The Diocesan Synod of Central Newfoundland The Anglican Church of Canada

The Forty Fourth Session of Synod

Hosted by the Parishes of Fortune-Lamaline and Grand Bank

The Bishop’s Charge

2017

Delivered at Synod

Prepared for Diocesan and Public Distribution

May 2017

1 Contents

Table of Contents

Contents ...... 2 Introduction ...... 4 Highlights of Tonight’s Worship ...... 6 Transitions ...... 7 A New Bishop In the Office ...... 7 Synod Office ...... 8 Synod Office Staff...... 9 Program Officer’s Position ...... 9 Mint Brook...... 10 Diocesan Committees ...... 11 St. Martin’s Cathedral ...... 11 Companion Diocese ...... 11 Diocesan Refugee Committee ...... 12 The Diocesan Constitution ...... 13 The Bishops Handbook ...... 13 Purpose of the Handbook: ...... 13 Changes in the Handbook: ...... 13 Expectations around the Handbook: ...... 14 General Synod and Diocesan Discernment around the Marriage Canon ...... 14 Future Processes and Directions ...... 18 Communication ...... 19 Understanding who we are as the Body of Christ ...... 19 The Essential Nature of Communication ...... 20 Communicating with Youth ...... 20 The Communication Charge to the Diocese ...... 22 Stepping Forward in Faith: Moving from Survival to Mission. Our Policy on Sustainable & Strategically Missional Ministry ...... 22 Working with the Policy ...... 22 Regional Deans ...... 23 Identifying and Enabling the Ministries of our Clergy and Laity ...... 24 Equipping our Diocesan Lay Ministries ...... 25 The Call to Ministry ...... 25 Vocation ...... 25 Bishop’s Discernment Processes for Holy Orders ...... 26 Theological Education ...... 26

2 Conclusion: Let Us move forward with faith, believing the Waters shall part! ...... 27 Appendix 1 Study Guide for the Bishop’s Charge ...... 28 Appendix 2. Scripture References in the Bishops Letter and Charge...... 33 Appendix 3 Bibliography ...... 36 Appendix 4 Diocesan Committee Members (Still in Process) ...... 39 Appendix 5: Marks of Healthy Parishes ...... 40 Appendix 6 The Bishop’s Electronic Communication ...... 42

3 Introduction At the 2017 Lenten Clergy retreat I shared a prayer from a young Rabbi whose name is Stephanie Kolin:

God Who Creates, God Who Redeems, God of shalom— of peace, God of wholeness, We remember standing at the shore of the sea, afraid, Our enslavers in hot pursuit, ready to take us back to captivity. We remember the tumultuous sea before us that showed no signs of parting. And we remember you told us: ( v’yisa’u) go forward! We stepped forth. The waters parted. We moved our bodies from slavery to freedom. You moved our souls from oppression to redemption. God who Creates, God who Redeems, If it can happen once, it can happen over and over and over. Go forward! Let us cross the sea with all who are enslaved, with captors on their heels. And together, let us make those waters part!

Quoted in: Mclaren, Brian D. The Great Spiritual Migration: How the World's Largest Religion Is Seeking a Better Way to Be Christian The Crown Publishing Group. I have hope and confidence that whether read or heard this poem has evoked some personal image from your own life journey, and pray it stirs the heart of this Synod. These are excitedly uncertain times for our Church; approaching armies bring uncertainty on our rear, and a dark cold sea waits in front - No clear vision of a way forward, but certain knowledge that if we stay where we are: death. But Listen…. The Spirit Calls in the uncertainty: V’yisa’u! … Go Forward!....And We Shall, because We have decided to Follow Jesus. No turning back…No turning back! Tomorrow marks the tenth month of my ordination as your Bishop. In preparation for Synod, which obviously is a focal point for me, I have been looking back at the processes I have joined, thinking about the whirlwind of discernment required in our diocese and country, and all I have yet to learn about the wonderful gift the

4 people of our Church are. As well, I have been considering things left undone which I ought to have done; and things which I ought not to have done. As I present my first Charge to our Diocese, I know my task is to provide the clearest picture of “who we are” and “where we are” as a diocesan family. I also know there is nothing new in your ears when I offer my pennyworth: “We have reached several tipping points in relation to ministry, numbers, finances, vision and discernment.” Let us begin by claiming Christ’s assurance that when we, at Synod, humbly acknowledge our need of the Spirit’s wisdom and guidance, then like the Apostles with one heart and mind cry: “Lord, Increase our faith!”, it shall be done. (Luke 17:5) NRSV Let this synod stand on Philippians 4:13 and 4:19 which tells us that we can do all things through the strength of Christ, and that he will provide all we need to do these things. Our desire is to turn “where are we?”, into “this is where we are going!” We are not experiencing a sudden arrival of some calamity. We have been engaged in escalating contests between faith, culture and institutions for quite a while. There is a bigger picture: Changes in Christianity are international in scope, so it is important to realize that our diocese is joining a conversation that other parts of the world, including our own country, have been deeply engaged in for quite some time. We can be thankful that there is a wealth of understanding available through the experiences and struggles of others, and many people willing to share it. I am encouraged by the work of our National Church in relation to the way we have gathered people from coast to coast to share stories, wisdom and resources. I am not only encouraged, but excited about our future, and thank all who have led us to this place. Thank you to our former bishops, executive officers, chancellors, synod office staff and volunteers for their leadership, guidance, friendship and prayers. Thank you to our laity, who are the builders of the Church on the foundation of our faith. With thanksgiving let us stand upon the foundation of Jesus Christ tonight, believing that the right people at the right time in the right place have been

5 gathered by God and are hereby equipped to discern and do the will of the Holy Spirit for this generation. You sisters and brothers, are the council of the Church, and the Spirit of Jesus will speak through you in this place.

Highlights of Tonight’s Worship Our Synod worship tonight centers around the Eucharist. Here, we celebrate unity of belonging to the larger Church that has its being because of the life of each congregation, parish, Diocese, country and the world. Tonight in the liturgy we offer new ministries to God and ask the Creator’s blessing. We welcome Mr. Gerald Ralph as our new chancellor, and ask God to bless the ministry of administration and empower its pastoral application in our diocese by appointing The Revd. Terry Caines as our first ever Executive Archdeacon. And Mr. James Spencer, you are to become a deacon here in the midst of our Diocesan Synod. It is obvious that this service will have many tones, but rest assured, you are not being lost in it. The ordination of a deacon reminds us of the humility, grace, power and love the Church needs to reclaim. I ask you James to deeply consider the content of this charge, for it is also your Ordination Sermon.

