The Bible has existed in the Inuktitut language for a long time, but in seven separate books. The Bible is now under one cover, and the official launch of the newly printed “Gûdib oKausingit” will take place on January 20, 2009 at the Moravian Church in Happy Valley.
This project was made possible by the Canadian Bible Society (CBS)and funding from the Tasiujatsoak Trust, as well as private donors.
Hart Wiens and Ed Peters from the CBS will be there. They did the training in the Paratext program with the translators, Sarah Townley, Hilda Lyall, Sophie Tuglavina, Amos Onalik, and Andrea Webb, along with Coordinator Sabina Hunter. After the launch, they will continue work on the second book in the “Walking with Jesus” series of children’s books.
Rev. John Duff, from St. John’s, will represent the Newfoundland and Labrador branch of the CBS.
Two elders from each coastal congregation (Nain, Hopedale, Makkovik) are invited to attend. All will take part in a service conducted largely in Inuktitut.
We look forward also to the visit of Bishop Paul Graf from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. He is coming to commission Glenna Tasedan for her work term as lay pastor in Labrador, and will stay for the Launch.
Sunday, 21 December 2008
Welcome Rev Brian Burrows
The Moravian Church in NL is pleased to welcome Rev. Brian Burrows to Hopedale. He arrived on November 21, 2008, and held services that Sunday.
Rev. Burrows is originally from England, but came to Canada in 1962. He served in Canada’s north as an Anglican minister for thirteen years. That is where he learned Inuktitut. He speaks the northern Quebec and Baffin Island dialects, and is keen to learn the differences found in the Labrador dialect.
Rev. Burrows was retired, but felt the call to Hopedale, and we thank him for his decision to share his Christian faith with the people of Labrador. This calling means he will spend time away from his family at Christmas time. Such devotion is an inspiration. Welcome!
Rev. Burrows is originally from England, but came to Canada in 1962. He served in Canada’s north as an Anglican minister for thirteen years. That is where he learned Inuktitut. He speaks the northern Quebec and Baffin Island dialects, and is keen to learn the differences found in the Labrador dialect.
Rev. Burrows was retired, but felt the call to Hopedale, and we thank him for his decision to share his Christian faith with the people of Labrador. This calling means he will spend time away from his family at Christmas time. Such devotion is an inspiration. Welcome!
Wednesday, 29 October 2008
A historic day...
October 23, 2008 was a historic day for the Moravian Church in Labrador. That is when a Memorandum of Agreement was signed between the Moravian Church in NL and the Anglican Church (Eastern Diocese of Newfoundland and Labrador).
As Chair of MCNL, I was invited to attend the Anglican Synod (Labrador portion) in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, and at the closing service in St. Andrew's Church on October 23, Bishop Pitman (head of the Eastern Diocese) and I signed the Memorandum.
The Memorandum of Agreement paves the way for an Anglican minister to serve the Moravian congregation at Hopedale. It is hoped that a minister will arrive there before December of this year.
Sr Joan Andersen
Sunday, 28 September 2008
MUN Brass Ensemble
What a treat! Thanks to Dr. Tom Gordon, Director of the School of Music at Memorial University of Newfoundland, the Moravian churches in Labrador get to hear a genuine brass band once again!
This is because the MUN Brass Ensemble is on tour…2008 Labrador Tour. Directed by Dr. Karen Bulmer, the students include:
On Trumpets...
Aaron Hodgson
Jill Dawe
Jennifer Murphy
Heidi Adams
On horn...
Kjellrun Hestekin
On trombone...
Chris Miller
Stephen Ivany
Phillip Holloway
Aiden Hartery
On tuba...
Celina Barry
They give a concert of various tunes and music styles, including some Moravian anthems such as the Hosanna, which sounds very stirring. After the intermission, they play a selection of Moravian hymns to which the audience can sing along.
The Brass Ensemble will be performing at the Labrador Interpretation Center in North West River and in the Moravian Churches at Happy Valley, Makkovik, Nain, and Hopedale, September 21 – 24.
Thank you to the Brass Ensemble for giving an impromptu concert at the Paddon Home for Senior Citizens. Although the request was given at short notice, the group readily complied, and perhaps this audience was the most appreciative!
Saturday, 26 July 2008
Music Workshop in Hopedale
Submitted by Christopher Guindon
From the first note played on the keyboard as camp-goers entered the classroom in Amos Comenius Memorial School, students and camp facilitators alike were in for a wonderful experience. Over the course of the next 4 days, students from Makkovik, Goose Bay, Nain, and Hopedale were exposed to a wonderful, enriching program of Moravian music and worship. Rev. Tim Byerly would open with a few scripture readings and a morning prayer followed by singing of hymns or rehearsal of pieces for the big concert on Friday. There was singing, throat singing, instrumental music, drum dancing, and studies on music theory and history. Thanks to the musical talents and leadership of Rev. Tim Byerly, Bishop Sam Gray, and Mrs. Glenna Tasedan, Mr. Jamie Jackman, Ms. Natalie Fost, and yours truly, Christopher Guindon, students were given the chance to discover, through music and worship, more about themselves as musicians and as Christians. There were presentations and discussions on recent work done by Dr. Tom Gordon on various Moravian hymns, manuscripts written in Hebron decades ago, music scores, and some Moravian artifacts. Natalie Fost spoke on the tradition of throat singing and drum-dancing and Dr. Gordon spoke on its initial relationship with the Moravian Church and how it has become more accepted by the church as a part of a native culture over time. Over the course of the four-day camp, Bishop Sam Gray spoke on the history of Moravian music from the year that Jens Haven traveled to Nain as a Moravian missionary in 1771 to the acceptance of Inuit drums and other instruments by the church in the late 1900’s to early 2000’s.
One of the interesting things about the camp was that, thanks to Bishop Gray’s worldly experience, everyone at the camp had the opportunity to learn about Moravian music in Churches in other communities in Labrador and also far away countries such as Nicaraqua, Nepal, Tanzania. Emphasis was made on the fact that Moravian music does not have to fit one genre or style and it does not (well not anymore) have to be performed by any specific set of instruments. Moravian music is music performed by Moravians, anywhere in the world. There was also time spent on discussing the history of the Moravian Church and the settlement of Hebron in Labrador.
