Schedule

Monday, November 17 - Day Off

Tuesday, November 18 - Monthly Meeting with Youth and Family Ministries Coordinator (pm)

Wednesday, November 19 - Advent Clergy Retreat

Rector, full-time, Apostles Halifax

Shared Ministry - Parish of St. John's Crapaud and the Parish of Milton and Rustico, 3/4 time

Appointments

Parish of Milton and Rustico- The Reverend David Butterworth has been appointed as Priest in Charge, effective November 1st, 2025 to April 30th, 2026

God willing and the people consenting on the Feast of St. Nicholas, 

Saturday, December 6^th, at 2:00 p.m. at The Cathedral Church of All Saints, Halifax

Bishop Sandra will ordain: Blane Finnie and Ruth MacNeil to the Sacred Order of Priests

and Wade Seymour and Christopher Tidd to the Sacred Order of Deacons

Your prayers and presence are requested for Blane, Ruth, Wade, and Christopher

as they prepare for their ordination and the vows and promises they will

each make before God and the gathered community.

Clergy and Licensed Lay Ministers are invited to vest and process. 

The liturgical colour is white.

No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us,

Strengthening Support for Parishes and Diocesan Operations

November 1, 2025 — Bishop Sandra Fyfe is pleased to announce several staffing updates and role adjustments within the Synod Office, effective November 1. These changes coincide with the establishment of a new leadership position—Director for Parish Relations, held by Mike MacKenzie.

Guided by our shared mission to participate in God’s reconciling work in the world through Jesus Christ, and our vision to create and sustain Christ-centered, mission-minded, ministering communities of faith, these developments reflect our continued commitment to strengthening parish support and enhancing the overall effectiveness of diocesan operations.

Our goal in implementing these staffing adjustments,” Bishop Sandra notes, “is to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of service with no interruption to the support and care provided to our parishes, clergy, and lay leaders.”

Jana Gauthier – Manager of Operations

Effective November 1, Jana Gauthier has been appointed Manager of Operations for the Synod Office. In this role, Jana will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Synod Office, offering leadership in administration, event planning, and records management. She will continue to foster collaboration across the staff team and support the overall efficiency of diocesan operations.

Jana will also serve as the Property Liaison for the sale and redevelopment of parish properties and has been appointed to the Anglican Diocesan Centre Board and the Building Management Committee. In addition, Jana has been appointed a Commissioner of Oaths.

New Email (as of Nov. 1): operations@nspeidiocese.ca

Tonia Wright – Executive Assistant

Tonia Wright has been appointed Executive Assistant, also effective November 1. Tonia will provide direct administrative support to the Synod Office Senior Leadership Team while continuing to welcome visitors to the Synod Centre and produce The Net News.

Her responsibilities include managing Bishop Sandra’s calendar, handling general correspondence, assisting the Bishop with Canon 25 processes (the hiring of Rectors), and supporting key administrative functions essential to the smooth operation of the Diocese.

Primary Contacts:
office@nspeidiocese.ca
bishopsoffice@nspeidiocese.ca

Mike MacKenzie – Director for Parish Relations

As previously announced, Mike MacKenzie has begun his work as Director for Parish Relations. In this newly defined senior leadership role, Mike will nurture, guide, and support communities of faith across the Diocese—including clergy, wardens, and lay leaders.

He will provide leadership for the Engage program and offer pastoral and administrative support to parishes, particularly during times of transition and change. Reporting directly to the Bishop, the Director for Parish Relations shares in the Bishop’s ministry of mission, pastoral care, teaching, and worship, working closely with Archdeacons and Regional Deans to promote healthy relationships and sustain vitality across the Diocese.

Email: parishrelations@nspeidiocese.ca
Office: 902-406-8995 Cell: 782-641-1795

Supporting Communication

To help ensure clarity and accessibility, the Synod Office has prepared a “Who to Contact” document (attached), outlining key areas of responsibility for each team member. This resource will be updated regularly as roles evolve. Suggestions and feedback are always welcome.

