Across two services this past November, 54 laity were inducted by Bishop Susan Bell into the Order of Niagara.
Welcoming the inductees, Bishop Susan expressed her deep gratitude for their service, “I say this truly, without these examples of service in which we see the light of Christ, there would be no ministry of the Church to speak of. You are the Church…thank you all for all that you give, and all that you do in Christ’s name, but most of all, thank you for who you are.”
For 25 years, the Order of Niagara has served as a meaningful way to honour the vital ministries of laity who show faithful dedication, making substantial contributions to ministry and communities.
Clergy across the diocese nominate members of their parish or mission who have given of themselves, their time, talents, and service to their parishes, the diocese, their communities, and the wider Church. The bishop may also select laity to appoint to the order.
Members of the order are awarded a medalion which they are invited to wear to diocesan services and events, and when the bishop visits their parish. They also earn the O.N. letters in their title after their name.
Below are just a few examples of the extraordinary service that was recognized in November.
Trafalgar Region
Jane Elphick St. Simon’s, Oakville
An active member of St. Simon’s for more than 40 years, Jane led or assisted in organizing many fundraisers, cabarets and dances. She has been a leader in many parish outreach initiatives and partnerships, including summer barbecues and Christmas toy drives with Front Line Outreach, the Oakville Interfaith Food Drive, and dinners at Kerr Street Mission. For 25 years, with her husband Ted, she has bought groceries for the school breakfast program at Montclair School. She was one of the founders of the Altruists of Oakville, which raised more than a million dollars for Oakville charities.
Winston Tinglin St. Christopher’s, Burlington
Winston Tinglin has been an active member of St. Christopher’s for many years, serving as a warden, property chair, a member of the communications and stewardship teams, and as a choir member. Winston has served the diocese as a member of Synod Council, FAC, and as an Anti-Racism training facilitator. Working in government and then as CEO at United Way Halton & Hamilton, Winston has made significant contributions to community engagement projects and to strengthening the non-profit sector across the region. These contributions included service as interim executive director at St. Matthew’s House. A gifted man of deep faith, Winston embodies the values of the Order of Niagara.
Greater Wellington
Tammy Rutherford St. James, Fergus
Tammy Rutherford is faithful and spirit-filled, offering wise and meaningful contributions to the life of St. James. As a lay reader and server, she embodies the text, bringing a sense of sacredness to each moment of worship. Her presence helps the congregation enter into the mystery of worship with reverence and grace, as she speaks to and welcomes the divine into the midst. Beyond the sanctuary, Tammy nurtures community in tangible ways. She coordinates the use of the community garden plots on the St. James property, ensuring that what grows there is more than produce – it is connection, care, and shared purpose. As rector’s warden, Tammy brings invaluable gifts of discernment, leadership, and steady commitment. Her service reflects a deep faith and a wholehearted dedication to the flourishing of the parish.
Hamilton-Haldimand
Marline Sarjeant St. James, Dundas
Marline Sarjeant approaches life with infectious joy and humour and is a key leader at St. James and in the wider community. Aside from the breadth of committees and projects Marline is involved with at St. James, including refugee settlement, children’s ministry, parish council, and the Holiday House Tour, Marline gives back through track and field coaching, helping with the athletic development of children through the CANUSA games and Special Olympics; all while nurturing a household and managing a business career. Professionalism, patience, and Christ-like compassion exemplify Marline.
Brock
Nicole Ebert St. James & St. Brendan, Port Colborne
Nicole Ebert is tireless as the coordinator of Food with Friends, St. James & St Brendan’s community meal program, ensuring smooth collaboration among teams from five area churches. She also leads her parish’s team with dedication. Nicole is a driving force behind the Blessing Box, a no-questions-asked food and necessities distribution point. She is well known for organizing garage sales that support both Food with Friends and other causes. Additionally, Nicole is active in the social & fundraising committee and the Port Colborne Garden Club. Her leadership has made Port Colborne a kinder and more vibrant community.
Lincoln
Barbara Davidson Church of the Transfiguration, St. Catharines
Barbara Davidson is one of the founding members of the parish and holds the distinction of being its first female warden. She has been actively involved in every aspect of church life, from leadership and worship to parish events and groups. She is a member and was treasurer of the Wednesday Morning Group, which organizes receptions and dinners. For over 25 years, she served as a team leader for the breakfast program at St. George’s. Beyond the church, Barbara also volunteered with the St. Catharines Hospital Auxiliary and Community Care. Her lifelong faithfulness and service stand as a powerful example of dedication and generosity. And this year, she celebrates her 100th birthday – a remarkable milestone for a truly remarkable person.
Happy 100th Birthday, Barbara!
The Holly Bears a Berry