Ad-LENT-ures 2023

Posted on February 16, 2023March 19, 2023

22 February - 01 April 2023

During the Season of Lent, all members of the Cathedral congregation are encouraged to consider individual or small group study or reflection. The 40 days of Lent are an excellent time to take on a discipline of deeper reflection on the Christian life, growing personally in discipleship as well as helping us grow as a community of Christian faith. (See BAS p. 282 and BCP p. 612)

MONDAYS ~ beginning 27 February

Afternoon Study Group
Book study of Let Me Go There: The Spirit of Lent by Paula Gooder -- the Archbishop's recommended study book for 2023. Come join the conversation(s) about Lenten themes such as wilderness, journey, prayer and fasting. Facilitated by Dean Geoffrey Hall. 2:00-3:15 p.m, in Cathedral Memorial Hall. RSVP.

*Note: The Bishop's Office will be hosting online gatherings exploring the same text, facilitated by Shawn Branch and Cheryl Jacobs. Online sessions will be hosted on Mondays at 12:00 noon and 7:00 p.m. Register through the Anglican Diocese of Fredericton website.

TUESDAYS ~ beginning 28 February

Art & Faith
An Ignatian-flavoured contemplative consideration of select works of sacred art. Hosted by Kurt Schmidt. 5:30-6:00pm, Drop-in online via Zoom. Link through the Cathedral calendar.

THURSDAYS ~ beginning 23 February

Taizé Thursdays
Ecumenical and contemplative services of worship that incorporate simple song, scripture and silence. 5:30-6:00pm, alternating formats -- online via Zoom and in-person/livestreamed from the Cathedral. Drop-in. Link through the Cathedral calendar or Cathedral YouTube channel. Curious about Taizé? Read about an online session and in-person Taizé at the Cathedral.

The Divine Comedy
Ongoing study group discussing Dante's classic poem. Hosted and led by Alan Hall and friends. 7:00-8:30 p.m, Hall Lounge. RSVP.

FRIDAYS ~ beginning 24 February

Stations of the Cross
Various versions of the ancient meditation on the Via Crucis (Way of the Cross). 12:00 noon, Cathedral. Drop-in.

SUNDAYS

The Chosen
Intergenerational screening of the recently released third season of The Chosen, the largest crowd-funded media project in history, portraying the life of Christ and the disciples. 6:00-8:00pm, Cathedral Memorial Hall. Popcorn provided!

Contact Facilitators and Join

Please contact the facilitators directly to: express interest / ask a question / register / RSVP. Take special note of online options. Flexibility in schedules and locations may be possible within given restraints.

Geoffrey Hall: email or phone (506) 450-7761 or the Cathedral Office
Cheryl Jacobs: email or phone (506) 459-5795 or the Cathedral Office
Alan Hall: email or phone (506) 443-0196 or the Cathedral Office
Kurt Schmidt: email or phone (506) 259-3711 or the Cathedral Office

Memoirs: Archbishop Harold Nutter

Posted on February 16, 2023March 29, 2023

'It Remains for Me to Say', a book containing the memoirs of Archbishop Harold Lee Nutter is available for purchase at the Diocesan Synod Office for $28 (plus postage if required). Drop by the Synod Office upstairs in Memorial Hall, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. or email <office at anglican.nb.ca> for details. The book, edited by Archbishop Nutter’s son Andrew (Bruce) Nutter, tells a fascinating story of a long Anglican life.

A description of the book is below.

It Remains for Me to Say
The Memoirs of Archbishop Harold Lee Nutter

edited by his son Andrew with a foreword by David Adams Richards

After he retired the Archbishop recorded his memoirs for the Provincial Archives of New Brunswick in 1992. They have had to be extensively culled but tell a fascinating story of a long Anglican life.

Harold Nutter was born in Welsford and named after his uncle whose name is included on the memorial at Vimy Ridge following his death in the Great War. His mother died of tuberculosis when he was nine. Unlike other boys of his age, interested in hunting and fishing, Harold began studying Greek at the age of twelve. His father, who ran the village grocery store, found his son’s unusual interest difficult to explain to fellow villagers.