Please join us in congratulating Jana, Tonia, and Mike as they step into their new roles. We give thanks for their dedication, gifts, and ongoing service to the mission and ministry of our Diocese.

I would ask you to hold each of them—and our entire diocesan staff team—in your prayers in the days and weeks ahead.

The Right Reverend Sandra Fyfe
Diocesan Bishop, Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island

The next Anglican Foundation Grant deadlines are December 17^th 2025, April 24^th 2026,  October 9th, 2026.

Complete applications must be received by the Executive Secretary of Synod by those dates. execsecsynod@nspeidiocese.ca

Information for our Diocese in addition to the requirements from the Anglican Foundation

• The motion to move forward with this initiative from the minutes of council are required
• The Bishop does not compose her letter of support until after Diocesan Executive Council votes to forward the application.  This is taken care of within the Synod Office.
• The deadlines for applying are earlier than the dates on the Anglican Foundation website, as our applications must vetted by the committee, then brought to Diocesan Executive Council before they are sent to the foundation. Our dates are based on the dates the Diocesan Executive Council meets.
• If the grant application includes working with youth your vulnerable sector policies must be included in the application. 

To apply for a grant please go to the website  https://www.anglicanfoundation.org/apply/ 

and download all of the information to insure your application is complete.

Please feel free to send any questions to the

Executive Secretary of Synod, execsecsynod@nspeidiocese.ca

Does your heart break for some Christ-like principle or injustice? 

Deep down do you want to speak up for change?

You are not alone.  

Read, Find Your Prophetic Voice, written by Prince R. Rivers, editor at Alban at Duke Divinity.

The season of Advent is only a few weeks away. It is not too soon to prepare for special seasonal programs, studies and activities. Help parishioners and interested community members engage this preparation time meaningfully this year. 

Visit our Diocesan website for a wide variety of resources

The Flourishing Congregations Institute is hosting another interactive webinar titled, The Spiritual Discipline of Deconstruction.  

On Friday, Nov. 28 at 2 p.m. (AST)  join Angela Reitsma Bick, Editor of Christian Courier Magazine, for an interactive 45-minute webinar – 20-minute research presentation, 10-minute Q/A, & 15-minute guided conversation with a church leader respondent (optional 15-minutes after for networking) – about her recently released book Blessed are the Undone: Testimonies of the Quiet Deconstruction of Faith in Canada.

The Flourishing Congregations Institute is based in Calgary, AB, and its mandate is offering 'Canadian Data for Canadian Church Leaders'.  

For information and to register:   https://flourishingcongregations.org/the-spiritual-discipline-of-deconstruction/

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.

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.

Godly Play is a storytelling-based children’s ministry curriculum and program that encourages wonder, reflection, and exploration. At this day-long workshop, you’ll have time to experience Godly Play, hear about available resources and supports, and talk about how you might be able to use Godly Play in your parish!

Bring a bagged lunch and join us for this free workshop at St. John's Anglican Church in Truro (23 Church St., Truro NS).

Scroll down to download a poster for this event to share with your congregation!

NOTE: This event was originally scheduled for October, but had to be postponed due to illness. 

Young people are carrying a lot these days, and youth ministry often provides a place for them to open up and share what's going on with their leaders and peers. Join us for this zoom workshop about how to practice trauma informed listening with young people so that you can better provide a safe space for young people to feel heard and supported. 

Find more details and sign up for the workshop here. 

All are welcome to a soup supper and an engaging time of learning about this dark reality in our region and diocese: modern day slavery hidden in plain sight, hosted by Anglicans Powering Potential and the Outreach Committee of the Cathedral Church of All Saints. Halifax was among the five census metropolitan areas that accounted for almost half of all police-reported incidents of human trafficking in Canada from 2013 to 2023. The Rev'd Canon Keirsten Wells, Anti-Human Trafficking Advocate, will be our presenter. 

