As we move forward with interviews, I thought it would be a good idea to remind people of our process.

The Reverend Canon Jenny Replogle (Canon Jenny) is the Diocesan priest overseeing parishes in transition. She serves as our resource for policy and procedure and continues to guide us through the hiring process.

As part of this process, we were asked to create a Parish Profile (click here) in preparation for posting the position. A small group prayerfully reflected on who we have been, who we are, and who we hope to become. In November, our Parish Profile and Vacancy was posted by the Diocese (click here), inviting expressions of interest. After consultation with the Parish and Diocese, it was decided to post this position as a 0.6 FTE (full-time equivalent).

We were fortunate to receive several applications. Each applicant was pre-evaluated by the Diocese to ensure they understood our Parish and remained interested in proceeding.

This week, Canon Jenny met with Gloria (People’s Warden), Ruth (Bishop’s Warden), and Deb Toole (selected by the Bishop’s Warden) to represent the community in the first round of interviews. These interviews will take place via Zoom this week or early next week and will be 45 minutes long. Canon Jenny has reviewed the relevant policies and procedures and will attend the interviews as the Diocesan Representative.

The candidates’ application materials, which provide comprehensive insights into their backgrounds, thoughts, alignment with our profile, and what they can bring to our Parish, have been shared with the interview team.

We invite discussion after church on Sunday to help develop questions for the candidates. These questions will be provided to all applicants in advance, giving them time to respond thoughtfully.

Following the first round of interviews, we will form a larger search committee, which may involve in-person interviews. Canon Jenny, Ruth, Gloria, and Deb will form the core of this committee to ensure continuity throughout the process.

Please continue to pray that we be led to where God wants us to be.

Ruth

It is important, as I was reminded last week, that our land acknowledgement is not just words. It is for many a reminder of our ongoing commitment to reconciliation.

Land Acknowledgments are an Indigenous custom rooted in the traditions of honouring the land and its original caretakers. They are a way of recognizing that the land we are on was originally cared for and inhabited by Indigenous peoples. Within Indigenous cultures there is a deep connection to the land.  Indigenous peoples and communities used acknowledgments to show respect for the land, its natural resources, and its spiritual significance, as well as to honour the relationships and agreements between different nations who shared or cared for the land. These practices were often woven into ceremonies, gatherings, and daily life to reinforce their stewardship and responsibility to the earth.

Senator Murray Sinclair, who chaired Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, emphasized that education is crucial for reconciliation. He stated, “Education is what got us into this mess but education is the key to reconciliation.” This perspective underscores the importance of land acknowledgments as educational tools that raise awareness about Indigenous histories and promote respect for their enduring connection to the land. They are a beginning not an end.

The Anglican Church uses land acknowledgments as part of its commitment to reconciliation and healing with Indigenous communities. These acknowledgments recognize the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous peoples due to colonization, including the role the church played in supporting and perpetuating harmful systems such as residential schools. By including land acknowledgments in worship services, events, and official gatherings, the church seeks to honour Indigenous peoples as the original stewards of the land, acknowledge their enduring presence, and foster relationships based on respect and justice. While they are not a solution to big issues like land theft or systemic inequalities, land acknowledgments are a step toward awareness, respect, and building relationships with Indigenous communities.

More to come.

Ruth