ARCTIC NEWS
FALL 2007

Cover photo - Sunrise over the Church of the Ascension in Inuvik (Harriet Burdett-Moulton)

Bishop’s Message

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” Hebrews 13:8
As I pondered through these words from the Epistle to the Hebrews, I realized how much of our way of life and the world around us have changed. Some things are for the better and then there are some things not so good and often even painful. But the fact remains that we have always lived through changes that bring challenges to our way of life, both to those of us who consider ourselves as people of the land or to those who consider themselves as settlers to the land of the Arctic. We come through many changes that challenge us to cope with uncertain circumstances that come our way most times unexpectantly.

The verse from Hebrews draws us to focus on Jesus. Even as we have little or no control over the changes that are coming upon us, Jesus’ changelessness has not been affected. His attitudes and personality as described in the Scriptures have not changed with the tide of rapid changes that are taking place before our eyes. He is just as loving and forgiving as he was at the cross. He is as caring as now as when he fed the multitudes in his time. He still challenges us to trust him and have faith to walk with Him as we struggle to cope with all the changes that bring challenges in our time. His gentle yet stern presence can still allow us to grow even stronger from the challenging experiences that come our way.

Life as we know it may be changing at an alarming rate. But if we know who created it, who is the Lord of it and gave his life for it, we can be assured that Christ is with us through the changes and challenges we face.

He is indeed the same yesterday and today and forever. Many of the changes that bring challenging times will be reflected throughout this issue of Arctic News but because Christ has been the centre of our ministry, those challenges that we have come to face as a diocese and as parishes have allowed us to grow into new heights of ministry in both the Arctic and into the south. Much of the focus in this issue will be around the rebuilding of our cathedral in Iqaluit and the fundraising efforts that are being taken both within and outside the diocese. Not only do we want to share the story of our cathedral restoration project, but we also want to share something of our anniversary year in 2008.

In spite of the many challenges that have come in 2007, we come to the closing months of the year with hope and determination for the year to come and with confidence knowing that we serve a Lord who is the same, yesterday, today and forever.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our many supporters and to wish you all God’s peace during this Christmas season and indeed for the year 2008.

Yours in Christ,

NEW MISSION HOUSE - AKLAVIK

New Mission House

 Aklavik Celebration Cake

Why a new house? The old mission house was built in three parts. The first part was over 70 years ago and the last was about 40 years ago. The various parts were beginning to pull apart. The floors were uneven and gaps were beginning to appear in the walls. The house was always cold and drafty. A construction company examined the building and roof and said that it would be cheaper to rebuild than to do repairs.

What about the new house? The parish was told that there would be no permanent clergy until there was a suitable house. The Band Chief, Charlie Furlong, approached the local MLA, David Krutko. The Government of the NWT Housing had a house that they could not sell due to its size and location on Band land. Dealings between Premier Joseph Handley, MLA David Krutko and Chief Charlie Furlong made the house available to the Anglican Church.

Premier hands keys to Chief Furlong
Chief Furlong hands keys on to Bishop Larry

I understood that the house may remain on Band land or may be moved at the church’s expense. The house currently sits on Band land.

The cooperation between the Territorial Government and the Aklavik Indian Band made the gift of this house a possibility. Thanks to their efforts, the people of Aklavik will certainly benefit.


Cooperation - MLA David Krutko, Premier Joseph Handley, Chief Charlie Furlong and Bishop Larry

Music for the Land of Long Nights
Benefit Concert at Christ Church Calgary
by Mrs. Jo Popham

On Saturday, October 27, 2007, the Anglican Parish of Christ Church in Calgary, Alberta hosted a concert, Music for the Land of Long Nights, to benefit St. Jude’s Cathedral.  The concert featured  jazz musician The Rev. Tim Elliott along with Ms. Michelle Minke, a graduate of the Emerging Artists Program of Calgary Opera.

Ms. Michelle Minke was accompanied by Mr. Mel Kirby.  These two opened the benefit concert with a talk about their experiences in the Arctic, including Iqaluit, where they traveled last February to perform parts of the opera Frobisher, which premiered in Calgary and Banff last winter. Ms. Minke was so taken with the people of the Arctic that she has returned to offer monthly voice lessons.


Rev. Tim Elliott, an Anglican priest and an accomplished jazz pianist who has performed all over Canada, incorporated his reflections on life into the rhythms and improvisations of his music.  

One of the main themes of Fr. Elliott’s interactive jazz presentation was hope.  It is the prayer of Christ Church that those in the North continue to have hope during their rebuilding project.

We at Christ Church are nearing completion of a major renovation and expansion of our building, and we cannot help but think of you in the Arctic who have lost your building. With this concert, we hope that we have raised awareness for St. Jude’s Cathedral, the Igloo Cathedral of the Arctic.

As those attending the concert listened to the arias performed and the reflections of the performers, and as we sang along to Rev. Tim Elliott’s music, our hearts were warmed. We send our warmest blessings to our sisters and brothers in the Arctic, along with the $10,000, raised through the benefit concert Music for the Land of Long Nights.

Suicide Prevention Conference
by Rev. Sue Oliver

Over the Thanksgiving weekend the Canadian Association of Suicide Prevention held their annual conference in Yellowknife.  This national conference drew participants and speakers from all across Canada as well as from the United States and as far a field as Norway.  The theme of this year’s conference was Embracing Life, and throughout the course of the weekend we heard from a variety of speakers and teachers who spoke to us about how to prevent suicide in our communities.  They spoke about the importance of making personal connections with individuals and how that personal interaction can develop a relationship necessary in times of crisis.  There were also speakers from different communities throughout the North who shared their experiences of training a suicide prevention team to respond to individuals who talk of suicide.  We learned about the importance of follow up, taking the initiative and not waiting for someone else to check on someone we are worried about, and trusting our instincts and knowledge of individuals in our communities.  

