New Year’s Epiphany edition edition
2005 V ol. 59, No. 5 ● January 2005 2005 Fire draws ‘huge’ support for St. John’s Thorold parish overwhelmed the diocese and beyond has been their damage in the kitchen and in the church, has said St. John’s, Thorold, insurance coverage strength after a fire damaged the church on not been determined, nor has there been an had recently been updated. by community generosity Nov. 20. estimated cost of damage. There was also “They’ve got good coverage,” she said. n the face of adversity, they’ve seen “To arrive and see smoke billowing out damage to the offices, both upper and “But it’s a very traumatic event.” Ithe face of God and it is carrying them of the church was devastating,” said The lower. St. John’s parishioners could see “the through difficult days. Reverend Canon Dr. Cathie Crawford “It’s taking a long time ... there needs to face of God” in the “huge support” from A visibly moved rector of St. John’s, Browning, rector. be inventory taken ... there is so much that parishes across the diocese and from anoth- Thorold, said the overwhelming support she The cause of the fire, which started in the goes into a claim of this magnitude.” er denomination as well. and parishioners have received from across kitchen, and left heavy smoke and water Executive Archdeacon Marion Vincett See FIRE / page 3
Niagara’s A commentary by members of the Publisher’s newspaper Advisory Board and Editor odyssey Diana Hutton
he Niagara Anglican tells the Niagara story of people Tand places, good news and painful news, says the Reverend Canon Charles Stirling. It has tried to do this in an open and honest way. It has tried to do this within a reasonable cost structure, that at times, sees some stories and pictures print- ed and others not. As chair of the Bishop’s Publisher’s Advisory Board (PAB), Canon Stirling said when the budget synod adjourns on Jan. 8, the Niagara Anglican must be granted a budget in order to pro- ceed into the new year. Without a diocesan subsidy of as much as $36,000, the newspaper may fold. Undaunted by the grim reality of losing its subsidy, volun- teer members of the PAB – Canon Charles Stirling, former gen- eral manager of Brabant Newspapers, a chain of weeklies in Hamilton; The Rev. Canon Kristine Swire, Carol Summers, ON, John Janisse of The Dunham ‘We can’’t Group and Pam Claridge, a newspaper publisher in Orangeville – are forging do it with our ahead with strategic plans that would legs cut out see the newspaper become self-suffi- from under cient. us.’ The board has welcomed to team Niagara Anglican Ted Manning as - John Janisse director of marketing. With a proven background in advertising and promo- tion, Ted has taken on the challenge – on a commissioned basis – of saving the newspaper by bringing in more revenue through advertising. Ted operates his own company in Thorold-St Catharines, and is a member of St. John, Thorold. (Ted is featured in this month’s Getting to Know You column on page 8.) Ted is confident that with combinations in the development of area advertising pages, calling on suppliers or services which need more than the local market, and aggressively going after national advertising, there will be a marked turn-around and increase in revenue. PAB member John Janisse said the group is being proactive in attempting to save the newspaper. But, referring to the possi- ble loss of the $36,000 diocesan subsidy, he added, “we can’t CRACOW ARTIST IMITATOR of Hans Pleydenwur’s “The Adoration of the Magi”, tempera on wood, do it with our legs cut out from under us.” c. 1480, National Museum in Poznan In reality, the newspaper can likely be produced on a subsidy smaller than $36,000. “I think the truth is that we need parishes to keep proper track of their subscribers, we need all subscribers to donate, we See NIAGARA / page 2 Parish viability task force created By JIM NEWMAN shifts occurring in downtown areas of our cities. Nor could we have accurately forecast the significant January 2005 task force has been created by Bishop Ralph increases in energy and operating costs that can quickly Spence to develop and make available tools for outstrip increases in parishioner giving. Bishop s Itinerary ...... 12 Getting to Know You.. .8 A determining parish health and viability. In the October issue of the Niagara Anglican, Deadlines...... 4 People In News...... 12 Only a few years ago, most of us could not have Executive Archdeacon Marion Vincett reported during Editorial...... 4 V iewpoint s...... 5 imagined the dramatic new urban development taking the past nine months six parishes within the diocese of shape in many communities or the major demographic See PARISH / page 2 2 NIAGARA ANGLICAN January 2005 Conflict is behind the notion of clergy unions By ARCHDEACON IAN DINGWALL Congregational conflict is very much a The entire church community needs to taken more seriously and with added appre- fact of church life and it is found in all appreciate more clearly that when problems ciation, we need to be more open to evalua- n the news recently, we have heard of churches. arise, they should be dealt with in real, open tion. And, if evaluation is done in a respon- Isome United Church ministers Conflict is, more often than we like to and helpful ways – knowing that “the prob- sible and sensitive way, positive things will enrolling as members of the CAW Union. think or admit, a present reality that con- lem” is seldom the fault of just one of the happen. This has caused some lively fronts the Anglican Church of parties involved. Unfortunately when conflict and criti- conversations, and not a few Canada. In church land, we find it uncomfortable cism is spewed out in an manner that no one laughs and giggles. Someone, for According to sociological sur- and awkward to be open, frank and honest is able to understand or accept, it becomes a example, asked me if I had ever veys, a root cause of conflict is with each other. There are different reasons “we / they” battle. thought of a clergy union, to which found in the clergy versus the for this state of affairs but one is that often Dialogue I replied the only union that would laity debates, wrangles and hostil- both parties begin from a premise of cer- Dialogue is what is always needed and accept me as a member was the ities. Often at hysterical and high tainty – always “my certainty” without con- the parties involved most often need the Mothers’ Union – and then only on decibel levels. cern for other points of view. advice, support and perspective of an out- an honourary level! Most of us could cite occa- Struggle for power side person – be that the bishop or someone ARCHDEACON We ought not brush off this sions when conflict in congrega- And, of course, the struggle for power is else. (Notice the deliberate exclusion of the topic so easily and pretend, with IAN DINGWALL tions has bared a seamier side of always present and, unfortunately, people word “debate” which suggests each side’s humour, that it is not a serious matter. things that we prefer to ignore or deny. on both sides deny or ignore same. purpose is to batter down the opposition.) I noticed in a press report, for example, The dispute might be focussed on what For me, it raises the question of individ- In dialogue we meet as partners willing one or two Anglican spokespersons who Christianity is about, but personality clash- ual integrity and our lack of a personal and eager to work together for the common had indeed summarily brushed the matter es are part of the problem. sense of security which causes us to be good. quickly under the carpet. Very often no solution is apparent and defensive and hostile rather than open and I, for one, would never oppose the estab- Their words suggested the United the easiest remedy is to remove the priest to caring. lishment of clergy unions. Church, being congregational in polity, another environment. What does that solve? Obviously all congregations need to But I would rather see the Church (laity their clergy did not have the benefit or the So perhaps there is a need for a clergy assume a major role of responsibility in and clergy) working together in openness protection of bishops. union or, at least, a need to discover a better problem solving. Just as obviously, clergy and with mutual appreciation, speaking the That may be a valid point of view but method of dealing with personnel problems must too. truth to each other in love. surely it does not do justice to the subject. and conflict. If, for example, we clergy wish to be Niagara diocese’s newspaper odyssey Continued from page 1 Anglican was set against other need increased advertising rev- ministries for a share of funding enue, and until these make up the that would guarantee its survival. total bill, we need help from the A ministry diocese to make up any shortfall,” “The Niagara Anglican is and said Mr. Janisse. “Next year, this remains a ministry in our diocese, might be $30,000 – but it might ranking with all of the other min- also be $5,000.” istry programs,” he said. “Some In November, the diocesan voices indicated the paper should budget committee presented to be self-sufficient ... that would members of diocesan synod five make the Niagara Anglican the budget scenarios – using the New only ministry put to the task of Niagara process – but only one raising money.” (Scenario 5) will guarantee the For the past two years, the survival of the Niagara Anglican. paper has been exploring aspects At least two scenarios allocat- of what Niagara people want to ed $22,000 for the newspaper. read about. It has, at times, pushed That amount is roughly the dio- the envelope to engage in the cese’s portion of postal/distribu- debates of our time, Canon tion costs to the national newspa- Stirling said. per, The Anglican