After a church retirement farewell for a priest friend I went looking for some reminiscences of him. I did not find them but I found some other stuff that I had forgotten about.
I finally threw away my HTML and web pages books. Now it is so simple to use a blog or other templates for web pages.
I also threw away some old house maintenance manuals and files. I have what I need and it is all organized.
What I did find was some old diaries. I knew I had certain ones from when I was at school and university. I also found one that I wrote and did not remember having about my first months in Ottawa in 1974. It makes for very interesting reading.
What was important to me then and much still continues to be - except for work which is done.
How I fitted in with people in church communities and who mattered to me. A friend who was a good support got mentioned often. Other people in Ottawa and in Toronto whom I were missing a lot got mentioned often. This is what was happening for me then.
Just yesterday I received in my email a newsletter from the church I attended there. It has been many years since I have been in that part of Toronto.
I was concerned about horse activities and having Charisma here in Ottawa. She was in foal in 1974 and I did not bring her here until the year after. She then spent 20 years at Greenbelt Riding School.
Showing posts with label church. Show all posts
Showing posts with label church. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The transition continues
Advice from a Horse - "Take life's hurdles in stride; Loosen the reins; Be free spirited; Keep the burrs from under your saddle; Carry your friends when they need it; Keep stable; Gallop to greatness!"
This was on a bookmark recently given to me - good advice.
I shared this with our interim priest as I talked with him yesterday.
The transition continues for me and my friendship with Dana.
Some of this is unsettling and I expect it will be for a while.
We have had some parish meetings about what happened. They were useful.
Decisions about a new permanent priest will be some time in the future. As one friend said - we need to take as much time as we need to get ourselves sorted out. That sounds right to me.
Church activities are continuing although the summer is always quieter.
Memorial flowers will be bought and arranged and admired.
Candles will be lit.
Everything else that the Altar Guild does all the time will still go on.
This was on a bookmark recently given to me - good advice.
I shared this with our interim priest as I talked with him yesterday.
The transition continues for me and my friendship with Dana.
Some of this is unsettling and I expect it will be for a while.
We have had some parish meetings about what happened. They were useful.
Decisions about a new permanent priest will be some time in the future. As one friend said - we need to take as much time as we need to get ourselves sorted out. That sounds right to me.
Church activities are continuing although the summer is always quieter.
Memorial flowers will be bought and arranged and admired.
Candles will be lit.
Everything else that the Altar Guild does all the time will still go on.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Going deeper
“Being part of the Holy Week story as well and reflecting on that.
It cannot get lost in all the busyness.”
That is a quote from my previous blog posting.
There are certainly lots of details to be attended to. I expect Maundy Thursday and Saturday - Holy Saturday - to be especially long days.
I work with others. Sometimes in person and sometimes I make arrangements via email. I always have to be conscious of those who are without a computer - two of my close colleagues are.
So why do I get involved in various church groups and activities? What really matters about having an active role in the Altar Guild or planning for the Women’s Renewal Weekend in the fall? I like to be involved with people and I have the time being a retired person.
*****
There is more to my church involvement than just being a part of groups.
I feel very much at home in the Anglican Church and at St. John’s which has it own traditions for a very long time. St. John’s style of worship and music and community has been my church home for 37 years now.
My own spiritual life has grown and changed over the years.
I have made time for various activities over the years - Bible reading, spiritual books, blogs. I have been journaling my own reflections for over 30 years.
I feel nourished and fed spiritually outside of St. John’s but still very much within my own tradition - by being involved in cursillo and as an associate of SSJD.
Sharing with others - both lay and clergy - has been important over the years. I have been part of many different groups and attending many different types of events - from prayer and praise to silent retreats and everything in between.
*****
Some clergy stand out in my mind - interesting that they are all female.
- One who started out as a young priest in our parish. I was unsure about a female priest at that time. She has since gone on to good things in the diocese.
- Another very courageous person who was in our parish and a good friend of the parish. She struggled with cancer and unfortunately died some years ago.
- One who did not want to be in parish ministry and ended being with us for 5 ½ years.
- One who I knew before she went into the ministry. She was very much a friend of St. John’s. I found it interesting that I did not connect with her so well.
Of course I am remembering all these connections and what matters for me as I miss Dana at St. John’s. What she will be doing now working with individuals and groups helping them to find where God is in their lives.
She certainly has helped me to do that and I hope that can continue - even in a different way. That connection and other connections are so important in my life and faith journey.
It cannot get lost in all the busyness.”
That is a quote from my previous blog posting.
There are certainly lots of details to be attended to. I expect Maundy Thursday and Saturday - Holy Saturday - to be especially long days.
