Augustine’s. Rev. JonathanCrane,rectorofSt. tell theirstoryoftheevent,said one place,greetanotherand a congregationof100,togatherin members, around30peopleoutof opportunity fordisplacedcommunity comfort andamuchneeded McMurray andSt. Augustine’s. All Saints’ andSt. Thomas, Fort Fraser Lawtonandclergy from service wasledby Athabasca The Church. Canterbury Anglican worship serviceatSt. Augustine of in Edmontonduringaspecial on Tuesday, May3,werereunited been forcedtoleavetheirhomes McMurray’s residentswhohad The EdmontonSynodOf T Though McMurray onMay3. evacuated Fort she andherfamily neighbourhood as of her Timberlea Jodi Schmidt’s view Hearts andhomesopentowild home didnotburn. city, theSchmidt’s 20 percentofthe The familiarliturgy provided MARGARET MARSCHALL history, someofFort fi he Sundayafterthelargest re evacuationin Alberta’s

fi THE re consumed re M A SECTIONOFTHEANGLICANJOURNALSERVINGDIOCESESATHABASCA& p. 4 fi ce deliversatruckloadofdrinkingwatertotheBoldCentrein LacLaBiche,anemergencycentrefor essenger JUNE 2016 hear suchstories,”Cranesaid. their lifeandwork. aftermath ofthe homes, andhowcopingwiththe in theprocess,theirfearfor given themhope,whattheylearned had seen,thegrieftheyfelt,what parish, peoplespokeofwhatthey potluck mealorganized bythehost McMurray. Neufeld, rectorof All Saints’,Fort with hisgoodfriend,theRev. Dane said Crane,whoplannedtheservice individuals inthecongregation,” prayers tobeoffered directlyby for clergy tospeak. We allowedthe for Ascension Day, butgaveroom Alternative Services “It wasstunningandamazingto Throughout theserviceand “We followedthe Being anInviting Churchp.6 Continued onpage2. fi re wasaffecting (BAS)pattern Book of to theFortMcMurraywild it withnewspaperheadlinesrelated bucket fromhisgarageandcovered (now CTV Edmonton)grabbeda former newsdirectorforCFRN TV long-time parishionerBruceHogle, O Bruce Hoglepassingbucket. Waterbucket forRedCross Club Saturday, May7, the St. Timothy’s Men’s n hiswaytoagatheringof St. Timothy’sPasses www.edmonton.anglican.org fi re. Alpha YouthYouth at at Alexis p.11Alexis p.11 fi re evacuees or won’t goback.” going backandthepeoplewhocan’t can’t forget thepeoplewhowillbe northern Alberta controlled.Butwe have themajor northern Alberta. benefi the CTV GoodNeighbourFund have lived,”saysHogle,whostarted to allthecommunitiesinwhichI $1,500 bypresstime. in Edmonton,foragrandtotalof several serviceandleisureclubs it hassincemadetheroundsto attending aShriner’s eventand off toaneighbourwhowas congregations atSt. Timothy’s. among thetwoSundaymorning “Hogle Bucket”waspassed of CanonMaureenCrerar, the citizens. be usedtohelpFortMcMurray $360, whichtheyagreedwould Members fi “I knowthateventuallywewill “I trulybelieveingivingback Hogle thenhandedthebucket The nextday, atthesuggestion tting charitiesin centraland lled thebucket with fi re problemsin fi re evacuees. re 2 THE MESSENGER JUNE 2016 Community Anglicans unite over Fort McMurray disaster

We’re tired at the end of the day, but it’s a good tired. This is ministry. Deborah and Clive Scheepers Continued from front page. St. John’s annual spring rummage sale, inviting evacuees to come and At Northlands Expo Centre, the take what they needed and Cold Edmonton Reception Centre for Fort Lake thrift stores opened their closets McMurray evacuees, Edmonton to evacuees. Gauthier and other City Chaplain, the Rev. John Dowds, members of the faith community coordinated a roster of volunteer met at Lakeland Lutheran Church chaplains, including Bishop Jane to determine the most effi cient way Alexander and clergy from the to collect and distribute food and Edmonton , to provide essential items. The local food bank, pastoral care. run by the ministerial group, was The fi rst point of refuge chosen as the central drop-off and Deborah and Clive Scheepers (left) talking with evacuees at the Bold for thousands of the more than pick-up location. Centre in Lac La Biche. 80,000 people evacuated from The Rev. Helen Northcott, Fort McMurray was found in the meanwhile, learned that members “People don’t know what the On May 8, Bishop Jane invited neighbouring communities to the of the Fort McMurray First Nation future holds,” said Clive. “They parishes in the Edmonton diocese southeast. Mere days after being had been evacuated to Lac La Biche. don’t know if they’ll have a home to to take a special collection for relief ordained in the Edmonton In response, the Edmonton Synod return to.” work related to the fi res. “This is, of diocese, the Rev. Donna Gauthier Offi ce delivered a truckload of “So we listen,” said Deborah, course, an extraordinary ask,” she and the Rev. Helen Northcott of St. drinking water to the Bold Centre. “and give them a hug if they need said, “but these are extraordinary John the Evangelist, Cold Lake, took More than 4,000 Fort McMurray one.” times…” action to help families arriving in evacuees registered at the Bold Dividing their time between the Across Canada and around the their communities with little more Centre. Some stayed in the facility Bold Centre, the Athabasca Agriplex world, people have given generously than the clothes on their back. and slept on cots, hundreds were and the Boyle Community Centre, in response to the Fort McMurray Keen to help, Gauthier worked billeted locally, and others moved on they invited evacuees to their Sunday fi re, and the federal government is through the day connecting with to other locations. service at St. Andrew’s, offering a matching every individual donation the local Red Cross and Family “Donations have been liturgy of comfort. Bold Centre staff to the Canadian Red Cross. and Community Support Services overwhelming and we have 500 announced the service and provided As of Monday, May 9, PWRDF (FCSS), the local radio station, people signed up to volunteer,” said shuttle service to the church. had received more than $24,000 in and other churches in the area, all Jihad Moghrabi, Communications “We’re tired at the end of the donations, and an immediate grant in an effort to serve the evacuees. Coordinator for Lac La Biche day,” said the Scheepers. “But it’s a of $15,000 was sent to Bishop Upon hearing from a cousin who County. He stressed the need for good tired. This is ministry.” Fraser Lawton and the Athabasca lost her home to the fi re, Gauthier people to give monetarily through In Drayton Valley, some 500 diocese for emergency relief. On located more than 40 families at the Red Cross or Primate’s World kilometres southwest of Fort May 12, PWRDF sent an additional a Bonnyville hotel. Local stores Relief and Development Fund McMurray, the parish of All Saints’ $6,000 to the Diocese of Edmonton had closed for the evening, so (PWRDF). distributed welcome fl iers at hotels for immediate relief needs for she brought a few essential items Diocese of Athabasca and guest homes, providing evacuees evacuees of the Fort McMurray from home and stayed to hear their Deborah and Clive Scheepers began with information about community fi res. A Christian agency focused concerns. She found people were in a ministry of presence at the Bold resources, important contacts and on international development and shock and having diffi culty getting Centre as soon as it opened as an and a prayer by Bishop Jane. global justice, PWRDF was started information about what they were to emergency reception centre. Alberta The Rev. Miranda Sutherland, by Anglicans and Canadians who do next. A quick and reliable means citizens for less than two years interim -in-charge of the parish, wanted to help families stricken of communication was one of the - the Scheepers came to Canada volunteered at the local Red Cross by the 1958 mining disaster in fi rst needs Gauthier discovered. from South Africa in January, 2015 distribution centre where “great Springhill, NS. When people rushed to safety, they to minister to the parishes of All generosity from the community” At press time, more than 30 left home without chargers for their Saints’, Athabasca and St. Andrew’s, was received. The parish collected families had contacted the Synod phones - lifelines of information that Lac La Biche - never before had its May offerings for the Red Cross, Offi ce in Edmonton to offer last only as long as their batteries. they encountered a disaster of such while also upholding the Fort assistance and accommodations for A local radio station announced magnitude. McMurray community in prayer. evacuees. Holy God, We give thanks for all the blessings of this life and for the indwelling of your Holy Spirit. This morning we particularly lift up to you the people of Fort McMurray and the Wood Buffalo region. We pray for all those who have lost their homes, all who have been displaced, all those in distress. Comfort them O Lord. Be present to them. Send the blessing of rain upon this land that fires may cease. Give rest and strength to all emergency support workers and their families. Open our hearts to help. Inspire us with your generosity of Spirit to share what we have in the name of Jesus. We are one Donna Gauthier, second from left, and members of the Cold body in Christ, when one member suffers we all suffer. Lake faith community are assisting evacuees through the food bank. Be with your children, Lord. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen JUNE 2016 3 THE MESSENGER ’ Corner Walking together a changed community rebuilds expressions of prayer and I was struck by the grace the rebuilding, or not, of These moments also support from all across the of God in the evacuation houses and lives. With those bring us to think about country. I am not sure what of so many people, the come all sorts of emotions, our faith and relationship will be happening by the generosity and sacrifi ce of challenges and changes. The with God, even if we do time this goes to print. I trust people bringing fuel, water community will never be not frame our thoughts in that whatever stage we are at and supplies, the attitude, the same. This is part of the those words. God has not in terms of returning to Fort mutual support, and the long-term issue. People will abandoned us. In the midst McMurray, we will continue expressed and lived faith of need space to grieve and be of the disasters of life, God to work together to support the evacuees. angry and be grateful and be is faithful. In Revelation our brothers and sisters Even as we came to sad and to be allowed to be (21:5), God says that He is there. the place where most of happy. All these decisions “making all things new,” The moment-by-moment the evacuees were fi nding and emotions and actions something echoed in other BISHOP FRASER LAWTON news, mostly by text and someplace to stay and their will also need support. More places in scripture. It seems Diocese of Athabasca messages, augmented by fi rst needs being met, my than ever, this is when we an appropriate verse for this media reports during the mind has also gone to the will need to be family. I ask time. In facing rebuilding, s with most of us, evacuation of the city, was next phases. I am mindful the rest of the diocese (and we can remember that this the events of the fi rst overwhelming. The next few of the experience of our the wider church) to commit is part of what God does Aweek of May have days continued that sense of people in Slave Lake, and to those who return to Fort with us: remakes us from changed the focus of my moment-by-moment changes what happens when people McMurray and walk into our brokenness. It also a time and ministry. I want to and constant shifts of are able to return. They reality what is to come. I ask good theme in how and what begin with a word of thanks emotion. As I’ve considered then face the reality of lost those who return to let us is remade. Let us let God to so very many people. The what that has been like for homes and businesses and in. We want to be with you: use us, but with Him as the Diocese of Edmonton and, me, I wonder what it has jobs, as well as the reality to cry with you, laugh with builder. especially, Bishop Alexander been like for you who lived of preserved homes and you, remember with you, The Lord be with you, have been wonderful support it. So often, as I stayed in jobs. Decisions, some very work with you, pray with +Fraser for us. We have received contact from a distance, diffi cult, must be made about you and worship with you. Faith translates into acts of courage and compassion I have seen how faith is Prince Philip and I were shocked and saddened by the news of the wildfires that are causing such stirring people to action devastation to Fort McMurray. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected, whether it is by prayer, and we send our heartfelt thanks to the firefighters and the other emergency workers. volunteering, fi refi ghting, Elizabeth R. (Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II) working as chaplains, giving many stories to tell. Stories by the fi res. Like many of to the challenge beautifully. up homes, etc. The body that show the best of who we the clergy, time spent with So many of you have of Christ is on the move are called to be in Christ: in people at Northlands is both asked how you can help and throughout this diocese in our compassion, in courage challenging and humbling. I thank you from the bottom being present to our brothers and in the strength that we The PWRDF has been of my heart. I know how and sisters from the Wood fi nd in Christ Jesus. Whether in constant contact with us much your support means Buffalo region and Fort I was at the ACW annual, about the support they are to those who are displaced McMurray. the Rev. Richard King’s able to provide for both and by Bishop Fraser in BISHOP JANE ALEXANDER I think that we are all induction, the Spring tea at emergency and long-term Athabasca. We will keep you Diocese of Edmonton aware that this is a marathon St. Augustine’s – Parkland; relief work. Two of our updated with the information and although we may feel worship at St. John the newly ordained deacons, the we have through the Synod was reminded yet again a little out of shape to Evangelist, Edmonton, Rev. Donna Gauthier and Scene e-newsletter and this week of the truth of address the needs before or the special welcome the Rev. Helen Northcott through the website. Prayer Paul’s fi rst letter to the I us, we are all committed to service at St. Augustine’s were literally given a goes without saying and, Corinthians. In talking of us the ministry. Since the fi res of Canterbury, there were baptism of fi re the day after at the moment, monetary all as members of the body fi rst started I have met with stories to hear and prayers their ordinations as they donations are best through of Christ, he says in chapter people across this diocese to share. Friends and were called in to help in Red Cross and PWRDF. 12 that “when one member and also with folks from the relatives of so many of us Bonnyville, Lac La Biche In Christ, suffers we all suffer.” But Diocese of Athabasca. SO have been directly affected and Cold Lake and they rose +Jane

SUBMISSIONS DUE 1 MONTH read online THE MESSENGER TEAM A $15 annual donation is suggested. PRIOR to PRINTING DATE www.edmonton.anglican.org/ Please send donations to the of Athabasca or Edmonton, messenger EDITORS c/o The Messenger. DEADLINE for SEPTEMBER Margaret Marschall (Edmonton) ISSUE: August 1 get weekly news Peter Clarke (Athabasca) The Messenger is published under submissions www.edmonton.anglican.org/ the authority of the Dioceses of We welcome letters to the editor, synod-scene LAYOUT & DESIGN Athabasca and Edmonton. Opinions news, stories (max 500 words), event Margaret Marschall expressed in The Messenger are not notices, book reviews and photos. find us on facebook necessarily those of the editor or publisher. send to www.facebook.com/anglican. edmonton PROOFREADING Margaret Marschall (Edmonton) Jennifer Wirun The Messenger is a section of the [email protected] Anglican Journal, printed 10 times a subscribe or REPORTING year (no issues July and August) by Peter Clarke (Athabasca) www.anglicanjournal.com/ Webnews Printing Inc. Margaret Marschall North York, ON. [email protected] subscribe 4 THE MESSENGER JUNE 2016 News Celebration of passionate witness to God’s love MARGARET MARSCHALL Years later, as Site Chaplain at the Edmonton Alleluia! Christ Institution, a maximum is Risen!” -- the security prison, Rose started celebratory greeting by “ a cookie ministry to help Bishop Jane Alexander to bridge the gap between the congregation gathered churches and