Schedule

Dear Friends,

I am pleased to announce that Mike MacKenzie has accepted my offer of appointment as our Director for Parish Relations, effective November 3rd, 2025.

Mike brings a unique mix of employment, education, and ministry experience to this role. Throughout almost a decade of employment at StFX University, he has been responsible for stakeholder relations and outreach, communications planning and implementation, and initiatives such as project administration and change management. He holds a Bachelor of Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University, a Master of Adult Education from StFX University, and a Master of Theological Studies from Wycliffe College. Currently, he is a PhD Candidate in Theological Studies at the University of Torontos Emmanuel College, where his dissertation research focuses on how affective expressions of doubt shape lived theologies within churches and communities of faith. I'm sure if you ask him, he'd be happy to say more about his research!

Mike has also fulfilled a variety of ministries at parish, diocesan, national, and international levels. He has served on numerous committees and working groups within our diocese and was previously a member of the board of directors for PWRDF/Alongside Hope, as well as a facilitator for the Mapping Exercise, which prompts churches to confront the legacy of residential schools and ongoing anti-Indigenous racism across Canada. In 2023, Mike was appointed as the Canadian representative to the Anglican Alliances global board of trustees, helping to oversee the Alliances work to support sustainable development and disaster relief projects across the Anglican Communion.

Originally from Sydney, Cape Breton, Mike now lives in Kentville, Nova Scotia with his wife Kris and their two young sons.

I am excited to welcome Mike to this diocesan ministry and look forward to him joining our diocesan staff team. I am confident that the diocese will benefit from the wide range of skills, gifts, and experiences he brings from both within and beyond the Anglican Churchas well as from the personal qualities he embodies. Mike spoke about this position as the fulfilment of a vocational calling, and I know that he is approaching it with much grace and humility.

Please join me in warmly welcoming Mike as our new Director for Parish Relations.

Yours faithfully,

+ Sandra

About the role

The Director for Parish Relations serves as a vital conduit between the Bishop, Archdeacons, Regional Deans, clergy, lay leaders, and parisheshelping to ensure that our Diocesan vision, mission, and governance are lived out faithfully across diverse communities with unique needs.

 Key Responsibilities include:

- Providing pastoral care, leadership development, and conflict resolution support and training to clergy and parish lay leaders, in-person or virtually.

- Promoting clergy wellness through regular check-ins and connecting them with appropriate resources.

- Serving as spokesperson for the Diocese with news media, when requested by the Bishop.

- Advising the Bishop on operational matters, ensuring policies are applied effectively and supporting the overall wellbeing of the Diocese.

- Supporting Archdeacons and parishes during leadership transitions, visioning exercises, and other challenges.

- Fostering healthy parish dynamics and strengthening support for local ministries.

- Providing field support and guidance to parishes, as appropriate.

- In collaboration with our Regional Deans, working with, and acting as the main contact for parishes and other entities in administrative matters, providing advice and interpretation on canonical and policy issues, and making decisions within the mandate provided by the Bishop.

- Overseeing diocesan initiatives, particularly the Engage program, to ensure alignment with our vision of building Christ-centered, mission-minded, ministering communities of faith.

Congregations who welcome guests with grace and generosity make a positive impact on newcomers. There are simple, intentional approaches to help new people feel they belong. For parishioners that means offering hospitality out of a sense of servanthood. 

Learn more in this article, Humbling ourselves to welcome one another in the spirit of hospitality, written by Angel Eaglin and published for Faith & Leadership (Duke University).

Are you wondering how God might be inviting you to serve? Join us for a shared weekend of prayer, conversation, and community as we explore the many paths of our Christian vocation.

Over the course of the weekend, we’ll hear from our bishops, clergy, and lay leaders about the diverse ways people live out their callings — in lay ministry, religious orders, the diaconate, and priesthood. You’ll hear real stories of discernment, have time to reflect, ask the big questions and pray together.

The cost is $50/person. Preregistration is required, and spaces are limited. Hosted at Villa Madonna Retreat Centre, meals and accommodation included.

