Ten Questions for the Chancel Guild
1. Why is it important to have a Chancel Guild?
The Chancel Guild offers its members a unique opportunity to serve God and our Church. The purpose of the Chancel Guild is to care for the Sanctuary, prepare for services and assist the Rector.

2. How many people are in the Chancel Guild?
At the moment, the Chancel Guild is alive at St. Anne’s. Twelve ladies serve in groups of three.

3. What does the Chancel Guild do?
The members prepare the Altar & Chancel for our Sunday Services, and other services during the week such as weddings, funerals, Taizé services, etc. They maintain the silver & brass. The coloured frontals on the Altar are changed according to the seasons of the Church Year. Linens are laundered and kept in good order. There are special instructions to guide us.
On the Saturday morning prior to Easter, Harvest and Christmas, the members decorate the church. Quarterly, the groups get together for a short social and business meeting. The annual meeting is in February and the other 2009 meetings are scheduled for May 2nd, September 26th and November 21st.

4. Is there any time when assistance from parishioners is helpful?
We invite anyone who can come to join us on April 2nd at 7:00 p.m. to make Palm Crosses in the Parish Hall kitchen. Please bring scissors. Instructions will be given.
On Saturday, April 11 at 9:30 a.m., you are invited to bring plants and flowers to the church for the Easter Garden.
On the Saturday before Harvest (October), donations of fruits and vegetables are welcomed.

5. Where do the flowers on the Altar come from and where do they go?
The flowers on the Altar are usually given by parishioners as memorials to loved ones or special friends, or in thanksgiving on the occasions of weddings, baptisms, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. You will notice we usually have two vases of flowers on the Altar except during Lent. After services, we deliver the flowers to those in the Parish who need to know they are being thought of in the prayers at St. Anne’s.
Sometimes donors may suggest someone they would like to see have the flowers.

6. How does one arrange to have flowers on the Altar?
If, you don’t currently have a Sunday for giving flowers, and would like one, please contact Eleanor. She will be pleased to help you.

7. How much should one give for Altar Flowers?
The amount donated can be modest or more substantial. As a guide-line, the cost to St. Anne’s is $25.00 per vase, or $50.00 each Sunday. (At Christmas and Easter, many people usually contribute to the memorial arrangements in the windows.) Any amount you give is credited to your Church Givings and a receipt for income taxes is provided at the end of the year.

8. How does one get involved in the Chancel Guild?
If you are interested (even a little bit) in joining the Chancel Guild, please speak to our Rector, Canon Janet Lynall (519-471-0800), or Convenors Nancy or Fran. We
can offer information and an opportunity for you to “shadow” one of our groups as we go about our routines.
This will allow you to see first-hand what’s involved. If you wish more information, we would be happy to spend time with you to answer your questions.

9. What happens if I decide to join the Chancel Guild?
Like any organization, in order to keep alive, we require new members or former members to return. When you decide to join us, you’ll become part of a group with a mentor, and training will be provided.

10. How are new members received?
We look forward to hearing you are interested in becoming a member of the St. Anne’s Chancel Guild. We will welcome you to our group! Then, we will be able to joyfully proclaim that the Chancel Guild is alive and WELL at St. Anne’s!

Yours in Christ,
Convenors: Nancy, Fran
Flower Secretary: Eleanor