PAGE 2 PAGES 6-7 PAGE 10 Apprenticeship Spotlight shines Holy Land trip program doubles on unsung heroes enlightens priest

TheTHE NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF TORONTO AnglicanA SECTION OF THE ANGLICAN JOURNAL www.toronto.anglican.ca FEBRUARY 2020

Logo for Signs of Life, a resource from the Society of St. John the Evangelist. Series explores signs, symbols during Lent

THIS Lent, Anglicans across the diocese are invited to explore the signs and symbols at the heart of Christian worship. Signs of Life, a free five-week series from the Society of St. John the Evange- Members of the Mission Action Planning Steering Committee at St. George, Pickering Village, stand beside a paper tree at the back of the church that displays the list, encourages individuals and goals of the process. From left are Brenda Horsford, Janet Tennant, Thourla Moses Moore, the Rev. Susan Spicer, the Rev. Deacon Marilyn Metcalfe and Nigel Harris. groups to explore the riches of Below right: some of the goals. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON the Church’s worship traditions, liturgy and sacraments, as well as the art and architecture of its worship spaces. Participants will Process helps discover the full meaning of these signs, deepen their experience of Christian vocation and be guided toward ongoing conversion. To churches take learn more, download resources or sign up for weekly emails, visit ‘missional stretch’ www.signsoflife.org. Parishes set goals Service based on strengths celebrates

BY STUART MANN “She came to a meeting of our neighbourhood, making relation- Anglicans in the diocese are Black Advisory Board and presented it ships with people for the sake of yearning to do this, she says. “We’re JANET Tennant says the diocese’s to us,” recalls Ms. Tennant. “We sharing the gospel. living in a world that can often feel heritage Mission Action Planning process didn’t realize we were going to be Four parishes in the diocese complicated, chaotic and even cruel, has not only helped her church but the first ones using it, but once we have completed the process, with and everybody I meet when work- THE 25th annual diocesan Black revived her faith. “I feel like I’m part heard about it, we thought it was another 12 underway or slated ing with parishes wants deeply Heritage service will take place on of an active Christian community a good idea.” to begin in 2020. Congregational to be able to stretch out with the Feb. 23 at 4:30 p.m. at St. Paul, Bloor instead of just a Christian on my A year later, the church has clear Development has 26 trained volun- compassion, kindness, justice and Street. For 25 years, this service own, out in the world.” goals for both spiritual and numeri- teers to help facilitate the process care that Jesus offers.” has been a source of affirmation for Ms. Tennant is a member of St. cal growth, a greater understand- in the parishes. She says Mission Action Plan- Black members of the Church, with George, Pickering Village in Ajax, ing of its neighbourhood, a deeper Ms. Marshall says Mission Action ning can help parishes do that. liturgical innovation, creativity a church that has struggled over prayer life and a renewed sense Planning has come at the right “No process is perfect, but if a and joy. This year’s preacher will the past few years with declining of purpose. “We’re more aware of time for the diocese. “We’re in a congregation spends some time be the Rev. Canon Stephen Fields, attendance and shrinking finances. where we are being called,” says situation right now where all of and energy in prayer and reflec- the incumbent of Holy Trinity, A little over a year ago, the Ms. Tennant. our churches know that that they tion on themselves and God’s call Thornhill and the founding chair church contacted Janet Marshall, Mission Action Planning (MAP) need to be stretching themselves to them, then we can help them of the Black Anglicans Coordinat- the director of the diocese’s Congre- is a process that helps parishes in mission,” she says. “We need to take the next steps.” ing Committee. It will include a gational Development department. set goals and work toward them imagine creative new ways to share MAP can take three months to combined choir, liturgical dancing Ms. Marshall, who had recently within a defined time period. Work- the gospel with our neighbours, a year to complete, depending on and the traditional procession of started in the job, was launching ing from their greatest strength, to speak the truth of the gospel in how much planning and discern- the flags. All are invited. For more a program called Mission Action churches take a “missional stretch” ways that people hear and draw information, contact blaccangli- Planning. that will connect them to their close.” Continued on Page 8 [email protected].

BISHOPS RING IN NEW YEAR – SEE PAGE 9 2 TheAnglican NEWS February 2020 Diocese doubles youth ministry apprenticeships Program helps parishes start, grow vital ministry

BY STUART MANN the usual six. The diocese has also hired two ONE of the diocese’s most successful former graduates of the program, programs – and best kept secrets Cormac Culkeen and Alexandra – is doubling in size. McIntosh, to serve as coordina- Since 2009, 37 people have gone tors. They succeed the program’s through the Youth Ministry Ap- founder, the Rev. Christian Har- prenticeship Program, providing vey, who stepped down in 2019 to outstanding youth ministry in par- become the executive director of ishes across the diocese. Warming Room Community Min- To build on that momentum, istries in Peterborough. the diocese has doubled the pro- The expansion is necessary to gram’s funding, providing training keep up with the demand for trained and mentorship for 12 aspiring youth leaders in the diocese, says youth leaders in 2020, up from Ms. McIntosh, who is also the youth ministry coordinator for York-Credit From left, Alexandra McIntosh, Bishop Jenny Andison and Cormac Culkeen at a recent liturgical training and networking ************************** Valley and a divinity student at Trin- event for youth leaders at Trinity College. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON THE 2020 OTTAWA REGION ity College. “Churches really want Charity & Not-for-Profit to hire youth ministers, but there ways to talk about Christ. It set me are recommended by their clergy. paying so that the ministry, and the Law Seminar just aren’t any,” she says. “They off to seminary.” The program provides two youth worker’s job, will continue Hosted by: will have postings for months and Parishes and clergy play a key models of apprenticeship, both of uninterrupted. Carters Professional Corporation months, but nobody will apply.” role in the program. The appren- which last for nine months. The Apprentices must be self-mo- DATE: Thursday, February 13, 2020 A youth leader for the past eight ticeships are served in the parishes first, called Job Shadowing, is for tivated and have an openness to TIME: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. years, she says youth ministry is and graduates often stay on to work volunteers in a parish who feel learn and wrestle with a diversity Centurion Conference one of the most effective ways for as youth leaders in those churches. called to youth ministry and want of ideas. Preference will be given and Event Center parishes to share the gospel and Candidates for the program are to work as a youth minister when to those who are from an Anglican 170 Colonnade Road South, Ottawa, Ontario create disciples. “I came to faith often volunteers who are already their apprenticeship is finished. background, but people from other through youth ministry and think involved in youth ministry or feel This is a 10-hour per week, paid denominations are welcome as COST: Early Registration fee is $50.00 per person (plus HST) it’s one of the most organic, natural called to it; in many cases, they position that runs from October well. Upon completing the pro- Includes a continental breakfast and a cold lunch to June. The apprentice will work gram, participants are expected to buffet, as well as electronic seminar handouts ($60.00 after January 30, 2020) with a mentor, who will observe commit at least some of their time Mary G. Griffith B.A., M.B.A., J.D. and participate in their ministry. contributing to youth ministry in TO REGISTER, CALL TOLL FREE 1-877-942-0001 x230 Maclaren Corlett LLP Apprentices will also meet with the diocese for at least one year. FAX 519-942-0300 Barrister& Solicitor (Ontario) 3500 – 2 Bloor St. East, their peers, complete assigned To qualify, parishes must show a EMAIL [email protected] Attorney & Counselor-at-Law (New York) Toronto, ON readings and attend events and bold and creative vision for youth OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE conferences. At the end of the year, M4W 1A8 ministry, a willingness to continue www.carters.ca the program coordinator will help funding youth ministry after the Tel: (416) 361-3094 Brochure, Map & Online Registration Wills, Trusts & Estates, Business, Real Estate the apprentice find a position in nine-month program is over, and available at: Fax: (416) 361-6261 youth ministry in the diocese. to support and care for the youth http://www.carters.ca/index.php?page_id=133 www.maclarencorlett.com E-mail: [email protected] The other apprenticeship model, minister as a member of the par- ************************** called Parish Partnership, is for ish team. parishes that are looking to start Bishop Jenny Andison, the a youth ministry program or to diocese’s link bishop for youth, increase the youth ministry that encourages clergy to recommend YOUR ANGLICAN CEMETERIES & is already happening there. In this the program to volunteers in their model, the parish hires, or works parishes who are called to youth CREMATORIUMS IN THE G.T.A. with the program to hire, a youth ministry. “As we get increasingly se- (NON-DENOMINATIONAL, NON-PROFIT) worker. Between October and June, rious in our diocese about forming the program will pay for half of living faith in the next generation, the youth worker’s salary, up to 10 YMAP is proving transformative hours a week, with the parish pay- in training people as youth minis- ing the other half. This means that ters. If you think someone in your a parish can have a youth worker congregation might have the gifts for 20 hours a week but, for the first and passions to work with young nine months, will pay for 10 hours. people, YMAP is for you!” In the time paid for by the program, the youth worker will be expected For more information about the to meet with the apprenticeship Youth Ministry Apprenticeship St. John’s Dixie St. James’ St. John’s Norway Light On The Hill: coordinator, complete assigned Program, contact Ali McIntosh at Cemetery & Cemetery & Cemetery & St. John readings and attend events and [email protected] Crematorium Crematorium Crematorium The Baptist conferences. The expectation is or Cormac Culkeen at culkeen- 737 Dundas Street East 635 Parliament Street 256 Kingston Road 12125 Yonge Street, that in June, if everything has gone [email protected]. Information Mississauga Toronto Toronto Richmond Hill well, the parish will take on the is also available on the diocese’s L4Y 2B5 M4X 1R1 M4L 1S7 L4E 3M4 hours that the program has been website, www.toronto.anglican.ca 905.566.9403 416.964.9194 416.691.2965 647-286-8026 www.stjohnsdixie.com www.stjamescathedral.ca www.stjohnsnorwaycemetery.ca www.makingjesusknown.com Healing Ministries is creating a Most of our properties offer: database of parish nurses in the Casket Graves, Cremation Plots, Niches & Scattering Gardens diocese and is asking all parish BRIEFLY nurses to identify themselves along with the following services: so they can be included. Email Memorial Markers, Monuments, Inscriptions, Memorial Trees with Plaques and Pre-Need Services Calling all the Rev. Canon Joanne Davies, committee chair, at Joanne. PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE OF INTEREST OR VISIT OUR WEBSITES FOR MORE INFORMATION parish nurses The Bishop’s Committee on [email protected]. February 2020 NEWS TheAnglican 3 Committee to link healing ministries

