Falling Upward

Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life
By Fr. Richard Rohr
Jossey-Bass / 2011 / 240 pages

I’m sure I may have noticed a few little hidden smirks when I mentioned to my Bible Study group that I was going to do a book review of Father Richard Rohr’s  “Falling Upward” for our website.

You see, my Bible Study group know all too well that Fr. Richard and I have a love/hate relationship. They had to listen to my rants when I didn’t understand him (he has a tendency to be a bit more pedantic than I felt necessary!). “Why didn’t he just say that?” was a frequent complaint of mine. But, since we have never met, maybe I should admit that love/hate relationship is pretty one-sided.

Father Rohr is a Franciscan priest living in New Mexico. He founded the Centre for Action and Contemplation in 1986 and serves as its Founding Director. He is the author of more than 20 books and an internationally known speaker. In researching him a bit, I found lots of glowing reviews!

Thus it was that I was quite impressed and excited to read this book - Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life.

Very early on in the book, Fr. Rohr says this: “It takes a foundational trust to fall or to fail - and not fall apart. Faith alone holds you while you stand waiting and hoping and trusting.” I can relate to this as I recall my nine year old stepson telling me that if I would just let myself fall, I would learn to ski. Never happened. I just couldn’t let go and drop!

And through most of this book, I think I just kept refusing to accept that falling is a necessary part of growing up - mentally, physically and ultimately spiritually.

As I skim through the book to write this, I think I need a re-read with a more open mind because I know this book provided a lot of challenging thinking and discussion for our group  (did I mention that I found him to be needlessly pedantic in places which annoyed me to no end?). 🙂

Briefly, Falling Upward is all about the different phases of growing up, of gaining wisdom in our everyday lives and growing spiritually as we add years. Much more detail than this, but I will let you discover that for yourself!

As much as you frustrated me Richard, you made me think - and think again.

-- by Gail MacGillivray

Publisher's Description:

In Falling Upward, Father Richard Rohr―the founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation―offers a new paradigm for understanding one of the most profound of life's mysteries: how our failings can be the foundation for our ongoing spiritual growth. Drawing on the wisdom from time-honored myths, heroic poems, great thinkers, and sacred religious texts, the author explores the two halves of life to show that those who have fallen, failed, or "gone down" are the only ones who understand "up." We grow spiritually more by doing it wrong than by doing it right. With rare insight, Rohr takes us on a journey to give us an understanding of how the heartbreaks, disappointments, and first loves of life are actually stepping stones to the spiritual joys that the second half of life has in store for us.

A gift to brighten a child’s Christmas

This December, the Cathedral Outreach Committee supported a program from Prison Fellowship Canada, which provides gifts to children of incarcerated parents.

PFC's Angel Tree Christmas program connects church communities and individuals with the families of prisoners through the delivery of a Christmas gift on behalf of the incarcerated parent. Through the program, a prisoner applies, submits a list of suggested items for each child, and fills out a gift tag that will be attached to the gift. Prison Fellowship matches the children with sponsors in their local area, who purchase, wrap and deliver gifts to the family.

Through the program, children the joy of receiving a gift -- but more importantly, they know that their mom or dad is thinking about them at Christmas time. Prisoners experience some moments of brightness during a time of year that can be very lonely for them.

The Cathedral was approached in early December by the Atlantic Coordinator of the program.

"We have certainly had many prisoners among our Monday guests," said Outreach Committee volunteer Ann Deveau, "and we feel it's important for their families to have a connection at Christmas."

Outreach Committee volunteers purchased, wrapped and delivered gifts to six children in the Fredericton area. Charlotte McKnight, a young Cathedral volunteer, took particular pleasure in choosing gifts for kids just a bit younger than herself.

The Prison Fellowship's Christmas program operates in every province and territory in Canada. Last year, 3424 children received gifts thanks to the generosity of 1479 sponsors, including 113 churches.

 


 

The Outreach Committee also oversees a Christmas Angel program at the Cathedral which is coordinated by Greener Village, the Fredericton food bank.

In that program, members of the congregation choose angel tags from a tree in the Cathedral and purchase toys and stocking stuffers for local children in need. This year, the congregation purchased gifts for 50 children.

