Category Archives: News

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.

What is Giving Tuesday?

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GivingTuesday - the world's largest generosity movement

GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement, taking place each year after Black Friday. The “Opening day of the giving season,” it’s a time when charities, companies and individuals join together and rally for favourite causes. In the same way that retailers take part in Black Friday, the giving community comes together for GivingTuesday.

GivingTuesday harnesses the potential of social media and the generosity of people around the world to bring about real change in their communities; it provides a platform for them to encourage the donation of time, resources and talents to address local challenges. It also brings together the collective power of a unique blend of partners - nonprofits, civic organizations, businesses and corporations, as well as families and individuals - to encourage and amplify small acts of kindness. Across Canada and around the world, GivingTuesday unites communities by sharing our capacity to care for and empower one another.

“We have two days that are good for the economy.

Now we have a day that is good for the community too.”

Visit the Giving Tuesday website

GIVE ONLINE NOW
Christ Church Cathedral

Project 2045 Report Update

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At its February 10, 2020, meeting, the Christ Church Cathedral Bishop and Chapter adopted the following recommendations of the 2045 Task Force, to:

  1. enter formal discussions with Diocesan Synod about the potential for constructing a new purpose-built facility between the former Bishop’s Court and former Synod Office. Discussions would focus on the concept of sharing ministry and administrative space, and space for most of the activities currently held in Memorial Hall.
  2. continue to pursue opportunities to enhance the flexibility of the existing space within the Cathedral footprint to better accommodate Cathedral and community activities.

The status of the Bishop and Chapter progress on this resolution is as follows:

  • With respect to replacing Memorial Hall with a new, shared ministry building with the Diocese, extensive exploratory discussions have been completed, and it is expected that there will be more definitive information in 2022.
  • With respect to the possible development of a more flexible Cathedral church space, the Bishop and Chapter will shortly receive a Cathedral Condition and Issues Report which will enable us to evaluate and prioritize the Cathedral restoration.
  • Complementary to a Cathedral restoration masterplan, we are investigating the possibility of replacing most pews with chairs that incorporate kneelers and book racks. This work, which includes the assessment of ecclesiastical chairs from at least two manufacturers, will be incorporated into the Heritage Standing Inc. Condition and Issues Report.

All three initiatives, regardless of their outcome, are significantly important for the future life and ministry of our congregation. The three initiatives also impact each other, both functionally and financially. Therefore, it is the intention of Bishop and Chapter that they be considered together, hopefully at some point in 2022.

Cathedral Bishop and Chapter
17 November 2021

Read the Project 2045 report here

Bishop and Chapter News – November 2021

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Bishop and Chapter met 15 November 2021 by video conference with 11 of 13 members present. The Chapter regrettably received the resignation of Lynn Meehan. The article “Moving Forward in Uncertain Times” (Susan Beaumont) was read in advance and discussed. We continue to live in liminal time learning through rather than planning through. How do organizations adopt new ideas? 18 October minutes adopted.

From the Dean

A summary of the time since the last meeting included:

•  training with administrators of Home Communion
•  Communion at Windsor Court (first since Feb 2020)
•  3 sessions of baptism preparation for 07 November
•  bi-weekly Sunday Choral Evensong continues
•  work with stewardship narrative budget team
•  Diocesan responsibilities/meetings

Items Arising

Sharing space with Diocesan Synod - discussion and planning continues with a next meeting scheduled next week. Renovations to the former youth room pending completion. Next on the agenda is arrangements for how the diocese will compensate the Cathedral for occupied space and consideration of a time line for future development and cooperation

Decision

Neighbourhood Home and School - a need identified for local outreach to students (winter clothing/food) identified. A grant to Montgomery Street School Home and School of $3000 was approved recognizing a possible over spend in the Cathedral Mission/Outreach 2021 budget

2022 Budget - initial draft proposing a slight increase including cost of living increases to stipend/salaries at the direction of Diocesan Synod

Discussion

Leadership vacancies - Notification to Nominating Committee on up-coming Bishop and Chapter vacancies, Synod delegates, Safe Church Officer and Chair of Stewardship Team
Project 2045- a draft document under consideration as communication about current status and follow-up on recommendations

