As we reminisce back to 1949, let’s picture a group of eager and enthusiastic young mothers assembled in a small two room school on Cherry Lane in Manuels, Conception Bay South.
Their ambition is to be a part of an association aimed at expanding outreach in the church, as well as in the community at large.
As their plan unfolded and materialized, they became affiliated with a group initially named the CEWA, or “Church of England Women’s Association.”
It is believed that this movement originated in Newfoundland back in 1876 with The Rev’d George Gardener, in the settlement of what we know today as Winterton. The title eventually changed to ACW, or “Anglican Church Women.”
The first president who was voted to lead the group in their initial ministry here at St. John the Evangelist was Mrs. Valda Berg—a prominent business woman in the community.
We don’t have a record of all the succeeding presidents who followed in her footsteps over the decades up to the present time, but because of its longevity, each must have had a strong desire to continue the venture uninterrupted.
The Anglican Church Women here at St. John the Evangelist have performed numerous outreach functions over the past seventy-five years. This has been achieved by their capacity in fundraising and fellowship—mainly through the preparation and sale of food, flea markets, fall fairs, etc.
In recent years, funds raised from the various activities have aided the group in sponsoring a foster child, the hard of hearing, the Gathering Place, and food banks.
A special priority is visiting the sick and remembering former members of the group who are no longer active.
I’m a relatively new member of the ACW family, having joined just 18 years ago. But I must salute others who have been affiliated here much longer.
During my tenure as secretary, I learned that there seemed to be very few old records preserved. However, I did come across a set of minutes recording the annual meeting and election of officers from January 1966 to January 1967, presided over by the Rev’d Sydney Bradbrook, who was rector at the time. They provided interesting and relevant information. Mrs. Alma Chaytor was re-elected president, Mrs Lydia Fowler was re-elected recording secretary, and Mrs, Stella Trickett treasurer.
Fundraising strategies that we use today were similar to their art of planning 58 years ago. Of note were their contributions to Queen’s College and the New Church Building Fund—thus recognizing the different outreach needs then, as well as the similarities today.
The church minutes recorded around 40 members 58 years ago, but due to illness and bereavement there were only around 20 active—almost coinciding with today’s attendance.
Recently, some branches have discontinued due to declining participation.
But I am proud to say that here at St. John the Evangelist, enthusiasm has never waned—despite the fact that we are all seniors, half of us are widows, and the youngest member is a grandmother.
Our Motto being: “Work, Laugh, and Pray.”
On November 3rd, we celebrated the 75th Anniversary with a Eucharist Service followed by a reception. During that special occasion, our ACW President, Betty Hiscock, delivered a detailed summary of all available activities performed by dedicated members involved in this distinguished Association throughout the 75 years.
Now before I sign off, I’d just like to point out,
We’re an eager old team, of that there’s no doubt.
Each has her own special gift, we’re so proud to pursue.
I’m so glad to be part of the A—C—W.
“Do not neglect the gift that is in you,
Which was given to you by prophecy.”
– 1 Timothy 4: 14.
