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Actors give voice to homeless
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Concert honours Healey Willan
Toronto Mayor flips at church
TheAnglican THE NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF TORONTO
A SECTION OF THE ANGLICAN JOURNAL
www.toronto.anglican.ca
APRIL 2018
Grant improves lives of women, children BY JANICE BIEHN
IN the past year, prenatal health in Burundi has improved, more babies were born safely in Rwanda, more people in Tanzania gained access to clean drinking water, more babies were not born in the dark in Mozambique and almost 400 low-income women were able to start businesses and lift themselves above the poverty line. Those are just a few of the ways that the diocese’s $500,000 Our Faith-Our Hope grant to the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) made an impact in Africa last year. The funds also supported an Indigenous midwives program in Canada, Peru and Mexico. “The funds provided by the Diocese of Toronto have had a real impact on the lives of thousands of people in a very sustainable and lasting way,” says Zaida Bastos, director of PWRDF’s Development Partnership Program. “The medical equipment, water wells, construction of infrastructure and loans will continue affecting the lives of beneficiaries long after the projects Continued on Page 7
Jessica Carrington (right) joins Frances Delsol and the Rev. Canon Nicola Skinner after a service at Grace Church, Markham. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON
Woman heeds call to help Goods, funds sent to island after deadly hurricane BY STUART MANN
A mother and child at a vaccination clinic in the Diocese of Masasi. PHOTO BY PWRDF
HUNDREDS of people on the tiny island nation of Dominica are getting much needed items of clothes, shoes, food and medical supplies thanks to the efforts of a woman in the Diocese of Toronto. Jessica Carrington, a member of Grace Church, Markham, filled more than 180 boxes of donated
goods and raised $3,800 for the Caribbean island after it was ravaged by Hurricane Maria last Sept. 19. The category 5 storm killed 40 people and left most of the country in ruins. “Jessica’s efforts made a significant contribution in the lives of Dominicans who otherwise had no options,” says Frances Delsol, the island’s trade and investment
commissioner in Toronto. Ms. Carrington was praying in her house early one morning last summer when she felt the urge to respond to those who had lost their homes and belongings to the hurricanes that were sweeping across the Caribbean. “A little voice said to me, ‘We can help,’” she recalls. She was particularly moved by the devastation on Dominica, which
has a population of about 70,000 and is located in the Windward Islands. A native of Barbados, she felt a close kinship to the people and their suffering. “I thought, this has happened to my neighbours, and if it happened to them it could happen to us,” she says. She spoke to her priest, the
RESOURCES FOR SAME-SEX MARRIAGE DIALOGUE – SEE PAGE 3
Continued on Page 2
2 TheAnglican
NEWS
April 2018
Islanders grateful for supplies Continued from Page 1
JOYFUL PRAISE
The diocese’s 23rd annual black heritage service, A Spirit of Thanksgiving: Joyful Praise!, was held at St. Paul, Bloor Street on Feb. 25 during Black History Month. Clockwise from above: members of the Caribbean Dance Theatre perform; the Diocesan Combined Choir sings; Jamie Barrow, organist, (left) Archbishop Colin Johnson and the Rev. Canon Jerome Khelawan receive plaques honouring their work and ministry; Kanier Hodge-Simon and a member of the Caribbean Dance Theatre perform in a medley of music and dance. Archbishop Johnson preached at the service and Bishop Peter Fenty, the area bishop of York-Simcoe, presided.
Continued from Page 1
PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HUDSON
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Rev. Canon Nicola Skinner, the incumbent of Grace Church, who enthusiastically encouraged her to help out. The following Sunday, the pair spoke to the congregation from the pulpit, asking parishioners to drop off donated items at Ms. Carrington’s garage. Throughout the late summer and fall, parishioners, neighbours and friends dropped off hundreds of items and Ms. Carrington packed them into boxes – so many that they often reached the ceiling. The boxes were put into shipping containers and sent down to Dominica by Ms. Delsol’s office. “Through Jessica’s efforts, a lot of people were able to get new clothing, shoes and a lot of food,” says Ms. Delsol. Supplies such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and soap were put into personal care kits for children and seniors. In addition to the donated goods, Grace Church raised $3,800 through a karaoke night in October and a donation from the church’s ACW. The money was given to Dominica’s Hurricane Maria Fund to assist those who lost their homes or belongings or were injured. Ms. Carrington says she was overwhelmed with joy by the experience. “No words could describe it. I actually had the chills while I was doing it. It wasn’t about us. It was about what we could do to help others. That’s what we’re here for – to help others. And it felt really good.” Ms. Delsol says Ms. Carrington’s efforts have not gone unnoticed on Dominica. “I’ve heard from people who have told me, thank you so much for remembering that we are here and are not forgotten. People are posting on social media that we are getting your relief supplies and we are truly appreciative.” Do you feel Stressed and about to Burn Out? Do you have too much downtime and not enough patients or clients?
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NEWS
April 2018
TheAnglican 3
Actors lament plight of homeless outside church King Lear comes to public square BY DIANA SWIFT
HOLY Trinity, Trinity Square’s monthly observance for Toronto’s homeless on Feb. 13 included a novel component: a performance based on Shakespeare’s tragedy King Lear. The bard’s words stretched across the centuries as three seasoned actors took to the chilly public square beside the downtown church and raised a call to action for the homeless. They performed “Too Little Care,” a short dramatic piece based on the passage where, turned out in a raging storm, the mentally deteriorating old king has a sudden epiphany. He acknowledges the pitiful circumstances of the dispossessed and calls complacency to account. “ P o o r n a k e d w re t c h e s , wheresoe’er you are, That bide the pelting of this pitiless storm, How shall your houseless heads and unfed sides, Your loop’d and window’d raggedness, defend you From seasons such as these? O, I have ta’en Too little care of this!”
Venerable actor and lifelong social activist Walter Borden played Lear, with Michael Bennett Leroux and Peyton LeBarr in supporting roles. Encouraged to become a chorus, onlookers chanted, “Oh I have ta’en too little care of this!” “Any thinking, empathetic, sympathetic person could make that same statement about the homeless today,” said Mr. Borden, who recently played Lear in a production that portrayed him as having a hallucinatory dementia. “Society as a whole, and the individuals who make it up, have definitely taken too little care of this.” The performance at the Toronto Homeless Memorial, located outside the church, was deliberately planned for the winter, explained Kate Werneburg, an actor who wrote and directed “Too Little Care” and designed it to speak to a deaf-eared and complacent society. “It became clear the city was not prepared to respond appropriately to the needs underhoused people would have in the extreme cold,” said Ms. Werneburg, the church’s volunteer coordinator. “We wanted people who are also experiencing dispossession to feel seen and
Actor Walter Borden plays King Lear at Toronto’s Homeless Memorial outside Holy Trinity, Trinity Square. At right, he is joined by Michael Bennett Leroux (centre) and Peyton LeBarr. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HUDSON
recognized.” When Ms. Werneburg herself played Lear back in theatre school, her director told her no acting was required to perform this passage, saying “All you need to do is think about everyone who at this very moment is sleeping on a subway grate on Yonge Street. What have you done about that today?” Diana Swift is a freelance writer.
Resources help with marriage dialogue Anglicans encouraged to have conversations with those of differing views BY STUART MANN
THE diocese’s Canon XXI Task Group has posted several documents on the diocese’s website to help Anglicans learn about same-sex marriage and to have informed, respectful conversations on the subject leading up to the next regular session of Synod in November. The resources include: • A history of the dialogues, decisions and key moments in the discernment process in the Church. • An article outlining the structures of authority in the Anglican Communion. • Information on processes and decisions in different denominations and attitudes in the Anglican Communion. • A bibliography of key resources. The group also plans to have available the names of people who can lead facilitated discussions in churches. “We want people to talk with each other, as opposed to talking about each other,” says Marge
Watters Knebel, ODT, chair of the group. “We’re encouraging individuals and groups to have deep, face-to-face conversations with people who have differing views.” The Canon XXI Task Group was formed by Archbishop Colin Johnson last year to assist diocesan Synod to consider the proposed changes to the marriage canon to incorporate provision for marriage of same-sex couples in the Anglican Church of Canada. General Synod voted in favour of the changes in 2016 by the required two-thirds majorities in all three houses (laity, clergy, bishops); the second, required vote is planned when it convenes again in 2019. In the intervening time, the motion was sent for consideration, although not a vote, at diocesan and provincial Synods. The purpose of the Canon XXI Task Group is to develop a process that will help the diocese have a dialogue about same-sex marriage and the proposed changes to the marriage canon. The diocese’s Synod will have a discussion – but
not a vote – on the subjects when it meets on Nov. 9-10. Ms. Watters Knebel says Archbishop Johnson set the tone for the diocese’s dialogue in his Pastoral Statement on Commitment to Diverse Theological Positions in the Diocese of Toronto, posted last September. In the statement, he writes: “All of us need to extend to each other the most generous Christian charity that Jesus Our Redeemer calls us to exercise as we, together, seek to discern and live out God’s will.” Archbishop Fred Hiltz, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada, expressed similar sentiments in a pastoral letter to Canadian Anglicans in July 2016: “More than ever, we must make efforts not to turn away from one another, but rather to one another; not to ignore but to recognize one another; not to walk apart but together.” Ms. Watters Knebel says the group is committed to providing resources and a process that will accommodate the widest range of viewpoints. “In his statement, Archbishop Johnson writes about
honouring and safeguarding the diversity represented in our parishes and clergy, and that’s what we are trying to do.” In addition to Ms. Watters Knebel, the group includes Chris Ambidge, ODT, the Rev. Canon Susan Bell, Pamela Boisvert, the Rev. Chris Harper, the Rev. Canon Philip Hobson, the Rev. Ian LaFleur, Ryan Ramsden and the Rev. Mark Regis. It is facilitated by Janet Marshall. The group made a presentation to the diocese’s Synod last November and asked members what they needed to have a dialogue. It received 530 suggestions. The primary needs were for facilitated conversations and helpful resources. “At a high level, people wanted an opportunity to hear and talk more fully about the rationale and convictions held by people with differing views across the spectrum,” says Ms. Watters Knebel. “They want opportunities for facilitated dialogue.” To that end, the group will provide the names of people who will
act as facilitators for conversations in churches. “We encourage parishes that want to have a conversation to have a facilitator, preferably a neutral one who is not involved in that parish community,” she says. She encourages people to have informal conversations as well. “I would encourage anyone, if they haven’t already done so, to get to know another person who holds a different view. Spend time with that person and find out where they’re coming from and where they’re at. Sit with another person who shares a commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ and listen to them talk about what they understand, think and feel.” To read the documents, visit www.toronto.anglican.ca. More information about the work of the Canon XXI Task Group and the dialogue in the diocese will be published as it becomes available. To contact the group or to arrange for a facilitator to lead a discussion in your parish, contact Pam Boisvert, the diocese’s Secretary of Synod, at pboisvert@toronto.anglican.ca.
