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St. George’s Anglican Church
77 Randall Drive, Ajax, ON L1S 6L4
905-683-7981
VESTRY REPORT
2011
Draw the circle wide. Draw it wider still.
St. George’s Anglican Church
Founded 1832
ANNUAL VESTRY MEETING
Sunday, February 12, 2012
12:00 Noon
AGENDA
1. Grace & Opening Prayers
2. Appointment of a Vestry Clerk
3. Lunch
4. Celebration of Leadership Ministry
5. Minutes of Vestry Meeting, February 13, 2011
6. Incumbent’s Report
7. Wardens’ Report
8. Presentation of 2011 Financial Report
9. Presentation of 2012 Budget
10. Parish Reports
11. Appointments & Elections
12. Other Business
13. Adjournment of Vestry
____________________________________________________________
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF
ST. GEORGE’S SCHOOL & DAY CARE CENTRE INC.
1. Opening remarks by Chair
2. Incumbent’s Report
3. Attendance & Financial Report
4. Other Business
5. Grace & Adjournment
77 Randall Drive, Ajax, ON, L1S 6L4, Phone: 905-683-7981
St. George’s Anglican Church
Founded 1832
Rector’s Report
What a wonderful adventure we have had this year! At the beginning of 2011 St. George’s was blessed to have Fr. Roy and Audrey Shepherd here to spiritually lead and support the parish. These two lovely people were able to help our faith community find a spirit of healing and hope. Their energy, enthusiasm and wisdom were a needed interim breath of fresh air.
The summer came and it was time for more change. It was time to say goodbye to this strong leadership team of Fr. Roy and Audrey. It was also time to say hello to the new leadership person. I am happy to say that I was welcomed with open arms and soon with open hearts. There was a warm welcome and a place made for both of my girls and me in the St. George’s faith community. We found a new home.
The Fall brought lots of activity, more healing and deepening of our faith. We laughed, we cried, we sang and we prayed together. We did all the things that a strong church community does. We reached out to the poor, the hungry, the youth, the elders, the families and the homeless. We gave generously and we prayed deeply for each group we were able to reach out to.
The St. George’s community is deeply blessed. We are blessed with wonderful people, great children, inventive adults, energized elders, and the ability to laugh at and with ourselves. This allows the Holy Spirit to flow through us out into the world. We are inviting back some who have left, we are inviting in some who are new to our parish, we are rediscovering our love for each other, and we are curious to see what God has in store for us.
St. George’s is a passionate community dedicated to making the world a better place because we deeply love God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. As we walk forward in 2012, we wait with expectant hearts to see what God has in store for us as we journey deeper in our love and faith.
Thank you for calling me to join and lead this wonderful community of faithful people. Thank you for loving my children and including us into your parish life. We are truly blessed to be part of this wonderful, God- filled parish.
With prayers and blessings,
Rev CJ
77 Randall Drive, Ajax, ON, L1S 6L4, Phone: 905-683-7981
Wardens’ Report
This time of year is often a time of both reflection and planning for the future in our lives. Vestry is a similar time in the life of our parish. A time to review past accomplishments or setbacks and focus on continuing and improving the things we do well and changing direction when needed.
This past year started full of optimism and positive energy at St. George’s. We continued to enjoy many great events from the Pancake Supper and a joyous Easter time to the Strawberry
Social and service held at Greenwood Conservation area. We as a parish continued to grow both in numbers and spiritually. Outreach to organizations such as Herizon House and our monthly Free Lunches helped us to ensure we remained focused on helping others in our community.
It was also a time of renewal at St. George’s. Under the leadership of Fr. Roy Shepherd we continued to spread the gospel in an effective and inclusive way. Fr. Roy’s energy and enthusiasm was infectious and invigorating. No stone was left unturned as he ensured that every aspect of church life was reviewed and in order while he was with us. We at St. George’s owe both Fr. Roy and his wife Audrey a huge thanks for all their efforts. We look forward to welcoming them again in the near future and trust they are enjoying their winter in Florida.
With God’s blessings and the guidance of our Area Bishop, Linda Nicholls, we thankfully found our new Incumbent in Rev. CJ Adams. CJ joined us at the beginning of August and has been such a great blessing for St. George’s. CJ, Abby and Amanda have quickly become an incredible addition to our parish family. On behalf of all of us at St. George’s I want to thank her for all she
has done for us and continues to do. CJ’s ability to so quickly become an important part of our parish life has made this transition so much easier for all of us. We look forward to the future with Rev. CJ and her family and know that her leadership will help us to further our goal of
spreading the gospel.
Thankfully with the renewed energy Rev. CJ brought with her our parish life has not only continued but flourished. We again enjoyed a fall season with a vibrant church life. The Corn Roast was a fun family event and the Annual Bazaar was the most successful since its inception. We also had the privilege of once again hosting the Three Cantors for a fun-filled musical evening and enjoyed a very successful Talent Auction. The celebration of our Lord’s birth at Christmas time was enjoyed by all as we invited our community to join us for our Carol Service. Our Sunday School and Youth Group also continued to flourish.