I work with others. Sometimes in person and sometimes I make arrangements via email. I always have to be conscious of those who are without a computer - two of my close colleagues are.
So why do I get involved in various church groups and activities? What really matters about having an active role in the Altar Guild or planning for the Women’s Renewal Weekend in the fall? I like to be involved with people and I have the time being a retired person.
*****
There is more to my church involvement than just being a part of groups.
I feel very much at home in the Anglican Church and at St. John’s which has it own traditions for a very long time. St. John’s style of worship and music and community has been my church home for 37 years now.
My own spiritual life has grown and changed over the years.
I have made time for various activities over the years - Bible reading, spiritual books, blogs. I have been journaling my own reflections for over 30 years.
I feel nourished and fed spiritually outside of St. John’s but still very much within my own tradition - by being involved in cursillo and as an associate of SSJD.
Sharing with others - both lay and clergy - has been important over the years. I have been part of many different groups and attending many different types of events - from prayer and praise to silent retreats and everything in between.
*****
Some clergy stand out in my mind - interesting that they are all female.
- One who started out as a young priest in our parish. I was unsure about a female priest at that time. She has since gone on to good things in the diocese.
- Another very courageous person who was in our parish and a good friend of the parish. She struggled with cancer and unfortunately died some years ago.
- One who did not want to be in parish ministry and ended being with us for 5 ½ years.
- One who I knew before she went into the ministry. She was very much a friend of St. John’s. I found it interesting that I did not connect with her so well.
Of course I am remembering all these connections and what matters for me as I miss Dana at St. John’s. What she will be doing now working with individuals and groups helping them to find where God is in their lives.
She certainly has helped me to do that and I hope that can continue - even in a different way. That connection and other connections are so important in my life and faith journey.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Symbols
Palm branches- excuse me I tickled you with mine.
The branch turned into the cross. Our very fine interim priest did this with the kids and maybe had time to show some adults as well.
The lights in the darkened sanctuary.
The large candelabra - with 5 candles on each side.
Again - after a few years - candles on the high altar and tea lights on the reredos.
The music
- the familiar Palm Sunday hymns known for many years.
- the unfamiliar sound of the organ stopping and the organist going over to the piano.
The procession around the church
- kids and choir only.
- this makes more sense than the whole congregation and even going outside sometimes.
What is coming up this week.
- buying tickets for the Paschal meal on Thursday.
- we will be at the church by 3 p.m. on Thursday. I will be there as well.
- am I needed on Good Friday to so something - no. I will stay at home.
- Holy Saturday - if you stand still you may get cleaned. Polishing of silver and brass will happen.
I have done my part with
- flowers
- candles of various types
Being part of the Holy Week story as well and reflecting on that.
It cannot get lost in all the busyness.
The branch turned into the cross. Our very fine interim priest did this with the kids and maybe had time to show some adults as well.
The lights in the darkened sanctuary.
The large candelabra - with 5 candles on each side.
Again - after a few years - candles on the high altar and tea lights on the reredos.
The music
- the familiar Palm Sunday hymns known for many years.
- the unfamiliar sound of the organ stopping and the organist going over to the piano.
The procession around the church
- kids and choir only.
- this makes more sense than the whole congregation and even going outside sometimes.
What is coming up this week.
- buying tickets for the Paschal meal on Thursday.
- we will be at the church by 3 p.m. on Thursday. I will be there as well.
- am I needed on Good Friday to so something - no. I will stay at home.
- Holy Saturday - if you stand still you may get cleaned. Polishing of silver and brass will happen.
I have done my part with
- flowers
- candles of various types
Being part of the Holy Week story as well and reflecting on that.
It cannot get lost in all the busyness.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Sunday morning
The service is all planned - for all involved - the prayers and the music and the people.
The altar is prepared with the sacred vessels.
The candles are lit.
The choir has practiced and is lined up.
The sidespeople are doing their job - smiling and handing out bulletins.
Friends are greeting each other. Other friends are missed - where is ???
The clergy are vested.
*****
It is time for Sunday morning worship at St. John's Elgin Street Ottawa.
Hearts may be sad and Dana is missed.
Worship goes on and the community joins in the celebration of the Eucharist as it was before Dana came and when she was with us and now that she is gone.
The altar is prepared with the sacred vessels.
The candles are lit.
The choir has practiced and is lined up.
The sidespeople are doing their job - smiling and handing out bulletins.
Friends are greeting each other. Other friends are missed - where is ???
The clergy are vested.
*****
It is time for Sunday morning worship at St. John's Elgin Street Ottawa.