        One of the other elements of this conference involved an opportunity for the caregivers and individuals who are the front lines of mental health in the community to come together to support and care for each other.  We were reminded of the need to care for the caregivers and to know our boundaries and personal limits.  

        Many teenagers from across the North attended the conference as well and there was an entire component for young people.  They were encouraged to share their experiences of grief and loss and their own feelings of hopelessness.  They also heard some inspiring stories of courage and success from speakers such as Sharon Firth.  Building a strong and healthy community of teenagers is a goal of all communities in the North and this was a good opportunity to build up the teens in our midst.  

        Speaking out about suicide is something we all must do in our communities if we have any hope of seeing the number of people taking their own lives diminish in the years to come.  Saying the word and talking about the feelings are our best strategy in combating this crisis in our midst.






Rev. Sue Oliver is priest in charge of St. Matthew’s Church in Ft. McPherson. She is also the outh Coordinator for the Diocese of The Arctic

50th Anniversaries
Rev. Douglas Dittrich

My first experience of the North was in the years 1953 and 1954 when I worked for a Toronto firm of chartered accountants. I made several trips to Yellowknife as an auditor of the Giant gold mine.
As a summer theological student in 1959 I spent four months on the Arctic Quebec coast, first at Great Whale River, then Inukjuak, and later helped to build the first church at Puvirnituq, and also attended a few days of meetings with Bishop Marsh at Salluit when The Rev. David Ellis was incumbent.
All of the above brings me to a couple of anniversaries (if my memory serves me correctly about times and personnel). Needless to say, I am well aware of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Diocese coming up in 2008, as I came into being in 1933 as well.

However, it occurs to me that the two parishes I served were both established in 1957, making the current year their 50th anniversary. As you will know, Frobisher Bay was historically an outstation of Kimmirut, but I believe that the Rev. Les Corness (1957-59) was the first permanent priest, building the Apex Hill house and church. He was followed by the Rev. Brian Gilbertson (1959-62) and by myself (1962-67), during which time the parish achieved self-support. While we were there St. Jude’s (the old base church) became the pro-Cathedral. In 1967 Jean and I picked out the site for a permanent cathedral and negotiated with the government on behalf of Bishop Marsh. I was able to visit in 1977 and see the completed building (Jean never saw it). Two of our daughters were born at Iqaluit, and one at Inuvik, where our son is buried.

Old St. Jude’s Cathedral - Iqaluit
My present church (St. Columba, Pitt Meadows, BC, Diocese of New Westminster, a small parish in a Vancouver suburb) has begun to raise some funds for the St. Jude’s building campaign and the refurbishing of the new cathedral. It is anticipated that we will be sending you a cheque next month (for my first parish from what is likely be my last parish).

And now to the west – in 1957 Captain Ken Snider (now retired Archdeacon at Dawson, Yukon) established the Church of the Ascension at the new town site of Inuvik. He was followed in 1961 by the Rev. Bert and Audrey Morton, in 1965 by the Rev. Ted Mumford, and in 1967 by myself. I was incumbent until 1973 when I took leave and became project manager for the construction of the new Ingamo Hall friendship centre and continued as secretary of Northern Games (and was one of the fundraisers for both endeavors). By the way, Jean and I were invited guests in Inuvik for the 35th annual Games in the summer of 2005.


Church of the Ascension - Inuvik
Many clergy have followed in the east, including the Rev. Brian Burrows and the Rev. Roger Briggs in Iqaluit (not to forget the former Dean Mike Gardener, and Bishop Paul Idlout who was a tremendous help to me with the St. Jude and St. Simon Sunday Schools). In the west there was Archbishop Terry Buckle (who succeeded me), the Rev. Geoffrey Dixon and Bishop Larry Robertson.

Renovations to ATTS - Pangnirtung
(Arthur Turner Training School)

        The Diocese of the Arctic operates a three-year training program for students studying for ordination to the priesthood. The last class completed their studies in 2006 and have been ordained as deacons and placed in parishes throughout the diocese.  
        Some major questions for the diocese are: Do we promote the ATTS as a program or a location? Is there potential for lay/deacon training at this location? Can we utilize the facility when full time study is not occurring?
        The Executive Committee of the Diocese of the Arctic thought to rent the units at ATTS when courses were not taking place. However, it has been determined that  much work needs to be done on the facilities before that can occur.  Bishop Andrew and Debra traveled to Pangnirtung in August to see what major physical work needed to be done.
 Kitchen in the Principal’s quarters

        The principal’s apartment needs major work. It requires new furniture, an extension to the kitchen and new counters, an extension to the bathroom and new bathroom plumbing fixtures. It also requires painting throughout.
        Taking up space in the adjoining storage room can extend the kitchen. The bathroom can be extended by taking up space from the adjoining bedroom. The remaining space in this room could be turned into a storage area. 
The entire classroom area requires painting. The classroom, library and principal’s office should all be extended. The lounge area could be extended by using space from the second office. This area could then be used to house the history of ATTS. New furniture is needed for the classroom and lounge areas.

The classroom needs to be extended

 The library needs extending as well as reorganizing
The student apartments all require plastering and painting. Some require minor repairs to doors and some furniture (coffee tables, couches & chairs) should be replaced.

All fire extinguishers and smoke detectors need to be checked, updated, replaced or installed. All exits need to be clearly marked by repairing or replacing lights. All exterior doors require windbreak porches.

Livingroom in one of the student apartments

Our objective is to upgrade the ATTS buildings and resources; enhance services/programs of ATTS by developing our own people; developing relationships with other institutions and developing an awareness of the Diocese of the Arctic. As well we need to develop standards for the use of the facility.

Until these renovations are made, the Diocese will not be able to run a program for those wishing to train for ordination. The approximate cost of upgrading the ATTS facilities is $55,000.00.

