The post Diocese of Ontario designated a ‘Blue Community’ appeared first on Dialogue.

This article captures highlights from those conversations, organized by question and featuring extended quotes from The Very Rev. Doug Michael, Jane Kirkpatrick, Aveleigh Kyle, The Ven. Bram Pearce, and The Rev. Canon Michael Read.

What was the most meaningful moment for you at General Synod 2025?

Doug Michael:

Synods are generally exciting for me. I’m a big believer in the Anglican way of governance—bringing people together to discern where the Spirit is leading us. What stood out this time was the election. It didn’t go as expected, but there was a moment when things shifted, and a new name emerged. Something crystallized for people, and it felt like the Spirit was clearly guiding us. The next vote was just one short, and then the following vote showed clear consensus. That’s meaningful—it shows the Spirit working through us and our willingness to listen.

Jane Kirkpatrick:

Besides the election, which was fascinating, I found the mixed groups incredibly rewarding. Every table had youth, bishops, clergy, laity, and often Indigenous voices. We did Bible study together and had open discussions. The perspectives—from Newfoundland to the Arctic—were eye-opening. Chancellor Claire Burns was also a standout. She knows her canons inside out and wasn’t afraid to keep things on track. It’s amazing how much you learn just chatting before sessions start.

Aveleigh Kyle:

I didn’t know what to expect, but the youth were absolutely amazing. The way Shane Parker’s name came forward—from Doug’s daughter and her group—was a proud moment. I kept hearing there’d be heated discussions, but I never saw animosity. Everyone was generous and respectful. That really surprised me and made the whole experience feel sacred.

Bram Pearce:

The primatial election was the most meaningful part for me. Coming from a different denomination, I was fascinated by how leadership is chosen. We started with four candidates and ended up requesting a fifth—who became the Primate. It was dramatic and moving. Seeing all three Houses—Bishops, Clergy, Laity—come together around Shane Parker was powerful. It was a moment of real unity.

Michael Read:

For me, it was the installation service for the new Primate. It was a deeply precious moment, especially with Indigenous Archbishop Chris offering the smudging and blessing. The music was phenomenal, and the worship space—gathered in the round around the cathedral’s labyrinth—made it feel sacred. Lisa Brant-Francis opened with an exhortation recognizing creation and our connectedness. It was the last day, and you left floating on cloud nine, filled with energy, spirit, and community. It reminded me that we’re part of a much bigger family, something we easily forget in our day-to-day ministry.

What stood out to you about the six pathways to change recommended by the Primatial Commission?

Jane Kirkpatrick:

I’m most interested in governance—how we move forward, especially with the primate’s role. Are we going back to the model where the primate is also a diocesan bishop? There’s risk, and we voted positively for risk. That’s not easy. Some won’t want to upset the status quo, but there’s a real recognition that change is needed. A lot of work went into developing these pathways, and I’m eager to see them unfold.

Doug Michael:

The governance and financial issues are deeply connected. Just before Synod, a financial issue came to light. Once investigations are complete, we’ll need to ask how we got here and how to prevent it in the future. That touches everything—from primacy structure to ministry in the North. It’s all interconnected. The big question is: can we imagine a different way of operating?

Aveleigh Kyle:

We need to deal with what happened a month ago first. Governance depends on cash flow and commitments like leases. But Indigenous ministries were well represented, and sitting with people from the Arctic at the closing was powerful. Talking to them about what their Sunday mornings look like compared to mine was a real eye-opener.

Bram Pearce:

I have concerns, and I think that’s why the pathways were created. The national church reflects what’s happening across Canada. Changing demographics will have real consequences. I’m glad we’re taking that seriously, even if I’m unsure where these pathways will lead. It’s important that we’re asking the right questions.

Michael Read:

It felt like the process behind the six pathways was unclear and centralized. Unlike past changes, there wasn’t broad dialogue with the wider church. It seemed like restructuring decisions were made at the national level without enough input. The controversy around the lease renegotiation and funding for the Council of the North added tension. I didn’t feel we accomplished much in that conversation. It’s like having a new compass without knowing how to use it. If we wait three years to act, much of what’s in the document may be outdated. It felt like it was dropped on us without clear leadership or inclusion.

How do you see the decisions made at General Synod impacting our diocese in the next few years?

