Subject: Addition to BAS Calendar of Holy Persons

Moved By: Peter Wall from the Diocese of Niagara

Seconded By: Fred Hiltz from the Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island

Note: The mover and the seconder must be members of the General Synod and be present in the House when the resolution is before the synod for debate.

BE IT RESOLVED:

That Emily Ayckbowm, foundress of The Community of the Sisters of the Church, be added to the Canadian calendar of holy persons in the Book of Alternative Services, as a Memorial, on April 5, the day of the founding of the community.

EXPLANATORY NOTE/BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

Mother Emily Ayckbowm founded the Community of the Sisters of the Church (CSC) in 1870 to proclaim the Love of God to the People of God. She was a pioneer who challenged Victorian Society for the sake of all who were seen as marginal. She offered dignity as well as practical help, and was a controversial figure in her day for doing so. Under the patronage of St. Michael and the angels, the CSC are reminded that their calling is both to prayer and active ministry, giving witness to God’s concern for the whole human life, women, men and children, and the reconciliation and redemption of all God's creation.

The CSC are a Religious community for women in full communion with the Anglican Church, with a Mother House is at Ham Common, Richmond in England. Women in Canada, England, Australia and the Solomon Islands bring the richness of their different cultures when they unite to form C.S.C. The Community has pioneered work in Christian education, child care, social welfare and mission work. In Canada today, Mother Emily’s vision is lived out in St. Michael’s House in Oakville, where the Sisters of the Church blend contemplation and action in their lives of individual and corporate prayer and by their ministries of hospitality, education, retreats, spiritual direction and pastoral counselling.

The Ministry and Worship Working Group of Faith, Worship and Ministry applied the principles and guidelines for Calendar Revision adopted by the Anglican Consultative Council in 1993 in discerning the inclusion of Mother Emily Ayckbowm in the BAS Calendar of Holy Persons.