It was pretty much standing room only at All Saints Ladner on Wednesday 17th December.
The large congregation was there to see Bishop Melissa Skelton present the Order of the Diocese of New Westminster to Claudette Hayward, long-time Delta resident & member of the All Saints' family.
Claudette had been unable to attend the ceremony at Christ Church Cathesdral, November 2nd, 2014, so the Bishop made the trip south of the Fraser to officiate in person.
The occasion started on a light note, when Bishop Melissa acknowledged that “it is inspiring to be before you, in the wrong cloths”.
She explained that she had expected the event to take place in a parish hall, in front of a small group of people, and if she'd known she would have vested accordingly.
After an opening hymn by the Reverend Peter Niblock, Rev. Elizabeth Northcott read the citation, which noted Claudette’s significant service to the parish over a long period of time.
Claudette has been the driving force in the development of Parish Health Ministry at All Saints, Ladner and in the wider Diocese. Having taken the Parish Nurse course, and the Healing Touch program, Claudette with other members of All Saints and Ladner United Church helped establish Healing Touch as a joint ministry between the two churches.
Elizabeth also thanked Claudette personally for being part of the canonical committee that had selected her for the position of priest-in-charge.
Bishop Melissa then lead the prayers, before presenting Claudette with her medal.
A second citation was then read on behalf of Delta MP, Kerri-Lynne Findlay.
The Lord’s Prayer was presented, on this occasion, as a liturgical dance, performed by members of All Saints' Church.
Bishop Melissa & Claudette then lead the attendees into the parish hall where a reception had been prepared.
It is with sadness that we add the news that Claudette Hayward died on January 6th, 2015. Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord: and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen
story, photos and film by Cliff Caprani