since working in a hospital can be train as well,” she says. Group to be an isolating experience. “This can Lay anointers have held regular really be a home for them, to link education events for some time, in to the diocese, and to encourage and Canon Davies says she’d like voice, resource them, that they’re definitely part to build from their success. The of who we all are.” annual lay anointers’ refresher for Church Beyond providing valuable help day often covers topics about heal- and resources, Canon Davies also ing more broadly, which could be BY MARTHA HOLMEN wants to encourage parishes to let an opportunity to bring together her know what’s happening in their participants of many healing min- THE newly re-formed Bishop’s Com- communities. “I’d like them to call istries. “They already touch on a mittee on Healing Ministries is me with what they’re doing, their lot of things like bereavement and expanding its vision and looking to ideas, so that I can put groups and pastoral visiting during those days. connect with people and parishes churches in touch with each other,” I have a vision of having a retreat across the diocese that are engaged she says. “Sometimes the church day or weekend focusing on the in ministries of healing. down the street’s doing something subject of healing,” she says. Until recently, the committee had really interesting and hopeful. I’d Ultimately, whether through been focused primarily on educat- like to hear what they’re doing, is education, resources, retreat or ing and supporting lay anointers it working, what is not working, prayer, Canon Davies says the and their parishes. “There are and what is wonderful about it.” Bishop’s Committee on Healing more healing ministries within the As part of its mandate to equip Ministries hopes to uphold the Church, as we know,” says the Rev. and support the diocese, the com- health and wellbeing of all those Canon Joanne Davies, new chair of mittee has started working on a across the diocese who are en- the committee and chaplain to St. new education program for lay pas- gaged in ministries of healing. “It’s John’s Rehab. “We began a more toral visitors. “It’s my dream that important that we equip people intentional way of expanding the The Rev. Canon Joanne Davies in the chapel of Our Lady and St. John at St. John’s we will have a train-the-trainer with the skills they need to look committee, to bring on other mem- Rehab in Toronto. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON program, and that eventually there after themselves so that they can bers who were representative of will be somebody at least in every go and look after others,” she the healing ministries.” area that can do that and then, if says. “It says that we’re all holding In its new form, the committee wants to encourage what seniors in,” she says. She also wants to we get really good, most deaneries each other up. It’s true – we who oversees lay anointers, lay pastoral are already doing to participate reaffirm their role in diocesan life, might have somebody that could are many are one body in Christ.” visitors, faith community nurses, and find ways of bringing others healthcare chaplains and seniors’ back to a church community. ministry. “Almost everything that Canon Davies sees the commit- we do within Church we could tee’s main purpose as creating say, ‘OK, that’s healing.’ But these links and connections across the are the things that Christ sent the diocese. “This is not a committee disciples out to do. So we felt that we want to keep quiet; we want we would like to incorporate all everyone to know that we’re there. of them into the umbrella of the We can be a voice that would ad- Bishop’s Committee on Healing vise the bishop on things that Ministries, because there was a we’re seeing and things that are way of making connections for wanting, but we are also there to people,” says Canon Davies. be a resource for the Church, for Lay anointing will continue to the communities and people of the have its own subcommittee, but diocese,” she says. with more links between it and Previously, parishes and clergy other healing ministries. “Many may not have known who to call people who were lay anointers for information about certain heal- were also lay pastoral visitors, ing ministries. Now, the re-formed so a lot of their questions and the committee and its chair will be things they wanted to learn were the clear first point of contact. all interconnected in that way,” “I am happy to say I am already she says. getting questions, so that’s really Seniors’ ministry is a new addi- good. And I can already see that SAT tion to the diocese’s healing portfo- there’s information needed,” says lio. With many parishes developing Canon Davies. “What I don’t know, FEB 8 important ministries to youth and I will find out, because I have this young families, Canon Davies says wonderful committee.” seniors can feel overlooked. “The In particular, she says she hopes 2020 one age group that we forget, be- to draw on the wisdom of the dio- cause we just assume they’re going cese’s healthcare chaplains. “I’m 9AM - 4PM to be there, are seniors. But the hoping to use them – me being one truth of the matter is they often of them – as a resource, the wisdom leave because there’s nothing there that they have from the healing for them,” she says. The committee ministries that they’re involved

skill training and assessment, yoga instructor, arts and crafts teacher, art therapist and A D M I S S I O N BRIEFLY poetry group leader. For more information, contact Shea Gerrie Volunteers needed for at [email protected]. All Saints, Sherbourne All Saints, Sherbourne Street Colloquium focuses in downtown Toronto is in on Anglican history urgent need of volunteers for The Canadian Church Historical the drop-in, a men’s cooking Society is holding a Lenten group, a women’s lunch and Colloquium on March 28 from drop-in, a weekly breakfast 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Trinity Decolonizing Our Faith with sex workers, and building College, Toronto. For details on Contact: Brother Reginald Crenshaw ODT 647-284-7740, Gun Violence as Public maintenance. Volunteers with the topics and speakers, visit Rev. Jacqueline Daley - 647-766-7794, Lance Wilson ODT 416-428-6752 Health Crisis skills in the following areas are the national church’s website, Black Health Issues - Mental also needed: cook, hair stylist, www.anglican.ca. The cost is Health & HIV AIDS legal aid, teaching reading and $10. To register, email jonathan. Anti-Black Racism writing, resume-writing and job [email protected]. 4 TheAnglican February February 2020 4 TheAnglican COMMENTCOMMENT June 2017 TakeOur Faith-Ourthe Lenten Hope leap is changing lives