Think about key dates in November and their connection to the Anglican Communion's 4th Mark of Mission, the underpinning of Anglicans Powering Potential (APP): to seek to transform unjust structures of society, to challenge violence of every kind, and to pursue peace and reconciliation. Here are dates in November that remind us of the importance of giving life to the 4th Mark of Mission: November 18, the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence. November 20, both World Children’s Day and Transgender Day of Remembrance. November 23, 2025, White Ribbon Sunday, with the updated, more inclusive pledge never to commit, condone, or remain silent about all forms of gender-based violence and discrimination. It is the Sunday that introduces the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence (Nov. 25 – Dec. 10), with November 25, being the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Let's not conclude, however, that November is the only month to consider bringing to life the 4th Mark of Mission. Every month, every week, every day we are provided opportunities for justice, peace, and reconciliation building. Let's not squander these opportunities! 

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.

Looking for a midweek pick-me-up? Drop by St. James Anglican Church for an afternoon of fun, friendship, and refreshments at James Games & Café!

Bring your own cards, board games, or join in on the ones provided — there’s always laughter, good company, and a fresh pot of coffee waiting.

All are welcome — come play, chat, and unwind in a relaxed and friendly space!

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 for a moving evening honouring those who served and commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the North End Services Canteen.

Featuring the outstanding Scotia Brass, with soloists and readers, this special program will combine stirring music and heartfelt readings that pay tribute to courage, sacrifice, and remembrance.

Tickets: $15 Adults $10 Students

Tickets may be reserved by calling the church at 902-454-0207, through members of the ensemble, or purchased at the door.

Join us for an evening of great music, warm company, and community spirit at St. James Anglican Church

Friday, November 14th, 7:00–9:30 PM
Free will offering in support of the Helping Hands Fund

Enjoy performances by local stars and talented musicians in a cozy coffee house atmosphere. Seating is limited to 60 guests, so come early — first come, first served!

Come for the coffee, stay for the music, and help make a difference in our community.

Get ready for the holiday season at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, 3 Dakin Drive, Halifax!
Join us on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for our annual Christmas Craft Fair.

Browse a wonderful selection of beautiful, high-quality handmade goods, along with baking and preserves — perfect for holiday gifting (or keeping for yourself!).

Admission: Adults $3.00 | Children Free
Door Prizes!

Visit www.stpetersbirchcove.org for more details.

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!

Join us for an afternoon of fun and fellowship on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. 

Enjoy a chicken burger, chips, beverage, and sweet treat, plus a Bake Sale, Preserves, Crafts, and Tickets on a Gift Basket.
Music by Riversong!

Admission: $12.00
For tickets, leave a message at the church office: (902) 435-1880
Tickets are limited – get yours now!
Wheelchair accessible.

Join us for a delicious Turkey Supper on Friday, November 15th from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Enjoy a hearty meal of turkey with all the fixings, followed by gingerbread for dessert.
Cost: $20 per person

Bring your family and friends for a warm meal and good company — all are welcome!

Registration fee is $60.

Registration closes November 16.

Keynote speaker: Hope Swinimer, Founder and Director of Hope for Wildlife.  

Features a wide selection of engaging workshops designed for volunteers, board members, and nonprofit leaders.

Skip the cooking and enjoy a hearty homemade meal from St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Halifax!

Enjoy a delicious supper of Baked Beans, Ham, and Brown Bread, topped off with Gingerbread for dessert — ready to heat and eat in the comfort of your home!

Tickets: Adults $15.00, Children $5.00, Vegetarian Option $10.00

Advance orders only!
Please reserve by noon on Wednesday, November 19:
Call 902-454-0207 or  Email stmarkshfx@gmail.com

Bring home the comfort of a St. Mark’s supper — warm, hearty, and made with love!

Enjoy a delicious Roast Turkey Dinner at home!

Menu: Roast turkey, dressing, potatoes, carrots, peas, turnip, cranberry sauce, roll, gravy, and dessert.

Pricing: Adult: $18, Child: $8

Order Deadline: November 17, Phone: Elaine L at 902-865-4727 or Email: Through the link on our website stfrancisbythelakes.ca

Pick-Up: November 22, 4:00 – 5:30 PM

Join us for an evening of festive music and community spirit!
Saturday, November 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $30 — Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

For tickets, please contact: Joanna – (902) 495-8883, Sharon – (902) 789-6515 or Derrick – (902) 877-4034

Come celebrate the joy of the season with Dunnery Bond and friends!

