1

ANGLICAN LIFE
NEWSPAPER OF THE THREE ANGLICAN DIOCESES IN
NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR
A Section of the Anglican Journal March, 2017

THEY PIERCED MY HANDS AND MY FEET;

Pethrus from commons.wikimedia.org

I MAY COUNT ALL MY BONES: THEY

STAND STARING AND LOOKING UPON ME.
PSALM 22:17

Of Vices and Virtues

sin ranges from a matter of
two forces pulling in opposite
directions to the point where
a relationship is broken
(Numbers 15:31), to a failure to
Photo Copyright: Robert Young Photography

live up to a particular standard

and stay on a common path
(John 8:34), to falling short of
an ideal or missing the mark
(Romans 3:23). The use of the
word sin is akin to that of
comb. Ages ago, a comb
referred to the red crest on a
roosters head. If we mention
comb today we first think of
a gadget for styling hair. To
The Most Revd Percy Coffin say that sin is precisely this
Archbishop or that is like saying a comb
Western Newfoundland is a rosters crown and only
that. Inadequate at best, so
The definition of sin or we move on.
even the experience of sin is Pity the writer of Genesis
who does his/her best to or infected all of us without accuracy of this expression, respectively. The counterparts
a tad confusing in our time. immunity. In light of the but it still works), the best of these three virtues are
In scripture we will learn that tell us why sin has affected
Temptation of Christ, have example would be the golfer vices. Vice distracts our minds
we ever been who consistently ends up prevents us from using our
willing to trade in the bunker or pool. To God-given innate curiosity
something of do so occasionally does not for good. Vice confuses and
value to get necessarily make that person a overloads our minds to the
what we want? bad golfer. To do so repeatedly point of indecision. Vice turns
Would we throw develops bad habits which are faith to fear and doubt, hope
someone under difficult to overcome without to presumption and charity
the bus for self professional advice. into the inability to say no
gain? How about A sinful state arising from leading to an ineffective us
stretching the selfishness, overindulgence, of our resources and talents.
limits of the law defect or inaction will not Use Lent to study the
or even putting likely be resolved without person of Jesus to enlighten
ourselves dependence on the your mind, encourage your
above the law source of all goodness. St. will and commend your soul
to achieve a Thomas Aquinas claims to the Almighty.
particular goal? that virtues come in three
As for forms: intellectual, moral,
missing the and theological, guiding the In the peace of Christ,
mark (note human mind (wisdom), will + Percy
that the jury is (good and beautiful), and Western Newfoundland
still out on the soul (faith, hope and charity)

anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador

2 MARCH 2017

Let Your Lent Make A

Difference
ANGLICAN LIFE in Newfoundland and Labrador is I just do not know what is trusting in God in difficult times
the newspaper of the Anglican Church of Canada in happening in the world today! is certainly essential for us as
the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. A co- I thought that things were Christians.
operative effort of the three Dioceses in Newfoundland supposed to be getting better, But beyond that, this
and Labrador, it is publishes ten issues each year with but theyre getting so much relationship with God will
an independent editorial policy. worse. Its a universal feeling lead us to want to take action.
these days amongst my friends We are called to let our light
Anglican Life is a section of the Anglican Journal and family. Regardless of shine so that others may see
age, everyone seems to be our good works and glorify
Editor: feeling a bit down lately, and our Father in heaven. Part
Mrs. Emily F. Rowe theyre disappointed with of our Lenten discipline of
3 Carpasian Rd. how the world is changing. prayer and self-examination
St. Johns, NL I know some churches that might well lead us to take on
A1C 3T9 have begun to include The some kind of action to help in
Email: anglicanlifeNL@gmail.com United States in their prayers the world, and no matter how
Emily F. Rowe for countries experiencing civil small you think that it is, it will
Advertising Rates and other information may be Editor unrest, something that would make a difference. There are
obtained from: have been almost laughable a local groups who help refugee
Bishop Donald Young Lent. Were back again to few years ago. And here we families. We can donate our
34 Fraser Road, Gander, NL, A1V 2E8 those 40 days of preparation are with that as the backdrop time and our money to any
Phone: (709) 256-7701 for Easter. And by preparation for lentthe backdrop for our number of organizations who
Email: jointcommittee@nfld.net for Easter, I dont just mean own self-examination and help to make the world a
buying a ridiculous amount prayers. better place for all. But most
Paid Subscription Rates: of chocolate, or putting up How will we pray this Lent? importantly, we can be strong
Newfoundland and Labrador: $15.00 spring wreaths in defiance of How will examine our lives? witnesses of Christs love
Outside the province: $20.00 Newfoundlands continued What does praying for peace love for allin the world. Pray
International: $25.00 winter weather. Of course we really mean? for change, and then help to
know that as Christians, we To begin with, we have make it happen. It is often said
New subscriptions, cancellations, & changes of address have the 40 days set aside for all heard that prayer should that it is better to light a candle
should be sent to: self-examination and prayer, not just be a grocery list for than to curse the dark, and
Circulation for remembering Christs God, listing the things that when we feel despair about
The Anglican Journal (attn. Bev Murphy) 40 days in the wilderness, we want, or if were feeling the current state of the world,
80 Hayden Street, Toronto, ON, M4Y 3G2 for remembering his cruel especially prayerful, a list we must remember who is the
(416) 924-9192 (O) (416) 925-8811 (fax) crucifixion at the hands of the of things for which we are Light of the Worldwe must
Email: circulation@national.anglican.ca Roman government, and finally thankful. Instead, we need work with God to make this
we prepare for his glorious to see prayer as a way to world a better place. Pray.
Each parish is responsible for maintaining its own resurrection on Easter Sunday. develop our relationship with Examine your lives. Make the
subscription list: please notify your parish office of In light of recent attacks by God. We know from our own world a better place. High
any changes. Changes sent to parish offices may take terrorist groups in the world, I relationships with our family expectations for a Lenten
months to take effect. Send your updated information think that it would be a good and our friends that they only discipline indeed, but nobody
to Circulation at the Anglican Journal (above) or to time to focus on praying for really thrive, really grow and said that it was going to be
Don Young at 34 Fraser Road, Gander NL A1V 2E8. peace. I have had so many develop, when we have open easy.
people come up to me over lines of communication. Then
Letters to the Editor: the past few weeks and say, we can learn to trust, and
Send to the Editor by email or post. Anglican Life does
not publish letters from anonymous writers. Letters
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Correction: In the January 2017 issue of Anglican Life, the centre two pages were given to
coverage of the visit of Bishop Francis Loyo. The subtitle of the article may have unintentionally
given the wrong impression to readers: Bishop Francis visited many places in the Diocese of
Central Newfoundland, and not just Bonavista. The article was submitted from the parish of
Boavista, hence my misleading subtitle. My apologies for any confusion or hurt feelings that
this may have caused.
The Editor

anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador

MARCH 2017
Bishop Geoff Peddle (front row, second from the right), and rector, The Revd Amanda Taylor (front row, far
right) with the recipients of the Volunteer Certificates from their bishop.
The Bishops Challenge
Post-Confirmation Involvement with
Church and Community
Article by
Ruth Bugden
We were very proud on
4th December, 2016, at St.
Lawrence Parish Portugal
Cove, when 37 of our young
people received Volunteer
Certificates from Bishop
Peddle. This was in response
to the Bishops challenge to
post-confirmation age youth
to stay involved and make a
positive contribution to their
parish and to their community.
Those receiving the award
ranged in age from 12 to 18,
and just from Easter 2016
to the end of October 2016,
they completed a total of
1459 volunteer hours. Our
youth have volunteered as
Counsellors in Training at
Lavrock Summer Camps; many
take a significant leadership
role in Vacation Bible School;
they make, fill and deliver
Easter baskets to seniors in our
community; and they look after
our Parish Nursery program on
Sunday mornings. The older
youth help lead the younger
youth groups; they serve at
Parish dinners and sales; they
assist with Good Friday and
Christmas Eve liturgies for the
children, and present puppet
plays at other services. Every
year our Girls Auxiliary write
and perform a dinner theatre
as a parish fundraiser, and
they help raise money toward
the Christmas hampers that
are distributed throughout
our community annually. Also
of note, this year our parish is
involved in the sponsorship
of a Syrian Refugee Family,
and the youth of our parish
raised close to $2000 for this
initiative. Our young people
are always thereenthusiastic
and eager to give a helping
anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador
MeA Sinner?
Photo: Janice Bugden
Ronald Clarke
Columnist
Like so many old people
(Im close to 88), I sometimes
feel smugly righteous.
And why not assume that
Im special to my God. Arent
we all?
Sometimes though, Im
really pleased with myself
too pleased. God is not
very pleased with self-
righteousness.
One day I really tried to
examine my long life with God.
Thanks to a very godly
grandfather, and parents who
were very devoted to Gods
hand. service, I have had a whole
In spite of all their lifetime of prayer and worship.
achievements, you will not And my wife and I were very
find very many at church blessed with four good
on Sunday. This has raised offspring.
many eyebrows as people Not bad, eh??
ask, Where are the young And thank God that Ive
people? Well, maybe our also had some very special
understanding of Church services to perform.
has to change. We can all In my first year of teaching
learn a lesson from these I had to become a lay reader.
young people who are actively Lay readers (in those days,
sharing their time and talents all male) had to do nearly all
with others. They are the living the church services in the
Church, making a difference in community. Ministers could
the lives of those around them. only visit our far flung outport
I would suggest that we would communities maybe only once
do well to pay attention. a month. So we had to be
Thank you Bishop Peddle, substitute priests for the rest
for giving them the recognition of the services that the priests
they deserve. couldnt attend. This situation
continued for a long time.
While lay readers today are
not called on as often, some of
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3
us still fill-in sometimes. My
first service was done in 1947,
70 years ago. Thank God I will
do a service again this month
(February 2017).
Not bad, eh??
I firmly believe that God
wants us not only to serve him,
but also to love our neighbours
as we love ourselves. So, Ive
sincerely tried to be good to
people, especially visiting the
elderly and the sick, in Seniors
Homes, hospitals, etc.
Not bad, eh??
But Jesus assures me
that, good as I may assume
myself to be, I dare not assume
that I, because of good deeds,
am holy, and sin-free.
As Jesus himself clearly
stated, it is so, so easy to sin,
in thought, word and deed.
Sadly, we many many times
sin without realizing it. Sins
that result from doing badly
are called sins of commission.
These are bad enough, but
worse still perhaps are our sins
of omission. These are sins
resulting from not doing the
good things we should have
done. How many times did we
not help the old, the sick, those
sore in need?
Too busy perhaps, too
much trouble. None of my
business. We must remember
Jesus said that loving others is
as equally important as loving
him. I really worry about my
sins of omission.
So, Im a sinner, like far too
many others.
NOT SO GOOD, EH?
Fortunately for all of us,
Jesus DIED for us sinners!
Repent, Repent! he
demands, and all of us will be
saved. Since we sin a lot, we
must repent a lot.
So, I dont despair because
Im a weak sinner. I try to
repent as Jesus demanded.
Again, and again, and
again, Jesus FORGIVES.
Thanks be to God!
4 MARCH 2017
Port Aux Basques
Photographs and article by
Lisa Brown
An Evening of Painting
On January 22nd, the
Yount Group of St. James
Anglican Church in Port Aux
Basques had a Paint Night.
Thanks to the teachers who
Mens Choral Group
On December 18th, the
Mens Choral Group from St.
James Anglican Church in
Port aux Basques entertained
approximately 200 people with
a service of Scripture readings,
Christmas hymns, and songs.
Godly Play Christmas Program
organized this, and helped
with the lunch afterwards.
Thanks also go to the ACW
who provided the painting
supplies.
The Godly Play Children and Youth Group of St. Jamess Church in Port aux Basques presented
their Christmas Program at the 10:00 am Church Service on December 18th. Thank you to
Jane Allen and all the Godly Play teachers for a beautiful presentation. After the service, the
children proceeded to the Memorial Hall to celebrate Baby Jesuss Birthday Party.
Alyssa Baker and Casey Lane with the cake
This is an annual event that the Enjoying some time with Santa Claus
Mens Group have done now
for about twenty years. A huge
thank you goes out to Christine
Buffett who organizes the
program and leads the Group.
anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador
MARCH 2017 5

