March 28 - Wednesday in Holy Week 7.30pm: Tenebrae Responsaries - Willan Psalms 4, 24, 27, 51 Benedictus - Nanini in falsobordoni 184, 330
March 28 - Maundy Thursday 7.30pm: Choral Eucharist and Stripping of the Sancutury Missa l’hora passa - Viadana Psalm 116: 1, 10-17 View me, Lord, a work of thine - Lloyd O Sacred Feast - Willan 511, 508, 497, 64
March 31 - Holy Saturday 8.00pm: The Great Vigil of Easter Festive Eucharist - Rawsthorne O sing joyfully - Batten 205, 428, 207, 237, 203 Toccata Gothique - Boëllmann
April 1 - Easter Sunday 10.00: Choral Eucharist (BAS) Schubert in G Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 Come, let’s rejoice - Amner 203 & 226, 229, 231, 222, 210 Grand Choeur Dialogué - Gigout
April 8 - Second Sunday of Easter 10.00 Choral Eucharist (BCP) Cantate Domino - Pitoni Darke in F Psalm 133 This joyful Eastertide - Dutch Carol arr. Ledger 6 (580), 228:1, 4-9, 459, 605, 215 Exurgat Deus - Hurford
April 15 - Third Sunday of Easter 10.00: Choral Eucharist (BAS) Let us worship and fall down - Willan Mass of St. Denis - Cabena Psalm 4 Now the green blade riseth - French Carol arr. Lindley 239, 561, 445, 241, 220 Choral in A minor - Franck
April 22 - Fourth Sunday of Easter 10.00: Choral Eucharist (BCP) This is the day which the Lord hath made - Anon. (c. 1600) Missa Brevis III - Willan Psalm 23 They that wait upon the Lord - Near 212, 85, 214, 400, 211 Prelude and Fugue in C BWV 547 - Bach
April 29 - Fifth Sunday of Easter 10.00: Choral Matins (BCP) Jesus Christ, the Apple Tree - Poston Ayleward Responses Psalm 22:24-30 Ireland in F 425, 238, 486, 239 Introduction & Passacaglia - Rheinberger
The large crucifix that hangs on the pillar in Christ Church Cathedral during the last two weeks before Easter is an adaptation of an Irish traditional form known as the "Penal Cross." One given to me many years ago hangs in my home, and gave me inspiration for my large version.
The original is simple and primitive in design, and shows many of the symbols associated with the Crucifixion: at the top, INRI ("Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews," in Latin): the hammer and nails, and the sun going through its darkened phases. On Jesus' wrist are the cords that bound him, and on the other side, the tongs used for removing the nails; down the sides, the spear which drew blood and water from Christ's side, the whip used in the scourging, and the ladder used to take him down from the cross. At the bottom struts the cock that crowed at Peter's denial; below it, the pot used to catch Jesus' blood.
My own version uses all these symbols, and I added to them three of my own favourites: the dice which the soldiers used to cast lots for Jesus' cloak; Judas' thirty pieces of silver and the skull, often depicted in crucifixions, said to be that of "the first Adam."
The smaller version which hangs at home, is black, carved from Irish peat. My crucifix is done in encaustic paint (made with beeswax and pigment) on wood.
On a warm and sunny February afternoon – yes we did have some of those! – approximately 35 women gathered at the Cathedral Hall to hear Kathleen Snow’s presentation entitled Women Making a Difference – Where We are Planted.
Most Christ Church Cathedral congregation members know Kathleen as our Parish Nurse, a member of the 11:45 am Praise Choir, and an active member of Mothers’ Union. Kathleen has been involved with Mothers’ Union for over 30 years. She has served as the local Branch Leader, the Diocesan President, the National President and has gone on to work with the Worldwide Mothers’ Union. As she told the group gathered on February 17th, these roles have provided her with the opportunity to meet some amazing women of faith around the world who truly are making a difference where they are planted!
Before introducing the attendees to these women, Kathleen challenged the group to come up with a list of characteristics of women who make a difference. Most attributes were positive but the odd less- than-positive one did manage to creep in reinforcing the notion that no one is perfect! Here are some of the attributes identified: nurturing, strong, thoughtful, supportive, determined, flexible, organized, committed and bold.
... flexible, organized, committed and bold ...
One of the women that Kathleen went on to speak about was Claudette Kijeme of Burundi. Claudette is a Mothers’ Union Worker who has been leading a Literacy Program focused on women. Since the program started in the year 2000, almost 74,000 people have been trained and are now functionally literate. Literacy Circles have been established in many regions of Burundi and surrounding African countries and the testimonies of women (and men) who have participated were very moving. Life constraints have been removed through literacy. Women can successfully manage their market stalls and not be cheated because they couldn’t count change properly. Literacy became a main tool to empower women. As more and more men became involved, they came to see that women were not worthless as culture had dictated and relationships between husband and wife improved. They now recognize the importance of literacy for their children, a distinct advantage for future generations. Not surprisingly, Claudette’s work led to her being invited to address the United Nations Council on the Status of Women as a member of the worldwide Mothers’ Union contingency several years ago.
