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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 September 7, 2025 -Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

A Prayer for the Season of Creation (September 1- October 4)

Source of all life, we praise you for the beauty and wonder of creation. Strengthen us to care for the earth and its creatures. May our faithful stewardship reflect your love for every living thing, and may we protect what you have generously entrusted to us. Amen.

Sunday September 14, 2025 – Holy Cross Day

Based on the Readings of the Day

May we embrace the call to faithful stewardship with open hearts, knowing that in the offering of talent, time and treasure, we live into the love and sacrifice of Jesus.

Sunday September 21, 2025 – Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 16:1-13

“You cannot serve God and wealth,” Jesus teaches. This is a clear call to commitment. Faithful stewards know that our resources are meant for God’s mission. How are you using your material blessings to serve others and reflect God’s priorities?

Sunday September 28, 2025 – Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 16:19-31

The rich man knew Lazarus and did nothing. This parable invites us to look around: Who is suffering at our doorstep? What small, quiet acts of compassion can we offer today to bring relief, dignity, and hope? Thank you for doing so in your communities and wider world.

Sunday October 5, 2025 – Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

A Stewardship Prayer for the Season of Creation (September 1- October 4)

Creating God, align our hearts to the cry of the earth. Let us not turn away from the groaning of creation, but respond with care and courage. May our stewardship be rooted in reverence, and may our actions reflect your renewing love. Amen.

Sunday October 12, 2025 – Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

A Stewardship Prayer for Harvest and Thanksgiving

Generous God, we thank you for the abundance of the earth and the fruit of our labours. As we celebrate your goodness, open our hearts to those in need. Teach us to give as freely as we have received, and to find joy in sharing your blessings. Amen.

Sunday October 19, 2025- Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 18:1-8

Persistence in prayer and action is a core principle of faithful stewardship. When the work feels long and the results slow, we remember that God walks with us. What helps you stay faithful when the journey is hard? Who encourages you to keep going?

Sunday October 26, 2025 – Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 18:9-14

Jesus lifts humility over pride. As faithful stewards, this means offering our gifts without comparison or judgment. How might your words and actions this week reflect encouragement, grace, and generosity?

Sunday November 2, 2025 – All Saints’ Sunday

Based on the Readings of the Day

The saints of the church remind us of what faithful lives look like with compassion, conviction and courage. Who are the saints in your life who inspire you to live generously and lovingly? How might you honour their example through your own work of stewardship?

Sunday November 9, 2025 – Remembrance Sunday

Based on Wisdom 3:1-9, Psalm 116:108, 1 Peter 3:3-9, and John 6:37-40

May we live in a way that honours those who have gone before and help inspire those who follow us in lives reflecting God’s mercy and love.

Sunday November 16, 2025- Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost

Based on Luke 21:5-19

Our church buildings are more than structures—they are places of worship, welcome, and witness. How are you helping to care for these sacred spaces and use them in service to the wider community? Thank you for doing so!

Sunday, November 23, 2025 – The Reign of Christ

Based on Colossians 1:11-20

“All things have been created through him and for him.” As we close the church year, we celebrate Christ’s reign and reflect on our calling. How does your faithful stewardship reflect Christ’s lordship in your life and what new commitments might you carry into the year ahead? What is God calling you to do next year?

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

A small group at St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church, Picton, thought it would be fun to create some social events outside the Church where parishioners and friends could meet, enjoy each other’s company and discover some of what Prince Edward County and surrounding areas have to offer.

Inspired by one of our parishioners who mentioned, ‘You don’t get a chance to go out to many places when you live alone,’ our plan was to set up quarterly events based largely around food—because who doesn’t like to eat, right?

We came up with a catchy name and a snazzy logo but we were so excited that we probably moved too quickly because our first outing had only three parishioners join us at the Local Store and North Docks Restaurant. Word spread quickly though  because for each of the following three outings—The Saylor House Cafe in Bloomfield with a guest speaker (18), The O’Connor House English Tea Room in Deseronto followed by a visit to an adjoining antique shop (22), and our latest lunch where we went to the Inn at Lake on the Mountain (26)—our numbers have grown!

We make sure that anyone who needs a ride gets one, and we are able to accommodate people with walkers or wheelchairs. Everyone is welcome to bring friends along, too.

Judging by the boisterous conversation and laughter at the events, the positive comments following each outing, and many questions about our next one, St. Mary Magdalene’s On the Move has been a great success. It is a wonderful opportunity to make new friends and get to know each other a little better!

If other parishes would like to hear about how to get started with a similar social event, please contact us at St. Mary Magdalene at (613) 476-3303 or email us at stmmpicton@gmail.com.

The post St. Mary Magdalene On the Move appeared first on Dialogue.

As more monies became available, parishes received grants for building improvements and accessibility projects, as well as ministries including thrift stores, youth choirs and food security. In time a partnership was created with the Kingston and Area Community Foundation which allowed our foundation to share in projects such as Pathways to Educations for youth mental health services, computers in rural schools and the Kingston Sexual Assault Centre. In 2021 partnership with the ‘Say Yes to Kids’ campaign of the Anglican Foundation of Canada secured feeding programs in Napanee and in Elgin.

Unfortunately growing financial pressures on parishes and foundation members grew in recent years and were exasperated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The decline of available funds made for the inevitable decision in early 2025 to bring the foundation to an end, which the Board made in January of this year.

Providentially the diocese, through the sale of properties, has created Reach and Stretch Grant Program to support parishes in their current or new ministries. So, the good work that Anglicans are doing will go on. Further, a few parishes have begun to work on their own legacy funds for future development and new ministries.