Holy Trinity, Chatham, ON

Holy Trinity Parish in Chatham, Ontario has undertaken an outreach project to support the rebuilding of St. Jude’s Cathedral. This project began when a young man, Chris Hughesman, told the parish about the fire at St. Jude’s.

The project was initiated under the title COINS FOR THE CATHEDRAL, a program of education and fundraising which encouraged all who went to the parish to drop coins into a large pipe from the rebuilding of their parish pipe organ.  

On Saturday, October 20, Bishop Andrew and Debra visited Holy Trinity, Chatham, for a fundraising dinner and silent auction to benefit St. Jude’s.  This parish has raised over $7000 for the rebuilding of St. Jude’s to date.  

Many thanks to our supporters in Chatham, Ontario.


Bishop Andrew with Chris Hughesman


Bishop Andrew with Marguerite Challis one of our many supporters from Chatham

Bishop Andrew and Rev. George Hamilton - Rev. Hamilton spent time in Ft. Simpson


Debra, Bishop Andrew and Esther Chandrasena (outreach representative of Holy Trinity)

Diocese of the Arctic - Synod

The Diocese of the Arctic is very excited about their 75th anniversary in 2008. Plans are underway for celebrations to occur during our Synod in Iqaluit between May 26 and June 4, 2008.

Iqaluit as a community is worthy of a visit by itself, being the capital of Nunavut and the home of St. Jude’s Cathedral parish.  The diocese is planning to hold a Community Celebration Service the evening of May 26 and of course a Service of Holy Communion on the Sunday, June 1st, in celebration of God’s wonderful blessings throughout this diocese.

The Diocese has produced a calendar as a memento of our 75th anniversary. The calendar depicts ministry from the early days to the present. These calendars can be purchased from the synod office for $10.00. Also available at the synod office are fleece jackets for $100.00 and ball caps for $20.00.

Church of the Epiphany
Sudbury, Ontario
October 22 - 26

The Church of the Epiphany in Sudbury suffered from arson a few years ago. Because they had a similar incident as St. Jude’s Cathedral in Iqaluit, they decided that they would like to support the rebuilding of St. Jude’s over the next three year period.  

One of the parishioners suggested asking people for their loose change as a way to help support the rebuilding of St. Jude’s. As a result a program entitled “Pennies from Heaven” was initiated. A clear box was placed in the church and the parish plans to continue using this program as a way to help with the rebuilding.

Bishop Andrew with Rev. Tom & Ruth Corston

On October 13 the parish held an “Amateurs for the Arctic” benefit concert. The parish is considering whether this would be an annual or a one-time only event.

During the visit, Bishop Andrew had breakfast with the local clergy, visited the Native Friendship Centre,  had lunch with the President, Rev. Stephen Andrews, and some faculty of Thorneloe College School of Theology; visited with Mayor John Rodriguez, was interviewed at CJTK Christian radio station, addressed the Rotary Club and spent an evening at the parish where we showed a PowerPoint presentation and answered questions about the diocese.  

Bridget Elliott & Margaret Gordon of the N’Swakamok Native Friendship Centre

Lunch with Thorneloe Faculty

Bishop with Mayor John Rodriguez & Rev. Corston


Pat McNally of CJTK with Bishop Andrew
During the evening with the parish, Bishop Andrew was presented with several cheques. One from “Amateurs for the Arctic” for $837.84; one from “Pennies From Heaven” for $441.50; one from mission outreach for $500.00; and one from the ACW for $200.00. As a result of the efforts of the parish, over $4500.00 has been raised for the rebuilding of St. Jude’s.

An Evening with The Bishop at Epiphany

Mary Donato presents proceeds from the “Amateurs for the Arctic” concert

Rev. Tom Corston presents “Pennies from Heaven” proceeds

Dorothy Thomson presents a donation from the Mission/outreach committee

 ACW President Betty Pendleton presents Bishop Andrew with a donation


Following his presentation to Rotary, Bishop Andrew is presented with a gift from the Rotary’s newest member - Salvation Army Officer Snelgrove

Our grateful thanks to all our supporters at Church of the Epiphany and throughout Sudbury.

BOYS & GIRLS BRIGADE
by Rita Burrows

        Bishop Andrew Atagotaaluk invited me to the Diocese of the Arctic Synod of 2005 to make a presentation on the Brigade Canada program.
        I had one and a half hours to make the presentation and I was able to display artifacts made by Brigade members across the world and to identify the work throughout the world for over 124 years.
        Brigade is primarily a spiritual program aimed at bringing young people to know Jesus Christ.  It offers an opportunity for clergy to present Jesus to children and youth on an ongoing regular basis, whenever the groups meet. Physical, Educational and Service to the community are other aspects of the program.   There was plenty of opportunity for members of synod to participate in some of the activities we do, to peruse at their leisure the 10 day display of program material, and ask as many questions as they wished.   Ten parishes indicated their wish to participate in the program before synod closed.
        By March 2007 the Council for the North had made a gift to the Diocese to help towards my travel to train the leaders, all of whom would be adults in good standing with Vestries and clergy.  Global Fellowship of Youth also made a gift towards the extensive traveling costs.  The parishes themselves undertook at Bishop Andrew’s suggestion, the cost of accommodation and food whilst I was to be with them.  These gifts were what enabled the large project to begin.
        After receiving an invitation from the Mayor to participate as guests of honor at  the Snowfest celebration at Puvirnituq in Nunavik this spring ( where an introduction to the program was given,), I was able to travel on alone to Akulivik.  The temperatures were very low (-45 C.) and there was within minutes of landing a heavy storm which lasted several days.  The Rev. Peter Ainilik and his wife Annie were delayed returning home.   Despite this church was held, and following the storm the training of adults, parents, began.  It was an opportunity for me to renew friendships with people there who had lived in Puvirnituq in the 1960’s. I was also invited to speak to the congregation and was able to tell them of a real life, modern miracle.  This they appreciated as it involved one of their community being lost on an ice flow (in the 60’s) for seven days.  Simon had prayed to God whilst drifting alone in and out or being stuck far out in Hudson’s Bay, fast in the ice. At one point he had to use the skull of a seal to collect and drink water.   As he prayed, his prayer had been, morning and night,   “God I know you know I am here, I trust you to help me and to save me. “
        On the seventh day the ice drifted near enough to the land for Simon to jump from pan to pan of ice and make land.  The Lord had brought him exactly to the place he had been going to hunt and fish!  (It would have been a normal day’s journey by dog team.) Simon attributed his saving to the will of God.  He always told the people of the church where he now lived (Akulivik) which was where he had been going to, that they should ‘Trust in God.”   Simon had died in his early eighties, a few weeks prior to my arrival there.  The people were very moved to see the ivory ring which I wear and which was made by Simon’s father as a gift to me in l962.

