Pilgrimage and Journeying

Advent 2012

The meaning of Sanctuary and hospitality

Life at Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria

The Window

Safe Church Initiative

A place of inclusion

Hospitality

Life at CCC

The Dean’s Message

Parishioner Profiles

Open Doors

The Window Advent 20122

The WindoW

Editorial AdvisorsLogan McMenamie

Janet DaviesWendy Clay

Contributors:Janet Bailey

David BarlowJane ColganNancy FordDoris Frame

Sheila FranchukGail Gill

Brian GroosMartin Hendy

Ruth MacIntoshSheila MartindaleBrenda MowbrayMaureen Piercey

Pauline SamoszynskiCarol ThropRuth Walters

Submissions:Submissions to the editor are welcome. Please keep entries

under 600 words unless a longer article is requested. Photos

should be in a high resolution digital format.

Christ Church CathedralQuadra St. at Rockland Ave,

Victoria BC V8V 3G8Office: 930 Burdett Ave phone: 250.383.2714

cccadmin@christchurchcathedral.bc.cawww.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Editor:Catherine Allen

callen@christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

From left: Choral Scholars: Josh Lovell, Kassandra Schanz, Marlee Wetter-Clark, Junior Choristers: Kate Illingworth and

Karmen Legge.

On the cover

Advent - Epiphany Highlights!

Pilgrimage and Journeying

Winter 2012

The meaning of Sanctuary and hospitality

Life at Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria

The Window

Safe Church Initiative

A place of inclusion

Hospitality

Life at CCC

The Dean’s Message

Parishioner Profiles

Open Doors

A CELEBRATION OF EPIPHANY IN WORDS AND MUSIC

Followed by our annual ‘Piffy Party’

Entertainment featuring the Choral Scholars

Sunday, January 6, 2013 4:30pm

Hey YOUth, Friday, December 14, 6:30 - 8:30pmChrist Church Cathedral Children’s Pageant, Sunday, December 16, 9:15am serviceChoral Evensong: A Liturgy of Expectation, Sunday December 16, 4:30pmChrist Church Cathedral School Christmas Concert, Wednesday, December 19, 6:00pm‘Twas not the night before Christmas with CapriCCio Vocal EnsembleFriday, December 21, 7:30pmFestival of Nine Lessons and Carols, Sunday, December 23, 4:30pmCHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES Monday, December 24 Family Christmas Eve Service, 4:00pm, with special appearances of Luke and Duke, and with Sheryl Crow as the Angel of the Lord.Solemn High Midnight Mass 11:00pm with the Cathedral BrassCHRISTMAS DAY SERVICES Tuesday, December 25Holy Eucharist 8:00amHoly Eucharist 10:00amForum Sunday, Sunday, December 30, 10:30am Holy Eucharist Nightwatch Service, Monday, December 31, 11:00pmCelebration of Epiphany with Words and Music followed by ‘Piffy’ party and entertainment featuring the Cathedral Choral Scholars. Sunday, January 6, 4:30pmHey YOUth (Deanery), Friday, January 11, 6:30 - 8:30pmKidSpace (Deanery) Friday, January 18, from 6:00 - 7:30pmIn Conversation: Potluck supper with speaker The Rev. Dr. Martin Brokenleg, Friday, January 18, 6:00pmNurturing Healthy Communities: Compassion and Action Conference Keynote Address: The Rev. Alisdair Smith, Thursday - Saturday, January 24 - 26

On the cover

Banner by Paula O’Driscoll Banner by Juliet Benner

Photo: Imogen Whale

The Window Advent 2012 3

Advent - Epiphany Highlights!

The Dean’s Message

SanctuaryBe kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle. (Plato)

Sanctuary has many meanings and uses, but we are using it to reflect a safe space. Our sanctuaries have not always been safe places. It is important for us to make sure that in all we do as a church our gathering places are safe for everyone, but especially the most vulnerable in our midst. Each of us must be assured that whatever our role is within the church, we are free from harassment, abuse and violence.

I am so very pleased that the People’s Warden, Maureen Piercey, along with a group of others, will be helping us to make Christ Church Cathedral a Sanctuary; a safe place for all. However, we must all be involved in making the cathedral a safe place and a sanctuary.

We must remember that sanctuary begins with others and not with us. It is not what we feel is comfortable, but what they feel is safe and comfortable. For example, in the act of passing of the peace, we may want to hug others, whereas they may only feel comfortable shaking hands or speaking. We must be sure we are attentive to that during these times. Also how we speak to each other face-to-face, or through electronic means, is very im-portant. We may be upset as to how things are being carried out, but yelling at another or emailing in capitals all give the wrong impression. A hurtful comment in a demeaning tone can be devastating to others, particularly at a time of silent need.

The work and ministry we have committed ourselves to in this New Year is the intentional creation of Sanctuary for everyone who works, ministers, worships or visits our cathedral. Please find out how you may be involved in this very important ministry.

