The year 2003 was a very eventful year in the life of the Church of St. Stephen as we celebrated Fifty Years of Ministry in the Downsview Community. We were extremely fortunate to have had the support of the congregation throughout the last year. With that said, we owe it to all for delivering yet another wonderful period with your gifts and talent and love. And most of all, we are mindful of the inspiration and guidance of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
CHURCH BUILDING & SURROUNDING AREAS
A number of projects were undertaken at both our properties - The Church building and the Rectory.
Modifications to the ramp were completed
At the Church a new furnace & air condition units were installed in the summer.
The sanctuary was redesigned and donations allowed us to refinish the exposed floor.
Thanks to a member’s generosity, the tiles in the nave were stripped and polished.
During the summer, a beautiful garden was created on the south side of the building.
A new sink and cupboard were fitted in the office bathroom.
Cupboards were also fitted in the main bathrooms as a support since the old ones were coming apart from the wall.
Extra shelves were fitted in the Balsom Room to be used as storage by the Community Ministry.
A storage room was converted to a nursery and the two areas under the stairs have been cleaned out and are now being used as additional storage areas.
Work continues in and around our building to make it safe for our use.
RECTORY
The rental agreement on the rectory expires May 31, 2004. Overall we are pleased to report that the asset is in good condition. The refrigerator and stove were replaced. Following the building inspection, the following repairs were completed.
The garage door, window and lighting were fixed.
Panelling and ceiling tiles in the basement replaced.
Guttering and downspouts replaced.
Doors fixed and a lock replaced.
Painting is planned for the late spring or early summer.
DAYCARE
Minor repairs were completed in the Parish Hall where the Children’s Corner Day Nursery continues to operate. We recognize that more permanent leaseholds are required in order that the day care operates in a safe and healthy environment. The License Agreement has been re-signed for 2004. A decision was taken not to increase the rental fees. The refrigerator and stove from the Rectory were moved into the kitchen and are currently in use.
SOUND SYSTEM/PIANO
Worship has been enhanced with the acquisition of a new sound system and digital Piano. The Piano purchase was given in memory of one of our founding members, Mrs. Betty Thompson.
HEALTH & SAFETY
The church is mandated to provide a safe working environment in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). In compliance with this legislation and the initiative of the Diocese of Toronto, a number of new measures have been implemented to improve the safety of the employees of the Church and those who frequently use this place for worship and otherwise. To this end we are happy to advice that the church is almost in full compliance.
There is a notice board dedicated for displaying information on this important area.
Floor plans, indicating fire exits, are mounted in the church and parish hall.
New fire extinguishers (5), carbon dioxide detectors (2) and smoke detectors (5) were installed.
A new First Aid box with first aid kit is installed in the office to prevent any misuse. Every member will have free access, as the office will be open when the church/premise is in use.
Recently First Aid training was provided for some staff & volunteers.
We continue to monitor the washing/cleaning agents being used by our janitorial staff. This is very important and we ask that everyone remain vigilant and mindful that reactive agents are hazardous. Together, we will make our environment safe & healthy.
PERSONNEL
At the end of last year, Connie Kendall (Youth Minister) resigned her position. We wish her all the best in her new role. The secretary’s role, after an operational review was reduced from 4 days to 3 effective January 1st, 2004.
Join us is thanking Connie, Gina, Arlene, Justin & Canon Stephen for their work & dedication.
Also, there was a noticeable increase in members’ participation (volunteering) in many areas of ministry in our Church. We would like to express sincere thanks to each of you. It is our hope that many more are encouraged to come forward and share in the Lord’s work.
NEW INITIATIVES
For the first time in this Parish an employee evaluation process was introduced. This is a wonderful tool and will aid the staff & the Incumbent with their annual performance/merit evaluation.
A communication policy was developed and introduced. This initiative will assist all of us manage how we communicate in a timely and orderly manner.
FINANCES
Last year was very challenging. And while every effort was made to maintain a fiscal balance, we concluded unfavorable to budget by a few thousands dollars. A number of factors can be attributed to the bottom line. Your continued support is encouraged as we embrace and do the Lord’s work.
