2013 october

OCTOBER 2013

Bishop Pitman to Retire

The Right Reverend Cyrus Pitman, the Bishop of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador, announced his intention to retire this coming November. Anglican Life had the opportunity to sit down bishop Bishop Pitman for an interview. Anglican Life: How do you feel since you made the decision to retire this fall? Bishop: I feel it is the right decision. It is the right time. For me, it was a question of retiring either next Spring or now. By doing it now, the new bishop would have a chance to have a Synod in the Spring and get off to a good start. Anglican Life: What plans do you have for yourself after you retire? B i s h o p: ( L a u g h i n g ) Thats a good question! I do have many plans. I want to do some of the things I have expected other people to do all my life... Lay people in parishes. I will continue to engage in ministry. Im not sure what or where but I want to be of assistance wherever I am needed. I want to be helpful. The first few months I want to get my thoughts together and not take on a lot of stuff. I have much confidence in the Church. I believe many people will step up and be capable of doing what I was doing and more besides. Retirement for me wont mean sitting back in a chair...I have lots of different interests. I want to do the things I never had time to do before. Anglican Life: What things during your episcopacy would you consider challenging for you? Bishop: Well, early on in my episcopate, we became involved in the Anglican Essentials situation. Some people were going off in different directions. That was challenging. It was not just a challenging time for me but for the whole Church. In hindsight, I believe that process made us stronger. Some of the other challenges involved personnel. There are no easy solutions to these challenges. Dealing with issues in particular to clergy and to lay people that was very challenging. There are no easy solutions to things like that. We are living in an age of accountability and everything is on the table. I think that is really important. Whatever the issues are regarding personnel, you have to deal with them and we have had some serious issues. Anglican Life: What were the joys of being a bishop for the past ten years? Bishop: There have been a lot of joys! One of the joys has been trying to help people see that today is a great time for the Church. The move that St. Michaels Parish (in St. Johns) has made in relocating has been a great joy. The move made at the Parish of the Resurrection (in South River) made has been very good. I think parishes that have been trying to build community, which is happening more and more...we have some parishes that are beginning to grow again which is very positive. Part of the joy is seeing this new growth and planting some seeds that will grow in the future. God gives the
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growth! Anglican Life: In your opinion, how has ministry changed since you were first ordained a deacon? Bishop: Thats a huge question! Some things have changed dramatically, but the mission of the Church has never changed. When I look at how I came into ordained ministry, some of the challenges are the same. We still have to reach out into the community further and further and not be cloistered inside our churches. That was how it was when I started and it is true now. I came in as an ordained person in the 1960s and that was not an easy time. That was the time that people were saying, God is dead! Many people finished their training at Queens and decided not to be ordained. The whole society changed and the Churchs place in society changed as well. But in some ways, parts of what we were trying to do in ministry in the 1960s we need to do more deliberate today, particularly in reaching out. When we talk about the good old days in the Church and all the young people that were going...some of that was true, but some of that was not. What is true is that the Mission of the Church is for us to reach out and it is urgent and we have to continuously be working at. It is Gods Mission, not ours. God will always be in Mission. We are not the Mission...God is and we are partnering with God in the Mission to the world. That is what

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co-mission means...our Mission together with God. Some things have changed, and society has changed quite a bit but, as we read the Scriptures, the City of Corinth was also a very challenging place to be a Christian. I think today is just as challenging whether it be in urban, suburban or rural ministry. This is a life-saving and life-giving Mission. It is an exciting time for the Church and in terms of clergy and leaders, I believe people are going to have to be trained more deliberately to engage the culture. We are very good in the culture of the Church, but we are not so great in the culture of society. Anglican Life: You have been ordained for over 40 years. What do you think the Anglican Church will look like 40 years from now? Bishop: I was ordained in 1967. I think as we continue to move into the future, we will continue to decline, unless we recapture the reason we exist in the first place. We need to recapture that vision of why we are here as the Church. The possibilities are endless and I think society is crying out to the Church to make a difference. The model will have to be different. We will need to partner with other agencies and that is beginning to happen already. This will
Continued on Page 2 See: An Interview
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Photo: Jean Ellis

An Interview with Bishop Cy

Continued from Page 1

october 2013

be critical to the future of the Church, but perhaps more importantly, to the future of society. The Church is the salt and the yeast. It is called to make a difference in the world from the very beginning. This is a time of real opportunity for the Church. People are not negative about the Gospel, they want to see it in action. They want the Gospel to make a difference in their lives and others. Someone said a long time ago, When all is said and done, theres more said than done! People want to see what can be done. The other thing that has changed dramatically, is that the priest did all the work of ministry. Lay people were mostly consumers, but that is not so anymore. People are more engaged in the governance and witness of the Church than ever before. We came through a long period when clergy were the be-all and end-all. That is not so anymore and it is a good thing. The other thing that has changed quite a bit, is that churches have been in a survival mode. I think we are coming out of that now. We are taking some risks and leaps of faith in reaching out to people. St. Michaels Parish is an example of this. We are known to be a church that is always on the ground and making a difference. It is so easy to get into a cocoon and do all the churchy things, but the church things are out in the world. Anglican Life: Is there a particular portion of Scripture that has been a source of strength for you during your ministry? Bishop: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life, from the Gospel of John. That passage has been very meaningful for me. At the heart of it all for me, theologically, has been the Cross. The cost of the Cross and the joy of Easter. That has been my greatest joy! The Church is

an extension of Christ and this is our great joy! Anglican Life: If you could give any advice to your successor, what would it be? Bishop: One of the things is that I will only give advice if the new bishop seeks it! (laughs) I have learned that. My only advice is to focus upon the Cross and the Mission of the Church. Look at all the possibilities around us. We have some very skilled and dedicated clergy (in this Diocese) who are committed. We need to be able to look more closely at reaching out in this particular time and in this particular society and be faithful to the Mission of the Church. The question for the Church is, Are our best times ahead of us or behind us? My answer is that the best days for the Church are ahead of us. So that is why I dont see that we are gone in ten, twenty, or even a hundred years. The shape of the Church will be different, but I think that if we are true to the Gospel, the best days are ahead of us. Anglican Life: What will you miss the most about the daily work of being a Diocesan Bishop? Bishop: What I will miss most is the heavy responsibilities of being a bishop. I will miss seeing the bigger picture of the Church in the Diocese and across this country. I had the privilege of going to the Lambeth Conference and I learned that we are a very diverse Church. To paraphrase former Archbishop of Canterbury, Michael Ramsay, I believe he said, The fact that the Anglican Church looks so messy at times is at the heart of what it means to be part of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. I will miss the fellowship and moving around the Diocese. That was more of an interest to me. Throughout this Diocese there are a lot of very faithful people in very humble

