JANUARY 2010 THE NEW BRUNSWICK ANGLICAN / 1

A SECTION OF THE ANGLICAN JOURNAL JANUARY 2010 SERVING THE Christianity in Ho: It’s true and it works

BY JASMINE CHANDRA In their churches both giv- ing and receiving are done in ife-changing examples of a spirit of great rejoicing. The hospitality, rejoicing, and people literally dance their Lgiving as well as deep and offering up to an offering box trusting faith are some of the at the centre of the church. I most vivid memories I have of would suggest that any help we a recent trip to our Companion have to offer them should not Diocese of Ho. Religion is no ab- be given because we pity them stract thing this part of African because they have less than society; it is concrete. People we do, nor should it be offered there used to ask if Christiani- out of an outdated sense of ty was true. Now they ask “does colonialism. Rather, it should it work.” be taken to our brothers and As we drove through a poor sisters in a spirit of rejoicing, community with Matth- in thankfulness for the work ias he told us that Jesus really of the Father that they fulfi l makes a difference in people’s in powerful ways, and in the lives here, that people who be- joy that comes from having come Christians are happy and our hearts knit together in freed from fear. Many people in one Spirit, even though we are the villages in Ghana practice a miles and worlds apart. fetish tribal spirituality where I am still processing all that sacrifi ces are made on a fetish Miller, his wife Sha- shrine. Through this form of ron, Heather Miller and I saw, spirituality people often curse heard, smelled and tasted in Ho other people, sometimes even last November. cursing them to death. So Ghana is like a different people live in fear — but not world for us, rather than just Christians. So for many An- a different country. These glicans in Ghana Christianity differences really cannot be isn’t just true — it works. explained, they need to be expe- There is no fi nancial aid com- rienced. But even though I have ponent to a Companion Diocese experienced the differences, I Archbishop , his wife Sharon, the Rev. Jasmine Chandra of Rothesay, and Heather Miller (no relation relationship, but while we were still can’t say that I understand in Ho, one of the poorest dioces- to the archbishop) traveled to our Companion Diocese of Ho in Ghana, Africa in November. This little girl playing a them. es in Ghana, we saw their vision drum is one of the hundreds of people they met on a whirlwind tour. In this issue of the New Brunswick Anglican As North Americans we real- and mission at work, and we ly have no idea what it is like to Ms. Chandra offers her general impressions of the tour in the story on the right, and Archbishop Miller comments in also saw their needs. We could live as the people of Ghana do. I his letter on page 3. They both agree the tour was a life changing event. Watch for more coverage in issues to come. not help but be moved. See “Some villagers” on page 4 The Nicodemus Project Support for parishes seeking meaningful change

BY JIM MORELL Parish self-assessment re- We fully expect The Nicode- As Bishop Edward Salmon is quires a deep and honest look mus Project to be on the agenda fond of saying, “We need to speak Jim Morell is chair of the Dioc- The Nicodemus Project is on at parish identity and ministry. of every parish annual meeting, the truth in love” in this process. esan Council Administration track and on task as it guides This is neither a simple task nor and that congregations will Only then can we ask God to help Team, which has responsibility the diocese, through its teams a quick fi x, but it is something ev- be led to make the kind of life- us become re-born and to begin for The Nicodemus Project. and committees, toward transfor- ery parish is expected to accom- changing decisions that allowed leading a new and different kind mational change as directed by plish by June 2010. The recently Nicodemus to be born again and of life. Synod 2009. Earlier this month trained facilitators are ready, to fi nd God. the Parish Support and Develop- willing and able to share their The changes we may need ment Team spent a day training time and talents to help parishes to make will require sacrifice. 10 facilitators to guide and sup- that see this as a daunting task. If we want our churches to be Get the news fi rst at port parishes through self-as- It is an essential one, though, strong, healthy, mission-focused, sessment, the identifi ed fi rst step because it will enable the parish welcoming and growing, then http://anglican.nb.ca in the change process. to recognize new visions and es- we have to re-set our hearts and The Spiritual Growth Team tablish challenging, but doable, minds on what God expects of is looking into establishing pro- action plans for change. us as his people and his church. While you’re there, grams and opportunities for In John’s Gospel, Nicodemus’ With prayer, strong leadership re-learning what it means to encounter with Jesus led him to and a willingness to do things subscribe to E News be Christian and Anglican, and seek transformation, just as our differently, God — through the the Episcopal Team is working diocese does today. Nicodemus Spirit — will lead us. We know in and on the idea of a leadership and knew that in order to begin a our hearts that he stands ready. get the news delivered to your in-box each week. learning weekend aimed at pre- new life focused on God, he had to The Nicodemus Project is paring our clergy and lay leaders change his ways. In honour of Ni- based on the priorities set by Di- Click on the News button at the top of the page and for a different future. All this codemus’ faithfulness, and with ocesan Council (synod between progress even before the project confi dence in our own prayerfully synods) in response to Synod’s choose E News from the drop-down menu. is officially launched in every revealed priorities, we named our call to transformational change. parish in the diocese on Sunday, diocesan pursuit of transforma- http://anglican.nb.ca/synod/ Jan. 31. tional change for him. council/091119_np_plan.pdf. 2 / THE NEW BRUNSWICK ANGLICAN JANUARY 2010

N E W S Inaugural international meeting of and their supporters in Houlton, Maine

