RETHINKING OUR BELIEFS CANTERBURY HILLS CAMP NEW COMMUNITY CENTRES Living the Questions study group, PAGE 4 Fifty percent and counting, PAGE 4 HARRRP resurrects Hamilton neighbourhoods, PAGE 7

A section of the Anglican Journal

NEWS • PERSPECTIVE • REFLECTION • FOR A GROWING CHURCH • JANUARY 2011

Our neighbour An epiphany of God?

MICHAEL BURSLEM ST. GEORGE’S GUELPH

Some years ago I wrote an essay in the Niagara Anglican entitled “Build- ing Bridges.” It was inspired by seeing a sign in a local pharmacy, still there, though slightly more tattered, "Boycott Islam Bashers." The pharmacist still wears her Muslim head dress; but what we didn't know then, but know now, was that she was born in Canada.

» CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

The elephant in the room

JIM NEWMAN STEWARDSHIP CONSULTANT

This year the elephant arrived early at Synod, and stayed all day. If you were Photo courtesy of Mohawk and Simon Wilson. there you heard him. He was present in  Francean Campbell Rich, a member of Christ’s Church Cathedral and a regular writer in our newspaper, in her 91st year, was the 'oldest ever' graduate the room just as he was last year, the year from Mohawk College. She is pictured at her graduation with Bishop Spence, Vice President Academic Cheryl Jensen and President Rob MacIsaac. before that, and back as far as memory serves. He doesn’t need to register as a delegate, many will speak for him. And he gets around—everywhere that Angli- | cans gather—at Synod Council, fi nan- A good place to start Halton donated diet challenge cial committees, parish council meetings and more. His primary targets are fi nan- Over the past two and a half years, Social Audit was a key event in mov- both agreed to take the Donated Diet during the week of November 22. cial matters and he specializes in spread- Bishop Bird has been involved in vari- ing a poverty reduction agenda forward Challenge in Halton at the invitation The Challengers ate a food bank ing anxiety. His name is Scarcity. ous poverty reduction events/initiatives. in the Halton Region. At a recent visit of Colleen Sym, Executive Director diet as a public act of solidarity with One which had a profound impact on with Mr. Ted Arnott, MPP, Wellington/ of Halton Community Legal Services. the low income community in Halton » CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 him personally was the ISARC Social Halton Hills, to follow up with the audit They were joined by ten other com- who cannot afford a nutritious diet. Audit Hearings in Halton. The Halton fi ndings, the Bishop and Mr. Arnott munity leaders taking the challenge COLLEEN SYM Citizens: Not taxpayers!

ner tonight?” but that kind of question count was quite low and there would ering vanilla pudding mix and tinned MICHAEL THOMPSON in my life is never about what food I be no fresh blueberries or yoghurt to mandarin orange sections on top. ARCHDEACON, RECTOR ST. JUDE’S OAKVILLE have available but rather it is about the go on top. My lunch for two of the At the end of the evening I was no choices I will make from a long list three days was a peanut butter sand- longer hungry but I was still left empty My father, who was born in 1915 in of possibilities. I am always able to wich and in fact I had more peanut in some way. I think that part of reason rural southwestern Ontario, clearly choose from a full refrigerator and well butter in these three days than I have I was feeling this way was because thought of himself as a citizen. Not a stocked cupboards. To be holding the eaten in the last ten years! this meal and the ones I would eat for consumer. Not a taxpayer. A citizen. BISHOP OF THE ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF sum total of my selection of food for On the fi rst night my wife made me two more days would be the result of And as a citizen he accepted respon- NIAGARA the next three days in a small cardboard a spaghetti casserole adding the tin of what others had chosen for me. Eating sibilities—obligations that he under- box was an experience I am not sure I no-name chicken fl akes and the tin of is a comfort or a pleasure when you took without resentment. He was a I have to say that I was quite nervous have ever had to face before in my life! tomato paste—nothing like the home- are able to choose something that you good neighbour, and contributed vol- about going through this exercise and As I looked through the box scan- made pasta sauce my wife makes with enjoy or something that has a special untarily as well as through his taxes to in the days leading up to the start date, ning each and every item it became whole tomatoes that we freeze having memory attached to it and it would the common good. Being a citizen, a I couldn’t recall a time that I worried clear very quickly that my diet in the picked them fresh from our garden. No seem to me that all of this is stripped Canadian, implied an ethic of fairness, about providing a meal for myself. coming days would be very different. parmesan cheese or a fresh salad that away when we no longer have the industry, generosity, and responsible Of course there are the usual thoughts I try to have a bowl of high fi ber cer- might have rescued the dinner a little bit. power to choose for ourselves. participation in community life. that come to my mind as I exit off the eal each morning and yes, there was I did make a half decent desert by break- highway: “What will I make for din- cereal included in the box but the fi ber ing digestives cookies into crumbs, lay- » CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 » CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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HOLLIS HISCOCK ing a few minutes of sleep before their could also factor in the hundreds of a priest) and myrrh (a gift for someone dressed seniors sneaking out of Beth- INTERIM RECTOR, ST. JOHN’S ROCKWOOD boss caught them with their eyes shut, research hours investigating the star’s who is going to die). Imagine their utter lehem in the middle of the night. They while on duty. origin, and plotting its location, appear- surprise when their priceless presents fi gured that they must be up to no good, The CHRISTMAS shepherds and The astrologers, those of a more ance and prospects. Compared to the were given to a newborn baby sleeping and pondered notifying the authorities, EPIPHANY astrologers (wise men/ academic mindset, in all probability astrologers, the shepherds’ contribution in a stall in a messy old smelly stable. but changed their minds when the trio magi/kings) triggered in me an would have regarded the extraterres- was miniscule. They locked up their Both the shepherds and astrol- disappeared into the darkness. ADVENT experience. trial creatures being projected against sheep and ran the short distance to Beth- ogers donated the best gift they could When people leave worship, I They probably never met, they came the night sky, combined with the lehem, probably their home town. give—themselves. would prefer that they leave with the from totally dissimilar backgrounds and amplifi cation of the ‘sounds of the sea- Talents, too, were employed differ- enthusiasm and excitement of the they represent the extremities and com- son’, as a holiday prank designed and ently. The shepherds employed few of How do I go from here? shepherds, rather than the cautious- monalities of humanity. Perhaps that is executed perfectly by the weirdos in their talents, except maybe their fear The shepherds’ leaving was much ness of the astrologers. Yet history what piqued my curiosity, nearly twenty the technology and music departments and curiosity as they reacted to the more upbeat and boisterous than the records many instances where the centuries after the event was rolled out of their centre for higher education. breaking news from the angels. The astrologers. followers of the newborn saviour had on history’s 3D HD sky jumbotron. Yet, viewing the present and future astrologers, in addition to the employ- Visualize them leaving the stable in to model the behaviour of the astrol- My eureka moment posed these siz- from the safety of my rear view mir- ment of their academic talents, also the moonlit night, heading towards the ogers, while waiting patiently for the zling questions: ‘what can the modern ror, I believe there is value in adopt- needed to brush up on their naviga- fi elds on the outskirts of town. They are days when they could whoop it up like church learn from these folks of yore?’, ing both approaches to target modern tional acuity, as well as their survival as high as kites, singing at the top of their the shepherds. and ‘how can we apply their practices people, especially since most of us skills for their long journey. And we tuneless lungs, dancing and whooping to our contemporary situations?’. have become somewhat immune to can only speculate on what inner it up as they celebrate their new found What does it mean today? Every query deserves exploration, the constant bombardment of advertis- strength and political savvy they had prominence. Imagine a lonely fi gure My ADVENT experience with the so my quest began. While rambling ing stimuli in our 21st century. to rely upon to survive their encounter standing on a quiet street corner, won- CHRISTMAS shepherds and EPIPH- and stumbling through the Biblical Some people, similar to the shep- with the cunning King Herod. dering aloud if they would make it back ANY astrologers points to at least landscape, I steeled myself for either herds, would respond to the visuals, the In the treasure department, the to their sheep or if they would be picked three suggestions for us, the church of a ‘desert treat’, or ‘still waters recep- catchy music and the emotional appeal; shepherds were so unprepared. They up by the RIDE program. the modern era. tion’. I may have received both. others would get turned on by the quiet, did not even bring a hostess gift; they Unlike the shepherds’ jubilation, We must be prepared to use every intellectual, problem solving appeal of had no time to get ready. In contrast, the scholarly, wise, dignifi ed astrol- creative and attention getting innovation Getting noticed an unknown, inexplicable phenom- the astrologers, because of their daunt- ogers debated, in whispered seclusion, available to catch people’s attention. God employed appropriate methods enon. Still many of us require a mixture ing research and detailed preparations, options to return home. They became We should be ready to apply our of attention-getting to attract the shep- of both to be get our attention. probably had an inkling that they were troubled as their colleague described the God-given gifts of time, talent and herds and astrologers. What worked for into something big. Wisely, they went frightening nightmare he had dreamed treasure to alleviate the needs of a one would have been disastrous for the What can I bring? shopping before journeying into the the previous night. They decided to take world calling out for help. other. They each required ‘the message’ The shepherds and astrologers dem- unknown, since they had no idea where the threat seriously, and silently slipped And whenever we leave the safe to be delivered in the medium specifi c onstrated the essence of Christian they were going or what stores would be out of Bethlehem during the wee hours confi nes of our worship centres to ven- to their experiences and understanding. Stewardship by employing their time, available when they arrived there. Since before dawn. They circumnavigated ture out into the realities of the situa- The shepherds would have ignored talents and treasure. these men bought such appropriate gifts, the holy city of Jerusalem to avoid tions where we fi nd ourselves, we must a twinkling or beckoning star hanging Each donated their time. The astrol- they must have taken advice from their another danger fi lled encounter with a go prepared for the best, but ready around their pastures during the mid- ogers had spent about two years chas- wives. They brought gifts of symbolic hostile and angry King. Perhaps some for the worst. For these are the places dle of the midnight shift. They were ing a star across the wide expanses of and eternal meaning, namely, gold (a townsfolk, partially hidden in a dark- where God is calling us to 'go in peace probably more concerned about catch- interstellar deserts and mountains. They gift for a king), frankincense (a gift for ened alley, watched three colourfully to love and serve the Lord'.

