Author Archive: Kirsten McKnight

St. Hilda’s Harvest and Scholarship Update

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Ms. Jane Martinez, principal of St. Hilda's Anglican School in Belize, sent us some photos of 'St. Hilda's Harvest', a recent event where the students collected and packaged items for senior citizens in their neighbourhoods. View the gallery below to see photos of this special event.

Christ Church Cathedral provides funds each year to help provide necessities for the elementary school, which educates approximately 200 children between kindergarten and grade 8. Over 60 Cathedral members ranging in age from 15 to 79 have gone on a mission trip to Belize between 2005-2018, and hundreds of people in Fredericton have supported the work through organizational support, donations and prayers.

The Cathedral's four high school scholarship recipients, Korey, Edvin, Jenniah and Gian, continue their efforts. Two of the scholarship students had a difficult year due to pandemic challenges and family circumstances, but both have persevered and improved their marks in the recent semester. We have high hopes for all of the students' continued success at overcoming obstacles.

In Belize, the average age at which a child leaves school is 13 years old, because of the prohibitive costs of tuition for high school, which is not publicly funded. Unemployment in the country is high, there are many large single-parent families, and almost half of Belizeans live below the poverty line. In 2010, Cathedral mission team members established a high school scholarship program which has allowed St. Hilda’s students to apply for a scholarship to continue their education past grade 8. Some of the graduates supported by the Cathedral have gone on to post-secondary education.

Please pray for the students and teachers at St. Hilda's School, our scholarship students, and their families. Contributions towards the Belize mission are welcome and appreciated, especially during these pandemic times when the Missions Committee has not been able to hold a fundraiser. You may give and receive a charitable tax receipt by making an online donation or submitting a donation marked 'Belize' through the Cathedral office or offering plate.

Scroll through the photos below from St. Hilda’s Harvest:

Mask guidance from our Parish Nurse

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For your consideration: Some Canadian epidemiologists are suggesting moving to n95 respirator-type masks with the surge in COVID-19 due to the Omicron variant.

There is some evidence that points to it being airborne, and cloth masks and even surgical masks offer less effective protection. This news article addresses the discussion of which type of mask will be most effective.

If you feel you are wanting to switch your cloth/medial mask for an N95 or KN95, remember that FIT is the key here. For an N95 to work as it is intended, there must be a SEAL around the entire edge. The area of the bridge of the nose, and under your chin seem to be main problem areas when forming the seal. If you can feel air moving in or out from the edges of the mask when you are breathing, then you need to re-adjust, or may need a different size or type. Be sure to read and follow the directions provided with the purchase of your N95 mask, if you choose to go that route.

In typical New Brunswick fashion, we are a bit behind in the Omicron surge compared to our neighbours, which gives us a few extra moments to plan how we can adapt. This gift likely will not last long, and I suspect we will be hearing more about N95 usage in the coming days.

As always, my intent is to inform and update you all in as timely a manner as possible so you can make informed decisions. This was something I found interesting and valuable, and wanted to pass it along. Please take care, and reach out with any concerns or questions. We can get through this pandemic together.

-- Cathedral Parish Nurse, Sarah Ecker

Face mask guidance from the government of New Brunswick

COVID-19, religious freedoms and the Christian response

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The Mission and Outreach team of the Diocese of Fredericton continued its Christian Forum series with a most timely topic entitled COVID-19, Religious Freedoms & Christian Response.

Dr. Alan Sears, Professor Emeritus in the Faculty of Education at the University of New Brunswick, was the speaker, his second time presenting for the diocesan Christian Forum. Alan’s main focus of study and research is citizenship, civic education and the intersection of religion and education.

To help combat the spread of COVID-19, governments worldwide have imposed stringent measures, including limits to public gatherings like religious worship services. Some have seen these rules as violations of their religious rights, and in response, have protested and even engaged in acts of civil disobedience. It is this backdrop that forms the context for Alan’s presentation.

[Continue reading below]

Read the full article, written by Gisele McKnight and published in the December 2021 edition of the NB Anglican.

“There are many things to be concerned about in this world, but this politics of fear is toxic. It corrupts our empathy,” he said.

Watch the recording of the presentation from October 7, 2021:

e-Visits an option for medical appointments

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A message from our Parish Nurse:

With access to primary health care becoming increasingly challenging, have you heard of New Brunswick's e-Visit program? It is very simple to book an appointment online, and can save you long wait times in the ER. They can handle many urgent health care needs and send a needed prescription right to your pharmacist. The best part is that you do not have to leave your home, as it is done over the phone or video.