Journal. A “It provides thoughtful reflec- three-year contract was signed in tion on those issues, and has been December 2002 sealing Niagara’s a forum for people to engage in Photo courtesy of the VOICE of Pelham participation in the postal pro- dialogue, even in a time of serious CHILDREN OF THE Sunday School at Holy Trinity, Fonthill, wanted to do something different for gram. That amounts to approxi- disagreement,” he said. their outreach project this year for Christmas. They are buying a farm animal for a village in need. mately $21,000 a year. Volunteers The children hosted a couple of bake sales and through the generosity of parishioners and leader- Essentially, the proposed The newspaper is already pro- ship of the teachers, they raised about $200. The money will be forwarded to the Mother’s Union $22,000 subsidy would mean duced at a fraction of market cost, Anglicans in Niagara would con- thanks to the tireless efforts of the who sponsor an orphanage in Madagascar. tinue to receive the national paper volunteer members of PAB. Its but there would be no diocesan members are a mix of clergy ad counterpart. lay people. Each brings enormous Parish viability task force created Needs a chance talents and industry-related expe- Continued from page 1 At the outset, the task force will review the work The newspaper needs a chance rience on behalf of the bishop to Niagara have elected to disestablish and, by year end of the Diocese of Toronto Strategic and Sustainable to show how it can do ministry as the PAB table. 2004, all but one was fully closed. Ministry Working Group and the Diocese of Niagara a self-sufficient entity. They sit on the Publisher’s The reality of these parish closings raises some Mission Strategy and Planning Committee. Both “We want people to see a Advisory Board because each has critical questions. How healthy is your parish? Is have done extensive work on parish viability. Niagara Anglican that is evolving a fundamental belief that the your parish reaching its potential? Why are some Criteria and methodology to mirror the modern face of the Niagara Anglican – and its sister, parishes thriving while others struggle? Why are so The task force will develop criteria and methodol- Church in Niagara,” Mr. Janisse the diocesan web site – is a min- many parishes depleting their endowments to support ogy for evaluating parish viability, and design a said. istry like any other. current operations or defaulting on payroll and dioce- process to gather the necessary information. It will The future of the Niagara “Our goal is to have a paper san mission and maintenance remittances? test and refine the evaluation process and tools, and Anglican was questioned when it that people want to read,” Mr. The Bishop’s Task Force will create assessment create supporting documentation. The tools and was ranked among the lowest of Janisse said. “And not only tools for evaluating parish viability in the Diocese of materials will be presented to the bishop and the 18 priorities at four regional budg- Anglicans in Niagara, but also Niagara. It will develop a framework for collecting Diocesan Mission Strategy and Planning Committee et meetings last fall. Priorities Anglicans in other dioceses, and benchmark data. Benchmarks are highly useful com- for their use. were compiled through the non-Anglicans who are on the parators, such as identifiable givers as a percentage The task force reports regularly to the bishop and exhaustive New Niagara process. spiritual journey. of Sunday attendance, or freewill offerings as a per- the Diocesan Mission Strategy and Planning Other priorities that ranked low “We believe the paper can be a centage of parish income. Committee. The work will be completed by March included a new half-time position powerful tool for evangelism. The task force’s work will be consistent with the 2005. in youth ministry and continued Parishes should be able to give diocese’s strategic primary goal to expand and devel- Task force members are Archdeacon Lynne support of Canterbury Hills Camp copies of the paper to visitors, op healthy parishes and ministries. It will engage in a Corfield, The Reverend Amy Cousineau, Catherine maintenance. who will see the spirit of God consultation and discernment process that builds on a Cumming, Pat Leece, Archdeacon Dr. Fred Gosse, Canon Stirling said the Niagara alive and active in our churches.” basis of shared intentions, using an agreed-upon The Rev. David Howells, diocesan treasurer Bob process and commonly accepted assumptions, cate- McKinnell, Jim Newman (chair), and The Rev. SUPPORT THE PWRDF gories and definitions. Canon Michael Patterson. January 2005 NIAGARA ANGLICAN 3 Bill 31: Can we find a balance? By THE REV. DOUGLAS GRAYDON and ident in their facility, they cannot disclose THE VEN. HARRY HUSKINS Recent developments in patient heath-care more detailed information such as diagnosis information have raised concerns about whether or current medical status. eligious and spiritual care has The implication, for example, becomes Ralways been understood as an inte- chaplains and clergy may continue their ministries. one where chaplains and visiting clergy can gral part of health care. Chaplains and visit- “walk into situations and circumstances ing clergy form part of a holistic compre- As originally written, however, the Bill “spiritual care constitutes a legitimate and cold,” not being able to obtain information hensive care team that addresses aspects of would have required provincially run and important dimension of health care.” relating to the condition of the patient or spiritual wellness. funded institutions such as hospitals, These recommendations were warmly parishioner. However, recent developments around senior’s residences, and correctional facili- received by the Standing Committee and Limitations access to patient heath-care information ties to deny chaplains and clergy and pas- Bill 31 was amended in the committee stage Therefore, depending upon how a have raised significant concerns about toral visitors from our congregations any to add an ‘implied consent’ provision. health-care facility interprets Bill 31, the whether chaplains and visiting clergy will information about patients and residents. Now, if a person identifies him/herself as place of chaplains and visiting clergy, as be able to continue their important min- To avoid such a situation, representatives a member of a faith group, the institution members of a health-care team, could istries. of the Ontario Conference of Catholic must provide spiritual care providers from become severely limited. Privacy Bishops, the Eastern Synod of the the group with information indicating that The churches are working together with A person’s right to privacy for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada they are in the institution, where, and how the Ministry of Health, the Ontario Hospital health-care information found in medical and the Anglican Provincial Synod and best to contact them, unless the individual Association, and the Information and charts and records is very important. Bishops submitted a brief to the Ontario expressly asks that this not be done. Privacy Commissioner’s Office to deal with On the other hand, health-care organiza- Legislature early last year recommending Problems remain these difficulties and to ensure that local tions could not function if the their client’s changes to the act that would identify chap- Problems still remain, however. institutions correctly interpret the act – par- medical information was not shared with lains as a health-care practitioner within a The act restricts access to health-care ticularly the “implied consent” provision those who have a need to know. health-care facility. Recommended changes information only to health information cus- that provides necessary information to spir- To deal with this balance the Personal also included allowing health information todians, and the definition excludes spiritu- itual care providers. Health Information Protection Act, Bill 31, custodians to be able to disclose informa- al and religious practitioners such as chap- which addresses rights to privacy and the tion to appropriately identified clergy. lains and visiting clergy. The Rev. Douglas Graydon is the Provincial due process of disclosure based on a per- Spiritual care This means that while hospitals and Chaplaincy Representative, and the Ven. son’s ‘express consent’ was passed into law The churches’ brief urged the govern- other health-care facilities can let chaplains Harry Huskins is Provincial Executive in May, 2004. ment to recognize within the legislation that and clergy know that certain people are res- Officer. Fire draws huge support for St. John’s, Thorold Continued from page 1 St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Thorold, was quick to offer space for worship and other services, going as far as to change its own wor- ship times to accommodate worship by St. John’s parishioners. “St. Andrew’s Presbyterian has been beyond amazing,” Canon Dr. Crawford Browning said. “They opened their own facility so we could continue to gather and to do ministry.” Canon Dr. Crawford Browning said although she has no firm esti- mates, she “hopes and prays” the congregation can move back into its home in a few months. “Everyone is helping out,” she said. “We’re coming along.” Particularly bitter was that the newly-refurbished organ, which was to be dedicated the day after the fire broke out, will again need to be inspected and repaired. “It’s been an unbelievably stressful time,” Canon Dr. Crawford Browning said. “The lovely show of support, from the diocese, from the bishop who was beyond amazing, from the community really have been peace sustaining. We really feel not alone in this.”