situations. Each parish is unique but we have very faithful people looking for leadership. I will miss going around to the different parishes every weekend. That has been one of the big joys for me. We have a strong group of clergy and I think we can do a lot more together than apart. We have to work together. If not, it will be very challenging for the Church. The direction to be one was given by our Lord himself. Whoever becomes the Bishop, will have to continue to encourage the involvement of the whole people of God in the Mission of the Church. Anglican Life: What wont you miss about the day to day routine? Bishop: ( Laughing ) I wont miss the foolishness at times! But seriously, one of the joys for me is to see the growth and maturity that is happening amongst the clergy of this Diocese. That is really encouraging. Rather than giving it up, I see it as laying it down, and others will come along and pick up what is good and dispose of what is not good. Anglican Life : Share with us something you accomplished in your ministry that was an important achievement for you? Bishop: There are a number of things, but the thing that is most important to me is to encourage people to develop a deeper sense of Mission. The most challenging place on the planet for Mission is the neighborhoods we live in. I see so many parishes trying to reach out and I know how challenging that is for them. Trying to maintain a faith community and to reach out at the same time is very challenging. For me, if I have made any difference at all, hopefully encouraging people to continue in the Mission of the Church. As I said before, I have great confidence in the future of the Church and I have great confidence in the person God will raise

up to be our next bishop. God has already chosen the next bishop, and God will call us together to tell us who that person is and I believe God is in the process. This is much more than a job. I pledge I will not interfere or cause the next bishop any grief. If I can be of any help to the Church, I will be there. I am very conscious of the co-mission of our Baptism and my goal is to continue to live out fully my baptis-

mal ministry with God. Anglican Life wishes Bishop Pitman and his family our deepest prayers as they transition into a new phase of ministry. The Electoral Synod to choose a new Bishop for the Diocese will be held on November 15-16, 2013 at the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin in St. Johns.

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Photo: Jean Ellis

2013 october

25th Anniversary for Springdale Church

Submitted by The Parish of Springdale

St. Lukes Anglican Church in Springdale celebrated its 25 anniversary May 25, 2013. The beginning of an Anglican church was born in 1940 by the late Mrs. Edith Manual . In the fall of that year a visiting clergy from the Exploits Parish, Grand Falls and Buchans would visit monthly. This continued until 1949 when Springdale began to boom and the Anglican congregation grew. We moved from having worship in the Masonic Temple to the United Church and from there to our own church building. The old Orange Lodge was purchased, renovated and named St. Lukes Anglican Church after the

former church in Little Bay , it was our church building for ten years. As the congregation began to grow even more, the Pentecostal congregation did as well. They decided to sell their building and build a new one. We then purchased their building in April 1988 and renovated it to become the Anglican Church. May 25, 1988 the building was opened and dedicated by the Rt. Rev. Mark Genge, Bishop of The Diocese of Central Newfoundland. Shortly afterward The Parish of St. Luke became part of the Diocese of Western Newfoundland with The Rt. Rev. Stewart Payne the Bishop. We became part of the Parish of Seal Cove which consisted of Seal Cove, Westport,

Anniversary Gift. The ladies of St. Lukes Church in Springdale presented these throws to Jill Wisemen of The Valley Vista Seniors Home to be used by the residents for their comfort.

Purbecks Cove, Baie Verte, Nippers Harbour,

Cutting the Cake. The oldest and youngest members of St. Lukes in Springdale cutting the Anniversary cake. They are (left to right) Jersey Young and Gus and Mabel Oldford.

Tilt Cove, Round Harbour, and LaScie. At that time the rector lived in Baie Verte. In September of 1988, an assistant, The Rev. Kenneth Penney arrived with his family to take up residence in Springdale. This fulfilled our dream of having an Anglican clergy living in our town. He stayed until 1991. Following him The Rev. Randy Lockyer came on May 1, 1992 and was ordained at St. Lukes, Springdale October 19, 1992. This was the first ordination at st. Lukes Springdale. Following this the Parish became restructured again and we now became known as the Parish of Westport and included the communities of Westport, Purbecks Cove, Springdale, and Pelleys Island. Rev. Randy Lockyer became the rector of the new parish. God allowed us to experience much growth through faith, prayers, and commitment of the congregation. Following the dedicated services of clergy like Rev. Iliffe Sheppard, Rev. Dianna Brett Frye, Rev. Sandra Voelker- Wock, St. Lukes Anglican Church became a Parish of its own and supported a half time ministry led by Rev. Mildred Tobin and presently Rev Madonna Boone. We a r e p r e s e n t l y blessed with two honor-

ary assistants Rev. Ray Brett and Rev. David Sissmore. Overall the parish has seen many changes both in structure with boundaries and leadership with the guidance of Bishop Mark Genge, Bishop Don Young, Bishop Stewart Payne, Bishop Leonard Whitten and presently Bishop Percy Coffin. As a congregation we have been blessed by God and The Holy Spirit has led us and continues to lead us. To mark our milestone on May 25, 2013 we celebrated with Holy Eucharist , a banquet that was attended by Archdeacon Edward King, retired Bishop Don Young, Rev. Randy Lockyer, Rev. Mildred Tobin, Rev. David Sissmore and our rector Rev. Madonna Boone; various greetings were read from former clergy and bishops who were unable to attend. We thank God for His many blessings and as we look to the future with hope we know that whatever God has planned for St. Lukes Anglican Church, Springdale, He will lead us and through faith we will overcome, persevere and run the race with courage as the cloud of witnesses did before us. Thanks Be to God.

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ANGLICAN LIFE in Newfoundland and Labrador is the newspaper of the Anglican Church in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. A co-operative effort of the three Dioceses in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is publishes ten issues each calendar year with an independent editorial policy. Anglican Life is a section of the Anglican Journal Editor-in-Chief: The Revd Sam Rose 8 Croydon Street Paradise, NL A1L 1P7 Email: samrose@nl.rogers.com Advertising Rates and other information may be obtained from: Bishop Donald Young 34 Fraser Road, Gander, NL, A1V 2E8 Phone: (709) 256-7701 Email: jointcommittee@nfld.net Subscription Rates: Newfoundland and Labrador: $15.00 Outside the province: $20.00 International: $25.00 New subscriptions, cancellations, & changes of address should be sent to: Circulation The Anglican Journal (attn. Bev Murphy) 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, ON, M4Y 3G2 (416) 924-9192 (O) (416) 925-8811 (fax) Email: circulation@national.anglican.ca Each parish is responsible for maintaining its own subscription list - please notify your parish office of any changes. Changes sent to parish offices may take months to take effect. Please also send your updated information to Circulation at the Anglican Journal (above) or to Don Young at 34 Fraser Road, Gander NL A1V 2E8. Articles and photographs: Send to the Editor-in-Chief (above) Letters to the Editor: Send to the Editor-in-Chief, Sam Rose (address as above). All letters must include the writers name, address, and telephone number. Telephone numbers will not be published. Anglican Life does not publish letters under nom de plume. Letters should not exceed 300 words (one double spaced typewritten page), and are subject to editing at the discretion of the editor. These policies were adopted by the Anglican Life Committee. Layout & Design by: Sam Rose Printed and Mailed by: Webnews Printing Inc. 8 High Meadow Place North York, ON, M9L 2Z5

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How Can We Be Thankful? Bishops Message

