As we recap our church’s history,
Over a century and a half it began.
We know our forebears faced many a challenge
To arrive where we now proudly stand.
We’re older than our nation’s federation
Preceded two world wars that were fought and won.
Our church stands firm as a symbol
That care-taking was second to none.
Rev. Charles Palairet from a rich background in France,
Was the first priest we did embrace,
With a vision and foresight to plant roots in our midst,
A church building plan was soon put in place.
A dedicated group from right here in Topsail,
Shared ideas for what had to be done.
Like deciding on a suitable size that might fit,
Not just now but in years yet to come.
James. Harvey, a carpenter from the town of St. Johns
A skilled man at his trade it was said
He was engaged to do framework with the lumber that came
From a sawmill over in Riverhead.
It was on May 16 of the year that we speak,
That a foundation was subsequently laid.
By three local men who freely gave of their time,
They were Jim Hibbs, John Barnes and Matthew Slade.
Exactly one year from day to day,
After this project was debated,
Folks from Manuel’s to Topsail gathered to hear Bishop Field,
As both church and church yard were consecrated.
The date was June 1861,
That marked a universal rite of passage.
For the brave pioneers who blazed the trail,
Leaving their mark and a strong message
Rev. Charles Palairet was the catalyst,
Who moved all full speed ahead,
His mission went beyond their spiritual needs
Improving the quality of life as he led.
He was followed by Reverends Hutchinson and Colley,
They served in total, near 44 years.
In appreciation of the contribution they made,
The stained glass east window in their honour is shared.
In 1904, Rev. Temple found refuge in Topsail,
From his hardships in North Labrador.
But ill health intervened and cut his mission here short,
Limiting his capacity to serve anymore.
Rev. Netten’s, appointment just lasted six years,
During this assignment, his duties adjourned,
But he carried on faithfully right up to the end
Till his retirement was due and well earned.
Next came the arrival of a tall stalwart priest,
With aspirations to adorn was his view.
When Rev. Pitman was here, improvements were made with much care
And old accessories were replaced with brand new.
It was during this time, the women’s presence was felt
In the church where they took on the task.
To purchase an organ, a goal they achieved,
Through money raised by the teams sewing class.
Sir Edgar, a merchant from the homeland he came,
To St. John the Evangelist church, he was loyal.
But the best innovation he graced our church with,
Was when electric lighting replaced lamps of oil.
The late Becky Fowler deserves a bouquet,
For the funds she left in her will.
To build steps and a rail to enhance the old church,
They’ve endured and are functional still.
Rev. Butler was placed in 1934,
And served his term here till late 43.
He had the privilege to celebrate our 80th. Year,
But soon after, he died suddenly.
Rev. Clench was then summoned to take over the charge,
A most interesting priest, so they claim.
When his wife passed away, with his duties he stayed.
Then he married Miss Earle, his old flame.
When we had Rev. Goodland, a parsonage was built.
As a home for the priest, it was called.
But before his mission was done, he fell sick and succumbed,
Then Rev. Camp was then quickly installed.20
Rev. Camp was more senior than most of the rest,
And served fewest of years, per my search.
When he finished his reign, Rev. Bradbrook then came,
As the last priest to serve our old church.
The old church sustained us for a century or more,
Till lack of space became an issue each day,
So expansion was vital to accommodate all,
Hence, a new building was soon underway.
The new church was made ready in 1974,
And consecrated within that same year,
Rev. Bradbrook finished his mission here on our new sight,
Guiding parishioners through the transition with care.
Rev. Tibbo was next to arrive on the scene,
With a fresh vision that could quell any fears
Strong communication skills did lighten his load,
His incumbency lasted eight years.
Rev. Collett came from up west, Corner Brook,
With a persuasive tone to convey not subdue.
No need for loud speakers to hear in the back,
His voice just ricocheted off every pew.
Now for a huge change, there came a shift in the age,
Of the next priest that was put in our midst.
A lively 40 year old, Canon Hynes broke the old mould,
As clapping hands to brisk hymns was the gist.
During his time here in Topsail, a giant project was planned.
With stained glass windows, the nave to restore.
Engineered by our warden, Bob Dawe, at the time,
Dedicated to those gone before
Fr. John came on board with much prowess,
Conveying lessons in such simple style,
But his departure was abrupt and so sudden,
That Rev. Sandra filled in for a while
Then we had the honour to have Rev.Bellamy,
Who provided a restorative boost for one year.
An experience that will linger forever,
Along with his guidance in spiritual care.
He was assisted by Rev. Sheppard,
And together, we owe them so much.
Not to mention the privilege of meeting,
Both their wives, who were always in touch,
Rev. Parsons then graced our congregation,
With a crescendo voice, taken right from the top.
No trouble to hear, from the front to the rear.
During sermons, you could hear a pin drop.
It was 2016, we had our first female priest,
She did her internship with us here before.
Rev. Jolene was welcomed back into the fold.
As she guided us through the next four.
Retired Archdeacon Greg Mercer was our redeemer,
Whenever there was one called away,
He was right on the spot to sustain us.
And he’d come as long as we need him to stay.
Our guest priests are enjoying a reprieve now,
As we embrace the permanency of Canon Jotie Noel,
His capacity to inject proper humour in sermons,
Is a special gift that is good for the soul.
His wife Pauline is an active participant,
With ACW, she plays a prime part,
Always ready to help with a project,
Whenever it’s ready to start.
Rev. Deacon Lisa, of course, is our home grown,
Always present through thick and through thin,
Forever steadfast to assist all our pastors,
Every Sunday, to usher us in.
There’s been 22 in all who have answered the call,
Each with their own special gifts stood the test.
With its ups and its downs, the church always rebounds,
That’s our St. John The Evangelist.