inmates. He for a Service of was ordained a deacon by at All Saints’ Cathedral, Bishop Jane Alexander on Sunday, May 1, 2016. October 18, 2015, and ever “Alleluia! Christ is since has served the parish Risen!” -- powerful and of St. John the Divine, passionate words repeated Onoway, fi rst as deacon and by Archdeacon Christopher now as priest-in-charge. Pappas, of Holy Whether leading chapel Trinity, Edmonton, during for hardened criminals or a his homily address on the Sunday morning café based Eve of St. Philip and St. on the teachings of Jesus James. Bishop Jane Alexander and the newly ordained deacons and priest from left: Judy and radical hospitality, Rose “These words should Purkis, Helen Northcott, Barry Rose and Donna Gauthier. demonstrates a genuine drive every moment of willingness to be a witness your ministry,” Pappas to God’s love. reminded his fellow clergy Three newly ordained and the newly ordained deacons vowed they are members of the Diocese ready to confront the world of Edmonton, including with God’s love. In their the Rev. Barry Rose, St. own words, the three women John the Divine, Onoway, describe what led them to ordained to the priesthood, use their Christian faith to and Donna Gauthier and serve their community: Helen Northcott, St. John The Rev. Donna Gauthier the Evangelist, Cold Lake, “I did not grow up in and Judy Purkis, St. Thomas, a family that talked about Sherwood Park, ordained to God and rarely ever attended the diaconate. church. The only time I “That’s what you’re entered a church was to witnessing to the world. attend a wedding or funeral. That’s why you have been It was after a major called into this ministry. tragedy in February 2005, Clockwide from left: priest Each day of your life, you that I attended St. John Barry Rose is vested by need to confront the world the Evangelist church in examining chaplains Arlette with the passion, the power, Cold Lake. I selected the Zinck and Archdeacon and the joy of that message,” my spiritual journey. I am we can take small steps and Anglican Church because Joanne Webster; Bishop Pappas said. excited to continue to share build them into larger steps I was told that my great- Jane prays over deacon “God raised Jesus Christ with them the plan that God toward our goals. grandmother was Anglican. Helen Northcott; deacon from the dead! Despite all has for our amazing church “Creator, give us Whenever she had a chance, Donna Gauthier receives that the world did to the in Cold Lake.” strength to live together, she would quietly teach her stole from Bishop Jane. contrary, despite the worst The Rev. Helen Northcott with respect and me about God. She passed that the powers of darkness “On Sunday, May 1, commitment as we grow in away when I was seven, but threw out…love won in the 2016, I was ordained a Your Spirit, for you are God, myself as a leader. It was in that short time she taught end! It was as true on the Deacon. now and for ever Amen.” (A not until I realized that this me to love God. fi rst Easter as it is today. I made a commitment Disciple’s Prayer Book) process was in God’s hands, In 2007, my eight- Never forget that. Never lose to accept God’s Holy Word, The Rev. Judy Purkis not mine, that I was able to year-old son and I were that passion or that purpose.” and to convey His messages “I sensed a call to recognize that I was indeed baptized by Bishop Victoria Barry Rose’s journey to those that I am committed ordained ministry for the a leader. I was fi nally open Matthews. It was during my to the priesthood began to serve and help. My goal fi rst time in my mid-teens. to hearing the affi rmation baptism that I received my more than 40 years ago is to strive, in humility, to At the time there was no people had given me over call to ordained ministry. when he followed his be God’s light among all expectation that women the years. With a young family and passion for bringing lost people and to help them would be ordained. I do not have a clear a business to run, I did not souls to the love of Christ understand what it means However, the call picture of where God have the time to immediately to become a Church Army to be a disciple of Jesus resurfaced when I was in my will lead me in ministry. attend school. Several (now Threshold Ministries) Christ. The ordination, to early 40s. Over the years I However, I do know that years passed, I was able evangelist. It is where he me, means that those to have wrestled with this call, God is working in my life, to start taking courses and met fellow clergymen, the whom I minister will see and whether it was real. I teaching and leading me recently was ordained a Rev. Tim Chesterton, rector me as an example of God’s questioned ‘whose voice through the ministry I am deacon. God has blessed my of St. Margaret’s, Edmonton, love and grace, which will am I hearing?’ During the currently involved in at St. life with many wonderful and the Rev. Rick Chapman, assist us in our journey to formal discernment process Thomas, and the current parishioners and priests, who pastor of Inner City Pastoral remain on the path of Jesus’ I struggled with the concept circumstances in my life.” have walked with me on Ministry (ICPM). blessed footsteps. Together of leadership, and seeing JUNE 2016 5 THE MESSENGER Mission Hospital Expansion Underway Richard King Inducted as Rector of St. Luke’s

Expansion of Buyé Hospital is progressing well. Photo: Dominique Ciza

xpansion of the be a second delivery room 30 beds, 30 mattresses, 60 overcrowded and separate rooms for sheets and 60 blankets. he church family at Parliament! Richard and Ematernity ward women who have C-section “If our diocese can St. Luke, Edmonton his wife, Shelly, are feeling in Buyé Hospital is deliveries and complications raise $600 a parish for one Thas waited a long very much at home at St. progressing well. Funding of pregnancy. The walls complete bed and bed set, it while for a new full-time Luke and appreciate the from the Edmonton and ceiling of the existing will be an absolute blessing rector and the Rev. Richard welcome they have received diocese’s REACH building have been repaired, to our Christian brothers and King has come a long way in the diocese. Campaign and the modern windows installed sisters in Buyé, Burundi,” to fi ll the post. Richard Good food and Primate’s World Relief and the roof and sidewalk says ACW diocesan moved from the UK at the fellowship followed the and Development Fund replaced. president Sandra Arbeau. start of this year, fi nding Ascension Day induction (PWRDF) will double the The ACW challenges For information and/or it ironic that his new service and Bishop Jane size of the ward from three parishes throughout the to donate, contact Sandra: neighbourhood (Holyrood) preached on Richard’s rooms to six. There will diocese to raise money for [email protected]. is named after the Scottish favourite topic: mission! Better birthing conditions for Buye mothers a double bed and expanded medical equipment and menu. supplies were sent to Buyé Nowhere on that list hospital. Also in 2012, of choices was a “shared for the fi rst time, PWRDF bed.” Unfortunately, that has granted $7,500 to match been the reality for some funds raised by the Diocese women who give birth in the of Edmonton to support a overcrowded conditions of Buyé diocese project on HIV the maternity hospital in our and AIDS prevention. partner Diocese of Buyé. As part of its REACH The Buyé Hospital program, the Diocese of was built, equipped and Edmonton has undertaken a Dorothy Marshall, is owned by the Anglican project to enlarge and repair daughter Robyn DOROTHY MARSHALL Church, but is operated the maternity ward at the and baby Rose at PWRDF Representative by the government of hospital in Buyé. Three new the Grey Nun’s Burundi. The maternity rooms will be added, as well Hospital; two have babies on the brain ward in that hospital was as a second delivery room. mothers share these days. We have built in the 1940s by British The current facility has a bed in the recently been blessed I Missionaries to serve a been greatly improved with Buyé hospital with grandchild number much smaller population a repaired roof and walls, maternity ward. nine, a lovely little girl than it does today. It is new paint and