Schedule

Thursday, April 30 - Meeting and lunch with clergy of the Cape Breton region; regional potluck supper, Church of the Good Shepherd, Dominion (5pm) with open conversation with the bishop and social time afterwards

Friday, May 1 - Travel to Neil's Harbour; one on one time with clergy

Saturday, May 2 - Parish meeting and potluck supper

Sunday, May 3 - Parish Visits - St. John's Ingonish (10am), Parish of Neil's Harbour; Parish of St. John the Baptist, North Sydney (7pm)

Monday, May 4 - Day Off

Tuesday, May 5 - Administration/Catch up (am), In-Person Archdeacons and Regional Deans Meeting (pm)

Wednesday, May 6 - In-Person Archdeacons and Regional Deans Meeting

Bishop Sandra will be away from the synod office from Monday, April 13 to Monday, May 4 inclusive for regional visits in Rivers to Trails and Cape Breton, Sunday parish visits, and to attend the national house of bishops’ spring gathering. During this time, she will not have regular access to email and will only be available for emergencies. Please direct all pastoral and administrative queries to your archdeacon or regional dean, or as necessary to Mike MacKenzie, director for parish relations, by emailing parishrelations@nspeidiocese.ca.   

Openings

Full-Time Rector - Parish of St. Peter's, Charlottetown

Full-Time Rector - Parish of Christ Church, Amherst

Full-Time Incumbent - Parish of St. Luke's Hubbards & Parish of Blandford

Shared Ministry of the Parish of Digby, The Anglican Church of Canada and Rivers of Grace Pastoral Charge, The United Church of Canada

PURPOSE: To provide for development and/or expansion in new growth areas at the parish, regional or diocesan level; to provide seed monies for experiential and/or new forms of ministry; to provide seed money for projects that foster engagement with the wider community and the gospel; to provide funding for Outreach Ministry which touches the lives of those in need in society in general.

AMOUNT: All grants and loans are subject to the availability of funds.

DEADLINE: April 30th

APPLICATION: Download form to be completed, including a budget. See Policy 2.2.9 Growth for Ministry Fund - Governing Regulations and Application for Funding (Revised February 2017) Please mail completed forms to the Synod Office or email to Tonia's attention at office@nspeidiocese.ca

The Diocese is developing a new five-year strategic plan, and we need your voice! As we enter this important season of discernment, we are exploring one central question: What future do we want to shape together for the Diocese, and what will it take to get there?

Parishioners, lay leaders, and clergy are invited to an in-person or on-line gatherings to reflect on day-to-day parish life and ensure our new strategic plan reflects local realities. Everyone is welcome. No special preparation or expertise is required—just your care for the future of the Church!

Why Attend? This is a space to imagine the future and name what we want to grow over the next five years. By attending, you will:

• Help shape the priorities and direction of the Diocese.

• Share your hopes and aspirations for parish life in your region.

• Share ideas on how the Diocese can be more connected and supportive.

• Discern together where God may be calling the Church next.

Your perspective is vital. Please join us in this hopeful, collaborative conversation!

To register by phone, call 902-420-0717. 

If you have questions or require additional information, please contact:
thereforewehavehope@gmail.com

Congregational leaders are asking questions about how to use their church buildings for more than one hour per week. Several parishes are opening up their facilities to serve the needs of their neighbours. 

Read this article of how a small church turned outward and generously blessed their communities.

From empty pews to packed programs: A Driftless area church becomes a multigenerational community hub, written by Joe Timmerman.

Our Diocesan Pathways to Peace Retreat is a quiet and inspiring weekend getaway.  

Theme: Deepening Faith

Dates: Friday (evening), May 29 – Sunday (morning), May 31

Location: Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB

ONLY A FEW SEATS LEFT!  COST: $195 Offsite - $100

Registration Includes: 2 nights accommodations in a newly renovated residence, 5 delicious meals, retreat program, chapel worship, materials, and more!

Main talks feature teachings inspired by Henri Nouwen (1932–1996), the beloved spiritual writer and pastor who spent his final years at L’Arche Daybreak in Ontario. Bishop Sandra Fyfe, postulant Ken MacIntosh (Berwick), Rev. Cathy Pharo (Summerside), and postulant Rob Paddock (Dartmouth) lead the main sessions, joined by additional clergy and lay leaders throughout the weekend.

Break‑out session options are silent guided meditation; imaginative prayer led by a facilitator; and scripture reflection with shared insights. 

A beautiful worship, Service of Healing & Wholeness, is hosted on Saturday evening with Rev. Carl Fraser. Saturday night includes a Kitchen Party hosted by Gail Teixiera. All sessions are optional, allowing each person to shape the retreat to their own needs. 

