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The 11th Investiture of New Members was celebrated within the context of Morning Prayer at the Massey Theatre in New Westminster, November 5, 2022, 10:30am following a four year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.The 2020 members were invited to attend and they were seated in the front rows centre of the theatre and recognized prior to the investiture of the 2022 members.
Bishop John Stephens was the Officiant a Preacher. His homily is available here on the diocesan website.
The next ODNW Investiture will take place the first Saturday of November, 2024. Time and location TBC.
Burrard Archdeaconry
Invested by the Venerable Kevin Hunt
Mrs Mona Atkinson
Bishop Hills’ Memorial Church of St Mary the Virgin, South Hill
Mona has been a parishioner of St Mary's since she was a child. Her sense of service to the church and to God are strong. She served the church well in her varied roles as Treasurer, Sunday School teacher, Sidesperson, planning the Christmas pageants and carolling, working on various committees including MAP, coffee hour helper, and assembling the Centennial Anniversary Book. She also participated in various 100th Anniversary renovation projects.
Ms Lily Bad-ay
St Michael Multicultural, Broadway
Lily is a devoted member of St. Michaels who is small in frame but big in heart. Her love and support for the church is immeasurable. She loves to help whenever she can particularly with the food ministry, the ACW, and fundraising. She is a team worker and a cheerful companion. At church gatherings, she always makes people smile with her fancy ballroom dancing moves. Lily regards St Michael’s as her second home and she does her best to support the church.
Mr Stephen Barry Bottomley
Holy Cross, Vancouver
Steve started volunteering for Holy Cross in the care and maintenance of the building. Steve makes ministries possible through his willingness to open doors and move tables. In 2015 Steve went to Japan with Holy Cross and then in 2018 Steve joined Cristosal, going to El Salvador. As Steve's faith grows, so does his service. He has been an Assistant Warden since 2019, bringing his international awareness and willingness to get down to practical details to his faithful service.
Ms Lynann Frances Burton
St James, Vancouver
Lynann died on September 1st and was invested posthumously. Her son, Mr Robert Burton, is represented Lynann’s family at the Investiture Service.
Lynann was baptized in New Zealand at the age of one month, and was a lifelong Anglican. St James, Vancouver, became her spiritual home. Parish Librarian, member of the Flower and Readers Guilds, and of the Open Church ministry, Lynann was quiet, reflective and prayerful, not least in the face of physical infirmity. As Lynann would say, “My faith is my salvation and strength. It has been tested many times and never failed me. It is my comfort and joy.”
Ms Lorie Ann Chortyk
St Thomas, Vancouver
Lorie was invested at St Thomas, Vancouver on November 6, 2022.
Lorie has, from a young age, been a dedicated member of St. Thomas. Her ministries at St. Thomas and beyond it have been many and varied and reflect her deep care for the community and the individuals in it. These have included outreach, fundraising, accessibility renovations, and the Capital Campaign. Lorie brought to these ministries her very special gifts for leadership and music. Whether chairing a committee, being a prayer partner or leading music, Lorie does it with her characteristic energy, commitment, infectious laugh, and warmth.
Ms Carol Megan Cook
Christ Church Cathedral
Carol has been an active servant leader at the Cathedral since 1978, serving on Parish Council, as a Trustee and Peoples Warden, and on Worship, Stewardship, and Education Committees. Carol’s forté has been working quietly behind the scenes in hospitality, organizing community meals, Maundy kitchen, Parish Fairs, Healing Touch retreats, and managing worship teams. Time and again, her skills have been invaluable in ensuring things happen, and properly. Carol’s active passions are travelling, worship and singing.
Ms Patricia Anne Theresa Longmire
St Margaret, Cedar Cottage
For over 25 years Patsi has been a dedicated and faithful member of St. Margaret’s Cedar Cottage offering to take on just about every ministry position in the parish including Warden, envelope recorder, counter, greeter, Eucharistic Administrator, bread baker, reader, prayer leader and events coordinator. She has been a deanery representative on Diocesan Council and Synod delegate. She supports the ministry of the parish and the wider community, and is committed to always learning and deepening her own spirituality and faith development.
