themselves and for on earth? almsgiving, and by reading others.” What will we do with this and meditating on the Word of power of self-agency we’ve Leaders become leaders - Richard Boyatzis and God.” been given by our God of because the group of Annie McKee, Resonant love? What kind of leader people they lead give them Book of Alternative Leadership, p.202 will we be for Jesus? permission to do so. They Services, p. 282 Rev. Cathy Lee gain the privilege and power In the March Issue, I’ll Cunningham of leadership because it is Boyatis and McKee write I write this article in the words that speak into this continue my exploration of immediate days following bestowed on them by their Resonant Leadership with followers — because their sacred Lenten time that we the attempted coup inside deeply resonated with them are given: a piece on the Cycle of the United States Capitol and their view of the world message resonates deep in Sacrifice and Renewal — in Washington, D.C. on and their neighbour, at the the souls of others. “It all starts with you. themes of Holy Week and Easter. January 6th, 2021, the Feast level of their soul. That’s why resonance Any kind of personal of the Epiphany. Threats is so powerful. It works transformation that of further violence and They feel hard-done- ultimately results in you by and helpless and they through all of our senses; insurrection loom large the message arrives (in becoming a more resonant across the U.S. prior to the believe that their rage, and leader — and sustaining guns, and rifles, and knives, the form of words, music, inauguration of Joe Biden visuals, smells) and we that success — begins with and Kamala Harris. and pipe bombs and zip ties some kind of challenge to will bring them what they either welcome or reject it ______based on how we process your mindfulness and a Most of these hope for — an overthrow of growing awareness of your insurrectionists would call the U.S. government. it through our beliefs, our worldview, what it makes us passion, beliefs, duties, and If you need any help, themselves Christians, your true calling. Maybe followers and lovers of To see our closest think, and ultimately, how assistance or resource neighbour on the brink of it makes us FEEL. this realization is a wake- suggestions to move Jesus. Indeed, their warped up call — one that will interpretation of the civil war, at the hands of through this time of white supremacists chanting start you on the path of pandemic, contact me teachings of the Bible is intentional change.” p. 204 what motivates so many of “hang Mike Pence” and directly at cathylee@ “back to 1776” is a truly CARING: THE TRUE cathyleecunningham. them. MARK OF RESONANT How do you know if you’re terrifying prospect. a resonant leader? com and fi nd me They “live their values” LEADERSHIP on social media @ and “create a sense of hope In their book, Resonant Boyatzis and McKee vocapeace. and excitement about the Leadership, Richard offer these questions for present, for themselves RESONANCE: A Boyatzis and Annie McKee reflection, and I leave them and for others”. They are POWER FOR GOOD explore the reality of the with you to add you your following their leader — AND FOR EVIL “inevitable power stress of Lenten journey toolkit for Donald Trump — whose Although I don’t know the leadership role”: self-examination: words and actions have PAGE 6 FEBRUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES The story of