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they did not have the whole picture. We say we are conceived in love of clinging to our past and remaining she not only gave of her small wealth, I hope that I never see the whole but when I look at the turmoil in Haiti in our comfortable pew, why don't we she gave herself. Most of us can’t do picture. I hope I will continue to for example I wonder how this can be step out and boldly do things we have that but we can, one step at a time search for the rest of my life. I sup- true. I suppose it all boils down to, "A not done before? Why do we not take change the world if we chose to. pose that when I turned over in bed new commandment I give unto you direction from God and do the things In 2011 let us all have an epiph- one morning and told Ina that I that you love one another as I have God wants us to do and not worry any and come to understand that God GRAHAME STAP wanted to quit the world of business loved you." about the small things that bother us. truly loves us and all things God cre- RECTOR, ST SIMON TEMAGAMI and start on the path to ordination that A small epiphany, I believe, is For so many in this world dignity ated. Let us understand that all we I had an epiphany of a kind, I knew I when we realize it our responsibility is out of reach. We all want dignity; have comes from God and the more An epiphany is the sudden realiza- was not going to win the battle I had to reach out to others in need. God has we all want to hold our heads up high we have the more the responsibility tion or comprehension of the larger been fi ghting with God for most of given the direction it is our choice as but when you are bowed by searching to use our wealth as God intended meaning of something. Finding the my life. to whether accept direction or not. through garbage trying to fi nd some- us to do when God gave it to us. Let last piece of the puzzle and now see- But I know I have a long way to go The three wise men made a choice: thing to eat, or holding a child who has us not bury our talent in some bank ing the whole picture. Of course it in even beginning to understand what they did not go back to Herod but just died of cholera, it is hard to have account but reach out to others and also means the 6th of January when our relationship is to God and perhaps went home by a different route. Per- dignity, its hard to have anything but give them the same dignity we give the Magi found what they were look- even more diffi cult is understanding haps our epiphany can be that in 2011 despair. Mother Teresa must have had ourselves. ing for but I am quite sure even then what God’s relationship is to us. we will take a different route. Instead an epiphany at some time in her life; But as always it is only my opinion. Veiled in flesh the Godhead see