As this chapter of our diocesan stewardship has closed I wish to thank all of our members, donors and Board Members for their invaluable contributions.

The post Anglican Diocese of Ontario Foundation Ends appeared first on Dialogue.

Alongside Hope’s 2025 Wild Ride aims to raise funds to equip eight off-the-grid rural health clinics with life-saving renewable energy. And thanks to a generous donor, all gifts will be matched, doubling the impact!

At Muripotana Health Centre in Nampula, midwife Ancha Amido Abdala used to begin every night shift in darkness, with no lights, no power, and no possibility of admitting patients after dark. In 2022 that changed, when Alongside Hope and partner EHALE installed a Solar Suitcase – a bright yellow, wall‑mounted box powered by solar panels. Inside, it holds LED lights, a fetal Doppler, headlamps, phone chargers and a thermometer.

Abdala says it made an immediate difference. “There was no way to handle medical materials in the dark,” she recalls. After lighting went live, women began coming to the clinic at night; births increased, and transparency improved because the patients’ companions could follow procedures clearly.

“I gave birth at night,” said one new mother. “I felt very happy because I could see what the nurse was doing.” In districts with installations, night‑time births rose by about 17 percent, and more than 80,000 babies have been safely delivered since 2016, thanks to the installation of 80 Solar Suitcases across the province. The suitcases are made by We Care Solar.

Now in 2025, the Wild Ride aims to raise $52,000 – enough for eight solar more suitcases. Thanks to a generous donor, all funds will be matched. So for every solar suitcase that is funded, another will be added.

The Wild Ride is part of a larger initiative to provide 35 Solar Suitcases in Mozambique and 14 Solar Suitcases in Madagascar. The Coming Alongside Hope with Light project has a total budget of $320,000. All donations will be matched, up to $150,000, so $170,000 needs to be raised to ensure all 49 suitcases will be installed.

The Wild Ride has attracted fundraisers of all kinds from coast to coast. A veteran cyclist of the Wild Ride and its predecessor, the Ride for Refuge, Bishop Lynne McNaughton of the Diocese of Kootenay is ditching her bike this year in favour of walking 200 km. “I walk a fast 2 km up into the orchards near my house, a steep climb up onto the ‘bench’ where I can see a stunning view of Okanagan Lake. One Saturday at the end of the summer I’m inviting people to join me for a 5 or 10 km walk in a forest park in Kelowna.” Bishop Lynne was inspired to get involved when seeing the Solar Suitcase demonstration at General Synod. “The suitcases are a brilliant design, portable and practical. They meet such a crucial need. I love walking and walk anyway so why not make that walk count for joining God in God’s work of mending the world.”

At St. Timothy’s in 100 Mile House, B.C., the name says it all. Shelby Byer is organizing parishioners to walk 100 miles. And Joy Gothard is spearheading the Kamloops WaySeekers of St. Paul’s Cathedral as she rides her e-bike from kamloop to St. Peter’s in Monte Creek five times (200 km). She also plans to host a walk in the alpine meadows of Sun Peaks. Located in the Territory of the People, the people of St. Timothy’s and St. Paul’s are following in the footsteps of their Bishop, Clara Plamondon.

Bishop Clara is creating 50 prayer flags. “I love the idea of creating a visual symbol of our prayer for the people and communities that will be supported and helped through this initiative,” she says. “I will be making the prayer flags from various fabrics and colours with a focus on Mozambique and Madagascar. As I create the flags, I will be taking time to learn about these two countries, their culture and ways. I will be praying specifically for those who will benefit from the gift of these solar suitcases.”

This connection between prayer and action is important to Bishop Clara. “The Wild Ride allows us to join our shared mission and ministry efforts with the global community. I have wanted to do something for the Wild Ride for quite some time, and I wanted to encourage others to do the same. My inspiration is Betty Davidson from Yukon who is known for crocheting baby blankets for Wild Ride. She reminded me that there are many creative ways to raise funds for this important work.”

Indeed, Betty Davidson has been crocheting baby blankets for the Wild Ride for many years and intends to again make 10 this year. “The solar suitcases provide the light needed to help mothers give birth safely and give them security and confidence,” says Davidson. “During the year, I make baby blankets for those having babies, or who have family members or friends throughout Canada having babies.”

Having a safe birth hits home for Davidson. “I was medivaced to Whitehorse when my son was born and I can’t imagine how difficult it would have been to have been in the situation I was in, if there had been no light and no electricity. I really want to be a part of helping Alongside Hope in their desire to help the mothers, doctors and nurses of Mozambique and Madagascar.”

Jasmine Sandham, a parish rep at St. Paul’s, Thunder Bay, also has a personal motivation. “My mom’s pregnancy with my younger sister was highly complicated. And if they had to deliver her in darkness, both probably would have died.”

Also a veteran Wild Ride participant, this year Sandham is organizing a six-hour art bee. “I join every year because I feel that it’s a good way to get my church involved in an amazing project along with the rest of the Anglican Church of Canada,” she says. St. Paul’s is one of nine parishes in the Thunder Bay North Shore Deanery walking for the Wild Ride, and in honour of Archbishop Anne Germond’s ministry. “My goal is to have at least ten people from St. Paul’s join either the walk or the Art Bee,” says Sandham.

The Venerable Bill Mous, Executive Archdeacon of the Diocese of Niagara, is cycling 85 km from Port Weller to Port Colborne and back along the Welland Canal Trail for his Wild Ride. “Our family has been blessed by having well-equipped midwives attend the births of our children,” says Bill. “Through this project, we’d like to do the same for families in Mozambique and Madagascar.” His goal is to raise $6,500, enough for one suitcase.