Every evening, members in the camp were invited to an activity after supper. On Tuesday, there was a hike; Wednesday, a softball game; Thursday was a karaoke night (hosted by Jamie Jackman) where some camp members took the opportunity to come out of their shell. On Saturday, members of the camp were taken on a fishing trip which lasted the whole day. Our gracious Hopedale hosts took the time to ferry 13 students and 7 facilitators up to Adlatok Bay in one longliner and four speedboats. It was a smooth ride to Marjorie and Brian’s cabin. The weather was very cooperative. When we arrived, Marjorie had fresh trout fried for all hands! Good times seemed to have been had by everyone who attended the outing. The trip was also an ideal situation for camp members to appreciate the scenery and take in the beauty of the Labrador wild. What better way to end a visit to Hopedale?
My experience with the camp was two-fold. For one, I was given the opportunity to teach students at camp about their instruments and how to better understand the music we were rehearsing. I was given various opportunities to try my hand at bringing out creativity and musical cognizance from the talented students from Hopedale, Nain, Makkovik, and Goose Bay, and answering technical questions about playing an instrument or using your voice to make music. I also got the chance to see more of what makes Labrador so beautiful. That would be its areas of undisturbed natural beauty.
I had the privilege of meeting “Uncle” Jim Andersen who is known for his photographs and having the most complete record of communities of Labrador, his musicianship, and his kind and friendly demeanor! He along with the other facilitators at the camp had been very encouraging and supportive every day towards myself, one another, and the students which undoubtedly contributed to the Moravian Music Camp’s overall success. Hearing Jim’s stories and fiddle playing was a real inspiration for my musical spirit and has strengthened my drive to share my own musical experience with anyone who is willing to listen and to make it fun for people who are not too sure what they think about music in general.
In my opinion, the camp was a great success. If the objective of the camp was to share our gifts and the word of God and strengthen students’ knowledge base around music through immersing them in the general and musical history of the Moravian Church, then I would say the camp had done just what it had meant to do. I would certainly like to see this happen as an annual event. I think it would be very beneficial in many ways to coastal communities and their students.
In my opinion, the camp has been a true success and could not have happened without the guidance and expertise of our facilitators, the hospitality of our hosts and camp chefs, and, very importantly, the active participation of the students from Hopedale, Nain, Goose Bay, and Makkovik. Bravo to everyone who contributed to this wonderful week of fun through worship, music, and activities.
Thank you all!
Christopher Guindon
From the first note played on the keyboard as camp-goers entered the classroom in Amos Comenius Memorial School, students and camp facilitators alike were in for a wonderful experience. Over the course of the next 4 days, students from Makkovik, Goose Bay, Nain, and Hopedale were exposed to a wonderful, enriching program of Moravian music and worship. Rev. Tim Byerly would open with a few scripture readings and a morning prayer followed by singing of hymns or rehearsal of pieces for the big concert on Friday. There was singing, throat singing, instrumental music, drum dancing, and studies on music theory and history. Thanks to the musical talents and leadership of Rev. Tim Byerly, Bishop Sam Gray, and Mrs. Glenna Tasedan, Mr. Jamie Jackman, Ms. Natalie Fost, and yours truly, Christopher Guindon, students were given the chance to discover, through music and worship, more about themselves as musicians and as Christians. There were presentations and discussions on recent work done by Dr. Tom Gordon on various Moravian hymns, manuscripts written in Hebron decades ago, music scores, and some Moravian artifacts. Natalie Fost spoke on the tradition of throat singing and drum-dancing and Dr. Gordon spoke on its initial relationship with the Moravian Church and how it has become more accepted by the church as a part of a native culture over time. Over the course of the four-day camp, Bishop Sam Gray spoke on the history of Moravian music from the year that Jens Haven traveled to Nain as a Moravian missionary in 1771 to the acceptance of Inuit drums and other instruments by the church in the late 1900’s to early 2000’s.
One of the interesting things about the camp was that, thanks to Bishop Gray’s worldly experience, everyone at the camp had the opportunity to learn about Moravian music in Churches in other communities in Labrador and also far away countries such as Nicaraqua, Nepal, Tanzania. Emphasis was made on the fact that Moravian music does not have to fit one genre or style and it does not (well not anymore) have to be performed by any specific set of instruments. Moravian music is music performed by Moravians, anywhere in the world. There was also time spent on discussing the history of the Moravian Church and the settlement of Hebron in Labrador.
Every evening, members in the camp were invited to an activity after supper. On Tuesday, there was a hike; Wednesday, a softball game; Thursday was a karaoke night (hosted by Jamie Jackman) where some camp members took the opportunity to come out of their shell. On Saturday, members of the camp were taken on a fishing trip which lasted the whole day. Our gracious Hopedale hosts took the time to ferry 13 students and 7 facilitators up to Adlatok Bay in one longliner and four speedboats. It was a smooth ride to Marjorie and Brian’s cabin. The weather was very cooperative. When we arrived, Marjorie had fresh trout fried for all hands! Good times seemed to have been had by everyone who attended the outing. The trip was also an ideal situation for camp members to appreciate the scenery and take in the beauty of the Labrador wild. What better way to end a visit to Hopedale?
My experience with the camp was two-fold. For one, I was given the opportunity to teach students at camp about their instruments and how to better understand the music we were rehearsing. I was given various opportunities to try my hand at bringing out creativity and musical cognizance from the talented students from Hopedale, Nain, Makkovik, and Goose Bay, and answering technical questions about playing an instrument or using your voice to make music. I also got the chance to see more of what makes Labrador so beautiful. That would be its areas of undisturbed natural beauty.
I had the privilege of meeting “Uncle” Jim Andersen who is known for his photographs and having the most complete record of communities of Labrador, his musicianship, and his kind and friendly demeanor! He along with the other facilitators at the camp had been very encouraging and supportive every day towards myself, one another, and the students which undoubtedly contributed to the Moravian Music Camp’s overall success. Hearing Jim’s stories and fiddle playing was a real inspiration for my musical spirit and has strengthened my drive to share my own musical experience with anyone who is willing to listen and to make it fun for people who are not too sure what they think about music in general.
