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Cover photo by Nick Newbery - Angela drumming at fundraiser in Lunenburg, NS
BISHOP'S MESSAGE
“…A scroll of remembrance was written in His presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honoured His name.” Malachi 3:16c – NIV
In these words from scripture where God speaks through the prophet Malachi, we are reminded of God’s awareness of every service done in obedient response to His call to fulfill His will for us. Wherever and however that may be carried out. The words of the prophet assures us that God will not only scroll the names of the individuals in His memory book, but that He continues to mark His presence in people that dedicate their lives for the sake of the Gospel of Christ.
We have so much to celebrate as Christians. We praise and thank God for the many individuals who served Him in this Diocese as missionaries, doctors, nurses and teachers etc. We praise Him for those still serving Him in the same professional capacities that still edify the body of Christ though perhaps now in wider circles. Because of the early work of these Christians, we are now able to move away from being mission congregations to become self-sustaining parish churches. Because of this early work we have more lay leaders that maintain ministry and sustain congregations across the Diocese. We have more material and training programs to help the leadership in parish and regional situations to better equip our local individuals that feel the call to ministry.
We can tell many wonderful stories of how God has blessed us over these past 75 years. However, there is much still to be done so that He can bless more people as they come to know Him through our local and outreach ministries. In spite of all the negative things that are happening we can encourage one another that Christ is still the authority over lives that can be turned around. We have witnessed this over and over throughout the history of God’s work in our Diocese.
Much of our 75th anniversary celebration was reflected at our synod in Iqaluit. As we celebrate our anniversary we are called to renew our commitment to our Lord. In a new surrendering of ourselves to His service, as our history unfolds to the future, the Kingdom of God will continue to grow in our parishes and in turn allow our Diocese to become more self sufficient and self determining under the name of Christ our Lord.
Yours sincerely in Christ,
Rt. Rev. Andrew P. Atagotaaluk
Travel to Alaska
Conference 2008 participants
In February Bishop Andrew travelled to Alaska to attend the annual Arctic Coast Deanery Convention.
From Yellowknife, Bishop Andrew traveled to Vancouver, then on to Fairbanks, Alaska via Seattle. From Fairbanks he travelled to Kotzebue in the Arctic Coast Deanery where this year’s conference was to take place.
The Arctic Coast Deanery consists of six Episcopal congregations, all situated above the Arctic Circle. These include Barrow, Point Lay, Point Hope, Kivalina, Noatak and Kotzebue. There are no roads in the Arctic to connect one village with another and travel is restricted to airplane, boat, or snow machine. This is very similar to travel in the Diocese of the Arctic. As with the Diocese of the Arctic, the people of the Arctic Coast Deanery in Alaska live a largely subsistence lifestyle, consisting of sea mammals, ducks, and berries.
Session during the conference
 Wilfred Lane chairing a session
 Singspiration!
 Coffee with retired Rev. Norman Elliot
BISHOP TRAVELS THE MACKENZIE DELTA
From February 20 to March 3, Bishop Andrew visited several parishes in the Mackenzie Delta along with the Regional Dean, Rev. Capt. David Parsons.
They began by visiting the parish of St. Clement’s in Sachs Harbour. Followed by a visit to All Saints in Aklavik where Rev. Georgina Baldwin was recently made priest in charge. St. John’s in Tuktoyaktuk followed with a meeting at the elder’s centre after the service. Then it was a drive back to Inuvik for an overnight and then off to St. Matthew’s in Ft. McPherson. The Bishop finished up his parish visits in the Delta with a service at the Church of the Ascension in Inuvik. During his visits there were several confirmations and meetings.
 St. Clement's - Sachs Harbour
 Bishop Andrew, Rev. Capt. David Parsons & the ministry team from St. Clement's
St. Matthew's ministry team lead by Rev. sue Oliver along with Rev. Capt. David Parsons
Fort McPherson is a Gwich'in community on the east bank of the Peel River, connected to Dawson and Inuvik by the Dempster Highway. This community of 900 people is the home of the Teetl'it Gwich'in (people of the head waters or people in the middle"). The traditional name for the community is Teetl'it zheh, named after the Gwich'in name for the Peel River, Teetl'it njik. St. Matthew’s mission was established in 1862. In 1947 the first full-time day school opened for Indian children.
Aklavik is located on the Peel channel of the Mackenzie River Delta 113 km south of the Arctic Coast. There is no summer road access, however, in winter; an ice road stretches across the Mackenzie Delta to Inuvik. All Saints mission in Aklavik was established in 1919. All Saints Hospital was opened in 1926 and following a fire was rebuilt in 1936, it was extended in 1950 and again in 1952. The hospital closed in 1961 after the government took over health care. All Saints residential school was opened in 1937 and transferred to Inuvik in 1959. All Saints Cathedral (the first cathedral of the diocese) was consecrated in 1939. The first unconstituted synod of the diocese was held in Aklavik in 1961.
 Newly acquired mission house - Aklavik
 Parish meeting in Tuktoyaktuk Elders Centre
Inuvik is located on the Mackenzie Delta - Canada's largest fresh water delta, close to the Arctic Ocean. Inuvik is nested between the treeless tundra and the northern boreal forest, and overlooks the incredible maze of lakes and streams of the Delta. The Anglican mission in Inuvik was established in 1956 and the residential school moved to Inuvik from Aklavik in 1959.
