Seasons & Saints, October 1
Did you know Harvest Thanksgiving doesn’t have to fall on the Sunday before Canadian Thanksgiving? In fact, according to the Book of Alternative Services, it may be observed “on a Sunday as determined by local custom.” This week, Rev. Susan Montague-Koyle helps us make sense of why Anglicans in Canada celebrate both Harvest Thanksgiving and Thanksgiving Day — and introduces us to Paulinus of York, a Roman monk and missionary whose courageous witness shaped the early English church.
A Message from Archbishop Anne on Orange Shirt Day
On September 30, Archbishop Anne Germond calls Algoma to remembrance and renewed commitment to reconciliation. Marking the 10th anniversary of the TRC’s Calls to Action, she lifts up humility, respect, love, and knowledge, and echoes Archbishop Chris Harper’s call to make reconciliation a verb. +Anne affirms the Primate’s Survivors’ Flag initiative and invites parishes to incorporate the flag in local witness.
Seasons & Saints, Sept. 24
Seasons & Saints is a new weekly devotional blog by Rev. Susan Montague Koyle, offering teaching and inspiration drawn from the church calendar and the lives of the saints. In this first post, Rev. Susan reflects on the mystery of angels in Scripture, the feast of St. Michael and All Angels, and the memorials of Jerome and Francis of Assisi—inviting readers into prayerful wonder at God’s messengers and holy people.
Project Backpacks
Parishes in Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie are supporting students with back-to-school outreach. From backpacks to calculators, churches are setting tables of generosity and inviting God’s blessing on children and families as a new school year begins across the Diocese of Algoma.
Save the Date! St. Nicholas’ Dinner
Join us on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Current River Community Centre, Thunder Bay, for the St. Nicholas’ Dinner in support of the Anne Germond Legacy Fund. This festive evening will feature a symposium, dinner, entertainment, and a silent auction—all in celebration of Archbishop Anne’s ministry.
In Loving Memory of Vittorio “Vic” Brunatti, 1939–2025
With heavy hearts, the Diocese of Algoma shares news of the passing of Vittorio “Vic” Brunatti on September 18, 2025, at the age of 86. Vic was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a lifelong member of St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Parry Sound. He is the father of Deacon Cory Brunatti, Incumbent in the Parry Sound and Muskoka Lakes area.
Anne Germond Legacy Fund Update
The Anne Germond Legacy Fund has surpassed $1.15 million, thanks to generous gifts from parishes and individuals across Algoma. Recent highlights include a $25,000 contribution from The Church of the Epiphany, Sudbury, along with parish gifts totaling more than $5,000—signs of faithful commitment to sustaining episcopal ministry.
In Loving Memory of Father Hamish Currie
With sorrow, the Diocese of Algoma announces the passing of Father Hamish Currie on September 19, 2025, at age 73. Remembered as pastor, mentor, musician, and friend, his life of humility, kindness, and joy touched many. Funeral services will be held at Precious Blood Cathedral, Sault Ste. Marie.
Blessing of the Animals
The Diocese of Algoma is equipping parishes with customizable CANVA resources to promote upcoming Blessing of the Animals services. These templates make it simple to create clear, welcoming invitations that highlight this joyful tradition of thanksgiving for God’s creatures and our Anglican call to care for creation.
Wild Ride 2025 – Be a Light for Change
For the Thunder Bay–North Shore Deanery Lights, this year’s Wild Ride has a special meaning. The ride is being held in thanksgiving for Archbishop Anne’s ministry as Acting Primate. To mark the occasion, the deanery will host a Walk and Celebration in Thunder Bay on Saturday, September 27, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.