The Rev. Ron Culmer was formally inducted as Rector of St. Paul’s church in Vancouver on June 9. Archbishop John Stephens presided and preached at the service, reflecting on the experience of visiting Iona and connecting with St. Columba’s experience of pulling a boat onto a new shore. 

“Today is a day for us too to be pulling our boat upon a new shore and looking to a new future and new possibilities as we are remembering St. Columba but also as we gather here to induct Father Ron Culmer to be the Rector of St. Paul’s. For I think that Saint Columba discovered when he first landed on Iona, the same feeling, recognition and encounter that we might be feeling on this night. Expectant that God is doing extraordinary things and has brought us to a new place and new beginning.” 

Unpacking the gospel reading and suggesting that it calls us to focus on the future, Archbishop Stephens said, “I believe, and I suspect so do all of you, that the Holy Spirit continues to move in our lives and be that bright flame and guiding star; known by our words and actions beyond tonight. If you did not know this, Ron will be happy to point it out to you many times over the coming years.”

After the sermon, Executive Archdeacon Nick Pang called Rev. Culmer and two trustees up to the front of the sanctuary. Flanked by “his two bodyguards,” (the trustees) Rev. Culmer signed the oaths and subscriptions and Executive Archdeacon Pang read the license. 

Various symbols of ministry were then presented to Rev. Culmer as a sign of various aspects his ministry as Rector will encompass. 

The service ended with the whole congregation joining enthusiastically in the closing hymn, before making their way to the parish hall for a time a fellowship and celebration and, of course, cake.

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You can read Archbishop Stephen's full sermon HERE. 

You can view photos from the service HERE