 Media Release Diocese of Fredericton 15 May 2005 Saint John Church Amalgamation Announced The Anglican parishes of East Saint John and St. James' Broad Street will amalgamate to form a new parish in August. Members of vestry in both parishes unanimously voted to ask Bishop Claude Miller to initiate the amalgamation process at seperate meetings on May 9. The decision was formally announced to the parishes in a letter from the Bishop read at a combined Sunday service on May 15. "I am encouraged by the courageous step taken in faith by these Saint John parishes," says Bishop Miller. "By recognizing the changing demographics and needs of the community, they ensure a continuing and viable Anglican ministry in the east side and south end of the city." Legal amalgamation will take place on August 20. The new parish will have a new name and new boundary. The present corporations will work together to determine details about the new parish. In recent years, studies of the ministry needs of inner-city Saint John revealed insufficient population to support four large churches with aging buildings -- St. Paul's (Valley), St. Mark (Stone), Trinity and St. James' (Broad Street). In 2002, in order to reduce expenses, St. James and East Saint John agreed to share a rector and other costs. St. Paul's closed in 2004. "The decision to amalgamate is the result of prayerful consideration over the past several years," says the Rev. Robyn Cuming, rector of both parishes. According to canon law (Canon SIX, section 11 of the Diocese of Fredericton), the notice announcing the intention to amalgamate will be read again on the next three Sundays. Notices will also be posted in the churches and published in Sunday bulletins. The parishes, through their corporations, petitioned the Bishop for amalgamation. A group of 10 worshipping church members from either parish may, however, object to the proposal in writing within three months of the bishop's initial announcement. The objection would be considered by the Diocesan Council. Contact Ana Watts Communications Officer Diocese of Fredericton 506/459-5358 ana.watts@anglican.nb.ca |