In my opinion, the camp was a great success. If the objective of the camp was to share our gifts and the word of God and strengthen students’ knowledge base around music through immersing them in the general and musical history of the Moravian Church, then I would say the camp had done just what it had meant to do. I would certainly like to see this happen as an annual event. I think it would be very beneficial in many ways to coastal communities and their students.
In my opinion, the camp has been a true success and could not have happened without the guidance and expertise of our facilitators, the hospitality of our hosts and camp chefs, and, very importantly, the active participation of the students from Hopedale, Nain, Goose Bay, and Makkovik. Bravo to everyone who contributed to this wonderful week of fun through worship, music, and activities.
Thank you all!
Christopher Guindon
Wednesday, 23 July 2008
Moravian Music Workshop in Hopedale
The following is submitted by James R. Andersen (Uncle Jim)
It came as an interesting surprise when Joan Andersen called me and asked if I would be interested in taking part in a Music Workshop in Hopedale. I missed the plane on Monday, but by Tuesday I was there. Breakfast in the school gym at 8:00, lunch at 12, and quitting at 5:00.
I shall always remember as I walked in the Music Room most of the workshop participants was seated. Bishop Sam Gray was at the organ playing Morning Has Broken with his winning smile to all in the room. With the Text for the Day and a short scripture lesson, the whole cast, with instruments and everybody else singing the beautiful hymn Fairest Lord Jesus, the Music Workshop was begun with tremendous enthusiasm.
The rest of the days was occupied with practices in different classrooms with whatever kind of instrument they usually play. Instruction sometimes was given on the big blackboard in the music room, by the leaders of the music group, Bishop Sam Gray or Dr. Tom Gordon. It was all just a wonderful experience.
On Friday afternoon at the big gym, we all went down taking our musical instruments, and each group of performers done their rehearsal for the concert which started at 6:30 p.m. People came from the town to relax and listen to these students that came from Nain, Goose Bay, Makkovik, and Hopedale. Each took joy in doing their part what they was there for. We all just enjoyed a grand evening of fellowship.
On Saturday a tour to Adlatok some thirty miles in Hopedale Bay was very well planned and organized. To start off at 9 a.m. about 10 or 12 people in a big decked boat and several large speedboats carrying 4 or 5 passengers. When we arrived at Adlatok, the ones in the fast speed boats had been there for some time. There was a big dish of fried char, hot tea, cookies, and buns, plenty to serve the thirty people who made the boat trip. After a good hot meal, the majority went on up to the big river some six miles beyond, while the rest walked down a quarter of a mile where my great-grandfather Edward Mitchell from England built his house. This was in the early 1800’s. The house where my mother was born and raised until she met my dad, who was the son of Torsten Andersen from Norway, and was the first man to settle down in Makkovik, who had a family of five boys and six girls. This old house at Adlatok had a second storey with three big dormer windows in the roof. When I was a boy and teenager, Dad always took us to Adlatok, a cruise to Mom’s home, by dogteam. In that house there was a big Heintzman Piano, a Pianola, a small room like a library. It was full of books. Grandpa Mitchell had it all, and here I was at age 89, just filled with memories.
On Sunday morning at Hopedale church, where Mom and Dad was married in the late 1800’s, Bishop Sam Gray officiated the closing service while Dr. Tom Gordon played the organ. A big thank you to Rev. Tim Byerly, Glenna Tasedan, Bishop Sam Gray from North Carolina, Dr. Tom Gordon from the School of Music at Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland. And also to Sister Marjorie Flowers who played a major part in keenly helping us all in many ways, including transportation to and from the workshop. Incidentally, it was Marjorie’s and her husband Brian’s comfortable cabin where we all dined together when we arrived at beautiful Adlatok.
I hope if any of you young students happen to read my report on the Music Workshop at Hopedale, support our Moravian Church. Don’t give up. To lose is not a failure. It’s an experience.
Uncle Jim
Note from Chairperson: Uncle Jim participated in the workshop as a resource person. He played his violin, and gave information about Moravian music and brass bands that were an important part of the Moravian churches in Labrador up until the 1970’s. He is well-known for his collection of photographs and videos which document community life in and around Makkovik. He has a DVD for sale entitled “James Andersen: Over 50 Years of Taking Pictures” and a photo exhibit of the same title at TheRooms in St. John’s.
It came as an interesting surprise when Joan Andersen called me and asked if I would be interested in taking part in a Music Workshop in Hopedale. I missed the plane on Monday, but by Tuesday I was there. Breakfast in the school gym at 8:00, lunch at 12, and quitting at 5:00.
I shall always remember as I walked in the Music Room most of the workshop participants was seated. Bishop Sam Gray was at the organ playing Morning Has Broken with his winning smile to all in the room. With the Text for the Day and a short scripture lesson, the whole cast, with instruments and everybody else singing the beautiful hymn Fairest Lord Jesus, the Music Workshop was begun with tremendous enthusiasm.
The rest of the days was occupied with practices in different classrooms with whatever kind of instrument they usually play. Instruction sometimes was given on the big blackboard in the music room, by the leaders of the music group, Bishop Sam Gray or Dr. Tom Gordon. It was all just a wonderful experience.
On Friday afternoon at the big gym, we all went down taking our musical instruments, and each group of performers done their rehearsal for the concert which started at 6:30 p.m. People came from the town to relax and listen to these students that came from Nain, Goose Bay, Makkovik, and Hopedale. Each took joy in doing their part what they was there for. We all just enjoyed a grand evening of fellowship.
On Saturday a tour to Adlatok some thirty miles in Hopedale Bay was very well planned and organized. To start off at 9 a.m. about 10 or 12 people in a big decked boat and several large speedboats carrying 4 or 5 passengers. When we arrived at Adlatok, the ones in the fast speed boats had been there for some time. There was a big dish of fried char, hot tea, cookies, and buns, plenty to serve the thirty people who made the boat trip. After a good hot meal, the majority went on up to the big river some six miles beyond, while the rest walked down a quarter of a mile where my great-grandfather Edward Mitchell from England built his house. This was in the early 1800’s. The house where my mother was born and raised until she met my dad, who was the son of Torsten Andersen from Norway, and was the first man to settle down in Makkovik, who had a family of five boys and six girls. This old house at Adlatok had a second storey with three big dormer windows in the roof. When I was a boy and teenager, Dad always took us to Adlatok, a cruise to Mom’s home, by dogteam. In that house there was a big Heintzman Piano, a Pianola, a small room like a library. It was full of books. Grandpa Mitchell had it all, and here I was at age 89, just filled with memories.
