Category Archives: Worship

Guide for 10 days of prayer – Thy Kingdom Come – 21-31 May 2020

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Daily Office Readings | Daily Short Readings | Daily Prayer Intentions
Readings on Discipleship and Evangelism | God Is Indestructible

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DAILY OFFICE READINGS

to be used at Morning and Evening Prayer

Thursday (21 May) Ascension of the Lord
Morning Psalm 8, 47; Ezekiel 1:1–14, 24–28b; Hebrews 2:5–18
Evening Psalm 24, 96; Daniel 7:9–14; Matthew 28:16–20

Friday (22 May) Easter Feria
Morning Psalm 85, 86; 1 Samuel 2:1-10; Ephesians 2:1-10
Evening Psalm 91, 92; Ezekiel 1:28–3:3); Matthew 7:22-27

Saturday (23 May) Easter Feria
Morning Psalm 87, 90; Numbers 11:16-17, 24-29; Ephesians 2:11-22
Evening Psalm 68:1-20; 2 Kings 2:1-15; Revelation 5:1-14

Sunday (24 May) Seventh Sunday of Easter - Jerusalem Sunday
Morning Psalm 8, 47; Daniel 7:9-14; Hebrews 2:5-18
Evening Psalm 24, 96; Ezekiel 1:1-14, 24-28b; Matthew 28:16-20

Monday (25 May) Bede, Priest, Monk, Historian and Educator, 735
Morning Psalm 89:1-18; Josiah 1:1-9; Ephesians 3:1-13
Evening Psalm 89:19-52; Ezekiel 4:1-17; Matthew 8:5-17

Tuesday (26 May) Augustine, First Archbishop of Canterbury, 605
Morning Psalm 97, 99, [100]; 1 Samuel 16:1-13a; Ephesians 3:14-21
Evening Psalm 94, [95]; Ezekiel:7:10-15, 23b-27; Matthew 8:18-27

Wednesday (27 May) John Charles Roper, Bishop of Ottawa, 1940
Morning Psalm 101, 109:1-4, (5-19), 20-30; Isaiah 4:2-6; Ephesians 4:1-16
Evening Psalm 119:121-144; Ezekiel 11:14-25; Matthew 8:28-34

Thursday (28 May) Easter Feria
Morning Psalm 105:1-22; Zechariah 4:1-14; Ephesians 4:17-32
Evening Psalm 105:23-45; Ezekiel 18:1-4, 19-32; Matthew 9:1-8

Friday (29 May) Easter Feria
Morning Psalm 102; Jeremiah 31:27-34; Ephesians 5:1-20
Evening Psalm 107:1-32; Ezekiel 34:17-31; Matthew 9:9-17

Saturday (30 May) Roberta Elizabeth Tilton, Women’s Auxiliary, 1925 /
Eve of Pentecost
Morning Psalm 107:33-43, 108:1-6, (7-13); Ezekiel 36:22-27; Eph 6:10-24
Evening Psalm 33; Exodus 19:3–8a, 16–20; 1 Peter 2:4–10

Sunday (31 May) Day of Pentecost
Morning Psalm 118; Deuteronomy 16:9-12; Acts 4:18-21, 23-33
Evening Psalm Ps 145; Isaiah 11:1-9; John 4:19-26

DAILY SHORT READINGS

FRIDAY AFTER ASCENSION
As it is, we do not yet see everything in subjection to human beings, but we do see Jesus, who for a little while was made lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. It was fitting that God, for whom and through whom all things exist, in bringing many children to glory, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through sufferings. Hebrews 2.8b-10
SATURDAY AFTER ASCENSION
I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8.38,39
SUNDAY AFTER ASCENSION
On the last day of the festival, the great day, while Jesus was standing there, he cried out, ‘Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink. As the scripture has said, “Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.”’ Now he said this about the Spirit, which believers in him were to receive. John 7.37-39a
MONDAY
Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. Isaiah 40.28,29
TUESDAY
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12.4-7
WEDNESDAY
I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female slaves, in those days, I will pour out my spirit. Joel 2.28,29
THURSDAY
Jesus said, ‘Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!’ Luke 11.9-13
FRIDAY
In Christ every one of God’s promises is a ‘Yes.’ For this reason it is through him that we say the ‘Amen’, to the glory of God. But it is God who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us, by putting his seal on us and giving us his Spirit in our hearts as a first instalment. 2 Corinthians 1.20-22
SATURDAY
The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And all of us, with unveiled faces, seeing the glory of the Lord as though reflected in a mirror, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another; for this comes from the Lord, the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3.17,18

 

Daily Prayer Intentions

Thy Kingdom Come encourages every Christian to pray for 5 individuals so that they would know God's love for them in Christ

ASCENSION DAY The call to share our faith
For all Christians to have the confidence to share the good news of Jesus Christ.