Leaders in Akulivik

        After training in Akulivik I trained leaders in Kangirsuk, Nunavik, where the leaders had been holding the program following its introduction by my husband, when he was there for several months as Interim pastor.   Zebedee and Jeannie Nungak and family were my hosts and they thoroughly enjoyed seeing the old photographs of Puvirnituq from the 60’s.
        I finally arrived after an overnight stay with Rev. Roy and Annie Bowkett in Winnipeg, at Coral Harbour.   The second bag containing all training materials was missing on the flight!!  I stayed with Rev. Lucy Netser and family.  Lucy has been holding the program for children for the past two years after receiving training whilst at Synod. In parishes in the north there is often no hall or other accommodation than the churches.  The nave and front of the pews is the only available space to use. The children were excited; they had requested uniforms and an enrolment was planned in the church with parents attending.    I was unable to travel on to do training in Repulse Bay and so spent time visiting with Lucy to the sick and grieving people. I worried about not being able to get into Repulse Bay, knowing that the travel costs would be prohibitive to come again...
        Whilst in Coral Harbour, Joseph Lucy’s husband, together with his sons, arrived home from hunting.  Bud the youngest son is a young man of 12 years old who had brought back 2 wolves and a caribou as his contribution to the family.  When we chatted together about him now being a hunter - he modestly explained to me that he was six years old when he shot his first caribou as a contribution towards the family food.   He was excited about the enrolment service and happy his mother had prepared his shirt and badges in readiness.  

Budd in his new uniform
        It is a wonderful thing to be privileged to be in the home of hunters when they return after a trip.   All day long there was tenseness as we waited their safe crossing on the sea ice from the mainland.  When they finally returned they swept up the younger children and passed them to and from each other with love, pride and great joy.        

All the extended family arrived, kindly brought extra food, whilst all ate and talked together.   They heard of the ice conditions, the traveling, and the birds and polar bear tracks.  The love and respect is such that we

 Bible Question and Answer Time

 Leaders & students - Coral Harbour


Enrolment day - Coral Harbour

do not enjoy it often any more in the south, being often too busy to spend family time together.
        On leaving Coral Hbr. I was to go to Rankin Inlet, however, ice conditions on the airstrip there and Churchill not being available either, the plane had to divert to Thompson Manitoba. What a delay!  We landed and found a hotel at midnight with instructions to be back at the airport at 6.00 a.m.  All day we waited there with poor weather reports.  Whilst waiting I was approached by women who turned out to be from Repulse Bay. We discussed the program and they were interested.  At one point a young woman came and asked if I could help her with her daily Bible Study, so we found a quiet spot and did that. The question arose about ‘confusion in our lives’ and we discussed it at length. Repeatedly the women approached me and asked whether I knew the young woman previously, which I did not.  Later she approached me again and asked if she could be trained as a Brigade leader for the children and youth of her community.   I wondered at my own dismay when I had been unable to visit that community as I had promised. Only to find that God had a better plan in mind!  ‘Oh ye of little faith’ - certainly came to mind then.
        I felt Denise would be a wonderful role model for the children and youth.  Only later to find out that this young woman was the winner of the recent dog team race from Igloolik to Repulse Bay.  It was won by 5 hours in the fastest ever time, and the first woman to win it. !  Denise is now waiting training to lead the group in Repulse Bay and has already found a friend to help her with the group.
        Lena Alivaktuk resides in Ottawa where she is a great help to the sick people who have to go there for hospital treatment.  Lena who is a long term member of the Brigade advisory board is always ready and willing to be supportive.  I stayed with her on my way to Iqaluit.  
        Next an introduction to Brigade was given to 30+ women of the ACW in Iqaluit. It is hoped to start two groups there this fall when the leaders are organized.  Norman and Susie Ishulutak kindly offered accommodation and transportation to the parish office every morning, where I was able to use the telephone and make many arrangements, kindness of the Dean and his staff.   Many old friends were seen and it was a great joy to be able to be present at the Baptism service in the church hall, now being used as the Cathedral.  
 Later training took place in Kuujjuaq and they plan to start the group this fall also.  There was a memorable Baptism service where all the families shook hands with each member of the congregation whilst they were leaving the church.
        Lolly Annahatak is always so kind to offer accommodation at a moments notice when planned or unplanned stopovers make it necessary for me to be there, and we are thankful to God for all who have kindly offered their homes, transportation whilst in the communities , or food during such times.   
The Brigade program endeavors to give hope to God’s children of all ages.  Suicide prevention is an urgent ongoing need in the north.   Training has been given to ten helpers, and 27 leaders so far this year, and seven groups have been established. There have been more requests from across the Diocese for training in this program.  
        If you feel you can help please direct your gift (marked Arctic Brigade outreach) to the Diocese of the Arctic. A tax receipt will be issued.