Capilano Archdeaconry
Invested by the Venerable Stephen Muir
Ms Alison Jane Brookfield
St John the Evangelist, North Vancouver
To say that Alison is an overachiever is an understatement. Alison has provided leadership and service at St John the Evangelist, North Vancouver, and at regional and Diocesan levels over many years. Those who know her describe her as organized, enthusiastic, positive, welcoming, prayerful, resourceful, always energetic and thoughtful. The roles she is most proud of are being a Warden, leading prayers of the people and facilitating the Sounds of Silence contemplative group. The parish thinks Alison is amazing!
Ms Deborah Amelia Foster
St Hilda, Sechelt
Amelia has embraced St. Hilda’s since 2009 and expands her compassion to the less fortunate in the community. ACW president since 2015, she tirelessly spearheads annual fundraising events and is currently Vice President of the Diocesan ACW. Amelia heads the Servers Guild with grace and humbleness and she is often found in the parish kitchen leading volunteers, coordinating funeral receptions, and organizing special events. St. Hilda’s is blessed to have someone with such strength, hope, leadership, and inspiration.
Mrs Margaret Ann Hasle
St Martin, North Vancouver
Ann became a member of St. Martin in 2006 and immediately began a journey of faith and service. She has been a choir member, music librarian, envelope secretary, bookkeeper, reader, intercessor and lay administrator of the chalice, and since 2017, Warden. Ann contributes in other ways including participation in social evenings, the annual Fall Fair and the coffee hour. Given the changes at St. Martin, as a member of the leadership team, Ann is actively guiding the parish through the challenging process of merging with St. John the Evangelist.
Ms Heather Peacock
St Catherine, Capilano
An eager and tireless worker, Heather began her service to the church in the 1990s as a member of the Altar Guild, and hospitality committees. She was a Sunday School teacher for ten years ending as Church School Superintendent. Serving on Parish Council for three terms and Warden for three years, she has also been an intercessor, reader and eucharistic administrator. Above all, for more than 20 years, she has shone in outreach, as a leader and worker on dozens of projects.
Mrs Elizabeth Smith
St Christopher, West Vancouver
Elizabeth is an integral part of St. Christopher’s parish. From her work on the Altar and Hospitality Guilds, in the garden, and sometimes on the roof, she is always doing something to better the Church. Her hats are a popular sight, and her creativity has been enjoyed by many via her knitting. Her sense of humour and positivity are appreciated by all who interact with her and the parish thanks her for all that she has done for St. Christopher’s.
Mr Roger Sweeny
St Francis-in-the-Wood, West Vancouver
Roger Sweeny first set eyes on Caulfeild Cove and St. Francis-in-the-Wood as a boy aboard the Cutty Sark. After service in the Merchant Marines and ministry in other parishes, he and wife Mary-Ann have made St. Francis home for the last 27 years. Roger’s passion for all nations and ethnicities have benefitted people far beyond West Vancouver. His motto is “prayers are fine, but action is what counts”. And he has acted through the Social Concerns Committee and refugee resettlement. A valued elder now, Roger continues to inspire.
Mrs Jeanette Marie Terrace
St Clement, Lynn Valley
As St. Clement’s warden, Synod Delegate, Member of Parish Council and Finance Committee, Jeanette has been a quiet, steadfast leader and an encouraging presence during times of significant transition. She continues to lead by example in ways large and small through hospitality, church and grounds maintenance, regular worship attendance, and project initiatives. Jeanette was nominated in appreciation for her steady hand on the tiller through rough and calm seas over the last forty years of the parish’s life.
Mrs Marilyn Nora Watson
St Agnes, North Vancouver
Marilyn has been a member of St Agnes since 1983. Her son, Greg was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy as a child and Marilyn dedicated herself to his wellbeing all his life. She has been tireless in her fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy. Marilyn is a member of the Altar Guild, Parish Council secretary, and is a helper at almost all church functions. Although baptized as an infant and active in the church all her adult life, she was recently confirmed by Bishop John in 2021.