News tells of worldwide violence; it recounts local murder and robbery; it informs us of refugee camps around the world; it reports a slowly declining middle class and expanding poverty at home. How can we be thankful when we are reminded of such fear and pain? Scripture is not a simplistic story of good overcoming evil, it recounts Gods people living and praying and serving in the midst of fear and pain. It is the story of slavery in Egypt and a long and arduous journey in the time of Moses; it is the story of a despotic king and thoughtless cruelty in Persia, in the time of Esther. In Jesus time, it is the story of oppression and death under the Romans. The time of Paul and the early church is a time persecution. For the centuries since, Christians have battled other faiths and one another in ongoing acts of sinfulness. We can be thankful that in spite of this we have a God who has not abandoned us and who calls us to gentleness and prayer, to supplication and thanksgiving, indeed even calling us to show mercy and forgiveness. We have a God who comes to us in service. I was recently reading Not Words but Deeds, by Sister Corona Wyse. Very early in the book is a description of Nano Nagle, the founder of the Presentation Sisters, which reads in part, Meet a woman whose love was stronger than the viciousness, injustice, greed and violence that swamped her city and nation I give God thanks for people who are stronger than the pettiness and self-absorption which swamps our age, who refuse to be swayed by the creed of fear and greed. I give God thanks for those who are strong enough to oppose injustice and violence. I give God thanks for people who are examples of service and prayer, of forgiveness and mercy. I give God thanks for those who do not see the love of God as reward but as call, who see scripture not as a static prose, quoted to control and manipulate, but as a living faith, written on the heart and in the souls of Gods people to nurture and encourage. I give God thanks for those who struggle to live lives of faith and service, following the risen Lord.

october 2013

The Rt. Revd David Torraville

Central Newfoundland

Bishop

The harvest is in and we take a time in October to offer Thanksgiving. While watching the News the commercials have already told me how unsatisfactory my life is. I have been told that I dont smell as good as I should, my teeth are not as white as they could be, and what my grey beard and hair is doing to my personal life, I blush to mention. With that blush fresh in mind, I will not presume to comment on how women are encouraged to be dissatisfied with themselves, and how they are told they can improve by buying products which will colour, remove, lift, slim or plump them to beauty and happiness. How can we be thankful when we are called to unrelenting dissatisfaction? On a much more serious note the Nightly

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2013 october

Churches and Young Families

Submitted by Claudia Yetman-Long Mount Pearl

Churches cannot survive without people. With dwindling populations in many Newfoundland communities, and dwindling populations in many parishes, this notion is more important now than ever before. We have to make our churches places where people want to come and want to stay. Most churches recognize that we need more parishioners to survive. The Back to Church Sunday movement around the world recognizes this and attempts to help churches identify ways to invite people to attend. It is not enough, however, just to draw people to a special church service. If we dont regularly reflect on our daily welcoming practices and find ways to be consistently inviting, we may indeed alienate some from attending. One group that is particularly vulnerable to this is the young family. Families of young children who have made the commitment to attend church regularly need to be celebrated and supported in every way by our parishes. It is not easy to be a parent in the twenty-first century. Raising children in todays technological world is not the same as it was twenty, thirty or forty years ago. When a family makes a conscious decision to make church a regular part of family life we must celebrate this and do all in our power to help make it happen again and again. With the multitude of secular organizations and events vying for the attention of children and young families, we need to embrace families who take the time to come to church and to find ways to make it a positive experience, one they will want to repeat. The reception received by these families in our churches can make it a wonderful experience, or can make it a horrific one. Our two children are grown now. But when
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they were young we made a conscious effort to continue to attend church regularly. An experience we had when our oldest child was three still mulls in my head from time to time, especially when I see someone reacting negatively to young children in church. We used to sit next to a beautiful and poignant stained glass window of Jesus with children sitting around him. Under it was the bible verse Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. (Mark 10:14) The lower windows in this beautiful church were at the level of the seats so anyone sitting by them could not help but see those stunning images. Our inquisitive little girl, who was just learning to count, was very quietly counting the children in the picture, and, in a voice just above a whisper, excitedly told us how many children were there with God! A man behind us, in a much louder voice grumbled Children shouldnt be here. They are disrupting the service. Why did they bring her to church? There was a lot I wanted to say to this man, not the least of which was to ask him to really look at the image three feet away from where we were all sitting. Common sense and manners prevailed, and silence ensued. But what stuck the most was my hesitancy to return to another church service with my little girl. While it may very well be that my reaction was indeed an over-reaction, and the result of only one persons comments, the negative feelings were real and ones that stayed. Three years later, when our second child was born, we came to the realization that we couldnt continue to keep attending our city home church. We were living outside St. Johns in a nearby community. It was just too difficult. The stresses of raising a young family were taking their toll on us. To make the forty minute trek to

church in St. Johns with a new baby in tow, and then wait for our daughter to attend Sunday School, which took place after the service, was just too much. The time had come to find a closer church to attend. We started to attend our current church, a very new parish at that time, with lots of young families. Children were an active part of every service. Our second child was, shall we say, somewhat boisterous during services. Although this was stressful for us, and we did all we could to reduce the restlessness, never once did anyone glare at us, tell us we shouldnt be there, or make us feel unwelcome. One Easter Sunday, my respect for Bishop Len Whitten, who was our rector at that time, grew enormously when, towards the end of the service, our son had enough. I was preparing to quietly take him out of the church area so he could have the freedom to move and talk out loud. Suddenly he darted away from me and ran up to the altar area. The communion rail at our church forms an oval shape around the altar. We stood there mortified as he darted under the rail and proceeded to run around the altar. Our wonderful priest calmly picked him up, turned to the congregation, and proceeded to give the final prayers and blessings with our child in his arms. Our son, amazed by this turn of events, just stared at the priest and didnt try to squirm away. Once the blessing was over, Bishop Whitten quietly walked over to our stressed souls, smiled and handed our son back to us. No chastising, no harsh looks, no tut-tutting or head shaking from anyone. I was prepared for anything at that point, but amazingly, nothing happened. These differing experiences, as well as a lifetime of other experiences with young children, taught us many things. There are so many simple ways parishes and parishioners can
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regularly make church an inviting place for young families: 1. Introduce yourself to any new families. Make sure they are aware of the child-centered things the parish offers. 2. Create a small quiet childrens area at the back or side of the church with activity sheets, crayons, paper, puzzles, and story books that children can use during the service. Be sure new families know this is a place children are free to use before, during, or after the service. 3. Offer colouring /activity sheets or childrens pamphlets to children as they arrive at church. 4. Invite children and young families to play an active part in the service by involving them in taking up collection, handing out bulletins, hymnals or other materials, offering prayers, doing the readings, acting as greeters. If the children leave as a group to go out to Sunday School during the service, ask young families to lead with the banner or cross or whatever is used. 5. Offer to help a parent in church who may be trying to settle a restless or tired child. 6. Have childrens talks that respect childrens feelings and allow children to express themselves freely, without over-emphasizing a cute remark. Thank children for all comments and for being part of the talk. 7. Offer kid-friendly healthy snacks and drinks every Sunday outside the worship area, but preferably not too far from where the service is taking place. Make them available to parents to go out to use during the service and invite children to have something after the

service. 8. If at all possible set up nurseries in close proximity to the worship area, with safe and clean playing spaces and toys. Provide a nursing chair and change table and appropriate accessories and supplies. The most inviting nurseries are those built near the worship area with windows to the church so that young families can see each other. 9. Make sure your church web-page or Facebook page is up-todate and accurate, and make certain it highlights what your church offers to young families. Be aware that in todays electronic age, many families church shop online before attending a church. 10. Smile, smile, and smile some more, at everyone, but especially at young families! I empathize with young families in church today. It takes a lot of energy, time, and planning to take young children places. Taking children to a park or playground, or other child-centered area, is one thing. Taking them to a place where they are expected to be quiet, and to sit in a confined area for an hour or more, is quite something else. I admire those who do it weekly and celebrate their appearance at each service. Their commitment to faith is strong. They are doing the right thing. Children are as much a part of Christs church as adults. Young families in church are to be celebrated. We all need to do our part by making their attendance at church a positive experience.

