Celebrating our Sesquicentennial

A Memorable Evening at Chilliwack’s Oldest Church

On Saturday evening November 18, both our church and hearts were filled.

The event began with an open house in the church building, where people were able to tour the many historical displays, visit prayer stations, watch a video, get to know each other, and meet our Bishop John Stephens.

The previous evening (just before 8:00 pm), CBC Radio Vancouver aired an 8-minute segment featuring our beloved St. Thomas, interviewing our own Lorie and Jan.

For those of you who missed it, you can access CBC radio here:

https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-91-the-early-edition

Look under Segments and you will find Nov 17 2023: Touring one of BC's oldest buildings.

We are also grateful to Jenna Hauck of the Chilliwack Progress for her support and article. 

The banquet in the hall, officiated by Rev. Lorie Martin, was a lively social event where friends old and new enjoyed a delicious meal, conversation, and music. Our Bishop, The Rt. Rev. John Stephens shared his blessings, thoughts, and impressions on the remarkable history and accomplishments of St. Thomas parish. Chilliwack’s Acting Mayor, Chris Kloot, also spoke, offering his thanks and congratulations to our vibrant community church.

Jan and Lesley performed the moving hymn, "Surely The Presence," with Christine on piano.

We also thank our guests, Regional Dean Rev. Paul Bowie (All Saints Mission), Rev. Tim Morgan from Christ Church Hope, and Randy Murray from the Diocese. We were delighted to see many members from surrounding parishes, plus a few guests who were new to the parish and the Anglican Church.

To all who worked to make this event a success--especially the 150th Anniversary committee: Deb Alford, Deb Edwards, Jan Guretzki, Marlene Rodgers, Shauna Fortin, Sharon Tiessen, Gail Hampson, and Johanna Mdoe--deep love and thanks. A special thanks also to Irene, Nancy, Wayne, Dennis, Liberty, BettyAnn, Tina, and Faith.

We owe a great deal of thanks to Rev. Lorie Martin, whose vision, innovative ideas, and ministries, along with her inspired energy pushed St. Thomas forward into a new era. We are so blessed to have Lorie as our leader and so grateful for her being called to St. Thomas.

All of you are a big part of the renewal and lifeforce at St. Thomas, where Love Lives every day.