On the east coast, the team from the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador has participants kayaking and hiking. Maxine Drover is Hiking for Hope and Christine Lynch is kayaking 200 km.

These efforts will make a big difference for midwives like Abdala. The Solar Suitcase is a tool that transforms the quality of care. She explains that even during suturing, the room is bright enough to explain and demonstrate each step to women and their companions. In one emergency, the light made it possible to resuscitate a preterm baby that wasn’t crying and begin immediate skin‑to‑skin contact with the mother.

That visibility builds trust. “At first, community members didn’t always respect me,” Abdala says. “But when they saw what I could do with the Solar Suitcase, attitudes changed. Now almost everyone respects my work.”

Even clinics that already have inconsistent grid power benefit from the solar backup. Abdala adds, “I ask that this be provided to other centres – even those connected to the grid – because electricity alone isn’t always enough.”

How to Help

It’s not too late to join the Wild Ride and help provide clinics with renewable energy in Mozambique and Madagascar! The Wild Ride continues until the end of October and anyone can take part – a group or an individual. Walk, cycle, knit, bake, paddle, pray, sing – choose any activity you enjoy. Register as an individual or as a team and help us raise funds for eight solar suitcases – which will become 16 with a matching gift!

Register today at AlongsideHope.com/Wild-Ride. And if you have any questions or need help, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Kim Umbach at kumbach@alongsidehope.org

Can’t join the Wild Ride this year? You can still help provide solar energy in Mozambique and Madagascar. Give at alongsidehope.org/wild-ride.

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“Oh my gosh, I would do it again in a heartbeat,” she said. “I absolutely loved it. The people were very, very welcoming and friendly—far more accepting of the church than I expected.”

Mistissini, a community of about 3,000 to 4,000 people, surprised her in many ways. “I went with all my preconceived notions because of residential schools,” she admitted. “I presumed I’d only wear my clergy shirt on Sundays and be in plainclothes the rest of the time. But they wanted me to wear it everywhere. They were so excited to have a priest there—a visible symbol of their faith.”

That visibility opened doors. “Because I had the clergy shirt on, people wanted to talk to me. Strangers who had nothing to do with the church wanted to talk to me about God.”

Nancy was struck by the community’s strength and foresight. “Because of the 1975 James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA), there’s no food bank in Mistissini—because they don’t need one. They’ve looked after their people so well.” She was impressed by their housing model: “You rent your house from the band council, and after 20 years—if you’ve taken care of it—those payments go toward your mortgage. You now own your house. Just smart stuff.”

She also saw a deep commitment to healing. “There’s a little community of tiny houses where people can go when they’re detoxing from alcohol or drug addiction. It’s a place to get a fresh start. I was so impressed.”

The church in Mistissini hadn’t had a regular priest in nearly seven years. “Their lay readers take the services. They’ve done the work to ensure that they continue to have Sunday services. Before I left, I blessed some extra bread and wine for them to use for communion to be administered by the lay readers from the reserved sacrament.”

She also served in a neighboring parish, two and a half hours away, where she led a funeral and baptisms. “The funeral was a two-day event. You do prayers with the family and the rest of the community the night before at the church, while people are still wandering around, visiting the casket, telling stories. There’s music, snacks, Gatorade, corn chips, desserts. It’s more than just liturgy—there’s a whole rhythm to how the evening unfolds. The following day  is the full funeral service.”

With no hotel in town, she and her dog Farley were billeted with a local couple. “I don’t think they were crazy about my dog coming in,” she laughed. “Dogs are treated differently in the north. A dog is not supposed to be in the house—especially not in the bedroom!”

She also had to adjust to ‘Indian time,’ a term the community uses themselves. “The service was set to start at 10:00. Each week I would be asked to wait. At 10:10, I said, ‘It’s time to start, right Helen?’ She said, ‘No, not yet.’ At 10:20, she said, ‘OK, you can start now.’” But she came to appreciate the slower pace. “They sang each hymn very slowly, very prayerfully, almost like they were praying and savouring each syllable of each word. When I began to see that and honour that, I could better appreciate it. Why would you rush that?”

Each service included hymns and scripture in both Cree and English. “They are reclaiming their language and their culture. It is beautiful to see how they are working both their language and their traditions in with living their faith as Anglicans.”

On her final Sunday, Nancy shared how paddling in her kayak was a form of prayer. “When I’m out on the water, it’s just you and God and the wind and the waves. They agreed that God is in the middle of all that—the rocks, the land, the water. That’s core to their faith and their experience of God.”

Would she return? “Absolutely. A month was the perfect amount of time. I was missing my kids and my parish, but I would go again if my bishop and parish were open to it.”

She encourages other clergy to prayerfully consider a placement in the Diocese of Moosonee. “You need to go with an open mind. Things are very different from the way we do church. Your job is to embrace them, love them, and walk with them.”

The post A Month in Mistissini: a Journey of Faith and Reconciliation 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.

The Green Group first learned about A Rocha through Rev. Dr. Ian Ritchie, who shared his experiences at one of the group’s early meetings. Since then, A Rocha has remained a topic of interest and inspiration. Over the years, the idea of inviting someone from the organization to speak at a diocesan event has been discussed many times. This year, the committee reached out—and was thrilled when Luke Wilson accepted the invitation to lead the conference.