…with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:2

ConTenTs 2 Advent and Epiphany Highlights

3 The Dean’s Message Logan McMenamie

4 - 5 Life at CCC

6 A Place of Inclusion Janet Bailey

7 Safe Church Maureen Piercey

Screening in Faith Maureen Piercey

8 Evensong: A musical sanctuary Brian Groos

9 Sanctuary and the legend of a bird David Barlow

10 Sanctuary Martin Hendy Neighbourhoods Nancy Ford

11 Hospitality at CCC Kitchen Ministry Team

12 Brenda Mowbray Profile Catherine Allen 13 Hospitality Martin Hendy 13 Poet’s Corner Anon.

14 Family Life at CCC Ruth MacIntosh

15 Sanctuary: Beyond Beauty & Polite Words Nancy Ford

The Window Advent 20124

Above: on the steps outside the south door after the Morning Prayer service--from left, Kirsten McMenamie Horncastle, Marcia McMenamie and Judith Cole-man; right: Pipe Major Roger McGuire who played during the service.

John Bell comes to CCC

Forum Sundays are scheduled when there is a fifth Sunday in a month and a 10:30am Eucharist replaces the usual 9:15am and 11:00am ser-vices. A guest preacher/speaker is invited, the most recent being Dr. David Benner (pictured, left). Da-vid’s presentation sparked a follow-up discussion group that met to talk about Tranformational Spirituality. This group now meets in the Chap-ter Room at 7pm every second and

fourth Tuesday of the month. For more information contact Mari-lyn Gough. Our final Forum Sunday this year will take place on December 30.

LIFE AT CCC

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Morning Prayer ServiceKirsten McMenamie Horncastle, Marcia McMenamie and Judith Coleman (pictured above) were among the crowd that attended our Morning Prayer service on October 21st. The service marked the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Scottish Regiment and was attended by the Honorable Steven Point, Lieutenant Governor of BC, and his wife Gwen Point. HRH Princess Alexandra, who was to be a special guest at the service, was unable to attend due to ill health.

John Bell of the Iona Community spoke to a capacity crowd in the Chapter Room this fall. John was in Victoria for two sessions; the other taking place at First†Met United. His topic at Christ Church was: Ancient Celtic Gifts for These Times. Those who attend the 9:15am service on Sundays will have noticed that many of John’s hymns often appear in the liturgy. We hope John will return in 2013. Watch this space!

Get connected with us!As well as checking our website for upcoming news, photos and information, you can also ‘like’ us on Facebook, share our posts with your friends, and follow us on Twitter. If you don’t want to tweet yourself, you can still set up an account and just follow CCC and other sites that appeal to you (such as the Anglican Diocese of BC). We post events daily, so it’s a good way to keep in touch. Please join us. Any questions: Catherine: callen@christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Forum Sundays

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Advent ReflectionsThis year, graduates of the Education for Ministry (EfM) pro-gram have worked with Herb O’Driscoll and Ian Alexander to

produce a series of Advent Reflections. These reflections are available daily from De-cember 3 to January 5, 2013 on the website (just click on the icon (left) of the stained glass window on our Home-page or via email (contact Janet Davies, Parish Admin-istrator: cccadmin@christch-urchcathedral.bc.ca). You can also pick up hard copies at the back of the Cathedral.

John Bell presenting his session on Ancient Celtic Gifts for these times

Dr. David G. Benner

The Window Advent 2012 5

LIFE AT CCC

Coming up in 2013!Christ Church bazaarThe annual Christmas Bazaar, Luncheon and Silent Auction took place on November 24 and was a resounding success. Maureen Bennett, Sue MacRae and their team did an amazing job and raised over $14,000. The highlight of the afternoon was the silent auction where a hockey jersey that belonged to Henrik Sedin brought an impressive $500!

On November 16, author Kit Pearson gave a reading from her new book And Nothing But the Truth to an audience of Christ Church Cathedral School students, their teach-ers, parents and some CCC parishioners. The book is a se-quel to The Whole Truth, which was published last year and re-viewed by Sheila Martindale in the fall issue of The Window.

Kit Pearson Reading

In ConversationIf you are looking for good food and conversation, plan to attend a potluck supper on January 18, 6:00pm in the Chapter Room for the first “In conversation” time with The Rev. Dr. Martin Broken-leg. These monthly evenings (every third Friday of the month) aim to provide opportunity to continue to build a strong spiritual and compassionate community, asking questions, listening to answers and engaging in meaningful conversation. All you need to do is bring food (dessert or savoury) for yourself and one or two others and enjoy the evening. Coffee and tea will be provided. More information from Mission and Outreach: Sue Simpson, Mary Parry and Bill Taylor.

NHC ConferenceLook out for the Nurturing Healthy Com-munities: Compassion and Action Conference coming up at the end of January. A regional community-wide conference hosted by Christ Church Cathedral, from January 24 – 26, 2013, the conference aims to explore themes

of poverty, homelessness, food insecurity and addictions/mental health. This conference will help us create and affirm strategies for compassionate action. The keynote speaker is the Rev. Alisdair Smith, Deacon and Business Manager, Christ Church Cathedral, Vancouver. BC. Alisdair will speak on Compassion in the 21st Century on Thursday evening, January 24.More information can be found on our website where you can access a brochure for the conference and register online. The objectives of the conference are: 1.To cultivate within our com-munity “an informed empathy with the suffering of all human beings” through learning, conversations, and desire. 2.To create and affirm strategies for action; and 3. To reassert the importance of the individual as an integral part of community. Please consider joining us for part or all of this Conference.

