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Our Diocesan Synod was held on Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24.  It was a joy to gather, to be inspired by our guests, to take care of legislative and election items and to be in fellowship and community with one another.

Our theme was Living in Hope, and in every presentation, we heard thought-provoking ideas of how we as Christians in the Diocese of Calgary can do just that - hold on to the hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.  During the Opening Worship Service, there was a service of Collation, during which The Ven. Bonnie Luft and The Ven. Deacon Charmaine Evans were appointed Archdeacons of Bow Valley and Calgary respectively.  We were challenged in Archbishop Greg's address on Friday night to exercise hope in our lives and in our ministries.  Bishop Jenny Andison of St. Paul Bloor Street, Toronto offered a comparison between hope and optimism, and we learned hope is much deeper, much more secure, for we have a sure foundation.  We heard greetings from the ELCIC, the Moravian Church of Canada, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary, and our Companion Diocese of the Windward Islands.  Each of these representatives reiterated support for our work together in our journeys of faith. 

Presentations were made from the Parish of St. Andrew, Gleichen, Sorrento Retreat Centre, and the Refugee Committee.  Each were encouraging and thought-provoking as we considered not only the work we do within this Diocese, but the need to rest, as well. 

At the close of Saturday, we were sent out into the world with joyous and energetic dancing on behalf of the St. Paul Dinka Congregation youth.  

All in all, it was an inspirational time and one of affirming the vision of hope within our church.  If you would like more information, please contact your parish representatives or our office.