On Sunday morning at Hopedale church, where Mom and Dad was married in the late 1800’s, Bishop Sam Gray officiated the closing service while Dr. Tom Gordon played the organ. A big thank you to Rev. Tim Byerly, Glenna Tasedan, Bishop Sam Gray from North Carolina, Dr. Tom Gordon from the School of Music at Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland. And also to Sister Marjorie Flowers who played a major part in keenly helping us all in many ways, including transportation to and from the workshop. Incidentally, it was Marjorie’s and her husband Brian’s comfortable cabin where we all dined together when we arrived at beautiful Adlatok.
I hope if any of you young students happen to read my report on the Music Workshop at Hopedale, support our Moravian Church. Don’t give up. To lose is not a failure. It’s an experience.
Uncle Jim
Note from Chairperson: Uncle Jim participated in the workshop as a resource person. He played his violin, and gave information about Moravian music and brass bands that were an important part of the Moravian churches in Labrador up until the 1970’s. He is well-known for his collection of photographs and videos which document community life in and around Makkovik. He has a DVD for sale entitled “James Andersen: Over 50 Years of Taking Pictures” and a photo exhibit of the same title at TheRooms in St. John’s.
Saturday, 19 July 2008
Summer Camp 2008
The 2008 Moravian Youth Camp at Gosling Lake is now a memory, but one filled with joy, excitement, and encouragement in our faith in Jesus Christ.
Although all aspects of camp were joy-filled, some of the highlights were the renewing of friendships, new relationships, exploring the beach of Northwest River, the positive interaction between staff and campers, the Inuit games and music, tie-dying t-shirts, the fun of making music together, and photographing it all. Excitement surely included the soccer game, "Go Beavers!" who took a loss this year, but are clearly focused for next year's contest. Then there was the black bear who visited during breakfast. As the camp director was trying to fearfully maintain composure while trying to figure out how to protect 27 campers and 8 staff, the crowd of campers (and remainder of staff) explode out of their chairs to take pictures and chase the bear. The beautiful black bear quietly exited the premises leaving nothing but fresh paw prints. Swimming, of course, is always a main event, only usurped by the canoeing, or should I say "canoe-towing" as many see the excitement of tipping canoes over in the shallow waters a much more enjoyable experience.
Some of the most encouraging moments of camp came during our small BREAKOUT! groups. Exploring our faith, our lives, and how all of that comes together as disciples of Christ as well as sharing our concerns and questions we've had over the past year.
The week ended with the dedication of a prayer quilt where the kids could offer prayers and concerns they had, and placing their handprint around the cross on the quilt. The quilt will be hung in the HVGB Moravian Church to be used as a prayer ministry in daily holding our youth in prayer.
Profound thanks go to Joan Andersen and the Labrador camp staff; Beatrice, Nancy, Natalie, Anita, Diane, and Tanya for their willingness to serve Christ at the youth camp.
"Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers--not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; ..... eager to serve;..." 1 Peter 5:2 NIV
Thank you with the fullness of my heart for the priviledge of spending time with your precious youth. They are exciting, filled with energy and ideas, and are joyful fun to be with.
With the love of Christ,
Glenna Tasedan
Although all aspects of camp were joy-filled, some of the highlights were the renewing of friendships, new relationships, exploring the beach of Northwest River, the positive interaction between staff and campers, the Inuit games and music, tie-dying t-shirts, the fun of making music together, and photographing it all. Excitement surely included the soccer game, "Go Beavers!" who took a loss this year, but are clearly focused for next year's contest. Then there was the black bear who visited during breakfast. As the camp director was trying to fearfully maintain composure while trying to figure out how to protect 27 campers and 8 staff, the crowd of campers (and remainder of staff) explode out of their chairs to take pictures and chase the bear. The beautiful black bear quietly exited the premises leaving nothing but fresh paw prints. Swimming, of course, is always a main event, only usurped by the canoeing, or should I say "canoe-towing" as many see the excitement of tipping canoes over in the shallow waters a much more enjoyable experience.
Some of the most encouraging moments of camp came during our small BREAKOUT! groups. Exploring our faith, our lives, and how all of that comes together as disciples of Christ as well as sharing our concerns and questions we've had over the past year.
The week ended with the dedication of a prayer quilt where the kids could offer prayers and concerns they had, and placing their handprint around the cross on the quilt. The quilt will be hung in the HVGB Moravian Church to be used as a prayer ministry in daily holding our youth in prayer.
Profound thanks go to Joan Andersen and the Labrador camp staff; Beatrice, Nancy, Natalie, Anita, Diane, and Tanya for their willingness to serve Christ at the youth camp.
"Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers--not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; ..... eager to serve;..." 1 Peter 5:2 NIV
Thank you with the fullness of my heart for the priviledge of spending time with your precious youth. They are exciting, filled with energy and ideas, and are joyful fun to be with.
With the love of Christ,
Glenna Tasedan
Friday, 30 May 2008
Music Worshop in Hopedale...
Music Workshop
Hopedale
Mainly geared towards junior and senior high school students
July 8th – July 13th 2008
Travel days, July 7 and 14.
(Begin on Tuesday and conclude workshop on Saturday, with a presentation on Sunday.)
The Moravian Church in NL is pleased to sponsor this Music Workshop. It is the brainchild of Bishop Sam Gray and Rita Andersen. Other musician leaders include Glenna Tasedan, Rev. Tim Byerly, Dr. Tom Gordon, and Natalie Fost. Students from each of the four Moravian congregations are invited to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It will be devotional, educational, creative, practical, and fun.
Deadline for applications: June 16th
Registration fee for those travelling in: $75.00
Hopedale
Mainly geared towards junior and senior high school students
July 8th – July 13th 2008
Travel days, July 7 and 14.
(Begin on Tuesday and conclude workshop on Saturday, with a presentation on Sunday.)