Above: The Ven. Fred Peirce and The Ven. Ted Greenhalgh enjoy a chat at the bazaar. Right: Christopher Bennett models the Henrik Sedin hockey jersey that was auctioned at the bazaar.

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The audience eagerly anticipating the reading Kit Pearson at a reading she gave in November

The Window Advent 20126

A place of inclusionParishioner profile: Janet Bailey

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I was born and raised in England, the eldest of four children, and had a very happy childhood. As a teenager I spent many weekends helping out on a local farm and

decided at an early age that I wanted to be a Vet. I was accepted into the Glasgow University Vet School and, although the work was intense, I really enjoyed the five years at University. It was during this time that I met my husband Peter; we were both mem-bers of the “Anglican Society” and worshipped at St. Mary’s Cathe-dral, Glasgow. After graduation I worked as a vet for a couple of years before moving to BC.

Our daughter, Sarah, was born in 1985 and diagnosed at birth with a chromosomal abnormality. At first we had no idea what this would mean; we just knew we had a baby who needed a lot of extra care. Sarah was in and out of hospital, both here and in Vancouver, for many years, and we learned to manage a multitude of medical conditions. Every time it looked like she might not pull through, Sarah somehow found the strength to fight back. She lives with both physical and intellectual disabilities but is a happy young woman, with a full and active life and many friends in the community. When Sarah finished school and we were faced with the question “what comes next?” we decided that we wanted to en-able her to live at home, but with daytime activities that she would enjoy. We incorporated a non-profit society, with a board of six family and friends, and this society has a contract with Commu-nity Living BC for Sarah’s support needs. This allows us to hire the support workers for Sarah and arrange her daily program so that she can go out to swimming, bowling, music and community ac-

tivities when she is feeling well but has the flexibility to stay home when health issues intervene. We have been very fortunate and have a wonderful team of caregivers who have been with Sarah for many years and really feel like our extended family. Although there have been challenges along the way, Sarah has taught us the impor-tance of building a safe, supportive community where everyone is valued and included.

Our son, Richard, is a year younger than Sarah and has a passion for music and computers. He is currently at the University of Vic-toria studying music.

Outside of the home, I work for an accounting firm in Sidney pre-paring financial statements and income tax returns – a total change of pace! For relaxation I enjoy gardening, hiking and Scottish Country Dancing.

Peter and I have had a connection with Christ Church Cathedral for many years as Peter’s father, Canon Thomas Bailey, was an honorary assistant until he died in 2001. We became members of the congregation in 2008, attracted by the music, the bells and the Dean’s vision for moving forward. We usually attend the 9:15am service.

This issue’s themes of “Sanctuary” and “hospitality” are both very close to my heart. When I think of Sanctuary, I think first of safety: a place where nothing can harm me. Secondly, I think of the Latin “Sanctus” meaning “Holy” so a Sanctuary is a place where God, the God of love, abides. This could be a physical space or a place deep inside each person. I have felt this Sanctuary at several times in my life, especially when dealing with difficult situations; the assurance that God is there, the love of God surrounds us and we are upheld by each other.

In the broader sense we try to make our home a place of Sanctuary and hospitality where everyone feels welcome and included.

So how do these thoughts carry over to our church community as we work on building a “Safe church”, a sanctuary for everyone? I do not have the answers to this complex issue, but I do have a few thoughts. Sarah, and many of her friends, can be left out of gatherings because they are different, have strange behaviors, and make other people feel uncomfortable. They are not alone; there are many groups of people who are marginalized in our society. This is where I believe God challenges us to stretch a little outside our comfort zone; if we only feel “safe” when we are totally com-fortable with everyone around us, we are limiting God’s Sanctuary and hospitality. The parish council is looking at the issue of “Safe church”, but this is something for all of us to explore and the new Cathedral Hill project gives us a wonderful opportunity to think about what God is calling us to become. Can we open our hearts to those who are different? Can we share God’s Sanctuary with each other, one by one, and build a welcoming, hospitable community? I hope and pray that we can!

Cathedral Hill Renewal Project Open House earlier this fall.

The Window Advent 2012 7

Safe Church initiativesMaureen Piercey

Since becoming involved in Safe Church initiatives, I have spent considerable time reflecting, both on my own experiences and on the thoughts shared by fellow parishion-ers.

At this time of year the darkness insidiously creeps in at both ends of the day, stealing nurturing light. The reflections of the Ad-vent season and the celebration of the birth of Jesus remind us of the light and hope that we as Christians appreciate. I see a parallel to the darkness that we all feel during vari-ous times in our life when we are grieving, depressed, struggling financially, facing ill-ness or having challenges in personal re-lationships. We all have times of personal vulnerability in our lives, those times vary-ing from a few hours to many months. Those are the times that we long for light and renewed strength. Ideally, the Cathe-dral is always a place of sanctuary for us, a place that is safe and welcoming, a compas-sionate place where we feel welcome and

supported … providing an opportunity for us to see light and feel renewed. Sadly, many in our midst tell stories of insensitive comments, “put-downs”, or being ignored. People can feel intimidated to have to walk through a group of folk blocking the entry-way to coffee or the nave, in contrast to be-ing welcomed by a warm smile and words. These are all things that can make us feel dark, especially when we are feeling vulner-able.