TheAnglican 44 TheAnglican
COMMENT COMMENT
Our Faith-Our Hope isof changing Listen to the leading the Spiritlives
II
n early cameMarch, across aI presided pastoral letat ter the from election of the Cothe Bishop of adjutor Bishop Niagara, Toronto to theofclergy and mylaity lastproposing as Metropolitan of a signifithe Province. I ameffort. delighted cant fundraising In it he that the Rev. Canon Susan proposed a graduated schedBell, Canon Missioner ule the of offerings to achieveof a the Diocese of Toronto, substantial goal and anwas indielected a gracious, process. vidual in appeal to eachSpirit-filled church family in the I diocese preached homilyofattheir the election and bythis a member parish “to offer it here in anticipation of our own elecknock at every one’s door and rouse the intion of a coadjutor inportion June. of what habitants to devotebishop a small Recently I recorded a video the so upon them about to promote God has bestowed work bishop. Martha Holmen, my intergreatofaawork.” viewer, “If you were on an elevator Thatasked, letter came from John Strachan, the with member of Synodin who asked1854! what firstaBishop of Toronto, January youThe would for in electing a bishop, Ourlook Faith-Our Hope: Re-imagine what would you say?” Church campaign began with an idea I first “Is it a two-floor or 17 floors?” proposed to Synodtrip a decade ago. As itI graduresponded. ally took shape, we determined that it would My 30-second response this:between “A be a cooperative programwas shared the person faith in Jesus Christ, able totoardioceseofand parishes that responded the ticulate thatof faith clearly fairly gifts to ussimply; to engenerosity God’s manyand the capacity to deal with complexity; gage God’s mission. We identified theable goals of toStrengthening bridge the sacred secular realms;the Localand Parishes, Building open to afor variety of theological and Our spiritual Church Tomorrow, Revitalizing Inexpressions andGiving practices, and the wisdom heritance and to Others. to discern among North them; has someone toand exThe Canadian many able clergy tend pastoral care with compassion and work still lay catechists in charge of parishes who make tough and decisive decisions; who without a stipend. Many are isolatedone in comcan preside graciously in leading worship; munities that face traumatic pastoral issues able to conduct a meeting.” can see the including, unfortunately, theYou accumulated interview onlinewith on our diocese’s website multiple suicides. The pain of dealing (www.toronto.anglican.ca). Diocese of Toronto made a grant of $500,000 ThisOur wasFaith-Our my quick Hope summary of atofourfrom (OFOH) fund a and-a-half pagethe jobCouncil description! I couldand have request from of the North added a sense of humour and a willingness Anglican Council of Indigenous Peoples to tohold endure extended periods boredom regional circles where of clergy and lay interspersed moments sheer terror. leaders couldwith come togetheroffor mutual Lewis Garnsworthy, when he was elected learning, support and refreshment. So far, 276 bishop, was advised thathalf he would to have participated from a dozenhave dioceses. learn to suffer answer hisDioThe Grants rangedfools fromgladly $500 toand $100,000. mail. replied that would be sure topeoceseHe of the Arctic, forheinstance, brought answer his mail! An electoral Synod gathers specifically to elect a bishop. It is not a leadership convention – that is going on elsewhere in the province right now. It is not to conduct a popularity contest or establish a party platform. It is not electing someone to deliver on a mandate, nor is itinviting to focussmile, on a broad firm handshake and the word “welcome” are the memories we have when Angela and I first met Terence Finlay, Bishop of Toronto, in the summer of 1997. I was beginning my ministry as the incumbent of St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea.he wonderful seasons Easter spring are When we enteredofhis office,and there was a with us once againby asboth warmth and genuineness experienced we anticipate warmer of us in our first meeting with Bishop Finlay. weather, outdoor activities, to know us He was very interested in g etting longer days, and our young family. We gardening shared the and stories enjoying spring. of our Christian journeys and family life. It Thearesurrection is at the centre our was pleasure to engage with him of and have a Christian faith, in the confidence of eternal sense of the pastoral care and support he oflife offered in and our their Lord families. and Saviour fered clergy I hadJesus no idea Christ. Easter not Iawould one-time event that that six yearsislater be working closely took many years ago,assistant nor is it and just an withplace him as his executive annual celebration. We are the resurrection Archdeacon of York. community, and our lives Christ I got to know Terry, as in he the wasrisen affectionatemean new beginnings, hope for thoseofwho d, when I became a member the Posly calle once had Committee none, hope and for those who dean. are ostratulancy a regional He cized, or excluded. Lifeinsight is no ingave marginalized wise counsel and offered good longer the same.matters In the words chorusHis to challenging facing of thethe Church. ofwas thata wonderful song byathe Gaithers: prescalming voice and non-anxious “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, ence. He offered strong episcopal leadership lives, all fearand is gone, in theBecause diocese,He both pastorally morally. He Because I know, I know He holds the future, was a model of deep faith and prayerful thoughtfulness, And lifeand is worth the livingconcerned was genuinely just because He lives.” being of the clergy and laity about the wellunder his episcopal leadership. The resurrection of Jesus Christa led In the spring of 2003 I received callto from the of the Christian Church.me We a thebirth Archbishop’s office inviting tosee meet group of men, disciples of Christ, were with him. I thought I was going towho be invited once dispirited and uncertain about He to sitafraid, on another committee of the diocese.
