The 79th Convention of Synod:
The 79th Convention of Synod was held on Friday and Saturday, October 13 and 14, 2023, at St. Peter, Okotoks.
It was truly a Spirit-filled gathering: decisions were made, information was provided, presentations that inspired and motivated were delivered, and new names were added to the lists of those who will lead and represent this Diocese in the future.
Our theme was Growing as Disciples of Jesus in a Post-Modern World, and in every presentation, we heard thought-provoking ideas of how we as Christians in the Diocese of Calgary can do just that - grow ourselves, grow our service within our parishes and grow in outreach to a world that is slowly turning back towards the Church. We were challenged in Archbishop Greg's address on Friday night to listen to the Spirit's voice and to be willing to trust in Christ to lead us. Dr. John Bowen of Wycliffe University offered seven signs of hope for the church, and encouraged us to come unto Jesus as disciples, and to be "yoked" with Him, as He leads us in ministry. 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.
Jacqui Durand, our Archdeacon for Indigenous Ministries, led a presentation, beginning with a smudging and prayers led by Diocesan Elder Eric Crow Shoe, and followed by the sharing of stories of Senator James Gladstone by his granddaughter and Bishop Sid Black by his daughter. The Rev. Larry Waterchief shared his experience as the Incumbent of St. John the Divine, Siksika. These moving testimonies of faithful leadership inspired those present, and continued the important work of bridge building between our communities.
At the close of Saturday, we heard from three diocesan groups offering missional hope for our parishes: Pilar Gateman, Archdeacon of Calgary and Executive Officer, spoke on the good work of the Missional Coaches, Jason Carroll, Ministry Developer and Elizabeth Short, Parish Health Facilitator, talked about their work assisting parish discernment, and Daniel Joseph in his role as our Diocesan Church Planter encouraged us in thinking about ways we can be welcoming within our communities.
All in all, it was an inspirational time and one of affirming the vision of mission within our church. If you would like more information, please contact your parish representatives or our office.