Over the span of the last several months, our parish has been commemorating this special anniversary milestone of the consecration of St. Andrew’s Church. Starting the celebration this past May, was St. Andrew’s Gospel concert. St. Andrew’s was filled to the brim with celebration from the joyful singing of the congregation and music from a wide variety of performers and musical instruments. Youth and adult performers, including clergy from the parish, gave gifts of music ministry. If words could attempt to describe the energy when the full band night capped the evening with a highly energetic rendition of “I’ll Fly Away,” they would perhaps be closest using the words divine spiritual force, as the sense of unity and connection between all under her roof was almost tangible, and most certainly unmistakeable. There is a reason the Parish of Upper Island Cove is known for her music ministry. Furthermore, on November 9th, St. Andrew’s Church hosted a memorial hymn sing with music provided by St. Andrew’s parishioners, The Rev’d Aubrey Young, and members of St. Peter’s Church Choir. On November 23rd, Bishop Sam Rose joined parishioners and special friends of the parish to celebrate St. Andrew’s Patronal Festival, the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle, and the 120th Anniversary of St. Andrew’s Church. During this commemoration service, an extraordinary thing took place. Bishop Sam presented The Rev’d Aubrey Young with his licence as the new Rector of the Parish of Upper Island Cove. Sure, one can say Rev’d Aubrey receiving his rector’s licence during the Patronal Feast of St. Andrew’s service is remarkable. What makes this occurrence truly striking however, is that Rev’d Aubrey was presented with his rector’s licence during the Feast of St. Andrew service, in St. Andrew’s Church during her 120th anniversary service, and it is the very church which his great-grandfather, carpenter John Thomas Jones, built in 1904. Churches are named after saints to honour them and provide spiritual guidance to the communities of faith that serve them. Churches, like the people that do God’s work in them and on behalf them, serve the community. St. Andrew’s Church, of the British Colony Newfoundland, served people and held a memorial service in 1914 for relatives who had perished in the S.S. Southern Cross sealing disaster. She served the people of Bryant’s Cove through the Great Depression, brought refuge during the horrors of two world wars and stability both during Confederation and the collapse of the Cod Fishery. St. Andrew’s Church of Bryant’s Cove is still serving 120 years later. Somewhere, behind the first church building in a garden is said to be the location of the first St. Andrew’s Church, built in 1855; the remains of her foundation lay and remain still, a part of the one foundation that is St. Andrew’s Church today. More than one literal foundation, her strong foundation is built on the type of faith that grows strong by serving as the hymn The Church’s One Foundation states, “mid toil and tribulation” of life.

Mentioned briefly are the people who serve the church like the church serves its people. The Parish of Upper Island Cove is blessed by the many people who give generous gifts of their time to faithfully serve the parish and her communities. One such person is C.L.B. member, Captain Don Sharpe of #4547 Upper Island Cove Company. This November, the Parish of Upper Island Cove commemorated Captain Don Sharpe on #4547 on his 50th anniversary of C.L.B. service. Current and former C.L.B. comrades from across the Brigade, and clergy who served as company chaplains, Bishop Sam, and many family members and friends formed a congregation of 180 strong to celebrate during a C.L.B. church service, with fellowship social to follow. In true C.L.B. style, it came complete with a vibrant singing of “Johnny Appleseed” as the Grace before the meal.

One very special guest in attendance was Capt. Sharpe’s mother Mrs. Sharpe, who at 96 years young made a choice 50 years ago to enrol her 11-year-old son in the C.L.B. Like Bishop Sam remarked during his sermon that day, and as Mrs. Sharpe and Capt. Sharpe would agree, saying “yes” to the C.L.B. was one of the best choices that he ever made.

Finally, to wrap a busy November, the Parish of Upper Island Cove: North Shore Wildfire Faith in Action Project came to a close with strong support of monetary donations given graciously from the Parish of Upper Island Cove itself and her two churches, many parishioners, the Upper Island Cove Volunteer Fire Department, The C.L.B., J.A., children of the Sunday School and our friends from Holy Redeemer Anglican Church in Spaniard’s Bay. All money donated was given to one family with two young children who lost their home and all belongings during the North Shore wildfires this past summer. The children of the parish remain a shining inspiration of service by their compassionate actions of loving your neighbour. The money raised by the youth groups went towards the repurchasing of loved and lost items of the children’s they enjoyed doing with their family. The children’s artwork created on their “thinking of you cards” especially came from the heart. The money they gave came from their families, the gifts purchased on behalf of them, but their cards, the children who made them and their efforts remain the heart of this mission work, and embodies the universal one foundation of the church itself: love.

