Agenda Book A Information for the Conference Meeting · Evangelism Education Report ... Suspends debate on the main motion and any ... mover of the main motion has the right of speaking

Welcome to the Agenda Book for the 85th Meeting of Alberta and Northwest Conference!

Alberta and Northwest Conference 85

th Conference Meeting May 10-13, 2018

Sherwood Park, Alberta

This book contains background information to help you prepare for the Conference Meeting. In it you will find Proposals that will come before the Court, as well as Accountability Reports from Conference Officers, Committees, Presbyteries, and related organizations.

The Agenda Book will be posted in three sections as outlined below.

A link to Proposals and Reports that were not available when this book was completed will be sent at a later date.

AGENDA BOOK FORMAT

Section A: This Section contains information about the Conference Meeting, biographical information about Candidates for Ordained and Diaconal Ministry and Ministry Personnel retiring at this Meeting, Memorials, and information related to he business of the Conference Meeting.

Section B: This Section contains Proposals to the 43rd General Council and Proposals to Alberta and Northwest Conference.

Section C: This Section contains Accountability Reports from the Conference President, the President of Conference UCW, the Committees of the Conference, the Presbyteries, and the Institutions and related organizations that serve this Conference.

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Meeting of Alberta and Northwest Conference May 10-13, 2018

SECTION A Information about the Conference Meeting

Proposed Meeting Agenda

Rules of Business

Business Process 2018

Proposal Templates

Response Form

Motion Form

Election of Commissioners to General Council - Policy

Nomination Form: Commissioner to General Council

Candidates for Order of Ministry and Retirees

Memorials

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Proposed Agenda Alberta and Northwest Conference Meeting – May 10 to 13, 2018

Thursday, May 10 Friday, May 11 Saturday, May 12 Sunday, May 13

10:00

10:30

Registration Opens

Stewards’ Orientation

8:30

9:30

11:15

12:00

Worship

Order Paper 2

Remit Implementation Update

Awkward Conversation Follow-up

Intercultural Ministry

Committee

Grace

9:00

9:45

10:30

12:00

Worship

Business Session

Nominees:

Denominational Council

Executive

Board of Vocation

Grace

Nominations Close:

GC Commissioners

9:00

10:00

12:00

Celebration of Ministry

Rehearsal


Closing

12:00 Lunch Choir Practice @ 12:30 12:00 Lunch Choir Practice @ 12:30 12:00 Reception

1:00

3:30

4:00

5:15

Welcome to Conference

Constitution of Meeting

Elder Invocation/Prayer

Greetings

Worship

Orientation to Business

Process, DOTS

Break

Order Paper 1

Reports

Announcements

Grace

1:30

3:00

3:30

5:15

Business Session

Break

Reports:

Living Into Right Relations

United Church Foundation

M&S Commercial Break

Kathryn Hofley

Alberta Land Trust

Announcements

Grace

1:30

2:00

2:40

3:00

4:30

5:00

5:15

Business Session

Election: GC Commissioners

Children at Conference

Business Session

Registrar’s Report

Courtesy Report

Evangelism Education Report

Announcements

Table Group Closing

1:00

to 2:30

Orientation for GC43

Commissioners

(Activity Room #3)

Safe journey home!

5:30 Supper 5:30 Supper

7:00

7:30

9:00

IRIDESCE Speaker

Education & Students

Conference Interview

Board

Adjourn for the day

7:00

7:15

8:00

8:45

Student Bursary Fund Society

Colleges and Education Centres

Vespers

Adjourn for the day

Presbytery Meetings (as needed)

6:30

7:00


Reception


Banquet (ticketed event)

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RULES OF BUSINESS Detailed Rules of Debate and Order are found in the Appendix to The Manual of The United Church of Canada (2016). In situations not covered there, Bourinot’s Rules of Orders will apply.

Routine items of business will be presented on Order Papers, which will be circulated prior to being presented. Once moved and seconded, Order Papers become Motions of Conference. Any item on an Order Paper can be discussed separately on the request of two (2) Delegates.

Proposals to General Council which do not receive the concurrence of the Conference Meeting will not be transmitted unless the Conference passes a motion to transmit without concurrence.

The Bar of Conference will be the designated area of the MaxWell Soccer Field, Millennium Place, Sherwood Park, Alberta.

The Quorum of Conference shall be twenty percent (20%) of the registered Delegates; of which one third (1/3) must be members of the Order of Ministry, and one third (1/3) must be Lay Delegates; representing at least two (2) Presbyteries.

Times specified on the Agenda, including approved revisions, are “Orders of the Day” and have priority over other business unless changed by a Motion carried by a two-thirds (2/3) majority.

All motions and amendments must be submitted in writing to the Business Committee as soon as possible, preferably before they are presented at a microphone. Forms have been circulated in the Agenda Book, and additional copies are available from the Business Committee.

All materials to be circulated to Delegates must be cleared through the Business Committee. The Stewards are responsible for distributing all materials within the Bar of Conference.

People leaving the meeting before its conclusion must report to the Business Committee. Nominations for Commissioners to the 43rd General Council, including the nominee’s consent and biography, must be in the hands of the Executive Secretary by 12:00 Noon, Saturday, May 12. Nomination forms have been circulated in the Agenda Book, and additional copies are available from the Business Committee.

Definitions

Rules of Conduct

Members of the Court are expected to conduct themselves with dignity, fairness and understanding. The prime concern is the good order and welfare of the Church.

Court The Delegates to Conference who are present and eligible to vote

Bar of Conference

The physical boundaries within which the business of the Conference will be conducted. Delegates must be within this area to vote.

Voting Members

Only Delegates appointed according to the requirements of The Manual are entitled to vote.

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Corresponding Members

Those who are not duly appointed voting Delegates are entitled to speak to the Court if they have been named as Corresponding Members by a motion of the Court.

Plenary Time on the Agenda where all the members of Conference meet together.

Debate Formal discussion of motions, using Parliamentary Procedure.

“Question” Members of the Court sometimes call for the “question” when they feel the debate has gone on long enough. The President may or may not respond to this. The proper procedure is to move for an immediate vote.

Voting Voting is normally done by the use electronic “clickers” issued to Delegates. Voting by standing or by secret ballot may be requested by the President or by motion. (For example, if a vote is not clear, a standing vote may be used to assist in tallying the count, but Delegates must vote the same way they did the first time.) Any Delegate may request to have their vote or abstention recorded. In the event of a tie, the President shall cast the deciding vote. Secret ballots must be used for any votes regarding membership in the Order of Ministry (The Manual, Section D.4.4).

Point of Order Raises the question of possible procedural errors. If a speaker has the floor, the Point of Order has priority until the President has ruled on the matter. Rulings may be appealed to the Parliamentarian.

Question of Privilege

Raises the question of infringement on the rights of the Conference as a whole or an individual (e.g., remarks that are misleading or defamatory). If a speaker has the floor, the Question of Privilege has priority until the President has ruled on the matter and taken any appropriate action.

Appeal of Ruling

Any member of the Court may appeal a ruling of the President, but only at the time when the ruling is made. When an appeal is made, the President should state the point at issue, and may offer reasons for the ruling. The Executive Secretary shall ask the Court, “Is the ruling of the President sustained?” If the vote is a tie the ruling is sustained. The Executive Secretary will declare the result.

Order Paper Housekeeping and routine items of business, including disposition of Proposals that have been shown to have a high degree of support or lack of support may be included on an Order Paper. When a vote on an Order Paper is carried, all items on the Order Paper are passed. Specific items may be lifted from the Order Paper before a vote is taken, on a request by two Delegates. Discussion and voting on the items lifted from the Order Paper would then take place separately.

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Order of the Day

A specified time on the Agenda. Changing an Order of the Day requires a motion carried with a 2/3 majority.

To Separate (Seriatim)

When a motion has two or more parts or points, two Delegates can request that they be separated. Discussion and voting then takes place on each part separately.

Committee of the Whole

For greater freedom of discussion, the Court may move into a Committee of the Whole, by motion (not debatable and not amendable). The usual limits of debate do not apply, and only the specified issue(s) can be addressed. The Committee’s first action is to appoint a Chairperson and Secretary. When the work is concluded, the Court is automatically reconstituted; the Committee cannot adjourn. The Chairperson reports to the Court, and moves any Proposal produced by the Committee.

Priority of Motions:

(When a motion is on the floor, any motion higher on the list is in order, and any motion lower on the list is out of order.)

· To Fix the Time to Adjourn · To Adjourn · Question of Privilege or Point of Order · To Lay on the Table · To Take an Immediate Vote (requires a 2/3 majority) · To Limit or Extend the Limits of Debate (requires a 2/3 majority) · To Postpone Definitely · To Refer · To Amend · To Postpone Indefinitely · To Deal with Main Motions · To Reconsider

Main Motion The motion “on the floor” when amendments or procedural motions are made.

Motion to Amend

A motion to add, delete or change some words of a main motion (or amendment) currently on the floor, in order to clarify or modify the proposed course of action. Negating the intent of the motion is out of order. The number of amendments is not limited, but only one motion, one amendment, and one amendment to the amendment can be on the floor at one time. Voting takes place on the amendment to the amendment, then on the amendment (as amended or not), and then on the main motion (as amended or not).

Motion to Adjourn

Must be seconded, and is not debatable. A Motion to Adjourn will be part of the final Order Paper.

Motion to Lay on the Table

Suspends debate on the main motion and any amendments; but cannot have any conditions attached to it, cannot be debated, and cannot be repeated or reconsidered. The item can be taken from the table by motion when no other business is before the court, and discussion continues where it left off.