windows…. named Rose, who was born now overcrowded. Rooms however there is no plan to Revenue Agency care, check out our website in the Grey Nun’s Hospital designed to hold 4 patients, add a “theme room.” are met. PWRDF will also at in Edmonton. Like most have 10 mothers in them. Once the project is monitor the project, making www.PWRDF.org. babies in Edmonton, she was There is only one delivery complete, an estimated 5,400 sure the project and budget Donations can be made born in a “birthing room.” room, which often results pregnant women every year are executed as proposed. online or through church Shortly after the birth, they in people delivering babies - at a rate of 15 women a day The ACW groups in envelopes. If your parish were moved into a room on in their beds in the common - will have access according the Diocese of Edmonton does not have a PWRDF the maternity ward. room. Adding to the health to their needs, to more have chosen to support representative to share the At the Grey Nun’s they risks are poor ventilation due rooms and better health care this worthwhile project by message of great stories have a choice of double to small windows, cracked in the maternity ward. raising funds to purchase the such as these and you would occupancy rooms with a walls and a leaking roof. PWRDF is partnering necessary beds, mattresses like to be involved in this privacy curtain dividing As part of our role as a with the Diocese of and bedding for the 30 ministry, please contact your the space, or private rooms. partner diocese, the Diocese Edmonton, guiding Buyé maternity beds. rector or Dorothy Marshall, They also offer what of Edmonton has supported regarding the requirements If you would like to see the Diocese of Edmonton they call “theme rooms.” the Diocese of Buyé with for project implementation what other great projects rep, by email at Somewhat like a small hotel projects like the distribution and ensuring the PWRDF is supporting in the [email protected] room, these rooms include of mosquito nets. In 2012, requirements set by Canada fi eld of maternal and child 6 THE MESSENGER JUNE 2016 Feature Story Harvey says faith and fear formula for invitational action JUDITH WEBER church. There were many. Harvey rely on God’s St. John the Evangelist summed it up by reminding his promise, that audience that there are people out if we plant the ow does one measure there waiting for an invitation seeds, He will success in church growth? and, too, “a treasure trove” of make them HImagine a motivational undiscovered gifts and talents. The grow. “Don’t speaker with a business background simple, but overlooked, formula to complain about who is not interested in measuring receiving the benefi ts of growth lay the harvest, if church growth on percentage points in just three letters: ASK. you haven’t or graph levels. If as a church we recognize the planted in Welcome to the world of benefi ts in increased growth, why the spring,” Michael Harvey, British author are we reluctant to ask? For “fear quipped and motivational speaker. Harvey of rejection” – which, emphasized Harvey. is no stranger to this Edmonton Harvey, is the main issue facing the It had During the Creating a Culture of Invitation workshop community. He credits Bishop Jane church today. As a church we have been a powerful Alexander’s repeated invitations at SJE, Michael Harvey reminded his audience that focused on the wrong component learning God does not remove fear from our lives. Rather, as, “unusual at that level.” On and therein lies the problem. Instead experience for “fear is a compassionate alarm.” Photo: Cameron Beauvais this occasion he was invited by of being focused on the person being participants at rector Don Aellen of St. John the invited, we focus on ourselves; the St. John’s that the day, as she was eagerly looking Evangelist church and the diocese. one doing the inviting. As inviters, Saturday and the strong leadership forward to what came next. Aellen spoke of Harvey’s, “insight, Harvey urges us to face that fear of of the Middle Space ministry During St. John’s church faithful to his gifts.” These insights being rejected and instead, become team was evident in the days that services the next day, Harvey spoke measure success in church growth an invitational church. It is not preceded the event and on the day of the acorn and the oak that grew quite differently. merely in receiving an affi rmative in particular. The organization from it. He reminded congregants Harvey measures success by, response to the invitation. But, and warm atmosphere, the bounty that sometimes things have to “one person inviting one person” to “for what it makes of you as an and the quality of the food, the die before there was rebirth. The church. That is it. The rest is up to invitational church,” he said. richness in the music leadership of acronym of the acorn was used - God. It is this simplicity that we fi nd Participants were reminded of Owen Neiman, provided a perfect Ask, Call, Obey. We were asked hard to fathom. It is not easy to leave God’s powerful promise, “Don’t be atmosphere for learning and sharing. to think of someone God might the “Yes” or “No” in God’s hands. afraid, for I am with you.” Harvey Even the weather co-operated and want us to invite and place a sticky We are asked to rely on our faith. spoke of fear and the inherent many took their lunches to nosh note with the person’s name on the Harvey reminds us that in the church characteristics of fear we may not outside. Invitational Cross. The church of St. today we have exchanged faith for a have thought about. He described it Harvey’s enthusiastic, humorous John’s has much to think about in societal success-driven model. “Well as a beautiful thing and he reminded and thought-provoking presentation this invitational process. But Harvey done, good and faithful servant” has us of how many times fear had challenged old paradigms and reminded us we are not alone. We been replaced by “well done, good saved us and prompted us to take provided new ones on becoming need and have each other. And, like and successful servant.” It is God action. He asked us to consider the invitational. Participants had much to those early disciples who received that provides the growth, emphasizes connection between fear and faith. refl ect upon. Under Harvey’s tutelage Jesus’ invitation, our faith in Him Harvey. It is the same God that Fear and faith both stem from the we, the church, discovered new ways will guide us in creating a culture of still, today “nudges the church both belief that something that has not to measure and defi ne success and invitation. individually and corporately.” happened, is going to happen, he improve our welcome. We faced the Harvey challenges us not to said. Much of Harvey’s message realities of our own fears and embrace outcome results but, rather, is presented simply and succinctly. came to the realization of how to focus on what actually creates He almost blindsides us with the fearful it is for newcomers that outcome: the simple, individual profundity in each statement and to cross the threshold of the invitation. Often our initial response the obvious, but not so obvious. church for the fi rst time. to God nudging us and asking us to Harvey reminded his audience that Participants were do things, says Harvey, is, “you are God does not remove fear. Rather, encouraged to face those fears joking!” Apparently not, as in the “fear is a compassionate alarm.” It is in the knowledge and joy of 18 countries and 5 continents that what provokes us to rely on our faith God’s faithful promise that He Harvey has visited over the last 12 and go into action. Harvey used the would lead, guide and protect years, nearly a million invitations illustration of the seesaw with Faith us, as we embarked on this have been accepted. and Doubt facing each other. It is at invitational journey. Workshop participants at St. this time that we converse with God. At the conclusion John’s were asked to discuss the We were reminded that throughout of most seminars and benefi ts of becoming a welcoming time God workshops, those makes doubting involved are provided people, with an evaluation invitational sheet. For Harvey, people. Another success was in the reminder was obvious