The goal is to repay the bank loan, taken for the furnace and air condition units, by the end of 2005. At present, more than half has been repaid.
The privilege to worship in this place will be measured by how well we are able to remain sustainable and strategic.
SCREENING IN FAITH
The Diocese has instituted a process to assess the level of power, authority and control of those who minister, the level of vulnerability of those being ministered to, and the risk that harm could be committed by sexual harassment, exploitation, assault, emotional, verbal, physical, spiritual or financial abuse. Each parish or organization shall make a list of all positions associated with the church or organization, whether short-term, long-term, formally or informally established, paid or volunteer, involving laity or the ordained, taking place on Sunday or during the week, on church premises or off-site.
It is the hope of the Diocese that churches will implement this important ministry and be fully compliant by September 2004.
THANKS
Many thanks to the Incumbent & Deputy Wardens for their work & support.
We are extremely grateful for the love and support from our families for without them we would not have been able to be faithful in works!
The members of the Advisory Board serving during 2003 were:
Maraval Odlum (Chair & Synod Representative)
Philip Allder
Fenton Jagdeo (Peoples' Warden & Treasurer)
Pauline Blunt
Hyacinth Edghill (Priest's Warden)
Beverley Brown
Ravi Veerasingham (Deputy Peoples' Warden)
Steve Clarke
Novelette Graham (Deputy Priest's Warden)
Norman DaCosta
U. Patricka Williams (Synod Representative)
Kathy Lippoczy-Chalmers
Ericka Martin (Alternate Synod Representative)
Hugh McEwen
Barbara Gonsalves (Secretary)
Foster Odlum
Leroy Patterson
Staff: Constance Kendall (YouthMinister)
Canon Stephen Fields (Rector)
Once again, Maraval Odlum served as chair of the Board, and Barbara Gonsalves as Secretary. Six new members joined the Board, Pauline Blunt and Leroy Patterson who were elected by the Vestry and Philip Allder, Beverly Brown (former warden), Norman DaCosta (former warden), Novelette Graham, Kathy Lippoczy-Chalmers, appointed by the Incumbent.
Meetings of the Advisory Board were held in the months of January, February, April, June, September, and November (2003) and January 2004. Meetings commenced at 7:15 p.m. with a Bible Study, led by Fr. Stephen, and ended at approximately 9:15 p.m. During the year, we received the following reports.
Treasurer’s: The financial statements for the period ending the month prior to the meeting date.
Rector’s: This report provides the members with an update of Fr. Stephen’s activities and any information that may be relevant to our ministry. Not withstanding the other reports that are submitted, it is meant to serve as the basis for the discussion and planning.
Wardens’: A Report on issues relating to the Administration and Property.
Youth Minister’s: A Report on The Youth Outreach Program
Fundraising: Report from the Chair of the Fundraising Committee.
50th Anniversary Report from the committee.
A Report on Christian Education
Visits
At our February meeting a welcome was extended to Jenifer Fowler Chair of Anniversary Committee. She presented the report on the Anniversary Banquet.
Jacqueline Daley, The Christian Education Coordinator, attended our February meeting, highlighting the Christian Education Committee. Presented and shared a site report which she was scheduled to present to Wycliffe College. She noted that she had the privilege to observe the parishioners for over a period of one and a half years. This report provided the background for a discussion leading to the setting of three priorities, Christian Education, Youth and Outreach.
Our Work
During 2003, the Advisory Board discussed and made recommendations on a number of issues. Our work included the following:
Continued support for the work of the Downsview Youth Covenant
Support for the 50th Anniversary celebrations
Members of the Board and other parishioners attended Credit Valley Area Ministry Day on Saturday March 29th, 2003. The year’s Theme was “Bread For Your Journey” Workshops included Bible Overviews, Liturgical Reading & Speaking, Vessels and Vestments, Parish Health and Safety, Music, Youth and Personal Growth.
Supported the Sunday School program and other Christian Education initiatives
Support for the Women’s Group and their work with the Sickle Cell Association
Support for the work of rearrangement of Sanctuary. We recommend that Vestry affirm this work.