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Motion to Take an Immediate Vote

Suspends debate on the main motion in order that a vote be taken immediately; cannot be debated, and must carry with a 2/3 majority. The mover of the main motion has the right of speaking to close the debate before the vote.

Motion to Refer Asks a specified group or committee to do further work on the main motion and any amendments, and should specify when the report will be received. Debate can only address the wisdom or the manner of referral.

Motion to Postpone (Definitely or Indefinitely)

Suspends debate on the original motion, with conditions. A “Motion to Postpone Definitely” specifies a time on the agenda or other scheduled event. A “Motion to Postpone Indefinitely” means that discussion of the original motion can only resume with the approval of the Court.

Motion to Reconsider

Brings a previous motion back before the Court; the mover must have voted with the majority for the previous motion. This motion requires a 2/3 majority. A motion cannot be reconsidered twice unless materially changed from the original.

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BUSINESS PROCESS 2018

Step 1

Framing the

Question

a) Business Committee introduces Proposal, invites Presenters to present (2 min.)

b) President invites table group discussion.

c) President invites questions for clarification.

d) President: Are the members of the Court ready to consider this matter?

“Yes”

“No”

Business Committee will present a motion to take no action.

President: We will now use Parliamentary Procedure. (Step 5)

Step 2

Exploring the

Question

a) Table group discussion: Is the proposed action an appropriate response? Can it be

improved? Has it received full consideration? *

b) Comments made and recorded.

c) President: Are the members of the Court ready to proceed with the matter as it is

currently stated?

“Yes”

“No”

President invites further comments and discussion, or seeks direction from

the court on how much more time is needed.

Step 3

Pause President: Let us take a moment of rest in preparation for making the decision.

Step 4

Offering a

Proposal

President: We are now using Parliamentary Procedure.

Presenter puts the motion as reworked in Step 2.

Step 5

Parliamentary

Procedure

Rules of Debate apply (see Business Procedures for details)

The mover speaks first, and last to close the debate; all others speak once

Amendments and procedural motions are in order

The President may ask the Court if it wants to return to Table Group discussion

* In Step 2, discussion on a Proposal to General Council will focus on whether or not the members of

Conference concur with the Proposal, whether or not the Proposal should be transmitted to General

Council, and if any recommendations should accompany it. Changes to the wording of the Proposal

are not permitted.

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th Conference Meeting - May 10-13, 2018

Proposal to the 43rd General Council

Title: Originating Body: Date: Financial Implications: Staffing Implications: Source of Funding: Intermediate Court Action:

1. What is the issue? (describe in broad terms) We believe God/Jesus/Holy Spirit is calling us to:

do something about…

engage the topic of…

respond to the challenge of…

etc. Note: proposals for the General Council are for issues of denominational responsibility that go beyond the bounds of a presbytery or Conference.

2. Why is this issue important?

What are the key underlying theological, ecclesiological, missional, or justice issues? What is the history/background of this issue? What are the principles informing this issue?

3. How might the General Council respond to the issue?

Name a possible response that the General Council might consider:

A. Study/Discussion of the issue

B. Action on the issue This could include:

General Council directing that a policy/strategy be developed based on specified principles and parameters

General Council adopting a policy position/strategy

General Council encouraging/suggesting action by congregations and other communities of faith on the issue

Note to 3.A: The General Council could be asked to have a conversation about a particular issue as an end in itself without making a policy decision or taking other action. Note to 3.B: Suggestions for wording of a policy/strategy could be offered as possibilities for consideration in the decision-making process but not as expectations of a particular outcome.

4. For the courts transmitting this proposal to the General Council:

Are there comments, affirmations, suggestions you would like to make with respect to this proposal?

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th Conference Meeting - May 10-13, 2018

Proposal to Alberta and Northwest Conference

Originating Body: Date: Financial Implications: Staffing Implications: Source of Funding: Intermediate Court Action:

4. What is the issue? (describe in broad terms)

We believe God/Jesus/Holy Spirit is calling us to:

do something about…

engage the topic of…

respond to the challenge of…

etc. Note: proposals for the General Council are for issues of denominational responsibility that go beyond the bounds of a presbytery or Conference.

5. Why is this issue important?

What are the key underlying theological, ecclesiological, missional, or justice issues? What is the history/background of this issue? What are the principles informing this issue?

6. How might the Conference respond to the issue?

Name a possible response that the Conference might consider:

C. Study/Discussion of the issue

D. Action on the issue

This could include:

Conference directing that a policy/strategy be developed based on specified principles and parameters

Conference adopting a policy position/strategy

Conference encouraging/suggesting action by congregations and other communities of faith on the issue

Note to 3.A: The Conference could be asked to have a conversation about a particular issue as an end in itself without making a policy decision or taking other action. Note to 3.B: Suggestions for wording of a policy/strategy could be offered as possibilities for consideration in the decision-making process but not as expectations of a particular outcome.

4. For the courts transmitting this proposal to Conference:

Are there comments, affirmations, suggestions you would like to make with respect to this proposal?

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Response Form

Use this form to comment on or submit questions about items in the Agenda Book, Displays, and Presentations. Submit it to the Business Table in the plenary room. Please print clearly. Extra copies of this form are available from the Business Committee.

Title/Topic

Origin

Questions

Comments

Concerns

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Motion Form

Clearly print you motion or amendment, and submit the form to the Business Table. Extra copies of this form are available from the Business Committee.

Mover: Presbytery:

Seconder: Presbytery:

Subject:

Motion:

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Excerpt from the Alberta and Northwest Conference Handbook of Policies and Procedures: 1.10 Election of Commissioners to General Council

The Conference is responsible for electing commissioners to the General Council. It must elect an equal number from each of the following groups:

(a) members of the order of ministry and designated lay ministers; and (b) lay members other than designated lay ministers.

Commissioners who are members of the order of ministry or designated lay ministers must be members of the Conference that elected them at the time of the election and at the time that the General Council meets. Commissioners who are lay members must be members of a congregation within the Conference that elected them at the time of the election and at the time that the General Council meets. The Conference may not elect overseas personnel. The Conference may elect (a) any other lay member in any Pastoral Charge in the Conference as a lay commissioner; and (b) any other member of the order of ministry or designated lay minister on the roll of the

Conference. The Manual (2016), Section D.2.5.1 to D.2.5.4 The Conference process provides for nominations and representation from each of the nine Presbyteries. The following policy was approved by the Alberta and Northwest Conference Executive on February 6, 2000. The Alberta and Northwest Conference Executive adopts the following process for the election of Commissioners to the General Council: 1. That the following persons be elected as Commissioners:

President, President-Elect, Conference United Church Women President (or designate), and the two Conference Representatives to the General Council Executive (or their alternates).

2. That the balance of the Commissioners be elected as follows:

i. That each Presbytery be asked to nominate one Order of Ministry person and one lay person, such nominations to be given to the Executive Secretary prior to the start of the Conference Meeting in which the elections are to take place.

ii. That there be additional nominations from the floor during the Conference Meeting, such nominations to be signed by at least two persons and the nominee.

iii. That each candidate or his/her nominators post an 8½ x 11 sheet at the Conference meeting giving pertinent information about the nominee.

iv. That the candidates for election be presented to the delegates at the Conference meeting. v. That an open ballot listing all the nominees and their Presbyteries be presented to the delegates

at the Conference Meeting and the delegates be asked to choose up to the number needed to be elected.

vi. That the nominees receiving the most votes be declared elected as Commissioners with the following exception:

That the Conference elect as Commissioners the lay and ordered nominees from each of the nine Presbyteries who receive the most votes from the Conference.

vii. That the runners up in the ballot, after the exception noted above has been taken into account for purposes of the initial election only, be considered as Alternates in the order of most votes received replacing any of the previously elected Commissioners who are unable or become ineligible to attend the General Council meeting.

(Updated January 2012, August 2013, and October 2016)

December 2001

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Alberta and Northwest Conference Nomination Form for Commissioner to the 43

rd General Council (2018)

Information about Nominee

Name Order of Ministry Lay Member

Age Category 16-20 21-30 Over 30

Presbytery

Has attended General Council Before? No Yes

If Yes: Year(s) In what capacity?

Biographical Information: Please outline pertinent information about the Nominee’s interests or experience as they may relate to the role of Commissioner.

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Consent of Nominee I am aware of the duties as set forth on the reverse side of this form, and am willing to be a Commissioner to General Council. I am willing to attend a Conference Pre-Council Orientation Event.

Name

Signature

Address Postal Code

Phone (H) (W)

Nominators Name Presbytery

Signature

Name Presbytery

Signature

DUTIES OF A COMMISSIONER TO GENERAL COUNCIL

1. To be knowledgeable of the procedures, organization and duties of General Council;

2. To study pre-Council documentation and preparation materials;

3. To attend a Conference pre-Council Orientation event at the conclusion of the 85th

Conference Meeting, at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, May 13, 2018, and an on-site training session

immediately prior to the General Council;

4. To attend all sessions of the meeting of the 43rd General Council, July 21-27, 2018, in

Oshawa, Ontario;

5. To attend a Conference post-Council event to evaluate and plan regarding reporting,

accountability and implementation; and

6. To be available to make reports to Pastoral Charges, or to Presbyteries and Conference

and/or Regions about the meeting and the work of the General Council during the three year

term in which you are a Commissioner.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Shannon McCarthy, Executive Secretary: Telephone, 204-233-8911, E-mail, [email protected]; or Bill Doyle, Executive Secretary, Telephone, 306-721-3311, E-mail, [email protected]. Nominations from the Floor of Conference close at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, May 12, 2018. Please submit this form to the Executive Secretary prior to the close of nominations.