ur great nephew was words: I invite you therefore, in the name TheAnglican came across a pastoral let- goals to meet parish capital needs and did born in Australia on ARCHBISHOP’SBISHOP’S DIARY DIARY of the Lord, to observe a holy Lent by self- The Anglican is published under ter from the Bishop of spectacularly well. Taking that into account, March 1, 2012. The examination, penitence, prayer, fasting, and the authority of the Bishop of Toronto Toronto to the clergy and BY BAyRCHBISHOP Bishop ACndrewOLIN JOHNSON Asbil at least $50 million in new funds has been news of his birth almsgiving, and by reading and meditating and the Incorporated Synod of the Olaity proposing a signifi- contributed to ministry in the diocese and be- Diocese of Toronto. Opinions expressed in reachedI us the day before, on on the word of God… cant fundraising effort. In it he ple from 48 communities together. The feed- yond in the last seven years, over our regular Feb. 29. It was a leap year. So, hours adds up over time. Lent becomes the one season in our The Anglican are not necessarily those of proposed a graduated sched- back has been astounding. It makes a differ- offerings and FaithWorks contributions. the editor or the publisher. while he may be turning eight Feb. 29 becomes a day of course correct- Christian year when all is righted. And we ule of offerings to achieve a ence in peoples’ lives. We are a different diocese because of that. in the land down under, to us ing, of bringing things back into alignment, celebrate our redemption through the death substantial goal and an indi- The Anglican Chaplaincy for the Canadian Yes, the money has helped us fund new min- Canon Stuart Mann: Editor in Canada, he is only turning two. You may of synchronizing our earthly everyday lives and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through vidual appeal to each church family in the Forces elected its first full-time bishop to pro- istries, adapt old buildings, engage in new play the same kind of creative math with with the heavens. In a similar way, Ash this Christian Passover, we gain more than Address all editorial material to: diocese by a member of their parish “to vide episcopal care for regular and reserve mission, support vulnerable people in someone close to you who happens to have Wednesday summons us to stop, to correct just a day. We gain life itself. The Anglican knock at every one’s door and rouse the in- chaplains and their families, and to military Christ’s name. More than that, though, it has been born on Feb. 29. our course, to take an accounting of our lives This Lent, I encourage you and your par- 135 Adelaide Street East habitants to devote a small portion of what personnel across the country. It only became helped build relationships between people, al- Toronto, Ontario M5C 1L8 Every four years or so, we add one day at and find ways of immersing ourselves in the ish to join me in participating in the Signs of God has bestowed upon them to promote so possible because of an initial endowment of lowed people to share personal stories, iden- Tel: (416) 363-6021, ext. 247 the end of February so that our modern-day great a work.” $500,000ancient meansfrom OFOH. of recalibrating our souls. tifiedLife program and trained devised new leaders,by Virginia built Theologi up confi-- Toll free: 1-800-668-8932 GregorianThat letter calendar came from remains John inStrachan, alignment the TheAnother branches $500,000 of Palm grant Sunday, from OFOHonce waved to the in dence,cal Seminary and assisted and the people Society to articulate of St. John and Fax: (416) 363-7678 withfirst Bishopthe earth’s of Toronto, revolutions in January around 1854! the sun. Primate’sadulation Worldand hope, Relief are and reduced Development on Wednes- sharethe Evangelist. their faith. Details about the program E-mail: [email protected] It takesThe Our the Faith-Our earth about Hope: 365.242 Re-imagine days (365 Fundday to (PWRDF) ash to remind supports us of new the work fragility in mater- of life, canI have be found been atchanged www.signsoflife.org. by the experience. The I Circulation: For all circulation inquiries, days,Church five campaign hours, 48 began minutes with and an idea45 seconds I first nalof our and mortality, child health of our in the propensity developing to loseworld our amLenten more program confident invites in speaking us to contemplate clearly about including address changes, new toproposed be exact) to Synodto orbit a thedecade sun ago.once. As This it gradu- is andfooting midwifery and to wanderservices away in remote from northernGod. mythe faiththemes and of my light, commitment water, food, to it. shelter I have dis- technically called a solar year. A solar year In the busyness of our lives, of making and community – elements of everyday subscriptions and cancellations, ally took shape, we determined that it would communities in Canada. Ours is the largest covered a new capacity to give generously. I call the Circulation Department at isbe measured a cooperative from program either the shared spring between or fall the singleends meet, gift any of workingdiocese has and ever raising given families, to havelife that met sustain the most us, amazing and symbols Anglicans, too that heard equinox to the following one, or from the of volunteer work and getting stuck in traf- permeate our worship and faith life through (416) 924-9199, ext. 259/245, or email diocese and parishes that responded to the PWRDF in its 50+ year history. Because of their stories and been moved by their faith- [email protected]. summer or the winter solstice to the one fic, or lost in the latest Netflix series, it is which Jesus is present in our lives, with the generosity of God’s many gifts to us to en- matching federal government grants, that fulness. I have rejoiced in the creativity and You can also make changes online: thatgage follows. God’s mission. We identified the goals of gifteasy created to assume a value that of all over that $2.5 matters million. is Safe what boldnesspower to oftransform vision of us.people I will and be parishes hosting a visit www.anglicanjournal.com StrengtheningFive hours, 48 Local minutes Parishes, and 45Building seconds the deliveriesis in front andof us. proper And beforehealth carelong arewe nowcan (andconversation yes, to be on honest, the symbols occasionally each disap-Tuesday and click Subscription Centre. doesn’tChurch forreally Tomorrow, seem like Revitalizing very much Our in the In- availablemiss the numinousbecause of momentsyour generosity. that call us pointedevening by in athe few). month I think of March.our church The is location in a contextheritance of and a whole Giving year. to Others. However, if we backParishes to reality around and the life. diocese have been differentof these gatheringsplace because will of shift Our weekFaith-Our to week Annie Fenn: Advertising didn’t add a leap day every four years, after In the Ash Wednesday liturgy, the pre- throughout the diocese. I hope that you will The Canadian North has many clergy and made physically accessible, youth work is be- Hope. We have begun to re-imagine church. Address all advertising material to: only a century, our calendar would be out sider summons the community to prepare consider joining me at the location closest lay catechists in charge of parishes who work ing funded, leaders are being trained, pio- I am profoundly grateful to you and the Fenn Company Inc. of synch by around 24 days. A missing six to enter the season of Lent by saying these without a stipend. Many are isolated in com- neering ministries in new contexts have been manyto you. people Let’s liketake you this who Lenten have leap made together. and are P.O. Box 1060 munities that face traumatic pastoral issues planed and an amazing array of creative proj- making a difference in our world because of King City, Ontario L7B 1B1 including, unfortunately, the accumulated ects have been undertaken locally because of your faith in Jesus Christ. And I am especial- Tel: 905-833-6200, ext. 22 pain of dealing with multiple suicides. The Our Faith-Our Hope – not just because of the ly grateful to the lay leaders and clergy in Toll free: 1-800-209-4810 Diocese of Toronto made a grant of $500,000 financial resources now available, but also our diocese who took the initiative and rose Fax: (905) 833-2116 from Our Faith-Our Hope (OFOH) to fund a because of a reinvigoration of imagination to it so graciously. E-mail: [email protected] Therequest from gospel the Council of the calls North and usand tocommitment. diversity, equityThe campaign and is nowinclusion officially concluded, Anglican Council of Indigenous Peoples to We have succeeded in remarkable ways. but the allocations continue and the mission The Anglican Church hold regional circles where clergy and lay While not every parish participated, the vast God invites us to share is still on our leaders could come togetherhere is nofor longer mutual Jew majorityBISHOP’S did – and achieved OPINION more than many doorsteps.culture, ethnicity, As my first language, paragraph gender, noted, sexual this- In the Anglican Communion: learning, support andor refreshment. Greek, there So is far, no 276 had thought possible. Some of the parishes wasity or not identity, the first we financial betray thecampaign, gospel ofnor Christ will A global community of 70 have participated fromlonger half aslave dozen or dioceses. free, did not formallyBy Bishop join K theevin OFOH Rob ertsonproject be- itand be failthe tolast live – the up workto the of baptismal the Church covenant is not million Anglicans in 64,000 Grants rangedT from $500there to is $100,000. no longer The male Dio- cause they were already in the midst of sub- over.in which Let uswe continue promise onwardsto strive infor faith justice and in congregations in 164 countries. cese of the Arctic,and forfemale; instance, for all brought of you peo-are stantial funding efforts. Others added to their hope.and peace among all people, and respect the Archbishop of Canterbury: one in Christ Jesus.” (Gala- microcosm.” It certainly is! dignity of every human being. The Most Rev. and Rt. Hon. Justin Welby, tians 3:28, NRSV) At times, we have done a good job of rec- So how will we change? I have a few Lambeth Palace, In this familiar passage ognizing and affirming the diversity among hopes: London, England SE1 7JU. from the Letter to the Galatians, St. Paul us. Later this month, on Sunday, Feb. 23, 1. I hope we will put resources in place speaks of the dissolving of our differences Anglicans will gather at St. Paul, Bloor Street to make anti-racism training a top In Canada: Serving Archbishop Finlay was a privilege A community of about 600,000 members so that we may claim our primary identity for the annual Black History Service. For 25 priority over the coming year. It is long in Christ. But that one-ness is understood by years, this service has celebrated the Black overdue in our Church. in 30 dioceses, stretching from Vancouver Island to Newfoundland and north to the remembering that we comebroad from inviting different smile, heritage of our Church with liturgical innova- and2. engagingI hope we with will persons create an on “Officerthe street for cor- BISHOP’S OPINION Arctic Ocean. places and have distinctfirm stories handshake to tell. andWe tion, creativity and joy. This year’s preacher ner orDiversity” drop-in centre staff positionas he was within with persons the are strengthened in ourthe relationships word “welcome” as we is the Rev. BCanonY BISHOP StephenPETER Fields.FENTY I hope you servingdiocese. in public The office. one who fills this role Primate: pay attention to the differentare the faces,memories languag we - will plan to be there! Oneshould of the be challenges experienced he faced in this was work, the and The Most Rev. Linda Nicholls, A Church House, 80 Hayden St. es and identitieshave that when are wovenAngela together and I first quickly We have got toalso the dedicated purpose of considerable our meeting re and- Church’sunambiguously position on human committed sexuality. to the While equity into the rich tapestrymet Terence of our Finlay,life in Christ.Bishop of askedsources if I– was money, willing time, to prayer,be considered clergy asand a lay in officeand he full upheld inclusion the doctrine of all people and discipline within Toronto, ON M4Y 3G2 Tel: 416-924-9192 It has been saidToronto, that Torontoin the summer is the mostof candidateleadership for skills executive – to nurture assistant diverse and church of thethe Church. life of On our leaving Church, office, without he officiated excep- diverse city in the1997. world, I was andbeginning if you lookmy min- archdeacon.communities The across position the diocese, had become and manyvacant in a same-gendertion. marriage, for which he had In the Diocese of Toronto: acrossistry as our the diocese,incumbent you of will St. Josephsee and of hear whenAnglicans Archdeacon from around Colin theJohnson globe was have elected been to be3. I disciplined hope we will by hisdraw diocesan on the bishop, experience who A community of 254 congregations in 210 AnglicansNazareth, Bramalea.from all corners of the Commun- suffraganable to find bishop. familiar, I was welcoming surprised and when accessi he - was onceof the his many archdeacon, folks in executiveour pews assistant who parishes covering 26,000 square ion,When worshipping we entered and his ministering office, there in was a variety a metble congregations with me just before here. theWe clergy have also conference made a and suffraganknow what bishop. it’s like In receivingto be “othered.” the admoni- We kilometers. Of the nearly 5 million people ofwarmth languages and genuineness and styles. I experiencedhave thoroughly by both thatpriority year of and celebrating offered me the the beautiful position. diversity tion, needhe told to his hear successor their pain, in office as well that as he their ex- who live within the diocesan boundaries, enjoyedof us in our the firstexperience meeting of with being Bishop the area Finlay. withinIt was the a privilege LGBTQ2S+ and community distinct honour as many to pecteddreams nothing for less respect, from him dignity and thatand heinclu was- 376,000 claim to be affiliated with the bishopHe was forvery many interested of these in communities,getting to know as us we serveof us, aswearing his executive Anglican assistant garb, march and archdea- in the exercisingsion. Wehis episcopalhave many ministry people responsibly. in our midst Anglican Church, with about 80,000 people haveand our celebrated young family. together We inshared Tamil, the Spanish, stories con.Pride I gotParade to know every Terry June. even better and I believewho are that leading Archbishop the way Terence in the was disman lead-- identified on the parish rolls. The diocese Cantonese,of our Christian Mandarin, journeys Japanese, and family Tagalog life. It learned What much we have from not him. done I witnessed very well the is todepth ing thetling diocese of racism, in the sexism, direction homophobia, of being more is home to many ethnic and language- based congregations, including African, andwas Indigenousa pleasure to languages. engage with And him over and the have a ofreally his faith change and the his cultureconcern of for our every Church parish to in welcomingtransphobia to those and who other were barriers vulnerable, that Caribbean, Chinese, Filipino, French, pastsense year of the alone, pastoral I have care met and newcomers support he to of- theeradicate diocese. all He forms showed of discrimination compassion, particu- that marginalized,divide and voiceless injure the and people in the minority.of God. fered clergy and their families. I had no idea larly for the marginalized and minorities in He made a very significant difference in the Hispanic, Japanese, and Tamil. The City of Canada who are now in our pews from many dishonour the rich diversity of the whole They have much to teach us. Toronto has a large population of that six years later I would be working closely the Church and in the wider community. life of the Diocese of Toronto. It is not surpris- different places, including Nigeria, Ghana, people of God. At the very core of the gospel, Our identity in Christ has at its core the aboriginal peoples. Syria,with him India, as his Columbia executive and assistant Melanesia. and When embeddedArchbishop in the Finlay life, was death very and disciplined resurrection in ing,recognition therefore, and to hearcelebration and read of the our very amazing com- BishopArchdeacon Susan of Bell York. served as our Canon hisof Jesus work. Christ, He worked is the long Divine hours pledge and paid of love at- plimentaryGod-given diversity.reflections May that our many Church have sharedmove Bishop of Toronto: Missioner,I got to know she often Terry, described as he was the affectionate- Diocese tentionfor the wholeto detail, world. thoroughly When certain reading people docu- are abouttoward their this experiences goal with renewed of him. He passion exercised in a The Rt. Rev. Andrew Asbil ofly called,Toronto when as “the I became Anglican a member Communion of the Pos-in ments,treated letters as “other” or any due material to their needed skin colour, for servantthe coming ministry year. throughout his ordained life, tulancy Committee and a regional dean. He meetings. It was also evident that he cared and for that we give thanks to God for his ex- York-Credit Valley: The Rt. Rev. Jenny Andison gave wise counsel and offered good insight in- deeply for the wider Church and appreciated ample. I was privileged and honoured to have to challenging matters facing the Church. His the importance of ecumenical relationships. had the opportunity to know him as my bish- Trent-Durham: was a calming voiceThe and a Diocesenon-anxious pres- is on One of the qualities I admired about Terry op, mentor and friend. The Church has been The Rt. Rev. Riscylla Shaw ence. He offered strong episcopal leadership was his willingness to make time for people. blessed to have had him as a faithful bishop. in the diocese, both pastorally and morally. He He made himself available to clergy and laity He will be missed and leaves a legacy of ex- York-Scarborough: was a modelFacebook, of deep faith and prayerful Twitterwho needed to meet with him. I was often emplary leadership, humility, compassion and The Rt. Rev. Kevin Robertson thoughtfulness, and was genuinely concerned asked to join him in meetings with others, profound faith. We are grateful to his family York-Simcoe: about the well-beingand of the clergyYouTube. and laity and it was evident that he always listened in- for having shared him with the Church and The Rt. Rev. Peter Fenty under his episcopal leadership. tently. Terry was a pastor, mentor, friend and assure them of our prayerful support. We give The Diocese of Toronto: In the spring of 2003 I received a call from confidante. Archbishop Terence Finlay back to his Cre- To connect, visit 135 Adelaide St. E., the Archbishop’s office inviting me to meet Another quality I admired in him was his ator God with the same graciousness we ex- Toronto, Ont., M5C 1L8 withwww.toronto.anglican.ca him. I thought I was going to be invited humility. He engaged with people in all sta- perienced of him. May he rest in peace and 1-800-668-8932/416-363-6021 to sit on another committee of the diocese. He tions of life. He was as comfortable talking rise with Christ in glory. Web site: http://www.toronto.anglican.ca February 2020 TheAnglican 5 SYNODNEWS This will be a foundational year for FaithWorks

