PiratePete the Privateer

2010-08-29T20:51:00.001-03:00

So this was my fifth Sunday in my new Parish. New Parish! Wow, the parish was established in 1789. Today we held our first all parish service in one of our two parish halls. (This parish also has a rectory, four churches, and four cemeteries. A bit of an overkill really.) Anyway, great folks and lots of history. The service was terrific and it was followed by breakfast: baked beans (homemade of course) scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, coffee, tea, juices, etc., etc. Everyone seems to have enjoyed themselves. the only sad part was that Jesse had to leave halfway through to catch a plane back to his home in Ontario.

We had a great time together, though,

Blessings everyone,

Peter

2010-08-29T18:42:00.001-03:00

These are pictures of some of our time together this past week. Most of them (and many more) will end up on Facebook I would image. It was sad to see Jess leave but he had a great time and was glad to get back to Andrea.

A happy PaPa

2010-08-23T20:08:00.002-03:00

So this week we plan to have fun! Gray arrived last Thursday evening for a couple of weeks, Jesse arrived Saturday for 8 days and Emma arrived from working at Camp Medley yesterday. We five are together for the first time since Christmas. Ken is due on Wednesday as well!

The picture was taken at Whitehead Beach on the north shore of the Kennebecasis River.

Glad to have ya all here,

PaPa

2010-08-01T20:16:00.000-03:00

Well today was my first day in my new Parish. It was a good day. Here we go!

Stay tuned,

Peter+

2010-04-18T23:24:00.001-03:00

Well, today was one of the hardest Sunday's I have ever experienced. I'm not much into talking about it now but this was the day the letter from the Archbishop was read announcing my departure from the Parish of Hammond River on Saturday the 31st of July. On Sunday, 1st August I begin in the Parish of Kingston - just a ferry ride across the Kennebecasis River from Quispamsis. By the time I leave I will have been here 11 years and 1 month. The roots have sunk deep.

More later,

P+

2010-04-03T19:48:00.002-03:00

A fun day for sure. Most of the things I do with the Police Force is serious business but today it was fun! I joined two other great officers doing special traffic duty at the Quispamsis Town Hall. 15,000 chocolate Easter Eggs were spread throughout the park that surrounds the Town Hall and kids 10 and under could forage. We had a great day with the kids and some seriously good PR for the force. Tomorrow we are reminded what Easter is really all about.

Happy Easter Everybody,

Peter

2010-03-27T20:59:00.000-03:00

Today I joined a local doctor and we volunteered to help out at a Provincial Judo tournament. The guy in the yellow shirt is the organizer and owner of the KV Club. He is also one of my Inspectors in the Police Force. Always wise to volunteer for a boss! (Besides, it was great fun.)

Happy throwing,

Peter

2010-03-26T23:50:00.005-03:00

A fine evening of Scotch. Thirty people gathered in the St. Andrew's Room to partake in the 2010 Whisky Nosing and Tasting Workshop. Some very fine whisky. One was a very fine Japanese whisky and the others were some of the great Scotch malts - all available in NB. The top picture shows the table settings as we arrived; the second shows our "teacher" Frank Scott teaching, and the third: Greer and I tasting! What a night. Maybe I shall write more after Easter - I'm pretty busy right now. But just so you know here is what we tasted: Lagavulin (the youngest at 16, all others were 18 yrs old), Auchentoshan, Glenfiddich, Highland Park, Macallan, and the Japanese Yamazaki.

Sláinte,

Peter

2010-02-28T23:24:00.000-04:00

At Christmas I gave my Dad tickets so we could go see The Irish Rovers tonight. It was a great show and Dad and I had great fun. Some of my happiest late teens/early twenties memories are sitting down with Dad and watching the TV show The Pig and Whistle, a show based on a pub with the Rovers as the houseband.

Thanks Dad,

Son

2010-02-03T23:53:00.001-04:00

This shot is becoming an annual photo. It is just me on my return journey from PEI. I was over to give my annual lecture on Police chaplaincy to the cadets of the 2010 graduating class of the Atlantic Police Academy in Summerside. It is always a quick trip but enjoyable. Again this year the APA Chaplain joined me at the end of my lecture to say a few words on what she can do for the cadets. Following the lecture I got to talk for a while with a cadet who had been an auxiliary officer and a part-time dispatcher with the RRPF.