Register:   https://dnspeidatabase.elvanto.eu/form/177f127a-97f6-4515-a7b9-8e89457e60a0

 Got questions?  Call 902-789-4840 or e-mail  missiondirector@nspeidiocese.ca 

Join the world-wide movement of prayer from 14th May - 24th May.

In these chaotic, turbulent and violent times, PRAYER is essential.

Thy Kingdom Come is a global ecumenical prayer movement to pray from Ascension to Pentecost. What started in 2016 as an invitation from the Archbishops of Canterbury and York to the Church of England has grown into an international call to prayer. This 10^th anniversary year's theme is 'God with us'. 

Visit the website for information, videos, and free resources.

Join in this 2-day conference and conversation designed to spark imagination and diolouge around the creative use of church buildings and land. 

Together we want to change the narrative of decline around Canada's church lands and properties, into storylines about the renewal of church communities through the reimagined use of assets for flourishing neighbourhoods and rural and urban well being.

Scan the QR code above to register.

www.reimagineclc.ca

Due to an unexpected family commitment, our scheduled retreat leader had to cancel, but we are delighted to announce our new retreat leader and theme: Exploring the power of healing – in the Gospels, in the church, and in our lives. Through talks, meditations and group and individual exercises, the Rev. Dr. Kate Heichler, from our Cathedral of All Saints, will lead us in contemplating this ancient ministry and how it might invigorate our spiritual lives, churches and ministries in our wider communities. There will be opportunities for learning, for practice, for receiving healing prayer and for offering it, along with plentiful time for rest and recharging in the beautiful surroundings of Stanley Bridge, Prince Edward Island. Online registration is now open via link: https://forms.gle/CLLHTNxVXS2f6baUA

Retreat runs from June 8th 4pm to June 12th after breakfast at Our Lady of Hope Retreat Centre.

Retreat costs: $540 paid directly to the retreat center upon arrival, and an additional non-refundable registration fee of $25.

Join us for our Alongside Hope 2026 Diocesan gathering at St. John's Bedford on May 16th. 

This year we are excited to welcome staff members from Alongside Hope to come and join us for our annual Alongside Hope parish rep gathering. If your parish does not currently have a representative for Alongside Hope, you are welcome to come and learn more about Alongside Hope as we gather together and take advantage of this opportunity to hear more about the projects and work that is being done thanks to the volunteers and the ministry of Anglicans here, across Canada, and our partners around the world. 

Lunch is provided. Please RSVP by May 9^th 2026. 

Alongside Hope Diocesan Gathering 2026 REGISTRATION – Fill out form 

alongsidehope@nspeidiocese.ca 

Red Dress Day - May 5

No More Stolen Sisters

Honour the Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls & 2S+

Join the Memorial March. All are welcome. Wear red.

12 noon. The short march loop starts at the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre, 2021 Brunswick St.

Smudging, drumming, and food at the MNFC after the Memorial March 

Questions? E-mail: violenceprevention@mymnfc.com

https://www.nspeidiocese.ca/news/shape-our-future-diocesan-strategic-planning

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. David Deane as the institution’s new Academic Dean, effective July 1, 2026. Dr. Deane is a well-known voice in public theology and a long-standing member of the Halifax academic community. A versatile teacher, Dr. Deane’s expertise spans Roman Catholic Theology, Christian doctrine, Moral Theology, Apologetics, and Christian anarchism. He is a prominent voice in public theology, frequently providing commentary for radio and television and contributing to major international publications, including the Times of London, the Irish Times, and the Irish Independent.

Read the Website Story HERE

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.

Spring updates  

Join St. Margaret of Scotland Church on Thursday, April 30, for a Casserole Luncheon from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

Enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal in good company. Admission is $12, with a reduced rate of $10 for students and seniors.

Join an open and affirming community from the Anglican Church of NS & PEI for an online conversation on Hope & Resilience in Times of Chaos, facilitated by Stephen Doucet Campbell, MA, RCT, RP. Taking place Thursday, April 30 from 7:00–8:30 PM (AST) on Zoom, this session will explore how to stay grounded, curious, and hopeful in an uncertain world. All are welcome to this safe, respectful space. Register at soulstirringconversations@gmail.com to receive the Zoom link. Supported by the Prospect Road Recreation Association.

Join us Saturday, May 2, from 9 AM to 12 PM for a free community clothing swap!

Enjoy complimentary coffee, muffins, and a barbecue while you browse. Bring clothing to share if you can—but most importantly, come and take what you need!

Come out and enjoy the annual St. Luke’s Mayfest Indoor Yard and Bake Sale—a great community event happening rain or shine! Browse a wide selection of yard sale treasures and treat yourself to delicious homemade baked goods. There’s something for everyone.