6 Transitions A New Bishop In the Office As a long-time member of the Church and an active member of our Diocese I came to my office aware of the structures and policies of our organizations. However, as a new Bishop I have had a steep learning curve in relation to expectations of our parishes, diocese, ecclesiastical province, as well as our national and international Church. I am thankful for Bishop Don Young, who has been a great counsellor and friend through the transition and say “Thank you everyone!” for your patience, counsel and understanding as I continue to get settled in. Fair warning though: Someone asked me if my busy schedule and all of the processes being started was because of a “New broom sweeping clean”. My response was “No. Get used to it. That’s my regular pace!” A Thought to encourage reflection upon our Diocesan Character: Sisters and brothers, each day brings with it the exciting challenge of discerning what God is asking us to do, and an expectation that we will try our best to do it.

7 Let Us Care for One Another There is an image that I need to share with you. In the 23rd Psalm we read of the Great Shepherd spreading a table in the presence of our enemies. Spreading the Table is a term that would have been familiar to ancient peoples. Before a shepherd would guide his sheep to a chosen area, holes in the ground which provided lairs for scorpions and other deadly predators lay in wait to surprise and cripple animals. They had to be cleared and secured. Poisonous herbs and weeds growing in the pasture would be identified, as in the presence of all enemies, the loving, trained hands of the shepherd would face every risk to remove all dangers so a flock could safely graze. The sheep do not always see what the shepherd is doing, and sometimes do not understand or like it, but they trust that their well-being is the steward’s priority. There is no question that image could be connected with the office of a bishop – it does. But it also applies to each one of us in the relationships entrusted to each one of us by the Father. We are simply to sacrificially Love one another.

John 13:34-35 : "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." Synod Office Shortly after my episcopal election I approached the Revd. Terry Caines with a request that he consider becoming the Executive Officer. I have known Terry for many years, first in my role as a parish priest, and then as a colleague. Terry offers a pragmatic, compassionate character, and expertise developed through his rural Newfoundland upbringing, business experience, theological training, and love of the Church to this ministry. Our goal in inaugurating him as Executive Archdeacon tonight has much to do with our need to see every aspect of our work, including administration, as a high and holy calling. One of his first tasks has proven to be quite demanding. My past eleven years as the rector of St. Martin’s Cathedral also included a close professional and personal relationship with the staff and function of Synod Office. For that reason,

8 from the beginning of my episcopacy, I asked Terry to discern and provide an objective view of any developments or changes needed in relation to diocesan administration, staffing, infrastructure, Mint Brook and the physical set up of Synod office. As our visioning unfolded, Terry has helped us make some difficult but important decisions to prepare the path forward.

Synod Office Staff In the fall of 2016, Synod office staff gathered for a few days for some honest discernment around all challenges of the operation of synod office, and to vision about serving the diocese in the future. All of this was in conjunction with ongoing conversations about the struggles some of our parishes are having, and our deep concerns about Mint Brook. As you will see in this Charge, and as many of you already know through my visits and conversations, policies and processes are either already in place, or being formed to help our Diocese joyfully grow in Spirit and Strength as Good News people for this generation. Program Officer’s Position In recent years our diocese has enabled a move toward clergy and laity taking hands on leadership of many of our programs. This is in no small part due to Marg Jenniex’s work of finding hearts willing to share their gifts, and connecting people to ongoing ministries of reaching out and equipping the saints. Many diocesan gatherings and programs were centered at the Mint Brook Camp site. The closing of Mint Brook Camp coincides with the highlighting of many concerns around our diocese in relation to shrinking budgets, declining populations and the general displacement of the Church as the cultural center of communities. It is clear to us that parish and congregational needs in relation to ministry, finances, sustainability and growth can no longer be met by set programmes, but require multi-level approaches.

9 For that reason, we have had to reclassify the Programme Officer’s position. At the end of the year, Margaret’s time with the diocese as programme officer will end, and in place of programme we will budget to provide resources and hire people on a contract basis who can bring expertise and resources to specific challenges, and work within an identified time frame. Marg Jenniex’s ministry in The Diocese of Central Newfoundland, Ecclesiastical Province of Canada, with A.C.P.O, and our National Church has been invaluable to us, and we thank her deeply for it. Her ministry in our Diocese will continue in different ways as the spirit leads. Mint Brook During this past year your Executive made a very difficult but bravely proactive decision to close Mint Brook Camp. A commissioned study of the camp revealed that: Our use of the camp for program, ministries and outside groups was causing us to run serious financial deficits. Numbers for youth events are in a steep decline. The increased use of the camp by outside groups was seen by Revenue Canada as a shift from our stated mission which allows our official charitable status. Our buildings and other infrastructure are in need of $300,000 – $350,000.00 in repairs before we could begin to talk about revitalizing our programs. A committee is now in place to discuss how the Ministries that were founded and run from Mint Brook should change and grow to meet the needs of our diocesan youth, ministry teams and seniors. All camps for this year have been booked at Max Simms Camp and so far, the reviews have been very positive. The full report of the process and motion is available in your Synod Package. It is also available at Synod Office.

10 Diocesan Committees Our Diocese has a policy of established term limits for our committees. The purpose of this is to ensure a balance of rotating committee members to facilitate a passing on of new ideas and knowledge, provide committee stability, and fill the important need that each part of our diocese be enabled to share locally emerging views, knowledge and concerns. At the present time, we have almost completed a refreshing of our committees, and offer many thanks to those who serve, and look forward to you all continuing your ministries in the Church. A list of the people who share and lead these diocesan ministries is appended to this Charge. St. Martin’s Cathedral I offer heartfelt thanksgiving to the people and clergy of St. Martin’s for their loving care and nurture over the years. It was difficult to leave as Rector, allow space for the formation of a new administration, and then “return” so to speak, as the Bishop. Over the years The Revd. Brian Candow was a faithful associate and partner in ministry, faithful as a confidant, and willing to lovingly challenge me. He too has had to face the challenge of this significant transition. Synod office is presently in conversation with St. Martin’s in relation to the physical needs of the diocesan office to ensure that the workplace environment is able to provide for the emerging needs of access, privacy and diocesan operations. As the Spirit leads, we hope to have more meaningful conversations in regard to the relationship of St. Martin’s as the Cathedral of the Diocese. Companion Diocese We are all thankful for the moving and inspirational visit of Bishop Francis Loyo this past year. A word of thanks to Bishop David Torraville for beginning and faithfully maintaining the difficult process of bringing Francis to us. The involvement of many people in our diocese with his visit released an energy and love that has changed many hearts in Central Newfoundland. Francis has taught us how important it is to carefully weigh a commitment, and resolve to actively demonstrate it.