Grand Falls-Windsor Makes Quilts

For Refugee Family
Photographs and article by
Dale Butler

On November 30th, the Holy Trinity ACW of GrandFalls-Windsor hosted a

pot luck supper to welcome a refugee family in our community. Members of our
congregation knitted 8-inch squares which were joined together to make two
warm blankets for the children, Fehed and Meryen. Mrs. Eileen Colbourne, past
president of our ACW diocesan council, made a lovely quilt which was presented
to the parents, Emin and Ruveyda .This evening of fellowship was enjoyed by all.

above: The presentation of the quilts to Fehed, Meryen, Emin, and Ruveyda
on the right: knitted squares waiting to be made into a warm quilt

Between The LessonsThe

The Revd Jonathan Rowe
Columnist
After Sauls glorious
victory over the Ammonites
in 1 Samuel 11, its hard to
imagine how things could
possibly go downhill for him,
but it didnt take long before
his star started to set. By
chapter 13, were already
seeing the beginning of the
end for him.
At this point, the
Philistines started to make
trouble for the Israelites.
Were not entirely sure where
the Philistines came from, but
they were probably part of a
wave of Sea Peoples who
arrived in the Ancient Near
East around the end of the
Bronze Age. Technologically
superior to the Israelites, they
settled along the coastline,
but were always ready to
expand into Israelite territory.
With Philistines threatening
the borders, Saul gathered an
Beginning Of The End
army to fight them off.
However, he had to wait
for Samuel to come and offer
sacrifices on behalf of the
army before going into battle.
It seems that Samuel had told
him to wait seven days, but
as the appointed time grew
closer, Saul started to get
impatient. Fearing that his
supporters and allies would
abandon him, he took it upon
himself to offer the sacrifice
without waiting for Samuel.
Not surprisingly, Samuel
arrived just as Saul finished
offering it, and he was not
impressed. Saul tried to
defend his actions, putting
a pious spin on them. He
said that he was afraid that
the Philistines would attack
before the sacrifice could be
made. In other words, he was
saying that it was Samuels
fault for not arriving sooner.
However, Samuel would
have none of his excuses. He
said that because of Sauls
disobedience, his kingdom
wouldnt last. Rather than
passing the kingdom down to
his son, the Lord would give it
to someone more worthya
man after his own heart.
Is it possible that Samuel
was overreacting? Was Saul
simply trying to make the
best of a bad situation, or
did he cross a line when he
tried to take on a priestly
role in addition to his kingly
one? Even if this was a test
of Sauls obedience, did
he realize that? Would he
have acted differently if he
had known? Were told that
patience is a virtue, but in the
face of so many other biblical
figures who committed more
and worse sins, is Sauls
impatience really justification
for losing the kingdom?
At this point, Sauls story
has begun to take a tragic
twist. This is the man who, by
all human reckoning, would
seem to be the best kind of
king. However, the point of
these stories seems to be that
God reckons greatness in a
very different way from human
reckoning. Eventually, we will
see the kingdom granted to
a young man named David.
In the mean time, though,
well have to watch as the
storm clouds gather, and Saul
reveals himself to be less and
less of a man after Gods
own heart. Samuel will have
some complaints that seem
even more arbitrary than
this months. Other episodes
will very clearly show Sauls
inability to rule well. But all
of those are other stories, for
another time.
Do You Know Someone Who
Would Like To Get
Let us know! If you are a member
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Thank you for you continued support!

anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador

6 MARCH 2017

St. Martins, Gander, Raises Funds For

Continuing Haiti Relief Effort
Article by
Sheila Boutcher Shawn Wiseman and His
Students Hold Christmas
Why Help Concert
The People
Of Haiti?
Photo Dianne Anderson

On October 4th,
2016, Hurricane Matthew
devastated isolated rural
areas of Haiti, destroying
homes, crops, livestock, Leading the Sing-a-long
roads, public infrastructure
and fishing boats. PWRDF
has been and will continue
to provide relief to people
affected by the hurricane.

Photo Sheila Boutcher

In addition to the
immediate work of providing
food, shelter, water, medical
aid and other necessities in the
first days after the hurricane,
Photo Dianne Anderson

PWRDF is partnering in a Shawn Wiseman and his students

food for work program.
Local people who are able- Shawn Wiseman, singer, tangible way to answer Gods
bodied are engaged in the songwriter, music teacher call to all of us, to love one
rebuilding process. Projects and Youth Choir Director at St. another! The third win, of
generally involve repairing Walk of Love, Walkers Martins Cathedral in Gander, course, will be the people of
roads, water systems, and together with thirty-two of Haiti. The $3,100 raised will

Cursillio Group Holds

other infrastructure that will his voice and guitar students, be donated to the Primates
benefit the whole community. held a Christmas concert to World Relief and Development

Annual Walk of LoveTo

Families who participate know raise funds to help the people Fund (PWRDF) of the Anglican
that they are not just receiving of Haiti who are still suffering Church of Canada who, with

Keep Christ in Christmas

a handout, but are valued for greatly from the devastation of their partners, the Canadian
the work they contribute to Hurricane Matthew. This very Foodgrains Bank and the
their community, improving it talented group entertained Government of Canada, will
for everyone. concert-goers with a wide see the funds will doubled,
The second annual Walk with flashlights, the group left variety of Christmas songs and will see that they are
of Loveto Keep Christ in the Parish Centre and walked from many genres and eras. used toward a Food for
Christmas organized by the a circuit within the Town of What an inspiring thing to do Work program. Thank you to
St. Martins Cursillo Group Gander, completing the walk at Christmastime! This was Shawn Wiseman, his students,
raised funds for Haiti residents back at the Parish Centre a win-win-win situation: not and other volunteers for their
affected by Hurricane where it began. Following the only were the young students many hours of preparation to
Matthew. Walkers gathered walk the group warmed up given the opportunity to make this wonderful event
at the Revd James Reid Parish with hot chocolate, donated showcase their talent, at the possible.
Centre for prayer before the by Tim Hortons, and sang same time they learned about,
walk began. Together with Christmas Carols during a and took part in, a very real,
a police escort, and armed wonderful time of fellowship.

Go where life takes you, but plan ahead.

As a free spirit, you rarely look back. But you

should look ahead - especially to protect your
loved ones when youre no longer there.
All it takes is a little preplanning.

Decide now on the funeral options and funding

arrangements that best meet your needs. Youll
lessen the burden for those who are left behind.

To learn more, call the number below. Well send

you a free Wishes and Memories Planning Guide.
Well also provide you with a no-obligation
consultation.

So make your plans, today.

Then follow your path wherever it leads.

FUNERAL HOMES
Photo Crystal Coleman

Corner Brook Deer Lake

Preplanning Stephenville Crossing
Crematorium Port aux Basques Burgeo
Chapel
Port au Choix Lanse au Loup
Monuments
Flowers Happy Valley - Goose Bay
634-0077 1-888-868-6800 A second picture of Shawn Wiseman and his students
During your most difficult times... we are here to serve you. 6102663

anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador

MARCH 2017 7

Questions Christian
Leaders Need To Answer
About Fundraising

Photo by Dale Decker

is not based on a sense of Do you believe
calling, you will struggle, and fundraising is a
your stewardship ministry will spiritual exercise?
suffer because of it. Dale Decker, Doris Pittman, Denise White, Neta Cullihill
Most people are afraid

