Our Story
St. Barnabas is part of The Anglican Diocese of Toronto in the Trent-Durham Episcopal Area. Our Area bishop is The Right Rev. Linda Nicholls.
On this page you will find an informal history of our parish and some interesting moments in our parish life.
On this page you will find an informal history of our parish and some interesting moments in our parish life.
Watch St. Barnabas singing Amazing Grace and then watch the video clip below. Truly Amazing. Our God is truly an awesome God!
Our Story
A walk through our history - a compilation from many sources
2008
2008 marked the 50th Anniversary of the founding of St. Barnabas parish. Celebrations began with a concert presented by our choir which included several solos including a guitar solo by Sheila Tyrrell. On 7 Sept. we recreated the first service, held at Queen Elizabeth School, including the same hymns and liturgy. Several women wore hats and there were a number of “originals” in attendance. Next came a parish Anniversary Dinner held at St. John’s in the very room where the motion to start the new parish was made and passed. The one event that will stay in the minds of all who attended was on Amazing Grace Sunday when the Anglican parishes in Canada were asked to sing Amazing Grace and donate a toonie for each participant to assist in the work of the Council of the North. The temperature in the church was 8 degrees C. Those in attendance wore their coats, hats and gloves, and the very short gathering, couldn’t be called a service, opened with prayer, a couple of songs, followed by the singing of Amazing Grace, twice, which was videotaped for submission to the National Church (see the YouTube clip above). The collection, an essential, was then taken and everyone hastened to return to their warm homes.
2006
“This past year we have all worked hard to help the church in the mission to our community and this time we travelled beyond. The Orchard family, through Northumberland Youth for Christ, joined in on a mission of building and sharing Christ’s love in Ghana. We helped make it happen!!! Lots of work and lots of Blessings!! For it is He, the Lord your God who has given you the ability to produce wealth in various forms to help others. Also our Christmas outreach to the Kashechewan community was another Blessing we have received because we were able to give. Thanks to the ACW and everyone who was involved.”
from the Vestry Report for the year 2006.
2005
One of the major events of 2005 was the sale of the rectory. This was the second rectory for St. Barnabas. It was located next door to the church. The first rectory was at 1100 Royal Dr. The rectory was sold because Fr. Eugene, with the help of several parishioners, built his new home near Lakehurst. Another event was the replacement of the floor in Groombridge Hall. This hall was named in honour of Les and Gladys Groombridge. The large cross above the altar was given by the Groombridges in memory of their son Robert. They were great supporters of St. Barnabas and were missed when they moved to Australia. The A.C.W. supported Friends of Honduran Children with a cheque for $1000.
2004
From the Vestry Report for 2004: “I am thankful to God for many things. I have had the honour and pleasure of working with some of our parishioners over the summer during the building of our house. Without their dedication, commitment and skills I would not be as far as I am today. I must say again that my sabbatical has afforded me the time to truly come to appreciate how important my church and God are to me. When I say church, I especially mean the people of St. Barnabas. We have journeyed together and experienced many of life’s challenges. We have shared our sorrows and we have celebrated our joys. It is what the family of God is all about. I am truly honoured to be your pastor and priest.”
2003
“Our own Janet Weller is now in her first year at Wycliffe College. She is taking her Master of Divinity and, God willing, she will be accepted as a postulant for ordination in the Toronto Diocese. Please pray for her and Martyn as they answer God’s call. I also hope and pray that we can be there for them and their various needs in the days ahead. God bless both of you.” Janet was ordained in the Diocese of Ontario and currently serves in the Heart of Hastings parish which includes St. Mark, Bonarlaw, St. John, Madoc and St. Paul Marmora. “The A. C. M. (Anglican Church Men) meet socially every Friday morning (9am) at Tim Horton’s on Water Street just below Trent University. They also help with many of the duties and functions of the church. Thank you. All men are welcome to join them. These friendly meetings continue. It is a good way to get to know others in the congregation.
2002
“Last year, Muriel Dean, one of our long time parishioners committed to putting in a stained glass window. It will happen this year (2002), possibly by April. The space to be used is right behind the organ speaker above the entrance of the church nave. It is a picture of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, holding a lamb with a child shepherdess at his feet. The colours and art are presented in a contemporary style and I believe we will all be pleased. Muriel has offered to finance the whole endeavour. Thank you Muriel for this wonderful gift and your generosity.” The window was created by Val at Hues In Glass. From the Vestry Report, 2002
2001
“ACW Makes Her Cry”. This headline appeared in the January 2001 Banner. Following Eugene and Dianne’s trip to Uganda Dianne decided “for my birthday, I asked that we celebrate by having a party where all my friends and family would help my dream come true.” Her dream was to provide a well for a village in Uganda. “A week before the ACW service, I was just over $1,500 short of my goal of $4,500. Then a few letters arrived with a little over $500 in them. After the ACW service, Jen Burke on behalf of the ladies presented me with a cheque for the well. I looked at it – one thousand dollars. I couldn’t believe my eyes and burst into tears. Tears of joy!” Dianne had the $4,500 needed to provide the well.
2000
From the Banner for February, 2000, “We rejoice as Khadija Warsame and her family take up new lives in Canada, assisted by dedicated volunteers from this parish working as partners with the people of Christ Lutheran Church. “ The Warsame/Mohamed family were refugees from Somalia. Kadija’s husband was murdered in Somalia, causing the family to spend the previous five years in a refugee camp in Malawi. They arrived in Canada with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Note: computers did not crash on New Years Eve, Y2K, thanks to Fr. Eugene as he helped update the older computers while volunteering with Dianne in Uganda.
1999
From the bulletin for 3 January, 1999, The Rev. Ian Scott-Bucchleuch 1921-1998. Longtime parishioners will be saddened to learn that the first Rector of St. Barnabas, Rev. Ian Scott-Bucchleuch, died in late November at the age of 77. His funeral was held from the Anglican Catholic Church of Canada in Ottawa and the funeral reception was organized by Joan de Catanzaro. Fr. Ian was suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. From 24 January, A group of parishioners is assembling a parcel of mitts and socks for the residents of Kangiqsualujjuaq.
1998
1998 saw the departure of the Reverend Ken Davis to All Saints Whitby, and the arrival of the Reverend Eugene Berlenbach, his wife Dianne, and their three children from Christ Church Campbellford. His first service was held on Sunday 4 October, 1998. Dr. Grant Schwartz was the interim Priest-in-charge following the departure of Fr. Ken until the arrival of Fr. Eugene. Dr. Schwartz became the full-time chaplain at Mississauga Hospital.
