Category Archives: News

Kurt Schmidt on Advent at the Cathedral

Posted on

Kurt Schmidt was interviewed by Pastor Luke Budreau as part of the morning lineup on Joy FM (Listen LIVE) on Wednesday, December 4th. Kurt shared a bit about what Advent at Christ Church Cathedral is looking like this year.

Advent is the season during which Christians for centuries have cherished the unique atmosphere of waiting with anticipation. Advent means 'coming.' The arrival of the Christ in Bethlehem is an important part of Advent but not the only one. Jesus also comes daily in the present and he promised to come again in the clouds (the Second Coming). Kurt offered an overview of this year's "ADVENT-ures" which are helping to make the worship and devotional opportunities many and varied. Luke was also interested to hear more generally about ministry in, to and from the Cathedral which rounded out an upbeat morning conversation that day.

The two talked informally about how we at the Cathedral, in our corner of the Church, attempt to offer what we feel best able and called to share. That includes what we consider the valuable perspectives from our traditions and the resources with which God has blessed. The fabric of community is enriched by all who contribute to our common life.

Check out the ADVENT-ures lineup; view the recorded audio (Cathedral Podcasts) or video (Cathedral YouTube Channel) of Advent Readings and Music from the afternoon of December 1st; and our daily calendar of events. Watch the Cathedral website for up-coming special events and Christmas worship.

GMH

Listen to the December 4th conversation between Kurt and Luke.

 

Bishop and Chapter News – November 2024

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met on 19 November 2024 with 9 of 12 members present. Minutes of 15 October 2024 were adopted. An article was pre-circulated and discussed – “The Team Building Leader” by Ray Schulte, identifying helpful aspects of the necessary separation of task and maintenance, following up followed on “The Facilitator”

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• a usual summary of ministry initiatives over the previous month.

Diocesan

• Diocesan Synod (1), Bishop’s Counsel (1), Synod Finance (1)

Up-coming

• First Communions, Advent and Christmas usual schedule

DECISION

• Atlantic School of Theology - $100 in response to request

• Replacement of Cathedral Furnace - revisited with motion carried to spend up to $75,353 from investment restricted for maintenance

• Financial Review - that we engage the accounting firm of LeBlanc Scott for a 2024 review engagement at a quoted cost of $8,500

• Communion Administrator - Dean request permission for R. Hall

• Fredericton Cathedral Foundation - a motion to accept the Cathedral operational requirements document was tabled pending further review and a vote early next week

DISCUSSION

Items recommended by Chapter Executive - 1) Financial forecasting 2) Safe Church initiatives including evacuation plans; 3) Member orientation especially administration processes and tools 4) Considerations regarding Giving Tuesday

REPORTS

Nominating - an additional member of Chapter required as member. Current chapter vacancy in Christian Formation.

Finance and Administration - Finalizing Staff Handbook of employment standards; tracking Safe Church deadlines for Chapter set in June 2024; considerations re financial review and 2025 budget process; Certificate in Stewardship opportunity in 2025.

Welcome / Hospitality - hosted Safe Church training in October. Items under consideration include: “name tag Sundays,” welcome package, on boarding and incorporating new members, hospitality at Reign of Christ/First Communions, exploration of possible new committee members from greeters and kitchen committee

Health / Pastoral Care - continuing discussion on acquiring an AED for the Memorial Hall; partnering with Anglican Church Women on Christmas function 11 December; “Listen Love Pray” grief and loss support begins 09 December; current need for First Aid training

Worship - Sanctuary Guild items; server training/recruitment; 2025 Greeter schedule; music; Lucy's Sewing Group repairs; Verger(s)

Property - Cathedral furnace repair/replacement is complete with final inspection pending with revised estimate $65,525. Tile scratches from summer sprinkler flushing have been satisfactorily repaired

Mission / Outreach - discussion on inquiries about a future mission trip to Belize and required logistics; Monday morning programme on-going once per month; annual November funding to mission initiatives in Honduras (Mejias) and Uganda (Jeffries) is in process

Christian Formation - committee continues to meet without chair

Treasurer - several statements and reports made available. October offerings fell short of budget by $-18,806. Year-to-date offering is below budget by $-61,212 (ie we needed $433,792 to date to meet the adopted 2024 budget. We have received only $372,580). See The Cathedral Times current Offering Budget chart

UPCOMING

• Next meeting - 17 December 2024
• Advent Lessons and Music - 4:00 p.m. 01 December 2024
• Christmas Lessons and Carols - 4:00 p.m. 22 December 2024

GMH

 

Resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury

Posted on

Archbishop of CanterburyHaving sought the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury.