A Prayer Quilt
of asking people to give.
Do you know the They fear being perceived as
reasons why people offensive, being rejected or
are not giving? being labeled as one of those
It is valuable to become stewardship team members. Article by
familiar with the answers to Embrace fundraising as a Denise White
this question. People have spiritual act. It provides the
opportunity to tell the story of A Prayer Quilt! A gift that surgeries and was then told I
reasons for giving, but they is not only beautiful and keeps had a form of Lupus to top it all
also have important reasons how your congregation can do
good works for the Kingdom. me warm when chilled, but it off! As Mothers do, mine was
for not giving such as: They comes with lasting prayers worried about me and talked
have never been asked and comforting thoughtsthat to her friends at the Bonne
Kevin Smith What are you grateful
directly. Face to face requests is how I describe the Prayer Bay North Prayer Quilt group
Columnist
are the best way to go. for? Quilt given to me during the and then they gave me a gift
They say that imitation is They believe they Gratitude is at the heart of summer of 2016. I was having or giftsa quilt and prayers.
the highest form of flattery. dont have enough to give Christian generosity. We give a rough year with a lot of pain, Two ladies representing
Well, I came across an article for whatever reason. The in response to the grace of skin discomforts, itching and the group came and presented
the other day that really stood challenge of leadership is God. Gratitude keeps the work less than enough energy to me with a quilt filled with
out and I felt I would like to to help people re-evaluate centred on Gods ongoing get through a normal day. It prayers, and went through a
share it with you. Written by their situations and determine faithfulness and the truth that was worrisome as I really did prayer booklet and assured me
Sean Mitchell, the director ways that giving might still be the world belongs to God, not not know what was wrong but the prayers would continue.
of stewardship in Charlotte, possible. to us. Are you grateful for the I was not able to function as I Thank you Dale, Neta, and the
North Carolina, Questions They dont trust the opportunity to participate? once did. I had to use so much prayer group, and Mom.
Christian Leaders need to leadership. Cynicism is Do you believe that this is an effort just to make it through What a wonderful gift, not
Answer about Fundraising prevalent these days. Be important ministry to God? a normal day. I had not been only a quilt but many prayers
was published by Duke Divinity authentic and tell potential I hope so. I hope that you feeling well for some months for better health!
( w w w.f a i t h a n d l e a d e r s h i p . donors how the money is can reach the place where and then was diagnosed with
com ). They have given me spent. the prevailing undercurrent chronic hives, had two hand
permission to use all or part becomes gratitude rather than
of Seans article. What is your elevator simply a desire to raise more
speech? funds.
What is your mission Knowing th e u ni que
in stewardship purpose of your church Thank you Sean. You have
and being able to articulate certainly given us some food
ministry? for thought!
This question is about your this mission in 45 to 60
mission, the reason for your seconds is a skill one should
being involved in stewardship actively cultivate. Imagine a
m i n i s t r y. W h e n p e o p l e, potential giver asking, Why
companies and congregations should I give money to the
church community when I Kevin Smith is a gift planning
are on a mission, we know it. consultant for the Anglican
Missions are contagious. Is can give directly to causes
that are meaningful to me Church of Canada.
yours? Examine why you do He can be contacted at
what you do in stewardship in caring for the poor? or
How would our town be 709 739-5667
ministry. Hopefully you are or by email:
giving it your best time and different if your organization
were not there? kevinsmith709@gmail.com
thinking. But if your mission

Helping clients
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Taking the time to understand
your unique needs.

The Harnum Group Tel: 709-724-7327

Cabot Place, Suite 390 Toll Free: 1-800-776-0077
100 New Gower Street rick.harnum@nbpcd.com
St. Johns, NL A1C 6K3 david.harnum@nbpcd.com
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anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador

8 MARCH 2017
Bear Ye One Anothers Burdens
The Girls Friendly Society in Newfoundland
Part TwoSetting Up in Bonavista
Article by
Dr. Linda Cullum
The Girls Friendly Society
of the Church of England/
Anglican Church has a long
history of service, fundraising,
and social contributions
in many Newfoundland
communities. In this second
of four articles, the early
life of Christ Church GFS in
Bonavista, the last GFS site in
Newfoundland and Labrador,
and Canada, is profiled. The
Christ Church GFS archives
provide a window on the
activities and community life
of the early organization.
Bishop Llewellyn Jones
established the Christ Church
GFS on Thursday, 8 November
1894. As is often the case
in church organizations, the
ministers wife and other
committed women volunteers
provided leadership over the
years, acting as Associates,
President, Vice-President,
Secretary, and Treasurer. The
non-sectarian GFS was little
concerned with the religious
affiliation of members,
accepting Church of England,
Methodist, and Roman Catholic
girls. Dues were .12 cents a
year.
The years meetings
started in October or
November and finished in
April or May to accommodate
the work or family demands on
members from May to October.
Annual meetings were held in
November, officers elected,
and new Members and
Associates admitted. While
the GFS mother organization
in England stipulated that new
officers be elected every year,
in Newfoundland, branch size
and the limited number of
Associates to take on executive
work did not permit this. Some
devoted women served as GFS
Executives for many years,
allowing the Christ Church
branch to continue.
The Associate leaders
were older women and
friends responsible for
working with the young GFS
members. They organized
the meetings, annual teas,
socials, displays, and sales
of handiwork produced
during Thursday evenings.
The meetings included
approving the previous
meetings minutes, the GFS
Prayer, perhaps a hymn, and
handiwork. A reading to the
group from the Bible, British
GFS pamphlets or a storybook
was popular; the girls are very
quietand greatly interested
in listening to a reading
selection from [Associate] Mrs.
Rowsell (1914). The minister
attended monthly to admit
new Members or Associates,
or to provide a spiritual talk or
reading. Evenings when tea
was provided, the Annual GFS
Festival, and singing pleased
Members Booklet
Photo: Linda Cullem, courtesy of Frances Sweetland
the members too.
Girls learned a variety of
domestic skills and handiwork:
sewing, embroidery, knitting,
patching and darning,
buttonhole finishing, but also
scripture history and writing.
The Minutes (1917) record
that the girls seemed to be
interested in their work as
they enjoy working and of
course talking as well. Small
gifts of money for the best
handiwork, and for the most
regular attendance in the year
were awarded. A lending
library was a well-used part
of the Bonavista meetings;
books could be taken home to
read and share. The St. Johns
Cathedral GFS branch and Mrs.
Townsend, British founder of
the GFS, supplied books in
1903, and in 1918 more arrived
from St. Johns.
Over the years, the branch
raised money from sales of
handiwork, fees, and small
donations by the Associates
and Members. After filling
the branch needs, money
was given to Christ Church
for basic maintenance such
as new linoleum or painting.
Other causes, such as the
Womens Patriotic Association
war efforts, also received
anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador
donations.
Early on, GFS members
attendance as well. In the
1930s, Christ Church GFS Changes at
lives were carefully recorded.
The Bonavista Associates
still met Thursday evenings,
weather permitting. Records Christ Church
Book, 1894-1907, lists nearly show winter entries, no
one hundred names of meeting, too stormy, or short In 1935, a Brownie Pack,
Members and Candidates in meeting due to bad weather. two Girl Guide companies,
the GFS. Their birth, baptism, Agnes Money, author of The and a company of Rangers
first communion dates and History of The Girls Friendly were established at Christ
the fate of each whether Society (1911), described Church. Some suggest these
a girl married, moved away, the early GFS in scattered girls groups led to a decline
settlements in Newfoundland in GFS membership. However,
as a very brave, persevering the GFS reported a dozen
society for good reason. Associates, about twenty-
Members and Associates five Members and fifteen
living elsewhere continued Candidates well into the late
their loyal support of the Christ 1930s.
Church GFS throughout the Christ Church GFS
20th century. For instance, activities and membership
Minutes (1936-42) record that rose and fell up to the 1940s,
a former Associate, Jessie but the branch continued to
Robbins, then in Boston, sent support their church and wider
the branch a piece of stamped community, and enhanced the
goods to be worked by the lives of girls and women in the
girls. The skills, friendships, process. Next month: why the
and connections gained in the GFS is important to long-time
GFS echoed through the lives members.
of members past and present.
disgraced the society, or
died is noted. Occasionally
an employers name and
comments on the young
womans work are included
along with departures, returns,
and other significant events
in the lives of the members.
These reveal the consistent
movement of young women
from Bonavista to centres
such as St. Johns, Halifax,
or Boston for work, often as
a general servant. Now and
then, a young woman left to
be a nurse or schoolteacher
elsewhere.
Attendance by Associates
and Members waxed and
waned over the years. In 1911, GFS Members Prayer
the GFS secretary urged the Photo: Linda Cullum, courtesy of Frances Sweetland
recruitment of new members.
Soon, she happily reported that
Associates were delighted
tonight as we had quite a few
new girls coming to try and do
what they can for the Society
present tonight were 18.
we want lots of girls now to
keep up the Society. A new
Associate arrived as well, and
we are all charmed. Two
new Associates and eleven
new Members were admitted,
given the usual membership
card and Members booklet.
Weather affected
MARCH 2017
St. Augustines,
Margaree-Fox Roost