Addressed issues of Health and Safety for our staff and all who use our facilities
Supported the recognition of Betty Thompson and Irene Canfield for their work and service on the Altar Guild.
Motions From The Board
The Advisory Board invites Vestry to pass the following resolutions.
Financial Contributions
Resolved that the 2003 Vestry commends those members whose support and financial contributions enable the parish achieve our financial goals.
Signing Officers
That the Wardens and Deputy Wardens be the signing officers for the ensuing year for The General, Building & Community Ministry Accounts.
Rearrangement of the Sanctuary
That this Vestry affirms the rearrangement of the Sanctuary
That this Vestry thanks Fitzgerald Grant, Foster Odlum and Leroy Patterson for the work which they did to make this possible and Bev Sneyd and Gina for their contribution to the refinishing of the floor.
Disposal of old organ
That this Vestry authorises the Wardens to dispose of the old organ chest behind the sanctuary and provide for adequate vesting area for the clergy and servers.
Sincere thanks are extended to all the members of the 2003 Advisory Board who gave of their time to support the church’s ministry.
Synod is a gathering of bishops, clergy and laity. This forum provides the Archbishop with a unique opportunity to consult and dialogue with the people of the Diocese on matters that he considers vital to the exercise of the church’s mission. It is also the forum where the budget for the work of the diocese and general diocesan policy are formulated.
Synod met on three occasions during 2003:
On January 25 we met for a special session to discuss the issues relating to the Residential Schools Settlement. On that occasion, Synod approved the Archbishop’s Challenge which invited every Anglican in the Diocese of Toronto to help raise $5 million to fulfill our share of the financial arrangement made with the federal government to compensate those who suffered abuse while under the care of the Anglican Church.
An Electoral Synod was assembled on April 26 to fill the vacancy created following the retirement of The Right Reverend Douglas Blackwell. Archdeacon Colin Johnson was elected. The following is a list of the other clerics who were nominated.
The Reverend Canon Paul Feheley (St. George, Oshawa)
The Reverend Peter Fenty (St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea)
The Reverend Canon Linda Nicholls (Holy Trinity, Thornhill)
The Reverend Canon Philip Poole (Trinity Church, Aurora)
The Reverend Harold Roberts (The Redeemer, Biloxi, Mississippi)
The Reverend Canon Gregory Symmes (Christ Church, Bolton)
The Reverend Michael Wright (All Saints’, Peterborough)
The third occasion was that of regular meeting of the Synod, held November 20 to 22. This meeting holds special significance for two reasons. First, we were a part of the 150th Regular Session Synod of The Diocese of Toronto. Second, we were present in St James’ Cathedral on the Thursday evening when our Incumbent, Fr. Stephen, was named a Canon of the cathedral.
Among the highlights of the meeting were
A key note address by The Most Rev’d. Edward “Ted” Scott, former Primate of Canada
Presentations by Diocesan Youth and Young Adults
The 150th Diocesan Dinner and Awards
The approval of the diocesan budget for 2004 of $8,1582,00
The main item on the synod’s agenda was the discussion on the issue of Blessing Same Gender Unions. There were two motions presented.
From Holy Trinity, Toronto seeking to have some parishes designated as places where same gender blessings could take place
From St Ninian’s, Scarborough, asking Synod to petition the federal government of Canada to overrule the courts decision which redefined the meaning of marriage.
These topics bring not only many different points-of-view, but also create strong emotional responses. To ensure that all those who are involved and whose lives are affected by the decisions to be made have the opportunity to listen and be heard, both motions were deferred until the fall of 2004. At this time a special Synod will be called and a decision made.
In the interim, the Diocese will embark on a yearlong process to discuss the issues. The process will include information sessions for clergy and laity on March 6/ April 03/April 24 and /May 01/ 2004. As Parishioners, we were also encouraged to discuss the issues in our Churches prior to making any decisions.
Our challenge during this time is not to shy away from our emotions and perspective and hope that it all goes away/ or consider it someone else’s issues. Let us respect and honour each other’s viewpoints and listen as intently as possible for the voice of God.
