Learning about their new diocese

Canon Terry DeForest (left), Vision Advocate and Director of Human Resources for Niagara Diocese, organised the day long New 2 Niagara orientation event. Clergy attending included the Reverend Leonel Abaroa-Boloña, Assistant Curate of St. John the Evangelist and Church of the Ascension Hamilton; the Reverend Michelle Boomgaard, Rector of St. Christopher’s Burlington; the Reverend Paul Walker, Rector of St. John the Evangelist Elora; and the Reverend Audrius Sarka, Rector St. Paul’s Dunnville and The Dunn Parish. Photo: Hollis Hiscock

Hollis Hiscock

on May 9, 2018

Topics: Diocese of Niagara, Leadership

In a compact four hour time frame, recently appointed clergy were given everything they need to know, and more, to be effective in Niagara Diocese.

The New 2 Niagara orientation started with a tour of Cathedral Place to familiarize the clergy with the physical facility. Along the way they were introduced to the personnel who would be their contacts for information and resources about a myriad of topics.

They ended their tour in the crypt, containing the columbarium and chapel.

Back in the Niagara Room, they heard about liturgical and sacramental protocols as related to same sex weddings, assisted dying, confirmations and ecumenical partnerships.

Employees’ services, including pensions, lay employment information and other benefits, were discussed.

Cathedral cleaning — On the tour, the new clergy met many of the diocesan staff, including Cleaner/Housekeeper Lisa Wilson. She has served in that capacity for over five years and walks up to six kilometres daily to complete her work. When asked to describe all her duties, she smiled and with a laugh said, “Anything else that no one else will do, I do.” Photo: Hollis Hiscock

They learned about annual and legacy giving, leadership workshops and other tools available to strengthen parish stewardship.

Managing conflict and the support obtainable from Archdeacons, Administrators and the Bishop were explained.

Everything the new clergy needed to know about finances, data collections and reporting procedures formed a significant portion of the day.

The day was rounded out with information about programs for youth and families, a primer for justice making, resources for congregational support and development, safe church protocol, communications, continuing education programs and much more.