• Please bring your own reusable shopping bags
• Cash only
• Please – no early birds
• Wheelchair accessible

For more information, visit twocoves.ca or follow @TwoCovesHubbards on social media.

Come find a bargain, enjoy some baking, and support a great community event!

We are joining with Spencer House to host a screening of a powerful short film about some of the losses involved in aging, A Soft Touch, and a community conversation about how we can build a region where older adults can thrive, stay connected, and continue to share their gifts and wisdom. Reservations welcome here. 

All Saints Cathedral is joining with Spencer House, an agency supporting seniors, to host a screening of a powerful short film about some of the losses involved in aging. A Soft Touch was recognized at the Toronto International Film Festival. Following the 20-minute film, we will have a community conversation about how we can build a region where older adults can thrive, stay connected, and continue to share their gifts and wisdom. Reservations welcome here. 

Gather, relax, and raise a glass to the Class! Join alumni, graduates, special guests, and families for a relaxed social gathering with light refreshments on the eve of Convocation. During this event, we will present student prizes and awards as well as the Rev. Alison Etter Memorial Fund grants, which support alumni projects that promote peace. We will also celebrate other accomplishments across the AST community. 

You are cordially invited to the 2026 Atlantic School of Theology Convocation. Please join us as we celebrate the achievements of our graduating class and the callings they are answering as they move into the world.

A reception will follow the ceremony. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Joining us from afar? A link for the YouTube Live Stream will be shared closer to the date for those who wish to join us online.

Celebrate Mother’s Day at a Tea & Lunch on Saturday, May 9, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at St. Luke’s Parish Hall, 10 Shore Club Road. Enjoy a welcoming afternoon of food and fellowship—everyone is invited, whether you’re a mom or not! Admission is by donation, with proceeds supporting Harbour House. Presented by St. Luke’s Outreach Mission Group.

Time Out for Women Open House/ Closing of this term will be on Monday, May 11th at St. Luke's Anglican, 9 Veterans Ave, Dartmouth from 1 - 3 p.m. in the Church Hall.

All are welcome to join the crafters, to see their work and enjoy refreshments together.

The next session of Time Out for Women will begin September 14, 2026.

Free will offering at the door.

St. Andrew's Anglican Church is pleased to host: 

1st Annual Art Show and Sale, Friday evening, May 29, 7-9pm and Saturday, May 30, 10am - 5 pm.

Are you a local artist looking for a place to exhibit your work? If so, we would love to hear from you!

For more information contact Sylvia Knight @ 902-521-9471 or by email at sknight2013@icloud.com

Holy Trinity Anglican Church is hosting a yard sale on Saturday, May 16th from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm

Please join us for a Spring Luncheon on Saturday, May 16 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. 

Meal includes Ham, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Roll & a Lemon Dessert. Meal can be eat in or take out.

Each meal costs $12.00, Call 902-760-0729 to book your meal.

Join St. James' Yellow Church on May 16th from 9am - 12 noon for a plant giveaway.

Free will offering in support of community youth activities.

St. George’s Anglican Church in New Glasgow will mark a significant milestone this spring, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Licensing of Lay Licensed Ministers (LLMs).

The commemorative service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2026, recognizing five decades since the original licensing in May 1976. The occasion will honor the contributions and dedication of LLMs who have served the church and community over the years.

As part of the celebration, a historical photo from the 1976 licensing will be shared, offering a glimpse into the church’s rich history and the individuals who helped shape its ministry.

Following the service, all attendees are invited to a reception to continue the celebration and fellowship.

Join us for our Annual Event

The Rural Routes Through the Holy Annual Gathering is more than an event—it’s a space for renewal, inspiration, and community.

We offer a haven of support for lay leadership, clergy and those all who offer their gifts in rural settings.

If you’re feeling isolated, fatigued, or looking for new ways to nurture your faith community, this 3-day gathering is for you.

Each year, we meet in a different province within the Maritimes, creating a welcoming environment where rural congregations can come together to share their stories, worship together, and explore new ideas for the future of the church.

Click HERE to register

On behalf of Rev. Gary Barr and the entire congregation of St. John's Anglican Church, we are pleased to extend a warm invitation to all past clergy and parishoners as well as anyone with a connection to The Little Church with the Big Heart to join us in celebratins the 235th anniversary of our parish. The celebration will take place on Sunday, June 28, 2026, beginning with a Service of Thanksgiving at 10am, followed by a festive reception at the Parish Hall of St. John's Church, 1215 Main St., Dartmouth, NS.

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  - Apr. 25, 2026 - May 1, 2026

Nova Scotia - $1.4160 Prince Edward Island - $1.4160