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CANDIDATES FOR THE ORDER OF MINISTRY

ORDAINED MINISTRY

Stephen R. Harper, B.A., M.Div., D.Min

Lisa Louise Waites, Hons. B.A., M.A., D.W.S., Dip.D.S

DIACONAL MINISTRY

Tiffany L. McNaughton, B.A., Diploma in Diaconal Ministry

ADMITTED FROM OTHER DENOMINATIONS

To Ordained Ministry:

Christian Kakez-A-Kapend, Dipl.Ed., B.Div.(Hons.), M.T.S., Ph.D. The United Methodist Church, USA

MiYeon Kim, B.A., B.Ed., M.Div. Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK)

RETIREES

ORDER OF MINISTRY

Marilyn Carroll, B.A., M.Sc., D.D.M (Northern Lights Presbytery)

Peter Chynoweth, B.Math./Comp. Sc.(Hons), M.Div. (Northern Lights Presbytery)

Paul DuVal, B.Sc., M.T.S., M.Div. (St. Paul Presbytery)

Lynn Elliott, B.A., M.Div. (Yellowhead Presbytery)

Marilyn Evans, D.D.M., B.Gen. Studies, M.Div. (Calgary Presbytery)

Neeltje (Nel) Ouwens, B.Sc., M.S., M.T.S., M.Div. (Yellowhead Presbytery)

Janice Stevenson, B.A.(Hons.), M.S.T., Dipl.Min. (South Alberta Presbytery)

Curtis Tufts, B.A., M.Div. (Yellowhead Presbytery)

Jean Udall, B.Th., M.Div. (Red Deer Presbytery)

DESIGNATED LAY MINISTRY

Roger Manuel, B.A.(Hons), Cert. Ed., M.Ed. (Yellowhead Presbytery)

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CANDIDATE: ORDAINED

Stephen Robert Harper, B.A., M.Div., D.Min. Stephen comes to the United Church with a Doctorate from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, which focuses on envisioning creative ways to connect people with God. He is the author of “They’re Just Not That Into You: The Church’s Struggle for Relevancy in the 21st Century.” Seeking a more progressive theology, Stephen joined The United Church of Canada in 2011 and recently completed a denominational diploma at Vancouver School of Theology. He has loved having the opportunity to further his education at VST and feels it provides him with the necessary foundation and background needed to thrive as a minister in the United Church. Stephen has received a call to serve in team ministry at Symons Valley United Church in Calgary and is thrilled to embark on this next chapter of ministry.

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CANDIDATE: ORDAINED

Lisa Louise Waites, Hons. B.A., M.A., D.W.S., Dip. D.S.

Faith Journey: 1 Cor. 1:26-30

My childhood faith was nurtured by a handful of United Church congregations across Ontario. Under their care, I learned to worship God, to question assumptions, to seek justice and resist evil, to love my neighbours, and to wrestle with the Word. I knew that I was called to some kind of ministry from a very young age, but throughout my teens and twenties, I assumed that my call was solely musical. From church choir solos to professional studio recordings, my teen years were filled with sacred music. I attended Walkerville School for the Performing Arts during my final year of high school and from there, I was awarded an entrance scholarship for music performance at Laurentian University. I earned my Hons. B.A. in Music in 1996, and then worked as a music minister, singer-songwriter, Christian recording artist, and supply preacher/inspirational speaker for several years, traveling internationally and working among many different denominations, including the United Church. After a “chance” (read God-incidence) encounter in rural Northern Ontario with the Rev. Dr. Peter Wyatt in 2005, I was offered a scholarship to study at Emmanuel College for one year, to explore the possibility that God was calling me to a different kind of ministry in our denomination. One visit to the Emmanuel College library, and I was hooked! A year of study and of formal discernment in my home congregation of Zion United in Sundridge ON soon followed, and my call to ordained ministry was confirmed. I was then asked to enroll in the Sum-Dist M.Div. program at the Atlantic School of Theology. While studying at AST, I also served as a student supply minister at Trinity United and Locks United Churches in Huntsville ON, under the supervision of the Rev. Derek Shelley. Our family relocated to SE Alberta in 2008 for my spouse’s employment. Although there were many pulpit supply and music opportunities in our new region, I was unable to secure the necessary ½ time supervised student placement nearby. So, I had to graduate from AST with an M.A. in Theology, not an M.Div. My M.A. alone wasn’t sufficient for ordination, no internship site or supervised ministry placement was available locally, and our family was unable to move, so a liminal period of waiting, praying, and longing to fulfill my call to ordained ministry began. During these years (2011-2016), I served as the inaugural Chaplain of the Medicine Hat Ecumenical Campus Ministry, an innovative chaplaincy program partially supported by the Mission and Service fund. At the same time, I was offered a scholarship to study at the Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies (IWS), and I eagerly embraced the opportunity to study theology, music, and Christian worship at the post-graduate level. I received my doctorate from IWS in 2016, and later that year, I was relieved to learn that I’d been approved for a church appointment that would also qualify as a Supervised Ministry Experience (internship) at St. Andrew’s United Church, in nearby Bow Island, AB. This congregation was truly worth the eight-year-long wait for a local ministry site; they have also asked me to stay on as their ordained minister, and I have gladly accepted their call. The SME was finished in 2017, with the support of the Lay Supervision Team, Supervisor Laura Balas, the Rev. Bob Wallace, the E&S Committee, South Alberta Presbytery, and the faithful staff and volunteers of ANW Conference.

A diploma in United Church studies from the Vancouver School of Theology (2016-2018) has recently completed my academic preparation for ordination, and I am very grateful that during these formational years, I have enjoyed the unwavering support of my family, especially from Jeff and our three children, Josh, Hannah, and Simon. I’ve also been encouraged by many friends, faculty members, and ministry colleagues along the way. My path to ministry has been complex and sometimes painful, but God has never forsaken me. In hindsight, I see how my faith has deepened because of this lengthy preparatory path. Twenty-five years after I began my first post-secondary degree, I kneel before you as one who is called, equipped, experienced, and excited to serve. May God bless and keep us all as we minister to God’s people during this season of challenge and change in The United Church of Canada.

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CANDIDATE: DIACONAL MINISTRY

Tiffany Lee McNaughton, B.A., Dipl. in Diaconal Ministry Tif McNaughton was born and raised in Quesnel BC. She chose Christianity in high school, and explored many traditions therein before becoming a member of the United Church. She studied Global Development at the Augustana Faculty of the University of Alberta, where the chaplaincy program encouraged an interest in servant-leadership. After a few years of working in shelters, group homes and non-profits in Camrose, Alberta and Prince George BC, she discerned a call to diaconal ministry with the support of Camrose United and Coronation Presbytery. During the last few years amongst her formal studies with the Centre for Christian Studies and serving in Camrose AB, Terrace BC, and Fernie BC, she enjoyed many church-adjacent learning opportunities. She served as a Youth Steward during the 2013 World Council of Churches General Assembly, alongside 4 fellow Canadians and 130 youth from around the world. She paddled part of the Otter River system in Saskatchewan with Nimis Kahpimotate, a venture partially funded by the United Church uplifting personal engagement in relationship building in response to the TRC. She participated in a delegation to China with the national UCC at the invitation of the Chinese Christian Council and the Three Self Patriotic Movement, and participated in the inaugural Undivided Contemplative Social Justice Leadership program in BC Conference. Each of these opportunities have been a great honour and privilege, and invaluable in shaping her missiology. These years of study have been inspiring and challenging, and Tif's understanding of herself and the church have transformed greatly since her first course with the Centre for Christian Studies in 2010. Through the teaching of friends, mentors, congregants, and communities she has found a love of congregational ministry, and new enthusiasm for ecumenical and rural work. She will continue serving in a half time position with Knox United Pastoral Charge in Fernie, BC. She looks forward to exploring new bi-vocation combinations, and having more time for kayaking, hiking, skiing, biking, felting, potting, and visiting with family and friends.

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RECEIVED FROM ANOTHER DENOMINATION Christian Kakez-A-Kapend, Dipl. Ed., B.Div. (Hons.), M.T.S., Ph.D. Christian Kakez-A-Kapend hails from the Aruund Empire in South-Central Africa. He was born, bred, baptized, and ordained (as an elder) in The United Methodist Church. His calls to ministry and education have led him to serve and learn in six countries so far.

His special interests include, but are not limited to, Christianities (not Christianity) in Global Context, God and Migration, eclectic music, and global issues preaching.

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RECEIVED FROM ANOTHER DENOMINATION

MiYeon Kim, B.A., B.Ed., M.Div.

My name is MiYeon Kim, and I am joining The United Church of Canada from the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (Gi-Jang PROK). I grew up in a family with a strong Christian background. Both my grandfather and father are both ordained ministers. In fact, my grandfather is a former moderator of the Gi-Jang PROK. Due to this background, I grew up seeing pastoral ministry and what is the life of a pastor. However I did not consider entering ministry myself. Instead, I vaguely wanted a glamourous career in business, so I majored in economics for my bachelor’s degree. While in university, however, I found my talents were more oriented toward music and projects in the church. In most of my free time during university, for example, I was deeply involved preparing youth worship and activities as a youth leader. Therefore I decided to go to theological seminary after my bachelor’s degree.

I enjoyed studying theology, life at Hanshin Graduate School of Theology was wonderful, but I felt the wider church in South Korea has a major problem with gender discrimination. Korean churches are mostly hiring men ministers rather than women. There are many cases where the women students who graduated from seminary couldn’t be ordained because they couldn’t find the churches to work. So I started being concerned before my graduation about my uncertain future. At that time, I found a notice that St. Andrew’s College, Saskatoon, SK wanted to invite two Korean exchange students in their school. I applied for the opportunity to be the first Korean exchange student at St. Andrew’s College in 2011.

