Reverend Norman Thomas, B.A. M.Th.

Rev. Norman Thomas, B.A. M.Th.

ANNUAL REPORT 2008

Workshops:

During the Fall of 2007, I led a six week course on "The Heart of Christianity” based on a book by Marcus Borg, by that title. During the Spring of 2008 I led another six week course which concluded our study of Borg’s book.

Early in 2008, I became part of a committee set up to look at enhancing the future of our local pastoral change. The Visioning Committee designed and circulated a questionnaire which culminated in a week end workshop.

Outreach:

During the Summer we became aware of the activity of several mining companies, who were starting to stake out uranium mining sites. I, along with many local people and cottagers have been meeting for the purpose of asking the Provincial Government to change the Federal Mining Act so as to protect private property.

I was also involved in our local Food Bank, both during the year, and especially at Christmas time.

This year I hope to become involved in providing leadership to a group of fathers in conjunction with the local Mental Health office.

Weddings:

It was my privilege to perform the weddings of 21 couples this past year. The marriages took place in a variety of settings. Some weddings took place at cottages, resorts, camp sites, and even in the middle of a lake. The couples chose these settings for a variety of reasons. The fact that they had the freedom to chose where, and when the ceremonies took place, gave them a sense of fulfillment and completeness. I enjoyed the variety of settings, along with the sincerity with which the couples approached their ceremonies.

In conclusion, I want to acknowledge the role of The All Seasons Church of Canada in providing me with a vehicle which has allowed me to meet a variety of couples at the point of their need. Some of the couples have come to me from a mixed religious background and need the neutrality which All Seasons provides; some have come from a mixed ethnic background, and need to find a way of bringing their two cultures together in a sympathetic yet meaningful way.

I am looking forward to the coming year, and to the opportunities which I am sure will come my way to be used to another group of couples who are looking to use our unique service.

Sincerely

Norman S. Thomas

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