A Rocha is an international Christian environmental organization that began on a small farm, or quinta, in Portugal—its name meaning “the rock” in Portuguese. Inspired by God’s love, A Rocha engages in scientific research, environmental education, community-based conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Their work is rooted in a deep commitment to caring for creation as an expression of Christian faith.

In Canada, A Rocha operates an environmental centre in Surrey, British Columbia, and is active in Manitoba and Ontario. Their projects include habitat restoration, species monitoring, and educational initiatives that connect people with the natural world. What makes A Rocha’s approach unique is its integration of ecological responsibility with spiritual and community life.

The Green Group sees this conference as a timely and meaningful opportunity for the diocese. Many members have been inspired by the writings of A Rocha leaders, including Planted by Leah Kostamo, a co-founder of A Rocha Canada. The book offers a compelling narrative of how faith and environmental stewardship can be lived out in everyday life, and it has helped deepen the committee’s excitement for this year’s gathering. The Green Group has also benefited from resources provided by A Rocha, with a survey used in a recent communication to Anglicans in our diocese.

The Green Group is hopeful for a strong turnout on September 20. The location will be held at Christ Church Kingston, 990 Sydenham Road, Kingston, beginning at 9:30 am with a potluck lunch to be served at noon. Contact greengroup@ontario.anglican.ca.

This event is not only a chance to hear from a respected leader in Christian environmentalism, but also an invitation for the wider diocesan community to reflect on their role as stewards of God’s creation. Whether attendees are seasoned advocates or just beginning to explore the intersection of faith and ecology, the conference promises to be both inspiring and transformative.

The Diocese of Ontario Green Group warmly invites all to join in this important conversation and to take part in a day of learning, reflection, and renewed commitment to caring for the earth.

The post Changing the Way People Treat the Earth: Green Group annual conference appeared first on Dialogue.

This July, Lay Readers from the Diocese of Ontario—and beyond—will gather at Queen’s University for a week of renewal, education, and spiritual formation through a long-standing ministry development initiative: Summer Fruit for Souls. Now in its third decade, this year’s event is being scaled up with help from a $10,000 grant from the Anglican Foundation of Canada (AFC).

Organized by the Lay Readers Association of the Diocese of Ontario, the conference is built on the conviction that lay leaders need ongoing education and spiritual refreshment to faithfully serve today’s Church. The Diocese supports more than 130 Lay Readers across its four deaneries. These volunteers assist with preaching and prayer leadership and are increasingly taking on catechist and other pastoral roles in their communities.

The Rt. Rev. William Cliff, Bishop of Ontario, at the 2024 Summer Fruit for Souls event. Photo courtesy of Mark Hauser.
But the impact of Summer Fruit for Souls extends far beyond diocesan boundaries. “We’re growing into something more provincial,” says Dr. Laurel Dempsey, co-chair of the Lay Readers Association. “We had participants from five dioceses last year. There’s a real hunger among Lay Readers across the Province of Ontario for this kind of formation—and a real shortage of comparable opportunities.”

This year’s conference, to be held July 22–25 at Queen’s University, will feature Bishop William Cliff leading daily sessions on preaching and Dr. Grayhame Bowcott offering workshops on parish development and community leadership. The program will welcome up to 50 in-person attendees, as well as a broader online audience through livestreamed and recorded sessions.

Organizers say relocating the event to Queen’s has helped make it more accessible and central to participants from across the province, but the move has also added to logistical and financial costs. AFC’s grant will help keep registration fees manageable for participants—many of whom serve in rural or resource-constrained contexts.

“This grant gives us breathing room,” says Dempsey. “It allows us to keep the doors open for people who might not otherwise be able to attend. That’s critical to our goal of creating a truly inclusive, accessible space for lay formation.”

To register for Summer Fruit For Souls visit: Summer Fruit for Souls | Lay Readers | Anglican Diocese of Ontario.
To learn more about upcoming funding opportunities visit anglicanfoundation.org/apply.

Every AFC grant is made possible through the generosity of our donor family. By becoming a member of the Anglican Foundation of Canada, you are investing in the Church of tomorrow—today, helping to fund creative, compassionate, and courageous ministry in your diocese and across the country. Membership starts at just $100/year. Learn more and join us at www.anglicanfoundation.org/membership.

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Thursday May 8: St. George’s Cathedral opening Synod Service

The gathering of Synod began on Thursday evening at St. George’s Cathedral. During the service of Holy Eucharist Bishop William Cliff offered his charge to Synod.

Bishop William reflected on the passages from Acts 3:1-10 and Isaiah 30:15-21, noting their, and our, inclination to focus on loss and lament, rather than looking forward in faith. He called us to “begin to pray, plan and pursue the vision of the Kingdom that the church must face right now.” As God did with the people Isaiah spoke to, God is trying to get us to see a new way forward. This new way will not be found through reliance on any of our resources, tools or technology, but in reclaiming a “fearlessness and willingness to go further to see that the news of the liberating love of Jesus was available to the known world. This is the energy with which we need to be infused.” The great gift that we have to offer the world today is still Jesus Christ.

He stated that “the central message of the church is the healing, reconciling, disrupting, transforming and irresistible grace of Jesus Christ. All the other factors in our corporate life must take a back seat to this singular transforming and disrupting presence of Jesus in our midst,” and that we need to be prepared for the disruption that will result from the grace of our Lord changing the lives of those who have been healed and who then join us in rejoicing.