During my study at St. Andrew’s College, I had several chances to meet women ministers who were working for the church in a senior minister position. It opened my eyes. These Canadian women ministers who I met looked happy showing their leadership in their churches. Since then, I have had dream to be a minister in The United Church of Canada. Finally, my dream comes true after seven years.

In 2013, I started my resident student ministry within the United Church, through St. Andrew’s College, at Spirit of Peace United Church in Alberta & Northwest Conference. Spirit River, AB was the perfect residency site for me. The church members embraced me with love and devotion. I was able to learn and practice about the ministry of the United Church as well as learn Canadian culture and life.

In 2015, I completed my resident student ministry and also became married to Taylor Croissant, who is also an ordained minister in The United Church of Canada. In order to establish our lives in Canada, I first needed to apply for family sponsored permanent residency in Canada. A spousal sponsored permanent residency application is the shortest processing time to become a permanent resident in Canada, but even despite this my permanent residency process was still very difficult. I had to move back to South Korea because the processing time of spousal sponsorship is shorter outside of Canada than inside Canada. My Canadian husband should sacrifice his joyful lives and his career in his own country for me.

It took about 11 months to receive permanent resident permission from the Canadian immigration processing office in Manila. Taylor and I left the churches we were working for in Korea and left for Canada in December 2016. Taylor took a call to serve Kitscoty-Marwayne Pastoral Charge in March 2017. I was lucky to take an appointment with the neighbouring charge south of his, Edgerton-Paradise Valley Pastoral Charge in July 2017, and upon completing the admissions process extended into a call starting July 2018. The members of my two churches, Paradise Valley United and Faith (Edgerton) United love to care for the church and their communities. I am so grateful to God. God has led me on my way for seven years until I finally am admitted as an ordained minister in The United Church of Canada. Also I deeply appreciate these many people who have helped me through this journey: My family, the faculty of St. Andrew’s College, Deanna Cox, Carolyn Woodall, Mary Faith Blackburn, Martha Dawson, and especially Earl Reaburn for his assistance with dealing with Canada Citizenship and Immigration. Thank you to all who have supported and helped me until I have made it to this great moment!

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RETIREE: ORDER OF MINISTRY

Marilyn Carroll We arrived in the B.C. Peace in September of 1978. There were 4 of us, 1 dog and 1 goat. Today there are 21 of us, 1 dog, no goats but sheep, alpacas, horses, cows, and 1 cat. I attended my first meeting of Peace River Presbytery in Alberta Conference in September of 1979. I joined the World Outreach Committee. I soon learned the church had many opportunities to become involved in new ventures. For a few years I did development education ecumenically (Ten Days for World Development was a particular focus). In March of 1989 I was appointed to serve the Worsley pastoral charge. In the fall of 1989 I was enrolled as a participant in the Western Field Based Diaconal Ministry program through St. Stephen’s College. I was commissioned in 1994. Since then I have worked with 6 pastoral charges in Peace River, now Northern Lights Presbytery. Those many ventures the church has offered have taken me to national committees, conference work and, of course, Presbytery work. I was conference president during the last conference- wide re-structuring. These days there is much focus on changing structures. Structure change is not an end in itself. Structures exist to facilitate our response to God’s mission. Structures cannot and do not change geography. The privilege of working with people as individuals and inviting them into being community remains. While I continue to work, this is a time to reflect on the privilege of working with the church. The support of those 20 family members has been and continues to be not only important, but essential. The friends of Northern Lights Presbytery and Alberta and Northwest Conference, you too are important. You have all supported me and challenged me and continue to invite me into new ventures. Thank you all. We are called to be strong and of good courage.* God is with us. We are not along. Thanks be to God. Adapted from Joshua 1: 9

With gratitude, Marilyn Carroll

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RETIREE: ORDER OF MINISTRY Peter Chynoweth In the fall of 1971 I participated in a Computer Science Day at the University of Waterloo. It was my “Damascus Road” event. In one day, the course of my life changed dramatically. I came home from that day sure of where I wanted to attend university and what course I wanted to take. It all happened as I had hoped and five years later I graduated with a degree in Computer Science. I had grown up in a church family and was an outlier at worship in my teenage years, often the only teen in attendance. I was there in part because of family pressure, but also because the church had a really good preacher. His name was Barry Day. During university, I had drifted away from the church, but then drifted back. This time it was the social justice focus that drew me back, along with a love of music, a characteristic that I had inherited from both my parents. I eventually made my way to Calgary, where after a series of office moves, I eventually ended up in my dream job, as a systems programmer for a Calgary oil company. It might have all stayed that way except for an important development in technology. During my nine years of working in Calgary, I was gradually taking on more and more responsibility with the church I attended, serving on the board and then chairing it, teaching church school, singing in the choir, leading the church sponsored scout troop and serving as a presbytery delegate. In 1985 I bought my first computer, and it quickly became apparent that I could take my love for computing home with me, and that I could respond to a call that was gradually taking hold of me as I continued to be involved with the church. I accepted the position of Presbytery Secretary for Calgary Presbytery for a year, and was elected as a commissioner to the 1986 General Council in Sudbury. I thought it would be good experience for a theology student. And so, in the fall of 1986 I went back to school at St. Andrew’s College in Saskatoon. I loved the study of theology, and it was oh so different from anything I had learned in my undergrad degree and subsequent work in what is now called Information Technology or IT. Ordained in 1990, I was settled in the Bonnyville-Ardmore pastoral charge, a wonderful place to begin working in pastoral ministry, with wonderful people. It was a difficult decision at the end of three years to move across the province to my beloved mountains to serve with the people of Jasper United Church. Shortly after moving to Jasper, my life took another turn when I reconnected with a friend whom I had known in Calgary. It was a “fairy-tale” romance and courtship with many, many drives up and down one of the most beautifully scenic drives in the world between Jasper and Banff, Sharon and I were married in Jasper two years later and Steve and Heather moved with their mother to discover life in a “little bit of paradise” as Jasperites used to say! Ministry in Jasper was a continual adventure, welcoming people from all over the world at worship services, and enjoying the opportunity to show off this precious part of God’s creation to folks from far and wide. After a dozen years, it was time to look for a new adventure. We wanted to go somewhere that would hold as much mystique as Jasper did for us, and Yellowknife was the place that was calling. We fell in love with being northerners and that love has continued to grow. Yellowknife United Church has been a wonderful place to serve in ministry, as was Jasper before it.

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Both places capture their own particular cultures – “Mountain Culture” for Jasper and “The North” for Yellowknife and the congregations, while quite different, were both places that made for deep and lasting relationships. In both places, people love where they live and that love flowed out in the pastoral relationship, inviting deep reflection and unexpected insights into the way that “place” defines our understanding of the “holy”. I have been fortunate, through three pastoral relationships in twenty-eight years to have had the opportunity to serve the wider church in many different ways: Internship Committee, Pastoral Relations, Education and Students, Internship Supervisor, Chair of the Board for St. Andrew’s and St. Stephen’s Colleges, Communications, Conference Planning Committee, Conference Business Committee, Commissioner at four meetings of General Council, Conference Executive, and honoured and blessed to have served as President of Conference as the first two-year term President. Of course, there is lots that will be missed as I move into retirement, but I am happy to say that I won’t miss the weekly deadlines! We are looking forward to continuing to be northerners for a couple of more years, and then move closer to our grandchildren, Tekerra, Lucas and Kieran so that we can more fully embrace the joy we have found in grandparenting. Thanks to everyone. You have been a blessing. We know God more fully because of you. And I will continue to explore the intersection of Technology and Theology that began almost fifty years ago.

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Paul DuVal I grew up in Winnipeg, the oldest of 6 siblings. I was raised in white, middle class privilege in a family with traditional role modelling, and deeply rooted, on both sides of my family, in the Presbyterian strand of the United Church. Somewhere along the line I absorbed the notions that first, participating actively in community is not optional, and secondly, knowing something about one’s roots and traditions is important. After a not so stellar undergraduate university career, I fell under the influence of church leaders from the University of Winnipeg and began to probe more deeply the faith of the church to which I already firmly belonged. In 1975 I enrolled in what I understood was an exploratory year at the Vancouver School of Theology. There, I met friends and mentors, some living, but many long dead, some in person, and many through their writings and what others had written about them, who challenged me and taught me, and became companions and colleagues, through this lifelong journey. But I was stubborn. I had some strongly held notions about “the priesthood of all believers”, and some examples of how trained lay people provide the “normative expression” of the ministry of the church. So I went exploring, and spent four years testing different roles. In Caribou Presbytery, in places as diverse as Smithers BC, Quesnel, Wells, and the historic town of Barkerville, I pastored and preached, did historical interpretation, led youth missions, engaged in community development, joined the volunteer fire department, and went into local politics. At the end of 4 years, the role that seemed to fit best was pastoral ministry, so back to VST I went, to pick up the pieces of my M.Div., and re-enter the process. I started ordered ministry in Peace River Presbytery (now Northern Lights), in Alberta Conference (now Alberta and Northwest Conference), in the communities of Hythe and Clairmont, and the Valhalla Centre house church. After five years, I moved to become the associate ministry at Gaetz Memorial United Church in Red Deer, which was to be home (Red Deer, that is) for 24 years. The first 11 were in ministry with Gaetz, and another 13 were as Conference staff. In 2012 I moved again, this time to Grace United Church in Lloydminster, where we have taken on challenges of building a new church hall, continuing to engage the wider community, and preparing for the new changes in our United Church of Canada. As retirement beckons, I am hoping to find some new ways to engage in the priesthood of all believers, and some of that will involve becoming reacquainted with my hometown of Winnipeg. I may also indulge the contemplative side of my nature by spending more time at a secluded, lakeside, off the grid cabin, which has been a place of grounding all my life.