1997
“Offerings may be deposited on the plate as it is now being passed each week. There are envelopes in the pew racks for your convenience. And
“Offerings may be deposited upon arriving, or on leaving the service; there is an Almsbox at the back , and there are envelopes on the back of the pews.” These two notices appeared in the bulletins a couple of weeks apart. An Alpha Course was held at St. Barnabas on Thursday evenings, beginning with a meal.
1994
The effort to sponsor the Chu family from Vietnam and living as refugees in Cambodia was concluded when the family was accepted by the U. S.
This concluded four years of letter writing and organization by parishioners of St. Barnabas. “In the nineties the church building was made accessible to those with physical disabilities by the building of a two story addition containing a wheelchair lift, a wheelchair accessible washroom and extra meeting and office space. Over $60,000 was pledged and the building began in July 1994 with the service of Dedication held on 15 November, 1994.”
1993
The Christmas Eve Family service at 4:00 pm, was a little different. The line “And this shall be a sign.” took on a different meaning. “This Christmas Service is about signs.” The signs included, “Construction Ahead.”, “Watch for children.” and “Quiet Zone.” After which the Theme Verse was sung, “In Bethlehem is born for you, A child of David’s line, A Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, And this shall be a sign.” As the service progressed other signs and hymns became evident. “Merge” before “Hark the Herald Angels sing.” “Pay Toll Ahead” and “Do Not Enter” before “Away in the Manger”. The next sign was “End of Construction” followed by “Silent Night”. This was followed by “Livestock Crossing” with “Shepherds, why this jubilee?” Other signs included “Merging Traffic”, “Danger”, “No U Turn”, “No Parking” and “Freeway Entrance”, followed by “Joy to the World”. This must have been a very interesting Family Service of Carols.
1992
“Our first Talent Auction will be held on 12 June, 1992 in the Church hall. Like the first annual ‘Bonds Night’, this promises to be great fun for everyone.” The Summer Associate was Margaret Tandy, currently serving at St. Mark’s Port Hope. From the bulletin for Nov. 29, 1992, “We Anglicans are rather used to juggling a lot of books, most of which you will find on the back of each pew. The main service book this morning will be the large green copy; some find it helpful to use ribbons to mark certain pages ahead of time. The Holy Bible is red and is often used during readings and the sermon. The Hymns are found in the small blue book. And you may see others clinging closely to this bulletin (for page numbers and other directions). But the goal of it all is to meet God in Worship. If the books, the standing and kneeling get in your way, then be free simply to sit and listen to what God is saying to you today.”
1991
Sunday 3 February, 1991 saw the visit of Bishop Douglas Blackwell to St. Barnabas and the Commissioning of Lay Leaders in Ministry. The parish also showed a three part video series by Dr. John Westerhoff titled “Will Our Children Have Faith”. The program was described as “Will Our Children Have Faith. In his three part video series, Dr. John Westerhoff maintains that if your children are to have faith, you must live faithfully as a member of the Christian community. Learn with others how your life can help ensure that there will be another generation of Christians.
These words still apply today. Dr. Westerhoff was a Professor of Religion and Education at Duke University. He is an Episcopal priest and a worldwide lecturer.
1990
St. Barnabas began the sponsorship process for the Chu family in Cambodia, as refugees. On receipt of the notice that they had been accepted for sponsorship to Canada they wrote: You cannot imagine how moved and touched we seven felt in receipt of the Sponsorship form. After lengthy 11 years wait in this refuge camp to lead a peaceful and meaningful life in the third country, now our dream is close to realization. We begin seeing life in the Glory and Love of Lord Jesus Christ appearing through the darkness of the night. Before getting the sponsorship, we have hourly stayed in worriment and despair, not knowing where our future will be. The Chu family were refugees from Cambodia living in a refugee camp in Vietnam. This was the beginning of a long and complicated process to see them settled in Peterborough.
1989
St. Barnabas welcomed Ken Davis as the new incumbent. The white superfrontal was given in memory of John Godfrey by Polly Godfrey. Almost all diocesan churches were closed on one Sunday when Anglicans gathered at the Sky Dome for the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Diocese of Toronto. A large wooden cross was carried into the Sky Dome and was later circulated around the churches of the Diocese.
1988
St. Barnabas celebrated their 30th anniversary. The parish said goodbye to Dick and Mary Downie after Dick’s 10 years as incumbent. They moved to the Church of the Holy Spirit in Mississauga. The Vestry Report noted that the Sunday School had between 20 and 30 children each Sunday. Also in the Report was the following: “I can share this thought: Every single stitch in the tapestry of parish life is priceless and vital – be it the obvious ministries associated with worship, the work of the various parish groups or the simpler things like asking the parish to remember your concerns in their prayers.” Beverley Thompson, Rector’s Warden.
1987
Several parishioners participated in the Logos course, “The Bible Speaks to Us”. Former Trent student and St. Barnabas’ parishioner Phelan Scanlon was ordained Deacon on May 17. He was presented a gift of a funeral cape by the parish.The stained glass exit sign was given by Anne and Roger Cole.
1986
The parish obtained 125 copies of the new Book of Alternative Services. “St. Barnabas Slo-Pitch Baseball team finished second in their division last summer, and will move up from the Fourth to the Third Division of the League this year.” St. Barnabas’ Junior Choir sang hymns and anthems at two Christmas services for patients at Peterborough Civic Hospital. The A. C. W. put on a very successful Christmas Bazaar which raised $3,300.
1985
In 1985 the men of the church fielded a Slo-Pitch softball team in the Sunday evening church league.
1984
On 21 June, 1984 “a large class of eighteen candidates was confirmed by Bishop Desmond Hunt”. “On 2 April, the Senior Choir competed in the Kiwanis Music Festival, obtaining a mark of 89%, and winning an award.” The large oak offering plates were designed and crafted by Maurice Harris and donated by the Hartle family in loving memory of Vera Hartle. St. Barnabas, along with all Anglican Churches in Canada, was asked to begin a trial use of the Book of Alternative Services forms of worship from time to time. After this period of evaluation the B. A. S. was published the following year.
1983
The parish celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1983. The Honorary Assistant, the Rev. Brian Heeney died after a long illness. “To mark the occasion of St. Barnabas’ 25th Anniversary, our choir produced a tape of favourite hymns, and our A. C. W. offered 25th Anniversary church plates and hasti-notes for sale (utilizing sketches of the church by Getha Sherry).” About eighty parishioners attended a 25th Anniversary Dinner and Dance at the Peterborough Legion.