Safe church is far more than screening vol-unteers or preventing sexual misconduct. It is all about creating sanctuary for all. It about building a safe and compassionate community, free from any harm, discrimi-nation, bullying or harassment. It is impor-tant that all who walk with us feel enriched, secure and respected, experiencing the love of God through each and every one of us. It is not a place for egos and control, but a place of humility and being in the presence of God. It is not just ‘those others’ that are

WHAT IS ‘SCREENING IN FAITH?’

vulnerable and at risk for harm; all of us have varying degrees of vulnerability and need at various times of our lives. We likewise, all have the capacity to show compassion, respect and love for each other, therefore promoting growth, healing and strength.

As we move through the mechanics of the Screening in Faith Policy, I challenge us all, myself included, to remember that darkness and neediness might be apparent or silent. When we are nonjudgmental and compas-sionate, we can all make a difference, even if we do not realize it at the time. We can all be part of the shifting of darkness into light and part of the healing from vulnerability and pain into strength and joy, one small step at a time.

It is then that we will know that Christ Church Cathedral is indeed a Sanctuary for all who enter.

Screening in Faith, a diocesan initiative to ensure Safe Church, is alive and active in our Parish. The Diocese of British Columbia, along with faith groups around the world, has taken steps to ensure that the Church has processes in place for staff and volunteers that meet the standards in the secular world for screening.

The Safe Church initiatives for Christ Church Cathedral is called Sanctuary.

As Christians, we must be proactive to prevent our history of harm to the vulnerable from being repeated. We must be certain that we have processes in place that meet community standards to ensure that volunteers are appropriately screened and have access to any training that might be required or that would be beneficial to enrich their ministries. The Screening in Faith Policy of the Diocese sets out those requirements for us. The Policy parallels that which is in place in a number of Anglican parishes in Canada and faith communities around the world. It has become the norm for volunteers in secular work.

The Cathedral has already been involved in screening. Our family and youth ministry has been carefully screening volunteers, including criminal records checks and references. Staff mem-bers have had Criminal RecordsChecks and have a variety of procedures in place. A number of parishioners have completed prevention courses. We are not starting anew; we are setting in place processes to confirm that we are responsibly and fairly being accountable.

Screening, as mentioned above, is a small part of the efforts of our Volunteer and Sanctuary ini-tiatives. We are working together in ministry groups to discuss steps that can be taken to keep our volunteers and staff physically and emotionally safe as they fulfill their responsibilities. We are putting together training and educational events. A task group is preparing workshops for the New Year to assist parishioners to discover and discern their gifts. There will be initiatives to recognize our volunteers. Discussions about what Sanctuary means and how we ensure those principles are underway.

For more information, go to the Anglican Diocese of BC website: bc.anglican.ca Click on ‘Safe Church’under ministries. At the bottom of the page, click on : Responsible Ministry -- Screening in Faith.Url: http://www.bc.anglican.ca/resource/responsible-ministry-screen-ing-faith-0

Maureen Piercey

The Window Advent 20128

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‘A musical sanctuary’ might be an apt description of the weekly Cho-ral Evensong Service sung on Sundays at 4:30pm at Christ Church Cathedral. This unique Anglican tradition was described earlier this year by Stephen Hough in The Telegraph (January 25 2012):

“Evensong hangs on the wall of English life like an old, familiar cloak passed through the generations. Rich with prayer and Scripture, it is nevertheless totally nonthreatening. It is a service into which all can stumble without censure – a rambling old house where everyone can find some corner to sit and think, to listen with half-attention, trailing a few absentminded fingers of faith or doubt in its passing stream.”

In the late afternoon of each Sunday, a congregation of regulars, visitors and the intrigued are treated to the musical treasures written for this special service. As the St Christopher Singers ably present a Magnificat by William Byrd, or an anthem by Charles Stanford, congregants can lose themselves in the occasion, as they are afforded their own special moment of personal reflection. It provides a mo-ment to reflect on the week past and prepare for the days ahead.

Christ Church Cathedral is one of the few parishes in Canada which continues to hold a weekly Choral Evensong Service (4:30pm almost every Sunday throughout the year). A Music List for each week is available on the Christ Church Cathedral website (see Choral Even-song page). Keep an eye out for special Choral Evensong Services, such as on February 24 when the music of Henry Purcell will be

performed with the period strings of the Pacific Baroque Orchestra (part of Pacific Baroque Festival 2013: www.pacbaroque.com).

Some further words by Stephen Hough would seem an appropriate conclusion: “Even the word ‘Evensong’ is poetic, and it seems to chime in perfect harmony with England’s seasons: Autumn’s melancholy, early evening light; the merry crackle of Winter frost; Spring’s awakening, or the lazy, protracted sun strained through the warmed windows of a Summer afternoon.”

Evensong: A musical sanctuaryBrian Groos

To listen to a Choral Evensong ser-vice, please check under ‘Recorded Services’ under the Sermons and Resources tab on our website. www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Photos: A view of the organ; centre: a group of the St. Christopher singers; left: St. Christopher’s Chapel, where Evensong takes place.

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Sanctuary . . and the story of a birdDavid Barlow

Photos (clockwise) The robin in its nest up in the rafters (taken in 1928); the robin scul-ture; the robin pillar on the south aisle of the Cathedral.