The saints whose names are chosen for churches are carefully selected as reflections of the histories, traditions, a church’s location. Saints and their lives can serve as unique spiritual inspiration, inviting parishioners to embody their teachings and enter divine relationship with them as faithful followers of Jesus Christ and his teachings. St. Andrew and St. Peter are seafaring saints, fishermen and brothers in faith turned “fishers of men.” They were Jesus’ first apostles—the first to follow—bringing people along the journey of transformation through Christ. Together and to conclude, let it be read in prayer that the Parish of Upper Island Cove, through divine inspiration and communion of St. Andrew and St. Peter, continues to stand for and compassionately serve the one foundation that is, the Church in all her forms, within church buildings themselves and within the hearts and minds of all her followers.

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On September 27th, more than 250 guests arrived at the Upper Island Cove Community Centre to support the St. Peter’s Church, Goods, Services, and Talents (GST) Mission Work project by attending the third GST Dinner Theatre. The Dinner Theatre entails a hot turkey dinner, a collaboration of music from musicians of all ages within the parish and by friends of the parish, and of course, a vibrant comedic play centred on life in the town of Upper Island Cove from days gone by, performed by parishioners of the parish. The GST involves an online auction followed by the Dinner Theatre and is truly a celebration of goods, services, and talents local to our town and region with all hands coming together to use their gifts to support our parish. It takes many months of preparation and so many volunteers working together to make the GST online auction and Dinner Theatre a success. Only time will tell if the crew aboard the S.S. Medda (i.e., Meadow, a name place of the town of Upper Island Cove in true phonological form) sets sail to the coast of Labrador once more.

In response to the devastating North Shore wildfires this past summer, the Parish of Upper Island Cove was moved to love thy neighbour and is currently sponsoring a family who lost their home and all their belongings during the fires. This outreach mission work project was named, the “North Shore Wildfire Faith in Action” project. The project began in October and will continue until early November. The response to this project—while inexhaustive at this writing—has been remarkable. Resources shared thus far include generous donations from both churches from the Parish of Upper Island Cove and many faithful parishioners within the parish. A strong intention was to include the children of our faith community in this mission work. The J.A., C.L.B., and Sunday School programs are currently running a “Toonie Drive” where all donations collected will go towards the purchase of replacing favourite books, art, and baking supplies—activities the children identified as ones they enjoy doing with their family. It is our hope to bring a smile to these children during a difficult time in their lives, to give to them the spirit of God’s love, and to provide the children of our faith community an opportunity to live the Word, do God’s work, love their neighbour, and be the good they wish to see in the world. Support for this project has extended beyond a parish level and heartwarmingly includes a generous donation on behalf of the Upper Island Cove Volunteer Fire Department at the fifty-third Annual Upper Island Cove Fireman’s Ball. Our local volunteer firefighters were part of the emergency response effort to protect the communities along the North Shore during the wildfires. To receive such generous support to the parish in this mission work from a team of brave people who sacrificed so much during this unprecedented natural disaster is a clear example of deep divinity that comes from engaging partnerships in our community.

In 2022, the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador launched a strategic planning project led by Bishop Sam Rose called, “Set Sail: Charting the Course for Christ’s Church.” It is my hope reviewing the past couple of month’s parish activity captured in this article demonstrates strong examples of the Word “Setting Sail” in the Parish of Upper Island Cove: Strategic action of gifts of stewardship within our communities; dedication to serving the church community by bringing the church out of the church and into community-centric practice; deepening relationships with volunteerism and mission work, parishioners, and friends of the parish; and engaging community partnerships with community organizations, local businesses, and people collaborating to support our mission and outreach work. By embracing the core truth of the Living Word in big or small ways, whether that is smiling at a stranger, cooking the turkey for a dinner theatre, or organizing a call-to-action mission project, living the Faith of the Living Word is an everyday choice that transforms our relationship with the divine, and our perception of the world to one of the peace of Christ Consciousness. I conclude with the final verse of “Break Thou the Bread of Life” which sums up the healing power of practicing the Living Word, “Bless Thou the truth dear Lord, to me, to me. As Thou didst bless the bread in Galilee. Then shall all bondage cease, all fetters fall. And I shall find my peace, my all in all.”