Uniform items & international display
 
A new Brigade member!

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - SEPTEMBER 2007
 

Front row: Rev. Canon Jonas Allooloo, Bart Hartop, Lizzie Epoo-York, Rev. Capt. Ron McLean
Second row: Igah Muckpaloo, Joanasie Sarpinak, Elaine Coumont, Bishop Larry Robertson, Debra Gill, Rev. Lucassie Nakoolak
Back row: Joe Ashevak, Very Rev. James Barlow, Rev. Capt. David Parsons, Ven. Daryle Kerr (Athabasca), Bishop Andrew Atagotaaluk

The following are highlights of some of the issues discussed by the Executive Committee at its recent meeting in Inuvik.

Inuktitut Hymnbook
Rev. Canon Paul Williams has completed the first draft of the English/Inuktitut hymnbook. This book will be reviewed for necessary revisions. It is hoped that a final draft will be prepared prior to Synod 2008.

Translation
Translation work on the Old Testament continues. It is hoped that a final draft will be available at the 2008 Synod. It was also noted that although the translations for Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, Isaiah, Ruth, Proverbs and Ezekiel are outdated, these readings be included in the 2009 Bible reading guide as produced by the Canadian Bible Society.

Clergy Housing Policy
It was noted that the clergy housing policy of the diocese needs to be reviewed and perhaps revised so that all parishes work under the same guidelines where clergy housing is provided.  

Vacation Travel
Bishop Andrew appointed a subcommittee of the Executive to consider whether any changes are necessary to the vacation travel guidelines.

Cathedral Report
Harriet Moulton-Burdett of FSC was on hand to provide an overview of the construction drawings and suggested materials for the new cathedral. The Synod office is to produce pamphlets and folders which include letters, information materials, CDs and the Cathedral Arctic News for distribution to possible donors. As well, a bi-monthly newsletter update will be sent to all parishes in the Diocese and be placed on the webpage so that all our donors can be kept informed of the progress on the project.

Synod 2008 – 75th Anniversary
Plans are underway for the 75th anniversary of the Diocese including plans for celebration services during the gathering. Several special guests have been invited including the Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada. As well, several guest speakers have been invited. It is hoped that a video/CD/DVD can be produced which will assist vestries, wardens and rectors understand the need for annual reports and to explain the consequences that the Diocese and Parishes may face if these reports are not received.

Conversations with Yukon
In 2006 discussions were initiated between the Yukon and the Arctic to see how we could better minister to our people. As fellow-dioceses, we are looking at things, particularly in the west, that we can do together, and to look at doing ministry in different ways.  Additionally the Dioceses of the Arctic, Alaska and Yukon have an agreement that they try to meet together annually to talk about joint ministry, particularly amongst the Gwich’in people who are a nation within their own right, and whose nation crosses all through each of the three dioceses. In recognition of the value of collaboration in the use of resources, this Diocese will continue to support the sharing of information and resources between the Yukon and Alaska.

Future ATTS Training Programs
The Executive Committee of the Diocese of the Arctic thought to rent the units at ATTS when courses were not taking place. However, it has been determined that much work needs to be done on the facilities before that can occur.  Bishop Andrew and Debra traveled to Pangnirtung to see where major physical work needed to be done. Our objective is to upgrade the ATTS buildings and resources; enhance services/programs of ATTS by developing our own people; developing relationships with other institutions and developing an awareness of the Diocese of the Arctic. As well we need to develop standards for the use of the facility.

Financial Self Sufficiency
The Diocese continues to work on financial self-sufficiency. The Executive Committee decided to ask parishes to consider giving 10% of their weekly offering to the Diocese in order to help it become self sufficient. This 10% is in addition to the assessment and stipend already being provided.

Land & Buildings
The following parishes have indicated that their churches need to be replaced as the current space is not large enough Coral Harbour, Resolute Bay, Igloolik, Taloyoak and Cape Dorset. Pangnirtung, Sachs Harbour and Yellowknife are planning renovations to their current churches. As well, the parish in Baker Lake is making renovations to their mission house.

Next Executive Committee Meeting
As this is the last meeting of the current committee, the date and location of the next meeting will be decided on by the new Executive which will be elected during Synod 2008.


Bishop Andrew with confirmation candidate Vince and Rev. Capt. David Parsons


Bishop Andrew presents a gift to Ven. Daryle Kerr of Athabasca as a thanks for doing our daily devotions

Rev. Canon Jonas Allooloo above and Lizzie Epoo-York below give talks during a praise and worship service in Inuvik

St. Bartholomew’s Church, Sarnia
by Rev. Rachel Parker

        I am writing this day to offer to you, your Diocese and the congregation of St. Jude’s Cathedral, the prayers and support of a sister Anglican Church in Sarnia, Ontario.
        We are a small congregation in town that hosts 5 Anglican churches. We are blessed to be able to offer worship to God each week in a comfortable and lovely worship space. We have never experienced the tragedy, which the members of your Cathedral have had to live through.
        Since your appeal was sent out last year, we have been praying for your community and asking God’s blessings upon you. Our church has just recently finished a fundraising task to replace the roof on our parish hall, which hosts an active day nursery from Monday to Friday. Although our endeavour was tiny in comparison to what your Diocese is faced with, it was with great effort and even greater faith that we were able to replace the roof and pay for it through the efforts of our small community.
        As we were fundraising to take care of our own space and people, we were all humbled by the task that your Cathedral community has been forced to undertake. We wanted to assist you in some way. And that is how our “Square Foot” campaign began.
        We decided to use our Bible and discussion groups as a fundraiser to help you rebuild one square foot of your cathedral. A box (one square foot in dimension) was wrapped in copies of your “Arctic Appeal” letter and at every meeting from September 2006 to June 2007, participants brought in the change that was in their wallets to contribute to rebuilding one square foot. By the time our studied ended for the summer, our square foot box was almost too heavy to carry and in it was $525.00 in small change.
        Please know that we are praying for God’s work to be done well in the rebuilding of your Cathedral and the expansion of God’s kingdom in the Arctic.