Fraser Archdeaconry
Invested by the Venerable Luisito Engnan
Mrs Helen Davison
Church of the Holy Trinity, White Rock
Helen was not able to attend the Investiture Service and will be invested at a later date.
Helen and her husband John joined Holy Trinity in 2001. Her deep faith, and belief that ‘one serves’, anchor her contributions. Her service since 2003 includes Parish Council, ACW President, Bookkeeper, current Treasurer, Pastoral Care, willing hands (hers and John's) helping at or organizing events, Coffee Ministry, and hosting coffee hours at their home, uniting parishioners after COVID isolation. Helen's first words are "How can I help?" A caring consensus-builder, she works for the better good.
Mrs Anne Denis
St Alban, Richmond
Anne has been bringing her dry sense of humour, infectious joy, and stalwart but humble service to the Parish of St Alban’s for over 30-plus years. She currently serves on Parish Council, the Altar Guild, the roster of lectors, the roster of sidespersons, and the Hospitality Committee, and has also been a staunch volunteer with the garden maintenance crew, the Outreach Community Meal program, and just about every other activity of the parish.
Mrs Elizabeth Anne (Peggy) Higginbottom
Church of the Epiphany, Surrey
Betty remembers coming to Epiphany with her husband Ken and two daughters and beginning her service to the church. Betty has noted that she has “poured a tanker carload of tea and coffee and took enough minutes to fill many books in a small library”. Betty has honoured her church as a humble and hardworking parishioner. She is kind, loving, with a special sense of humour. The parish gives thanks for her years of humble service.
Mrs Sharon Susanne Indridson
St Mark, Ocean Park
Sue is an amazing presence in the parish. In 2011, Sue recognized a need for seniors, particularly singles who were lonely, and created Savvy Seniors, a place for fun and fellowship. During COVID-19, her dedication to ensuring that shut-ins and seniors have had a connection to the church continued. Sue delivered copies of the bulletins and Parish Pulse every week, making a huge difference in their lives. Sue refers to the group as “her seniors” and truly cares about them as her family.
Mrs Corrina Mary Kaweski
St Michael, Surrey
Spare time is not in Corri’s vocabulary-allotted time is- and that is the time she cherishes, because it is the time she gives to others. Corri is a feisty multitasker, a dynamo of energy and generosity. She teaches school, drives for cancer patients, buys church supplies, and serves on the Altar Guild. Corri is the pilot of church fundraisers, helping to replenish the old with the new, and she donates selflessly. Corri’s love for her church is palpable. And this year she has taken on the role of Regalia Coordinator for the Order of the Diocese of New Westminster.
Mrs Valerie Jean Reimer
St Cuthbert, Delta
Val has been involved with the Sunday School at St. Cuthbert’s for 35 years, the last 19 as teacher and coordinator of preschool to Grade 12 students and teachers. She works hard to create a safe and supportive place where all can participate. She is a community-builder, recruiting and mentoring a dedicated teaching team, which in turn has attracted families to the church. Her innovative program highlights have included theme days, children singing in church on special days, and mission giving.
Mrs Patricia Eileen Sallis
All Saints, Ladner
Pat was not able to attend the Investiture Service, and will be invested at a later date.
Over 29 years at All Saints, Ladner, Pat has served as Peoples Warden and many terms on Parish Council with dedication and commitment. She maintains strong personal faith and loyalty to her values, family and friends. A faithful worshipper, Pat has served as an Eucharistic Administrator, Usher, Greeter and with the prayer ministry. Pat enriches the life of the parish through her enthusiasm and energy for fund-raising, community outreach, and Pastoral Care. She demonstrates how faith in action can overcome both personal and church-related challenges.
