Hello all.
This Saturday Nancy and I celebrate our 45th Wedding Anniversary. It has been quite a journey so far. I do not believe in pre-ordination but I have often spoken about the "gentle nudge", which you can choose to accept or disregard. Looking back, you can often recognize these waypoints and I think as you get older see some of them as they transpire. For us I think the first great nudge was to accept the challenge of moving to the Maritimes in 1988. It allowed us to develop as a family dependent on each other, and grounded us in our faith as part of the Anglican Church. After a few smaller ones the second great nudge brought us back to London in 2004. Even then we realized we were being told it was time. The move gave Fletcher 8 years with his remaining grandparents and introduced us to St. Martin-in-the Fields. We are very grateful for both. Remember, always be open to a nudge. Speaking of nudges, Management is giving me a determined nudge to get on with the News and so we shall.
(From Rev'd Sarah) Joyce Henderson has died. It is with sadness that I share news of Joyce Henderson's passing on Friday, May 8. For many years, Joyce was a cherished member of our church community. She faithfully supported the work of the church and formed lasting friendships, especially while playing bridge. We give thanks for her life and witness among us.
Joyce's family has written an obituary that is attached here. We extend heartfelt condolences to Peter, Dave, and their families during this difficult time. Please keep them in your prayers.
Thank You From Rev'd Dr. Virginia. On Sunday May 3rd we celebrated Rev'd Dr. Virginia Lane's 50th Anniversary of her Ordination. She has asked me to repeat the contents of her thank you note in the Midweek News to give it the widest possible distribution.
"From the bottom of my heart I thank you all so much for the wonderful reception you arranged to mark my 50th Anniversary of my Ordination. It was such a special time and to read the Gospel and preach meant a lot to me. The special cake and other goodies were much appreciated as well as the other gifts which were accompanied by the Twelve Apostles. It has been a special privilege to share in worship with you and to be one of this "special parish"
Lots of love and thanks,
Virginia + "
Today is Ascension Day! Ascension Day occurs 40 days after Easter Sunday. It commemorates the ascension of Jesus into heaven, occurring 10 days before Pentecost. When possible it should be celebrated on the day. For those of you who are able please join Bishop Todd for this wonderful service, The Ascension Day Service at St. Martin's will be Sunday 17 May, 2026 at 10:00 am.
Ascension Day Liturgy with Bishop Todd
Location: St. George's Anglican Church, Thorndale, 172 King St, Thorndale, ON.
Date: May 14, 2026
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
A celebration of Ascension Day with Bishop Todd Townshend preaching and presiding. The liturgy will include the sacrament of Confirmation. All are welcome to participate in this festal celebration.
The Feast of Pentecost is coming up on Sunday, May 24. Rev'd Sarah is looking for a few more people to participate in the 10:00 am service who speak a second language. If you're interested, please send her an email: saraharmstrong@diohuron.org.
The Cloak of Kindness Squad next meets on Monday, May 25 from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. May is for Mary - this month we're inviting children to learn about Mary, the Mother of Jesus in meaningful and age-appropriate ways. Through prayer, storytelling, and creative group activities, participants will get to know the Biblical narratives about the Blessed Virgin, and why knowing her story matters for our faith today. All are welcome. Pre-registration is recommended.
What is Going On In Your Life? I have told you about Nancy and I but what is happening with you? If there is an important event to share, send along a photo and/or a brief explanation.
Over the past weekend the Chisholms were in Thorold for the
Ontario Basketball Association provincial finals.
Adison Chisholm is a member of the 86ers U15 girls’ basketball team.
They won the gold medal in their Division on Sunday afternoon.
A great Mother’s Day present !!

Left to Right: Ashlynn, Ryan, Adison (Adi) Chisholm
Choral Evensong for Trinity Sunday will be held on Sunday, May 31 at 4:00 pm. Join us for this reflective service in the tradition of the Book of Common Prayer. Evensong weaves together choral singing, Scripture, and spoken prayer in a way that creates space to hear and respond to God's Word.
Trinity Sunday is a day in the Christian calendar that celebrates the mystery of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Reflect on the sacred mystery of the Triune God in this service of prayer. Whether you are curious, questioning, or committed, you are warmly welcome.
St. Martin's, Our History and Our Artifacts. It would seem the junior robins have logged their solo flights and earned their wings. They have now departed.
St. Martin's Brunchers. The next gathering of Brunchers will be Wednesday May 20th, 11:30 am at Piper Arms 3090 Wonderland Rd. South. See the poster attached for full details, Come and enjoy a time of fellowship and good food. See flyer attached
St. Paul's Social Services -Thank you for your generous donations. This news item never goes away because hunger never goes away. St. Paul's Social Service is an outreach program, a part of which is the St. Paul's Food Bank. Your generous donations help support it. Look for the bin in the cloakroom marked "St. Paul's Food Bank". Non-perishable food of all descriptions should be the first priority. Please give what you can. In addition to food, toiletries, especially in small sizes are always useful as well as hats, mitts and socks. Monetary donations are also well received as it lets them buy items which are needed but not always donated or they buy in bulk. Like everyone else they are being hit by the rising price of food. Please make cheques payable to St. Paul's Social Services. Tax receipts will be issued directly by St. Paul's Social Services. For the moment please do not donate containers as they are in discussions with the local Health Inspectors on their use.
Milk Bag Collection is Back. The ladies are back to making mats. Please bring in your milk bags and put them in the marked box in the Cloakroom.
Readings for Ascension Sunday.
Acts 1:1-11, Psalm 47, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53
Parish Family Circle of Prayer – As we gather this week we pray for the following members of our congregation and their families.
Janet Collins Roy Connors Dan & Marilyn Coward
A modern interpretation...

Have a good week,
Ian
Ian Haley
Editor