In his first year at Mount Allison a devastating fire destroyed the men’s residence just before Christmas in 1941. Harold had been assigned to a top floor room with four other boys, but several days before the fire, the Dean of Residence moved him to another room on the same floor. Sadly, all the boys from that earlier room died understandably leaving Harold to wonder why he should be spared.

Later he was the recipient of five honorary degrees, a member of the Order of Canada, and a social reformer under New Brunswick premier Louis Robichaud. He was offered the Lieutenant Governorship of the province, and a seat in the Senate.

The Archbishop was sounding alarm bells in the later part of his episcopate over the wayward and woke direction of his beloved church. His writings now seem prescient.

Not just for breakfast

Posted on February 10, 2023February 15, 2024

Shrove Tuesday is just around the corner and for many Christians, that means pancakes for supper!

Not being a pancake lover, I decided to do a little research on this questionable meal choice. I knew that Shrove Tuesday (also known as Pancake Day, Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras) preceded Ash Wednesday when many folks give up something that they love as a sort of penance during Lent. Historically, it would be rich food of some sort that was given up and your Shrove Tuesday meal would be your last kick at the rich food can, so to speak.

This just made me all the more curious why anyone would choose pancakes as their last tasty meal!

Well, it seems that we owe a debt of gratitude (or not) to a lady in the middle of cooking up a pancake supper. When the Church bells rang in Olney, UK one day in 1445 indicating it was time for confession (where one would be “shriven” or absolved of sin), she ran to the Church in her apron, clutching her frying pan full of pancakes.

And now, centuries later, in many parts of the UK, pancake races are a big part of Shrove Tuesday celebrations. And, not surprisingly, the most famous race of all is held in Olney where local “housewives” don their aprons, hats and scarves, clutch their frying pans and race to the finish line, all the while flipping their pancake at least three times. The first woman to finish the course and arrive at the Church, serve her pancake to the bellringer and kiss him wins the race.

Pancake recipes can apparently be traced back to Roman times. The main ingredients – milk, flour, eggs – were considered “rich” ingredients which, I guess, accounts for their becoming the “rich” meal of choice.

Even if they aren’t my favourite food group, the following description of Shrove Tuesday at the Cathedral may be enough to entice me out this year. I asked Jim Morrell for his memories of Shrove Tuesday meals at Christ Church Cathedral.

Here’s what Jim had to say:

“Male members of the Cathedral (take that Olney!) have been preparing and serving pancakes, sausages and beans for the Shrove Tuesday congregation-and-friends supper for over 60 yeas. One of my childhood memories is eating pancakes that my Dad served to my Mother, brother and me in the original Memorial Hall lower level in the late 1950’s. Not only was it a tasty (mmmm) and plentiful meal for the growing number of post-war baby boomers like me, it was a 'day off' so to speak for our stay-at-home Moms who didn’t have to prepare it. It’s always been lots of fun for those who come to enjoy the food and the conversation and for those who cook and serve.”

Well, Jim, you and the members of St. Joseph’s Guild will be warming up your favourite pancake flipper in no time!

Maybe even I will put aside my pancake dislike and come out for that evening of fun with family and friends. After all, there will be lots of time after supper to grab some chocolate or other rich delicacy on the way home before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent!

by Gail MacGillivray

Celebrate the beginning of Lent by attending Christ Church Cathedral’s Shrove Tuesday pancake supper at Cathedral Memorial Hall on 13 February from 4:30-6:30 pm. Enjoy pancakes, sausages, and beans followed by gingerbread with toppings. Coffee and tea will be available. Admission is through freewill donation. Everyone is welcome, so bring your friends and family!

Thanks from Montgomery Street School

Posted on February 6, 2023March 1, 2023

In December, Christ Church Cathedral donated $2000 to Montgomery Street School, a nearby elementary school with a number of children in need. The money, given by the congregation through a Giving Tuesday campaign, supported a school lunch program. We recently received a thank you note from the Home and School Association, signed by children in the school's Leadership Program.

A HUGE THANK YOU FROM US...