Mrs Sheila Margaret Snell
St Oswald, Port Kells
Sheila is a dedicated member of St. Oswald’s Church where she is instrumental in many activities such as the yearly Surrey Food Bank drive. She has involved St. Oswald’s parishioners and her daughter Laura in assisting with a centre where vulnerable young mothers can shop for free. Sheila is someone who is “on speed dial” if a question needs to be answered. She is a conscientious caretaker of church finances and a “go-to” hard worker who is looked up to by everyone in the parish.
Granville Archdeaconry
Invested by the Venerable Stephanie Shepard
Ms Mary Gail Helmcken
St Mary, Kerrisdale
One of Gail's first involvements in the Diocese was during debates around the blessing of same-sex unions. Parishes were twinned for study sessions and Gail chaired one of the groups. Gail was a Warden at St. Mary's from 2001 to 2003. She has been a member of the Outreach Committee for many years, chairs Community Donations, and is active in refugee resettlement. Gail is a regular Reader, a Eucharistic Minister, a member of the Pastoral Care team and a long-time member of Parish Council.
Ms Katherine Theo Madeley
St Faith, Vancouver
Theo has given a lifetime of service to St. Faith’s. First she was a pioneering youth member of Parish Council and Youth Delegate to Diocesan Synod. In later years she was as an Altar Server and Warden. Today, she shares her wise counsel as a member of Parish Council, Delegate to Diocesan Synod, and liturgical arts team participant. Her faithful presence and unassuming willingness to serve and support the parish makes Theo a part of the bedrock of the congregation.
Mrs Jean Margaret Quinton
Holy Trinity, Vancouver
Jean was not able to attend the Investiture Service, and will be invested at a later date.
Throughout her 79 years of service Jean has consistently portrayed a life of faith, humility, and tireless devotion to God. At Holy Trinity Jean has served in the choir, the Altar Guild, as People’s Warden, on the Heart Committee for parish reconciliation, on the building committee, and, still today, on Parish Council. Never seeking acknowledgement, her deep commitment to church life leaves a legacy of inclusivity, caring and commitment. At 94 years old, Jean’s faithfulness reminds us of the impact small kindnesses can bring to those around us.
Ms Rosemarie Schipizky
St Anselm, Vancouver
Rosie is vibrant, welcoming and caring. A lawyer by profession, Rosie takes her role as parish trustee seriously, stewarding the parish like her own home. As Altar Guild coordinator, Rosie finds great joy behind the scenes, mentoring others, and making the sanctuary a beautiful offering to God. A skilled organizer, Rosie was instrumental in delivering "Art & Spirit" and "Spiritus" programs to the community. From overseeing parish finances, to picking strawberries, to helping children make communion bread, Rosie brings joy to all she does.
Mr David Craig Wilson
St Philip, Dunbar
Craig was not able to attend the Investiture Service and will be invested at a later date.
Craig has shown steadfast commitment to the St Philip, Dunbar community during changing times in its life. Craig is a faithful man of thoughtfulness, insight, sensitivity, and humour. From website technology to parish visioning, from family nights to finance, from soundboard management to Warden and Trustee, Craig has been deeply involved. He embodies St Philip’s values, treating others with dignity and grace. The parish is blessed to count Craig as a leader among them and they are made a better people by his love and care.
Lougheed Archdeaconry
Invested by the Venerable Kelly Duncan
Mr Wayne Adams
St Thomas, Chilliwack
Wayne, a convert to Anglicanism later in life and in the wake of personal grief, brings a lifetime of experience in making friends with all types into his multiple roles at St. Thomas. Wayne is the epitome of a life-long learner, using his “rolodex” to involve many others in parish projects allowing St. Thomas to be a welcoming, inviting building and community. Wayne is a wonderful example of large-hearted goodness served up practically.
Mrs Catherine Barnes
St Andrew, Langley
Not one to seek the spotlight, Cathy is an integral and dedicated contributor to the St. Andrew’s community in many ways. Most in the Parish would associate her with her dedicated and on-going leadership of the children's programs, but on any day you might find her doing garden clean up, acting as Rector's Warden, helping in the kitchen, or greeting new parish members. Always willing to step in and support in any way, Cathy is the epitome of selfless service and a much loved member of the St. Andrew's community.