1982
“The St. Barnabas Youth Group started in Sept. 1982. It includes young people age 10 and up. The name ‘Sparklers’ was chosen by the group themselves. They meet in the Rectory every Sunday afternoon at 2:30 pm. So far this year we’ve worked on a play on the subject of mission, which the group put on in the church on 14 Nov. Each week at the group we spend some time singing together, and often work on a craft together as well. We always enjoy eating – pop and cookies. As leader of the group I’m grateful to Phelan Scanlon who comes along quite often to help out. We all enjoy his presence.”
1981
1981 was the 20th anniversary of the dedication of the present St. Barnabas church building. New pews were installed and dedicated. A raised carpeted platform was installed for the choir pews. The embroidered alms bag for the choir was a gift from Dorothy Banks. St. Barnabas Choir was featured on the ‘Stories of Hymns’ radio broadcast on 25 January . There were about 70 children enrolled in the church school in five different classes. Rt. Rev. Desmond Hunt became the new area Bishop.
1980
The year 1980 was an exciting one for St. Barnabas. On Sunday 15 June, 1980 Archbishop Lewis Garnsworthy came to Peterborough to consecrate the present building at the 10:00 am service. The building had to be free of debt before it could be consecrated. Later that day at 2:30 pm the Archbishop celebrated the official opening of Hillmar Apartments. The present church was first dedicated on St. Barnabas Day, 11 June, 1961. “Thanks to the efforts of Norma Millen, our present organ has been sold at a good price, (This is the organ that came from North Broadview United Church where our present organist Sheila Tyrrell had been the paid soloist) and our new organ (the current Baldwin organ) will be installed in time for the 29 June service.”
1979
St. Barnabas is blessed to have the beautiful bargello superfrontal you see on the altar today. It is the creation of Anne Graham. This work of love took over 300 hours to complete. The frontal was dedicated on Sunday 2 December, 1979. The pattern is a combination of the peacock eye (in its colours) and the pomegranate (in shape). It contains 149 pomegranates, three large red missionary crosses set on a white background, and a blue border which runs along the top and bottom of the superfrontal. The missionary cross represents St. Barnabas, the missionary apostle. All the liturgical colours, white, red, purple and green are represented. It also contains the colour blue which is used in some Anglican churches during Advent. The colours of the superfrontal match the colours of the dossal curtain behind the altar. (As reported in The Anglican, January, 1980, page 17.) Thank you, Anne, for this beautiful gift.
1979 Part II
Last week we read about the gift of the superfrontal. Other gifts created by parishioners include needlepoint covers for the seat, back and kneeler of the prayer desk used by Fr. Eugene. They contain a red missionary cross on a background of dark blue with the red repeated again in the stones, the symbol of St. Barnabas. These were the work of Ida Willis. Two seasonal banners, Fall and Winter, were designed by Roger Cole and executed by Anne Cole. The Winter banner was made on a background of white silk with a silver fringe. There are three evergreens sewn on the banner, cut from green and silver material. The brown bare tree fills the foreground, and on one of its branches a yellow bird made of feathers is sitting and looking quite ruffled and cold. The banner creates the sense of cold in the winter, yet hope enters the picture in the figure of the bird and the three evergreens. (With material from The Anglican, January, 1980, page 17.) “As you have noticed by now our forty-three unit residence for senior citizens is under construction. After almost three years of meetings, plans, designing and re-designing, proposals and counter-proposals, and a lot of hard work by comparatively few people, it is most gratifying to see this ambitious project underway.”
1978
1978 saw the departure of Fr. Donald Catton and 19 November, 1978 saw the arrival of Dick and Mary Downey. Fr. Richard ministered in a four point charge in Fenelon Falls, Coboconk area before coming to St. Barnabas. Both were talented musicians and Dick often sang with the choir. Mary grew up in Brazil and studied grade thirteen in Switzerland. The Bishop’s charge to the Synod of 1978 indicated the problems the come with the largest diocese in the country. Bishop Garnsworthy found it difficult to serve the people of the Diocese of Toronto with only two bishops. He proposed several options including the one eventually accepted, that of having Regional (Area) Bishops.
1977
From the report to Vestry, 1977, “On 15 December, 1976 the Church Extension Board gave their approval for us to proceed with our plans to build Senior Citizen apartments on the land between the church and the rectory. We are unable to actually form our Company until Synod appoints two people to be their representatives in the Company. We expect that the next year will be one of paper work and negotiation.” The discussions on the ordination of women to the priesthood were brought to a close with the ordination of Margery Pezzack in May, 1977.
1976
From the report from Synod of 1975 to the 1976 St. Barnabas Vestry, “The Bishop (Louis Garnsworthy) is going to authorize three new liturgies for use in this diocese during the next year. They are the American, Series II, the English, Series III (known as CALS III, Canadian Alternative Liturgy Series III) and the new Canadian Liturgy. This year will give clergy and people time to familiarize themselves with them and assess their value.”
This began the movement in this diocese toward modern liturgies which resulted in the Book of Alternative Services in 1985. Liturgical revision occurred throughout the Communion and indeed in other denominations as well.
1975
From the Priest’s Report to Vestry (by the Rev. Donald Catton), “My sincere thanks also to Mrs. Jennie Chapman for typing the stencils for our weekly bulletins and to Mrs. Anne Cole for running these off every week on the Geststner.” Remember mimeographed pages? The main issue at General Synod was “What we as a Church are going to do about Church Union, (with the United Church of Canada) and the ordination of women to the priesthood.” Union was rejected in its presented form and ultimately it was rejected completely.
1974
From the Priest’s Report to Vestry, 1974: “We will have a Study Group or Groups to look at the three vital issues which face our Church in Canada. These are – the ‘Plan of Union’, the proposed new rite of Christian Initiation approved by General Synod last year, and the Ordination of Women to the Priesthood.” The Plan for Union meant union with the United Church of Canada. A joint Hymnal, the red book, was created at that time. The 1974 budget for the Diocese of Toronto was $1,600,000. The 2008 budget is $8,104,174.
1973
A children’s Lenten Programme requested 400 cigarette boxes, king size, for a craft activity. “Please save your boxes and bring them to the church. (How times have changed.) “We started our Junior Youth Group in 1973. At the end of October we held a very successful Halloween Party. With the help of Mrs. J. Kane, our Group sold Monarch gifts, greeting cards, etc., and from this project we realized a good profit.”
1972
The Rev. Donald Catton began his ministry at St. Barnabas on Labour Day weekend. Fr. Donald was born in Toronto. After a stint at Shell Oil he realized that God was calling him to full-time ministry. Fr. Catton and his wife Jean had five children. An want ad in the parish news letter read, “There is no need for a Christian to be unemployed. Here are a few job openings – Meals on Wheels, Church School, Choir, St. Barnabas Guild, Chancel Guild and Servers’ Guild.