11 Our Companion Diocese covenant was signed with the Diocese of Rokon in Gander, at St. Martin’s in October 2016 as a two-way relationship for five years. At present, South Sudan is affected by civil war, drought and famine. Travel to Sudan is impossible at the present time, and people are dying because of a drought and famine that is more severe than has ever been seen. Through all of this, we must live out our commitment to walk with these people, and although there is a diocesan committee in place, the responsibility to participate and serve this relationship belongs to each of us. In the near future we will launch a special appeal to give our people a chance to help the people of South Sudan through Primates World Relief. The Companion Diocese Committee, chaired by the Reverend Shaun O’Connor, sees possibilities through two potentially feasible projects: The first is to possibly assist Hannah Loyo in earning a Masters of Public Health at Memorial University. At the present time her application to Memorial has been rejected, but we will continue to look for ways to aid her education, in the hope of equipping her to minister to the people of South Sudan, the newest country in the world. Another vision is to equip Hannah and others to make sanitary napkins so young village women can stay in school and complete their education. A display booth of Rokon and an interview with Hannah will be presented at Synod. Diocesan Refugee Committee Our Refugee Committee has exemplified the heart of Christ through their efforts to motivate a diocese, provide opportunities for our people to give, and partner with community councils and outside groups. As the time of our commitment comes to a close, I will be asking all involved to provide us with a complete report and overview of the year, including challenges and hopes for the future. Such a comprehensive report was not available for synod, but will be posted on our website as soon as it is available.

12 The Diocesan Constitution Our Diocesan Constitution has been a solid document for us. Changes in federal and provincial laws, Church life, governance and the language and realities of our present culture cause us to realise it is time to look at the intent, focus and authority of our Constitution. The last revision was in 1998. At the present time, your executive has approved a motion to place our Diocesan constitution in abeyance, and will bring that motion to the floor for clarification and your approval. The Bishops Handbook Purpose of the Handbook: This is a publication that we use in our diocese to outline traditions and practices and answer questions that arise in parishes around Liturgy and administration. The handbook contains the bishop’s guidelines which are formed through the Constitution and fortified from his experience and council throughout the diocese, and as such is meant to carry an episcopal authority that brings unity in our practices as a diocesan family. Changes in the Handbook: Our handbook has served the clergy and lay people well, but as with the Constitution, we are discovering that we require some new interpretations and language revision. Some of our clergy and laity have come to us from other dioceses which have practices and policies that are quite different from ours, which has resulted in both an enriching and confusion of our common life. Here in Newfoundland, our three dioceses were formed at the same time but in many ways have different guidelines. It is important to understand why differences exist even though we are all Anglicans. Each diocese has guidelines that have emerged from their own history and developments, their own cultures, needs and worship practices. Here in Central Newfoundland our laity and clergy have proven to be faithful to our guidelines and have a testimony of conviction, sacrifice and faithful service to our development which must be valued and respected.

13 There is a need to revise the handbook, but this task will not be done as a result of comparing what others allow, as if there is some right or wrong judgement to be made because “others do things differently.” The revision of our handbook will be done prayerfully through the voice of the Spirit that speaks through the experiences of the people who actively serve, and the people whom we serve in the name of Jesus. The Bishops handbook is being revised as a living document, and will provide a teaching rationale that will accompany each guideline as needed. Expectations around the Handbook: We may not fully agree with everything contained in the handbook, but it is important for the well-being of every parish and congregation to respect and follow the guidelines. I welcome counsel about issues which concern our people and parishes, and encourage people to have safe conversations with me about them. It must be taken seriously that when clergy and laity strongly disagree about practices of gambling, eulogies, sacramental ministries, worship guidelines, etc., and have spoken out publicly or at Church meetings, to express their opinions, relational wedges have been driven between congregations, parishes, synod office, and the bishop. I can say with thanksgiving that this is not a common practice in our diocese, but it has happened, and it is requisite and necessary that we do all in our power and grace not to allow it to continue. In our current cultural environment, Unity of Heart and Purpose is an essential witness. General Synod and Diocesan Discernment around the Marriage Canon Less than two weeks after being ordained Bishop, I found myself submerged in the diverse textures of the General Synod. As a Christian, priest, and member of the Church, I was quite prepared for the gathering. As a new Bishop, not so much. As a bishop, I found myself alone in the immersion of new and widely diverse assumptions about the role of bishop. These came from within our own diocese, and outwardly from our ecclesiastical provinces, national church and beyond.

14 Without repeating the content of my pastoral letter following the General Synod (it is appended to this Charge), I voted in favour of the motion because I believed: That true, Spirit inspired conversation within our Church community was being inhibited by political, prejudicial and theological biases. That too many people have been hurt by the agendas of our lay and ordained leadership for far too many years. That for far too long, Church leaders, (lay and Clergy of either opinion), had paid a large price for their convictions, and it is time to stop victimizing each other, and time to have safe discussions. Such a Church council could only take place if the motion to amend the marriage canon (Canon 21) passed first reading.

In addition to that: My conversations with other Bishops and laity across this country made me aware of the very different and limited experience we have had in comparison to the intensity and impact of discussions around sexuality and the marriage canon within the diversity of cultures in large urban areas. Our diocese, with our relatively low population, has had very little involvement with: Debates over marriage and sexuality in Churches, parishes and dioceses which has split vibrant communities. Lawsuits filed against synods – Families destroyed, and relationships shattered. Many people in the Church are tired, angry and disillusioned because of the energies demanded by conflict.

My vote was based on confidence and expectation that our Diocese is willing to rise above personal biases, because we have a heart to hear what the Spirit is actually saying to our Churches. (James 4:5) I fully intended to facilitate a discernment process in our own diocese that would allow us to navigate through all the theological and political posturing so we could clearly hear the voice of the Spirit concerning God’s Will for our Diocese.