For many of us Anglicans, the word “sanc-tuary” brings to mind that part of our Nave and Lady Chapel where the altar is situ-ated, a holy place, restricted to members of the Chancel Guild, changing cloths and frontals and arranging flowers. During the Eucharist we see Priests and Servers with lay members who are on duty. Setting aside such a special place dates back to the “holy of holies” in the Temple in Jerusalem and has been an ancient and on-going tradition in the Anglican Church (and also syna-gogues), recognizing the presence of God in the Eucharist.

“Sanctuary” has other important meanings, especially the ancient right of sanctuary in a church, a place of safety for people on the run from the Law. A Sanctuary is also a place for birds, especially migratory birds, a place that is free from the deadly aim of hunters. You might picture an expansive marshy area with small lakes and access roads for viewing; you might not think of an unfinished building as a sanctuary for birds.

For a few weeks in the spring of 1928 a pair of robins claimed the ancient right of sanc-tuary by building their nest in our Cathe-dral nave while it was still under construc-tion. There were walls and columns, but no roof. The nest was built in a day or two while the workmen were busy in another part of the building and they found it when they returned and they let it stay. Perhaps, however, the birds were just benefiting from a sense of hospitality, a feeling that we share today in the Cathedral, that everyone is welcome here; perhaps they sensed an invitation to “come as you are and be who you are,” a hint of a future Parish commu-nity within those unfinished walls.

We can wonder whether those robins in-stinctively knew that it was a safe place to build, safe from hawks and crows and the other terrors of life in the wild, an essential part of choosing a place to build a nest. Per-haps they sensed that if others were build-

ing in stone, they could build with sticks and moss. Both needed craftsmanship and care to build something that would last, the nest for but a few weeks, the nave for a hun-dred years or more. Both birds and workers must have had the satisfaction of a “job well done”.

It seems that the “right of sanctuary” was recognized by the stonemasons and brick-layers in 1928 and you may recall recent cases in Canada where other church con-gregations have offered sanctuary to those who were threatened with deportation. Such action may be tolerated in Canada by the local police, but seems to be technically “aiding and abetting”. In 1994, in Rwanda, sanctuary was violated when there was a terrible massacre of those who had sought shelter in a church. In that distant country, during those troubled times, respect for traditional laws, rights and customs needed to be enforced at the point of a gun.

The modern claim for Asylum in another country is similar to a claim for sanctuary, though political in nature. Worried and terrified people flee from danger to another country and claim right of entry under in-ternational law. Canada has granted asylum to many unfortunate people and some have arrived by ship through Victoria. During

the Vietnam war many “draft-dodgers” from the USA sought sanctuary in Can-ada and many of those have settled here. In America there are thousands of people who live under the threat of deportation and live in a state of informal sanctuary.

We continue to offer the Cathedral and life in the Cathedral as a safe place to put down your roots, to live out your life and do the work that God has called you to do. This is a meaning of “sanctuary” that can touch all our lives.

The Window Advent 201210

SanctuaryMartin Hendy

Social scientists have been examining the characteristics of neighbourhoods and communities in urban centres. The topics range from the relationship between popu-lation density and violence to the propor-tion of people who say they feel isolated in densely populated cities. Interestingly, re-search on loneliness in urban settings goes back to the mid 1970s. People were shocked when the results were first publicized. They were at odds with the fondly held belief that neighbourhoods were communities where everyone knew each other, potlucks were the norm, and everyone was included. As my mother often reminded my father, “you

might not like your neighbour but you look after them.”

Today similar studies on loneliness in cit-ies and towns show that the trend has not decreased; loneliness is reported by over 50 percent of those surveyed in urban cen-tres. The phenomenon has been attributed to a number of factors: mobility, chang-ing character of neighbourhoods, increas-ing poverty levels among the middle class, shifts in demographics, and illegal sub-stance use related activities. It seems the culture of isolation has deepened.As people of faith we know the importance of community. But have we also become isolated? Have we separated our church community from the other parts of our life? What is our place in our local community? How do we in our neighbourhood contrib-ute to the well being of the whole?

One way we might work towards breaking down the internal and external culture of isolation is to engage with others who are struggling with similar questions. How do we create sanctuary/community on our

Mr. Webster’s, or any other dictionary, tells us that the word sanctuary comes from the Latin sanctus meaning sacred or holy. Like most of us, I suspect, I use it mainly to refer to the sanctuary at the Cathedral, the area around the high altar.

That’s why I always tell visitors to sit up at the front, because that’s closer to God.

There’s more to it for me, though. Sanctu-ary is a holy place in my life, a place apart, a place that has meaning for me in a special way. For me my worship is a sanctuary from life – from the bustle and from the “slings and arrows” that come my way. I tend to compartmentalize my life for I find it helps me deal with things and get more done. I’m a goal-oriented individual, as some of you know.

NeighbourhoodsNancy Ford

When I say Grace before eating, or inter-nalize the prayer before or after a meeting, I slip briefly into that place apart. I like that feeling, brief though it is. When I’m at corporate worship, of course, there’s more time. I can immerse myself in the liturgy and connect with the God I worship and who rules my life. That’s a special place for me. On Sundays, when the Gospel is read in the midst of the people and I turn around (I sit up front, remember) I do two things at once: I listen to the reader and I look at the faces in the congregation to see what impact the words are having and to gauge what space those folks are in. Are they like me, in a place apart – a sanctuary? For me it is axiomatic that the worship refuels me for the week ahead, for it has to have carry over value doesn’t it?

block or in our neighbourhood? What might that involve?