My Sabbatical in the Diocese of Belize
by Bishop Larry Robertson
At the gracious invitation of Bishop Philip Wright, I spent a 3-month sabbatical in the Diocese of Belize. I arrived in Belize City on January 4th and stayed with Bishop Wright overnight. On the 5th I traveled through Belize to the parish of St. Andrew’s in San Ignacio, a small community in the interior of Belize not far from the western border. Connected to the parish are 3 day schools, St. Andrew’s, St. Barnabas, and St Hilda’s. On Saturdays, I led training for a number of people at the Lay Training Centre. The participants were of a high spiritual caliber. They have a deep desire to serve their Church, and their God. The Anglican Theological Institute is where the training took place. It is in the city of Belmopan. It has a large teaching area, 6 sleeping rooms each with 2-4 beds and a full kitchen. It is also used for retreats. I
lead a clergy retreat there in February.
St. Andrew's Church Youth Group - we played Inuit games and generally learned ideas and words from another culture. We ended up having some bannock with peanut butter!
At first sight there do not seem to be many things in common. I went from -35C when I left Yellowknife to +35C when I arrived in Belize. Certainly the land and geography is different. One is arctic and sub arctic and one is tropical. There are many differences, but there are many things the same.
We are both small in population and large in area. Our parishes are spread out and until recently there was very little communication between them. We have, as parishes, learned to be independent. Both dioceses are struggling with vastly rising costs, shortages of clergy and the training of clergy. We both deal with ministering to multi-cultures, and several language groups. These have created similar strengths and weakness.
 Training Centre - Belmopan
I have found with the people of both dioceses a love for their Church, their God and their bible. There is a hunger to learn the things of God. I have had the pleasure of teaching lay people in both dioceses and have found a similar zeal and desire to draw close to God.
Clergy of the Diocese of Belize at the clergy conference. Can you find me among them?
I am sad to say that we have also many of the same social problems that we struggle with God’s help to overcome. I watched a parade go down the street that was organized by St. Andrew’s Anglican School. The parade was recognizing the damage that alcohol does to a family and a plea for a more sober lifestyle. Not very different from what we might see in many communities in the Arctic.
It is a joy for me in either diocese to see people of God rising up to do what they can to help their people. In both dioceses there is a strong emphasis on outreach and mission. In the country of Belize where there is very little medical or educational help for the people from the government (I have come to appreciate what we have in Canada), some of the churches have built into their budgets emergency help for those in need in these areas. It shows the love of God at work that two dioceses who have little in worldly terms seek to do what they can to help those in need. The churches in both dioceses are examples to their communities and people and they have the respect of the community at large.
 
St. Andrew's Church St. Hilda's School
 Lay Leader Trainees
 
Students from St. Andrew's School A major mode of transportation in Belize - the Bus!
The similarities are enough that after living and working in the Arctic for over 30 years, in such a short time I can feel at home in Belize. The people here are truly very caring. I look forward to going back to my family and diocese, but my experience here truly has opened my eyes to many blessings.
A Bevy of Bishops:
Bishop Larry Robertson, Bishop Philip Wright, and Suffragan Bishop Harold Daniels from the Diocese of Jamaica.
Words that Touch the Heart!
Reverend Brian A. Burrows, Interim Pastor
For many years as a young missionary, I struggled to find the right word. What is the right word to use, for example in worship? Do strong words in English carry the same force in another language, in my case, in Inuktitut(Eskimo language)? Can words of feeling bring people closer to God and to one another, whichever language is used?
The right word in worship!
I fondly remember singing the versicles in the College Chapel from Morning Prayer,"O Lord, open thou our lips," with the response,"And our mouths shall show forth thy praise." Psalm 51:15 is an example of the Hebrew form of poetry. The words 'lips and mouths', although being similar in meaning are set against one another, so to speak, to make a powerful point. God is the one who inspires us to worship. He wants to open our hearts to fill them with praise.
The first translators of the Prayer book in Inuktitut rendered the word 'open' too strongly in my view. The picture they gave was of God literally forcing the mouth open, as one might pour medicine down a reluctant throat! The new translation follows more closely the Good News Bible version,"Help me to speak and I will praise you." Whichever word is used, the truth is, God is the one to help us find the right words to praise and worship his glorious name.
2. 'Dragging the lips'!
This talk of lips and mouths, led me to have several conversations with people about idiomatic uses in their own language. In Inuktitut, the word for 'lips' refers to that part of the face described in English as the 'upper lip' plus a little more. There is an expression, roughly translated as 'dragging the lips', which means that a person very reluctantly, almost grimacingly, certainly against their will, does not want to do something or other. Even the Inuit grin at this strong use of the language, but the point is well understood. To 'drag the lips' is to not want to do something or other, willingly.
It seems to me that in our worship of God and in our dealings with fellow believers who hold differing views from us, that this expression exactly fits our disposition at times. We often find ourselves grimacing before God and certainly, sadly, grimacing before each other. This extreme and expressive use of language led me to another conversation regarding the force of meaning in words themselves,
3."Harden not your hearts!"