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Currently, several people are on a journey of deepening their relationship with Christ through formal theological studies, thereby actualizing a commitment to providing pastoral services in the Parish of Upper Island Cove. Robert Clarke—Sunday School coordinator, lay reader, and Ministry Team member—is currently a student at Queen’s College in the Associate of Theology programme. Mrs. Linda Barrett, also a Eucharistic Assistant, joins him at Queen’s College as a student in the Diploma of Theology programme. Mr. Armin Hackelsperger, a Eucharistic Assistant, is now officially certified as a lay reader, and Mr. Jacob Clarke recently received newly blessed vestments as a Eucharistic server.

To be clear and truthful, these are only some of the faces of embodied Christian duty in the Parish of Upper Island Cove. There are many cherished people in our parish who give the gift of their loving service in St. Andrew’s, St. Peter’s, and the newly consecrated St. John the Evangelist Chapel. Several new faces are joining our music ministry, church vestry, and supporting committees—people putting their faith into motion to create unity, prosperity, and growth in our parish and its communities.

Speaking of music ministry, the growth in this area is certainly noteworthy. St. Peter’s Church choir continues to grow, as seen on most Sunday mornings and especially on the evening of March 2nd at the “Memorial Hymns and Songs Service.” That evening, the choir was at full strength, the chancel was filled to the brim with choir members, and the large building of St. Peter’s Church itself resounded with their heavenly voices.

What is truly remarkable about the Parish of Upper Island Cove is the experience of hearing these choir voices perform a hymn like “It Is Well with My Soul,” followed by the magnificent voices of the congregation singing “How Great Thou Art.” One might be left in awe, their entire body tingling at the power and beauty of the singing from the chancel to the pews and back. I should know, as I was the organist for that service—awestruck by such stunning musical worship. Having grown up in this parish as a child, hearing all the powerful singing around me brought back many wonderful memories of this church building, filled with beloved and talented singers, now passed on and greatly missed. I am sure I was not alone that evening, thinking of them and connecting with them in spirit—quite a fitting experience for the “Memorial Hymns and Songs Service.”

To make the evening even more moving, Rev’d. Shirley and Rev’d. Aubrey shared their own solo musical gifts, as did our parish flagship band, the Anglican Church Assistance Association (ACAA) Brass Band.

The 2nd of March was indeed a busy Sunday for our parish. With a promise to learn and grow “to be of true Christian character,” #4547 Upper Island Cove CLB Company held its CLB Enrolment and Awards Service. Five new members were officially enrolled and joined the company and the Brigade, supported by their families, friends, and CLB family. Other members received the activity badges they have earned so far this training year.

In the spirit of pre-Lent, a Shrove Tuesday eat-in and take-out pancake supper was held at St. Peter’s Reverend Pierce Hall, supported by St. Peter’s Ways and Means Fundraising and Fellowship committees. The event was a great success, with the parish gathering in faith as a community.

Finally, the Parish of Upper Island Cove’s 2nd Annual Pasta Sunday was held on March 16th at the hall, supported by the families and friends of the Sunday School programme. They donated uncooked pasta ingredients and prepared pasta and desserts in many forms, sharing a beautiful meal as a church family. All donations were given to the local Helping Hand Food Bank.

In the afterglow of the miracle of Jesus’ resurrection, I hope that sharing the good news of growth in pastoral leadership, music ministry, and children learning how to Fight the Good Fight, as well as acts of God’s love through sharing and breaking bread together, brings joy and inspiration this spring season. Let us always remember the hope God’s love gives us all and the miracles to be found in each day of this life we are gifted.

