Diocese of Rupert’s Land Service of Ordination of Priests, Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023 Anno Domini
Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023 7 p.m. at St. John’s Anglican Cathedral 135 Anderson Avenue Between North Main and the Red River Winnipeg, Manitoba Reception follows the service, downstairs in the John West Hall
Ordained Priests tonight The Rev. Deacon Matthew Bowman The Rev. Deacon Christine Salstrom The Rev. Deacon Roberta Susan Smandych
Presider, The Rt. Rev. Geoffrey Woodcroft Dean, The Very Rev. Paul N. Johnson Bishop’s Chaplain, The Rev. Pat Ferris Preacher, The Rev. Edmund Laldin Organist, Helen Suh Acknowledgment of the Land, Elder Bill Shead Smudging, Elder Amanda Wallin First Reading, Kari Hagness Second Reading, Colin Dorrian Gospel Reading and Deacon at the Table, The Rev. Deacon Susan Roe-Finlay Litanist, John Van Benthem Marshall, The Ven. Godfrey Mawejje Witness to the Oaths, The Ven. Simon Blaikie
Sound, Peter Moodie – Cathedral Camera, Yongmin Kim – Cathedral Sidespersons, Cheryl Barber, Rene Jamieson, Ben McGillivary – Cathedral Hospitality, Susan Simpson, Mary Stanger – Cathedral
The offering is designated for Urban Indigenous Ministry Development. Please make your cheques payable to “The Diocese of Rupert’s Land,” and, if possible, use the envelopes provided. Thank you for your generosity.
IN CELEBRATION OF THE CORONATION OF HIS MAJESTY, CHARLES III, KING OF CANADA, AND HER MAJESTY QUEEN CAMILLA, SATURDAY MAY 6TH, ANNO DOMINI 2023
At this Anglican Cathedral Church of St. John the Evangelist, Saturday, 6 May 2023. Public registration is now closed as we have reached our maximum safe capacity. Thank you for your interest; the Service will be streamed live on the Cathedral YouTube page here and on the Manitoba Government website here, beginning at 1:50 p.m. on Saturday.
The Bishop, the Dean, and the congregation, along with The Friends of Historic St. John’s Cathedral and Cemetery, welcome you to the Cathedral Church of St. John the Evangelist of the Anglican Diocese of Rupert’s Land. This parish has been alive and active since 1820, the original Anglican parish in Western Canada. The Cemetery is the oldest non-Indigenous burial ground in the West. The first interment here was Hector McLean, a Selkirk Settler, who died and was buried in 1813, two hundred and ten years ago. As the Diocese of Rupert’s Land and this Cathedral, we are fully committed to the good way of healing and reconciliation, and are a proud supporter of our neighbour across Anderson Avenue, Kapabamayak Achaak Healing Forest. This land grant was made by Lord Selkirk in 1817, only after his signing of the Treaty with Chief Peguis, and four other chiefs. Thus, we have been treaty people here since 1817.
We begin every Sunday worship service with this acknowledgement, posted in our Order of Service, and read aloud by the Lay Reader of the Day: “We worship and live gratefully on Treaty One land, the traditional territory of the Ininew, the Anishinaabe, and the Dakota, and the homeland of the Métis Nation. We are all treaty people.
The Canadian Coronation Emblem:
The Canadian emblem for the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III was created to mark the first crowning of a Canadian monarch in 7 decades, a historic occasion.
The Royal Monogram (CIIIR) in the centre of the Emblem and the Royal Crown at the top are personal symbols of The King.
The ring of triangular shapes evokes the image of a string of pennants displayed for a celebration. These 13 shapes allude to Canada’s provinces and territories, and their circular arrangement conveys the idea of inclusion for all Canadians. The circle is also an important concept for many Indigenous Peoples, symbolizing not only equity but also the cycles of the natural world. The green colour of the shapes is associated with the environment, which has long been an important cause for His Majesty, and it symbolizes hope and growth.
Inclusion and togetherness are also represented by the white spaces between the green shapes, which resemble paths leading to a central meeting place. The entire white space can be seen as a sunburst, symbolizing innovation and new ideas.
The Emblem was designed and painted by Cathy Bursey-Sabourin, Fraser Herald at the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Joining us for the service will be the Lt. Governor, Her Honour the Honourable Anita Neville, and the Premier, the Honourable Heather Stefanson, along with many others. The Cathedral will be full for this historic day and our local Service of Thanksgiving.
Contributing will be The Brass Quintet from the Royal Winnipeg Rifles, and the Indigenous Drum Group from the Rifles. Our own very gifted musician, Helen Suh, will play the organ, including the prelude of ‘Zadok the Priest’, accompanied by trumpet. We will sing the National Anthem at the beginning of the service, the Royal Anthem at the end, we will sing two hymns, we will hear Scripture in English, French, Hebrew, and Cree. Prayers will be offered in English, Hebrew, and Ukrainian. A Smudge will be offered outside before the service, by Elder Amanda Wallin. The Dean will offer a reflection for the day.