PAUL SHERWOOD ance of the Incarnation to our under- Scripture and tradition reinforce over the centuries have tried to Incarnation speaks strongly of unity RECTOR, ST PAUL’S DUNNVILLE AND THE standing of God and his relationship the fact that Jesus is not just another describe or explain it. I’m sure even between God and humankind, the DUNN ANGLICAN PARISH with us and the world. prophet or messenger but His only today some might relish a deep Unity of divine and human natures Firstly, I say momentous because begotten Son, God in the fl esh (Heb- Christological debate on the sub- in Christ and unity with humanity by Those wonderfully poetic words, from the Incarnation was an historic event, rews 1:1-12). ject. However, as with so much of entering into our human experience. a classic Christmas carol, really spell where God entered into our time and What a truly amazing demonstra- our Christian teaching, we have to How wonderful to know that God is out in vivid linguistic imagery part of space and ‘dwelt among us’. It is one tion of God’s love and concern for approach these mysteries in faith not some remote or distant deity; but the mystery and signifi cance of the of the many ways in which the New us his children. That he so loved the focusing on the Why rather than the a God who truly dwelt among us and Incarnation. Testament asserts that the Son of God world that he sent his Son to be with How. understands our human situation. As Christians, we are blessed that came into history; he did not come out us (Emmanuel). Through this won- The importance of the Incarna- This Christmas as we sing the our understanding of the theological of it (St. John 1:1-4). derful gift of grace we are enabled to tion to our understanding of God and classic time-honoured carols, many signifi cance of what happened in In entering into our history, glimpse the living God in the person his relationship with us is made clear of which are laden with deep incarna- Bethlehem has been enlightened by through the miracle of the Incarna- of Jesus. The record of his teaching, by the way in which this doctrine is tional theology, let us thank God that the historic Councils of the Church. tion, God chose to reveal himself to life and ministry in the Gospels are inextricably linked to other founda- through this miracle he has revealed When we confess belief that Jesus us in a unique way. This revelation in a witness to the very nature of God tional teachings: The Holy Trinity himself to us and that he 'has blessed Christ was 'incarnate by the Holy Jesus Christ is compelling and exclu- himself. (relationship), Atonement (why Jesus us in Christ with every spiritual bless- Ghost of the Virgin Mary, and was sive because what is revealed is God How this unity of divine and came), Creation (understanding of our ing' (Eph 1:3). made man', we are expressing, in a himself. Veiled in fl esh, in the person human natures works is part of the humanity). Word of the Father, Now in fl esh few words, the momentous import- of Jesus, we see something of God. mystery of this miracle and many The revelation of God through the appearing… O come let us adore him! Our neighbour | An epiphany of God?

» CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 of the Good Samaritan, (Luke 10:25- from the prophet’s life of not only not only a friend; but someone he he knew and those he didn’t, even 37). Bishop Charters spoke convin- the kind things he did for others, but might consider an enemy, a stranger; if he thought they didn’t love him High up on the wall of the shop are cingly, but I was more impressed by his teaching that his disciples should a person, like himself, who had been back. It was his love for them that a number of photographs, taken by the two Arabic speakers, who were follow his example. To him neighbor created by God, and in the image of urged him to meet their needs. Christ her father, an amateur photographer. interpreted and an English summary didn’t only include fellow Muslims, God. had taught him to serve without dis- One was of a little girl, about four, in of their talks was published by the but all people in need. He then asked, “How can I love crimination. Who was he, Dr. Anis, a snow suit, arms outstretched, strug- cathedral. He ended by pleading that in my neighbor?” He said that this was to discriminate? Accepting diversity gling to walk in snow over her knees. Dr. Ali Gomaa said that on Octo- the world in which communication, diffi cult, especially a neighbor he prevents dehumanizing others and She said that was her. Naturally we ber 13th. 2007 138 Muslim scholars transportation and new technologies didn’t know. The key, however, was gives space for religious freedom, asked why they had returned to Egypt and intellectuals addressed a let- were bringing us all closer together in the fi rst part of the lawyer’s state- which is also affi rmed in the Qur'an where she grew up. She replied it was ter to Christian leaders around the in one global village, Christians and ment, loving God. Truly loving God that says, “There is no compulsion in because her parents felt unwelcome world, including Pope Benedict XVI, Muslims could be real neighbours. must be refl ected in love and ministry religion.” in Canada. That was long before entitled A Common Word between There remained no place or possibil- to others. This was risky—the Sam- All this begs the question, “How 9/11. Since 9/11 many of our Muslim You and Us. He thought that it would ity of isolation. There’s no choice aritan could also have been easily can we be neighbor to anyone dif- friends have felt uneasy in Canada, help to discover the common grounds but to live together in the world. We attacked by his fellow Samaritans. ferent from us, not only Muslims, but have decided to stay for better or in Muslim-Christian relations. The should therefore engage in dialogue. It was also costly, as demonstrated so that no one feels unaccepted or worse. letter affi rmed that verses of both But, more than that, we should work by his paying for the care of the unwelcome, as did our pharmacist's A year ago we attended a meet- the Quran and the Bible emphasized together to raise the level of human wounded traveller. family?” Here are some starters. ing at All Saints' Cathedral, Cairo, similar values, the love of God and life; health, education, breaking the He then asked himself, “How can Let's fi rst acknowledge that they are at which the speakers were the Rt. the love of neighbor. He said that we cycle of poverty. He said there was a I live this commandment to love in a our brothers and sisters, made in the Rev’d and Rt. Hon. Dr. Richard should build on this common ground need for practical cooperation, but he practical way, as an Arab Christian, image of God, an epiphany of God. Chartres, the Lord Bishop of London, and called for peace and love between acknowledged that the task before us living in the midst of Muslims who Then, let’s get to know them. Invite His Excellency Dr. Ali Gomaa, the Christians and Muslims throughout was immense. He asked God to bless are brothers in humanity? Most of them in for a meal, and accept their Grand Mufti of Egypt and the Most the world. our efforts and to grant us the strength those present were familiar with Dr. invitation also. Let's not be afraid to Rev’d Dr. Mouneer Hanna Anis, He then went into the Quran to and courage to enjoy the peace for Anis’ work as medical director of learn as much as we can about their Bishop of Egypt. The audience was show that loving the neighbor is an which we all strive. Harper Hospital in Manouf and knew religion, but in a much less judg- mixed, of both Muslims and Chris- essential and integral part of faith in Dr. Anis spoke on the Arab Chris- that he had already answered his mental way than we usually do; as tians, both Egyptian and Western. I God, and love of God. He stressed tian perspective of loving one’s neigh- own question by living it. However, meekly and gently as Jesus would. can't summarize the whole meeting, that words were insuffi cient without bor. He asked, “Who is my neighbor? he said that if he really loved God After all, it's not by religion that we're but the theme was Neighbourliness, deeds, sometimes costly deeds, and He answered it by saying his neighbor with all his heart, all his soul, all his saved, but only by Him, Jesus Christ. and, of course, both Christian speak- backed this up with many quotations was not only one who follows his reli- strength and all his mind, he had to We prove our love for Him by being ers based their remarks on the Parable from the Qur'an. He gave examples gion; not only a member of his family; love his Muslim brother, those whom a neighbour to all others. 4 NIAGARA ANGLICAN JANUARY 2011 All good news