FIRE TORE THROUGH St. John’s Anglican Church in Thorold on Nov. 20. The cause of the blaze remains unknown, although it is thought to have begun in the kitchen. The church suffered smoke and water damage in the kitchen and throughout the church. Photos by Ted Manning Stained-glass windows were damaged or destroyed. The fire occurred one day before the church’s refurbished organ was to have been rededicated. 4 NIAGARA ANGLICAN January 2005 Editorial
2005 is a year of opportunities Editor Diana Hutton at Niagara’s synod voted to move forward. With a heavy (905) 573-0962 2004 was a year of challenges heart, as a bishop of the Church, Bishop Ralph Spence could [email protected] appy New Year! The Diocese of Niagara weathered not give his assent. He stated the issue will be revisited at the next diocesan synod in the fall of 2005. Director of Marketing Han intense 2004, filled with challenges and opportu- Ted Manning nities. Democratic process (905) 680-0615 From the complexities and emotions of same-gender The democratic process which allows the free expression [email protected] blessings discussions, to hosting General Synod 2004 which and vote of the people was alive and well in our Anglican installed a new primate in our very own Christ’s Church Church in Niagara. Not all communions allow their people Mailing Address: Cathedral Place Cathedral, to an exhaustive consultative process known as this freedom. 252 James Street North New Niagara which dared us to dream, to the disestablish- The failure of the budget for 2005 at diocesan synod Hamilton, Ontario, Canada ment of six parishes, to the very real financial crisis in based on several concerns illustrate the Church’s own par- L8R 2L3 liarmentary system works and gives truth to the statement which many parishes – and the diocese – find themselves, Diocesan Website: from baptisms to ordinations and the Order of Niagara, to that we are Episcopaly led and synodecally governed. w w w.niagara.anglican.ca the mundane and marvellous realities of every day life, this What was quite remarkable about 2004 was that despite diocese saw it all 2004. the intensity of the issues at hand, Anglicans across this The official, independently And today, standing at the gates of 2005, we can look great diocese soldered on, at times under great stress, and at edited publication of the ahead knowing despite having a way to go, we have come times in great celebration. Anglican D iocese of Niagara. Battered, perhaps, maybe a little beaten but gathering our Published 10 times a year (no far already. issue in July or August) in Pundits may argue we haven’t come far at all, that the hopes, our dreams, our faith, we greet the year ahead. Hamilton, Ontario. Printed by chance to recognize fully our gay/lesbian brothers and sis- We have faith that the spirit of God has guided our Signal Star Publishing, Goderich, ters was twice withheld last year within our diocese. But prayers, meditations and discussions on these issues. It is a division of Bowes Publishers they’d be wrong. our hope that the Spirit will guide our actions in this new Limited. While delegates to General Synod paused for more dis- year. Please note: some of the cernment in the worldwide Anglican community, delegates A blessed and Happy New Year! editorial material sent to the Niagara Anglican may appear on Letters to the Editor the diocesan web site as well. Advertising Policy The Niagara Anglican reserves The Church must lead the right to decline any his was not the synod where the major- remove the log from your own eye!” sympathizing with those who were, but I once advertisement. Publication of an Tity denied equality to a minority. But it We often hear about the Church providing asked myself “How would I feel if someone advertisement does not imply is the synod where one minority was permitted moral leadership, but who says that moral lead- told me I should not date/love/marry a girl, endorsement by the diocese or to deny equality to another. What does this say ership must be by holding back social whom I loved and who loved me, for any rea- any of it s princip als. Advertisers about our commitment to protect the right of progress? It need not be. son?” This thought made me realize what it and advertising agencies minorities? It is time for the Church to lead. It is time must be like for someone who loves someone assume liability for all content s, We are a church born out of a persecuted for us to move forward faster than others and of the same-sex but is told that relationship is including text, represent ations minority, and yet we are often slow to defend to pull them along. It's time to move towards of lesser value than other relationships. Love and illustrations, and also assume responsibility for any the rights of others. Must we be such hyp- Christ's vision of a society where all are for others is one of the basic values taught by claims and cost s arising ocrites? No! We must recognize the rights of accepted and loved and each of us is permitted Christ. Who are we then to set limits on love? therefrom. others as we wish to have our rights recog- to love others in the way that we choose. This is a sad day for minority rights in Subscriptions nized. People have spoken of those who might Niagara, as they have been denied. It is a sad $15 per year Today we are asked to recognize the love of leave the Church if the blessing of same-sex day for democracy in Niagara as it was a New subscriptions, cancellations, gays and lesbians to be equal to the love of unions is permitted. minority that denied them. changes of address (please everyone else. Next time we stand up to I say it may become time for people to att ach label) should be sent to: demand the rights of an minority be protected, leave a church that is slowing the spread of Tom Robinson will those who oppose them say, “How dare equality to all. - Churchless in Waterloo - Circulation Dep artment you speak of protecting such things? First I am not gay, and I used to have trouble [email protected] Anglican Journal, 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA, M4Y 3G2. Canadian Church has many evangelism initiatives (416) 924-9199 [email protected] Re: A Reflection on Process, Letter to the councils and other groups as a primer in ted member of the diocese can make the state- Circulation Editor, November 2004, Niagara Anglican. Anglican evangelism ments Ms. Huxford-Westall does. 16,175 • In 1992, Wycliffe College set up its Her comments are particularly ironic since Deadlines for was surprised by Susan Huxford- Institute of Evangelism, and sent Harold Percy she seems to be passionate about adult educa- Submissions: Westall’s comments on evangelism in her all over the country to teach clergy and laity tion (she complains that other people “fail to I Feb. 2005: Jan. 4 letter. In particular, her image of evangelism as about evangelism attend”), yet for some reason she has either not March 2005: Feb. 5 “standing on a street corner proclaiming, ‘Are • In our own diocese, Bishop Ralph made heard about or attended these excellent adult April 2005: March 3 you saved?’” seemed anachronistic. and circulated to all parishes a video about education opportunities in the past dozen It is sad that there are still Anglicans who evangelism, entitled Draw the Circle Wide. years. The Bishop s Publishing Advisory think this way, particularly one as thoughtful • Many books have been published in recent A contemporary understanding of evangel- Board includes: and discerning as Ms. Huxford-Westall years to help mainline Christians think about ism would suggest that it is perfectly appropri- Pam Claridge appears to be from the rest of her letter. evangelism ate for Michael Patterson to be “Director of John Janisse Let me list some of the initiatives that have • Alpha, though not to everybody’s taste, Evangelism” and not “Director of Service.” The Rev. Canon Charles Stirling taken place in the Anglican Church of Canada has modeled a kind of Anglican-inspired evan- Evangelism and service are different though Carol Summers in recent years to raise awareness and under- gelism that is a hundred miles from street cor- complementary aspects of the Church’s min- The Rev. Kristine Swire standing of evangelism: ner ranting istry, as they were in the ministry of Jesus. Letters to the Editor Policy •After the Lambeth Conference of 1988 • Since his appointment, Michael Patterson I would argue that in recent decades we The Niagara Anglican welcomes declared the 1990s to be a Decade of has visited numerous parishes in the diocese – have not done badly in terms of service submissions from readers as Evangelism, (then) Canadian Primate Michael not to mention synods – to teach about evan- (though we could do better, certainly), but we Letters to the Editor. All submis- Peers set up an Evangelism Commission, gelism have been weak in evangelism. A director of sions must include a name, tele- which, among other things, ran three well- • Most recently, in September, Andrew evangelism can help us get the balance right. phone number, e-mail address or attended national conferences on evangelism Weeks conducted a diocesan workshop on physical address of the author • Two years ago, this Commission spon- Welcoming Newcomers, which is an integral John Bowen for verification purposes. The sored the making of a video entitled Paying it part of evangelism. St. John the Evangelist newspaper reserves the right to Forward, which has been used by many parish This is why it surprised me that a commit- Hamilton edit submissions. January 2005 NIAGARA ANGLICAN 5 Viewpoints The Windsor Report Life interwoven My sisters and brothers in Christ, “What is man….?” much land with our roads and build- Psalm 8:4 Signs & ings, there’d have been more natural he six-month anniversary of my installation as primate is upon us and I Wonders food around. It really is