As we continue this year at St. George’s we are all reminded that our spiritual life is a journey and not a destination. And while there may be both joyful and difficult times we remain a church family, united and strong in our faith in God and each other.
As your wardens we would like to thank all of the committees and volunteers for the many hours
spent furthering the work of St. George’s. We would also like to express our gratitude for the opportunity to serve during the past year and look forward to another vibrant, exciting and prayerful year at St George’s.
Yours in Christ,
Scott Currie and Daryl Garth
2011 Parish Calendar
January 12 Advisory Board
23 Commissioning of Lay Eucharistic Ministers
February 13 Vestry – Annual General Meeting & Baptism
19 Labyrinth Retreat
26 Wedding – Heritage Church
27 Caribbean Coffee Hour
March 2 Wardens’ Meeting
4 World Day of Prayer Service
8 Pancake Supper
10 Daycare – CPR Training
10 Advisory Board
13 Anointing Sunday & Food Bank Sunday
16 Daycare – Jumping Castle in Parish Hall
April 3 Special Vestry
12 Three Cantors Meeting
23 Easter Vigil & Confirmation/Reaffirmation
with Bishop Linda Nicholls – Reception following
29 Youth Group Sleepover
30 Service of Remembrance for Ida Quann & Property Clean-up
May 1 May Day Pot-luck Lunch &
Tribute to the Ministry of Fr. Roy and Audrey Shepherd
11 Daycare Bingo & Family Night
June 6 The Parables of Jesus Bible Study – 6 consecutive Mon. evenings
8 Advisory Board
12 Children’s Garden Club – Saturday mornings – begins
9 The Parables of Jesus Bible Study – 6 consecutive Thurs. mornings
15 Daycare Graduation in Worship Centre
25 2 Weddings – Worship Centre & Historic Church
26 Strawberry Social & Communion Service at Greenwood Conservation Area
July 2 Funeral – Historic Church
24 Baptism
26 Daycare Jumping Castle in Parish Hall
26 Pajama Making for Youth Shelter
31 Farewell to Fr. Roy and Audrey Shepherd
August 7 Welcome Pot-Luck Lunch for Rev. CJ Adams
22 Daycare Jumping Castle in Parish Hall
29 Daycare Jumping Castle in Parish Hall
September 8 Women’s Fellowship Wine & Cheese Pot-luck – Welcome to Rev. CJ Adams
11 Sunday School Begins
13 Advisory Board
17 Corn Roast & Barbecue
18 Youth Car Wash after church
21 Tour of Gibson House – LOFT
25 Bring-a-Guest-to-Church Sunday
October 1 Talent Auction
2 Operation Harvest Food Bank Sunday & Blessing of Animals Service
6 Celebration of New Ministry – Rev. CJ Adams
15 Leaf Clean-up Day
16 Blessing of Pneumonia Vests & Bears
19 Advisory Board
23 Our Faith – Our Hope Campaign Kick-off Sunday
November 5 Annual Bazaar
13 Packing Gift Trays for John Gibson House – LOFT
16 Three Cantors’ Concert
19 Leaf Clean-up Day
20 Operation Christmas Child Boxes due back
23 Advisory Board
24 Class Act Dinner Theatre – Women’s Fellowship
27 Herizon House Gift Tree begins
29 ‘Empty Creche Meditative Worship
30 Advent Mid-Week Contemplative Service – 4 consecutive Wed. evenings
December 3 Women’s Fellowship Christmas Tea at Val Wilson’s
4 Annual Christmas Luncheon & Survival Tree begins & Campaign Finale
6 Waiting & Watching Ecumenical Candlelit Prayer Service
8 Daycare Christmas Concert
9 Youth Christmas Party
11 Lessons & Carol Service & Reception
13 ‘Empty Creche’ Labyrinth
16 Santa comes to the Daycare children in Parish Hall
18 Sunday School Christmas Pageant
24 Christmas Eve Services – 5 pm in W.C./7:30 pm in W.C./11 pm in HC
25 Holy Communion 10 am in Historic Church
Perpetual Groups
Meditation & Labyrinth Ministries
Weekly Tai Chi Classes
Weekly Choir Practice
Monthly Men’s Breakfast
Book Club
Women’s Fellowship Group
Monthly Community Luncheon
Weekly Confirmation Classes
Monthly Movie Night
Monthly Sunday Morning Anointing Ministry
Monthly Pastoral Care
Monthly Services at Orchard Villa Retirement/Community Nursing Homes, Pickering
& Winbourne Park Long-term Care Facility, Ajax
Altar Guild
The function of the Altar Guild of St George’s is to prepare the altars of both worship areas for services. The Guild tends to any linens used for communion and the altar cloths, seeing that these linens are cleaned appropriately & available for services. The Guild consists of teams who are assigned to one Sunday per month. Each team divides the duties as they deem fit. Such duties involve the setting up & taking down in both worship areas. Training is a “hands on” venture that lasts as long as necessary until a new member is totally comfortable setting up & taking down the altar without supervision. There are reference & communication manuals in each sacristy. This year, we welcome new members Greta Beck, Ginny Butler & Alene Clark. We extend a sincere “thank you” to Carol Armes who resigned after many years of service on the Guild. Supplies of linens, wine, wafers etc, are funded through our annual raffle. Should you feel that the Altar Guild ministry would interest you, please contact any member of the Guild or Rev. C.J