This line from the Venite(Psalm 95:8) demonstrates the very powerful and evocative use of language. The Good News Bible says,"Don't be stubborn!" It , however, lacks punch! One of the middle aged Inuit (Eskimo) men said to me,"As a boy, the old words from the Labrador Moravian scriptures touched my heart." The word used meant as clay hardens, and the picture became very clear. The phrase,'Harden not your hearts', does indeed describe the feelings which many people can relate to. We can deliberately freeze God out of our lives, to use another metaphor, and we are certainly good at freezing out other people, especially those who do not agree with us.
Therefore, when we look for openness and directness to be in our hearts, we might say with Psalm 51, that it is God alone who makes this possible. The right response, or the right word for us, surely, is to be ready to be open to God, which in the Christian revelation, is to be open to the Word made flesh. We are not to 'drag our lips', that is, not to be reluctant to do the right thing, which is to love God through Christ, and also to show love and respect for each other, especially for those with differing views. Words, after all can mean different things to different people, but we embrace the Incarnate Word. Above all, it seems to me, that we should rescue that phrase,'Harden not your hearts' from the past and apply it to the present. We need all the help we can get to find words and expressions which will touch the heart and move our wills to bring us closer to the God who is full of affection and sincere love for all His people.
Boys & Girls Brigade Training Update
by Rita Burrows
I arrived safely first of all in Igloolik, from Iqaluit. (Having been offered kind accommodation between the various stages of this journey, by Dean James Barlow and his family We were able to use the unoccupied Mission House for the Leader Training sessions. These took place in the unoccupied Mission House. I was accommodated very well in the local Hotel by the Church Vestry. Whilst there over mealtimes there was opportunity tospeak with local and travelling Government officials who it appears may be able to help with the program later on. The Training of parents went well with eight people in attendance. They decided to use a locally made traditional garment as uniform for the children and youth, which I am sure will look great. There were forty children taking part. The training was an exciting time, full of happiness and fun for young and old alike.
In Hall Beach travelling about was mainly by truck or skidoo. People always helped willingly. Anita Curley kindly offered accommodation there in her peaceful home. Both Igloolik and Hall Beach were brutally cold with -60 degree weather with strong winds every day. However, in Hall Beach I was told the truck and finally skidoos could not be started, so it was back to walking to and from the church for training, thankfully it was not too far away. Six adults were trained and 40youngsters, eight were teens. With those and the leaders, possible work projects were discussed.
After a quick stay again in Iqaluit the Capital of Nunavut it was Qikiqtarjuaq's turn for training. They commenced on 24th February with forty Leaders and children In each place games are held first, (that way none is ever late ). Followed by the Bible Study, with age appropriate take home papers for each person. This is followe by an educational session and is often of a cultural dimension. Sometimes there are crafts, more games, singing and prayers. It is delivered in Inuktitut.
Pangnirtung came next with 20 children and 10 adults trained. (School was closed for the week so many families were out on the land). At the training suggestions were brought forth by the people these would also look at possible employment or training for the Youth. They include a regular after school program, also a soup kitchen in two areas of the town. Brigade will work hard at supporting these projects.
Most places in the North have many suicides of youth and other ages. This is particularly harmful to those families who remain with the ensuing worries, self-accusations and questions. Past abuse of many kinds is a contributing factor to many suicides. As we all know, often it is too painful a subject for people to acknowledge or act upon, even when they become adults.This is the same in all groups of people. These and other serious matters are faced during training. People are not aware of the Law, and complain bitterly of not being listened to. So advice on realistic and positive action is being discussed openly during training sessions. The community implementation of the new Family Abuse Intervention Act will be very helpful to the people.
Training continued in Kimmirut.They do not at present have a Minister however during training I was able to have a meeting with the Youth Committee members and RCMP representatives. Four leaders and 13 children attended the session. Bishop Ben (Arreak) was there too for a visit and the people were pleased to have him there. Annie Ikkidluak and her husband offered accommodation and the whole family were very helpful.
Training in Cape Dorset was delayed because of stormy weather. School was out for March break and so some families were away. However, training continued and the Rev. Bethuel Ootoova and his wife Rebecca left to hunt. At 15 minutes from the settlement they stopped at the floe edge. There Bethuel left his wife and skidoo and set off along the ice edge, Rebecca was looking about when a polar bear came up onto the ice, and, still dripping water, started sniffing and shuffling side to side. He was very large. Rebecca called her husband and dodged down behind the skidoo, then she lifted her head a little so see more clearly and he was ambling in her direction. She lifted the rifle and shot the bear. It took five shots to drop him He was 10 feet long. So quickly they came back for help, the bear was skinned and brought back and we lived with him for several days as he was cut up and cooked for a community feast, his skin scraped
and cleaned time and again. He really was huge and took up a great deal of space. It was a great deal of work for Rebecca She is a very brave woman. This happened on International Women's Day.
FUNDRAISER – CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION OTTAWA
– by Garth Hampson
Throat Singers from Nunavut Sivuniksavut
I personally know, as the author of two fundraisers here in Ottawa, that untold numbers of people want to be a part of this restoration. They just have to have someone to plant the seed and get on with the work.
