The author of the Wisdom of Ecclesiastes writes, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (3:1). I certainly have been reflecting on these verses the last few months as the reality of moving from the Diocese of Montreal to the Diocese of Ottawa begins to sink in.
As this edition of the Montreal Anglican arrives in people’s mailboxes, I will be packing the final boxes and preparing for the move in the coming weeks. Some have said to me over the last few months, in a light spirit, “you’re abandoning us.” But I have replied in all seriousness, “I am responding to the call of the Spirit to a new place.”
I have worked and been part of this diocese for almost 30 years, having arrived in Montreal to study political science at McGill and then hearing the Spirit call to discern ordained ministry. For most of my life, I have known this city and this Diocese as home and I have been blessed to have had such a full and robust involvement, both in the city and in the church.
The last 8 and a half years I have had the honour and privilege to serve as Vicar General and Executive Archdeacon – a role which has allowed me to see the hand of God and the work of the Holy Spirit in so many places throughout this diocese. What a blessing it has been to have served along side so many faithful and talented clergy and lay leaders in this diocese.
As I prepare to leave and continue the work of transition with Bishop Victor-David and Archdeacon Deborah Meister, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for this diocese. Of course, the ministry that lies ahead doesn’t come without some hard work and commitment. It is a commitment that needs to be part of the course for which we as church are being called to move into – but indeed a time of excitement and hope for what God has in store for us as a Diocese.
In this season of Advent, I wait patiently to see what wonderful things God has in store for the Diocese of Montreal and for what God is calling me to in the years ahead. I also give thanks for the many friendships, love and encouragement I have experienced over the last three decades and continue to hold you and the work of this diocese in my prayers.
This isn’t so much a good-bye, but rather, until we meet again. In the words of that well known Irish blessing: May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