Deacons, and those concerned the Rev. Joyce Perry, of shared their hopes, expectations with the formation of deacons, the Commission of the Diaconate and concerns and discussed found much good will and fel- represented the Diocese of Fred- their common and different lowship as well as the presence ericton. The Rev. Peg Thomas, understandings of deacons and of the Holy Spirit at an historic coordinator, and the Rev. Deacon the diaconal ministry. They meeting in Houlton, Maine last Lee Burns, the Rev. Deacon Jeri learned from one another about October. They attended the fi rst- Williams, and the Rev. Deacon differences in polity and came ever international meeting of Jessie Drysdale of the Deacon to understand how these differ- representatives of the Anglican Formation Program Advisory ences impact on formation and Diocese of Fredericton and the council represented the Diocese ministry. Episcopal Diocese of Maine to of Maine. discuss the formation and sup- Discernment, education, for- After lunch they discussed Archbishop Claude Miller (left) offi cially opened the Art of Sharing port of deacons. mation processes and post-or- next steps, like a meeting of dea- exhibition and sale in the Kennebecasis Valley in December. With him are, Thomas Nisbett, chair, and dination formation were all cons from New Brunswick and left to right, are the Rev. Marian Lucas Jefferies, Anne Walling, Dale Cook the Rev. Deacon Fran Bedell, the discussed and possibilities of northern Maine next spring in and Carolyn Vanderlip. Rev. Canon Neville Cheeseman, combined retreats were imag- Woodstock. Mr. Nisbett offered to the Rev. Amanda Longmoore and ined over lunch. The groups coordinate the arrangements. Art show and sale support PWRDF and CanadianFoodgrains Bank D E A N E R Y E X E C U T I V E

Archbishop Claude Miller (left) sale went to Canadian Foodgrains offi cially opened the Art of Shar- Bank (CFGB), committed to end- ing exhibition and sale at the ing hunger by supporting part- Kennebecasis Public Library on nerships and activities overseas, Dec. 8. infl uencing necessary changes The exhibition and sale of 10 in public policies, and deepening evocative new paintings by artist the involvement of Canadians. Dale Cook, based on photographs The Primate’s World Relief and by the Rev. Marian Lucas Jef- Development Fund (PWRDF), feries and Carolyn Vanderlip, the Canadian Anglican response continued for the entire month for emergency relief, refugees, of December. development, and justice, is a All the paintings depicted life CFGB partner. in African and Asian countries Anne Walling, diocesan like Bangladesh, Sir Lanka and PWRDF coordinator, was on Ethiopia, where a stable food hand for the event as well as Ms. supply is often illusive. Cook, Ms. Lucas Jefferies and Ms. Some of the proceeds of the Vanderlip.

Spend the summer at Camp Brookwood The Board of Camp Brookwood is accepting applications for director and assistant director. Please send applications to Mary Lee Phillips at ([email protected]) BETTY ADAMS or P.O. Box 557, Florenceville, NB E7L 1Y8. The Rev. Karman Hunt, Regional Dean of Fredericton/York, installed the ACW deanery executive Find applications and more information about Brookwood at 2009-2011 at the deanery annual meeting at St. Michael and All Angels Church in Minto. Left to anglican.nb.ca/wpmu/camp_brookwood. right are Mr. Hunt, secretary/treasurer Rita Beattie, vice-president Marie Hargrove and president Betty Clements. Sharon Miller was guest speaker at the meeting and shared her experiences at Lambeth with her husband, Archbishop Claude Miller. Dessert and other delights Dessert reception and silent auction in support of The Christ Church Cathedral Belize Mission Team Jan. 30, 7 - 9 p.m. Cathedral Memorial Hall Tickets $10. Contact Cindy 474-0942 or [email protected] www.anglican.nb.ca OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE DIOCESE OF FREDERICTON A SECTION OF THE ANGLICAN JOURNAL Work and Creativity The Rt. Rev. Claude Miller Bishop and Publisher Ana Watts Editor A retreat with Bishop DEADLINE (retired) Published 10 times per year. Price of subscription $10.00 Villa Madonna March 5 to 7, 2010 for copy and photo Please send news and photo submissions to Begins with supper 5:30 Friday evening submissions to the Ana Watts, 773 Glengarry Place, Fredericton, NB E3B 5Z8 Ends with lunch Sunday at noon New Brunswick Phone: 506-459-5358; E-mail: [email protected] Registration $168 per person single $248 for a couple Anglican is the fi rst working day of the Busuries available Please send subscription renewals and changes of address to: month previous to Contact the Rev. Canon Neville Cheeseman The New Brunswick Anglican publication. c/o Anglican Journal Circulation Dept., 80 Hayden St, (506) 455-8690 [email protected],ca. Toronto, ON M4Y 3G2 Register with the Rev. Canon John Cathcart Printed & mailed by Signal Star Publishing jc8@nbnet,nb.ca A division of Bowes Publishers Ltd. , Goderich, Ontario

