From the Rector's Desk

Hello Everyone, 
While I am still out of office until Saturday's Christmas High Tea, I have been asked by the wardens to send this note written for you by our Archdeacon Elizabeth Northcott, as she has stolen the spotlight and taken over writing the notices for this week! 
I look forward to being back among you all this weekend, as we enter into this blessed season of Advent and new beginnings together. 
With love and prayers, 
Kirsten + 
Message from the Venerable Elizabeth Northcott 
 
When I was a child, my Dad would tap his fingers on my bedroom door at about 9:25 am each Sunday morning. I had precisely 20 minutes from that time until I needed to be getting in to the family car and drive up to church for 10 am. When we came home from church, my Dad would sit at the dining table and write a letter to his Mom and Dad … every week!
 
As I grew older, my Dad and Mom would write to me, when I was in school, when I began to work – always giving me a newsy accounting of their lives and asking what I was up to. I would write to my Mom and Dad too, however, it was a much rarer activity that my Dad achieved. My folks would get so excited when I did write to them, that they practically framed the letter.
 
To this day, my Uncle Vic still has a letter that my Dad wrote to him saying thank you for helping him move a couch into my sister’s apartment. Letters are important and, in an old-fashioned way, can keep us connected and up-to-date with news and notes about current happenings.
 
With that in mind, I’m writing to you and stealing Kirsten’s spot with a newsletter “News” for the week.
 
Don’t forget the Christmas Tea, this coming Saturday, November 30th beginning at 1 pm until 4 pm. Don’t miss this great opportunity to greet your neighbours.
 
Your team has asked me to remind you all that this coming Sunday is the first week of the Advent season. It’s a special season of expectation and hope when we look ahead to the possibilities. Please bring your “Advent Blessings Gift” on Sunday.
 
We have received a lovely note from our Parish Administrator, Kat Kril, about her retirement, effective as of yesterday, and she says, “It has been an honour and a great privilege to serve St. Mary’s and all of its parishioners for 8 years, through the laughter. . . and the tears!  Thank you for making me feel special and part of St. Mary’s church family.   I have some very fond memories that I will treasure and keep close to my heart.”
 
I’ll turn the pen back to Kirsten and wish you all a wonderful Christmas Tea, a terrific Advent and Christmas joy.
 
Peace be yours,
Elizabeth Northcott