Dean's Destination

I landed in Whitehorse on Saturday evening and was warmly welcomed at the airport by Dean Vincent Fenga, his wife Cresencia, and their young son VJ. We formed a little convoy—me in my rented Bronco (yes, no bike this time, just a big ol’ 4x4 SUV)—as they led me to the Old Log Rectory, my cozy home for the week. It’s nestled right next to—you guessed it—the Old Log Church, which shares a lovely green space with the current Christ Church Cathedral.

Despite the late hour (10:30 PM!), Dean Vincent still gave me a quick tour of the Cathedral and rectory. Then he handed me the keys, and I headed straight to bed.

Sunday morning began with a bit of nostalgia and a touch of caffeine. I walked down the road to the nearest Tim Hortons—for the first time in about 15 years—and ordered a hot drink. Thankfully, they now have espresso machines, so I was able to get a Canadiano (a Canadian twist on the Americano). With sermon notes in hand and that magical elixir of life in my cup, I made my way back to the Cathedral—one of the perks of living next door!

Just before 9 AM, I let myself in and began prepping for worship. I was soon greeted by the Lay Assistant and the music team—most of whom originally came from Northern Apostles Anglican Church, which amalgamated with Christ Church back in January. They were full of energy and grace as they got everything ready.

Bishop Lesley, our Diocesan Bishop, arrived not long after. She came to set up the diocesan Facebook livestream but, with a little gentle persuasion, agreed to vest and join me in leading worship. I was also joined by a lay reader who helped lead the liturgy, served the chalice, and was assisted by a faithful server.

It was such a joy to preside and preach in this beautiful and intimate space. About 42 warm and welcoming parishioners gathered for worship. The congregation was the choir, the music came from strings and keyboard, and the liturgy was projected on a screen (with announcements to help folks follow along in the BAS).

After worship—and many friendly conversations in the reception line—we headed to the adjacent hall for coffee hour. But let me tell you, this was no ordinary coffee hour. Sure, there was coffee, tea, and cookies, but also yogurt, fruit, veggies, cakes, muffins, cheeses, and meats. A full-on feast!

Later that evening, Dean Vincent and his family joined me for dinner at the lay reader’s home. She and her husband laid out yet another feast. One thing’s for sure: you don’t go hungry in the Yukon.

Monday was a mix of remote work for our Cathedral and Diocese, and wonderful local connections. I met with a group of parishioners—each serving in different lay leadership roles—at a local café charmingly named Burnt Toast. After that, I fine-tuned my workshop for the evening, did some more remote work for New Westminster, and then led the workshop from 6–8 PM. It was a lively, spirited session. The leadership team at Christ Church Cathedral, Whitehorse, are a remarkable bunch—faith-filled, motivated, and deeply committed to making a difference in their community as they follow Jesus.

And now it’s Tuesday. I’m writing this blog and working on some prep for the upcoming Confirmation service at our Cathedral. Later today, I’ve got a Men’s Group Zoom, a women’s knitting circle, two long-term facility meetings, and a conversation with Bishop Lesley.

Just your average Tuesday, right?