t might seem odd to THE STEWARD an interest and respond. I’m going to be talking a lot about draw attention to a It might come as a surprise, but nearly FaithWorks in 2020. Not just because major milestone or By Peter Misiaszek 25 per cent of our parishes do nothing to of the matching gift, but because I am Ianniversary one year support FaithWorks. They don’t put up hopeful that our goal can be achieved before it happens. It would our posters, they don’t hand out our lit- and thousands of people in need will feel be strange, for example, to a number of challenges: competing with erature. FaithWorks doesn’t even appear the hand of Jesus through our actions. put more emphasis on your appeals for refugee sponsorship; a major as a line item on the outreach budget. An- Teresa of Avila said, “Christ has no body 49th wedding anniversary than on your diocesan ministry campaign; and in- glicans in these parishes probably don’t now but yours, no hands, no feet on earth 50th, or your 17th birthday instead of your creased needs during the great recession. event know that FaithWorks exists. but yours. Yours are the feet with which 18th – the one when you legally become Just getting FaithWorks off the ground in And yet, if we all pulled together and he walks to do good. Yours are the hands an adult and can vote. But the one before the late ’90s, when it seemed improbable did our part, the annual goal would be a through which he blesses the world.” might be more significant if it lays the that parishes would unite behind the idea slam-dunk from parish giving alone. This That’s what FaithWorks is: the hands and foundation for something greater. That’s of giving to a federated appeal – a sort of year’s goal, for example, is $1.5 million – feet of Christ. That’s why what we do is what we hope to accomplish as we launch Anglican United Way – was a challenge an increase of more than 10 per cent on so important. our 24th year of helping the whole com- in itself. last year’s. If every parish set a target We hope to encourage responsiveness munity through Anglican ministries. Our latest challenge might be the most equal to 5 per cent of its annual offer- in 2020. We hope to refocus our attention Since 1996, FaithWorks has brought difficult: indifference. Across our 196 par- tory, that goal would be surpassed with on what the late Archbishop Terry Finlay parishes and parishioners together to ishes, about half commit to an intentional many thousands of dollars to spare. Some called the greatest unifying initiative in raise funds for some very needy people FaithWorks effort. Some might set a goal, parishes do this already – setting targets the diocese. We hope every Anglican in in our community and in the developing while others have launch parties, special closer to 10 per cent - and reaching them. our diocese will have a chance to learn world: youth who call the street home; events or walk-a-thons. Some might invite We know it’s possible. about our story and respond with enthu- families deprived of housing security; the an agency speaker to preach or dedicate To help make this objective a reality, siasm. imprisoned, new immigrants and refu- a couple of Sundays to promoting the a committed friend of FaithWorks has 2020 is going to be a foundational year gees; people with mental health challeng- ministry of FaithWorks. offered us a $100,000 matching challenge for us. Parishes are going to be asked to es and addictions; and women looking for For some, FaithWorks is just another grant in 2020. All new and increased gifts recommit. Donors are going to be invited a way out of abuse and despair. Thanks request for scarce funds – competition from individuals and parishes will be to learn more about our work. Together, to the generosity of Anglicans across our amid a mountain of requests each year. matched, dollar for dollar, up to $100,000. we are going to achieve our potential so diocese, more than $32 million has been Typically, a pile of FaithWorks brochures We want to extend a special invitation to that our 25th anniversary is something to raised in response to our annual appeal. and envelopes are left at the entrance of those parishes for whom participation really celebrate. Many are grateful for this outpouring of the church, lost amongst a pile of other could use a kick-start. Help us exceed our generosity. paper for community projects and endeav- target and get a six-figure bonus along Peter Misiaszek is the director of the Over the years, FaithWorks has faced ours, in hopes that someone might take the way! diocese’s Stewardship Development.

Indigenous elder honoured Priest leads walkabouts on city’s streets

BY THE REV. JIM HOUSTON

MEMBERS of Toronto’s Indigenous Drummers at the celebration and the community and many non-Indige- Rev. Canon Andrew Wesley (above). nous friends and colleagues came PHOTOS BY THE REV. JIM HOUSTON to pay tribute to a beloved elder, the Rev. Canon Andrew Wesley, on Dec. 11. The standing-room-only gather- tor of Indigenous Ministries and fire-keeper, to make offerings of ended up as an Anglican priest, so Then his face broke into a wide ing, held at Toronto Council Fire Reconciliation Animator, Canon tobacco. Back in the hall, the crowd he was very happy to be spending grin. Looking up, he said, “But Native Cultural Centre, included Wesley has continued to serve was treated to song by a group this time with police officers on the he’s gone!” In a final remark to the about 20 uniformed police officers. the community through his work of young people around a great walkabouts. crowd, he said he had thought of Canon Wesley has been a quiet, with Council Fire. He is perhaps drum. Then everyone stood for a He graciously paid tribute to the dressing up for the occasion but powerful presence on the city’s best known as the lead elder in the thanksgiving prayer song, led by a board and his colleagues at TUNM, wanted to appear in the clothes he downtown streets and in First Na- monthly “walkabouts,” in which group of women with hand drums. to Council Fire, to the drummers always wore on the streets. Then he tions affairs for nearly 20 years, teams of three elders and three po- A shy Elder Andrew, wearing and singers, and to the walkabout pulled on his beat-up old baseball since he came to Toronto as the lice officers make their way through his familiar, worn red jacket and elders and police officers. A final cap. The crowd’s long standing diocese’s first Aboriginal Priest, the streets, visiting the regular faded blue jeans, was urged to go Honour Song was followed by a ovation left no doubt that everyone serving on the team at Toronto haunts of street-involved men and to the front of the room, where feast that included spaghetti and thought he very much deserved Urban Native Ministries (TUNM). women, building relationships of he received tributes and was pre- meatballs – Canon Wesley’s fa- the tributes paid to him that day. Even though he retired from trust and friendship. sented with gifts by Council Fire, vourite – and of course, bannock. that position several years ago, The celebration on Dec. 11 began the police and the local Member of In his speech, Canon Wesley The Rev. Jim Houston is a succeeded first by Bishop Chris with an invitation to all present to Parliament. He began by telling the solemnly told the gathering that retired priest of the diocese and a Harper and then the Rev. Leigh make their way outside to a cer- crowd that as a boy he had wanted his father had taught him “never member of Holy Trinity, Trinity Kern, who is the current Coordina- emonial fire, overseen by a young to be a police officer, but somehow to accept honours from people.” Square in Toronto.