Hearts may be sad and Dana is missed.
Worship goes on and the community joins in the celebration of the Eucharist as it was before Dana came and when she was with us and now that she is gone.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Self care 101
I have been hearing a familiar story from various folks in the last while.
I need to get away sometimes. I love what I am doing but I need a break more often. This is from someone who works for himself so as he said - he gets paid the same whether he is there or not.
Work is stressful and I need to take care of myself better.
I am quite involved with people that I have known for some time. I need to be energized so I make sure I have a regular and meaningful prayer time.
This situation is too stressful - I have to get out of it. My health is suffering and I cannot be here any longer. This was Dana.
*****
For those who are still at St. John’s and going through a major transition we are encouraged to be gentle with ourselves and others - this is a difficult process.
*****
As for me my spiritual director commented that this situation at St. John’s is taking up a lot of my energy. I certainly agreed with him.
So I am making time for music and reading and reflection and writing.
I also notice a real need to keep in touch with friends at the church. We are all struggling in some way with what has happened and what will happen next. Hugs are readily shared on a Sunday morning or other times we get together.
I am doing what I need to for Easter planning re: Altar Guild, the prayer conference in May and now starting to plan for the Women’s Renewal Weekend in the fall. My life goes on.
I need to get away sometimes. I love what I am doing but I need a break more often. This is from someone who works for himself so as he said - he gets paid the same whether he is there or not.
Work is stressful and I need to take care of myself better.
I am quite involved with people that I have known for some time. I need to be energized so I make sure I have a regular and meaningful prayer time.
This situation is too stressful - I have to get out of it. My health is suffering and I cannot be here any longer. This was Dana.
*****
For those who are still at St. John’s and going through a major transition we are encouraged to be gentle with ourselves and others - this is a difficult process.
*****
As for me my spiritual director commented that this situation at St. John’s is taking up a lot of my energy. I certainly agreed with him.
So I am making time for music and reading and reflection and writing.
I also notice a real need to keep in touch with friends at the church. We are all struggling in some way with what has happened and what will happen next. Hugs are readily shared on a Sunday morning or other times we get together.
I am doing what I need to for Easter planning re: Altar Guild, the prayer conference in May and now starting to plan for the Women’s Renewal Weekend in the fall. My life goes on.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Transition time day 4: Sunday
So St. John’s life took a new turn this morning. I welcomed the temporary priest. I wore my name tag.
He preached well and sang well. He reached down to the kids and the seeing eye dog at the time of communion.
Those in the know gently directed him in the ways we do the service - the music and the movement and the sharing at the end of the service - announcements and celebrations too.
The three church wardens were very visible. They spoke briefly in introducing the priest and talking about the next steps in healing. Putting together a suitable framework for a meeting and what the meeting would be all about is going to be a challenge.
Part of me was thinking - who is this and what is he doing at St. John’s?
I was aware of Dana not being there. It was difficult to join in the singing - I was somewhat upset.
Two words we were reminded of - be gentle and pray - pray for the community and for the priest - this one and our temporary one after this and then another incumbent. This is quite a process to go through.
There was a good spirit of sharing.
A recent refugee who was sick for a long time and he appreciated the community’s prayers
A young woman from Japan.
News of an older member of the congregation who is doing well in spite of health issues.
I chatted with a number of folks and that was good. This is my church community and it is hurting but we can have hope for the future. Easter is coming after we go through the time of Lent and reflection.
He preached well and sang well. He reached down to the kids and the seeing eye dog at the time of communion.
Those in the know gently directed him in the ways we do the service - the music and the movement and the sharing at the end of the service - announcements and celebrations too.
The three church wardens were very visible. They spoke briefly in introducing the priest and talking about the next steps in healing. Putting together a suitable framework for a meeting and what the meeting would be all about is going to be a challenge.
Part of me was thinking - who is this and what is he doing at St. John’s?
I was aware of Dana not being there. It was difficult to join in the singing - I was somewhat upset.
Two words we were reminded of - be gentle and pray - pray for the community and for the priest - this one and our temporary one after this and then another incumbent. This is quite a process to go through.
There was a good spirit of sharing.
A recent refugee who was sick for a long time and he appreciated the community’s prayers
A young woman from Japan.
News of an older member of the congregation who is doing well in spite of health issues.
I chatted with a number of folks and that was good. This is my church community and it is hurting but we can have hope for the future. Easter is coming after we go through the time of Lent and reflection.
Transition time day 3: Saturday
There were a good number of people involved in many committees and groups in the parish who came out to hear some words about transition. A priest with experience in the field came to share with us for a few hours.
This is an opportunity for new directions.
