On Sept. 8 the parish of St. James Anglican Church celebrated the induction of Dr. Pauline Head as its rector.
The celebration began with dinner in the butterfly garden behind the church. Even with the sides up on the marquis, guests were able to get glimpses of the beautiful flowers blooming in the garden. Although the weather was cool with a little drizzle, everyone stayed warm and dry under the heated marquis.
The Reverend Dr. Pauline Head comes to St. James in Fergus from St. John’s, Rockwood where she was Rector for five years.
While Pauline was teaching at York University, she became involved at the Church of Redeemer in Toronto. Being inspired to learn more about scripture and the Anglican Church, Pauline enrolled in a Masters of Theology program at Trinity College. While continuing to teach part time, Pauline did a placement and curacy at the Church of St. David and St Patrick in Guelph under the leadership of Rev. David Howells. During the summers, Rev. Head did another placement on Manitoulin Island under the guidance of Rev. Bain Peever. On the Feast of Epiphany in 2005, Pauline was ordained a priest right here at St. James. Pauline treasures the memory of this magical evening.
During the induction service, in the church attended by parishioners, friends and clergy, the Right Reverend Michael Bird, Bishop of Niagara, stated that Pauline had been chosen to be the rector and pastor of St. James and that he had appointed her to this ministry which is shared among himself, Pauline and the people of the parish.
This ministry continues the good work that has been done through the years and is a new beginning as Pauline brings her own special gifts. Several symbols of ministry were presented to the new rector: a bible (the story of God’s love) by Anne Warner, a vessel of water (baptism) by Naomi Dinniwell, holy oil (healing) by Laura McCartney, the keys to the church (welcome) by Caroline MacDonald and Russell Halls, a hymn book (music) by Cathy Sweeney, a food basket (outreach) by Brian Dowling and Joan Cochrane and bread and wine (Eucharist) by Ruth Sproul and Vivian Chadder. The service continued with the Celebration of the Eucharist shared by all.
Recently, as Pauline and her husband and son were driving by St. James on the way home from Manitoulin Island, Pauline remarked how happy she was to be the Rector of St. James. The parishioners are also excited to be sharing ministry with their new rector.
Rev. Dr. Pauline Head would welcome people to drop by and get to know her. She is in the office most mornings or call ahead to make sure. While you are there, take a few moments to enjoy the butterfly garden.
