Be Involved
St. Brice’s, North Bay, is a parish within the Anglican Church of Canada, in the Diocese (region) of Algoma. The rector and elected wardens are chiefly responsible for the parish, supported by the elected Advisory Board. Ministries and Committees are guided and supported by the Advisory Board. We encourage everyone to be involved in our common life, and to make a difference in the world. Some of the ministries with which we are involved are listed below:
ALPHA
Alpha is a series of interactive sessions that engages people in conversations about faith, life and Jesus. Every Alpha session includes food, a short talk (on video or live), and discussion. Alpha is for everyone – welcoming people from all backgrounds, religions and viewpoints, no matter where they are on their journey.
ALTAR GUILD
Members of the Altar Guild serve the Lord in His Church through various responsibilities associated with the preparation and adornment of the Sanctuary for weekly worship services. It is a ministry in which members care for the altar, the sacred vessels used in Holy Eucharist and all altar linens. The overall goal of the Altar Guild is to see that the worship space is kept beautiful and in good order both to glorify God and provide a setting that enables the congregation to worship in a meaningful way.
ANGLICAN CHURCH WOMEN
The Anglican Church Women is part of a larger group of women from parishes throughout the Diocese of Algoma who raise funds for missions. A Spring Tea and Fall Lunch are annual events. Each parish contributes a thank offering at the ACW Annual in May. These monies are used to support various missions.
BIBLE STUDY
Studying God’s Word is a privilege and most enjoyable in a warm fellowship setting that permits good dialogue and questions. St. Brice’s has a Bible study group on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Currently, it is held on Zoom. All are welcome to participate.
CAMP TEMISKAMING
Camp Temiskaming is located on the shores of Fairy Lake, about 15 km. from New Liskeard. The Camp offers an affordable, high-energy Christian summer camp experience that includes canoeing, nature hikes, sports and archery, making it a wonderful destination for kids and youth. Week-long camps are held for junior boys, junior girls, and senior girls providing them the opportunity to learn about God’s love. Women’s retreats are also offered during the summer. Donations help with the costs of running the camp and insurance, as well as needed renovations.
CANADIAN ANGLICAN CURSILLO
The purpose of the Canadian Anglican Cursillo Movement is to provide a method which makes it possible for Christians to live and share what is fundamental to being a Christian. Cursillo is an opportunity to get away for a spiritual retreat and participate in a ‘short course of Christianity’. The event brings people together for fellowship and growth, helping Christians to discover and achieve their individual callings to change their environments for Christ.
FOOD BANK
St. Brice’s runs a Food Bank every Thursday from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Volunteers faithfully serve by distributing baskets of food to families in need. With current inflation rates adding pressure to families’ grocery budget, the Food Bank is an essential ministry. Many donations of food and funds support this well-known and worthwhile program.
GAMES NIGHT
The monthly Games Night offered in the church hall. With the exception of July and August, people gather on the third Saturday of each month at 7:00 p.m. (following Messy Church) for an enjoyable evening of table and board games. Games of every description are provided and people are also encouraged to bring along their own favourite. It is a great opportunity of fellowship and fun. All are invited to attend.
LAYREADERS
Layreaders are men and women volunteers who offer assistance to the minister in the worship services. This may include being a Eucharist Assistant and reading parts of the liturgy. Layreaders may be called upon to lead a morning prayer service or provide a sermon. Hospital visits and other services or responsibilities may be provided, as per the discretion of the minister. Each year, the layreaders attend the Diocesan Layreader Conference. They fulfill an important leadership role in support of worship at St. Brice’s.