FRIDAY AFTER ASCENSION Know God better
For all those who have lost sight of God, that they would see His love revealed in their lives.

SATURDAY AFTER ASCENSION Trust
For those who feel isolated and alone, that they will develop meaningful relationships through a childlike trust in God.

SUNDAY AFTER ASCENSION Forgiveness
For those in need of God’s mercy, that they will know the joy of his forgiveness.

MONDAY Openness
For the hearts of those we know and love to be more open to Christ who waits to be invited in.

TUESDAY Curiosity
For all those who are beginning to show an interest in matters of faith, that their curiosity will grow into a desire for the living God.

WEDNESDAY Seek
For those who seek God, that their search may lead them to find their heart’s desire.

THURSDAY Encounter
For us all to encounter the person of Jesus Christ and experience life lived to the full.

FRIDAY Freedom
For those who are held down by past experiences, hurt or pain, that they may know the freedom that Christ brings when we follow him.

SATURDAY Faith
For those who want to grow in faith, that we may all be filled with the hope of what is to come.

THE DAY OF PENTECOST Filled with the Holy Spirit
For the whole Church to be filled with the Holy Spirit ‘as by a new Pentecost.’

 

READINGS ON DISCIPLESHIP AND EVANGELISM

And now the Lord says, who formed me in the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him, and that Israel might be gathered to him, for I am honoured in the sight of the Lord, and my God has become my strength – he says, ‘It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the survivors of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.’ Isaiah 49.5-6

Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices, together they sing for joy; for in plain sight they see the return of the Lord to Zion. Break forth together into singing, you ruins of Jerusalem; for the Lord has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. Isaiah 52.8-9

Many nations shall come and say: ‘Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.’ For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He shall judge between many peoples, and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away; they shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. Micah 4.2-3

‘While God has overlooked the times of human ignorance, now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will have the world judged in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed, and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.’ Acts 17.30-31

From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 2 Corinthians 5.16-17

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. Ephesians 2.19-21

Jesus said, ‘You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot. You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.’ Matthew 5.13-16

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’ Matthew 28.16-end

 

God Is Indestructible

12 Responses to the Relevance Crisis of Christianity (Christian A. Schwarz)
Daily studies, weekdays at 4:00 p.m., during Thy Kingdom Come

New research from churches in eighty-six countries around the worldreveals that, throughout the last few years, there have been dramatic shiftsin Christianity. In this book, Christian A. Schwarz not only presents thesefindings for the first time, but also pleads for twelve practical reforms thatcould unshackle the relevancy of the Christian faith, restoring it as afascinating, transformative pursuit for people in our time.

Three main benefits:

  • God Is IndestructibleUnderstand the background of the relevance crisis of Christianity
  • Learn 12 practical responses to dramatically increase the relevance of your church
  • Apply new ways of interaction between Christians and non-Christians

Introduction: Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s wake-up call
Chapter 1: Face the challenges of the global participation shift
Chapter 2: Re-define leadership
Chapter 3: Learn from both Eastern and Western Christianity
Chapter 4: Reclaim the New Testament reality of God’s energy
Chapter 5: Encounter the transpersonal dimension of God
Chapter 6: Acknowledge different spiritual styles
Chapter 7: Abandon the us/ them divide
Chapter 8: Communicate at eye level
Chapter 9: Defuse fundamentalist tendencies
Chapter 10: Update outdated notions about science and faith
Chapter 11: Embrace the 10/90 reality
Chapter 12: Pursue ongoing growth

We’ll gather by video conference for 7 sessions (considering two chapters each day) ending by 5:00 p.m.
Sign up for the sessions, preferably before 21 May 2020.

You’ll need the book!

“God Is Indestructible” is available in print format from Natural Church Development (NCD) Canada
OR
Upon sign up in the study classroom, the e-book will be available at a 10% discount in Kindle, .epub or .pdf formats.Arrangements for payment can be madethrough the Christ Church Cathedral. See the email to sign up.

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Stations of the Cross – Video and Photos

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Visit the Cathedral at Noon on Fridays during Lent to participate in Stations of the Cross, and find two different meditations here on our website.

The depiction of the Stations of the Cross below features photos of the stations in the Cathedral, with text adapted from The Stations of the Cross for Kids, which we have used in the past. The video above contains alternate meditations.  There are many different versions of the Stations of the Cross. Try a different one each Friday!