Doug Michael:

There’s a renewed sense of community. The decisions around restructuring, relationships with the North, and Sacred Circle help us reframe local challenges in the context of a greater family. We often focus on our immediate area, but our future depends on being more connected. These decisions will filter down, and we’ll start asking national-level questions locally—how do our resources support each other? How do we gather with diversity and openness?

Jane Kirkpatrick:

It all comes down to relationship. The Anglican Church of Canada leads in building relationships with First Nations and Inuit communities. That leadership is vital. We also saw strong ecumenical partnerships—with the Lutheran and United Churches. These relationships provide a roadmap for local partnerships. I left Synod feeling extremely positive about our leadership and direction.

Aveleigh Kyle:

It made me want to pursue something Doug and I talked about a year ago—building relationships with First Nations people who come here for hospitalization or stay locally. The community I saw at Synod could be part of our cathedral’s outreach.

Bram Pearce:

Financial decisions will affect us—how we support the national church, for example. But we’re already ahead of the curve in supporting the Church of the North. Bishop Cliff has shown concern for northern churches, and we’re helping in tangible ways. It’s great that the national church is catching up to what we’ve started.

Michael Read:

The national church’s financial challenges could have ripple effects, especially if decisions are being made by staff about their own structure. But what really stood out to me were three things. First, the work around migrant and transitory workers—especially in agriculture and healthcare—was eye-opening. It made me think about how we can support these workers locally. Second, the presentation by the Taskforce on Ability and Inclusion led by Jodey Porter a blind woman from Niagara was powerful. Inclusion isn’t just about accessibility—it’s about attitude, language, and truly welcoming everyone. Third, we need to go deeper into Indigenous truth and reconciliation. We dabble, but we need to immerse ourselves. Hosting speakers, marking Indigenous Sunday meaningfully—these are ways we can move beyond surface-level gestures.

Were there any personal moments of grace, laughter, or connection that stood out to you?

Aveleigh Kyle:

Bishop Currie was a huge highlight. The service went on for hours, but I could have listened to him all night. He has the Spirit flowing through him and doesn’t read from anything. I came home in such a good space—I’d go back next week just to feel that again.

Jane Kirkpatrick:

Reconnecting with friends from Huron was special. Kyle, a boy I mentored years ago, drove from Stratford to London just to spend ten minutes with me. That meant a lot. I also spent time with my friend Stephanie, a Deacon at Saint James. It was a beautiful reunion.

Doug Michael:

I know people in every diocese across the province, and reconnecting with them was wonderful. Hearing different perspectives from people who care about the same things was inspiring. And worshipping together—200-plus voices singing simple hymns—was powerful. It was pure joy.

Bram Pearce:

This Synod felt more positive and forward-looking than the last. Canon Scott Sharman spoke about synodality—walking together—and used the road to Emmaus as an example. I really felt that spirit. Even when decisions were hard, there was no anger—just a desire to find common ground. I came back excited about the church and my faith.

Michael Read:

Meeting people was one of the best parts of Synod. I made connections with folks I’d never met before and now stay in touch with regularly. One moment that really struck me was sitting beside someone from the Yukon whose parents I knew from my time in Bancroft. It reminded me how small and connected our church really is. But the most heartfelt moment was seeing my godmother—whom I hadn’t seen in 15 or 20 years. She came as an observer, and we had dinner together several times. Reconnecting with her was pure gift and completely unexpected.

The post Walking Together: Voices from General Synod 2025 appeared first on Dialogue.

The following reflections are intended to encourage individuals and parishes to think about holistic stewardship and serve as guideposts along the way of our individual and collective faith journey. Bless you during this year’s Season of Pentecost and your various activities and ministries, including the practice of stewardship. We pray for the Holy Spirit to enable and equip us in taking care of ourselves; the gift and practice of faith; our relationships; Christ’s church; our local communities; and the wider world

Sunday June 8, 2025 – The Day of Pentecost

 Based on Psalm 104:25-35, 37b

The psalmist offers a picture of God’s generosity with an opening hand filling creation with good things. In response, how might we open our hands in gratitude and return a portion of our blessings with trust and joy?

Sunday June 15, 2025 – Trinity Sunday

 Based on Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31

Wisdom was present at creation, delighting in the world and its people. As stewards of this sacred earth, how are we participating in God’s ongoing work of creation and renewal?