The Makin Review has exposed the long-maintained conspiracy of silence about the heinous abuses of John Smyth.

When I was informed in 2013 and told that police had been notified, I believed wrongly that an appropriate resolution would follow.

It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024.

It is my duty to honour my Constitutional and church responsibilities, so exact timings will be decided once a review of necessary obligations has been completed, including those in England and in the Anglican Communion.

I hope this decision makes clear how seriously the Church of England ... read more

Other useful links

Acting primate reiterates commitment to safe church after Welby resigns over handling of abuse scandal

A Statement from the Secretary General of the Anglican Communion

 

Continue reading →

Bishop and Chapter News – October 2024

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met on 15 October 2024 with 8 of 12 members present. Minutes of 17 September 2024 were adopted with thanks to J. Hand. “The Facilitator” by R. Schulte (the Center for Parish Development) was circulated in advance and briefly discussed. The author explored ways a leader can help a team with their work and the benefits to team members of doing so

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• the usual summary of meetings and ministry since the last meeting of Chapter was delivered. Legal documents clarifying land title for the Cathedral were signed. A fall donation to the Anglican Foundation will be sent as per our recent usual practice. The Dean reiterated that of our 17 or so +/- 10% givers we have lost at least three over the last two years

Diocesan

• meetings of Diocesan Council, Synod Finance Committee; Synod Planning

Up-coming

• Greater Chapter 16 October. Diocesan Synod is 02 November

CORRESPONDENCE

• Atlantic School of Theology - fall request for financial support

DECISION

• Giving Policy Funds - Chapter concurs with removing the Parish Nurse Pledge Campaign from our current list of funds

• Replacement of Cathedral Furnace - that we withdraw monies from investment (Mary L. Boyce bequest) to replace the Cathedral furnace ASAP (approx $70,000) and apply to saveenergyNB for a potential portion rebate. There may be one Sunday without heat

DISCUSSION

Clarification with Synod - needed to aid in budgeting, determining ongoing maintenance and requirements in the future.

REPORTS

Nominating - an additional member of Chapter required for membership. One current chapter vacancy in Christian Formation.

Finance and Administration - D. Lewis engaged as sexton 01 October; Parish Nurse Pledge Campaign no longer exists; continue finalizing the Cathedral staff handbook; stewardship team (subcommittee) has been inactive for over a year

Welcome and Hospitality - organizing Safe Church training for 17 October; working on risk management Safe Church documentation

Health / Pastoral Care - potential for a fall blood pressure clinic on a Sunday; places to assist with an Anglican Church Women fall event; discussion about the installation of an automated external defibrillator (AED) at the Hall - estimated cost $1800-2600

Mission / Outreach - food cupboard has been installed (NW) by Mothers’ Union; Belize student scholarships and support for St. Hilda’s School has been sent ($5000 plus wiring fees); Christmas Angels programme to be organized by Kirsten McKnight and Claudia Vargus; Drop-in on the last Monday of the month will change to 9:30 a.m.

Treasurer - several statements and reports submitted for consideration including offerings by month, investment fund summary and Revenue vs Expense. September: Year to date Income - $432,841 Expenses - $478,804 Total deficit year to date (-$45,243)

Fredericton Cathedral Foundation - continuing work on legal articles of incorporation, land title clarifications, application for charitable status and the church’s operational requirements. No further word from the City regarding involvement

UPCOMING

• Next meeting - 17 November 2024
• Diocesan Synod - 02 November 2024

GMH

 

Bishop and Chapter News – September 2024

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met on 17 September 2024 with 9 of 12 members present. Minutes of 18 June and 28 August 2024 were adopted. The meeting on 28 August was used to discuss initial work being done on the proposed Fredericton Cathedral Foundation. A “SWOT Analysis” was discussed identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats identifying our reality in each category

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• the Dean offered the usual summary of activity since the last regular meeting on 18 June. Vacation was 08 July - 04 August.

