Giving Tuesday is a time to celebrate and encourage activities that support charities and non- profits. Whether it’s making a donation, volunteering time, helping a neighbour or spreading the word, Giving Tuesday on November 28th is a movement for everyone who wants to give something back. This year PWRDF is inviting you to make Giving Tuesday a World of Gifts Tuesday! Visit the secure online World of Gifts site and see how you can make a world of difference in the lives of people around the world being supported by PWRDF programs.
Category Archives: Ministry
Monday morning drop-in: Sharing Christianity outside the church walls
Tasty sandwiches and warm socks aren't the only things handed out to people in need at the Monday morning drop-in run by the cathedral's outreach committee.
Archdeacon Pat Drummond always gives a blessing of praise and thanksgiving to start the morning's activities. At first, the clatter of dishes and chatter of voices would continue. But now everyone stops respectfully to listen to her.
Later, amid the hubbub of people in the great hall who are enjoying refreshments, live music and a selection of used clothing, she announces a Bible study will begin shortly in the nursery.
She first offered such a session in the autumn of 2015. Only one or two people took part at first, but now several usually attend weekly.
"Those who participate say they really enjoy it and would miss it if it didn't happen," Pat said.
Last year they read the Gospel of Mark, but now they are examining Genesis. On a recent Monday they read about the birth of Jacob's sons, the ancestors of the 12 tribes of Israel.
"We always look at a bit of background for the story we are about to read," she explained. "We talked about the language spoken by the people of the day, since the names of Jacob's sons have meanings in Hebrew. We talked about the position of women in that society. Then we read the story in a modern translation such as the Message."
OUTREACH BIBLE STUDY – Archdeacon Pat Drummond (at left) leads a Bible study attended by Monday morning drop-in guests such as Darcy, Wendy and Barb.
Some of the people in the group are regular churchgoers, some had a religious foundation in childhood, while others are curious seekers. Pat involves everyone in the discussions.
"We discuss things in our own lives which have impacted us and bear relation to the story," she said. "Today, for example, it was how many children were in our own families and our position in the family. We talk about issues in the story such as the relationship between Jacob's wives and the slaves who also bore his sons. And we discuss how we solve or have solved our own family issues."
We need to be where people's hopes and fears intersect with those of God ...
Bishop David Edwards has said that the church needs to look for new ways to share the presence of God in communities where it has traditionally been established.
"We need to be where people's hopes and fears intersect with those of God, and to provide ways in which people can connect with God when they need to," the bishop wrote in a recent column in the NB Anglican.
Charles Ferris from the cathedral regularly attends the Monday morning drop-in as a friendly visitor. He has found that many living in poverty have health or social problems, and they can either be extremely withdrawn or very eager to tell their troubles. He often joins Pat's Bible study.
"The quiet space and the learning opportunity Pat provides is like church for some of these people," Charles said. "They're searching for a sense of community and spiritual connection, and they find it here."
After the Bible passages have been covered, Pat always goes around the circle to see who would like prayer and for what purpose.
"I think they particularly enjoy finding out more about their comrades through our talks," she noted. "They appreciate the prayers for forthcoming doctor's appointments, surgeries, moves, etc. We pray and always finish with the Lord's Prayer."
The Bible study is not the only beyond-handouts activity the outreach committee has supported. Members have accompanied some Monday morning guests to court and visited others in the hospital. The pastoral care committee has also done the latter.
"We like to reach out compassionately to people where they are, which won't necessarily be in a pew in the cathedral on Sunday morning," outreach committee treasurer Doug Milander said. "The weekly Bible study Pat prepares and offers here is an important aspect of efforts to share God's love beyond the church walls. Her time is greatly appreciated by those who attend and by this committee."
Ann Deveau
Greetings from Ms. Indira Spain in Belize
This is a letter we received from Ms Indira Spain, teacher at St. Hilda’s as well as mother of one of our high school scholarship students, Anique Hernandez. Anique is currently in Grade 10 at St. Ignatius High School in San Ignacio. She is a very good student and is also involved in extracurricular activities at her school. Her mom wrote this letter in June.
Greetings from Belize. As I sit to write I can’t help but feel overwhelmed at the idea of connecting with some of the very best people I know, whom I’ve never met but whom have given to me one of the greatest gifts of my life. Your generosity surpasses that of anything I have ever seen. I remember being a smart student, achieving a whole lot in primary but struggling through high school because of financial reasons. Anique is blessed to have an entire congregation behind her and for that I wish to extend a sincere thank you to every member of your church who have contributed to my daughter’s success. Whether they have contributed financially or with a word of prayer we are grateful to all of you for keeping us in the warmth of your Jesus-filled hearts.Find attached Anique’s second form report card. She has done well but I believe she can do much better. The last lap of second form was a little challenging for her as the teachers tried to cover material that will be needed for third form. Her grades fell a little and for that she sends apologies. I am very proud of her despite the little drop and I’m sure that you guys will be as proud.Thank you again for everything you do for my child and I.