If you have any questions or need assistance with registration please reach out to Carl Fraser vocations@nspeidiocese.ca

Event Page

Click here to Register

I have recently been hired to provide chaplaincy services at the Nova Scotia Youth Centre in Waterville, NS (Valley Region). 

There are roughly a dozen young people in the facility at one time. Several have expressed

interest in crosses to wear - only wooden crosses are permitted. 

I would also like to have a few copies of the Message translation of the New Testament, and would love to have a copy of the First Nations Bible. 

Lastly, the chapel itself is dark and unattractive, and I would like very much to have some colourful, meditative, inspirational, or uplifting art posters (Christian or otherwise). 

If you have anything you would like to donate, or helpful suggestions, please contact Ken MacIntosh  1kenmacintosh@gmail.com

Thursday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m.  we are launching our new Diocesan Home Communion ministry training kit.  This 40-minute session on Zoom is an introduction to this free resource. The kit will be available from our Diocesan webpage in early November. 

This GUIDING LIGHT training package includes:

Diocesan policy and protocol explanation

Anglican reading materials

Reflection questions to engage the materials

Two Video lessons: 

    Theology of Eucharist - Rev. Ian Wissler

    Pastoral Approaches & Practical Information - Rev. Tammy Hodge Orovec.

Orders of Service (liturgy templates)

Request form for Bishop's license

Checklist, devotions and MORE!

SIGN UP for the ZOOM HERE:   https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GUIDINGLIGHT

Resources are suitable for individual or group use.

A SURVEY SEEKING SPIRITUAL DIRECTORS/COMPANIONS has been prepared and can be accessed below. I ask for your assistance: fill it out for yourself, if you are currently serving or are open to serve as a Spiritual Director; as well as sharing it with others you know in the community who are ministering in this capacity.
We will be looking to know such details as availability (day/evenings/weekends); in-person/online/telephone; willingness to take new directees; and, interest in becoming part of a group for further training opportunities.

Click here for Survey

See what your parish offers in the way of prayer programs, contemplative gatherings, or quiet prayer times.

 Explore prayer gatherings from other parishes, perhaps not available at your church, or held at a time more convenient for your schedule; in person and on ZOOM.

APP will soon have a recording of the excellent misuse of NDAs workshop featured on-line on Sept. 18 and Oct. 9. So, stay tuned for future dates of this workshop. 

NDAs, the acronym for Non-Disclosure Agreements, are often used for purposes beyond their original intent (protection of intellectual property and trade secrets) and this reality is not sufficiently understood, nor is the trauma experienced by those coerced into signing an NDA when they have reported sexual misconduct, abuse, bullying, harassment, and discrimination fully appreciated. Our Diocesan Synod in May, Therefore We Have Hope, unanimously passed a resolution, presented by Anglicans Powering Potential, confirming that the Diocese would not misuse NDAs. A similar resolution is being debated nationally at the Council of General Synod (CoGS) and there is interest at CoGS in what the Diocese of NS & PEI experienced at its Diocesan Synod.  

As well, Can’t Buy My Silence is offering a confidential peer support group for individuals affected by the misuse of NDAs and their traumatic impacts, facilitated by Dr Angela Grace, clinical psychologist, someone with her own NDA experience. Dr. Angela Grace is featured on the misuse of NDAs recording. If you are interested in the confidential peer support group, or you know of someone who could benefit from this support, please e-mail: cjp2320@gmail.com for further information. 

Human Trafficking in Nova Scotia: Slavery Hidden in Plain Sight
A Supper Workshop with Presenter/Facilitator Extraordinaire: Keirsten Wells

Wednesday, November 19, 5 - 9 pm
Anglican Diocesan Centre - Great Hall
1340 Cathedral Lane, Halifax

Sponsored by Anglicans Powering Potential and the Outreach Committee of the Cathedral Church of All Saints

Come for a soup supper and an engaging time of learning about this modern day slavery that is hidden in plain sight; regrettably, a dark feature of reality in our region and diocese.