Do pray and pray and pray for the wardens (legal church officials) and each other.
Be gentle in the process for everyone is at a different space with all of this.
As someone said - we did not think two weeks ago that we would be in this position.
There is a need for closure with Dana. Personally I have done some of this work already.
There needs to be time to put together some ideas about moving on.
I had several good conversations with:
- two prayer colleagues
- two servers
- four Altar Guild colleagues
- three wardens
- one new parish council member who always has plenty to say
I must admit that I am glad that my time on the parish council is finished - at least for now.
This is an opportunity for new directions.
Do pray and pray and pray for the wardens (legal church officials) and each other.
Be gentle in the process for everyone is at a different space with all of this.
As someone said - we did not think two weeks ago that we would be in this position.
There is a need for closure with Dana. Personally I have done some of this work already.
There needs to be time to put together some ideas about moving on.
I had several good conversations with:
- two prayer colleagues
- two servers
- four Altar Guild colleagues
- three wardens
- one new parish council member who always has plenty to say
I must admit that I am glad that my time on the parish council is finished - at least for now.
Transition time day 2: Friday
I met up with two different groups of people - both of which have a connection with Dana - some from a long time ago and some more recent.
A group of 4 of us who were regulars at the 7:15 a.m. service at St. John’s meet up from time to time. When I think of it now Dana was part of that group some years ago.
What happened to her?
I have heard from talking with a parishioner…
What I think happened…
Then in the afternoon I was off to a prayer conference planning meeting that Dana has recently joined.
What I heard about her.
What happened to her?
However there was a positive comment from the Committee chairperson who had an exchange with Dana who said that she would honour her commitment to this prayer conference. She is involved with worship and I hope she still is able to do this.
A group of 4 of us who were regulars at the 7:15 a.m. service at St. John’s meet up from time to time. When I think of it now Dana was part of that group some years ago.
What happened to her?
I have heard from talking with a parishioner…
What I think happened…
Then in the afternoon I was off to a prayer conference planning meeting that Dana has recently joined.
What I heard about her.
What happened to her?
However there was a positive comment from the Committee chairperson who had an exchange with Dana who said that she would honour her commitment to this prayer conference. She is involved with worship and I hope she still is able to do this.
Transition time day 1: Thursday
I was there at the church for the St. Patrick’s Day seniors service and afternoon tea.
I arrived at the church to see a note on my favourite parking spot beside the door - reserved 24/7. I went elsewhere. The new priest coming in has the best reserved spot.
There was a note on the rector’s door - I am not finished yet.
I looked around for my altar guild colleague. The altar was all ready for the service. I met my colleague in the kitchen getting ready for the tea.
There were about 10 people at the service. When Dana came in she sounded awful. She waved folks away - no hugs please. She had a dreadful cold and had major dental surgery earlier in the week. She said the cold was because of her physical and emotional and spiritual breakdown. Of course that made me feel sad.
The service was gentle and easy.
As we left the chapel together she thanked me for my personal note and said that she would treasure it. I am so glad that I did this when I did.
At tea time I sat across the table from Dana. As she left she said - I will see you soon.
I told two of my colleagues about Dana really liking my note and one said - of course she would and the other said - that is about your connection with her.
I arrived at the church to see a note on my favourite parking spot beside the door - reserved 24/7. I went elsewhere. The new priest coming in has the best reserved spot.
There was a note on the rector’s door - I am not finished yet.
I looked around for my altar guild colleague. The altar was all ready for the service. I met my colleague in the kitchen getting ready for the tea.
There were about 10 people at the service. When Dana came in she sounded awful. She waved folks away - no hugs please. She had a dreadful cold and had major dental surgery earlier in the week. She said the cold was because of her physical and emotional and spiritual breakdown. Of course that made me feel sad.
The service was gentle and easy.
As we left the chapel together she thanked me for my personal note and said that she would treasure it. I am so glad that I did this when I did.
At tea time I sat across the table from Dana. As she left she said - I will see you soon.
I told two of my colleagues about Dana really liking my note and one said - of course she would and the other said - that is about your connection with her.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Grieving and life changes
I had another email this week from the church. There are two priests who will help us out at this time of transition.
A priest in charge will take services and provide pastoral care.
A specialist in interim ministry will be at a meeting on Saturday. I will be there along with my two Altar Guild colleagues.
*****
My dear friend in Edmonton who lost his wife to cancer last year at Easter sent me an article on grieving.
*****
I have a good friend who is going through a major transition herself. She is ready to be ordained but will not know for a bit whether that will happen. She knows Dana so I shared the news about her departure with her.