He reflected on the Archbishop of York’s description of the Holy Spirit’s ‘preferred pattern’ of starting small and nurturing growth through the attractive power of hope and the joy that accompanies hope – joy that is “the central engine of the work of the Holy Spirit in the

Church,” and which we see demonstrated in the stories of outreach shared weekly in our eNews. He charged Synod that, for the next two to three years, the Diocese is to think long and hard about three interlocking matters in our common life:

1. The Mission of being communities of hope – letting the Holy Spirit disrupt our congregational life while at the same time looking outwards for new ways to serve;
2. Formation of hopeful leaders who inspire joy – discerning and training new lay and ordained leaders, including an expanded diaconate, who are equipped joyfully and hopefully to lead us into the future; and
3. A transformation in the business of being church – lifting the burden of administration, restoring joy in membership, and sharing more broadly in the tasks of parish life.

Bishop William awarded the Diocesan Award of Merit to Ms. Audrey Doliszney and The Ven. Bill Clarke. He named The Revd Margaret Johnson-Jones as Canon Pastor in the seat of St. Margaret of Scotland, The Revd Mike Michielin as Canon Theologian in the seat of St Augustine, and The Revd Lisa BrantFrancis as Canon of the Chapter of St. George in the seat of St. Kateri Tekakwitha. He offered thanks and blessings to The Revd Rod BrantFrancis as he begins Episcopal ministry in the Diocese of Moosonee, and thanked the Ven. David Selzer for his service, while also welcoming the Ven. Jane Humphreys as Executive Archdeacon. He offered his thanks to the Diocesan Office Staff and extended his thanks to everyone in the Diocese for the privilege to serve.

During the liturgy the award recipients were presented with their medals and those named to offices were installed.

Friday May 9: Queen’s University

Friday began with prayer and the Gospel of the day.

Motions were passed electing the honorary secretaries and affirming loyalty to the King, and Synod was called to order, the honorary secretaries having declared quorum.

A motion was passed approving the agenda, extending courtesies of the house, approving the minutes of Synod 2023, making appointments to Diocesan Court, and accepting all reports.

Table groups held discussion in response to the Bishop’s charge based upon the following three questions:

1. What needs to be disrupted in my own spiritual life? How do I ask God what needs to change in me? Where is Sin, System or Separation keeping me from being a more faithful disciple?
2. What needs to be disrupted in our parish? W hat can we pray for the Lord to do in our midst? Where is Sin, System or Separation keeping us from making more disciples?
3. What needs to be disrupted in our surrounding community? Where has Sin, System or Separation broken the children of God and how do we disrupt it and bring healing?

Dr. Scott Brubacher gave a presentation about the Anglican Foundation of Canada. AFC has disbursed over $42 million supporting Diverse Infrastructure, Leadership & Education, Community Ministries, Indigenous Ministries, and Sacred Music & Liturgical Arts. He highlighted funding in our own diocese and drew attention to ‘Say Yes! to Kids’ and the many youth initiatives supported through this fund. He encouraged us to support the four ‘Say Yes! to Kids’ projects in the Diocese of Ontario.

The Foundation seeks to be a strategic partner in the future of the church, which is particularly expressed in the current request for Community Outreach proposals. Legacy funding will be a 2025 initiative. He offered special thanks to Canon Bob Wright for keeping AFC vibrant in our Diocese.

A moment of silence was kept in honour of this anniversary of VE Day.

The following members were added to those letting their names stand for Synod Council: Hastings Deanery – Major the Revd Canon Don Aitchison; Quinte Deanery – Ms. Helen Cluett.

Mx. Kaleena Hanoski spoke on behalf of the Parish of Tyendinaga. She/they drew attention to the longer version of our Synod slogan which speaks of walking a GOOD path together. The Kentè:ke community is rooted in faith and trust in Creator, a reality which was tragically damaged by colonization, but through which process the people recognized that the Gospel message brought by colonizers was very similar to the peoples’ long-standing beliefs.

The ‘Why’ of the parish ministry is rooted in Jesus Great Commandment. The parish is in a place where the entire narrative needs to be redefined by going back to basics, learning from Indigenous concepts of narrative and cycle. They are at work decolonizing their church through reconcili-action. Key areas a Language Learning, honouring Cultural Teachings, and Community Building.

The ‘How’ of the process starts with a core group, asking and honestly answering hard questions and meeting demonstrated needs. The hope that we have to offer is central, hope founded in relationship with God and with each other. Through the process they have undertaken, they are experiencing a new way of being church that meets people where they are and offers opportunity to change the narrative of conflict to one of reconciliation.

She/they concluded the presentation by asking what our communities are doing to become communities of hope and to bring disruptive grace to this world – what is our path? If it is not working we need to forge a new path, trusting in God’s guidance as we walk.

In keeping with the Friday tradition of our Diocese, members joined in the Coventry Litany of Reconciliation.

Community Engagement Coordinator Mr. Russ Grant offered a response to the Bishop’s Charge, thanking him for his forward looking message.

Reflecting on the discussion questions, Russ noted expressions of fear of change and different levels of readiness, as well as people feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world.

Feedback included that we need to stop expecting God to save our failing church and be more joyful, to stop doing church and be church. Our focus on finance and administration keeps us from needful focus on prayer and fellowship. We need to promote personal relationships and get out into our communities. We need to just try without fear of making mistakes. In our communities, we are called to ‘love others until they ask why’ and let our actions speak. We need to change the notion of church as social club while creating partnerships with diverse others in our community. We need to pray and remember to let ourselves shine as we learn from our experiences. We are grateful for the Bishop’s reminder to keep the joy in our service out in our communities. Russ offered thanks for the Bishop’s leadership and inspiration and said that we are ready to accept the challenge of his Charge.