satisfaction that God uses of each participant the wounded and in the learning and the sad and connectivity that through the took place. Rosalind graces of the Lane, one of the Above: SJE members Teresa Beauvais (left) and Amy Holy Spirit to attendees summed it Croy welcomed Michael Harvey to a youth event on From left: Hugh and Christine Campbell discuss the help others. As up by saying her mind Friday evening; the SJE courtyard was the perfect benefi ts of being an inviting church with Owen Neiman. a church we can did not wander through spot for lunchtime conversation on Saturday. JUNE 2016 7 THE MESSENGER Perspectives Fort McMurray priest trusts God to help him help others MARGARET MARSCHALL 12 hours they stayed in a Syncrude work camp with 200 other evacuees. he Rev. Christopher Tapera Though everyone was without remembers the stillness and food and blankets, they shared quiet surrounding his church’s T common stories in good faith and Thickwood neighbourhood on the understanding and became, Tapera unseasonably warm morning of May says, “like one big family. People 3, 2016. were there for one another, smiling Working in his offi ce at St. and generally cheerful.” Thomas, one of two Anglican The next evening, the Tapera churches in Fort McMurray, Tapera, family followed a group of who had moved to northern Alberta Zimbabweans and St. Thomas from Zimbabwe just four months parishioners to the Wapasu Creek earlier, had spoken with his Bishop Lodge near Fort Mackay, a fi rst Fraser Lawton, assuring him that Athabasca Bishop Fraser Lawton inducted Christopher Tapera (center) class facility catering to oil industry the city was in no immediate rector of St. Thomas, Fort McMurray on February 14, 2016. When executives. “We were treated danger from wildfi re. What he did wildfi re consumed parts of the city on May 3, Tapera and Dane excellently by management,” says not realize was that wind patterns Neufeld (far right), rector of All Saints’, were evacuated from their Tapera. Over the next three days, he had shifted sometime during the homes along with David Greenwood (not pictured) honorary assistant led morning prayer and devotions, night, sending an inferno which had sharing messages of strength, ignited 30 kilometres from town the optimism and hope. job opportunities for our youth and “At fi rst, I wondered how one previous Friday, raging toward Fort “I thought of the prophet the unemployed.” blind man can lead another blind McMurray and its more than 80,000 Nehemiah who asked for the king’s On Friday evening, a week man,” said Tapera, who has been residents. permission to rebuild Jerusalem after after the fi re had begun to rage, the working from the Edmonton Synod By midday, he could see smoke the destruction of the temple, and I Taperas were fl own to Edmonton on Offi ce to assist his parishioners and in the air and by one o’clock in the said to myself and the other people, planes supplied by the lodge. They other evacuees. “But I draw strength afternoon, “all hell broke loose,” ‘God has a special message for us. were met by Chris Pilon, community and courage from God who is using says Tapera. Phoning from home, He has shown us he is very powerful outreach worker for All Saints’ me to help others. Canadians really his offi ce administrator urged him to and He is everywhere. More than Cathedral, and taken to stay with the care for each other. Even after being leave as “the fi re was very close and 90,000 lives were saved and this is Rev. Keith Denman, interim priest- awake seven to seven, most people moving very quickly.” Tapera headed God’s love. But, we must learn from in-charge of St. Mary’s, and his wife are still smiling and patient. On the straight home to his wife Juliette and this catastrophe not to put trust and Bev Middleton. road to Syncrude we met a family their 16-year-old daughter Lisa and faith in material things. God wants That Sunday, the Taperas joined who had been stranded. They had was gathering clothes and important us to trust in Him and have faith Athabasca Bishop Fraser Lawton run out of gas. Another man, a total documents when the phone rang a in Him. We will go back to Fort and other Anglicans, some of whom stranger, gave them the keys to his second time. His rector’s warden McMurray – and we will go back – a had been evacuated from Fort car and said ‘call me when you get to said the family needed to leave changed people.” McMurray, for Sunday morning Edmonton. I’ll stay behind with your right away and that the Rev. David While it is estimated the worship at St. Augustine’s of vehicle.’ That’s a good Samaritan. I Greenwood, honorary assistant at All wildfi re destroyed 20 per cent of Canterbury. Invited by host rector thank all Anglicans and Canadians Saints’, was waiting outside to lead Fort McMurray (one in fi ve homes the Rev. Jonathan Crane to share for their support. I hope that we them to safety. burned), Tapera sees light shining their ordeal, Tapera spoke along with learn from this experience and that, They joined a caravan of buses through the smoky haze. “We will the Rev. Dane Neufeld and the Rev. if need be in the future, we will all ferrying people to oilsands work need human resources to rebuild our David Greenwood from All Saints’, be actively involved in assisting with camps north of the city. For the next destroyed homes. There will be new Fort McMurray. disasters.” Must-have stewardship resource for parishes DAVID BARNUM insight that will broaden viewpoints difference? There is a story about how. They cannot build it with their Stewardship Committee and increase confi dence. It is a the fi nal stages of a cathedral’s own hands. They can be part of this ow can we be fearless in worthwhile purchase for a parish. major fundraising campaign. The accomplishment by simply giving a our stewardship? Charles What the diocesan stewardship canon of the cathedral encountered gift. This gift would not be reluctant, HLaFond, an Episcopal committee likes most about the fundraiser manager and told but one of the spirit.” canon from New Hampshire and Fearless Church Fundraising him, “You folks are doing this all Jesus talks a lot about money an experienced fundraiser, tells us is its organizational structure. wrong.” The fundraiser replied, and possessions. We have to go back how. He provides solid guidance and There are fi ve major sections that “I do not understand, we are close and grasp what he tells us, such as knowledge about stewardship and in separate out into 16 chapters. Most to reaching our goal.” The canon his critical little six-word sentence, particular stewardship campaigns. chapters include resource pages. replied, “Success of the campaign “You cannot serve God and wealth.” This book is for people who These resource pages are the most is beyond the point, you are not This book gives us the tools… believe a stewardship campaign extensive we have ever seen. The teaching folks to give properly. here are the resources to talk about should go beyond a single questions within the chapters are By concentrating on the nuts and money and make a difference. Henri congregational letter from the rector. themselves worth the price of the bolts and construction costs, you Nouwen tells us to look carefully How do you help yourself and your book. This structure allows a parish are encouraging people to give at our relationship with money. He fellow parishioners become more to pick and choose the parts of the from the bottom of their fi nancial asks us, “What is the place of money grateful and generous? What might book best suited to their needs and resources and not the top. They in our lives?” be the strategic steps? Fearless size. don’t touch the soul of the person. Fearless Church Fundraising is Church Fundraising (LaFond, The fi rst part of the book is You need to explain how rare and a rich resource—part handbook, part Charles, pp, 198, Morehouse about fundraising and giving as glorious the opportunity is to build workbook, part spiritual guidebook. Publishing, $29.63) provides a spiritual practice. What is the a cathedral. You need to tell them 8 THE MESSENGER JUNE 2016 ACC 2016 International conference focuses on ways to witness the power and presence of Jesus in all spheres of life THE RT. REV. JANE ALEXANDER and the