JANUARY 2010 THE NEW BRUNSWICK ANGLICAN / 3

T H E B I S H O P ’ S P A G E

P R I N C I P A L Visit to the Diocese of Ho an Epiphany E N G A G E M E N T S Epiphany 2010 January 4-6 Dear Friends, National Gathering on Theo- logical Education, Montreal dvent, Christmas and the new calendar year Ahave come and gone and January 7-9 we are in the Epiphany season. House of The manifestation of the Christ Child to the Gentiles, represent- January 20 ed by the Wise Men from the East, bore gold, frankincense Diocesan Council and myrrh. These treasures, worthy of a king, were given to February 9 the Christ child. The past weeks were fi lled Bishop ’s Counsel with joy as the Christian world celebrated the birth of Jesus February 22 — God’s love made real — to a Christ Church Cathedral broken and confused world of greed and hedonism. Just a few short weeks ago I to debrief and to begin a plan who only wanted to greet you people who care — our compan- was privileged to lead a small of sharing our experience. But with the words “You are very ion brothers and sisters in Ho. delegation to the West African before that plan is unfolded, welcome!” One defi nition of the word country of Ghana. The four of I wanted to share my short It was 10 full days in which companion is caregiver. We us were privileged to spend 10 answer to that question. to worship, pray, sing, dance were truly cared for in Ho, and days with Bishop Matthias, of My experience in Ghana was and to share rice, chicken and as our relationship deepens it ANNOUNCEMENTS our Companion Diocese of Ho, truly life changing. By that I fi sh, to exchange gifts and to is my prayer that our caring for The Rev. Canon Neville Chee- in the Volta Region of Ghana. mean, it would not be possible embrace with Christian affec- each other might continue to seman was appointed to min- Ghana is a sub-Saharan tropi- to spend 10 days with Bishop tion in the sharing of the gospel make real God’s Epiphany of istry and pastoral oversight as cal country that is reasonably Matthias and his people with- with one another. It all left our love in our hearts. interim priest-in-charge, on a well off compared to other ar- out being drawn to refl ect on small delegation overwhelmed. part-time basis, of the Parish eas of Africa to the southeast. our western reality of personal The Diocese of Ho is truly our of Prince William, effective The Anglican Diocese of and corporate abundance and companion. November 29 2009. Ho covers nearly all of the our desire for more; set over The fl ag of Ghana is three Volta Region. Of the Christian and against a culture desiring broad colored stripes — green The Rev. Roderick Black, rector denominations, the Anglican only to share life’s essential for the lush, tropical forests; of the Parish of Bathurst, was Diocese of Ho is a minority needs with hospitality, generos- gold, the precious mineral of appointment to ministry and denomination. ity and a smile that displayed the Gold Coast; red for the pastoral oversight as priest-in- Since my return, many have the countenance of divine love. blood of the martyrs. A central Archbishop Claude Miller is charge in the Parish of New asked “how was your trip to It was 10 full days of travel black star represents the people Metripolitain of the Ecclesiasti- Bandon, effective November Ghana?” A couple of weeks to be with priests, deacons, of Ghana. This fl ag represents cal Province of Canada and 1, 2009. ago our small delegation met teachers, families and children proud, non-violent, democratic Bishop of Fredeicton. Stewardship of our accountability

If we say that we have fellow- what I’m accountable. When ship with him while we are I’m unclear about that, every- If I can’t count and measure my walking in darkness, we lie and thing unravels. If I can’t count do not do what is true; but if we and measure my relationships relationships against the prescribed walk in the light as he himself against the prescribed Chris- Christian model — God’s Word and that is in the light, we have fellow- tian model — God’s Word and Word found in Jesus Christ — I’m not being ship with one another ... that Word found in Jesus Christ 1 John 1: 6,7a — I’m not being a steward, a steward, rather, the world and even the rather, the world and even the Church are “stewarding” me. t a recent meeting of the Church are “stewarding” me. Diocesan Council and in ship of money. When we qualify Some would (and do) argue Athe context of a study on what we mean by the word, with me on that. “Christian stewardship, one member sug- stewardship begins to carry its faith is a matter of grace, not More often than not in my life, fact, we would be on a different gested the need to qualify that real meaning. law!” they say. “Every one I am what is amiss. When I step road with its own set of guide- word. “Wouldn’t it be clearer if During his two visits with deserves a second chance” and outside the boundary, wander posts. But “I have decided to when we used the word we said us, Bishop Salmon used the “A” I’d be the fi rst to agree since on the other side of the fence follow Jesus,” the familiar song what we mean? Stewardship of word a lot — accountability. I’ve had several. But biblically, lining the path I try to walk goes. Further, I’ve decided to do what?” The basis for his approach to law and grace, rules and love, as a baptized Christian, bells that following as an Anglican It’s true. When I use the stewardship, it would seem discipline and freedom are not ring, lights fl ash and hopefully Christian. word, I usually have something to me, is accountability. And opposed to one another. Law someone is there to remind me For me stewardship of our particular in mind and use a indeed that is what its about. and grace function hand in than I’ve wandered off. accountability is the struggle, word with a very broad and Isn’t it? In order to manage glove, and when they do we see That reminder is a true gift. grief and sometimes fear I all-encompassing meaning. For what we have (and we have a the will of God made real in our Are there exceptions? Of experience when someone taps most, “stewardship” means great deal) there is a fundamen- lives and in our relationships course. But exceptions that me on the shoulder and says, fund-raising or a fi nancial cam- tal a need for clear account- with one another and with him. become the rule are no longer “you’ve wandered off.” It’s also paign. Christian stewardship is ability. We need to be able to “Speak the truth in love,” St. exceptions. Instead, they are when I’m the one doing the much, much more than that. answer to one another respon- Paul said. “... whose service the new rule and we’re more tapping, taking the responsibil- At the 2009 stewardship con- sibly about every aspect of our is perfect freedom” is how the than likely on another road. ity to be the giver of a true gift. ference, Bishop Edward Salmon relationships with people and Book of Common Prayer puts it We all stray – bump up That gift is Jesus himself; in did this very thing when he be- with things. That is the basis of (page 11). against a violation of what [whom] there is no darkness at gan by speaking about the stew- stewardship. he law — the rules we fol- is agreed to be the normal or all. ardship of the Gospel, and it is So what does the steward- Tlow — on the Christian road best way (laws and rules). And on this aspect of stewardship ship of that accountability look are the guideposts that remind St. Paul also reminds us that that he spent most of his time. like? us what road we are on. When “where there is no law, neither The Ven. Geoffrey Hall is He followed that by discussing To me, it means that I cannot we bump up against them it’s is there violation.” (Romans Executive Assistant to the stewardship of the church’s begin to be a steward, keeper or a needed reminder that some- 4) If we weren’t committed to Bishop of Fredericton, leadership and concluded with manager of anything until I’m thing is amiss. Christian life and its principles, Secretary of the Synod and a short time on the steward- clear about to whom and with Sometimes it’s the rule. there would be no problem. In Diocesan . 4 / THE NEW BRUNSWICK ANGLICAN JANUARY 2010