 

2022 Christmas Pastoral

Advent 2022
Fredericton NB

Read or download in PDF

Dear Friends,

Once the lights are connected and the musical favourites begin to play, many again will get that warm holiday feeling and snuggle in for yet another Christmas. Memories of Christmas past may help to enhance those positive vibes while for others, there’s much well worth forgetting. Either way, Christmas comes once more.

The difficulty with this time of year is that it can sometimes only magnify what already has been. If we’ve had a year to remember, Christmas easily becomes a time to do the same. Still others have encountered once only life occurrences which have changed lives forever and looking back to happier times doesn’t necessarily facilitate Christmas cheer. But there is a way to assure that Christmas is all it can and should be and it has to do with avoiding being caught up in all that surrounds it. We need go deeper to what is sometimes called “the reason for the season.”

The problem for me is that I’ve gazed upon this familiar scene at the manger so long that I’ve become numb to it. I’ve heard the story so often that I’ve stopped thinking about it. But when I do think about it I begin to realize again that this is no ordinary story. The “scene” that is Christmas is not a card, a present wrapped in bright red, a lighted tree or even a particular song. It’s the announcement of the entrance of the eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, all-righteous, all-holy, and glorious God into our world in a physical, tangible, yet entirely unexpected way. Four words in the story of the first Christmas should challenge us, regardless of our circumstance, to see through the trappings to the real Christmas. “You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Lying in a manger!

No fancy lights, dinners, candies or parties to be seen. A little child lying in a dirty manger is where the God of the ages chooses to reveal himself. God entered into all of our misfortune to transform it and herald hope even in the midst of it. Jesus not only defeated darkness and death on the Cross but also in the manger, by entering into human struggle and sharing human pain. If we listen carefully to the Christmas carols, songs and hymns in a fresh way, that’s the message we’ll find there, over and over again. Sharing the hope makes us more hopeful. The true gift is often found in giving.

Whatever your situation this year, may you take the time to listen again to the messages of Christmas and find in them Christmas joy both in the midst of the celebration of blessings as well as in the misfortunes. The hope in the Saviour is that the day is surely coming when all will be made right in the world – a time when heaven and nature will be singing the same song. Emmanuel, God with us, is what Christmas is about. May you experience the true blessing of, and reason for, the season. I remain,

Or use the envelope in your boxed set

Yours sincerely,

Geoffrey Hall
Dean of Fredericton
GMH

Worship Schedule

8:45 a.m. Morning Prayer; 4:45 p.m. Evening Prayer (Monday to Friday)
Except civic holidays

The Fourth Sunday of Advent (Sunday, 18 December 2022)
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer)
10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer)
4:00 p.m. Christmas Lessons and Carols

Wednesday (Wednesday, 21 December 2022)
10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer)

The Eve of Christmas (Saturday, 24 December 2022)
4:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist (Contemporary)
8:00 p.m. Come Worship Eucharist (Informal)
11:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist (Traditional / Book of Common Prayer)

Christmas Day (Sunday, 25 December 2022)
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer)
10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer)

Wednesday (Wednesday, 28 December 2022)
10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer)

New Year’s Day / The Naming of Jesus (Sunday, 01 January 2023)
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer)
10:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Alternative Services with our Bishop’s New Year Reception)

The Epiphany of the Lord (Wednesday, 04 January 2023)
10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (Book of Common Prayer)

First Sunday after Epiphany - The Baptism of the Lord (Sunday, 08 January 2023)
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (with the Renewal of Baptism Vows)
10:30 a.m. Come Worship Eucharist (with the Renewal of Baptism Vows)
4:00 p.m. Choral Evensong (Book of Common Prayer) 09 December 2022

Visit our YouTube Channel for Live Streams and video-recorded worship

Contact us

 

 

Bishop and Chapter News – December 2022

Bishop and Chapter met 12 December 2022 in person and with video conference participation, 7 of 13 members present. A short discussion on an article entitled “One Invitation Away from Returning” by Rebekah Simon-Peter (LeadingIdeas - Lewis Center for Christian Leadership). One premise included is similar to that of the “Back to Church”/ Season of Invitation movement: that personal invitation is the one most effective tool for building congregations. The reminder is significant, especially as we move into post-pandemic times when many changed worship attendance patterns. Minutes from 21 November 2022 were adopted.

