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Table of Contents • PWRDF activities in our diocese • St Bart’s by the Bog • Cartoon church • Bishop Cutler tenders resignation • It’s a New Day - time to read • Mission of hospitality • ACW Ministry and Mission • Bring me a higher love • Teach us to pray • Bible Puzzle • Blessings through life • SUBSCRIPTION renewal Page 3 Page 12

Bishop resigns! Blessings throughout life Cutler THE calls it quits! IOCESAN TIMES page 3 D FEBRUARY 2020 A SECTION OF THE ANGLICAN JOURNAL

Serving the Anglican Church in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island Well done! by Barbara Kent we had the roll out. The whole brought in 150 bricks and It’s fun to share happy stories, idea of being responsible slowly we started to construct and I’m excited to tell anyone stewards of our earth fit hand the well right in the church. about a rewarding and success- in hand with our idea to build We sold the bricks for $20 ful PWRDF campaign we had a well. It also spoke to gen- each and also had a huge water at the Church of St Andrew der equality issues because in bottle for anyone who wanted in Cole Harbour this fall. It’s a Kenya, young girls are forced to drop in their loose change. personal story for me because to travel as much as 8km a With the buy-in passion of I promised my father, Dennis day to fetch water for their our Rector, Rev Katherine Shaw, that I would assume his families. This means that only Bourbonniere and her unlimit- role as parish representative boys are given the privilege of ed energy to motivate us, there when he passed. It was a very attending school! That’s just was never a doubt we could do important program that he wrong! So each week, I’d put this. By Christmas we had well supported whole-heartedly. a fact about water on a white surpassed our goal and were The first year we encouraged board for everyone to read. able to purchase pumps and parishioners to buy goats, last Things like: taking a bath repair kits to accompany the year it was chickens and this uses 180 litres of water or 1.1 well. year I really wanted to make billion people have no access If all our challenges were a bigger impact, so I proposed to clean drinking water or a easy, they wouldn’t be as building a well in Kenya. It small bucket of water weighs rewarding! A quote that our was a $3000 endeavour but 20lbs. Educating and expos- previous Rector, Canon David I know my parish and they ing parishioners to the need Reid, often said was motiva- always respond when there is a and injustices facilitated their tion enough for me; “The task challenge and a need. response because we are a car- ahead of us is never as great as Coincidentally, we had a visit ing Parish. the power behind us!”Never Photo: The early stages of building the well building. from the Diocesan Environ- We proposed building our doubt the power of people mental Advocate and former own well as a visual aid to our working together for we can parishioner, Rev. Marian campaign. Our go-to guy at do wondrous things! Lucas-Jeffries the week before St Andrews’s, Frank Smith, New approach to Christmas Memorials by Donna Mattholie 10 pineapple seedlings. Cows For a number of years the and goats improve a family’s Parish of French Village has nutrition with a regular source had a Christmas Memorial of milk and eggs which can program whereby Parishioners also help a family’s income could purchase Christmas with the sale of milk, eggs and flowers in memory of loved offspring. They are also major ones. manure producers – especially pigs which improves crop But sourcing poinsettia yields. Bio-fertilizer helps plants in support of local farmers increase yields without suppliers at a reasonable cost polluting the environment. was proving very difficult and And pineapples? They provide time consuming. Often the nutrition and crop diversity in poinsettias were left homeless the community. after the Christmas services. As in the past, a tax- With this in mind, Parish deductible donation of $10 Council decided to focus on was suggested, with memorials a more sustainable Christmas printed in the bulletin. memorial for 2019. We chose to support the PWRDF “World The response was amazing. of Gifts”, and set a goal of Our parish boldly embraced purchasing a farm at a cost of this initiative and, instead of $450. A particular incentive purchasing one farm, we raised was that for every $1 donated well over $3000- enough to the Government of Canada purchase seven farms and contributed $6. additional livestock for this very worthy cause. A ‘Farm’ consists of: 1 cow, 1 goat, 2 piglets, 40 chickens, The gift of a farm for a village 20 kg bag of seeds, organic or a family is empowering - farm supplies, farm tools and and truly is the gift that keeps Photo: One of the new village farm gifts through PWRDF. on giving. HOME PAGE 2 FEBRUARY 2020 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES COLUMNIST From cast to walking cast to boot