N E W S Some villagers enjoy a sense of stability we wish we could import

Continued from page 1 often stared out the car window water makes a huge positive at the many street vendors and difference in their lives. I wondered what it would be Although there are no offi - like to carry merchandise on cial costs for education, parents my head from six o’clock in the are required to pay school fees morning until midnight each in order for their children to day, with just the occasional attend. Not everyone can afford break to return to my shack them. and cook or sleep. We saw some lush and green Our primary response is to areas in Ghana, but some crops wish we could fi x everything. that grew without fail from the We want all the people there beginning of time are unreli- to have the same benefi ts and able in this time of climate amenities that we enjoy. Some change. of them do want that, and a And what is it like to live in few even have it — every once a mud hut with a grass roof in a while we would see a huge during a rainstorm? private mansion surrounded by Our visit convinced us that high walls. if the Diocese of Fredericton As we think of the aid that is going to sponsor a project in has gone into African countries Ghana, it must be one that will since the 1950’s, however, we help make them self-suffi cient, are reminded that in many rather than dependant on us. instances our way of ‘fi xing’ While we were in Ghana we Africa has not worked. North learned (or at least we tried) to America has not been the best let go of schedules and relin- infl uence on that culture. quish a bit of control and we In many small, remote vil- came home anxious to support lages their way of life is stable the people there in ways that and dependable even though are good for them. We are pray- “I wondered what it would be like to carry merchandise on they live in mud huts and on ing about this, and we hope you small farms. Most of these vil- will too. Perhaps our hearts will my head from six o’clock in the morning until midnight lages enjoy a sense of stability be fi lled with joy as theirs are, we wish could be imported into and maybe some day we will each day, with just the occasional break to return to my our lives. At the same time, dance our offerings to the altar however, we cannot remain as they do. shack and cook or sleep.” Jasmine Chandra. ignorant of their needs. One parish had a water The Rev. Jasmine Chandra is pump installed last May in assistant curate in the Parish of great rejoicing, access to clean Rothesay.

Coffee a toonie, fellowship priceless

BY MARTHA RITCHIE y most memorable cup of coffee was on Jan. 24, 2006. Our small country church in Westcock, outside of Sack- Mville, built a new church hall in the fall of the previous year. During construction many of the local men met at the site each day to watch its progress. After we moved into the hall in early January, I met an elderly man at the church one morning “just wondering if anyone was around.” But the doors to the new hall were locked and the meeting spot was no longer available. I decided that for a twoonie I could put on a pot of coffee and bring in a batch of muffi ns one Wednesday morning a month as a bit of a fundrasier. So on that January day a friend and I shovelled the steps and served coffee, tea and muffi ns to 15 men who said they would really like to have it every week. Midweek Coffee in the Church Woods was born. Our construction debt is considerable, but Wednesday coffee times from Thanksgiving through Victoria Day have reduced it by about $13,000. The friendship and fellowship are priceless. The laughter and smiles that were there in 2006 were still there this morning. These coffee hours are among the happiest mornings of the last three years.

On Nov. 4, 2009, Martha Ritchie of St. Ann’s, Westcock, entered this story in a radio contest called “My Most Memorable Cup of Coffee.” JANUARY 2010 THE NEW BRUNSWICK ANGLICAN / 5

P A R I S H N E W S Anglican Foundation supports two parish projects

The St. John the Evangelist Church in Fredericton North and St. Luke’s Church in the north end of Saint John are grateful to the Anglican Foundation for its generous support. Peter Irish, a member of the Anglican Foundation board of directors recently presented the Frederic- ton church with a $115,000 loan for construction of a large new church facility and the Saint John church with a $10,000 loan to replace its steam boiler. St. John the Evangelist de- molished its large multi-pur- pose church hall building on Main Street, across from the picturesque stone church, and has begun construction on the fi rst phase of a modern facility. The fi rst phase includes offi ces, professional kitchen and a very large hall area that will be used for services until completion of phase two, which includes the church proper. The new boiler at St. Luke’s is keeping the people in that vener- able church on Main Street in Above, Peter Irish, second from left, presents a cheque for $115,000 from the Anglican Foundation to Graham Standen, warden of St. John the Evangelist Saint John warm this winter. The maximum Anglican Foun- Church in Fredericton in support of the fi rst phase of its new church facility building project. Looking on are the rector, the Rev. Canon Bill MacMullin, and dation loan is usually $100,000, warden Roger Schwartz. but at its October meeting it On the right, Peter Irish, of the Anglican Foundation, presents a cheque for $10,000 increased the amount to $115,000 to Paul Miffl in of St. Luke’s property committee. The loan from the Anglican for St. John the Evangelist be- Foundation is to help the Saint John church replace its failed steam boiler. Looking cause it did not have enough on are the rector, the Rev. Eileen Irish and warden Denise Coughlan. cash, thanks to recent market turmoil, to deliver the $15,000 severe heart attack late last fall Canada. If you would like to help grant that would normally ac- and has been in the prayers of strengthen the Anglican Com- company the loan. New Brunswick Anglicans ever munion in Canada and extend A total of $203,650 in loans and since. Mr. Irish is pleased to say the reach of God’s good work, $15,000 in grants was awarded at that thanks to those prayers, please consider membership in that meeting in support of new expert medical treatment and a and/or a donation to the foun- building construction, furnace lot of determination, he is slowly dation. I sincerely welcome our and oil tank replacements, build- but steadily resuming his work newest member, St. John the ing accessibility renovations and duties. “It was great to hear his Evangelist Church.” theological education. voice on a recent conference For more information on John VanNostrand Wright, call,” said Mr. Irish. the foundation see the website executive director of the Angli- “The Anglican Foundation www.anglicanfoundation.org or can Foundation and a former operates on the generosity and contact Mr. Irish at (506) 693-9636 dean of this diocese, suffered a compassion of Anglicans across /[email protected].