Indeed, being called “heretic” is, iron- ically, now a badge of honor for such people who persist in an honest quest to discover and do God’s will. A third and very poignant obstacle is this: “What can I do? My parents are very devout conservatives who go ballistic at the mention of the kinds of ideas we’re talking about here.” This …The Christian life is not diffi cult problem is a microcosm of primarily about believing the every liberal’s relationship to the more right things or even being good. conservative church as a whole. We The Christian life is about being must persist in loving our friends and in relationship with God which family members despite their angry comments on our faith, and pray that transforms us into more and they will come to appreciate our new more compassionate beings, ideas. What we share with them is a 'into the likeness of Christ'. loving relationship with God and each MARCUS BORG, Meeting Jesus Again for the other—surely the basis for exploring First Time new ideas and surely more important than any theological difference. A great milestone of 20th century ELEANOR JOHNSTON AND WAYNE and early 21st century Christianity is FRASER that we have begun to learn to com- ST. THOMAS’ CHURCH, ST. CATHARINES municate with and understand other 50% Camp Appeal response equals world religions. Whereas in the past As the fi nal session of our “Living the we labeled non-Christians “pagans” Questions” study group concluded, one and sought to convert them, now we at least a 50% Summer Camp! participant of the 21 Tuesday meet- realize that no theology is superior. ings said, “I started life as a Roman Theologians have long realized that, Catholic, became an atheist and then at the mystical level, all faiths are one. DAVID LINN across the diocese felt very strongly that appeal was going before you made your an agnostic, and now, after taking this Even at the everyday level of belief, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CANTERBURY HILLS this historic and vital youth ministry commitment. Well, as you can see, the course, I can, for the fi rst time since I we can see that all religions are mani- ought not to be maintained. fi rst one hundred of our targeted two was a child, call myself a Christian.” festations of the Creator and that all The Canterbury Hills Board of Direc- The CH Board is convinced that there hundred Individual Sustaining Sponsors Other common responses from the believers are called to worship God tors would like to thank the 95+ individ- are just as many others ‘out there’ who have responded. This has been tremen- 12 to 16 regulars of our study of pro- and to seek the well-being of all our uals who have responded to the Special feel just as strongly about the value of the dously encouraging. If you are one of gressive theology included: “Our Tues- neighbors, human and non-human. Summer Camp Appeal launched last Summer Camping Program and are just those fi rst hundred, perhaps you could day group has enabled me to keep com- Only when the leaders of the world’s November by becoming Individual Sus- as committed to contributing to the spe- speak to one other person in your parish ing to church.” “It has provided a safe religions work together, as political taining Sponsors! Their timely response cial appeal to ensure that a full camping and invite them to join you as a Camp place where I can express my doubts.” leaders are learning to do, will there and generosity have allowed the CH program can be reinstituted at Canter- Sponsor ($300 gift, $25.00/month on “It’s such a relief to know that I’m not be an end to war and environmental Board to make an informed and respon- bury Hills beyond 2011. For that reason, PAP, or a gift of their choosing). This alone in my thoughts.” “My model of a degradation. Both of these age-old sible decision to offer at least a 50% the Summer Camp Appeal is continu- would be the easiest and most timely good contemporary Christian is Borg.” activities hurt and destroy God’s holy Summer Camping Program in 2011. ing into the new year, and we would way to identify the next hundred Camp “If this theology could be explained to creation: planet earth and its species. This means that the Summer Camp respectfully call upon you, members of Sponsors. As indicated above, if enough all the people who have left the church, Our church is beginning to rethink will run next summer, our 51st year of the , who through responses come into the Canterbury they’d come back.” “I think Spong is and restate our beliefs in ways that our offering a summer camp program at your parishes DM&M have supported Hills offi ce early in 2011, it could mean the most honest Christian living today.” society can respect and accept. We can- Canterbury Hills with at least half the the Summer Camping Program for its that we are able to offer a more complete A more painful reaction, however, not turn back, only forge ahead, hold- number of Residential Camp cabins and fi rst 50 years, to become Individual Sus- Summer Camp Program this summer. was one participant’s greater doubt: ing to the teachings and example of just over half the number of Day Camp taining Sponsors to support this ministry As before, you can go to the Canterbury “I’ve been a devout Anglican all my Jesus and his way of love. Forgiveness, spaces available. Hopefully, as more as it begins another 50 years! Hills website (www.canterburyhills.ca) life but now, after thinking about these compassion and courage are needed as Individual Sustaining Sponsors come Perhaps you didn’t see the Special and select the Summer Camp Appeal questions, I can’t say the traditional liberals learn to articulate our faith and forward in the very near future, and as Camp Appeal insert in the November button to make your donation. creeds. I’m not sure if that means I’m invite conservatives to consider it. registration levels are monitored, the issue of the Niagara Anglican. (If so, you On behalf of the hundreds of chil- no longer a real Anglican, or even a real According to Bishop Michael in camping program in 2011 could move can look it up in the archival section of dren and young people who are part Christian.” This person was told that his recent visit to St. Thomas’, we are closer to 100% operation. Many of the the diocesan website.) Perhaps you were of the summer camp each year, thank the spiritual journey seems to require, in the midst of theological and ecclesi- notes that came in to the Canterbury thinking of responding but set the paper you once again to all those who have for many, such a “dark night of the astical turmoil of an order not seen Hills offi ce attached to donation cheques aside and got busy with other Advent contributed and to those who will con- soul” and also that this stage is tem- since the Reformation. We have to get expressed in a variety of ways and for a activities and pre-Christmas tasks. Per- tribute to the future of the Canterbury porary, that even when apparently lost, a handle on “Living the Questions” to variety of reasons why so many people haps you were waiting to see how the Hills Summer Camp ministry. the pilgrim is still loved and guided by help us reach out to those who have God to renewed faith. God is not an old already asked such questions—those man living above the sky, controlling who long to return to the church and us with rewards and punishments. The those who long to stay. fl at earth worldview of the Bishops of The elephant in the room Nicaea led them to articulate their faith LtQ2 is an open-minded alternative using words and images appropriate to studies that attempt to give par- » CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 So what should be done when a his grandchildren about life. He said to their time. Modern theologians are ticipants all the answers and instead debilitating elephant such as scarcity to them, “A fi ght is going on inside heirs to the faith of the apostles and strives to create an environment Wikipedia, the online free encyclo- comes along? Name and invalidate me… it is a terrible fi ght between the church fathers in their insistence where participants can interact with pedia, defi nes "elephant in the room" as that elephant as quickly as possible by two wolves. One wolf represents fear, on rearticulating that faith using words one another in exploring what's next an obvious truth that is being ignored asking questions such as: anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, and images appropriate to our time. for Christianity. Featuring thirty ac- or goes unaddressed. The expression Can we reframe this discussion to be arrogance, hatefulness, and lies. The Another worry is of being labeled claimed scholars, theologians and also applies to an obvious problem more in line with our Christian faith? other stands for joy, peace, love, “heretic.” This happens, typically, other experts, LtQ2 consists of 21 or risk no one wants to discuss. It is How are we being called to respond hope, humbleness, kindness, friend- when a conservative person presumes sessions in three independent units. based on the idea that an elephant in a to God’s wonderful generosity to us? ship, generosity, faith, and truth. This to judge and condemn another’s The twenty minute video segments room would be impossible to overlook; Is this about a community that is same fi ght is going on inside of you, new and not fully articulated faith. include conversations with leading thus, people in the room who pretend experiencing real scarcity? and inside every other person, too.” For these modern 'heretics' to fail, voices of faith, digital stories illustrat- the elephant is not there have made a Is this a call to action and an oppor- The children thought about it for a spiritually, would be to refuse to wel- ing aspects of an evolving faith, and choice. They are choosing to concern tunity to help? minute. Then one child asked his come and explore new ideas in their concrete spiritual practices and dis- themselves with tangential or small There is a parallel story making grandfather, “Which wolf will win?” thoughts, prayers and church life, ciplines. For more information visit and irrelevant issues rather than deal the rounds on the internet. It’s about The Cherokee elder replied… The because to do so would risk rejec- the Living the Questions website at with the looming big one. a Cherokee elder who was teaching one you feed.” tion of God’s continuing incarnation. www.livingthequestions.com NIAGARA ANGLICAN JANUARY 2011 5