This fresh new resource to invite your parish to meaningfully engage with the season and your community is available to download now!

We heard from several families that they really wanted to participate, but couldn’t do the ornament-making part – so we’ve added a new option! Families can register to receive a package and participate in the journey through Advent, without needing to make ornaments! To allow some time for people to sign up after this change, we’ve extended the registration deadline to Saturday, October 18! Get all the details, and sign up here.

The finance team will send out scholarships for post-secondary students, and bursaries to school age children, over the next few weeks. If you received a scholarship or bursary in January, there is no need to re-apply. However, if you have not received a scholarship or bursary before, please contact Lawrence at financialcontroller@nspeidiocese.ca to apply.

On October 7, the Council of the General Synod appointed Dr. Andrea Mann as General Secretary of the Anglican Church of Canada effective October 13, 2025. She succeeds the Ven. Alan Perry, whose employment as General Secretary concluded on September 3, 2025.

The General Secretary is the General Synod’s chief operations officer, responsible for managing the national church office, organizing meetings of the General Synod and the Council of the General Synod and acting as secretary of both. Dr. Mann has served as acting interim General Secretary since July 1, alongside Canon Ian Alexander, who has served as interim general secretary.

Dr. Mann has a doctorate from Ohio State University and a master’s degree in public administration from Dalhousie University. She brings extensive experience of working with Church House staff and committees, having served as Director of Global Relations since 2010 and as Asia, Pacific, Middle East Mission Coordinator in the Partnerships department for 13 years before that. While Dr. Mann’s tenure as Director of Global Relations will end on October 13, she will continue to direct the transition of Global Relations ministry until the end of 2025.

Parish of St. Peter's, Hackett's Cove is seeking a Musician for Sunday Worship. 

Interested persons please contact reverendspp@eastlink.ca

Sunday Evenings, Sept. 21 - Nov. 23, starting at 5pm with a light supper. 

Being With is for anyone who's curious about faith or wondering if the Christian faith has something meaningful to offer. 

No Special knowledge needed. Just what you have learned in life so far.

Contact Rev. Kate if you have questions - kateheichler@anglicancathedralhalifax.ca or call 902-406-8978

Join us on Saturday, October 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for our Flea Market at St. John’s Anglican Church.

Admission: $1.00
Tickets available for a Christmas-themed gift basket draw.
Wheelchair accessible.

Come find treasures and enjoy a great morning of community fun!

Join us for a Flea Market at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 9 Veterans Avenue, Dartmouth, NS, on Saturday, October 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Browse a great selection of kitchen items, crafts, baked goods, household items, clothing, toys, books, CDs, DVDs, and more! Enjoy refreshments at the canteen while you shop.

Admission: $1 for adults — Kids enter free!

For more information, contact 902-434-7670 or email stlukeschurch@eastlink.ca.

St. Francis by the Lakes Anglican Church invites you to enjoy a Roast Beef Take-Out Meal on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring tender roast beef, potatoes, carrots, turnip, peas, a dinner roll, gravy, and dessert — all for just $18 (adults) or $8 (children).

Pick-up time: 4:00–5:30 p.m.
Order deadline: October 13

To reserve your meal, call Elanie L. at 902-865-4727 or email through the link on the church website: stfrancisbythelakes.ca.

Join us for a fun evening of cards and fellowship!

Saturday, October 18, 2025 - 7:00 p.m.

Enjoy great company, friendly games, and a delicious lunch. All are welcome!

Join us at All Apostles by the Sea, 6023 Highway 207, Seaforth, for a Variety Show on Saturday, October 19 at 2:00 p.m.

Enjoy an afternoon of musical performances and a short comedy sketch in support of a great cause.

Donations at the door will go to Eastern Shore Mental Health.

Come for the fun — stay for the community spirit!

Join us for a Community Breakfast on Saturday, October 18, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 45 Main St., Middleton.