W E L C O M E T O T H E N I N E T I E S !

LEFT The people of St. Agnes Church in Gray Rapids (Derby & Blackville) helped Hazel Underhill celebrate her 90th birthday at a surprise reception following the service on Sunday, Oct. 4. Young Dalton Sturgeon presented her with a card and fl owers on behalf of the congregation. Everyone, including several members of Hazel’s family, enjoyed cake and tea. For many years Hazel and her late husband Roland served as Sunday school teachers and positively infl uenced countless young people. RIGHT The Chi Rho Club of Trinity, Saint John, recently toured the new Chateau Saint John which stands where St. Paul’s, Valley stood for more than a century. Among those on the tour was Eleanor Elliott, who just happened to be celebrating her 90th birthday. She was treated to a special cake, which nicely complemented the refreshments provided by the hotel. Club organizer Harold Hazen is shown with the birthday girl. VALERIE STEWART DAVID GOSS 6 / THE NEW BRUNSWICK ANGLICAN JANUARY 2010

C O L U M N S I’m Curious, George … Is it okay to wrestle with God? ’ve been refl ecting on how of friendship, family, romance would prefer to avoid, wrestling cess – because as Mr and Mrs young people often seem to and marriage to describe our is inevitable. Beaver said of Aslan, of course Ibe left pretty much ill-pre- relationships with God. Because our relationship God’s not safe but God is good pared for the reality of wres- Many other biblical with God is real and alive, – how much better to wrestle tling with God and are some- heroes from Moses and Lot these things come into it. They in the company of companion times thrown off course when through the prophets wrestled don’t mean the loss of faith; wrestlers! How much better to they run up against this reality with God in different ways. they don’t even have to lead engage our dangerous God, or in the spiritual life. I noted great source of energy for life, Even Jesus wrestled with God to disrupted relationship. It to deal with the sense of God’s that much of what passes for a dynamic relationship with a in prayer to the point of sweat- is ok to say to God: ‘I love you absence, that in the community wrestling with God is not really God we can wrestle with as Ja- ing blood. The post-biblical but I don’t like you very much of God-wrestlers. so much about God as it is with cob wrestled with the angel.’ ** saints frequently describe their right now.’ God is big enough things we think, believe or have Our God is not just some relationship with God in terms to embrace with us our disap- *These thoughts on wrestling heard about God. Big Idea out there somewhere. of a phrase I’ve chosen for my pointment and disillusionment, with God originally appeared Dealing with wrestling God is not just some Star Wars own tombstone, with apologies to hold us even as we beat our in a slightly different format in becomes even more important, Force. God is the living God, to Robert Frost: ‘I had a lovers’ fi sts against the divine breast Wycliffe Institute of Evange- however, when we are not just and the living God engages us quarrel with God.’ of the heart of love, and to walk lism’s good idea! (October 2009). wrestling with things about in living relationships. Living When we crash against ice- with us through the mess. God but actually with God. Ja- relationships are not always bergs in life, disappointment, We pledge to the newly **Parker J. Palmer, The Promise cob didn’t wrestle with an idea joyful and full of easy bless- pain, fear and a whole host of baptised and confi rmed to do of Paradox: A Celebration of about God; he wrestled with ing. They’re messy, sometimes negative emotions are normal. all in our power to help them Contradictions in the Christian God. The Quaker writer Parker diffi cult and often involve Sometimes God seems absent. in their lives in Christ, so they Life (San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, Palmer says: ‘By turning wrestling with the beloved When we sense God calling us simply cannot be abandoned 2008), 44. earthly Hebraic holiness into – even the Beloved. I don’t sup- to do the hard things of the in their wrestling with God. The Rev. Dr. George Porter is a philosophical Greek abstrac- pose it’s coincidental that the spiritual life, to go where we Even when we can’t spare them diocesan Canon for Youth and tion, we deprive ourselves of a biblical writers use metaphors would rather not or do what we the risk of injury in the pro- director of youth action. Casting Crowns does it again — but where’s the musical growth?