St. Aidan's | It's just the beginning!

do to understand how we can best had already discerned that God was heart of the West River and Kerr Chorus of Voices, an ArtHouse after- help those in our local communities. calling them to open their hearts and Street neighbourhood of West Oak- school program serving the children Incarnational living in the heart of the doors to better serve the commun- ville. Joining the celebration was from Oakwood School. neighbourhood! ity around them. With the help of Bishop Michael who commented that And just maybe a stranger walking It was wonderful to watch the friends from St. Jude’s and Cheryl’s almost everything at St. Aidan’s is by may stop and ask “Why are you excitement on Cheryl Fricker’s face enthusiasm, courage, creativity and now moveable—altar, seating, font doing this?” MICHAEL PATTERSON on the evening of November 25, 2010 leadership, what had been a rather and lectern. He said it was a wonder- “Because as followers of Jesus we ARCHDEACON as St. Aidan’s dream of becoming not pale, uninformed idea became a ful symbol of a church that is on the are called to serve others.” just a place of worship, but a place blazing reality. St. Aidan’s now cele- move and a powerful image of our “Can you tell me more about this In his book The Missional Leader, of loving service to the local com- brates partnerships with many local Vision. Along with our Bishop, gen- Jesus of yours?” Alan Roxburgh talks about observing munity began to take shape. With a residents, social service agencies and erous donors and program partners, And so, the journey begins… the communities around us to become redesigned, accessible and multi-use family oriented service providers. It also joining the festivities were, Oak- Thank you Cheryl for leading by more aware of how they might be space, the church has literally turned has become not only a community ville MPP Kevin Flynn, Ontario Tril- example and Living the Vision! better served by the mission of the itself inside out to serve their local hub, but a vibrant and welcoming lium Foundation volunteer Angleo Di Don’t take my word for it, visit St. church. The thing is, Jesus is already community. worship community—a place where Cintio, Ontario Trillium Foundation Aidan’s and see for yourself and then at work in our local parish neighbour- In 2005 under the leadership all are welcome, accepted and loved; Representative Gilmar Militar, West spread the word not just what St. Aid- hoods. We just need to fi gure out how of Terry DeForest, St. Aidan’s had a place of spiritual nurture, education River Residents Association repre- an’s has done, but what you can do in we can fi nd out what He is doing and come to the realization that they and care. It is an agent of grace, both sentative Dee McAulay and many your neighbourhood. how we can help Him serve others. either had to change, or die. When within and without. friends and neighbours. Of special “Just as the Son of Man did not Listening and loving service are two the parish chose Cheryl Fricker to November 25 was a day to cele- note on the evenings agenda was come to be served, but to serve…” of the most powerful things we can help lead them into change, they brate this exciting ministry in the an outstanding performance by The Matt 20:28 NIV Citizens: Not taxpayers!

» CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 generosity and responsible participa- greatest fraud and folly imaginable. God’s kingdom, disciples of Jesus, addressed. Perhaps. But if there was tion in community life that formed In 1955, American economist Victor and fellow-servants with him in God’s a time for religious consumerism In 2001, following the attacks on the my father (and my mother, too—born Lebow drew back the curtain on this transforming mission. Not consumers in churches, that time is over. Ask- World Trade Center and the Pentagon, into a farm family in rural Simcoe particular wizard when he stated, of religious products and experiences ing what members want is, para- and facing the very real possibility County and, like my father, a high Our enormously productive econ- produced and aggressively “mar- doxically, emptying our churches. that the economies of the world would school teacher) is disappearing. In its omy demands that we make consump- keted” by others. Not ecclesiastical Because what many people seem to falter, our Prime Minister urged us, as place our government and the market tion our way of life, that we convert the taxpayers out to minimize our contri- want is to sleep in on Sunday and be Canadians, to get out there and buy offer us an ethic of self-indulgent con- buying and use of goods into rituals, bution to the church’s kingdom work left alone. Distorted by the taxpayer’s stuff. It would be as faithful consum- sumerism and a public affi rmation of that we seek our spiritual satisfaction and witness. Citizens. aversion to obligation and the con- ers, rather than as loyal citizens, that a political withdrawal into selfi shness. and our ego satisfaction in consump- As citizens, we have a respon- sumer’s self-indulgence, our desire we would stave off a threat quickly All of this is not to say that our tion. We need things consumed, burned sibility to contribute to and shape has been hijacked away from God’s redefi ned in terms of economic—as governments ought to function with- up, worn out, replaced and discarded our common life. And we have a fur- mission and the common good. It opposed to physical —security. out accountability. It is to say that we at an ever-increasing rate. ther responsibility to account to one does no good at all simply to baptize And before that, on a slippery slope can better assert that accountability That is to say, consumerism is another for the way our resources—of that distortion to create self-indulgent that began God-knows-when and cul- as citizens, concerned that common spirituality, marketplace idolatry. But, time and skill, of muscle and money— religious consumers and obligation- minated with the so-called "Common resources be marshaled effectively for as Bruce Cockburn sings in "You’ve are deployed in the mission of God, averse ecclesiastical taxpayers when Sense Revolution", a premier of this the common good, than as taxpayers Never Seen Everything", in ministry that proclaims and enacts what God desires of us is that we province invited us to understand our- looking out for number one. the market has no brain God’s kingdom. take up our citizenship in his king- selves not as citizens, but as taxpayers. And it’s not to say that we don’t It doesn't love it's not God There was, perhaps, a time in dom, allow the Holy Spirit to renew And as taxpayers, he suggested, the need some things, or even that wanting All it knows is the price of lunch which churches could function us in God’s image and likeness, and only sane thing we could desire was to some things we don’t need is wrong. It As Christians, and in common like clubs, with directors and staff embrace the redemption by which pay fewer taxes and keep more money is to say that when we allow ourselves with other people of faith, we have engaged in fi nding out what mem- Jesus restores us to our rightful work for ourselves. to be identifi ed as “consumers” rather an interest in citizenship. In particu- bers wanted, and members paying as servants of God’s transforming The ethic of fairness, industry, that as citizens, we participate in the lar, we are by our baptism citizens of dues in return for having those wants mission in and for the world. 6 NIAGARA ANGLICAN JANUARY 2011 Epiphany | The season of light