First Sunday: H: Lynn Orr
C: Rebekah Garth
Second Sunday: H: Cindy Kimber
C: Isabelle Beaudet
Bev Jowitt
Third Sunday: H: Ginny Butler
C: Dotti Parkinson
Fourth Sunday: H :Bobbi Ackerman
C: Marilyn Csihas
Jo-Anne Macdonald
Greta Beck
Fifth Sunday: H: Lynn Orr
C:Alene Clark
Thursday Services: Daisy McIlveen
Respectfully Submitted,
Isabelle Beaudet
Bazaar
Our annual bazaar/raffle was held November 5th. It was our most successful bazaar to date. The raffle portion raised $2024.00. These funds are used to purchase supplies for the Sunday School & Altar Ministry (eg: wine, altar linens, wafers, oil for the candles). The bazaar itself raised $3935.90 for a total of $5959.90 for the day.
The last few years we have offered tables to vendors to broaden the products available. This year we had 9 vendors. Our tea/lunch room is a busy place & serves a tasty lunch. The treasure/ toy/book room grows each year. We are most thankful for all your donations! The bake table as always provides so many delicious goods donated by you, our most supportive parishioners. The Penny Draw is also becoming a very successful venture. A new area, the Bottle Draw, needs further development to be more productive. Altogether, it was a most enjoyable day & very well attended.
Thank you to everyone who worked, donated time, items or talents.
Respectfully submitted,
Isabelle Beaudet
B.L.A.S.T.
(Youth Group)
Youth ministry at St George’s continues in earnest. We kicked off our program with a games night for the Youth which they thoroughly enjoyed. We have been following a curriculum promoting a lively and open discussion about God and religion. We have also added videos
prompting a healthy discussion about their relationship with God.
In addition to continuing the religious education our Youth received in Sunday School we are very focused on the social aspect of our group in an effort to give our youth at St George’s a positive friend group that share their beliefs in God and church.
I am happy to report that we have consistently seen 8-10 youth each Sunday and that in my estimation they are again looking forward to their Sunday church experience.
In addition to the games night we have enjoyed a car wash and helping with the Three Cantors Concert. Future plans for a skating party are in the works and we are attending the Trent-Durham Youth Retreat in February. I would like to encourage all parishiners to spread the word
of our BLAST Youth group. All youth between the ages of 12-15 are welcome.
Scott Currie
Youth Leader
Coffee Hour Report
With the help of many volunteers, the congregation of St. George’s has continued to enjoy an active coffee hour after the 10:30 service on Sundays. This has included a Caribbean, a May Day, a Welcome and a Christmas Luncheons.
Brenda Vandenberg
St. George’s School and Daycare Centre Inc.
This annual vestry report has been prepared for the Wardens and Advisory board on behalf of
the Board of Directors.
Members of the Board include: Geoffrey Lee
Louise O’Grady
Deb Steer
Paul Crane
Our Daycare Centre represents an important outreach to our community. We are pleased with
the management of the operation under the direction of our manager, Herb Goldsmith and his
staff team led by supervisor Denise Thompson.
Our numbers have rebounded from some of the lows we experienced last year. An increase in
advertising and recruitment campaigns have paid off. We again ask parishioners of St.
George’s to be mindful of the role they can play through “word of mouth” to promote this
important ministry.
Ecumenical Ministry Report
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER - The World Day of Prayer is a worldwide ecumenical movement of Christians who come together annually the first Friday of March to observe a common day of prayer. The 2011 World Day of Prayer was held at St. George’s on the theme, “How Many Loaves Have You?” written by the women of Chile. Guest speaker, Deacon Derek Skelton presented an inspirational talk entitled “The Greatest Gift is Love”. He emphasized how great the love of Christ is for everyone and reminded us to always trust and turn our hearts towards God at all times. People attending expressed what a joy it was to see the youth group taking a forefront role at the service this year, a credit to our church and Scott Currie the Youth Group Leader. There were 80 people in attendance with a free will offering of $603.45 which was forwarded to Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada in support of the World Day of Prayer.
The 2012 World Day of Prayer theme “Let Justice Prevail” was chosen prayerfully by a committee of Malaysian lay women and the service will be held at Pickering Village United Church, 300 Church Street North (Ajax) Friday, March 2nd at 7.30 p.m. Hope to see you there.