creation of Bishop of Edmonton a discipling culture. The meeting his April, I attended the 16th was grounded in meeting of the Anglican worship and study. TConsultative Council (ACC) We had daily in Lusaka, Zambia. I was blessed to Bible studies in be part of the delegation from the table groups on Anglican Church of Canada which the Book of Ruth also included Ms. Suzanne Lawson and we found and the Ven. Michael Thompson. incredible support The ACC is one of the four and strength for Instruments of Unity of the Anglican one another and the Communion. The role of the ACC different contexts is to facilitate the co-operative work of our home of the churches of the Anglican ministry in our time Communion, exchange information together. At the and help to coordinate common daily celebrations action. It advises on the organization of the eucharist, Anglican Consultative Council delegates gathered with Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and structures of the Communion, local church choirs on the steps of the Holy Cross Cathedral in Lusaka. Bishop Jane was elected to the ACC and seeks to develop common would come and Steering Committee. Photo: Anglican Archives policies with respect to the world mission of the Church, including ecumenical matters. I bring a passion for ministry and for the The overarching theme for empowerment of the whole church as disciples the meeting was “Intentional Discipleship in a World of through the Five Marks of Mission. I gave my life Differences.” This is in response to to Christ at age 25 and I love this expression of the challenges facing the Church Bishop Jane today of articulating our faith in a his body – the . way that enables us to demonstrate Christian ethics in all spheres of life. to us about their six-point action throughout the world. Some lead us in singing and it was an plan for families; building strong commended the work of ecumenical Focus on intentional discipleship exhilarating and joyous experience. has come as a response to Christian foundations, building strong dialogues which reminded us The sense of the make-up of marriages, building strong parenting, that “unity and communion have challenges such as failure to the communion was there and connect faith and professional life, combatting stigma and exclusion, nothing to do with uniformity” (John Archbishop (of Canterbury) Justin welcoming the stranger and prayer. Gibaut), some were calls to action low commitment and impact on Welby reminded us that each of our community life, lack of confi dence They also shared with us that and some equip us all for the work of own contextual histories overlays over 230 million children in the ministry. to share personal faith and pass it to the history of the communion, and next generation and, in some cases, world under age fi ve have no birth Look for a full description in the we can choose to be intentionally registration and that this will affect September issue of The Messenger decline in Church membership. This united in Christ or distracted by our theme allowed us to focus on the their access to education health of the resources that are coming from differences. ACC 16 unanimously care and even citizenship. We were the “Bible in the Life of the Church essentials of our Christian witness as chose to be united in Christ because a call from the Kingdom of heaven. reminded that 2 million children Project” – a virtual tool box for that is the ONLY way we can show would be born around the world engagement in more than 100 tried We discussed the ongoing need for to the world the power and presence life-long formation of disciples and during the course of the ACC 16 and tested educational resources. of Jesus Christ who rose from the meeting. I hope to share more of this Thebilc.org website will go live not just programs. John Kafwanka, dead. from Anglican Witness, guided work here at home in the Diocese of June 30, 2016. You will never want It was very clear from the Edmonton. for Bible study resources again. us through a discussion around reports of various networks of the supports, opportunities, mentoring We were challenged to ask I take home from our time Communion that it is networks ourselves whether we were together the sense that we saw an of relationships hesitating to provide leadership incredible ‘enfl eshing’ of the Marks that makes possible from a theological perspective on of Mission with stories from around communion with one the issue of Climate Justice and the communion about how we are another. Whether it that the time frame for being able living out our ministry as Anglican was around issues to turn things around for our world brothers and sisters in the body of of peace and justice, is getting shorter and shorter; the Christ. There was a strong theme of the role and status of assumption that we had until 2100 is reconciliation present in stories from women, the family, or probably off by 50 years. We were South Sudan, Burundi, Canada and the environment; we reminded that care for creation is India – just to name a few. We heard heard story after story part of intentional discipleship for about the work of the communion of people from very the Christian, and the Environmental around the theme of gender-based different countries Network asked us to ‘love the world violence and agreed that gender working together for as much as God does.” injustice is the most ingrained and the transformation of Coming out of the meeting there pervasive injustice in the world and Bishop Jane participating in the ACC16 opening the world. The IAFN are many resolutions which will fi nd diminishes all our lives. service, April 10, at the Cathedral of the Holy Family Network talked their way into the life of churches Continued on next page. Cross in Lusaka Zambia. Photo: Anglican Archives JUNE 2016 9 THE MESSENGER Community

Michelle Nieviadomy leads the KAIROS Blanket Exercise. he Compass Rose Society $400,000 for the mission and work supports the Archbishop of of the Communion. Cursillo Community News TCanterbury in maintaining May 9th, Bishop Jane Alexander and improving the unity of the hosted a wine and cheese reception CATHY PONECH and Judy Purkis (to the Vocational Anglican Communion, represented at All Saints’ Cathedral to honour Cursillo Communications Diaconate). in more than 160 countries around the society’s work and introduce Coordinator On Saturday, June 11, we invite the world. its new chair, Bishop of Texas, hank you to everyone you to a special day of teaching with Each year, society members Andrew Doyle (right). Bishop Doyle who joined us for the Bishop Jane Alexander, who will be visit members of the Communion, and Bishop Philip Poole (left) are TKAIROS Blanket Exercise speaking on “The Christian Life and sharing stories and exploring the travelling across Canada to promote at our recent Ultreya event at St. the Marks of Mission: Refl ections roots of Anglican faith. They have the work of the Compass Rose. Timothy’s, Edmonton. It was from Around the Communion.” an annual fundraising goal of Photo: Jeannette Madill wonderful to see so many new faces. This impactful day will be held Michelle Nieviadomy, assistant at St. Matthias, 6210-188 Street, director of the Edmonton Native Edmonton. All are welcome. ACC 2016 continued Healing Centre, led an emotionally If you have never been to the stirring and informative journey into Cursillo Weekend, we hope you will Continued from previous page. the work of the Anglican Alliance. the history of indigenous people prayerfully consider coming this In considering how we might in Canada. Michelle’s singing November 10th through 13th, at the We agreed that we will all fi nd a work together we were reminded and drumming, in addition to her Star of the North Retreat Centre. No way to mark 16 days of awareness that “every part of the church has inspired and insightful teaching, left experience necessary, just come as for gender-based violence: 25th loaves and fi shes to bring” and that few dry eyes in the room. She was you are! If you have experienced November to 10 December. compassion is a hallmark of our faith. presented with a blanket on behalf the Cursillo Weekend, please I will remember from one of In the next issue of The of the Cursillo community. consider