Winter is upon us and the laid-back and his different a parish Priest. saga continues at the rectory sweatshirts gave us a hint It has been a learning VOLUME 75 NUMBER 2 here By the Bog. Jason had of his character. Jason kept experience for all involved. learned to use crutches quite the new sweater for use only St. Bart’s will carry a scar as PAUL SHERWOOD well for the first month or on Sundays for as long as he a lasting memento to this Editor so following his accident, or would need to be without the time in our lives as a parish. incident as he likes to call it. Eucharistic vestments. You see, when Jason took Also on the web: A new cast with a walking Next step in the recovery his tumble and landed in a www.nspeidiocese.ca heel helped the mobility of will be a BOOT! Something heap on the floor in front of Letters & News Items: our rector and by late January that many folks dread but the pulpit, the ladder went Paul Sherwood, Editor Jason was hobbling around Jason awaits with great with him and crashed into PO Box 8882, the Sanctuary on Sunday anticipation. More mobility, the front pew. There is a Halifax, NS B3K 5M5 morning and with the help [email protected] more freedom. Soon we will significant gouge on the seat, 902.477.3040 of Jim and Larry, our retired have late winter thaws and and it took some scrubbing clergy, he was almost in full Advertising: St. Bart’s by the Bog mud too! That will slow to get the blood stains off the charge of worship life at St. down any outdoor activity book rack and the hymnals Angela Rush Bart’s. [email protected] Sarah Neish coming from the rectory.... that were sitting there! Jason 905.630.0390 A long alb seemed to hinder maybe.... Our J seems to be will carry his own scar on (Burlington, ON) Jason’s mobility, so we began able to figure out how to get his forehead from that same a new liturgical practice .... around with large plastic book rack. We will keep Published monthly except in July no albs, just a stole of the a wonderful example of the grocery bags tied around his any and all ladders well out and August by The Diocesan Times appropriate colour around talented parishioner who had cast or hopping to and from of his reach in future and Publishing Company. the neck of the celebrant. started the project in early the car much to the distress the Christmas decorating Online editions available via the This was a practice that all autumn, never dreaming of any and all who have to will be left to the team of diocesan website: www.nspeidiocese.ca the clergy adopted in support that her sweater would watch! parishioners who have been become a part of the Sunday of the rector. Jim wore his We have been right there doing it for years. .... always suit jacket with stole, Larry Eucharistic vestments. with two folks at each ladder, with Jason and Miranda, Printed by and mailed from: kept to his usual sweatshirt I noted that each priest helping out when we can, one to climb, one to hold it Webnews Printing Inc., routine, but Jason opted for who stood at the altar put giving them time and space steady. I think that is called North York, ON a new hand knit sweater that his own unique twist to the to heal and learning to take “team work”. he received at Christmas. service. Jim was quite formal on some of the duties that I’ll keep you posted, Opinions expressed do not It was a navy-blue sweater and looked the part. Larry we have always assumed were necessarily reflect the views of the with a cable stitch pattern; has always seemed more Aunt Madge editor, the management board of part of the job description 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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Dave Walker © 2019 HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2020 PAGE 3 BISHOP’S COLUMN There is a time for everything “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under In fact, I believe that we are living in a time of great opportunity heaven: for proclaiming and living out God’s mission of reconciliation. a time to be born, and a time to die; We have challenges which are unique to our time, of figuring a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; out “what to keep and what to cast away” as we proclaim Good a time to kill, and a time to heal; News, form disciples, serve the people in our communities and a time to break down, and a time to build up; exercise stewardship of creation. As the diocese enters a time a time to weep, and a time to laugh; of discernment and goal setting, it is right that the diocese also a time to mourn, and a time to dance; should choose a new bishop to lead on the next stage of the a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; journey. a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; Our diocesan Canon on the election of a bishop puts some a time to seek, and a time to lose; restrictions on the timing of an election. This summer, a time to keep, and a time to cast away; Anglican Bishops from around the world will gather for the a time to tear, and a time to sew; Lambeth Conference in Canterbury, England. I attended the a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; last conference in 2008, three weeks after being consecrated a time to love, and a time to hate; as a bishop. It had a incredible impact on me as I entered this The Right Reverend Ron Cutler, a time for war, and a time for peace.” ministry. It is important for the new bishop to be at this once a Bishop of the Diocese of Nova Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 decade event. In order for this to be possible, I must resign now. Scotia and Prince Edward Island On many occasions over the years I have been asked by clergy, As I write this, the Diocesan Council has not yet met to “when is the right time to leave a position?” I have replied choose the date for an electoral Synod. I will be recommending rather unhelpfully that “you will know when it is time”. This that council choose the canonical minimum amount of time past autumn, I have had the growing conviction of 16 weeks from the date of the call. I will also ask that the that “it is time” for me to step down from the selection committee appointed by the Diocesan Council review position of Diocesan Bishop. However, it wasn’t the expectations of the Diocesan Bishop in light of both the I will have until I was able to go on retreat before Christmas changing circumstances in our diocese and the earlier decision that I was able to sort through the strands of my to have only one bishop. life and to make up my mind. As a result, I intend I will have time later to say good-bye, however I do want to time later to to resign as Diocesan Bishop and Metropolitan as say thank-you now. Thank you to those who have offered me of July 31, 2020. hospitality throughout the diocese. Thank you for those who say good-bye; When is the right time to leave? The work of have held me in prayer. Thank you to those who are asking the Kingdom of God is never done but it is not wonderful questions about how we proclaim the faith in this only my work. It is the work of the whole church. present context. Thank you to those who have exercised however I do The prayer attributed to Archbishop Oscar a ministry of leadership and those who are stepping into Romero echos St. Paul’s acknowledgement that leadership roles. Thank you to those who are imagining what want to say the followers of Jesus build on one another’s work. vibrant Christian community looks like in this time...and with I have tried to build on the faithful ministry of deep thanks to God. those who have gone before me and I trust that +Ron thank-you now. others will build on what I have done. O God of unchangeable power and eternal light, look favourably “We cannot do everything, and there is a sense on your whole Church, that wonderful and sacred mystery. By the of liberation in realizing that. This enables us to effectual working of your providence, carry out in tranquillity the do something, and to do it very well. It may be incomplete, but plan of salvation. Let the whole world see and know that things which it is a beginning, a step along the way, an opportunity for the were cast down are being raised up, and things which had grown old Lord’s grace to enter and do the rest.” are being made new, and that all things are being brought to their We are in the midst of challenging times, but I am not perfection by him through whom all things were made, your Son Jesus convinced, despite some recent alarmism, that we are not at any Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the worse moment in the life of the church than at any other time. Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Collect for the Ordination of a Bishop)

hung in forests and cities, families who love someone Prayer for Missing and Strive for five in museums and malls; each symbolised by a red dress. Murdered Indigenous Women Although here in empty dress a reminder of a life This season of love, this Holy One; Creator; and love gone missing. churchland, we know that season of red, I invite us to act We hold sacred the Missing and the 14th commemorates the Femicide in Canada is in love, committing ourselves Murdered Indigenous Women and Saints Cyril and Methodius, disproportionately an intimate to find ways to end the cycles Girls of this country. we also know that the world is matter (over 76% of women of violence that threaten our We lament with families torn focusing on another saint, who victims have been murdered indigenous sisters. This may apart by violence, with those bears an anecdotal history of a by family or intimate partner, be through learning about who were forced into Indian more loving nature: the 14th is while an equal percentage the Truth and Reconciliation Residential Schools, with those were Valentine’s Day! of male victims are killed by Commission and its 94 Calls dehumanized by losing their names, languages, and lands. As we move in that arena casual acquaintance/criminal to Action... or perhaps by of love, the colour red is relationship/stranger). For studying “Reclaiming Power We grieve with every red dress dominant: red hearts, red our indigenous sisters, the and Place: the Final Report hung, with every voice that has been sheer volume of murders of the National Inquiry silenced, with every spirit that has roses, red chocolates, and red been crushed by colonization. dresses! is staggering: indigenous into Missing and Murdered women are nearly 7 times Indigenous Women and We detest the heritage of hatred, Amidst this festival of red, I more likely to be murdered Girls”... or by requesting to division, and denial of human rights. Rev Laura Marie Piotrowicz invite us to recall that the red than non-indigenous women. enter into dialogue with a Rector, St. John’s, Lunenburg We acknowledge our failings; we dress has additional meaning (Indigenous women are local indigenous person about ask for your help. for us here in Canada. disproportionately over- these serious issues... Help us to learn, help us to listen, The REDress project, represented in all forms of Most certainly, our faith calls help us to reconcile. Help us to learn initiated in 2010 by Métis violence.) us to love through prayer: to our nation’s history, to reject our artist Jaime Black, used red And so we are called to the God who created us all, racism, to be stirred to action against dresses, hung in public spaces, action: we are called to love. who loves us all into being, further devastation. to bring an aesthetic response We as a country, and as a and who desires us to love Help us to honour your beloved to Missing and Murdered church, can stand up against one another as we have been children, as we together seek healing Indigenous Women and Girls these injustices for the sake loved. in your great family. Amen. in Canada. For a decade, of the women who live in we have seen these dresses constant fear, and for the HOME PAGE 4 FEBRUARY 2020 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES NEWS FROM AWAY