When the dynamo, Karen Paget, from Church of the Resurrection phoned me in the Spring, we had a program in place in no time. People came out of the woodwork to help out and on Nov. 14th it all happened on cue with the most wonderful array of talent one could hope for.
The program, much different from the undertaking at Christ Church Cathedral last
Dec. was totally eclectic with music of Opera, Music Hall, Celtic fiddlers, two young versatile singers mixing with Scottish dancing and Hip Hop music. In the third row sat the Bishop of the Arctic who had come out specifically to show his support for the fundraiser. The look of his paternal satisfaction when the students from Nunavut Sivuniksavut performed was noticeable to everyone in the hall. It was an evening of fun with music and dance in addition to hearing first hand the need to bring back St. Jude’s Cathedral.
Following the visit to Ottawa, Bishop Andrew flew on to Newfoundland and the Halifax area where yet another fundraiser had been organized.
It is estimated that $10,000.00 will be turned over to the Diocese of the Arctic from this venture.
 Drummer from Nunavut Sivuniksavut Program
We here in Ottawa throw down the gauntlet to parishes in other locations in Canada to get involved in helping St. Jude’s. If you are not aware, the Diocese of the Arctic has a 'wish list' should anyone want to take on a project. It is estimated that the blocks to rebuild the Cathedral, numbering 690 cost $700.00 each. This would be a great project for a church group in parishes in our Anglican communion here in Canada.
Concert group at Church of the Resurrection in Ottawa - Garth Hampson and Rev. Peter Crosby along with performers from the Nunavut Sivuniksavut Program and from the congregation
On to the Diocese of Central Newfoundland and Labrador
 
Bishop Andrew and Bishop David Torraville of Choir at St. Alban's in Badger's Quaq, NL
Central NL with with clergy & spouses of the
Deanery of Bonavista North
 Bishop Andrew with the Trevors family in Badger's Quay, NL
A Tale of Two Churches
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia and Iqaluit, Nunavut are both small, friendly maritime towns. Recently the two communities have been drawn together through tragedy. In 2001 most of Lunenburg’s famous 250-year old St.John’s Anglican church burned to the ground. Despite the ashes and despair, the community worked hard and by 2005 it had raised $6.5 million and the restored church was re-consecrated. In the fall of 2005 St.Jude’s Anglican Cathedral was also destroyed and now Iqaluit finds itself in the same distress that Lunenburg did, only with a lot of recent support from its southern cousin.
St.Jude’s was not just a place of worship. It was a community centre, one that reached out and helped the poor, the hungry, the homeless, the sick, those in jail and those in distress. It was also an incredibly beautiful building with its igloo shape, narwhal cross, sealskin kneelers, qamotiit-style communion rails and Inuit-made altar wall-hangings.
When the congregation of St.John’s in Lunenburg heard of Iqaluit’s loss, it made a 3-year fundraising commitment, raising $3000 at Christmas 2005 for St.Jude’s restoration, another $2000 at Christmas 2006 and in 2007 it formed a committee to make one third final two-pronged approach to help.
One aspect was to share Lunenburg’s fundraising plan with the North. St.John’s had developed a well-planned structure of committees and techniques which approached all levels of government, foundations, businesses and individuals, as well as managing to raise over $500,000 from its local congregation of only 550 families.
The other was to hold a week-end fundraiser in December 2007, offering activities which would not only bring in money but which would educate people about the North. The Saturday saw a northern afternoon for children, an evening of Nova Scotian food and wine, auctions, a slide show on Nunavut, a display of northern artifacts and the opportunity to meet the first Inuit bishop of Arctic, Andrew Atagotaaluk. The Sunday saw church services involving the bishops of Nova Scotia and the Arctic and a display of throat-singing and drum-dancing by Angela Hovak-Johnston of the Kitikmeot. That afternoon, in the beautiful wooden church, a qulliq was lit in the aisle, photographs were projected on a screen at the altar, while the well-known Nova Scotian musician Peter Togni provided a remarkably descriptive musical improvisation on organ and piano based on the northern pictures.
Fundraising momentum is gathering speed. The two-day Lunenburg event brought in about $23,500. The Nova Scotian Anglican Church Women’s Group have decided to raise money for St.Jude’s throughout 2008. The bishop’s Cathedral Fundraising Committee is now developing contacts in the South for accessing larger donations. The Fundraising Committee in Iqaluit has done much commendable work, with a never-ending series of projects. Bishop Andrew is spending much of his time on the road, addressing groups and encouraging support and fundraising events have already occured in England, in the Northwest Territories, Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and, of course, in Nova Scotia.
To rebuild St.Jude’s will cost at least $5.6 million. As of December 2007, restoration funds stood at almost $1.8 million. It is said that God moves in a mysterious way. Hopefully he will share the mystery of locating the remaining funds needed with Nunavummiut so the cathedral can be re-built as soon as possible!
Nick Newbery is a teacher, author and photographer who spent 30 years in Nunavut. In 2005 he retired to Nova Scotia where he now teaches at Mount St.Vincent University. He recently sat on the St.Jude’s fundraising committee at St.John’s Anglican church in Lunenburg.
