Advent III: Oluchi Egbuonye on Joy
A newcomer’s reflection for Advent III: Oluchi shares how joy emerged not in ease or certainty, but in reunion, resilience, and the compassion of a church community that held her family through a season of crisis — revealing a joy grounded in faith and God’s abiding presence.
Seasons & Saints – December 11
This week, Rev. Susan Montague Koyle reflects on why Christian liturgy begins each new day at sunset — and why “Christmas Eve morning” isn’t a thing in the Church’s vocabulary. She also unpacks how the Christmas season unfolds from the Nativity to the Baptism of the Lord, and explains traditional practices around the crèche as we move through this sacred time.
Advent II: Lesley Gunasekara on Peace
In this second reflection in our Advent series, Welcoming the Child, Welcoming One Another, newcomer Lesley Gunasekara shares a deeply personal story of finding peace after arriving in Thunder Bay from Sri Lanka. Through community, faith, time in nature, and resilience amid uncertainty, she reflects on how peace grows slowly but surely in the midst of transition and change.
Seasons & Saints – December 4
This week, Rev. Susan Montague Koyle explores the colours and prayers of Advent, from the meaning of blue and purple in our liturgical tradition to the ancient “O Antiphons” that shape our hope for Christ’s coming. She invites us to deepen our understanding of Advent symbols and to pray more intentionally as we await the fullness of God’s kingdom.
Mission to Seafarers Update
The Diocese of Algoma shares an update from Canon Ed Swayze, Chaplain for the Mission to Seafarers in Thunder Bay, regarding recent winter storm conditions on Lake Superior, ship movements, and ongoing ministry at the port. Gift bag preparation continues, with another work party planned for the week of December 10. Learn more about the Mission’s work and how you can support this vital ministry.
In Memoriam: The Rev. Canon Paul Ashley Carr
The Diocese of Algoma announces with sadness the death of the Rev. Canon Paul Ashley Carr, who died in Thunder Bay on the First Sunday of Advent, November 30, 2025. A beloved priest, pastor, and mentor, Canon Carr served in multiple dioceses and ministries across Canada before his long and faithful ministry at St. Paul’s, Thunder Bay, and later within the Parish of West Thunder Bay. His funeral will take place on Saturday, December 13 at St. Paul’s Anglican Church.
Archbishop Anne Germond Announces 2026 Motto at St. Luke’s Cathedral
Archbishop Anne Germond announced her 2026 Motto—“That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love”—during her Advent 1 sermon at St. Luke’s Cathedral. Her message invited the diocese to enter the new year strengthened from within and transformed by the depth of Christ’s love.
Welcome Abiola O’Naiyese: New Administrative Assistant
The Diocese of Algoma is pleased to welcome Mrs. Abiola O’Naiyese as our new Administrative Assistant, effective December 1, 2025. A lifelong Anglican with professional experience in healthcare, consulting, and corporate administration, Abiola brings strong organizational skills, a heart for service, and deep roots in the Church. Please join us in celebrating her arrival and the gifts she brings to our diocesan ministry.
Seasons & Saints – November 28
This week, Rev. Susan Montague Koyle revisits the Advent wreath and what it is — and isn’t — meant to be in our worship. She explains the true purpose of the candles, why assigning fixed meanings can diminish their power, and how the simple light of Advent can speak more deeply than any scripted mini-rite.
Rose Award Presentation
St. Luke’s Cathedral joyfully honoured Pat Sandie and Barbara Johnson with the Diocesan ACW Certificate of Recognition Rose Award during a midweek Eucharist on November 25. A commemorative booklet, beautifully created by Erin Hernden, highlights their years of faithful service and the rich 140-year history of ACW/WA ministry at the Cathedral.