Trinity Church, Barrie was blessed to have the Rev. Terry Bennett as its interim priest-in-charge for the past three years, along with Joy Packham as its administrator for two of those years. Although members of the congregation had wanted to have a parish barbecue for their farewell, due to COVID-19 they were unable to do so. Instead, they organized a drive-by/walk-by farewell procession at the top of Trinity hill on the morning of Sept. 26.
The sunny fall day, a Sunday, was ideal as 60 parishioners lined up, either on foot or in their cars, to pass on their heartfelt thanks to the Bennetts and Joy Packham. Prior to proceeding with the drive by, the Bennetts were presented with
a watercolour portrait of Trinity Church, with a silver plaque inscribed: “To Reverend Terry Bennett, with appreciation and gratitude, from the Parish of Trinity, 2018-2021.” After Bob Garrett sang “Irish Eyes are Smiling,” the parishioners had the opportunity to talk with each of them about the moments that moved them while they were with us. While waiting their turn, the parishioners signed communal farewell cards that were presented after the last vehicle had driven past. The parishioners were given a traditional blessing on a scroll, tied with a cross, by the Bennetts as a keepsake to remember them by.
A special thank-you goes to all who made the day special and possible, especially Bill and Monika Sergeant, Joan Hill, Ray Martinelli, Bob Garrett and Sue Taylor.
Submitted by Trinity Church, Barrie.