Submitted by
Karen Simon
A Visit From Santa
Santa Claus showed up
during the Christmas Eve service
at St. Augustines in Margaree-
Fox Roost. Excitement
and anticipation could be
felt in the church, and the
children present were greatly
anticipating his arrival. Santa
Claus came to pay homage to
the Christ Child in the manger.
The Revd MaryRose gave
a wonderful sermon on how
celebrations have changed
for some during the Christmas
season.
It was a wonderful
reminder of why we celebrate.
ACW Members For 2017
Roberta Warren (President); Julie Spencer (1st Vice); Jessie Meade (2nd Vice); Bernice Sweet (Secretary); The Revd
MaryRose Colbourne; Joyce Clever (Treasurer); MaggieSeymour (Newsletter); Shirley Osmond (Mission & Outreach);
Roberta Strickland (Family Life & Youth)
missing: Phyllis Carroll (Calendar Secretary); Lorena Kendall (Worship & Education); Arlene Lillington
anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador
9
What Is Faith?
2:26). It is important for us to
have right belief about God.
From the Bible we know what
to believe concerning Gods
character and purposes. We
believe in the Christian Gospel
- the Good News of the life,
ministry, death, resurrection,
and ascensionof Jesus. God is
willing to enter into relationship
with us. He has shown us
that He is worthy of our trust.
We affirm simultaneously. I
believe in order that I may
The Revd Michael Li understand, and I believe,
Columnist help thou my unbelief.
Faith is a gift from God
We exercise some kinds (Ephesians 2:8; Philippians
of faithon a daily basis. We 1:29). Our work is to live by
trust our parents loving us. faith in God. Hebrews 11:1 gives
We trust our teachers giving us the classical New Testament
us knowledge. We entrust definition of faith: Faith is
our survivalwhen we undergo being sure of what we hope for
surgery. and certain of what we do not
According to Professor see. What we hope for and
J. I. Packer, The nature of what we do not see are the
faith, according to the New intangible things. What we
Testament, is to live by the hope for is always future. The
truth it receives; faith, resting realization of our own ideals,
on Gods promise, gives thanks the ultimate victory of good
for Gods grace by working in the world, compensation
for Gods glory (Faith in for all the sorrow, and the
Evangelical Dictionary of loss of today. We all hope for
Theology, 1984, p. 400). Dr. these things. What we do not
Ian Ramsey, the former Bishop see is not future but present.
of Durham, said: Faith is What we do not see are God,
precisely the ability to live with angels, and the spiritual world
uncertainty. The uncertainty and forces. By faith we are
is not in God, but in us. We love to be sure of these intangible
to be sure and we do not want things.By faith we believe in
to follow God if it means that God. Take away from us our
we have to be kept in the dark. certainty of God and of the
But faith will contain risk, not unseen order, then we have
knowing what precisely the no hope for the world.
outcome will be, leaving that We believe Gods
to God (George Careys The promises. Faith is believing
Church in the Market Place, the promises of God and
1984, p. 131). acting on them. Faith means
A merely intellectual abandoning all trust in ones
faith, such as the demons own resources. It means
h a v e ( J a m e s 2 : 1 9 ) , i s casting oneself on the mercy
inadequate. Also faith of God. It means relying on
without deeds is dead (James the power of the indwelling
Holy Spirit for daily strength.
It impliesreliance on God and
obedience to God. It leads
us forward, no matter how
difficult the circumstances.
Indeed, we walk by faith, not
by sight. Faith is a way of life.
We live by faith in God. We do
not thank God for everything.
But, weare to give thanks in
all circumstances.
10
Members of the CLB from the parish of St. Michael and All Angels along
with The Revd Emeline Coffin-Strickland and The Revd Jonathan Rowe
St. Michaels CLB
New Members Enrolled
And Beaumont-Hamel
Presentation Given
Article and photograph by
Emily F. Rowe
On Sunday, January 22nd,
The parish of St. Michael and
All Angels in St. Johns was
pleased to enroll two new
members of the CLB. In spite
of the bad winter weather
that weekend, a number of
people were able to come out
to see the new members, and
to support them as they begin
their lives in the CLB.
Also that morning, the
congregation was treated to
a presentation by Sgt. Major
David Tizzard and Sgt. Jenna
Marsh about their trip to
Beaumont-Hamel last summer.
They both participated in the
tour that took them to many
congregation most Sundays,
of the battle sites in Europe.
Both Sgt. Major Tizzard and
Sgt. Marsh explained how
deeply they were inspired by
the monuments and sites that
they were privileged to see
during their trip. They were
also moved by the hospitality
of the local communities.
They also spoke of the
connections that they were
able to make with international
members of the CLB, and said
that some of the people who
traveled from St. Johns are
still in contact with the friends
that they made last summer
who belong to the CLB in other
countries.
anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador
MARCH 2017
St. John The Divine,
Port Saunders
Article and photographs by
Denise White
Advent Services continue
to include an Advent Candle
Lighting Program and involve
the youth and servers to read
and light the candles. Despite
very few youth members in our
we were blessed with two
young servers on December
11th. It was so nice to see
them robed and taking part in
the service.
After the church service
Servers Sarah White and Erica House led the Advent candle lighting
program during the service
on the third Sunday in Advent,
the congregation gathered
downstairs for refreshments,
a few skits and stories, music
and singing, and a visit from
some mummers that played
the mummers song on fiddles.
And the ugly sticks added to
the music!
Two of the mummers are
part of the confirmation class;
extra brownie points for sure!
It was great to get
together to celebrate a bit of
Christmasa time of music
and fellowship. We certainly
could do more of this! Mummers that came and played the fiddle and ugly sticks for the
Christmas social
MARCH 2017 11

