From the Rector
Week of 2026-06-19
On Our Liturgy and the Good Order of the Church
Dear Parishioners,
During last Sunday's celebration, something occurred that caught my attention from a liturgical perspective. As our crucifer proceeded to the back of the church in preparation for the entrance procession, the entire congregation stood while he walked to his position. While this was undoubtedly well-intentioned, it does not correspond to the liturgical practice of the Anglican tradition and is not part of the guidelines followed by our parish.
As Rector of the Parish, I feel a responsibility to clarify that this action was not planned by me, was not discussed with me, and does not have my support. I make this clarification because several people have approached me in recent days expressing questions and concerns regarding certain practices and initiatives that have arisen without proper discernment and pastoral guidance.
I wish to reaffirm, with humility and respect, what was already shared at our Parish Advisory Council (PAC) meeting: any change or innovation related to the liturgical space and the public worship of the Church must be undertaken only with the guidance and approval of the Rector of the Parish. This is not a matter of personal preference, but of the responsibility entrusted to me by the Church to safeguard good order, discipline, and faithfulness to our Anglican tradition.
I must admit that situations such as this have been a source of concern and weariness. Therefore, I ask everyone, with affection and sincerity, to work together in a spirit of unity, mutual respect, and obedience to the liturgical norms we have received from our Diocese. My commitment remains the same as the one I publicly made in my vows of ordination and institution: to remain faithful to the doctrine, worship, and discipline of the Anglican Church of Canada, following the guidance of our Bishop William—neither more nor less than what the Church asks of us.
To those who have shown encouragement and support, I offer my heartfelt thanks. I also ask you to remain calm. Everything will be well. By God's grace, we will continue to walk together, serving Christ and strengthening the fellowship of our faith community.
Finally, I would like to share the following article explaining the meaning and appropriate times for sitting, standing, and kneeling during the Holy Eucharist in the Anglican tradition. These guidelines reflect the liturgical practice followed in our parish. If there are any questions regarding any aspect of our liturgy, or if anyone has ideas for new practices or innovations, I kindly ask that you speak with me before any such initiative is implemented.
Gestures in Anglican Worship: Sitting, Standing, and Kneeling
In the Anglican tradition, bodily gestures during worship are not merely external actions but visible expressions of our faith and reverence before God. Sitting, standing, and kneeling help the congregation participate fully in the liturgy, engaging body, mind, and spirit in worship.
Sitting is generally a posture of listening and reflection. The congregation remains seated during readings, sermons, and other moments of instruction, demonstrating attentiveness to God's Word and a willingness to learn.
Standing is an expression of honor, joy, and respect. We typically stand for hymns, the proclamation of the Gospel, the recitation of the Creeds, and the principal prayers of the Church. By standing, we demonstrate our readiness to respond to God's call and our unity as the Body of Christ.
Kneeling is a traditional gesture of humility, penitence, and devotion. We often kneel during the Confession, the Prayers of the People, and during the celebration of Holy Communion. This posture symbolizes our dependence upon God's grace and our reverence in His presence.
Although practices may vary somewhat between parishes and dioceses, these gestures share the common purpose of enriching the worship experience. They remind us that we worship God not only with our words, but with our whole being, offering Him our hearts, minds, and bodies.
"Glorify God in your body." (1 Corinthians 6:20)
Finally, following the guidance of our Diocesan Bishop, I strongly encourage those who were unable to participate in our Book Study to read To Love and Serve. This book provides an excellent introduction to the faith, history, and practice of the Anglican tradition and helps clarify many questions that may arise. It is a valuable resource for anyone wishing to deepen their understanding of the life, worship, and mission of the Anglican Church.
May God bless each one of you and our entire parish community, so that with love, humility, and faithfulness we may continue to serve Jesus Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Week of 2026-06-12
Clergy Day 2026
On Thursday, I had the opportunity to attend the Diocese of Ontario Clergy Day at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Picton. The gathering brought together clergy from across the diocese for a time of learning, reflection, and fellowship.
This year's seminar, “Christian Formation in a Secular Age—Reclaiming our Anglican Tradition,” was led by the Rev. Canon Dr. Mike Michieilin. The presentation encouraged us to reflect on how our Anglican heritage continues to shape faithful disciples of Jesus Christ and strengthen the Church’s mission in an increasingly secular society.
The day was a valuable opportunity for spiritual renewal, theological reflection, and connection with fellow clergy serving throughout the Diocese of Ontario. We give thanks for these opportunities to learn, grow, and support one another in ministry.
Week of 2026-06-05
Ordinary Time in the Anglican Tradition
Ordinary Time is the longest season of the Church Year in the Anglican tradition. It begins after the Season of Epiphany and resumes after the Day of Pentecost, continuing until the First Sunday of Advent. Despite its name, Ordinary Time is far from ordinary in significance. The word “ordinary” comes from the idea of counting the ordered weeks of the liturgical year.
During this season, the Church focuses on the life, teachings, ministry, and mission of Jesus Christ. Through the regular reading of Scripture and participation in worship, Christians are invited to grow in faith, deepen their discipleship, and live out the Gospel in their daily lives.
The liturgical color for Ordinary Time is green, symbolizing growth, hope, and new life. Just as plants grow steadily over time, the faithful are called to mature spiritually through prayer, worship, study of God’s Word, and service to others.
Ordinary Time reminds us that God is present not only in the great feasts and celebrations of the Church, but also in the routines of everyday life. It is a season for faithful living, encouraging us to follow Christ daily and to share his love with the world through acts of compassion, justice, and service.
"Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3:18)
Week of 2026-05-29
The Feast of the Holy Trinity celebrates the central mystery of the Christian faith: one God in three Persons — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is not three gods, but one God revealed in perfect communion of love. The Trinity reminds us that God is relationship, unity, care, and constant presence in the life of His people.
As we contemplate the Holy Trinity, we are also invited to live in communion with one another, cultivating love, peace, forgiveness, and fraternity. The Father creates and sustains us, the Son saves us and walks beside us, and the Holy Spirit strengthens and guides us each day.
More than trying to fully understand this mystery with our minds, the Church invites us to experience it through faith and through the practice of love. Every time we make the sign of the cross, we proclaim this sacred truth: we belong to the One and Triune God, source of all grace and blessing.
May the celebration of the Holy Trinity renew in us the assurance that we are never alone, for the love of the Father, the grace of the Son, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit remain with us today and always. Amen.