There is an opportunity to explore and dis-cover ways to concrete actions. On January 24, 25 and 26, the Cathedral is hosting a conference that focuses on the very things which help to create isolation: Poverty, Homelessness, Food Security and Addic-tion/Mental Health. The title of the confer-ence is Nurturing Healthy Communities: Compassion and Action. The keynote speaker is the Rev. Alisdair Smith, who has spoken at one of our Forum Sundays. His topic is Compassion in the 21st century?!

Workshop presenters come from a variety of organizations and agencies including: University of Victoria, VIHA, Together Against Poverty Society, Victoria Cool Aid Society, Capital Region Food and Agri-culture Initiatives Roundtable, Our Place, Umbrella Society, and the Nanaimo Afford-able Housing Society. For further informa-tion go to the cathedral website at www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca or contact the Rev. Nancy Ford or Dr. Malcolm Read.

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The Window Advent 2012 11

time, but I’ve also been privileged to help host Diocesan Council meetings, massed diocesan choir events, a shared Seder sup-per with the parish of St. John the Divine, an appreciation dinner for those wonderful volunteers who provide breakfast for the needy of our city, as well as numerous fairs, bazaars and fundraisers. Just think of the opportunity that gave me to meet, not only members of my own and the other congregations, but folk who have come in just to see how things are done in this amazingly beautiful building. I have to wonder how many of these visitors have returned and even joined our member-ship because someone took the time to of-fer them a hot drink and a minute or two of welcoming conversation. “Privileged” did you say, to provide all that food and all those hot drinks, then clear up afterwards? Yes, indeed! The Fellowship and Kitchen Ministry team is made up of a wonderful group of dedicated folk - both women and men, all working together with the same goal. Our fellowship begins IN the kitch-en, and I thank God for the opportunity I have been given to serve in this ministry. Pauline Samoszynski

Hospitality at CCC Thoughts from the Fellowship

and Kitchen Ministry Team

The Oxford English Dictionary defines Hospitality as “friendly and generous re-ception and entertainment of guests or strangers.” So most of us have given and received hospitality, in one form or anoth-er, regularly throughout our lives. It might be a neighbour dropping by for coffee, or a huge family dinner for Christmas or Thanksgiving. Some of us have been in the business commercially, welcoming people into our establishments with refreshment and fellowship.When the Dean first asked me to take on the Fellowship and Kitchen Ministry at Christ Church, I knew that my background in the food services industry and in business ad-ministration would be useful. But I still felt that it was secondary to the fellowship as-pect. Those of us on the Sunday coffee hour teams usually manage to have the beverages and snacks ready at the right time and in the right quantities, but if the machinery breaks down or our collective memory fails us, we can still be there with big smiles and warm words of welcome. Our goal is to make every person who attends an event where refreshments are served to feel com-fortable and wanted. Sheila MartindaleIt is such a pleasure to be part of the Kitch-en Ministry - a wonderful, cheerful oppor-tunity to serve and share in the fellowship of our Cathedral family. Jane ColganMy hope is to help the Cathedral commu-

nity as a whole to feel welcomed in an in-formal setting. Sheila FranchukThe fellowship hour is where new people can have a coffee, meet parishioners and find out what is going on. Gail GillJust one word comes to my mind about our coffee time after church, and that is “be-longing”. It is one thing to be a member of a parish and a volunteer, or a worshipper, but to have a sense of belonging is important and I think we feel that very much during our coffee time. Carol ThropFor me, walking into our beautiful Cathe-dral and heading towards the kitchen is like walking towards my own. Seeing the smiles of welcome on the faces of my old friends and meeting new ones is a pleasure indeed. I’m happy to be a part of this team. Ruth Walters

The heart of the home is the kitchen, and our kitchen is at the heart of practically eve-rything that happens at the Cathedral. If you think of the Fellowship and Kitchen Ministry as being only the after-service coffee time, think again. Since joining the team I have served at the 11:00 a.m. coffee

Why do I enjoy Kitchen Ministry you ask me?Making new friends and lots of comraderieSometimes it seems we are so busy and always on the runBut good team leadership and laughter makes for much funNot just on Sundays but many other days tooCome and join us; we will warmly welcome youWhy do I enjoy Kitchen Ministry; no need to ask me!

Doris Frame

Ode to the Kitchen Ministry

Kitchen Ministry Team members (l to r) Sheila Martindale, Gail Gill and Pauline Samoszynski

The Window Advent 201212

A snapshot of Brenda Mowbray Catherine Allen

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Brenda with some of her Growing Together group at Recognition Sunday

You’ll find her up in the Chapel of the New Jerusalem with the children on Sunday mornings, or else sitting at the back of the Cathedral with the Colemans, Prelypchans, and the other “the rebel rousers,” as she calls them. Meet Brenda Mowbray, origi-nally from northeast England, who has led an adventurous life, arriving at CCC via New Zealand and Iqaluit, Nunavut.

