There was a large turnout at St John the Evangelist's special 115th anniversary Service and Luncheon reception. Approximately 200 people, both current and past members of the congregation gathered on Sunday, October 19th at the 10 am Eucharist praising God and celebrating the decades of service to the people of North Vancouver, honouring the colourful history of the parish, a history which can trace its roots back to the earliest European residents on the North Shore in the mid-19th century. Long time parishioner Carolyn Ilker presented a history of St. John’s prior to the commencement of worship. A text version of this history presentation is available here.
The Ven. Rev. Dr. Lynne Mc Naughton, Archdeacon of Capilano and rector of St. Clement’s, Lynn Valley, presided and shared preaching with The Rev. Patrick Blaney, priest-in-charge of St John's. During their combined homily they both spoke about the importance of recognizing past achievements and also the importance of looking confidently into the future.
Council Members from both the City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver were present and Mayor Darrell Mussatto of the City of North Vancouver presented a plaque commemorating the event and offered a few words of appreciation for the work of St John's in the community. Mayor Mussatto noted the central location of St John's and mentioned the positive impact the many programs the church has offered over the years has made to thousands of people. The Right Reverend Jim Cruickshank the retired Bishop of the former Diocese of Cariboo, former Dean of Christ Church Cathedral and former Chancellor of Vancouver School of Theology was present and he sat next to the Mayor during the Eucharist. During the Peace the Bishop thanked Mayor Mussatto for his attendance at the worship and his support for St. John’s, North Vancouver. Diocesan Archivist Melanie Delva was also present and she asked Mayor Mussatto if he knew that the North Vancouver Anglican churches prayed for him on Sunday mornings. He admitted he did not know that but now that he does he is very appreciative of the prayerful support.
We continue to be grateful for the support and partnership of the Queen Mary School who again donated their beautiful new gymnasium as the venue for the celebratory luncheon that followed the worship. Many thanks to principal Bill Reid, his staff and students.
There was a great feeling of fellowship amongst those who attended and we would like to thank all those who worked so hard to make this event the spectacular success that it was. We look forward with a renewed energy and eagerness to our future.
Images: Top and homepage, a very enthusiastic exchange of the Peace. Upper right, Carolyn Ilker presents a short history of St. John's prior to worship. Middle left, marching off to Sunday School. Lower right, The Reverend Patrick Blaney preaching his half of the sermon. Lower left, the Venerable Dr. Lynne McNaughton asks the congregation to stand for the Peace. Below, during the Peace, Bishop Jim Cruickshank on the right thanks North Vancouver Mayor Darrell Mussatto for attending the service.