P.A.R.C.U.L. (Presbyterian, Anglican, Roman Catholic, United, Lutheran) This ecumenical group formed in 1969 to create, give support, co-ordinate and organize social services and agencies in the Ajax-Pickering Community. The main functions of P.A.R.C.U.L. today are organizing the World day of Prayer, in conjunction with the Women’s Inter-Church Council and hosting the P.A.R.C.U.L. annual meeting. Guest speakers are sought to speak on topics relating to community and/or social justice issues so if you have a cause or community matter you would like to share with others, get in touch with one of the team members. Our P.A.R.C.U.L. & World Day of Prayer Committee representatives for 2012 are Myrtle Walmer, Sandra Milliard & Marilyn Metcalfe.
2011 P.A.R.C.U.L. Annual Meeting was held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, May 5th with 36 in attendance. The guest speaker from Habitat for Humanity, Kathy Chateauvert, gave a very informative talk on the upcoming build for Habitat and invited local churches to get involved. A free-will offering of $365.00 was collected and it was allocated to lighting fixtures for the first home to be built at CentreTowne.
From June 1, 2011 to June 2013, St. George’s representatives have their turn to Chair the Executive of P.A.R.C.U.L. having the responsibility of convening meetings to organize the World Day of Prayer, (March 2, 2012) and P.A.R.C.U.L. Annual Meeting Wednesday, May 2, 2012. We look forward to having youth involvement at the World Day of Prayer again this year and to have the other churches involve their youth. Men and women of the parish are invited to participate as help is always needed.
In Memoriam - Dorothy Westney: A note of condolence was sent on behalf of P.A.R.C.U.L. to the Memorial Service for Dorothy Westney held on October 15th, 2011. Dorothy was the founding member of P.A.R.C.U.L. Over the years she was a dedicated social justice advocate, devoted friend to many, a great inspiration and support, personally and spiritually for the team and community at large. She will be missed by all.
From: Myrtle Walmer and Marilyn Metcalfe
Garden Committee Report
Do you like the flower gardens at St. George’s?? We have a large property to maintain with many flower beds to weed & deadhead. The fall is particularly challenging with beds to be cut down & leaves to be cleaned up. The rental of a leaf blower proved invaluable & will definitely be used again. This past fall we planned 2 Saturdays to prepare our extensive property for winter, Oct.15th & Nov. 19th. The better the fall cleanup, the easier the work in the spring. We sometimes have student volunteers who accumulate community service hours. We are most thankful for their help.
I sincerely thank those people who helped out this past summer in any way, either regularly or on our cleanup days. Mel & Lynn Brown tended to the north garden at the Historic Church. Marilyn Metcalfe cared for the garden to the west of the Historic Church main door. Bev Jowitt tended the garden in the circular drive. John Beaudet was present for all cleanup days & throughout the season offered assistance in many capacities. The ramp bed was tended when we had time to do so or felt that the cars were in danger of being attacked by the roses.
As you can see, there are very few people who help out regularly with our extensive gardens. Please consider volunteering this coming garden season for whatever time you have to offer.
Respectfully Submitted,
Isabelle Beaudet
Historic Church Committee Report
The Historic Church Committee is responsible for ensuring that the structure and the contents of the historic church are sound and fit for purpose. The committee also looks for ways, with the Warden’s and CJ Adam’s our Incumbent, to improve the Operational and Maintenance requirements of the Historic Church within the confines of the budget and resources. The current committee members are Daryl Garth, John Beaudet, Paul Crane, George Csihas and James Fidler (Chair).
In 2011, the committee met formally on three occasions in order to initiate work on the historic church and to consider further actions that will ensure the continued integrity of the structure. Work that was carried out this year includes the repair of a number of cedar shingles, that became dislodged during a windstorm in May, and the refurbishment of the three altar windows by Vitreous Glass in September.
As a result of the windstorm, the focus of the committee has centred on obtaining background information that can assist in the development of scenario planning for the eventual replacement of the roof on the historic church. The current roof was installed approximately 25 years ago and is expected to last for another 5 to 10 years.
In order to understand the potential costs, the committee has sought cost estimates for several types of roofing materials, estimates for the provision of scaffolding around the structure while work on the roof is carried out and had a presentation from a steel roof company (Heavy Metal s Contracting). The structural engineering firm Halsall Engineering was engaged in 2011 to determine the weight of roofing materials that can be supported by the structure. Also, the Town of Ajax was contacted in order to determine the approval process required by the Town when the roof is eventually replaced.
The collected information will be used in 2012 to develop several scenarios and make recommendations.
Lay Visiting and Pastoral Care
Here at St. George’s we are blessed to have a group of dedicated and trained persons who are able to respond to those who are in institutions or are restricted to their homes. The need for spiritual and emotional care is important throughout all the stages of our lives. However when illn4ess changes our ability to take part in such things as church attendance and other activities, then the church needs to reach out and come to us.
