Provincial Synod continues work on key priorities
Leaders from across the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario gathered in Toronto from March 23 to 26 for meetings of the House of Bishops and Provincial Council, continuing work on key priorities for the coming triennium and advancing several areas of shared ministry across the province’s seven dioceses.
A central focus of the gathering was the province’s work around three key priorities: Indigenous relationships, access to formation for ordained ministry, and congregational development.
Work on Indigenous relationships will include a renewed commitment to ongoing education across the Church, with particular attention to Call to Action 60 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. Plans are being developed for an immersive educational weekend for theological students and clergy in the first five years of ordained ministry.
A second priority focuses on access to formation, particularly creating pathways for lay people who are discerning a call to ordination. A third priority, congregational development, will emphasize the sharing of resources across dioceses in order to strengthen local ministry.
“These are areas where we believe meaningful, collaborative work can take place across the province,” said Archbishop Anne Germond, Metropolitan of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario.
The meeting also addressed several practical matters affecting dioceses across Ontario, including work related to the Bereavement Authority of Ontario and a broader review of insurance. A provincial task force has been established to explore the possibility of a shared insurance model.
“There was a great sense of collegiality and collaboration,” Archbishop Anne said. “The seven dioceses within the province are working together to carry forward the mission and mandate of our Church.”
The gathering included several important moments of transition and celebration. Members welcomed Kathryn Otley, Bishop-elect of Ottawa, whose consecration will take place May 9 at Christ Church Cathedral Ottawa.
A highlight of the week was the formal installation of Canon Greg Tweney as Chancellor of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario during Morning Prayer at the opening of Provincial Council.
His installation took place on the same day that the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury was installed at Canterbury Cathedral, drawing a connection between the life of the province and the wider Anglican Communion.
“We are grateful for his wise, faith-filled counsel and dedicated leadership in our Church,” Archbishop Anne said. “It was a day of thanksgiving all round.”
The evening before, members gathered to give thanks for the ministry and leadership of chancellors past and present, including Canon Bryan Finlay and Canon Clare Burns.
The meeting began on March 25, the Feast of the Annunciation, grounding the gathering in prayer and in the Church’s call to faithful response.
“What does it mean to say yes to God in this time?” Archbishop Anne asked.
“I am so proud to serve the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario,” she said, “and give thanks for the many ways in which members of our province live out the Gospel in their lives.”