hile the past few sense. It could have been the song is based. To read these months’ worth of new “missing second disc” from re- passages from the Bible after Wreleases has brought cording sessions of past years. hearing the song is to almost the usual Christmas fare, one Don’t get me wrong, it is still get a glimpse at the writing pro- notable release was the newest good music — but I was hoping cess that crafted these songs. Casting Crowns studio album to see what such gifted musi- Songs to note include the Until the Whole World Hears. cians might do next. title track, as well as “Always It follows in the same vein as That being said, the same Enough”, and “To Know You.” Between the Altar and the Door. strong, Scripture-based lyrics If you like what you have heard You’ll fi nd a few ballads, Personally, I like to see a band continue to be the strength of of Casting Crowns you will “anthemic” tracks and some grow musically from album this band. In the CD booklet, enjoy this album, as well. numbers tailored for the to album, this one was rather the band helpfully listed the The Rev. Chris Hayes is a musi- contemporary radio market. disappointing, in the musical Scriptures upon which each cian and rector of Quispamsis. Archives Corner: The Church that never was recent purchase by the this to erect our long expected desk, will, according to estimate Diocesan Archives Com- church there but the men had received, be $1793.” It would be Amittee of a sketch/plan no work either at the foundry “built shortly.” labelled “Episcopal Church at or at the nail factory for about Surprisingly, despite the Coldbrook, near St. John, NB” six months in the year, and promising beginning in Moose prompts this article. Like many were thus unable to contribute Path/Coldbrook under the lead- documents, it supplies informa- anything toward the building, ership of the Rev. G. Schofi eld tion while raising more ques- and the great fi re in Saint John and layreader, G. Herbert Lee, tions. on June 20th made it impossible no building was constructed. Exactly when or where to obtain aid from the church- In fact, Coldbrook was not Church of England services men there, who have always resurrected until 1915 when actually began in Moose Path been so ready to help their less the Rev. R. Taylor McKim was (early name for Coldbrook) is wealthy brethren. We have sent to St. Mary’s (Saint John) not known. In his 1873 report deposited about $400 at interest as curate to establish a mis- to the Diocesan Synod, the Rev. in the Bank of New Brunswick. sion in East Saint John, i.e. George Schofi eld, Parish of Si- We also have a promise yet Coldbrook. Services were held monds, suddenly introduced this available of $150 from the So- fi rst in ‘‘McKiel’s Hall” until St. new mission, when he noted, “At ciety for Promoting Christian Bartholomew’s (pictured here) Moose Path, we are preparing to Knowledge and we have a piece was suffi ciently complete for its build a new Church after a model of land donated by the Dioc- fi rst service on June 4th, 1916. kindly supplied by the Bishop.” esan Church Society measured With strong summer minis- Above: Architect’s drawing of the () He added that they and staked off. As soon as times tries (especially that of Ledrew “Moose Path” churchpublished hoped to have the church paid off mend, we are ready to arise and Gardner), St. Bartholomew’s in the American Architect and by year’s end. build.” grew and in 1925, its fi rst Building News, July 5, 1879 In 1877, the Rev. Schofi eld The “model kindly supplied by vestry was elected. Finally, wrote “The plans for the new the Bishop” may be the church when the new church hall was church at Moose Path are in this photo, which was pub- built in 1934, Bishop Richard- Church from the architect’s now being prepared by Mssrs. lished in the American Architect son visited and dedicated St. drawing published in the McKean and Fairweather and and Building News in July 1879. Bartholomew’s. American Architect and Build- we hope to commence with the Designed by Mssrs. R. Brown ing News, July 5, 1879; The Archives Corner is prepared frame of the building almost and J.C. Allison, Architects, New References: • Peter Little, Look Forward not by Twila Buttimer (Twila. immediately. Meanwhile we York, this church could “accom- • Bishop Medley’s Journal; Back – A History of St. Mary’s [email protected] or 506-453- have made considerable prog- modate 132 people. It will be built Bishop Richardson Episcopal Church. The photo of St. 4306) and Frank Morehouse ress in raising funds.” Only a of wood with an open timbered Register of Services, St. Bar- Bartholomew’s Church comes ([email protected] year later, he sounded less op- roof. The cost of the work, includ- tholomew, 1915-1952; from this book, courtesy of Ted 3637). They welcome your com- timistic: “We had hoped before ing seats, pulpit and reading- • Photo of the “Moose Path” Anderson.) ments, questions or suggestions. JANUARY 2010 THE NEW BRUNSWICK ANGLICAN / 7