In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made… In him was life, and that life was the light…. John 1: 1-4 St. Andrew, Cole Harbour is at risk. Somewhere, Dear Diocese, my “home parish”. Nothing somehow, we missed the You are reading this article extraordinary in that place, command to care for the at the beginning of February. and in this time? We know planet and are only just now Feb. 2 is “hump day”, the day better. Each child was digging out the instruction that falls between Winter presented with a candle manual and frantically reading Solstice and Spring Equinox representing the light of Christ it. during the natural rhythm of in their lives. And we pray I write this article today, the earth as we continue to that those children will grow Diocesan Times deadline circle the sun. Feb. 2 we also up as Christians and reflect day. Today, is also December celebrate Candlemas in the the Light of Christ in the 31, the last day of this year church. Candlemas, the day world. and this decade. Tomorrow, we are reminded of the light But before the presentation we enter a new era. My New that Christ is in our lives. of the candle, everyone in Year’s resolution is to pray that According to the Gospel of the building was reminded you will have a blessed 2020 John, from the very beginning, that we are all called to and that you are able to keep Christ has been light for our reflect that light through your commitment to your New souls. each commitment: to come Year’s resolutions, including As we celebrate sunlight together as a community, to a personal effort for a greener growing noticeably longer study, to be kind and caring, to and healthier planet. each day, we also celebrate the respect all people and to care May each one of us be a growing light of Christ in our for God’s creation. shining example, lighting the lives, marked by reflecting on Our rector, Rev. Katherine, way, influencing others, part of the presentation of our Lord in reminded us that at the end of the solution, caring for all of the temple. Nothing generally that “to do” list, the one we God’s creation. extraordinary about that day call the Baptismal Covenant, And may we never lose sight in that place, at that time. Or we are asked if we will of God’s light of salvation and so most people thought. But commit ourselves to “strive peace inspiring us to carry out people of deep faith, Simeon to safeguard the integrity of our commitment to healing and Anna knew better. And God’s creation and respect, in a hurting world. May the that encounter lit up their sustain, and renew the life of light of Christ grow in us and lives. the earth?” may Christ’s light continue to This past Sunday three In the beginning our loving radiate from each one of us. children were presented for God created the earth, an Blessings from the outer world, baptism at The Church of Eden, for us. Now all creation Rev. Marian Lucas-Jefferies Stimulus response An overly tired and cranky of physics, words hurtfully “risen with him” (Colossians our emotional reserves, and person (they put down their expressed are like a verbal 3:1) and “abiding in him.” (1 monitor how we are feeling. In ailing pet the day before) third law of nature. The John 2:28) Wright, p 140. this way we are more careful in walks into a post office with emotional reaction, at first, is In this case the hard work is how we respond. a big envelope, no stamp, one of hurt. the determination to positively On the spiritual level, NT addressed, and places it on Victor Frankl in his best respond in the space between Wright believes that the most the counter. The smiling seller “Man’s Search for stimulus and response, when important Christian virtues, attendant says, “do you want a Meaning” writes; Between our emotional jar has been “Faith, Hope, Love” become stamp”? The response/reaction stimulus and response there bumped. our beginning point. Grace is ...? is a space. In that space is I recall while learning an employs these virtues. Titus This could be a choice facing our power to choose our African language many years says the following; any of us. How often have we, response. In our response lies ago that in the beginning, I “For the grace of God has in a similar situation reacted our growth and our freedom. had to translate in my head appeared that offers salvation with a sharp word, a rude According to Frankl, we have what I wanted to say before to all people. It teaches us phrase, a harsh comment, very little time to choose, speaking the words. In that to say “No” to ungodliness sarcasm, or, wait for it; a kind perhaps less then a second setting, saying the wrong word and worldly passions, and to response? However having after the emotional jar has or phrase could seriously hurt live self-controlled, upright Bryan Hagerman chosen the unkind comment, been bumped, to decide the one’s reputation going forward. and godly lives in this and realizing what we have outcome. So, I learned in time that present age, while we wait done, the words now hang in Isaac Newton’s third law of This sounds like an even when it became habitual for the blessed hope—the front of us, frozen in space. impossible situation. We spend to respond, because I knew appearing of the glory of our Regrettably, we can’t take motion states that “for every action (force) in nature there our lives either responding the language, I still hesitated great God and Savior, Jesus them back. The damage or reacting, given a stimulus before I spoke. I now believe Christ. Titus 2(11-13) is done. People we love; is an equal and opposite reaction.” For example, a and yet we have so very little if we retrain our minds to Our self-awareness, energized friends, colleagues, strangers, time to choose whether it hesitate for a second and think are offended or hurt and we basketball bounced on a by the three spiritual virtues, hardwood floor returns to the is a response (positive) or a before speaking when we are helps us to maintain healthy remain helpless by our own reaction. (negative) So what cranky, we give ourselves time impulsivity. O the tongue! one who has thrown it down. responses when bumped The third law also applies to to do? to respond positively, not to emotionally, and give us the In James chapter 3 we are walking. When you place your Tom Wright in his book react hurtfully. In so doing we gracious aptitude to catch and asked to consider how we foot on the ground, a force “After You Believe” writes grab the hurtful words before redirect the words that may speak. “The tongue also is a is applied to it. As a result that “we must therefore do they come out. Another way have otherwise darted forth. fire, a world of evil among the the ground applies an equal the hard work in the present to forgo a hurtful reaction parts of the body. It corrupts force onto your foot in the of becoming the people to a perceived annoyance Dr Bryan Hagerman the whole body, sets the whole opposite direction, moving we are destined to be. We is by way of self- awareness. St Paul’s Outreach course of one’s life on fire, and your foot forward. To employ are starting with a human On any given day, when we Counsellor is itself set on fire by hell.” an analogy from the science character already in Christ, awake, we can take stock of www.bryanhagerman.ca HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2020 PAGE 5 It’s A New Day! READ, MARK, LEARN AND INWARDLY DIGEST