What partnerships and practices are helping us care for what God has made?

Sunday June 22, 2025 – Second Sunday after Pentecost

 Based on Luke 8:26-39

This story challenges us to examine what distracts us from God’s vision. Are there fears and habits that keep us from seeing others clearly or acting with compassion? Faithful stewardship begins with seeing the world as God sees it.

Sunday June 29, 2025 – Saint Peter and Saint Paul

Based on the Readings of the Day

Saint Peter and Saint Paul remind us that while faithful stewardship involves material generosity it is also about embracing our giftedness and using it to strengthen and deepen our relationship with God and neighbour.

Sunday July 6, 2025 – Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 10:1-11, 16-20

“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” Jesus sends his followers out with a measure of urgency and trust. As faithful stewards today, we are also sent-to listen, to serve, and to share. What mission is God placing on your heart this year? Where are you being called to go?

Sunday July 13, 2025 – Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 10:25-37

The Good Samaritan did not hesitate to pause, care, and give with compassion that was practical and costly. In a world that often rushes past suffering, how might we slow down and offer our time and resources to those in need?

Sunday July 20, 2025 – Sixth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on luke 10:38-42

Martha serves and Mary listens. Both were needed, but Jesus reminded Martha that presence matters. In your practice of stewardship, are you making space to be present­ with God, with others, with yourself? What helps you give not just your effort, but your attention?

Sunday July 27, 2025 – Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 11:1-13

“Ask… seek… knock.” Jesus invites us into a relationship of persistenttrust in him. Stewardship begins with prayer-acknowledging that all we have comes from God. How might your prayer life shape the way you give, serve, and live this year?

Sunday August 3, 2025 – Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Colossians 3:1-11

Paul calls us to set our minds on things above and live as people transformed. Stewardship is not just about what we do, but who we are becoming. What old habits are you being invited to shed? What new practices are helping you live more generously?

Sunday August 10, 2025 – Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 12:32-40

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Jesus reminds us in a “stewardship 101” that our giving reflects our values. What does your generosity say about what you treasure most, and invest more deeply in what truly matters?

Sunday August 17, 2025-Tenth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Hebrews 11:29 -12:2

The journey of faith is not always easy. Many are weary along the way. Yet we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who urge us on. What helps you persevere in your stewardship of giving, service and hope?

Sunday August 24, 2025 – Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost

 Based on Luke 1.3:10–17

A woman is healed and the crowd rejoiced. This week’s reflection is a prayer of gratitude: “Almighty God, we belong to you. All that we have comes from you-our lives, our gifts, our time. Help us to share in the blessing of giving as well as in the joy of receiving. Amen.” How might this prayer shape your week? I hope it may do so.

Sunday August 31, 2025 – Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

A Prayer for Labour Day

Creating God, you are the source of the dignity and purpose in our work As we labour in a variety of ways, may we do so with integrity and joy with your help in valuing the work of others, seek fairness, and find meaning in all we do. Amen.

The post Stewardship Reflections with the Ven. Wayne Varley appeared first on Dialogue.

What follows here is a detailed summary of his charge (a link at the bottom of this page will take you to the full text of the bishop’s charge):

Bishop William Cliff’s Charge to Synod 2025

1. Gratitude and Reflection

• Bishop Cliff opened with a heartfelt thanks to the diocese for their warm welcome since his installation 18 months ago.
• He acknowledged the challenges of visiting every parish but reaffirmed his commitment to being present across the diocese.

2. Theme: “Communities of Hope Through Disruptive Grace”

• The bishop introduced this theme to emphasize how God’s grace often disrupts comfort zones to bring about transformation.
• He encouraged the church to embrace change as a sign of the Spirit’s work, rather than resist it out of fear or nostalgia.

3. The Role of the Church Today

• Bishop Cliff challenged the diocese to move beyond survival mode and into a posture of mission and renewal.
• He emphasized that the church must be a “community of hope”—not just for its members, but for the wider world.

4. Facing Decline with Courage

• He acknowledged the reality of declining attendance and aging congregations but urged the church not to be paralyzed by fear.
• Instead, he called for boldness, creativity, and collaboration in ministry.

5. Collaboration and Shared Ministry

• The bishop advocated for regional cooperation, shared clergy, and lay leadership development.
• He stressed that no parish is alone and that working together is essential for sustainability and growth.