Sheran Harper of Guyana developed the Mothers’ Union Parenting Programme which also started in the year 2000. This support program for parents is now run worldwide by Mothers’ Union. Sheran trains facilitators to run the Program aimed at improving family relationships. Kathleen trained under Sheran who visited Fredericton in 2008.
Although Kathleen spoke of other women making a difference in far off places, she reminded everyone that in our midst there are women making a difference. Dawn DeCourcey, a Fredericton resident, quietly runs a program called the Fundy Peace Foundation (FPF). While visiting a school in Kenya as a representative of the Foundation, Dawn realised that even though children may obtain the necessary high rankings to get into high school, they are often too poor to attend. In response, FPF set up a scholarship fund to assist students. It was also noted that few females complete elementary school and become eligible for high school. The Masai Mara Project has raised over $10,000 to help address this need.
So many women making a difference. Blooming where they are planted and continuing to sow the seeds of help wherever they are needed through their faith and their relationships with others. It was noted that as our faith grows, we often look to demonstrate that faith and the love of God to others. These women have all succeeded and continue to succeed in living out their faith each day!
The season of Lent, with its "lent"hening days, reminds us of the coming of wondrous gifts of springtime when the earth returns to vitality after a life-limiting winter. The winter season is the harshest and most difficult in our climate and most of us are quite ready to see the return of spring. These cyclical seasonal realities symbolize the truths of the seasons of our lives. The Christian seasonal calendar also follows similar pulses and reveals shades of meaning as we journey through joys and sorrows, life and death, the natural elements of existence.
Lent is a serious, solemn time representing the hardships of life. It especially turns us to thinking of the sacrifice and discipline required to live righteously (in "right relationship"). As we travel towards the events of Holy Week, we are encouraged to remember the cost of discipleship. Easter reminds us of the reward of that discipline and the gift of new life God holds in store for those who will accept it.
One of the best places to observe the thoughts and beliefs of our culture is the automobile bumper sticker. Here we often find encapsulated expressions of the everyday thinking of secular society. On the back of one car I saw, "Life is hard, then you die." What a depressing representation of human existence. No hope. Nothing beyond what the limits of human powers of mind and body can distinguish. It does, of course, reveal a certain truth, yet from a Christian perspective, and uncomplete one. Life IS hard. There is mourning and many aspects of living bring us great sorrow. As we or our loved ones battle illness, as we mourn the death of those close to us, as we struggle against all the forces that try to take away our life, we can say with certainty — "Life is hard." That is why we need the message of Scripture, God's Word to us. A broader perspective from a distance reveals a higher more optimistic view of our existence.
"Life's hard, then you die ... THEN YOU REALLY LIVE!" Its only after facing the reality of death that we are freed to live as God would have us live. When we die to our sin and all that holds us from being in right relationship with God and each other, we experience the joy and fulfillment Resurrection brings. St. Paul puts it this way, "Death has been swallowed up in victory." (1 Corinthians 15:54) This was the truth communicated by the events of Jesus' life, death and resurrection. Death and hardship are the door through which we gain a closer relationship with the Creator, through Jesus Christ our Lord. We are invited to share in the victory and the joys of new life to the extent that we are willing to put to death in ourselves that which destroys life. "Alleluia, Christ is Risen" summarizes the Christian perspective of our existence. At Easter we celebrate the joyful result of walking through death to the life God wishes to give to us.
You are invited to join in the Christian symbolic walk through Holy Week to the joy of Easter Resurrection. A schedule of worship is enclosed for your convenience. If you are unable to be present to make your Communion because of illness, please phone the Cathedral Office to arrange for the Sacrament to be brought to you.
Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 19 March 2018 with ten of twelve usual members present. J. McGarry was welcomed to the Chapter. Minutes of 19 February 2018 regular meeting and 24 February 2018 following the Annual, were reviewed and adopted. The Dean shared a video created by Creation Matters (Diocese of Ottawa) entitled “Mission Per Square Foot” which showcases St. Luke’s Church, Ottawa. This parish is using sacred space in new and creative ways. A discussion followed.
Business Arising • “Jingle All the Way” - Clarification on donation still pending • Ending Homelessness in Fredericton - A meeting for members of the Congregation (and Fredericton area churches) is Saturday, 24 March 2018 at the Cathedral Memorial Hall. Area Anglican churches have been invited. All encouraged to attend. <roadhomefredericton.com> or view the post on the Cathedral web site.