Brenda grew up in the coastal town of Whitley Bay, Northumbria, where she at-tended St. Albans Anglican Church. At the age of 18, she moved to Sutton, Surrey to train as a nurse. It was there she met her future husband, Paul, a Canadian doctor. Brenda spent a year working as a psychi-atric trainee nurse in the prison system at Wormwood Scrubs and Durham Female remand Centre in London.After they married, Brenda and Paul moved to Wellington, New Zealand. Paul under-took graduate studies and Brenda trained to become a maternity nurse. Two years in rural Manitoba followed, where Brenda worked as an occupational therapist at a

home for the elderly, an experience she considers both a treat and privilege.

The next move was to be of longer du-ration--almost 34 years in fact. Paul and Brenda moved to Iqaluit, Nunavut, where they raised their three children. Two of the children and one grandchild still live there, so Brenda and Paul are happy to return there several times a year when Paul works as a locum GP. They appreciate seeing the family on a regular basis.

In Iqaluit Brenda attended St Jude’s Cathe-dral and was all set to become involved. However, she found the atmosphere stifling and was disheartened by the lack of inclu-sion shown to the Inuit people in the con-gregation. Eventually she stopped attending and devoted her time to literacy, women’s issues and the local soup kitchen. She re-trained as a library technician and worked at the local college until she and Paul left Iqaluit for Victoria three years ago.

Life in Victoria for Paul and Brenda kicked off with a six week stint at Goldstream campground. While there, Brenda decided it was time to give the Anglican Church an-other try. She visited Church of the Advent in Colwood. “I was very impressed at how welcome I was made to feel even though I was a temporary member of the congrega-

tion,” she says. “It helped me with our move to Victoria and restored my faith in the An-glican Church.” She adds that she never ac-tually lost her faith, just her faith in church going. When she and Paul finally settled in Cook Street Village, she spotted the Ca-thedral on one of her walks and decided to “pop in.” She has been popping in ever since. “I was immediately made to feel wel-come,” she comments. “I sat next to Sylvia Plumridge who was just amazing. She was full of tales about CCC. Sylvia introduced me to many members of the Cathedral and everyone was very kind and pleasant.” After two years, Brenda wanted to become more involved and at exactly that time, Family Life Minister Ruth MacIntosh put out an SOS for Growing Together leaders. Brenda jumped in and has never looked back.

“I really enjoy all aspects of the Growing Together Ministry,” she says. “We are so lucky to have Ruth and our group of men-tors. The children are always teaching me things and not just rude words to church songs!”

Brenda also notes that she enjoys the varie-ty of services and events that the Cathedral offers. “There are many services CCC holds for special reasons, such as the 12-Step ser-vice, that I think are very good and make people feel welcome in the Cathedral what-ever their background or issues.” She adds that the many workshops, ministries and recitals could keep one busy daily and com-ments that they are always interesting and spiritually rewarding. Brenda is especially excited about going on the Iona Pilgrimage next year when she looks forward to both getting to know some other people in the congregation and expanding her spiritual life.

“I feel very lucky to have found CCC,” she concludes. “For me it is like part of my family. I often call into the church on my way to the Y or the library. Just walking through the church or grounds helps me feel grounded and at peace. It is a place of both great hospitality and sanctuary to me.”

The Window Advent 2012 13

HospitalityMartin Hendy

Let us dream that our prayers could dance down the streets as if driven by the wind.They could gently touch the child laughing with rare joy They might move into the entrenched aloneness of the well dressed manThey would warm the grieving woman, while whispering things eternalThey could lovingly envelop the teenager in the throes of their first great sadnessThere would be rejoicing with the couple whose ancient love has been rekindled

Let us dream that our actions weave others into the possibilities of the Holy One They might sooth the soul-slashing acts done in the name of things holyThey would invite and intrigue the wonderingThey could remind the busy and care-worn of distantly remembered peaceThey could knit belonging into the hearts of those who have lost hopeTogether we would weave a cloth of vitality and joy.

Let us dream of communities where all are loved, respected and nurtured.

I’ve had many experiences of hospitality, and I suspect you do too. Let me give you examples. My first one concerns the par-able of The Good Samaritan. When I was a leader at church summer camps many years ago (in another diocese) I liked to tell this parable and have the children act it as a biker story for the whole camp wor-ship service, to bring home the reality of hospitality from a rather unlikely source. Did you know that small boys love biker stories?

My second memory is of Bedouin in Jordan. This happened after Mary and I had visited Petra and before we went out into the Wadi Rum, a huge area of sand dunes. We were taken to see how Bedouin live when they are “on vacation.” They just like to go out into the desert and camp. We were taken to a large open-fronted tent where the men were lying around chat-ting and smoking and the women were bringing them strong tea in tiny cups. Our guide took us up to this tent, bold as brass,

and told the men we were Canadians. He wasn’t a Bedouin by the way and I didn’t see any money change hands. We were immediately welcomed to enter and our guide interpreted our questions about why they made their annual camping trip to the desert and how they lived there. Of course the women brought us tea in a flash, which we gratefully received.