It is so heartening when we receive a gift from a generous group that allows us to say "yes, we can help" to one more child within Montgomery Street School. We would love to extend our appreciation and thanks from the children, staff and Home and School Committee to the congregation of Christ Church Cathedral.

With your generous donation that was provided, we are able to ensure that children are fed, have warm clothes for wintertime as well as all the extra needs needed by our students and families.

We are so lucky and grateful to have your support.

Reegan McDougall
President: Montgomery Street Elementary School, Home and School

Episcopal Church of Roatan / Nelson and Kara Ministry (December 2022 Update)

Posted on February 2, 2023March 1, 2023

The Reverends Nelson and Kara Mejia are SAMS Canada (South American Mission Society) missionaries and priests in the Diocese of Honduras. Kara Mejia is the daughter of retired New Brunswick priest Gordon Thompson and his wife, Bell.

The Cathedral Missions Committee supports their Ministry in Roatan, Honduras with yearly donations.

By the Revs. Nelson and Kara Mejia:

At this time of year, as we recall and reflect on the nativity story, we’re reminded anew that Jesus really is the hope of the world.

In this month’s edition of our ministry update, I can see evidence of the hope, joy, and redemptive transformation that comes through the love of Jesus.

As we look back on the year and look forward to the next with hope and expectancy, Kara and I (Nelson) wanted to take a moment to thank you for partnering with us, for your encouragement, sacrificial giving and especially prayers that make our ministry possible...

...

Click here to continue reading the full update, and see more photos! They have shared details about food deliveries to families, a community kitchen for kids, a women's meeting, clerical retreat, and deputation time, when Kara and Nelson will be visiting New Brunswick to share information about their ministry.

2023 World Day of Prayer

Posted on February 2, 2023March 16, 2023

The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement led by Christian women who welcome you to join in prayer and action for peace and justice.

The World Day of Prayer service video for 2023 is available to watch online now. The 55 minute video, produced by the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada, can be watched at any time. A 24 minute children's video is also available.

The women who wrote the World Day of Prayer Service this year are from Taiwan. The Theme is “I Have Heard About Your Faith”. Based on the letter to the Ephesians, it is an invitation to active listening, which is the ground of our prayers. Following the example of the letter (1:15-19), where the author praises the church for their faith in Jesus and love toward all the saints, the worship service contextualizes the witness of the saints with the stories from Taiwan.

March 3, 2023 is the official date chosen as the World Day of Prayer.

World Day of Prayer services will also be held in-person in Fredericton:

Friday, March 3, 2:00 p.m. at Nashwaaksis United Church, 46 Main Street. Reception to follow.
Storm date: March 5, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, March 12, 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s United Church, 224 York Street. Reception to follow.

Monetary donations go toward expenses incurred in preparing the World Day of Prayer service, and providing grants to support women and children around the world who are fighting injustice and abuse. Donate online to the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada, or mail a cheque to 47 Queen’s Park Crescent East, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2C3. Receipts are provided for all donation of $20 or more.

If you have questions about the work of the Council or the 2023 prayer services, please contact Debbie Heustis with Fredericton Women’s Inter-Church. (506) 472-2916.

2023 Prayer Diary

Posted on January 20, 2023February 16, 2023

This Prayer Diary, created by Mothers' Union, contains daily and monthly prayers. You are encouraged to use it to facilitate your devotions. Each month in the colourful book begins with a reflection, an opening prayer and a creative prayer activity.

"As we use this resource, we remember that we are united with each other, wherever we are, in our prayers. May we continue to seek transformation in our world and in our lives, with the profound knowledge that God is with us and shines through us," says Sheran Harper, worldwide President of Mothers' Union.

Download the 2023 Prayer Diary

More resources are available on the Mothers' Union website.

Mothers’ Union is a Christian organisation that has been supporting families worldwide for over 140 years. Started by founder Mary Sumner in 1876 in her local parish, it has grown into an international charity with over 4 million members in 84 countries.