We are not Westminster Abbey, but we are pleased to offer this service to our own community on the occasion of the Coronation of His Majesty Charles III, King of Canada.
Tuesday, 28 February 2023, 7 p.m. here at the Cathedral 135 Anderson Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba
Proclamation of the Word Renewal of Baptismal Vows Renewal of Vows of all in Holy Orders Litany for the Mission of the Church Blessing of Holy Oils Holy Eucharist
Bishop Geoff Woodcroft presiding The Rev. Bonnie Dowling preaching
Son of Ruth Hoskin Lee and George Lee (both deceased), brother of Sara (deceased) and Elizabeth. Arthur was born in Toronto, moving to Winnipeg when he was six. Arthur faced a lifetime of struggles due to his Asperger’s Syndrome and a mental illness.
A special thank you to the Bell Hotel and staff. There in the last ten years he found a refuge and home. In particular, thanks to Christine for her ongoing cheerful support of Arthur. A special thank you to Kerri for her extraordinary kindness and compassion towards Arthur over the years. She treated him with dignity.
For fifty years Chester Schrade was a loyal friend to Arthur, countless times helping him out of difficulties. Both were avid readers of science and technology, Arthur enjoyed lively discussions with Chester.
Thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Grace and the St. Boniface Hospitals for their care.
If wished, Memorial gifts in Arthur’s name may be made to: Main Street Project Inc, 661 Main Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3B 1E3: Donate to Main Street Project. Over the phone contact Carla Morden, at 204-982-8257. Mail a cheque, to Main Street Project Inc. 661 Main Street, Winnipeg, MB R3B 1E3. Securely online: <https://www.mainstreetproject.ca/donate/>
A Christmas Message (on this Eleventh Day of the Feast, in case you missed it earlier…)
From Bishop Geoffrey Woodcroft
Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. Heb 1.1-2
“In these last days”, the Hebrews author describes God who dwells among us, and more that, God speaking directly to us in Jesus Christ.
We gather at Christmas to hear God speak through texts, carols and shared experience. Each of us embrace traditions of family and friends, in some way to tell the story of God’s saving acts. The traditions we employ and enjoy, carefully passed through generations, help us to hear the Christmas message proclaimed especially for they for whom this is the first time hearing it.
In everything from the Christmas table runners and puddings to Christmas music in shopping malls God speaks, offering opportunity for wonderment, questioning and welcoming. We set an extra place at the table, do that little bit extra for others, make time and space for others to give thanks, all a reckoning of God with us.
Our world travels in uncertain times, even the Christian Church presents uncertainty about what is next in the divine call we receive, but we also have the experience of seeking Christ in all persons, loving our neighbours as ourselves. We the Church, who have not only sought, but also discovered Christ in our neighbours, are compelled to be overflowing with infectious joy. If ever there was a need for infectious joy it is right now; every generation gets to say that.
May you be awestruck, joy filled and thankful.
Blessed are you Sovereign God, creator of all; to you be glory and praise for ever! You founded the earth in the beginning and the heavens are the work of your hands. As we rejoice in the gift of your presence among us, let the light of your love shine in our hearts and your praises ever be on our lips, Holy and undivided Trinity. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
+ Geoffrey
Ordination of Deacons Service Wednesday, January 18, 7pm St. John’s Cathedral, 135 Anderson Avenue, Winnipeg
God willing and people consenting, The Rt. Rev. Geoffrey Woodcroft, Bishop of Rupert’s Land, is pleased to announce the ordination of Chris Barnes and Beverley Markwart to be deacons in Christ’s Holy Catholic Church on the Feast of the Confession of St Peter the Apostle. Your prayers and presence are requested.
Community Hymn Singing at Epiphany Indigenous Anglican Church Last Sunday of every month, 7-8:30pmEpiphany Indigenous Anglican Church, 370 McKenzie St, Winnipeg
Epiphany Indigenous Anglican Church invites you to a night of Community Hymn Singing on the last Sunday of every month. We will be singing advent hymns sprinkled with Christmas carols. We would love to have you with us. If you have a guitar, come and play along with the musicians.