inviting someone to attend our ecumenical presentations that Messenger I will talk more about the We give thanks for the recent a weekend as well. “Protecting the intrinsic worth of worship and about ways in which ordinations of fellow Cursillistas the Stay tuned for Cursillo news in each and every human being needs we in the Diocese of Edmonton can Rev. Barry Rose (to the Priesthood) the Synod Scene and online at to be regarded as an obligation of the adopt some of the resolutions and www.edmontoncursillo.ca fi rst order. We are themes of the called to support ACC meeting. and protect the Until then, this is Edmonton Synod Offi ce rights of all who what you should are vulnerable, know: We prayed Welcomes New Admin Assistant the refugee, the together, we wept homeless, the together, we orphan, the sick rejoiced together. and the bereaved; The Anglican and to ensure that Communion all are provided is alive and with care, food, well and we shelter and Bishop Jane Alexander presenting discovered many clothing and not at ACC16 in Lusaka, Zambia. new dimensions left at risk of to ministry injury or death and mission from neglect.” (“In the Image of throughout the world. I suppose God” report). the best way to explain this is that We learned from Rev. Flora the Communion really is a family. Winfi eld, the Communions We really love each other in our representative at the United Nations, joys, sorrows and, yes, even in our he fi rst week of May, the be a blessing to her, as well. She that there are more than 60 million disagreements. One of the members Diocese of Edmonton Synod says she looks forward to meeting refugees/displaced people worldwide of my table made the comment “I TOffi ce welcomed Shelly King everyone and learning all about the and each one is so much more than have no right to choose my fellow as part-time offi ce administrative diocese. Residing in the Canterbury a statistic. People from around the travelers – God has made that assistant. Shelly grew up in southern diocese in the UK, Shelly returned globe told their stories of welcome choice.” We discovered that the Alberta where she later practiced to Canada in the New Year with her and transformation. We talked about waters of baptism fl ow thicker than and taught broadcast journalism at husband the Rev. Richard King. how the church throughout the world blood and that our baptismal identity SAIT Polytechnic. Her background Bishop Jane Alexander inducted is responding to confl ict, religious trumps everything. There was a in communications, as well as Richard as rector of St. Luke’s, extremism and climate change. strong sense of joy, hope, identity and her involvement in the Anglican Edmonton, on May 5 (see page 5). We heard from indigenous people encouragement as we walk together Church, will be a great blessing Contact Shelly by email at around the communion, and about in the service of God in Christ. to our diocese. Shelly feels it will [email protected] 10 THE MESSENGER JUNE 2016 Global Alpha Alpha makes global space for faith, life and God conversation “Globally, the Alpha Course people on the street for their take on important topics like “Who is Jesus?” “How can I have has helped hundreds of faith?” and “Is there more to life than this?” thousands reawaken their Good Shepherd’s evening congregation has begun watching this updated series and loves it. faith in Jesus or come to You can have a look at the new fi lm series, faith for the fi rst time, me as well as the youth and classic series on alphacanada.org. The talks can be streamed or included!” downloaded. Please register your interest on the THE REV. JONATHAN CONNELL website and also indicate if and when you are Rector, Good Shepherd, Edmonton planning to offer a course. Coinciding with the release of the new Alpha ith the success of the no-cost Alpha Film Series, Edmonton churches are invited to Youth Film Series, the classic partner with Alpha Canada in a global advertising Jon Connell and Amy Croy (center and right W16-session Alpha Course (still available campaign this August. Backed by internationally at the Michael Harvey workshop) are local for free!) has been combined with the interactive recognized adventurer Bear Grylls and the representatives of the Alpha Canada global style of the youth episodes to create a new (free as coordinated effort of local churches, Global initiative. Connell credits the Alpha Course with well!) Alpha Film Series. Alpha aims to be the most visible, widespread helping him invite the Holy Spirit into his life. The classic apologetic talks are combined and exciting invitation in Canada for people to with new vignettes fi lmed in several countries explore life, faith and God. Churches can choose to attend an Alpha in their community. around the world, taking you to important places whether to participate in a regional advertising If you have a heart for Alpha and wish to see in our Christian history, including the Holy Land. campaign or simply run Alpha through their the campaign fl ourish in the Edmonton region, Travelling hosts Gemma and Toby interview church. We are praying for thousands of Canadians please contact the Rev. Jon Connell at Good Shepherd: [email protected] Food, faith and community - parishes encouraged to try Alpha AMY CROY What does the Alpha Coordinator do? their faith Alpha Coordinator, Diocese of Edmonton I am passionate about helping groups launch • Community: Discussing faith in small groups Alpha and invite people to explore faith. After forms friendships and helps people to feel they motive, helping many groups run Alpha for youth, I are part of the church community engaging recently lead two adult groups (senior ladies and a • Leadership Development: Student and adult and epic E diverse group of people at different ages and stages leaders are trained and given the opportunity in scale and of faith) at St. John the Evangelist in Edmonton. to practise leadership skills without having to scope, the new Some participants who described themselves as spend a lot of time preparing. Alpha Film skeptical before Alpha, identifi ed as committed Series releases Christians at the end of the course. One participant For more information, please contact Amy on the heels who was already a committed Christian reported: Croy at: [email protected]. of the 2013 “Alpha has helped me Alpha Youth in so many ways. The most Film Series. signifi cant thing is the Developed by way I have learned how Alpha Canada, to express or explain my the youth series faith to others, especially has engaged non-believes or those Image and text © Alpha Canada more than 60,000 students seeking answers.” across Canada. It has been used by many groups in the Diocese of Edmonton to reach young people How can Alpha benefi t and prepare confi rmation candidates. It is also your church? being used in prisons and communities like the • Evangelism: Alpha is Good Samaritan Society’s Dr. Gerald Zetter Care an easy way to invite Centre for seniors. unchurched people to explore the Christian faith. What is Alpha? Many participants begin Alpha is a free, easy-to-use, fl exible tool that or renew a commitment helps the church in transformation of individuals, to Jesus, and are baptized/ families and communities. Alpha is a series of confi rmed, becoming part sessions exploring the Christian faith, typically of the church community run over 10-12 weeks. Alpha is run all around the • Discipleship: Church world, and everyone’s welcome. It runs in cafés, members grow by inviting churches, universities, homes, bars – you name others and exploring it. No two Alphas look the same, but generally their own faith in a non- they have three commonalities: food, a talk, and threatening environment good, open discussion. 29 million people have where they are encouraged tried Alpha in 169 countries and 112 languages, to examine their beliefs and grow deeper in faith. Many including over 698,000 in Canada. say it helps them articulate JUNE 2016 11 THE MESSENGER Alpha Youth Onoway parish hosts spirit evening for Alexis Nakota Sioux students

Members of St. John’s lovingly prepared meals for the Alpha Youth program at Alexis School, including a Christmas Feast.

Alexis School students with teacher Angela Cassidy and diocesan Alpha coordinator Amy Croy.