Visit our website at www.toronto.anglican.ca 6 TheAnglican NEWS February 2020 Laity receive Order of the Diocese of Toronto Award honours outstanding service over the years

The Order of the Diocese of Toronto, an award created in 2013, honours members of the laity in the diocese who have given outstanding service over a significant period of time in their volunteer ministry. We give thanks to God for the work and witness of these faithful people who, in the exercise of their baptismal ministry, have demon- strated that “their light shines, their works glorify.” In 2019, the recipients came from the following deaneries: North Peel, Nottawasaga, St. James & Toronto East, and Victoria Haliburton. They were presented with their medal- lion at St. James Cathedral, Toronto, on Jan. 1.

Heather Bennett, ODT Redeemer, Bloor St. Ms. Bennett has been nominated by the Bishop for her deep contribution to diocesan ministry throughout her adult life, as well as for her faithful and tireless support for the Redeemer community over the last 18 years. She is the type of volunteer who has contributed her profes- sional skills to the wide variety of boards Members of the Order of the Diocese of Toronto gather with Bishop Andrew Asbil, the area bishops and dean on Jan. 1 at St. James Cathedral. For more photos, see Page 8. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON and committees that the Anglican Church has to offer. She lives her faith in action, with both integrity and intentionality, and the qualities you hope for in a treasurer property manager, he is currently leading Trinity through difficult days, and her is a role model for those who wish to be – he has also been marvellously faithful, a weekly walking prayer group to pray for optimism and action have provided hope better at doing so. and Bishop Asbil wishes him well as he the parish community, street by street. for the future. retires from this role. Jan Booker, ODT Evelyn Foster, ODT Edward Harris, ODT St. Barnabas, Chester Ann Cope, ODT Christ Church, Holland Landing St. Jude, Bramalea North Mr. Booker has been nominated for his Redeemer, Bloor St. Mrs. Foster has been nominated by Mr. Harris has been nominated by St. dedication and service to his parish since Ms. Cope has been nominated for her long the Bishop for her 68 years of member- Jude, Bramalea North for his 42 years of 1967. As the treasurer for 25 years and and faithful service that touches almost ship and service to her parish of Christ service at his 42-year-old parish. Long- counting, he is also the “go-to” person every aspect of life at Redeemer. She Church, Holland Landing. Throughout her time churchwarden, he has also raised for any issues with the church building, is a creative force, is sought out for her tenure, she has been an active member money, led worship, brought the gift of and he works tirelessly behind the scenes insights and wisdom, and is possibly the of the ACW, church choir and various sing-along music into the local prison and doing jobs that most are unaware of and parish’s most effective evangelist. She con- fundraising initiatives. Having celebrated retirement homes, cooked breakfasts for would only notice if not done. St. Barna- tinually shines a spotlight on what makes her 97th birthday this past summer, she the parish, run the bazaar, served on the bas is blessed to have him as a member Redeemer remarkable, keeping existing is a regular baker for events and rarely advisory board, and fixed every broken of the parish, and he is very deserving of members engaged and inviting newcomers misses a Sunday, to make sure she speaks thing in the parish. He directs ushers and being recognized for his many contribu- into full, involved membership. to everyone. counters, drives people to church – and tions over the years. takes out the garbage every single week. Douglas Court, ODT Jerome Friday, ODT Donald Brohm, ODT St. Margaret, Barrie St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea Stephen Hughes, ODT St. Paul, Lindsay Mr. Court has been nominated by St. Mr. Friday has been nominated for his Christ Church, Brampton Mr. Brohm has been nominated by St. Margaret, Barrie for his decades-long faithful service in several ministries with Mr. Hughes has been nominated by Christ Paul, Lindsay for his diverse and ex- service and support of the church commu- a willing and generous heart. As an inte- Church, Brampton for his lengthy, consist- tensive service to God and the Church. nities he has been involved with. Having gral part of The Bridge Prison Ministry ent and sacrificial leadership through Learning from an early lay reader received his lay reader licence in 1975, he and the Ontario Correctional Institute, he hospitality, administration, stewardship training course the need to spread the has contributed to several church commu- has helped guide countless individuals. and care for others. As shepherd to the gospel of Christ, he has been motivated nities with preaching, anointing, leading Recognizing the blessings he has received building restoration project, he success- to train and encourage others, as well Morning Prayer, funerals and hospital vis- and, in response, giving willingly to oth- fully helped complete all projects over the as steward resources, as property man- its – exhibiting exceptional leadership and ers, he is a model of Christian charity as past two decades on time and on budget. ager. His leadership has been enhanced earning him the respect and gratitude of he embodies Christ’s hands and feet to His ministry has been rooted in the par- by his quiet, unassuming personality, many. His wealth of knowledge and will- those in need. ish, where he has raised his children, and his ready spirit has helped the ingness to help are traits admired, and so supported the weak, journeyed with those church to be present in the community. appreciated, by all who know him. Mae Harasymiw, ODT who mourn, and offered leadership in Trinity Church, Barrie renewal and restoration. Bruce Chambers, ODT David Graham Fisher, ODT Mrs. Harasymiw has been nominated by St. Nicholas, Birch Cliff St. Saviour, Toronto Trinity Church, Barrie for actively sup- Dianne Izzard, ODT Mr. Chambers has been nominated by Mr. Fisher has been nominated for his porting and contributing to the mission of St. Mary and St. Martha the Bishop for his exemplary service to unceasing commitment to St. Saviour’s. the Anglican Church throughout Barrie, Ms. Izzard has been nominated by the the Anglican Communion through the From churchwarden to treasurer to part- Nottawasaga Deanery and beyond. Self- Bishop in recognition and celebration of Compass Rose Society. As treasurer for time organist, lector, Synod member and lessly dedicated, the lives of many have her extraordinary contributions to the the Canadian chapter, he has also served intercessor leader, he has let his name been bettered and blessed as a result of success of the parish amalgamation. As as board member and sometimes inter- stand for any role needed to keep his her leadership in initiatives to provide rector’s warden, she oversaw a complex national board member for nearly two church vibrant and functioning. An en- clothing, food and basic care to those in program of repairs and safety upgrades at decades. Thorough, diligent, precise – all gineer by trade and therefore “untitled” need. Her determination has helped see nine properties, while advising clergy and February 2020 NEWS TheAnglican 7 Laity receive Order of the Diocese of Toronto

of the Church.

Thomas Nicholson, ODT St. Paul, Minden Mr. Nicholson has been nominated by St. Paul, Minden for his unwavering devotion in maintaining the church in everything from electronics to repairs. When the church went digital, he made it happen. When yearly flooding occurs, he rises in the night and wades through freezing water to manage pumps, lights and heat lines that save the church from flooding. Repairing everything that moves, and some things that don’t, his work truly reflects the love of Christ.

Dorcas Sheppard, ODT St. Cuthbert, Leaside Ms. Sheppard has been nominated by the Bishop for her honest, open-hearted discipleship, seeking the welfare of others and considering her own secondary. For six decades, she has served her parish in most of the roles possible for a lay person, currently serving as chancel guild president. She shares in the mission and ministry of the Church through innumer- able acts of loving kindness in the parish and beyond.