hard to Twant to begin my pastoral letter to you with a word of thanks. Since June, love driving in blame the pigeon for its own I have had many opportunities to be with Anglicans across our country. We have IHamilton before 8 – The Rev. Canon demise. After all, for millions of a.m. on a Sunday morn- William C. years, since the first proto-humans a Church that is full of faith, life and energy. Thomas From coast to coast to coast I have spoken with children and young people, ing – you could fire a lived in caves on rocky cliffs, other [email protected] clergy, lay people, government officials, canon down most streets animals that shared our habitat (like aboriginal leaders and our ecumenical part- and not hit a thing. On rock doves and cockroaches) have – The Most ners. this particular Sunday morning in December, followed us as we moved out of one form of Reverend Andrew What I have discovered are communi- the sky was a deep clear blue – and the only cave and built others (high-rise buildings, with S. Hutchison ties of faith and love that give hope through clouds were the wind-shifted contrails from their window crevasses, cornices, and ledges Archbishop the gospel of our Lord. I thank you for your more than 30 jet aircraft, with the most recent are remarkably cliff-like). five fanning out from the rising sun like particle We humans are part of the created order, not and Primate ministry and for the prayerful support that I have received. beams in a cloud chamber. something apart from it. Everywhere we go, we I write to you at this time at the request But just as I was approaching the junction of reshape the natural world around us and reset of the House of Bishops. We recently met in Saskatoon, with a spirit of reconcil- Hwy. 2 and Main Street, a car pulled out in front the delicate balance and interaction of living iation and fellowship marking our time together. The House passed a unanimous of me. As I caught up to him at the Burger King and inanimate things in ways we are only resolution receiving the Windsor Report with gratitude, recognizing its impor- on Main Street West, I suddenly witnessed three beginning to glimpse dimly. tance and commending it to the Church for study. A second resolution asked me pigeons fly up as though escaping from his roof The dead pigeon was an obvious and imme- to write a pastoral letter inviting the people of our Church to make submissions hatch – and an explosion of feathers that diate example – but those 30 contrails were a about the report. engulfed the car. It was immediately obvious sign of something with much greater impact The Commission that produced this report was created by the Archbishop of the fourth bird didn’t make it out of the way. and complexity. Canterbury, Rowan Williams, at the request of the primates and was chaired by What disturbed me most was the car ahead On an otherwise bright clear, cloudless day, Archbishop Robin Eames of Armagh, Ireland. The Commission comprised 19 didn’t slow or turn aside, before, during, or after our presence was heating and distributing tons people from 14 of the 38 provinces of the Anglican Communion and who cov- the hit. It just kept rolling ahead with the same of carbon dioxide in the upper atmosphere, and ered a broad spectrum of geography, culture and theology. The Reverend Canon inexorable progress as the jets overhead. the resultant clouds were now covering nearly Alyson Barnett-Cowan, the director of Faith, Worship and Ministry for the The driver must have seen the birds scav- 40 per cent of the sky – reflecting tremendous Anglican Church of Canada, was a member. enging the bag of fries lying on the road. I was quantities of solar energy back into space, It is extremely important to realize that this was not a committee to settle the far enough behind that sudden braking would absorbing others, and cooling the ground pro- difficult questions that we face about blessings of same sex relationships. Its man- have created no difficulty – nor was there any portionately. Who knows – under a clear sky, date was to maximize unity within the worldwide Anglican family despite the dif- other traffic on the road that would have pre- the pigeons might have been warned of the ferences that we may have. The recommendations were unanimous. cluded a sudden lane change. The car just kept approaching vehicle by a flash of reflected sun- The report begins by describing the relationship called communion, into rolling on as though nothing of consequence light. Indeed, tropospheric physicists can math- which Christians are called by God, and how this relates to the mission of the had taken place. ematically demonstrate that the movement of a Church. It then describes the current difficulties and tensions that the Anglican There are those who might want to argue that butterfly wing in the Amazon basin can affect Communion is experiencing. pigeons are nuisance birds with a penchant for the formation and path of a hurricane. The next section deals with principles of biblical authority and interpretation. carrying disease and creating messes all over All life is woven into a unified whole with How we hold these principles and make decisions, as close as possible to the local the place, and that one less is no great loss. the inanimate stuff of this planet. And there are level, is one of the difficult questions that is raised. A clear challenge is the dis- Others might suggest that in a Darwinian consequences to everything we do. God does cernment of those issues that we can disagree about without dividing the Church. world, any bird too slow or stupid to get out of not expect us to plan out every action’s conse- The report then moves to its recommendations on the future life of the world- the way of a moving car, doesn’t deserve to live quences before we move a finger or draw a wide Anglican Church. It describes Instruments of Unity, especially the ministry long enough to beget future generations, and breath. But I would hope that when we see that of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and recommends the creation of an Anglican that the species is better off without it. our present course might seriously affect others, Covenant that would define the relationships among the member Churches of the But that would ignore the impact and influ- we might hesitate, or change direction. Or Anglican Communion. ence of the human population on the world. whenever a life ends, we might at least Further recommendations are directed to the Episcopal Church of the U.S.A., If someone hadn’t thrown the chips out of a acknowledge its passing. and our own Canadian Diocese of New Westminster, asking them to express car window, the birds would not have landed on “I saw and I took note, I considered and regret that their actions were undertaken without sufficient consultation with the the roadway. And if we hadn’t paved over so learnt the lesson…” Proverbs 24:32 rest of the Communion. It also called for a moratorium on the ordination of any further bishops who live in same gender unions and urged bishops not to approve Public Rites of Doctrine...and all that Blessing for same sex relationships until “some new consensus” emerges inter- nationally among Anglicans. uch has been refer variously to “holy Scriptures Another recommendation calls on bishops who have intervened in other dio- Msaid lately containing sufficiently all doctrine about doctrine; issues The Very required of necessity for eternal ceses and provinces to express regret for “the consequences of their actions” and Reverend “to effect a moratorium on any further interventions.” pressing on the Church salvation through faith in Jesus On my most recent webcast, available through our national Church web site from all sides want to Peter Wall, Christ” (BCP) and “the holy Scrip- (www.anglican.ca
ishop’s Diploma Course certificates were awarded to nine grad- Buates on St. Andrew’s Day, Nov. 30, at the Christ’s Church Cathedral, Hamilton. Following the special Eucharist which Bishop Ralph Spence cele- brated, the graduates and their guests enjoyed a dinner in Myler Hall. Bishop Ralph congratulated the graduates – Doreen Bryant (St. Peter’s, Hamilton), Michael Dufour (St. Peter’s, Hamilton), Lesley Edwards (St. Andrew’s, Grimsby), Robert Kirk (St. Thomas, St. Catharines), Marlene Minken (St. Peter’s, Hamilton), John Moore (St. Luke’s, Palermo), Joy Rawlings (Grace Church, Milton), Susan Sanders (St. Peter’s, Hamilton) and Paul White (St. Andrew’s, Grimsby) – for their perseverance in completing the course, and stressed the impor- tance of an educated laity in the parishes. The diploma requires completion of six courses of eight offered and attendance at a retreat at least once during the period of the courses. Courses are hosted by various parishes in the diocese and can be completed in a minimum of three years. One course held in the fall and one in the winter. The bishop also thanked the instructors – The Reverend Canon Dr. Mark McDermott, Rev. Canon Barry Randle, Rev. John Ripley and Rev. Paul Whitehouse – who have conducted the courses which are current- ly offered at Christ Church, Flamborough; St. Andrew’s, Grimsby; St. BISHOP RALPH SPENCE poses with graduates of the Bishop’s Diploma Course. A special Peter’s Hamilton; and Grace Church, Milton. He also thanked Jane eucharist was held Nov. 30 at Christ's Church Cathedral, Hamilton. Stewart of the Diocesan Resource Centre who is the registrar for the courses. She also arranged the presentation ceremony and dinner. The first course of 2005 begins this month. It will focus on liturgy using word, water, wine and bread by William Willimon as the text. The registration fee per course is $35. For a couple sharing one text- book, the fee is $45. For more information, start dates and times, con- tact Jane Stewart at (905)527-1316 ext. 420 or by email jane.stew- [email protected].