The First Station: Jesus Is Condemned to Death

Jesus stood before Pontius Pilate.
Jesus was alone.
Jesus had done only good things in life.
Jesus had to be put to death.
The procession was ready.
The gates were opened.
The soldiers lead the way.
Jesus followed.

Dear Jesus, you stood all alone before Pilate. Nobody speaks up for you. Nobody defends you. Sometimes I feel alone. Sometimes I feel afraid. Sometimes I feel like I am treated unfairly. Help me to accept unfairness and not complain. Help me pray for those who have hurt me.

Almighty Father, many times people don't seem to understand me. Sometimes they are unfair. You accept me when I make mistakes. Help me to accept others when they make mistakes. Help me to forgive as Jesus did. This I ask through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

 

The Second Station: Jesus Accepts His Cross

The people wanted to crucify Jesus.
Pontius Pilate did not want to crucify Him.
He tried everything he could think of to change the crowd's mind but nothing worked.
He washed his hands in front of the crowd saying, "This is a righteous man."
He gave Jesus to the soldiers to be crucified.

Dear Jesus, you carried your cross. You knew it wouldn't be easy, but you carried it just the same. Sometimes I get upset with the troubles that I have. Sometimes I get upset when people ask me to do things for them. I don't want to carry my cross. Give me the courage to carry my cross as You did.

Almighty Father, Jesus carried his cross without complaint. When I am tempted to complain, help me to remember Jesus and the cross he carried for me. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Third Station: Jesus Falls the First Time

The procession moves out of the city gate.
Jesus was unsteady on his feet.
The soldiers were pushing Him.
Jesus is tired. He can hardly carry the cross. He fell.
The soldiers yanked him up.
The procession is moving again.

Dear Jesus, sometimes I don't pay attention to what I should be doing. When things get hard for me, sometimes I give up. Your cross was so heavy. It was hard for you. You never gave up. You fell, but you got up and moved on. Help me to get up when I fall and keep moving.

Almighty Father, I know there are many times when I give up before I should. When I fall, help me get up again and keep going. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Fourth Station: Jesus Meets His Sorrowful Mother

Mary sees the procession moving through the streets. She sees her son. She hurries to him.
There he was in front of her. The cross was so heavy, he was trembling. His body was bleeding. His mother tries to get closer to him. He tries to get closer to his mother but the soldiers pushed him away.
The procession moves on.

Dear Jesus, help me to see those around me who love me. Help me to understand that I need them as much as they need me.

Almighty Father, when I feel alone, help me to remember to turn to my parents for help and most of all, to you. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Fifth Station: Simon Helps Carry the Cross

The soldiers saw that Jesus was weak. They were afraid that he might not make it to the place where he was to be crucified. The soldiers see Simon of Cyrene.
A soldier pushes Simon toward Jesus telling him to carry the cross. Simon saw Jesus was bruised and bleeding and quickly picked up the cross. He carried it for Jesus. They moved on with Jesus following Simon.

Dear Jesus, sometimes I pretend not to hear when my parents call me. I leave when I know others could use my help. You gave help to everyone. When you needed help, you accepted it. Help me to give and accept help.

Almighty Father, help me to be a friend to friendless. Help me to help the needy. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Sixth Station: Veronica Offers her Veil to Jesus

Veronica steps towards Jesus with a wet cloth.
She wanted to comfort Jesus in any way she could.
She gently wiped his face.
The soldiers roughly pushed her back.
They continued along their way.

Dear Jesus, there are times when I see someone that is being picked on. There are times when I see someone that is sad. Just as Veronica wiped your face to comfort you, help me to always help others in whatever way I can.

Almighty Father, help me to see the needs of others. Remind me to be helpful, even if I am not asked. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Seventh Station: Jesus Falls the Second Time

Jesus is getting more tired.
Jesus is getting weaker.
Jesus falls.
Jesus struggles to get up.
He tries until He makes it to his feet.
He moves on.

Dear Jesus, you didn't give up. Sometimes when things get hard for me, it's hard to keep trying. I want to quit. When things get hard for me, help me to get up and keep going as you did.

Almighty Father, help me to keep trying when things get hard and when I fall. Help me not to give up. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Eighth Station: Jesus Speaks to the Women of Jerusalem

Jesus could hear the crying of the women in the crowd.
He knew they were sad.
He stopped and talked to them.
Even at this terrible time, Jesus was not thinking of himself, he was thinking of all of us.

Dear Jesus, you stopped to help those in need. I get selfish at times and think only of myself. Help me to reach out to others as you did. Help me to see the needs of others and put their needs above mine.