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RETIREE: ORDER OF MINISTRY Marilyn Evans Born into the Pearen family, I was raised on a family farm near Indian Head, Saskatchewan. I had the blessing of being part of a loving Christian family. My faith was also nurtured within our church community of St. Andrew’s United Church which, many years later, would sponsor me as a candidate for Diaconal Ministry. Late in my teens, I moved to Saskatoon to the University of Saskatchewan (U of S). It was during my student teaching practicum that I felt called to Diaconal Ministry. This necessitated a move to Toronto to enrol in the Diploma Program at the Centre for Christian Studies. Completion of this program in 1977 launched me into Diaconal Ministry. During those years, I married Craig Evans.

As a Diaconal Minister, I served as the Resource Centre Coordinator at the National Office of The United Church of Canada. I later served in educational ministry at Cliffcrest United Church in Scarborough, Ontario..

During that time, we were blessed with the births of our two children, Shawn and Lindsay. In 1985, our young family moved to Calgary to be closer to my family in Saskatchewan. That same year, I began Diaconal ministry at Southwood United Church.

I served in the Okotoks-DeWinton Pastoral Charge just south of Calgary from 1989 - 2000. This was my first full-time congregational ministry position.

Pastoral care has always been the heartbeat of my ministry so when I completed my ministry in Okotoks and DeWinton, it felt like a natural process to move into the Clinical Pastoral Education Residency Program in Calgary. During this 12 month program, as part of this educational program, I had the opportunity to serve as an interfaith Chaplain at the Foothills Hospital and the Peter Lougheed Hospital, specializing in palliative care. In 2001, I was hired as a Staff Chaplain by the Peter Lougheed Hospital.

All the while, as a candidate for Ordained Ministry, I was working on courses to complete my Master of Divinity degree through St. Andrew’s College at the U of S and eventually I moved to Saskatoon to attend full time studies and complete my degree. After many years of working towards this goal, I was very pleased to be ordained in 2002.

In the years to follow, I was Chaplain at Agape Hospice and Bethany Care Centre in Calgary. I was also the Minister at Lewis Memorial United Church in Turner Valley, Alberta.

In 2007 and again in 2012, I had the privilege of travelling to Kenya to volunteer as a facilitator in palliative care educational events and South Sudan to be part of a documentary about a remarkable young Sudanese man who was one of the “Lost Boys of Sudan”. Presently, I am working periodically with Calgary’s largest funeral home providing bereavement care to individuals and families.

Reflecting on my 41 years in ministry, I am grateful for the many wonderful and faithful people I have had the privilege to meet and share in ministry with. My journey has been rich and meaningful in so many ways. God’s blessings have been and continue to be abundant.

Now that I am retiring, Craig and I look forward to another new chapter in our lives. We are pleased to have more flexibility to spend time with our family including our dear grandchildren in Houston, Texas and more time to travel.

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Nel Ouwens My welcome to the world was in Red Deer, Alberta, where I was born the second of four children to Calvinist parents who had immigrated from the Netherlands. My family’s heritage is Huguenot. I learned early to bridge cultures and languages. I attended primary, middle and high schools in Red Deer where I was also active in track and field, gymnastics, and competitive swimming. After completing high school, I worked for a year in the Netherlands and then returned to Canada, where I attended the U of A, graduating with a B.Sc. degree in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology. I was accepted for further studies by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, where I obtained an M.S. degree in Communicative Disorders with thesis. I then worked in community health and education settings as a speech language pathologist. It was during those years that I reconnected with a spiritual community. Having left the denomination of my upbringing, I very deliberately chose the united Church as an inclusive community which aligned with my views on liberation theology and social justice. After many experiences of lay involvement in the UCC, I returned to studies in the Western Field-based Lay/Professional Diaconal Ministry Program. During the years of this study I was often accompanied to class by one or the other of my two infant sons. I obtained an M.T.S. degree in Diaconal Ministry with thesis from St. Stephen’s College at the U of A. I was commissioned by ANWC and was settled to ¾ time rural ministry in Little Cutarm, a 4 point pastoral charge in rural Saskatchewan. Since my partner, Curtis Tufts, was settled full-time to an adjacent 3 point pastoral charge, this left our family with the challenge of 7 communities to relate to. In time there was a boundary realignment of pastoral charges, which enable Curtis and me to serve in team ministry in the Four Town Pastoral Charge. When the boys were in later elementary and middle school, I returned to studies again to obtain an M.Div. degree from St. Andrew’s College at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. I was ordained by Saskatchewan Conference. Our final move in team ministry was to serve St. Andrew’s pastoral charge in Spruce Grove, Alberta. I chose to leave congregational ministry in 2012 to complete studies in spiritual direction through the Prairie Jubilee Program. For most of the years that I served in ministry I engaged simultaneously in professional practice as a speech language pathologist, and then later on as a spiritual director as well. Curtis and I have a blended family of four now adult children. Son Micah is a commercial pilot and his partner Morgan is a nurse. Son Nathan is a journeyman cabinetmaker. Daughter Laura is a molecular biologist, and her partner Dan has a commercial bee operation. Son Jesse is a mechanical engineer and his partner Jena is also a mechanical engineer. There are 4 grand boys and 1 grand girl to date. Moving towards retirement I have found a new spiritual home with the radically inclusive, progressive, welcoming community of Southminster Steinhauer United Church (Spiritual Seekers United in Community) in Edmonton.

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Janice Stevenson Born and raised near Montréal, Québec; Studied at McGill University; Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute fellowship, doctoral studies at St. Paul’s, UBC and St. Stephen’s” Training in Popular Education”. Married to late Rev. Gordon Charles Saville, 3 children: Matthew, Victoria, & Benjamin. Ordained in 1981 by Montreal-Ottawa Conference. Served in team ministry in Glengarry East PC, Alexandria ON; project staff with Le Centre Dialogue in West Quebec; Presbytery Social Ministry Coordinator for Calgary Presbytery; staff for Calgary Interfaith Community Social Action Committee; appointed to Morley-Eden Valley PC in All Tribes Presbytery, ANCC; part time in Cremona PC, Red Deer Presbytery; Knox PC, Drumheller, Coronation Presbytery; team ministry forming First-Wesley PC, Thunder Bay, Cambrian Presbytery; team ministry at Westminster PC, Medicine Hat, South Alberta Presbytery. Highlights:

World Council of Churches, Vancouver 1973

Ecumenical and interfaith social justice animation - refugees, anti-poverty; anti- racism & anti-apartheid; interfaith relations; aboriginal rights; corporate social responsibility; family & sexual violence; global justice concerns e.g. Latin America, Philippines, Middle East, South East Asia, Southern Africa etc.

Partnership visit to Zimbabwe, South Africa & Namibia 1994

Some learnings:

The solution to global issues is our personal decision to strive for change and in turn to be changed ourselves. We can’t make the ‘bad’ stuff go away until we are ready to engage in struggle and sacrifice our security and status quo.

The issue has never been poverty: it is too much affluence.

God’s realm lived among us won’t happen soon, but every effort expended in living justly with compassion is one more drop in the bucket that fills and overflows.

A Word to those who serve in ministry: Keep on keeping on, trusting that the Spirit hallows our valiant efforts to live God’s realm into reality. Strive to find yourself ‘lost in wonder, love and praise’.

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RETIREE: ORDER OF MINISTRY Curtis Tufts

My life - described chronologically and numerically …

- 63 years, 5 months - of connection with The United Church of Canada.

- 14 - years of age when I dropped out of my first attempt at confirmation class.

- 1969 - the year I was invited into the Northminster United Church Hi-C youth group. - 0 - the number of Hi-C youth gatherings I willingly missed in the next 3 or 4 years.

- 17 - years of age when I was received as a candidate for ministry by Calgary Presbytery.

- 2 - post-secondary degrees: B.A. (Philosophy - Calgary); M.Div. (St. Andrew’s Saskatoon).

- 37 - years since ordination by Alberta and Northwest Conference at Central United in Calgary.

- 5 - pastoral charges served: Peace River (Peace River Presbytery, 1981-1985); Maymont Larger Parish (Battleford Presbytery, 1985-1991); Riverview (Calgary Presbytery, 1991-1997); Saltcoats (Good Spirit Presbytery, 1997-2004); Spruce Grove (Yellowhead Presbytery, 2004-2018).

- 12 - the number of congregations included in those 5 pastoral charges.

- 13 - years shared in team ministry with spouse Nel Ouwens.

- 2 - children of my first marriage: Laura and Jesse.

- 5 - grandchildren (Davin, Violet and Leo - children of daughter Laura & partner Dan; Isaac and Sam - children of my son Jesse & partner Jena).

- 2 - children of my second marriage: Micah and Nathan.

- 4 - different professions of my children: Laura - molecular biologist; Jesse - mechanical engineer; Micah - commercial pilot; Nathan - journeyman cabinetmaker.

- 29 - years (this month!) married to Nel Ouwens.

- 3 - hymn lyrics written by me that were published in Voices United (#305 - “Into the Unshaped Silence”) and More Voices (#106 - “I am the Dream”, and #162 - “Christ, Within Us Hidden”)

- 3 presbyteries I have served as chairperson - Battleford, Good Spirit (SK Conference), Yellowhead (ANW Conference).

- 4 - General Councils attended as a commissioner: Sudbury 1986, London 1990, Wolfville 2003, Cornerbrook 2015.

