Parish of Macdowall and St. Louis seeks half time priest

Half Time Position Available

Incumbent Parish of MacDowall and St. Louis, Diocese of Saskatchewan

The Parish of St. Louis (Emmanuel Church) and MacDowall (St. Stephen’s Church) are situated in two small communities close to Prince Albert, Saskatchewan.

St. Louis is a small central Saskatchewan village, with a population of 431. It is located approximately 30 kms south of the city of Prince Albert and approximately 100 kms northeast of the city of Saskatoon. St. Louis is a rural agricultural community situated on the scenic and historic South Saskatchewan River just a few kilometers east of the famous Northwest Metis Rebellion at Batoche. St. Louis offers quiet small town charm and peaceful living, with the modern conveniences of the larger cities only minutes away. St. Louis offers a wide variety of businesses and services. For further information, one can visit the town website at http://www.villageofstlouis.com.

Within St.Loius is Emmanuel Church. The first service to be held in our church was in 1931. There have been many changes over the last 73 years, but the most significant would have to be the construction of the new church in 1977 - 78. The old church was damaged in an accident and it was necessary to rebuild a new one, so in spring of 1978, work began in the new church. Currently there are 46 families on the parish roll and approximately 14 families attend church regularly. Emmanuel church holds a regular service each Sunday morning at 9:30. The church seats approximately 75 people and has a full basement with a kitchen and two bathrooms. The small congregation is happy and close knit, with strong ties to each other, the church, and to God. Each Sunday the congregation gathers at either the local restaurant or in the basement for a meal and fellowship together. The congregation values each other’s company and our commitment to the faith.

MacDowall is situated on Highway 11 approximately 15 minutes from Prince Albert and 141 kilometers from Saskatoon. The population of MacDowall and surrounding area is approximately 400 with the hamlet itself enjoying a population of 140 people. MacDowall has several active community groups including the Lions and Lionesses and a Senior Citizens Club. There are two 4-H clubs in the district, a small coffee shop, and a locally run garage. The school at West Central provides education for grades Kindergarten to grade 6 and children are bussed there. The grade 7 - 12 students are bussed to one of the many high schools in Prince Albert. Farming is the main industry in this area with forestry also playing a large role. Community spirit is evident everywhere; small town atmosphere is one thing you will grow to love.

Within MacDowall is St. Stephens Church and Rectory. The church can hold approximately 100 people and was renovated 12 years ago to make it wheelchair accessible. There are two bathrooms, main floor and basement. The rectory is approximately 25 years old and is available for residence. The rectory has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large family room. The parish office is also located in the rectory. The rectory itself has recently undergone renovation. The average attendance at St. Stephen’s is between 35 - 50 people each Sunday and there are approximately 75 families on the church roll. St. Stephens enjoys an active Sunday School, ACW, and hosts weekly Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in the church basement.

Both congregations have very active Lay Readers and Wardens. Both congregations are committed to supporting and encouraging each other in our life and mission.

This Parish seeks an energetic and youthful-minded priest, who values lay ministry, works well with children and youth, will work with us to attract new families, and is sensitive to the needs of rural people.

Parish profiles are available from the Synod office. Applications will be received for this vacancy until July 1^st, 2009. Clergy from outside the Diocese of Saskatchewan should consult their own bishop before applying. Letters of application and resumes should be sent to:

The Rt. Rev. Michael Hawkins

(bishopmichael@sasktel.net)

1308 Fifth Avenue East

Prince Albert SK S6V 2H7

Fax – 306-764-5172