2017 flu shots – its that time again!
It's that time again!
The flu season is upon us. A reminder to all that flu vaccinations are available throughout the City at a pharmacy near you. You may also make an appointment with your physician to obtain a vaccine in the physician's office or contact the Public Health Office in your area.
The flu vaccine is free of charge for adults and children with chronic health conditions, children and youth age 6 months to 18 years, and if you are 65 years of age and older. If anyone in your household or work environment is medically compromised, you are eligible for the vaccine as well.
Contact Kathleen Snow, Parish Nurse at (506) 461-8201 or [nurse at christchurchcathedral.com].
Influenza Immunization
Publicly funded influenza vaccine is provided for individuals who are at high risk for influenza related complications as well as for members of their households through Public Health Offices, some pharmacies, family physicians, and other health care providers.
2 Minutes for Cathedral Ministry
A whole lot happens at Christ Church Cathedral!
Beginning in the Fall of 2017 we are scheduling, with the help of the Bishop and Chapter Communications Committee, Sunday 2 minute presentations from groups and ministries actively working in our midst. We'll hear from various sectors of our Cathedral community about what is happening in the ministries to which they are called. For the congregation, this sharing can and should be an insight on what we are doing as a Christian community and offer a view of ways in which we can all be involved.
"2 Minutes for Cathedral Ministry" will be collectively posted to the Cathedral "Ministries and Groups Description" page of the Cathedral web site. Visit there to listen to the presentations as they have been delivered on Sundays.
All of our ministry initiatives are in need of the support and the contribution of members of the congregation. How might you be involved?
Draw the circle wider: Hundreds to attend vergers’ conference
In a few weeks cathedral verger Hank Williams will fly to Atlanta to join the largest gathering ever assembled of vergers from the United States, Canada and throughout the world.
“People think vergers wear robes and process slowly around the nave, and that’s the extent of it,” Hank says with a smile.
Verger Conference 2017
As a verger for many years, he knows better. The position of verger goes back to at least the 1600s in the Church of England.
“Historically, vergers were responsible for the order and upkeep of the house of worship, including preparations for the liturgy, the conduct of the laity, and grave-digging,” he explains, adding the latter activity is, thankfully, not part of his role. “Today it’s a ministry of service and welcome.”
For example, the verger’s organizational, logistical and behind-the-scenes support allow the clergy more time for pastoral and sacramental responsibilities. He or she also help with special services, including seating arrangements, welcoming newcomers and visiting clergy, answering questions about the facilities, services and programs.
“At the Atlanta conference Oct. 12-15, some vergers will be new to the job and others much more experienced,” Hank notes. “Many work in smaller parishes, not only in cathedrals. Most co-ordinate with the altar guild. I know I couldn’t do my job without them!”
It will be a good chance to compare notes and share advice
Some vergers train chalice bearers, prayer intercessors and/or tour guides. Some check lighting and sound when setting up for the service, and some have taken first-aid training or made emergency measures preparations.
“It will be a good chance to compare notes and share advice,” Hank said, noting he is grateful to Bishop and Chapter and the Anglican Church Women’s Group at the cathedral for helping fund his trip to Atlanta.
“I really appreciate the opportunity to learn more about a ministry I find meaningful and spiritual,” he said. “I am looking forward to a keynote address by the presiding primate of the U.S. Episcopal Church who will highlight the ministry of the verger and its part to lead the church in the Jesus Movement.”
https://youtu.be/BDRCprbP01E
Hank, who enjoys singing, will also attend a festive choral eucharist and a choral evensong as well as other worship services and workshops.
Hank Williams
The 29th annual conference of vergers, whose theme is Draw the circle wider, features exhibits, a shop, and fellowship including a recognition dinner. It also has an unusual aspect. Registrants have been asked to bring basic supplies, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and socks to Atlanta. These items will be presented at the altar and donated to homeless people.
“Vergers will also get involved in a service project during the conference,” Hank said. “It could involve cleaning, painting, making sandwiches or other tasks to help Crossroads Community Ministries which assists homeless men, women and children in Atlanta. The ministry of hospitality we provide at our home churches will take on a special meaning there.”
The verger would be pleased to share highlights upon his return from the conference. Hank added he welcomes questions from congregation members any time, especially from anyone interested especially from anyone interested in helping occasionally with verger duties.
