Anglican Church Women of New Westminster Mark 120 years of service
What do you do to celebrate 120 years young? The Anglican Church Women (ACW) of the Diocese of New Westminster arranged for a full Eucharist at Christ Church Cathedral, Vancouver on October 19th, 2024, and a celebratory lunch.
Welcoming special guests and ACW members who had come from all over the diocese on a very wet and windy Saturday, President Kelly Bowman introduced long time member Sheila Puls. Sheila's opening remarks highlighted the determined women from1904 who initiated the Women’s Auxiliary (as it was then known). Members of ACW groups throughout the Diocese took served as introductory pianist, crucifer, reader, and lay administrator for the service. Bishop John Stephens, the celebrant for the service, acknowledged the many works of service the ACW has done in those 120 years and counting.
In her afternoon remarks ACW's chaplain, Mother Miranda Sutherland, offered a way of remembering why the ACW exists:
a Focus on God,
an Active role in the community,
being Inspired by God’s word,
Trusting in God’s plan,
and carrying through with a Humble heart -- FAITH.
At the end of the animated social event, attendees received a “through-the-years” booklet -- a keepsake of photos, articles, and letters describing past initiatives. The offertory collection was directed to Christ Church Cathedral's Maundy Café.
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Photos:
- Sheila Puls, long-time member and a former president of ACW addresses the gathering. (photo by: Linda Burton.)
- Bishop John with Deacon the Rev Juanita Clarke administering communion with ACW participants (Photo by Linda Burton)
- View toward altar from centre aisle. Deacon the Rev Juanita Clarke, Bishop John Stephens, Lay Administrator Beth Fortin, Chaplain the Rev Miranda Sutherland. (Photo by Linda Burton)
- Attendees gather for a group photo after the service. ( Photo by Rev. James Hwang)
- Group photo. (Photo: Betha Kollin)