15 Responses from the Diocese By and large, the responses from our Diocese after General Synod were very affirming: Some wanted a further explanation of the whole process in general. Some asked for an explanation of my reasons for voting in favour of the motion. Some wished to share their opinions in favour of the motion, and some against. Some stated that they were not sure about my reasons, but would walk in trust that God’s anointing had led me. These were helpful and good conversations in a time when I was feeling very vulnerable. Other responses can only be described as, quick, angry, hateful and hurtful. The pain I felt while immersed in this negative energy is hard to describe, and I only mention it here because I believe the Holy Spirit has something to say to us, and because there are vital lessons we must learn as ambassadors of Christ in today’s culture. All through the ages expressions of theology and dogma have emerged from the Church through human experiences of God. The Holy Spirit speaks through current culture to each generation through the expressions of the Church of the time. Major challenges for the Church of today are revealed when we consider the incredible pace of change that has redefined the entire human race. How can we allow the Holy Spirit to speak through our institution? Can we? Our judgements would likely be more measured if we were in similar situations to those we are speaking about. Let’s consider the limitations of our own experience before we hold discussion about the authority of our own values. We don’t live in a war torn country. We do not have churches being bombed because people feel “their God demands it”. We do not have children in our diocese that are going to die of hunger tonight. We do not have the right from our comfortable, lofty perches, to impose our values or dismiss the spiritual authority of other people of faith who speak out of

16 their experience of God or their valid understandings of Scripture that clearly speak to them from their own context. But… we do have addicted, disenfranchised wounded and hurting people. God is calling us to show them a better way – the way of Christ. Jesus would that we would have relationships and conversations with these precious people.

May I share my Good Friday prayer with you? I have been quiet tonight Lord, thinking about my life, relationships and loved ones...and of my love for you which has grown deeper - not out of doctrine, but through the lives of the people you have gifted me with. Amen Let us remember: The Movement Jesus began - the movement that transformed the world, and must continue to transform the world, challenges every social and religious system that attempts to force anyone to live in a way untrue to whom they are, and who God is calling them to be. Jesus insisted on this when he said:

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free…. Luke 4:18 (NRSV) The Other lesson the Spirit now teaches our diocese is about how we should respond to each other. During Lent we read in Mark 14 Jesus standing silent before the council that accused Him. o Let us resolve that as a Diocese, negative conversations that make us feel unfaithful, empty, wrong or angry, will not be returned in kind. o Let us ask God’s help to receive the things others say, as a gift. When words or actions reveal vulnerabilities, fears, biases, convictions and concerns, they will allow us to serve them better, because we are getting to know the person at a deeper level.

17 Everyone here has been hurt by someone else’s thoughts, opinions and actions that flowed from them. Everyone here has hurt someone by our thoughts, opinions and actions as well. Jesus calls us to gentleness and respect.

Peter 3:15-16 tells us: In your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect. (NRSV) My prayer and charge to this diocese is: That we will follow the essence of Peter 3:15-16 in each of our conversations, whether they are about the Marriage Canon, the disenfranchised who live in our communities, or the future of a congregation or parish. This attitude is not about any canon as much as it is about who we are as followers of Jesus:

Colossians 3:12: So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; Each of our Regional deans has accepted the ministry of enabling discussion processes in each deanery, and resources are available at www.centraldiocese.org Let Us pray: Creator and owner of the Love within us, help us to be stewards of your Divine love, by imitating you and living in love, as Christ loved us, and gave himself up for us. Constantly remind us in this Diocese, of a deep call, to truly forgive and respect each other, and in so doing, release the power of your Spirit, and become more like your Son in all of our discernments, living and communion.

Future Processes and Directions Every year during Confirmation programs I ask “To whom do you turn when you are trying to figure out right from wrong or have a question about life?” A quick answer is always “I ask my friends.” Everyone is searching for authenticity. Whatever age group you consider, answers to deep questions around God, spirituality, morality and meaning now always involve trusted personal relationships, the media, or the Internet.

18 Very few people today indicate that they will ask a Christian leader, ordained or lay, questions about faith or the meaning of life. Most of us remember the time when our Culture ensured people would defer to the clergy, a teacher, or parents on issues of belief. These Cultural norms no longer have the authority they once did. That does not mean that the days of the Church influencing faith and morality is over or that Christian leaders will not be asked for counsel, but: Leaders won’t be taken seriously unless there is an authentic, trusted relationship in place. (By that I don’t mean the lip service people pay to us if they want to negotiate a rite of passage such as Baptism, Confirmation, Weddings, or Funerals.) Communication Before we talk about the future, we need to talk about how we talk about the future!

Understanding who we are as the Body of Christ At a recent gathering our Primate Fred Hiltz said “I wish that people would stop referring to the Church as the “National Church” as if it were something other than what we are together.” I would say the same thing in relation to our diocese. The Synod office in Gander does not exist as a separate entity from any parish or congregation. It is your administrative and pastoral body, and an extension of each parish and congregation. Let us be reminded: That the Diocese is one family, with different expressions of faith in different locations and under different conditions, but we have one Lord, One Faith and One Baptism. That the role of the Executive is to be like unto the vestry of the Diocese. That the role of our Synod Office staff is to provide resources, create unity, equality, and enable transparency for all of us. That in our Diocese, discussions should reflect a basic trust that each one has the best interest of the Church at heart. That in the Councils of the Church, diverse opinions are important because they reflect valid experiences of God throughout our diocese.

19 That every meeting should be held within an expectation of a safe place where common courtesies prevail, where gratitude, admitting weaknesses and failures, expressing hurt or disappointment, confessing and forgiving, asking for help, differing graciously, and speaking truth in love are the hallmark of who we are as a diocese. The Essential Nature of Communication In times such as ours, we have much to talk about and many decisions to be made. It is imperative that our conversations be rooted in a common love of Christ and for each other.

The First chapter in the Epistle of James tells us to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. In his famous prayer, St. Francis of Assisi gives a wonderful interpretation of this passage when he asked God to help him to “Seek first to understand, even before I am understood.” We all know how frustrating and hurtful it can be when we feel we have not been heard or listened to. It is important to listen for the sake of love and respect, not just to pounce on someone with our own opinioned response. Sincere Communication results when someone risks becoming vulnerable by sharing ideas, emotions, attitudes or perceptions with another person or group of persons. What a gift that can be! We need to treasure and respect the sharing. It is incredibly important for our Church to hold the building of such values wherever people gather to share as a highest priority, for that is the only way to ensure that the voice of the Holy Spirit can be lovingly heard through our people. Communicating with Youth First we have to ask how we define young people, when the average age of attendance and involvement is 50 plus and rising. A common question I hear is “What can we do to get young people back in Church?” Some younger thinking leaders are discovering that question is all wrong today. The question should be more like: “What can we do to get people of faith, who

20 have been strengthened by Word and Sacrament, to go “out there” and be servants where the young people are?” If we are to minister to an emerging generation of young people with authenticity, we must make some farfetched changes in our thoughts, words and deeds! There is a natural response to push against that kind of thinking. We have always been able to argue that church should not be trend-driven or conform to culture for the sake of being popular. Our identity affirms the thought that we are called to live by other rules, and when people “get it” and see the value of our traditional bulwarks, they will join us. The truth is, in the present culture, the present model of the Church has little to say to a generation that, values equality, impartiality and community, but hates being told what to do and how to do it.