ARCHBISHOP’S ARCHBISHOP’SDIARY DIARY ARCHBISHOP COLIN JOHNSON By BAYrchbishop Colin Johnson
goals to meet parish capital needs did his ministry from his baptism to hisand ascenspectacularly well. Taking thatjust intothe account, sion. (You will note, it was not 12 at least $50 in new funds has been disciples whomillion were with Jesus.) contributed to ministry in the diocese Matthias was chosen. Perhaps elec- and beple from 48 communities together. The feedyond in the last seven years, over ourwho regular tors were confused by the other guy specific agenda. All of that will get stale in back has been astounding. It makes a differofferings and FaithWorks contributions. couldn’t settle on his own name! a ence year,in and something peoples’ lives. else will replace the Weremember are a different But threediocese things.because of that. attention and theChaplaincy anxiety of the community. The Anglican for the Canadian Yes, thethey money has helpedand us fund First, were named, they new are minAForces bishopelected is to beitsone with the apostles in pro- named adapt oldfor buildings, engage in new first full-time bishop to istries,together, all posterity. proclaiming thecare resurrection ofand Jesus. mission, vulnerable people in vide episcopal for regular reserve Second, support they both were equally qualified, What weand come together in Synod for is to Christ’s name. More than that, though, it has chaplains their families, and to military both gifted. discern on behalf the ChurchIt of God – not helped betweenofpeople, personnel acrossof the country. only became Third, build after relationships the election, neither them aljust for ourselves ourinitial parish, not just of because or of an endowment to share personal stories, idenpossible islowed heardpeople from again in scripture! Nothing for our own diocese, $500,000 from OFOH.but for the good of the tified and trained leaders, built up confielse is known aboutnew them. Church of God – the grant personfrom we believe God Another $500,000 OFOH to the dence, andexcept assisted people to articulate Nothing this: We know their and isPrimate’s calling toWorld be theRelief next bishop. and Development share and theirwe faith. names can be confident that both Discernment a process of holy Fund (PWRDF)issupports new worklistenin mater- continued I have been changed by and the experience. to follow Christ serve his I ing, intrigue. nalnot andpolitical child health in the developing world am more confident in speaking clearly about Church. We midwifery do not close our eyes, utter anorthern prayer my and my commitment it. I be have disand services in remote At faith the episcopal election, onetowill chotocommunities God and let in God mark down a the person’s covered a new capacity to give Canada. Ours is largest sen as bishop – but the one doesgenerously. not accedeI name a ballot paper,has or wait God met the most amazing Anglicans, heard singleongift any diocese everfor given toto tohave glory and the others fade into oblivion press the in right number an electronic their stories leadership and been moved by theirdo). faithPWRDF its 50+ year on history. Because of (like political contenders “clicker” ourgovernment fingers. It isgrants, not magic. that fulness. I have rejoiced in the creativity matchingusing federal All will continue as faithful members of and the Discernment is about using percepgift created a value of over $2.5the million. Safe boldness of vision of people andcontinue parishesto church of Jesus Christ. All will tions and intuition andhealth resources has deliveries and proper care God are now (and their yes, to be honest, occasionally disapbring gifts to the service of Christ. All given us. Itbecause is aboutoflistening – to God, to available your generosity. pointed bythe a few). I think ourtochurch in a will join in central work which is discieach other, to the world, to our inner conParishes around the diocese have been different place–because Our Faith-Our ples are called to bear of witness with all the science. It is opening ourselves in prayer, begun to re-imagine church. made physically accessible, youth work is be- saints Hope.to We have the resurrection of Jesus Christ expectant silence and mutual am new profoundly to you the ing funded, leaders are being conversation. trained, pioandIthe life thatgrateful God offers to and all people Itneering is aboutministries paying attention to the needs many people in new contexts have and been through him. like you who have made and are opportunities the world andof tocreative the giftsprojof making a difference in our world planed and anofamazing array Electoral Synods begin with thebecause Eucha- of the Church. your Jesus Christ. add-on And I am ects have been undertaken locally because of rist. It faith is notinan incidental – aespecialnod to We Faith-Our are blessed with– not capable candidates Our Hope just because of the God ly grateful theget layon leaders andreal clergy in – beforetowe with the busiwho will allow themselves to be tested and financial resources now available, but also our at diocese tookitthe initiative rose ness hand.who Rather, is the heart and of what questioned scrutinized by hundreds of because ofand a reinvigoration of imagination to are it soabout. graciously. we We root ourselves as a euchapeople; candidates who open themselves to and commitment. The campaign is now –officially ristically shaped people a peopleconcluded, called by God’s “Whom I send,ways. and Weinvitation, have succeeded in shall remarkable butand the allocations continue and the mission God bound together as his people into who willnot goevery for me?” with the courageous share is stilland on our While parish participated, the vast a God invites us community of to thanksgiving love in offer, “Here am I; send me” (Isaiah 6). many which doorsteps. my first paragraph noted, this majority did – and achieved more than JesusAs himself is present in the midst. Each candidate brings many giftsparishes for the was not the firstWord financial campaign, nor will had thought possible. Some of the We listen to the of God, rehearsing ministry of oversight; each brings theirbeit be the last – theagain work who of theand Church is not did not formally join the OFOH project our story, hearing whose we weaknesses. Which of them hasmidst the specific over. Let us continue onwards cause they were already in the of subare. We pray for guidance. We in arefaith fed and by in stantial funding efforts. Others added to their the gifts we need for the Church today? hope. very life of Jesus, who died for us and When the apostles met after the Ascenwas raised for us and bestows on us his own sion of our Lord, they were a fragmented, first gift of the Spirit. Then we leave, sent incomplete, uncertain group. They were 11, out with joy and hope into the world God so not 12. In fact, they were not alone. Acts 1 loves, to join in God’s work of reconciliation records that there were about 120 present. and re-creation. Two names were proposed: Joseph called The Eucharist draws us into our work of Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matdiscernment. and engaging persons onSpirit. the street corthias. Both had accompanied Jesus through Listen to the with leading of the BISHOP’S OPINION ner or drop-in centre as he was with persons serving in public office. BY BISHOP PETER FENTY One of the challenges he faced was the Church’s position on human sexuality. While quickly got to the purpose of our meeting and in office he upheld the doctrine and discipline asked if I was willing to be considered as a of the Church. On leaving office, he officiated candidate for executive assistant and in a same-gender marriage, for which he had archdeacon. The position had become vacant when Archdeacon Colin Johnson was elected to be disciplined by his diocesan bishop, who rage ourhis communities, the Church has wasin once archdeacon,and executive assistant suffragan bishop. I was surprised when he BISHOP’S OPINION gospel to proclaim and out. Amid skepsuffragan bishop. Inlive receiving the admonimet with me just before the clergy conference a and ticism and even can share theextion, he told hiscynicism, successorwe in office that he that yearBand offeredPme the position. y Bishop eter Fenty good news of what God is up in our pected nothing less from himtoand thatcomhe was It was a privilege and distinct honour to munities. We can becomeministry so despondent and exercising his episcopal responsibly. serve as his executive assistant and archdeatheir transformed andand filled hopeless in the of adversity, tragedy I believe thatface Archbishop Terence wasand leadcon. future I got tobecome know Terry even better with the Spirit, boldly witnessing to their thatin atthe times we do not notice ing the diocese direction of being more learned much from him. I witnessed the depth wrongdoing experience their Lord Saviour. good thattoisthose taking place around us. welcoming who were vulnerable, of his faithof and his risen concern forand every parish in the They became. He empowered and were willing Remember the words of theinsong, “Beshowed compassion, particuvoiceless and the minority. marginalized, the diocese tolarly do anything in His name.and They faced their cause He lives I can face tomorrow.” The for the marginalized minorities in He made a very significant difference in the future with confidence and courage because resurrection meansofthat there It is is nothing that the Church and in the wider community. life of the Diocese Toronto. not surprisHe lives. They began powerful movement,in we cannot face in Lifethe that thecomArchbishop Finlayawas very disciplined ing, therefore, to the hearfuture. and read very “the Jesus He Movement,” andhours set inand motion risen Christ offers is refreshing, life-giving, his work. worked long paid aatplimentary reflections that many have shared mighty that thoroughly has changed and continhealing, inclusive and redemptive. have a tentionforce to detail, reading docuabout their experiences of him. HeWe exercised ues to change livesmaterial of manyneeded aroundfor the been given new life in Christ. We are givenlife, ments, lettersthe or any servant ministry throughout his ordained world. second broken relationships meetings. It was also evident that he cared and forchances; that we give thanks to God forcan his be exWe believe in Christ, oppresrestored. We need no longer be imprisoned deeply for thethat wider Churchdeath, and appreciated ample. I was privileged and honoured to have sion, injustice, fear and evil have been byhad jealousy, hatred, pride, envy, selfishness the opportunity to know him as my bishthe importance of ecumenical r elationships. overcome thereforeILove conquers OurChurch communities One of and the qualities admired aboutand Terry and op,human mentorindifference. and friend. The has been will win. The spirit of the living God and places worship must be open to wasalways his willingness to make time for people. blessed toof have had him as now a faithful bishop. isHe and will himself always be available the Church. who made available to to clergy and laity welcoming He will be others, missed especially and leaves those a legacy ofdo exGod at worktoinmeet the world in the name of not look like us or share the same faith, po-and whoisneeded with him. I was often emplary leadership, humility, compassion Jesus and inin the power ofwith the others, Holy litical philosophy or are ethnicity. We askedChrist to join him meetings profound faith. We grateful toare his called family Spirit. our willingness toalways join God in God’s Christian vocations be Church agents of and itBy was evident that he listened in- by forour having shared him withtothe and mission, we come experience the love, tently. Terry wasto a pastor, mentor, friend and change. assure them of our prayerful support. We give mercy, compassion and goodness of God. ArchbishopTerence MichaelFinlay Curryback often confidante. Archbishop tospeaks his CreInAnother a time when many are skeptical about about the Christ “who came among us we to exwith the same graciousness quality I admired in him was his ator God the validityHe ofengaged institutions theirin“norms,” transform world from it all staperiencedthe of him. May hethe restnightmare in peace and humility. withand people including religion, there is seemingly a lot of tions of life. He was as comfortable talking rise with Christ in glory. Continued on Page 5
Serving Archbishop Finlay was a privilege
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June2018 2017 April
