This past Friday and Saturday, I had the great honour of representing St. Anne’s at the 123rd Synod of the Diocese of New Westminster, alongside our Rector, Rev. Marnie Peterson, and fellow delegate Roger Farrier. Held at the Italian Cultural Centre, the Synod brought together lay and clergy representatives from over 60 parishes and three worshipping communities across our diocese.

Over two days, we shared in worship, storytelling, decision-making, and fellowship. We sang, we laughed, we listened, and we were moved—deeply—by the many ways God's people are working faithfully across our region.

Synod Highlights:
* Sermons from Archbishop John Stephens grounded us in Scripture and called us to bold and loving action.
* A powerful Keynote Address from Archbishop Andrew John of Wales shared the challenges the Church is facing in a post-industrial society—and the hope of a “quiet
revival” led by youth rediscovering spiritual meaning and purpose.
* The installation of our new Elder-in-Residence, Ricky Khooy, offered a sacred moment of welcome and wisdom. She guided us in decorating a Diocesan Prayer Pole with
handmade cloths representing our prayers and intentions.
* In small group sessions, we reflected on the future of the Church—examining our strengths, community needs, fears, and the opportunities that arise when we listen and
respond with courage and love.
* We approved financial statements and budgets for the coming two years and voted on a series of resolutions and motions to guide the continued work of the Diocese.
* We heard moving testimonials from parishes that have received Diocesan grants, each doing meaningful ministry in areas of youth, outreach, reconciliation, and justice.
*A presentation on the Diocese’s new Land Use Policy offered a hopeful vision for parishes exploring sustainable ways to steward their buildings and property for future
mission.

A Spirit of Love and Purpose
What struck me most throughout Synod was the deep sense of love, gratitude, and shared commitment to living out our Anglican identity in relevant, responsive, and transformative ways. The Holy Spirit was clearly present among us, blessing our prayers, our dialogue, and our discernment.
It was a profound honour to be in that space, and to represent our parish—St Anne’s, Steveston—which models so beautifully what it means to Welcome and Serve.

Thank you for trusting me with this role. I return encouraged, inspired, and hopeful for the work that lies ahead.
Blessings,
Amanda

Readings for next Sunday include:

GENESIS 11:1-9;  PSALM 104:25-35, 37B; ACTS 2:1-21; JOHN 14:8-17, 25-27

Here is the link to read them

A note from Chris about what to expect:

We are having a clean up day at St. Anne's and we would love your help!

There are a number of projects both inside and outside that need some attention. If you are available please sign up on the sheet outside the office.

Thank you!

Marnie is on vacation and will return on Sunday, July 6.

If you have a pastoral emergency, please call Pastor Christoph Rieners at Our Saviour Lutheran Church at 604-270-0085

The Rev. Areeta Bridgemohan is leading a retreat on an Introduction to Contemplative Practice at Rivendell Retreat Centre on Bowen Island.

If you would like to learn more or to register, please follow the link here