It is time for us to seek ways of communicating in the language of the people around us. Tom Sine, a futurist theologian, wrote in his book Wild Hope:

“Every denomination and religious organization I have worked with does long-range planning. Ironically, they do long-range planning as though the future will simply be an extension of the present. . . . As a result, we are chronically surprised by change. In the future, we can no longer afford this luxury.” The steep decline in the numbers of young people attending Mint Brook camp over the last decade is just one example of clear evidence of this. The Church has always been a cultural and social institution, rooted in a given place and time, and has been able to speak clearly into the context. The rate of change in our culture has become so great, that if we have any concern for the generations that have left the Church and for the present uprising younger generations, we must look within our Diocese of Central Newfoundland with urgency to the future shape of our church.

21 All discussions we have in the future must take into consideration these things, and include the young people we are trying to reach. We must step forward believing the waters will part.

The Communication Charge to the Diocese Before we can share concerns about parish viability, or communicate our mission to the world or we must spend some time looking inward. It is time for each of our gatherings to include discussions about becoming more like Jesus intended communities of faith to be. He ate and drank with outcasts and sinners, but didn’t bother to waste time take time identifying them as such. It is time to talk about how the transformational power of simply loving our neighbours as we love ourselves, can first change us….and then, through our living the Gospel, transform the world! The Policy on Sustainable & Strategically Missional Ministry will help us make informed and well thought out choices as to how we can learn to see and relate to the people in our communities. That must include searching out people on the fringes, the outsider, the outcast, the stranger, the alien, as well as the ones who have walked away. Jesus has taught us that everyone has equal value. Christian love refuses to turn people into objects or articles displayed on the news, and holds all people as brothers, sisters, neighbors; loving them as ourselves, standing with them in solidarity. We can go to Syria…. we can go to Rokon in our prayers, and we should - but rest assured there are people in your community that need healing and friendship too.

Stepping Forward in Faith: Moving from Survival to Mission. Our Policy on Sustainable & Strategically Missional Ministry Working with the Policy I preface this section by saying what follows is good news. We are not trying to lay extra burdens or responsibility on anyone, but providing a focus as to how we can train the energies we expend to do the things that need to be done! The Policy on Sustainable parishes is not a “ one size fits all Strategic Plan ”. When we consider the size and diversity of local congregations, we realize that

22 what might work for one parish may not work in another one. Strategic plans may be excellent for businesses, but within any diocese, strategic plans are commonly suspected of trying to enforce an agenda from the top down, and creating divisions rather that unity and trust. The parishes in Diocese of Central Newfoundland have experienced profound shifts in demographics and the Church is no longer the cultural center of local communities. It is imperative for every congregation and parish to: Have discussions about present realities Evaluate what resources we have Make proactive decisions about defining our purpose and moving forward. We see the need to enable conversations in congregations and parishes about examining every possibility for each community of faith to continue to grow in ministry, rather than simply give up. This policy is a tool that recognizes the need for local discernment. It is intended to be used in each parish as a study guide that expects that we are all working together toward the goal of building healthy parishes with a clear vision. By next synod, each congregation and parish is expected to use the policy guide and begin a process of examination and evaluation which will lead to vision of their own. Each parish will then produce their own document which will identify the resources available, resources needed, definitions of ministry, clear expectations and a plan to get on track and stay there. The guide assumes the involvement of the Bishop and Synod Office resources as a support for each process. Regional Deans To strengthen this process, our Regional Deans duties will be redefined. From this point Deans will no longer be elected, but appointed by the bishop. The terms of office will remain the same.

23 Identifying and Enabling the Ministries of our Clergy and Laity I think it fair to say that one of the main challenges to our clergy and laity is around a feeling we have been forced into becoming business managers instead of being pastors and ministers. There is a disillusionment and vulnerability that comes with parish life today, and a tiredness among the devoted who keep on trying, all the time wondering how much longer we can go on. The New Testament teaches us that no one person can meet everyone’s needs in a parish. An honest look at the self should provide a statement something like: “There are some relations in which I am capable of love and others in which I am not. There are some situations in which I can equip, or teach, or challenge without bias, and some in which I cannot. But with God’s Grace, and the diversity of gifts in our community of faith, “We Can!” I commonly hear clergy and laity saying “These are not my Gifts”. It is a good thing to know our limitations and not try to go through the pain of doing something that is outside our capacity, but unless we are humble and not defensive about our limitations, the task of finding people who can do the ministry can get lost in our ego and pride. It is important not to dismiss or lose sight of the things that need to be done in a parish because you are not able to do it.

We need processes in our parish to define the basics, and find the right people we need and enable them for their ministry! (Ephesians Chapter 4). Liturgy must be life giving. Sermons must be well prepared and delivered. Pastoral visiting and healing ministries must be part of our fabric, Stewardship must be exampled and taught. good administration is essential Leadership building is crucial. If you are a Rector of a parish, this is your task. If you are a leader in a Parish, it is your task to share as well.

24 Equipping our Diocesan Lay Ministries Diocesan Ministries are at the heart of who we are. When we see the ministries of our A.C. W’s, Vestries, Men’s groups, Sunday schools, Eucharistic Assistants and licensed Lay Ministers, Youth committees, Primates World Relief and others, the love and force of the Church is evident. Our Sustainable Parish process should fully reveal what is needed to equip our people to joyfully move forward in these ministries. In your information packages each parish has been given a form to be filled out that identifies the ministries in your area. Take it home, and get started….then send me a copy. I’ll be expecting it soon.

