Dear Siblings in Christ, 

Effective September 15, 2020 Andrew Stephens-Rennie will conclude his ministry at Christ Church Cathedral as Director of Ministry Innovation.

During this time of COVID-19, Andrew and his family have been based in Rossland, BC. They have enjoyed the outdoors and a proximity to family this time has afforded them, and have decided to make this move permanent. September 1 will mark Andrew’s seventh year of service at the Cathedral.

Andrew quips that he was initially hired to “do something about young adult ministry.” As we know, Andrew has contributed to this and so much more during his time. Together with the Rev. Marnie Peterson, Andrew planted St. Brigid’s—an emerging, LGTBQ affirming congregation rooted in the Anglican tradition and what has grown to become the official 5:30pm Sunday evening service at the Cathedral. Andrew has also faithfully served in several management roles including Director of Communications. Of course, we will remember Andrew foremost for his leadership and vision in working with staff and volunteers to transform the Maundy Café into a five days a week, sit-down meal. The development of the Cathedral’s Food Philosophy will remain a hallmark of Andrew’s ministry among us.

Thanks to Andrew’s thoughtful and innovative theological reflection, the Cathedral will continue to strive to be a place of hospitality that “uses food to nourish its communities in ways that cultivate connection, holistic health, and community resiliency by honouring the agency, creativity, dignity, intellect, and worth of all who come to the table.” You can read some of Andrew’s reflections on the Maundy Café’s transformation in his forthcoming book co-edited with Marcia Boniferro and Amanda Jagt, A Sort of Homecoming: Essays Honouring the Academic and Community Work of Brian Walsh.

Please do take a moment to email Andrew words of appreciation for his ministry and to wish him well in his next venture. You can reach Andrew at andrew@thecathedral.ca.

On behalf of the Cathedral Wardens and Trustees

The Reverend Christopher Pappas, Rector
The Reverend Helen Dunn, Vicar
The Reverend Marnie Peterson, Pastor to St. Brigid’s and the Maundy Café