 Bishop Andrew meets with interested ACW of Nova Scotia/PEI
 
Traditional Inuit games are for everyone to enjoy!
 
 
During the autction at St. John's Church, Lunenburg Joy's marshmallow igloo - was a big hit in Nova Scotia
 St. John's Church, Lunenburg - Thanks for your support Lunenburg!
Bishop’s Visit to St. Andrew’s Kugluktuk
submitted by Rev. Christopher Davis
Bishop Andrew Atagotaaluk flew into Kugluktuk from Yellowknife on Friday 8 March, and then flew out to Cambridge Bay on Monday 11 March. We don't see a Bishop very often, so we packed his time here with activities, introducing him to as many people as possible.
He had dinner with the vestry council Saturday night at Rector's Warden Colin Adjun's house, and after eating he played the accordion, accompanied by Colin on the fiddle and Roy Inuktalik on the guitar - the rest of us singing - great jam session.
 Colin Ajun
He held confirmation service on Sunday morning, and confirmed Mary Akana and Bob Kohoktak. He preached on commitment, and the message touched many hearts. He preached also on Sunday night at our gospel music service, at which he played the accordion and was assisted by Colin Adjun on the fiddle, and four guys on guitars, Roy Inuktalik, Jack Ayaligak, Shawn Kuliktana and Dettrick Hala. We all made a joyful noise unto the Lord.
 
Confirmation Ministerial Team - Kugluktuk
And during his 'free' time Bishop Andrew visited many elders, shut-ins and old school friends - Mabel Elgok (the late Rev. Sam Kikpak's mother), Peter & Cecile Kamingoak, John Allukpik the artist, Doris Himiak & family, George Atatahak, and Donald Havioyak.
 Rev. Chris Davis & Colin Adjun
Coppermine Inn put up the Bishop for the three nights, and he ate most of his meals with Winsome and me here at the mission house. Local people provided fresh-caught fish for our table during his visit. It was great for us to meet our Bishop for the first time since we moved to the Diocese of the Arctic in 2006.
The weather co-operated (as it usually does) in Kugluktuk. But then he had to leave - too soon. But that is the life of a Bishop.
VIVIAN SMITH'S ORDINATION - HAY RIVER
Bishop Andrew & Rev. Vivian Smith  
Mandy with the PWRDF "Tons of Pennies" wagon Welcome to the service - our young bellringers!
On February 3, 2008, Bishop Andrew fulfilled a life long dream of Vivian Smith’s when he laid hands on her ordaining her as a priest in the Anglican Church to serve at the parish of St. Andrew’s Anglican/Grace United Church in Hay River. Bishop Andrew said that “it’s a very, very exciting time for them and it’s very important that one of their local persons that they know is going to do a ministry here. She already knows the people and the town and the kind of issues that are around the community and so I think she’s going to do a wonderful ministry because of that knowledge she already has.”
 Bishop Andrew with Goldie & Max (Goldie is Vivian's sister)
Bishop’s Travel in the Kitikmeot Region
On March 6 Bishop Andrew flew from Yellowknife to Ulukhaktok only to return because poor weather hampered a landing. The following day he set out for Kugluktuk, 3 days later he was off to Cambridge Bay. After only two days there he was again off, this time to Gjoa Haven and after overnighting off to Taloyoak. He spent 3 days in Taloyoak before once again returning to Yellowknife. There were also several confirmations and meetings during this trip.
 Choirs like this one are in several of our churches
Ulukhaktok (known until 1 April 2006 as Holman) is a small hamlet on the west coast of Victoria Island, in the Northwest Territories. Like other small traditional communities in the territories, hunting, trapping, and fishing are major sources of income, but printmaking has taken over as the primary source of income in recent years. An outstation was built at Holman in 1959, the mission was established in 1962 and the church was built in 1965.
Kugluktuk is located on the shore of the Arctic Ocean. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the rocky and often barren Canadian Shield. The region has a semi-arid Arctic climate, with very cold winters and summers that are too cool to permit the growth of trees. The mission was established here in 1928 and a tent hostel operated from 1955 to 1959.
The Hamlet of Cambridge Bay is located on the South coast of Victoria Island and is the largest community in the Kitikmeot Region. It is also known as "Ikaluktutiak", which means "Good fishing place”. Major activities include hunting, trapping and commercial fishing. The Anglican Mission was established here in 1927.
The Inuktitut name for Gjoa Haven is Usqsuqtuuq, which means “a place of plenty of fat”. The name refers to the fattened fish and seal that were abundant in the area. Although Gjoa Haven is becoming more modern, traditional activities are still enjoyed by many, including throat singing, drum dancing and hunting. The first Anglican Church was built here in 1956 with the mission being established in 1958 and a new church was built in 1964.
Vestry meeting in Taloyoak - meetings like this took place in several parishes that Bishop Andrew visited
Taloyoak or Talurjuaq (known as Spence Bay until 1 July 1992) is located on the Boothia Peninsula in Nunavut. The community is served only by air and by annual supply sealift. Taloyoak may mean "large blind", referring to a stone caribou blind or a screen used for caribou hunting. The mission was established in 1955 and the church was built in 1959.