ordinarily long, and, consequently, the baptismal covenant at The Great Vigil time of greater light, of the showing Epiphany season we will approach Pentecost season will be later in its of Easter. It is the season in which we of the light. We celebrate the light the beginning of Lent by walking in development, so that Pentecost is not mark The Week of Prayer for Chris- shining in and through our lives— the transfi gured steps of Jesus on a until June 12—over three weeks later tian Unity, enveloped by the Feasts and we do it at a time of the year (for mountaintop. than in 2010. of the Confession of St. Peter and the us in the northern hemisphere) when It is a season of strong images and Epiphany is the Feast day which Conversion of St. Paul. It is the sea- the light is so needed in our darkened, symbols—incense and treasure, water the Church keeps on January 6— son in which we keep the third festival wintry world. and light, food and nourishment, bless- DEAN AND RECTOR, CHRIST'S CHURCH Twelfth Night, the beginning of the of the Incarnation—The Presentation This is a time in which we hear ings and encouragement for Kingdom CATHEDRAL conclusion of Christmas, the day the of Jesus in the Temple (Candlemas), about Jesus’ own baptism; we hear building. Our liturgies should incor- Magi come to the cradle to worship when we hear the moving story of Paul’s exhortations to the Christians porate strong symbols—the profu- The church year always is one full the new born child, give him gifts, and Simeon and the recognition by Israel in Corinth through the fi rst few chap- sion of light in the dark; the water of of surprises and interesting twists. proclaim him as the manifestation of of Jesus as Messiah ters of his fi rst letter to them; we hear baptism splashing and drenching our Through the undulations of the lunar the glory of God Epiphany also has a personal the stirrings in Isaiah about Israel as lives, the hymnody and psalmody of cycle and the stretching and con- Epiphany is also a season—run- dimension as well. Although not a God’s servant and move on to the the church lifting us up. tracting of time, church seasons vary ning from January 6 through to Ash word much in vogue anymore, it has clarion call of Micah to do justice Get ready for many epiphanies— widely from year to year. Because Wednesday, which in 2011 is not until been used for many years to refer to and to love mercy. We will hear the happening in our own lives, in our Easter is so late this year (April 24— March 9. It is the season in which we an insight, realization, or idea. 'I had haunting story of Simeon and Anna parish communities, and in the world the stretching provided by cycles of the mark the Baptism of Jesus and com- an epiphany…' This gets us at one of and be reminded that Christ came we live to serve. Enjoy these nine Sun- moon), the Epiphany season is extra- mit ourselves to renewing our own the central themes of Epiphany—a to be a light. Finally, as we do each days of this wondrous season! A good place to start | Halton donated diet challenge

» CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 vor, artifi cial color, freshness preserved of a homemade loaf of grain bread and to approach our lives and our faith and I am even more motivated now to with sodium bisulfi te and BHT. I made I savored that small gift throughout the from a position of abundance rather advocate for some real solutions to the On day two, after some toast in the a decision not to look at any of the course of the three days. I am so very than scarcity. I am wondering what root causes of poverty and to seek out morning and another peanut butter other lists of ingredients after that! I grateful that those food boxes continue that would mean for me in this situa- new ways to get healthy, nutritional sandwich for lunch, I tried to make fi sh am afraid I didn’t eat much of the fi sh to be fi lled by dedicated and faithful tion. How can people who must rely food into the hands of those who are cakes for dinner with a pouch of instant cakes and ended up with another bowl food bank workers and volunteers, and on food banks ever have a sense of unable to provide it for themselves or potatoes and a tin of salmon. Usually, of cereal. I understand that these boxes are there this in their life. At the Eucharist each their families. Our Diocesan Vision when I want to include potatoes in a On day three I had no time to use to supplement other sources of food but week we recite the words of Jesus: “I also challenges us to move beyond the meal, the task is easy—I just go to the many of the tins and packages of the this experience heightened my aware- am the bread of life, whoever comes four walls of the church in love and cupboard, grab a few potatoes and peel pasta items that were left in my box but ness of the importance of nutrition and to me will never be hungry; who ever humility to listen to and engage with them. Of course the only ingredient in I did have some tinned soup and some the challenge it is to get good food into believes in me will never thirst.” the people of this generation. It seems these mashed potatoes is “potato.” The more toast and cereal, and that has the hands of those who live with pov- I am left wondering, "what is my to me that a good place to start would pouch of instant potatoes that I was seen me through my three day adven- erty. It will change my thinking on the role in making these words live for be to do some serious listening and given did have real potato in it but also ture. Had I had the time, I could have kinds of things I will be donating to everyone." engaging with those whose lives are included the following ingredients: had beans on toast or the Tuna helper food banks in the future. I will be look- It also felt like I experienced a lack touched by poverty and to stand with salt, maltodextrin, shortening powder mix for my last supper but that would ing for things that are well within the of focus in my work from time to time them and to add our voices to theirs (partially hydrogenated soybean oil, have required me to have access to a best before date and I would want to especially when anyone walked by as we strive as Christians to fulfi ll the lactose, sodium caseinate, dipotassium kitchen and my work schedule would include items that are special, tasty and with a Tim Horton’s coffee or some- sacred promise made at our baptisms phosphate) partially hydrogenated not allow for that to happen. lower in salt content. thing good to eat! I want to thank the to: “strive for justice and peace among vegetable oil, (cottonseed, soybean), I do want to say that there was a Our Diocesan Vision calls all organizers for giving me the opportun- all people, and respect the dignity of mono and diglycerides, artifi cial fl a- wonderful treat in my box in the form people in the Diocese of Niagara ity to take this Donated Diet Challenge every human being.”

This winter… Please remember to donate to your local Food Banks.

There are many cold and hungry people very close to each and every one of us!

Here are some of the items (please be sure they are not expired!): Baby formula, beans and lentils, canned fruits and vegetables, canned fi sh and meat, cans of soup or hearty stew, dried pasta and tomato sauce, peanut butter, rice, Tetra Pak, canned or powdered milk For more information contact: Canon Wendy Roy St. Matthew’s House 414 Barton Street East Hamilton ON L8L 2Y3 905-523-5546 NIAGARA ANGLICAN JANUARY 2011 7 The Niagara Anglican

The offi cial publication of the Anglican Diocese of Niagara is published ten times HARRRP resurrects Hamilton a year from September to June by The Dunham Group Inc in Hamilton, Ontario.

