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On Sunday August 23, our Anglican Bishop Anna announced that Rev. Matt has accepted a new ministry appointment as Incumbent of St. Michael an All Angels (Royal Oak) beginning October 15, 2026.   His last Sunday with the AbbeyChurch in his current role will be September 27, 2026.

Please read the Bishop's letter (image above) if you were not present for the announcement.  

 

And Rev. Matt wishes to share the following words: 

It is truly bittersweet for me to accept this new appointment and call to serve, which sees nearly 8 years of ministry with the beloved AbbeyChurch come to a close.  I began with you in a non-ordained capacity as 'Community Life Minister' in the summer of 2018, at the same time I was in the formation process with Emmaus, having since become a vowed member of that community (which I will continue to journey and pray with).  I was ordained in 2019 and my role continued on in that capacity, supported by and with a wonderful team ministry (with deepest gratitude to Rev. Rob and Rev. Meagan, as well as to those who came alongside the team in a variety of capacities since - Rev. Lynn, Rev. Michelle, Rev. Ernest, Rev. Reba).  

It has been my delight to offer my gifts and serve among you, and I hold so many memories both very good and some challenging over these last years with you all.  My new appointment marks a change in my life as it'll be the first time I serve in a full-time call, so it will mean phasing down my hours at the Local General Store as well.  I welcome and cherish your prayers for all impacted by this transition - for our Church and community, for my kids, Meagan, and wider family, and for the Store.  I know this change will invoke an array of responses, and Council are availaable for any of your questions or feedback - coucil@abbeychurch.ca. I am also grateful to Rev. Michelle Slater who will be taking the lead on supporting our worship and pastoral care on an interim/supply basis, while a small working group from Abbey/Emmaus does the necessary work of transition and discernment as they seek to call a minister or ministry team to serve the Abbey going forward. 

It is customary in the Anglican tradition that those leaving a Church ministry role not return to regular worship for one year, which I will observe, with my prayers for you all and hopes of our paths crossing again, albeit in a new way, down the road.

May we lean in close to hear the guidance of our God who has come near to each of us in Jesus Christ and who is present to us in every moment, by the Spirit.