Slideshow image

This has been a landmark month of February, and it will continue to be for the remaining two weeks. One of the tasks we are completing is the Service of Induction of me as the Incumbent of the Parish of St. Mark. So... first of all, I "googled" "Incumbent" and here's what she said (is Google a girl??): 

"In English ecclesiastical law, the term incumbent refers to the holder of a Church of England parochial charge or benefice. At one time, an incumbent might choose to enjoy the income of the benefice and appoint an assistant curate to discharge all the spiritual duties of the office at a lesser salary." 

Say, I like that idea. I'll ask Bishop Logan when he comes on the 23rd of February. 

Even more important though, is a declaration that I make during the celebration. Turning to face you, the people of St. Mark, I say... "I, Elizabeth Northcott, commit myself to ministry in the Diocese of British Columbia, particularly with the people of the Parish of St. Mark. To this venture in faith I bring who I am as a person with natural strength and weakness, hope and concern, gifts and talents, as well as with those spiritual gifts and talents bestowed on me by God's grace. I will endeavour to share, in the name of Christ and by the empowering of the Holy Spirit, with the people of this Diocese and the Parish of St. Mark in Qualicum Beach in living out the ministry and mission to which we are called by God." 

And may it be so!