As a result, our Visitors provide in-home visits and often bring communion to those who are no longer able to get out to church. Other Visitors provide worship and communion on a monthly basis for residents of two Nursing Homes.
One of the Pastoral Care Team members sends out greeting cards on a regular basis to those who are not able to get out to church activities. Once again, it is our aim to ensure that our parishioners always feel that we are continuing to support and remember them.
Two of the Team members have been commissioned by the Bishop to perform Anointing. This is done during a regular Sunday Eucharist each month. Those who take advantage of this opportunity find it to be a personal and healing experience.
Training and ongoing support is important in sustaining this challenging ministry. As a result, the team meets on a monthly basis to go over any issues as they arise. Confidentiality is always maintained.
We continue to have ongoing training for the members of the team. In addition, this past year we shared together in a Retreat based on walking the Labyrinth.
We have completed a Manual which describes all of our programs along with the necessary requirements.
We invite your participation in the Pastoral Care Program here at St. George’s. You can do this by contacting the church office and passing along names of persons who might enjoy a visit. In addition, we are always interested in adding new members to our Team. If you are interested in exploring this ministry, please contact Rev. CJ Adams.
Team: Bobbi Ackerman, Lynn Brown, Ruth Charles, Susan Donald, Tracy Grainge, Beverley Jowitt, Marilyn Metcalfe
Clergy Support: The Rev. Canon David Clark, The Rev. CJ Adams
Light Lunch Committee Report
It was a ‘quiet’ year for the Light Lunch Committee. St. George’s did not have any funerals that required catering. The annual Vestry meeting was the only event the Committee helped with in 2011.
THE LIGHT LUNCH COMMITTEE, was formed when we opened the new building. We now had space to host for funerals and parish and diocesan functions. This has been functioning since 2005.
We have a group of people who have committed to make sandwiches, bake and/or help at the event. The church office notifies me if a request has been made. A check is made as to the availability of helpers for the event then we confirm with the office and the calls go out for the food required. Up until now, the food has all been donated. But not everyone is able to do this, so if the bill is kept for the contribution, it must be presented to the office the day of the event to receive a re-embersment.
As people move or life changes, our group has become smaller. This is a service we provide to our parish family, especially in time of sorrow and grieving.
We would welcome anyone, male or female, who feels they could be part of this group. Please contact me at 905-683-5837.
On Behalf of the Light Lunch Committee
Respectfully submitted
Isabel Etherden
Men’s Breakfast Report
Since Canon David Clark has been assigned an interim posting, I have been looking after the Saturday morning Men’s breakfast.
We meet once a month in the daycare area for a hearty breakfast and discussion on various topics involving our ministry. We usually break for the summer from May until September. We normally have about 8 to 10 members come out for this fellowship. All men of the church are invited. If you are interested, please call me in the evenings at 905-427-9201 or see me. My e-mail address is gcsihas@htomail.com.
We have got involved with helping the local food bank as well as the St. Paul’s Food Bank. We have assisted with the feeding of the troops during the LOFT community gift tray this past December. We can also help with other various small projects. Just ask.
My thanks to everyone who is participating in this ministry; it is an important part of the worship experience of all our members.
Respectfully submitted.
George Csihas
Meditative Ministry Report
ANGLICAN FELLOWSHIP OF PRAYER: Prayer reps in the area met monthly from September to May under the leadership of Brenda Riviera at All Saints Anglican Church in Whitby. Each month, participants took turns to lead and present a reflection and discussion period on a section of the book for the year. Books selected for 2011 and 2012 were “Prayer Does it Make Any Difference” by Phillip Yancey, and “Close to the Heart – A Practical Approach to Prayer” by Margaret Silf. The usual quiet and prayer time for each other’s concerns and those of our parishes was also included. After the meeting the prayer requests are circulated for the group to continue praying from Church and home.
LABYRINTH HAPPENINGS! The St. George’s LABYRINTH is a 7-circuit modified Chartres design consisting of inlaid tile and metal strips on the floor of the Worship Centre. It is an ancient pathway of contemplation, meditation and spiritual renewal. The Reverend Eiko Hosaka and others from the Malvern Emmanuel United Church enjoyed our labyrinth so much on their first visit that they attended a second time. They were very complimentary about our spiritual space and the ministry we offer in this regard.
