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The Consecration is now past us and I take this opportunity to express my thanks to everyone who attended and/or offered support. Indeed, it was a wonderful day in which I rejoiced and enjoyed every moment. I have already started my ministry in the Diocese…actually I have “hit the ground running”. On July 8th I joined Rod and Lisa BrantFrancis on a visit to Kashechewan and during our time there we celebrated twenty-one baptisms and 22 confirmations. I am appreciative of the work that Rod and Lisa did in the community that made this first visit for me so enjoyable. A few days after my return I again set off for a visit to Waswanipi and Mistassini. A number of years ago when Robert Renison was Bishop he told a story of finding an old bookplate in an English bookshop, entitled “Ye Happie Kingdom”. He actually purchased it and it became the cover of “The Northland’s” Christmas edition for years. For Bishop Renison, it depicted what he felt about the Diocese of Moosonee as “Ye Happie Kingdom”. Certainly the Church has changed and the Diocese of Moosonee is a vastly different place today than it once was with different and, some would say, far more difficult struggles. Indeed, some might say that it is no longer the “happie kingdom” it was once thought to be. Nonetheless, I am enthused by the dedicated ministry of our clergy and lay leaders here and by the faith of the people on the ground across the Diocese who continue to live out their commitment. As I begin this new ministry I cannot help but think that Moosonee is still that “happie kingdom” as it is that part of our Lord’s vineyard where his Gospel continues to be preached and lived in all its richness. In spite of the difficulties that surround us on every side I am excited and look forward to our future mission in this Diocese.

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	cynthia patterson POSTED ON : 7/26/2010 9:52: I send my belated congratulations and prayers to Bishop Tom, his family and the Diocese on his consecration. I send also my thanksgiving for Bishop Tom's visit to the communities of the Brant Francis family ministry whose acquaintance I have been slowly making by email and telephone these past months. Laptop burn-out resulted in loss of my address book, etc. earlier this month. In catch up mode. Very much looking forward to meeting clergy of the Diocese at the Bishop's clericus in September. Cynthia Patterson coordinator, Suicide Preventnion Project Council of the North Anglican Church of Canada