The report has been prepared and all is being prepared for our annual Vestry meeting. The date is Sunday February 10 at 11am. We will be meeting in the church.

Here is my Rector’s report as a little preview:

2018 was a very eventful year at St. George’s.

In February, we had the award winning music duo Infinitely More provide inspiring music and leadership at both the 9:30 and 11:15 services and our Diocese elected our new Bishop Susan Bell.

In May, we celebrated the ministry of The Rev’d Nancy Rowe, who retired in July as Assistant Priest. We are very pleased that Nancy has not left the parish and has transitioned into a position of Messy Church Coordinator and Honorary Assistant here at St. George’s. That said, without the support of an assistant priest, a number of changes and a reduction of some areas of ministry has been necessary.

In September, I hosted two Sunday meetings for the 11:15 service, which led to an adjustment to the pattern of monthly worship. We have been worshipping on the 1st and 3rd Sunday’s of the month since October and our conversation has helped renew attendance and volunteering at the Contemporary service.

In November, our beautiful new nativity figures carved by Robbin Wenzoski, were delivered and an official service to bless them was held in December. I am so grateful for the hard work and leadership of Rick Gorski for seeing this project through. The Nativity scene’s beauty proclaimed Jesus’ birth both day and night.

It has been for me another year of having the humble honour of being your parish priest.

Looking ahead at 2019, I am sorry that our projected revenue will not enough to allow us fill the staffing positions of music director or assistant Priest. This may be something we could still consider in future if the right opportunities arise and our financial position allows.

Finances aside, St. George’s continues to be blessed with an amazing group of volunteers, as all the work highlighted in this vestry report attests to. From our spectacular Bazaar to the monthly Fresh Food Box volunteers, our volunteers enable our good work and help us proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ in the community!

I wish to thank the warden’s Ian Oldaker, Paul Skuriat, Mark Kohler, and Jan Lehman, and our treasurer, Brenda Sisnett for their continued support and leadership. Also, I continue to give thanks for Sue Graham for her hard work and support as our parish administrative assistant.

Peace,

The Rev’d Canon Robert W.A. Park