UPDATED: Ordination Anniversaries
On the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels, September 29, a number of clergy celebrated or marked the anniversaries of their ordinations, however there are probably only two who celebrated their 68th anniversaries and that would be Archbishop Douglas Hambidge and the Reverend Dudley Ritchie/
The Rev. Ritchie was ordained in Fernie, BC and Archbishop Hambidge was ordained in London, England, September 29, 1953 ( a Tuesday). Although 68 is not a '0' or a '5', it is quite remarkable. And, these two clergy are also honorary assistants and members of the same parish, All Saints', Ladner.
In his regular communique to clergy circulated September 27, Archdeacon Douglas Fenton announced this milestone and added:
"Without a doubt I am sure they would agree that the holy angels' prayers and protection have sustained them throughout their ministry."
Archbishop Douglas Hambidge presides at the Eucharist for the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels
On Wednesday, September 29, 2021 there was a Celebration of the Eucharist for the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels at All Saints, Ladner. Archbishop Douglas presided and offered a brief reflection. In his reflection he admitted that he doesn’t remember in detail the ordination service, only parts of it. He remembers his ordination retreat. He mentioned that he and the other ordinands were reminded that what was about to happen to them would be the most important part of their lives, regardless of where their careers may take them. That being from their ordination they will forever more be a servant of God. And that this started at their baptism.
Following the Eucharist, the Reverend Dudley Ritchie led the Bible Study as is his custom in the parish. Archbishop Douglas and his wife Denise Hambidge, ODNW participated in the discussion as well.
(prepared with files from Robin Ruder Celiz)
Photos of the Eucharist by Robin Ruder Celiz