Almighty Father, help me not to be hurtful or selfish. Help me to see the needs others have even when I have problems of my own. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Ninth Station: Jesus Falls the Third Time

Jesus continues walking, tired, in pain, and pushed by the soldiers.
Jesus falls once more.
They laugh at him.
He gets up, steadies himself and walks the last few yards to the Place of the Skull.

Dear Jesus, help me to see that nothing is greater than you. Nothing is greater than your love for me. Help me to see that with your help, I can do your Father's will.

Almighty Father, Thank you for sending Jesus to us. Help me to always follow Him. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Tenth Station: Jesus Is Stripped of His Garments

Jesus arrives at the Place of Skull.
The soldiers remove his clothes, tossing them in a heap.
The soldiers didn't know what to do with his clothes.
They decided to throw dice for them.

Dear Jesus, You set an example of truth, humility and love. Help me to set a good example for others to follow.

Almighty Father, help me to always be respectful and follow the examples of Jesus. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

 

The Eleventh Station: Jesus Is Nailed to the Cross

The soldiers grab Jesus and lie him face up on the cross stretching his arms. They hold his wrist and hand to the wood. They drive the nail with a hammer. They do the same with the other arm. Raising his knees so that his feet would lie flat, they hammer.

It was done. Jesus was nailed to the cross.

Dear Jesus, sometimes I say or do hurtful things to others. You stretched your arms of love on the cross. Help me to bring Your love to others and cause them no hurt.

Almighty Father, help me to follow your son and make his hands bleed no more through my fault. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Twelfth Station: Jesus Dies on the Cross

As Pilate had ordered, a soldier placed, above Jesus' head, a notice reading 'Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews."
The cross was hoisted into place.
Mary and John stayed at the foot of the cross and prayed.
Jesus looked down and said to his mother "Dear woman, here is your son" and to John "Here is your mother."
Even at this terrible time, he was taking care of his mother.

The sky was dark.

Jesus said "I am thirsty". A soldier offered him wine mixed with vinegar.
The two thieves that were crucified beside Jesus talked to him. Looking at one of them Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

Jesus said, "EIi, Eli, lama sabachthani? - My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
Then he said "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit."
A few moments later He said, "It is finished."

He died.

At that instant, the earth shook, rocks split, the curtain in the temple ripped from top to bottom. The centurion guarding Jesus saw the earth quake and said "Surely he was the Son of God".

Jesus died at 3 p.m. on the Cross at Calvary.

Dear Jesus, death is hard for us to understand. Remind us always that faith will carry us through our losses.

Almighty Father, help me to understand Jesus' death. Help me to understand the love Jesus has for me. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Thirteenth Station: Jesus Is Taken from the Cross

Sabbath was rapidly approaching and the crucified ones had to be taken down before the beginning of the Sabbath celebrations.
A soldier pierced the side of Jesus with his spear to be sure that he was dead.
The crowd hurried to their homes before the beginning of Sabbath or they would be excluded from the celebration.
Mary stayed under the cross with her son.
Two men came to the soldiers with orders from Pilate, Joseph of Arimathea, and Nicodemus. Joseph had offered his burial tomb for Jesus.
Jesus was gently removed from the cross.

Dear Jesus, how bad was your death but how gently you were removed from the cross. Help me to treat others kindly always.

Almighty Father, help me to be a kinder, gentler person. Help me to always see the good in others. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

 

The Fourteenth Station: Jesus Is Laid in the Tomb

People had returned to their homes for the Sabbath.
John, Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus, and Mary, went from Calvary to Jesus' burial tomb.
Joseph and John carried Jesus into the tomb.
They laid him on the rock bench in the burial chamber.
The men moved a big boulder in front of the entrance to block it.

Dear Jesus, help me to carry on your work.

Almighty Father, thank you for sending Jesus. Help me to be like Jesus. Help me to share my life and love more fully. This I ask through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Why not connect with virtual Taizé?

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The article below, originally written in April 2020, gives an overview of an online Taizé service. Virtual worship continues in 2022. Consult the Cathedral calendar for times.

Psalm 130:5 is comforting to read, but, in these strange times of self-isolation during a public health emergency, it's reassuring to see and hear someone familiar saying it aloud. That's what struck me as I listened to Rachel Schmidt sharing: “I wait for the Lord; my whole being waits, and in His word, I put my hope.”

Her mother, Catherine, had just played The Lord is My Song on the piano in their home, with its oft-repeated line, All my hope comes from God. The song occurred just after Rachel's father, Kurt, had welcomed nearly 20 people from three provinces to a virtual Taizé service, thanks to a video conferencing platform called Zoom.