Visit the Vergers Guild website
Ann Deveau
ALPHA begins 27 September 2017
Join us for an intergenerational ALPHA which began with an introduction on 27 September 2017 at the Cathedral Memorial Hall, 168 Church Street, 6:00 pm. Dinner is included! If you missed the first session, contact Cheryl Jacobs or (506) 459-5795 or by email cajacobs84 at gmail.com
REGISTER NOW HERE
Do you want to explore the Christian faith more, or do you have family or friends you would like to see do so? Alpha is an 11 week introduction to Christianity where all questions are encouraged. It is being offered this Fall on Wednesday nights starting September 27, from 6:00 – 8:30 pm, in the Cathedral Hall. Supper will be provided as well as simultaneous video and discussion sessions for adults and youth (12-20ish). Please register on a signup sheet at the back, online HERE, by calling (506) 459-5795 or by emailing cajacobs84 at gmail.com. All are welcome!
FIND OUT MORE HERE
“Lord, show me the real Boston” Mission 2017
Christ Church Cathedral offered financial support to the mission to Boston in the spring of 2017. These are some of the reflections of the participants.
When Kyle McGraw signed up for a mission trip to Boston in May, he never dreamed it would get so personal.
But on the last day before leaving Boston, he found himself clippering and shaving the heads of five men who had come in off the street for $1 haircuts. Kyle is not a barber, but he saw that the clothing outreach centre where they were volunteering gave haircuts, and he asked if he could help.
“I’d never shaved anyone before but I said I’d give it a shot,” he said. “The whole week was surreal, but that moment was a highlight. We did a lot of hands-on work but this was extremely hands-on. It got personal really fast.”
Seeing the scars on the men’s heads led to personal questions and candid conversations. And doing the job correctly meant cradling their heads to get the angle right.
“I looked over and he had his hands on this guy’s head,” said Colin McDonald, director of youth and intergenerational ministries in the diocese and one of the leaders on the trip. “It reminded me of washing someone’s feet. It was so intimate. “A lot of people don’t like to touch homeless people.”
The Rev. Dan McMullen had a similar response: “Kyle was putting the most love and care into shaving this guy. He was doing it with so much care.”
It was a pivotal moment in the trip that saw 14 young people and leaders from the diocese pitch in amid the poverty, addiction, mental illness and homelessness the city of Boston deals with daily. In fact, the kids saw things they might never see in New Brunswick.
“We’re all small towners,” said Jessica Gowan, another leader on the trip. “We don’t have a lot of experiences. In Boston every second person walks up to you. Some struggled. We all did, but the point of the trip was to face struggles.”
The group spent each day volunteering at agencies that serve the needs of those at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder. And every evening was spent discussing their day.
“Some of my favourite times were when we were debriefing at the end of the day,” said Jessica. “Seeing how the day impacted our young people.”
“What really moved me was seeing the young people serving hurting people they’d never met and would never meet again,” said Dan. “They were treating these people like they were serving Jesus.”
“Lord, show me the real Boston.”
On the first day, during a tour of Boston to get their bearings, the prayer on Colton Scott’s lips was “Lord, show me the real Boston.” That prayer was answered, and it made Colton, 19, angry. When you want to find them, the addicted, poor, sick, homeless and hopeless are hard to miss — and difficult to accept. “I can’t help them,” said Colton.
The missioners at St. Francis House day shelter in Boston. Back row, from left: Emma Ray Coulton, Jesse Galbraith, Colton Scott, Katrina Zinck, Nat Fetter, Dan McMullen, Dylan Nicoll, Gabe Gionet. Front row, from left: Kyle McGraw, Joe Duplisea, Jessie Gowan, Dimitra Bountalas, Kara Gallant and Colin McDonald.
“A sister, a nun who runs the Common Art Program (for people off the street to express their creativity), said ‘let that anger fuel you. You’re right to be angry.’ That stuck with me. It drives me to do more.” Colton came back home with a new-found skill he’s likely to use, since his summer job is in uptown Saint John. “I learned how easy it is to approach people,” he said. “They’re just people. I learned a lot more about myself than I did about Boston.”
During the previous six months, Colin worked with the young people to prepare them spiritually, using Lectio Divina, the ancient practice of reading small passages of scripture repeatedly while asking the Holy Spirit to reveal their meaning. He chose the book of Isaiah, “To answer the question, ‘why do we serve?’ If we are people who claim to follow Christ, we have to act in a similar fashion to him. Jesus quoted Isaiah a lot — feed the hungry, clothe the naked.”