30 Roe Avenue, P.O. Box 348, Gander, NL A1V 1W7 Telephone: (709) 651-4100 Fax: (709) 256-2957 Email: info@waltershoffe.com
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New Archdeacon

My Lord Bishop!
The Revd Gregory Mercer Columnist

october 2013

New Archdeacon for the Western Diocese. The Venerable John Meade (left) was recently installed as the new Executive Archdeacon and Assistant to the Bishop, The Rt. Revd Percy Coffin (centre). Also pictured is The Very Revd Baxter Park (right) the Dean of the Diocese and Rector of the Cathedral. Photo: Denise Francis
Submitted by Rebecca Pennell Corner Brook

It was Sunday, August 18, 2013. The 10 a.m. worship at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Corner Brook, was the venue. The occasion was the Installation of the Venerable John D. Meade as Executive Archdeacon and Assistant to the Bishop, Diocese of Western Newfoundland. Several of the Archdeacons family, friends and colleagues, along with a significant representation of the Cathedral family attended this momentous occasion. As many do not fully understand the scope and nature of this office,

during the Installation Rite, The Rt. Rev. Percy D. Coffin stated that the Archdeacon is the Chief Operating Officer of the Diocese, supervising all support staff, ensuring that all operational aspects of the Diocese run smoothly, and that the Diocese fulfills its mandate as efficiently and as effectively as possible, and that he shares with the Bishop responsibility for Finances, Human Resources, Property, Planning, Program and Governance. Bishop Coffin presided and Archdeacon Meade preached at this worship wherein the Archdeacon was also appointed an Honorary Assistant for the Cathedral Parish.

His or Her Graceis a style used for various high-ranking personages. For example,His GracetheDuke of Devonshire, orHis GracetheArchbishop of Canterbury; orYour Gracein spoken or written address. In the Anglican tradition it can be used to address some bishops during large gatherings like a Synod but more often than not a Bishop is addressed orally as My Lord Bishop. At the time of writing this article (Sept. 1) two weeks have passed since The Right Reverend Cyrus Pitman, Bishop of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador announced his retirement and called an electoral synod for mid-November. And in that time there has been much talk, guessing and speculation on who might be his successor. And even more importantly than that some people are not shy in saying what they want in a bishop. Whoever it is I hope he/she will do something about this or that or some other issue. It raises an important question: How should the parameters for a Bishop

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search be decided? Should it be based on character, or education, or leadership skills, or past successes, or titles? Who and what is this person who deserves such a high-ranking address as, My Lord. We know what the function of a Bishop is according to the diocesan constitution: The Bishop shall function as the President, Chief Pastor, Chief Liturgical Office, and Chief Administrator of the Diocese (Canon 1:1). The Bible spells it out quite differently. In his first letter to Timothy the Apostle Paul writes: The saying is sure: whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. Now a bishop must be above reproach... temperate, sensible, respectable, hospitable, an apt teacher, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, and not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well... Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace and the snare of the devil (1st Timothy 3:1-4, 7). Bishops are known to attend to their flock by ministering to their clergy. This is particularly important. A priority for any bishop is to care for his/her clergy. And this is not to make distinctions between the needs of the clergy over and above the laity. But quite often healthy clergy means healthy parishes. And most people would agree that when their priest stands on the chancel steps on a Sunday morning to greet the church, they want to see a person who is healthy and alive, spiritually, emotionally, full of the Spirit, confident in faith. It goes without saying that there is a strong correlation between the health of the parish priest and the life of the parish. By making the needs and health of the clergy a priority the Bishop is indirectly attending to the strength, functionality, efficiency, and vitality of the parish. The Bishop is also to be a Visionary. I have heard this said several times and I believe it to be true. A visionaryis a person with a clear, distinctive, and specific (in some details) vision of the future. Not everyone is a visionary. Like all gifts it is a gift from God. A vision-

ary is a person who invests him/herself in meditation, dreaming, and planning, all in the context of prayer. Such a person has the ability and the charisma to bring others alongside, to share the vision what do we want our diocese to look like five years from now? Whoever the next Bishop may be, he/she will have to have a good handle on the needs of the diocese. As individual parishes we can be quite parochial, i.e., we are often consumed by our own needs limiting us to a narrow outlook or scope. This diocese is so diverse ranging from the small outport communities along the Labrador coast (some accessible only by boat or snowmobile) to the large cluster of church buildings in the city of St. Johns, that it is quite inconceivable to think of electing a Bishop who is not particularly astute to these challenges as a whole. And it goes without saying that the growing disparity between the religious and the secular is an issue that has to be tackled head-on with truthful honest face-to-face talk. All this is to say, should not the issues of the diocese be the guiding parameters for a bishop search? True the Bishop is the chief pastor and the chief liturgical office of the diocese. True the Bishop is to be a person well thought of by outsiders. But more importantly, a bishop is to be a person with a good handle on all the issues and circumstances, and willing to make tough decisions for the sake of the whole. Being Bishop is no easy task. Who would even aspire to be a bishop unless that person was absolutely sure it was a call from God. God already knows who is going to be the next bishop of the Diocese. By means of the processes we have in place, lots of prayer and open to the direction of the Holy Spirit, God will lead us to what he wants, his will. In the end we will all be able to rejoice together, united knowing that the person elected was of God. It is only by the grace of God that with one voice we can say, My Lord Bishop, and welcome him/her as our new leader.

anglicanlife

2013 october

Vacation Bible School Be Thankful in Harbour Grace

Ronald Clarke Columnist

Submitted by Christine Lynch Harbour Grace

us.

Jesus will always love

This was the bible point of our VBS which took place at St. Pauls Church from July 18-20, 2013. Each day began with prayers and music (or moo-sic ). This was followed by the lesson for the day. On day one, we read Luke 19:1-10. We learned about how Zac-

chaeus changed after Jesus wanted to be his friend. Jesus love and forgiveness can change our hearts also. We asked God to help us be a good friend. Day twos lesson was based on John 19. We learned how Jesus died to take away our sins. Because of Jesus, we can live forever in heaven with God. Each day the children and leaders enjoyed healthy snacks, and had fun making crafts

and playing games based on the lesson of the day. On Saturday morning, we all gathered for a service at the church to share with the parents a slideshow, music, and crafts. This was followed by some water games and a BBQ. We had a wonderful time and we are looking forward to another VBS next summer. Remember Jesus will always love us. Hes our friend!