More people connected to the virtual service than normally visit the cathedral for a half-hour of simple, meditative prayer and music in the Taizé tradition. Through words, music and silence, participants can focus on a single, burning candle and an icon or close their eyes to listen for the voice of God.

Cath Coombes and Leith Box attended virtually from Gagetown, NB, and thanked Kurt for making it possible, calling it “lovely.” They enjoyed the peaceful, thoughtful silence which followed a reflection written by German pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

Bonhoeffer referred to chapter 8 of Mark's gospel in which the disciples are urged by Jesus to take up their cross and follow Him. He wrote that each person has his or her own cross ready, appointed and measured by God. For some, the sacrificial suffering will mean martyrdom; others will not be tempted beyond their strength, but a cross will be laid upon everyone committed to Jesus.

Participants pondered this theme, then joined in the prayers of the people and the Lord's Prayer, before closing with a Taizé-style song in Spanish, Nada Te Turbe. The words are attributed to St. Teresa of Avila, which is in Spain, a country whose citizens are currently being ravaged by COVID-19.

The translated lyrics are uplifting in these stressful times: “Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you. All things are passing away. God alone is sufficient.”

Retired bishop Bill Hockin and his wife Isabelle have attended in person previously, but found the virtual service – necessary because of social distancing rules laid down by the chief medical officer of health – very well done.

Isabel and Nathan Cutler, former cathedral members who now live in Newfoundland and Labrador, signed on and found the service “beautiful,” adding they hope to take part in future weeks during Lent through “this great tool.”

Kurt plans to offer virtual Taizé on future Thursdays during Lent. Instructions for how to sign on to the Zoom meeting will be posted on the cathedral calendar and Facebook page the day prior. A person with a web camera or a forward-facing camera, as well as a microphone, will get the most out of the technology. But a reliable Internet connection will get you there, too. Even if you cannot be seen or heard, you will see and hear everything that is happening.

-- by Ann Deveau

Response to health concerns

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Members of the Congregation of Christ Church Cathedral,

A group of key leaders at the Cathedral, including representatives of staff, Bishop and Chapter and our Health Ministry Team met this afternoon (Saturday) to consider an appropriate response to current concerns about the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We’re thankful for leadership being exercised by government and its officials, the Bishop of Fredericton and others in our faith community and the media for keeping us all so well informed.

It is our intention, without delay, to act responsibly and appropriately and will continue to consider deeply the best information available to us in a situation that has proven to develop hour by hour over the last week.

Worship at Christ Church Cathedral will continue.

Conscious of the recent direction from our Bishop and the New Brunswick Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Department of Health, we are confident that for the time being the following will allow us to safely continue to uphold the care of one another as our top priority while implementing a reasoned set of precautions that will help contribute to provincial, national and global efforts aimed at controlling the spread of the virus.

CHANGES WE WILL MAKE

Worship at Christ Church Cathedral will continue. However, it is especially necessary that we take extra care to continue and further strengthen health and safety protocols now in place. We’ll be implementing additional precautions consistent with what our Bishop and health officials are recommending and what other government and public organizations are doing. Ultimately, being physically present for worship is your choice to make.

Here are some decision considerations:

1. If you have traveled recently, please do not attend.

2. If there is any reason you believe yourself to be vulnerable, fragile or your immunity is compromised in any way, please make the wise decision to stay at home.

3. We know it is possible to protect ourselves and others from being infected. However, the approaches are so ordinary that we underestimate how effective they can be: Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, be friendly but don’t shake hands, keep away from sick people, and stay home when you are sick. from “Should Your Church Stop Meeting?” (Christianity Today)

4. Our Bishop’s most recent direction is (13 March - COVID-19 update #2) the withdrawal of the common cup with Communion administered in one kind (bread only) and that there be no sharing of the Peace which involves physical contact. We add that recommendations for social distancing (two arm’s length away) should be followed whenever possible.

5. With the exception of worship events, we will curtail (cancel/postpone) all non-essential meetings and other gatherings for at least the next two weeks (16 - 28 March). This includes: studies (Lenten and otherwise), Godly Play, refreshment times associated with worship, Saturday breakfast and meetings of all Cathedral groups, committees and organizations. Conscious of our outreach commitments, the exception is Monday Morning Drop-in on 16 March, after which we will reassess that activity. We encourage leaders of all groups to explore ways making it possible to continue activity without physically meeting perhaps by using communication tools and technology.
Events affected will be marked in our Online Calendar with “MEETING PROTOCOL” in the title indicating cancellation/postponement. Participants should check with leaders about potential alternative arrangements.