is neither a science book nor are included? What a history record, although it information is missing may include some elements of from the story and who is these in its pages. It is also not silent? What comes before a novel, but rather a library of and after the passage? sacred texts that are grouped • WORLD IN FRONT together in particular ways OF THE TEXT: What and not necessarily placed is the message for us in chronological order. We today? Who, in particular, would not walk into our local would appreciate this library and start reading the story or lesson? What first book on the first shelf, is challenging for then continue with the next. contemporary readers? It’s the same with the Bible. It How does it speak to is perfectly appropriate to read Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn, Diocesan important issues today, Parish Vitality Coordinator from a book in the middle of related to justice, religion, the Bible or even better, from Photo by Matt Botsford on Unsplash culture, politics, the the New Testament. economy, inclusion, etc., Many people share that HOW MUCH: The quality etc.? How can the truth(s) By Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn texts. they are intimidated when and deep dive in your scripture of the scripture passage Christian education and “Studies reveal that regular they study the scriptures. study is far more important inform us or be practically spiritual formation were once engagement with the Bible Some attempt to read these than the number of chapters applied in 2020? again named as Diocesan is the number one tool for ancient texts, but find you cover in a sitting. Take themselves bogged down Exploring scripture study with priorities by members of helping Christians grow in your time and allow the sacred others is hugely advantageous Synod last May. Growing their faith, but it is actually in long genealogies, foreign writings to speak to your head archaic terms and challenging in growing Biblical literacy. participation in the Education one of the great weaknesses and your heart. It not only expands our for Ministry program, for many Anglicans,” says teachings. Here are some tips to help you and, hopefully HELPS: Consult a individual reflections, but attendance at MORE Mission Episcopalian priest, Rev. commentary that explains it also stretches us beyond Schools, Diocesan Youth Marek Zabriskie. He is the your Bible study friends, get started. the background and offers a limited and/or literal Conferences and Vital Church founder and editor of The Bible scholarly research for each interpretation. Plumbing Maritimes events are all strong Challenge, a popular study HOW: Carve out a time and passage. Study Bibles include the depths of a passage with evidence of this hunger. guide that helps people read a place in which to do this. A references, notes, maps and fellow pilgrims on a spiritual There are a variety of the entire Bible in a year. comfortable chair in a quiet charts to guide readers in journey is exhilarating and approaches to helping A 2013 Angus Reid Forum corner of the house is ideal, these ancient texts. Audio one approach to experiencing congregation members study reports that only 5% of but if all you have available versions of the Bible may be the Holy Spirit’s revelation explore and deepen their faith Canadians claim to read the is your lunch room at work more suitable for people who within Christian community. understanding in scripture, Bible daily, and 14% say they or your car while waiting for struggle with literacy or are on It also provides broadened tradition and reason. One way do at least once a month. an appointment, that will do. the move. perspective when striving to is to study our sacred biblical Begin with prayer to settle and live and minister missionally. be opened to the Living Word The three Worlds of Scripture of God. can provide a framework for The former Archbishop of BIBLE RESOURCES: your Bible study. Consider… Canterbury, Rowan Williams, TIME: You may wish to says, “To be a biblical church The Anglican Church of Canada’s Reading start with a modest amount of is surely to be a community time for this study, perhaps 15 Lists: • WORLD BEHIND that lives out this great story minutes. If you’re exploring THE TEXT: What is the [of creation and redemption] www.lectionary.anglican.ca scripture in a group a period historical context and day by day and commends it to of 60 to 90 minutes is fitting. cultural environment people everywhere as the most Canadian Bible Society (See Resources): Promising to commit to two when the text was written? comprehensible truth possible hours of study every day Who wrote it and what www.biblesociety.ca about the nature of God and may not be a practical or was their background? God’s world.” Bible Gateway: a free searchable online Bible reasonable expectation. Less What is going on in is better if you are more apt to the life of the original (200 versions) + study aids stick with it! audience? Why is this an Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn is the www.biblegateway.com WHAT: Choose a suitable important message for the Diocesan Parish Vitality Bible to read, especially if you readers/hearers of that Coordinator. For articles, Written on the Heart: The Bible for Anglicans are new to this. Beginners may time? inspiration and insights on in the 21st Century try The Good News version, • WORLD OF THE TEXT: congregational vitality and New Living Translation or What does the passage mission see the Facebook page A video published by General Synod of the a paraphrase like Eugene actually say? What is the “Parish Vitality Coordinator Anglican Church of Canada. Peterson’s The Message. story or message? Who – Diocese of NS & PEI”, and Scholars and churches tend to are the characters? What the Anglican Net News, “Six- www.anglican.ca/faith/identity/written-on-the- use the New Revised Standard is the action and the Minute Study”. heart/ Version (NRSV). dialogue? Where does it REMEMBER: The Bible take place? What details

PWRDF fund raising with angels

by Carol Simms St. Luke’s Anglican Parish in Hubbards N.S. raised $920 for the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund, by selling Angel Ornaments. Thank you to everyone who purchased an Angel. “We do believe in angels” HOME PAGE 6 FEBRUARY 2020 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES MISSION (is) POSSIBLE: Diocesan Stories of People Responding to God’s Call “Hosting a Hub of Hospitality” more than welcoming space for deeper conversations with new people in the New Germany people. Parish clergy, Rector, area. Freewill donations Rev’d. Mellanie Cohoon support other important and Associate Priest, Rev’d. causes. “It’s all no charge,” Catherine Robar stop by the Clair explained. “Most people drop-in and others support by donate every week, and with donating baked goods, washing those donations I do buy dishes, etc. “There’s no lack of some of the supplies. We give people helping,” said Clair. money to local schools and The organizers refrain from the food bank, and this year pressuring guests about their for Christmas we supported a church. “It’s a reaching-out to family.” A grandmother with people, and although we don’t two children received $650 in say we’re the Anglicans… food and gifts. people know,” said the retiree. Clair said it is important to “One person said that they be intentional about their had gone to church as a ministry in that they purchase child, but drifted away, and quality, fair trade coffee, Just actually had a bad experiences. Us, from the co-op in Grand Coming to the café this person Pre, offer gluten-free pastries, said she knows that it’s run by and she decorates for the people from the church. … It’s seasons, making the hall feel really changed her outlook and more festive. has urged her or pushed her a Last spring they started a little closer to going back to farm market outside and church,” she said. offered venders space inside “I’m not someone who will during the colder months and preach in someone’s face. Christmas. “We had produce That’s just not the way I am,” and honey, some different explained Clair. “The quiet types of crafts, a lady who was subtle ways of doing things I a baker and the Korean couple think are more effective. If this Photo: Some of the Community Cafe drop-ins. who have their Sushi and one person alone says, ‘Oh, spring rolls,” said Clair. maybe I better rethink this The village gathering spot is about going back,’ well that’s By Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn said. “So I thought about it with four people on that first also a venue for presentations great.” and talked about it for three Thursday in November and it on things like election voting A committed Anglican, Clair A mug of hot coffee, a years, and people said, ‘oh just slowly grew from there. At information, gardening and a describes her approach to homemade muffin and some yeah, yeah, it’s a good idea,’ the most we’ve had about 55. Kombucha workshop. Others missional ministry. “We keep genuine hospitality await but nobody really wanted to We average around 30 now.” have hosted small meetings asking people to come to the guests who stop by the free do it. So I said, ‘okay I’m going A database list of guests and during Community Café. church. It doesn’t work. We Community Café in New to do it.’” where they are from is being One new resident couple have to go where they are,” Germany. In the fall of 2018, after kept. More than 1,500 drop- purchased an old farmhouse she said. Situated in St. John in seeking permission from Parish ins have taken place over the nearby. She was from Ontario “The only way that we are the Wilderness’ Anglican Council to use the hall, the past year (many are repeat and he from Australia. Clair able to help people is to build Church Hall, on Highway attenders). said, “They started coming to relationships, so having the 10 in rural Lunenburg The weekly drop-in the café and they found out café has done that. It has built County, this mission- attracts mainly new about a babies and toddlers relationships and is building oriented initiative is “The local residents and some group and some other things. relationships, not only for me held Thursdays, from tourists. “We don’t get a She was pregnant. She had her but for a lot of people within 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Clair people were lot of local people. We baby in April, and in May she the community, especially the and John MacInnis are get a lot of people who invited the whole community newcomers,” Clair explained. the hosts, striving to very friendly, have moved to the area,” when she hosted a double “Then you can find out what make connections with said Clair. She and her birthday party at the café for the needs are once you’ve built newcomers. and they husband John, moved her husband and for the new the relationships.” After earning a Master from Bedford, NS, to the baby. There were lots of cakes of Arts in Theology welcomed us nearby community of brought.” at Wolfville’s Acadia by building a Springfield in 2007. Clair continued, Divinity College, Clair “It’s surprising how “Because that’s her sensed she had to put all fire, because it many people have moved family, her community the courses on evangelism to the area from other now, where her mom’s to work. Her goal was to was rainy and parts of Canada. Like our in Ontario and he’s create a truly welcoming Korean couple who came, so far from home. space to get to know her cold.” obviously from Korea, It’s really made a neighbours and begin to through Dallas, then difference.” respond to their needs. - Acts 28:2 (CEV) Toronto, and then here,” At a recent parish She explained, she said. “A lot of people workshop, parishioners “Sometimes it’s hard to have made their way shared excitedly break in a group when you to our area and this has about this new move somewhere, because MacInnis’s got busy. “I just got become not only a gathering venture. Several people have lived there my coffee maker and made spot, … but it’s also a lifeline noted how important forever, right?” muffins,” Clair said. “We for some people who now have Community Café “There is no coffee shop in advertised at the few local nobody around, like a new was for networking New Germany. There wasn’t businesses and in our bulletin, mom.” and providing an then and there isn’t now,” she and word-of-mouth. It started Community Café helps create opportunity to have HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2020 PAGE 7 Supporting Ministry and Mission