Gordon Stock, ODT St. John the Baptist, Norway Mr. Stock has been nominated for his years of dedicated service, helping to lead St. John’s and develop its vision. Using his corporate insight and clear communica- Members of the Order of the Diocese of Toronto gather with Bishop Andrew Asbil, the area bishops and dean on Jan. 1 at St. James Cathedral. For more photos, see Page 8. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON tion, he has helped to guide the parish into a sustainable future. He has given nine years of decision-making, team- wardens, and inspired the whole parish the annual volunteer conference, and is Paddy Ann McHaffie, ODT building and leadership while watching to get involved in missional and outreach currently a key member of the Reconfigu- Holy Family, Heart Lake (Brampton) his young daughter grow up and helping ministries. Every day, she points us to the ration rewrite team. Ms. McHaffie has been nominated for to build and care for the community. example of Mary and Martha in faithfully her wide-ranging contributions to the following and joyfully serving our Lord. Mary Kishibe, ODT parish as well as the diocese. An active David Thornton, ODT St. Matthew, First Avenue churchwarden, lay member of diocesan Christ Church, Deer Park Lloyd Jensen, ODT Mrs. Kishibe has been nominated for her and General Synods and advisory board Mr. Thornton has been nominated by the St. George, Allandale selfless service to her parish and neigh- chair, she also organizes fun social events Bishop for his many contributions to his Mr. Jensen has been nominated for bourhood. With the historical knowledge for the parish and contributes the sales parish and the diocese. At Christ Church, his tireless efforts as sidesperson, of an archivist, and the attention to detail of her artwork to the parish. As a social Deer Park, he has served as churchward- churchwarden, lay member of Synod, needed as chancel guild director, she is worker by trade, her skills were valuable en, Synod member and chair of various financial planner, and supporter for the first to welcome visitors any time, any as chairperson of the diocesan Commu- committees, and he is currently a side- both parish and diocesan fundraising day to have a chat and invite them on a nity Ministries Board, and all are blessed sperson and subdeacon. A board mem- programs. Instrumental in saving the tour with generosity and joy. Her care for by her energy and gifts. ber of the Anglican Diocese of Toronto quilters’ quilts and supplies during the every corner of the church – and all those Foundation, former Secretary of Synod, parish hall fire in 2006, he displays an who enter the doors– is remarkable. Ranil Mendis, ODT and chair and treasurer of LOFT, his gifts extraordinary work ethic and an abil- St. Thomas à Becket (Erin Mills South) have been well received and invaluable to ity to take limited resources and make Sharron Lamour, ODT Mr. Mendis has been nominated by the the whole diocese. things work. As the go-to person of the St. Peter (Erindale) Bishop for his initiative as a community parish, he is deserving of this recogni- Ms. Lamour has been nominated by the builder to found one of the diocese’s Juanita Williams, ODT tion for faithful service to his Church Bishop for her faithful volunteer service most fun and engaging annual events. St. Hugh and St. Edmund and community. to the diocese. She is an anchor on the The Anglican Church Cricket Festival Ms. Williams has been nominated for Parish Selection Committee and Fresh draws church teams from across the GTA, her competent, diligent and enthusiastic Elsa Jones, ODT Start rewrite team, and often attends providing parishes with an opportunity to initiative in all matters pertaining to her Christ Church, Deer Park Synod to host the volunteer desk. As lieu- get to know each other and build relation- parish and the diocese. For over 25 years, Ms. Jones has been nominated by the tenant to the Volunteer Resource Coordi- ships with the wider community. He also she has been a team player, easily able to Bishop for her cheerful and appreciative nator, she helps to mentor and train new devotes his free time to promoting cricket establish rapport with all with whom she leadership and service to our Church. coaches and is always willing to help by in local high schools, giving students the comes into contact. She has an avowed Chair of the Canadian Friends to West In- stepping in for last-minute cancellations. chance to compete, travel and have fun. interest in her church and its community, dian Christians, active in church activities and a desire to have such interest shared and weekly life, she is an admirable serv- Ruth May, ODT Yvonne Murray, ODT by all. ant driven by her strong faith and belief Christ Church, Bolton St. John the Divine, Scarborough in equality for all. She leads by example Ms. May has been nominated for her Ms. Murray has been nominated by the Marjorie Wrightson, ODT with integrity and devotion, delivers with long-time role in modelling Christ’s love Bishop for her long-standing volunteer Redeemer, Bloor St. inspiration, and leaves a smile on the face for us and our neighbours. As church service in financial advising roles. A Ms. Wrightson has been nominated by of anyone blessed by a conversation with administrator, she calmly organizes and retired chartered accountant, she has Redeemer, Bloor St. for her long-standing her. works toward the success of every activ- served as the treasurer of her parish commitment to the life and work of the ity, committee and service detail – all for more than 20 years, is a member of Church. She has served as a lay leader in Chuck Jowett, ODT while supporting each individual with a the finance advisory committee and the numerous roles, is a gifted preacher and Evangelists, New Tecumseth kind word or pot of soup. Her hard work, budget working group, and has lent her presider at Evensong services, and acts Mr. Jowett has been nominated by the compassion and fostering the engagement skill to help many other parishes develop as a valued mentor to clergy, staff and Bishop for his significant volunteer ser- of all parish members have helped sustain financial plans and resolve debt issues. senior lay leadership. A highly respected vice with the diocese. He takes on difficult the spiritual, financial and emotional well- She is inspiring to many as she commits leader, she is an integral member of the jobs with diligence, leads workshops at being of the parish. her time and talent for the improvement Redeemer faith community. 8 TheAnglican NEWS February 2020

GOOD TIMES After the presentations of the Order of the Diocese of Toronto, people gather for informal photos and to enjoy each other’s company. Clockwise from top left: Bishop Andrew Asbil stands with a group from Church of the Redeemer, Bloor St., where he used to be the incumbent; Jennifer Bolender King and others take photos; Order of the Diocese of Toronto medallions; chatting and taking photos before heading home. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HUDSON

Churches’ missional stretch takes many forms

Continued from Page 1 spiritual connection – something that which you already feel most least one new activity. sometimes you go to church, attend that would play an important part confident about.” • “Strengthening our Sunday the service and then go home and ment the parish has already done. in St. George’s planning. The missional stretch can take morning congregation.” that’s you done for the week. But The process is guided by a trained “We thought, there are some many forms. One church had a Twelve more parishioners this whole exercise has kept things facilitator from outside the parish, spiritual needs that we can fulfil group of women who made prayer will come regularly to worship top of mind for people. People are to achieve the best results. Each and we have to start thinking more shawls and caps for chemotherapy God and nurture their souls. realizing that they can have an parish is asked to form a steering seriously about that,” recalls Ms. patients. Confident enough to reach • “Becoming disciples of Christ impact, that they can actually make committee to assist with decisions Tennant. out into the community, they rented and talking about our faith.” something change.” and help coordinate activities. The second phase of MAP in- a table at a local farmers’ market. Ten more parishioners will Ms. Marshall has heard similar The process comprises three volves identifying the church’s In addition to making their crea- talk about their relationship comments from other churches. phases. In the first, the church ministries and then focussing them tions, they taught young women with God. “There is something about how MAP learns more about its surrounding so they better connect with the how to crochet, forming friendships The goals, which are displayed is worked on that invites leadership community. “We want to deepen surrounding community and the with them. on a paper tree at the back of the and congregations to understand our understanding of who is living church’s mission. “Many churches For some churches, the missional church and printed on a bookmark, that this is a fullness of time moment in the neighbourhood, not just for have inherited a lot of activities stretch involves working on their are already producing results, says for them. It’s time to truly to take today but in five or ten years from and they’re all over the place,” own discipleship. After looking at Ms. Tennant. “We’ve seen new up the opportunity and challenge of now,” explains Ms. Marshall. This explains Ms. Marshall. “This puts the Environics study and its own people come out for Bible study, for stretching themselves further than can happen in several ways, includ- them into place.” ministries, St. George’s realized it our weekly meditation and for cof- they have imagined, of asking more ing prayer walks, conversations Ms. Tennant says this phase, could connect with the surround- fee hour. We’re seeing more people of themselves than they have before, with neighbours and commission- which included input from many ing community through its faith at our Sunday morning worship of setting a bar and saying, ‘With ing an Environics study. parishioners, helped St. George’s formation activities. But first it service, and some have stood up God’s help, we can do this together.’ Ms. Tennant says this part of set clear goals. “We were able to had to strengthen the spirituality to tell us how they’ve talked about “We don’t enter a MAP process the process was illuminating. “The see what was important to us.” of its own members. our church with others.” with any judgement as to where demographics in our parish had The third phase of MAP is the “We needed a strong core first,” One thing that Ms. Tennant is that bar needs to be,” she adds. changed quite a lot over the past “missional stretch,” where the explains Ms. Tennant. “We needed seeing and hearing a lot more of is “That’s entirely between the con- few years and we weren’t really church is encouraged to go beyond to focus on our own spiritual devel- prayer. “Because we made prayer a gregation and facilitator, to set sure who was in our neighbour- what it is currently doing. “It’s opment and connection with each focus, we now start every meeting goals the congregation knows it can hood,” she says. about doing something audacious other. We’ll be attractional to the with prayer. People are praying a achieve, because what we’re want- The Environics study revealed in their neighbourhood – stretch- wider community if we can truly lot and you can sense that support ing to do here is rebuild confidence that the average of age of local ing themselves from what they’re be disciples.” in the church.” The entire process and hope in our discipleship in a residents was quite high, there already feeling confident about,” The church has set itself three at St. George’s was undergirded practical way.” weren’t a lot of children in the says Ms. Marshall. main goals, which it hopes to by prayer, as it was in the other neighbourhood, and that many The missional stretch need not achieve by December 2020: participating churches. For more information on Mission people lived in multi-generational be scary because the church is • “Deepening and enriching Ms. Tennant says the process has Action Planning, contact Janet households. A key finding was that working from its strength, she our spirit.” Twenty more given St. George’s parishioners a Marshall at jmarshall@toronto. a lot of residents were seeking a adds. “It’s about moving out from parishioners will attend at renewed focus and purpose. “I think anglican.ca. February 2020 BISHOP’S LEVEE TheAnglican 9 Levee rings in new year

THE annual Bishop’s Levee was greetings with the diocese’s bishops held at St. James Cathedral on and dean. The receiving line was Jan. 1, the first of the new decade. followed by festive music, a choral The event included a Eucharist, a Evensong and the presentation of ringing of the cathedral bells and the Order of the Diocese of Toronto an opportunity to share New Year’s (see pages 6-7).

Clockwise from above: Bishop Andrew Asbil stands with, from left, Dilkushi Mendis and Ranil Mendis of St. Thomas a Becket, Erin Mills South, the Rev. Nirmal Mendis of All Saints Anglican Church in Welland, Ont., Hiraj Mendis and Rasadari Mendis of Holy Family, Heart Lake in Brampton, and Nilanthi Mendis and Riza Zubair of St. Thomas a Becket, Erin Mills South; Bishop Kevin Robertson and his spouse Mohan Sharma speak with the diocese’s vice chancellor, Brian Armstrong, ODT; the Rev. Canon Elizabeth Kilbourn and Br. David Bryan Hoopes, OHC, with friends; Bishop Asbil with Elsa Jones, ODT, chair of the Canadian Friends to West Indian Christians; Bishop Jenny Andison and family with friends Ira Carmichael and his dog (left) and Canon Phyllis Creighton, ODT (right); Dean Stephen Vail and his partner Neil Walker (left) with Davi Liang and his spouse Can Zhang of St. James Cathedral’s Mandarin Ministry; Bishop Riscylla Shaw with Lyds Keesmaat-Walsh of Church of the Redeemer, Bloor St., and Sydney Brouillard-Coyle of the Diocese of Huron. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HUDSON

Continued on Page 9 10 TheAnglican NEWS February 2020

The pilgrims at Petra in Jordan. At right, the Rev. Canon Philip Der celebrates the Eucharist at the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem. PHOTOS BY KHALID NAWAFLEH AND DORA LI Holy Land pilgrimage a blessing in many ways

