The Diocesan milestone was celebrated on June 6th and 7th at St. Martin’s Cathedral. The 50th anniversary commemorates five decades of spiritual growth, evangelization, and service to the people of God.
The Golden Jubilee celebration brought together parishioners, community leaders, and visitors from throughout the diocese in a joyful expression of gratitude and faith. The occasion was enhanced by the presence of distinguished guest speakers from Jerusalem: Dean Richard Sewell and JulieAnn Sewell.
The anniversary festivities began on Saturday with two workshops. The morning session opened with a welcome from Bishop Watton to attendees and introductions of the guest presenters, Dean Richard Sewell and JulieAnn Sewell. Also in attendance was Bishop Sam Rose, Bishop of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Rev’d Mickton Phiri, Administrator of the Diocese of Western Newfoundland, each of whom brought greetings on behalf of their respective dioceses.
Dean Richard delivered the first presentation, focusing on the current situation in Israel, its effects on the people living there, and its impact on St. George’s College. At noon, participants enjoyed an excellent lunch prepared by St. Martin’s Ways and Means Committee.
The afternoon session began at 1:00 p.m. with a presentation by JulieAnn Sewell of the Princess Basma Hospital. She discussed the impacts of war, the challenges families in the region face, and the need for continued prayer and financial support to sustain the hospital’s ministry.
Their presentations were among the highlights of the celebration. Drawing on their unique experiences in the Holy Land, Dean Richard and JulieAnn shared profound insights into Jerusalem’s Christian heritage, the importance of preserving sacred traditions, and the ongoing need to foster unity and peace in today’s world. Their combined voices were a call to us all to be more than lukewarm, passive Christians.
On Saturday evening, the 50th Anniversary Banquet at the Gander Curling Club featured a three-course meal, with the diocesan Archdeacon serving as Master of Ceremonies. He welcomed those gathered and read greetings from former bishops of the diocese. Local MHA Bettina Ford also offered greetings. During the banquet, Bishop Watton paid tribute to former bishops, clergy, and faithful laity whose dedication and service laid the foundation for the vibrant faith community that exists today.
The keynote speaker at the banquet was Dean Sewell, who spoke about the importance of advocating here, where we live, and for those who need to hear our voices. He noted our deep sense of hospitality and the Diocese of Central Newfoundland’s widespread recognition for its warm welcome, outreach, and generosity.
On Sunday morning, Bishop Watton began the worship service by reflecting on the faithful. The guest homilist, Dean Sewell, reflected on Matthew 9:9–13 and 18–26, and spoke of how Jesus calls the unlikely, welcomes sinners, and responds to genuine faith with compassion and power. These stories remind us that God’s mercy extends beyond our expectations and that trusting in Christ opens the door to healing, hope, and new life, no matter where we live. The presence of guests from Jerusalem added a special dimension to the occasion, strengthening the diocese’s connection to the roots of the Christian faith. This message must be our goal for the future, and we pray in faith for a revival in our midst.
As our diocese looks toward the future, the Golden Jubilee celebration served not only as a remembrance of past blessings but also as a renewal of its commitment to spiritual formation, faithful discipleship, and service in the years ahead.
A Blessing for the Future of our Diocese
Come, Creator, Son and Holy Spirit, enfold this diocese, encircle every parish, every congregation, and every soul.
May your Creator’s hand bless the ground we walk upon, may the Son’s resurrection raise us up, and may the Breath of the Spirit be always at our backs.
Should the path ahead be steep or storms arise, cause hope to be the lamp before us, with faith our steadfast light.
Ground our clergy with courage, fill our leaders with wisdom, and build our communities into sanctuaries of faith, welcome, and healing.
Come, Son of God, be the light that guides our going forth, be the warmth that unites our coming together. Until the road brings us home, to Jerusalem, O God, hold our diocese in the palm of your hand. Amen.
– Bishop John Watton