The Call to Ministry Vocation I wish to remind our diocese of that wonderful phrase: “The Ministry of the Baptized”. For most generations in the Church the ideal of “calling” was centered on clergy vocations. In truth, every member of our local Christian communities is called to respond to the vocation of baptism through active ministering in the name of Jesus. The Spirit is prompting us in our time to reclaim the essential nature of the Church. If we take a close look at society, we will discern many ways that secular folks are actually doing the things that Christ has asked of His body. What is an eye opener is that many of these people do not attend worship at all. That is a call for us to learn about Christian Vocation in our time. Vocation is about the life we live in response to how God inspires and moves within us. Our traditions and systems must take a broader view of how we identify what a vocation is, and enable people to discover their calling that is rooted in the Creator’s heart and lived out in the Church. In order to enable our people to respond to the stirring in their hearts which precipitates the identification of a calling, it is time for a living, dynamic policy on discernment processes for Vocation. I am in the process of preparing a resource for our people that not only discusses vocation, but will network with their life situation, parish, and emerging sense of call to help them find the ministries in

25 the parish or beyond, to which they are called. Before our next Synod we will be holding a vocations conference aimed at providing a people with a guided of discernment of their vocations. Bishop’s Discernment Processes for Holy Orders I have spent much time in consultation with other bishops, clergy and laity around the idea of Holy Orders. It is time now in our diocese to provide a foundational overview of what someone might expect to happen in our diocese, and what resources are available to those who feel a stirring in their hearts towards ordination. The process of preparing people for ordination falls directly under the bishop’s responsibility and authority, but the entire process of affirmation and discernment is rooted in the life of the community of faith. The goal is to provide a foundational overview of what someone might expect to happen in our diocese, and what resources are available to those who feel a stirring in their hearts. I have prepared a document which outlines the process that will be used in our diocese. The document is now in the process of editing and will be available later this spring. Theological Education Theological education is vital in the ethos of the Anglican Communion. In our local churches we see how involvement with a community of faith draws us into deeper interpersonal relationships, and illuminates meaning for our lives. The Church has always understood this dynamic as a journey of anointed service to others in the community and the world. This movement also leads to the place where people are called into leadership roles. For this reason, theological education must include the essential components of academics, practical knowledge, administration, and human relationships. As the Church lives its witness today, processes of discernment, affirmation and training are becoming increasingly complex. Seminaries are no longer filled with young, single men; no longer is ordination reserved for any one class, race, gender or age. Vocational approaches are wonderfully diverse and exciting today. People come to the bishop at different ages, with different life experiences, theologies, education and resources. Theological education must respond to these changes,

26 and still retain its vital place in the preparation and formation of our Laity and Clergy. At the present time we are in a time of discernment, and are ever thankful that the journey is being shared not only by the Church National, but locally through the ongoing work of the Revd. Joanne Mercer, and our own Queen’s College. My plan is to be able by this fall to provide clear options and guidelines of the expectations we have around theological education for laity, Vocational and Transitional Diaconate and the Priesthood. Much effort is being given to discernment processes all throughout our Communion, and our people will be kept up to date on a regular basis

Conclusion: Let Us move forward with faith, believing the Waters shall part! Brothers and Sisters, I share with you my faith and my understanding that God continues on a mission of transforming and redeeming the world. I share with you my understanding of the challenge ahead of us, while joyfully reminding you that we have everything we need to transform our communities. God is calling us to step forward in faith, because that’s the only time we will see the waters part. The word of God comes to us: God Who Creates, God Who Redeems, God of shalom— of peace, God of wholeness, And we remember you told us: ( v’yisa’u) go forward! We stepped forth. The waters parted. We moved our bodies from slavery to freedom. You moved our souls from oppression to redemption. God who Creates, God who Redeems, If it can happen once, it can happen over and over and over. Go forward! Let us cross the sea with all who are enslaved, with captors on their heels. And together, let us make those waters part! Quoted in: Mclaren, Brian D. The Great Spiritual Migration: How the World's Largest Religion Is Seeking a Better Way to Be Christian The Crown Publishing Group.

27 Appendix 1 Study Guide for the Bishop’s Charge

There is a lot of material in the Bishop’s Charge!

Bishop John has spent a lot of time trying to facilitate a process of “connecting the dots” between the realities shared at diocesan meetings, with vestries and parish councils, young people, people thinking about ministry, church goers and non-churchgoers…..

That’s not all! We have neighbouring dioceses to the east and west of us, we belong to a provincial Church family known as the Ecclesiastical Province of Canada, we are a member of the Anglican Church of Canada, and the larger Anglican Communion as it serves the world.

This study guide is prepared to help you engage with the Bishop’s Charge to the Diocese of Central Newfoundland, delivered at Synod in Grand Bank and Fortune in 2017.

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1. Getting Started Who we are: Here is a good place to visit online to get an overview of the Anglican Church structure: http://www.anglican.ca/about

2. From the Introduction The story of Israel’s’ journey from captivity to freedom in a promised land is much more than a historical narrative. The Exodus story provided strong images for the civil rights movement; it is also a story of courage, celebration, rebirth and community from which people of all faith traditions have taken inspiration. In what ways does the story remind you of your own spiritual journey? How does it remind us as individuals and congregations of our Christian obligation to act against oppression and toward freedom in our own time? How does the story speak to our discussion about the future of our Churches, parishes diocese…etc …?

3. From The Worship at Synod

How does the Eucharist speak to you in regard to: Personal relationship with Jesus Relationship to your Congregation Relationship to your Parish Relationship to the world around us.

In the Service at Synod we are commissioning a New Chancellor, installing an Executive Arch Deacon and ordaining a transitional deacon. What do the titles of these people suggest to you in terms of

29 the ministries and vocations they are called to perform in the Church?

4. The 23rd Psalm When we consider the busy, self-centered nature of the world we live in, In Which ways does the image of “preparing or spreading the table in the face of enemies”, challenge or comfort you? How can we find ways in our congregations and parishes to care for one another?

5. Mint Brook Has Mint Brook Camp been a part of your Spiritual Formation? From your perspective, what are good ways in our communities to minister to the people in ways that reflect Mint Brook’s mission to:

Build community and faith among young people? To provide Sacred times of Gathering for people of all ages? Connect people with the value of Nature, and the importance of the stewardship of Creation?

6. Companion Diocese The primary goal of our companion Diocese agreement is to foster a spiritual connection between our two global families. Considering our cultural and social differences, but excluding Financial comparisons: In what ways do you see the Diocese of Rokon and Bishop Francis helping us grow in faith and practice? In what ways can we help the Diocese of Rokon? How should we endeavor to help them in relation to War, Famine, poverty, and other civil issues that you can think of?