TheAnglican The Anglican is published under the authority of the Bishop of Toronto and the Incorporated Synod of the Diocese of Toronto. Opinions expressed in The Anglican are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher. Canon Stuart Mann: Editor Address all editorial material to: The Anglican 135 Adelaide Street East Toronto, Ontario M5C 1L8 Tel: (416) 363-6021, ext. 247 Toll free: 1- 800 - 668 - 8932 Fax: (416) 363 -7678 E-mail: editor@toronto.anglican.ca Circulation: For all circulation inquiries, including address changes, new subscriptions and cancellations, call the Circulation Department at (416) 924-9199, ext. 259/245, or email circulation@national.anglican.ca. You can also make changes online: visit www.anglicanjournal.com and click Subscription Centre. Annie Fenn: Advertising Address all advertising material to: Fenn Company Inc. P.O. Box 1060 King City, Ontario L7B 1B1 Tel: 905-833-6200, ext. 22 Toll free: 1- 800 - 209- 4810 Fax: (905) 833- 2116 E-mail: anglican@churchadvertising.ca
The Anglican Church In the Anglican Communion: A global community of 70 million Anglicans in 64,000 congregations in 164 countries. Archbishop of Canterbury: The Most Rev. and Rt. Hon. Justin Welby, Lambeth Palace, London, England SE1 7JU. In Canada: A community of about 600,000 members in 30 dioceses, stretching from Vancouver Island to Newfoundland and north to the Arctic Ocean. Primate: The Most Rev. Fred Hiltz, Church House, 80 Hayden St. Toronto, ON M4Y 3G2 In the Diocese of Toronto: A community of 254 congregations in 210 parishes covering 26,000 square kilometers. Of the nearly 5 million people who live within the diocesan boundaries, 376,000 claim to be affiliated with the Anglican Church, with about 80,000 people identified on the parish rolls. The diocese is home to many ethnic and languagebased congregations, including African, Caribbean, Chinese, Filipino, French, Hispanic, Japanese, and Tamil. The City of Toronto has the largest population of aboriginal peoples in the country. The Archbishop of Toronto: The Most Rev. Colin Johnson York-Credit Valley: The Rt. Rev. Jenny Andison Trent-Durham: The Rt. Rev. Riscylla Shaw York-Scarborough: The Rt. Rev. Kevin Robertson York-Simcoe: The Rt. Rev. Peter Fenty The Diocese of Toronto: 135 Adelaide St. E., Toronto, Ont., M5C 1L8 1-800-668-8932/416-363-6021 Web site: http://www.toronto.anglican.ca
COMMENT
April 2018
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What does it mean to care for creation? BY DIANE MARSHALL
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he Anglican Communion’s fifth Mark of Mission calls us to “strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and to sustain and renew the life of the earth.” But what does it mean to be an earth-keeper, that first mandate given by God to humanity in Genesis? In his reflection, Falling in Love with The Earth, professor Stephen Scharper of the University of Toronto’s School of the Environment calls us, as Christians, to find a new perspective where we redefine the meaning of creation care. He writes: “This perspective suggests that the human strives not for domination of, but for harmony with, the rest of the created world, and that we as humans are participants rather than ‘master and commanders’ within the fabric of creation. This perspective also suggests that we can only be fully human, and fully true to our Christian calling, when the individual and communal elements of our social concerns are integrated to sustain all of creation… We are being invited to relationship – a relationship with all of creation that involves affection, compassion, celebration and joy. We are invited to fall in love with the Earth.” This paradigm shift requires transforming our previous understanding of the concept of “progress,” which is our heritage from the industrial revolution and
has resulted in a cultural acceptance of domination of the earth and its resources. Jesus and his disciples travelled light, so we must ask ourselves: are we living in a way that is ultimately sustainable on this earth? What are the moral and ethical dimensions of what it would mean to build a culture and an economy of sustainability? Increasingly, international development organizations like the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund, World Vision and Doctors Without Borders have begun to report that climate change is a major cause of poverty and famine in the developing world – especially in the global south – and that the industrialized world is a major contributor to this. At a conference on the environment in 2011, Dr. David Atkinson, the retired bishop of the Diocese of Norwich, said, “We
are in bondage to a neo-liberal economic model of perpetual growth.” He called us instead to remember God’s covenant with us – God’s commitment of faithfulness to his promise, and our commitment to follow. The whole created order lives under God’s grace and under God’s judgement. In 2011, the Primates of the Anglican Communion, meeting in Dublin, issued a statement on climate change. It included this call: “We encourage all Anglicans to recognize that global climatic change is real and that we are contributing to the despoiling of creation. We underline the increasing urgency of this as we see the impact of climate change in our provinces. We press government, industry and civil society on the moral imperative of taking practical steps towards building sustainable communities.” At a meeting in Canterbury in 2017, the Primates once again addressed our changing climate, speaking about the hurricanes in the West Indies that caused severe destruction to homes, crops and infrastructure. They spoke about extreme weather in other parts of the world, food insecurity in Africa due to draught, and the disappearing islands in the South Pacific due to the melting of ice in the Antarctic. Thabo Makgoba, the archbishop of Southern Africa, encouraged his fellow Primates to think about “caring for where the lambs and the vulnerable are, and to make the linkages between social justice and climate justice.” Our Christian calling is to “speak the truth in love,” so the need to speak to
government is part of this justice-seeking. We need to begin to ask ourselves: how do we advocate for the earth and safeguard the integrity of creation? How do we help sustain and renew the life of the earth? This fight for the integrity of the earth – to wean us off our dependence on oil and develop new technologies for sustainable sources of energy and conservation – is in many respects analogous to the antislavery movement in Britain in the 18th century. The Church and the government at the time argued that the economy and people’s jobs would be sacrificed if slavery were ended. But justice and truth prevailed, and eventually that evil structure was formally ended. Today, at a time of climate crisis, we who are people of hope and followers of Christ’s call to love justice and seek mercy, must speak out on behalf of the creation. We are members of the “beloved community” that has struggled throughout history for class, racial and gender equality and justice, in the Church and in society. Our voice needs to be heard in advocating for the earth, our island home in the universe. Diane Marshall is a registered psychotherapist, a member of the Diocesan Creation Matters Committee, and parishioner of St. Peter and St. Simon the Apostle, Toronto. A short form of this article is included in a bulletin insert which, together with other resources for Earth Sunday on April 22, can be downloaded from the diocese’s website at www.toronto.anglican.ca/environment.
Here’s why the Church needs generous givers
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ast month’s article on The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Churches garnered considerable interest, as evidenced by the emails and conversations I have had concerning the topic. It seems that most of us are aware of the changes taking place in the Church and in society. The aging of church membership is paramount – it is evident on Sunday morning and it appears there is more grey hair than any other in our congregations. Regardless of who is worshipping on any given Sunday, everyone in a church has the capacity to be generous. Let me be clear: the Church needs your financial support. The difference between a parish that is struggling and one that is growing often comes down to the availability of resources. Struggling parishes suffer from overextended volunteers, limited ministry
THE STEWARD By Peter Misiaszek opportunities, a shrinking congregation and giving that is well below average. Members of the congregation feel tapped out. They really want to do better because they can remember a time when their church did much better. Overall, freewill offerings in the diocese in 2016 declined by about one per cent ($312,125) from 2015 to $32,508,379. These gifts do not include special collections, FaithWorks, additional outreach, capital giving or immemorial donations. In the last six years, the number of givers across the diocese has declined by 17.45 per cent – a loss greater than the previous 10 years combined. On a per donor basis, the average annual offertory gift increased to $1,393 in 2016, up from $1,314 a year earlier. When average household income is
adjusted for inflation, the percentage of gross family income designated to offertory increased to 1.71 per cent in 2016. What we lack is the median gift number. This would provide a true indicator of giving, as it eliminates the impact of those who give very little and those who gift a lot. The diocesan average is only a barometer with respect to how individuals within a parish are performing compared to other parishes. However, aggregate giving is a poor indicator of generosity because many high-income donors give well above the diocesan average but the proportion of their giving is relatively small. We have found that parishes need to strive for an average annual gift per person of about $1,750 to remain healthy. This figure represents optimum giving – a level of support consistently found in our most successful parishes. Those parishes – both urban and rural – that have a variety of relevant ministry opportunities, experience numeric growth in the number of
worshipping members, offer meaningful worship and are present to the missional needs of their communities have a level of giving that is consistently well above average. Giving that is exceptional is not limited to parishes with very wealthy congregants. Of the 25 per cent of parishes that are growing in the diocese, many are in communities where incomes are ordinary. But members give – and give well – because they have been discipled effectively and schooled in the benefits of generous living. Optimum giving leads to sustained and innovative ministry that empowers an enthusiastic base of volunteers who are committed to missional outreach and a welcoming spirit of hospitality. This provides the necessary foundation that helps foster numeric growth in the congregation.
love of God that seeks to save our world, as found in John 3:16. Let us embrace God’s love and work together in providing for harmony and coexistence as God’s beloved. As believers of the resurrection community, may we by our living model what we promise in our Baptismal Covenant, “to respect the dignity of every human being.” We, the people of God, can point the way forward that reveals the unity that we are given, and can celebrate the
strength that we can bring each other and others. We can provide the example of how we can love those who differ from us and give attention to improving our brokenness. The resurrection means the setting free of all that once imprisoned us and living in the hope and comfort that “because He lives I can face tomorrow.” The Christian witness we carry out is in the Name of our Loving, Liberating and Life-giving God, Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer.
Peter Misiaszek is the diocese’s director of Stewardship Development.
Good is taking place around us Continued from Page 4
often is, into the dream God has.” The Church must always provide room and welcome all, irrespective of their perspective or understanding of God. Paul understood this when he wrote to the Galatians: “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male or female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus” 3:28. One of the great challenges of our times is how can we be more inclusive in our nation, provinces, communities, organizations and churches.
The ability to live in community with many different views to life, politics and religions, is both a challenge and a rich gift. Our communities continue to become very diverse. We do not all need to think and speak alike. God has wonderfully made us for God’s self and each other. When we are unable to be respectful of those who are different from us, life can become very difficult and intolerable. That is why we hold to the belief and understanding that ultimately it is the
6 TheAnglican
INTERVIEW
April 2018
I dived into the Anglican Church The Rev. James Liu is an assistant curate at St. James Cathedral, leading the Mandarin Ministry.