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Channeling the great hope of the joy to come, a Christmas Teatime, Bake Sale, and Sing-along was hosted by St. Peter’s Vestry on the first Sunday of Advent. Below St. Peter’s Church proper, the Reverend Pearce Hall was at jovial capacity. It was alight with the smells of baked goods for sale—and goods to share among friends. Amid these delicious scents were vibrant sounds from the songs of the season. All gifts were shared freely: the traditional Christmas cakes, desserts, time spent in service, and, of course, the music as enjoyable and plentiful as the baked goods themselves.

The second weekend of Advent saw the Town of U.I.C., in partnership with both the Anglican Church Assistance Association (A.C.A.A.) and St. Peter’s Church, open the annual “Jingle Fest,” a week long event of Christmas festivities held in the town. Each year, these community groups and townspeople gather in front of St. Peter’s Church, and a countdown to lighting the Christmas Tree ensues. The crowd then gathers in the Reverend Pearce Hall to enjoy further band selections of the Christmas season. It is often heard that this town tradition marks the beginning of Christmas in many hearts, and indeed a sense of peace can be felt around the Christmas tree as the glow from the lights is seen on the faces of children and adults alike. In neighbouring Bryant’s Cove, the congregation of St. Andrew’s welcomed the peace of the Christmas season during their Lessons and Carols service.

Gathering steam, the third week of Advent marked the Children’s Christmas Pageant, St. Peter’s Lessons and Carols service, and, later that week, The Sounds of Christmas Concert held at St. Peter’s Elementary School. Many parishioners joined together during the morning service to watch the St. Peter’s Sunday School Children, the Junior Auxiliary (J.A.), and the Church Lad’s Brigade (C.L.B.) perform their Christmas concerts and returned that evening for a deeply moving Lessons and Carols Service.
In its second year, The Sounds of Christmas Concert is a benefit Christmas concert presented by a group of talented local musicians. Entrance to the concert is paid in the spirit of giving and humility: a non-perishable food item for the local food bank or a free-will monetary donation. One remarkable feature of this concert was the presentation of the 75th Confederation Service Medal to our very own Rev’d Howard Crane for his outstanding contributions to the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Congratulations to Rev’d Crane on this remarkable achievement—your parish is so proud of you! Before moving on to the final week of Advent, it must be noted that during a Christmas sing-along for the students at St. Peter’s School some days later, the monetary donations collected at the concert were presented to leaders of the J.A., C.L.B., and St. Peter’s School Breakfast Program by the Sounds of Christmas committee with matching donations from the Town of U.I.C. itself. It is true that it is in the giving that we truly receive, as a feeling of joy in the fellowship of St. Peter’s School amid interconnected community groups was palpable to all.

At last, the final week of Advent, marked by the candle of love and the birth of Christ, was among us. On Christmas Eve morning, some two hundred and forty parishioners joined together for a Family Eucharist and Children’s Nativity Drama starring the children of Sunday School, who told the story of Jesus’ birth through story and song. A similar number of people returned that evening for St. Peter’s Carol Service, during which St. Peter’s Choir—joined by former choir director and special friend, Rev’d Arch Young—gave us a stunning evening of Christmas music ministry. The Parish of U.I.C. held its annual St. Stephen’s Day service at St. Peter’s Church on December 26th in partnership with the A.C.A.A. and Brass Band, followed by their traditional parade to St. Peter’s School for continued music selections. To cap off quite a full month in the parish, a service was held on the last Sunday of the month at St. John the Baptist Chapel with the theme “mugs and muffins.” Hosted by St. Peter’s Vestry, it was a relaxed atmosphere, where muffins, coffee, and tea were provided and enjoyed in fellowship during morning prayer.

To conclude, the Advent season of a parish is busy, and preparations must be in sync with Advent liturgy. But what keeps the oil of said liturgical communal response going, my friends, isn’t the muffins. It isn’t the music, or the concerts, or the candles, even. Now and always, the oil that keeps it all going is about the communal embodiment of the love of Jesus. May we move through each worship and each day grounded in word, thought, and deed by this truth—the true gift of the season.