The Moravian Church in NL is pleased to sponsor this Music Workshop. It is the brainchild of Bishop Sam Gray and Rita Andersen. Other musician leaders include Glenna Tasedan, Rev. Tim Byerly, Dr. Tom Gordon, and Natalie Fost. Students from each of the four Moravian congregations are invited to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It will be devotional, educational, creative, practical, and fun.
Deadline for applications: June 16th
Registration fee for those travelling in: $75.00
Summer Camp at Gosling Lake...
Summer Camp
For 13 to 15 year olds
June 29th – July 6th 2008
Deadline for applications: June 16th
Registration fee is $75.00 per camper
Labrador Christian Youth Camp
Gosling Lake, Happy Valley-Goose Bay
The Labrador Christian Youth Camp offers a wide range of outdoor activities in the wild beauty of Labrador. The week will be a great opportunity for young people to canoe, hike, swim, play games, learn about God, and many things besides. Participants (5) from Nain, Hopedale, Makkovik, and HVGB are invited to attend, along with Moravian leaders from the United States. Bishop Sam Gray will accompany the two returning leaders, Glenna Tasedan and Rev. Tim Byerly. Each community will also send a leader/chaperone.
Bring: Bible, sleeping bag, toiletries, swim suit, rain gear, warm coat, bug repellent, snacks, musical instrument, flashlight.
For 13 to 15 year olds
June 29th – July 6th 2008
Deadline for applications: June 16th
Registration fee is $75.00 per camper
Labrador Christian Youth Camp
Gosling Lake, Happy Valley-Goose Bay
The Labrador Christian Youth Camp offers a wide range of outdoor activities in the wild beauty of Labrador. The week will be a great opportunity for young people to canoe, hike, swim, play games, learn about God, and many things besides. Participants (5) from Nain, Hopedale, Makkovik, and HVGB are invited to attend, along with Moravian leaders from the United States. Bishop Sam Gray will accompany the two returning leaders, Glenna Tasedan and Rev. Tim Byerly. Each community will also send a leader/chaperone.
Bring: Bible, sleeping bag, toiletries, swim suit, rain gear, warm coat, bug repellent, snacks, musical instrument, flashlight.
Monday, 5 May 2008
Anglican / Moravian - is a shared ministry possible?
On April 28, 2008, Archdeacon Geoff Peddle of the Anglican Church, Eastern Diocese of NL, traveled to Makkovik to meet with the MCNL Chair, Joan Andersen. The purpose of the visit was to discuss the possibility of working with the Moravian Church to help deliver the Christian message.
The Anglican Church has received numerous requests to enhance their ministry in Labrador, and in particular northern Labrador. They want to know if there is any way to work alongside the Moravian Church and provide an ordained person to live on a permanent and full-time basis in one of the communities and work with both Moravians and Anglicans to build up the Christian Church in those communities.
As Chair, I find this a very exciting offer. Since I took on this role in January of 2007, my goal, and that of the MCNL Board, is to staff each of our four churches with an ordained minister. We have put the call out to the Moravian Unity worldwide. We have also written to the Arctic Diocese of the Anglican Church of Canada, as well as to the Northern Canada Evangelical Mission. What prospects do we have? One person in training in the United States has expressed an interest in coming to Labrador in 2009. We have one Labradorian who will begin study at Queen’s College in September towards a Bachelor of Theology. This offer from the Anglican Church to staff one of our churches by this fall is very encouraging.
The Provincial Board of MCNL, in the preliminary stages, is open to the idea, for these reasons:
The Anglican Church has received numerous requests to enhance their ministry in Labrador, and in particular northern Labrador. They want to know if there is any way to work alongside the Moravian Church and provide an ordained person to live on a permanent and full-time basis in one of the communities and work with both Moravians and Anglicans to build up the Christian Church in those communities.
As Chair, I find this a very exciting offer. Since I took on this role in January of 2007, my goal, and that of the MCNL Board, is to staff each of our four churches with an ordained minister. We have put the call out to the Moravian Unity worldwide. We have also written to the Arctic Diocese of the Anglican Church of Canada, as well as to the Northern Canada Evangelical Mission. What prospects do we have? One person in training in the United States has expressed an interest in coming to Labrador in 2009. We have one Labradorian who will begin study at Queen’s College in September towards a Bachelor of Theology. This offer from the Anglican Church to staff one of our churches by this fall is very encouraging.
The Provincial Board of MCNL, in the preliminary stages, is open to the idea, for these reasons:
- We are both CHRISTIAN churches. The label you put on a church is not as important as its ability to communicate the Christian message.
- Our service formats differ, but not all that much.
- A person from our own province or country would perhaps adapt more easily to our lifestyle and culture because he/she already shares so much in common.
These questions were put forward to Archdeacon Peddle:
Question: Will our church still be called a Moravian Church if there is an Anglican minister?
Answer: Yes, it will be a Moravian Church. It will simply have a minister who has been trained in Anglican theology. The Anglican Church does not plan to convert members of a congregation, but to minister to them.
It is important to note that Rev. Dr. Brigitte Schloss received her theological training at Queen’s College which is an Anglican School of Theology. Rev. Ray Hunter (deceased) was trained at an Anglican Seminary. His daughter, Sabina Hunter, received her Associate in Theology diploma from Queen’s College. Other Moravian lay persons have taken courses from Queen’s College. Beatrice Hope, our candidate for ministry, plans to study at Queen’s College.
Question: If a person seeks confirmation, will he/she be confirmed as a Moravian or an Anglican?
Answer: If he/she chooses to be confirmed as a Moravian, that is what he/she will be. However, if an Anglican asks to be confirmed as an Anglican, that is possible also.
Question: Would we still use our Moravian hymnals and liturgies?
Answer: Yes. We would not seek to change the way anything is done.
Question: What about our traditions…our festival days, such as Children’s Day, Young People’s Day, Married People’s Day, our lovefeasts, Advent and Christmas traditions? Would we still keep them?
Answer: Yes. The Anglican Church will work alongside the Chapel Servants.
Moravian traditions will continue.