We all know someone (or many someones) currently without a family doctor. Even if you are blessed to have one, there are times when we cannot access them the same day, and you may have a more urgent need. It makes it challenging for continuity of care, and it can be a major challenge to book in a walk-in clinic or end up in the ER for something that could have been managed with a simple visit.

For a fee of about $49 you can book online to have a virtual appointment with a nurse practitioner who can manage treatment for many ailments and health inquiries. While this may not be the ideal answer for all, it may help in a pinch considering the current state of health related affairs in New Brunswick.

e-VisitNB is very straightforward to use, but if you need assistance, I'd be glad to help!  Email or phone the Cathedral Office (506) 450-8500.

Stay safe, stay well and be blessed,
Sarah Ecker

New Public Health Measures

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New Brunswick Public Health has published the COVID-19 Winter Plan which informs all sectors of current restrictions and protocols. Visit the website for information about how the Plan will affect your activities.

COVID-19 Winter Plan - Alert Level Measures

Level 1 comes into effect at midnight, Saturday, 04 December 2021. We'll continue to be watchful and implement changes in our procedures when directed to do so. For faith venues, Level 1 continues what has been in place for the past several weeks. Of the two options, Christ Church Cathedral is following Option 1 -- proof of vaccination required.

While we might become annoyed or frustrated by the inconvenience of current requirements, please be reminded that it pales in comparison to what is needed if choosing Option 2. Please assure you wear your mask and have proof of vaccination (12+) available. If we experience a site inspection, greeters will need to confirm with officials that all twelve years and up are fully vaccinated. For those we know, personal identification is not necessary.

To review

Proof of double vaccination or medical exemption is currently required for anyone 12+ attending worship in the Cathedral or visiting Memorial Hall. Please remember to bring your vaccine record to worship and group events, and wear your mask. Leaders of groups holding meetings at Cathedral Memorial Hall will be responsible for checking proof of vaccination for those attending [details]. Individuals visiting during office hours should check-in at the Cathedral Office.

The current Sunday bulletin outlines health precautions in place in the Cathedral community, including:

VACCINATION STATUS - Proof of full vaccination is now required for all age 12 and up at the Cathedral. ID will be required for those not known to greeters. These requirements apply similarly to weddings, funerals, and events held in Cathedral Memorial Hall as per current direction by Public Health.

FACE MASKS - The Government of New Brunswick currently mandates wearing masks in gatherings.

As always thank you for your continuing cooperation as we care for ourselves and others.

Our worship livestream is available to watch at 10:30 am on Sunday, if you are not able to be with us (for any reason). Both livestream and recordings can be found on our YouTube channel. Audio podcasts are also available. Listen here. Get notification of new episodes when you Subscribe here.

The Health Ministry Team is willing to assist members of the congregation with making appointments for vaccinations and answering health questions. Please contact Parish Nurse <nurse at christchurchcathedral.com>.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Cathedral Office <office at christchurchcathedral.com> or phone (506) 450-8500, or the Dean <dean at christchurchcathedral.com> or (506) 450-7761.

Helping in our neighbourhood

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As Christians, we are called to love our neighbours.

Recently, Christ Church Cathedral became aware of a way to help children in need in its area of Fredericton and collaborated with a local school to provide assistance.

Located beside the University of New Brunswick and St. Thomas University, Montgomery Street Elementary School has a diverse student body. Approximately 230 children are enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 5, and the child to parent ratio is high. Its Home and School Association, a volunteer group of parents, guardians and staff representatives, regularly fundraises for school initiatives and to support students and families in need.

In November, the Home and School Association approached Christ Church Cathedral with a request for assistance.

The need within the school community is great, and the pandemic has made it difficult to organize in-school fundraisers or request donations from families multiple times a year.

The Cathedral was in a position to help. Representatives on Bishop and Chapter (the Cathedral’s board) voted to approve a $3000 donation.

Cathedral Treasurer Jamie Yeamans presented a cheque to Home and School Association President Reegan McDougall, along with some students from the school.

The funds will be used to support children in need through a school lunch and milk program, as well as provide appropriate winter clothing for students to wear outdoors. The donation will also support children with developmental needs by contributing to the creation of sensory rooms in the building. The school has a bare budget for these small rooms, but requires more funding to ensure that the rooms adequately provide for these children.