FFaatthheerr MMaarrkk CCuurrttiiss “Canada’s Singing Priest” Benefit Concert for St. Peter’s Foundation
Friday, February 11, 2005 @ 7:00 P.M. Redeemer University College 777 Garner Rd. E., Ancaster Tickets are $15
Contact Valerie at 905-777-3837 ext. 12431 8 NIAGARA ANGLICAN January 2005 Taking the Anglican in new directions our churches, not to talk money or business is called TT & T solicit, but to talk about the paper. Getting Consulting Services. “I always He firmly believes that the wanted to do it, and I don’t think paper can “contribute to raising to Know You that was an accident. My issue funds the diocese needs. I’m was being quiet enough to listen!” enthusiastic abut this,” he grins, – The Rev. Fran Ted’s faith is an integral part of “and it will be interesting to see if Darlington his day-to-day life: “God has a ter- I’m still as enthusiastic after six rific sense of humour. What you months!” “I was a kid who would take ask for doesn’t come in a package A student of human nature, Ted everybody’s old TVs and radios – – it’s always a surprise!” explains, “Some businesses may they’d come back as something A parishioner of St. John’s, not necessarily benefit, but people else! I was never an A student – Thorold, since childhood, Ted has are generous. I’m asking business- except science when I was inter- been a warden, and served on es to sponsor those who need sup- ested.” parish council “for a long time, a port.” After graduation, Ted “started rector and a half or so.” A bargain out in a tech role, testing and trou- Fire Advertising costs in our paper bleshooting microprocessor com- These days, Ted is putting ener- are, Ted says, “a bargain in the puters.” gy towards overcoming the recent Niagara area. Businesses may take He moved to customer service: disastrous fire that destroyed the out ads because of the exposure “I thoroughly enjoyed that, work- hall and office areas of the church, the paper gets.” ing with both people and techno- and severely damaged the worship For example, “Charles suggest- logical skills.” space. ed an events page, with items at Gradually, Ted moved into His sorrow is evident: “I can TED MANNING low cost for our parishes. I would management roles, and was part of reconstruct the whole building in the group that developed the first Director of marketing for the Niagara Anglican ask other churches, such as a my mind. One fireman said he Mennonite Church advertising international computer network remembered playing with me in their bazaar.” for airlines. the basement. Another one, a His business, TT&T Ted has ideas for fundraising, Sales friend, carrying out a heavy stand, Ted Manning, Consulting Services provides and wants to put his accumulated Ted then moved into sales, fit- asked me ‘Wasn’t your dad a needed attention to such compa- marketing director, experience and talents of 20 years ting in “like a dream come true. I machinist, always making nies, so they can get on with what in the technology industry to work liked it because of the people con- things?’ My father’s name was Niagara Anglican they do well. for the Niagara Anglican. tact… I love to talk! When I start- engraved on the bottom of the Ted answered those ads in our “If you don’t have a plan,” he ed college, I never would have stand.” diocesan paper, and is beginning ife can unfold in unexpect- says, “you’re part of somebody thought I’d end up in sales. I was Ted then cheerfully describes what is hoped to be a rewarding Led directions, and Ted else’s plan, and I want to use totally wrapped up in computers the hospitality offered to St. relationship between them. Manning readily describes such an (these gifts) to help other people.” and electronics.” John’s parishioners by the people Ted’s basic task is to develop a experience. Born in Niagara Falls, Ted With his warm smile, Ted of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian marketing plan, with the long- “Charles (the Reverend Canon lived most of his life in Thorold, admits “I still like the toys!” Church. “They couldn’t be more term goal of making the paper Charles Stirling, chair of the but went to Toronto’s Ryerson Acknowledging the benefits of wonderful! They’ve given us self-sufficient. Publisher’s Advisory Board) put Polytechnical College. experience working for large com- office, meeting and worship Told by the Publisher’s an advertisement in the Niagara In first year studies, “I spent all panies, Ted explains (they) “did spaces, and even moved their wor- Advisory Board (PAB) to “pick Anglican for a marketing director. the money I had made! So I decid- some major training, especially in ship time for us.” what you want” for his title/job “The first time I saw it, I ed to continue my education in managing priorities, persuasion Strength description, Ted chose the simple thought, ‘Hmmm, interesting…’ Niagara at a rate I could afford.” techniques and so on. It’s given St. John’s new organ was to but clear “Director of Marketing.” The second time, I thought, Always available me quite a tool box to draw from, have been dedicated the day after Ted has found PAB members ‘Hmmm, there it is again.’ It was Working at a fine paper mill in and I’ll continue with courses at the fire, and the planned concert very helpful, as they work to dis- like a gentle knocking you hear.” Thorold “as soon as they let me Niagara to keep my mind active.” happened at St. Andrew’s. cern where they are now, and After opening his own sales in,” Ted earned a reputation as Ted’s wife, Terry, was a nurse, Ted marvels at the strength and where they want to be. and marketing business a year always available to fill in for but now is the secretary for a resilience of St. John’s current rec- Ted will play an important role ago, Ted was ready to explore a employees who developed lawyer who has been on a respira- tor, the Reverend Dr. Cathie in reaching those goals, and cheer- little further. “Friday night ‘flu,” and “made tor for 17 years. Ted’s fascination Crawford-Browning. fully admits that he has a number “A huge number of small to more on weekends than my with human nature is evident as he Commenting on his pleasure in of “attack strategies.” medium-sized businesses in the friends who worked full-time at describes his wife’s employer: human contact, Ted says, “God “Contacting people and making Niagara Peninsula couldn’t afford McDonalds.” “An amazing man, with three chil- gave us two ears and one mouth. relationships” means educating a full-time marketing manager,” In his three years at Niagara dren, and a compelling story.” What does that tell you?” Though people about the newspaper busi- Ted explains. “Typically, such a College, Ted began studying Ted and Terry’s daughter, he loves to talk, Ted is ready to lis- ness: “A lot of parishes and busi- business can focus on the business Electronic Communications, a Tricia, is an 11-year-old “gadget- ten to your ideas and questions, so nesses don’t realize how inexpen- itself or on marketing the busi- natural sequence to his experience inclined” student in Grade 5. Ted please call him at 905-680-0615 to sive advertising is in the Niagara ness. Usually one or the other does running audio and video programs proudly describes his daughter: talk about the future of the Anglican (and they) under-use it.” very well, but the one not focused at Thorold High School, but “She’s got a good memory, and Niagara Anglican. To overcome this, Ted will visit on tends to need attention.” “ended up in computers. takes voice and piano lessons. She With his commitment to God, sang at her grandfather’s funeral – to his Church, and to the Diocese she’s got a great voice! We have and its newspaper, Ted’s gifts will no idea where she’s going, but enable us to move forward with she’s got great potential!” new hope and confidence into the We Need Named for his family, Ted’s future God has in mind. Ambassadors ORGANIST/DIRECTOR You know people. You know business. You know a lot of Anglican dollars go to businesses OF MUSIC in your area who want to attract more customers. Ryerson United Church, Hamilton, seeks a Will you introduce us to your local market competent organist/pianist/choir director to lead so advertising can find us. its musical program in a church with a rich musical heritage. See ad at rcco.ca or ryerson- To advertise in The Niagara Anglican or for more information, unitedhamilton.com websites for further details. contact Ted Manning, director of marketing, at (905) 680-0615. Reply to Sheila Guest at [email protected] or by mail to 19 Thunderbird Court, Hamilton, ON L8K 5Z9 January 2005 NIAGARA ANGLICAN 9
Welcoming newcomers at St. James, Dundas Parish creates two-step approach to welcome, invite newcomers n his charge to synod in INovember, Bishop Ralph Spence indicated the need to focus on evangelism. He related several vivid images regarding welcoming newcomers to our churches. References ranged from not even approaching visitors to swooping down on newcomers and asking them to be wardens within their first five weeks! At St. James’, Dundas, the cor- poration has approved the follow- ing two-phase plan which was implemented late last year. First Phase The first phase involves three steps. When a newcomer arrives at the church, the greeter of the day (who changes on a weekly basis) welcomes the newcomer, provides the person with a temporary name NEWCOMERS TO ST. JAMES, Dundas, include (seated front row left), Arlene Long, Carleon Hardie, Joyce Kelly, Louie tag, and, if possible obtains basic Maddock, and Bea Marskell. (Back row) Robert Morrow, Bob White, Irene Taylor, Mark Mainprize, Ross Kelly, Helen Denton, information about home address, Jane Beckett, Barb Reeves, Lesley Ann Nicholson and Art Marskell form the welcoming committee. telephone number and e-mail address. the earlier phone call and again, ly in the past, and the series has to bring the group together at the church). The session ended with a In the following three weeks, offering assistance. If the person been revamped and invigorated beginning of each session. pot-luck supper, which was very the newcomer is contacted three did not attend, the card is accom- for a large group of newcomers Organizers had a template from successful and allowed the group times. The first is a friendly tele- panied by the bulletin for the this fall. which to work, but tailored the some informal time to socialize. phone call, merely asking