Enjoy good food, warm fellowship, and a welcoming atmosphere. A free-will offering will be gratefully accepted.
All are welcome!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of readings and music inspired by the life and faith of Johnny Cash. Enjoy performances by talented local musicians: Andrew & Beth Cranston, Elroy & Linda, Frank Dobbin, the Ukulele Ladies, and David Skidmore.

A free-will offering will be collected in support of the church. Come tap your toes, sing along, and celebrate the timeless messages of hope, redemption, and grace found in the Man in Black’s music.

Everyone is invited to join the fun at St. Francis by the Lakes Anglican Church for a Community Old-Fashioned Halloween Party on Saturday, October 25, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Come dressed in your favourite costume and enjoy a morning full of lawn Olympics, monster bowling, monster freeze dance, and other fun games for all ages! There will also be face painting and snacks to keep the festive spirit going.

Bring your friends and family for a spooktacular time — all are welcome!

Join us for a delicious Spaghetti Supper at All Saints Church, on Saturday, October 25, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Enjoy homemade pasta and sauce, salad, fresh rolls, and trifle for dessert — all for $12.00. Eat in or take out!

Reserve your tickets by calling (902) 760-0729.

Join us for an evening of fellowship and a delicious meal at St. James Anglican Church on Sunday, October 26th, from 5:00–6:30 p.m.

Enjoy a warm bowl of Harvest Stew with Beef, Chicken, Vegetable, and Gluten-Free options — all free of charge and served first come, first served.

A goodwill offering or non-perishable food donations are gratefully accepted to support local outreach.

Come share in good food, good company, and community spirit!

Join us for a delicious October luncheon featuring roast ham, baked potato, and beans, plus dessert — all for $17.50.

A vegetarian option will also be available.

Order by October 24
Email: picton902@gmail.com
Call: 902-422-7790

Don’t miss this tasty fall meal—reserve your spot today!

Join a welcoming, open-minded community for our first online conversation on Anger and Forgiveness, facilitated by Rev’d Canon Dr. Jody Clarke, Professor of Pastoral Theology at the Atlantic School of Theology.

Thursday, October 30, 2025
7:00–8:30 p.m. (AST)
On Zoom – Register by emailing soulstirringconversations@gmail.com to receive the link.

Come with an open heart and mind as we explore the emotions behind anger, empathy, and forgiveness in a safe and supportive space.

Join us for a fun-filled Festive Market featuring unique arts, crafts, delicious food, and more! It’s the perfect place to find special gifts, enjoy local talent, and get into the holiday spirit.
We hope to see you there!

Join Atlantic School of Theology for this year’s Nicholson Lecture Series with Dr. Sarah Han of Tyndale University, exploring “EPIC Preaching for the Harvest: Reframing Proclamation as Everyday Adventure.”

November 4 & 5, 2025
7:00 p.m. (AST)
In person at AST or online

This two-part series reimagines preaching as a shared adventure with God’s story—sparking imagination, compassion, and presence.

Register online: forms.office.com/r/FsjPGX22C6
Questions? Contact lydia.hood@astheology.ns.ca

Join us for music, readings, and a sing-along at Two Coves Café

Thursday, November 6
Café opens at 9 a.m. – Free coffee, tea, and muffins
Program begins at 10 a.m.

All are welcome to share in this time of reflection and community.

Join us for a Lunch and Learn on End-of-Life Planning with The Rev’d Keirsten Wells. Enjoy food, fellowship, and valuable information on wills, power of attorney, medical directives, funeral planning, and more.

Date: November 10, 2025
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: Church of Saint Andrew, 2 Circassion Dr., Cole Harbour

Please register by November 4 by emailing butterfly1@hfx.eastlink.ca with your name and phone number. A free-will offering will be gratefully accepted.

Get ready for a fun-filled day at the Penny Auction 

Doors Open: 12:00 PM
Draws Start: 2:00 PM

Join us for exciting prizes, great company, and an afternoon of entertainment. Everyone is welcome — bring your friends and family! Don’t miss out on the fun and the chance to take home fantastic items. See you there!

