“Sometimes the church moves slowly and sometimes the church moves painfully slowly.” This phrase spoken by Bishop Michael at the Service of Reception of Holy Orders for The Reverend Expedito Farinas prompted chuckles from the congregation gathered at St. Margaret’s, Cedar Cottage in East Vancouver on Wednesday evening, October 11th. There was of course a good deal of truth in the Bishop’s remark as it is well known that Expedito has been doing excellent ministry in the diocese for a number of years without actually being a Priest of the Diocese of New Westminster, Anglican Church of Canada.
It has been difficult to organize letters of transfer from the Philippine Independent Church, the church into which Expedito was ordained and that has been the principal cause of the delay. Fortunately, Bishop Michael came in contact with The Primate of the Philippine Independent Church when they were both present in Hong Kong for a consecration earlier in 2012 and Bishop Michael was able to speak with him, helping to facilitate the transfer. Expedito spent many years in ministry to the Parish of St. Michael’s, Broadway, a congregation with a core of Filipino members. There were many friends and supporters from St. Michael’s present to share this happy event with Expedito, his wife Felly, Incumbent , The Rev. Heidi Brear, Honorary Assistant, The Rev. Bill Inglis and the members of the St. Margaret’s, Cedar Cottage worshipping community.
This liturgy was a very moving and emotional experience for all involved. Everyone felt the joy that was in the room when Bishop Michael welcomed The Reverend Expedito Farinas, Priest in the Anglican Church of Canada, and the two embraced. The first duty of the new Anglican Church of Canada priest was to offer The Peace of Christ and a joyful exchange it was indeed. One of the most moving moments was the congregation singing the Lord’s Prayer in Tagalog, spoken as a first language by a third of the population of the Philippines and as a second language by most of the remainder of the population.
Please keep Rev. Expedito Farinas, Felly, the congregation of St. Margaret’s, Cedar Cottage in your prayers as they move forward in their shared ministry.
Sermon by the Venerable Ellen Clark-King 10-15-2013
Images: Top and Homepage, Bishop Michael and The Reverend Expedito Farinas embrace. Middle right, Expedito offers The Peace of Christ. Below, The Prayer Over the Gifts.