From the Dean • Normal ministry commitments - 4 home visits, 2 visits to hospital, 2 care home communions, 3 home Communions, diocesan and Cathedral meetings. Preparing for Holy Week and Easter. • Vacation - 03-16 April 2018
For Discussion Governance - The Chapter continues to work towards facilitating current terms of reference for its committees. The Executive is continuing to work intentionally with committees either updating existing or creating new versions. The purpose of the documents is to bring greater clarity and transparency to the ministry management structure and assure that communication flows effectively and efficiently within the organization of Cathedral life. Good progress. Support inquiry - was made about financial support related to Mothers’ Union travel for Kathleen Snow. Christian Formation Committee will explore on behalf of the Chapter.
For Decision • Terms of reference for the committee on Health and Pastoral Care were adopted • Terms of reference for the committee on Christian Formation were adopted • that $50,000 be transferred from the general operating account to investment account where it will gain a return until needed
Reports • Treasurer
- diocesan financial return for 2017 has been submitted - renewal with WorkSafeNB - progress being made in revising coding of accounts - charities return to Canadian Revenue Agency almost complete and should be submitted this week
• Formation - terms of reference completed. Up-coming Family Faith Fiesta, Godly Play training, intergenerational worship on Good Friday • Administration and Finance - two forms tabled regarding Safe Church administration • Health and Pastoral Care - terms of reference completed. Ministries functioning well. Isabel Cutler has been appointed coordinator of the pastoral visitors. • Hospitality/Welcoming/Membership - working at assembling a committee. Congregational volunteers needed. Contact Lynn Meehan.
Twenty-one people from the diocese are going to Toronto in late April. They will spend the week with the poor and needy, do chores and help wherever they can, spreading the gospel and doing good works. But don’t call it a mission trip.
We’re rebranding
“We’re rebranding,” said Colin McDonald, director of youth and intergenerational ministries in the Diocese of Fredericton. “It’s not a mission trip. We’re going on a student pilgrimage. What we’re really doing is forming people — our own people. We’re expecting to get far more from the people we encounter than we’ll give.”
A fund-raiser will be held at the Cathedral Hall. Visit the Facebook event page if you're "interested" or "going." Cost is $10 person or $30 for a family. Donations also welcome.
he group of nine leaders and 13 young people have been meeting, praying and studying the bible in preparation for the trip. The most recent meeting was held at Outflow Ministry, the same men’s shelter that now houses the Parish of Millidgeville after it left its north-end building last fall.
The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund, seeking to build a truly just, healthy and peaceful world, works in 28 countries with a variety of local partners and covers a wide spectrum in the field of international development. We hope that this devotional will help you explore the history of PWRDF as well as the various pillars of PWRDF’s work: food security, preventive health, humanitarian relief and refugee support, poverty reduction, human rights and peace. We pray that this resource will help you in your mission to seek justice in our world. — PWRDF National Youth Council Resources Committee
Creator God, You loved the world into life. Forgive us when our dreams of the future are shaped by anything other than glimpses of a kingdom of justice, peace and an end to poverty. Incarnate God, You taught us to speak out for what is right. Make us content with nothing less than a world that is transformed into the shape of love, where poverty shall be no more. Breath of God, let there be abundant life. Inspire us with the vision of poverty over, and give us the faith, courage and will to make it happen. Amen.
Sunday 4 March - Third in Lent 10.00: Choral Eucharist (BAS) Rejoice in the Lord alway - Anon. 16th century German Mass - Schubert Psalm 19 View me, Lord, a work of thine - Lloyd 253, 291, 527, 479, 602 Choral Song - S.S. Wesley
4.00: Choral Evensong (BCP) Smith Responses Psalm 34 Weelkes’ Short Service Out of the deep - Morley 175, 607, 347 Introduction & Passacaglia in D minor - Reger
Sunday 11 March - Fourth in Lent - Mothering Sunday 10.00: Choral Eucharist (BCP) Almighty God, which hast me brought - Ford Batten’s Short Service Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 Ave verum - Byrd 5, 180, 200, 60, 362 A Trumpet Minuet - Hollins
Sunday 18 March - Fifth in Lent 10.00: Choral Eucharist (BAS) Jesu, the very thought is sweet - Gibbons Missa Secunda - Hassler Psalm 119:9-16 Surely he has born our griefs - Daley 156, 173, 631, 243, 444 Sonata in D, Op. 65/5 - Mendelssohn
Sunday 25 March - Sunday of the Passion - Palm Sunday 10.00 Choral Eucharist (BCP) Gibbons’ Short Service Psalm 39:9-16 The Passion according to St. Mark - Lassus Hosanna filio David - Victoria 181, 182, 184, 185(50), 372(224) Passacaglia in C minor BWV 582 - Bach
The Central Fundraising & Communications (F&C) Committee of Mothers' Union has produced a new prayer book for its members - 'words for every occasion to encourage and inspire, whether in public services, branch devotions or personal prayer time.'