1971
From the Vestry Report of 1971: “It is the duty of the servants of Christ to discern the signs of the times and understand them in the light of His Word. What is happening? Nothing else but what we were warned would happen, sooner or later. Judgement must begin at the house of God (1 Peter 4:17). We are being tested and sifted whether we really mean to follow Christ or are only pretending to do so. The Church is undergoing surgery at the hands of Almighty God, the removal of dead of diseased tissue! Of course it is painful, there is no anaesthetic. It hurts to see people drop out¼ But if we take the Bible seriously we know that we can expect this.” This was written by the Rector in response to the decline in church attendance. The issues may be different today but the struggle continues.
1970
“The musical event of the year – on Sunday 24 May at 7:00 p.m. The Sanctuary Choir under the direction of Giles Bryant will be coming to St. Barnabas from St. Mary Magdalene’s Toronto. The choir will sing Evensong, then give a concert afterwards of church music.” The newsletter reported that Sandra and David Rook--Green “are going to Nicaragua.” “Did you know that forty-four pounds of good used lightweight clothing was sent to Jamaica to the Rev. Arthur Bromley for his parish in Montego Bay?”
1969
“Did you know that St. Barnabas fielded two baseball teams this summer? MITES – age 7-9 and TADPOLES age 9-11. Abley (sic) coached by Don Sherry and Bob Elliot (Mites) and Bill Trim and Bert Chapman (Tadpoles). Both teams reached the playoffs.” A new pipe organ was installed and over $75 was raised by a bake to order sale “for anyone desirous of delicious food.”
1968
On our tenth anniversary, “The ACW is organizing a formal plan of hospital visiting so that once a week volunteers will visit at the hospital.” “After H. C. (Holy Communion) on Sunday the congregation voted to have H. C. every Sunday at 10:00 a. m. instead of 9:15. (except for July and August when it will revert to 9:15) Other services will remain at 8 and 7.” “St. Barnabas is pleased to be able to house nursery school run by Mrs. D. Sutherland. This was the beginning of the present Nursery School.
1967
In October 1967 the Women’s Auxiliary, Church Year, Sanctuary Guild and the Mother’s Union amalgamated to form the Anglican Church Women. The St. Barnabas News Letter for October reported, “In order that St. Barnabas can set up its Anglican Church Women’s Group properly, your president and vice president are meeting with two women from the Chancel Guild (the only other ladies group in our parish). We sincerely hope and pray that we move in the right direction in linking our groups together.” A meeting was held at St. John’s on 26 October, to clear up any points not clear regarding A. C. W.
1966
The annual Vestry approved a budget of $17,456, an increase from $15,929. After many years as Secretary, “typing the monthly and weekly bulletins on stencils, Getha Sherry resigned to become president of the ACW.” “These were done cheerfully and well.” Our eighth birthday was celebrated with a Choral Communion with the Rector dressed in fine vestments borrowed from St. Thomas Church in Toronto. “After the service, everyone rushed home, changed to picnic clothes and gathered at Nichols Oval. More than 140 people were present. The birthday cake was cut by Gladys Groombridge. “Eight years before at St. John’s Vestry she had moved the motion to establish a parish in the north end of the city.”
1965
The year 1965 saw The Rev. Ian Scott-Bucchleuch leave St. Barnabas and move to Montréal where he became the Vicar of Christ Church Cathedral. On his last Sunday he was presented with a record player and a gift certificate for records. The Rev. Dr. Carmino de Catanzaro arrived in September from Seabury – Western Theological Seminary in Evanston Illinois to become Rector of St. Barnabas. He is quoted as saying “The public may have had an overdose of sugary sweet hymns and platitudes from the pulpit.” For the first time in our history the annual carol service was shared with Northminster United Church, St. Stephen’s Presbyterian Church and Edmison Heights Baptist Church
1964
The following piece was found in a news letter from 1964. “Our faithful friend, ‘Asthmatic Agatha’, was getting wheezy – every time the organist sat down to play he wondered if he could get her through the service. An organ from the former North Broadview United Church in Toronto was purchased and installed before St. Barnabas Day, 1964. Our present Music Director, Sheila Tyrrell was a paid soloist at North Broadview United Church from 1960 to 1962, and was accompanied by this organ.
1963
At the fourth annual vestry meeting at St. Barnabas Anglican Church Rector’s Warden Robert MacKirdy presented a budget for 1963 of estimated receipts of $19,208.00 with expenditures the same amount, allowing no margins for unexpected expenses. The W. A. (now the A.C. W.) presented a cheque to the Wardens for $250.00. This well-kept secret (wives were forbidden to tell their husbands) means the Wardens will be able to purchase a new typewriter. Also, “The first tent to ‘officially’ occupy a site at Beavermead Park on Little Lake went up at exactly 7:30 p.m. on Friday. First group to set up camp was the St. Barnabas Church Boy’s League, Anglican Church of Canada, of Peterborough.” From the Examiner. David Rook-Green was one of the campers.
1962
The financial statement for 1962 showed receipts of $10,638.03 with disbursements of $9,691.99 and building fund receipts of $12,818.89 with disbursements of $12,404.00. Around this time the telephone numbers changed from exchange names, RI X- XXXX to all numbers, 74X-XXXX. A bulletin insert noted “Now that we are an established parish the Church Extension Assistance, which has amounted to $3000.00 per year, will be reduced by $1000.00 per year starting in 1962 until we are self supporting.”
1961
11 June, 1961, St. Barnabas Day, was the occasion of the dedication of the present building by the Right Reverend George B. Snell, Bishop of Toronto. The original plan called for this building to be a temporary place of worship until a larger facility could be built on the where the Hillmar Apartments are now located. The building where we now meet was intended to become the parish hall
1960
1960 saw the purchase of the property that is the current site of St. Barnabas at Hilliard St. and Marina Ave. The Sunset property proved to be too small. The sod turning for the present church by Bishop Frederick H. Wilkinson assisted by Archdeacon F. G. Ongley took place on 23 October, 1960. The cost of the new building was $81,000.
1959
St. Barnabas soon moved from Queen Elizabeth School to a new portable building supplied by the diocese. It was situated on land purchased for the church at the corner of Harper Rd., now Northminster Ave., and Sunset Blvd. The first service held there was on Sunday 6 December, 1959. The Reverend Ian Scott-Buccleuch was the priest-in-charge. The portable was heated by a steam heater and had seating for a hundred people. The Sunday School still met in Queen Elizabeth School. The annual Parish Budget totalled $3600.