That is not to say that the Moravian Church is a stagnant church and does not want to change. We do like to learn new hymns, for example. As one Board member put it, “It is always very enriching to be exposed to and to share in the differing traditions of our brothers and sisters in Christ.” However, many staunch churchgoers would feel threatened if their institution no longer did the things that they hold dear. The Archdeacon assured us that the Anglican Church wants to work with us.
The MCNL Board will discuss how such a partnership would work. What responsibilities would we have, and what would we expect of the other church. A Memorandum of Agreement would need to be drawn up.
In the meantime, consultation will have to take place at the community level to see if a congregation is open to the idea of a shared ministry. The MCNL Board will decide how to go about this.
The Anglican Church has made it clear that they will only come if they are invited by MCNL. They would only come if there was a chance for the ministry to be a success.
Sr Joan Andersen
Thursday, 1 May 2008
Happy Birthday Regula...
On April 27, 2008, the friends and church family of Regula Schule gathered together after the service to celebrate with Regula her 80th birthday.
There were many who came to honor Regula in the years that God has given to her. It was a privilege, for me personally, to take part in this joyous occasion.
From 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m., most of the time revolved around eating and mingling with others. A 10 minute presentation was shown twice during the 2 hours which was created by Greg Matthews. It included pictures of Regula in her very early years on up until the present day, and the various places she has been and her life of ministry to others.
We are truly thankful for the choices Regula has made in her years to serve the Lord. She has been such a blessing to many people and continues to be even to this day.
A big thanks to Evelyn, Wilma and Darla for heading up this celebration and setting everything up for the occasion, as well as to Pearl for her special cake-making skills.
God bless you. Regula, for blessing us with your life and God with your service!
Carl Sonnichsen
Thursday, 24 April 2008
Employment Opportunity
THE APPLICATION DATE FOR THIS POST HAS NOW CLOSED
============================================
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
TEMPORARY, PART-TIME
The Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador (MCNL) requires an:
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Qualifications
Possess a minimum of two years of post secondary education in office administration or related field;
Have excellent administrative abilities and experience, and be self-motivated;
Be able to work with a minimum of supervision;
Have excellent oral/written skills;
Be proficient with computer applications and office equipment;
Be prepared to work with volunteer leaders from four communities;
Knowledge of Inuktitut an asset.
Duties
Responsibilities will include preparing correspondence, minutes (and getting translation done), arranging meetings/travel/accommodation, filing, record keeping, preparing written reports, and delivering all invoices and receipts to the bookkeeper. Some research as time permits, on ongoing projects, along with typing. Some sorting and filing of archival materials. Practice good office organization and procedures.
Communicate with Provincial Chair, MCNL Board members, the Board of World Mission, Moravian Unity (worldwide organization), congregations and members. Office administrator is the contact for all incoming communication.
Duration of employment: May 12, 2008 to March 27, 2009
Hours of work: 15 hours per week
Wages: $15.00 per hour, plus 4% vacation pay
Workplace: Office located in the Happy Valley Moravian Church annex.
Deadline for application: May 8, 2008, at 4:00 p.m
Please send resume to this address:
MCNL, Hiring Committee, P O. Box 220, Station B, Happy Valley, Labrador, A0P 1E0.
Or email: joanders@nf.sympatico.ca
============================================
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
TEMPORARY, PART-TIME
The Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador (MCNL) requires an:
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Qualifications
Possess a minimum of two years of post secondary education in office administration or related field;
Have excellent administrative abilities and experience, and be self-motivated;
Be able to work with a minimum of supervision;
Have excellent oral/written skills;
Be proficient with computer applications and office equipment;
Be prepared to work with volunteer leaders from four communities;
Knowledge of Inuktitut an asset.
Duties
Responsibilities will include preparing correspondence, minutes (and getting translation done), arranging meetings/travel/accommodation, filing, record keeping, preparing written reports, and delivering all invoices and receipts to the bookkeeper. Some research as time permits, on ongoing projects, along with typing. Some sorting and filing of archival materials. Practice good office organization and procedures.
Communicate with Provincial Chair, MCNL Board members, the Board of World Mission, Moravian Unity (worldwide organization), congregations and members. Office administrator is the contact for all incoming communication.
Duration of employment: May 12, 2008 to March 27, 2009
Hours of work: 15 hours per week
Wages: $15.00 per hour, plus 4% vacation pay
Workplace: Office located in the Happy Valley Moravian Church annex.
Deadline for application: May 8, 2008, at 4:00 p.m
Please send resume to this address:
MCNL, Hiring Committee, P O. Box 220, Station B, Happy Valley, Labrador, A0P 1E0.
Or email: joanders@nf.sympatico.ca
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Conference Highlights
Here are some highlights from the Provincial Conference of the Moravian Church in NL that was held in Nain, March 4-6, 2008.
* It was great to have Bishop Paul Graf attend our conference. He held the devotionals each day, and could speak to spiritual issues as they came up, with much wisdom.
* Bishop Graf was able to hold congregational meetings in Makkovik, Nain, and Happy Valley. Bad weather kept us from getting to Hopedale on Thursday. However, Bishop Sam Gray will be visiting Hopedale the week of July 7th, so that will hopefully make up for it.
* The conference went very well in Nain. We are especially grateful to the translators/interpreters, Katie Winters and K. Naeme Tuglavina, who did the simultaneous translation. This made the conference flow very smoothly. It was also great to have the use of the Nunatsiavut Government board room, so aesthetically pleasing, spacious and comfortable. And equipped with the microphones and headphones for translation.
* We got to meet representatives from each community, and to share reports from each congregation. We share similar concerns: small attendance, no ordained ministers, not much support for the few volunteers who keep the churches going. Hopedale has great involvement from youth on the last Sunday in each month. The school concert band, under the direction of Nicole Burt-Shuglo, accompany all the hymns at these services. Happy Valley has outreach with the Correctional Center, the Pine Lodge residence, and the Paddon Home for Senior Citizens.
* We had a presentation from Heather Angnatok about programs offered by Nunatsiavut Government’s Youth Division. We are impressed with how the programs bring youth and elders together. We put forward the request that if we do get a minister to serve the congregation, he or she could partner with the Nunatsiavut Youth programs as a way of reaching out to youth, and strengthening the spiritual focus.