This is the story of the little team that could! God gives us more than we can ask or imagine.
In my role as a member of the Central F&C Committee, I attended our initial meeting in May of 2016 which was held in Derbyshire. The goal of this first meeting was to discuss ideas about what the committee could do to raise funds for the worldwide Mothers' Union while at the same time enhancing communication with its members. The suggestion of producing a new Mothers' Union prayer book as an income-generator as well as a resource to our members was discussed.
The Prayers We Breathe prayer book was and is a wonderful resource; I have used it often over the last 20 years for both personal and corporate prayer. We suggested producing a new book of prayers written by MU members from all over the world. We were excited about the notion, and several members of the committee were quite enthusiastic about the project.
God gives us more than we can ask or imagine.
The F&C Committee meets 3 times annually; we meet in person once a year, and the other meetings are held via Skype. In late May of 2017 we met again in person and the idea of the prayer book was discussed again. Three of the members - Mari Thomas (Wales), Moira Thom (Northern Ireland) and I were keen to put our time and effort into the project. We were given approval by the committee to proceed and off we went! Our little team of three was on its way.
Last June we contacted Mothers' Union members from around the world via email with the assistance of Mary Sumner House. We invited them to submit prayers, and suggested topics to them for the prayers. We were hoping to receive 100 prayers for the book, and gave the members one month to submit them. We received feedback that this wasn't enough time, and doubt was expressed that the prayers would come in, but we received well over 350 prayer submissions. Mothers' Union members love to pray and they love to write prayers!
Mothers' Union members love to pray and they love to write prayers!
Mari, Moira and I met almost every Monday morning via Skype from June to December to receive, acknowledge, compile, edit, and work with our Committee Head Daniel McAllister and MU Trustee Jocelyn Wright to produce the book. A special thank you to Ethel Nelson and Dawn Skene for their eagle eyes in reviewing the prayers, and to Catherine Kyte from Mary Sumner House for her review and edits as well.
This new prayer book contains over 150 prayers and poems written solely by Mothers' Union members. It can be purchased for £3 plus postage by contacting Mothers' union <NewPrayerBook at mothersunion.org> or buy online Dear Lord Prayer Book.
It has taken a lot of time and effort to produce this book in just eight months. Our goal was to launch it at the Worldwide Council meeting in early February and we have met our deadline! The meetings and project have been covered in prayer, and all I can say is that our God is a great God who can make all things happen!
With every blessing, and thank you to all who have submitted prayers. There may be another book to come!
Penny Ericson on 11 March 2018 – Homelessness Initiative
The community of Fredericton is working to drastically change the way we collectively respond to homelessness through the implementation of a multiyear Plan to End Homelessness developed through collective planning by non-profits, different orders of government and community members.
The $10 million Plan, The Road Home, will work to house and support 267 chronic and episodically homeless and stabilize 1,033 households at risk of or experiencing transitional homeless. Moving from merely managing homelessness through emergency service to adopting a community wide strategy will create $3.2 million in savings in the first four years.
The Road Home is grounded in Housing First: an evidence-based model that focuses on quickly moving people experiencing homelessness into independent and permanent housing and then providing additional supports and services as needed. This model rejects 'housing readiness' approaches that have far too often left our most vulnerable trapped in a long-term or inescapable cycle of homelessness.
From the Plan ...
Our Plan sets forth a course of action that will result in significant shifts in our community’s collective approach to a widespread social challenge. We cannot promise that no one will ever experience homelessness again in our community: the root causes involved in housing instability are well beyond our capacity to redress in this Plan. Factors like poverty, the macro-economics of housing markets, public policy decisions, systemic discrimination experienced by groups including Aboriginal people, as well as the challenges of mental health and additions play critical roles in the dynamics of homelessness. These are structural and systemic factors that we must continue to address, though we cannot resolve them in the short-term. However, there is much we can do.
This Plan is a call to action, first and foremost. It sets out a roadmap that will lead to significant improvements for those experiencing homelessness in our community. It calls for the creation of new interventions, using the proven and cost-effective Housing First approach, to rapidly house and support those in need.
The Plan proposes the enhanced coordination of our homeless-serving system, and its intentional integration with other partners, including health, corrections, police, and child protection. It calls for enhanced information sharing, performance management processes and capacity building to support our frontline service providers. The Plan recognizes the key role all partners play in our collective
March 28 - Wednesday in Holy Week