I N T E R C E S S I O N S Transformation: not for JANUARY Rev. Deacon Sarah Usher, Len Diocese of Ho, Brother Clemence ¶ 24: PRAY for The Anglican Usher & family, the Most Rev. Ahun, diocesan catechist. Church of Burundi, the Most Rev. Terry Buckle and the Ministry ¶ 12: Parish of St. David & St. the future, for us, now Bernard Ntahoturi, Archbishop Team, Archbishop Terry Buckle, Patrick, the Rev. Canon John BY RICHARD MCCONNELL of the Province of Burundi & Blanche and family. Claude, our Matheson, priest-in-charge. Bishop of Matana. Archbishop archbishop, William, George and ¶ 13: Parish of St. George, the Rev. n November Archdeacon Fred Hiltz Primate, Anglican Harold, retired bishops, and their Mary Anne Langmaid. told us Church of Canada. Diocese of families. ¶ 14: PRAY for Iglesia Anglicana about challenge of the min- Ho, Worawora Deanery, the FEBRUARY de la Region Central de America, I Rev. Charels A. Tetteh, priest- ¶ 1: Parish of Portland, the Rev. the Most Rev. Martin de Jesus istry in the South End of Saint John. A church may have in-charge, the Rt. Rev. Matthias Eileen Irish. The Ven. Lyman Barahona, Primate of IARCA closed there, but a ministry on Meduadues-Badohu. Diocese Harding (retired). & Bishop of El Salvador. Arch- the streets has begun. He told of Yukon, Haines Junction - St. ¶ 2: Parish of Prince William, (open bishop Fred Hiltz, Primate Angli- us that the only real threat Christopher’s, Beaver Creek incumbency). Diocese of Ho, Rev. can Church of Canada. Diocese that faces the church is that it - St. Columba, Alaska Highway Redeemer Ametefe Semevor, as- of Ho, Agbozune Deanery, the should turn in on itself. “We mile 918-1202, the Most Rev. sistant curate, Worawora. Rev. Canon George D. Asiamah, have to look in all directions: Terry Buckle and the Ministry ¶ 3: Parish of Quispamsis, the rural dean, the Rt. Rev. Matthias past, present and future, to Team, Archbishop Terry Buckle, Rev. Chris Hayes. The Ven. Har- Meduadues-Badohu. Diocese of discover where God is leading Blanche and family. Claude, our old Hazen (retired). Yukon, Pelly Crossing - St. James his church!” Archbishop, William, George and ¶ 4: Parish of Renforth, the Rev. the Lord’s Brother, Betty Joe, Thank you, Saint John. Harold, retired bishops, and their Eric Phinney, the Rev. Canon licensed lay minister, the Most Archdeacon Edwards families. Ed Coleman, pastoral assistant. Rev. Terry Buckle and the min- ¶ 25: Parish of Musquash, (open Diocese of Ho, the Rev. Charles istry team, Archbishop Buckle, writes from the South End, I Individual parishes are incumbency) Capt. Rob Marsh Anum Tetteh, priest-in-charge, Blanche and family. Claude, our write from the South East. tackling some of society’s larg- interim. The Rev. Elaine Hamil- Worawora Deanery. Archbishop, William, George and Our gritty edge isn’t as est issues, developing a close ton, on leave. ¶ 5: Parish of Restigouche, (open Harold, retired bishops, and their obvious as South End Saint alliance with the Teen Chal- ¶ 26: Parish of the Nerepis and St. incumbency). families. John’s, but it’s here in the lenge Institute that houses 25 John, the Ven. Vicars Hodge, the ¶ 6: Parish of Richmond, (open ¶ 15: Parish of St. James, Monc- drive-through capital of recovering addicts; working Rev. Michael Caines, assistant incumbency). ton, the Rev. Donald Hamilton, the drive-through province, with the psychiatric ward of curate, the Rev. Deacon Eleanor ¶ 7: PRAY for The Church of priest-in-charge. The Rev. Canon the stunning recreational the hospital to provide toilet- Dryden. Diocese of Ho, Rev. the Province of Central Africa. James Irvine (retired). qualities of Parlee Beach and ries and winter clothing to Prosper Francis Kwame Deh. Archbishop Fred Hiltz Primate ¶ 16: Parish of Saint John, the Fundy National Park notwith- patients, many of whom are assistant curate, Kpando. Anglican Church of Canada. Dio- Rev. Dr. Ranall Ingalls, the Rev. standing. young street people at risk of ¶ 27: Parish of New Bandon, cese of Ho, Kpando Deanery, the George Trentowsky, honorary Truth be told, though, we substance abuse. (open incumbency). Liz Harding, Rev. Canon Joseph K. Bentum, assistant, the Rev. Deacon Con- have visitors who tarry longer Another parish incorpo- Christian Education Director, rural dean, the Rt. Rev. Matthias stance Soulikas-Whittaker. Dio- — inmates of the Dorchester rates residents of a local men’s on leave. Meduadues-Badohu. Diocese cese of Ho, Sister Joyce Agbefu, Penitentiary and Westmorland shelter in its Alpha program. ¶ 28: Parishes of Newcastle & of Yukon, Mayo - St. Mary with diocesan catechist. Institute correctional facili- One of our parishes pro- Nelson, the Ven. Richard Steeves. St. Mark, the Rev. Susan Tit- ¶ 17: Parish of St. Margaret’s, the ties. The Rev. Greg Frazer, one vides a hot community meal Diocese of Ho, the Rev. Joseph terington and the lay ministry Rev. Canon Jon Lownds, the Rev. of “us” gets to know them well one Sunday a month and feeds Wilson Kwame Hayibor, Assis- team, Archbishop Terry Buckle, John Harvey, honorary assistant. as chaplain. more than 200. Other churches tant curate, Ho. Blanche and family. Claude, our The Rev. Canon David Jackson The relationship between in the community cover the ¶ 29: Parish of New Maryland, Archbishop, William, George and (retired). criminal behaviour and the other Sundays. Funding for the Rev. Bruce McKenna. Harold, retired bishops, and their ¶ 18: Parish of St. Mark (Stone) abuse of intoxicating sub- this parish outreach is part of 30: Parish of Pennfi eld, the Rev. families. Church, the Ven. Capt David stances is extremely high. Add the budget and the volunteers Keith Osborne. ¶ 8: Parish of Riverview, the Rev. Edwards, the Rev. Paul Ranson, to that lots and lots of isolated are an unexpected gift. ¶ 31: PRAY for The Anglican Brent Ham. The Rev. Karman Anglican South End Ministry. coastline and it should be no The prison ministry re- Church in Aotearoa, New Zea- Hunt. Diocese of Ho, Brother Felix Atta surprise that this area has leases people into the halfway land & Polynesia Aotearoa - (New ¶ 9: Parish of Rothesay, the Rev. Boakye (in training), diocesan its share of substance abuse, houses of Moncton where Zealand) The Most Rev. William Canon Albert Snelgrove, the catechist. much of it by children and many of our clergy, if not Brown Turei. Archbishop Fred Rev. Jasmine Chandra, assistant ¶ 19: Parish of St. Martin’s & young adults. Beaches are our people, have contact with Hiltz Primate Anglican Church curate. Diocese of Ho, Justice Black River, the Rev. Gerald very different places after them. of Canada. Diocese of Ho, Ca- Richardson Komla Macarphuy, Laskey, priest-in-charge. dark. There is even a parish thedral Deanery, the Very Rev. seminarian. 20: Parish of St. Mary’s (York), In the beginning I suspect layperson initiating the Street Simon K Abler, Dean of Ho, the ¶ 10: Parish of St. Andrews, the the Rev. Ian Wetmore. Moncton Deanery was typical Hope program of the Cana- Rt. Rev. Matthias Meduadues-Ba- Rev. Canon John Matheson. The of the rest of the diocese with dian Church Army. He loiters dohu. , White- Rev. Valerie Hunt. its rural farming and fi shing intentionally wherever he horse - Church of the Northern ¶ 11: Parish of St. Andrew’s, Diocesan intercessions are also communities and comfort- is apt to meet young people Apostles, the Ven. Dr. Sean Mur- Sunny Brae with Hillsborough on-line at http://anglican.nb/ca. able neighbourhood parishes. facing the frightening choices phy (Archdeacon of Liard) the & Riverside, (open incumbency). Click on Prayer. The rural parishes have lost that living on or close to the their young to the suburbs street brings them. and those parishes are becom- When we gather as a S T . P E T E R ‘ S C O N F I R M A T I O N ing less and less connected to Greater Chapter we realize their neighbourhoods. They how many of these initiatives remain friendly and support- are taking place. What we ive, but not connected the each thought our inspiration way they were when Monday is recognized as the inspirit of through Friday was fi lled with the Spirit himself — stirring, Scouts and Brownies, quilting leading, brooding and often and Bible study. As we in the regathering the disconnec- parishes of this archdeaconry tions and disruptions of post compare our sense of where modern life. the loss is in our parishes, and I’ll speak of one last reality where the mission is, we arrive for the people who are still in at a place well beyond our our pews — they want to make comfort zones — but yet we a difference. Parish steward- are responding! ship is clearly strengthed as A rural parish sponsors a people become more engaged children’s program of music in this direct mission work. and Bible story that involves Transformation is not for all 24 of the children at a local someone in the future, it is school. Several parishes work us, now. But we know that with the prison and even offer because he told us: “Inasmuch Alpha. as you have done it to one of At least three parishes pro- the least of these my brothers vide supplies and leadership or sisters, you have done it for and people-power to suburban me.” BETTY ADAMS school breakfast program and On Nov 8 fi ve young people were confi rmed and had their fi rst Communion at St. Peter’s in Fredericton. A reception and another one provides daily The Ven. Richard McConnell is the presentation of certifi cates and Bibles followed in the church hall. From left to right are Archbishop Claude Miller; after school care. archdeacon of Moncton. Jillian Buckingham, Adrianna Ouellette, Daniel Greechan, Claire Griggs, Amanda Hyslop and the Rev. Dr.Ross Hebb (rector). 8 / THE NEW BRUNSWICK ANGLICAN JANUARY 2010