A good and productive trip,

Peter

2010-02-02T20:21:00.003-04:00

On Sunday afternoon we had a party for daughter Gray. She leaves tomorrow for 3 months with L'Arche Cape Breton in Nova Scotia. We probably won't see her very much so it was both an exciting and sad time for father. I already don't see our son very often and Emma will be graduating from university next year and is talking about further studies in another province. Anyway, the party was great. It was filled with family and friends. My dad was sick (he ended up in the hospital before the party ended) and he has to have exploratory surgery tomorrow evening. On top of all that I am at the Atlantic Police Academy (on Prince Edward Island) to deliver a lecture tomorrow morning. What a crazy week. I should be home in time to be present at the hospital for the operation, however.

Good bye for now,

(the pictures are of everybody except the photographer and of Gray and I)

2010-01-30T09:44:00.000-04:00

Well, yesterday was a messey stormy day. The snow storm cancelled schools over most of the province as well as a number of other events. However, the St. Andrew's Society of Saint John held its 42nd Annual Burn's Dinner. It was one of the best in years. Unfortunately, daughter Emma was unable to get down from Fredericton (in fact there were a number of folks from Fredericton who did not make it) and so we had an empty chair at our table. The haggis was excellent (I had three helpings!), the steak pie perfect, the aqua vitae warming, the wine complementary (as chosen by Don as usual) the speaker (Beth Powning) spell binding, the readings of Burn's poetry by so many extremely well done, the aqua vitae warming (I know, I said that already but there was a fair bit of it), but it was the company that made it magical.

Left to right: Greer, Margo, Jim, Don, Me, Anne, Ken, and Gray (and Robbie over her shoulder)

Sorry, you couldn't be there Em. We missied ya.

Yours aye,

Peadar

2009-12-29T23:03:00.000-04:00

We got together for supper at my Mum's and Dad's apartment in the city. A good evening. Christmas is always such a family time for us. With many family members working in the education field the time in and around Christmas area holidays. The rest of us take the week between Christmas and New Year's off so we can all spend our time together. Everybody looks forward to Christmas each and every year.

Again, Merry Christmas,

Peter

2009-12-26T23:50:00.006-04:00

Today was Boxing Day. Aside from the day after Christmas and the Feast of St. Stephen it is also our Anniversary. Number 33! Wow.

Each year our family gets together and has a little party. One of the things we do is sit around in a circle and read a Christmas Story. Each and every person reads one page and then passes the book to the next person and around it goes until the story ends. These are picture from this year's readings. The party this year was at my sister's house in Saint John.

Mery Christmas Everyone and Happy Anniversary my love,

Peter

2009-12-24T11:22:00.001-04:00

Having had a couple of showings of Jim's art work Greer and her Mom were invited to help trim the tree at the Saint John Hospice. Much of the money raised from the sale of many of Jim's paintings went to the Hospice. This is the photo that appeared in the newspaper.

Jim would have been proud!

2009-11-30T10:52:00.000-04:00

Another very successful Saint Andrew's Society Dinner! My Dad, Don, and myself are all members of the society. We always have one or two friends join us each and every year. One was missing: Terry was working a crime scene and was unable to make thew dinner. From left to right: My Dad Jim, Allen, me, Ken, Cee L, Colin, Don, and Geordie.

Yours aye,

Peadar

2009-11-28T23:06:00.003-04:00

Advent begins in a few hours. A friend sent me this picture of a Scottish Advent Calendar. I thought it was hilarious.

2009-11-11T17:39:00.000-04:00

Just a shot of me getting ready to be part of the Remembrance Day services at the Quispamsis Arena. As the chaplain for the regional police force I participate, usually by leading the prayers of the people.

Lest We Forget,

Peter

2009-11-08T23:16:00.001-04:00

A really nice and quiet celebration of Birthday number 58 at Montana's Cookhouse. Just Gray, Ken, Greer, and myself.