Editor: Christopher Grabiec neighbourhoods Phone: 905-628-6010 (ext 101) SUE-ANN WARD ity building opportunities and activ- School in June of 2006. It is open operate at that site. HARRRP vol- EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HARRRP ities. Patrons have the opportunity to twelve hours a day, six days a week, unteers and staff have been busily Advertising: Colin Jacobs master skills, attitudes, knowledge, and serves approximately 1800 cleaning, painting, and setting up HARRRP has been undergoing and community contacts that foster people of all ages each week. The the operations of the St. Peter’s Phone: 905-526-0154 change and growth over the past health and well-being. Staff mem- McQuesten Community Centre in Community Centre. The layout of months. I will provide a bit of bers support and assist residents in St. Helen School opened its doors in the building is very suitable for this Publishers Advisory Board HARRRP history before I tell you identifying needs and interests, set- April of 2007. HARRRP also runs purpose. It is perfect for theatre, about our exciting new adventures. ting goals, planning projects, secur- breakfast clubs and youth programs concerts, movie nights, drumming Pam Claridge HARRRP is a registered charity, ing resources, creating and manag- in schools and City of Hamilton circles, art classes, youth programs, Phone: 519-941-6804 founded in 2006, that grew out of ing budgets, monitoring progress, recreation centres. This past sum- seniors’ activities, dance and fi tness Christ’s Church Cathedral. The pur- making ongoing modifi cations, and mer, HARRRP ran a YOUth Create classes, games nights, sewing and Geoff rey Purdell-Lewis pose of HARRRP is to undertake celebrating milestones. program at the Bennetto Recreation knitting circles, crafts, language Phone: 905-628-4176 Cathedral outreach activities. It has HARRRP Community Centres Centre. As part of that program, we classes, homework clubs, social a volunteer board of directors that strengthen residents’ connections to held a Junior Hamilton Idol compe- gatherings, community meetings… establishes the mission, vision, val- economic opportunity, positive social tition. The prize for winning the title and much much more. It is a well- Charles Stirling ues, and strategic plan for the organ- networks, recreational activities, of Junior Hamilton was to sing the maintained beautiful building and it Phone: 905-383-1088 ization. The current board mem- and effective services and supports. Canadian Anthem at the November is our intent to preserve much of the bers are Geoff Read (President), We maximize existing resources by 6 Ti-Cat game. We took a group to worship space in its current form. Carol Summers Dean Peter Wall (Vice-President), developing and strengthening part- the game to cheer Brandon Pacheco The property at 187 James Street Phone: 905-772-5641 Joanne Thompson (Treasurer), nerships with residents, community- on. Brandon was awesome! South is being called HARRRP Susan Andrews (Secretary), Bishop based organizations, local govern- There are two exciting new House. It is located on a section of Michael Bird, Barbara Jepson, Steve ment, businesses, social service HARRRP happenings this Advent James Street South that has a great Staff Varey, Paul Clifford, Jerry Crapsi, agencies, and funders. HARRRP season. Firstly, the Bishop of Niag- amount of foot and vehicular traffi c. Design/layout: Kayn Leduc Larry Di Ianni, and Sal Bagazzoli. I emphasizes the sharing of assets and ara has given HARRRP use of HARRRP and its program deliv- Proofreading: Bryan Stopps have the privilege of being the Exec- resources for the betterment of all. the St. Peter’s Church building at ery partners are working with neigh- utive Director. HARRRP has a won- Attitudes of generosity, cooperation, Main and St. Clair. Secondly, a bourhood residents and business Submissions derful team of paid and volunteer volunteerism, and philanthropy are very generous property owner has owners to learn about the needs and staff who function as Community essential to eradicating poverty and given HARRRP use of a building interests that will inform the com- We welcome letters from our readers. All Centre Supervisors, Youth Workers, building vibrant communities. at James and Young. On November position of programming at this site. submissions must include the full name and Breakfast Club Coordinators. The programs, services, and 1, 2010, HARRRP took possession The Jamesville Community and contact information of the author. The Currently, there are 12 paid employ- opportunities offered by HARRRP of these two properties. These new Centre continues to thrive at 209 newspaper reserves the right to edit sub- ees. Over the past year, 264 volun- are funded through grants and per- accommodations are a great bless- MacNab Street North. The renova- missions. Submissions must be received teers gave their time and talents to sonal and corporate donations. ing at this time because in Septem- tions that HARRRP has made to one month prior to the newspapers publication date. HARRRP projects. HARRRP does not receive fund- ber, HARRRP was notifi ed that the the building over the past four and HARRRP Community Cen- ing from Christ’s Church Cathedral space in St. Helen School, used for a half years have made the space Subscriptions tres exist to nurture and inspire the or the Diocese of Niagara. My sal- the McQuesten Community Centre, inviting and accessible. The people human spirit in each person and to ary is paid by HARRRP and is would no longer be available. make it a warm, inclusive, and fun Yearly subscriptions cost $15.00. For new bring neighbours together as diverse funded through a United Way grant. At the end of October, St. Peter’s place to be. We hope that, if you are subscriptions or to make changes to your and thriving communities. They HARRRP is heavily dependent on Church building, at 705 Main Street not already doing so, you will par- existing subscription, please contact your are community hubs where friends in-kind donations of materials and East, was vacated by the parishion- ticipate in the life of these vibrant parish. meet in structured and casual ways services. ers who had, some time ago, with- community gathering places. Please to engage in educational, artistic, HARRRP established the James- drawn from the Diocese of Niagara. help HARRRP resurrect Hamilton recreational, cultural, and commun- ville Community Centre in St. Mary The St. Peter’s Daycare continues to neighbourhoods. The Diocese of Niagara

The Diocese lies at the western end of Lake Ontario, and is defi ned roughly by the Niagara Escarpment from the Niagara River in the east to the Dundas Valley in the West and north to Shelburne, Mt. For- est and Orangeville.