Our grateful thanks to Rev. Rachel Parker and her congregation at St. Bartholomew’s, Sarnia, Ontario

Cathedral Fundraising – Yellowknife
AVEN GRACE

2007 Songwriter of the Year Fulltime & 2007 Psalmist of the Year
[Canadian Country Gospel Music Association]

        In August Aven Grace travelled with her husband Tim Paetkau to the Diocese of the Arctic to hold fundraising concerts in Iqaluit and Yellowknife. During the concert in Yellowknife Aven was joined by Holy Trinity member Wayne Simms. Approximately $2200 was raised for the rebuilding of St. Jude’s Cathedral.
        Aven was born in Canada’s Far North, in Taloyoak, Nunavut, the 3rd child of missionary parents Donald & Patricia Whitbread.  Her Dad built several churches and mission houses, and translated and wrote many songs during his lifetime of ministry.  The gift of music was passed down and Aven takes great joy in following in her Dad’s footsteps as a Singer and Songwriter. If you would like to learn more about Aven Grace and her ministry please visit her website at www.avengrace.com.

 Aven & Wayne Simms
 
Holy Trinity concert organizers

Cathedral Fundraising – Iqaluit
by Michele Ashby

The local fundraising committee in Iqaluit has been extremely busy over the past year. We have held regular fundraising events including turkey dinners, rummage sales, bake sales, chili bake offs and a fine arts and crafts auction to mention but a few. As well, we have placed donation boxes in several businesses around the community.

One of the events held was a “Loonie Challenge”. It was fun and raised over $4,600. The circumference of the new cathedral will be about 3,400 loonies so we made it around and a fair bit passed. We spray painted the circumference and laid out masking taped rolls of 25 loonies for ease of counting. We marked every 100 loonies on the ground to keep count. Throughout the four hours of the challenge lots of kids (and older “kids”) enjoyed pacing off the loonie line and were quite impressed with just how many loonies that actually was!

We had posters and signs out ahead of time and I sent about 200 faxes requesting “corporate sponsorship”. Not a lot of replies to that but it did net us about $1500. I also had a couple of generous individual donors “in my pocket” so to speak to ensure that we couldn’t fall totally flat on our faces. But the kind folks of Iqaluit didn’t let us down. We had lots of parents bringing over their kids to donate one loonie, older types who had raided their piggy banks, a couple of nice little cheques. The individual donors who gave the most refused to have their name published  and in fact insisted that their prize of a $200.00 gift certificate from NorthMart be given to the Food Bank. Truly the gift that kept on giving!

There were lots of volunteers and it really was a good time.
 
The circumference of the new cathedral

 Loonie Challenge participants

Check out those Loonies!

The above photos were provided by Judy Gabuna
Thanks Judy!

CATHEDRAL UPDATE

Plans continue for the reconstruction of the cathedral. As you will note from the various articles in this issue of Arctic News, many activities in support of St. Jude’s have taken place or are planned in Iqaluit and across the country.

Three very successful fundraisers were held in October, one in Chatham, Ontario; one in  Sudbury, Ontario and one in Calgary, Alberta.

There are 4 fundraisers on the national level for later this year.~ One in Ottawa, two in Newfoundland and one in Lunenburg, NS. Bishop Andrew will be travelling to each of these events.

At the June meeting of the Fundraising Committee, following a presentation and recommendations from our Architects and Engineers, Ferguson, Simek and Clark (FSC), it was agreed that the construction management approach was the best way to manage the construction process effectively. FSC circulated the drawings of the new cathedral as a proposal to see whether there was interest and availability in the busy construction industry, in the construction management approach. Nunavut Construction Corporation of Iqaluit has been identified as the only available and qualified candidate to manage the project.  

After a relatively quiet summer, the Bishop’s Fundraising Committee met in Yellowknife on September 15, 2007.  The good news is that the thermosyphons and the pad for the new cathedral were laid this fall – making the site ready for next summer!

A new flyer and folder have been designed for potential donors and these are now ready for distribution.

A bi-monthly newsletter, providing an update on the cathedral project, will be sent to all our parishes on a bi-monthly basis. The first issue was completed on October 1. The next issue will be in December. This newsletter will also appear on the Diocese of the Arctic webpage: www.arcticnet.org

Construction costs as estimated by FSC
Thermosyphons & Gravel Pad                      $421,000
Concrete Foundation & Main Floor                $731,600
Dome Structure                                  $527,900
Building, Enclosure, Interior & Finishes        $1,399,600
Mechanical                                              $894,000
Electrical                                              $371,200
General, Freight & Accommodations               $1,298,900
        Total                                           $5,644,200

It is only with the financial and prayer support of people like you that we will be able to see our project through to fruition.

“Then Moses brought together those workers who were eager to work, and he gave them the money that the people of Israel had donated for building the place of worship. In fact, so much money was being given each morning, that finally everyone stopped working and said, “Moses, there is already more money that we need for what the LORD has assigned us to do.” So Moses sent word for the people to stop giving, and they did. But, there was already more than enough to do what needed to be done.” Exodus 36:2-7

Thermosyphons installed!

The Soup Kitchen a work in progress!

Nearing completion!

Parish News

High Arctic Deanery
Bishop Paul Idlout continues to be the regional consultant for the High Arctic Deanery. Deacon Ikey Milton continues to lead St. Timothy’s in Pond Inlet. The vestry is currently in the process of seeking a new rector.  Outstations of this parish are Grise Fiord and Resolute Bay. Rev. Josie Enuaraq continues to serve in the outstation of Resolute Bay. Deacon Tommy Evic is in charge of St. Matthias in Igloolik and of St. Silas in the outstation of Hall Beach. The congregation of St. Matthias is in the process of fundraising for a new church. Deacon Leah Qaqqasiq May continues to lead the parish of All Saints in Arctic Bay.