1958
The north end of Peterborough was growing rapidly in the mid 1950s. Most Anglicans of the area were attending St. John the Evangelist, the closest church. As the numbers of Anglicans in the north end grew, there was a desire to form a new parish. On 11 June, 1958, St. Barnabas Day, a meeting was held in Queen Elizabeth School for those interested in forming a new parish. The first service was held there on 7 September, 1958, attended by sixty-five adults and numerous children.
2008
2008 marked the 50th Anniversary of the founding of St. Barnabas parish. Celebrations began with a concert presented by our choir which included several solos including a guitar solo by Sheila Tyrrell. On 7 Sept. we recreated the first service, held at Queen Elizabeth School, including the same hymns and liturgy. Several women wore hats and there were a number of “originals” in attendance. Next came a parish Anniversary Dinner held at St. John’s in the very room where the motion to start the new parish was made and passed. The one event that will stay in the minds of all who attended was on Amazing Grace Sunday when the Anglican parishes in Canada were asked to sing Amazing Grace and donate a toonie for each participant to assist in the work of the Council of the North. The temperature in the church was 8 degrees C. Those in attendance wore their coats, hats and gloves, and the very short gathering, couldn’t be called a service, opened with prayer, a couple of songs, followed by the singing of Amazing Grace, twice, which was videotaped for submission to the National Church (see the YouTube clip above). The collection, an essential, was then taken and everyone hastened to return to their warm homes.
2006
“This past year we have all worked hard to help the church in the mission to our community and this time we travelled beyond. The Orchard family, through Northumberland Youth for Christ, joined in on a mission of building and sharing Christ’s love in Ghana. We helped make it happen!!! Lots of work and lots of Blessings!! For it is He, the Lord your God who has given you the ability to produce wealth in various forms to help others. Also our Christmas outreach to the Kashechewan community was another Blessing we have received because we were able to give. Thanks to the ACW and everyone who was involved.”
from the Vestry Report for the year 2006.
2005
One of the major events of 2005 was the sale of the rectory. This was the second rectory for St. Barnabas. It was located next door to the church. The first rectory was at 1100 Royal Dr. The rectory was sold because Fr. Eugene, with the help of several parishioners, built his new home near Lakehurst. Another event was the replacement of the floor in Groombridge Hall. This hall was named in honour of Les and Gladys Groombridge. The large cross above the altar was given by the Groombridges in memory of their son Robert. They were great supporters of St. Barnabas and were missed when they moved to Australia. The A.C.W. supported Friends of Honduran Children with a cheque for $1000.
2004
From the Vestry Report for 2004: “I am thankful to God for many things. I have had the honour and pleasure of working with some of our parishioners over the summer during the building of our house. Without their dedication, commitment and skills I would not be as far as I am today. I must say again that my sabbatical has afforded me the time to truly come to appreciate how important my church and God are to me. When I say church, I especially mean the people of St. Barnabas. We have journeyed together and experienced many of life’s challenges. We have shared our sorrows and we have celebrated our joys. It is what the family of God is all about. I am truly honoured to be your pastor and priest.”
2003
“Our own Janet Weller is now in her first year at Wycliffe College. She is taking her Master of Divinity and, God willing, she will be accepted as a postulant for ordination in the Toronto Diocese. Please pray for her and Martyn as they answer God’s call. I also hope and pray that we can be there for them and their various needs in the days ahead. God bless both of you.” Janet was ordained in the Diocese of Ontario and currently serves in the Heart of Hastings parish which includes St. Mark, Bonarlaw, St. John, Madoc and St. Paul Marmora. “The A. C. M. (Anglican Church Men) meet socially every Friday morning (9am) at Tim Horton’s on Water Street just below Trent University. They also help with many of the duties and functions of the church. Thank you. All men are welcome to join them. These friendly meetings continue. It is a good way to get to know others in the congregation.
2002
“Last year, Muriel Dean, one of our long time parishioners committed to putting in a stained glass window. It will happen this year (2002), possibly by April. The space to be used is right behind the organ speaker above the entrance of the church nave. It is a picture of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, holding a lamb with a child shepherdess at his feet. The colours and art are presented in a contemporary style and I believe we will all be pleased. Muriel has offered to finance the whole endeavour. Thank you Muriel for this wonderful gift and your generosity.” The window was created by Val at Hues In Glass. From the Vestry Report, 2002
2001
“ACW Makes Her Cry”. This headline appeared in the January 2001 Banner. Following Eugene and Dianne’s trip to Uganda Dianne decided “for my birthday, I asked that we celebrate by having a party where all my friends and family would help my dream come true.” Her dream was to provide a well for a village in Uganda. “A week before the ACW service, I was just over $1,500 short of my goal of $4,500. Then a few letters arrived with a little over $500 in them. After the ACW service, Jen Burke on behalf of the ladies presented me with a cheque for the well. I looked at it – one thousand dollars. I couldn’t believe my eyes and burst into tears. Tears of joy!” Dianne had the $4,500 needed to provide the well.
2000
From the Banner for February, 2000, “We rejoice as Khadija Warsame and her family take up new lives in Canada, assisted by dedicated volunteers from this parish working as partners with the people of Christ Lutheran Church. “ The Warsame/Mohamed family were refugees from Somalia. Kadija’s husband was murdered in Somalia, causing the family to spend the previous five years in a refugee camp in Malawi. They arrived in Canada with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Note: computers did not crash on New Years Eve, Y2K, thanks to Fr. Eugene as he helped update the older computers while volunteering with Dianne in Uganda.
1999
From the bulletin for 3 January, 1999, The Rev. Ian Scott-Bucchleuch 1921-1998. Longtime parishioners will be saddened to learn that the first Rector of St. Barnabas, Rev. Ian Scott-Bucchleuch, died in late November at the age of 77. His funeral was held from the Anglican Catholic Church of Canada in Ottawa and the funeral reception was organized by Joan de Catanzaro. Fr. Ian was suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. From 24 January, A group of parishioners is assembling a parcel of mitts and socks for the residents of Kangiqsualujjuaq.
1998
1998 saw the departure of the Reverend Ken Davis to All Saints Whitby, and the arrival of the Reverend Eugene Berlenbach, his wife Dianne, and their three children from Christ Church Campbellford. His first service was held on Sunday 4 October, 1998. Dr. Grant Schwartz was the interim Priest-in-charge following the departure of Fr. Ken until the arrival of Fr. Eugene. Dr. Schwartz became the full-time chaplain at Mississauga Hospital.
1997
“Offerings may be deposited on the plate as it is now being passed each week. There are envelopes in the pew racks for your convenience. And
“Offerings may be deposited upon arriving, or on leaving the service; there is an Almsbox at the back , and there are envelopes on the back of the pews.” These two notices appeared in the bulletins a couple of weeks apart. An Alpha Course was held at St. Barnabas on Thursday evenings, beginning with a meal.