All Saints Sunday School

October is the month for thanksgiving; how important is it to be truly thankful? A good friend told me last year that he was not celebrating Thanksgiving because he didnt have anything to be thankful for, especially since he had just been laid off from his job. Now this man has a good wife, three healthy children, a two-year old car in excellent condition, and many friends. And he has nothing to be thankful for? By the way, he was only unemployed for four months before getting an even better job. Yes, God has been so good to all of us, hasnt he? Yet how many of us are deeply thankful for all our blessings? But, maybe gratitude is not important to God? Jesus, in the story of the ten lepers he cured, made it very plain that God does expect, and require our gratitude for what he does for us. Of the ten cured lepers, you may recall, only ONE came back to

render thanks. Where are the (other) NINE? Jesus asked in disappointment, Werent there TEN cleansed? We live in an age when people, more than ever before, seem to take things for granted- and no wonder! When we were young, we worked for benefits: cut wood, lugged water, ran errands, etc. to earn our rewards. We are now into our second (third, even) generation of people who got things largely for free in their youth. People get used to free handouts. Unfortunately, if things come without effort, they are not really appreciated very much. Little appreciation means little gratitude. In this month of thanksgiving, it would be good for all of us to stop, consider, and take stock of all we have and own- not only the material, but also things like family and friends, health and strength- non material things that are truly priceless. Having taken stock of your treasures, it should be easy to generate gratitude to God, the giver of all. The ultimate step, then, is to estimate (generously) what you can GIVE- to God, and, of course, to your fellow man (all your brothers and sister in Christ who need your help). God loveth a cheerful giver.

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All Saints Sunday School in Corner Brook had a great year. Instruction was based on the Whole People of God Curriculum and children talked about manners, baptism, preparation for Lent and Easter. Fun activities included Halloween Bingo, Christmas Pageant (The Littlest Christmas Tree), pizza party, a visit from Santa, Valentines Party, and a St Patricks Day activity. The children sang a lovely selection to the congregation on Mothers Day and received their certificates. A special thank you goes to Emma Hull (on left) and those who helped out throughout the year. Submitted by Harry Balsom
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Mint Brook Excursion

Submitted by The Revd Shaun OConnor Photos by James Spencer

october 2013

Just sit down on this rock ledge and then . . . let yourself goooooo! Splash! and giggles all the way downstream. Were with the Boys Camp of the Central Diocese about two-anda-half kilometers above Mint Brook Camp, where the water flows swiftly under a trestle bridge. The kids and adults are having a ball! Many of them have never tried body-rafting down a river. Sometimes its fun to take a little excursion out of the ordinary. Not that there is anything ordinary about Boys Camp! But this is different. We havent been here before. Mint Brook is a delightful waterway. Many campers are familiar, of course, with the swimming hole near the Camp itself, and the other one just a little farther upstream at the rapids. But this one is further. And, you know, there wasnt a single complaint as we packed our lunches and headed along the dirt road for a late dinner. Friends yakked and improvised walking sticks. The sun shone and the breeze blew in the trees. The boys even gestured to some logging truck drivers to honk their horns as they passed by.

We were a colourful parade of beach towels, bathing suits and sandals. Coming away to Mint Brook Camp is an excursion in itself. But taking a little trip outside the Camp opens up new possibilities, too. Its an adventure, a chance to learn something new, to learn about oneself and others. The Christian journey is like that: an adventure with Jesus and friends in new territory. Its good to have some time away at a place like Mint Brook where people can encounter God in a way that they might not anywhere else. At Boys Camp this year we took a wild ride through Gods Word during our mornings at Avalanche Ranch. We built birdhouses and put together a quilt for Ronald McDonald House. We played games like tug-o-war and Bible Hunt, and did our chores. We entertained each other at campfire and worshipped together at the close of each day. The boys and leaders will remember our time away with God at Mint Brook Camp this summer and our excursion up the river that day.

anglicanlife

2013 october

Harbour Grace Hosts Royal Newfoundland Regiment

Submitted by The Revd Moses Tucker Harbour Grace

Another part of history was recognized in the Parish of Harbour Grace this Summer. On Sunday, August 4th, 2013, the Signal Hill Tattoo, together with members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, attended Holy Eucharist in St. Pauls Church in Harbour Grace, for a special blessing and dedication of the gravesite of Lieutenant George Garland Cawley, the oldest known gravesite of a member of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. St. Pauls, built in 1835, is the oldest stone Gothic revival style church in Newfoundland and Labrador, and is the fourth Anglican Church on the site. At the time, It was the garrison church of the Regiment. Along with St. Pauls own parishioners, many members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, Veterans, and local and provincial leaders filled the Church, as well as members of the local Naval Cadet corps and the C.L.B. Hr. Grace company #1009. Also in atten-

dance was The Venerable Major Shawn Samson, Brigade Chaplain of 37 Brigade, who preached at the service. The morning began with the Tattoo marching from the Conception Bay Museum on Water Street to St. Pauls, dressed in War of 1812 uniforms. Following the Eucharist, those in attendance followed the Tattoo, who marched to Lt. Cawleys gravesite, which has been fenced together with an interpretative plaque. The Tattoo shot a 21 gun salute, the Rev. Moses Tucker lead in blessing and prayers, followed by Last Post, two minutes silence, and Reveille. At the reception afterwards, the chair of Royal Newfoundland Regiment Advisory Council, Mr. Ron Penney, and Mr. Jim Lynch, the Chair of the Bicentennial Committee, gave a presentation about Lt. Cawley and the history of the Regiment. The Parish of Harbour Grace is grateful for all their help, as well as the help of Bob Noseworthy, Bill Peddle and Bern Pittman, in the discovery and recognition of this addition to the heritage of St. Pauls Church.

Remembering Lieutenant George Cawley. An interpretive plaque honouring Lt. Crawley of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment is unveiled by Mr. Ron Penney (centre), along with Harbour Grace Rector, The Revd Moses Tucker (left) and The Ven. Major Shawn Samson, Padre of the Regiment.
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10