if the Sunday with a note indicating that Weekly meetings actual content to the needs and An evaluation form was distrib- newcomer had any questions the person had been missed. The five-week series were bro- wishes of the newcomers. uted to provide the planning team about the church, the liturgy or the The third week involves a ken into one weekly evening, for a The current session involved with advice on future sessions. programs offered in the church. home visit which is accompanied two-hour period. Each of the ses- an examination of the history of Anyone interested in more In the second week, the con- by a symbolic welcoming gift – a sions involved a short Bible study, the Church, a tour of all facilities detail about the two phases of the tact is by mail, but the process loaf of bread. some reflection and, after the first and an explanation, and visits “Welcoming” to St. James can varies depending upon whether or The second phase of the plan session, some time spent on topics from specific groups within the contact either Robert Morrow not the newcomer did return. involves a five-week series for of interest which were elicited in church to explain their programs ([email protected]) or If the person did attend, a sim- newcomers. the first session. (e.g., Holiday House Tour, Helen Denton (hevans@interl- ple card is mailed, following up on This has been done successful- The usual ice-breakers helped Women’s Groups, music in the ynx.net). Sharing a tradition Love bridges many differences ost of you, if not all of my situation and she would be ter- St. George’s hosts Thanksgiving Myou, know that I am a Preacher’s ribly hurt by my decision. convert to Christianity. The Corner My story has a relatively happy Dinner for international students family in which I grew up was – Nissa Bausbaum ending. Admittedly, it took my Jewish. It was a good upbring- Church of the going far away to England for two ne-hundred-ten international adults and 12 children got a taste ing. That’s not to say it was per- Transfiguration, years and one hugely cathartic Oof a real Canadian Thanksgiving Day meal Oct. 19 when St. fect because it wasn’t. My fam- St. Catharines telephone conversation with my George’s Church, Guelph, held its Sixth Annual Thanksgiving Dinner ily was as dysfunctional as any mother upon my return – when she for the International Students. other in some way or another. told me that even in my faith, it Guests hailed from countries including Argentina, Austria, Brazil, But, at least until my dad’s death, I had the love of says to honour your mother and your father. China, Egypt, England, France, Guatemala, Germany, Honduras, Hong a mother and father and the relatively comforting Nonetheless, we reconciled, not because we ever Kong, Iceland, India, Iran, Jamaica, Korea, Mexico and Sri Lanka. presence of two brothers and a sister. came to understand or agree with each other but Each year, it’s a treat to introduce fellow students from the same I did not convert to get away from my family. because we came to accept one another. country to each other. This year, it was two women from Iceland. Yes, I was something of a rebel, which won’t come Undoubtedly, we accepted each other because we And, of course, there were many ‘Canadian’ volunteers from St. as a surprise to most of you who know me. loved each other. George’s Church! Nonetheless, it was not my rebel nature that effect- This year’s Diocesan Synod was not an easy St. George’s Annual Thanksgiving Dinner started six years ago when ed this change. Rather, my conversion experience one; neither was it a boring one, as so many of the Ecumenical Ministry of the University of Guelph approached the represented a profound spiritual awakening for me them can be. It wasn’t easy because we spent pret- church to host a traditional Canadian turkey dinner for students who that had never before played a role in my day-to- ty much the entire synod talking about sex and were left on the empty campus over Thanksgiving weekend. day living. For whatever reason – and I have never money and, just as I have learned in my pastoral One of the young women who attended the dinner again this year questioned why – this spiritual awakening hap- care relationships with couples, sex and money commented, “I really enjoyed myself! My friends and I will be back pened not in the context of the Jewish community have a nasty habit of ripping apart the Church in next year if you do it again!” in which I grew up but in a totally foreign context the same way they have a habit of ripping apart our These students departed happy and full of turkey, and most of all, called the Church. personal relationships. appreciative of the fellowship of the Outreach Committee and the gen- Telling my mother that I had converted to With respect to the subject of money, synod erous parishioners of St. George’s. Christianity and had been baptized in the Anglican members were not able to come to an agreement Church was the hardest thing I have ever done – about the 2005 budget. In some cases, this reflect- Linda Kapasky of St. George’s Anglican Church, Guelph, is co-ordi- hard for two reasons. ed people’s concerns about not incorporating the nator of the Thanksgiving Dinner for International Students On the one hand, while I had discovered some- results of the New Niagara process; in other cases thing amazing and life-giving, I could only partic- this reflected people’s concerns about the mount- ipate in this by letting go of something that had ing diocesan debt and the inability of parishes to shaped and molded me, and kept me safe until that make either their payroll payments or the Diocesan point in time – that is, my family. On the other Mission and Ministry share in order to deal with SUPPORT THE ANGLICAN APPEAL hand, I was acutely aware of the pain I would this debt and to prevent it from getting any higher. inflict on my mother. She would never understand See LOVE / page 12 10 NIAGARA ANGLICAN January 2005 Take Your Pastor to Work day ship and daily life, a chance to A twist on a bring what we do on Sundays into not-so-old concept the world, a chance to bring the deepest needs of the world into By THE REVEREND our worshipping communities. MICHAEL CALDERWOOD I have visited teachers at school, done a 12-hour shift with do not remember exactly an ambulance driver, spent time Iwhen it started, but I remem- with the manager of the victims ber how and I remember why. assistance program of the Min- It was at coffee hour after istry of Justice, seen the intricate church several years ago. I was work of a denturist, and sat in a doing the usual meet and greet and cubicle of a computer programmer asked a parishioner how things for an international courier service. were at work. It truly is a ministry of coming Things apparently were not alongside. I see an entirely differ- going well – that much I could THE REVEREND ent side of people’s lives: the care surmise. But the more he shared MICHAEL CALDERWOOD and compassion of a police officer his experience, the more I realized or the difficult decisions made in a that I had no idea what he was make it a point of spending a day car dealership. talking about. with folks in their workplace. I knew these things, but seeing The results have been interest- them before my eyes has been Maybe it was all those big GOING TO SCHOOL with a teacher and working alongside a words, but it became clear to me ing. I have been welcomed into a both humbling and life-giving. variety of environments and The effect this has had on my denturist has given Rev. Calderwood insight into the lives of his that he was from an entirely dif- parishioners. ferent world than I was. warmly introduced to co-workers preaching has been significant. It suddenly struck me that and supervisors. So, now when I ask people how there, in the When they find out who I am, things are at work, sometimes I Church cemeteries must be middle of they seem a have a better idea of what they are the parish wee bit curi- talking about. properly licenced under bill hall, over a ous and some This experience has reminded white intriguing me how easy it is for us as clergy hurches in the diocese $250,000. chocolate conversations to become detached from the daily Cwhich have or provide The Reverend Steve Witcher, chip cookie, arise. One of life and work of our parishioners. cemetery services need to prepare chair of the cemetery advisory two very the more It has also brought a sense of for stringent new provincial legis- committee, told diocesan synod in different interesting joy and gratitude that what hap- lation. November that parishes with worlds met, moments pens on Sundays sometimes really Bill 209, The Funeral Burial cemeteries need to work quickly rubbed comes when I does make a difference. and Cremations Services Act to ensure compliance. shoulders, ask people As someone told me the other (2002), will mean more stringent Cemetery board and maybe how what we day as we ended an eight-hour enforcement of regulations,licenc- He recommended parishes even collid- do on Sunday shift together, “What happens in ing cemetery sales persons as well establish a cemetery board con- ed. It was morning church keeps me grounded”. as other service providers, sisting of one or more trustees, the time I did something about it. I helps them at And after spending the day changes to property taxation, and rector’s wardens and others, to had to see his workplace. work? with her at work, I understand increased consumer protection. oversee cemetery administration. Ever since then, I have made The answers are as varied as more fully what she means. In addition, Bill 209 will intro- In Niagara, 41 parishes cur- “Bring your Pastor to Work” an the people I ask. The Reverend Michael duce an industry-wide compensa- rently provide some form of dis- important part of my ministry. I hope the question helps draw Calderwood is priest associate tion fund, increased penalties for position or care of human About once a month or so, I some connections between wor- at Holy Trinity, Fonthill. non-compliance and fines of up to remains. The majority, 30, offer conventional ground burial, seven offer scattering areas, eight columnbariums or niche walls, SHADES OF IRELAND four offer multiple means of dis- The Christ’s Church position. Hosted by Archdeacon Ian Dingwall But, Rev. Witcher said, “not all Cathedral Shoppe