Confirmation in Taloyoak Bishop Andrew with Rev. Lucassie Nakoolak and the newly confirmed
VISIT TO CLYDE RIVER, NUNAVUT
by Garth Hampson (photos supplied by Garth Hampson)
Let me set the scene. Minus 40 degrees with a partial blizzard blowing outside, sitting in the little church of the Redeemer in Clyde River on Baffin Island, standing room only, being greeted in Inuktitut by Bishop Ben Arreak and the local Inuit community. Could this really be happening? Yes it can and I have the photos to show the world. This was the Bishop's second service of the day, Palm Sunday, with 20 young people being confirmed. Wide eyed babies peeking out from their mother's amouties, children standing on pews holding hymn books and trying to emulate what their parents were singing. The organist had not appeared but that didn't matter, everyone just went right on doing their thing and with much fervour. Everyone loves to sing.
 Garth & Brad Hampson
My son Brad and I spent the month of March at the RCMP Detachment in this Arctic community of 800 souls. While he was here doing police duties we both became actively involved in the community with programs for the children at Quluaq, the local school, visits to Illisargivik, the community resource center and the church. We dropped off the donations of clothing from my little church of St. Mary the Virgin parish at Blackburn Hamlet and presented the dolls sent up from Christ Church Cathedral to children who had only recently returned to the settlement from surgery in Ottawa. At our first church service the entire congregation joined in the singing of Amazing Grace played on the bagpipes by Brad and all sung in Inuktitut. The locals had not heard the pipes played before and their fascination for this instrument was evident wherever and whenever they were played. Morning Prayer and the Eucharist are taken from the Book of Common Prayer and, although it was all
in Inuktitut, we were able to follow the ritual perfectly.
 Brad Hampson playing at the local church
During our last week in the settlement we met up with Rita Burrows of the Girl's Brigade. This well known and much respected church worker throughout the Arctic was doing the rounds of various settlements at the request of Bishop Andrew to oversee training programs for young adult leaders.
From my experience in the church over the years there is no doubt about the important work being done by the church in this part of the Anglican Communion. This was witnessed at each service we attended in Clyde. Their attendance, participation, and enthusiasm with their prayers and hymn singing confirmed to me that our church in the Canadian north has great strength.
This adventure was the brain child of Ottawa Chief of Police Vern White, a former northern Mountie. With Ottawa being the second largest Inuit community in Canada he feels that his personnel should be more aware of the customs and traditions, as well as the problems of Ottawa's Inuit. To that end, four members will be seconded to the RCMP detachments in the Arctic for 2008.
On my way to and from Clyde River, I got to see the site where the unique St. Jude’s Cathedral once stood. Today it is a field covered with snow but, with the help of many souls, who realize the importance of this edifice, it will soon be returned to its central location in the territorial capitol of Iqaluit to continue the important social work that prevailed in the old structure.
75th ANNIVERSARY SYNOD
MAY 27 – JUNE 3, 2008
IQALUIT, NUNAVUT
From May 26 to June 4, 2008, delegates from across the Diocese of the Arctic gathered in Iqaluit for their triennial synod. This year was special as it is also the 75th anniversary of the Diocese.
The evening prior to the beginning of synod a special 75th anniversary celebration service was held. Choirs from Coral Harbour, Pangnirtung and Iqaluit shared in the special music for the service. The Bishops spoke about the history of the diocese.
There were several special guests at the synod including The Most Rev. Fred J. Hiltz, Primate of Canada, The Most Rev. John R. Clarke, Metropolitan of Rupert’s Land, The Rt. Rev. Mark MacDonald, the National Indigenous Anglican Bishop and retired Bishop of the Arctic the Rt. Rev. Christopher Williams. The Rev. Marney Patterson led daily devotions and was chaplain for the synod. As well there were several guest presenters during the sessions. Look for the next issue of Arctic News and the views of some of these guests to synod.
Interpretation services were provided by Mrs. Lizzie Epoo-York, Mrs. Caroline Meeko, Mrs. Ida Saunders and Rev. Joshua Arreak. There services were a very important part of a successful synod.
Rev. Loie Mike presents cathedral donation on behalf of the South Baffin Deanery
Rev. Canon Paul Williams
presents the draft of the new
English/Inuktitut hymnbook "Voices of Worship"
 Synod Theme
The Executive Director (John Wright) of the
Anglican Foundation presents a loan/grant cheque for the cathedral project to Bishop
Andrew
Benefit Concert – St. Jude’s, Mt. Brydges, ON
by Judy Heal
photos by Ed & Judy Heal
On Sunday March 30th a very successful benefit concert was held to help rebuild St. Jude's Anglican Cathedral, Iqaluit. The sponsor of the musical evening was St. Jude's Anglican Church, Mt. Brydges, Ont. with the generous support of Hope Christian Reformed Church, Mt. Brydges, who donated their facilities for the event.
Several very talented groups entertained during the evening including Route 66, Generation Gap, The Community Choir, In A Heartbeat and Milestone all donated their time and talent.
The Rev. Bob Hayne (retired) kept everything running smoothly as Master of Ceremonies. Rev. Hayne also explained the logistics of rebuilding the Cathedral which is located on Baffin Island.