The Empty Nest

Columnist Stella Walsh

Facing Death

october 2013

As I write this we are helping our son, and only child, prepare to leave for Halifax where he will attend a private school for grade twelve. He is doing this so that he can also attend the professional dance program at the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts. The decision to do this came about rather suddenly, following a dance camp with Jorgen Ballet in Toronto, during August. We, his parents, had been expecting to face the empty nest next year, not two weeks after he came home from camp. Needless to say, preparing our hearts and minds in the midst of getting him ready to leave has been a bit nerve wracking. Like most parents, we worry and fret that we have made too many mistakes and he is not ready. H o w e v e r, i n t h e

midst of all the turmoil and tears, there is one bright shining thread that weaves its way through our sons life; we have always taken him to church. Sometimes different churches or denominations, but he has always been aware of the importance of attending worship as a family. And six years ago we were given the blessing of joining the authentic and caring church family at St. Martins Cathedral in Gander, where he was also confirmed. At St. Martins our son went from being

a little boy to a young man, and learned the importance of taking on responsibilities and serving within a Spirit-led Christian community. Along with his father, he has been surrounded by male

role models who are not afraid to let the world see the strength of their faith and commitment to following Jesus. It has been an important factor in his spiritual development as he continues the process of working out his own views of his Christian faith and heritage. Giving our children a Christian foundation to carry with them throughout life takes work and commitment. It cannot become something that is done in spare time or once in a while. If they are going to learn the truth and value of Christianity, parents have to show up where it counts. Regular attendance at worship, giving sacraments like Confirmation a priority, and maintaining a devotion to faith at home and outside of the church building are essential. Without this foundation young people have nothing to carry with them and draw from when they strike out on their own. And nothing with which to explore what their faith means for them and their life. As difficult as it is to watch our son leave the nest, we feel blessed that no matter where he goes or what he does, he will always have this solid grounding in Christianity. And he knows that each day there are people who will pray for him and cover him with love. And he also knows that he has a church family who will always welcome him home and be there when he needs them. In the future, we will have very little control over how he decides to fit his faith into his daily life, but we have a measure of peace knowing that he has the background required to encourage him to make the right choices.

The Revd Michael Li

Columnist

Because of Adams sin, every human being is now in a state of spiritual death - separation from God. On the day of Adams disobedience, the sentence of physical death (separation of the soul from the body) was imposed; but by Gods grace the execution of that sentence was delayed. Adam did not drop dead on that fateful day. He died spiritually andhis physical death came later (Genesis 5:5). The last enemy to be destroyed is death (I Corinthians 15:26). It has not yet been destroyed. Until that time death remains a reality in the lives of all people. But Christians can face death with confidence and hope because the penalty for sin has been paid in full by the death of Jesus. Death is not a punishment from God for those who are in Jesus. Christians should not fear death because not even death will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:39). Christians should not fear eternal death or second death which is the final, complete state of eternal separation from God (Revelation 20:14). Though centuries may pass between death and resurrection, the dead will have no conscious awareness of the passing of time. Jesus will return again to judge the world and put all wrongs to right. After that there will be a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1). Paul wrote: For to

me, to live is Christ and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21). Christianity is Jesus Christ. Christianity is fellowship with Jesus. We should get involved in this world now through making disciples, working for social justice, concern for the environment, etc. We shouldlive for Jesus today, not just waiting for our death. If Christian life means being with Jesus, then death must be gain because it will mean a closerwalk with Him. In life or in death, we put our total trust in Jesus. We do not believe in Jesus because we believe in God. We believe in God because we believe in Jesus, who shows us what God is like.We do not believe in Jesus because we believe in the Bible. We believe in the Bible because we believe in Jesus, who believes in the Bible. Christians face death everyday.They react to the death of other Christians with mixed emotions. We are happy that they have gone to be with God. At the same time, we are sad at the loss of fellowship with the departed. Our mourning should be mixed with worship of God and thanksgiving for the life of the departed. Worship is especially important at this time, as we see in the example of King David. When his child died, the king stopped praying for the childs health, and worshippedGod (II Samuel 12:20). The funeral liturgy is a worship service. We worship God here and now. Our worship on earth prepares us for worship in the new heavens and new earth. During the funeral service, we can ask God to help us not to focus too much on our pain and grief, but more on Godslove and promises. May God comfort all who have recently lost a loved one or dear friend!

anglicanlife

2013 october

11

The Pain of Death

A dear friend passed away in June after a brief period of illness. I watched her health deteriorate and saw the anguish on the faces of her four children as they observed the slow but deliberate trek towards the end. It was a heart breaking time for all of us. Eventually a decision was made to allow her to die with dignity which was exactly what she wanted. But once that decision was arrived at, the four children and I took turns sitting by her bedside, holding her hand and chatting about the good times. When she finally passed away on that morning in Ju n e , t h e r e was a sense of relief that she was in pain no longer and the grieving took on another tone. It was wonderful to have so many people come through the funeral home to pay their respects and to tell stories about this wonderful lady. This process helped each of us get through those next few days and we were able to move on. While we would miss this person terribly still, our grief was finally manageable and we tried to resume our normal lives. But a normal life is hard to achieve after the loss of a mother. All four of her children went through the various phases of grieving and still have issues with her death. However, one of her daughters, who served as the executrix for her mothers estate and was extremely busy following her mothers passing, is only now coming to grips with the terrible loss. She wrote me recently and described the void that seemingly cant be filled. Her words moved me considerably and I requested permission to print some of them here. They speak volumes: I havecome to realizehow much of an impact Momhad on my daily life, even being thousandsof miles away. Talking to her everyday (most oftennufacebook.com/anglicanlife Columnist Kevin Smith

Pond Pickings

merous times a day) made it feel like she was here in Alberta with me being involved in all that we do. Im lonely now but not alone. Theres a void that my husband, my kids or my other friends cant fill and it bothers me that I cant come up with a way to fix that. Mudderwas one of my best friends and its difficult not having that constant in my life. To me the lossis that she justdied last week.Im a whimpering water pot and I detest that. I will give myself some time and I may see a grief counselor at some point. Im hoping that the need to cry lessens and I can learn to smile morewhen I think of her. Mom would not want to see me upset like this. I know it in my head,now I just need to get my heart to cooperate. Tomorrow will be a better day. One never knows such pain unless we have gone through it. Im confident that my niece will eventually find strength and peace which will allow her to move on and smile when she thinks of her mother. That same sentiment goes for her three siblings. That is my hope and prayer. By the way, that lady who died was my sister Grace who passed away in June - a few weeks short of her 65th birthday. I am reminded constantly that death is only a breath away. I dedicate this column to her memory. Kevin Smith is the gift planning consultant for the Anglican Church of Canada. He can be reached at 709 739-5667 or by email: kevinsmith709@gmail.com

If you find a twenty, its mine! said Horace Russell, jokingly. A group of us from the local churches and some other folk had just begun to clean up the litter along the shores of ODeas Pond in the middle of the Town of Bonavista. It took fourteen people two hours to clean up 38 bags worth of garbage and other refuse like car tires along a one-kilometer boardwalk. And wouldnt you know it: one of us picked up a twenty dollar bill! That paid for a nice round of coffee for everyone afterwards. Submitted by Rev. Shaun OConnor

Anglican Renewal Ministries coming to Central Diocese

Submitted by The Revd Perry Cooper Gander

Anglican Renewal Ministries (ARM) has been empowering clergy and lay church leaders to lead parishes into renewal in the power of the Holy Spirit for over 25 years. Our quarterly magazine, Anglicans for Renewal, offers interesting and enlightening articles on personal renewal. ARM will be host-

ing an overnight retreat at Mint Brook Camp and Conference Centre, Gambo beginning with supper on Tuesday, October 22 and concluding Wednesday, October 23 after lunch. The theme of the gathering will be, Waiting on the Holy Spirit. There will be worship, teaching, sharing and a time for prayer. The event is open to ARM alumni as well as others who are interest-

ed in a time of spiritual refreshment. The cost is $40.00. For more information please contact Rev. Perry Cooper at 709 256 2372.