Throughout the process for the discussion, the diocese will provide information and updates on a regular basis through its web site and in the Monthly newspaper, The Anglican.
Let us continually pray for one another and the Anglican Church through this process. Remember the bishops, clergy and laity who will be making the decision in the fall.
Maraval Odlum & Unie Williams (Lay representatives)
Ericka Martin (Alternate Lay Representative)
During the year 2003 a meeting was held with the ushers to find ways of making our members and visitors more welcome and appreciated. There was much input. Many suggestions were made, some of which were implemented.
To date there are 24 ushers who are dedicated in making members and visitors more comfortable, while worshipping God in His church. Some of these include members of the Advisory Board who are not only ushers but greeters as well.
The 9:00 a.m. congregation has lost one of it’s ushers due to relocation. There was one volunteer for the 10:30 a.m. service. Volunteers for the 9:00 a.m. service would be appreciated.
Let us all continue to service God with a smile, thanking Him for all His mercies.
After a short Christmas break, the choir resumed rehearsals in January 2003. This was an important year – the 50th anniversary of The Church of St. Stephen, and the choir played an important part in the services for the celebration. Tapes of the varied types of music were made and distributed to choir members so that they would have a head start on learning the tunes. The following anniversary hymns written by The Rev.d Stephen Fields, Lucy Fields and Arlene August for this special occasion.
A HYMN TO THE CHURCH OF ST. STEPHEN
Fifty years of holy worship of our Lord and Saviour, Christ.
Giving thanks and heartfelt praises for his loving sacrifice.
God you called us in creation, called to be your daughter, son,
Now we come in celebration, voices raised to you as one.
Fifty years of faithful witness started by a faithful few.
Willing hearts with hands for service came together, numbers grew.
With a need to teach their children of the love of your dear Son,
They proceeded with the vision built this church for everyone.
Fifty years of loving service by all those who worship here.
Sharing of the gifts you gave us, reaching out in loving care.
Young and old receive your blessings through kind deeds and offerings.
Lead us forward, now by giving strength and faith unwavering.
As we move into the future take us by your loving hand.
Make us beacons, shining brighter as we witness in this land.
Glorifying our Creator, Liberator, Comforter:
Singing Glory! Alleluia! This shall be our song alway.
Text: Fr. Stephen & Lucy Fields, Tune: Tyrolesse Air, descant by Arlene August
A Prayer For The Church of St. Stephen
Lord, God Almighty, we come today before you
In this our fiftieth year, we glorify and praise you,
With hands and voices raised we celebrate your goodness.
May we receive always your mercy and forgiveness.
And now we give you thanks for those who from the beginning,
When trials, Lord, beset and faith seemed to be waning,
Witnessed through acts of love, worship, and faithful service,
Your still small voice gave comfort and illumined the darkness.
Help us good Lord, as we together work and worship.
May our church family be guided by your Spirit.
Bless all who minister, and may our efforts prosper,
And our community be one in you for ever.
Text: Arlene August, Music: Peter Houweling
Some members of the congregation joined with choristers from other churches to augment the St. Stephen’s Choir for the Memorial and Jubilee Masses. Rehearsals were held, as usual, on Thursdays during the week. Extra rehearsals were also held so that those who could not attend the Thursday evening rehearsals. In February, some choir members again took part in the annual Black History service held at the end of the month.
Preparations for the Lent and Easter season began in earnest, along with rehearsals for the 50th anniversary services. The children’s service was held in the early part of May 2003, and it was very encouraging to see the manner in which our children and youth participated in the service. Thanks to the Sunday School teachers and volunteers for their time and effort in helping the children to learn the many songs and poems.
In May the organist travelled to Washington, D.C. with The Caribbean Chorale of Toronto in her capacity as Music Director of that group. Master Marc Fields was the organist in her absence. Also in May, the church celebrated Mother’s Day with special songs, hymns and prayers. The annual St. Stephen’s Revival was held May 23–25. The choir provided leadership with medleys of praise and calls to worship. On May 25 a grand concert featuring REECH, TC3, Sisters of Praise and Earlyn Alexander was held and well attended. Thanks to all who participated and who prepared for this annual event.