Y O U T H

At the St. Michael’s Youth Conference held in Bouctouche each August, the day includes Morning and Evening Prayer and the campers take their morning studies seriously. But after lunch, the Department of Fun takes over and there are outings as exciting as zip-lining and rock climbing. In the evening there are carnivals, movies and quizzes. Friday night’s Pageant of Redemption followed by a bonfi re attracts company from nearby parishes. Fun, friendship and faith found at SMYC

BY PHOEBE ROBERTSON study. The camp is situated on clergy and other instructors. camp’s newly opened heated of the life of Christ put on by an ocean inlet and has com- For example, Sue Careless, au- pool. the senior Michaelites, fol- t the end of every August, fortable cabins, good food and thor of the series Discovering In the evening, after Eve- lowed by a campfi re to wrap AChristian youth from a laid-back setting. the Book of Common Prayer ning Prayer, everyone partici- up the week. around the Maritimes gather Here’s a look at a Micha- offers two spirituality classes, pates in activities like a medi- The conference has been in picturesque Bouctouche, elite’s daily schedule. Every a great learning opportunity eval carnival, a movie night, running for 23 years and has New Brunswick at Camp morning, after Morning for conferees. Once classes and Quiz Night (my personal seen many great friendships Wildwood for the St. Michael’s Prayer and breakfast, the and lunch are over, the “De- favourite). We use the knowl- form between conferees from Youth Conference (SMYC). conferees attend three classes partment of Fun” runs a fi eld edge we have acquired in our many different communities. It welcomes youth from ages intended to inform and en- trip or an activity such as classes to answer a variety of 13 to 19 who are interested gage them. First and second bowling, shopping or swim- questions. An event that an- Anyone interested in learn- in learning more about their year Michaelites’ classes ming for the campers. In the nually attracts a large crowd ing more about the confer- faith and meeting others with are pre-chosen, while those summer of 2009 zip-lining and of congregation members ence should contact the direc- the same beliefs and interests. attending for their third year rock climbing activities were from many different parishes tor, the Rev. Kevin Stockall SMYC features fun activities or above may choose from a offered for the fi rst time, and is Friday night’s “Pageant of at (506) 536-0872 or kstockal@ focusing on faith, prayer and selection of topics taught by conferees got to swim in the Redemption,” a presentation nbnet.nb.ca.

Faculty and grad students gather H A N D S O N ! Judy Steers, director of Ask & for fellowship and exploration Imagine and national youth worker for the Anglican Church of Canada, by George Porter enjoys a light hearted moment with the Rev. Bill Cliffe of Huron Univer- r. Scott Dunham leads sity College during recent planning a Faculty and Gradu- meetings for ‘Hands ON’ — the 2010 Date Student Fellow- Canadian Lutheran and Anglican ship gathering in Holy Cross Youth gathering (CLAY 2010). Bill House at St. Thomas Univer- will be the main speaker for this sity (STU) in Fredericton. The historic fi rst national gathering of fi rst term, Scott (who teaches youth between 14 and 19 years of in the University of New age, along with their leaders, from Brunswick (UNB) philosophy ing at David Adams Richards’ our two ‘full communion’ denomina- department and works with book, God Is: My Search for tions — the Evangelical Lutheran InterVarsity Christian Fellow- Faith in a Secular World, and Church in Canada and the Anglican ship on campus, led the group another, as of yet unidenti- Church of Canada, scheduled for through Terry Eagleton’s fi ed, book. The fellowship is August 19-22. A bus – or a caravan book, The Meaning of Life: A open to any and all graduate of buses – is being arranged to col- very Short Introduction, re- students and faculty of both lect youth from Atlantic Canada rector — [email protected] or visit the fl ecting on the ways in which UNB and STU, as well as other and Quebec for the pilgrimage to website at http://www.clay2010.ca/. The August Ask his approach compares and interested persons. Scott can London, Ontario for this event. For & Imagine program will be incorporated into the contrasts with a more com- be contacted either at his of- further information, contact George CLAY theme and gathering as well. For information mon biblical understanding fi ce in Christ Church Cathe- Porter, the diocesan youth action di- on that program go to www.askandimagine.org. of the meaning of life. dral (leave a message), or on Next term, we will be look- line, [email protected]. Find youth news and Curious about George’s column? Look on page 6. events on-line at nbay.ca