Correspondence

•   letter of thanks was sent to Vice-Chancellor Kelly VanBuskirk following legal advice requested and received during the Fall

From the Dean

•   outside Communions (1)
•   committee/group meetings (4)
•   usual staff meetings weekly
•   Giving Tuesday successful campaign
•   meeting with Source Alliance
•   Narrative Budget Team (1)
•   Staff dinner at Lexington
•   Funeral out of town (1)
•   Nominating Committee (1)
•   Guild of St. Joseph social
•   Mothers' Union dinner and social
•   Vacancies: Safe Church; Synod substitute (16-35); Assistant(s) to the Verger; Chapter Mission/Outreach
•   Diocesan Finance Committee (1) / Diocesan Council (1) / Synod Planning (1)

For Information

Feasibility Study - Source Alliance continues to work towards the community interview stage of a study to explore wider support for a project to address Cathedral needs summarized in the 2022 Building Conditions and Issues Report. Over a hundred individuals have been identified. A case for support document is nearing completion for use during interviews and to share information about a potential campaign. Funding for the Study accessed from non-restricted invested funds. A meeting of Chapter and Diocesan executive representatives tentatively set for mid-January

For Decision

Stipend and Staff salaries 2023 - cost of living increase of 4% on the 2023 scale of minimum stipends. Dean’s stipend in 2023 $61,324 ($16,414 above minimum). Regulation 7-2 Remuneration and Compensation. A 4.5 % cost of living increase to 2022 budgeted amounts for staff salaries in 2023. In addition, the Sexton’s salary was increased by $3,000. Details will be in the proposed budget for 2023.

Reports

Treasurer - deficit position has improved, largely due to no unexpected expenses and lower than expected fuel costs (milder weather.) We continue showing a consistent decline/under performance in offerings year-to-date at about -10%. With revenue counted from unplanned sources, including from the Diocesan Synod, the deficit stands at $6,685.

Miscellaneous - Giving Tuesday campaign in support of school lunch programme exceeded the initial goal and the total of $2000. Some insulation of Cathedral basement doorway/conversion of choir room lights to led. Nominating Committee is exploring possible nominations for 2023. Formation and Welcome may be collaborating on an event for new congregational members in the new year.

Upcoming

•   Christmas Lessons and Carols, 4:00 p.m. (18 December)
•   Christmas Worship (Christmas and New Year’s on Sunday)

GMH

City of Fredericton Heritage Review

The City of Fredericton is looking for opinions about its heritage program - share your thoughts!

The City is currently reviewing its heritage program and services and is looking for feedback from residents. Share your thoughts by completing a short online survey so decision-makers can better understand how you perceive heritage, its conservation importance, and the value it provides compared to other City services, programs and amenities.

The survey will close on December 23.

Results will be considered along with rightsholders consultations, community stakeholder engagement, best practices, staff expertise, and budget considerations.

TAKE THE SURVEY

Cathedral Faces: Jason Parsons, Verger

As part of our Cathedral Faces series, we are sharing biographies of our staff members and clergy. These dedicated individuals contribute a lot to our community, in ways seen and unseen, and we are thankful for their work.


Professionally, Jason is an Army Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces in his 27th year of service. He belongs to the Royal Canadian Regiment which has a historical relationship with the Cathedral. Currently he works in downtown Fredericton at the Carleton Street Armouries as the Regular Force Adjutant attached to the Royal New Brunswick Regiment.

He holds a Bachelor of Military Arts and Sciences Degree from the Royal Military College at Kingston Ontario and a Diploma in Theology from Thorneloe University. He has also completed numerous theological courses with Wycliffe College as part of the Master of Theological Studies, due to changes in military educational funding and free time he has put the degree on hold. As an Infantry Soldier and Officer he has deployed to the former Yugoslavia, Haiti, Afghanistan, and Latvia with domestic operations to the Quebec Ice Storm, the Swiss Air disaster, and local emergencies.

