Across the Anglican Church of Canada, there is a cherished tradition of bishops travelling across diocesan boundaries to strengthen, encourage, and enrich one another’s communities. In that same spirit of mutual support, Archbishop Anne recently spent several days in the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador for their annual clergy retreat—an experience she describes as “holy Kairos time,” a moment or season when God’s presence, direction, or grace breaks in with particular clarity.
Hosted by Bishop Sam Rose and Archdeacon Charlene Taylor, the retreat took place at The Wilds, a destination reached only after an all-day journey that included visits to the Cathedral, the Synod Office, and a warm welcome from an iconic member of Newfoundland’s canine family.
One of the unexpected delights of the visit was the rich culture of hospitality that marks Eastern Newfoundland. During her stay, Archbishop Anne found herself cheerfully swept up in the preparations for the 133rd Anniversary Dinner and Auction for the Church Lads’ Brigade (CLB). The evening even included a lively silent auction, where she proudly walked away with her winning bid: “Twenty pounds of shrimp!” It was, as she described it, “a wonderful evening in support of young people,” and a testament to a community deeply committed to nurturing the next generation.
As meaningful as the events were, it was the conversations and time spent with the clergy that left the deepest impression. Archbishop Anne accompanied them on walks and sat with them in small groups, getting to know their stories. Her talks during the retreat focused on calling and vocation, particularly for incumbent priests. As they shared their journeys, she discovered a group of clergy who, much like those in Algoma, serve with extraordinary dedication—travelling across vast distances, stepping out of retirement multiple times, and offering themselves with quiet, unwavering commitment. “There is such a down-to-earth sense of this is where I’m meant to be,” she reflected. “They just keep giving and serving God. No complaints. It was very moving.”
One of the images she drew on in her final sermon came from Luke 5:1–10, where the disciples, weary after a night of empty nets, are sent into the deep waters and return with an overwhelming catch. Jesus then tells them they will be fishing for people. “It is like the first look between a bride and groom,” she said—an intimate, recognizing moment. “When Jesus calls us, he sees something in each of us that we don’t always see in ourselves. In spite of our mistakes, he calls us with a look of love and invites us into the work of fishing for people.”
From the opening night of the retreat to its closing prayers, Archbishop Anne experienced not only the warmth of Newfoundland hospitality but also the spiritual depth of clergy gathering for rest, renewal, and reflection. As the retreat concluded, she reflected with deep gratitude: “Thank you, Bishop Sam, for all you give to your vocation as shepherd of this people, and to the fabulous and very capable Archdeacon Charlene Taylor for all you did to make our time so life giving.” She added that she would be taking home more than memories: “A little bit of Newfoundland has rubbed off on me and I will be carrying it all in my heart as I head home.”
Her farewell included this beloved invocation—a blessing offered back to the people who had so warmly received her:
“O Trinity of love and power
Our brethren shield in danger’s hour
From rock and tempest, fire, and foe
Protect them wheresoe’er they go….”
Just as Archbishop Anne was welcomed and revitalized by the clergy of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador, so too has Algoma benefitted from a long line of visiting bishops who have shared their wisdom and presence with our communities. In recent years, this has included Archbishop Andrew Asbil, Archbishop Fred Hiltz, and Archbishop Linda Nicholls, and Bishop Michael Oulton—leaders whose companionship has enriched our diocesan life. Looking ahead, Bishop Susan Bell will lead Algoma’s clergy retreat in 2026.
Stories like this remind us that we are part of a national fellowship far wider than our own geography. These exchanges knit our dioceses closer together. They strengthen the bonds of affection that hold our Church across great distances. And they remind us that we walk this path—of ministry, service, and discipleship—together.