Very Rev. Douglas Stoute, the former Dean of the cathedral, taught me three words or identities to remember: watcher, interpreter and weaver. I think these are especially important aspects of my ministry. How to watch for people? No one can exist alone by himself. But it is very difficult to establish a core team. How to interpret our faith from one culture to another, or to people who have no background of Christianity? How to weave a big family together from a more inclusive theological grounding? These are all the challenging topics that I am dealing with at the moment.
Working with Morning Wang, who is soon to be ordained a deacon, I have established and continue to develop the Mandarin Ministry, serving all Chinese people in the Diocese of Toronto. I also assist with the cathedral’s English language services and pastoral work. As a theology student and a Chinese person, I started to reflect on trans-cultural ministry and how to bring the gospel to more people in Toronto’s multicultural environment. I believe that all ministry development should be based not only on clear theological thought but also on research and a detailed plan. Many of the Chinese people we meet who are new to Toronto have no Christian background, so we developed what I call the “cathedral model” of ministry. This involves the traditional Anglican treasures of scripture, tradition and reason, but also liturgy, architecture, spiritual devotion and teaching the basics of Christianity and Anglicanism. Using this model, we started the Mandarin Ministry in 2014, first meeting at the local Tim Hortons and then in the second-floor kitchen at the Cathedral Centre, then the boardroom, then the lecture room, and now we have our service every Sunday at 1:30 p.m. in the cathedral’s sanctuary. Our congregation started with one person and now averages
The Rev. James Liu (left) with people from the Mandarin Ministry after his ordination to the priesthood at St. James Cathedral. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON about 50 on a Sunday. After the
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service, we have a time for theological education and training. We also have a Sunday School and a choir. Each year, more than 10 people are baptized. This model of ministry has brought more people to know Jesus and join the Church, entering God’s presence and love through his blessings. The Mandarin Ministry also offers Taize services in English and Mandarin on the first Tuesday of every month at the cathedral and on the first Thursday of every month at St. George on Yonge, Toronto. Both services start at 7 To help people with complex mental health challenges get back on their feet, recover dignity, leave homelessness behind, it only takes two things: unwavering support and hope.
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p.m. and all are welcome. In addition to the Mandarin Ministry congregation at the cathedral, there is one at St. George on Yonge and another that has started at St. Thomas, Huron Street, led by Michael Liu. The spiritual growth of our brothers and sisters in Christ is evident, and their Anglican identities are confirmed. From loving God to loving Church to loving neighbours, we have become a healthy, growing church. At my ordination service, the
I was born in Tianjin, China and started my own IT business during university there. I also joined a church and took a leadership role in the choir. Later, I taught at a Christian training centre in Fujian Province, China. While there, I studied liturgy and found that the Anglican faith was the best expression of faith for me. At the same time, I started to seek confirmation. I went to Singapore and Malaysia to be confirmed in the Anglican Church, but my attempts failed because no bishop knew me. When I came to Canada, I was confirmed and dived into the Anglican Church. I studied theology and was ordained to the priesthood in February of this year. I believe that God’s calling for me to serve in the Anglican Church is clear and strong. Over the next five years I’d like to improve my knowledge of theology. I’d also like to share the “cathedral model” of ministry with others, so that more and more Anglican churches can reach new people and grow. In John 9, after the blind man receives his sight, he says, “One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.” That is my favourite verse from scripture. I think we’re all in a process of seeing more clearly. Through Christ, our lives are transformed.
NEWS
April 2018
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Elisa Mateus (right) converted her living room in Mozambique into a café and now employs five people.
Grant makes impact in Africa, Americas Women, children helped Continued from Page 1
are over. PWRDF is very thankful to the diocese for its generous gift and the lasting impact it is having towards alleviating poverty in target countries.” PWRDF used the grant for its maternal, newborn and child health program called All Mothers and Children Count. The $500,000 grant was matched by $3 million from Global Affairs Canada, which gives $6 for every $1 that PWRDF contributes to the program. The program is being implemented in Rwanda, Tanzania, Mozambique and Burundi with local partners who are focused on health and food security. Here’s a summary of how the Our Faith-Our Hope grant made a world of difference: Medical equipment in Burundi Village Health Works, a partner of PWRDF, operates in 18 villages in the provinces of Vyanda and Rumonge. They used the funds to buy a polymerase chain reaction machine (PCR), as well as to help build a nutrition centre and a house for nurses. The PCR machine, located in the main clinic in Kigutu, is the only one of its kind in Burundi. It is essential in helping assess the status of HIV/AIDS patients and their treatment protocol, especially in pregnant women and children with HIV/AIDS. The housing facilities for nurses have allowed the clinic to retain more skilled health staff, who are providing around-the-clock service for patients. The new on-site nutrition centre diagnosed and treated 2,233 children for malnutrition last year. Solar panels in Tanzania PWRDF’s partner in Tanzania is the Diocese of Masasi. Funds were used to equip 12 rural clinics in the district of Tunduru with solar panels, which provide reliable, affordable and clean energy. The
Midwives from Mexico, Peru and Canada meet at the International Congress of Midwives in Toronto. PHOTOS COURTESY OF PWRDF
Kayonza and Kirehe districts. The agency also bought an ambulance and assigned it to one of the remotest districts, so women could safely get to a clinic to deliver their babies.
clinics can deliver services around the clock, including night births. More than 400 pregnant women were referred to receive services. New water wells are making safe drinking water available to more than 33,000 people in 20 villages in Tunduru. Women and girls must no longer walk for hours each day to fetch water, which exposes them to risk of rape and other violent attacks; now it takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and girls can go to school. The grant also enabled PWRDF to organize a trip to Tanzania to see the work in Masasi first-hand. The delegation included a videographer who produced two videos (both available for viewing on PWRDF’s YouTube channel), as well as Elin Goulden, the Social Justice and Advocacy consultant for the Diocese of Toronto.
Solar suitcases in Mozambique PWDF partner EHALE used the funds to buy and install 30 solar suitcases in rural clinics that do not have electricity. In the past, nurses and midwives would hold cellphones in their mouths and use its light to help them see to deliver babies in the dark – sometimes as many as 10 in a night. The risks of infection and obstetric complications were very high. A solar suitcase – mounted to the wall and attached to solar panels on the roof – provides medical lighting and power for mobile communication, laptop computers and a fetal doppler with rechargeable batteries. Clinics with solar suitcases registered 7,161 nocturnal births last year, and 31 babies were resuscitated. EHALE was also able to equip 27 health clinics with baby scales, patient beds and mattresses, sterilizers and other medical disposal products.
Equipment for Rwanda PWRDF partner Partners in Health/ Inshuti Mu Buzima used the funds to buy equipment such as an anesthesia machine, fetal monitoring machine, hospital beds and incubators. The equipment was distributed to 43 health centres and three hospitals in Burera, Southern
Micro-finance in Mozambique The Our Faith-Our Hope grant provided funding for 392 women to start or run a business through CCM Pemba, a micro-finance initiative in Pemba, Mozambique. The loans have enabled women to build and expand businesses that include restaurants, convenience stores,
Indigenous midwives in Mexico participate in a workshop.
Diane Jacovella, Canada’s deputy minister for International Development (centre), learns how a solar suitcase is helping to improve medical care for mothers and their newborn children in Mozambique. food stands, catering, hairdressing and more. Some of the women are now paying university fees for their children. Other women are able to cover medical expenses and improve their housing. Many have become employers, contributing to the development of the local economy. The loans range from $500 to $2,000 with an interest rate of 4 per cent, compared to the local bank institutional rate of 25 per cent or more. The delinquency rate is 0.0 per cent. Indigenous midwifery in Americas Ryerson University’s Aboriginal
Initiatives is working with KINAL Antzetik in Mexico and CHIRAPAQ Indigenous Women group in Peru to develop a midwifery curriculum that affirms and validates Indigenous midwifery best practices throughout the Americas. The grant enabled partners to compile examples of Indigenous midwifery curricula developed by and for Indigenous learners in Nunavik, Manitoba and Six Nations in Ontario. Partners also presented findings in Toronto at the International Congress of Midwives last April. Janice Biehn is the communications coordinator for PWRDF.
Villagers in Tunduru in Tanzania celebrate the opening of a water well.
