On the evening of Friday, January 25th, the Parish of St. Matthew, Abbotsford, was honored by a visit from the Most Rev. Fred Hiltz, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada. Following dinner with members of the Mission Council at Restaurant 62, Archbishop Fred returned to St. Matthew's to meet with members of the congregation where he solicited and heard tales from parishioners regarding their individual spiritual journeys and circumstances which had led them to engage in the development of this growing church community. He brought words of encouragement from the national church and shared valuable insights and suggestions relevant to our experience. Following the meeting and sharing of ideas he led us in prayer and both he and the Very Reverend Peter Elliott, functioning as formal host, lingered to engage with members of the congregation . Our community wishes to express its gratitude to Archbishop Fred and Dean Peter for taking the time from their busy agendas to renew the parish’s determination and commitment.
Images: Top, Archbishop Fred Hiltz and Dean Peter Elliott out to dinner at Restaurant 62 with the Parish of St. Matthew Mission Council. Right, Parish of St. Matthew, pianist, Lloyd Bates with the Primate. Lower left and homepage, The Hon. Wendy Young, ODNW, the Primate and Bishop's Warden, Carole Keighley.
PHOTOS: Peter Keighley