Diocesan

• meetings of Synod Finance Committee; Synod Planning

Up-coming

• 2 funerals upcoming; 30 September - Truth and Reconciliation

FOLLOW-UP on DECISION

• Restoration Trust Fund - amended version posted

• Fredericton Cathedral Foundation

- R. Crowe continues work on a document describing a relationship with a Cathedral Foundation yet to be formed

• Safe Church - deadlines agreed upon

- 31 December - training for groups and committees, completion of risk assessments by all groups.

- 31 March: position profiles for volunteers, groups and committees, action plans resulting from the assessment of risk

DISCUSSION

Cathedral boiler requires attention. Several options, two of which were discussed: repair ($23,000) or replacement ($63,000). Further consideration and study, including funding possibilities required

REPORTS

Nominating - one chapter vacancy remains (Christian Formation)

Buildings and Property - 1) Cathedral boiler 2) Stairlift installation awaiting electrical upgrade 3) Floor tile scratches from Sprinkler maintenance being addressed 4) Hall janitor sink repair 5) Inquiry from Diabetes Canada about installing an outside clothing bin

Finance and Administration - Second round of Sexton interviews complete with hiring expected this week. Help on the Safe Church working group is needed. Need to clarify understandings re Synod and Bishop’s Offices

Welcome and Hospitality - corn boil 15 September. Future events in view. Sunday refreshments continue. Considering Safe Church commitments

Health / Pastoral Care - the chair inquired as to specific direction from the Chapter

Mission / Outreach - Food cupboard to be installed by Mothers’ Union; Monday morning outreach avg 60 attendees; mid-year funds sent to St. Hilda’s Belize - need to explore interest in a Belize mission trip; one request through Benevolence Policy processed; volunteers always needed

Worship - frequency of Sunday Evensong is being questioned

Treasurer - statements for June, July and August were presented. August: Year to date Income - $391,504 Expenses - $435,913 Total deficit year to date (-$44,409)

All committee chairs issue an invitation to become involved in ongoing activities and ministries. If you have an interest in becoming more engaged, please speak to a member of Bishop and Chapter

UPCOMING

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – June 2024

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met on 18 June 2024 with 11 of 12 members present, Richard Crowe was meeting chair. Minutes of 21 May 2024 were adopted. An article entitled “The Risk of Trying to Please Everyone” by Mike Bonem was briefly discussed. “The hard work of change doesn’t call for pleasing everyone, but it does require the commitment of enough of the right people.”

CORRESPONDENCE

Diocesan Synod - a letter of thanks to the Synod Treasurer re support for the stair lift project.

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral
• the Dean offered a written report of activity since 21 May including the intention of vacation 08 July- 04 August 2024. Annual staff reviews are on track to be completed this month

Diocesan
• meetings of Synod Finance Committee; Synod Planning; Diocesan Council

Up-coming
• wedding 06 July (Smith/Demerchant); Diocesan Synod is 02 Nov;
Vacation - 08 July - 04 August (thanks to R. Black and J. Lownds)

DECISION

• Chapter membership - member - Hank Williams (Committee on Worship), Victoria Hachey (Vice-Chair)

• Restoration Trust Fund - amendment adopted as per 16 June congregational meeting

• Fredericton Cathedral Foundation

- that Restoration Trust funds be made available to the Bishop for use by a future “Fredericton Cathedral Foundation”
- Richard Crowe appointed to be the Cathedral member

• Safe Church - four motions adopted directing implementation steps by Chapter committees for all groups under their purview.

- by year-end: 1) Coordination of safe church training for all Cathedral groups and committees, 2) Coordinate completion of risk assessments by all groups.
- by 31 March 2025: 3) coordinate position profiles for all volunteers, groups and committees, 4) coordinate action plans resulting from the assessment of risk
See Diocesan Safe Church, for the Regulation, forms and templates

REPORTS

Nominating - Nomination for one of two Chapter member vacancies; nomination for Vice Chair

Buildings and Property - Cathedral sprinkler flushing underway; Memorial Hall boiler repaired; investigating possibilities for maintenance/renovation of Cathedral heating; interim cleaning by Crystal Clean at $2864 per month.