The Rt. Revd Rosemarie Mallett, Bishop of Croydon, began by stating that it’s not possible to understand Christian life without grace. That free gift of God invites us to be outward signs, even in our brokenness, of that grace conferred on us. She has experienced, as a black women, disenfranchisement that has impeded her ability to see God’s grace at work in herself. Such systems are entirely contrary to Christian life, wherein we recognize that we are all made in the image of God and in need of grace. God’s grace and word have been given to us and are what we have to offer.

The Bible is the story of God’s disruptive grace at work, even when it’s uncomfortable to the status quo. Her three addresses will speak to three qualities of grace seen in scripture.

Although we now see disruptive, manipulative, exploitive, self-interested leadership in the world that is sinful, disruption is necessary to challenge our complacency. Grace confronts the parts of our lives in opposition to God’s will and leads to new ways of living. We must see ourselves, as leaders of the church, as disruptors. People in the world are being led by the Spirit to ask questions about the world and their lives – are we ready for them?

The examples of God’s disruptive grace in scripture will each highlight two essential qualities we need – vulnerability and humility.

Elijah 19:1-19 begins with fear and flight, continues through being disturbed by God, and ends in renewed missional zeal. Elijah, sent to people who have settled into systems contrary to God’s way, has brought wrath upon himself by his proclamation. Feeling hopeless in the wilderness, he is angry and contends with God, but God feeds him and urges him on to Horeb. His self-pity is vulnerable, but not humble, and not forward looking. Finally God is revealed in silence. God deals with Elijah, and with us, on the basis of grace, correcting, restoring and recommissioning Elijah and reminding him that he’s not alone. He’s sent back to his ministry, having been disrupted for his own sake and the sake of others. Elijah’s blindspot was his pride, which stopped him seeing God at work. God puts him back together with renewed purpose, set free by grace. As we see the calamities around us, we must not give in to fear, but trust that God is with us, upsetting expectations. God’s disruptive grace and word are dynamic instruments of renewal and we are to be the agents. God will meet us wherever we may be and provide, not just for now, but for the future as well. So what are we doing here? Where are we too proud to see God at work? What mantle do we need to offer to those yet to come?

Bishop Rosemarie concluded with a ‘Reverse prayer of St. Francis’ which begins ‘Lord, make us channels of disturbance . . . ’

The Revd Scott Gunn spoke about the roots of Forward Movement in the post depression world of the Episcopal Church, not just ‘holding the line,’ but seeking ‘forward movement’ to reinvigorate the life of the church. The founder noted that strong church requires strong congregations with, not just habitual Christians, but disciples. Their mission is now to inspire disciples and equip evangelists.

Forward Day by Day is one offering, available in many formats. Courses include ‘Transforming Questions’ and ‘Walk in Love’ both of which have a Canadian version. Renewal Works for congregations is another resource – it has revealed that spiritual health can be compared to physical health with the 3 pillars of spiritual life being daily prayer, reading scripture regularly, and deeply engaging in local church community.

He noted that many struggle with believing in God’s unconditional love, perhaps in part because we live in a transactional culture or because we’re too often taught that it’s up to us to fix the world rather than that the world is saved by Christ and we’re called to participate.

Forward Movement is looking at ways to better serve the Canadian Church and welcome our input.

The report of scrutineers was presented by The Ven. Bram Pearce. All nominees were acclaimed for Synod Council:

1. The Ven, Bill Clarke, The Revd Canon Sharon Dunlop (Frontenac)
2. The Ven, Dr. Bram Pearce (Quinte)
3. The Revd John Lavelle (Leeds-Grenville)

Those who were elected as Delegates to General Synod are:

1. Ms. Jane Kirkpatrick,
2. Ms. Dawn Tate
3. Ms. Aveleigh Kyle (Lay)
4. The Ven Dr. Bram Pearce,
5. The Rev Canon Michael Read
6. The Very Reverend Douglas Michael (Clergy)

A motion to destroy the ballots was carried.

The Diocesan Financial Officer, Mr. Alex Pierson, made a presentation on resourcing through the lens of finance.

He directed members to the balance sheet and operating fund. In the trend for the operating fund, income from CMM (Common Ministry and Mission) has decreased while other sources to replace it are being sought. The 2025 budget projected a $49,000 deficit, significantly down from previous years, which deficit has now been eliminated. Receivables from parishes has trended up. Loans to parishes in financial difficulty have been very helpful in supporting our common ministry. New fees for services now divert some costs from CMM.

Regarding the Investment Fund, including Cemetery Trusts, approximately $23.7 million (market value) is held, with approximately $17.3 million of that held for parishes and cemeteries. The investment policy is available, including the recent presentation on the topic.

Cemeteries are being more carefully scrutinized by the provincial government and there is increasing push for compliance. In response to the government mandate for each cemetery to have its own trust account our Ecclesiastical Province and Diocese are working to have regulations adjusted to better match our realities.

Looking forward, we remain heavily dependent on congregational offerings. A 3 Year Framework includes some new areas of income and efforts to consolidate to drive efficiency. We are asset rich (buildings) but cash poor, and our buildings can consume much cash in maintenance and repairs.

He said that the business of being the church indicates that we need new income sources, that we need to look at cost management, and that sustainable programs and partnerships are part of our journey forward.