Reverend William Ancient British navy. As a layman left with next to nothing he had ministered to the for themselves. Eventually, seafarers in Halifax. Noticed thanks to Ancient’s efforts by the Church, he was in speaking up for them, ordained a Deacon and the residents were given sent to serve the mission compensation. in Terence Bay. Around 2 st As for him, he was P.M. on April 1 Ancient ordained to the priesthood risked his life going out to and moved to Trinity the ship to rescue two men Church in Halifax. He who were up in the rigging served several parishes prior and unable to get down. to his death at age 74 in The fisherman had not yet 1908. been able to reach them because of the high tide. Why his grave is currently As the tide began to fall unmarked is not known. again, Ancient’s naval skills At the time of Ancient’s and daring enabled him to death, Bishop Clarendon get aboard and guide Chief Lamb Worrell stated: “On Officer John Firth to safety. shipboard, in parish life The other young man had, and in the Synod office his Photo: Reverend William Ancient conducting service at the mass burial site in 1873. just before, as the boat first sense of duty was plainly reached the ship, fallen into marked and whatever he did Submitted by Margaret was on its way to New York location on the ship, all the water close enough to was done to the best of his Sagar, resident of with nearly a thousand the women and children, be pulled out and taken to ability and in singleness of Terence Bay and a people on board, the except one, and nearly shore. purpose.” Director of SS ATLANTIC majority being immigrants all the married men were Ancient was lauded around The SS Atlantic Heritage Heritage Park Society seeking a more prosperous drowned. The majority of the world for his incredible Park Society is delighted at life in North America. the survivors were single courage, seamanship this initiative to recognize Does the name William Having endured rough seas men and crewmembers. and endurance, and was this clergyman who played Ancient mean anything recognized with several such a vital role in the to you? Probably not, awards. The engraving on a story of the SS Atlantic. unless you have lived So, what was gold watch presented to him “This is important work around Terence Bay, Lower by the federal government that Frank Jastrzembski Prospect or Prospect, or speaks of the “...gallant has undertaken, and we’re worshipped at St Paul’s William Ancient’s and humane conduct he privileged to help out in church in Terence Bay. displayed in rescuing at a small way,” said Society Who was he? He was one of imminent peril to his own President John Corbett. the heroes in the rescue of role and who life, the life of the Chief Mr. Jastrzembski has survivors from the wreck of st Officer of the ill-fated launched a GoFundMe site the SS Atlantic on April 1 , steamship Atlantic...” at https://gf.me/u/y9r2qs. If 1873. Reverend Ancient exactly was he? In addition to the you would like to contribute was buried in 1908 in the to the recognition of this cemetery of St. John’s, spectacular rescue, Ancient saw to it that the many courageous priest of this Fairview but at present diocese, you can make a there is nothing to mark his victims whose religious affiliation could not be donation there. You can grave. Soon, his heroism and head winds for days Fortunately, this was not learn more details of the SS will be recognized again of its journey across the a deserted shore: the little confirmed received a dignified burial, while Atlantic story, the amazing with a proper headstone, Atlantic from Liverpool, fishing villages were close deeds of the community thanks to the Facebook the Captain had decided by. Flares and noise awoke government officials were dithering about what to residents and William postings of the SS Atlantic there might not be enough the closest resident and Ancient by going to the Heritage Park Society. The coal aboard to fire the steam the rescue began. Heroic do with all the bodies. He thus became famous for his Society’s web site www. story about his courage engines for the remainder of men took to their boats and ssatlantic.com and its caught the attention of the crossing to New York. began pulling survivors out selfless attention to duty. He oversaw the burial with Facebook page. Although Frank Jastrzembski in the Therefore, he decided to of the frigid and dangerous not as well known a story USA, who has an interest in head for Halifax to take on sea. Once back on land, Christian rites of 277 of the victims in a mass grave as it ought to be, it is a seeing that graves of heroes more coal. the women saw to their wonderful example of are properly marked. He has wounds, and did their best on land along the shore of Sadly, there were Terence Bay near St. Paul’s bravery and kind hospitality even traced Ancient’s living navigational errors and the to warm them up and feed extended to total strangers descendants and has their them, comforting them after Church. Another 240 or ship was pulled westwards so were buried in the Star in urgent need. permission to place a new by the strong currents. The their traumatic experience. headstone. There were very few houses of the Sea Roman Catholic Put a visit to the lookouts did not see the cemetery. Ancient also went Interpretation Centre on Why is Ancient a hero? Sambro light, which would in these villages, but they managed to provide food to bat for the people of the your list of things to do next To begin at the beginning, guide them into Halifax. villages who had given their summer and at any time at 3:15 A.M. that fateful The helmsman was unaware and shelter for close to 420 survivors. all to care for the survivors walk along the beautiful day, the relatively new of being off course and close over a period of more than seashore in the Heritage steamship of the White Star to the shore and so the ship So, what was William 24 hours. At the end of Park to the site where the Line struck a rock and sank struck the rock at full speed. Ancient’s role and who the winter, these poor and Reverend Ancient laid 277 off Meagher’s Island close to Almost all the passengers exactly was he? Born in isolated communities were victims to rest. Lower Prospect and across were in their berths below England in 1836, he was low on supplies and were the bay from Prospect. It deck, and because of their a ten-year veteran of the THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2021 PAGE 7 Love of creation and ecological grief - a reflection When I committed to write The empty space, consider it Network (The DEN). Grassroots Grandmothers, reflections in this series. this article, Paul Sherwood, a frame, is a picture of what At the beginning of our Ben from the Ecology The Environment Network the Editor of the Diocesan exists now and what will exist Covid shut-down, we started Action Center. On several (DEN) was established in the Times, asked me to send an in the future. holding DEN Thursday occasions - because many of spring of 2012 and has grown illustration to complement Think of a favourite place Gatherings. These weekly us are gardeners - we talked this past eight years to include the text. Deciding what was in nature; let yourself see gatherings are time for prayer about gardening - community approximately 480 Anglicans the ‘perfect’ picture proved to this place in your mind - see and education on local gardens, chinch gardens, home and others, mostly Anglican, be extremely difficult. Upon it, smell it, hear it, feel it. environmental issues. Equally gardens - to feed our bodies mostly in Nova Scotia but from reflection I realized that I do Then, allow yourself to think important is the opportunity and minds and souls. And we a number of other dioceses in not know what the world will of it gone. How do you feel?. to grow as a community. spoke about ecological grief. Canada and some from other look like at the end of 2021. Finally, allow yourself to We began in March 2020 More and more groups are parts of the world. We start 2021 in a time of visualize this place you love taking the time to look at Covid, climate change and sharing our love of God’s in ten years time, as beautiful creation. One book that ecological grief. Simply put, political and economic strife. as it is now, or maybe even ecological grief is the grief Please check out DEN: We start 2021 in a liminal we referred to on several better. that we feel because of what Website: https://www. state - an ‘in between’ time. occasions was the Centre is happening to our planet, nspeidiocese.ca/ministries/ Some of us are waiting to see In these few moments, for Public Justice (CPJ’s) or what has happened. And diocesan-environment- what will happen; some of you have had a personal publication ‘Living Ecological experience of love (of place), Justice’. when we feel grief and are network us are working towards what afraid of what will happen possibly of ecological grief Facebook: https:// we call a ‘better normal’. So CPJ is one of many (like in Covid times), we (over the loss of a special www.facebook.com/ instead of an illustration, I organizations and groups experience anticipatory grief. offer each of us empty space place) and finally a concrete that emphasize our need, as groups/101542159983749 illustration of what action can Ecological grief is sometimes which each of us will fill, one humans, to understand our You Tube Channel: https:// do. accompanied by angry or way or another. love of creation. For how will www.youtube.com/channel/ fury - now named Terrafurie. 2021 is a time of change. we save all of creation if we do UCXlyyJAFvPg-hj4H0- Sometimes ecological grief Do we wait to see what will not comprehend and act on XvYiQ?view_as=subscriber happen or do we take action our love of nature? develops into despair and Email: [email protected] to create a ‘better normal’? a state of being frozen and Respecting the range of unable to take any action. That is a choice each of us will interests among the members make. And sometimes this grief is of the network, we invited complicated by guilt - for Nancy Blair This reflection gives you guests who are involved what we have not done in Registered Counselling a starting understanding of in working to save God’s the past and/or what we are Therapist, Nova Scotia,One the motivation, our feelings Creation in various ways: not doing now. As a wise man of the Coordinators of the DEN. and a Parishioner at of love and grief, and the Kelly from the Watermark recently said to me, “never St. Paul’s, Halifax. motivation for action that Project, Nina and Helga from underestimate grief”. brings people to the Network the Healthy Forest Coalition, Stay turned for upcoming of the Diocesan Environment Elder Dorene from The