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To open Thanksgiving Day weekend, on October 11th, St. Peter’s Church hosted an afternoon of fellowship aptly named “Soup, Songs and Fellowship,” at St. Peter’s Church, in the Reverend Pearce Hall. The hall was filled in abundance with the smell of homemade soups, sandwiches, and seasonally baked goods, all prepared and donated by members of St. Peter’s Church vestry and parish members. In addition, the hall was filled with lively music, performed by local parishioners—gifted musicians who generously share their time and talent with our community. It was a wonderful gathering space to celebrate and give thanks for the blessing of vibrant fellowship in our parish.

Food scarcity continues to pose as an issue for many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, and as a faith community, the Parish of Upper Island Cove responds to help our neighbours by holding an annual food drive for the local Helping Hand Food Bank in Bay Roberts each fall season. Both St. Andrew’s Church in Bryant’s Cove, and St. Peter’s Church in Upper Island Cove, participated. Members from #4547 Upper Island Cove C.L.B. Company joined the parish vestry and ministry team as they do each year, creating an opportunity for youth members as young as 5 years old to take compassionate action as empowered community leaders by greeting and thanking the people who donated, as well as carrying and sorting the donations.

On a crisp, sunny, autumnal day, the Rev’d Aubrey Young of St. Peter’s Anglican Parish of Upper Island Cove, was officially installed as a CLB Battalion Chaplain at The Cathedral of St. John The Baptist in St. John’s. It was October 19th, a date also shared with The C.L.B. on its 132nd Anniversary Parade. Members from Upper Island Cove C.L.B. Company were on parade, celebrating the historic presence and contributions of Newfoundland and Labrador’s oldest youth organization while simultaneously celebrating this special moment for the newest minister of our parish. Let it be noted, Rev’d Aubrey doubles as a member of the Brigade, as Battalion Chaplain for Trinity Conception Battalion, and of course is a former youth member and commanding officer of Upper Island Cove Company itself. It was fitting on many levels that  Rev’d Young provided the sermon for this service as he stood in the pulpit, looking down on so many familiar comrades. Amid the festivity and warm autumn sunshine, Rev’d Young poignantly chose to share his message about following the light of God along one’s life path. First, inviting us to reflect in hindsight, and look at the present, for those glimmers of light from God’s call to us; then to accept the light and call of God in our lives. Finally, and perhaps most resonantly, a message of validation of the oft non-linear path of following the light. At times, Rev’d Young advised, it may feel as though we walk in darkness, but it is through remaining steadfast in hope and faith that a light will re-appear for us to follow, clearing our way.

That same evening of Rev’d Young’s installation, St. Peter’s Church held a Healing Eucharist Ceremony, officiated at by Rev’d Noseworthy. Blessed and authorized by Bishop Rose, a holy oil was used to anoint parishioners seeking healing. Followed with a healing prayer, the laying of hands, and receiving Holy Communion, this sacrament encourages individuals to bring their burdens of all kinds to Jesus—the great physician— for healing or, as the beloved hymn goes, “bring it to the Lord in prayer.” The point being, as Rev’d Shirley movingly stated in her sermon that evening, we do not have to carry our pain alone. As we look toward the twilight seasons of the year, we can lean into faith, surrender our fears and pains, and receive spiritual healing from God.

To close out the month of October, a memorial service to remember loved ones who died during the COVID-19 pandemic took place at St. Peter’s Church officiated at by Rev’d Noseworthy. A deeply moving service saw St. Peter’s Church filled with families who’d lost loved ones during this difficult time, and whose grieving process was undoubtedly disrupted by the necessary restrictions at hospitals, funeral homes, and churches across the province. This service clearly filled a communal need as numbers were underestimated for the service, and more bulletins needed to be printed for the attending families, revealing that communities benefit from not just celebrating together, but also from grieving together in a sacred space. In addition to benefiting family members who were able to attend, this memorial service was live streamed on the parish social media account for those who could not be there in person. Two memorial tables at the foot of the altar steps were lined with photos of the fallen, some with personal memorabilia (like an old A.C.A.A. sash of one devoted member). One special feature of the service was the candle lighting ceremony. As each fallen family member’s name was spoken, a memorial candle sitting in front of their photograph was lit, until at the end, a long line of twinkling candlelight shone on the smiling faces of so many dearly departed looking back at the congregation. It was a touching moment for all sitting in the pews and chancel to share. St. Peter’s choir struck up with the choir anthem, “Where the Roses Never Fade,” and moments one could describe as healing continued. Families and friends, who in these small, tight-knit communities of Bryant’s Cove, Bishop’s Cove and Upper Island Cove, grieved and honoured those who passed into the darkness of such a dark time, together.

