Editor’s Note
As part of our coverage of Clergy Conference 2026, clergy from across the Diocese of Algoma are sharing brief daily reflections on the experience of gathering together for worship, learning, and fellowship. In this installment, Archdeacon Kelly Baetz reflects on prayer, fellowship, and Bishop Susan Bell’s opening keynote at Clergy Conference 2026.
By The Ven. Kelly Baetz
Archdeacon, Muskoka Deanery
Our agenda is full of difficult topics. I knew that coming in; that discussions and presentations on medical assistance in dying, on PTSD, and on ministering in hard times were all on the table. But, at not even noon on this our first full conference day, there is already more than enough evidence of God’s grace to meet the challenges.
The Deanery of Thunder Bay-North Shore led us in an uplifting service of morning prayer, allowing us to begin the day by drawing on the riches of God’s word. Then, Archbishop Anne gave a stirring opening talk, effectively gathering us and reminding us of the many things that unite us despite the vast geography of our Diocese.
We are missing those colleagues and friends not with us, whether because of all-too-recent death, or absences due to health conditions or other obstacles to travel. But in missing them we realize anew the precious gift of being together.
She told us a story about a tree on the grounds of Bishophurst that is estimated to be around 300 years old, relating it to our conference theme of being rooted and grounded in the love of Christ. That tree has “withstood 300 Sault Ste. Marie winters” and so much more, and it has been able to do so because the roots run so deep.
May our bonds as clergy colleagues, as parishes and deaneries, and as siblings in Christ run even deeper.
“We are the Diocese!”
Following a lovely coffee break (thank you, Water Tower Inn staff), we heard the first keynote address from Bishop Susan Bell (Diocese of Niagara). With poetry and scripture and the life-giving, Spirit-sustaining lessons of her own ministry experiences, Bishop Bell encouraged us to keep our hand in God’s hand and to meet the difficult aspects of ministry with authenticity and trust.
There is much to process. Great stuff to process.
And the day is just beginning.
Follow along this week as clergy from across the Diocese of Algoma share reflections from Clergy Conference 2026.