Wednesday, 2 November 202 All Souls Day, 7 p.m. at St. John’s Cathedral 135 Anderson Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba
Ordained Priests, The Rev. Deacons Lois Graham (All Saints, Whytewold), Cathie Clow (Fairford Group), Paul Peters Derry (st. benedict’s table)
Presider, The Rt. Rev. Geoffrey Woodcroft Dean, The Very Rev. Paul N. Johnson Bishop’s Chaplain, The Rev. Patricia Ferris Preacher, The Rev. Canon Jennifer Sisson Acknowledgment of the Land The Rev. Vincent Solomon First Reading The Rev. Deacon Marline Wruck Second Reading The Rev. Rachel Twigg Boyce Gospel Reading The Rev. Jamie Howison Deacon at the Altar, The Rev. Deacon Matthew Bowman Litanist, Ms. Sandra Bender Organ, Helen Suh
Communion Assistants: Ann LaRue Brandi Walder Marigold Peters Susan Roe-Finlay
Camera, The Rev. Brian Ford Sound, Mr. Peter Moodie Sidespersons, Ben McGillivary, Cheryl Barber
The offering is designated for Urban Indigenous Ministry Development. Please make your cheques payable to “The Diocese of Rupert’s Land.”
The Diocese of Rupert’s Land The Right Reverend Geoffrey Woodcroft Bishop of Rupert’s Land 18 August 2022
Disciples of the Diocese of Rupert’s Land,
Greetings in the One who forms and shapes us into the Body.
I am taking this opportunity to briefly speak to you about the work of the Lambeth Conference and how that applies to our diocese.
While Lambeth Calls, (our shared affirmations and declarations), were physically central to the function and content of our time in session, our gathered community was so much more than a meeting of the minds. The intention of the Lambeth 2022 was never to make binding decisions, because it does not have the authority to do so. Lambeth 2022 endeavoured to test the gathered community on the priority and texture of issues, ministries and missions of the Anglican Communion. While the Canadian Bishops found it difficult to process the content using the Lambeth voting processes, but our opinions regarding those process were heard and given due consideration. Some members of the secular press provided the public with provocative yet erroneous headlines which caused concern and confusion amongst the gathered community, but utter frustration and anger among many lay and ordained people through thecommunion. This is a fact of who we are now, and we must carefully navigate high-roads while immersed in media games. I wish to be absolutely clear, the gathered community while in sessions did not vote to affirm Lambeth 1998 1.10, a posture of the 1998 conference that does not allow marriage beyond that of a man and a woman. The Archbishop of Canterbury did, however, pronounce that neither he nor the conference had any authority to level sanctions against any Province not in compliance with 1.10.
I am afraid that the story in the press, especially British tabloids have made the Church appear as fools, out of touch with northern hemisphere people and ideals, and horribly divided among its members. That is really disappointing, as that was never the story or feeling in our gatherings. A spirit of genuine collegiality and mutual support was clearly the vibe of plenaries, seminars, studies, meal times, and wonderfully in our free networking time. Genuine relationships have formed, they have informed all areas of our common work, especially when dealing with the Calls. With a heightened sense of respectand eagerness Calls were addressed, reshaped in some instances, and given birth as aspirations of the Church. Evangelism and Mission, Discipleship, Church and Science, Safe Church, Reconciliation, Human Dignity, Christian Unity and Inter-Faith relations captured our attention and imagination, we spent many hours in seminars, study and reflection getting a good handle on these Calls, all the while building strong and communicative relationships. The Diocese of Rupert’s Land reflects a lot of what all the Calls represent in our work with which we are presently engaged, however, Lambeth Calls regarding Discipleship, Reconciliation and the Environment particularly link us intimately with the rest of the Church as we yearn for a healthy Church and world.
Worship, prayer and reflection were at the centre of all tasks and gatherings, we were rooted in God, with the Gospel always before us. I think the Canadian House of Bishops has become much closer to one another in this concentrated time and effort, I have tremendous respect not only for them, but more so for the Churches they serve. We are all very tired coming away from the Lambeth, but most if not all are grateful for the opportunity to learn, yearn and grow together. The Church is fractured, we are all broken, we are all sinners, but that is whom God has called forward for this moment. I ask that the Diocese of Rupert’s Land remain in prayerful concern for the world in need, the ministry and mission with which we are committed to fulfill, and most importantly that we be equipped/resourced to “do all in our power to support other disciples in their life in Christ.”
God, bless and keep us. Pour out your spirit upon us, that we might faithfully live-out our baptism, each in our unique context, and enable us to make a compelling case for Christ in word and action to a world so encumbered with suffering; this we ask in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Diocesan Office: 935 Nesbitt Bay, Winnipeg, MB Canada R3T 1W6 Bishop’s Office: (204)992-4212 General Office: (204) 992-4200
Yesterday was full, it was enough, it was a day of yearning for Christ in our midst. Lambeth 2022 brings to the foreground issues affecting and speaking-to the entire communion. The conference draws upon many inner resources, and a bus-load of newly formed trust; fatiguing and infusing hope at precisely the same moment. Communication(s) is the principal tool here, but it seems also to be a major stumbling block. Many of our Lambeth Calls appear straightforward, yet they are decades old conversations of the whole Church, conversations which require relationship with one another while we are meeting God, and conversations which require the commitment of each member to be patient; that is really difficult to do when I feel like I am being asked to vote on Omnibus motions. Communication itself might be its own Lambeth Call, clarity, respect and solidarity as the goal and prize.
