This has been a year of spiritual renewal and centennial celebrations at St. George Memorial, Oshawa. The motto for the year is posted on the church lawn: Honouring our past, renewing our present and building our future in Christ.
At the Sunday Eucharist on April 24, the Rev. Dr. Alvardo Adderley dedicated and blessed a beautiful new altar frontal, designed and stitched by long-time parishioner Bill Fitches and given in memory of two former dedicated parishioners, Nancy Miller and Eleanor Ireland. The frontal depicts the three incarnations of the parish. The two previous structures built in 1837 and 1852 are shown in sepia tones on either side of the colourful version of the present building, completed in 1924. To complement his splendid project, Mr. Fitches prepared a book showing the various stages of progress, from initial sketches to final unveiling. This book has been made available for all to see.
At that service, Mr. Adderley also celebrated all the volunteers who have contributed to worship and ministry at St. George’s throughout its history.
On May 4, St. George’s participated in Doors Open Oshawa. Visitors toured the historic church, listened to a series of organ and chime concerts, and enjoyed meeting with parishioners. Interestingly, the City of Oshawa was incorporated in 1924, sharing the centennial year celebrations.
On May 11, a festive choral evensong marked the actual date of the first worship service held in St. George’s one hundred years before. Many visitors celebrated together through song and worship, followed by a reception.
On May 16, Bishop Riscylla Shaw joined the parish for the induction of its newly arrived priest, the Rev. Dr. Alvardo Adderley. Special guests and members of Mr. Adderley’s former parish gathered with parishioners to celebrate the beginning of this new chapter in the long history of St. George’s. A happy reception followed.
As St. George’s centennial year continues, more special events are planned. Visit www.stgeorgesoshawa.com for details.
Submitted by St. George Memorial, Oshawa.
