60 Years of Providing Organ Music at St. James’, Pool’s Island

In this photograph, we see Nina Burry (nee Hoyles) on the right, Bishop John Watton in the middle, and on the left The Rev’d Renee Easton. The photograph was taken when Nina was presented with her 60th year certificate on behalf of both the congregation and the Diocese of Central Newfoundland.
Photography: 
Brenda Lee Goodyear

On February 2nd, 1964, a young girl named Nina Hoyles, walked through the doors of St. James’ Anglican Church on Pool’s Island. At just 14 years old, Nina was not shy at all to play the large church pump organ, and the years have flown by. Her first service was a very memorable one as it was one of Holy Baptism. Nina has played for many occasions, including weddings, burials, and anniversaries. She has very rarely missed a Sunday in those 60 years, except maybe one or two each year to visit family members who live out of town. We thank you Lord, for her gift and devotion. Nina’s strength comes from you, as she plays this instrument to your glory. Since 2020, when St. James’ Church closed, Nina has continued to play the organ at St. Alban’s Church in Badger’s Quay.  Sixty years later, in 2024, on that very same date of February 2nd, Nina gifted the congregation with music she played on the organ there. With deepest appreciation, we thank Nina for her dedication, strong faith, and love of worship.

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