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On Sunday February 26, members of the parish of Christ Church Cathedral celebrated the 90th birthday of longtime parishioner Phyllis Barlow ODNW. 

Family members brought Phyllis from her Richmond care home to the Cathedral on the Skytrain, on what was a slushy and snowy morning. She arrived with a birthday balloon attached to her wheelchair. 

After the 10:30am Celebration of the Eucharist, Phyllis was surrounded in the chancel by friends, along with the Cathedral’s director of music and organist, Rupert Lang and members of Cathedral Choir. Phyllis’ dear friend Lesley Godwin served as MC at the commemorative gathering, and the choir sang Happy Birthday to Phyllis, as well as “690 on Burrard”.  Birthday cake was served in the narthex. 

FOR PHYLLIS BARLOW ON HER 90TH

At 690 on Burrard

We all were young and very full of vigour

At 690 on Burrard

The circle of our friends grew even bigger.

But now that many years have passed ‘tis very good to know

That we who danced til midnight and its music may be slow,

But love and friendship never end,

They only grow and grow 
At 690 on Burrard.

IMAGES

  • Phyllis checking out the “690 on Burrard” lyric sheet, lyrics written in her honour 
  • A view to the south of the choir singing ‘Happy Birthday’
  • Lesley Godwin sharing words of 90th birthday greetings to Phyllis on behalf of the Christ Church Cathedral community 
  • The choir singing 'Happy Birthday'
  • A happy 90-year-old Phyllis surrounded by friends 

Photos: Jane Dittrich

Kingsway
Christ Church Cathedral