Mr Richard John Blades
All Saints, Mission
Dick is the type of parishioner every Parish prays for. He is always there to listen to new ideas, offer help when needed, and support any initiatives All Saints has put forward. When one talks about stewardship of time, talent, and treasure, Dick is the perfect example of a good steward, and that is obvious in all the positions he now holds or has held in the past, and in the volunteer work he has taken on over the years.
Ms Linda Burton
St Matthew, Abbotsford
If the Church might be compared to a garden, Linda is one of those sure to check that each type of plant is getting the type of nutrients it needs. Her attention to detail has influenced all aspects of St. Matthew’s common life whether it be the servant leadership of the Warden’s role or in her roles on the Altar Guild and ACW. Linda cares for the church community with practical and faithful love.
Mrs Janet Coghlan
St John the Divine, Maple Ridge
Janet is by nature a selfless person. Her genuine care for others has been a hallmark of her life. In her service to St. John the Divine, Janet has been instrumental in supporting the growth and development of the parish community. She cares deeply about her congregation, generously sharing her time, gifts, and talents in a variety of ministries including as Warden, as stewardship and fundraising coordinator, and as PWRDF representative. She is known by her parish to be reliable, honest, kind, and wise.
Mrs Johanna Katharina Coughlin
Christ Church, Hope
Johanna has been a member of Christ Church, Hope, for 57 years. Over that time, she has held the positions of Warden and Member of Parish Council and, for over 20 years, was Treasurer of the ACW. Johanna has also served as Advisor to the Parish Treasurer and as Environmental Steward. She led the congregation in implementing environmentally friendly practices when upgrading the parish buildings. Johanna is committed to the upkeep of Christ Church, especially the Scattering Garden.
Ms Christine Elizabeth Duamel
St George, Maple Ridge
Christine has devoted years of quiet service to St George since 1986. She has been a member of the Choir, Altar Guild, Building Committee, Social Committee, and a member and Chairperson of the ACW. Her ‘green thumbs and fingers’ have given hours of time tending the church gardens and grounds over many years, and helped establish the neighbouring Community Garden. Christine has been selfless in giving her time, talent and energy to seniors at weekday Communion, children in Vacation Bible Schools and fundraising outreach of every kind.
Mrs Euphemia Geertruida Maria Hunfeld
Holy Spirit, Whonnock
Mimi is an ardent and committed member of Holy Spirit Anglican Church and is highly respected in the parish. She is a member of the Parish Church Council, a Synod Delegate, President of the Altar Guild, Sunday School Coordinator and the Outreach Program Coordinator. She also heads the Gardening Committee, keeping the grounds looking gorgeous. Mimi finds joy in serving, and is always ready, with her kind heart and gentle smile, to help as God directs her.
Mrs Dianne Sharp
St George, Fort Langley
Dianne joined St. George, Fort Langley in 1990 and has been an integral part of the parish ever since. She has worn many hats over the years including being the Youth Group Leader, Intercessor, Eucharistic Minister, Prayer Team member, Messy Church volunteer, Open Doors greeter, and longtime Server. She is a most positive person who radiates God’s love. Dianne spends many hours behind the scenes getting the church ready for all types of services. Her dedication is exemplary.
Mr Brian David Smith
St Dunstan, Aldergrove
Brian was not able to attend the Investiture Service, and will be invested at a later date.
Brian is the handyman every church dreams of having around. He will be there to prune bushes, replace fixtures, hang art and guide tradespeople to where they need to go. Through the pandemic Brian spent hours renewing the Building and Grounds bringing light to the outer cross and towers. At the same time Brian volunteered in the Parish meal program through the pandemic ensuring that the central ministry of the Parish continued at a difficult time in the community.