In June, there were two services with special focus on the youth and the seniors. The youth led their service with songs, prayers, dances, and speeches. The seniors’ celebration saw a Seniors choir perform as well as a guest soloist, Mr. Brent Seeteram, who sang Ave Maria.
Although the choir usually goes on a break during the months of July and August, it was unanimously decided that extra rehearsals for the special services for the 50th anniversary took precedence. Thus, the augmented choir continued to practice faithfully, so that all the music chosen for the services would be known.
In August, the Choir Director was on her annual break. Mr. Timothy Showalter was the supply organist during that time. Many thanks to Mr. Showalter for his able assistance and great playing.
In September, the first of two special anniversary services were held, with the choir again leading the singing of hymns and anthems. At this service, the founders and those who worked hard to build the church were recognized. Also, during this month, music for the Advent and Christmas season was being chosen, to be sung at the Carol Service and Christmas Eve services.
In October, St. Stephen’s held its Thanksgiving Banquet. During the evening, Messrs. Marc Fields and Michael Oh performed a short classical interlude. Misses Zyreta Allder and Kalesha Linton sang a special song. Also, the Choir Director, pianist, Mr. Ken Bahadur, bass guitarist, Mr. Steve Clarke, pannist, and Mr. Dennis Renwick, guitarist, provided popular music for the reception part of the evening. Thanks to all who certainly made the evening a memorable one.
On November 2, 2003, the second of two special anniversary services was held. A special anthem “Sing Unto God” was performed by the augmented choir. It should be noted that the music for both services were well received by those who attended the services, and by those who participated. A special thank you goes out to Mr. Dwight Munger, organist at St. Hilda’s Anglican Church, for his assistance and cooperation during those special services. One of the highlights for the 50th anniversary celebrations, a special 50th anniversary concert which was to be held on November 1, 2003 by Mr. John Bryan, organist at St. Michael’s Cathedral, Barbados, had to be cancelled.
During the Fall, The choir gained two new members: Olive Arnold and Godfrey Anyim.
In December, Christmas celebrations began on the 21st with a service of carols, lessons and a skit "When in Bethlehem" (performed by the Sunday School children). During the service, there were poems, dancing carols sung by the Men of St. Stephen and the Women’s Group. Solos were sung by Falomi Keyi, Crystal Walker and Kalisha Linton. Messrs. Marc Fields and Julian Asiedu also accompanied with piano and saxophone, respectively. All renditions were well received by the congregation. On Christmas Eve, two services were held. At the first service, the family service, the children participated in a sing-a-long. At the Christmas Eucharist, Mr. Dennis Chalmers, guitarist, sang a few Christmas carols, and accompanied the choir with carols. During the service, the congregation had the pleasure of listening to new choir member, baritone Godfrey Anyim, who sang two arias from Handel’s Messiah, "Every Valley Shall be Exalted" and "Thus Saith the Lord".
The year 2003 really showcased the hard work, the talents and the commitment of both the Youth and Adult choirs. I would like to thank all of our the choristers as well as those who came to assist us from other churches for the extra special effort that was made to ensure that our regular services, revival, and special services rendered beautiful music. A very special thank you goes out to Mrs. Lucy Fields, who once again rehearsed the Youth Choir, and who has been of tremendous assistance to the Music Director.
Thanks to
The incumbent, Canon Fields, for his continued support in the music ministry of the church, as well as his suggestions, ideas and advice.
The wardens who continue to be of assistance when necessary.
Members of the congregation, thanks for your suggestions of music, and for your appreciation of my talents.
It will certainly be remembered as the 50th anniversary year, as well as the year in which the Lord certainly smiled on us as we gave of our musical talents for His glory. I encourage other members who have singing abilities to offer their talents so that we may enhance our choir.
May we all continue to praise Him as we look forward to a new year – 2004 – and accept new musical challenges.