Remembering the life lived ANNOUNCEMENTS Faithful Servant stories At a recent meeting of The Diocesan Times Management Board, At a recent meeting of The Diocesan Times Rev Tory Bryne appointed Management Board, it was decided to make obituaries it was decided to ask for Faithful Servant stories to share in the priest-in-charge of the church newspaper. Readers are encouraged send in stories of available in the church newspaper. Readers are faithful servants in their parish by email to: encouraged to email in the obituary to: Parish of St. Peter’s Birch Cove, effective [email protected] [email protected] immediately. for print in the next available issue of The Diocesan Consider some of the characteristic traits of Faithfulness: Times. Some essential and traditional elements of an Rev Canon Dr. Stephen Commitment: an act of heart and mind, of dedicating one’s obituary are: self to something. In the biblical sense it is dedicating one’s Booth appointed priest- self to the Lord. • Announce the death in-charge of the Parish • Share their life story: of Chester, effective Love: to grip our hearts and minds to move us to stay our Date and place of birth, marriage, and death course. immediately. Hometown, places lived Longsuffering: to put up with for a long time. This shows in Schools attended, degrees earned dealing with challenging people and circumstances. Places of employment and positions held Patience: a calm temperament which bears evil without Military service and rank murmuring or discontent; the act or quality of waiting long Membership in organizations for justice; perseverance, consistency in labor; the quality Place of worship of bearing offenses and injuries without anger, revenge, or Hobbies or special interests retaliation. List family members Endurance: a continuing on under pain or distress without • Include funeral / memorial information yielding to the pressures. • Add charity information Steadfastness: having a fixed, established, constant, resolute • Select a photo constitution (what you’re made of); not fickle or wavering However, some of the most beautiful obituaries are ones that don’t follow the standard formula. Whatever The one quality helps to continue serving and living for the style of obituary you choose to write, include as many Lord, is the quality of faithfulness. So please recognize those faithful servants in your parish and share their story in The of these key obituary details as you can. Diocesan Times. PAGE 8 FEBRUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES

Photo: St. James Anglican Church, Port Dufferin, Halifax County, Nova Scotia.

Picturing Nova Scotia’s beautiful Anglican churches The story (below) tells of my stumble and step through years, the peace and photographing as many trees in beautiful settings personal retirement project many significant bumps in serenity for which I longed, active and deconsecrated have all found themselves and interest in photographing the road of life; marriage, materialized and I enjoyed Anglican Church structures at the end of my camera the many beautiful Anglican divorce, and a life-altering what were perhaps the best in Nova Scotia as I could lenses. Church buildings throughout move to Toronto, were but adult years of my life. find. Many of my church Nova Scotia. A second email a few of my challenges. A Four years ago, I retired I have since driven photographs have been will follow, which will include saving Grace in my life after 47 consecutive years my trusty vehicle many regularly shared on photographs which you may occurred when in 1988, I of work and chose to return thousands of kilometers personal and group social consider using to illustrate the discovered Metropolitan to my native Nova Scotia along roads adjacent to media pages; some have story. Community Church of where I quietly settled this province’s beautiful also appeared online in Toronto and chose it as my in Halifax. I asked God seacoasts, inland country newspaper, television and long-time, loving church to allow me to enjoy a lanes and busy city streets weather websites. It was Recently reflecting on my home. There, participating simple, non-complicated, in search of Anglican a special honour to have life as a churchgoer, I fondly in, and leading volunteer and active retirement, and churches. From lovely two of my photographs of remember my childhood ministries including God’s plan for me, included Neil’s Harbour to Anglican Churches selected at St. George’s Anglican the church orchestra, a return to my Anglican Conquerall Mills, from to appear in each of the Church in Parrsboro, information center and roots. I chose to attend St. Morden to Wallace, 2020 and 2021 National Cumberland County. In more, made my church John’s Anglican Church in and from Cook’s Brook Church Calendars. that beautiful little small- and personal life both nearby Bedford, one with to Ecum Secum, I’ve town wooden edifice, I was productive and meaningful. I have to date, taken a friendly congregation discovered treasured old pictures of the exteriors of christened when barely just During a 15-month period (incidentally, led by its heritage buildings, and a few months old. It was of time in the early 2000s, more than 200 buildings Rector, my cousin, Rev. modern, striking structures and my quest continues also the faith community working in the part-time Randy D. Townsend). - beautiful community into which I was later staff position of Worship to “find and shoot” the In retirement, I wanted churches in states of remaining structures, which baptized, confirmed and Coordinator solidified my occasional disrepair, there, I partook in my love for, and appreciation to enjoy an activity which hopefully will soon allow would honour my love ongoing renovation and me to complete my project first communion. When of how important loving restoration. a teenager, I regularly organized worship is for its of “church,” and at the of photographing all of the attended worship services participants. same time also include my Anglican churches with existing, beautiful Anglican and sang in the church interest in architecture and tall steeples or no steeples, Churches of Nova Scotia. Unfortunately, life threw my combined passions of buildings painted white, choir, before high school yet another big curve at me graduation took me off to travel and photography. yellow, brown or blue, Michael G Winters when a second unsuspecting It therefore seemed only those surrounded by the big, exciting city of relationship loss occurred. Halifax, Nova Scotia Halifax. natural for me, after two attractive picket fences My ongoing faith, however, years into my retirement, and graveyards, and many Over the ensuring years, then took me to Vancouver, to begin a project of situated amongst large old my adult life saw me where for the next ten THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2021 PAGE 9

