On Thursday, February 21st, the evening of the Reverend Paul Bowie’s Celebration of New Ministry - induction into the parish of All Saints, Mission, Bishop Michael spoke of the dark night of lent being filled with the early light of Easter as he addressed the joyful parishioners, friends and clergy in attendance. It was an evening filled with laughter, spirit and love as 13 clergy processed (and several more sat in the pews) joining many parishioners and friends from around the Diocese in celebration of Paul’s new Parish home and the beginning of their shared ministry.
The Choir was wonderful throughout the service as they led the congregation through worship and participated in the presentation of the Symbols of Ministry during the service.
The reception following Paul’s induction was beautifully presented and had something for every taste. Paul was given gifts of welcome from the Deanery as well as from members of the congregation. Thanks to Ed Betterton, Brian McIntyre, Harold Vos and Colleen Keil for coordinating this sacred evening.
While Paul’s induction was truly holy and the Spirit was present amongst us as we shared in faith and fellowship, some of the service was, in a word, “a-Pauling” as the ‘Paul jokes’ flew between Archdeacon Stephen Rowe and the Regional Dean, the Reverend Paul Guiton (who preached a tremendous sermon). Apparently, the Fraser Archdeaconry is rife with Paul’s (and Paula’s) and even one of the Warden’s got into the fray with her overwhelming list of the Paul’s she has as friends and neighbors. The laughter was joyous, loving and heartfelt!
The evening was indeed ‘a brightness on this dark night in Lent’ and we thank Bishop Michael and all who attended Paul Bowie’s Celebration, joining together with the folks at All Saints, Mission as they welcomed their new Priest.
Images: Top, the Archdeacon of Fraser, the Reverend Stephen Rowe (middle) and the Regional Dean and Preacher, the Reverend Paul Guiton deliver some a-pauling puns. Upper right, the first two rows of the nave were occupied by parishioners participating in the presentation of the Symbols of Ministry. Lower left, Bishop Michael and the new Rector of All Saints, Mission, the Reverend Paul Bowie. Below One, Paul enjoys receiving a gift with the help of Rose Bennett at the reception held after worship. Below Two, the Clergy "TEAM" photo.
PHOTOS: Margaret Peake