6. Cathedral Office will remain open and staff will continue at their stations taking all precautions as recommended.

7. An additional commitment includes the intention to provide audio podcasts for ALL worship events in the immediate future. We’ll also be considering other possibilities for broadcasting worship as circumstances change. You’re encouraged to be part of our worship even if you choose to be physically absent. For some thoughts on financial implications and recommended options, see "But how do we give ... when we are not in church?"

8. We will continue pastoral care in hospitals and other facilities, following their guidelines.

Our group of key leaders will meet again next Saturday (21 March 2020) to reassess our situation, discuss changes and make further decisions as necessary. Your comments and suggestions are, of course, welcome.

Recognizing the significant disruption this will cause to our community life, thanks in advance for efforts to cooperate with the wider community for the spiritual and physical health and well-being of us all. Under the circumstances, while panic is inappropriate and unhelpful, being vigilant and aware, and continuing prayerful presence as best we can is important. Please pray for all who lead us that we will accomplish faithful service to God and those to whom we minister.

From our parish nurse - hands upNew Brunswick Department of Health (regular updates)
Bishop of Fredericton’s Message about COVID-19 (10 March 2020)
COVID-19 Update #2 Bishop of Fredericton (13 March 2020)
From our parish nurse - hands up (09 March 2020)
Should Your Church Stop Meeting to Slow COVID-19? How 3 Seattle Churches Decided (12 March 2020) D. Chin - Christianity Today

Geoffrey Hall
Dean of Fredericton
14 March 2020

What is the World Day of Prayer?

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The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement which brings Christians of many traditions together to observe a common day of prayer each year. Through preparation and participation in the worship service, we can learn how our sisters of other countries, languages and cultures understand the Biblical passages in their context. We can hear their concerns and needs and can join in solidarity with them as we pray with and for them. In this way, it is possible to enrich our Christian faith as it grows deeper and broader in an international, ecumenical expression.

World Day of PrayerThe motto of the World Day of Prayer movement is Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action. Through our participation in the World Day of Prayer, we affirm that prayer and action are inseparable and that both have immeasurable influence on the world.

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Anglican Cathedral Musician Opportunity

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Christ Church Cathedral, in the Anglican Diocese of Fredericton, is seeking an experienced half-time Director of Music to continue its program facilitating a balance of vibrant traditional and contemporary Anglican worship. As the Cathedral is a centre of excellence in the musical arts in the community of Fredericton, New Brunswick, an RCCO level five or above, organist qualifications and experience are preferred.

Instruments available include a four manual Casavant organ, handbells, a small grand piano and instruments / audio equipment used for contemporary music. The application deadline is November 2nd, 2019. Résumé and covering letter detailing qualifications should be forwarded to the Selection Committee Chairperson, Christ Church Cathedral, 168 Church Street, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada E3B 4C9 or [email protected]. Questions to [email protected].

For the information of applicants regarding additional employment: St. Thomas University is in close proximity and has a well established fine arts programme. The University of New Brunswick also identifies itself as a centre for the musical arts. Ample opportunity exists in Fredericton for private students in music education.

In Memoriam – David Drinkell

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In Memoriam - David Drinkell

The church family at Christ Church Cathedral continues to mourn the death of organist and director music David Drinkell.

Notes of sympathy and condolences, literally from all over the world, continue to flow in. David was very well known and regarded in the music community. Among the communications are those from Brunswick Street Baptist Church, Fredericton,  the Organ Club (UK) and Belfast Cathedral where they have posted a memorial to David. David's previous post was as organist at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador in St. John's. The Fredericton Daily Gleaner, published a story about David this week. A tribute in the November edition of Anglican Life (Newfoundland Dioceses') by Ashley Ruby, page 11 -- "An Increased Richness in Heaven."

David made the music in Cathedral worship seamless

As a Cathedral member put it this week, "David made the music in Cathedral worship seamless." Indeed, he did. His knowledge of traditional Anglican worship and its music often baffled the best of us, yet he met the challenges of more contemporary musical styles in leading the 11:45 a.m. worship group each Sunday with grace and proficiency. Let us give thanks for his confidence in Christian faith. We are indebited to him, perhaps most for his friendship, but also for his faithful, yet far too short, ministry of music among us.

Later in the day on Thursday, 26 September 2019, the Dean wrote to the Cathedral congregation by way of email:

Subject: News shared with a heavy heart
Date: 26 September 2019

It is with sorrow and a heavy heart that I write with very sad news.

You’ll remember that David Drinkell had, what we all considered, a successful emergency surgery last week. Early in the day on Sunday, it was becoming more apparent that complications from the surgery were developing and Sunday afternoon, David underwent a second surgery to address those difficulties.