parishes are operating under provincial regulations. is open “Ensure that you are licenced,” he said. Devotional books, gift items, cards, and Anglican Book Under the Cemeteries Act (1990), cemeteries in Ontario Centre publications. must be licenced and a licence is We look forward to seeing you required to establish a scattering when you visit your Cathedral. area or memorial garden. There are no exceptions. (905) 527-1316 Scatttering areas 252 James St. North, Hamilton “A scattering area is deemed a cemetery in Ontario.” The cost of a cemetery licence is $10, however a $100,000 trust Departure May 13, 2005 must be established prior to Cycle obtaining a license. Approval must be granted by provincial and 12 Days with Highlights: municipal authorities to establish of Limerick, Medieval Castle Banquet, Moher, and operate a cemetery scattering Galway, Killarney, Blarney, Kerry, Irish Pub area or columbarium. Owners Prayer Night, Waterford, Kilkenny, Dublin (with optional must provide ministry approved Day Trip to Belfast).For more details please contact bylaws to purchasers as well as an Archdeacon Ian Dingwall @(905) 637-3449 or email: approved price list for all services and a ministry approved contract [email protected] of sale. “Cemeteries require adequate HAS MOVED funding to operate efficiently so compare your selling prices with onto the Diocesan Web site Special rates for other cemeteries in your area,” churches & seniors, Rev. Witcher recommended. “Review costs for services at least www.niagara.anglican.ca free custom tints, every two years.” Resources 33 Princess St., Hamilton free parking For more information about the Spirituality and Prayer changes, contact The Rev. Churches are encouraged to copy it for use in their parish. 905/529-2205 or 905/529-2983 Witcher [email protected] or by calling (519) 843-2141. January 2005 NIAGARA ANGLICAN 11 ‘The Quick and the Dead’ The Undermount Saints exploration of All Saints Day ll Saints Day is a special occasion in the Christian tradition and Aaccording to the Education Act, students are entitled to be absent from school without penalty. Section 21 (2) (g) of the Education Act states: “A child is excused from attendance at school if he/she is absent on a day regarded as a holy day by the church or religious denomination to which he/she belongs.” With this in mind, the Undermount Saints and a few saints from St. James, Dundas, set out on a road trip dedicated to fun, learning, and exploration. We had an awesome day! Forty saints participated – a blend of God’s children ages eight to 71. The first stop was at The Hamilton Cemetery. Tour leaders Donna Reid and Robin McKee fascinated us by bringing to life Hamilton founding fathers, George Hamilton, Richard Beasley, James Gage, and The Land Family. They also talked about the mass graves created because of flu epi- demics, such as the Spanish Influenza 1918-1919. Soldiers who sur- vived the trenches from WW1 came home only to die from the flu. Donna and Robin explained the symbolism behind the beautiful art found on many of the gravestones. PARTICIPANTS IN THE UNDERMOUNT Saints gather in Hamilton Cemetery on Nov. 1, All After lunch, we went on a tour and celebrated the Holy Eucharist at Saints’ Day, to take part in an educational and spiritual journey. Christ’s Church Cathedral. The tour there was led by the Dean of the Cathedral Peter Wall and the Archivist Canon Katharine Greenfield, ON. We learned why the Cathedral is a cathedral and we were told we Time is on our side if we pray could look, touch and feel anything, just be careful. It was a privilege to be able to look closely at the beautiful carvings of the Reredos and to sit Kings 8 v 54–61. The final prayer too much to do with our time, our in the bishop’s chair. of Solomon. (Good News Bible) money, and yet it is all given. Anglican Fellowship Dean Wall led us in the Great Feast with much enthusiastic partici- fter Solomon had fin- We are but stewards of all that pation from our group. “Aished praying to the of Prayer is given, we have grown cold in Our final stop was St. Matthew’s House, with which we all are famil- Lord, he stood up in front of the – Annette Harris our love for our neighbours in the iar. It is totally amazing to actually see the support St. Matthew’s House altar where he had been kneeling south, in the north, and to the east. offers to people in need. with lifted hands. In a loud voice No agency, no religion or state The Rev. Canon Wendy Roy led us on the tour. he asked God’s blessings on all Gate (Math 7 v 13-14), because can seem to address with suffi- Last year St. Matthew’s House touched the lives of over 67,000 indi- the people assembled there. He the gate to hell is wide, and the cient strength or purpose, the viduals through a variety of programs, services and supports. Their said ‘Praise the Lord who has road that leads that way is easy, needs of so many in this world. motto is “Hope and Help for People to Help Themselves. given His people peace, as He and there are many who travel it. Jesus came with the prime We had a great adventure learning that there are many saints who promised He would. He has kept But, the gate to life is narrow directive from our Holy Father in lived long ago, but that saints are also ordinary people living today. all the generous promises he made and the way that leads to it is hard, heaven for all to love, to care. They are people who make a difference in the world. So, on All through his servant Moses. May and there are few people who find Take time each day to bring to Saints Day, we not only celebrate the saints of long ago but we celebrate the lord our God be with us, as He it’. A clear warning perhaps, that mind the Lord’s Prayer, to medi- all of us today. A saint is someone who lets the Light shine through was with our ancestors, may He straying from the ‘way of our tate upon it, to listen to the words never abandon us; may He make Lord’ is dangerous, a message as spoken to us across time. CLASSIFIED us obedient to Him, so that we clear as Solomon’s. The giver is God from whose will always live as he wants us to We, in the West, have grown mighty store houses, all is given, FOR RENT live, keeping all the laws and careless in the first, and second let us try to remember and pray for England, Herefordshire. Modernized, well equipped 15th Century commands He gave our ancestors. Great Commandments, that we the needs of others. cottage, Sleeps four. Picturesque, Great Historical centre for tour- May the Lord our God remember love God above all else – above Time is finite and the time ing. Close to Wales and within 2 hours of the Cotswolds and Bath. at all times this prayer, and the self, above wants, above distrac- given to each of us is momentary. Tel.or Fax 905-634-2852. petitions I have made to Him. tions in any form. He is a jealous We cannot add as much as a day to May He always be merciful to the God, He demands allegiance, our time on earth, listen today, people of Israel and to their King, none other can be put before Him. pray today, give thanks for all the according to their daily needs. He gave His best, His son, that wonderful gifts we have been And so to all the nations of the we might be put right with Him given and for that which we have PEARLS OF SOUTHEAST ASIA that cannot in any way be defiled been forgiven. February 13 – March 03, 2005 world will know that the Lord alone is God, there is no other. by the world with all its wrong. Remember Solomon’s words May you, His people, be always The second directive, that we ‘be faithful’ to our Lord God…, A fascinating journey through Southeast Asia faithful to the Lord our God, love our neighbour as ourselves, and also our Saviour’s words. including Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore & Malaysia, obeying all His laws as you do to care, to regard. You love God with all your topped off with a four-night stay in mysterious Bali. today”. He, our Lord, is not asking us heart, with all your mind, and with In the New Testament, Jesus to dote on anyone, He is asking us all your strength. If we do this, The tour includes a Bangkok Rice Barge Cruise, a to listen, respect. We are too busy, time is on our side. Amen. Mekong River Boat Ride, an Elephant Ride bids us, ‘to go through the Narrow and a Bamboo Raft Ride. St. Paul’s, Stratford, celebrating 100th anniversary Members and former members of St. Paul’s old friends, and make new ones. Anglican Church, Stratford, are invited to celebrate Former parishioners are also asked to contact oth- the parish’s 100th anniversary in 2005-2006. ers who may be unaware of this important milestone. Members of the St. Paul’s Centennial Committee For more information, or to be placed on a contact are hoping to welcome back as many former parish list, please call Charles Ryde, chair of the centennial members as possible to join in the celebrations, meet committee. Volunteers needed for Breakfast Club at St. Lukes’s For a brochure of this exotic tour of the Orient, The parish hall of St Luke’s Hamilton is the scene the three North End schools - Centennial, Bennetto, please contact: where about 100 children get a nourishing meal and St. Lawrence. Canon Gordon Kinkley. M.A., M. Div. every morning before school through the efforts of Anyone who wishes to help out with this program St. John’s Church, the Breakfast Club. is asked to speak to the volunteers at the hall any 80 Main St., St. Catharines L2N 3Z3 Because of its location, the Parish of St Luke’s school day morning or to go to www.northhamil- Hamilton is in a unique position to help sponsor this tonchc.org/program.asp?program=1 (905) 934-1020; [email protected] ministry to the local lake district neighbourhood and 12 NIAGARA ANGLICAN January 2005 Bishops installs 7 new canons Bishop’s Bishop Ralph Spence we share be a blessing to pleased to announce their engagement. announced the following People In God and to all whom we They will exchange vows on May 5 at priests to be installed as we touch.” Trinity Chapel, University of Toronto. A Itinerary Canons of Christ’s The News Cheryl and Stephen family reception will follow. Church Cathedral on also want to give special Swire on the move January 2005 Jan. 2 at a Service of – Alison D’Atri thanks to the Rev. Stuart The Reverend Kristine Swire has January 2, 3 p.m., Christ’s Church Evensong: Frances Pike and the parish of St. resigned as rector