Our Rector’s Page
Invitation to our Anniversary
On June 1st, 2025, the congregation and community will come together to celebrate the 195th anniversary of Grace Anglican Church. This is an extraordinary celebration! First and foremost, we celebrate 195 years of the sharing of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Good news has been preached in this place week after week, year after year, being the source of love, compassion, clemency, and consideration for each and every person in this magnificent building. Clearly, the sharing of the Gospel is the most important thing that always has, and always will, bring love and hope to those who have gathered. The long and fruitful history of Grace Church is filled with marvelous stories of people being blessed by their experiences here. Anniversaries are an opportunity to celebrate a history of many accomplishments and shared faith journeys.
The worship liturgy at Grace Church has a depth and richness that is a blessing to the congregation and community at large. The greeters, readers, facilitators of prayers, choir, servers, altar guild, and clergy all work faithfully together to facilitate a worship experience that is immersed in the Anglican experience.
Since my arrival last December, I have noted many people, places and personalities that are a blessing to Grace Church. Most overwhelming is the extraordinary generosity of all of those people who are involved in the Daily Bread program. I have witnessed more than 180 people being served in a week. It is incredible to watch those who purchase the food, prepare the kitchen, cook the meals, and serve the meals, working so well together for a common goal of feeding God’s people.
There has been a similar experience while observing the Thursday (St. Jude’s) food distribution program. I have witnessed the serving of as many as 80-90 bags of groceries being placed in the hands of those who are in need. This dynamic and faithful team ensure that those who are hungry in our community are receiving food that they desperately need.
Every week there is an encounter with a new small group of people who are dedicated to the future of Grace Church. There are seminars, workshop, bible studies, craft groups, and sewing groups all that meet to nurture healthy relationships, strengthen their faith, and add value to the community and church at large. Grace Anglican Church has outstanding leadership on their parish council and executive and we are all supported by our vergers and office staff that ensure that everyone that walks through the doors is physically and spiritually fed for their journey on the week ahead.
I want to encourage you to attend the anniversary service on Sunday June 1st at 10:30 am with Bishop Todd Townshend as celebrant and preacher. There will be a lunch that follows. This is your personal invitation to share in a wonderful community of caring and compassionate believers who add value to others and make a significant contribution to the broader community.
Blessings,
Stephen