SUSAN DANIELS Alethea Wallace is supportive and St. John the Divine, Onoway encouraging of Angela and the Alpha program. n December, 2015, St. John In February, St. John’s hosted a the Divine, Onoway became Holy Spirit Evening for the youth. Iinvolved in the Alpha Youth After a good meal followed by the Program at the Alexis School at Alpha material, there was time for the invitation of Amy Croy, Alpha lots of fun and laugher, prayer and coordinator for the Diocese of healing. We could feel the Holy Barry Rose playing music during the Holy Spirit Evening. Below: Alexis Edmonton. Spirit at work. Youth who had been School Alpha program participants having fun with food. The Rev. Barry Rose, priest-in- in crisis and were emotionally charge of St. John’s, asked members withdrawn began to open up. It of the parish to prepare meals for was truly a privilege to spend the the students and share their gifts in evening with these energetic and whatever way they could. Over the eager youth and to witness the grace months, new relationships formed. of God at work in their midst. Alexis School is blessed to have Though the Alpha program has Angela Cassidy as a teacher as well come to an end, we look forward to as their Alpha leader. She has a heart fi nding new ways to remain involved for the children and lives and shares with Angela and the youth at Alexis. her faith with love and passion, an We pray that our involvement will example for us all. School principal lead to lasting relationships. Holy Trinity Riverbend church invites Campfire & Compline friends to Alpha Youth Film Series A fellowship group that meets to roast marshmallows over a THE REV. NICK TRUSSELL themselves, with the depth of faith The youth and families that took campfire, pray compline and get to Priest-in-Mission that grew from the evenings. part in Alpha were excited to invite know one another in an informal Diocese of Edmonton Amy led a leadership training their friends to share in the evenings. setting. that helped the youth envision and Our group grew for at least the fi rst e decided to run the plan the Alpha they wanted to host four sessions as more “friends of Sir Wilfred Laurier Park Alpha Youth Film Series but also inspired the adult leaders, friends” came. It was a formational Picnic Site #6 13221 Was an educational and most of whom had never been time for youth participants, and a Buena Vista Road NW community building event for called to that role before. They were powerful healing experience for Fridays, 7:00 pm youth at Holy Trinity Riverbend. It happy to discover they didn’t need one parent who had not set foot in a provided an opportunity for them June 10 and 24 to know all the answers, just how to church since losing faith early in life. July 15 (with Bishop Jane) to share their faith and church help people ask questions, be open After the second session he not only community with their friends. Amy about their faith and open to the came into the church but asked for August 12 and 26 (Croy) visited with the youth and Spirit. We were so excited for Alpha prayer as he shared his story. some parents to show them what the because it was an opportunity for Before Alpha, the act of worship series could be like. Even though one of our leaders to lead a major for one of our participants was they were a very small group and a study and gathering for the fi rst time. considered a boring chore. When bit young for the material, they loved ‎Supported by the Alpha training faith-based conversations with peers each faith-focused night just for them and materials and her church, her unfolded, prayer and worship at last and surprised everyone, including confi dence to lead grew each week. made sense. 12 THE MESSENGER JUNE 2016 Athabasca News Athabasca ACW Conference sends support to Ibba BETTY MacARTHUR be there for us. God assures us He There were 43 women in Diocese of Athabasca ACW has given us the tools to cope with attendance and they came from all trying times. He has given us the parts of the diocese: Fort McMurray he annual Anglican Women’s Holy Spirit who is our advocate and to Grande Prairie and parishes in Conference for the Diocese councillor. between. The conference next year of Athabasca was organized T Bishop Lawton used references will be held in Fort McMurray. and hosted by St. Anne’s Anglican from the Bible to show where God Church in Valleyview April 22 to gives instructions to deal with Annual Meeting of Diocese of 24.The guest speaker and facilitator distress in our lives. Paul’s letters to Athabasca ACW was the Rt. Rev. Fraser Lawton, the Corinthians and the Ephesians The meeting was chaired Bishop of Diocese of Athabasca. give advice on how to be equipped by outgoing coordinator Joanna The theme of the conference was for life. Muzyka. Joanna has served in this “Staying Uplifted in Trying Times.” As Christians we are part of position for nine years and she Bishop Lawton invited the group to Jesus’s body, we are a gift to each will continue as Treasurer of the suggest examples of trying times. other and church should be a place National ACW, which is a fi ve-year He reminded us that just because where we can be totally honest. We commitment. we have lived a good and dutiful need to trust and honour each other. In 2015, Athabasca Bishop life, does not mean things cannot go We should be the church, not just go Fraser Lawton visited Ibba diocese Out-going ACW coordinator sideways. Bad things do happen to to church. in South Sudan and established Joanna Muzyka with a handmade good people. Life brings challenges The conference concluded with a contact with the Mothers’ Union. instrument from the women of and we have to cope. Holy Eucharist Service at St Anne’s. Subsequently the Diocese of Ibba diocese in South Sudan. The Psalms suggest there will It was presided over by Bishop Athabasca ACW sent $1,275 to the be troubling times, but God will Lawton who preached the sermon. Mothers’ Union of Ibba. At this 2016 Carmen Heemskerk of Christ conference membership voted again Church in Grande Prairie was elected to support the Mothers’ Union with ACW coordinator for a three-year our memorial donation of $1,250. term.

From left: Veronica Lawton, Anke Jadatz and Sonja Jadatz enjoying conversation after lunch; Veronica Lawton,Tammy McKeachnie, Sarah Craigen, Debby Reynolds and O.J. Shmyruk playing worship music. Holy Easter season memorable journey for Athabasca Parish

MARY GISLASON The Seder itself is based on the All Saints’ Athabasca Biblical verse commanding Jews to retell the story of the Exodus from thabasca Parish entered into Egypt: “You shall tell your child on the Easter season with a that day, saying, ‘It is because of Atwo-day visit from the Ven. what the LORD did for me when I Terry Leer, Archdeacon for Mission came out of Egypt.’” (Exodus 13:8) Development. After the meal, the congregation On March 18, Archdeacon Leer processed upstairs for a foot-washing engaged council and parishioners ceremony led by the Rev. Clive with a lively and informative Scheepers and Holy Communion. presentation on church, God, the On Good Friday a wooden cross gospel, mission and stewardship. He was leaned against an altar stripped then led the Palm Sunday liturgy, bare of its linens. A progression of lifting the congregation with joyful mournful prayers, hymns, mediations singing and a moving sermon. and readings marked the journey of Following a Bible study on Jesus to his crucifi xion. Even the Thursday, a Jewish Christian stained glass window was “dark.” Passover Seder was held to mark the Parishioners greeted Easter solemn entrance into Holy Week. Sunday morning and Jesus’ Clive Scheepers washes the feet of parishioners after Seder Supper. The supper consisted of roast lamb resurrection with great joy and and many traditional dishes. The light shining through the stained Minns was baptized before an altar celebration cake and luncheon were Rev. Clive Scheepers described each glass window and the glow of newly draped in white and gold enjoyed after the service. dish, its signifi cance and meaning. many candles. Infant William and adorned with Easter lilies. A