According to Home and School Association President Reegan McDougall, “The need is great, especially during this COVID-era when many families are struggling. Half of the children within Montgomery Street Elementary School have not yet had a ‘normal’ school year due to this pandemic, and our goal is to help as many families and children as we can.”

Supporting its neighbours through local outreach initiatives is an important part of the Cathedral’s mission, and members of the congregation were pleased to provide the support.

“The Cathedral is fortunate to have been in a position this year to be able to partner in this important community effort at Montgomery Street School,” says Geoffrey Hall, Dean of Fredericton and priest at Christ Church Cathedral. “Most especially, we're pleased to have been able to make the connection with some real needs right in our own backyard. We often think we have to go far from home to find mission opportunities, and while those are there and important, there's also much to do in our own neighbourhood.”

The school community is thankful for this new relationship. Says McDougall, “This donation has more meaning behind it than anything ever received in the past.”

-- by Kirsten McKnight

 

Mothers’ Union calls for participation in 16 Days of Activism

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Listen to Diane Nash on Sunday 28 November 2021

Mothers' Union is again participating in The United Nations-recognized 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and Abuse, and encourages churches and individuals to join the call for prevention and elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls. The annual international campaign, now in its 30th year, takes place between 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) and 10 December (International Human Rights Day).

Gender-based violence can affect any person at any time

Gender-based violence can affect any person at any time, and statistics demonstrate that women and girls are particularly at risk. Every day, Mothers’ Union works alongside communities to help end domestic abuse and gender-based violence and to support those affected by it.

During this time of activism and awareness, also referred to as the Global 16 Days Campaign, Mothers' Union's prayers will focus specifically on women and girls, recognizing the value of women and men reflecting, praying, and acting together to call for an end to violence in all its forms.

A prayer diary has been created for use during the 16 Days of Activism. By using the resource, says Worldwide Mothers' Union President Sheran Harper, "we come together to focus our prayers for those living with gender-based violence and those making a stand for change, as well as improving our understanding of the impact of gender-based violence across society."

In conjunction with the global celebration on 27 November, participants will be using the hashtag #nomore1in3 online as a way to highlight the violence and abuse suffered by 1 in 3 women across the world, and calling for an end to such atrocities.

Harper concludes, "Domestic abuse and gender-based violence affect people in different ways. By having this focus, we are not forgetting others; Mothers’ Union is against all forms of violence and abuse. Our members show such passion and commitment in their work, as they make communities and individuals safer around the world. Let us not be overcome, but through our prayers and actions be part of something that means women and girls can live to their full potential. Let’s work to make our world a place where they can do this without fear, in the knowledge that they are precious, that they have rights, that they are wonderfully made."

Download the Prayer Diary: Prayers and reflections for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and Abuse

2021 ADVENT-ures

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Listen to Kurt Schmidt speak on Sunday, 28 November 2021 about the 2021 ADVENT-ures.

Happy New Year! — The new Church year is upon us!

 Why not add something to your devotional life to mark a fresh start?

Choose from the following list of diverse opportunities on the Advent weekdays to deepen your prayer or study or worship.  You are encouraged and invited to add at least one new Advent-ure to your schedule!

MONDAYS

    • Christmas—The Day God Took off the Mask: Video series with Bishop Bill Hockin and friends. Talks & music, made available beginning at 12:00 noon on each of the first three Mondays of Advent. Details and YouTube link at billhockin.ca.
    • Waiting for God: Reflective study of Simone Weil’s essay, “Forms of the Implicit Love of God,” led by Alan Hall. In person, 7:00-8:00 p.m. in the Cathedral Sacristy. Please RSVP to Kurt Schmidt.

    TUESDAYS

    THURSDAYS

    • Taizé worship: A simple and contemplative half hour of prayer, song & silence. 2 & 16 December on Zoom,  9 & 23 December in person and livestreamed in/from the Cathedral. 5:30 p.m. start. Link through the Cathedral Calendar or from Kurt.

    FRIDAYS

    • Advent Lessons & Carols “miniseries”— UPDATE: The in-person versions scheduled for 10 and 17 December have been cancelled due to scheduling conflicts with our performers. View recordings from 2021 and 2020 on the Cathedral YouTube channel.