The congregation of St. Jude's, Mt. Brydges, would like to thank everyone that helped in any way to make the concert a great success. A total of $2,000.00 was raised for the rebuilding fund.
The congregation of St. Jude's who joyfully took on the project.
Route 66-who's talent took us back to a major road that intersects eras and genres beginning with big band music and ending somewhere in rock and as they told the audience "get your kicks with Route 66. The band includes, Kathy Gillard, who played the piano and clarinet, Jim Robinson, on trumpet, Doug Gillard, drummer and Bill Lamont, on bass guitar.
In a Heartbeat mixed their wonderfull harmony with humor and dished up pure enjoyment, they are Joyce Walter, Mary Lynn Smith, Karen Reese and Marj Dudley.
The Generation Gap with over 70 years of Barbershop singing between them showed why they won the Western Division quartet contest.
The Caradoc Community Choir, lead by Kathy Gillard, was a real crowd pleaser with the blending of their many voices.
Milestone a group of "baby boomers" who have been singing since their teenage years showed everyone while they are serious about having fun, they are very serious about their music. Their songs included the very familiar top chart classics to favorite hymns. Members are, Jim Walter, Joey Snyder, Joyce Walter, Pat Snyder and Kevin Gorman. Hidden behind is drummer Tom Walter.
ARCTIC FELLOWSHIP – UK
After the Lambeth Conference, Bishop Andrew and his wife, Mary, will be visiting various places in the UK. St. Paul’s Church, Hamble Road, Oadby, Leicester on August 7th from 4:00 – 7:00pm. Further details from the Rev. Canon R.J. Tonkin, tel. 0116 2812517.
Sunday August 10th at 10:30 at SS. Phillips & Jacob, Tower Hill, Old Market, Bristol BS2 0ET tel. 0117924 3169
Sunday August 10th at 6:30 at St. Andrew’s, Church Lane, Backwell, Nr. Bristol, BS48 3JJ tel 01275 463 391.
ARCTIC FELLOWSHIP – TORONTO
Plans are currently underway for the next Arctic Fellowship gathering in the Toronto area this fall for Saturday, October 25. Once again, this event will be held at St. Bride’s (Clarkson), 1516 Clarkson Rd. N. in Mississauga.
“…They Rest From Their Labours”
Since our last issue of Arctic News, several friends have been called to their eternal reward and our sympathy and prayers go out to those left behind.
Helen Roy Quartermain of Tatamagouche/Truro, NS passed away December 8, 2007. Helen was a nurse in Aklavik and in 1936 she received a medal for bravery following a fire that destroyed the hospital. In 1940 she married Rev. H. Clifton Quartermain and they moved to Kimmirut (then Lake Harbour) to continue her missionary nursing. In 1949 the family moved to Nova Scotia.
Catherine Douglas, 93 years, passed away peacefully in Kaslo, BC. Her husband, Robert, was the rector at Holy Trinity in Yellowknife from 1952 to 1962. He was instrumental in getting the church built and would be proud to see the many improvements that have taken place over the years.
Late last year, the community of Whapmagoostui (Great Whale River) lost a long time chief, David Masty. David was returning from a cabin when his machine went through the ice and he was drowned. His loss will be felt for a long time to come. David attended many synods as Cree delegate for the parish of St. Edmund’s.
Mary Atagotaaluk’s youngest brother Eli Eckalook, passed away suddenly in Resolute Bay on New Year’s Day 2008.
On January 12, 2008, Alice Gill, formerly of Yellowknife, passed away peacefully at the age of 72 years. A celebration of Alice’s life was held on January 17 with Rev. Keith Marsh officiating.
The congregation of St. Timothy’s in Pond Inlet will certainly miss the services of Jokeypee Angutiannuk Katsak. She was a Sunday school teacher in the parish for a number of years. She also assisted at services by taking up the offering. Jokeypee passed away early in February.
Rev. Frank Peake, who authored books on church history, died on February 13th in his 95th year. One of hi s best known books, The Bishop Who Ate His Boots, was the 1966 biography of Isaac O. Stringer, an Anglican bishop who worked in the western Arctic.
Lytia Koperqualuk wife of the late Rev. Isa Koperqualuk passed away in hospital in Puvirnituq on April 20.
Rev. Gideon Qitsualik died in hospital in Yellowknife on April 25. Funeral services were held at Holy Trinity in Yellowknife on April 29.
A long time supporter of the Diocese of the Arctic, Dr. Ruth Burnie Smyth passed away early in 2008.
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. On April 6, Bishop Andrew ordained Tommy Evic a priest. He is in charge of St. Matthias in Igloolik and of St. Silas in the outstation of Hall Beach. 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. The community of Sanikiluaq rejoiced with Moses Appaqaq and Annie Arragutainaq who were married in St Philip's Church on Tuesday, January 29, 2008. Rev. Iola Metuq has been appointed Regional Dean for this area and he continues as priest 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 was transferred the Resurrection parish in Ulukhaktok, formerly Holman, in December. The parish is currently without ordained clergy. Their lay leaders oversee services. 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 though Ven. John Tyrrell was interim priest there for several months this past winter.