National Indigenous Archbishop Chris Harper began his reflection on our Synod speaking about how we use words and the power of what we say. With great humour and profound insight, he described how words affect our seeing, our acting, our perception. Sharing from the day’s Gospel from the First Nations Version, he spoke about what we’re called to be as people of faith, with the Gospel at the centre. The Anglican Council of Indigenous People models this literally. The challenge is for that Gospel to become a living part at the centre of all we do. Returning to his first theme, he drew attention to the power of words, especially in our spiritual life, saying that a disciple is one who sits and learns, an apostle is then sent out. W hen are we going to be apostles, going out?

He shared that Sacred Circle has decided to meet after General Synod and will be working ‘beyond the paperwork,’ the documents that were agreed upon at Sacred Circle 2023 among the many diverse Indigenous communities. The focus is now on how to live into them as Indigenous people within the Anglican Church, including governance and liturgy. He commended the reconciliation work happening in our Diocese. He lamented the growing tendency to neglect Land Acknowledgement as we gather and asked us to really reflect on its meaning and what it calls us to. He expressed gratitude for this Diocese’s support which enabled last year’s ‘Sacred Beginnings’ for Indigenous Youth. There is a whole generation of Indigenous Youth who need to know reconciliation and reconcili-action. We are at a crossroad that invites each of us to bring our own gifts to offer for the future. We must know how special and loved we are and not forget that we are family, in this together.

Before the day ended, Synod Council, both new and continuing members, were invited forward and welcomed.

Saturday May 10: Queen’s University

On Saturday Bishop William gathered us with an inspiring quote from Pope Leo XIV speaking to the need for our Holy Spirit led action in the world today for those most in need.

Bishop Rosemarie’s second presentation began with a reminder that we must hold on to the hope that is our Lord, Jesus Christ, enabling us to look forward. The New Testament is filled with Jesus challenging norms and redefining true justice. His mission was inherently disruptive. He not only preached, but lived reconcili-action, the Kingdom of God for everyone. Jesus deliberately spent time with outcasts and challenged purity codes, disrupting boundaries that exclude.

The story of Bartimaeus opens with him desperate to disrupt his ‘normal’ as a blind man, socially, economically and civically excluded. He does, however, have a voice, and calls out loudly and persistently for mercy. He is named and has knowledge to call on Jesus by name as Son of David, but many who are disabled are often perceived as non-entities. He flings his security aside for a new beginning. Jesus asks ‘what do you want me to do for you?’ He asks for sight and receives it. Jesus heals, revives, and frees, and Bartimaeus then purposefully casts away his only valuable to follow Jesus. While Jesus’ closest disciples show spiritual blindness to the true mission of Jesus, this blind man can see it clearly and becomes a model of true faith and discipleship.

The Bishop asked us to move our focus away from the physical disability and the ‘cure’ to the act of restoration to the new community of faith – the heart of the story. The ‘othered’ people who “get it” are in stark contrast to the disciples who often don’t.

So many sinful systems continue to exert power. How, here and now, are human rights being taken away without those in power being challenged, sometimes due to our fears? Jesus takes on all the silencing powers and releases us from whatever chains us, and enables us to work for those who are in need. Bartimaeus’ real request was for Jesus to change him. Are we ready to throw off our security blankets, be changed and follow Jesus? This Gospel asks us to recognize our blind spots.

Who are we not seeing as we seek to maintain the social order? The passage calls us to consider our humility and vulnerability and open our eyes to the new spiritual and material realities of the Kingdom. Are we willing to be disrupted and liberated from our comfort zones? What do I want Jesus to do for me?

All members had opportunity to participate in three Workshops:

1. Disrupting Human Trafficking through Christ’s Humble Authority

The Revd John Vanstone has travelled far and wide seeing the scourge of human trafficking and offered his wisdom to help us join the fight against this modern day slavery.

• About setting captives free – fight against demonic power and modern slavery
• Very heavy topic – can be difficult to discuss – caution that some is hard to hear
• Topic addressed at 8 synods ago – significant shift since then
• Dedicated police constables are focused on this project in Kingston
• Multi-billion dollar industry – Darkness within an international web of destruction
• Need to think about ‘How is our church taking action to address this problem?’
• Referenced handout – 8 P’s Freedom Framework – multi-faceted approach

.   Prevention – addresses root causes

.   Protection – safety and restoration of survivors

.   Prosecution – legal supports

.   Partnership – collaborating

.   Policy – create internal and external policies

.   Participation – equipping organizations

.   Prayer – intercessory work is foundational

.   Proof – evidence based practices and research

• We were reminded that we have a moral obligation to respond (Galatians 5:1a)
• 4 constables attended to assist with the presentation – shared stories and facts about what it is and how it works – ‘Human Trafficking involves the recruitment, transportation, harboring or exercising direction or influence over the movements of a person in order to exploit, typically for sexual exploitation or forced labour.
• Both national and international
• Canadian Stats – most victims are women and girls, most traffickers are men and boys
• Hard to report – trauma similar to being a child soldier – most victims don’t see themselves as victims
• Process – lured – look for vulnerable – initially soft contact – grooming and pushing boundaries – build trust in isolation – manipulate and coerce (do for me because I have helped you) – exploit

Participants were given resources and reflection questions/challenges to engage with.

2. How to practice evangelism in a post-Christian world

Scott Gunn, the executive director of Forward Movement, a ministry of the Episcopal Church based in Cincinnati, Ohio, offered this workshop.

Scripture:

• Preach the Gospel to the whole creation (Mark 16: 14 – 15)
• Share the hope that is with you (1 Peter 3: 15)
• Make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28: 16- 20) Evangelism in word:
• Evangelism means proclaim the good news – just like sharing the good news of a great movie, TV show or restaurant
• Love your neighbours! And that includes talking with them – practice in relationships
• Share the Good News that gives you hope and purpose – in opportunities – not coercive or combative
• Pray without ceasing – stop and pray when it fits, you choose, elevator speech ‘What is the hope that is within you?’