She phoned me back shortly after to say that her elderly cat had died.
****
I was realizing that it is 10 years ago almost that my mom got sick and went into the hospital. That was the start of the end of her life. Where did the 10 years go to?
A priest in charge will take services and provide pastoral care.
A specialist in interim ministry will be at a meeting on Saturday. I will be there along with my two Altar Guild colleagues.
*****
My dear friend in Edmonton who lost his wife to cancer last year at Easter sent me an article on grieving.
*****
I have a good friend who is going through a major transition herself. She is ready to be ordained but will not know for a bit whether that will happen. She knows Dana so I shared the news about her departure with her.
She phoned me back shortly after to say that her elderly cat had died.
****
I was realizing that it is 10 years ago almost that my mom got sick and went into the hospital. That was the start of the end of her life. Where did the 10 years go to?
Monday, March 14, 2011
Images of life and healing
There is something about medical series and British ones at that. I have been watching The Royal which is a spin off of Heartbeat (a very long lived series.) A lot of emotion in the last episode where the female doctor with recent health issues of her own is found crying. She said - is not that one does after a crisis like this? Her very unemotional husband is seen comforting her.
Another very real image of healing as a Canadian medical disaster relief team flies out of Vancouver airport (where I am headed in a few weeks time) to go to Japan and the hardest hit area of the country where this dreadful earthquake and tsunami hit. Helping as one can.
A priest who works full time for the government has been attending our parish for some time now. In the last while she has preached, been with Dana after presenting her difficult report to the parish, leading the healing Eucharist last evening. I know her from many years ago. She is a gentle caring presence in our midst at this time of healing and transition. I told her this and she said it was time for her to be more available.
So the church moves along in its calendar from Ash Wednesday into Lent and looks forward to Easter. St. John’s has many components to all the services and music and everything else. Instead of saying - what is going to happen - I can and I will offer my time and energy to be part of the solution. I need to tell those in charge that I am available to help in any way possible.
Another very real image of healing as a Canadian medical disaster relief team flies out of Vancouver airport (where I am headed in a few weeks time) to go to Japan and the hardest hit area of the country where this dreadful earthquake and tsunami hit. Helping as one can.
A priest who works full time for the government has been attending our parish for some time now. In the last while she has preached, been with Dana after presenting her difficult report to the parish, leading the healing Eucharist last evening. I know her from many years ago. She is a gentle caring presence in our midst at this time of healing and transition. I told her this and she said it was time for her to be more available.
So the church moves along in its calendar from Ash Wednesday into Lent and looks forward to Easter. St. John’s has many components to all the services and music and everything else. Instead of saying - what is going to happen - I can and I will offer my time and energy to be part of the solution. I need to tell those in charge that I am available to help in any way possible.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
When life changes very suddenly: part 2
Our priest had her last service at St. John’s today. One of the wardens read a letter at the start of the service - the bishop was releasing her from her duties.
There are so many emotions and so many thoughts about what was happening.
I feel for the two wardens who along with the rector are the legal entity for the parish. We will have someone doing the services and some pastoral care and then an interim priest and then an incumbent. Quite a lot of changes with people coming.
My altar guild colleague and I will be there next Sunday but Dana will not.
So I am so glad that I made the time to write some nice memories to share with her. I gave it to her this morning before the service. We did exchange several warm hugs and she said - we will see each other.
I would like to see her bunny collection which she puts out after Easter. Also she expressed some interest in meeting Abracadabra. I hope that those friendly encounters may still happen.
As she said to me she is not leaving Ottawa. We are both associates of the convent so will be connected in that way. Also we are both involved in a prayer conference in May. The notices for it were on her office door as I left the church.
So life changes but God is in charge as Dana said in her report to the parish.
There are so many emotions and so many thoughts about what was happening.
I feel for the two wardens who along with the rector are the legal entity for the parish. We will have someone doing the services and some pastoral care and then an interim priest and then an incumbent. Quite a lot of changes with people coming.
My altar guild colleague and I will be there next Sunday but Dana will not.
So I am so glad that I made the time to write some nice memories to share with her. I gave it to her this morning before the service. We did exchange several warm hugs and she said - we will see each other.
I would like to see her bunny collection which she puts out after Easter. Also she expressed some interest in meeting Abracadabra. I hope that those friendly encounters may still happen.
As she said to me she is not leaving Ottawa. We are both associates of the convent so will be connected in that way. Also we are both involved in a prayer conference in May. The notices for it were on her office door as I left the church.
So life changes but God is in charge as Dana said in her report to the parish.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Church life
I was down in my basement doing my usual Saturday morning laundry.