6. Justice and Reconciliation

• Bishop Cliff reaffirmed the diocese’s commitment to truth and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and to social justice more broadly.
• He called on the church to be a prophetic voice in society, advocating for the marginalized and vulnerable.

7. Looking Ahead

• He concluded with a vision of hope, urging the diocese to trust in God’s leading and to be open to the Spirit’s movement.
• The bishop reminded the synod that “we are not called to be successful, but to be faithful.”

Read the bishop’s full text of his Charge to Synod 2025.

The post Highlights from Bishop William Cliff’s Charge to Synod 2025 appeared first on Dialogue.

Following the election of Bishop William Cliff on April 29 to serve as the 13th bishop of our diocese, an allegation against Bishop Cliff was received by our Metropolitan Archbishop Anne Germond. The result of that allegation paused the concurrence process and necessitated the commencement of a formal investigative process undertaken at the Provincial level. Bishop Cliff was placed on an administrative suspension, known as an inhibition, a normal step in such circumstances pending the outcome of an investigation.

A full and thorough investigation of the matter over the ensuing three months has now concluded, with a definitive finding that the allegation against Bishop Cliff is not supported by the evidence. The findings were clear and unambiguous. The concurrence process has now concluded, and I will begin discussions with Bishop Cliff regarding his translation and installation to serve as our next bishop.

While I feel immense relief that this matter has come to conclusion, I find little cause for rejoicing. Lives have been turned upside down, especially that of Bishop Cliff. The pain of these three months will not be erased simply as a result of this finding, but it will begin the process of healing. Your ongoing prayerful support will be a key component of that healing for all involved, as it was throughout these past months.

I want to extend my deep thanks to Archbishop Germond for her leadership through this time, along with our Provincial Chancellor Bryan Finlay and the members of the Safe Church Response Team whose professionalism and commitment was exemplary. 

May the Spirit who has promised to be the light for our path and a lamp for our feet, guide us forward in the days ahead.

Yours in Christ’s Service,
Bishop Michael Oulton.

On May 1 of this year, following an allegation against the Rt. Rev. William Cliff, I suspended the concurrence process of the Ontario House of Bishops which is a canonical requirement for Bishop Cliff to be the bishop-elect of the Diocese of Ontario. The election of the 13th bishop of Ontario took place on Saturday April 29 at St. George’s Cathedral in Kingston, Ontario.

The Church at every level -national, provincial, diocesan, takes the safety and rights of all seriously as part of our baptismal covenant and commitment to respect the dignity of every human being.

In response to situations in the past, the Province, and each of its dioceses put a response team into place to investigate allegations which are more complex. An investigation into the allegation against Bishop Cliff ensued. During the course of this investigation Bishop Cliff was inhibited in the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario and in Rupert’s Land where he presently serves as the Bishop of Brandon.

The allegations against Bishop Cliff have been thoroughly and professionally investigated by members of the Safe Church Resource Team (SCRT) of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario over the last three months. The members of the SCRT in Ontario were trained and resourced to conduct the investigation which was undertaken in a manner which is consistent with best practices and with the principles of Natural Justice. The investigation was overseen by the Chancellor of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario. There was no other involvement by leadership.

The investigators concluded that the evidence did not support the allegation. 

On Tuesday August 1, I resumed the concurrence process of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario House of Bishops and have received confirmation in the affirmative from all of the bishops.  The Rt. Reverend Bishop William Cliff is officially the bishop-Elect of the Diocese of Ontario.

There is now no impediment to Bishop William being installed as the thirteenth Bishop of Ontario.

Bishop Cliff’s inhibition in the Ecclesiastical Provinces of Ontario and Rupert’s Land are immediately lifted, and Bishop Cliff is able to resume his duties as the Bishop of Brandon. 

Bishop Cliff and Bishop Oulton will begin working on the transition within the Diocese of Ontario, and a date for Bishop Cliff’s Installation as the 13th Bishop of Ontario will be worked on in the coming weeks.

The report of the investigators is confidential and will not be released, respecting all those involved in the investigation. The findings are clear, and the conclusions have been communicated with all parties.

As this challenging time draws to a close, I invite your prayers for all those who have been affected or involved in the events of the last months that all may know the peace of Christ and themselves as beloved of God.