A community that shares life together lives in faith together. For over two centuries, the Parish of Upper Island Cove and its communities has co-created a sense of living faith by sharing life—both the light and the dark aspects—coming together to support one another and celebrate one another. By sharing the joyous and celebratory, the sorrowful and challenging, we follow together, in our own non-linear fashion, the light of Jesus and the unconditional, eternal love of God.

The post Following The Light—Updates From The Parish of Upper Island Cove appeared first on Anglican Life.

Beginning with early August, the ministry team of Vacation Bible School (VBS) invited the children of the parish to explore beaches and coves of Upper Island Cove and Bryant’s Cove to first search for Jesus, move to develop an understanding of God’s love and appreciation for their uniqueness, and to  finally, be invited to rest in the safety of God’s protection throughout the stillness and storms of life. Each lesson was brought to life through art, story and song, and in the context of the fellowship of children. One inspiring feature of this VBS program was a centring prayer the children learned throughout the duration of the program, which is now used during Sunday School to empower them to be in stillness and connect to God’s presence and love within themselves.

September brought much vitality to the parish and the relationships it shares within its communities. Firstly, on September 15th, St. Peter’s Church in Upper Island Cove was filled with people in attendance to support The Rev’d Aubrey Young in his ordination to the sacred priesthood. Bishop Sam Rose, clergy from all over St. John’s/Metro/Conception Bay North, vestry members across the parish, many parishioners from St. Andrews, St. John the Evangelist, St. Peter’s were in attendance. Representatives from The C.L.B. on Regimental, Battalion and Company levels were present to support Rev’d Aubrey, who grew up through the ranks of The C.L.B., starting off as a youth member, and going on to become the Commanding Officer of #4547 Upper Island Cove Co. He currently “Fights the Good Fight” as the Chaplain of Trinity Conception Battalion. Additional ministry of music was provided by St. Peter’s Church choir and the A.C.A.A. Band. It was a joyous and moving evening with a sermon from Canon John Courage, former minister at and friend of St. Peter’s Church. The service was followed by a reception and fellowship, supported by the vestry team of St. Peter’s Church and many helpful parishioners, called to serve by offering their helping hands of support.

On September 22nd, the very evening Rev’d Noseworthy held her inspiring Sunday morning church service with her message of the transformative power of Living Faith through a wiliness to serve, she herself was served in-kind by virtue of her induction service to St. Peter’s Church. Once again, Bishop Sam was in attendance, delivering a powerful message in his sermon about the unity of Christ in the context of inclusivity and diversity, and by committing to be of service for all. St. Peter’s Church was filled again with vestry members across the parish, and representatives from the C.L.B. on a personal, company level were there to proudly support Rev’d Shirley who gives her unwavering support to this youth organization. Music ministry was once more provided in part by St. Peter’s Church Choir and the A.C.A.A. Band. Standing out as a most special part of this service, however, was music ministry provided by Rev’d Shirley herself, accompanied by her family.
Clergy and congregation remained deeply moved by this moving performance, making meaningful, this celebration of the many gifts Rev’d Shirley willingly gives in service to the parish of Upper Island Cove. Following this service a reception followed, supported by vestry members and many supportive parishioners to celebrate this new ministry—and Rev’d Shirley’s birthday, what a blessing!