8 TheAnglican
NEWS
April 2018
DEFT HAND
Toronto Mayor John Tory flips pancakes on Shrove Tuesday at St. Cuthbert, Leaside as local councillor Jon Burnside looks on. Mayor Tory deftly flipped pancakes while fielding questions from the media, then chatted to guests about issues of the day. The event included entertainment and the ever popular “pancake flipping” races around the room. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HUDSON
Anglicans look to wilderness for inspiration
Clockwise from top left: Sylvia Keesmaat leads the workshop, ‘Finding God and Ourselves in the Wilderness’; area day participants take part in the Eucharist at St. Peter, Cobourg; the Rev. David Bryan Hoopes, OHC, speaks about prayer and spiritual practices; Bishop Riscylla Walsh, area bishop of Trent-Durham; Barbara Raymond of Christ Memorial, Oshawa speaks while holding the Talking Piece, from a First Nations tradition of holding a feather to be the only one who can talk, during a workshop. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HUDSON
Cobourg church hosts area day BY MIKE WINTERBURN
ANGLICANS from parishes across Trent-Durham looked to the wilderness for inspiration during their annual area day discussions at St. Peter, Cobourg on March 3. The theme was “Church in the Wilderness: Hearing God’s Call in the 21st Century.” In her homily, Bishop Riscylla Shaw challenged participants to see how a wilderness experience can lead to transformation and testimony. “The favour of God will change lives,” she said. “Do you believe it?” In a session on “Finding God and Ourselves in the Wilderness,” Sylvia Keesmaat asked people to brainstorm stories from scripture where people found themselves there. When they put these exam-
ples on a timeline, it quickly became apparent that the wilderness is a recurring theme throughout the entire Bible. “The story continually goes to places of deep darkness, but it’s in these places where God works for redemption,” she said. The Rev. David Bryan Hoopes, OHC, led a discussion on “Prayer and Spiritual Practices in the Wilderness.” He emphasized the importance of really wanting to be with God. “It shouldn’t just be, in the words of our lovely Prayer Book, ‘bounden duty and service,’” he said. As well, he spoke of the value in understanding which activities are most meaningful for us as individuals. “It is important to grasp what really works for us. Is it music? Is it walking? Is it poetry? Is it serving in the soup kitchen? Our lives are
our prayer.” In the discussion circle on “Parishes in the Wilderness,” Bill Bickle, ODT, and Anne Martin discussed techniques they use to encourage restorative discussions in churches facing disagreements. “Just like our relationship with God is a conversation, so is our relationship with a congregation,” said Mr. Bickle. The area day’s 104 attendees benefitted from an area-wide team of organizers led by the Rev. Bryce Sangster and about 15 local volunteers from St. Peter’s. “We’ve got a great facility and we’re glad to host,” said the Rev. Canon Richard Miller, priest-in-charge. Mike Winterburn is a member of St. Martin, Bay Ridges in Pickering.
NEWS
April 2018
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Healey Willan’s eldest grandson Peter Willan (centre left) and great grandson enjoy the concert.
Organist Simon Walker acknowledges choristers in the organ loft as, from left, Canon Giles Bryant, Andrew Adair and Matthew Larkin look on. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HUDSON
Tribute to Healey Willan strikes right note Evening devoted to composer’s church music BY DIANA SWIFT
THE ascetic apse of St. Mary Magdalene, Toronto, dominated by its immense rood cross, supplied a striking backdrop to Willan 50, a musical tribute on the 50th anniversary of the death of Healey Willan, the influential Anglo-Canadian composer. Born in 1880 in Balham, England, Dr. Willan moved to Canada in 1913 and bequeathed a prolific multigenre legacy of some 850 musical works. In addition to appointments at the University of Toronto, the then Toronto Conservatory of Music, and St. Paul, Bloor Street, the virtuoso organist served for 47 years as music director of St. Mary Magdalene, for which he composed a large body of liturgical music. “Willan was a humble genius and is considered the dean of Canadian composers,” said Canon Giles Bryant, a former organist and music director at the church and the master of ceremonies at the packed Feb. 16 concert. Drawing on a biography by Frederick Clarke, Canon Bryant included lively observations on Dr. Willan’s life as an artist and interspersed them with his own expert commentary. Over his artistic life, Dr. Willan turned his versatile hand to opera, orchestral and band music, tone poems, string quartets and at least 66 songs. “Tonight, though, on this anniversary we celebrate his achievement as a preeminent composer of music created for the
beautification and enhancement of church services,” said Canon Bryant. The program featured three genres: choral music, organ compositions and Gregorian plainchant. According to Canon Bryant, Dr. Willan loved plainchant and led the way in its return to Anglican liturgy in Canada. The concert opened with Dr. Willan’s choral piece for the Feast of Dedication, “Behold, the Tabernacle of God Is with Men,” and closed with the vocal prelude and fugue “Gloria Deo Per Immensa Saecula,” sung by choristers from St. Mary Magdalene and St. Thomas, Huron Street and conducted by the latter church’s music director, Matthew Larkin. The program also featured Dr. Willan’s beautiful setting of Isaac Watts’s 18th century hymn “Christ Hath a Garden.” Mr. Larkin performed the first organ work on the program, Dr. Willan’s “Prelude and Fugue in C Minor,” published in 1909 in Novello’s series of virtuoso organ works. Thanks to a large video screen, the audience was able to follow the complex keyboarding of the double-fugue composition, described by Canon Bryant as “a grand, sweeping piece with huge drama borne along with very, very confident harmony and daring chromatic inflections.” From the organ loft, the gallery and ritual choirs of St. Mary Magdalene chanted Gregorian plainsong,
including the Candlemas introit, “We Have Waited, O God.” After the choir sang Dr. Willan’s melodic rendition of the mystical Revelations-based anthem “I looked, and Behold a White cloud,” the second featured organist, Simon Walker, played the composer’s “Introduction, Passacaglia, and Fugue in E flat minor,” which has been called the most significant example of the genre since Bach. According to Canon Bryant’s biographical account, Dr. Willan was challenged to write this work after a companion at a recital featuring a German passacaglia said that only a Teutonic mind was capable of a composition of this type, which consists of a set of variations above a fixed-pedal bass line. “His reaction was apoplectic,” said Canon Bryant, and the result was this Bach-like “staggeringly marvellous work… with 17 variations of incredible ingenuity… and a fugue using the same subjects as the passacaglia,” he said. Noting that Dr. Willan’s music remains integrally woven into the fabric of worship at St. Mary Magdalene, the Rev. Canon David Harrison, incumbent, read praise for Dr. Willan’s achievements from the Rt. Hon. Adrienne Clarkson, a former governor general of Canada. He also read an affecting account of her father’s last hours by his only daughter, Mary Willan Mason, from her memoir The WellTempered Listener, and introduced
Canon Giles Bryant shares anecdotes about Healey Willan’s life and music with the audience.
Matthew Larkin conducts the combined choirs of St. Mary Magdalene, Toronto and St. Thomas, Huron Street. Dr. Willan’s eldest grandson and his great-grandson. Andrew Adair, the music director at St. Mary Magdalene, played the third organ composition, Dr. Willan’s “Passacaglia and Fugue in E Minor,” written in 1959 and reminiscent in technique to the C minor composition of 1909. “Gloria Deo,” the closing vocal piece, was written in 1950 and, inexplicably, commissioned by the Village of Forest Hill’s community
centre. “I have absolutely no idea what provoked them but, by God, they got a wonderful piece out it!” said Canon Bryant. Dr. Willan apparently composed the fugue after a comment by a fellow organist that no one could write in five parts any more. “Well, poppycock,” the supreme contrapuntalist allegedly replied, and the result was this transporting polyphonic fugue. Diana Swift is a freelance writer.
10 TheAnglican
NEWS
April 2018
BRIEFLY Youth invited to national gathering
Registration is open for CLAY, a national gathering of Lutheran and Anglican youth age 1419 taking place Aug. 15-19 in Thunder Bay. Participants will encounter scripture in meaningful ways, experience ancient and modern ways of worship, learn together in special interest forums and make connections with youth from all over Canada. For more information, visit the CLAY website, www.claygathering.ca.
Archbishop’s Easter message on video Archbishop Colin Johnson will share his thoughts on Easter through video again this year. His Easter message will appear on the diocese’s Facebook, Twitter and YouTube channels during Holy Week, as well as on the home page of the diocesan website, www.toronto.anglican.ca. This is the fourth year in a row the Archbishop has filmed an Easter video. Previous years’ messages have focused on Easter morning, Good Friday and Maundy Thursday. Last year’s video was viewed more than 24,000 times.
Videos explore episcopal ministry The diocese’s Synod will convene on June 9 at St. James Cathedral to elect a coadjutor bishop, who will succeed Archbishop Colin Johnson as Bishop of Toronto upon his retirement. To help members of Synod discern God’s call for the Church, the Nominations Committee has developed Episcopal Ministry, a document that outlines the responsibilities and gifts required for the ministry of the Bishop of Toronto. It will be accompanied by a series of video clips highlighting the various aspects of episcopal ministry. For more details on the nomination process, the list of nominees and key dates leading up to Synod, visit the diocese’s website, www.toronto.anglican.ca.
MEETING JESUS
Anglicans share their thoughts on Jesus Christ at St. Olave, Swansea in Toronto on the first night of Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John, a six-week Lenten journey of prayer, reflection and drawing closer to God. Hundreds of people across the diocese in February and March took part in the program, either in groups in churches or on their own. The series, created by the Society of St. John the Evangelist and Virginia Theological Seminary, included a short daily video, prayers and journaling. In private devotions, study groups and online, participants focused on the words of John, renewing their acquaintance with the crucified and risen Messiah and deepening their understanding of God’s redeeming love for humanity. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON
Leaders urged to attend workshops Clergy and parish leaders (churchwardens, treasurers, etc.) who have not already attended one of the diocese’s parish leadership workshops are encouraged to do so. Topics include insurance and risk mitigation, real property management, parish finances and human resources. The dates for the two remaining workshops are: • York-Scarborough: April 7, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Andrew, Scarborough. • York-Credit Valley: April 7, 12:30-4:30 p.m. at St. John the Baptist, Dixie.
For more information, visit the Parish Leadership Workshops page on the diocese’s website, www.toronto.anglican.ca.