His candle burned bright by Ron Cutler via Facebook Emily. The ‘Caper’ in him meant on Jan 13, 2021 he didn’t really trust bishops, rules, guidelines and sometimes Giving thanks for the life and even canons. He saw it as a ministry of the Rev. Art Nash birthright to stir up trouble tonight. I first met him 30 periodically, but did he ever love years ago when we moved to people. He loved to sing though Sydney Mines. He was one of my he couldn’t carry a tune in a predecessors as rector of Trinity bucket - that never stopped him. Church. Over the years I got to He loved mowing grass, he loved know him as a colleague when worship, he loved a bit of clergy we both served in Fort Sackville gossip and he loved Jesus. We are Region. He was passionate about the better for having known him everything and always ready for and the poorer now that he has a good discussion (or a fight). gone. He was passionate about Cape May he Rest In Peace and may Breton, about the Toronto Maple he have a place in the heavenly Leafs, about ministry, about choir. evangelism, about Cursillo, about the Anglican Church, about life Photo from the New Year’s Levee at the Seal Island trailer, about two years ago where he is clearly his family and especially about dominating two Archbishops.

Photo: Archbishop Ron Cutler, Rev. Art Nash and Archbishop Arthur Peters at the New Year’s Levee two years ago.

FRESH IDEAS FOR LENT “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” – Psalm 51:10 The 40 days of Lent are an opportunity to renew Visit our Diocesan website LENTEN RESOURCES our life in the paschal mystery. This holy season of page for liturgies, music, prayers, studies, videos, etc. self-examination, study, deepened prayer, fasting and Suggestions for mail-outs, online groups and in-person sacrificial giving, is an opportunity to be shaped by the gatherings are posted there. Have ideas to share or love of Christ. questions? E-mail: [email protected] We are gathering a number of great ideas for VISIT our special Lenten Resources page: individual and congregational worship, devotions, www.nspeidiocese.ca retreats and other activities for Lent and Holy Week. PAGE 10 FEBRUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES MISSION (is) POSSIBLE: Diocesan stories of people responding to God’s call A new cohort steps up

faith to join God in the Zoom. Together they foster neighbourhood and lovingly skills in recognizing and serve those around them. acting upon missional Lay and clergy participants opportunities. In other focus on missional words, they will be taking connections: between steps, risking and trusting themselves and God God, as they respond in (prayerful discernment), loving service. between themselves and one another (peer Deborah Beck support), and between – St. James’ Pictou/ the congregation and the Anglican Churches of community (leadership Pictou County, NS development). Most Jerry Cavanaugh importantly, these pioneer – Parish of St. Luke’s ministers are learning how Hubbards, NS to engage new people who Paula Evans-Bragg are on a spiritual search – St. John the Baptist, for the One who offers North Sydney, NS communion and wholeness. Steve Greene – St. Luke’s/St. Thomas’ One participant from the Cambridge, Diocese of second cohort, Lorraine Huron, ON Photo: Step Fisher described how Kent Gregory Photo by Bernd Luff on Unsplash.jpg she grew from previously – St. Mark’s, Halifax, not considering herself NS a leader and gained Janice Jackson – Par- By Rev. Canon Lisa G. more confidence. “I am ish of French Village, Vaughn comfortable now leading NS THE FIVE MARKS OF groups and making Jacqueline Keddy – St. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, suggestions about ways Luke’s, Dartmouth, NS MISSION “Faith is taking the first step our parishes can do Annie MacQueen even when you don’t see the missional work,” shared – The Collieries Parish, whole staircase.” the Connector from Christ NS 1. TELL Church, Berwick. “I want Betty Mansfield – St. Participants in The to expand my community John the Baptist, North Proclaim the Good News of Connectors THREE, outreach and parish support, Sydney, NS our diocesan missional working with youth (and) Janice Robar the Kingdom. leadership cohort, are doing senior visitation,” Lorraine – Parish of Hatchet just that – stepping out said. Lake & Terence Bay, NS 2. TEACH in faith. This third group Janet Vieth-Forbes – Par- of pioneering ministers is Another Connector TWO, ish of Summerside & St. Teach, baptize and nurture embarking upon a year of Patsy Clothier, from St. Eleanor’s, PEI new believers. intentional discernment, John’s Wolfville, said she prayer, learning and more deeply understood Postulant, Debbie Fice is experimenting in missional her baptismal identity assisting the Parish Vitality 3. TEND ministry. and the power of two or Coordinator in facilitating this Respond to human need by three gathered together in year’s learning cohort. Rev. COVID-19 has guaranteed Christ’s name. “For sure I Frances Drolet-Smith, Diocesan loving service. that the landscape of life in learned a lot about being Vocations Coordinator, also our communities is unlike a servant of God – his offers teaching and guidance 4. TRANSFORM any time in history. Change disciple – how wonderful it related to the members’ in our local communities is – special. I learned a lot baptismal identity and prayerful Seek to transform unjust and for the future-oriented