- 100+ - weeks of continuing education programs taken.

- 2 - three month long sabbatical leaves.

- 1600+ - estimated number of Sunday worship services I have prepared and presided at.

- 12 - times through the three-year cycle of scriptures readings in the common lectionary.

- 430+ - approximate number of loaves of bread I’ve broken and shared at various communion tables.

And then, of course, there are all the things that can never really be captured in any numbering - times when I found myself standing with others on what can only be described as holy ground: with parents handing me their children at the baptismal font, with couples making the solemn vows of a marriage covenant, with families gathered at a graveside and left holding one end of a love, and in those ministry conversations that happen day by day, in innumerable places, where life, in all the fullness of its joys and sorrows, celebrations and struggles, was graciously shared. Blessings indeed, one by one, but far beyond any counting.

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Roger Manuel I am retiring as a Designated Lay Minister. A colleague and I were the first DLM’s to be recognized under the new program that now continues at St. Andrew’s. I presently serve four congregations: Westlock, Hazel Bluff, Pickardville, and Jarvie. Prior to ministry I was a teacher/ administrator in a large rural High School coordinating student academic, social, emotional and cognitive needs. It was the final ten years of a teaching career spanning thirty-five years and three countries. From 2004 I completed the Licensed Lay Worship Leadership course, a year-long ministry discernment process, Conference interviews, complimentary theological courses, and completion of my Clinical Pastoral Education at the University of Alberta and Stollery Children’s Hospitals. I completed my three-year DLM training in 2012 while also serving as half- time student minister and prison visitor in Grande Cache and Hinton. I immigrated to Canada in 1982 with my family from Hong Kong and ended up in Swan Hills. My family became part of a young and dynamic United Church congregation in Swan Hills. Through regular evening bible studies, prayer groups and the guidance of a Lutheran lay preacher, I was reintroduced to the Bible. In the following years I pursued a passionate study of the Bible. I also became a United Church member. Having adopted Canada as my new nationality, it seemed more than appropriate that I adopt a new denomination. It was a spiritual and theological change I will never regret. As for retirement, I hope to continue to support my local congregations and offer pulpit supply and be involved where God needs me. I hope to continue to write, read, and study my faith. I hope to extend my bird watching and dog walking expeditions. I will enjoy my grandkids and have time to canoe with my wife. Hopefully, do more cooking and perhaps travel. (And enjoy the occasional glass of wine!)

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Memorials Members of Conference and presbyteries who have passed away, and whose names have been made known to the Conference Office

since the last meeting of Alberta and Northwest Conference. Rev. John William Moules June 1, 2017 Rev. Ted (Tadeusz) Stanley Kolber June 19, 2017 Rev. Kenneth Reginald Flanagan October 26, 2017 Rev. Gerald Christopher Wallace November 18, 2017 Rev. Sydney Bell December 8, 2017 Rev. Charles Bean Hickman December 9, 2017 Mrs. Isabelle Arenia Verdin December 31, 2017 Wilma Pearl Sharpe January 22, 2018 Rev. Gordon Charles Saville February 23, 2018 (Member of MNWO Conference, spouse of Janice Stevenson) Mrs. Zella Mae Consay February 28, 2018 Rev. Johan (John) Fedor Hoekstra March 25, 2018

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IN MEMORIAM: ORDER OF MINISTRY John William Moules 1925 - 2017 John Moules was born on July 13, 1925 in Sydney, Nova Scotia to Alice and Raymond Moules. He married Thelma King in July 1950, and they had two children, Donald and Nancy. John received his B.A. degree in 1948 from Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick, and his Diploma in Theology in 1951 from Pine Hill Divinity Hall in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He was ordained by the Maritime Conference in 1951 for and on behalf of Alberta Conference. John served The United Church of Canada for 40 years in Southern Alberta congregations, including 20 years at Lakeview United Church in Calgary, Alberta. His 65th year of service to the United Church was recognized in 2016. John passed away on June 1, 2017 in Calgary. There was no formal memorial service.

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IN MEMORIAM: ORDER OF MINISTRY Ted Stanley Kolber 1931 - 2017

Born unto Anne and Albert Kolber of Polish descent, Ted entered this world on May 5th, 1931 in Coleman, Alberta. The family settled in the Crowsnest Pass area in the heart of coal country. Ted grew up with two brothers, Tony and Stan.

As a sea cadet in high school, Ted enjoyed sailing at camps. He applied to military colleges and entered Royal Roads in 1949 and Royal Military College in 1951. In May 1953, Ted graduated from RMC. He had fond remembrances of his time at RMC and cherished the lifelong friendships that he created while there. Though he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ted would never practice, nor serve in the military.

A year after his brother Tony’s death, Ted entered St. Stephen’s College and in May 1957, he became an ordained minister.

His first charge was in High Prairie, where he met his future wife, Marie Christian, and they married in 1961. Unfortunately, they separated in 2001.

The family moved around a lot - to Lamont and Westlock in Alberta, then down to Fairfield, California for 3 years while Ted went to Divinity School in Berkley. The family loved California, but due to an immigration error, they had to return to Edmonton, and then Prince Albert, before returning back to Edmonton.

Ted’s approach to ministry was one that emphasized helping people, caring for people, providing compassion and empathy. Ted viewed the work of a minister, not only to give sermons on Sundays, but to engage with the community during the week by visiting people at their homes and in the hospital. With a warm, welcoming smile and a sparkle in his eye, Ted was a kind and giving soul whose compassion touched many lives. Always intellectually curious, Ted loved to read, play Scrabble and bridge, and engage in spirited conversation. Ted cherished his family, his friends, and life's simple pleasures.

For 60 years, Ted was a minister with The United Church of Canada. In 1995, he was awarded a Doctorate of Divinity.

On June 19, 2017, Ted Kolber passed in the arms of angels. A Celebration of Life was held on June 26, 2017 at St. Paul's United Church in Edmonton with Rev. Gordon Oaks officiating. Ted is lovingly remembered by family and friends.

"My Cup Overflows" ~ Rev. Dr. Ted Kolber

To you who has given so much, I take the time to praise you and offer you a song ... A song of love where beauty reigns and blossoms grow Where people become more and more precious revealing the emerald green and ruby red? the golden leaves that trace their value across flesh and reveal their source deep within caverns that have yet to be explored. A song of love that is colored by the pains of yesterday, today and the tomorrows yet unborn... A pain that brings forth into the sunshine of a new day, a caring and a living that can hear the birds sing, that can feel a tear drop, that can embrace a smile, that can challenge you, O God, to share with all your children in this biosphere of life the gifts we have so generously received.

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IN MEMORIAM: ORDER OF MINISTRY Kenneth Reginald Flanagan 1941 - 2017 “Don’t worry about anything, but instead pray about everything … Always think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” These words from the Apostle Paul could easily be Ken’s words for us. Ken was a peaceful and caring man who consistently put others before himself, a joyful man who could get through any circumstance by some combination of prayer and laughter, often carrying others to the other side of grief or hardship along with him. Kenneth Reginald Flanagan was born on December 5, 1941 in Waterloo, Quebec. His father served for many years in the Canadian Armed Forces, so Ken was raised by his grandmother until the age of eight. But his father being away for so long during his childhood didn’t cause him bitterness. Instead, it served as a source of compassion, and helped him greatly over the many years he served as a chaplain for the Legion. Ken met his wife, Betty, while working with IAC insurance in Kenora, ON. They met at a Legion dance. Ken convinced Betty to dance that night, and three months later, they were dancing to the altar! They had their first daughter, Shannon, sixteen months later, and Shannon was followed by Connie and Erin. Ken loved being a father, and in truth, loved caring for others. The love he had for family extended beyond his wife and children to the love he had for the rescue animals they took on as pets, and the gardens that they tended to daily. After a stint as a realtor, Ken discerned a call to ministry in 1987, and moved with the family to Saskatoon for four years to do his theological training. Ken’s love for people, open heart, and sense of humour were all tremendous gifts during his ministry. He served in Marsden/Neilburg, Whitecourt, Vegreville, Viking, and Irma. He officially retired last year but continued officiating at funerals and dedicating himself to the Legion and the Masonic Lodge as well as other community events like Vegreville’s Annual Car Show and Pysanky Days. He was always proud of his Irish heritage and adopted his wife’s Ukrainian heritage with gusto, often attending community events celebrating either culture during his time in Vegreville. Both as a child and as an adult, Ken’s sense of humour helped him to make his way through life. As a child, he was the kind of student that could make even the stodgiest teacher laugh along with him, no matter how reluctantly. As an adult, he could infuse sombre occasions with just the right amount of laughter to help people move through their grief knowing that God’s love and joy was still and would always be with them. Ken was a caregiver, a provider, a lover of people. His was a life characterized by kindness and loyalty, love and joy. Ken’s life reminds us that we also are called to embody those things in our lives, called to recognize that no matter what circumstance we might find ourselves in, the joy of the Lord can be there. Ken passed away on October 26, 2017 at the age of 75 years. A memorial service was held on November 1, 2017 at the Vegreville Social Centre, Vegreville with Rev. Scott Reynolds officiating.