Cynthia Pilichos, Anglican and mission. Quiet Day takes place on It is easy to do lots of hand Church Women Board What about the national Sat. Mar. 28 at St. James, wringing and bemoaning The January 2020 issue of the church? Fortunately, most Shubenacadie, with reflections about the decline in church Anglican Journal was chock Anglicans are very aware of on the theme, Mission is affiliation and attendance, but full of articles related to the the Primate’s World Relief Possible: Empowered by God. it is much more validating to visible decline of churches as and Development Fund and The Anglican Church think and act creatively and we have known church to be. contribute to it so that it Women Board supports to actively seek resources to The statistics are sobering, and can accomplish its mission. ordained ministry through the “fertilize” what Archbishop they are, indeed, “a wake-up However, it is still surprising annual awarding of Kingston Nicholls sees as “green shoots” call” as Primate Linda Nicholls to realize that there are Memorial Fund Bursaries to of growth within the church notes; they do challenge us Anglicans who are unaware of AST students destined for community. Maybe there are to think how we might be the existence of the Anglican stipendiary ministry. This fewer people in the pews, but “presenting [the] hope and Foundation. It was established bursary has been made possible those who are there are often good news“ of the Gospel in 1957 to support ministry by an endowment from “deeply passionate and deeply in ways that are meaningful some or all of the MORE in the Anglican Church former diocesan Archbishop committed to their faith and to a current demographic. Missional School Modules. of Canada. The Anglican and 7th Primate of the their church” (Bishop Peddle Archbishop Linda asks what It is also possible that parish Foundation depends on regular Anglican Church of Canada, – Eastern Newfoundland and we might need to try in order members have attended some donations from individuals, the Most Reverend George Labrador) and that is cause to do this. or all of the Vital Church parish groups, parishes, and Frederick Kingston. In 2019, for hope, not only to Bishop Maritimes Conferences, or Peddle, but to all of us. As one reads further in both dioceses to be able to award the following students were had some of their younger grants for a variety of needs, recipients of a Kingston It is worth remembering the Journal and The Diocesan members participate in the Times, one is presented, a key one being creative, new Memorial Fund Bursary: Rev. the words of anthropologist, Diocesan Youth Conferences. ministry initiatives. Giving to Shirley Cole, Debbie Fice, Margaret Mead: “Never however, with amazing stories Maybe they have been, or of mission and ministry, with the Anglican Foundation so Blane Finnie, Jane Magrath, doubt that a small group are, a parish engaged with that it can respond to grant and Rob Paddock. of thoughtful, committed accounts of what parishes the Community Roots Camp and faith communities are applications sends a strong The Board has a continuing citizens can change the Project out of the Diocese’s message that you care about world; indeed, it’s the only trying, actions that are making Youth and Family Ministry education award, the a difference in the lives of the mission of the Anglican Anniversary Bursary, for an thing that ever has.” The Team. Many of our parishes Church of Canada within Anglican Church Women many. It is true that few of have taken advantage of Anglican woman 5 years or these inspiring situations, if Canada. more removed from formal Board is partnered with the diocesan personnel, such as King’s Kikima Grannies for any, translate into increased Rev. Lisa Vaughn, Parish The Anglican Church studies, who is enrolled in any attendance in the church Women Board for our diocese recognized program. There the Board’s current Annual Vitality Coordinator, or Allie Project: Education – a life pews on Sunday, but they are Colp, Youth and Family offers several opportunities is sometimes a misperception evidence of the Gospel alive of support for ministry and that the studies have to be changing gift! and the King’s Ministry Coordinator, to Grannies always end their in the communities in which help with the process of mission, and not only for of a theological nature – they find themselves. women. To help with one’s that is not so. The deadline inspiring presentation with re-imagining the church to that quotation. Closely allied When one reads the stories have it be more relevant in a spiritual life, the Board date for application has past sponsors a Lenten Quiet Day, (December 31), but the Board to those famous words of of parishes in our diocese post-modern, post-Christian Margaret Mead is the lesser experimenting with ways society. I expect that many in partnership with a hosting would be happy to consider parish, that is open to all. This a late application. As well, known quotation of hers, but to share the good news of of the people in these one that is just as relevant the Gospel within their parishes are regular readers opportunity highlights the donations to the principal of importance of the relationship this Fund are always welcome! in the face of the church in communities, one reads of The Diocesan Times and today’s world: “Never believe also how such parishes have the Anglican Journal. In between the Anglican Any questions regarding the Church Women Board and that a few caring people can’t availed themselves of diocesan other words, there are many Anglican Church Women change the world. For, indeed, grants that are designed for “institutional” resources to be the Anglican students at the Board are best directed to the Atlantic School of Theology, that’s all who ever have.” the activating of new ideas. accessed, human and other, Board’s e-mail address: acw. Amen to that! It is very likely that these within our diocese, to help in because it is AST students [email protected], as this parishes have had many of the process of re-imagining who offer the reflections on avenue allows for a prompt their parishioners attend church for inspired ministry a theme. In 2020 the Lenten response.