My third story is set in Russia in a small university town about 100 kms east of Moscow. We were there with a group of parents of pupils from a school in Eng-land who had exchanged with Russian school children. This was during Glasnost and life was hard then because everything in Russia was rationed and food was hard to come by, even in Moscow. We entered the small living room and to our utter amazement saw a table covered with food and drink – of the 150% proof variety. They must have saved a lot of their food ration for a month to put on that lunch for the four of us. We were overcome with

emotion at their hospitality, for we knew we couldn’t repay them. I did assuage my conscience somewhat, however, by trying to arrange a sabbatical for the father, a Math professor.

Have my personal experiences with hospitality made an impact on me? Well of course they have. Hospitality is one of our values: do as you would be done by; love your neighbor as yourself; love one another. We know these admonitions and we react instinctively to them as we live our lives as Christians. One of our values at CCC is to be a welcoming community– to show simple hospitality. I’m confident we’ve all been shown hospitality sometime somewhere in our life. How hard is it to pay that forward? – smile, talk to people you don’t know, say “Can I help you?” to someone looking lost at the back of the nave. Yes, you do know where the wash-rooms are. Longer term, local visitors we welcome are more likely to join us, and that’s a good thing.

Poet’s CornerDREAMING

A CCC parishioner Banner by Ann Barry

The Window Advent 201214

FAMILY LIFE AT CCC

KIDSPACEOur first meeting for

2013 is Friday, January 18. See you there! This is

for kids in grades 3-5!

We meet from 6:00-7:30pm on the 1st

and 3rd Fridays of the month!

Hey YOUthWe start up again on

Friday, January 11 Meet with friends, en-

gage in activities to E X P A N D your world!

Meet from 6:30-8:30pm on the 2nd

and 4th Fridays of the month.

WOW! We are heading into our third year!Practices are Wednesdays from 4:00-5:00pm

First practice of 2013 is January 9Come and join us!

We’re learning lots of new songs this year!

PARENTING WORKSHOPSWe ran a series of great workshops and seminars in the fall including iGirl, iGirl for Parents and Caregivers and

Child/Youth Anxiety with Dr. Magali Brulot. Watch out for our new programming in 2013. Informa-tion about workshops will be available on our website:

www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Cathedral Children’s Choir

If you haven’t noticed it before, take a look up at Robin Pillar on the south aisle and you’ll see a small sculpture of a bird. Inspired by events that took place during construction work in 1928, the statue garners a lot of attention. Be sure to come to our service of Nine Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 23 to find out more about the legend behind the sculpture.

One person who is familiar with the story is Lucy Haapala whose father, a stonemason, was a member of the construction team. Lucy attended Christ Church as a special visitor on Dedication Sunday with her son and great grandsons. Captivated by the ‘Rob-in Legend,’ the Growing Together students designed a huge card illustrating the story and presented it to Lucy during the coffee hour (see photo above).

A special legend and person

Above: The Growing Together students present Mrs. Lucy Haapala, with a special card illustrating the robin story to mark her visit to the Cathe-dral on Dedication Sunday. Lucy’s son Matt Haapala accompanied her to church that day.

Family Holiday Skatefun for all ages!

When is the last time you played with Cathedral friends of all ages?

When is the last time you went skating? Did you play hockey in your youth?

Were you a figure skater on a frozen pond? Come show the kids how it’s done!

Mark your calendars! Sunday, December 30 from 2:30-4:00 at the Save On

Foods Arena!!See you on the ice!

More info: Ruth: rmacintosh@christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

The Window Advent 2012 15

Sanctuary: Beyond beauty and polite wordsNancy Ford

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The story of this sacred space began in a time when Christianity was in full bloom across much of continental Europe. The relation-ship between church and state followed the pattern set by Constan-tine. This 13th century church was dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and later became known as Mátyás Templom or Mathias church. It was named for a beloved king under whom there was further construction. It was awe-inspiring with soaring ceilings magnifi-cent sculpture and art. As new conquerors came it was stripped of its furnishings and redecorated in the tradition of another faith tradition. Empires disintegrated, others grew and there was a new regime which brought with it a return to Christianity.

The church was quickly redecorated, the walls and ceilings were re-painted and joyous art was created to celebrate the return of Chris-tianity. However war was never far away. The two World Wars ac-counted for much damage in the city and the church. As the cold war took hold, the space was shorn of its Christian identity and became a barracks for young soldiers.

Once again the regime changed and the people chose to continue the tradition of refurbishing and rebuilding, but with a difference. The beauty and history of all those who have found sanctuary here is being honoured: from the ancient frescoes to the Ottoman Is-lamic decorations to the 19th century Gothic architecture.

In the midst of reconstruction, of the competing goals of the peo-ple, and the shrapnel shaped columns there is something different which is emerging.

The wounds of generations do not as easily reactively shape who is welcome and who is not. The bringing together of the beauty of dif-ferent faith traditions is not merely a museum or tourist focus. It gives a window into the hearts of people who have survived much, who understand sanctuary to mean more than mere safety.

Sanctuary does not mean legislated equality, nor may it be found only in using the “correct” language. It calls up the hard work of developing empathy for the pain and joys of others. It demands an appreciation of diversity and informed compassion which calls us into relationship with all human beings, even those considered enemies.

Photos, from top right: Mátyás Templom in Buda, Hungary; the restored beauty of medieval Christian story and symbol; the restored beauty of medieval Islamic sacred symbols.