As a Christian membership charity, Mothers' Union demonstrates faith in action. This happens as they work towards stopping poverty, stopping inequality and stopping injustice. Members work at grassroots level around the world. They bring hope and practical support to millions of people every year through parenting, literacy and community development programmes.

Prayer is at the heart of their work. Members come together every day at midday to focus prayers for their communities, fellow members and for those in need, in the belief that the power of prayer is transformational and supports their work around the world.

Despite the name, Mothers' Union is an inclusive organisation with a growing number of men.

[excerpts from the Mothers' Union website]

Annual Report deadline approaching

Posted on January 19, 2023February 2, 2023

Video Message from St. Hilda’s School in Belize

Posted on January 13, 2023March 16, 2023

We recently received messages and a video from Ms. Jane Martinez, Principal of St. Hilda's Anglican School in Belize. As you can see, the families from St. Hilda's have faced hardship, tragedy, and also found joy. Please keep them all in your prayers.

Scroll down to watch the video below the letters.

[December 23, 2022]

Greetings,

I pray all is well with you. This first part of the school year has been a great challenge for us here at St. Hilda's Anglican school but God's grace has kept us. We've had victories and heartbreak but to God be the Glory.

I am also sharing a video of some activities at St. Hilda's Anglican for the first Cycle, September to December. I truly cannot find the words to express how blessed we are to have your support. We will continue to ensure that your investments are not in vain.

We love our Friends of St. Hilda's family and pray all the best for a wonderful holiday season and prosperous New Year.

Blessings,

Jane

[November 8, 2022]

Greetings Friends,

It is always a pleasure to send updates so that you know what is happening at St. Hilda's. I pray that all is well with you and your family as well as our Friends of St. Hilda's Family. The year has started out on a very busy note. I have been in classes since the beginning of September three to four times a week due to the absence of teachers so I have to multi-task.

The month of October has been a roller coaster month. I say this because we've had to deal with tragedy as well as celebrate God's goodness. We have experienced a lot of illness at school recently; both teachers and students. Many of them are out with fever, cough and cold. Please keep them in prayer. We were to hold our inaugural ceremony for our preschool on October 19th. Unfortunately, on October 18th, one of our preschool babies died tragically in a road traffic accident just a short distance from the school. He was sitting in the front passenger seat along with his 6 year old brother in their neighbor's vehicle when she lost control. There were four students with her but he sustained serious head and body injuries and died a short while later. His name was Zaiden Villanueva. His parents are Joycelyn and Sylvester Villanueva and his brothers are Randy and Akeem. Please keep them in prayer as well as the other parent who was driving. She sustained injuries to her face and body but is doing much better physically. The mental aspect is of concern. This incident was a shock to us all and we had to suspend classes for the day. Our counselors came in to do grief counseling the following day. The following week, I was out sick. I had pain all over my body and fever. I later discovered that I had a kidney infection. Thankfully, I am feeling much better.

The highlight of the month was our school and church harvest. It was a wonderful celebration after suffering such a tragic loss. Our inaugural ceremony will now be held on November 9th. We are also thankful that we were spared any damages due to Hurricane Lisa. The staff, students and their families are all safe and doing well.

In regards to the scholarship students, I do have mid semester reports for two of them so far. I will do my best to get the others and send them to you promptly.
I pray that you have a great day and rest of the week.

Best,
Jane

Bakers needed for monthly outreach program

Posted on January 9, 2023June 5, 2023

Outreach Committee volunteers hand out 8 1/2 dozen muffins and 8 1/2 dozen cookies each month to people in need who visit the Monday Morning Outreach Program.

A few members of the congregation faithfully bake homemade goodies, but additional contributors would be most welcome to replace some folks who have stepped aside or who are seasonally unavailable.

If you could help out by baking muffins or cookies occasionally, please let the Cathedral office know and you will be contacted by the committee. Thank you! Email<office at christchurchcathedral.com> or phone (506) 450-8500.

The Outreach Program operates on the last Monday morning of each month. Volunteers provide food, vouchers, bus tickets, clothing and information about local support programs to approximately 50 guests each month. Learn more about this longstanding program to help those in need in our community.

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