Mothers’ Union: a global membership 4 million members in 84 countries

By Mary Stone transformed. From these many meetings a Two years ago Worldwide new definition of our identity Mothers’ Union was divided has emerged. into 11 zones (A – K). We in Canada are a part of Zone Our identity: B which also includes South Mothers’ Union is a global, America, USA, and West In- women led, volunteer move- dies. Each Zone has a trustee ment. United in our diversity who works with Mary Sumner and living out our faith, we House in London, UK to sup- support individuals and fami- port and meet with Provin- lies to transform their lives. cial Presidents in developing Embedded in the Church and action plans. . Kathleen Snow, community, we have unprece- Diocese of Fredericton, is our dented reach that gives a voice Zone B trustee. to the stigmatized and vulner- Over these last two years able round the world. each Zone has worked through Across the globe this identity the MULOA process (Moth- is acted out in many different porting family relationships, elderly, poverty and refugee of Nova Scotia and Prince ers’ Union Listens, Observes, ways depending on the needs awareness of human traffick- support are some examples. Edward Island to investigate and Acts). This has allowed and situations in each commu- ing, addressing gender based and address the needs in our the voices of over 200,000 nity. It is amazing to discover It is exciting be a part of such violence, supporting food own communities. members to be heard as to how how many needs are the same a huge community of like programs in schools and com- the communities in which the world over – faith and minded Christians while doing munities, loneliness for the they live and work can be confidence building, sup- our small part in the Diocese HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2020 PAGE 8 Bring me a higher love

By Cathy Lee Cunningham, “The world’s on fire.” She Things look so bad everywhere. world. Rector, Church of the Good responds with a promise to In this whole world, what is When we bring our Baptismal Shepherd, Beaver Bank “bring what I am able”. fair? Walk the line and try to Covenant, Bible and intention “Think about it, there must be As I was thinking about all see. Falling behind in what could to dwell in Higher Love to this higher love, down in the heart of these things, Whitney be….. WHY process, we’ve suddenly or hidden in the stars above. Houston’s angelic voice came BRING ME A HIGHER got a powerful pathway as Without it, life is wasted time, through the radio waves, LOVE….. Church, to embolden and look inside your heart and I’ll “Bring me a higher love….” Where’s that higher love I keep amplify our calling as bearers look inside mine.” a remix of the 1986 Steve thinking of?” of Higher Love, right where - Lyrics, “Bring Me a Higher Winwood song, which is now we are. back at the top of the Pop This then caused me to think Love, by Steve Winwood, Will of one of my favourite people, Putting these two things Jennings (1986) Charts thanks to her and a together — our WHY and our DJ named Kygo. What few Simon Sinek, who tells us that Greetings and peace to you, in if we want to find that higher Higher Love — will change people know is that the song is the world. Even if only small the name of Jesus, God’s love actually a hymn. love and bring it to earth, we incarnate in flesh like ours, as first need to discover what he bit by small bit. we move into February, a time The WHY behind the lyrics calls our “WHY”. So, this coming Lent, let’s Rev. Cathy Lee at which our Western culture The real meaning behind Start with why answer the call of Higher celebrates all of the facets, joys Cunningham the lyrics, written by Will Love, to get out of our own and struggles of love. Jennings: With over 40 million views, way, overcome our overwhelm, drink by cyclist who stopped translated into 47 languages, The world’s on fire: how will “I was born in East Texas fatigue, fear, complacency to help is absolutely gut- his 2009 TED Talk on the we serve? and my mother and father’s and all that’s falsely holding wrenching. The suffering concept and process of finding families were from Arkansas us back, because we’re on a As I write this, the Australian on the planet seems to be our WHY has much to offer and the generations before planet in profound need of wildfires continue to burn. escalating at alarming rates. us as we discern our unique that love. According to VOX.com, were from the Deep South. individual and collective The United States “More than 15.6 million acres My father’s father was a purposes in Higher Love, in That Higher Love — God. assassination of Iranian torched. Over 1,400 homes Methodist preacher, a circuit God, as servants of our God at Look inside your heart, I’ll General Qasim Soleimani has destroyed. And, according rider, in Arkansas. My earliest this time-on-fire in history. look inside mine. inflamed the tensions between to one biodiversity expert’s memories are of the music in the two nations which could According to Sinek: Listen: Bring Me a Higher count, an estimated 480 church and of my aunts and unleash yet another endless Love million animals killed.” uncles singing the beautiful “The WHY is the purpose, cause war with consequences for the old hymns. ‘Higher Love’ is or belief that drives each every https://www.youtube.com/ The video of a koala fleeing whole world. a generation past that, when one of us. Your WHY is the watch?v=dTYOkcRH220 the fires and being given a things were not so much taken As Sarah McLachlan sings, one constant that will guide you Resources to Help You Find for granted, so that one has to toward fulfillment in your work Your Why plea, ‘Bring me a higher love,’ and life. The WHY was born and the lines are all trying to out of pain. It was born out of a https://simonsinek.com/find- explain WHY there must be time in my life, many years ago, your-why/?ref=mainNav higher love. A modern hymn, where I had lost my passion for The Power of Why you might call it.” what I was doing.” https://simonsinek.com/ In case you haven’t figured it He went on to describe how commit/the-power-of-why/ out yet, “higher love” is code he had withdrawn from his Free Webinar: Finding Your for God. And, as much as the life and relationships, how he Why song is a plea for that love to wasn’t himself anymore. He come to earth, it is also an wasn’t going out. He didn’t https://simonsinek.com/ anthem for a new generation, want to get out of bed to do commit/why-discovery- a calling to those who would the same work that to others webinar/ dare to step up, into the — from the outside — looked See you back here in the responsibility of bearing that like a dream fulfilled. March Issue, with an article higher love into this broken- So, he stopped. Closed his on leading from the waters of hearted world. business. Began discerning baptism. To me, it’s also a wake-up call that WHY, and built a whole Photo credit: C. Valdez on sermon, meant for all of us to new future based on living Unsplash hear: out of it. WHY? To serve the For assistance or suggestions: “World’s a turnin’, we’re just world, bring people together in happiness, fulfillment, safety cathylee@ hanging on, facing our fear and cathyleecunningham.com standing out there alone…. and joy. To build a better Buying or Selling? Call me... John D. Steele’s Sons Limited Manufacturers of Marble, Doug Mullenger, B.Comm Granite and Bronze Plaques, REALTOR® Monuments, Tables, Slabs and Markers 902-292-2244 Write or call for a Free Booklet: PO Box 173, North Sydney, NS [email protected] B2A 3M3 3845 Joseph Howe Drive, Suite 100 Telephone: 902-794-2713 Halifax, NS B3L 4H9 www.SuttonHalifax.ca Office: 902-453-5552 Independent Member Broker

HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2020 PAGE 9 Teach us to pray: Prayer shapes who we are

psalm prayers) have been a conversations, there needs to sustaining part of my prayer be a balance between talking life. A prayer doesn’t need and listening. The shape of our poetic words, nor does it faith expresses our experience need to be long. “Help!” is of Christ – and so our prayer sometimes the only – and shapes us. Deepening our best – prayer we can muster prayer can give us access to because in that single word that experience with more we acknowledge our need of consistency – and when we God and our dependence upon need it most. The Anglican God’s grace. Another great Fellowship of Prayer wants to prayer is “Thanks”, which we help us do just that. can never pray enough, and As the AFP diocesan another is a little wordier: Rev. Frances Drolet-Smith representative, I’d be pleased “What do you want me to to assist you and your parish to do, O God?” Still, many of deepen your practice of prayer. us could use some help in cycles and the Fellowship’s If you have a question about learning “how” to pray. newsletter published 5 times prayer or topic you’d like to The Anglican Fellowship of a year. know more about, resources Prayer offers a variety of prayer Does prayer have a purpose? from the AFP catalogue can resources through its website Does it matter if we pray? easily be emailed to you or www.anglicanprayer.org Justin Welby, the Archbishop printed and sent to you. And if Among the available resources of Canterbury, has said time permits, I’m available to is a downloadable 7-part video “Praying is simply sitting visit your parish or group for a series on the principal kinds before God and allowing him, prayer workshop or to consult of prayer which could easily through Jesus, to shape who with you by phone. form the basis of a parish study we are.” The Archbishop You can reach me by email program. Likewise, another concludes his comments: at [email protected] , series “Praying Congregations: “Prayer matters. Prayer by phone at 902-420-0717 or the heart of the Christian changes things. History by snail mail at The Diocesan conversation with God. Community”, featuring the shows that a renewal of Since 1983, the Anglican Centre 1340 Cathedral Lane, Let’s be honest: the Church Rev. Jane Vennard, could also prayer can result not just in Halifax NS B3H 2Z1 Fellowship of Prayer (AFP) has not always done a good stimulate discussion. churches transformed - but has been mandated to job of teaching people “how” whole societies too. It doesn’t Prayer shapes who we are encourage the ministry of In a series called “Encounters – and in turn, enables us to to pray. As Anglicans, we on the Journey” one finds 2 really matter how you pray prayer in Canada. As a enjoy the rich tradition of – whether your tradition is re-shape the world. resource to the Church, the videos (and audio files) by our common books of prayer. Canon Herbert O’Driscoll ancient or modern. It only AFP aims to foster a habit The words of our traditional matters that you pray.” Rev. Frances Drolet-Smith of prayer among Anglicans, and another by the Rev. Greg and contemporary prayers Mercer. The AFP website Prayer is essentially a Diocesan Representative, providing resources to engage (especially for me, the the Anglican Fellowship of individuals and groups in also features articles, prayer conversation and like all good Prayer

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290 Main Ave, Suite 801 Halifax NS B3M 3V3 Parkinson’s Society Nova Scotia 902 404 0792 www.parkinsonsocietynovascotia.com HOME PAGE 10 FEBRUARY 2020 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES Bible 2020 February Puzzle Clues ACROSS: DOWN: Crossword -1- Apostle appointed to replace Judas -1- Free from vanity (6) by Maureen Yeats Iscariot (Acts 1:12-26) (8) -2- Knives, plates, cups, etc., (9) -5- Old Testament poetical book (6) -3- High places above level ground (7) FEBRUARY Puzzle -10- An emirate on the Arabian Peninsula (5) -4- Brother of Moses (Exod. 4:14) (5) -11- One who gives up something volun- -6- Sharp, shrill sounds (7) tarily (8) -7- Referring to a particular place (5) -12- The first known Christian martyr (Acts -8- Elastic (8) 6-7) (7) -9- Very small metric unit of length (8) -13- “They stripped him and put a _____ -15- “He _____ from their sight.” (Luke robe on him.” (Matt. 27:28) bright colour (7) 24:31) disappeared (8) -14- Major Jewish festival (see for example -17- “Simeon … was _____ and devout.” Exod. 12:11) (8) (Luke 2:25) upright (9) -16- First wife of Abraham (Gen. 17:15) (7) -18- Certify a person’s credentials (8) -19- Shout of encouragement (5) -20- Basketball team based in 22D (7) -21- Labels bearing a person’s name (8) -22- Large city in Ontario (7) -24- Lists of ingredients and instructions for -23- French farewells (6) cooking (7) -25- Class system in India (5) -26- Deserved (7) -26- Maxim (5) -27- Not worthy of trust (9) -28- Loop with a running knot which tight- ens when pulled (5) -29- African fly that carries the protozoan for sleeping sickness (6) -30- People who sing by themselves (8)

JANUARY Solution

MISSION IS POSSIBLE: EMPOWERED BY GOD Sponsored by the ANGLICAN CHURCH WOMEN BOARD, Diocese of Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Island

A Lenten journey for spiritual renewal, with meditations offered by students studying at the Atlantic School of Theology

SATURDAY 10 A.M. MARCH 28 to 2020 2:30 P.M.