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IN MEMORIAM: ORDER OF MINISTRY Gerald Christopher Wallace 1937 - 2017

Gerald was born in the English city of Norwich on October 29, 1937, and bombed out in 1942. For the duration of the war his family moved to his Aunt Phylis’s house. While there he was never aware that his future bride Margaret lived on the next street. His major memories of the war were being bombed out, and daily carrying his smelly gas mask to school - each morning, practicing, putting it on and off; of course the mask had to be carried with you all the time. In his early twenties Margaret came into his life. And together, dissatisfied with a Britain that was going nowhere, they signed up to emigrate to New Zealand for 2 years, where they were married. New Zealand is a beautiful country, filled with good people, but unfortunately not the country they were looking for. They met a Canadian who convinced them to try Canada, where a guaranteed night shift job was waiting at the Edmonton Journal. With a steady wage and money saved from New Zealand, they bought a house in the newly developing Sherwood Park area. Then along came three boys Karl, Glenn, and Paul. Sadly, Glenn had a serious heart condition and died during surgery in Toronto at age 6. Tired of the limitations of shift work and feeling a very strong pull towards the United Church, which necessitated a University education, Gerald entered University, with the blessing of Sherwood Park United Church.

By now he was working day shift, but the one class he needed to complete his first year was biology, available only during the day, and the Journal would not allow him the time. The decision was made to quit the University or trust in God to somehow find the funding needed. The decision was made to leave the Journal and keep studying while relying upon Margaret’s income, and trusting in God’s grace. But on that very same day Margaret‘s job also ceased. She began taking in sewing alterations which by the grace of Christ helped to pay the mortgage, and finally with a B.A. in hand, the house was sold, and the family moved to Saskatoon to complete his theological studies.

As Margaret, by the grace of God, somehow kept the family financially afloat, a Master’s Degree was achieved. The Saskatoon house was sold. Then off to begin Ministry at Oyen, Cereal, and on to Vegreville, Ranfurly and Salem, Daysland, Rosalind, Ohaton, Forestburg, and Mirror churches. Plus funerals at small country churches that were no longer in general use. In his younger days Gerald enjoyed Judo, tennis, badminton, swimming, soccer, and cycling, especially weekends over distances of 100 miles or more. He also enjoyed amateur theatre playing Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady, Max the entrepreneur in The Sound of Music, and Lazer Wolf in Fiddler on the Roof. He was also involved singing in the choir and playing for a while in the Camrose Community Band. A friend needed some volunteering with the Scouts and Venturer group at the Alberta School for the Deaf. Gerald became the Venturer Leader, and got himself a License to drive the School Bus. Learned Deaf sign language, and helped drive the boys to Vancouver, and then to Montreal and Ottawa where they lunched with the then Governor General Roland Michener and his wife. The boys were rather overcome by eating in the Tent room with the Micheners and his Aide de Camp.

Together Gerald and Margaret visited many parts of God’s world. His life with Margaret and family was full of fun and challenging. He thanked God for all the blessings he received through the presence of Jesus Christ and all those whom he had the privilege of serving during his ministry.

Gerald passed away on November 18, 2017 at the age of 80 years. A funeral service was held on Friday, November 24, 2017 at Camrose United Church with Rev. Liz Carter-Morgan officiating.

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IN MEMORIAM: ORDER OF MINISTRY Sydney Bell 1924 - 2017 Sydney was born in Harrogate England on October 20, 1924, where he grew up with his parents and two older brothers. He suffered from hay fever and asthma as a child and his health was poor. He was not a good scholar, and barely passed his leaving certificate exams. The Second World War had a big impact on Sydney’s life. He served in the Royal Airforce as a radio engineer in Britain, Italy, Egypt, Israel, Greece, and France. After the war, he studied Theology and Arts at Westminster College in Cambridge where he obtained a Master of Arts degree in 1952. Sydney was ordained as a Presbyterian minister in Warrington, England in 1952. His first charge was at St. John’s Presbyterian Church in Warrington, a large industrial city near Manchester and Liverpool. In 1956, Sydney moved with his family to Canada. It was a huge culture shock for them to find themselves in the small prairie town of Tofield Alberta. Sydney went on to serve at congregations in Lethbridge, Edmonton and Red Deer. His last church was Kirk United where he was Minister Emeritus for several years. Sydney retired three times but never actually stopped giving of his time and talents to the church. This past September, he took a service at Canterbury Court; he also played the organ in their chapel for several years. Sydney married Gwyneth in 1952. Sadly, they separated after thirty years of marriage. They remained friends however and visited each other frequently. They have two married daughters, four grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Sydney enjoyed many interests and pastimes. He took up curling when he lived in Tofield and continued to curl until he was in his eighties. He also loved to golf. His apartment had a view of the Victoria Golf Course, which he admired from his balcony. Sydney bought a small sailboat when the girls were a bit older. Sailing gave him a lot of pleasure, although he was not the most skilled sailor! He learned the art of artificial flower arranging in his retirement. Sydney loved to travel. He hosted several tour groups - to Portugal, Europe, New Zealand, and Australia. Victoria, British Columbia was one of his favourite places to visit. He had several friends in Victoria, and would make annual trips there for many years. Canterbury Court and Manor were Sydney’s home for the past ten years. He had many friends there and was very involved in the Canterbury activities, including the video nights. One of Sydney’s passions from the time he was very young was reciting monologues. He enjoyed performing a large repertoire of them for both family and friends. Sydney’s life was about serving others and connecting with people. He had great compassion for people in need and was actively involved in advocating for many causes. He was kind and witty loved to tell a joke. At the same time, he was a proper British gentleman who treated everyone with warmth and respect. Sydney died peacefully on December 8, 2017 in Edmonton, Alberta at the age of 93. A celebration of his life was held at Kirk United Church, Edmonton on December 28, 2017, with Rev. Lynn Maki officiating, assisted by Rev. Stuart Jackson. He will be fondly remembered by his family and friends.

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IN MEMORIAM: ORDER OF MINISTRY Charles Hickman 1919 - 2017

Charles Hickman was born at home in Toronto on November 10, 1919 to Harold and Mabel (Bean) Hickman. He was named after his paternal uncle who had died at Vimy in the Great War. His parents had roots in Newfoundland, and he was proud of his Newfoundland heritage. Charles’ childhood was typical of the time, and he enjoyed playing with his friends from the neighbourhood and day-long bicycle rides in the Don Valley. He was a good student and graduated from high school with honours.

Although initially preparing for a career in medicine, Charles was influenced to enter the ministry by Rev. Robert Irwin and others at Donlands United Church. It was also at Donlands that he met and fell in love with Ferne Hazell, where they were both active in the Young People’s Group. They were married in September 1942 in Toronto and undertook together, as they have done all things since, his second mission field, in Plummer Ontario, near Sault Ste. Marie. On their return to Toronto, they took on an interesting and challenging role as house-parents in a University co-op residence.

During his first student mission at Fort Assiniboine, Charles was enthralled with Alberta, and at the time of his ordination in 1944, he asked the church to send him there. He and Ferne then travelled west to serve the Rainier-Rolling Hills-Bow City charge in southern Alberta. Living the rural and near-frontier lifestyle in the early post-war years was exciting, often difficult, and sometimes potentially dangerous, but he loved the caring openness of the people as they supported each other in their common challenges. They started their family there, with Robert born prematurely in Medicine Hat.

Charles accepted a call to St. David’s United Church in Leduc just as the oil boom started in 1947, opening a new phase in his life, dealing with what has become our new and more complex world. Three more children, Janet, Harold, and Russell were born while he was in Leduc, and Charles helped facilitate the building of a manse and a new church. He served the Vegreville-Ranfurly charge from 1960, with some service to nearby points as well. He spent 1968-80 serving in Drumheller, with additional duties as chaplain in the Federal correctional facility there.

During his time in Drumheller, Charles served on the Senate of the University of Calgary, and in 1975 he received an honourary Doctor of Divinity Degree from St. Stephen’s College in Edmonton.

In 1980, Charles and Ferne moved to Edmonton where he took a position in the U.C.C. Conference Office. It didn’t take long for them to find a spiritual home in Southminster-Steinhauer Church, which in many ways became the culmination of his life-long desire for learning, growth, sharing, and caring. The arrival of his grandchildren, and eventually great-grandchildren, enriched his life and made him proud. Charles retired in 1986, but then filled interim positions at McDougall United Church and Southminster-Steinhauer. He continued his ministry for many years, conducting services for congregations whose ministers were absent, and eventually serving communion for the last time at the age of 91 in Drayton Valley United Church.

Following their retirement, Charles and Ferne were able to enjoy considerable travel abroad, supplementing their years of travel all over Canada. Charles like being outdoors; camping, canoeing, and hiking in all weathers. He was also a thinker, sometimes pondering things ethereal and at other times, completely absorbed in a murder mystery novel. He loved music, whether he was playing the piano, singing in a choir, or listening to a live concert or a recording. He believed that exposure to the arts was an integral part of life and helped arrange community music and stage performances in all his rural charges.

Charles was a good friend to many people, often called upon to be a voice of reason in times of conflict. He will be missed by many, but all will rejoice in having known him. A celebration of his life was held on January 12, 2018 at Southminster-Steinhauer United Church in Edmonton, officiated by Rev. Nancy Steeves and Rev. Christopher New.

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IN MEMORIAM: LAITY Isabelle Arenia Verdin 1929 - 2017 Isabelle was born on December 25, 1929 in Winnipeg, and was raised there, the firstborn of four children of James and Willamina Proctor. After graduating high school, she went into work as a comptometer operator. Her involvement in Scouting led her to meet Edward at an Akela Club meeting. Married in 1953, their adventurous spirit took them to Columbia, South America, where their oldest boys, Keith and Doug, were born. A cross-country journey led them to Edmonton when they returned to Canada in 1958, where Nancy and Paul were born. They joined Robertson-Wesley United Church and became very active in the Church community. Volunteering was an important part of Isabelle’s life. Her love of art encouraged her to pursue parts of a B.FA at the University of Alberta, and she worked as a volunteer docent at the Alberta Art Gallery. She was heavily involved in the Native Lands Claims in the late 70’s. She served as representative to the United Church General Council, and worked as an usher and page at Alberta and Northwest Conference. Isabelle also served as board chair for the Bissell Centre and worked as a mentor in their adult literacy program. Family was important to her, family vacations were of the camping variety, inducing travelling to Quebec for Expo 67, and a memorable journey through the Maritimes in a rented camper. Later in life, Isabelle and Ed travelled extensively, all the time insisting the children had to experience those adventures on their own. She enjoyed keeping Christmas traditions alive and celebrating birthdays and the importance of staying in touch; spoiling (moderately) the grandchildren and enjoying life to its fullest. As a mom, she taught her family the value of hard work, in giving back, and to celebrate life and love. With great sadness, her family announced her passing on December 31, 2017. A celebration of her life was held on January 8, 2018 at Robertson-Wesley United Church.