* We had a presentation from Gary Baikie impressing upon the church representatives the need to preserve the old church properties in Nain, since they are historical icons, and with Nain becoming the gateway to the Torngat National Park, it will be important to keep these heritage buildings, and be able to tell their story.
* We talked about the need for congregations to become more supportive financially. Each congregation is expected to pay an annual fee ($5000) (4500 for Makkovik) to the provincial treasury of the Moravian Church in NL.
* Each church brought their financial statements, and while they are all in good standing at present, if we ever do get ministers and have salaries to pay, each congregation will need to raise part of that expense. The overall aim is that the Labrador Moravian Church will become self-sufficient and be able to meet all its expenses. Right now, we still get a hefty sum from the American Board of World Mission, but they are decreasing it each year, in hopes that we can become independent of them.
* We accepted in principle the revised Book of Order. It was revised by Rev. Sam Propsom, and we have since added some amendments and inserts. Dr. Hans Rollmann revised the section on the early history of the Moravian Church.
* The Book of Order will include in its appendices the process that one would follow if he/she wishes to become a lay minister, or an ordained minister.
* We talked about the need for church repairs in at least three communities. Loren Jendro, Labrador’s representative on the Board of World Mission, hopes to get some work crews from the U.S. to help local congregation groups get repair work done during the summer.
* The Inuktitut Bible will be printed under one cover, and we hope to hold the launch at some time this year. Plans will be made for a launch to be held in Nain.
* The Coordinator position was extended for one more year, to be reassessed again before March 31, 2009.
* It was great to have Bishop Paul Graf attend our conference. He held the devotionals each day, and could speak to spiritual issues as they came up, with much wisdom.
* Bishop Graf was able to hold congregational meetings in Makkovik, Nain, and Happy Valley. Bad weather kept us from getting to Hopedale on Thursday. However, Bishop Sam Gray will be visiting Hopedale the week of July 7th, so that will hopefully make up for it.
* The conference went very well in Nain. We are especially grateful to the translators/interpreters, Katie Winters and K. Naeme Tuglavina, who did the simultaneous translation. This made the conference flow very smoothly. It was also great to have the use of the Nunatsiavut Government board room, so aesthetically pleasing, spacious and comfortable. And equipped with the microphones and headphones for translation.
* We got to meet representatives from each community, and to share reports from each congregation. We share similar concerns: small attendance, no ordained ministers, not much support for the few volunteers who keep the churches going. Hopedale has great involvement from youth on the last Sunday in each month. The school concert band, under the direction of Nicole Burt-Shuglo, accompany all the hymns at these services. Happy Valley has outreach with the Correctional Center, the Pine Lodge residence, and the Paddon Home for Senior Citizens.
* We had a presentation from Heather Angnatok about programs offered by Nunatsiavut Government’s Youth Division. We are impressed with how the programs bring youth and elders together. We put forward the request that if we do get a minister to serve the congregation, he or she could partner with the Nunatsiavut Youth programs as a way of reaching out to youth, and strengthening the spiritual focus.
* We had a presentation from Gary Baikie impressing upon the church representatives the need to preserve the old church properties in Nain, since they are historical icons, and with Nain becoming the gateway to the Torngat National Park, it will be important to keep these heritage buildings, and be able to tell their story.
* We talked about the need for congregations to become more supportive financially. Each congregation is expected to pay an annual fee ($5000) (4500 for Makkovik) to the provincial treasury of the Moravian Church in NL.
* Each church brought their financial statements, and while they are all in good standing at present, if we ever do get ministers and have salaries to pay, each congregation will need to raise part of that expense. The overall aim is that the Labrador Moravian Church will become self-sufficient and be able to meet all its expenses. Right now, we still get a hefty sum from the American Board of World Mission, but they are decreasing it each year, in hopes that we can become independent of them.
* We accepted in principle the revised Book of Order. It was revised by Rev. Sam Propsom, and we have since added some amendments and inserts. Dr. Hans Rollmann revised the section on the early history of the Moravian Church.
* The Book of Order will include in its appendices the process that one would follow if he/she wishes to become a lay minister, or an ordained minister.
* We talked about the need for church repairs in at least three communities. Loren Jendro, Labrador’s representative on the Board of World Mission, hopes to get some work crews from the U.S. to help local congregation groups get repair work done during the summer.
* The Inuktitut Bible will be printed under one cover, and we hope to hold the launch at some time this year. Plans will be made for a launch to be held in Nain.
* The Coordinator position was extended for one more year, to be reassessed again before March 31, 2009.
Sr Joan Andersen
Monday, 18 February 2008
Provincial Conference
The Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador will be holding a Provincial Conference in Nain, March 4-6 2008.
Board members, lay ministers, and delegates from each congregation will attend. Loren Jendro, Labrador’s representative on the Board of World Mission, as well as Bishop Paul Graf will be there.
Some of the agenda items include ratifying the revised Book of Order; drawing up the process to follow for ordination; ministry in Labrador and how to move our present situation forward; Moravian Youth Camp; Moravian Music Workshop; launch of the Inuktitut Bible; reports from each congregation; and more.
Bishop Graf will visit each church while in Labrador:
March 3- Makkovik
March 4 – Nain
March 6- Hopedale
March 7 – Happy Valley
At that time he will help each congregation assess themselves, to gauge how each church is growing in various areas, and to draw up a profile of the minister they want to serve them. This will help MCNL to better match a person to a place should inquiries from ordained ministers come in.
Sr Joan Andersen
Chair, MCNL
Board members, lay ministers, and delegates from each congregation will attend. Loren Jendro, Labrador’s representative on the Board of World Mission, as well as Bishop Paul Graf will be there.
Some of the agenda items include ratifying the revised Book of Order; drawing up the process to follow for ordination; ministry in Labrador and how to move our present situation forward; Moravian Youth Camp; Moravian Music Workshop; launch of the Inuktitut Bible; reports from each congregation; and more.
Bishop Graf will visit each church while in Labrador:
March 3- Makkovik
March 4 – Nain
March 6- Hopedale
March 7 – Happy Valley
At that time he will help each congregation assess themselves, to gauge how each church is growing in various areas, and to draw up a profile of the minister they want to serve them. This will help MCNL to better match a person to a place should inquiries from ordained ministers come in.