Blessed Are The

Peacemakers,
Blessed Is Peace
kingdom of heaven.
The ones who were killed
on January 29th were not
killed for their wrongdoing,
but because of the actions of
those professing their faith.
Those who were killed were

Photo by Mona Edwards

kneeling down to pray, and
more than likely they prayed
for a peaceful night and a
joyful rest, that they may arise
and face the day ahead with
Note the use of plastic bottles for packagingtruly a good way to re-use grace.

News From PWRDF

Submitted by
Mona Edwards, PWRDF Representative, Diocese of Western
Newfoundland
PWRDFs missionA truly Lets Jam. bring in extra income.
just, healthy and peaceful As Newfoundlanders, we
world. all know the importance of
The Anglican Church of preserving food in season; so
Canadas 3rd Mark of Mission do Cubans. PWRDF and our
To respond to human need by partner, the Cuban council of
loving service. churches, train people to grow
We live in a world where 1 and preserve food for use in
in 9 people dont have enough their rainy season.
to eat. It all starts with food. In Some like it hot. As
the Fall of 2014, our Archbishop Haiti rebuilds after the 2010
and Primate (The P in PWRDF earthquake and continues
), Fred Hiltz, introduced a to strive after Hurricane
three year campaign focused Matthew , PWRDF has been
on food security called Fred there to provide hot lunches
Says. for children in hard hit areas.
Have you eaten today? R i c e i s n i c e . T h e
would be a strange greeting Philippines has more than its
here in Canada, but in places fair share of natural disasters.
like Africa where HIV/AIDS is PWRDFs local partner FARDEC
prevalent, food is a necessity ( F a r m e r s D e v e l o p m e n t
not only to stave off hunger, Centre) operates a rice mill
but it also enables the anti-viral which treats farmers more
drugs to work better. equitably.
Its good to be full of Kids rockkids/goats necessity of life.
beans. Theyre cheap, easy to provide up to 6 liters of
grow by farmers in developing nutritious milk a day, plenty to
countries, and high in protein supply a family in a developing
and nutrients. country, with some left over to
NEW THIS YEAR! Receive PWRDFs
Lent Resource as a daily email!
Sign up at www.pwrdf.org/seasonal and each day
youll get an email that includes a reading, prayer
or meditation specially chosen by the Reverend
Susan Spicer. Dig deeper into the issues of food
security and food sovereignty and read more
on-the-ground stories from PWRDF.
shooting at the mosque in
Its easy being green.
Spirulina is a nutritious algae
grown in tanks and given to
children and nursing mothers
in more than 100 refugee
camps in India.
Veg outPWRDF and
partners have a seed bank in
Tanzania, providing seeds and
local training to farmers who
then donate 20% of their crops
and seeds for future use.
A s t h e F r e d S a y s
campaign winds down, the
primate has developed 5 As,
or basic principles of food
security.
Availability, accessibility,
acceptability, appropriateness,
and agency, all of which mean
that everyone, everywhere,
should always have access to
food, a most important basic
about as I prayed last night and
So you see the theme
food aid versus food security;
give a person a fish and he/she
eats for a day; teach a person
to fish and he/she eats for a
lifetime.
So, the next time you drop
your blue envelope in the
plate and wonder where the
money goes, or if it makes
a difference, rest assured, it
goes where its needed most.
Proverbs, chapter 19,
verse 17: When you give to
the poor, it is like lending to
the Lord, and the Lord will pay
you back.
Their prayers were likely
identical to those we prayed
The Revd Jeff Blackwood ourselves before bed.
Columnist How many times do
we have to be reminded
By the time you are of the brokenness of our
reading this, friends, a month world before we realize that
has passed since the deadly violence and persecution are
not the answer? How many
Quebec. As I type, it is mere times do we need to see
hours into the aftermath. I fell innocence destroyed in the
asleep so saddened at what name of what is right before
had happened, and awoke we realize that what is right
angry at a world that has may just be a delusion?
succumbed to such immense Today I weep for the lives
hatred. lost, and I pray that they find
Imagine the rhetoric that peace. I weep for those who
is being tossed around due thought it was necessary to
to this event. Imagine the do such a dreadful deed,
difference in statements if and I pray that they find
this happened in a Christian understanding in what they
church as opposed to an did. I weep for a world that has
Islamic mosque. Would the become so divided that these
outrage felt be similar? Or acts are more commonplace
would there be more talk of than they are rare, and I pray
the fight against terrorism? that we will eventually see
The day that this vile the light.
event occurred happened to I pray for those who are
be the fourth Sunday after persecuted just because of
Epiphany. The Gospel reading their faith. I pray for us who
for the day happened to be the do not know what it truly
Beatitudes. All I could think means to feel this level of
hatred. I pray so hard for an
this morning was, Blessed understanding of what could
are the peacemakers, for have brought our world to
they will be called children of this point.
God. Blessed are those who I pray for peace. I pray for
are persecuted because of peacemakers.
righteousness, for theirs is the I pray for us.
Halfpoint from shutterstock.com

The Primates World Relief and Development Fund

the anglican church of canada

anglican life Newfoundland&Labrador

12 MARCH 2017

The Christingle Service

St. John The Evangelist, Topsail
Article and photograph by
Louise Smith
A red ribbon circling the love pointing in all directions. downstairs for fellowship and before men, that they may
Here at St. John the orange represented the love Marshmallows in each pick food, prepared and served by see your good works and
Evangelist, Topsail, our of God that goes around the represented the sweetness of the Anglican Church Women. glorify your Father in Heaven.
Rector, The Revd Jolene world. Gods love all over the world. A blessed day was (Matthew 5:16)
Peters, encourages us to Tooth picks surrounding After the conclusion of the thoroughly enjoyed by all.
celebrate each Red Letter the orange represented Gods service, everyone was invited Let your light so shine
day on the church calendar,
as we participate in an event
to compliment that particular
service.
Today, January 29th, as
the congregation, both young
and old, assembled in our
place of worship, we were
gladdened to be introduced to,
andbe a part of this Christingle
servicea service symbolizing
Gods gift of Jesus to us, as
the Light of the World. And as
an aftermath to the winding
down of Advent, Christingle
serves as a reminder of the
true meaning of Christmas.
Our confirmation
candidates played a significant
roll in the production of this
event as readers, side persons,
and servers.
At the foot of the Altar,
with the attending children of
the parish, Revd Jolene used
the analogy of an orange as a
motif to demonstrate the Best
Gift of all.
Each child displayed an
orange, which represented the
concept of a circleround like
the world.
A candle protruding from
the top represented Gods
light.
The Revd Jolele Peters (centre) explaining an orange as an analogy for the Best Gift of all.

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