Westminster Archdeaconry
Invested by the Venerable Richard Leggett
Ms Sheila De Vaal
St John the Apostle, Port Moody
St. John's has been blessed to have Sheila! She has served in many different roles and is presently the Treasurer and a Parish Council member. Always willing to take on new challenges, Sheila has been on top of the accounts throughout the pandemic. She is a member of the tech team for St. John's hybrid Zoom worship. Her warm, cheerful personality and friendly ways are always appreciated in every capacity for which she volunteers.
Ms Florence Mary Erwin
St Mary the Virgin, Sapperton
Florence’s time at St. Mary the Virgin started in 1991. Since then she’s been part of the choir for thirty years and continues today as a member of the Altar Guild. She held the position of People’s Warden three times and served on Parish Council, adding common sense to that work. Her greatest achievement has been the love she extends to all. Florence is known for her hugs during the Passing of the Peace, and their resumption will be a sign that the pandemic has well and truly ended.
Ms Joyce Lilian Harwood
Holy Trinity Cathedral, New Westminster
Joyce has been and continues to be at the heart of Holy Trinity Cathedral since 1999. She has served in many and various capacities including as Parish Secretary, Warden and Member of Parish Council, Co-ordinator of Readers, Chalice Ministers and Intercessors, and Member of Synod, several of which she continues to serve at the present time. Her joy and commitment infuses the parish’s common life and they honour her in gratitude to God for her ministry among them.
Ms Mildred Ellett Louise Johnson
All Saints, Burnaby
An enthusiastic champion of All Saints, Burnaby who has been attending for a long time, Mildred is helpful and friendly to all who come through their doors. She completes administrative tasks to make sure the Parish runs smoothly and has been especially helpful in keeping things going during the pandemic. As a Warden Mildred has faithfully supported the parish’s priests over the years. The people of All Saints hope Mildred will continue to be a strong leader in their community for many years to come.
Mrs Patricia Sharpe
St Laurence, Coquitlam
Pat’s been a member of St. Laurence for more than 35 years. Pat's ability to welcome people on Sunday makes her an excellent Greeter. She shows her care for others by driving people to church and to hospital appointments and through years of involvement with the Issues and Action Committee, supporting the parish’s refugee response. She enjoys teaching, which is obvious from the number hours spent organizing and teaching Church School. Pat is also willing to step in whenever asked to help anyone needing an extra pair of hands.
Ms Sara Dyan Shaw
St Stephen the Martyr, Burnaby
Sara joined St Stephen the Martyr as a toddler. She lives her baptismal covenant in everything she does and has served the parish in countless ways -- beginning as a 5-year-old assistant to the Altar Guild, and later on Parish Council, as a Synod delegate, on the Canonical Committee, and as a Warden. Her ministry helps St Stephen’s be for others, what it is for her-as she says: “It is my centering place, it gives me the strength to be an example of Christ in the world, and it is an extension of my family and my safe space.”
Bishop’s Appointees
Invested by the Dean of the Diocese, the Very Reverend Christopher Pappas
Mr Peter James Bailey
Peter has been a member of Christ Church, Hope since 1990. He has been very involved in all aspects of parish life. He has served as People’s Warden, Bishop’s Warden, and church secretary, and on the Canonical Committee that helped select a new priest. Peter has also been a Synod Delegate, and served on Diocesan Council, assisting in the development of the Bishop’s employment agreement. Most recently he has been blessed to work with remarkable people on the Diocesan Task Force on Homelessness.
Mr Wayne Chose
Wayne has served as the photographer for hundreds of diocesan and Cathedral events, becoming a key member of the diocesan Communications team. From Synod Meetings to the Bishop’s parish visits, from Episcopal Installations to Order of the Diocese of New Westminster Investiture Services, and even individual head shots for clergy and staff, he as photographed it all. He fondly remembers covering Bishop Ingham’s installation service and Dean Peter Elliott’s retirement. And more recently Wayne has appreciated the growing diversity of the Anglican parishes he visits.