Finance and Administration - Safe Church implementation plan; staff handbook final draft being reviewed; staffing: tour guides and sexton in process

Health / Pastoral Care - blood pressure clinics held on 10 June; Health Ministries- yoga, grief support, prayer shawls; volunteers for helping hands welcome; hospital visitor and home communions ministries continue

Mission / Outreach - Outreach event last Mondays of the month with 50-70 guests; will discuss Belize mission possibilities; no information on food cupboard installation

Treasurer - Several large expenses (+/-) pending: sprinkler flushing ($60,000); Hall boiler ($10,000), Stair lift ($30,000); Year-to-date (May) income $236,334 / expenses $246,833. We are behind on budgeted offering YTD $24,017

UPCOMING

1.     Next meeting - 17 September 2024
2.     Diocesan Synod - 02 November 2024

GMH

2024 Memorial Hall Stair lift project

Posted on

At the direction of Bishop and Chapter we're moving forward on a project to replace the north entrance stair lift at Memorial Hall. At the moment, we're inaccessible for those confined to a wheelchair or unable to negotiate the stairs. Our hope is installation by the end of summer. The approximate cost is $30,000. We've had indications of support from both the Diocesan Synod and the Guild of St. Joseph. Contributions are being both encouraged and requested and will receive the usual receipt for income tax purposes.

The installation contract was awarded to Lawtons Home Health Care, Halifax for the commercial-grade Garaventa lift Xpress II.

Xpress II - inclined platform

The Garaventa lift Xpress II inclined platform wheelchair lift is designed to provide economical access between two landings.

The platform travels on two rails which are secured directly to the wall or to support towers and is propelled by means of a carriage-mounted rack and pinion drive system. When the platform is not in use it is folded, taking up minimal space on the stairway.

The Xpress II is cost-effective and is ADA compliant. With a variety of standard and optional features available, it can be designed to suit the needs of the user and building owner.

Product details here.

Bishop and Chapter News – May 2024

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met on 21 May 2024 with 11 of 12 members present, Archbishop Edwards, chair. Minutes of 13 March, and special purpose meetings 09 April, 24 April, 01 May were adopted. An article entitled “5 Ways to Minimize the Stress of Pastor and Employee Evaluations” by Sarai Rice was referenced. Congregations often evaluate the work of staff in ways that lead to a lot of stress. Fortunately, the church can do better.

PRESENTATION - Future Fredericton Cathedral Foundation

Canon Charles Ferris and Tom Maston shared with Chapter work done thus far by the advisory group exploring foundation possibilities for the future Cathedral operations on behalf of: Melissa Dawe, Jean-Paul Desjardins, Bruce Eddy, Charles Ferris, Bill Jones, John Leroux, Lori Mais-McCord, Tom Maston, and Vanessa Youssef. Four recommendations to begin as soon as possible 1) Name and federally incorporate the foundation; 2) Make assets available for a financial campaign to acquire further restoration funds. Transfer maintenance funds to establish an endowment. A congregational meeting to amend the Restoration Fund By-Law will be required. 3) Begin work with all parties to develop an initial operating agreement 4) Approve transfer of Cathedral property to the new foundation

CORRESPONDENCE

P. Shepherdson - communication from the Diocesan Synod re financial assistance with Memorial Hall chair lift replacement project

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• the Dean offered a written report of Cathedral ministry activity since 13 March including the intention of vacation 08 July- 04 August 2024. Note that annual staff reviews will be scheduled in June

Diocesan

• 2 meetings of Synod Finance Committee; 1 Bishop’s Counsel

Up-coming

• Cathedral staff reviews during June; 3 committals scheduled; wedding 06 July (Smith/Demerchant); Diocesan Synod is 02 Nov

DECISION

• Cathedral Foundation - approve the name and consent in principle to the transfer of property. Current maintenance assets to be transferred

• Hall chair lift- that the lift be replaced (approx $30,000). Funding: Hall Renovation Fund, Guild of St. Joseph, Diocesan Synod and an appeal for contributions

• Restoration Fund Committee - appointed - R. Crowe, G. Hall, G. Young-Morris, C. MacDonald, J. Mahar, A. Decken (See By-Law s.6)

• Interim cleaning services - that we engage Crystal Clean Maintenance

• Food cupboard - approval to Mothers’ Union to install a food cupboard on the Green in consultation with the Property Committee

REPORTS

Nominating - Chapter will need to express its will on current vacancies (Committees on Worship, Christian Formation, Vice-Chair)