I was thinking about the laundry for the Altar Guild. It just keeps on going or coming. So why is there so much laundry? Quite often it is wine from the Eucharist - wiping the chalices or even spilled where it is not supposed to be. This is part of the Anglican church tradition and going further back in history - the church’s tradition.
I was thinking of all the people I have known at St. John’s over the past 37 years and who they knew going backwards in time.
This Sunday I have given the memorial flowers for a couple that were much a part of the church family. Our priest who is leaving has met up with the daughter on Facebook.
I was thinking about these church and people connections as I think about our priest leaving. I have known her for all those 37 years. The life of the church still goes on.
I do feel sad especially as this is Sunday morning and I will see her but for how much longer?
I was thinking about the laundry for the Altar Guild. It just keeps on going or coming. So why is there so much laundry? Quite often it is wine from the Eucharist - wiping the chalices or even spilled where it is not supposed to be. This is part of the Anglican church tradition and going further back in history - the church’s tradition.
I was thinking of all the people I have known at St. John’s over the past 37 years and who they knew going backwards in time.
This Sunday I have given the memorial flowers for a couple that were much a part of the church family. Our priest who is leaving has met up with the daughter on Facebook.
I was thinking about these church and people connections as I think about our priest leaving. I have known her for all those 37 years. The life of the church still goes on.
I do feel sad especially as this is Sunday morning and I will see her but for how much longer?
Thursday, March 3, 2011
When life changes very suddenly
There are all kinds of reactions that happen.
Last Sunday was our annual meeting at church. Our parish priest gave her annual status report to the parish. She was feeling very discouraged. My pew mate said to me after - that sounds like a farewell sermon.
So yesterday she and I had lunch together. She was in the process of revising the report for distribution. I heard her say to the office administrator - make sure to include a last line - and yes I am resigning.
I was very upset and still am. There will be lots of fallout from this move. Someone else has to come in and get the parish back on track. Those who support her will be involved as well as those who do not.
And in less than a week’s time is Ash Wednesday which marks the start to Lent and the journey to Easter. The images are most appropriate at this time as they always are. Death and new life come together often in our lives. This time it is in our church family.
I can give thanks for the priest’s time with us and what we share personally - when I knew her over 35 years ago now and the connection to the convent in Toronto that we both share.
Last Sunday was our annual meeting at church. Our parish priest gave her annual status report to the parish. She was feeling very discouraged. My pew mate said to me after - that sounds like a farewell sermon.
So yesterday she and I had lunch together. She was in the process of revising the report for distribution. I heard her say to the office administrator - make sure to include a last line - and yes I am resigning.
I was very upset and still am. There will be lots of fallout from this move. Someone else has to come in and get the parish back on track. Those who support her will be involved as well as those who do not.
And in less than a week’s time is Ash Wednesday which marks the start to Lent and the journey to Easter. The images are most appropriate at this time as they always are. Death and new life come together often in our lives. This time it is in our church family.
I can give thanks for the priest’s time with us and what we share personally - when I knew her over 35 years ago now and the connection to the convent in Toronto that we both share.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
SSJD Ottawa Associates
So we gathered for a meal together at the condo of two of the folks in our group. This has become a new winter tradition.
There were 14 of us there - a nice sized crowd.
It was good to share what is going on in each others’ lives. I had a nice chat with a former parish priest from St. John’s. He has been gone now almost 20 years - where does the time go? He and his wife have finally made arrangements to go to the new convent in Toronto.
There was news of older folks with health issues and having to move because of needing more care. Some are still busy and involved at the age of 89. Some are managing with the changing living and health situations but it is not always easy.
*****
There was other interesting news as well.
A retreat has been planned which will be led by a priest who is much interested in the life of SSJD and the Associates but is very busy at this time of her life. I am quite pleased that she has agreed to do this.
Also attending this gathering were a clergy couple who have retired to the area. In his retirement he is filling in for 6 months in a parish in the neighbouring diocese of Ontario. He told me that he will be voting for our parish priest at Saturday’s election for the bishop.
More to follow on this note after this event is over.
There were 14 of us there - a nice sized crowd.
It was good to share what is going on in each others’ lives. I had a nice chat with a former parish priest from St. John’s. He has been gone now almost 20 years - where does the time go? He and his wife have finally made arrangements to go to the new convent in Toronto.
There was news of older folks with health issues and having to move because of needing more care. Some are still busy and involved at the age of 89. Some are managing with the changing living and health situations but it is not always easy.
*****
There was other interesting news as well.
A retreat has been planned which will be led by a priest who is much interested in the life of SSJD and the Associates but is very busy at this time of her life. I am quite pleased that she has agreed to do this.