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12

Serving God in Southeast Labrador

Submitted by The Revd Jeffrey Petten Cartwright

october 2013

September 1st is the first anniversary of my appointment to the Parish of Southeast Labrador. It has certainly been an interesting experience. Looking back over the past twelve months, I realize that there is no possible way theological education could ever prepare someone to do the things that are necessary on the Coast of Labrador. Those who have served in the former parishes of Battle Harbour and Cartwright certainly know what I am talking about. When I arrived on the Coast, I was somewhat familiar with the needs of the area and of the people. In August 2010 and June 2012, I was a Catechist in Cartwright. Yet, I was not expecting some of the things I had to do. For example, I was asked to

read out a last will and testament of a deceased person. I had only heard stories about this from members of my own family. They told me that years ago, the minister was the one to read the will. I was not prepared for the Churchs involvement with the school, such as helping organize and participate in Graduation Services. When I was in elementary school, I remember my parish priest, The Rev. Allan Brake, would visit the school for assemblies and concerts. It is great to see such involvement here in my Parish. Children know their clergy and can call them by name. Coming from the Avalon Peninsula, I did not appreciate ice conditions on roads until this past winter. I prefer an ice road any day of the week more so than pavement. The ice roads

are a pleasant feature to ministry in Labrador, especially since it is over two hundred kilometres from the rectory in Cartwright to the Church of St. Andrew the Apostle in Port Hope Simpson. Another thing that I reflect upon over the past year is the people that I have come in contact with. These are people who I have baptized and married, given the Blessed Sacrament of the Eucharist in their homes and buried their loved ones. In the past year, I have buried people ranging in age from 26 to 92. Now some people have given me the title of the grim reaper. For the most part, people that I have buried died while I was away from the Parish. I have also been blamed for snowstorms when I travel between Cartwright and Port Hope Simpson. Shortly after I would leave town and/or just

The Revd Jeffrey Petten

before I would return to town there would be a snow storm that would close the roads for a couple of days. People are the way in which deacons, priests and bishops serve God. I have learned over the past year, that as much as prayer, bible study, meditation and other things are important; if people are not the central focus of ministry then what are we as clergy doing? As I write this, the controversy in the province of Quebec concerning people wearing religious articles in public places of work is in the news. The Anglican Journal through social media asked a very important question: Do you wear

religious symbols to work? Why/why not? Do you get any reaction when you do? I shared the following on our Parish Facebook page: Of course I wear a religious symbol. I wear the clerical collar. In stores and in other public places people look at me...and the look at the collar. To some it makes them uncomfortable as they may have issues with Jesus. They may have issues with the institution that is called The Church. Others see it as comfort, especially if they are grieving because of the death of a spouse
Continued on Page 13 See: Labrador Ministry

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2013 october

13

A Charter for Confirmation in Topsail Compassion

away from pain: meet it with a caring heart. Go into action when people are hurting, to share in brokenness, fear, confusion and anguish. Go even further and include other creatures, nature and the inanimate world. Compassion also counters racism, sexism, ageism, class-ism and nationalism, as well as prejudice and judgmental. A book by Armstrong, Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Heart, offers guidelines on the practice of compassion. Among the steps: Learn about Compassion; How Should We Speak to One Another? Love Your Enemies. She counsels us to act each day in accordance with the Golden Rule, respect mystery, and incarnate hospitality. Sound direction for showing compassion is found in the Prayer of St Francis to make us instruments of Gods will. The Franciscan Prayer of Discomfort is a parallel version. It prays: May God bless you with discomfort of easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deeper within your heart. May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace. May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and wars, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy May God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done. Yo u c a n G o o g l e Charter for Compassion to learn more and sign it.

The Revd Everett Hobbs

Columnist

Compassion is the understanding of and/or empathy for the suffering of others. Its universal expression is the Golden Rule - Treat others as we wish to be treated ourselves. On November 12, 2009, a new Charter for Compassion was unveiled . Its aim is to restore compassionate thinking and compassionate action to the center of religious, moral and political life. Compassion is to put ourselves in the shoes of the other; it lies at the heart of all religious and ethical systems. The Charter of Compassion is a document that transcends religious, ideological and national differences. It is a cooperative effort to restore compassion thinking and action to all areas of life. The Charter was proposed by Karen Armstrong and undertaken by a Council of Conscience, a multi-faith, multinational group of religious thinkers and leaders. According to Armstrong, the challenge faced by all human beings is to withstand the mefirst mechanism of the old reptilian brain. She believes we can achieve high levels of empathy, forgiveness and concern for everybody.We are not doomed to live in hatred, greed and envy. The practice of compassion means allowing yourself to feel the sufferings of the world, including your own. Dont run
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This greeting was written by Abigail Garret who was the reporter for this years Confirmation Class in the Parish of Topsail. She writes, Good morning and welcome to everyone and to those who are visiting from another parish! This morning is an extra special morning for two reasons. First of all we have our Bishop with us. Good morning Bishop Pitman and thank you for coming to our parish today. And secondly, today is the day my friends and I get confirmed. Today we renew our promise to God that our parents and godparents made for us at our Baptism.

We have had a great year with Ms Bonell and Ms Smith and we have learned many things. We have learned about the Baptismal Covenant, the 10 Commandments, the Lords Prayer, the Church Year, Advent, Christmas and Epiphany. We had a sleepover, made pretzels for the congregation and participated in family church services. Most importantly we have united with God and made friends with each other. Thanks again to Ms Bonnell, Ms Smith, Rev Sandra, our parents and our parish for helping us meet the requirements for confirmation. We could not have done it without all of you.

Labrador Ministry
Continued from Page 12

or child. Others see it as joy as I baptize their children or witness their marriage vows. Others view it as advice in the spiritual life. Most of all, I wear it because I am an ordained priest of the Church, called by God. As Scripture says Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you: I appointed you a prophet to the nations. In closing, I give thanks for all the experiences that I have had over the past year. I have worked with wonderful people such as my Priest-in-Charge, the former Territorial Archdeacon, the executive Archdeacon, my Bishop,
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Lay Readers, Wardens and many others. It is my hope and prayer that the next 39 years will be as exciting and inter-

esting as this past year. I have no regrets and I would do it all over again.

