Summer's here!

Well, it still surprises me how time seems to slip by.

Farmers were busy planting, then many were hit by frost and had to replant.  Some are wanting more moisture while others seem to have too much.

On May 31st we had our Parish Picnic where all five congregations gathered at Minnedosa Beach Pavilion. It was a sunny day, although a bit cool for some.  I think everyone enjoyed the service and opportunity for fellowship afterwards.  I was officially presented with a stole from the Parish.  It was quilted by Lane Englund from St. James' Neepawa with a Pentecost design.  Pentecost was on May 24th this year and I had the opportunity to wear it before it was officially presented.  It is a beautiful creation and I want to thank Lane and everyone for this thoughtful and appropriate gift.  I know that there were some pictures taken at this event.  If anyone is willing to share, please send them to me.

I took a quick trip to BC and rode my motorcycle back.  This was the week before the long weekend in May.  It was a long first ride of the season and a bit cooler than I hoped.  That was very noticeable when I got up in North Battleford and found ice and frost covering it!  If you see a black cruiser style bike (with BC licence plates) stop and say hi.  It may very well be me.

The weather is getting warm and many people are heading off to cabins or other holiday time.  I pray that everyone has an enjoyable vacation and returns refreshed and renewed.  I am planning to be away visiting family from August 10th to 24th.

Father Chad is on sabbatical from his parish in Brandon, but is still doing things for the Church.  In connection with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission closing and to remind us of the murdered and missing Aboriginal women in Canada, Father Chad will ring the Bell at St. James', Neepawa over 1,180 times.  You can read what Archbishop Fred Hiltz says about this at http://www.anglicanjournal.com/articles/ring-the-bells  You can read about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission at http://www.22days.ca  As it says on this site, the closing of the Commission is just the beginning.  There is much ongoing work which must continue to address the legacy of the Indian Residential Schools.

On Saturday, June 27th starting at 2 pm, there will be a farewell Eucharist and reception for Bishop Jim at St. Matthew's Cathedral, Brandon.  All are welcome.

On Sunday, August 30th we are planning to have a five point service at St. James' Neepawa.  I have asked Frances and Don, from Dauphin, to share their experiences on the PWRDF mission to Cuba earlier this year.