Also attending this gathering were a clergy couple who have retired to the area. In his retirement he is filling in for 6 months in a parish in the neighbouring diocese of Ontario. He told me that he will be voting for our parish priest at Saturday’s election for the bishop.
More to follow on this note after this event is over.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Christmas 2010 at St. John’s
The decorating happened early in the week before Christmas. The tree - fake - was put up. The wreathes - real - were hung by the windows.
I sorted and tested all the tree lights. There were many many strands. So as to not have a big mess each strand was plugged together with its own end.
The beautiful creche was in place and covered up until Christmas Eve.
The poinsettias were ordered and picked up at the florist by a helpful person with a van - there were 5 large boxes of them.
I did not realize how long it takes to unwrap them and put them in an appropriate place. There were 18 pots of them.
Then myself who is concerned about recycling flattened all the boxes to take home for the next pickup. Institutions have to pay for their recycling so I like to take home larger items.
There were 5 services over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and Boxing Day (being a Sunday). I was at three of them.
I figured out where the lights over the creche and for the Christmas tree were. It finally was time to put away the Advent wreath and the bring out the single white Christ candle.
*****
The church looks lovely - said a long time parishioner who also helps with flower arranging from time to time.
I think it did. The decorations were simpler than other years but they all stood out.
On Christmas Day my Altar Guild colleague and I each took home one of the larger poinsettias. She took hers to her elderly dad where it took up a large amount of space on a table. Mine is sitting in my basement and still looks nice.
*****
Anyone for Easter plans?
I have made inquiries about making palm crosses. Kids and adults will be involved. I am thinking about what kind of flowers to order as a faithful choir member has a strong allergy to Easter lilies.
I sorted and tested all the tree lights. There were many many strands. So as to not have a big mess each strand was plugged together with its own end.
The beautiful creche was in place and covered up until Christmas Eve.
The poinsettias were ordered and picked up at the florist by a helpful person with a van - there were 5 large boxes of them.
I did not realize how long it takes to unwrap them and put them in an appropriate place. There were 18 pots of them.
Then myself who is concerned about recycling flattened all the boxes to take home for the next pickup. Institutions have to pay for their recycling so I like to take home larger items.
There were 5 services over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and Boxing Day (being a Sunday). I was at three of them.
I figured out where the lights over the creche and for the Christmas tree were. It finally was time to put away the Advent wreath and the bring out the single white Christ candle.
*****
The church looks lovely - said a long time parishioner who also helps with flower arranging from time to time.
I think it did. The decorations were simpler than other years but they all stood out.
On Christmas Day my Altar Guild colleague and I each took home one of the larger poinsettias. She took hers to her elderly dad where it took up a large amount of space on a table. Mine is sitting in my basement and still looks nice.
*****
Anyone for Easter plans?
I have made inquiries about making palm crosses. Kids and adults will be involved. I am thinking about what kind of flowers to order as a faithful choir member has a strong allergy to Easter lilies.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Summer progress and fall outlook
House and horse and church activities and friends and writing and reading and watching TV programs and DVDS - these are all part of my life right now.
Abra is always a priority. I look forward to the fall when it will be cooler and so does she. I always ride early in the morning and sometimes it is cooler then.
In the house I have had some regular maintenance done. I am changing my fireplace to gas so I had various things to organize about this. The actual change will not happen for a few months but that is alright because I do not need it before then.
I want to do a bit of painting of some old wooden furniture - but that will wait until it is cooler.
Altar Guild duties go on all the time and there are so few of us at the moment - only 6 people. I am trying to help out as much as I can with different special events - like what is needed for weddings and changing of liturgical colours. The head of the Altar Guild has some major health challenges in her immediate family and that is just starting.
Flowers and candles need ongoing attention.
Committees will start again in September - Worship Committee and Parish Council. I go again to the Diocesan Synod in October.
I did get into the church library - I have not done much in the last year or so. I have disposed of some unwanted books and I am getting ready to reorganize what is there.
I have on my calendar a weekend at the convent in Toronto. It will be a retreat on Henri Nouwen. I hope to take a friend with me.
I have signed up for a day long workshop at St. John’s also on Henri Nouwen and his images of death. I think I have written more than once on this blog about friends dying. There were another young man - a church acquaintance - who died of a stroke. He was 43.
I am preparing for a workshop presentation to the parish Women’s Renewal Weekend in mid September. It is on journaling. I am having fun getting ready for this. It is a 1 ½ hour workshop and it is taking some planning.
I will be around home at Thanksgiving. At some time my sister will come for a visit from Vancouver.