Hudson Coast Deanery
Rev. Canon Tom Martin continues to be priest in charge of the parish of St. Edmund’s in Great Whale River and outstation St. Philip’s in Sanikiluaq. Rev. Iola Metuq is in charge of the parish of St. Thomas in Inukjuak and outstation Church of the Epiphany in Umiujaq. Rev. Canon Jonas Allooloo is priest in charge at St. Matthew’s in Puvirnituq and Rev. Peter Ainalik ministers in the outstation of St. Titus in Akulivik.

Kitikmeot Deanery
Deacon Georgina Baldwin is in charge of the Resurrection parish in Ulukhaktok, formerly Holman. Rev. Christopher Davis continues to minister at St. Andrew’s in Kugluktuk. Rev. Lucassie Nakoolak continues as priest in charge at Church of the Good Shepherd in Taloyoak and Rev. Ikey Nashooriatuk continues to minister at Church of the Messiah in Gjoa Haven. St. George’s in Cambridge Bay continues to be lead by lay leaders.

Kivalliq Deanery
        The Kivalliq region, and the congregation of St. Stephen’s Church, Repulse Bay, in particular, mourn the passing of Catechist (Diocesan Lay Leader) Abraham Tagornak, who passed away in his home community late in June.  Mr. Tagornak had been senior lay minister and congregation administrator in Repulse Bay for several decades.  Condolences go to his family, and prayers continue for his brothers-in-law, both of whom continue as lay ministers under the direction of the Rev’d. Lucy Netser.  St. Mark’s, Coral Harbour, is continuing the erection of its new building, with the foundation having been laid late in September and the exterior walls going up since then.  With the usual onset of winter, it is hoped that the building will be fully enclosed before the first heavy snows.  
        From the beginning of October, Baker Lake’s St. Aidan’s Parish hosted a six-week residential Diocesan Lay Leaders’ school with students from Baker and Arviat.  Instructors included the Rev’d. Bruce Ellis from Alberta,  Bishop Chris Williams and the Rev’d. Jean Simailak.  Mrs. Simailak, meanwhile, has announced to her congregation and her community, her retirement from active ministry effective May 2008.  
        Arviat has completed its first year of worship in its new St. Francis’ Church building.  The Rev’d. Joe Manik (who has just completed a brief extended leave of absence) and the Rev’d Mike Gibbons continue to lead an enthusiastic congregation, and travel when possible to Christ Church congregation in Whale Cove.
        Holy Comforter parish is grateful to God for protecting Mrs. Nowyah Williams, who at the end of September was medivacced to Winnipeg with several infections which eventually led to needing a pacemaker implanted.  That surgery was performed early in October, and Mrs. Williams has returned to her home and family and her work with the Nunavut Government.  The parish, meanwhile, is continuing to raise funds toward the hopeful erection of a new building in the soonest time possible.

Mackenzie Delta Deanery
Greetings from the Mackenzie Delta!  
        First of all I wish to thank all our prayer partners for uplifting us as we continue to share the love of Jesus here in the Canadian Arctic.
        
Rev. Capt. David Parsons is rector at the Church of the Ascension in Inuvik

Most of you hear about global warming and certainly I can testify that things are warm in the Arctic. We see it in the weather patterns and even with southern birds coming into our regions.
        On the spiritual level, God is blessing the hard work that loving pastors and evangelists gave in the past. We endeavour to walk in their steps of commitment to Jesus Christ and his holy Word, as a result people continue to open their hearts to Christ.
        2008 will be Inuvik and the Church of the Ascension’s 50th anniversary. Please pray as plans are in the works for a time of celebration and giving thanks to God.
        In October Rev. Geoffrey & Rosalind Dixon returned to Aklavik for a two month term to come along side the people who have been without a fulltime minister.  Part of the Dixon’s strategy has been to teach lay leaders to preach and lead services. The old mission house has out lived its time and it’s a delight to let you know that the Aklavik Gwich’in band and the GWNT have given a 4 bedroom house to be our new rectory. The Dixon’s are getting everything ready to move in.
        In October Rev. Sue Oliver was in Ontario doing deputation at Toronto’s Wycliffe College and at a few churches. Ft. McPherson is delighted to have Rev Oliver living in their midst as an active light of the gospel. Many youth have come forward to be confirmed and the community at large is thankful that Sue has been called to serve them.
        We have a great need for more clergy in the north. Presently Aklavik, Tuktoyuktuk, and Sachs Harbour are in need of clergy. Rev. Sue Oliver will be covering Tuk and I go to Sachs on a bi-monthly basis.  These communities hunger for someone to come alongside them with the gospel. Therefore please pray for God to raise up ministers for the Western Arctic and for money for stipends.  We need ministers who have a heart for God and people.  They will need a heart to be immersed into a foreign culture and for evangelism-mission to families, of 4-5th generation Christians. We need ministers, who are self starters, not easily discouraged by a harsh climate.
        I also request your prayers for the families who have lost loved ones. Since September nine people have died as a result of cancer and sudden death, tragic accidents, two from suicide and a fire. We are in need of a great soaking of God’s Holy Spirit, one that will warm us to God’s love and provide continuous abiding refreshment.
        Thank you for praying for us and please God in the future there will be reports from the Mackenzie Delta that people are drinking deeply from Jesus the well of life. God bless you and though a little early…Merry Christmas.