 Ven. John Tyrrell with parishoners of St. George's Cambridge Bay
Kivalliq Deanery
Rev. Canon Paul Williams continues as regional dean and priest in charge at Holy Comforter in Rankin Inlet. This parish is in the process of building a new church. Rev. Lucy Netser is priest in charge of St. Mark’s in Coral Harbour and of St. Stephen’s the outstation of Repulse Bay. Rev. Jean Simailak recently retired and St. Aidan’s in Baker Lake is currently being lead by Deacon Joedee Joedee. Deacon Joe Manik continues to lead the parish of St. Francis in Arviat and the congregation at Christ Church in Whale Cove. Christ Church recently acquired a new building for their worship space.
Mackenzie Delta Deanery
Rev. Capt. David Parsons is the regional dean and priest in charge at Church of the Ascension in Inuvik. Rev. Sue Oliver continues as priest in charge of St. Matthew’s in Ft. McPherson, she is assisted by deacons Hannah Alexie and Mary Teya. In December Bishop Larry Robertson ordained Georgina Baldwin to the priesthood. She is now priest in charge of All Saints in Aklavik. St. John’s in Tuktoyaktuk and St. Clement’s in Sachs Harbour are still without clergy, however, David and Sue visit these parishes whenever they are able.
Bishop Larry Robertson, Rev. Capt. David Parsons and Rev. Sue Oliver lay hands on Georgina Baldwin at the Church of the Ascension in Inuvik.
 Bishop Larry with Rev. Georgina Baldwin and her mom.
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. Plans are underway to ordain Deacon Annie Ittoshat to the priesthood. Annie is in charge of Holy Trinity in Kangirsuk. She also visits the communities of Quaqtaq and Aupaluk. 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 continues to be regional consultant for the two deaneries in Nunavik.
South Baffin Deanery
Dean James Barlow continues as regional dean of the South Baffin. He is also rector of the parish of St. Jude’s in Iqaluit. Rev. Methuselah Kunuk provides Inuktitut services at St. Simon’s in Apex. And Capt. Cyrus Blanchet is 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 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.
 Confirmation group at Church of the Redeemer, Clyde River
 Bishop Ben with one of the newly confirmed at the Church of the Redeemer
 Brad Hampson with children in Clyde River.
(the above 3 pictures were supplied by Brad Hampson)
Upper Mackenzie Deanery
Rev. Ann Bush is the regional dean for this area. She continues as priest in charge at St. John’s in Ft. Smith and her husband Deacon Gordon assists her. In February, Bishop Andrew ordained Vivian Smith she is now rector at St. Andrew’s/Grace United Church in Hay River. The Hay River ministerial made a request to the local churches for a donation for bibles to be purchased and distributed across the north. These bibles would include pre-school, elementary school, high school, adults and elders. To date St. Andrew’s in Hay River has contributed in excess of $2000 to this project. They have challenged the churches in Yellowknife to do the same. St. David’s in Ft. Simpson continues to be lead by lay people and Rev. Capt. Ron McLean continues as rector at Holy Trinity Yellowknife.
Some of the ministry team at Holy Trinity, Yellowknife, Alison Doak, Heather White, Sheila Robertson, Bishop Chris Williams, Bishop Larry Robertson, Bishop John Sperry and Rev. Capt. Ron McLean following the dedication of the new stained glass.
October 26, 2007 Rev. Mike Gardener receives the Order of Canada
Rev. Mike Gardener and Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General of Canada |
Arriving in the North as a missionary in the 1950s, Michael Gardener travelled by dogsled and lived on the land with Inuit people, learning their language, customs and history. Thus began a lifelong commitment to the people of Northern communities. He started the first class for Inuit children in one of the areas he served. In another, he organized an Anglican theological college, which became the foundation for the growth of First Nations ministry in the North. In Iqaluit, he has mobilized community action on a number of challenging social issues. He also served with the city's Adult Justice Committee and the Northwest Territories elders society. Currently retired, he continues to provide comfort and pastoral care to seniors, bereaved families and families in crisis.
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This March Bishop Ben travelled to Baffin Island to do several parish visits and confirmations. Before he left to go on this mega trip, he first confirmed a number of young people at St. Stephen’s in Kuujjuaq, his home parish.
When he visited Cape Dorset, he was supposed to be in the community for a few days, but due to poor weather and mechanical problems with the airplane, he was only able to be in the community for one night. They had a good service and 7 were confirmed. As well, on behalf of Bishop Andrew, he installed one new parish lay leader, Aipayaha Oqutaq.
Following the visit to Cape Dorset, Bishop Ben travelled to Kimmirut. Here he confirmed four men and a woman.
 St. Paul's Church - Kimmirut, Nunavut
The next stop on this tour was Pond Inlet. Here Bishop Ben attended vestry meetings and confirmed another 8 people. This time 7 women and 1 man.
 St. Timothy's Church - Pond Inlet, Nunavut
Next it’s off to Clyde River. More meetings, this time with the vestry and with church helpers. On Sunday 24 were confirmed, 14 boys and 10 girls.
 Church of the Redeemer - Clyde River, Nunavut
After ove rnighting in Iqaluit, Bishop Ben travelled on to Qikiqtarjuaq. Several meetings were held in this parish. As well, another 7 were confirmed.
 St. Michael's and All Angels, Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut
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