It makes me tired just reading all of this!! How did I find time to work?
Abra is always a priority. I look forward to the fall when it will be cooler and so does she. I always ride early in the morning and sometimes it is cooler then.
In the house I have had some regular maintenance done. I am changing my fireplace to gas so I had various things to organize about this. The actual change will not happen for a few months but that is alright because I do not need it before then.
I want to do a bit of painting of some old wooden furniture - but that will wait until it is cooler.
Altar Guild duties go on all the time and there are so few of us at the moment - only 6 people. I am trying to help out as much as I can with different special events - like what is needed for weddings and changing of liturgical colours. The head of the Altar Guild has some major health challenges in her immediate family and that is just starting.
Flowers and candles need ongoing attention.
Committees will start again in September - Worship Committee and Parish Council. I go again to the Diocesan Synod in October.
I did get into the church library - I have not done much in the last year or so. I have disposed of some unwanted books and I am getting ready to reorganize what is there.
I have on my calendar a weekend at the convent in Toronto. It will be a retreat on Henri Nouwen. I hope to take a friend with me.
I have signed up for a day long workshop at St. John’s also on Henri Nouwen and his images of death. I think I have written more than once on this blog about friends dying. There were another young man - a church acquaintance - who died of a stroke. He was 43.
I am preparing for a workshop presentation to the parish Women’s Renewal Weekend in mid September. It is on journaling. I am having fun getting ready for this. It is a 1 ½ hour workshop and it is taking some planning.
I will be around home at Thanksgiving. At some time my sister will come for a visit from Vancouver.
It makes me tired just reading all of this!! How did I find time to work?
Saturday, July 31, 2010
St. Thomas’ Huron Street Toronto Ontario (a.k.a. Smoky Toms’)
I was reading “Household of God: a parish history of St. Thomas's Church, Toronto”. I borrowed the book on interlibrary loan from the Ottawa Public Library. I found it interesting that the copy I had was from the Toronto Public Library.This is the church I attended for two years when I was studying at the University of Toronto just around the corner from the church.
The book was very long and there were lots of details about people and liturgies and music etc. I most interested in the people stories - especially names that I recognized.
It is a very high Anglican church and there are many bells and smells with all the incense used - hence the name Smoky Toms’. The list of weekly services is very impressive.
I was interested in reading about the long association of the parish with SSJD. This is where I was first introduced to the sisters.
I was also interested in reading about Fr. Bull who was rector there when I was there.
One quote said that he was always younger than his years (he was born in 1917 like my dad). He was a mystic and deeply in touch with the spiritual. He had to leave St. Thomas and its many demands because of his health. In later years he was said to be a sensitive and prayerful spiritual director. I could easily see that in him. He died some years ago.
One of the groups that came to matter to me was the one that met on a Friday evening. “On Friday evenings an experimental liturgy, based initially on that of New Zealand, offered the opportunity for an intimate sense of community and individual expression. Many were enriched by the personal encounters this afforded.” (page 85)
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Summer church activities
The church leaders including the two priests and the musicians have been coming and going on their holiday time.
The church looks emptier on a Sunday. The back doors are kept open to let in the cool breezes and the noises from Elgin Street outside.
The flowers for July are almost all done. My schedule for August flowers is well under way. I have started to think about September flowers. By then most of the folks arranging them will be available to help out.
I have started to plan some fall activities. When will I be available for Altar Guild duty?
What else can I add to my calendar? There are certainly lots of opportunities to get involved. I may not help with driving new Canadians or take a shift in the church office. Later on I may help with counting the Sunday collection.
I am thinking about helping with the seniors’ fellowship service that happens once a month. I know most of the folks who attend and I am sure the helpers would welcome me as well.
The church library keeps on calling me. I have recently noticed that a couple of boxes of donations have been dropped off. I think some cleanup is on my schedule for a day soon.
The church looks emptier on a Sunday. The back doors are kept open to let in the cool breezes and the noises from Elgin Street outside.
The flowers for July are almost all done. My schedule for August flowers is well under way. I have started to think about September flowers. By then most of the folks arranging them will be available to help out.
I have started to plan some fall activities. When will I be available for Altar Guild duty?
What else can I add to my calendar? There are certainly lots of opportunities to get involved. I may not help with driving new Canadians or take a shift in the church office. Later on I may help with counting the Sunday collection.
I am thinking about helping with the seniors’ fellowship service that happens once a month. I know most of the folks who attend and I am sure the helpers would welcome me as well.
The church library keeps on calling me. I have recently noticed that a couple of boxes of donations have been dropped off. I think some cleanup is on my schedule for a day soon.
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