Ungava Deanery
        Rev. Abraham Tigullaraq is priest in charge of St. Stephen’s in Kuujjuaq as well as outstations Transfiguration in Tasiujaq and St. Andrew’s in Kangiqsualujjuaq. Bishop Ben Arreak has completed his sabbatical and continues to work on the translation of the Old Testament. Deacon Annie and Noah Ittoshat relocated to Great Whale River. They will return to the parish of Holy Trinity in Kangirsuk once the mission house has been renovated. Annie is in charge of this parish. She also visits the communities of Quaqtaq and Aupaluk. Deacon Moses & Iga Kalliraq relocated to Igloolik due to Moses eye condition. St. James in Salluit along with outstations St. Columba’s in Ivujivik and Epiphany in Kangiqsujuak are currently without clergy. When he is able Bishop Andrew provides services in these three communities. Rev. Canon Abelie Napartuk has continues to be regional consultant for the two deaneries in Nunavik. Our congratulations to Abelie on his marriage in November.South Baffin Deanery
        Bishop Andrew recently appointed Dean James Barlow as regional dean of the South Baffin. James continues as rector of the parish of St. Jude’s in Iqaluit. Rev. Methuselah Kunuk continues to provide Inuktitut services at St. Simon’s in Apex. Capt. Cyrus Blanchet continues as the outreach worker in the community. Rev. Loie Mike is the priest in charge at St. Luke’s in Pangnirtung; Rev. Jeannie Joanasie and Rev. Abraham Arnaqaq assist her. Deacon Loasie Kooneeluisie is now in charge at St. Michael’s and All Angels in Qikiqtarjuaq. Rev. Bethuel Ootoova is priest in charge at St. John’s in Cape Dorset. Rev. Jacobie Iqalukjuak is deacon in charge at Church of The Redeemer in Clyde River and the parish of Kimmirut continues to be lead by lay people.        

Upper Mackenzie Deanery
        Rev. Ann Bush of St. John’s in Ft. Smith is the regional dean for this area. She continues as priest in charge at St. John’s in Ft. Smith and her husband Gordon now assists her. Rev. Vivian Smith continues as deacon in charge at St. Andrew’s/Grace United church in Hay River. In September, Rev. Ann Bush presented a pastoral care course to the lay leaders of the parish. On November 18, Children’s Sunday, St. Andrew’s celebrated PWRDF Sunday. The Sunday school children lead the service. On that day the started a new venture named “Tons of Pennies”. They will gather   pennies for a year, and then forward them to PWRDF. This is an exciting way of getting the Sunday school involved in mission outreach.
St. David’s in Ft. Simpson continues to be lead by lay people and Rev. Capt. Ron McLean continues as priest in charge at Holy Trinity Yellowknife.

 The site for the new Cathedral with thermosyphons in place

Lay Leader Training
by Bishop Larry Robertson

The Diocese of The Arctic has a 2 level Lay training program. The first level is the Parish Lay Leader and the second level is the Diocesan Lay Leader.

The Parish Lay Leader training, is known as blue ribbon training because of the blue colour of the ribbon received, is taught by the local parish and consists of the proper procedures of scripture reading, leading the service and taking the prayers of the people. This would enable the Parish Lay Leader to assist the minister in the service. Normally this person would not preach or teach. The license given would only be for the local parish and would have to be renewed if the person moved.

The Diocesan Lay Leader training, is known as red ribbon training because of the red colour of the ribbon received, is a set diocesan outline consisting of about 250 hours of study. Subjects include Old and New Testament, Theology, Liturgy, Preaching and Teaching. The course is designed to help the Lay Leader to take a fuller part in the life of the parish. The Diocesan Lay Reader may preach, teach confirmation or baptism preparation, lead bible studies, etc. under the direction of the minister.

Because of the vast distances between parishes and the various cultural, language and educational differences as well as time restrictions we have had to be inventive in ways of offering and delivering such training. The Red Ribbon training was designed to be given in a 6 week school where people would take time off of work and come to a community and train for this time. Classes would be held during the day and practical training on some evening and Sundays. We have just completed a school of this nature in Baker Lake, Nunavut. There were 8 students ranging from 30 – 50 years old. Six were from Baker Lake and two were from Arviat. The students are responsible for their own costs including travel. Their parishes are encouraged to help. Rev. Bruce Ellis, Rev. Jean Simailak and Rt. Rev. Christopher Williams were the instructors.

Often people can not get 6 weeks off from work so we have to try other ways. Hay River and Yellowknife have done some of the training themselves and this summer Bishop Larry Robertson did a week of training in each of these communities to work towards the completion of the Diocesan Lay Leaders training.

Other possibilities such as correspondence are being looked into. We have 3 people beginning the Thornloe University’s correspondence studies working on a Diploma in Theology.

With the lack of money to hire fulltime priests we have put a priority on the training of Lay Leaders. We may have been brought in this direction from lack of finances, but there are some of us that believe we should have been going this way a long time ago. We are the body of Christ and we all have a part in the ministry of the Church. As a Diocese we try to help people find the ministry that God has called them to.

A student practising preaching!

St. Matthew’s Church - Fort McPherson, NWT

Happenings in Fort McPherson
by Rev. Sue Oliver

A new radio show hit the local airwaves in Fort McPherson in June. It is called Heaven Help Me with gikhyi Sue! Airing each Tuesday afternoon, this two hour show is full of music, Bible readings, a sermon, as well as a weekly recipe! People sometimes call in with questions about God, the church, or when the next rummage sale will be! People also call in with prayer requests or just to talk to the gikhyi (Gwich’in for minister). In the past few months we have talked about anger, forgiveness, good communication in a relationship, self-image, God’s calling, grief, thanksgiving, and joy. The show has been a bit hit in the community and it seems that some Tuesday’s the whole town has tuned in! This became particularly evident the week I offered a recipe for banana bread and later that same day the northern manager said there was a big rush on overripe bananas and they sold out! Good communication, good fun and a good way to share the Good News - tune in for Heaven Help Me on Tuesday afternoons (but only if you live in McPhoo!).