Other Highlights: A workshop was led at the March Area day at St. Peter’s Church Cobourg. Comments received after the event indicated that most had an enjoyable spiritual experience. In October Meditation and Labyrinth workshops/intros were bid on at the Talent Auction. Also, I was invited to present Meditation and Labyrinth workshops at the Wellness Event organized by Heather Burton at St. Thomas’ Anglican Church in Brooklin. A portable Labyrinth was used and was well received by those who participated. During Advent guided labyrinth walks were held at St. George’s on the theme of “The Empty Creche”. Two different walks took place, the first with scripture and prayer while reflecting on the journey to Bethlehem as we walked; the second with Advent scripture reflection and prayer before walking. Each session was concluded with silent meditation. If there is a particular theme you would like to experience as a Labyrinth walk please let me know. The second Tuesday of the month the Labyrinth is open from 10.00 a.m-12.00 noon; 1.00-3.00 p.m. and 7.00-9.00 p.m. A Labyrinth Introductory walk for parishioners and friends can be arranged for other times by contacting the Church office or Marilyn Metcalfe.
ADVENT WATCHING & WAITING – Parishioners and area meditators gathered at St. George’s for the annual candlelit prayer service and meditation. The recorded talk by Benedictine Monk, John Main, reminded us to continue to see and experience Advent and Christmas as seasons to prepare our hearts to receive Christ anew; to take time to ponder the mystery of His birth rather than getting caught up in the ‘rush’ of the season that seems to abruptly end after the main celebration. The potluck social after the service gave everyone opportunity to share time in conversation and good fellowship. Sincere gratitude is expressed to all for food bank donations and all assisting volunteers. Next service Tuesday, December 11, 2012.
MEDITATION GROUP: The St. George’s meditation group met weekly all year with 40-50 people, from our own parish and others in the community, being spiritually nourished each month. Throughout the year we continued listening to talks by Laurence Freeman, John Main and Reverend Glenda Meakin. Glenda’s graceful style of weaving Gospel stories into every day events in her talks entitled “Listening to the Daily News with a Contemplative Heart” were most inspiring. Newcomers are always welcome to join in and learn how to meditate – we are all beginners – each time we sit to meditate it is a new experience in the presence of God. Daytime meditation is also offered at Peace Lutheran Church every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 10.00 a.m. and all are welcome to attend. Introductory sessions are available on request.
I attended the National Conference of the Canadian Christian Meditation Community in Ottawa in June. The theme for the weekend was “John Main and the 20th Century Mystics” with Laurence Freeman, OSB and Anglican Priest Glenda Meakin as keynote speakers. General Sessions were interspersed with workshops, prayers, meditation & readings. Keynote speakers and workshop presenters introduced John Main’s teachings in resonance with 20th century mystics: Simone Weil, Evelyn Underhill, Bede Griffiths, Thomas Merton, Swami Abhishitkananda and Henri Nouwen. Go on line at www.meditatio.ca & www.wccm.org for full report in Summer CCMC newsletter. The meditation group is presently listening to these talks.
WOMEN’S RETREAT: It was my privilege to lead the 2nd Annual weekend retreat St. John’s Convent on the theme of Fasting on Busyness and Feasting on Holiness. While enjoying the peaceful surroundings we spent time to worship with the Sisters, attend Bishop Linda Nicholls Quiet Day (‘Naked Before God’) reflect on various spiritual writings and scripture, decorate our mugs, chat together, relax, observe Earth Hour, go for sunrise and other walks all while our plentiful meals were lovingly prepared for us. A real treat! Gratitude expressed to Valerie Wilson for her capable assistance with registration and companionship along the way and during the retreat. Our 2012 retreat will be held again at the Convent from 4.00 p.m. Friday, April 20th to 2.00 p.m. Sunday, April 22nd. Ginny Butler will be handling registration.
From: Marilyn Metcalfe
Music Ministry Report
The past year has seen a slight rise in choir membership. Recent changes in the church have seen many new faces, and an interest among those new members to participate in the music ministry. A few returning members who have been on sabbatical have been a welcomed addition to the choir. Currently, the choir consists of eleven people (which includes three members belonging to the newly formed 9 o’clock choir), though regular 10.30 Sunday Service and rehearsal attendance averages six choristers.
While we have studied and mastered a great number and variety of music over the past year, the choice of repertoire selections has been quite challenging due to the lack of male singers in addition to unpredictable Sunday Service choir attendance. This has required great flexibility in changing repertoire at a moment’s notice should some members not be present for Sunday Worship, or completely abandoning other music that was rehearsed.
I have recently attempted to form a choir for the 9 o’clock service at the request of a few parishioners. While this choir consists of three people, recent attendance has numbered one, which is to be expected as this ensemble is still in its infancy. Moreover, it is hoped that membership and more importantly regular attendance will continue to grow.
The past year has seen a few extra services at St. George’s, including the fourth Annual Carol Service during the Advent season, which I requested to start upon my arrival at St. George’s, and the third Annual Stations of the Cross held on Good Friday, another devotion which I requested to start, although this was incorporated into the Good Friday morning service.
With wonderful leadership from Rev. CJ Adams, there seems to be revitalized interest in active community participation. Musically speaking, I believe the church has many good strong voices. There is great potential for our church to have a pre-eminent music ministry. I commend those choristers who faithfully and regularly attend rehearsals and worship services. Their dedication has certainly made Sunday worship a more uplifting and fruitful experience at St. George’s Anglican Church.