Jason is married to Susan and together they have three children, Gabe, Nate, and Ivy. Jason came to the Anglican tradition in 2013 and has an ecumenical background within other Christian traditions. Jason began as Verger on 01 July 2019.

His role with the military has seen some increased demands combined with additional family commitments has seen the role of Verger take on an increasingly shared role with Hank Williams, whom Jason affectionately refers to as the Verger Emeritus. He is grateful for Hank’s willingness to share this role. Should anyone be interested in joining them in this shared role, they are encouraged to speak with Jason.

ACW Christmas Tea

The Anglican Church Women (ACW) welcomed 35 guests to a Christmas Tea on a balmy December 7 afternoon.

Guests entering Memorial Hall were greeted by brightly lit Christmas trees and surrounding tables displaying beautiful and unique angels - no two of the 50+ were alike.  Conversation, sharing and ‘catching up’ was the buzz around the tea tables.

The guests were very generous with their gifts for Grace House, and we receive grateful recognition from the women's shelter for the yearly delivery.

Of course, as a Christmas gathering, there were seasonal sweet favourites to enjoy with a beverage of choice.

We had pleasure in preparing and hosting; our guests had pleasure in sharing and fellowship.

Photos taken by Helen Liang

Christmas Lessons and Carols

Celebrate the coming of Christmas with a service of scripture and carols.

https://youtu.be/iQv_3rWW2E0

Listen to Audio

4:00 p.m., Sunday,18 December in Christ Church Cathedral, 150 Church Street in downtown Fredericton, New Brunswick.
Whether you are a Christian who has worshipped in the Anglican tradition, are of another Christian denomination, another faith entirely or, simply interested in understanding more about what our faith community is all about, you are warmly welcome to visit or join us in worship. There is no dress code, you are free to sit where you wish and, to participate as you feel comfortable.

Reaching out to support a local school lunch program

In 2021, the Cathedral contributed funds towards a school lunch program, winter clothing, and the creation of two sensory rooms for children with developmental challenges. Adequate funding was not available within the school's educational budget, so the volunteer Home and School Association ran a fundraising campaign.

On 09 December, Dean Geoffrey Hall and Cathedral Treasurer Jamie Yeamans presented a $2000 cheque to Montgomery Street School. Members of the congregation had contributed to a Giving Tuesday campaign to raise money to help fund a lunch program at the school, which has a number of children in need.

This is the second year that the Cathedral has supported initiatives for children in need at the local elementary school. The Cathedral Bishop and Chapter approved a donation in 2021 to assist with its lunch program, provide winter clothing to students in need, and assist in the creation of sensory rooms for children with developmental challenges.

We're grateful for the contributions to this community outreach project which will help to feed children in our community.

The Principal of Montgomery Street School, David Burrell, also shared his thanks in a letter to the congregation:

(L to R) Back row: Sandi Mwenga (VP, Home & School Association), Jennifer Hamel (Home & School Association), Charlene Smith (Home & School Association), Geoffrey Hall (Dean, Christ Church Cathedral), Jamie Yeamans (Treasurer, Christ Church Cathedral), Reegan McDougall (President, Home & School Association), David Burrell (Principal, Montgomery Street School) Front row: students from Montgomery Street School's Grade 5 Leadership class

First of all, we are beyond thankful for the support given to Montgomery Street School again this year. As you know, students and families have been faced with new and unique challenges over the last two and half years. These challenges continue to push the need for support within our school community, and when we have partnerships with strong local groups such as the Christ Church Cathedral, we can provide much needed supports to our families.

This year, in collaboration with our Home and School Committee, we are again fostering lasting community partnerships that will continue to support our food programs such as hot lunch and milk programs. As food cost continue to rise, your donation will go a long way to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in our food programs. This generous donation will also support our clothing drive initiative that will guarantee all of our students have the proper winter attire so they can enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities that comes with living in Fredericton.

I am very thankful for the time, effort and support we have received from you. It will have a lasting positive impact on our school community!

Sincerely,

David Burrell

Principal, Montgomery Street School