The Archbishop of York, The Most Rev. Stephen Cottrell presented so beautifully yesterday, he gave a genuinely compelling case for Christ, a rich yet humble recognition of the Bishop’s need to focus and grab hold of the simple fact that the Church is not ours, but God’s, that the Church makes disciples who are nurtured to proclaim that God is near, love kindness, do justice and walk humbly with God at every moment. In my slowly forming clarity I am beginning to see the Body of Christ itself uttering sighs too deep for words as our human words fail us while we labour to be One in Christ, Christ who died and resurrected.
A disciple is to pray, engage life-long learning, prepare the compelling case for Christ, and know, in no uncertain way, that this Church was never intended to be our personal possession, but it is to be about what God is doing in this world. Consequently, a bishop’s role most certainly must include ensuring that disciples are led to holy and sacred opportunities to let “disciple work” happen.
I briefly summarize Archbishop Cottrell’s end note: we would be in a good place as bishops of the Anglican Communion were we to live the disciple’s call every day, and lead disciples from that very space into God’s beautiful world. You just can’t vote on this type of work, you really just need to do it!
Ron, the rock of his family and an extraordinarily generous member of his community, died suddenly at home with Judy by his side after suffering a heart attack on Saturday, May 21, 2022.
Ron died just three months short of his 50th wedding anniversary. He was Judy’s partner in life and in politics. He was the most amazing father of Nick and Joe, often handling house and home single-handedly and always loving and supporting his sons unconditionally through many challenges and adventures.
Ron was born in Wellesley, Ontario where he leaves his older brother Gary Leis (Brenda), and his sisters, Judy Johnson and Sandy Poole (George) to mourn his passing. He was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Ruth Leis. He was loved by everyone in the Leis and Wasylycia clans.
Ron was heavily involved in his community, an activist for equality rights, and a good friend to all who knew him – always bringing laughter and joy, as well as tech support, to every family and neighbourhood gathering. He was an invaluable member of the Bannerman Green Not-for-Profit Housing Co-op, loved singing in the St. John’s Cathedral Choir, and was active on the board of EPIC Opportunities.
Ron loved playing his guitar for Nick and supporting Joe on his many marathon runs. He was an avid pickleball player and loved long bike rides with Judy. He read voraciously, enjoyed the theatre, symphony and opera, played to win at solo and euchre, and was already planning his weekend getaway with the guys at Betula Lake.
Ron graduated in 1970 from Elmira District Secondary School where he met Judy, and from the University of Waterloo in 1974 with an Honours BA in Math and Computer Science after which he worked as a computer technologist, most recently with Peaceworks Technology Solutions, a B Corp, using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems.
A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at St. John’s Cathedral, 135 Anderson Ave., at 2:00 p.m. on June 21, 2022. Masks and proof of vaccination for COVID-19 are required. The service will be available virtually, to be livestreamed at https://youtu.be/ceskU-WNsoM. The Cathedral is between North Main and the Red River, just north of St. John’s Park. There is street parking on all sides, but limited special needs parking. Please feel free to drop folks off at the Tower Door and then park your car. Emergency vehicle access must be maintained; plesae no parking in the driveway. Thank you!
Eulogies will be offered by Gary Leis, Joe Leis, and Judy Wasylycia-Leis. The presider and preacher will be The Very Rev. Paul N. Johnson, Rector of the Cathedral, and Dean of the Diocese of Rupert’s Land.
Following the service, all are welcome to continue celebrating Ron’s life with us at our home on 59 Bannerman Ave where we will have an abundance of food, music, stories, memories and laughter. Come and go as you please anytime after 4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Epic Opportunities, the residential care agency that has supported Nick for almost 18 years, and where Ron continued to serve as an active board member until his death.
St. John’s Cathedral has been Treaty since 1817, was formally established in 1820, is committed to the good way of healing and reconciliation, and is a proud supporter of Kapabamayak Achaak Healing Forest Winnipeg. The Dean and Judy, along with others, are Forest Keepers. The Traveling Song to begin the service will be offered by Elder Val T. Oliver-Vint, also a Forest Keeper.
“We worship and live gratefully on Treaty One Land, the traditional territory of the Ininew, the Anishinaabe, and the Dakota, and the homeland of the Métis Nation. We are all treaty people.” (We gather every Sunday with these words spoken aloud.)
St. John's Anglican Cathedral 