St. Francis by the Lakes is excited to present John Snyder live in concert! John, a proud inductee of the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame, will be joined by special guests for an afternoon of great music.

The concert takes place on Saturday, November 29, from 2:00 to 4:30 PM. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door, and can also be purchased via e-transfer through our website stfrancisbythelakes.ca.

For more information or to arrange ticket sales, you can contact John Snyder at 902-430-0253 or Elaine Bishop at 902-864-3634. Don’t miss this wonderful afternoon of Nova Scotia country and Christmas music!

Join us for a wonderful night featuring Peter Grant, Shaun Richards, and Mike Purdy!

Admission by donation – all proceeds support St. Luke’s Christmas Hamper Program

Enjoy great music, a cash bar, and a silent auction!
Presented by St. Luke’s Outreach Mission Group.

Get into the holiday spirit at the Atlantic Sound Machine "FUN"draiser Christmas Concert, supporting refugee sponsorship! Enjoy the big band sounds of Atlantic Sound Machine—and don’t be shy, dancing is encouraged!

Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM

Tickets: $10 – contact Alice at 902-440-6767 or purchase at the door.

During intermission, enjoy coffee, tea, and treats with a goodwill offering—donations are kindly accepted. A Silent Auction will also take place, with proceeds supporting the Mother’s Union 150th Anniversary.

Presented in partnership with St. James Anglican Church and St. Timothy’s Anglican Church, this promises to be a festive evening full of music, community, and fun!

St. Alban’s Anglican Church invites you to enjoy a delicious Christmas take-out dinner on Thursday, December 11th.

Pick-Up Time: 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.            Tickets: $20.00

Your festive meal includes turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, vegetables, gravy, cranberry sauce, a roll, and dessert — all ready to enjoy in the comfort of your home.

To order your dinner: Call Shirley at 902-463-6018, Email stalbans@bellaliant.com, or phone the church office at 902-463-2493.

Order deadline: December 8th

Celebrate the season with a taste of Christmas from St. Alban’s!

Please send resume to :  Reverend Dorothy Miller

dorothybmiller7@gmail.com

Join AST’s team and help support facilities, IT, student services, and HR operations.
Start Date: January 5, 2026
Full-time, permanent | $54,000–$68,000 + benefits & hybrid work
Degree/diploma in business admin + 3 years’ management experience required

Apply by Nov. 24, 2025 – send your cover letter & resume to president@astheology.ns.ca.
Learn more: www.astheology.ns.ca

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

Atlantic School of Theology’s Recruitment Coordinator, Lydia Hood, is heading to Prince Edward Island for two special events. If you’re exploring ministry, theological education or spiritual leadership, come meet us.

Charlottetown Stop

Thursday, November 20, St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Summerside Stop

Friday, November 21, Trinity United Church, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Can't make an event? Lydia Hood is also available for one-on-one visits or to drop by your church or community group! Just reach out to her in advance to connect.

Email Lydia: lydia.hood@astheology.ns.ca

Two Education for Ministry (EfM) online groups are launching in the new year:
• Sunday Group with Rev. Paula Porter Leggett (Diocese of New Westminster) – 3:30 p.m. PT / 7:30 p.m. Atlantic
• Tuesday Group with David Harrison (Diocese of NS & PEI) – 7:00 p.m. Atlantic

EfM offers two study paths:
EfM Classic – a four-year, fully digital formation program exploring scripture, theology, and reflection.
EfM Wide Angle – a one-year program for newcomers or graduates continuing their faith journey.

EfM helps lay people deepen faith, discern vocation, and grow in discipleship within a supportive learning community.

For more info, contact David Harrison at djh@djharrison.ca
Visit efmcanada.ca
Recruiting now through January 4, 2026.

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  - Nov. 8, 2025 - Nov. 14, 2025.

Nova Scotia - $1.0975 Prince Edward Island - $1.0975