We’re celebrating the unsung heroes of our churches—those who serve with love, not titles. Incumbents and wardens are invited to nominate three members whose selfless service has strengthened your faith community. Submissions due by September 19 to mhora.penny@dioceseofalgoma.com. Let’s honour the quiet stewards of our shared life in Christ.
As she enters a season of rest and renewal, Archbishop Anne Germond offers heartfelt thanks to Bishop Michael Oulton for his joyful, pastoral presence in the Diocese of Algoma. In a year of shifting responsibilities, his companionship has been a gift—steady, generous, and deeply encouraging, like a true Barnabas along the way.
Meet Cory Brunatti, a musician, minister, and spiritual companion whose journey to ordination in the Diocese of Algoma began with a quiet call at age twelve. After a 30-year IT career, Cory now serves faithfully in Parry Sound and Port Carling, bringing a heart for people, creation, and God’s presence in everyday life.
Please join the people of the Diocese of Algoma in praying for the repose of the soul of the Venerable Susan de Gruchy, who died on Sunday, July 27, in Sault Ste. Marie, with her husband, the Ven. Harry Huskins, by her side. Susan was the first woman ordained in Algoma and served the Church with grace, courage, and deep compassion. We give thanks for her pioneering ministry and enduring legacy.
tolen in a February break-in, Trinity Anglican Church’s historical silver has made its way home. Scratched and worn, the pieces now bear witness to both loss and return. “We pray that the persons responsible realize there is a better path in life.” Trinity is grateful to the OPP. Some sacred vessels remain missing.
We mourn the passing of Joan (Joni) Steadman, beloved wife of Rev. Dr. Bill Steadman, who died peacefully in Sudbury on July 25. A Celebration of Life will be held August 27. Please keep Rev. Bill and all who mourn in your prayers.
A joyful summer visit to St. Christopher’s in McGregor Bay—a seasonal, water-access church with a global congregation and generous heart. Archbishop Anne Germond reflects on shared worship, rich teaching tradition, and a $1,000 gift to the Anne Germond Legacy Fund.
Archbishop Anne Germond is pleased to announce that, God willing, Cory Brunatti will be ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacons on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Trinity Anglican Church, Parry Sound. The service begins at 2:00 p.m. Clergy and Lay Readers are invited to vest. The liturgical colour of the day is red.
It’s tempting to lead with “pretty empty pews” on websites and Facebook pages. But these photos miss the chance to send a more hopeful, people-focused message. “Here is the church, here is the steeple… see all the people.” Let’s make that our focus. Need tips to revamp your parish communications? Email communications@dioceseofalgoma.com.
This summer, we’re inviting all churches in the Diocese of Algoma to review their parish listing on the diocesan website. Check your contact information, send any updates (including Facebook links), and consider adding a photo. Keeping parish details current helps us stay connected and makes it easier for newcomers and visitors to find you.
The Diocese of Algoma gives thanks for the faithful ministry of the Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Green, who served the Church of the Epiphany, Sudbury from 2020 to 2025. We pray God’s blessing upon her as she enters the next chapter of her journey, with gratitude for her leadership and care during her time in Algoma.
The Diocese of Algoma is grateful to have The Rev. Brad Mittleholtz serving as a delegate to the 2025 ELCIC National Convention. In this Day 3 reflection, he shares highlights from the election of a new National Bishop, heartfelt tributes to Bishop Susan Johnson, and a sense of hope as the church embraces its future with gratitude and faith.
Eighteen years ago, the church felt larger but more divided. Today, as the ELCIC discerns new leadership, there’s a renewed sense of hope and faithfulness. From deep conversations about the future to Spirit-filled worship and the wisdom of past pioneers cheering us on, this day reflects a church opening wider to God’s transforming work.
The Rev. Brad Mittleholtz, Pastor of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, is serving as Algoma’s delegate to the 2025 ELCIC National Convention in Winnipeg. As part of the Anglican-Lutheran Full Communion relationship, Brad is sharing daily reflections from this important gathering of worship, discernment, and hope. Read his Delegate Diary and explore the photo gallery from Day 1.
With thanksgiving and joy, the Diocese of Algoma celebrates Archdeacon Deborah Kraft’s appointment as Chaplain to the Thunder Bay Police Service. A trusted pastoral leader in Thunder Bay for many years, Archdeacon Kraft will bring her gifts of compassion and care to support the policing community in this important ministry.