Evangelism in deed:

• Be a visible Christian – don’t be afraid to practice/show your faith – welcome strangers, feed the hungry, offer comfort
• Change the world for Christ’s sake – can all experience doubt, ‘share your light’
• Be an ambassador for Jesus Christ – claim our own faith and don’t be a habitual Christian – see the key steps in Nurturing Faith

Nurturing a faith to share:

• Prayer daily – just do it – allow time till it works
• Read the Bible regularly
• Be involved in a local church Evangelism from the church:
• Have an on-line presence- website, Facebook, post services
• Marketing can be a good tactic – card to neighbours, geo-target ads, welcome new/visitors, ways to connect, signage (parking, entrance, washrooms, etc)
• Offer a gracious, notable welcome to all who enter
• Pastor the community – what are the needs of the community and address
• Help people to know Jesus- it’s not about church it’s about Jesus Evangelism books and courses:
• Transforming Questions (free from Forward Movement)
• Faithful Questions by Gunn and Shobe (Forward Movement)
• Alpha Course (free!!!)
• Reviving Evangelism: Current Realities that Demand a New Vision for Sharing Faith (Barna)

3. Luke’s Leeds Has Left The Building

Ms. Angie Kelman, Ms. Susan Thorpe, The Revd Trish Miller and The Revd Canon Nancy MacLeod told participants of the events, the prayer and the consultation process that led up to the parish decision to let go of the former St. Luke’s Lyndhurst Church building and Ministry Centre in 2019 and become a church without a building.

Angie began by telling her story – her four sons being baptized and raised in the community of faith that previously gathered in the building, and who are now able to witness to the community of faith at work in the many aspects of their own daily lives, and who now share themselves in the vital outreach ministries of St. Luke’s Leeds.

Susan and Revd Trish shared some of the statistics – while the congregation faced many of the common signs of what we label as decline, the decision to not let that decline constrict the congregation’s ministry, but instead step boldly away from the ‘security blanket’ of the building and more fully engage in mission has been life changing and invigorating.

The church’s mission is the mission of Christ, as understood in our Anglican Communion: telling the good news, teaching others and each other as believers, tending to the needs of all God’s people, working to transform injustice, and treasuring God’s creation.

From 2018 to 2024 volunteer hours actually dropped from about 10,000 to 7,700, but now those volunteer hours are spread over a large number of gifted folk who engage with joy in mission, instead of a small group of folks who spent a great deal of time maintaining buildings. The 2018 outreach budget of about $10,000, even then 20% of the parish budget, by 2024 was over $61,000. The congregations ability to reach out in service to the local community, and worldwide, has vastly expanded through an ongoing process of community engagement, intentional listening and healthy year-round stewardship commitment.

Revd Nancy invited participants to enter into a process of regular assessment of all assets, including building and money, asking whether they are fully serving our participation in the mission of God in the world today and not relics of the past. To open-handedly and full-heartedly serve God’s mission must always be our motivation.

The resources from this workshop will be available at https://stlukesleeds.weebly.com/synod-2025-workshop.html.

Bishop Rosemarie began her third presentation quoting 2nd Corinthians 12:9 “My Grace is sufficient for you.”

While her first presentation asked ‘what are you doing here?’ and the second asked ‘what do you want me to do for you?’ This third is not taken directly from the text but asks ‘what does the Lord require of you?’

The early church were disruptors. Their radical love challenged Roman ethno-social realities. Paul shares an alternate vision of humanity joining all together, governed in peace. Humans continue to construct systems of enslavement. That reality is embodied in Onesimus, the property of Philemon. Onesimus has stolen property and run away, and is now ministering to the free-in-Christ but enchained Roman citizen Paul. Unlike Bartimaeus he does not receive earthly liberation. Paul appeals to Philemon to receive and welcome Onesimus as a brother. Philemon knew as a believe that he was called to a higher standard. God’s grace compels us to extend grace to others. Paul didn’t call into question the structure of slavery, a reality used by some to defend the slave trade.

Slavery has always existed, used by those with power. The African slave trade was different in the utter misery it inflicted, and in how it influenced all colonial thought and culture through the racializing of humanity, and the church has colluded in imperialism, colonialism and racialization. As a descendent of slaves, the bishop has internalized the trauma of her ancestors and the racism of her society. Racism is an affront to God. Slavery and racism still scar humanity today, a wound on the body of Christ and it is not just a past story, but our story. There is increasing awareness of how the Church benefited from systems of slavery. Restorative justice begins the process of restoring right relationships. Jesus exemplified how to engage with those other than us, bringing them into belonging.

We are called to disruptive thinking that can turn enemies into friends. Onesimus does not have a voice, but we are called to enable others to speak for themselves.

We need to be a church of Elijah, Bartimaeus and Onesimus, to be a community of hope tapping into disruptive grace, to be both a humbler and a more courageous church. May we love those around us and create communities of hope.

Bishop William offered closing prayer and scripture. Zechariah 4:6 ‘bookends’ Isaiah 30, which we began Synod with: “not by might, nor by strength but by my Spirit, says the Lord.” That is precisely how we’ll do all we’re called to do!

Bishop Rosemarie sent us out with a blessing.

The full resource section for this Synod is available at: https://www.ontario.anglican.ca/synod/synod-2025.

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