I ask those who might be interested in joining to try. We do need more committed members in order to have a successful liturgical choir.
Rehearsals for both services take place every Wednesday at 7.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Surinder S. Mundra
Our Faith – Our Hope Report
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate everyone for all the contributions that were made on behalf of our parish, the diocese and the world wide Anglican Communion. We have raised pledges in the amount of just over $151,000.00. This is 69% of our goal. Of the amount raised, St. George’s will receive 40% for the projects we have chosen. The first payment from the campaign will be sent to the church in late June, with payments being made every three months after that. With these funds we will be able to grow our community and have a positive impact on God’s kingdom.
I would like to thank the executive committee; George Csihas, Bob De Savoye, John Beaudet, Rev. CJ Adams and Deb Steer.
Respectfully submitted,
Leslie Hajdu
Campaign Chairperson
Outreach Report
Outreach activities at St. George’s include ways in which our congregation “reaches out” beyond its own members to local, regional, national and world communities by attracting new members through spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. We perform service activities that are designed to meet the needs of people who are disadvantaged and distressed individuals and groups and lastly we raise funds for these activities.
Below is a list of our 2011 outreach activities and estimated expenses.
(Bob’s chart here)
The total approximate value for the above is about $20,000.
The “Outreach Team” would like to take this opportunity to thank the many volunteers who have taken part in the various activities as listed above. We are doing a lot of work to help the many disadvantaged and distressed individuals in our local, regional, national and world communities. However, it seems that much more work is needed and we are striving to look at more programs. The Outreach Team welcomes any new ideas and volunteers.
Respectfully submitted,
Your Outreach Team
Readers, Sides, and Eucharistic Ministers Report
We have 14 people as Sidespersons, 12 people for reading, 10 Eucharistic Ministers for the 10:30 service and 5 Eucharistic Ministers for the 9 AM service. We have just enough so as not to overburden those who have volunteered. If anyone is interested, please see me or you can call me in the evenings at 905-427-9201. My e-mail address is gcsihas@hotmail.com.
Schedules will be made up quarterly in 13 week blocks. Before a new schedule is made up, I will be bringing in a sign up sheet so all participants can choose which Sunday they would like to read or serve as a sidesperson. Deadline for signing up will be 2 weeks before the new schedule is made up. Any vacant blocks will be assigned. For those who do not have an e-mail address or do not wish to provide one, a copy will be provided for you.
The reader’s schedule will include a list of readings for a specific Sunday and includes where you can review your readings. Please read over your lesson to familiarize yourself with the reading prior to the service. We use the New International Version of the Bible. Readings can be viewed at bible.oremus.org; click on the correct bible version, then type in the reading.
My thanks to everyone who is participating in these ministries; they are an important part of the worship experience of all our members.
Respectfully submitted.
George Csihas
Social Committee Report
Hello, from the “FUNraising Committee”. We are the people who plan and organize events to bring us together in a way that helps us to get to know each other personally and to have a bit of fun. Sometimes the events become fundraisers, but our focus is on enhancing the social life of our parish.
We have had a busy year! Our events went well. Some were things we have done in the past, such as the pancake supper and corn roast/BBQ, and December potluck. Some were new twists on past events — think back to that wonderful parish picnic, which was a new twist on our strawberry socials. The Talent Auction was successful as both a FUNraiser and a FUNDraiser; it is something that takes a great deal of effort, so it can be done only infrequently. The December potluck lunch and evening reception after Lessons and Carols were happy events in anticipation of Christmas.
Some things are spinoffs from the Social Committee. Valerie Wilson’s idea of a women’s fellowship group has had great results, not just for fellowship, but for Outreach such as the baby shower and Brenda Vandenberg’s gift trays.
The Caribbean coffee hour works well in February, a time when we all feel the need for a bit of warmth.
In the coming year, we hope to do the following :
February — pancake supper on Shrove Tuesday (the 21st)
March – we look forward to attending a baby shower
organized by the Women’s Fellowship team
April — we look forward to laughing at plays produced and directed by Barbara Horsburgh
May — during the weekend of Mother’s Day — a ladies’ tea
June — on the evening of June 23rd — a St. George’s History night
– June 24th — the Archbishop will visit to help us celebrate
our 180th anniversary — we’ll have a special lunch
July 8th — the strawberry picnic
(yes, it is late for strawberries, but we have a surprise solution)
September — corn roast/BBQ (to be held after the Sunday School children are welcomed back)
December – a special potluck lunch on the first Sunday in December
– a cider and fruitcake reception after an evening service (date TBD)
In addition, we would like to participate in the Pickering Village festival and Doors Open if Ajax is participating. We thank Paul Crane for introducing us to that program.
