Today was our last Sunday worshipping in the building that has been known as “St. Hilda’s” for the last 53 years. A negotiated settlement with the Diocese of Niagara will result in the building being turned over to the diocese on June 1st. It was an emotional morning; there were many eyes that were not entirely dry – except for the men, of course. Here are some photos (view them all here):
Gathering:
The new building is that way:
People – the real “St. Hilda’s” – leave for the last time after we have sung “When the music fades, all is stripped away, and I simply come”. Notice the stunningly beautiful guitar to the right:
The new place – which is air conditioned and has much better toilets:
Two eminent artists eating. Shot with the magical 50mmL at f1.2:
Another at f1.2. Father Jack (St. Hilda’s previous rector) with my daughter:
The inevitable cake:
An Irish blessing for St. Hilda’s:
You arise today
Through a mighty strength:
God’s power to guide you,
God’s might to uphold you,
God’s eyes to watch over you;
God’s ear to hear you,
God’s word to give you speech,
God’s hand to guard you,
God’s way to lie before you,
God’s shield to shelter you,
God’s host to secure you.
Thanks Kate.
I think you should post this at AEC blog, David. It is newsworthy.
Flashback to the last service at St Georges (Brandon) and the first at Resurection’s in a wartime canteen building.
Bishop Malcolm got a standing O during the processional.
We never looked back.
And there was cake!
There must always be cake!
We had a great send off. Bishop Charlie was wonderful. Our own Pastor Paul was very gracious. And we were blessed to have our previous rector – Fr. Jack Bielby – join us. Jack knew very early on where the Diocese of Niagara was heading and butted heads often with Bishop Bothwell.