Buildings and Property - current projects: hall chair lift ($30,000), unexpected hall boiler repair ($8500); cathedral sprinkler flushing 17-21 June ($60,000), interim cleaning and maintenance arrangements

Communications - invitation to any who would like to be involved especially with writing and on-going website needs

Finance and Administration - Safe Church initiatives underway, sexton search, tour guides to hire for July/August

Christian Formation - “Living with Dying,” Thy Kingdom Come 2024

Health / Pastoral Care - blood pressure clinics possible, tea in April

Mission / Outreach - some casual questions about future mission trips

Welcome Hospitality - Sunday refreshments main focus

Worship - meeting this week, summer music series coming together

Treasurer - April YTD Revenue $193,602 Expense $190,240

UPCOMING

• Congregational Meeting - Sunday, 16 June 2024 following 10:30 a.m. worship - Agenda: amendment of Restoration Fund By-Law

• Next meeting - 18 June 2024

GMH

 

A note from our Sexton

Posted on

Our Sexton, Ashley Swim, completed his time in the position on 17 May. He shared this message:

"Thanks for all the kind words and gifts. I appreciate it beyond words. Thanks to the cathedral for having me. It's been a very positive experience and I will miss working there. I always took my job very seriously and am confident I gave 100 percent. Its been pleasure to serve with you and for you.”

We are deeply indebted to Ashley for his years of service and wish him well in his new endeavours.

Bishop and Chapter News – March 2024

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met on 13 March 2024 with 11 of 14 members. Minutes of the 16 January, 06 and 25 February 2024 were adopted. With the intent of providing some brief orientation for newer members, the article “Re-inventing Boards That Bore: Overcoming Micromanagement” was circulated. The Dean offered reflections on the Cathedral Chapter structure, some of the unhelpful ways we regard committees, minutes, agendas and meetings creating barriers and “Tips for Chairing Effective Meetings.” "Reluctant to embrace formality we can’t allow informality to become disorganization.”

CORRESPONDENCE

J. Yeamans - resignation from the role of Treasurer as of 30 April 2024. Jamie is making an employment change that will require his attention

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral
• the usual report of pastoral and administrative activity since the last meeting of chapter

Diocesan
• 2 meetings of Synod Finance Committee; 1 Diocesan Counsel

Up-coming
• Holy Week begins 24 March, Easter 31 March, North American Deans Conference in April. Schedule to be published.

DECISION

• Signing authorities - R. Crowe and H. Palmer be added to bank account signatories
• Safe Church - that all members of Chapter acquire Police Record Checks and Safe Church Training by 30 April 2024

REPORTS

Nominating - noted that succession planning be part of Chapter committee goals. A meeting will be scheduled soon to consider the impending treasurer vacancy

Buildings and Property - currently assembling and updating a list of items now before us. Cathedral heating zone pump replaced in January. Committee meeting scheduled 14 March

Communications - usual ongoing tending of web and social media. The Committee is prepared to offer design/creation of graphics and posters for events and other needs

Finance and Administration - active items: formulation of strategy for implementation of Safe Church policy, Staff policies handbook, need for ongoing initiatives on financial/giving with former Stewardship Team now inactive

Christian Formation - committee moving forward with planning for a program offering of several learning sessions on “Living with Dying,” hopefully during the Easter Season, Ad-LENT-ures devotional/educational opportunities continue and going well

Health / Pastoral Care - active items: 2 new hospital visitors, spring social gathering, Helping Hands and Prayer Shawl ministries active; exploring offering spring blood pressure clinics; chair Yoga to resume in April, initiative to update Call and Cathedral Visitors’ lists

Mission / Outreach - on-going conversation about pending proposal by Mothers’ Union for a neighbourhood food cupboard, Belize Missions financial commitments re school support and scholarships up to date

Welcome Hospitality - luncheon following Annual Meeting seemed to go smoothly. Simple Soup Supper being planned for Maundy Thursday, 5:30 p.m.

Worship - hopes for servers and youth choir for Easter Day at 10:00 a.m.; proposed that keyboard needed for choir rehearsals be purchased; investigating Prayer Book replacement needs at the Cathedral

UPCOMING

• Next meeting - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, 09 April 2024: Safe Church training
• Palm Sunday 24 March; Easter 31 March