Reports

Treasurer - income continues slightly ahead of expenses. Year to date we are 1.6% ahead of last year’s offering actuals. Work is nearing completion on new programmed capabilities to the current accounting software (Sage 50) which will result in clearer reporting. Canadian Employment Wage Subsidy applications up to date but we no longer qualify for further Federal Government subsidy

Health and Pastoral Care - Our parish nurse continues to make connections and become familiar with her role. Parish Nursing course in progress. Webinar 17 Nov (Wholistic Care and Wellness - IHMC) Training for Home Communions. Hospital remains closed to visitors

Mission and Outreach - Monday morning programme 41 recipients. Angels returned and complete. Potential school outreach

Property - Heritage Standing continues with engineering report and provided update

Christian Formation - Taizé, Godly Play, Youth Group, and Life Shared (November) continue. Advent opportunities TBA. Meeting this week

Communications - usual invitation for communications contributions. Christmas advertising discussed and direction given for 2021

Finance and Administration - work on a narrative budget continues. Contents of a new staff handbook outlined with plans in process for the drafting of content. Various financial management issues considered at the last meeting including the 2022 operating budget.

Upcoming

•  First of Advent - 28 November
•  Christmas Lessons and Carols 4:00 p.m. 19 December
•  Usual Christmas worship schedule anticipated
•  Next meeting - 13 December

GMH

Edith Nutter laid to rest

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The life of Edith Nutter, widow of former Archbishop Harold Nutter, was celebrated at Christ Church Cathedral September 17.

Edith, in her 98th year, died July 29 in Perth, Ont. where she had lived for 10 years. A small, intimate service for family and friends was held there in early August, but the family wanted to come home for a memorial service and her burial next to her husband, thus the September service.

Dean Geoffrey Hall presided, while the Rev. Keith Joyce, former dean of the Cathedral, preached. The Rev. Bruce Nutter, Edith’s son, presided at the Eucharist, assisted by Archbishop David Edwards and the Rev. Craig O’Brien. ...

[Continue reading below]

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

Bishop and Chapter News – October 2021

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Bishop and Chapter met 18 October 2021 by video conference with 10 of 14 members present. The article “Which Suckers are Holding You Back” (Victoria Atkinson White) was read in advance and briefly discussed. The need to review how active programme and ministries are meeting real needs requires constant attention. Minutes of meetings on 13 and 20 September were adopted.

From the Dean

The usual summary of what’s been accomplished since the last meeting was provided. Of note:

•  a quick turnaround and somewhat unilateral decision was made in September regarding the requirement of COVID-19 vaccinations
•  “Prayers for Truth and Reconciliation” held on 30 September
•  Preparation for Baptism to begin this week
•  Training is being arranged for those who have Bishop’s permission to administer the reserved Sacrament
•  September conference for clergy and November Synod cancelled
•  We’ll begin to make progress soon on the installation of security systems (approved project)
•  Choral Evensong scheduled bi-weekly for the foreseeable future
•  Diocesan responsibilities/meetings

Items Arising

City re electrical on the Green - following Chapter approval, a decision has been made by the City of Fredericton to postpone the installation of electrical outlets on the Green north of Queen

Shared space initiative with the Diocesan Synod - the Cathedral continues to do its best to meet space requirements and requests of the Diocesan Synod. A schedule of a future rental arrangement is being prepared. The current youth room (Hall second floor) is being vacated to create several more office spaces for Synod staff at their request

Housing First - while considered somewhat unfortunate, a special meeting on 20 September made the decision to withdraw the Cathedral from the Housing First Project. The long-term commitment, especially in terms of the skillset and the volunteers required, presented an uncomfortable level of risk. Fortunately, another organization is willing to step in and fulfill the goals of the Community Action Group on Homelessness. Monies and land (corner of Albert and Regent) received for the Project to date are in process of being transferred back for use towards that commitment

Reports

Treasurer - we continue to stay just ahead of expenses year to date as reported weekly. A small project will be undertaken to provide some additional programming of accounting software to simplify the bookkeeping, reduce transcription errors and better meet reporting needs

Health and Pastoral Care - We continue to work within ongoing restrictions. Hospitals are now closed to visitors

