Deacon Neil was called to the diaconate and has been very faithful. He assisted The Rev’d Neal Buffett at the altar each Sunday. His last service was an Island service (for both congregations on Fogo Island) on December 29th, 2024, at which he assisted at the altar for the final time. After the service, Deacon Neil Coffin thanked everyone for their support over the past four years. He quoted Ecclesiastes 3:1: “a time for everything.” He believed it was time to accompany his wife during the services.

He mentioned that he had been away from Fogo Island for forty years, and returned home a few years ago as a deacon. He experienced the truth of Mark’s Gospel firsthand: “A prophet is not without honour except in his own town, and among his relatives and in his own home.” Deacon Neil and Lorna will continue to be active and worship at Holy Spirit because they enjoy the family atmosphere that they have found here.

A luncheon was held at the parish hall to honour his dedicated service as a deacon for the Parish of Fogo Island East.

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What a blessing! God provided beautiful weather with sunshine and a slight breeze for the Flower Services in the Parishes of Fogo Island East and West. All of the services were well attended and tremendously enjoyed. The Rev’d Neal Buffett spoke on the importance of having these services because it is a time when people come together to remember loved ones and support one another. It is a time to recognize that people are not alone in their grief of losing a loved one. 

After the service, those who attended visited their loved ones’ graves. Some started telling stories about their loved ones and how they missed them or how they impacted their lives. The love and support that filled this time together is what makes Flower Services a heartwarming and comforting tradition. – article by The Rev’d Beverly Buffett; photographs by the Rev’d Neal Buffett

Another succesful yard sale

St Andrew’s church in Fogo held their annual yard sale from June to August. The yard sale was a great success. Thanks to all who donated, volunteered, and supported us. After the season, all of the remaining items were donated to another church. Thanks to the Rev’d Neal Buffett for getting all of the remaining items to St. Martin’s in Gander. God is good. -photograph and article by Lisa Snow

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The parishes of Fogo East and West have a shared ministry with Rev’d Neal as their rector. Each parish came together to support Rev’d Neal, and the parishes worked together to make this special event memorable. The service was a spirit-filled event with powerful readings, prayers, plus uplifting hymns sung by choir members from each congregation; St. Andrew’s long-time organist, Margaret Oake, played the pipe organ. Individuals from each parish participated in the ceremony, and the youngest reader in the parish, Martin, presented Rev’d Neal with his licence. In addition to Rev’d Neal’s celebration, we welcomed long-time worshiper Barbara Theresa (Mary) Jacobs into our fold today.  

The Rt. Rev’d John Watton, Bishop of the Diocese of Central Newfoundland, encouraged both parishes to show love to each other. He supported and validated Rev’d Neal’s and Rev’d Beverly’s team ministry, saying it is a blessing that they have had this team ministry over the years, and will now continue their team ministry on Fogo Island. Bishop John also noted that the parishes are very fortunate to have two priests, one deacon, The Rev’d Neil Coffin, and a retired priest from the Western Diocese, The Rev’d Joan Coles,  who resides in Deep Bay. 

Rev’d Neal shares his and Rev’d Beverly’s story about Fogo Island ministry. “This island has always had a spot in our hearts, and we thought we would be here twenty years ago, but at that time, it was not a part of God’s plan. It is all in his time—we just open ourselves to him and follow, letting the Holy Spirit lead us in what the future holds as we journey the road that he has set for us.”

The post Induction Service For The Rev’d Neal Buffett on Fogo Island appeared first on Anglican Life.

The next Sunday at church, Rev’d Neal shared his experience with the parishes of Fogo East and West. He said, a truck pulled up to take the bed, and the person said, “Now I will not have to sleep on the floor tonight.” Another person took the washer and dryer in the same manner, with grateful hearts that they could now do laundry. Then the bags and boxes were carried into the building. The volunteers were so thankful that everything was already labeled with what was inside. A box full of work gloves was opened, and the lady told the men to go get a pair since they were helping with unloading. 

There is much loss and hurt amongst the people, however, they showed gratitude for the items which had been donated. Rev’d Neal said, “This Thanksgiving, I did not get turkey dinner, however this was the most fulfilling Thanksgiving I have ever experienced.” He also said, “Just because I am the one in the pictures does not mean I am more important—someone had to drive the truck. God helped us do this together. It took all of us to make this happen. Without your help and support, and God’s guidance it would not have happened.” Upon returning, both parishes shared the expenses incurred for gas for this worthwhile outreach. With God all things come to fruition.

The post Fogo Island Outreach Mission appeared first on Anglican Life.

In these times of uncertainty, mission and outreach have been a challenge. This initiative was a great beginning. With God’s help, Pastor Taylor and Rev’d Neal are already planning their next outreach endeavour.

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