TRANSCRIPT

Question

During the first half of the 20th century there were a number of Anglican churches in southern Saskatchewan. The faithful prepared for the worship in various ways. Can you describe some of these?

Answer

I remember the celebration of the Holy Eucharist which took place in Woodville School in the summer months. I should mention that Woodville School was located 17km (11 miles) southwest of Wood Mountain station. Woodville School would have been part of the parish of Limerick Anglican Church that was part of the Diocese of Qu'Appelle. The services generally took place usually in the summer months. In preparation for these services the school would be cleaned, the teacher's desk was turned into the altar covered with a green cloth - because it was summer and the Trinity season - and a lace cloth placed on it, then the cross and candle set, in preparation for the Communion or Eucharist. A reed organ was brought from my home to be used for the service.

I remember going to these services as a young lad, lighting the candles, vesting the priest - these vestments were colourful which I enjoyed. As I said earlier services was sung and in this particular congregation - many of the faithful had been trained to sing in England. When there wasn't a priest a seminarian would take the service.

I think this gives you a bird's eye view of the services at the Woodville School.