1994
The effort to sponsor the Chu family from Vietnam and living as refugees in Cambodia was concluded when the family was accepted by the U. S.
This concluded four years of letter writing and organization by parishioners of St. Barnabas. “In the nineties the church building was made accessible to those with physical disabilities by the building of a two story addition containing a wheelchair lift, a wheelchair accessible washroom and extra meeting and office space. Over $60,000 was pledged and the building began in July 1994 with the service of Dedication held on 15 November, 1994.”
1993
The Christmas Eve Family service at 4:00 pm, was a little different. The line “And this shall be a sign.” took on a different meaning. “This Christmas Service is about signs.” The signs included, “Construction Ahead.”, “Watch for children.” and “Quiet Zone.” After which the Theme Verse was sung, “In Bethlehem is born for you, A child of David’s line, A Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, And this shall be a sign.” As the service progressed other signs and hymns became evident. “Merge” before “Hark the Herald Angels sing.” “Pay Toll Ahead” and “Do Not Enter” before “Away in the Manger”. The next sign was “End of Construction” followed by “Silent Night”. This was followed by “Livestock Crossing” with “Shepherds, why this jubilee?” Other signs included “Merging Traffic”, “Danger”, “No U Turn”, “No Parking” and “Freeway Entrance”, followed by “Joy to the World”. This must have been a very interesting Family Service of Carols.
1992
“Our first Talent Auction will be held on 12 June, 1992 in the Church hall. Like the first annual ‘Bonds Night’, this promises to be great fun for everyone.” The Summer Associate was Margaret Tandy, currently serving at St. Mark’s Port Hope. From the bulletin for Nov. 29, 1992, “We Anglicans are rather used to juggling a lot of books, most of which you will find on the back of each pew. The main service book this morning will be the large green copy; some find it helpful to use ribbons to mark certain pages ahead of time. The Holy Bible is red and is often used during readings and the sermon. The Hymns are found in the small blue book. And you may see others clinging closely to this bulletin (for page numbers and other directions). But the goal of it all is to meet God in Worship. If the books, the standing and kneeling get in your way, then be free simply to sit and listen to what God is saying to you today.”
1991
Sunday 3 February, 1991 saw the visit of Bishop Douglas Blackwell to St. Barnabas and the Commissioning of Lay Leaders in Ministry. The parish also showed a three part video series by Dr. John Westerhoff titled “Will Our Children Have Faith”. The program was described as “Will Our Children Have Faith. In his three part video series, Dr. John Westerhoff maintains that if your children are to have faith, you must live faithfully as a member of the Christian community. Learn with others how your life can help ensure that there will be another generation of Christians.
These words still apply today. Dr. Westerhoff was a Professor of Religion and Education at Duke University. He is an Episcopal priest and a worldwide lecturer.
1990
St. Barnabas began the sponsorship process for the Chu family in Cambodia, as refugees. On receipt of the notice that they had been accepted for sponsorship to Canada they wrote: You cannot imagine how moved and touched we seven felt in receipt of the Sponsorship form. After lengthy 11 years wait in this refuge camp to lead a peaceful and meaningful life in the third country, now our dream is close to realization. We begin seeing life in the Glory and Love of Lord Jesus Christ appearing through the darkness of the night. Before getting the sponsorship, we have hourly stayed in worriment and despair, not knowing where our future will be. The Chu family were refugees from Cambodia living in a refugee camp in Vietnam. This was the beginning of a long and complicated process to see them settled in Peterborough.
1989
St. Barnabas welcomed Ken Davis as the new incumbent. The white superfrontal was given in memory of John Godfrey by Polly Godfrey. Almost all diocesan churches were closed on one Sunday when Anglicans gathered at the Sky Dome for the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Diocese of Toronto. A large wooden cross was carried into the Sky Dome and was later circulated around the churches of the Diocese.
1988
St. Barnabas celebrated their 30th anniversary. The parish said goodbye to Dick and Mary Downie after Dick’s 10 years as incumbent. They moved to the Church of the Holy Spirit in Mississauga. The Vestry Report noted that the Sunday School had between 20 and 30 children each Sunday. Also in the Report was the following: “I can share this thought: Every single stitch in the tapestry of parish life is priceless and vital – be it the obvious ministries associated with worship, the work of the various parish groups or the simpler things like asking the parish to remember your concerns in their prayers.” Beverley Thompson, Rector’s Warden.
1987
Several parishioners participated in the Logos course, “The Bible Speaks to Us”. Former Trent student and St. Barnabas’ parishioner Phelan Scanlon was ordained Deacon on May 17. He was presented a gift of a funeral cape by the parish.The stained glass exit sign was given by Anne and Roger Cole.
1986
The parish obtained 125 copies of the new Book of Alternative Services. “St. Barnabas Slo-Pitch Baseball team finished second in their division last summer, and will move up from the Fourth to the Third Division of the League this year.” St. Barnabas’ Junior Choir sang hymns and anthems at two Christmas services for patients at Peterborough Civic Hospital. The A. C. W. put on a very successful Christmas Bazaar which raised $3,300.
1985
In 1985 the men of the church fielded a Slo-Pitch softball team in the Sunday evening church league.
1984
On 21 June, 1984 “a large class of eighteen candidates was confirmed by Bishop Desmond Hunt”. “On 2 April, the Senior Choir competed in the Kiwanis Music Festival, obtaining a mark of 89%, and winning an award.” The large oak offering plates were designed and crafted by Maurice Harris and donated by the Hartle family in loving memory of Vera Hartle. St. Barnabas, along with all Anglican Churches in Canada, was asked to begin a trial use of the Book of Alternative Services forms of worship from time to time. After this period of evaluation the B. A. S. was published the following year.
1983
The parish celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1983. The Honorary Assistant, the Rev. Brian Heeney died after a long illness. “To mark the occasion of St. Barnabas’ 25th Anniversary, our choir produced a tape of favourite hymns, and our A. C. W. offered 25th Anniversary church plates and hasti-notes for sale (utilizing sketches of the church by Getha Sherry).” About eighty parishioners attended a 25th Anniversary Dinner and Dance at the Peterborough Legion.
1982
“The St. Barnabas Youth Group started in Sept. 1982. It includes young people age 10 and up. The name ‘Sparklers’ was chosen by the group themselves. They meet in the Rectory every Sunday afternoon at 2:30 pm. So far this year we’ve worked on a play on the subject of mission, which the group put on in the church on 14 Nov. Each week at the group we spend some time singing together, and often work on a craft together as well. We always enjoy eating – pop and cookies. As leader of the group I’m grateful to Phelan Scanlon who comes along quite often to help out. We all enjoy his presence.”