Bishop of Niagara: Michael A. Bird

Phone: 905-527-1316

Administrative Assistant: Alison D'Atri

Phone: 905-527-1316 (ext 310)

Executive Offi cer: Michael Patterson

Phone: 905-527-1316

Program Department

Christyn Perkons Phone: 905-527-1316 (ext 460)

Contact the Diocese

Cathedral Place 252 James St. North Hamilton, ON L8R 2L3 Phone: 905-527-1316 Website: www.niagara.anglican.ca 8 NIAGARA ANGLICAN JANUARY 2011 A new epiphany?

in the Cathedral. At the very least, the Gala must have opened the eyes of The Three Politicians in some meas- ure, whether they arrived by camel or by car, led by an email or a star. They had witnessed a joyous event that was FRANCEAN CAMPBELL-RICH destined to spread throughout the land CHRIST'S CHURCH CATHEDRAL of James Street North, in the realm of Hamilton. It was the Gala, midway through the Myth or mystery, Epiphany—from Cathedral’s 175th Anniversary cele- the Greek for ‘manifestation’—tends brations. A jazz band from Mohawk to get short shrift in our lives, follow- College was in full swing; dancers, ing hard on Christmas and working boys in their early teens, were execut- up to the penance of Lent. But there ing athletic contortions, taking turns, are exceptions. A few composers have seemingly in competition with each fi lled the gap. Hector Berlioz gave us a other, rubbery legs fl inging about, cantata, The Childhood of Christ, with defying gravity; one would fi nish, to the melting passage, The Shepherd’s thundering applause; another take his Farewell to the Holy Family, for choir place; the Dean’s son, Patrick, mike at and orchestra, the verses preceded and the ready, belting out songs—a change divided by a motif for two oboes. Ber- in roles for a young man who sings lioz is said to have pretended that he in the Cathedral choir, often as can- found it in the Bibliotheque Nationale, tor. The audience, participants, more to confuse the critics’ complaint that like it, had left their round tables, he couldn’t write a good tune. their drinks and their shoes (some Then there is Gian Carlo Menotti’s of them) to join the action; Roddie charming opera, Amahl and the Night Gould-Perks, in her fl oaty dress, fl ung Visitors—the poor crippled boy join-  FROM LEFT: Peter Babcock, Fred Habermehl, Ann Lindsay, Betty Magnacca, Donald Combe, Bruce Westlake to the fl oor in her high heels (she has ing the Magi on their journey to Beth- her own explanation); Bishop Michael lehem—so rarely heard these days, cruising from table to table; offi ce apparently lost in the mire of rights staff and seniors, no wallfl owers here, and legalities. Preserving our history taking note for tomorrows talk-fests. Enduring above all, perhaps, is The tide of rhythm and motion had Healey Willan’s a capella choral DONALD COMBE part of the Diocesan Archives at written originally for the newspaper carried me toward the entrance—the ‘Apostrophe to the Heavenly Host’, ST. MARK'S, NIAGARA ON THE LAKE McMaster University. have been collected under the title St. great doors leading in from Bishops- with overlapping layers of the word The Committee has taken on the Mark's Storied Past. gate. And there stood three suits, in a ‘Alleluia’—not, of course, restricted Preserving the history of the Angli- challenge not only of preserving the The most recent publication by the row. They appeared to be at a loss. Had to Epiphany, but guaranteed to change can Church in the Niagara Diocese documents and artifacts of the parish, Committee is a series of dialogues, they come to the wrong address? They one’s life on fi rst hearing it. is important, but it is possible only if they have attempted to make known titled St. Mark’s Chancel Readings, looked like politicians. They were ‘Time, like an ever-rolling stream, each parish is careful to preserve the both the history and the message of all of which have been used either politicians. Eisenberg, Marsden, and Bears all our years away’, and the documents and artifacts that it holds. the church. With guided tours through in church services or in other parish Christofferson. word epiphany today has a frequently The Archives Committee of St. the historic church and cemetery and gatherings. The fi rst group of readings They were expected, of course, and secular function. But ask any thought- Mark's Church in Niagara-on-the- presentations concerning historical present the Gospel message in dra- before the evening was out they had ful person how he or she may have Lake has recognized that it repre- events to small groups, they have kept matic dialogue form. Other parishes been welcomed and introduced and experienced an ‘epiphany’, and you sents the oldest parish in the Diocese the parishioners and visitors informed may be interested in using these stor- made speeches. Whether the event will get some surprising and won- and one of the oldest in Canada. of our impressive history. Through arti- ies that present several of the Parables was some kind of epiphany for them is drous tales. As for myself, my chosen We have responsibility for the par- cles in the Niagara Advance, they have and other stories. The second group of hard to say. One of them, Mr. Christof- meaning, with or without music or a ish records that date from the arrival also communicated some sense of local readings provide several events in the ferson, an Anglican, had been sighted story, is a 'new beginning'. Thanks be of the fi rst Minister in 1792. His history to the community in general. history of the parish that have signifi - from time to time at important events to God. library of 1500 volumes, some of A history of the parish from 1790 cant interest for other churches in the which were two hundred years old to 2000 was published under the title Diocese of Niagara. when he brought it to Canada, is in St. Mark's: Persons of Hopeful Piety. The work of the Archivists con- our care. The records for a cemetery The story of several early parishioners tinues to be challenging and reward-  that was a burial site as early as 1782 was set forth in Searching for Dor- ing. We would be pleased to share 6($621 have also become our responsibility. othy, and a series of 150 short historic what we have learned with other par- Many of the original records form tales about the people of St. Mark's ish historians. -DPHV2¶'RQQHOO 2UJDQLVWIURP:HVWPLQVWHU$EEH\8. Sunday Feb. 20, 2011 3:00 pm PEOPLE IN THE NEWS St. John’s Church, Elora The Reverend Richard Moorse has Our thoughts and prayers to Dean Parish Support Coordinators for the submitted his resignation as Rector of Nissa Basbaum and Canon Robin parishes. This responsibility began Tickets: $35.00 All Saints Church, Hagersville, effect- Graves, and family, on the death of November 15 and they will job share ive December 31, and will continue to Nissa’s sister, Chava Segalowitz, on this position. minister part time at Jarvis and Cheap- November 26. The Venerable Peter Moore side beginning in the new year. Congratulations to Bishop Ralph appointed Honorary Assistant at St. Canon Paddy Doran has been and Carol Spence—they became George’s, Guelph, effective Novem- appointed interim pastor at Church grandparents twice in November! ber 21. of the Nativity, Hamilton, beginning First granddaughter, Eleanor Clara, The Reverend Jody Medicoff January 6, 2011. arrived to proud parents Sarah appointed Honorary Assistant at Congratulations to George Scott, Spence and Chris Garside on Nov- Christ’s Church Cathedral, Hamilton, lay reader at St. Columba’s, St. Cath- ember 10 and second granddaughter, effective November 21. arines, who retired from this offi ce Ashley Iris, arrived to proud par- Canon Gerald Shantz appointed Box Office after serving 50 faithful years in the ents Chris and Hilary Spence, on Honorary Assistant at St. John’s 33 Henderson St. Elora parish. We wish you well George and November 21! Our best wishes to Church, Port Dahousie, effective Nov- 519 846-0331 hope your faith community continues the Spence Clan on this very happy ember 1. 1 888 747-7550 to play an important part in your life. occasion. The Reverend Ted Crabtree Bishop Ralph Spence has been Sheila Buddell and Laurie Adam- appointed Honorary Assistant at St. appointed interim pastor at All Saints, son have been appointed as Volunteer John’s Church, Port Dalhousie, effect- Hagersville, beginning January 1, 2011. Management and Screening in Faith ive November 1.