Mission and Outreach - Monday morning Outreach programme continues on the last Monday of the month

Property - work continues with Heritage Standing Inc to create a master plan of Cathedral potential maintenance/restoration requirements

Christian Formation - Fall programming including Taizé, Godly Play, Youth Group, sacramental preparation and Life Shared (November) underway

Communications - reminder of request for website contributions from committees or any interested in authoring some content

Finance and Administration - 2022 budget under consideration. Stewardship Team is considering a narrative budget and is in need of a chair. A staff handbook outlining employment policies and protocols is in process to replace a decades-old version. An individual has expressed interest in the role of Safe Church Officer

Upcoming

•  Festival of Baptism - All Saints (trans) 07 November
•  First of Advent - 28 November
•  Next meeting - 15 November

GMH

2021 Thanksgiving Pastoral

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Read or download in PDF format

Thanksgiving 2021
Fredericton NB

Dear Friends,

If there’s one thing we may have learned from this time of global pandemic, it’s that no matter the circumstance there is always much for which to be thankful. When we were locked down and in complete isolation from one another, I’m thankful that we were able to devise ways to reconnect. I’m thankful that even in the midst of the inconvenience and even danger caused by COVID-19, churches have continued to experience continuing support from members to keep furthering the important work that is ours to do. At times, the challenges were significant and it’s certain there are more to come, but it’s important that the challenge doesn’t define us, rather it’s the blessing even in the midst of the struggle that helps us be who we really are.

The Apostle Paul said, “Rejoice always, pray continuously, give thanks in all circumstances.” He didn’t say we should wait until we feel thankful. He didn’t say to express gratitude for all the good stuff of life or rejoice as long as things don’t seem too tough. “Always” is one of those words that leaves little room for misinterpretation. Whatever the situation, God has placed some gift in the midst. Can we find it and make the faithful response? – thanksgiving.

Too often we believe that giving thanks is the result of feeling grateful. In fact, it’s the other way around. Happiness is not thrust upon us. Happiness results when we follow the command of St. Paul. Thanks-giving makes us happy; we don’t give thanks because we’re happy; we’re happy when we’re full of thanks. Paul is telling us there’s something in every circumstance for which to be thankful. The result of giving thanks is gratitude. What we choose to do influences how we feel, not the other way around.

During this season, as always, we prayerfully remember those who are facing challenges in their lives. Whether that be adjusting to the loss of someone we love, changes in employment, continuing separation from family and friends, the onset of illness or the resulting changes caused by being older this year than we were last, let’s pray that we’ll look keenly for the gift even in the midst of the messiness of life. Bringing ourselves spiritually to the place where with sincerity we give thanks to God if only for the basics, we’ll reap the real harvest God promises the faithful.

May you find success in your thanks-giving this year and receive the true peace God grants to the thankful heart.

Yours sincerely,

Geoffrey
Dean of Fredericton

 

Bishop and Chapter News – September 2021

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Bishop and Chapter met 13 September 2021 by video conference with 10 of 14 members present. An article by Rich Birch: “5 Mindsets Church Leaders Need to Change Post-COVID” unSeminary, June 2021 was circulated in advance basing a conversation on the return to pandemic green. Minutes of 21 June 2021 were modified slightly and adopted.

From the Dean

•  a list of usual commitments was provided for review
•  vacation 02-29 August
•  diocesan clergy conference 20-22 September - Renforth
•  staff reviews were completed in June
•  currently processing feedback regarding Sunday worship schedule
•  Day of Truth and Reconciliation September 30th
•  Diocesan Synod 06 November 2021

Discussion

Returning to green - primary current considerations are the Sunday worship schedule moving into the fall. The Dean is listening. While some are quick to count the pandemic past, many others are not. Considerations necessary are many, including our capacity for volunteers, vaccination stats, and several new post-pandemic realities. We’ll strive to proceed cautiously and responsibly with safety in view and in a way that accommodates the comfort level of the majority

Items Arising

Window venting - the project to vent Cathedral stained glass is complete without breakage of the lexan covering at a cost as quoted without breakage

Shared space initiative with the Diocesan Synod - the conversation with Bishop and Synod regarding space needs at memorial hall continues as we attempt to meet needs this fall. With planning consultants finishing this fall, the Synod will be paying per square foot rental for office space