of St. Paul’s, Glanford, Cathedral, Evensong, Installation Darlington, Robin Graves, David Andrew’s and the parish of St. Paul’s in and will begin her new ministry as rector of of Canons, Institutions of New Howells, Robert Hudson, Kristine Swire, Westdale for their love and support and to Ascension, Hamilton, on Jan. 4. Ministries and Bishop’s Levee Mark Tiller and Stephen Witcher. Bill and Nancy Harris for their generous Gladding comes to Niagara The Reverend Mark Gladding, former January 5, 8:30/10:30 a.m., St. This installation of canons will be held gift of a honeymoon in the Bahamas. priest of Huron Diocese, has accepted the Mildred’s Lightbourn School at 3 p.m., along with institutions of new “For the gift of love and new life we appointment to begin his ministry in January 6, 7 p.m., St. James, ministries, followed by the Bishop’s Levee. have found in each other and received from Niagara as rector of St. Paul’s, Mount All are encouraged to attend. you, we give God thanks and praise!” Fergus, Ordination of Priests Happy Anniversary Forest, and Grace Church, Arthur. This was January 7, 5 p.m., Cathedral effective Dec. 1. A warm welcome to the Place, Synod Council Happy 60th wedding anniversary wishes Reverend Mark Gladding! are sent to Martha and Joe Smyth, faithful Clowater issued as January 8, Session Two, Diocesan members of St. Luke’s, Burlington, who honourary assistant Synod celebrated this significant event on Dec.5. The Reverend Harley Clowater was January 9, 10 a.m., St. Philip’s, Wedding bells issued a bishop’s permission as honourary Burlington, Parish Visit The Reverend Cheryl and Stephen assistant at Church of the Resurrection, January 9, 4 p.m., St. Jude’s, Fricker are pleased to announce the happy Hamilton, under the supervision of the rec- event of their marriage Oct. 22, at a small tor, effective Oct. 24. Oakville, Ordination of Priests candlelight service in St. Paul’s Anglican Condolences to Jones family January 14, Student Conference Church, Hamilton. Our deepest sympathy is extended to January 16, 8:30/10:30 a.m., St. The couple wishes to thank all who par- Enid Jones, parish secretary at Christ Paul’s, Hamilton, Parish Visit ticipated to make the evening so very mem- Church, Niagara Falls, and family, on the January 16, 3 p.m., Christ’s orable, especially Bishop Ralph Spence, death of Enid’s mother on Nov. 10. Church Cathedral, Undermount who officiated at the ceremony and the Rev. Newly-licensed lay readers Dr. Brian Ruttan who presided at the Jazz Lay reader licenses were issued to the Regional Confirmation Eucharist. following: Ross Gillett at St .John’s, January 26, 1:30 p.m., Cathedral “Much love and many thanks to our Niagara Falls, under the direction of Place, Meeting of the Candidates children, Timothy, Christina, Michael, THE REVEREND CHERYL and Archdeacon Lynne Corfield, effective Nov. Committee Scott, Matthew, Mallory, and Mark who STEPHEN FRICKER 15; Violet Naylor at St. Barnabas, St. January 26, 5 p.m., Meeting of the also shared in the ceremony and to our par- Catharines, under the direction of Canon ents, The Right Rev. Joachim and Shirley Engagement Keith Whittingham, effective Nov. 1; and Board of St. Matthew’s House Fricker and Ken and Ruth Smith. To our The Reverend Darcey Lazerte, rector of Gary Gallagher at All Saints, Hagersville, February 1, Dundas Golf and families, friends and colleagues for all your St. Simon’s, Oakville, and Dawn Wiggins, under the direction of the Reverend Lynne Country Club, Guest Speaker prayers and good wishes. May the love that consultant in Children’s Ministry, are Thackwray, effective Nov. 1. Love can bridge many differences Continued from page 9 although the motion did pass, the technical there is no disagreement would be an Synod decision not to vote on the issue, I As a result ... there is no budget for status in the diocese on this issue has not absolute untruth. Instead, it is because, for have heard the suggestion from the other 2005, the figures from 2004 will be used in changed and will not do so for at least each one of us, the whole seems to be more side that “gays and lesbians are obviously the meantime and a special synod has been another year when Niagara’s synod will valuable than the sum of its parts. This not full members of the club.” Just as I called for January to consider alternative likely vote on the issue once again. may sound trite but in many churches this would suggest that the first comment from options. As much as I am grateful that peo- If I feel the discussion of the budget is simply not the case. Rather, many wor- two years ago was an expression of preju- ple have finally begun to question the the- puts us that much closer to no stone being shipping communities are torn apart by the dice, my response to this latest comment is ory behind the creation of the diocesan left unturned, then I must also say that I individual needs of their members. that the Church is not a club. People join budget, I am also painfully aware of the feel the discussion of same sex blessings The blessing of same-sex unions obvi- clubs because they agree with whatever financially tenuous situation in which we puts us in the realm of Jesus’ other words, ously pushes the envelope for many of us. the club stands for. They leave clubs when find ourselves as a diocesan family and the that ‘you will be betrayed even by parents For some, it can’t come soon enough; for that agreement is no longer there. I have individual livelihoods that will be on the and brothers, by relatives and friends; and others, any time that it might come will been a priest for long enough to know that line as a result of our decision-making. ... they will put some of you to death’. Many always be too soon. I’m not sure we will this kind of agreement simply doesn’t exist It really feels as if the day has arrived in people in the Church, on both sides of this ever reach an agreement about this, any- in the Church, at least not in the Anglican Niagara when ‘not one stone will be left issue, are feeling betrayed and persecuted. more so than my mother and I would ever Church. As such, to paraphrase upon another; all will be thrown down’; I have spent a goodly portion of the last have reached an agreement about my con- Archdeacon Bruce McPetrie who stood up and it’s not a comfortable feeling. Only year talking about sex, specifically as this version. But, like my mother and I, I do on the floor of synod: “Our membership in once before – when I converted – have I relates to same-gender relationships. I think it’s possible to come to an accept- the church should not be a commodity to felt that my actions would ultimately have cried over the issue, I have gotten ance of each other, an acceptance not fos- be bought, sold or traded as a response to a inflict pain on someone else. It wasn’t a angry about it, I have hurt people over it tered by understanding but rather by love. particular issue.” good feeling then and it’s not a good feel- and I have been hurt by others. We have And I think in trying to do this, we need to We have not swept the issue under the ing now. done studies in the parish, I have pussy- look directly into the eyes of our commu- carpet at Transfiguration and I think we With respect to the subject of sex, mem- footed around it in several sermons, we nity to discover just how possible this is. have benefited from these actions. Gays bers of synod had three motions on which tackled it head-on in our Holy Week and Almost 10 per cent of our households in and lesbians have been welcomed into this to vote. Easter celebrations and I have spent end- this parish are gay or have someone among community and they, in turn, have offered Firstly, a motion to put off any action less hours in pastoral care visits both with family or friends who is homosexual. their time, talent and treasure in hugely around this issue was defeated. Secondly, a people who are against blessing same-sex When the first gay couple showed up at life-giving ways. Like everyone else here, motion to accept and carry out the recom- unions and people who are in favour of it. worship about two years ago, certain peo- their presence has been a blessing. And mendations of the Eames Commission was Neither side is happy. Both sides are hurt- ple’s fears were quickly expressed: “There this is really where I think our focus tabled until next year’s synod; this because ing. Because of the rigidity of some on will be more and more of them and parish- should be – not on whether or not we think it was felt that most synod members had each side of the issue, I have felt stretched ioners will leave.” the blessing of same sex unions is right or not read the report and, therefore, could like an elastic band, many times wonder- Would we ever have said that if it was a wrong but rather on the blessing that every not reasonably vote on its contents. ing how much stretch is really left and how black couple that had come to worship? member of this family is to one another. Finally, a motion to allow the blessing of close I am to snapping. Not likely. Nonetheless, the fear was real Several years after I converted, I heard same gender unions in parishes that choose I stand before you this morning, obvi- and to have simply sloughed it off as prej- from someone in my family that the reason this was passed with a 66 per cent majori- ously still in one piece. And here’s why. udice, would have been to sweep some my mother had accepted my change of ty. While the bishop acknowledged this This community of Transfiguration, has very strong feelings under the carpet – an faith was because she could see how happy majority and said he would have voted in always accepted and encouraged the gifts action that never produces a positive I was – happier than I had ever been since favour of the motion had he not been we have to give one another and to give result. Instead, we began to talk about it my father had died. I guess she could chairing the meeting, he ultimately exer- those in need outside our walls. To suggest with one another. Admittedly, this hasn’t accept the presence of God’s blessing in cised his Episcopal authority and did not that the reason for this is because we always been easy. my conversion even if she couldn’t bless it give his assent to the motion. Hence, understand each other so completely that More recently, in light of the General herself.