1981
1981 was the 20th anniversary of the dedication of the present St. Barnabas church building. New pews were installed and dedicated. A raised carpeted platform was installed for the choir pews. The embroidered alms bag for the choir was a gift from Dorothy Banks. St. Barnabas Choir was featured on the ‘Stories of Hymns’ radio broadcast on 25 January . There were about 70 children enrolled in the church school in five different classes. Rt. Rev. Desmond Hunt became the new area Bishop.
1980
The year 1980 was an exciting one for St. Barnabas. On Sunday 15 June, 1980 Archbishop Lewis Garnsworthy came to Peterborough to consecrate the present building at the 10:00 am service. The building had to be free of debt before it could be consecrated. Later that day at 2:30 pm the Archbishop celebrated the official opening of Hillmar Apartments. The present church was first dedicated on St. Barnabas Day, 11 June, 1961. “Thanks to the efforts of Norma Millen, our present organ has been sold at a good price, (This is the organ that came from North Broadview United Church where our present organist Sheila Tyrrell had been the paid soloist) and our new organ (the current Baldwin organ) will be installed in time for the 29 June service.”
1979
St. Barnabas is blessed to have the beautiful bargello superfrontal you see on the altar today. It is the creation of Anne Graham. This work of love took over 300 hours to complete. The frontal was dedicated on Sunday 2 December, 1979. The pattern is a combination of the peacock eye (in its colours) and the pomegranate (in shape). It contains 149 pomegranates, three large red missionary crosses set on a white background, and a blue border which runs along the top and bottom of the superfrontal. The missionary cross represents St. Barnabas, the missionary apostle. All the liturgical colours, white, red, purple and green are represented. It also contains the colour blue which is used in some Anglican churches during Advent. The colours of the superfrontal match the colours of the dossal curtain behind the altar. (As reported in The Anglican, January, 1980, page 17.) Thank you, Anne, for this beautiful gift.
1979 Part II
Last week we read about the gift of the superfrontal. Other gifts created by parishioners include needlepoint covers for the seat, back and kneeler of the prayer desk used by Fr. Eugene. They contain a red missionary cross on a background of dark blue with the red repeated again in the stones, the symbol of St. Barnabas. These were the work of Ida Willis. Two seasonal banners, Fall and Winter, were designed by Roger Cole and executed by Anne Cole. The Winter banner was made on a background of white silk with a silver fringe. There are three evergreens sewn on the banner, cut from green and silver material. The brown bare tree fills the foreground, and on one of its branches a yellow bird made of feathers is sitting and looking quite ruffled and cold. The banner creates the sense of cold in the winter, yet hope enters the picture in the figure of the bird and the three evergreens. (With material from The Anglican, January, 1980, page 17.) “As you have noticed by now our forty-three unit residence for senior citizens is under construction. After almost three years of meetings, plans, designing and re-designing, proposals and counter-proposals, and a lot of hard work by comparatively few people, it is most gratifying to see this ambitious project underway.”
1978
1978 saw the departure of Fr. Donald Catton and 19 November, 1978 saw the arrival of Dick and Mary Downey. Fr. Richard ministered in a four point charge in Fenelon Falls, Coboconk area before coming to St. Barnabas. Both were talented musicians and Dick often sang with the choir. Mary grew up in Brazil and studied grade thirteen in Switzerland. The Bishop’s charge to the Synod of 1978 indicated the problems the come with the largest diocese in the country. Bishop Garnsworthy found it difficult to serve the people of the Diocese of Toronto with only two bishops. He proposed several options including the one eventually accepted, that of having Regional (Area) Bishops.
1977
From the report to Vestry, 1977, “On 15 December, 1976 the Church Extension Board gave their approval for us to proceed with our plans to build Senior Citizen apartments on the land between the church and the rectory. We are unable to actually form our Company until Synod appoints two people to be their representatives in the Company. We expect that the next year will be one of paper work and negotiation.” The discussions on the ordination of women to the priesthood were brought to a close with the ordination of Margery Pezzack in May, 1977.
1976
From the report from Synod of 1975 to the 1976 St. Barnabas Vestry, “The Bishop (Louis Garnsworthy) is going to authorize three new liturgies for use in this diocese during the next year. They are the American, Series II, the English, Series III (known as CALS III, Canadian Alternative Liturgy Series III) and the new Canadian Liturgy. This year will give clergy and people time to familiarize themselves with them and assess their value.”
This began the movement in this diocese toward modern liturgies which resulted in the Book of Alternative Services in 1985. Liturgical revision occurred throughout the Communion and indeed in other denominations as well.
1975
From the Priest’s Report to Vestry (by the Rev. Donald Catton), “My sincere thanks also to Mrs. Jennie Chapman for typing the stencils for our weekly bulletins and to Mrs. Anne Cole for running these off every week on the Geststner.” Remember mimeographed pages? The main issue at General Synod was “What we as a Church are going to do about Church Union, (with the United Church of Canada) and the ordination of women to the priesthood.” Union was rejected in its presented form and ultimately it was rejected completely.
1974
From the Priest’s Report to Vestry, 1974: “We will have a Study Group or Groups to look at the three vital issues which face our Church in Canada. These are – the ‘Plan of Union’, the proposed new rite of Christian Initiation approved by General Synod last year, and the Ordination of Women to the Priesthood.” The Plan for Union meant union with the United Church of Canada. A joint Hymnal, the red book, was created at that time. The 1974 budget for the Diocese of Toronto was $1,600,000. The 2008 budget is $8,104,174.
1973
A children’s Lenten Programme requested 400 cigarette boxes, king size, for a craft activity. “Please save your boxes and bring them to the church. (How times have changed.) “We started our Junior Youth Group in 1973. At the end of October we held a very successful Halloween Party. With the help of Mrs. J. Kane, our Group sold Monarch gifts, greeting cards, etc., and from this project we realized a good profit.”
1972
The Rev. Donald Catton began his ministry at St. Barnabas on Labour Day weekend. Fr. Donald was born in Toronto. After a stint at Shell Oil he realized that God was calling him to full-time ministry. Fr. Catton and his wife Jean had five children. An want ad in the parish news letter read, “There is no need for a Christian to be unemployed. Here are a few job openings – Meals on Wheels, Church School, Choir, St. Barnabas Guild, Chancel Guild and Servers’ Guild.
