On Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the beautiful Canterbury Hills Camp, the Diocese of Niagara hosted a joyful and memorable celebration, the 150th Anniversary Diocesan Picnic. This milestone event was part of a year-long series of celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of our beloved diocese. The event brought together families, friends, clergy, camp alumni, camp staff, and volunteers from all corners of the region for a day of faith, fun, and fellowship. It was more than just a picnic; it was a heartfelt reminder of the deep community that has flourished in this diocese over the past century and a half.
The day began with spiritual grounding and reflection. Attendees were invited to join Bishop Susan for prayers in the Outdoor Chapel, setting a serene and uplifting tone for the day. Also, during this time of prayer, Alison Steele (children, youth, and family coordinator, from St. David’s Welland) led a Godly Play session focused on the story of Creation. The session offered a meaningful and engaging experience for families that blended faith with imagination and wonder.
To conclude this time of worship, Bishop Susan gathered the community for a Ceremonial Tree Planting, a touching moment and lasting tribute to the diocese’s deep roots, both physically and spiritually. More than a symbolic gesture, the planting reflected our growing commitment to Creation care, in alignment with the Communion Forest initiative championed by Climate Justice Niagara. This initiative has already inspired several parishes to engage in tree-planting projects, ecological assessments, and long-term environmental stewardship. In this context, the ceremonial planting stood as a living sign of the diocese’s dedication to climate justice and faithful action.
With hearts filled from meaningful prayer, the day blossomed into a vibrant celebration of food, games, and joyful connection. For those looking to kick back and enjoy classic picnic fun, the event did not disappoint. The Lions Hall hot dog stand drew a steady crowd, while the cotton candy station was a favourite among the young and young-at-heart. Face painting, arts and crafts, and lawn games kept guests engaged, and carnival games added an extra layer of excitement. Whether it was a fierce match in the Gaga Ball tournament or high-energy relay races, including picnic favourites like the three-legged race and potato sack race, there was truly something for everyone to enjoy.
In addition to the fun activities, the picnic was also a time for giving. Throughout the day, guests were encouraged to support the Anniversary Curacy Fund, an initiative launched by Bishop Susan Bell. The fund provides newly ordained clergy with opportunities to serve alongside experienced priests in parishes and missions, building confidence, skills, and leadership for the future of our diocese. Donations to this important effort are still welcome and greatly appreciated.
The spirit of the day was captured in the words of the attendees.
“Being able to see people from different ages, parishes and communities come together to celebrate our diocese was something special,” shared Hannah Keller (St. George’s Guelph). “The sense of community, faith, and joy in the air was incredible.”
Picnic volunteer and much-loved Synod staff member Jane Wyse reflected: “It was wonderful to speak with camp alumni who attended the picnic. They were so excited to be back on site and to see how things have changed.” She added, “The event was a fantastic way to meet new and familiar faces, and to reconnect. Everyone did a great job; it truly was a wonderful day for all.”
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers and staff made the day possible. From early planning meetings to setup, parking lot management, hot dog grilling, tech support, and activity coordination, the event team worked incredibly hard to ensure every detail was thoughtfully executed. Their care and collaboration made the day not just successful, but truly meaningful.
One especially beautiful aspect of the planning process was the way it brought together children, youth, and family ministry coordinators from across the diocese. Their collaboration sparked new friendships, shared inspiration for parish ministry, and highlighted the many gifts and talents alive in our diocesan family.
As the day wrapped up, the most common question was: “When is the next one?” The overwhelming enthusiasm spoke to the joy and connection felt by all. Reflecting on the day, Sarah Bird (picnic lead and diocesan missional formation coordinator) shared: “This picnic celebrates not only our past 150 years, but the ongoing vibrancy of our diocesan community. I look forward to many more moments like this together.” From heartfelt prayers to playful games, the picnic was a joyful celebration of faith, fellowship, and the strong roots of our diocesan family. Here’s to many more years of shared ministry and community!
Red Maple Leaves