30 7. The Bishop’s Handbook From your experience, what are some of the practices of our Diocese do you think should remain unchanged and why? When we disagree with a practice or policy, what is the best way to express our views for the good of our personal integrity, while maintaining respectful friendships and community relationships? Why is it important for us to have unity in our practices in deaneries and through the diocese? 8. The Marriage Canon This study guide is not meant to be the main resource for discussion around the Marriage Canon. Please consult with your parish clergy, synod office and Bishop John in regard to the extensive resources available for this dialogue!

9. The Future of our Diocese Read through the section on “Future processes and Direction : Communication”. There are five points made in relation to our identity as a diocese. How do these reflect the teachings of Jesus for us as individuals, and as a Church? What are some of the challenges we face living them out? On Page 9 we read about: “The general displacement of the Church as the cultural center of communities.” Discuss this in your context.

10. Sustainable Parishes The Bishop makes a point that the policy document around sustainable congregations is not a strategic plan. Why is that distinction import to us as we move ahead as a diocese?

31 What do you expect to see happen from this policy and process by the end of next year? What are the main challenges to the expectation that every parish will hold discussions about their futures? 11. The Ministries of Clergy and Laity All Christians are gifted in some way. If we think about the spiritual gift “lists” in the New Testament (Rom. 12:3ff; 1 Cor. 12:1ff; 1 Peter 4:7ff): Why is it important to realize that no one person can do everything? In our Parishes, what can we do to make sure the “Basics” as outlined in the Bishop’s Charge are being done in our parishes? What is the difference between a Vocation and a Job?

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Appendix 2. Scripture References in the Bishops Letter and Charge. All references are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:19: And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Luke 17:5-6: The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” The Lord replied, “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. Exodus 14: 13 – 21: Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid, stand firm, and see the deliverance that the Lord will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you see today you shall never see again. The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to keep still.”

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry out to me? Tell the Israelites to go forward. But you lift up your staff, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it, that the Israelites may go into the sea on dry ground. Then I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them; and so I will gain glory for myself over Pharaoh and all his army, his chariots, and his chariot drivers. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gained glory for myself over Pharaoh, his chariots, and his chariot drivers.

”The angel of God who was going before the Israelite army moved and went behind them; and the pillar of cloud moved from in front of them and took its place behind them. It came between the army of Egypt and the army of Israel. And so the cloud was there with the darkness, and it lit up the night; one did not come near the other all night. Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea. The Lord drove the sea back by a strong east wind all night, and turned the sea into dry land; and the waters were divided. John 13:34-35: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." Psalm 23: The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD my whole life long.

33 James 4:5: …do you suppose that it is for nothing that the scripture says, “God yearns jealously for the spirit that he has made to dwell in us”? 1 Corinthians 12: 12 – 26: For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. Indeed, the body does not consist of one member but of many.

If the foot would say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear would say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole body were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be?

As it is, there are many members, yet one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.”On the contrary, the members of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and those members of the body that we think less honorable we clothe with greater honor, and our less respectable members are treated with greater respect; whereas our more respectable members do not need this. But God has so arranged the body, giving the greater honor to the inferior member, that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it.

Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. Jeremiah 29:11: For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Isaiah 43: 19: I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. James 4:5: Do you suppose that it is for nothing that the scripture says, “God yearns jealously for the spirit that he has made to dwell in us”? Ephesians 5:1-3: Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. James 1:19-20: “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for human anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires”

34 Mark 14:53-65: Jesus before the Council. They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes were assembled. Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest; and he was sitting with the guards, warming himself at the fire. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testimony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave false testimony against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.’” But even on this point their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer? What is it that they testify against you?” But he was silent and did not answer.

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Appendix 3 Bibliography This represents my “Short List” of books that have helped most recently in my ongoing formation, discernment and formulations. The ongoing life of study is vital for our relationships and growth and leadership in our drastically transformed world, and changing Church. I use these headings only as a quick reference guide. Many of these publications provide inspiration for wider thought.

MINISTRY POSSIBILITIES WITHIN EMERGING REALITIES OF THE CHURCH

Tickle, Phyllis; Sweeney, Jon M. The Age of the Spirit: How the Ghost of an Ancient Controversy Is Shaping the Church. Baker Publishing Group. Kinnaman, David. You Lost Me: Why Young Christians Are Leaving Church...and Rethinking Faith. Baker Publishing Group. Frost, Michael; Hirsch, Alan. The Shaping of Things to Come: Innovation and Mission for the 21st-Century Church Baker Publishing Group. Tickle, Phyllis. The Great Emergence: How Christianity Is Changing and Why .Baker Publishing Group. McLaren, Brian D.; McLaren, Brian D. A Generous Orthodoxy: Zondervan/Youth Specialties. Mclaren, Brian D.. The Great Spiritual Migration: How the World's Largest Religion Is Seeking a Better Way to Be Christian. The Crown Publishing Group. Hipps, Shane. Selling Water by the River: A Book about the Life Jesus Promised and the Religion That Gets in the Way. FaithWords. 2016 Wright, Nicholas Thomas Scripture and the Authority of God , Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (Great Britain) 2005 Bass, Diana Butler. Christianity After Religion: The End of Church and the Birth of a New Spiritual Awakening. HarperCollins. Sine, Tom. Live Like You Give a Damn!: Join the Changemaking Celebration ,Cascade Books. LEADERSHIP

Maxwell, John C.. The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Follow Them and People Will Follow You. Thomas Nelson. Scott, Susan. Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work and in Life One Conversation at a Time. Penguin Publishing Group. Lencioni, Patrick M. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Enhanced Edition: A Leadership Fable. (J-B Lencioni Series) Wiley.

36 Lencioni, Patrick M.. Death by Meeting: A Leadership Fable...About Solving the Most Painful Problem in Business (J-B Lencioni Series) Wiley. Rendle, Gil Holy Conversations: Strategic Planning as a Spiritual Practice for Congregations. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers.

Hudson, Jill M. Evaluating Ministry: Principles and Processes for Clergy and Congregations. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. Heifetz, Ronald A.; Linsky, Marty. Leadership on the Line: Staying Alive Through the Dangers of Leading. Harvard Business Review Press. Frost, Michael; Hirsch, Alan. The Shaping of Things to Come: Innovation and Mission for the 21st-Century Church. Baker Publishing Group.