Ms Jane Dittrich
Jane has volunteered at many Diocesan Synods, and at the 2019 General Synod. An avid writer and photographer, she regularly covers events for Diocesan Communications. Jane assists in various capacities at the semi-annual Retired Clergy luncheons, the annual Bishop's Friends dinners, the Order of New Westminster Investiture Services and participates in two annual fundraising bike rides, raising money and awareness for The Mission to Seafarers and for PWRDF. She is an Honorary Associate of PWRDF, and currently serves on Cathedral Parish Council as the representative to Sorrento Centre.
Mr Jeddy Jithin James
Jeddy is an integral thread in the fabric of his home parish of St Michael’s, Surrey. He has served as the Rector’s and Bishop’s Warden, and is currently Vicar’s Warden. Jeddy helped develop and leads the Tri- Parish- Regional Ministry Implementation Team (RMIT), which grew out of the Ministry Assessment Process in Peace Arch Deanery. He is a long-serving member of the Diocesan Mission and Ministry Development Committee, and is involved in the Parish Development Grants Group and the Climate Emergency Working Group.
Mrs Erica Lucille Kooy, SLEX’LEX TCETS’ NUW enx’
Rikki, SLEX’LEX TCETS’ NUW enx’, Spirit Elk Woman, is an Elder and designer from the Secwepemc and St’atl’imc Nations, and a third generation residential school survivor. She supports healing through wisdom sharing, storytelling, and hands-on reconciliation through art. She constantly reminds us that “it’s all about love and relationship”. Rikki is the designer of the “Feather Dance” Reconciliation Project. Her exquisite creations reside within our Diocese and beyond. She brings beauty and excellence-and the twinkle in her eye-to everything she does.
Mrs Barbara McLaren
Barbara, of All Saints, Mission, is recognized today for contributions to the diocesan Dismantling Racism Team. This commitment stems from her personal experience, in the land of her birth where she was a religious minority, and then in the land which she accepted as her own, where she is considered a visible minority. It is also rooted in the belief that God created us all in God’s own image. Barbara knows the Kingdom of God marches on and through the Dismantling Racism Team, she is part of that march.
Mr Gilchrist Albless McLaren
Gilli is a member of All Saints, Mission. He is being recognized today for his commitment to anti-racism education as a member of the Diocesan Dismantling Racism Team. Gilli is working towards the Kingdom of God, for in the gospel of Christ, there is no discrimination of any kind. He finds meaning in working against racism, which he sees as “hatred in high octane”, and believes that when Jesus said, “Come unto me, All”, his invitation was addressed, not to a select few, but to all.
Mrs Joan Stewart
Since 2007 Joan has been a member of the Westside Anglicans Neighbourhood Ministry, which serves homeless and vulnerable people on Vancouver’s westside. She is in her fourth year as co-chair of the programme’s Board of Management, serving with members from St. Anselm, St. Helen, Point Grey, St. Philip, and St. John, Shaughnessy. Joan is also co-chair of the Bishop’s Friends, which seeks to provide opportunities for fellowship and support to the Bishop, raising discretionary funds for projects that are dear to the Bishop’s heart.
Ms Clare Urquhart
Clare was her parish of St James, Vancouver’s youth delegate to Diocesan Synod for four years. Internationally, Clare represented the Anglican Church of Canada at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in 2017 and the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund at ‘Women Deliver 2019’-the largest international gender equality conference. Nationally, Clare was a Member of General Synod in 2019 and is currently a member of the Council of General Synod. She is also the diocesan youth delegate to General Synod and a member and convenor of the PWRDF Youth Council.
Mr John David Van Blarcom
David served for many years on the Board of The 127 Society for Housing, including as President and Vice-President. 127 arose from a Diocesan retreat more than 40 years ago and now provides shelter and community for about 350 people in three apartment buildings in Yaletown. Currently a member of the Diocesan Task Force on Homelessness and Housing Affordability, David works to increase awareness and understanding of these dual crises, seeking practical responses. This is in addition to his service in his parish, Christ Church Cathedral.