1971
From the Vestry Report of 1971: “It is the duty of the servants of Christ to discern the signs of the times and understand them in the light of His Word. What is happening? Nothing else but what we were warned would happen, sooner or later. Judgement must begin at the house of God (1 Peter 4:17). We are being tested and sifted whether we really mean to follow Christ or are only pretending to do so. The Church is undergoing surgery at the hands of Almighty God, the removal of dead of diseased tissue! Of course it is painful, there is no anaesthetic. It hurts to see people drop out¼ But if we take the Bible seriously we know that we can expect this.” This was written by the Rector in response to the decline in church attendance. The issues may be different today but the struggle continues.
1970
“The musical event of the year – on Sunday 24 May at 7:00 p.m. The Sanctuary Choir under the direction of Giles Bryant will be coming to St. Barnabas from St. Mary Magdalene’s Toronto. The choir will sing Evensong, then give a concert afterwards of church music.” The newsletter reported that Sandra and David Rook--Green “are going to Nicaragua.” “Did you know that forty-four pounds of good used lightweight clothing was sent to Jamaica to the Rev. Arthur Bromley for his parish in Montego Bay?”
1969
“Did you know that St. Barnabas fielded two baseball teams this summer? MITES – age 7-9 and TADPOLES age 9-11. Abley (sic) coached by Don Sherry and Bob Elliot (Mites) and Bill Trim and Bert Chapman (Tadpoles). Both teams reached the playoffs.” A new pipe organ was installed and over $75 was raised by a bake to order sale “for anyone desirous of delicious food.”
1968
On our tenth anniversary, “The ACW is organizing a formal plan of hospital visiting so that once a week volunteers will visit at the hospital.” “After H. C. (Holy Communion) on Sunday the congregation voted to have H. C. every Sunday at 10:00 a. m. instead of 9:15. (except for July and August when it will revert to 9:15) Other services will remain at 8 and 7.” “St. Barnabas is pleased to be able to house nursery school run by Mrs. D. Sutherland. This was the beginning of the present Nursery School.
1967
In October 1967 the Women’s Auxiliary, Church Year, Sanctuary Guild and the Mother’s Union amalgamated to form the Anglican Church Women. The St. Barnabas News Letter for October reported, “In order that St. Barnabas can set up its Anglican Church Women’s Group properly, your president and vice president are meeting with two women from the Chancel Guild (the only other ladies group in our parish). We sincerely hope and pray that we move in the right direction in linking our groups together.” A meeting was held at St. John’s on 26 October, to clear up any points not clear regarding A. C. W.
1966
The annual Vestry approved a budget of $17,456, an increase from $15,929. After many years as Secretary, “typing the monthly and weekly bulletins on stencils, Getha Sherry resigned to become president of the ACW.” “These were done cheerfully and well.” Our eighth birthday was celebrated with a Choral Communion with the Rector dressed in fine vestments borrowed from St. Thomas Church in Toronto. “After the service, everyone rushed home, changed to picnic clothes and gathered at Nichols Oval. More than 140 people were present. The birthday cake was cut by Gladys Groombridge. “Eight years before at St. John’s Vestry she had moved the motion to establish a parish in the north end of the city.”
1965
The year 1965 saw The Rev. Ian Scott-Bucchleuch leave St. Barnabas and move to Montréal where he became the Vicar of Christ Church Cathedral. On his last Sunday he was presented with a record player and a gift certificate for records. The Rev. Dr. Carmino de Catanzaro arrived in September from Seabury – Western Theological Seminary in Evanston Illinois to become Rector of St. Barnabas. He is quoted as saying “The public may have had an overdose of sugary sweet hymns and platitudes from the pulpit.” For the first time in our history the annual carol service was shared with Northminster United Church, St. Stephen’s Presbyterian Church and Edmison Heights Baptist Church
1964
The following piece was found in a news letter from 1964. “Our faithful friend, ‘Asthmatic Agatha’, was getting wheezy – every time the organist sat down to play he wondered if he could get her through the service. An organ from the former North Broadview United Church in Toronto was purchased and installed before St. Barnabas Day, 1964. Our present Music Director, Sheila Tyrrell was a paid soloist at North Broadview United Church from 1960 to 1962, and was accompanied by this organ.
1963
At the fourth annual vestry meeting at St. Barnabas Anglican Church Rector’s Warden Robert MacKirdy presented a budget for 1963 of estimated receipts of $19,208.00 with expenditures the same amount, allowing no margins for unexpected expenses. The W. A. (now the A.C. W.) presented a cheque to the Wardens for $250.00. This well-kept secret (wives were forbidden to tell their husbands) means the Wardens will be able to purchase a new typewriter. Also, “The first tent to ‘officially’ occupy a site at Beavermead Park on Little Lake went up at exactly 7:30 p.m. on Friday. First group to set up camp was the St. Barnabas Church Boy’s League, Anglican Church of Canada, of Peterborough.” From the Examiner. David Rook-Green was one of the campers.
1962
The financial statement for 1962 showed receipts of $10,638.03 with disbursements of $9,691.99 and building fund receipts of $12,818.89 with disbursements of $12,404.00. Around this time the telephone numbers changed from exchange names, RI X- XXXX to all numbers, 74X-XXXX. A bulletin insert noted “Now that we are an established parish the Church Extension Assistance, which has amounted to $3000.00 per year, will be reduced by $1000.00 per year starting in 1962 until we are self supporting.”
1961
11 June, 1961, St. Barnabas Day, was the occasion of the dedication of the present building by the Right Reverend George B. Snell, Bishop of Toronto. The original plan called for this building to be a temporary place of worship until a larger facility could be built on the where the Hillmar Apartments are now located. The building where we now meet was intended to become the parish hall
1960
1960 saw the purchase of the property that is the current site of St. Barnabas at Hilliard St. and Marina Ave. The Sunset property proved to be too small. The sod turning for the present church by Bishop Frederick H. Wilkinson assisted by Archdeacon F. G. Ongley took place on 23 October, 1960. The cost of the new building was $81,000.
1959
St. Barnabas soon moved from Queen Elizabeth School to a new portable building supplied by the diocese. It was situated on land purchased for the church at the corner of Harper Rd., now Northminster Ave., and Sunset Blvd. The first service held there was on Sunday 6 December, 1959. The Reverend Ian Scott-Buccleuch was the priest-in-charge. The portable was heated by a steam heater and had seating for a hundred people. The Sunday School still met in Queen Elizabeth School. The annual Parish Budget totalled $3600.
1958
The north end of Peterborough was growing rapidly in the mid 1950s. Most Anglicans of the area were attending St. John the Evangelist, the closest church. As the numbers of Anglicans in the north end grew, there was a desire to form a new parish. On 11 June, 1958, St. Barnabas Day, a meeting was held in Queen Elizabeth School for those interested in forming a new parish. The first service was held there on 7 September, 1958, attended by sixty-five adults and numerous children.