Since Sunday, David had been in ICU, on life support and, his condition continued to worsen. Medical tests and scans on Wednesday were not revealing good news about his chances for recovery. Earlier today (Thursday) it was determined that chance had become very slim, if not non-existent. At about 5:30 p.m., life support was removed and David died peacefully at about 7:20 p.m..

It was my privilege that Elspeth allowed me to be present. Kathleen Snow and Janet Mahar were also with us. The care David received from the whole health team at the Everett Chalmer’s Hospital was outstanding and we are all thankful for them. Everything possible was done. Thanksgiving is also due for all who have helped in any way over the last several difficult days, perhaps most especially Marilyn Lewell who has been a rock for Elspeth through much of this ordeal.

Most of us are very conscious of the precarious financial position this creates for Elspeth. There may be opportunities, for those whom are able, to offer support in a financial, as well as other many ways, in the days ahead. We’ll try to coordinate that as best we can and further direction should be forthcoming.

Please pray for David, Elspeth, other members of David’s family and friends who will be hearing this news shortly.

"Lord, now lettest thy servants depart in peace, according to thy word."

God's blessing.

Dean Geoffrey Hall
GMH

David's funeral will be at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, 08 October 2019, at Christ Church Cathedral, Fredericton. There will be no visitation prior to the funeral. Long time friend, Anglican priest and Rector of the Parish of Rothesay, the Rev'd Paul Rideout, will be the preacher. Friend of the Cathedral and former director of music, Dr. Willis Noble, will be the organist. A reception at the Cathedral Memorial Hall will follow.

Read David's obituary on the McAdam's Funeral Home website

Music Monthly – September 2019

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1 September 2019 - Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

10.00: Choral Eucharist (BAS)
Cantate Domino - Pitoni
Missa Secunda - Hassler
Psalm 81:1, 10-16
O sing joyfully - Batten
631, 319, 10, 60, 306
Homage to Perotin - Roberts

8 September 2019 - Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10.30: Eucharist on the Green (BAS)
Fredericton Missa Brevis - Murray
Teach me, O Lord - Byrd
Hymns on Order of Service

15 September 2019 - Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10.00: Choral Eucharist (BAS)
God be in my head - Rutter
Stanford in B flat
Psalm 14
O for a closer walk with God - Stanford
8, 594, 116, 611, 628
Postlude in D minor - Stanford

22 September 2019 - Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

10.00: Choral Eucharist (BCP)
Oculi omnium - Wood
Darke in F
Psalm 79:1-9
Expectans expectavi - Wood
574(Old 124th), 521, 445, 87, 576
Fantasia and Fugue in G minor BWV 542 - Bach

29 September 2019 - Saint Michael and All Angels

10.00: Choral Matins (BCP)
Give almes of thy goods - Tye
Smith Responses
Venite
Psalm 91:1-6, 14-end
Ireland in F
380, 501, 351, 577
Toccata - Mushel

Season of Creation 2019 Scripture Notes

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Season of Creation Scripture Notes

The Sundays during the Season of Creation, 01 September – 04 October 2019 will help us to focus on this year’s theme: “The Web of Life.”

01 September | 08 September | 15 September | 22 September | 29 September

Sunday, 01 September 2019

Jeremiah 2:4-13
The passage speaks of God protecting Israel during their wandering in the desert and how they forgot God and put their trust in ‘cracked cisterns that can hold no water.’ – Parallel with today’s global idolatry of materialism and economic growth and how we are reaping what we have sown through climate change, biodiversity loss, and soil pollution.

Psalm 81:1, 10-16
Parallel to Jeremiah 2. Note how God’s blessing is seen in creation’s bounty v.16 of the “finest wheat and … honey from the rock”

Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16
‘Mutual love’ includes: – hospitality to the stranger (v.2) such as migrants and climate refugees. – keeping our lives free of the love of money (v.5) in a world where inequality is growing and materialism is a root cause of many of the ecological problems we face – v.16 the sacrifice God wants is sharing what we have!

Luke 14: 1, 7-14
This parable is about generosity to the outsider and stranger, not just looking after our own but seeking to love those on the margins. These include the victims of climate injustice and food insecurity.

Sunday, 08 September 2019

Jeremiah 18:1-11
God as the potter can break down and rebuild nations. – What is God doing today in a world of human-caused ecological chaos? Where do our nations need to be broken and remoulded?

Psalm 139:1-5, 12-18
God’s personal care and knowledge for each of us are described using the vivid language of knitting and weaving. – We need to take this truth for ourselves but also apply it to all who are the victims of climate change, water and food scarcity etc.