Good Friday walk explores poverty This year’s Ecumenical Good Friday Walk for Justice will begin at 2 p.m. on March 30 at Holy Trinity, Trinity Square, Toronto. The theme is “Dimensions of Poverty.” The Rev. Maggie Helwig, incumbent of St. Stephen in-the-Fields, Toronto, author, poet, activist and chair of the diocese’s Social Justice and Advocacy Committee, will be the closing speaker. Holy Trinity is
located behind the Eaton Centre.
Conference explores the Eucharist Liturgy Canada is hosting “Real Presence: Sharing the Meal,” the fourth of five conferences on renewing eucharistic worship from gathering to sending. It will take place on April 28 at 9 a.m. at St. John the Baptist, Dixie, 719 Dundas St. E., Mississauga. The cost is $35 per person, $125 for a parish team of up to five people ($25 for each additional member) or $25 for students. Learn more on the Liturgy Canada website, www. liturgy.ca.
Anglicans gather for conference on prayer The Anglican Fellowship of Prayer (AFP) is hosting a conference called “Oh My God!: The Priority of Prayer” from June 4-8 at St. John’s College, Winnipeg. Participants will discern the ongoing mission and ministry of the AFP and share in conversation with Primate Fred Hiltz and many local leaders. Registration costs $250, which includes accommodations and some meals. Travel costs exceeding $500 will be reimbursed for one representative per diocese. Registration closes May 1. Visit AFP’s website, www. anglicanprayer.org.
Toronto priest elected next Bishop of Niagara
Bishop-elect Susan Bell preaches at St. James Cathedral in 2017. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HUDSON
THE Rev. Canon Susan Bell, the diocese’s canon missioner and a former chaplain at Havergal College in Toronto for 10 years, was elected coadjutor bishop of the Diocese of Niagara on March 3. She will succeed Bishop Michael Bird as the 12th Bishop of Niagara when he steps down in June. Born and raised in Hamilton, Bishop-elect Bell will be the first woman to serve as Niagara’s diocesan bishop since the diocese was founded in 1875. She was elected on the fifth ballot during an electoral Synod at Christ’s Church Cathedral in Hamilton. As the results were announced,
Bishop-elect Bell was presented to those gathered as they broke out into a jubilant singing of the hymn “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” In her remarks to the Synod, she focused on words of gratitude, beginning by thanking all candidates who let their name stand for election. Bishop-elect Bell was ordained in the Diocese of Toronto in 1997 and, in addition to her role as canon missioner, is an honorary assistant at St. James Cathedral and an associate priest at St. Martin in-the-Fields, Toronto. She is also a Ph.D. candidate in Church History at St. Michael’s
College within the Toronto School of Theology. She is married with four children. In an interview with the Anglican Journal, Bishop-elect Bell said her election was a “full-circle moment. My family are all from, and still in, Niagara… I know and love that region in the Church.” Her consecration is tentatively set to take place May 5, followed by a transitionary period, after which she will assume the full responsibilities of diocesan bishop on June 1. Her election was unanimously confirmed by the House of Bishops of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario.
AnglicanClassifieds
April 2018
11
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PRAYER CYCLE FOR APRIL 1. Easter Sunday 2. St. Stephen, Maple 3. Trinity Church, Aurora 4. Ascension, Don Mills 5. Incarnation, Toronto 6. Our Saviour, Toronto 7. St. Cyprian, Toronto 8. York Mills Deanery 9. St. George on Yonge, Toronto 10. St. John, Willowdale 11. St. John’s Convent 12. St. Matthew the Apostle, Oriole 13. St. Theodore of Canterbury, Toronto
IN MOTION Appointments
• The Rev. Canon Gary van der Meer, Interfaith Officer for the Diocese of Toronto, Feb. 1. • The Rev. Canon David Brinton, Interim Priest-in-Charge, St. Thomas, Huron Street, Feb. 1, for the duration of the Incumbent’s Sabbath leave. • The Rev. Andrew MacDonald, Assistant Liturgical Officer for York-Credit Valley Area, Feb. 1. • The Rev. Canon David Clark, Associate Priest, St. George, Pickering Village (Ajax), Feb. 5. • The Rev. Canon Dr. Murray Henderson, Honorary Assistant, St. Mary and St. Martha, Toronto, Feb. 13. • The Rt. Rev. Michael Pollesel,
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• Pastoral Counsellor • Individual / Couple Psychotherapy • Psychoanalysis • Supervision / Consultation 204 St. George Street Toronto, Ontario M5R 2N5 Tel. 416-960-6486 14. The Incorporated Ministry of Flemingdon Park 15. Diocesan Regional Deans 16. Christ Church, Waubaushene 17. Good Samaritan, Port Stanton 18. Parish of Elmvale 19. Parish of Penetanguishene 20. St. Athanasius, Orillia 21. St. David, Orillia 22. Huronia Deanery 23. St. George, Fairvalley 24. St. James, Orillia 25. St. Mark, Midland 26. St. Luke, Price’s Corners 27. St. John, Waverly 28. St. Paul, Washago 29. North Peel Deanery 30. Christ Church, Bolton
Interim Priest-in-Charge, St. Andrew, Scarborough, Feb. 22. • The Rev. William Craven, Interim Priest-in-Charge, Christ Church, Bolton, Feb. 27. • The Rev. Jennifer Schick, Priest-in-Charge, St. Bede, Toronto, April 15.
Vacant Incumbencies
Clergy from outside the diocese with the permission of their bishop may apply through the Diocesan Executive Assistant, Mrs. Mary Conliffe. First Phase - Parish Selection Committee in Formation (not yet receiving names): • St. John, Bowmanville • Parish of Haliburton • St. Hugh and St. Edmund,
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LOOKING AHEAD To submit items for Looking Ahead, email editor@toronto.anglican.ca. The deadline for the May issue is April 2. Parishes can also promote their events on the diocese’s website Calendar at www.toronto. anglican.ca.
Music & Worship Susan E. Haig LL.B., M.Div.
110 Eglinton Ave. W., Suite 303D Toronto, ON M4R 1A3
416.605.3588 CHURCH WINDOWS
Mississauga • St. Thomas à Becket, Mississauga • Parish of Churchill and Cookstown • Trinity, Aurora Second Phase - Parish Selection Committee (receiving names via Area Bishop): • St. Andrew, Scarborough
Celebrations of New Ministry
York-Credit Valley • The Rev. Daniel Brereton, Incumbent, St. John the Baptist, Dixie, Mississauga, 4 p.m., April 22. • The Rev. Don Beyers, Incumbent, Christ Church, Bolton, 4 p.m., June 3.
Retirement
• The Rev. Mark Gladding has announced his retirement. His last Sunday at St. Margaret, New Toronto will be April 28.
St. John’s Willowdale
1087 Lillian St., Willowdale, Ontario, M2M 3G1
Seeking Choir Conductor for Chinese (Cantonese) Congregation. We need someone
P who can work with a variety of styles of sacred music,
P who has experience in choir conducting and good communication skills.
P The Conductor will lead our volunteer organists in using our electric organ. Resume in confidence to our Rector, Rev. Canon Simon Li at simonli.toronto@gmail.com
MARCH 29 - Maundy Thursday with a service of Holy Communion and Stripping of the Altars, 7 p.m., St. Olave, Bloor Street and Windermere Avenue, Toronto. MARCH 30 - The Cross of Christ, a service of readings and music for Good Friday, 10:30 a.m., St. Olave, Bloor Street and Windermere Avenue, Toronto. MARCH 30 – Good Friday “Eggstravanza,” 10:30 a.m., worship service for adults, plus food, egg games, painting, decorating and colouring for children, Holy Trinity, Guildwood, 85 Livingston Rd., Toronto. APRIL 1 - 8 a.m. sung Eucharist; 10:30 a.m. procession and sung Eucharist, at Holy Trinity, Guildwood, 85 Livingston Rd., Toronto. Followed by the Guildwood community Easter egg hunt for children at noon. APRIL 7 - Bach Rediscovered with Voices Chamber Choir, 8 p.m., St. Martin in-the-Fields, 151 Glenlake Ave., Toronto. Tickets $20 adults, $15 students/seniors. Call 416-519-0528 or email voiceschamberchoir@yahoo.ca. APRIL 14 - Special fundraising concert, 7:30 p.m., Holy Trinity, Guildwood, 85 Livingston Rd., Toronto. Featuring Robert Graham and his band The Fairest and Best together with talented students and ensembles from Sir Wilfried Laurier Collegiate Institute. APRIL 21 - Community Spring Concert featuring world-renowned perfomers, 7 p.m., St. Andrew, Scarborough, 2233 Victoria Park Ave. Tickets $25 for adults and $15 for students. Call 416-447-1481 or visit www.st-andrew-anglican.ca. APRIL 28 - Women and Songs IV with Healey Willan Singers, 8 p.m., St. Martin in-the-Fields, 151 Glenlake Ave., Toronto. Tickets $20 adults, $15 students/seniors. Call 416-519-0528 or email healeywillansingers@yahoo.ca. APRIL 29 - A Bluegrass Eucharist featuring selections from “The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass” by Carol Barnett, 7 p.m., Church of the Redeemer, Bloor Street and Avenue Road, Toronto. Music led by the Redeemer Choir and a bluegrass band. MAY 5 - Opus 8 presents “What Is Our Life?” at 7:30 p.m., St. Martin in-the-Fields, 151 Glenlake Ave. Toronto. Opus 8 asks the eternal questions of the human condition through a program of ravishing choral music. Admission is paywhat-you-can-afford donation. Cash bar. MAY 6 - MusicFest 2018: Magical Music from the Movies, including handbells, band and choir, 2 p.m., St. John, York Mills, 19 Don Ridge Dr., Toronto. Proceeds aid
Sleeping Children Around the World and the church. Tickets for adults $15, children $5. Call 416-225-6611 or email musicfest@ sjym.ca. Children dressed as their favourite movie character get in for free.