All Apostles by the Sea has an interest in aquiring some kneelers. A portion of the congregation would like to kneel during worship, and although we have some cushions, it would be nice to have purpose built kneelers. We would not need many, 5 or 10. If any community has some they could donate we would be grateful. Please contact, Rev. Blane Finnie at revfinnie@protonmail.com.

Hello everyone,

As the new editor of The Diocesan Times, I’m excited to connect with our parishes across Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

I want to hear your stories! If there’s something wonderful happening in your community – a special event, a new ministry, or a unique person to highlight – please get in touch. I'd love to work with you to write and promote your stories in the paper. You don’t have to write the stories yourself. I can do that for you. 

I look forward to hearing from you!

Jennifer Anandanayagam

Email me at 

diocesantimes@gmail.com or call 902-210-1460. Thank you! 

Halifax Parks & Recreation is hosting several free community development workshops this fall to train volunteers in the HRM region.  

These 2-hour seminars include:  

 - Neighbourhood Placemaking 101

 - Boards 101

 - Navigating Community Resources: Asset Mapping 101

 - Communication & Conflict Resolution

Workshops begin Oct. 1 and run several times with the final one being hosted on Dec. 3.

For more information visit:  https://www.halifax.ca/about-halifax/volunteering/leadership-community-training-opportunities

The Face of Poverty Consultation’s webinar for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty has been postponed. Instead, join the 2025 Housing Symposium: From Crisis to Commitment on Monday, October 20, 8:30 am–5:00 pm.

This annual event, hosted by the Halifax Housing and Homelessness Partnership and organized by United Way Maritimes with the Nova Scotia Non-Profit Housing Association, tackles urgent housing challenges across Nova Scotia and the Maritimes.

Attend in person or online. Register via Eventbrite: 2025 Housing Symposium Registration.

A new date for the postponed webinar will be shared in a future NetNews.

Join the Missional Imagination Network for a free webinar on October 23 (8–10 p.m. AT | 7–9 p.m. ET | 4–6 p.m. PT).

Discover how a mixed ecology approach can help churches be both missional and traditional, fostering growth and experimentation.

Featuring The Rev’d Ed Olsworth-Peters from the Church of England, sharing insights and practical tools for vibrant church life.

All are welcome — clergy, lay leaders, and anyone curious about the future of the church.
Register here.

For more information, contact The Rev’d Canon Dr. Ian Mobsby.

Ever wondered why we’re Anglicans? Join us for Anglicanism 101, a four-week series exploring our faith, history, and practices—with room for your questions, too!

Schedule: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
 October 7 – Introduction & A Brief History
 October 14 – Worship, Vestments & Holy Hardware
 October 21 & 28 – Your Requested Topics!

 Let us know if you’re coming—just so we can prep enough handouts.
email hello@anglicancathedralhalifax.ca

St. John’s Anglican Church in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, is seeking a Administrative Coordinator. This part-time role will support several aspects of parish life and is frequently the first point of contact for parishioners and the public, both in-person and via the church website.

The Administrative Coordinator is a part-time salaried position of 10 hours/week with compensation of $900/month. 

To Apply: Please submit your résumé and a brief cover letter outlining your qualifications to rector.stjohnswolfville@gmail.com. Application deadline: October 31, 2025.

The Diocese of NS and PEI Heating Oil Program with Irving Oil offers Churches of the Diocese and eligible Diocesan Clergy and Diocesan Staff a discounted rate based on non-profit status. This rate is not offered to individual Anglican parishioners. For more information, please contact: The Centralized Commercial Account Manager for the Diocesan Heating Oil Program, Ms. Sharon Williston by name at 1-888-310-1924 or by email Sharon.Williston@irvingoil.com 

The Furnace Oil price for the period  - Oct. 11, 2025 - Oct. 17, 2025.

Nova Scotia - $1.0214 Prince Edward Island - $1.0214