Join us at ST. JAMES, SHUBENACADIE 2856 HWY 2 (MAIN ST.), SHUBENACADIE Thompson’s Moving & Storage — Nova Scotia’s first choice for Program will start at 10:30 a.m. ~ Lunch provided moving and storage solutions. Since 1934, we’ve set the standard

for outstanding service in Nova Scotia. Whether relocating your family or your business, trust the Pre-register, please: professional movers at Thompson’s to complete your move Marjorie Davis at 902-462-3637 - [email protected] affordably, safely and on time. Plan your next move with the ($10 registration at the door – cheques payable to the ACW Board) name you can trust - Thompson’s! Toll free: (800) 334-2208 Local: (902) 469-5100 All are welcome - women and men www.thompsonsmoving.ca All ages and stages

HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2020 PAGE 11 NEWS BRIEF: Missional Leadership Cohort, The Connectors TWO

THE TEN CONNECTORS This year’s supportive network of peers includes eight By Rev. Lisa G. Vaughn lay ministers and two clergy. They are: Amanda Avery, A second group of lay and All Saints’ Bedford; Heather clergy leaders are embarking Carter, Cathedral Church of upon a year-long adventure, All Saints’; Patsy Clothier, exploring mission in their Parish of Horton (St. John’s respective contexts. The Wolfville); Nichola Fish- Connectors TWO is a Cumine, St. Mark’s Halifax; missional leadership learning Lorraine Fisher, Christ Church cohort that meets monthly to Berwick; Edith Marshall, mutually encourage, challenge Parish of Tangier; Gillian and deepen one another’s Power, Parish of Hatchet Lake vocation, while being held & Terence Bay; Catherine accountable to missional goals. Robar, Parish of New Germany; Maxine Simpkin, St. John the Evangelist, Middle Sackville; and Ashley Slauenwhite, St. The Connectors James’ Mahone Bay. offers the Some of the outcomes for the program include: to promise of understand more deeply our post-Christendom Photo: The Connectors TWO: (backrow from left) Jill Power, Nichola Fish Cumine, Lorraine Fisher, culture, our unique local intensive, Heather Carter, Catherine Robar, Ashley Slauenwhite, Maxine Simpkin, Archbishop Ron Cutler, (front contexts and the potential transformational opportunities they pose to row from left) Patsy Clothier, Amanda Avery and Edith Marshall. the formation of Christian leadership identity and devotional action/reflection experiments one another, planning to meet Connectors are selected practice; And to gain and pilot projects intended to from time to time for mutual because they exhibit development biblical and theological respond to mission-oriented support. the passion, skills and insight into God’s opportunities. This learning forum is a entrepreneurial spirit for this for a missionary mission and the church’s The first group of eight Diocesan investment in the work. Additionally, their missionary identity. This Connectors wrapped up their future vitality and growth of parish environments are ideal, diocese. leadership development year in October 2019. They parishes as we seek to join whereby missional initiatives initiative also equips continue in their ministries God’s transforming Spirit in can take root and be nurtured. participants to engage in and remain connected with our neighbourhoods. The

2020 MORE Mission Schools

Start the New Year off with boldness! We are hosting nine regional MORE Mission Schools throughout the diocese, from January to April. This fourth round of workshops is titled MORE Bold, and helps participants (re)discover their faith story. Best practices and tips will be shared about how to tell God’s story of hope and good news for the world. Module 4 explores what it means to be a disciple today, especially related to our Anglican identity. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED! See: www.nspeidiocese.ca or call 902-420-0717 (ask for Lisa). Archbishop Ron Cutler and a team of lay and clergy leaders facilitate each FREE workshop. They run from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

• South Shore - Feb. 29 - St. James’ Mahone Bay (Registration Deadline Feb. 26) • Valley - March 14 – Christ Church, Berwick (Registration Deadline March 11) • Eastern Shore - March 21 - St. James’ Seaforth (Registration Deadline March 18) • Cape Breton - March 28 – T.B.A. (Registration Deadline March 25) • Chignecto - April 4 - All Saints’, Springhill (Registration Deadline April 1)

MORE is based on God’s desire to give the world MORE of what it really needs – hope, love, and freedom. We encourage each congregation to bring a team!

HOME PAGE 12 FEBRUARY 2020 - THE DIOCESAN TIMES Many blessings through all stages of life

experience freedom in movement and nature, their faith grows as they fully trust and follow the faith of those guiding them. They see their families and church elders as the salt of the earth and light in the world. Their young faith grows when nurtured by the love of their church communities, and in turn, their young faith inspires, feeds and delights the older generations. As children mature, there are sometimes setbacks and View from the Deacon’s Bench obstacles in understanding, Photo: Grandad with grandson by Johnny Cohen on Unsplash but this struggle toward asking where do I fit and what gifts are to teach God’s love understanding is the most I can do now that my abilities or to serve people inside and by Deacon Lynda Downing Barclay in his commentaries rewarding time of growth. If have changed. outside the church in outreach as well as more contemporary endured, it develops a faith on Wisdom allows us to review and mission. There are means Each month I am blessed to works. “My mind and soul are a sure foundation. Faith lived our lives and see how Jesus has to help even when physically gather with very dear folks in permeated with Jesus giving out by searching for examples been tremendously present unable as we can all pray, and a senior’s care facility. While I great common examples, for of the salt of the earth and the to us when we needed Him prayer is powerful. worship and visit with them, it many languages, to aid us all light of the world and faith - through physical stress and If you feel a longing to becomes so evident to me that to become more peaceful.” that chooses, again and again, loneliness, how Jesus equips follow God more fully but are they are given many blessings Barclay’s words taught his to be salt and light to others. It others (the salts of the earth unsure how to proceed, seek that we rarely put into words contemporaries what it meant is a faith that discerns what and lights of the world) to be Spiritual Direction. If you to feed others. to be the salt of the earth and claims to be light and salt to available to love us through have the smallest inkling, pray While reading Matthew’s the light of the world. There the world and prophesize when difficult times. Going through for guidance while speaking Gospel, especially Chapter is so much for us to learn it is not. life with Jesus and seeing Jesus with ordained members, and 5, verses 13 & 14, it opened from the wisdom of these past at work, we can know that in by reading books that have generations. As we grow into seniors, we for me how His words have recognize the examples of times of need or disagreement, helped others in your position. assisted these dear seniors to We can see God moving the salt and light which have Jesus has the means to help us Singing hymns of Praise like grow in faith. How scripture through all stages of life as we sustained us over the years. by always giving us hope and Number 502 in the Common has and continues to open journey together as church We can look back and see how through that hope peace. Praise Book called “You are possibilities for our faith to communities. We see precious, Jesus has been with us at all Seniors of faith know and Salt for the Earth.” blossom into exceptional love. sweet, and unique babies times, even those times when trust that Jesus can lead us, Let us go forth in peace, Theologians and the learned whose joy and wonder in all we felt abandoned. He calls as they know of his constant to love and serve the Lord, have interpreted so much things helps us to see salt and us to continue to be the salt of presence with them. In our striving no matter where wisdom and clarified the ways lights for the world in their the earth and the light of the life’s journey we may ask we are in life’s journey to be of the world through the innocence and love. world. He gives us this great ourselves, what can I do to Christians who are the salt of centuries. A particularly warm As those babies grow responsibility as our abilities give back for what Jesus has the earth and the light of the reflection comes from William into young children who shift, and as we find ourselves given me. You may feel your world.

HOME THE DIOCESAN TIMES - FEBRUARY 2020 PAGE 13

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