BY THE REV. CANON PHILIP DER appropriate to the site that we Eucharist at the Garden Tomb in would be visiting the next day. Jerusalem, the city where Jesus WHEN I was seated on the plane Moreover, I had to ensure our instituted the Last Supper, car- to Israel, I came to realize that group members’ safety and needs. ried His cross along the Via Do- we had finally embarked on our I was greatly blessed by their care lorosa to Calvary, was crucified, riched our understanding of the I thank my hardworking team pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It was and respect in return. died and was resurrected. I could Bible, but also strengthened our – Dora, Benita and Clara for their real! I gave my heartfelt thanks to The pilgrimage enlightened me feel His presence and love for us bond and fellowship. We laughed tireless effort and dedication, our God Almighty for making this trip in many ways. Firstly, I came to all. Lastly, I was deeply touched together, dined together, cele- travel agency, our guides and bus come true. After more than a year understand that Jordan is, and when I officiated at the renewal of brated together, sang together, drivers for making the trip possible of planning and anticipation, 35 of had always been, part of the Holy marriage vows for six couples in prayed together and shared our and memorable. Above all, I thank us had begun our journey together. Land. Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Cana, the place where Jesus did testimonies together. When one God for all the blessings bestowed Leading a group for 13 days was Naomi, Ruth and even Jesus had His first miracle of turning water got lost, all were concerned; when upon us as we journeyed together a test of my spiritual leadership at one time or another been there. into wine at a wedding banquet. one fell, all reached out to care. in the footsteps of Jesus. and servanthood. We started each The descendants of Esau once This reminds us all that marriage We had truly lived out what 1 day with a short devotion while on lived in Petra, the famous ancient is holy and instituted by God, that Corinthians 12 taught the Body The Rev. Canon Philip Der is the bus. Every night, I prepared wonder. Secondly, I was moved by it should be honoured and upheld. of Christ should be. We were one the incumbent of St. Christo- a Morning Prayer that would be the opportunity to celebrate the The pilgrimage not only en- in the bond of love. pher, Richmond Hill. Orillia church makes Christmas shopping fun

ST. James, Orillia, together with lo- about 20 booths in the church, cal artisans, downtown merchants with artisans offering a stunning and the Peter Street Arts District, variety of wares. ACW members hosted the first Orillia Christmas sold knitting and sewing items Market on Nov. 22-24. The organ- while their bake table ran out izing committee included members of cookies every day. Santa was of St. James, and the church’s ACW available for photos, and people replaced its traditional Christmas were welcomed and informed by bazaar and luncheon with this enthusiastic volunteers. The crowd exciting new event. of people shopping, strolling, chat- Music played a big part in the ting and enjoying “Christmas like Local merchants and members of St. James choir take part in the first Orillia Christmas Market, held at the church.PHOTO market’s success. Advanced piano it should be” was overwhelming SUBMITTED BY ST. JAMES, ORILLIA students, an a capella choir, two at times. bands, musicians from the local The church was pleased and the vendors and shoppers. The which donated a large wooden aged the market’s website and youth centre and St. James’ choir honoured to introduce Bishop church is grateful for the generos- train displayed on the church’s social media platforms. Many ven- filled the church with music from Peter Fenty, who had attended ity of the market’s major sponsors, front lawn, and Creative Nomad dors and musicians have already morning until night. There were the Sunday morning service, to including Orillia Home Hardware, Studios, which developed and man- requested space in the 2020 market. February 2020 AnglicanClassifieds 11

TO PLACE AN AD CALL 905.833.6200 ext. 22 OR EMAIL [email protected]

REAL ESTATE COUNSELLING COUNSELLING folk songs, Broadway show tunes and contemporary music. Tickets LOOKING are $25 in advance or $30 at the Award-winning DAVID A.S. WRIGHT Pastoral Counsellor door. There will be refreshments real estate in Toronto and a raffle. Reservations can be for over 25 years B.A. M.Div. Registered Registered made by calling All Saints at 905- Psychotherapist AHEAD 833-5432. The church is located just Carolyn Psychotherapist south of the King Side Road on the To submit items for Looking east side of Keele Street. McIntire Smyth • Pastoral Counsellor Ahead, email editor@toronto. FEB. 9 - Rock Eucharist featuring the anglican.ca. The deadline for the music of Florence and the Machine, Sales Representative • Individual / Couple March issue is Jan. 30. Parishes 7 p.m. Church of the Redeemer, Chestnut Park Real Estate can also promote their events on Bloor Street and Avenue Road, Limited, Brokerage Psychotherapy • Psychoanalysis the diocese’s website Calendar at Toronto. Helping Sellers obtain Susan E. Haig www.toronto.anglican.ca. LL.B., M.Div. the best prices for • Supervision / their homes. Consultation Workshops & Gatherings 416.925.9191 110 Eglinton Ave. W., Suite 303D Music & Worship Toronto, ON M4R 1A3 JAN. 24 - Evening Prayer at 6 p.m., I look forward to hearing 204 St. George Street Toronto, Ontario M5R 2N5 JAN. 26 - “Sing and Joyful Be!”, a followed by light supper at 6:30 p.m. from you. Eucharist featuring the music of the and at 7 p.m. a talk by Dr. Carl Benn Tel. 416-960-6486 416.605.3588 Sacred Harp (shape note singing), 7 from Ryerson University’s Depart- p.m., Church of the Redeemer, Bloor ment of History on the diversities Street and Avenue Road, Toronto. of Toronto church architecture, 10. Church of the Transfiguration Department (Elin Goulden) JAN. 26-APRIL 26 - Jazz Vespers, 4 from the Neoclassical visions of PRAYER CYCLE 11. All Saints, Whitby 21. St. Martin, Courtice p.m., St. Philip, Etobicoke, 31 St. the Georgians to the Gothic Revival 12. Church of the Ascension, Port 22. St. Matthew, Oshawa Phillips Rd., Toronto. Held Jan. and eclectic tastes of the Victori- FOR FEBRUARY Perry 23. Bishop’s Committee on 26, Feb. 23, March 22 and April 26. ans, all at St. Olave, Swansea, 360 1. Church of the Messiah 13. Christ Memorial Church, Oshawa Intercultural Ministry Pay what you can. Amanda Tosoff Windermere Ave., Toronto. 2. Eglinton Deanery 14. Redeemer, Ajax 24. St. Paul on-the-Hill, Pickering on piano, Morgan Childs on drums FEB. 7 - Monthly Lenten Study, “Oils 3. St. Augustine of Canterbury 15. St. George Memorial, Oshawa 25. St. Paul, Uxbridge and Jon Meyer on bass. in the Bible,” 7 p.m., Holy Trin- 4. St. Clement, Eglinton 16. Oshawa Deanery 26. Ash Wednesday FEB. 2 - Bach Vespers, 7 p.m., Church ity, Guildwood, 85 Livingston Rd., 5. St. Cuthbert, Leaside 17. St. George, Pickering Village (Ajax) 27. St. Peter, Oshawa of the Redeemer, Bloor Street and Toronto. 6. St. John, York Mills 18. The Clergy of the Diocese of 28. St. Thomas, Brooklin Avenue Road, Toronto. FEB. 9 - Choral Evensong for the 7. St. Leonard Toronto 29. St. John, Whitby FEB. 5 - APRIL 29 - Kingsway Organ Queen’s Accession at 4 p.m., fol- 8. St. Timothy, North Toronto 19. St. Martin, Bay Ridges (Pickering) Recital Series, 12:30 p.m. to 1:15 lowed by Royal Festive Tea, dur- 9. FaithWorks 20. Social Justice and Advocacy p.m., free admission, All Saints, ing which the choir’s director Kingsway, 2850 Bloor St. W., Toron- Clement Carelse will present an to. Recitals on the following dates: illustrated feature on the First IN MOTION Diocesan Executive Assistant, Perry on Feb. 9 at 4 p.m. Feb. 5, Feb. 19, March 4, March 18, Viennese School of composers, Mrs. Mary Conliffe. • The Rev. Orvin Lao will be April 1, April 15, April 29. which includes Beethoven, Haydn, Appointments ordained a Priest at Trinity FEB. 8 - Concert by the Toronto Mozart and Schubert, at St. Olave, • The Rev. William Craven, First Phase - Parish Selection East (Little Trinity) on Feb. 22 Welsh Male Voice Choir, 2:30 p.m., 360 Windermere Ave., Toronto. Honorary Assistant, St. Jude, Committee in Formation at 4 p.m. All Saints, King City, 12935 Keele FEB. 17 - Crafts, face painting, food, Bramalea North, Oct. 8, 2019. (not yet receiving names): • The Rev. Michelle Jones will St. This internationally travelled magic show and more, 1 p.m., Holy • The Rev. Dr. Jason McKin- • Trinity, Streetsville be ordained a Priest at Christ group of over 35 choristers has Trinity, Guildwood, 85 Livingston ney, Interim Priest-in-Charge, • Epiphany and St. Mark, Church, Brampton on March 1 a broad repertoire that includes Rd., Toronto. Epiphany and St. Mark, Parkdale at 4 p.m. spirituals, operatic arias, Canadian Parkdale & Missional Partner • St. Thomas, Huron Street • The Rev. Michael Perry will to the Parkdale Community • Trinity-St. Paul, Port Credit be ordained a Priest at St. Pe- Food Hub at Epiphany and St. • St. Joseph of Nazareth, ter and St. Simon the Apostle Mark, Dec. 23, 2019. Bramalea on March 25 at 7 p.m. units will be available at below- • The Rev. Chris Dow, Incum- • St. Paul on-the-Hill, Pickering market rental rates to people on bent, St. James, Caledon East, Celebrations CANADA the Ottawa housing list, which Jan. 1. Second Phase - Parish Selec- of New Ministry currently has more than 10,000 • The Rev. Ronald Duncan, tion Committee (receiving • The Rev. Irina Dubinski, families on it. To realize the pro- Interim Priest-in-Charge, names via Area Bishop): Priest-in-Charge, Our Saviour, BRIEFS ject, Christ Church, Bells Corners Church of the Atonement, • All Saints, Whitby Don Mills, March 1, at 4 p.m. has partnered with the Diocese Alderwood, Jan. 1. • Christ Church, Stouffville of Ottawa, the Western Ottawa • The Rev. Heather Gwynne- • Grace Church on-the-Hill Conclusions Grant helps church Community Resource Centre, a Timothy, Interim Associate (Associate Priest) • The Rev. MacIvan Rogers con- local food cupboard and Corner- Priest, St. John, Willowdale, • Parish of Fenelon Falls cluded his ministry at Church build affordable stone Housing for Women. Christ Jan. 1. • Parish of Lakefield of the Atonement, Alderwood housing Church, Bells Corners’ rectory, • The Rev. David Howells, • St. Christopher, Richmond on Nov. 25, 2019. OTTAWA – The city of Ottawa has which has not been used as a rec- Priest-in-Charge, St. Andrew Hill (Associate Priest) • The Very Rev. Dr. Douglas approved a grant application from tory for decades, will be torn down by-the-Lake, Jan. 1. Stoute concluded his appoint- Christ Church, Bells Corners and to make way for the new building. • The Rev. David Bryan Hoopes, Third Phase - No Longer ment as Priest-in-Charge of the Diocese of Ottawa for a new The church is looking for a new OHC, Interim Priest-in- Receiving Names: St. Hilda, Fairbanks on Dec. affordable housing project. The name for the initiative, originally Charge, St. Hilda, Fairbank, • St. Martin, Bay Ridges 31, 2019. project consists of a new 35-unit called the Rectory Reimagination Jan. 1. • Church of the Incarnation building with a community services Project. The project is part of a plan • The Rev. Fran Kovar, Interim • St. Margaret in-the-Pines Retirements hub on the ground floor that will by the Diocese of Ottawa to create Priest-in-Charge, St. Paul on- • The Rev. Canon Kimberley include a food bank and community 125 units of affordable housing to the-Hill, Pickering, Jan. 8. Ordinations Beard has retired. His last resource centre. Ten units will be coincide with the diocese’s 125th • The Rev. Irina Dubinski, • The Rev. Alison Hari-Singh Sunday at St. Paul on-the-Hill, reserved for women and children anniversary in 2021. Priest-in-Charge, Our Saviour, was ordained a Priest at St. Pickering was Dec. 29, 2019. transferred from a shelter. Other Crosstalk Don Mills, Feb. 1. Martin in-the-Fields on Jan. • The Rev. Sherman Hessel- 12. grave has announced his Area Bishop’s Direct • The Rev. Alexandra Pohlod retirement. His last Sunday at Appointment Process will be ordained a Priest at St. Holy Trinity, Trinity Square vidson died on Dec. 15, 2019. Christ Church, Deer Park, and • St. Elizabeth, Mississauga Olave, Swansea on Jan. 26 at 4 will be June 7. Ordained deacon in 1961 and then incumbent of St. John • Church of the Evangelists, p.m. • The Rev. David Bryant has priest in 1962, he served as the Evangelist, Peterborough. New Tecumseth • The Rev. Benjamin Gillard announced his retirement. assistant curate of St. John, After his retirement in 1997, • St. Paul, Newmarket will be ordained a Priest at St. His last Sunday at St. Joseph York Mills, incumbent of the he served various interim ap- John the Baptist, Norway on of Nazareth, Bramalea will be Parish of Cannington, incum- pointments and was recently Vacant Incumbencies Feb. 2 at 4:30 p.m. June 30. bent of St. Christopher, War- an honorary assistant at St. Clergy from outside the diocese • The Rev. Philip Gearing rendale in the United States, Bride, Clarkson. His funeral with the permission of their will be ordained a Priest at Death incumbent of Christ the King, was held in Peterborough on bishop may apply through the Church of the Ascension, Port • The Rev. Canon Ronald Da- Etobicoke, incumbent of Jan. 11. Recycle The Anglican. GIVE IT TO A FRIEND. 12 TheAnglican INTERVIEW February 2020 We will be introducing a recording studio

