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Published: September 30, 2008 5:00 PMUpdated: September 30, 2008 5:36 PM
There are some easy decisions and there are some hard ones, but this has been a hard one.
I am going to retire, not only retire but also I am leaving the North Island and moving to the big city, Victoria.
I have ministered here 15 years and served in every Anglican and United church on the North Island.
One of my greatest highlights has been ministering to first nations communities. I have made so many friends and always feel welcomed by them.
Sadly, much of my ministry to these communities had to do with the passing of friends, family and members in their communities. I think to some I became Mr. funeral man, but there were many joyous times as I performed weddings and Holy Baptisms.
I will be forever grateful for the active support given to me by them, and in particular by the ‘Namgis’ Nation and the people of Christ Church in Alert Bay, when I was going through a difficult time.
What will my legacy be? The Happy Gang in Port McNeill, which continues to thrive.
I started it in the early years of my ministry, to meet a need for seniors and shut-ins. This group always meant much to me. They ministered to me, as I hope I ministered to them.
I have always tried to stand up to what I perceived as injustices in the communities, often writing letters to the editor of the North Island Gazette to make the issues public.
My ministry has been beyond the church doors. I have tried to present the love of Christ to all people. Sadly, many people have become disenchanted with the organized church for valid reasons, but they are spiritual people. I have tried to be a chaplain to them, and tried to present the gospel that Jesus presented, which was acceptance of all people.
I tried to put aside rules and regulations and just be there for them. The churches in which I served, this was always the principle I followed. Everyone was welcomed. I could go on forever with the experiences, both good and bad, while I have been here.
When I move to Victoria, I will be ministering half time as a chaplain at the Royal Jubilee Hospital and Juan de Fuca extended care hospital, one of those being where I began my ordained ministry. If you have friends or family who are down for tests or care, please let me know. I will gladly visit them.
David Livingstone, that great African missionary and explorer who spent many years in Africa, had his heart buried in Africa. As I leave the North Island, I also feel I am leaving my heart behind.
Howard Jacques is the minister at Christ Church in Alert Bay.