Decision

•  Housing First Project - a lengthy discussion to clarify status and risks both financial and otherwise. The current request is to sign project agreements and begin construction. Chapter is concerned about the congregation volunteer base necessary to manage this project, potentially a 20 year commitment. The Executive will take steps to consult with the congregation to determine if we have that capacity

•  Home Communion - that the dean request permission from our Bishop for Kurt Schmidt to administer the reserved sacrament

•  City electrical on the Green - a letter to outline liabilities the Cathedral will give permission at the request to install electricity on the Green on the north side of Queen for seasonal lighting

Reports

Treasurer - revenue year over year is down while to August we have continued to meet expenses. Several items of expense are upcoming including: venting of stained glass; sprinkler system repair and resuming the salary of the Parish Nurse.

Health and Pastoral Care - Sarah Ecker began work on 01 September

Mission and Outreach - decision item for Housing First. Monday morning programme has continued one day per month

Property - authorized necessary replacement of valve and compressor for fire suppression sprinkler system $8000-$10,000

Christian Formation - Godly Play and Taizé worship both scheduled to resume this month. Committee meeting next week

Communications - website and social media content possibilities discussed. February 2020 survey results were shared with members of the Chapter

Upcoming

•  Season of Creation (01 September - 04 October)
•  Day of Truth and Reconciliation (30 September)
•  Diocesan Synod (06 September)
•  Next meeting - 18 October                                                                   GMH

Joint statement on climate change by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Pope Francis and Ecumenical Patriarch

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Pope Francis, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the Archbishop of Canterbury join together for the first time in urgent appeal for the future of the planet

For the first time, the leaders of the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Anglican Communion have jointly warned of the urgency of environmental sustainability, its impact on poverty, and the importance of global cooperation.

[Text from the Archbishop of Canterbury website: 21/07/09]

Pope Francis, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Archbishop Justin Welby urge everyone to play their part in ‘choosing life’ for the future of the planet.

In a joint statement, the Christian leaders have called on people to pray, in this Christian season of Creation, for world leaders ahead of COP26 [the 26th United Nations Climate Change conference] this November. The statement reads: ‘We call on everyone, whatever their belief or worldview, to endeavour to listen to the cry of the earth and of people who are poor, examining their behaviour and pledging meaningful sacrifices for the sake of the earth which God has given us.’

The joint declaration strikes a clear warning - ‘Today, we are paying the price…Tomorrow could be worse’ and concludes that: ‘This is a critical moment. Our children’s future and the future of our common home depend on it.’

The three Christian leaders spoke against injustice and inequality, saying: ‘We stand before a harsh justice: biodiversity loss, environmental degradation and climate change are the inevitable consequences of our actions, since we have greedily consumed more of the earth’s resources than the planet can endure. But we also face a profound injustice: the people bearing the most catastrophic consequences of these abuses are the poorest on the planet and have been the least responsible for causing them.’

The statement calls on people to:

  • Pray for world leaders ahead of COP26
  • For individuals: To make meaningful sacrifices for the sake of the planet, working together and taking responsibility for how we use our resources
  • For those with far-reaching responsibilities: To choose people-centred profits and lead the transition to just and sustainable economies

Read the full statement here.

 

Parking Changes

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The City of Fredericton has launched a new Parking Management Pilot Program which will impact several streets near Christ Church Cathedral. The affected areas are highlighted on the map below.

Please note that parking on Church Street directly in front of the Cathedral and Memorial Hall will continue to have 2 hour on-street parking.

George Street and Charlotte Street will have new parking restrictions, as well as Church Street between George and Charlotte and near Queen's Square Park.

Starting 16 August, in the affected areas, "The existing free 2hr maximum parking limits on Monday to Friday 8:00AM-5:00PM have been removed and replaced with a time restriction of No Parking Monday to Friday between 10:00AM to 11:00AM; and 1:30PM to 2:30PM, except with a permit. Parking will be allowed at no charge outside of those restricted times."

Daily passes may be purchased digitally from the City's HotSpot Parking website or app. Residents may purchase annual passes.

Visit the City of Fredericton website for details about the pilot program, as well as an interactive map.