Investing in God's Plan

Dear people of Holy Trinity Cathedral,

As the Church celebrates November 24th as the last Sunday of the year, I am both looking back and forward.

It seems a very short time ago when you held a wonderful service for my induction as your priest back in March. In the months since, I have been getting to know you individually. I know I still have some connections to make, and I would welcome the opportunity to sit and speak with you about your part in this community of faith. I am grateful for all the support you have given to the life of the cathedral over many years, or as recent disciples. From the first, the parish leadership has worked diligently with me to address parish priorities. Together we are taking steps to provide a place of belonging, nurture faith, and equip people for ministry.

In November, the parish has been exploring the different gifts we bring together for this work. We have considered the talents that we can share, the time that we save for God, and the treasures that we are encouraged to spend wisely. As we are able to budget all that is entrusted to this parish community we have what we need to move forward into a new year.

What might the Advent of this new year hold in store? We are preparing for significant change. For the last decade the redevelopment of the parish properties has been in process. There have been challenges, but alternate paths are emerging. All the groundwork for a safely upgraded cathedral building and a new residential tower with parish ministry space has been laid.With God's grace we are now discerning financing and construction partners. The current buildings need to be maintained in the short-term to be safe and functional, even as we discern a phase of gathering at an alternative location.We have many groups and individuals that depend on us to be a safe and welcoming place. To do ministry now as well as into the future, you are key.

Today, I am asking you for two simple steps. The first is to sign a C commitment for your talents, time, and treasure for Holy Trinity Cathedral.

This can be returned in the collection plate on the First Sunday of Advent or subsequently as a personal affirmation of God's good work here. It is not a pledge of a certain amount or action, rather an invitation for your heart to respond as the Lord leads you.

The second is to fill out and return a permission form so that our faith community can stay connected to you better. With a current parish database, we can reach out through different means to offer pastoral care, let you know of parish events, and contact your friends.Our new parish administrator, Weijin Ross,

is helping us raise our visibility and communications strategy to reach out to you and beyond our community. Help us be a light for all your neighbours in New Westminster.

I am excited about participating in my first Advent and Christmas here at Holy Trinity Cathedral. I hope you will join me in the preparation and celebration of this festive season.Let me know what traditions are dear to your heart, and how you can help me bring them into the life of our community.

Yours in Christ,

The Reverend Stephanie Shepard