The Tide Recedes but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand.

The Sun goes down but gentle warmth still lingers on the land.

The music stops and yet it echoes on in sweet refrains.

For every joy that passes something beautiful remains.

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IN MEMORIAM: ORDER OF MINISTRY

Wilma Pearl Sharpe 1920 - 2018

(This biography was prepared by Dorothy Mundle based on material from a conversation Lynda Gow and Mary Ellen Moore had with Wilma in December 2011. Further editing and additions by Caryn Douglas, March 2018)

Wilma embraced her life with a commitment to be a learner: “Every position gave me opportunities to learn new things - all were good experiences. I tried to offer support and leadership that would contribute to making life better for people, and have more meaning. And I knew I did not work alone. I always worked with others, and I felt the Holy Spirit was always part of it.” Born September 13, 1920, Wilma grew up in rural Saskatchewan. She trained as a lab technician and worked for many years in Yorkton, her home community. Along the way she met two women who had graduated from the United Church Training School and who were very influential in her life: Deaconesses Essie Johnson and Ferne Graham. Eventually Wilma felt a strong call to ministry, or “as we spoke about it in those days, to full-time Christian service. I had helped people get better in their body, and I liked my work as a lab technician. But I knew people also needed healing and health of spirit and I was feeling a call to that work.” Wilma enrolled in the United Church Training School in 1958 at age 38, and when her studies were completed two years later, she was designated a Deaconess and commissioned by the Woman’s Missionary Society (WMS) as a Home Missionary, taking a position with the WMS in Prince Rupert, BC at Friendship House. Wilma worked for two years in Prince Rupert, where her ministry included work with the Indigenous people in the community. A new building was developed for the Friendship Centre during her years, and a student residence for young people coming from more remote reserves was opened. Wilma had oversight of the residence as its Director. She enabled those with whom she ministered to offer leadership and service to others, especially with youth and children. She spoke though about how much she received, knowing she was enabled and strengthened by the people she worked among. She remembered that the younger women in the Indigenous community wanted to have a tea - with salmon sandwiches of course. For women often on the receiving end of “handouts”, they were so proud to be on the other side of the counter. Her next position, in 1963, took her to Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island, where she was appointed by the Board of Home Mission. The work there initially involved ministry with immigrants from China. In the later part of her time there she also worked in other Nanaimo congregations in a five-point charge; the Pastoral Charge was very diverse, with Chinese, Indigenous and White congregations. Wilma was one of four ministry staff in this Larger Parish ministry. As Wilma reflected, “I took training that prepared me to offer leadership in certain areas, always in a team. But the positions I served meant that I had to expand my skills and abilities; often, for one reason or another, I would be the only minister available for a period. I enjoyed moving to new things. I always enjoyed team ministry – where we each had our own work to do, but were able to help the other out when necessary.” Following her successful and rewarding five years in Nanaimo, because of health issues and a desire for further study, Wilma took a sabbatical year in Toronto in 1970 at Covenant College (later the Centre for Christian Studies). Furlough was still a regular experience for those who worked under the banner of “missionary”.

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After her study leave Wilma became the Director of Christian Education at Cedar Park United Church in Pointe Claire, PQ. Four years later she was called to Lloydminster, AB where she stayed for the final 12 years of her ministry. This team ministry position had the most variety of all: Camps, Vacation and Church School, pastoral care, weddings, funerals, and frequent worship leadership. In retirement, begun in 1986, Wilma stayed in Lloydminster where she had made many friends and continued to be active in the congregation. Her dear friend Gladys Jack provided support and care. Wilma moved to a care home with declining health, including the loss of her sight and memory. She died January 22, 2018, at age 97. Wilma always found great satisfaction in her life in ministry, wherever it took her. Throughout her life and ministry, music was always a source of joy and inspiration. And she never took herself so seriously that she couldn’t have a good time! She could always see the comic side. When she left Cedar Park to begin ministry in Lloydminster, they gave her a book of appreciation in which everyone wrote something. One man wrote “The West wins again!” And it did!

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IN MEMORIAM: LAITY Zella Mae (Dodge) Consay 1919 - 2018 Zella was born on April 15, 1919; a farm girl from Shellbrook, Saskatchewan. She excelled in sports and continued her education at the University of Saskatchewan and the Normal School so she could teach. She taught at Hilldrop School near Shellbrook, Goven, Blucher, and Saskatoon. At Blucher she met a wonderful young man, Al Consay, whom she married in 1945. Their life together took them to Toronto, Saskatoon, and Calgary, with a daughter born in each city. They built a house in Elboya in Calgary in 1951, sharing the prairie with three other families and hundreds of gophers. When all her daughters were in school, Zella returned to teaching - teaching at Happy Hours Kindergarten. Zella took pleasure in contributing to her community. She and Al were active in forming the Elboya Community Association and in the founding of Riverview United Church. Zella served the church faithfully in various Christian Education capacities, served as a UCW member and president, church board member, and as a representative in Calgary with Alberta and Northwest Conference. In 1976 she helped establish the Conference Lending Library in Calgary along with many other volunteers, and worked there part-time until 1991. In addition, she conducted countless curriculum workshops around the province, and began the Children at Conference Program, which is still part of the Conference Meeting. The church was the hub of Zella’s life, next to her family. Her daughters’ interests always came first, and she and their father gave them a wonderful childhood. In 2010, Zella and Al left their beloved Calgary and moved to Kelowna BC to be closer to family. A year later she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, which she handled with courage and grace. Zella was dedicated, caring, adventurous, energetic, and fun-loving. She was very active at the Glencoe Club over the years, golfing into her 80’s, and curling until she turned 90. She loved to travel and visit new places, and cared about the people all over the world. She was a role model for her family, and will be greatly missed and forever loved. Zella passed away peacefully in Kelowna BC on February 28, 2018, after a well-lived life. A memorial service will be held in Kelowna at a later date.

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IN MEMORIAM: ORDER OF MINISTRY Johan (John) Fedor Hoekstra 1925 - 2018

In Loving Memory of Rev. John F. Hoekstra from his family

Johan Fedor Hoekstra was better known to his family and friends as Johan, John, Dad/Pa, or Opa. He was a wise, loving, stubborn, genuine, and compassionate man. John had a wonderful way of making each person who came into his life feel valued and respected.

John was born April 27, 1925, in the Netherlands, the second of seven children from his father’s two marriages. John’s mother, Debora, died when he was only 12 years old. When John was 21, his father, David, died suddenly of a heart attack. He is predeceased by his wife Anneke (nee Poldermans), stepmother, Leonie, siblings: Kees, Wim and Phyllis, sister-in-law Lien, nephew Fred.

John met his future wife, Anneke, when they were toddlers living in neighbouring houses. After a 30-plus-years engagement, they married in 1959. Their ministry and marriage took them across the world, serving churches in Canada, Surinam, the Netherlands, and Bermuda.

In 1960, a daughter, Deborah, was born to John and Anneke. A couple of years later, John and Anneke adopted their son, Ron-Wayne. John supported his children in their endeavours and enjoyed the relationships he formed with them as they found their purpose and opportunities to serve. John was delighted to become a grandfather to Liam in 2000. He and Anneke moved to Edmonton in order to be closer to this little one.

John had a deep and abiding faith. He heeded God’s call to serve as an ordained minister in Christian faith many years ago, following in the footsteps of both his father and grandfather, eventually leading him to minister the same congregation each of them had served in Surinam.

John was ordained into the Reformed Church of America on June 3, 1958. Upon the family’s return to Canada in 1975, John served as ordained supply for one year before becoming officially a part of The United Church of Canada in 1976. John served UCC congregations in Ontario and British Columbia as well as a Methodist pastoral charge affiliated with the UCC in Bermuda.

John continued in service to God and God’s people for many years following his retirement. He remained active and engaged in the life and ministry of the church with study groups, committee and community activities, as well as staying current reading theological papers and books.

John believed in justice, inclusion, acceptance, and love. Through his ministry and in his personal life he put those beliefs into concrete actions. He created a welcoming space and became known after the birth of his cherished grandson, Liam, as Opa to many.

John died suddenly, but peacefully, after slipping into a coma on March 25, 2018 at the University of Alberta Hospital after a short hospital stay. John will be lovingly remembered by his children Ron-Wayne and Deborah, grandson Liam, granddaughter Bobbi, his siblings and their spouses: David and Ursula, Maud and Tibor, Fred and Anje, family, extended family, friends, and the many he graced with his presence.

A memorial service was held on April 7, 2018 at St. Paul’s United Church, Edmonton, officiated by Rev. Dr. Catherine MacLean, assisted by Rev. Stuart Jackson, Chair of Edmonton Presbytery.

Documents

Agenda Book A Information for the Conference Meeting · Evangelism Education Report ... Suspends debate on the main motion and any ... mover of the main motion has the right of speaking