The 2025 Lay Readers’ Conference invites Algoma Lay Readers to Christ Church, North Bay, September 26–27. Join us for a weekend of renewal, learning, and connection. “Whether you are new or experienced, this ministry matters deeply,” says Warden Alison Weir. Early bird registration is open—don’t miss this opportunity to grow in your calling.
Bishop Michael Oulton’s recent visit to the Deanery of Temiskaming was filled with stories of faith, hospitality, and community resilience. From “Soup’s On” in Cobalt to confirmations in North Bay, discover the ministries and people shaping this vibrant region. Join us in giving thanks for the clergy and laity carrying Christ’s mission in Northern Ontario.
On July 18 at St. John the Divine, Copper Cliff, the Diocese of Algoma will celebrate the Rev. Paul Baskcomb’s ordination to the priesthood. A long-time public servant and urban planner, Paul now serves Christ Church, Lively, and St. John’s. Pray for Paul and his wife Marsha as he steps fully into this next chapter of sacred service.
At Canterbury Cathedral, Archbishop Anne Germond shares life-giving wisdom for graduates and all of us: “Between hope and despair, choose hope—because it will be harder to bear.” Watch this inspiring reflection on faith, love, and the choices that shape our lives.
The Rev. Jason Tripp has been appointed President and Vice Chancellor of Thorneloe University, effective September 1, 2025. A pastor, theologian, and chaplain, Rev. Tripp brings more than 15 years of leadership to this role. He has served Thorneloe since 2018 and is completing a PhD in Open and Relational Theology at Northwind Seminary.
The Very Rev. Dr. Jay Koyle reflects on the election of the Rt. Rev. Shane Parker as the 15th Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada. From the spirit of prayer that shaped the day to Bishop Shane’s call to remove the Church’s “insulation,” Koyle offers a hopeful perspective on a moment of harmony, clarity, and Spirit-led consensus at General Synod 2025.
Blaze Cucksey, a first-time General Synod delegate from St. Brice’s North Bay from the Temiskaming Deanery, reflects on the peace of receiving communion, the value of youth perspectives, and the need for more inclusive language in worship. His experience is inspiring a renewed commitment to creative discipleship and greater belonging within the Church—both nationally and at home in Algoma.
First-time General Synod delegate Alicia Sandham reflects on a powerful week of worship, conversation, and connection. From Bishop Michael Curry’s electrifying sermon at St. Paul’s Cathedral to one-on-one time with the nominees for Primate, Alicia shares highlights that include humour, hope, and the surprising diversity of the Church across Canada.
“Let go of old patterns… and soar renewed in faith.” In her shared Primatial address to the 44th General Synod in London, Ontario, Archbishop Anne Germond called the Anglican Church of Canada to bold hope, unity, and sacred risk-taking. Drawing on Isaiah’s vision of soaring eagles, she invited the church to shed old feathers and rise toward God’s new future.
In the wake of Archbishop Anne Germond’s primatial address at General Synod 2025, Archdeacon Kelly Baetz and delegate James Hunt reflect on the powerful image of the molting eagle—an invitation to shed what no longer serves and make space for renewal. They speak to the tensions of decline and hope, the importance of intentional discipleship, and the quiet signs of new growth emerging at the parish level.
As we move into the days ahead…I ask for your continued prayers: for clarity of vision, for courage to speak the truth in love, and for the humility to be led by the Spirit in all we do. This is not just a w eek of decision-making. It is a sacred time in the life of our Church. And I am deeply honoured to be here with the Algoma delegates, representing a diocese whose witness to the Gospel continues to inspire me daily.
For general inquiries during the summer months, please email communications@dioceseofalgoma.com. Your message will be monitored and forwarded to the appropriate team member as needed. We appreciate your patience and understanding as our team takes time for rest and renewal.
“This kind of response is deeply encouraging,” said Archbishop Anne Germond. “It affirms our shared vision for the future of episcopal ministry in Algoma. The generosity we’ve seen—both at the dinner and since—gives us great momentum as we begin connecting with deaneries across the diocese for similar events. I’m truly excited about what’s ahead.”
“Lana’s leadership flowed not from title or role, but from wisdom, humility, and a heart open to all… As we approach National Indigenous Peoples Day—and the National Indigenous Day of Prayer—we remember that the Church is not a building. It is people, called and sent, rooted in love and relationship.”
Ordained in 1989 following his theological training at Wycliffe College, Peter’s ministry has spanned rural and urban contexts in Nova Scotia and Ontario, always marked by a deep pastoral sensitivity and commitment to team ministry. Since 2015, he has served with quiet strength and steady leadership at St. Brice’s, where his impact will be deeply felt for years to come.