Sr Joan Andersen
Chair, MCNL
Alaska Conference
I went as a youth representative of the Labrador Moravian Church to Bethel, Alaska. The first day we attended the Provincial Women’s Meeting. There were woman from each church to discuss things such as projects their church ran during the past year, projects for the coming year, planning a Singspiration.
As well, the President Mary Gregory gave a special speech which I found inspiring. It was titled Walking the Talk and Faith. An important meeting that I participated in was the between the members of the First Nations Outreach. First Nations Outreach is a joint partnership between the Labrador Church, Alaska Province and the Morongo Church in California. It was developed to build capacity of each entity to be a more powerful force in protecting its youth from social problems, as each Church face similar social situations.
At the Synod myself, Joan, Loren Jendro (member of the Board of World Mission) and Arthur Coolidge (Lay Minister in Alaska) met to discuss how to better communicate with each other. As the distance between each church is extensive with the cost of travel expensive, it was suggested to form an online working group. This working group could include things such as a calendar to post events of each church, a place to post documents, and a discussion page. Each member of the First Nations outreach could have an access code to this online working group and add things to it, see what other members have added. This should be a great way to keep up to date on what is happening with each church with First Nation outreach initiatives.
Overall, this was an interesting trip, I have met some really inspiring people, and I hope to work with the First Nations Outreach in the future.
Tracy Evans
Makkovik
Alaska Synod
I had the privilege of visiting our Moravian brothers and sisters in Bethel, Alaska. We attended the Women’s Conference on February 2 and took part in the Sunday evening service on February 3, which was conducted by participants at the Women’s Conference. On Feb 4 the Synod began. Representatives from 23 congregations were present.
I gave a presentation with the message that Labrador has put out a call for ordained ministers to serve in our congregations. I also extended an invitation for some youth along with a leader to attend the Moravian Music Workshop to be held in Hopedale beginning July 7. (We have also invited a representative to attend our Provincial Conference being held in Nain.)
Our impressions of the whole experience were extremely good. Alaska Moravian Church is self-supportive. They are an independent province. Attendance at Bethel Moravian Church is high. The use of their native language is dominant, but most people we met were entirely bilingual. Their church services have a more evangelistic tone than ours. The singing was beautiful. A lot of four-part harmony, and about three different organists took part in one service.
On the last evening there, I attended a three-hour memorial service for pastors who had passed away during 2007. David Nanalook, who had visited Nain a few years ago, was one.
Overall, it is good that the lines of communication are open between Alaska and Labrador, since we have much that can be learned from each other, and shared.
Sr Joan Andersen
Chair, MCNL
Wednesday, 30 January 2008
Upcoming Events...
The Moravian Church in Alaska will be holding a Women’s Conference (Feb 2) and Synod (Feb 4-8) in Bethel. Joan Andersen, Chair of MCNL, will be attending, along with a youth, Tracy Evans from Makkovik. Tracy is Nunatsiavut’s Coordinator for the Status of Women, and will give a presentation at the Feb 2 Conference. Joan has a two-fold purpose for going: to spread the word to a wider audience that Labrador has sent out a call for ministers, and to further the Moravian First Nations Outreach partnership that was formed after last year’s Synod in Alaska.
The Provincial Conference of the Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador will take place in Nain from March 4-6. Board members, lay ministers, and delegates from each congregation will attend. Loren Jendro, Labrador’s representative on the Board of World Mission, as well as Bishop Paul Graf will be there. Some of the agenda items include ratifying the revised Book of Order; drawing up the process to follow for ordination; ministry in Labrador and how to move our present situation forward; Moravian Youth Camp; Moravian Music Workshop; launch of the Inuktitut Bible; reports from each congregation; and more.
Bishop Graf will visit each church while in Labrador. One of his aims is to put together a profile of the minister each congregation would like to have, so that when we do get inquiries, we can better match a person to a place.
Sr Joan Andersen
MCNL Chair
The Provincial Conference of the Moravian Church in Newfoundland and Labrador will take place in Nain from March 4-6. Board members, lay ministers, and delegates from each congregation will attend. Loren Jendro, Labrador’s representative on the Board of World Mission, as well as Bishop Paul Graf will be there. Some of the agenda items include ratifying the revised Book of Order; drawing up the process to follow for ordination; ministry in Labrador and how to move our present situation forward; Moravian Youth Camp; Moravian Music Workshop; launch of the Inuktitut Bible; reports from each congregation; and more.
Bishop Graf will visit each church while in Labrador. One of his aims is to put together a profile of the minister each congregation would like to have, so that when we do get inquiries, we can better match a person to a place.
Sr Joan Andersen
MCNL Chair
Monday, 21 January 2008
Children's Day at Happy Valley
On Sunday, January 20, 2008 the Happy Valley Moravian Church held its Children's Day.
The celebrations began with a Lovefeast at the 11 a.m. service. There was enough buns and juice for everyone!
After lunch we held activities in the afternoon beginning at 1:30 p.m. with a sing a long with camp director for the Labrador Christian YOuth Camp, Vicki Roeder-Martin and her helper from Katimavik Samantha. After singing the kids played games outside in the parking lot with capture the flag the favourite.
We then came in for a warm up playing Skip Bo with Simone Daniels being the Skip Bo champion. We had a snack of juice, hot chocolate, potato chips and cup cakes thanks to Regula Schule! Thank you Regula and yum!
Then we played another game of capture the flag and concluded with a movie. Joining in the celebration at the end of the day was a potluck with the congregation.
Thank you to all who helped, Beatrice Hunter, Justine Obed, Elias Daniels, Vicki and Samantha, Regula and the choir, Amos Lyall, Beatrice Hope, Rose Pamak, and Sue Felsberg. What a blessed and truly enjoyable day for all.
Sr Sabina Hunter
Friday, 4 January 2008
Sunday School Christmas celebration in Makkovik
Here are some pictures taken during this year's Sunday School Christmas service.
Caroline Groves and her assistant Cathy Semigak led the Sunday School children in a version of the "Friendly Beasts" at this year's children's Christmas pageant.
It is good to see aspects of the Christmas story reenacted by children. Even 2 year-old Lucas Lane took part as an angel!
The children would like to wish everyone much happiness in the New Year.