Philemon 1-21

Luke 14:25-33
To follow Jesus means ‘carrying the cross’ (v.27) and ‘giving up all our possessions’ (v.33). – What does it mean to us living in consumer cultures where worth is measured in possessions to give up all this to Jesus? Is it to be taken literally, or is it about changing our relationship with material things and learning to live lightly, simply and generously, recognizing that all we have is God’s gift, to be shared with others, and not to be acquired in ways that damage creation’s thriving?

Sunday, 15 September 2019

Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28
God’s judgement on human sin, seen now in creation’s groaning (Romans 8.22), causing biodiversity loss and desertification (v.23-26) – Should we see today’s crises as God’s judgment, or simply as the Earth reaping what we have sown in overconsumption, waste and greed? – Note v.27 promises hope beyond judgment, as always in scripture. This is important today when many have lost hope for the Earth.

Psalm 14

In the context of practical atheism, where people live as if there is no God (v.1) – which we can apply to today’s idols of hedonism and consumer materialism, note how God’s heart is towards the poor (v.6). How can we show the reality of God in how we care for those on the margins?

1 Timothy 1:12-17

Luke 15:1-12
Jesus’ joy and heaven’s joy over one sinner who repents. The celebration (especially for the lost coin) is out of all proportion to what’s been recovered, but reflects the theme of God’s Kingdom as a feast or party. – in our rightful passion for the poor and the planet, we must not lose sight of the heart of the Gospel, that we each need the transforming acceptance and forgiveness that God in Christ offers.

Sunday 22 September 2019

Jeremiah 8:18-9.1
A heartfelt lament on behalf of God’s people. – v.20 sums up how many victims of climate change might feel: ‘The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.’ – if we are to be moved to change our ways in response to God’s call and today’s crises, we need to recover how to lament, to feel godly sorrow and to experience the Spirit’s groaning through creation’s groaning (Romans 8,22,26)

Psalm 79:1-9

1 Timothy 2:1-7
In the context of summing up the centrality of Christ in God’s purposes (vs.4-7) we are called to pray especially for rulers and authorities (although next week’s Psalm 146.3-4 tells us not to trust our rulers!) – in the context of massive injustice, inequality and continuing destruction of God’s creation, how should this affect how we pray for our leaders? – if we can vote to choose our leaders, what kinds of priorities does the Gospel suggest we should base that choice upon?

Luke 16:1-13
The parable of the shrewd (or dishonest!) steward is a difficult one and commentators differ on the details of interpretation. – what is much clearer is Jesus’ application in vs.9-13: – ‘You cannot serve God and wealth’ (v.13) is a huge challenge to a world where the richest 20% consume 16 times as much of the Earth’s resources as the poorest 20%. – Being faithful stewards of what belongs to another (v.12) surely applies to our use of natural resources, because the whole Earth belongs to God (Psalm. 24.1).

Sunday, 29 September 2019

Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15
Jeremiah buys a field as a prophetic act that, despite a chaotic context, there would be a hopeful future (Jeremiah 29.11) where land would be bought and sold again. – This challenges those otherworldly spiritualities that suggest we should focus on heaven and forget all the problems affecting Earth. – We are called to invest our time, work and money in the land (the social and ecological context) where God has planted us – to seek the shalom – the peace and well-being of the city / town / village (Jeremiah
29.7)

Psalm 91:1-6, 14-end
A psalm of hope written in the context of despair. – How might these words fit our current situation of climate refugees, biodiversity loss and injustice? – v.4 describes God as a protective bird hiding us under its wings. If God made the incredible diversity of wildlife we see, what creatures speak to you of God’s character, and how?

1 Timothy 6:6-19
Powerful reminders not to place our security in money and possessions (vs.6-10), but in godly virtues (v.11) reflected in our core relationships – with God, each other, and creation – and in the gift of eternal life (v.12). – note it is the love of money and the desire to be rich that are the root of the problem (vs.9-10), but today’s media and the politics of endless economic growth feed us with lies that money and wealth will solve our needs. – Can we, as churches, learn to be counter-cultural in cultivating content with enough (v.8) rather than always wanting more? – Can the perspective that we bring nothing into the world and can take nothing out (v.7), and that it is God (not our work or the economy) that provides us with what we need (v.17) help us live more sustainably?

Luke 16:19-end
The story of the rich man and Lazarus is another powerful warning that ignoring injustice and poverty is a form of practical atheism. Our faith in God has to be reflected in generosity and justice or it is meaningless. – How does this parable come alive in today’s situation of a globalized world where the poorest are on our doorstep, and the lifestyles of rich nations are exacerbating the impacts of climate change, deforestation, food and water stress and waste upon the world’s poorest?