So how did it go? “We knew these words and we saw them played out during the week,” said Colin. “We saw young people step up, be leaders, be engaged in their faith.” Each day, they cleaned, did yard work, pitched in at places that care for the all-but-forgotten of the city, and listened to the stories of despair, and in some cases, redemption — all of which had a profound impact on the kids.
“It was very emotional for them to leave a site, knowing these same people we spent the day with were probably on the streets sleeping, maybe getting arrested that night.” “The next step,” he said, “is to harness the lessons and emotions of the week and put them to work at home.”
“What does it mean here? How do we find opportunities?” he asked.
“There’s a challenge here for the church. We have this talented group of young people coming up and we have to make room for them. “They will find a way to serve God, and we have to make a place for them to do that.”
Giselle McKnight
Diocesan Officer of Communication
Hope Bear – The Anglican Foundation
- providing kids a nutritious breakfast before school
- helping kids with homework after school
- caring for kids with a terminal diagnosis
- giving kids a chance to go to summer camp or choir school
Hope Bear makes a great gift for a special celebration or for someone you love.
Each Hope Bear comes with a special gift bag, paw-print tissue, and a favourite Bible verse:
“May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace.”
A variety of Hope Bear styles are available. LEARN MORE
The Anglican Foundation of Canada was established in 1957 to encourage and support ministry within the Anglican Church of Canada.
Leading the way in resourceful ministry for 60 years, AFC has benefited dioceses, hundreds of parishes, and thousands of Canadian Anglicans with the provision of financial support for ministry from coast to coast to coast.
AFC invites individuals, parishes, and church organizations to make an annual contribution so that it can respond generously to applicants who are engaged in ministry to serve the Canadian Church. The Foundation’s ability to support ministry is also funded by bequests, memorials and special gifts, donor-designated trusts, life insurance, and investment income.
The work of the Foundation is made possible through the devotion, generosity, and collective goodwill of hundreds of donors. The support of dedicated Anglicans of all ages makes it possible to sustain the Foundation in the ministry of generosity to the Canadian Church.
Time to count your blessings – Refugee sponsorship one year old
On the night of July 27th, 2016, a weary Esther Gmah crossed the tarmac slowly at Fredericton Airport in a wheelchair and met a smiling group of eager people waving balloons, flags and signs.
Her children, Arene and Catherine, and her husband, Phillip Weah, looked equally bewildered. It had been an exhausting journey for these Liberians from a crowded refugee camp in Ivory Coast to a faraway, new place called Canada.
Pot luck at Christ Church (Parish) Church
Exactly one year later, again surrounded by smiles and balloons, a grateful Phillip told people gathered at a potluck party at Christ Church Parish Church that the family did not know what to expect that night.
“We put ourselves in your hands at the airport,” Phillip said. “You took care of us, you solved every problem, you were always with us. It was always good.”
Phillip recalled how worried he was because Esther was extremely unwell. She spent four months in hospital soon after arrival.
“Now she is walking, thanks to your prayers,” he said. “I say thank you, thank you. Every day I pray to Almighty God that He will reward you for helping my family.”
You took care of us, you solved every problem, you were always with us.
Esther, holding a dozen red roses presented at the anniversary party, smiled broadly and told the crowd: “God is good. Thank you, thank you.”
Cecilia Putu, a Liberian friend who moved here from the same refugee camp earlier than the Weah-Gmah family, thanked the sponsors by singing a song with the refrain “someone by your side.”
Baptism 30 July
On Sunday, July 30th, the family had another reason to celebrate. Phillip joyfully sang “Count your Blessings” in St. Anne’s Chapel of Ease, following the baptism of 17-year-old Catherine by Archdeacon Wandlyn Snelgrove.
The parish, one of several that raised funds to support the family for the past year, provided a beautiful cake in Catherine’s honour. It also owns the rent-subsidized apartment where three of the family now live. Arene has moved to a rooming house.
During the anniversary celebration, Archdeacon Patricia Drummond noted that the family will receive another year of support from the federal government while ongoing health issues and language skills are addressed.
Blessings to Catherine
“It has not always been easy during the past year, but we congratulate you on the progress you have made,” Pat said. “We will continue to help you with some things in the future.”
She also thanked the contributing parishes for their financial and prayerful support.
“There is still a need for help in paying off thousands of dollars owing on the government travel loan, for Catherine’s medical appointments in Halifax, and to supplement their rather low income, until Phillip is able to secure a job,” she explained.
An organ recital by cathedral music director David Drinkell will be held at 12:10 p.m. on Friday, August 25th, at the cathedral with proceeds from a freewill offering being donated to the family.
“Everyone is welcome, and we would like to see all the pews full for this beautiful music and worthwhile cause,” she concluded.
Ann Deveau