can be accomplished with a discernment. The Five Marks of congregation means small group of like-minded Mission form the basis for this work. structures of society, to blazing a trail into the people. That we can be challenge violence of every proverbial wilderness. brave (and) also bold. All Those courageous souls who because of listening to our This learning forum is an kind and to pursue peace and answer the call to serve hearts and to God. It makes investment in the future vitality reconciliation. in the name of Christ are a large difference.” and growth of parishes as we in for a trek forward with learn how to reach new people, plenty of unpredictable The 2021 group includes a in new places, by new ways in 5. TREASURE terrain. But they are not diversity of parish leaders our neighbourhoods. alone! from Cape Breton, Prince Strive to safeguard the integrity Edward Island, Mainland of creation and sustain and Designed to equip and Nova Scotia and the empower, The Connectors Diocese of Huron. They renew the life of the earth. THREE program assists gather monthly over a year cohort members to take for 10, two-day residential risks and forge ahead in retreats and virtually on THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2021 PAGE 11 Love makes the world go ‘round... By Mary Stone financial assistance helping to gratitude. Yes, it was childlike, the greater alleviate a major part of that and yet, they expressed what community. worry. All levels of Mothers’ we all want to say and hear. Yet so many This time last year Mothers’ Union embarked on a steep situations and Union was embarking on Despite our circumstances, technology learning curve there is always love to be circumstances a year of building Hope with great success, embracing interfere with and Confidence in our shared in our world. That online platforms to support love is generated by God, the giving communities and in ourselves members around the world. and receiving and then suddenly hope and the ultimate of goodness and As an example, every love. Love is not a namby- of love. confidence were turned upside Lynne Tembey, the previous marginalized, those caught down around the world. morning I wake up to find a pamby thing, it is a sincere message of love and caring emotion that we all need to Mothers’ Union Worldwide up in conflict, suffering from Now we are in a year on Whatsapp from Mothers’ receive and to give. This was President wrote this wonderful hunger, held captive or facing of rebuilding hope and Union members around the evident during the Christmas prayer for ‘’Dear Lord...’’ A any sort of oppression or confidence... a bit of a u-turn. globe. It is heartwarming and season, when we saw hearts new collection of prayers and persecution. poems from Mothers’ Union The virus has caused encouraging. in lights reaching out into the We pray that you will enlarge members across the world. Mothers’ Union Worldwide I always think of February community spreading love and our sympathy, deepen our to re-evaluate everything as the ‘Love Month’...when hopefulness. compassion, and give us that we do. As for most I taught primary, hearts and Family love is essential The Family Prayer courage to reach out in love charities, the financial hit was valentines would appear to the growth and well Lord, It is with a heart full and service. Enable us we huge. Members and friends everywhere around the school, being of children and is the of gratitude that we come pray to have loving, caring worldwide showed their love spreading a feeling of caring fundamental support system before you today. Thank you hearts. and support of Mothers’ and kindness. They produced for society. Love experienced for the abundant generosity In your Son’s name, Jesus Union by readily giving a happy sense of joy and in the home is projected into you bestow on each member Christ we pray. Amen of our family. We thank you that in joyful times we can During this ‘Love Month’ celebrate together; we are there are many ways in which grateful too that in difficult we can express love for our times in our lives, we have families, friends, neighbours, you and each other, to guide, Positive Parenting in the communities and beyond. You Anglican Church of Canada’s Council of the North support, encourage and love. can probably think of a myriad Are you, as a parish or as an individual, looking for a meaningful way to And yet Lord, as we are of ways...such as cards, phone respond to the Truth & Reconciliation Commission? blessed and enriched by calls, words of encouragement, love, we are acutely aware gifts of food, donations to One way you can is by supporting the Anglican Church Women Board’s that within the world, your causes like food banks and 2020/2021 Project beautiful world, there are shelters, volunteering and so Supporting Parents: Stories That Matter so many who are lonely, on. Enjoy the gift of giving The Board is collaborating with the Mothers’ Union to bring the MU’s unloved, persecuted and and receiving, remembering very successful positive parenting program to Indigenous Communities in afraid. the 2nd great commandment the Council of the North. This program is offered free of charge; it is We pray that we might have a ‘’Love thy neighbour as thyself.’’ facilitated by trained facilitators; it is tailored to the culture and needs of heart of love and a generosity the community. of spirit to reach out with unconditional love to the

THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2021 PAGE 12 It’s A New Day! Discipleship: the heart of the matter arrangements. Or reach being and growth that we out to a counsellor, doctor, stay rooted in a faith family. trusted advisor or connect As challenging as this can to a Twelve-Step support be with COVID restrictions group. God did not create and the sometimes humans to undergo this messiness of the people healing alone. As it says in dynamic, we need one Galatians 6:2, “Bear one another in the church. As another’s burdens, and in Jesus said, “For where two or this way, you will fulfi ll the three are gathered together law of Christ.” in my name, I am there E – EQUIPPING: among them” (Matthew 18:20). In order to live out our baptismal covenant, T – TIME: continuing the apostles’ It is absolutely critical teaching, growing and to take the time to pray serving, we embark in as a disciple! One of my life-long learning. We are favourite authors says, often spiritually enriched and we are “too busy not to stretched as we engage in pray.” In other words, the further education about busier we are, the more we the scriptures, prayer need to pray. This ensures disciplines, and various we are grounded in our approaches to living this baptismal identity and Way of Love. When was the remember who’s we are, last time you took part in a as well as helping us to Heart - Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash.jpg study, a course, a video talk, prioritize our day. read something different or By Rev. Canon Lisa G. Time is also related our As it says in the BAS Holy attended a workshop? How Vaughn Baptism preamble (pg. 146), discerning how God about considering exploring unfolds God’s plans – “Becoming a Christian had a new facet of Christian People of faith are as much to do with learning sometimes over a very long becoming endeared to the learning or spiritual span. On other occasions to live a new lifestyle within practice? Our faith tradition fullest sense of discipleship, the Christian community as things happen far more as many these days are offers thousands of ways of immediately than we it did with specifi c beliefs.” being renewed in our minds, refl ecting on baptismal As we mature, we continue expect. In the Anglican identity. Questions are in our ministries and in our Church in 2021, I venture to strive to live Christ’s devotions. posed like, ‘Who are we, as Way of Love, through our to suggest that this timing church?’ and, ‘What does promises to pray, learn and A – ACTION: of God’s is what Dr. Martin it mean to be a practicing practice our faith traditions. Sometimes we can slip into Luther King, Jr. most Anglican today?’ This is the heart of what it being ‘so heavenly minded famously described as, “the This faith foundation of means to be a disciple, or Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn, Diocesan that we’re no earthly good.’ fi erce urgency of the now!” baptism is not something more aptly translated - an Parish Vitality Coordinator Action is the part of our that was done to us, nor apprentice of Christ. baptismal life where we get a HEART acrostic: Recently, Bishop Sandra something that is static. Beginning our Lenten our hands dirty for the good Fyfe offered this blessing to Our spiritual formation journey this February, let’s H – HEALING: of others. As James says the Diocesan family: development continues in his letter, faith without consider a few approaches This relates to every long after making these works is dead (James 2:14- Life is short and we do not to actively nurture our dimension of our lives sacred vows and being 26). Are you actively have much time to gladden baptismal identity and – mind, body, emotions, the hearts of those who immersed in holy water. serving others in ways that deepen discipleship. Here’s spiritually, relationally, walk this way with us. So, truly make a difference? Our fi nancially, etc. Self- be swift to love and make Christian works don’t need examination involves haste to be kind; and the to be huge projects. These asking ourselves the blessing of God: Father, I invite you therefore, loving actions can be small, question, what’s troubling Son and Holy Spirit, be but mighty. As ‘Canada’s amongst us and remain us? What is interfering in the name of the Lord, singing priest’, Rev. Mark with us always. Amen. with our ability to live an Curtis told me once, (attributed to abundant life? What is to observe a holy Lent by “ministry is about doing Henri-Frédéric Amiel) stealing our joy, peace, and little things.” Apprenticing perhaps our sleep? self-examination, penitence, means we practice what we Often, we require learn, so we ensure there is Rev. Canon Lisa G. Vaughn prayer, fasting, and is the Diocesan Parish Vitality support to undertake this a balance in our faith lives. intentional work towards Coordinator. For additional R – RELATING: articles, inspiration and insights almsgiving, and by reading wholeness. Lent is the We encounter Christ in on congregational vitality and and meditating on the word perfect time for the pastoral mission see the Facebook page sacraments of Unction the Community, not just in “Parish Vitality Coordinator of God. or healing prayers with our private devotional lives. – Diocese of NS & PEI”, and anointing of holy oil (see Consider this: the cross the Anglican Net News, “Six- BAS pg. 551-558), and is made up of the vertical Minute Study”. Ash Wednesday, Book of Reconciliation, commonly – an individual’s internal called private confession relationship to God, and the Alternative Services, pg. 282 (see BAS pg. 166-172). horizontal – encountering Contact your priest to make God in other people. It is critical to our spiritual well- THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2021 PAGE 13 Teach Us to Pray: Praying the hours a day”, over the centuries, monastic communities, churches and individuals have modified the daily round to better align with their lived experience, modifying their devoted prayer to four times a day. However, the principle remains the same: brief intentional pauses throughout the daily cycle helps to both ground and recalibrate the scattered. No matter how busy the day, Rev. Frances Drolet-Smith or important the task, St. Diocesan Representative, the Anglican Fellowship of Benedict instructed: “At the Prayer hour for the Divine Office, as soon as the signal is heard, let day. The poetic, measured lines them abandon whatever they of the Psalms and the elegant may have in hand and hasten prose of the Book of Common with the greatest speed, “Let Prayer, and the daily offices of nothing, therefore, be put more contemporary collections before the Work of God.” (RB, all enable us to exercise the chapter 43) In the Rule of One of the side-effects of urgency to “get ready for work” of prayer in the temple (3:1) practice of fixed-hour prayer. Benedict, prayer is referred to living during a pandemic is is lessened when there seems while the Gospels each speaks as “the work of God.” the change in our perception no reason to get dressed for of ‘the hours’ in relation to the The late Phyllis Tickle, So how does this help me of time. I’ve heard people use the office, or to clear the ice time Jesus was on the Cross. mother of seven children, keep track of my days? Praying the abbreviations “PP” for and snow off the car because a prolific writer on Church The Desert Fathers and the Hours offers a framework, a “Pre-Pandemic” or “BC” as in I’m not going anywhere. A few history and liturgy and long- Mothers of the 3rd and 4th trellis. It steadies, defines and “Before-Covid” in a similar times I’ve heard the Noon Gun time religion editor for centuries, the prescriptions supports my other activities. way the terms “anno Domini” from Citadel Hill in Halifax Publishers Weekly, was also a detailed in the 6th C Rule of Praying the Hours and the (AD) and “before Christ” (BC) and realized I’m still in my devout Episcopalian who came St. Benedict, and the early practice of stopping to savor are used to number years in the dressing gown. to value fixed-hour prayer as an Celtic monastic communities them doesn’t break up a Julian and Gregorian calendars. anchor to steady her busy life. One of the treasures of of the 7th century all kept day, rather it ties it together, For me, a more consequential She compiled a trilogy of prayer the Christian tradition that such practices alive. In connecting us to a tradition side-effect has been my sense of manuals, The Divine Hours has grounded the faithful later centuries, Books of of hundreds of years of people the passage of time, leading me (2000) to guide contemporary for centuries has been the Hours developed for use by praying these same words. And to ask, far more frequently than Christians through the daily discipline of “praying the individuals. In recent times in these unsettled, uncertain before, “What day is this??” and offices. Based primarily on the Hours”. Reciting prayers at set the 24/7 prayer movement has Covid days, who wouldn’t in an effort to pretend I haven’t Book of Common Prayer and times of the day came naturally sometimes incorporated this benefit from the timeless totally lost track, I’ve heard the writings of the Church for the earliest Christians, practice. Roman Catholics treasure of being compassed myself say, “This is Tuesday, Fathers, her trilogy is an many of whom, from their refer to the Canonical Hours about by so great a cloud of right?” extremely useful, practical aid Jewish roots, were used to and The Liturgy of the Hours. to those desiring to revive this witnesses? It’s clear this distortion of praying seven times a day (Ps. The Orthodox Church ancient prayer practice in their perception has to do with the 119:164). Seven times of prayer sometimes refers to these as own lives. disruption to our routines. became quite widespread, with The Divine Services. These Rev. Frances Drolet-Smith Working from home challenges local variations. The Book have come to mark each of the While the practice may be Diocesan Representative, my former daily rhythm. The of Acts references the hours eight three-hour periods in a based on the reference to the Anglican Fellowship of praising God “seven times Prayer