Aaron Dumpala is the music director at I have also recently become a Canadian Grace Church, Markham. citizen, which was the best Christmas present this year.

Last August we launched the Parkway Growing up in Saudi Arabia, Christian- Concert Series. The theme of the August ity was definitely a problem, as we did concert was “Road Trip Favourites” and not have any churches to go to. The for December it was “Christmas Favour- diplomatic embassies, however, opened ites.” The series has been a wonderful their doors for community worship – the success, as we have been able to reach British and Australian embassies for out to musicians in the community and Anglican services, and the American invite them into Grace for a time of fel- embassy for ecumenical and Pentecostal lowship. The theme of the Spring concert services. I was exposed to a variety of de- is “Cinematic, Theatre and Musicals.” nominations, which taught me a lot about my personal Christian faith. I began my Another exciting project that we are classical musical training at the age of about to embark on is the creation of five, and then my parents introduced the Parkway Music Studio & Music me to worship music two years later. I Program. At the end of last year, we was able to get a well-rounded view of were blessed to receive a Reach Grant traditional and contemporary styles of from the diocese. We have a vision of theological music. Grace to be a place for youth and young families to enhance their musical abili- My parents have played a key part in ties, to enjoy a supportive community my spiritual life. My father, the Rev. spirit and to participate in the life of the Vinaya Dumpala, and mother, Geetha church. As part of the program, we will Dumpala, have instilled in me a strong be introducing a recording studio for grounding in the Christian faith. They those eager to create or study music. have shown me how important it is to be The program will also consist of weekly part of a church, regardless of the role I rehearsals and seasonal concerts. In the might play. As an immigrant family, we long run, I would love for this initiative were able to overcome challenges. Anoth- to be interconnected with the diocese, er person who has been instrumental in where youth from different parishes my path to this position is the Rev. Canon could visit and enjoy each other’s music. Nicola Skinner. What started as a part- time position quickly became a full-time Apart from the church, I am complet- placement, thanks to her. She has always ing my Bachelor of Economics degree supported any ideas I might have had in at Ryerson University. I love exploring terms of hymnody and music direction. Aaron Dumpala at Grace Church, Markham. PHOTO COURTESY OF GRACE CHURCH, MARKHAM different cuisines in Toronto, as food is a Canon Skinner and Grace’s community big part of my culture. Being an immi- welcomed a 19-year-old as their music at a parish, using the talents God has who made heaven and earth.” This pas- grant, of Indian origin from Saudi Ara- director. I was very touched by that. blessed me with. sage resonates with me because it gave bia, I’ve been exposed to many different me strength and hope in times of need, cultures and traditions. I enjoy seeing Five years from now, I would like to My favourite passage from scripture specifically during the process of com- shows at the Ed Mirvish Theatre and at be just as involved in the Church. Yes, is Psalm 121, v. 1 & 2: “I lift up my eyes ing to Canada. When times were beyond local comedy clubs. Toronto has a been my other professional life might take me to the hills. From where does my help challenging, my family and I would never a wonderful place for me to grow up in. elsewhere, but I will continue to worship come? My help comes from the Lord, forget our roots and our faith.

community. On Dec. 1, representa- tives of the Anglican Church of CANADA Canada and the Evangelical Lu- theran Church in Canada (ELCIC) signed a memorandum establish- ing Trinity Anglican + Lutheran BRIEFS Church. The agreement marks the culmination of a process that began 19 years ago, when St. Alban Church opens Anglican and Christ the King Lu- indoor play park theran churches pooled resources to form a shared ministry, one year FREDERICTON - The Church of before the Anglican Church of the Resurrection in Grand Bay- Canada and ELCIC ratified their Westfield, N.B., is home to a new full communion partnership. As indoor play park, which officially part of the agreement, St. Alban opened in January. The facility is housed the two congregations. called Sunrise Playpark, as deter- Christ the King sold off its church mined by a congregational vote. property, with proceeds split be- The name refers to the sunrise over tween the congregation and the Grand Bay, the sunrise on Easter B.C. Synod. Shortly thereafter, All Sunday symbolizing the resurrec- Saints Anglican Church asked to tion, play by children in the early become part of the shared minis- dawn and as a symbol of new life try and merged with St. Alban. in Jesus, renewed every morning. The new parish was dedicated in The state-of-the-art playpark was 2004 as Trinity Anglican Church completed in December and is and Trinity Lutheran Church. In available for use by the community following years, the Anglican and at affordable cost. Lutheran congregations became The New Brunswick Anglican further intertwined. The decision to merge followed a recognition Anglican, Lutheran that it was redundant to have two ROYAL VISITOR councils, two treasurers and two Sophie, Countess of Wessex meets with supporters of the Awareness Foundation in Toronto in November. The countess is congregations merge envelope secretaries, and that de- the royal patron of the foundation, which provides educational support primarily to Christian children and youth in Syria VICTORIA - Anglican and Lutheran spite respect for both traditions, and Iraq and promotes a better understanding of Middle East issues in the West. The foundation was created by the Rev. leaders have signed a memoran- members shared a greater common Dr. Nadim Nassar, an Anglican priest based in the United Kingdom. From left are the Rev. Canon Peter Walker, Tamara dum of agreement officially fusing identity as members of Trinity than Rebanks, James Appleyard, the Countess of Wessex, Christopher Bunting, ODT, Francesca Mallin Parker, Fred Parker, the congregations in Port Alberni, B.C., as Anglicans or Lutherans. Rev. Dr. Nadim Nassar and Bishop Andrew Asbil. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AWARENESS FOUNDATION from each tradition into one faith Diocesan Post