The Rev. Canon Peter S. Macdonald
Published: October 09, 2020
The Rev. Canon Peter S. MacDonald began the next phase of his mystical journey by entering into the cosmos on October 6, 2020. Born in Halifax on November 23, 1930, he was one of six brothers, children of the late Fred and Kathleen (Neville). Peter was predeceased by his wife, Betty (Cousins); and his brothers, Donald (in infancy), Kirk, Michael and John. He is survived by his children, John (Judith), Beth (Jody), Greg (Marienna), Peter (Ronalda) and Kathleen (Paul); as well as his brother, Robert (Eleanor); sisters-in-law, Margery, Ruth, Rosemary and Anita. He enjoyed following the many adventure of his 11 grandchildren, Miranda, Noel, Peter, Emma, Maria, Emily, Connor, Peter, Eve, Nicholas and Chloe; and great-grandchild, Mcaleigh. Peter was in the possession of a profound and curious spirituality. As a priest he served in the parishes of Seaforth, Port Dufferin, Shelburne, Charlottetown and concluded his active ministry as Rector of Christ Church, Dartmouth. Peter brought his contemplative and gentle spiritual temperament to countless church committees and organizations. For many years he served as the Archdeacon of the Dartmouth and the Eastern Shore. Peter's spirituality was wonderfully eclectic, he had an appreciation for all spiritual paths. For Peter, God was the pure embodiment of love, and purpose of life's journey is to increase our capacity to love and care for others. Along with Betty, Peter consistently entered into the life of the various parishes he served with a sense of joy, possibility and a profound understanding of the importance of music. The musical expertise belonged largely to Betty, but Peter unequivocally supported Betty's various choirs. When asked about why his ministry was so successful, Peter replied by saying, "I would find people with gifts and then empower them to use them!" The encouragement of others was the hallmark of Peter's ministry. A product of the Cathedral Church of All Saints, Pete and his brothers grew up in Halifax where they played baseball, football and rugby. As he grew older Peter remained physically active taking up pilates, yoga, running, walking and finally cane dancing. The five MacDonalds, along with their brothers in arms, the Nichols and MacQuarrie brought a unique zest to their city. From his days attending Tower Road School through to Queen Elizabeth High, Peter thoroughly enjoyed the many adventures that the burgeoning city of Halifax could offer. Peter and his brothers grew up to be extremely active and deeply conscientious of every city in which they lived. Each recognized the grace of life that comes when people roll up their sleeves and get involved. The family is comforted in knowing the extent to which Peter touched the lives of so many. From a family standpoint, we have lost a dear father, wonderful grandfather, friend, spiritual north star, inspiration and the embodiment of humility. Due to the Covid restrictions a private family service will take place in Christ Church, Dartmouth on Saturday, October 10th. A public celebration of Peter's life will take place at a later date, when all of us can gather and sing. For those who would like to make an offering in memory of Peter, please consider the Foodbank at Christ Church. Canada Helps link for Christ Church online: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/parish-of-christ-church-dartmouth/ directed towards "Food bank." Or the general fund at Christ Church, Dartmouth by contact ing the parish office 902.466.4270, email: christchurch@ christchurchdartmouth.com Online condolences by visiting: www.dartmouthfuneralhome.ca
The Diocesan Synod Office is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday to Friday. Please email office@nspeidiocese.ca if you need assistance.