Please remember that the Social Committee welcomes new ideas. We understand that not everyone has time to make every meeting, but if you have an idea please feel free to suggest it.
We look forward to seeing you on Sunday mornings and at our events.
Beverley Trull
Sunday School Report
Our current Sunday School year began in September using Year Two of the 2-year Spark curriculum program. This program uses colourful pamphlet hand-outs to supplement each of the weekly bible stories. The younger group, 4-7 years, enjoy drawing & colouring, the use of stickers, matching pictures, and easy crafts, as part of their program. The older children, 8-11 years, take turns reading from their bibles. Their pamphlets encourage discussion about the stories both in Jesus’ life as well as in their own lives today. They enjoy crossword puzzles, word searches, guessing games and more. We will be searching for a new curriculum/program for the children for September as we will have completed the 2-year Spark program.
We continue to begin our sessions each Sunday with our own worship time; talking briefly about our week, discussing special liturgical days, singing hymns and songs, taking a collection and saying prayers.
We are very pleased that Rev. CJ has continued with the Children’s Time during the regular worship service, inviting the children to feel welcome and accepted within the ‘adult’ environment of the church.
There are currently 16 children registered in the 8-11 year-olds program, and 11 in the 4-7 year-olds program. Although not everyone attends each week, we are considering splitting the older class into two as some weeks prove quite challenging with high numbers in attendance. Beginning this January our teachers are now scheduled in 4-5 week teaching blocks in order to allow for more consistency in the classroom.
Many thanks to our wonderful team of teachers who have been so dedicated throughout 2011/2012. Not only are they here to teach on Sunday mornings, but preparation of the lessons takes quite a bit of time also. Our wonderful teachers are: Antoinette Williams
Anthia Browne
Rosie Cuffy
Lena Narsingh
Sandra Smart
Kaitlin Calla
Leanna Calla
Very special thanks to Beverley Jowitt who plays piano for us every Sunday for our worship time, and has done for several years now.
Faithfully submitted,
Helen Elbertsen
The 3 Cantors’ Concert Report
On November 16th, we hosted The 3 Cantors once again. It was a very successful evening. The Cantors are a very professional trio combining humour and son in a most entertaining fashion. That evening, CD sales reached about $1,000. All of this money is donated to the PWRDF by The Cantors. From our proceeds, we donated to local outreach and international outreach as well. Locally, we donated $1,300 to the St. Paul’s-on-the-Hill Food Bank. As well, we donated $1,000 to Dr. George Dagg. Dr. Dagg, a dentist, is one of our parishioners and a member of the Peterborough Medical Brigade. This group is comprised of a dentist and several doctors of different specialties, nurses and support staff. They are travelling this year to Indonesia at their own expense to offer services as needed. Through your purchase of concert tickets, we were pleased to be able to offer support to both of these endeavours.
Respectfully submitted,
Isabelle Beaudet
Women’s Fellowship Report
The St. George’s Women’s Fellowship group meets either at the church or is hosted by one of the ladies in their home. The purpose of the meetings is to get to know the ladies of our parish in a relaxed atmosphere. The events are scattered over various days of the week to ensure no lady is held back from attending due to conflicts with work or family-related obligations. The quarterly events are sponsored strictly by the generous efforts of the parish ladies. The meetings are traditionally held on a quarterly basis in March, June, September and December. In 2011 the meetings held were as follows:
- Saturday, March 12 – Pot Luck Breakfast held at Valerie Wilson’s home
- Thursday, June 16 - BBQ & Nature Walk at the home of Sandra Scott where Sandra barbecued a wonderful variety of meats and the attendees brought salads and desserts
- Thursday, September 8 – Welcome Wine & Cheese for Rev. CJ held in the church hall where the ladies provided the beverages and finger foods
- Saturday, December 3 – Afternoon Christmas Tea held at Valerie Wilson’s home where the ladies shared their favourite cookies over a cup of tea and conversation.
Although our official meetings are held quarterly, there have been a few other events which the ladies of our parish have attended:
- Saturday, February 5- Women’s Day Apart held at Grace Presbyterian Church in Scarborough
- Friday March 26 – Sunday March 27 – 2nd Annual St. George’s Women’s Retreat held at St. John’s Convent in Toronto
- Sunday, November 13 – Gift trays were prepared from donations of toiletry products and other items under the guidance of Brenda Vandenberg (initiated originally by the Women’s Fellowship Group, but last year was opened to the entire parish)
- Thursday, November 24 – Class Act Dinner Theatre entitled ‘Dilemmas With Dinner’
- Women’s Book Club – originally discussed at a Women’s Fellowship event but now is a group on its own coordinated by Helen Elbertsen. The group meets in each other’s homes every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the book chosen, and breaks during the summer months.
Any and all questions or suggestions regarding the future meetings are most welcome. Please feel free to contact Valerie Wilson at 905-428-0295.
Respectfully submitted,
Valerie Wilson
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