For 2003 Sunday School was co-administered by Ruth Allder and Fanella Hodge. We continued using the curriculum Seasons of the Spirit and all ages curriculum. This curriculum proved to be challenging for our teachers. For September 2003, in consultation with members of the Sunday School staff and Fr. Stephen, it was decided that instead of returning to the Seasons of the Spirit curriculum we would focus on teaching the Sunday School children the stories of the Bible, mainly the Parables. Teachers would be provided with the scripture readings and some resources, and would develop lessons based on the Parable for a particular Sunday.
In September 2003, Frances Aseidu returned to be a part of the St. Stephen’s Sunday School staff. She is presently running special programs aimed at teaching our children about the books of the Bible and incentive programs for attendance and learning Bible verses.
It is always a challenge for a teacher to keep the attention of our little ones (ages 0 to 3); to assist with this task a special room is dedicated to our toddlers. The room will be used for age group 0 to 3. The room has also been outfitted with toys to keep our little ones occupied. Sunday morning curriculum for this group will include Bible songs, short Bible stories, Biblical puzzles and videos.
At this point I would like to welcome back and thank those who returned to be a part of our Sunday School family and a very special welcome to our new volunteers.
My very special “thank you” to Iris Linton and Frances for organizing Children’s Sunday, the children’s participation in the Good Friday service and the Christmas pageant. The congregation and I appreciate your dedication and devotion to our children.
Meetings are held following the 10:30 a.m. service on the first Sunday of each month. The Women’s Fellowship is open to all women of the congregation. Our attendance has averaged 15 ladies per meeting.
The Executive committee from January 2003 to December 2003 was:
Denise Messam – President
Constance Kendall & Susanne D. Legall – Vice Presidents
Bonnie McEwen – Secretary
Pauline Blunt – Treasurer
Cynthia Patterson, Dorothy Barnett, Elaine Leacock – Social Committee
Spiritual Education – Jacqueline Daley
Outreach
In September, the group sponsored a walkathon where we raised money for the church and for the Sickle Cell Association. In December, we hosted our Seniors’ Christmas Luncheon for approximately 70 seniors. About 30 were from our congregation and the remaining 40 were form the community.
Fellowship
On March 22nd the Women’s Group hosted our very first Prayer Breakfast. The women who attended spoke of the experience as quite moving, and spiritually fulfilling. Many Thanks to Jennifer Fowler, Ratchel Ravindran, Shirley Archer, Denise Messam and Frances Asiedu for sharing their journeys of faith with us.
On November 14 –15, ten women attended a retreat at the beautiful Mount Alverno Retreat Centre, Caledon, Ontario. The focus of the overnight retreat was JOY. We were able to find and focus on the JOY in simple experiences we often took for granted; prayed for ourselves and others to experience JOY in our lives; and to recognize JOY even during the most challenging of our experiences. This retreat was again a truly enjoyable, restful and spiritually uplifting experience. And as usual, the food was good – a JOY which was appreciated by those who attended.
Youth
The Eric Campbell Memorial Award was again supported for the third year. Students in the congregation submitted an essay entitled “St Stephen in Fifty Years”. Four students participated. The winner of the Award was Lauren Linton.
Support for our Parish
This year The Church of St. Stephen celebrated its 50th anniversary. The Women’s Group supported and hosted a number of receptions. Many thanks to the members of the Social Committee, for their tireless and gracious efforts, in ensuring that there were always sumptuous delights for all to savour.
Farewells
Two of our members of the group have gone on to share their ministry; we would like to thank Constance Kendal for all her hard work. We could not have gotten through the past year without her help and love and joy. We would also like to thank Jacqueline Daley, her enthusiasm and love of God came through her teachings and laughter.
Our Challenge
We continue to seek and encourage the women of the congregation to participate in the Women’s Fellowship. We feel that we are not attracting the younger women of the congregation and are seeking ways to make the group more welcoming and interesting for all.
Our Goals
To host two Women’s Prayer Breakfast, inviting women from our community.
To hold a workshop for young single women, and young mothers.
To have two retreats or expand our retreat to a full weekend.
To encourage the women of the Fellowship group to take a more active part in planning and leading of the devotional part of our meetings.