Just one week later, the aptly named “Annual Goods Services and Talents” (GST) parish fundraiser came to an exciting, and successful, end. In its second year, the fundraiser, facilitated by a special committee in the parish, raises money for the church via an online auction of goods and services donated to the parish by local individuals and businesses.
The other piece of the fundraiser includes a dinner theatre, and is held at the Upper Island Cove Community Centre. This year’s dinner theatre was a hot turkey supper and variety show performed by a large crew of community volunteers who willingly served goods, services, and as was most evident on this evening, incredible talents. A comedic play—rife with unique idioms and dialects from Upper Island Cove and area—written, directed and performed by community volunteers was delivered in several acts; each act was followed by a musical intermission from a second large crew of talented community musicians. One remarkable feature of the evening, besides the evident countless hours of hard work that went into this event, was the large-scale teamwork behind it. Dozens of people volunteered from youth to elderly and all ages inbetween, to set up, act, sing, play an instrument, make or serve a supper. A large audience of 250 people was heard laughing and cheering throughout the evening together. A parish and its communities celebrated such a herculean effort together. At the end of the evening, people from the audience got up and cleaned up together. A willingness to serve, support each other and grow in relationship together through fellowship is what scripture translated into daily life looks like. Many people that night were people who you might see in St. Peter’s or St. Andrew’s on a Sunday morning, and yet, some you would not. But from a spiritual point of view, some might say we were all there in church that evening as a community, all in service together, all held together in the unity and love of Christ.

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But first, let us rewind to April of this year. The Church Lad’s Brigade (C.L.B.) Upper Island Cove Company #4547 was delighted to host the Annual C.L.B. Spring Parade. What a time it was to take in the lively energy of the Brigade with fellow comrades from both Avalon and Trinity Conception Battalions, as well as the beloved C.L.B. Regimental Band, who treated the congregation to their beautiful music during the church service. There were looks of surprise from the youth when Bishop Sam Rose opened his Sermon by pointing out The C.L.B. logo on his staff. The scripture of the day highlighted by Bishop Rose has been the motto of the C.L.B. for over 130 years and counting: Fight the Good Fight. A vibrant discussion with the youth then took place about the meaning of this timeless invitation, which included many insightful answers. Afterwards, a reception was hosted by The Royal Canadian Legion in Upper Island Cove. It was a heart-warming moment to see such strong community support for The C.L.B.. A group of people representing The Royal Canadian Legion, Loyal Orange Lodge, St. Peter’s Church Vestry team, members of the Parish of Upper Island Cove, parents of the C.L.B. youth members, and many community members in attendance worked together to help facilitate this large-scale event. The C.L.B. Regimental Band provided additional music at the reception for all to enjoy before travelling back to St. John’s with members from the Avalon Battalion.

Moving forward to early June, a group of 26 youth were confirmed at St. Peter’s Church. Pew by pew, confirmation candles and their brilliant flames carried by the newly confirmed, symbolized the renewal of baptismal vows and the vital energy of The Holy Spirit. A time of fellowship followed the service with Bishop Rose, the parish of Upper Island Cove ministry team, the confirmands, and their families.

Lastly, June 16th was a full and very special day for the Anglican Parish of Upper Island Cove. In the afternoon, the Annual Father’s Day Memorial Service took place at St. Peter’s Anglican Cemetery, hosted by the A.C.A.A. Branch #7. This service is a special tribute to past and current members of the A.C.A.A. over many generations. In fact, the service itself, is an intergenerational custom, held every year on Father’s Day. It is an opportunity to gather together to honour the gift of their lives by singing those beautiful hymns played and passed down over the 200 years of our parish.

Later that evening, we were blessed with a visit from Bishop Rose, who, as we learned, led his first consecration service. The consecration of St. John the Evangelist Chapel was held that evening in the beautiful, newly re-constructed, lower part of St. Peter’s Church, and references the third official sacred space in our parish as mentioned above. Equipped with familiar essentials that travelled from St. John the Evangelist Church in neighbouring Bishop’s Cove after its deconsecration only two years ago—also facilitated by Bishop Sam—these sacred items now have new life. They are once more the transitional objects which parishioners from Bishop’s Cove use again in their journeys of faith. Much as early June saw a church full of vitality in the flames and faces of candles and confirmands, it was another blessed evening indeed, as those in attendance witnessed the beloved St. John the Evangelist church “resurrect” in a stunning new form and bring with its transformation, the strength and hope of new life.

While it is true that the Church is not a building, and that God’s love certainly exists outside the four walls of the church, many people who attended the packed chapel of this deeply memorable and moving consecration service can attest that Church and God’s love exist within the four walls of a church, too. The appreciation and emotion felt and shared regarding this physical sacred space—once lost and now found—was palpable throughout the service. Many hands and much generosity went into the rebirth and transformation of St. John the Evangelist. Some might say the transformation of this new chapel is quite divine.

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