Sales APRIL 14 - Spring rummage sale, 8:30 a.m. to noon, Grace Church, 19 Parkway Ave., Markham. Bargains on household items, clothing, linens, books and toys. Call 905-294-3184. APRIL 21 - Spring rummage sale, 9 a.m. to noon, Holy Trinity, 140 Brook St., Thornhill. Children’s, ladies’ and men’s clothing, jewellery, household items and more. available. MAY 5 - Spring Market Bazaar, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., St. Thomas, 101 Winchester Rd. E., Brooklin. Bake sale, book sale, tea room, vendor tables and more. Call 905-655-3883. MAY 26 - Plant sale, 9 a.m. to noon, Christ Church, Stouffville, 254 Sunset Blvd., Stouffville. Indoor sale of perennials, annuals, house plants, cement mushrooms and stepping stones.
Workshops & Gatherings MARCH 27 - “Spirited,” food and drink for the body and soul, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., located at Ace’s Place Bar and Grill, 113 Guildwood Parkway. This is an opportunity to relax as well as enjoy some spiritual conversation. Hosted by Holy Trinity, Guildwood. APRIL 11 - Evening Prayer for Eastertide at 6 p.m., followed by light supper. From 7-8 p.m., the Rev. Dr. Schuyler Brown leads the first of four weekly discussions that explore the emotional power of the King James Bible’s poetry and its heightened language. At St. Olave, Bloor Street and Windermere Avenue, Toronto. APRIL 15 - St. Cuthbert’s 2018 Environmental Film Festival presents “Tapped,” moderated by Stefan Hostetter of Green Majority, noon to 2 p.m. at St. Cuthbert, 1399 Bayview Ave., Toronto. A light lunch, the film and discussion. APRIL 22 - Choral Evensong for St. George’s Eve at 4 p.m., followed by St. George’s Tea. At 5 p.m., St. Olave’s Arts Guild and their guests present drama, poetry, music and songs to continue the church’s year-long celebration of Canada 150. At St. Olave, Bloor Street and Windermere Avenue, Toronto. APRIL 28 - Blessing of the Bicycles, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., St. Martin in-the-Fields, 151 Glenlake Ave., Toronto. Come for a safety check, a hot dog and a blessing for a safe season. MAY 5 - Boogie in your grooviest ’70s threads at Saturday Night Fever Gala, 7:30 p.m., St. John, West Toronto, 288 Humberside Ave. Cash bar, silent auction, food and more. Tickets $35 per person or $20 ages 19 to 25. Partial proceeds to fund fees for campers at St. John’s Summer Discovery Camp. Visit www.sjwt.ca.
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12 TheAnglican
NEWS
April 2018
Ancient truths in a noisy world Women invited to spend year with Sisters BY THE REV. FRANCES DROLET SMITH
SINCE the sixth century, St. Benedict’s Rule has guided individuals and groups of people to live well in community by engaging members in a balanced life of prayer, work, study and leisure. St. Benedict invites his readers to “listen with the ear of your heart,” an invitation that is welcomed in a noisy world. This early monastic rule is part of the wisdom tradition of Christianity and is firmly rooted in, and inspired by, the scriptures. Despite its antiquity, it remains fresh for our time, for it is primarily a guide to daily life lived in Christ; it is a call to live such a life extraordinarily well with others. Living is often a hectic existence. Despite being instantly connected to people and events halfway around the world through technology, individuals can feel increasingly disconnected from others. While the internet offers an online community for every interest, it lacks tangible, in-depth human interaction. Though products such as FaceTime and Skype offer visual community in real time, the warmth of human proximity remains illusive. Today, many Christians are seeking fresh ways to express ancient truths. The Sisterhood of St. John the Divine (SSJD), an Anglican
CANADA BRIEFS University chaplain draws throngs with pets
VICTORIA - An Anglican chaplain at the University of Victoria, B.C., says she has been attracting students to the university’s Interfaith Chapel with a weekly event centred around animals. Since Sept. 6, 2017, Ruth Dantzer has been operating what she calls a “Pet Café” – a one-and-a-half-hour time slot when people are free to drop in to be with therapy animals brought by volunteers. To her surprise, the opening of the Pet Café drew nearly 200 students, she says. “Students lined up to get in and
The labyrinth and chapel at the Sisterhood of St. John the Divine’s convent in Toronto. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HUDSON order based in Toronto, is planting new seeds of community life and mission, renewing the monastic life both in the church and for the church. The 11-month Companions program, an initiative of SSJD begun in 2016, invites women of any denomination, age 21 and up, to spend a year in spiritual formation – learning to pray, serving others and studying while living among the Sisters in intentional community at their convent. Why would anyone, much less a woman in her 20s or 30s, want to embark on such an adventure? The experiences of those who embraced the program in its inaugural year
bear witness to the program’s inimitable value. Christine Stoll, a former math teaching assistant, found the Benedictine balance of the Sisters’ life formative. “I think living here, for me, has been good and healing,” she said. “In terms of discernment, I wasn’t expecting to have everything all figured out at the end of this year, but I think I have a clearer sense of what it is I need to do.” Another participant, Amanda Avery, a director of a program for low-income children in Halifax, described her time in the program as “exciting, stressful… yet joyful.” She went on to say, “The experience has changed me and has given me
new insights and new ways to look at not just God, but myself and my community and the people who are in my community.” Those who participate in the Companions program step into a challenging daily rhythm of prayer, study and service – and no doubt, participants will be surprised by what they discover about themselves. Alongside their personal spiritual quest, a key aspect of being a Companion is committing to a life lived fully, faithfully and authentically with others. Community life, both inside a convent or out in the world, calls us to be our best selves. Where better to discern gifts and explore call than within a
community already engaged daily in those very things and who have insights to share? The 2018-2019 cohort begins in September. A woman interested in exploring the Companions program may request a program description, application and further information from the Companions’ coordinator, the Rev. Canon Sister Constance Joanna Gefvert, by emailing cj@ ssjd.ca or phoning 416-226-2201, ext. 316. Applications will be considered anytime before June 15.
they all crammed into the lobby of the Interfaith Chapel – all to pet some animals!” she says. The Pet Café has been maintaining its popularity since it opened, she adds. Ms. Dantzer says the “overwhelming” response to the café has made her realize that university students “need effective gateways to help release some of the stress they carry, either through socializing or through the hands-on experience with the pets.” She adds, “The animals provide a natural ‘icebreaker’ and, as a result, the atmosphere is one of relaxation, peace and emotional connection.” Ms. Dantzer says the event has allowed her to make contact with students and let them know she’s there if they need support. But it has great value in itself, too, she says. “There is something spiritual happening at each Pet Café – the hospitality that is extended, the connections that are being made
and the healing that is happening by way of the therapy animals.” Diocesan Post
government support and private donations. But the mission was named as one of the beneficiaries of 2016’s Bishop’s Action Appeal, an annual call for donations to the diocese, and it was able to extend its nights of operation. The centre welcomes an average of 95 people or more per night, depending on the weather. Homeless people in Montreal sometimes avoid sleeping in shelters that do not allow them to leave once they have been accepted for the night. But the warming centre at St. Michael’s Mission is unusual in that it allows its clients to leave and return during the night, if they wish. Montreal Anglican
of Edmonton; Corinna Kubos, of Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.; and Jenny Stuart, of St. Albert, Alta., were commissioned as licensed lay evangelists at a service at Edmonton’s All Saints’ Cathedral in January. In a homily, the Rev. Tim Chesterton, the diocese’s warden of lay evangelists, said Anglicans have not always been enthusiastic about evangelism, which, he said, is a gift of Christ. “Some people see evangelists as a nuisance, or an embarrassment, or a theological anachronism. But we’re here to receive that gift and celebrate it together,” he said. The three new lay evangelists will serve as volunteers in their home parishes in a number of outreach activities, he said. Mr. Chesterton designed the course after visiting three Church of England dioceses in 2012. He plans to start the next course in the Diocese of Edmonton in fall 2018. The Messenger
Warming centre open all week MONTREAL - A warming centre run by a Montreal mission is open more days of the winter this year, partly as a result of donations to an appeal by the diocese. St. Michael’s Mission, an agency that provides services to Montreal’s poor and homeless, is operating its warming centre seven nights a week this winter, from 9 p.m. until 6 a.m., Dec. 1 to April 30. In previous years, the centre was open only when temperatures fell below -20 C, which worked out to about 25 nights last year. The mission is located in St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church and is supported by the Diocese of Montreal. Last year, the mission was facing a deficit partly because of the loss of $70,000 in
Diocese commissions first lay evangelists EDMONTON - The Diocese of Edmonton has commissioned the first graduates of its fledgling program in lay evangelism. Alison Hurlburt,
The Rev. Frances Drolet Smith is the rector of St. Alban’s Anglican Church in Dartmouth, N.S. and an oblate of SSJD.
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