May the grace and peace of our Lord be with you,

Archbishop Anne Germond,
Metropolitan of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario

The post Bishop-elect Cliff to be installed as 13th bishop appeared first on Dialogue.

Partakers dined on Coronation Chicken served on a bed of greens which was the menu at the coronation brunch for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll. Desserts included trifle and treacle tart; a tribute to England all the way.

Diners were invited to dress in their finest with prizes awarded for the fanciest dressed. The coronation ceremony played in the background creating much conversation about the pomp and pageantry of the illustrious day.

The church hall was decorated in the traditional red, white and blue with pennants and Union Jacks adorning the walls, and centerpieces adding to the ambience of the tables. 

Fr. Haynes Hubbard gave a toast to the new King as the participants raised their glasses of sparkling (non-alcoholic) apple cider. The toast was followed by a rousing rendition of God Save the King.

The post Coronation Sunday at St. Paul’s in Brockville appeared first on Dialogue.

Addressing a capacity audience at the Diocese of Huron Synod on Monday, May 29, Dr. Scott Brubacher, AFC’s executive director, explained that the 2023 RFP was inspired by the Assembly 2023 theme of “Let there be greening” as both an expression of care for creation, and also the broader theme of God’s greening power at work in the church. 

“We have also been influenced,” said Brubacher, “by the writings Hildegard of Bingen who broadened the understanding of ‘viriditas,’ from the Latin word for green, to include this creative and regenerative divine activity, in which we as Christians are invited to partake. It’s both an age-old message, and an urgent message for the church today.”

As with the 2021 and 2022 RFPs, grants for both ongoing and emerging projects will be considered. Category A grants, of up to $5,000 will be evaluated based on impact and how they support a creation care project or a new and transformational ministry in a local context. Category B grants of up to $15,000 will be considered based on impact, project scope, and how they support a creation care project or a new and transformational ministry in a city, diocese, or region.

Eligible uses of funding include, but are not limited to, administrative expenses, travel costs, equipment, technical costs, remuneration, honoraria, and food. Proposals will be accepted from September 1 to October 1, 2023.

Creation-focused programs that have received funding from AFC in the past include community gardens and other innovative uses of church green spaces for community-focused ministry. Transformational ministries that have received funding include lay spiritual formation and Christian education programs, arts programs that reduce financial barriers for at-risk communities, and a variety of innovative partnerships with community service providers in the areas of education enrichment, newcomers to Canada, and health and well-being. 

AFC’s Board of Directors will review proposals in November and announce the grant recipients in early December. Proposals submitted in response to this RFP will not count as one of the four submissions each diocese is allowed per year.

For more information visit www.anglicanfoundation.org/2023rfp.

The post 2023 RFP GOES GREEN: AFC issues $100,000 Green-Themed Request for Proposals (RFP) appeared first on Dialogue.

SYTK is a nationwide effort to create a sustainable, abundant source of funding for youth-focused initiatives across the Anglican Church of Canada. Since it was launched in 2021, SYTK has provided over $625,000 to more than 100 unique beneficiaries and fundraising partners in support of youth-focused ministry and outreach, including many in our own Diocese of Ontario. 

All SYTK projects are different—from faith formation to poverty reduction to arts and music and Indigenous ministries they cover numerous impact zones. But they share a common goal: to imagine more and to put that imagination into action to grow a brighter future for young people.

All gifts to the Ontario Says Yes! to Igniting Youth Leadership team will establish a fund, distributed equally among our four deaneries, to support initiatives identified by the deanery as important to the growth and development of youth leadership. “Whether sponsoring our next generation of youth leaders to attend a conference or social justice gathering or supporting deaneries in organizing their own Ignite Youth Leadership events,” says the Ven. David Selzer, diocesan executive officer, “this fund will be used broadly to kindle the fires of youth ministry burning in our Diocese.”

Please give generously to the Ontario Says Yes! To Igniting Youth Leadership team. “Our team has already received a $1,000 match from AFC, and we are well on the way to achieving our $5,000 goal,” says Selzer.

Gifts can be made only at tinyurl.com/ontariosytk or cheques can be made payable to the Anglican Foundation of Canada—with “Ontario Ignites Youth Leadership” in the memo line—and mailed to 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, ON, M4Y 3G2. 

The post Diocese of Ontario Says Yes! to Igniting Youth Leadership in our deaneries appeared first on Dialogue.