Stronger Together in North Vancouver

For the past seven years the Lutheran and Anglican churches of North Vancouver have met together for a combined Sunday liturgy. They met for the eighth consecutive year on Sunday, June 5 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

Over 300 people filled the beautiful contemporary church which features modern stained glass windows and a traditional tracker-action pipe organ. Gloria Dei Pastor, Rev. Jennifer Marlor was the celebrant, and the homilist was the Venerable Lynne McNaughton, rector  St Clement’s, Lynn Valley and Archdeacon of Capilano. The service featured a children’s time led by Pastor Carolina Glauster of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church. The music in worship was led by the music ministries of several of the churches involved and of note was a moving solo sung by Giselle Clark-Trenaman of St Agnes’.

Shannon Muir, also of St. Agnes provided an update on the work of the Regional Ecumenical Support Team (REST) which is supporting a Syrian refugee family currently living in North Vancouver. A new Parish Health Ministry Program was inaugurated at the service, with the commissioning of the Steering Committee members under the direction of the Reverend Robin Ruder-Celiz, vicar of St Martin’s.

The gathering concluded with a festive reception lunch featuring a variety of menu items provided by members of the two Lutheran and five Anglican Churches.

The churches continue to work together throughout the year through the Regional Program Group which offers a wide variety of shared programs and educational opportunities in North Vancouver and beyond.

IMAGES

• Pastor Jennifer Marlor (left) and the Reverend Robin Ruder-Celiz (right) commission the Parish Health Ministry Program Steering Committee
• Children’s Time
• Shannon Muir
• A Chorister
• The Eucharist
• Bountiful Banquet Buffet

PHOTOS by Stephen Muir

More photos available on Anglican Conversation - Diocese of New Westminster Facebook page.