The Bishop was quite clear. If All Saints, Ladner held a musical evening at the church, not only would he not attend, but all financial assistance from the Diocese would be withheld.
That was in 1881. The musical evening was cancelled, and on December 18th, 1881 Bishop Sillitoe consecrated the new church. One hundred and thirty years later, to the day, All Saints Ladner celebrated this anniversary.It was a joyful service of Lessons and Carols. Bishop Michael Ingham led a distinguished procession of community leaders in, as a full church gave the traditional start to the service with ‘Once in Royal David’s City’. Lessons were read by the Mayor, the MLA, the Fire Chief, a member of one of Ladner’s original families, ministers from a number of denominations, and prayers came from Archbishop Douglas Hambidge and Paul Woehrle of St. David’s Tsawwassen.
And there was music, both familiar carols for the whole congregation, and some less well-known ones from a choir consisting of singers from several churches. Erica Northcott, cousin of the Rector, and a well-known professional singer wowed the congregation with ‘O Holy Night.’
At the reception afterwards, in the hall adorned with pictures from the early days to the present, St David’s presented a stunning painting.
Already enjoying a very favourable location in the middle of the community, the service helped to emphasize a vital role that the church plays in Ladner.
Elizabeth Northcott expressed her gratitude for the great support this event received from the community. “Ever since I came to Ladner I have come to appreciate what a strong sense of community we have here, and how much people care for each other. It was a thrill to be able to involve members of the community, and other churches in a celebration of an important milestone for this member of our community.We will strive to continue to be a vital presence in Ladner, through our ministries to all ages, including our Messy Church, and through our Community Meals and Parish Health. This is an exciting congregation which is always looking for ways to improve and expand our ministries.”
And the community did not let Bishop Sillitoe have his way in everything. He wanted the church named “The Church of the Advent”, but the new congregation won out with ‘All Saints’. Perhaps, since he had been consecrated Bishop on All Saints Day, that wasn’t such a hard decision to accept.
Images: Top, current photo of All Saints, Ladner. Top right, Bishop Michael and Reverend Elizabeth prior to the Carol Service procession. Middle left, Erica Northcott. Lower right, Donald and Carleen enjoy the celebration. Below, All Saints, Ladner a few decades ago.