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-10- Entertainment without using words (9) -5- Explanatory notes (9)

-11- Large American sofa (9) -6- “There in its beak was a freshly plucked _____ leaf.” oil-producing tree (Gen. 8:11) (5) -12- Daughter of my sister (5) -7- Money used by ancient Hebrews (7) -13- Slender nail (4) -8- “You _____ me together in my mother’s womb.” -15- Causes impatience (9) joined closely (Ps. 139:13) (4)

-18- “A great number became _____.” people of faith -14- Most boring (9) (Acts 11:21) (9) -16- Resounded (9) -19- First king of Israel (1Sam. 10) (4) -17- Cut short (9) -20- Person afflicted with leprosy (5) -18- Heavy material in a boat that provides stability (7) -22- Proclaimed (9) -21- One of 150 in the Bible (5) -25- Overwhelming surprise (9) -22- Word at the end of a prayer (4) -26- Discourage (5) -23- Beneath (5) -27- Entice to do something immoral (5) -24- Repairs a hole in fabric (5) -28- Mocks (7)

JANUARY Solution

Sunday DoDo jjusticeustice . . . LLoveove kkindnessindness . . . WWalkalk hhumblyumbly wwithith yyourour GGodod Micahicah 6:8 .

Women’s Ministry Sunday was initiated by the Anglican Church Women Board to promote and recognize the many ways that women live out God’s mission in the church and community. It has evolved from: honouring the women and the ministry of their organized groups within the parish, to recognizing their ministry beyond the parish, including within their professional and community volunteer activities, to their collaboration with men ( . . . that God with men and women may so transform the earth . . . inspiration taken from the last verse of the Anglican Church Women hymn: The Love of Jesus Calls Us), to now honouring in 2021 the ministry of the women and men of the Mothers’ Union. Yes, despite the name, the ministry of the Mothers’ Union involves women and men. THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2021 PAGE 15 Women’s Ministry Sunday: Honouring the Mothers’ Union Cynthia Pilichos, Anglican That Matter. Do take the Church Women time to learn about this project by viewing a short video available on either For starters, why Women’s the Mothers’ Union or Ministry Sunday? Why a Anglican Church Women Sunday to acknowledge Board’s webpages (under and honour the ministry “Ministries” of the diocesan of women, a ministry website: www.nspeidiocese. exercised within the church ca) to see why we encourage and beyond? First of all, your generous support for let’s be clear that when we Supporting Parents: Stories refer to ministry, we are That Matter. To appreciate not just referring to the how this program responds ordained. We are proud to the specifi c culture in in the Anglican Church which it is offered and that we have had ordained to see how it is inclusive women for well over 40 of women and men, years now, but a Sunday of absence, initiating Church Women Board is take the time to hear with a focus on women Mothers’ Union is firmly a moratorium on their highlighting an organization testimonials of the Mothers’ and their ministry is not rooted in the voluntary ministry for 12 months!! that brings about positive Union Positive Parenting referring only to those ethos, another feature that What would such a step changes globally, nationally, Program in the Solomon who are ordained: deacon, makes it a perfect choice mean to the Altar Guild, and locally, through prayer, Islands: https://youtube/ priest, or bishop. Women’s for focused attention on the Choir, the Sunday advocacy, and direct action HsQkjPQNe54 ministry refers to the work Women’s Ministry Sunday. School, the Anglican – the Mothers’ Union, and activity that all women Its governance, leadership, Church Women, Guilds, of faith do: day in, day out; a worldwide Christian and programs are driven by As prayer and its Mothers’ Union, the week in, week out; month organization with more and undertaken through importance is central to Lay Readers, Eucharistic in, month out; and year in, than 4 million members members around the world the ministry of Mothers’ Ministers, Servers, Parish year out. And, it refers to in 84 countries. The as they respond to God’s Union, let’s take to heart Council, Committees, the ministry that women Mothers’ Union vision is of call to faith and action. the Mothers’ Union Prayer Bible Study Groups, do, both within the church a world where God’s love Mothers’ Union cares for as we honour this amazing Outreach Team, Office and beyond the church, in is shown through loving, you, your relationships, your fellowship of the faithful. administration, and the list the wider community, and, respectful, and flourishing family, and your community. goes on? What would the often in collaboration with relationships. The Board Building, strengthening, parish look like? men. So, why a Women’s could not have chosen and supporting relationships Ministry Sunday? better for Women’s Ministry are part of all that the The Anglican Church Sunday 2021. Mothers’ Union does. Loving Lord, Women Board has drawn We thank you for your love so A partial answer to this inspiration from its hymn, freely given to us all. question is found in the fact Happily, the Mothers’ We are very fortunate The Love of Jesus Calls Us, We pray for families around of women’s work so often Union fits perfectly with in our diocese to have a and the words of the last the world. being “invisible”. All too this collaborative enterprise number of parishes with verse (with its emphasis on Bless the work of the Mothers’ frequently, there is a “taken of women and men Mothers’ Union branches, women and men working Union for granted” attitude about ministering in our complex as well as a very strong together in “new and as we seek to share your love the work that women do, world, because, despite its Diocesan Mothers’ Union wondrous ways” to bring through the encouragement, whether in the home, the name, the Mothers’ Union Council. With or without about God’s kingdom in strengthening and support of church, or the workplace, membership comprises not a parish Mothers’ Union an ever changing world) to marriage and family life. aligned in part to the only mothers, but, indeed branch, all of us can include men when focusing Empowered by your Spirit, historic marginalization all women, as well as men! celebrate the ministry of on the many ways women may we be united in prayer of women and its current Its membership, therefore, the Mothers’ Union and live out their baptismal and worship, manifestations, often more includes female and male learn more about it on the covenant. This broadening and in love and service reach nuanced, but still very parents, singles, widows, Mothers’ Union webpage. of attention brings us to out as your hands across the present. With specific widowers, grandparents The Board is delighted Women’s Ministry Sunday world. respect to the church, – anyone interested in to be partnering with 2021 on February 7, the In Jesus’ name. imagine what it would be supporting marriage and Mothers’ Union for our first Sunday in February like if the women of the family live, especially 2020/21 Annual Project, when the Anglican parish took a year’s leave through times of adversity. Supporting Parents: Stories Amen