VOCATION AND ENCOURAGEMENT

Parker J. Palmer. Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation. Wiley Avis, Paul. Becoming a Bishop: A Theological Handbook of Episcopal Ministry. Bloomsbury Publishing. Kujawa-Holbrook, Sheryl A. Born of Water, Born of Spirit: Supporting the Ministry of the Baptized in Small Congregations . Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. Dozier, Verna J.. The Dream of God: A Call to Return (Seabury Classics). Church Publishing Inc. Francis, Pope. The Joy of the Gospel. BookBaby. Ramsey, Michael. The Anglican Spirit: Seabury Classics. Church Publishing Inc. Rohr, Richard. Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life. Wiley. Chodron, Pema. The Places That Scare You: A Guide to Fearlessness in Difficult Times (Shambhala Classics). Shambhala. Tutu, Desmond. God Has a Dream: A Vision of Hope for Our Time. The Crown Publishing Group. Michael Campbell-Johnston. Time to Change - An Ignatian Retreat in Daily Life (Religion Today Book 3). Darton Longman Todd. Barry, William A. Finding God in All Things: A Companion to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius . Ave Maria Press . SECULAR CHALLENGES TO RELIGION /AND RESPONSES

Brucker, J. D.. God Needs To Go: Why Christian Beliefs Fail. Atheist Republic. Bass, Diana Butler. Christianity after Religion: The End of Church and the Birth of a New Spiritual Awakening. HarperCollins.

37 Borg, Marcus J.. Speaking Christian: Why Christian Words Have Lost Their Meaning and Power—And How They Can Be Restored . HarperCollins. Cliteur, Paul. The Secular Outlook: In Defense of Moral and Political Secularism (Blackwell Public Philosophy Series). Wiley. Kindle Edition. Harris, Sam. The End of Faith: Religion, Terror, and the Future of Reason. W. W. Norton & Company. Hitchens, Christopher. God is not great: how religion poisons everything. Toronto: McClelland & Stewart. (2007) LENNOX, JOHN C. Gunning for God, Lion Hudson. Williams, Albert. Why Our Children Will Be Atheists. Electronic Publication only Wolpe, David J. Why Faith Matters. HarperCollins. Kindle Edition. Ellis Jr., C. Arthur; Ellis, Leslie E. Bible Bullies: How Fundamentalists Got The Good Book So Wrong. Gadfly Publishing, LLC.

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Appendix 4 Diocesan Committee Members (Still in Process)

Diocesan Synod Committee and Program Chair/Coordinators

Cursillo – Rev. Yvonne Thistle 2017 Anglican Fellowship of Prayer – Rev. Larry Chatman 2017 ACW President – Rev. Daphne Parsons Elected 2016 Anglican Renewal Ministries (ARM) Rev. David Coffin 2017 Licenced Lay Ministers – Rev. Neal Buffett 2016 Youth Camp – Rev. Gail Thoms Williams – James Spencer 2017 Church Camps – Rev. Terry Caines (Chairperson) 2017 Women’s Weekend – Rev. Diana Fry (Margaret Jenniex/Eileen Colbourne) 2017 Men’s Weekend – Rev. Randy Lockyer (Grand Falls Deanery) 2017 Finance Committee – Rev. Bruce Vallis, Gary Dawe 2017 Barry Chaulk 2016 Ex Officio : Lori Wheaton Rev. Terry Caines, Rt. Revd. John Watton Property and Plans – Roy Coffin – Finished in 2017 Jim Rockwood - Appointed for 2017 Companion Diocese – Rev. Shaun O’Connor (Chairperson) - 2017 Queen’s College – Rev. Gerald Giles - 2016 Rev. Brian Candow and Derek Hillier 2017 Bishop’s School /Theological Education- Rev. Dr. Joanne Mercer

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Appendix 5: Marks of Healthy Parishes

1. Living out the Faith

Stability (but not stagnation) in leadership. Energized by faith, wanting to grow. takes great joy at equipping the saints. Does a few things and do them well because there is an emphasis on being focused rather than just busy all the time) (In other words, has taken the time together to discern what the possibilities are, and makes an effort to do them.)

2. Proclaiming

Solid preaching, good music, active Lay ministers. 3. Equipping

Both Sacramental and Transformational approaches to parish life. Traditions are not a “Goal” but a tool for enabling people and ministry. 4. Present in the Community

A healthy church concentrates on developing Monday through Saturday Ministries. (Outward Looking) Deeply rooted in the local community, showing care and cooperation. Makes connections in proclamation and practice between faith and daily living. Responds to human need by loving service Working in partnership with other denominations, faiths, secular groups and networks. Passionate and prophetic about justice and peace, locally and globally.

5. A healthy church is primarily focused on transforming and empowering lives through healing and enabling ministries. • Relationships: are nurtured, often in small groups, so people feel accepted and are helped to grow in faith and service •Leadership: lay and ordained work as a team to develop locally appropriate expressions of all seven marks of a healthy church •Lay ministry: the different gifts, experiences and faith journeys of all are valued and given expression in and beyond the life of the church.

40 •worship and sacramental life: moves people to experience God’s love •motivation: energy comes from a desire to serve God and one another •engaging with Scripture: in creative ways connect with life •nurtures faith in Christ: helping people to grow in, and share their faith.

6. Is Discerning: (Seeks to find out what God wants) Discerning the Spirit’s leaning rather than simply trying to please everyone •Vocation: seeks to explore purpose for being. •Vision: develops and clearly communicates a shared sense of where it is going •Mission priorities: consciously sets both immediate and long-term goals

7. Is Brave and steps forward in Faith •While embracing the past, dares to take on new ways of doing things •Takes risks and admits when things are not working, learning from experience • Responds creatively to challenges that face the church and community • Builds on positive experiences of change however small, they may be.

Makes room for all

Shows concrete ways of being inclusive. Welcoming and works to gently include newcomers into the life of the church Children and young people are encouraged and helped to belong, contribute and are nurtured in their faith Diversities of different social and ethnic backgrounds, mental and physical abilities, and ages, are seen as a strength, and a way to grow.

41 Appendix 6 The Bishop’s Electronic Communication Our internet web presence has many forms. My personal Facebook page is primarily a place for the sharing of announcements, prayer and fellowship. As a practice of my daily meditation, I write prayers which are published morning and evening. All posts on the Central Diocese Facebook page are automatically transferred to the Diocesan blog. We also remind you of our new website at centraldiocese.ca. In addition, I write our clergy an email update every week as to my physical and spiritual journeys around the diocese, and as I called in other areas of the Church. I provide an update around every three weeks to all laity on my email list. Should you wish to be added, please send a request to [email protected] When the diocesan website is functioning parishes will be able to post their regular service activities there. Training will be provided to lay and clergy.

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