ONGOING / DAILY

  • Honest Advent: “Advent stations” art exhibit in the Cathedral, available for personal reflection & devotion,  Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sundays 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. Images by Scott Erickson which consider the seasonal theme of the vulnerability of incarnation, and which respond to the question, “Is Christ’s incarnation still happening in our midst?”
  • Divine Office: Regular (and short!) weekdaily prayer opportunity in the Cathedral. Morning Prayer at 8:45 a.m., Evening Prayer at 4:45 p.m.
  • Holy Eucharist: Wednesday mornings, 10:00 a.m. in the Cathedral.

Questions or expressions of interest can be communicated to Cathedral Director of Christian Formation, Kurt Schmidt by email or by phone/text to (506) 259-3711. Thanks & Blessings!

The Cathedral Branch of Mothers' Union has advent wreath candles available for purchase again this year. Contact a branch member or the Cathedral office by email or phone (506) 450-8500.

 

Angels among us

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Thanks to the generosity of the Cathedral family, all of the Christmas Angel gifts requested for needy children were supplied on time. The value was approximately $1,150.

Forty paper angels were hung on a small tree in the Cathedral, each requesting a specific Christmas gift or stocking stuffers for a needy boy or girl in our city. The Fredericton Food Bank, Greener Village, coordinates the collection of names and wishes, and solicits local businesses and individuals to show kindness through gift giving.

Ann Deveau, with Charlotte and Claire McKnight, sorting gifts after worship.

The Cathedral has participated in the Angel Tree program for decades, and the food bank is appreciative of this consistent participation. The Outreach Committee currently co-ordinates the collection of toys and stocking stuffers although, in earlier years, the Anglican Church Women (ACW) capably led the effort.

Gifts were requested to be returned to the Cathedral by 17 November, which was earlier than in previous years.

“This was the food bank's deadline for our crop of angels, allowing them time to distribute gifts to the hundreds of families they serve,” explained Outreach Committee treasurer Doug Milander.

Some of the many gifts donated by members of our congregation.

Greener Village Angel Tree Project Coordinator, Alexa English, says that the community response has been extremely positive, and she expects all families to receive the gifts requested. Although group donations have been collected, individual angels are still available on an Angel Tree located in the Regent Mall. In addition to angel tags requesting a specific gift, the program also accepts monetary donations to purchase gifts and help families in need through other food bank programs.

Another option for Christmas giving

Cathedral members who would like to participate in another method of Christmas giving are encouraged to write a cheque payable to Christ Church Cathedral and indicate Christmas Outreach on the memo line. As in past years, these funds will be divided equally among the Fredericton Homeless Shelters, Women in Transition House Inc. and the Fredericton Community Kitchens. Cheques may be delivered to the Cathedral office by 17 December.

Clothing donations for those in need

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Cleaning out your closet and want to help Frederictonians in need?

The Cathedral Outreach Committee serves people in need who visit the steps of Cathedral Memorial Hall on the last Monday of each month. Those visitors are given a goodie bag of food items and a $10 gift card for a supermarket, and an opportunity to choose free items from a table of donated items. Currently, guests are in need of warm clothing, winter jackets, boots and gloves. Men’s items are especially needed, as most of the guests are men. Small-sized toiletries such as toothpaste, shampoo, shower gel and deodorant are also welcome. The Outreach Committee currently has plenty of scarves and hats, and does not need household items. Donations can be brought to the Cathedral Office during office hours, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon, Monday to Friday.

If you have items to donate that are not needed for the Monday Outreach program, consider donating to the Mission Thrift Store (387 Sunset Drive), the Salvation Army Thrift Store (275 Main Street), or  The Drive Baptist Church's Clothing Bank (150 Greenwood Drive).

The Drive Baptist Church's Clothing Bank is open to the public and serves those in need by providing free clothing, footwear, household items, Christmas decorations, food and hygiene products. The mission is run by retired seniors who volunteer their time.

If you would like to donate to the Clothing Bank, please place items in the orange donation boxes beside the church at 150 Greenwood Drive. No furniture or electronics, please. Donations can be made at any time.

If you know of someone in need who could benefit from the Clothing Bank, please share this information with them. Proof of vaccination and masks are required. Contact The Drive Baptist Church for more information.

Hours:

Wednesday, November 17, 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Thursday, November 18, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Wednesday, November 24, 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Wednesday, December 1, 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Wednesday, December 8, 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Wednesday, December 15, 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Wednesday, January 5, 9:00 am - 10:30 am