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14

Is Jesus on
Submitted by Stella Walsh Gander

?
able behavior took place. I had zero interest in using something so obviously against the Lords work. But lets get back to the question. Is Jesus there? Well, if you look on Facebook these days, you will discover that I must have changed my mind about that. You will see that I am very active there. I post constantly, keeping in touch with family and friends; I help to run a couple of church groups; I answer requests for prayer; and I offer encouragement whenever I can. So, what made me change my mind? Well, actually, other Christians did. I saw them using Facebook for good and I started to meditate on it. I began to realize that, if you think about it, Jesus came to be among us and walk with us. (John 1:14) He didnt say, Okay, Im here, but Im only going to be found in certain places because there are some places where I might be offended. Jesus walked, ate, talked and worked among the outcasts and sinners, the lonely and weak, the desperate and dying. And guess what else I realized? You can find them all on Facebook. So, do I now believe that every Christian should join Facebook and start posting like mad? No, I absolutely do not. Facebook, like everything about computers and the internet, is a tool. You need to know how to use it, how to protect yourself, and how to make the best use of it for good. Different people have different abilities and callings. Facebook is no different when it comes to that. I know lots of Christians who just use it to keep in touch

october 2013

There are many people who would answer that question with a resounding, no! They do not believe that Jesus would be found in that place of inappropriate jokes, cyber bullying and gossip. I know this because I was one of the people who would have said no very firmly. When I was a young teacher, changes in technology began to pick up a rapid pace. Being a bit of a purist at heart, my first instinct was to fight against this threat to the peace of mind. I didnt like computers and I wasnt ever going to own a cellphone. Of course, it wasnt long before I was caught up in the march forward like everyone else.

Enter social media - a whole other can of worms. With it came the opportunity to make public fools of ourselves on a level rarely seen before. If you wanted it to be, everything was suddenly wide open to public scrutiny, and sometimes, even if you didnt intend for it to be public. Making a statement on Facebook is like speaking loudly into a crowded room. You are never quite sure who is listening, or how they may be affected by what you said. And like everything social it is fraught with bugs and viruses that you can catch without even being aware of it. In the early days, I regarded Facebook like many people; something for people to do who didnt have anything better to do. Or, worse still, a place where a lot of unaccept-

with people and check out posted information. And I know others who use it as a form of active ministry because they feel called to do so and it works for them. And be warned - it is a terrible place to go if you are prone to giving in to the temptation of judging and being offended. But again, is Jesus really there? These days I answer that question with a firm, Yes, He most certainly is! You can find Him in the shared photo of a newborn, the person who posts because they cant sleep, the teenager struggling to find self-expression, the person being bullied, the person with cancer asking for prayers - all of us who populate cyberspace. Facebook is made up of the people who go there. Thats where you always find Jesus.

ACW Deanery Fellowship in New Perlican

Submitted by Eileen Matthews New Perlican

In May approximately 60 ladies met for the Anglican Church Women Spring Fellowship at the Veterans Memorial Community Center, New Perlican. A Pot Luck supper was served by the Parish of Hearts Content ladies. After the regular meeting was finished, the ladies were treated to an overview history of New Perlican by Eileen Matthews, Chairperson, Heritage New Perlican who took them back to New Perlicans roots as far back as the mention of New Pernican in Trinity Bay by Sir Percival Willowby in 1597, from there to the Hefford Plantation discovery by Bill Gilbert, archaeologist, which dates the community to 1675 and to present day which includes many historic areas and the renewed waterfront area complete with many stages and wharves. The ladies then enjoyed a tour

of the Community Center which includes the Town offices, Library, Gym , Heritage Room, a downstairs kitchen for small events and the Volunteer Fire department. They also viewed the wall of pictures of War Veterans in the town office area. After this the ladies were treated to music entertainment by Wayne Sutton and Snowden Norris. Rev. Irene Sutton and Canon Eli Evans of the Holy Trinity area were in attendance and brought greetings. The event closed with thanks and prayer by Lorraine Walsh, ACW Deanery President.

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2013 october

Why Tithe?
Submitted by Debbie Kaba South River

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I was taught to give to Jesus as a preschooler. I remember going to Sunday School with my nickel knotted in my handkerchief and the teacher having to help my little fingers untie the knot. I remember how excited I was to get to give to Jesus. As I got old enough for an allowance, I was taught to give 10% to Jesus. I saw my parents tithe with joy and thanksgiving during lean and bountiful times; my mother continued to give a percentage of her income until she died at age 97. At age 25, when I came to adult faith in Christ, I remember that same joy in giving to Jesus. When my joy in giving wanes, I stir up that gift so I am giving joyfully once again. I enjoy when God sends another person alongside to encourage me in the joy of percentage giving. Heres a few of the reasons why I believe percentage giving is integral in Christian formation: 1. Its the easiest and most simple way to show God how much I love Him and appreciate what Hes done for me. I know money will never repay a debt of Christ dying for my sins; but it reminds me to be appreciative of Christs

sacrifice. 2. It reminds me of my love for Him; it helps me feel connected to Him in special ways. If I start having self-doubts that I love God or God loves me - I can remind myself that I love Him enough to give him a percentage and the worrisome thoughts evaporate. 3. It is one way for me to lay up my treasures in heaven. I know there is nothing I can do to get

affect my ability to consistently give to God. That helps me not be selfish and pile up debt for stuff; but to live in simplicity and moderation and find joy in God instead of materialism. 5. Percentage giving is a great way I can learn to give so I can learn to give to others with a humble spirit - whether that be financially, materially, my time or a listening ear. 6. Giving reduces the

for me, is a step in the right direction of not neglecting the important things of justice, mercy and faith because giving increases my capacity to desire to practice those important Christian qualities. 8. It increases my faith. Abraham and Sarah paid tithe to Melchizedek before the law was given at Mount Sinai and that helped their faith grow so they could receive the promise of their son, Isaac.

God to love me more or to love me less; but giving joyfully and happily opens my heart to more of heavens blessings and less of my egocentricity. 4. It helps me get my financial priorities correct. When I think of going into debt, realizing if I mess up my finances that it may

amount I am required to pay in taxes. That always makes me smile at tax time! 7. It lets me feel Im being obedient to Jesuss teaching in Matthew 23.23 and Luke 11.42 (NLB), You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things. Giving,

9. An older woman pastor use to say, If God doesnt have my pocketbook, then He really doesnt have me. I want Him to be ruler of all of me - including my money and my attitude about money. 10. It gives me an incentive to pray for the church I give to. Most

of my percentage giving goes to my storehouse - the place where Im fed the Word and the Eucharistic meal. If the organizations I support are getting my money, it keeps me consciously attuned to the needs there, how I can meet those needs and it helps me pray for leadership so the money is used wisely and as God directs. 11. Percentage giving blesses my children, grandchildren and future offspring. (Hebrews 7.11). The way it blesses them isnt just because of the tithe I give but because of my increased obedience that, for me, is directly and positively affected by my giving. That is why the approximate tithe on my estate is already assigned to my church in my will and why a percentage of my RRSPs and life insurance policy is designated to go to my parish. 12. I believe it helps keep me thankful, humble and pliable to Gods directions. It helps me remember the gifts and talents I have that bring home my income, are gifts from Him. Recognizing my gifts are from Him helps me want to develop my talents to use in His service. 14. Percentage giving gives me one more method to worship God and Hes such a wonderful God to worship. It helps me remember He is God and Im not; it helps me grow in proper submission to His holiness and love. 15. Consistent giving, just like consistency in prayer time and Bible reading, is a method to help me grow. It teaches me to be faithful and to put my own wants aside to do what is best for myself. 16. Giving gives me holy dignity. It gives me a venue to be Christlike. Christ gave His all; and being able to give a percentage of my resources, especially money, increases my ability to recognize Christ in me - my hope of glory.
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october 2013

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