THE ANGLICAN FOUNDATION OF CANADA thanks you for your generosity during the very challenging days of 2020, and we all wish you a very Happy New Year.

anglicanfoundation.organglicanfoundation.org PAGE 16 FEBRUARY 2021 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES Interesting times indeed! by Deacon Ray Carter missing their church family. With a limited crew we Currently we are able to prepare and serve meals have services with decreased at the soup kitchen and “May you live in the shelters. New clothing interesting times” is a numbers and safe guards in place. It’s wonderful to is being supplied where phrase which many consider possible, and the shelters a curse which has its roots be able to see our church family again! continue to receive money in Yorkshire or China, and goods to ease their or no one knows for sure The economic impact in burden. I note that as of where. Regardless of its many parishes is changing December 29th, 2020 there origin, it seems to fit today the face of the church and were four hundred eighty as I write this in the early congregations. Parishioners nine homeless people in the days of January 2021.Here are losing their livelihood, HRM alone. The last figures in Nova Scotia and Prince and church giving’s are I can find for Sydney is one Edward Island we are View from the Deacon’s Bench declining. Organists have hundred fifteen homeless, probably having the lowest lost their jobs or had hours and Charlottetown one outbreaks of Covid-19 in new ways to reach out to established new services seriously reduced. hundred eighteen. I suspect the industrialized world. congregations and the most online using a variety of A positive I have seen this is just the tip of the Vaccinations are slowly platforms on social media is the continued use of iceberg in our diocese. rolling out and God willing such as Facebook and platforms such as “Zoom” As our lord said “you will we should all be vaccinated “May you live in YouTube Some churches to offer virtual programs. always have the poor with in this calendar year, at interesting times” have found positive effects I recognize this is not you”. least those of us who wish of “going online” as an everyone’s favourite way of to be vaccinated. Employees is a phrase which Interesting times indeed! opportunity for creativity meeting, but I have seen We need to continue to find are working from home many consider and the ability to reach robust numbers of people and the whole dynamic of ways to keep our church a curse which audiences outside of the attending such things as going and to practice our doing business has changed, usual physical gatherings. Christian Meditation, the probably for ever. Even has its roots many and varied ministries. Others, because of poor popular “Pray as you can” Take a few minutes this family time has changed, in Yorkshire or series, virtual check ins and with travel bans and internet connectivity and week to reach out to China, or no other technical reasons coffee hours. I pray Ignatius’ someone and let them know quarantine requirements First Spiritual Exercises dictating who could join one knows for were disconnected from that you care, and don’t be their church community. with a group regularly and it depressed by this current us for Christmas and New is remarkable how well the Years celebrations. I missed sure where. With mandated physical state of affairs. distancing, clergy have technology lends itself to attending the Bishops New Regardless of its this program. Remember, God is with us! Years Day service and Levee origin, it seems found it challenging to this year for the first time in connect with the elderly Our ministry to our a very long time. to fit today. and people in remote areas. neighbours has changed as Long time parishioners well. We continue to feed All churches had to who would never dream of the hungry, cloth the poor temporarily suspend missing church on Sunday and house the homeless, their activities, and find vulnerable. Many churches are now isolated and although in different ways.

Diocesan Cycle of Prayer: February 2021

Rev. Vernon Reid and Bong Sydney St. Mary’s, Glace Bay FEBRUARY 7 Rev. Canon Reg MacDonald and St. Paul’s, Port Morien Sandy Rev. Peter Rafuse and Mary St. Luke’s, Port Caledonia Retired Clergy Rev. Cecil Hebb and Mildred Rev. Roslyn MacLeod, Associate Christ Church, South Rev. Canon James Ibbott and Rev. Peter MacRae and Helen Parish Priest Head Nancy Rev. Bill White and Martha Rev. Jackie Warren, Associate All Saints’, New Rev. Ted Morgan and Carol Rev. Aidan Kingsbury and Ruth Parish Priest Waterford Rev. Lorraine Quinn and Rev. Art Bourré, and Patricia Church of Christ the Church of the Good Milfred Bourguignon King, Sydney Shepherd, Dominion Rev. Douglas Sherren and St. George’s, Sydney Dorothy Widows: St. Bartholemew’s, FEBRUARY 28 Rev. Madonna Fradsham, and Mrs. Catherine Tuck Louisbourg Clar Mrs. Barbara Wagner Neil’s Harbour, Nova Scotia Rev. Ken Williams and Norma Mrs. Londie Meloche Rev. Dr. Carolyn Sharp Jean Mrs. Mary Lou Morrison FEBRUARY 21 St. Andrew’s, Neil’s Rev. Cathy Pharo and Chris Mrs. Eleanor Pyke Harbour Rev. Bonnie Scharf Mrs. Laurie Wainwright Collieries Parish St. John’s, Ingonish Rev. Ned Henthorn and Arlene Rev. Canon Fev Arnold and CAPE BRETON REGION Rev. Dorothy Miller St. Alban’s, Sydney Joyce Rev. Myrna MacMullin, Rev. Brenda Drake Rev. Gordon Granchelli and FEBRUARY 14 Associate Parish Priest, and Georgina Robert Rev. Dennis Hayward and Deb Parish of the Resurrection,