2009-10-25T08:45:00.001-03:00

Greer and I attended the Regimental Ball of District 3 of the RCMP last evening. We were guests of Chaplain Tapley and his wife. It was a great evening.

2009-07-30T07:38:00.000-03:00

Last night Greer's family had supper together at the Delta Saint John. We had spent the afternoon intering her aunt (sister of her late Dad). Connie had passed away a few months ago in Ontario (where she lived) and her husband Don had brought her home to be placed in their family plot back in the hometown. Most family didn't get to the funeral so this was a big gathering. the phots are of some family (taking up several tables) at the supper.

2009-07-12T08:28:00.000-03:00

Well, Greer got home from Ontario (visiting our son and her brother) and the next day Ken arrived and then Emma was home for the weekend as was Gray. Everybody but Jess. Anyway, yesterday we all went to Graynole (Mum's and Dad's Summer house in Keirsteadville, NB) to celebrate Dad's 85th Birthday. A fun day with family from all around (we are not a big clan) and excellent food - most of it from Mama George's (kinda a home cooked meal/country type restaurant not too far from Keirsteadville). We all had a terrific time - especially the Birthday Boy!

Happy Birthday Dad,
P.

2009-07-01T23:18:00.001-03:00

With Greer away and Emma working at Summer Camp I picked up my folks and aunt and we went to Fredericton to visit my other aunt and uncle. It is Canada Day and so the table and cakes all had Canadian Flags stuck in them. We had a good day - especially the older members of the family who don't see each other all that often. It was tiring though. Mike, Sue, and Hannah were also there.

Happy 142nd Birthday Canada,

Peter

2009-06-27T17:28:00.004-03:00

Today, despite the rain, members of the River Valley Ground Search and Rescue did a fund raiser in Quispamsis. Car Wash (yep! a car wash) and a BBQ(yep! that too!). It went very well despite the weather. Some of the members of the Rothesay Regional Police Force dropped by and lent their support. You can see that one of the Coroners was also present. A little weird for some folks that cars were being washed by members of the regional SAR group and a coroner but, hey, there ya go. Actually, that particular Coroner and I are both members of the RVGSAR. I also got to get my new wheels cleaned.

Stay dry everybody!
Peter

2009-06-20T21:31:00.001-03:00

I had to go into the city of Saint John the other day. I stopped to pick up a coffee and there was a sign that summer was finally arriving in our area - the first cruise ship of the season had docked earlier in the day. I've never been on a cruise - maybe some day.

Happy Sailing,
PiratePete

2009-06-07T18:26:00.001-03:00

Diocesan Synod has ended. The best one I have ever attended. Very sane! The picture is of the front table (that's our Bishop in purple) and the hangings show some of the talent in the diocese. The one on the right is called The Light of the World and was designed by one of our parishioners. Our parish (Hammond River in Quispamsis) shared a table with the Parish of St. Mary's in Fredericton. Their Rector is my old and dear friend (and sixth cousin!) Ian Wetmore - that's us in the other photo. Greer and I billetted him, too. We did lunch together the third day of synod and guess where we went? Yup, the Saint John Ale House!!

Blessing all,

Peter+

2009-06-03T08:13:00.000-03:00

Not a great shot but I seem to insist on taking photos in the dimly lit Saint John Ale House with my cell phone camera. Anyway, this is an old friend, Todd Braisted, from New Jersey and the most passionate Mets fan I have ever know. Todd and I have known each other for more than 25 years and although we have stayed "in touch" we have not actually seen each other for 17 years! We spent a great afternoon eating and drinking (well, what do you expect at the Ale House?) and just having a great old conflab.

It was really great to see you ole buddy,
Huzzah!
Sgt. Gillies

2009-05-25T10:51:00.004-03:00

Back to the Ale House. (What would we do without it, eh?) We celebrated Greer's Birthday on Saturday. Ken joined us as he was just back to his place in Maine having spent several weeks in North Carolina. Greer hoisted a wine, Gray a 7Up (nothin' does it!), while the rest of us chose a Macausland's. A lovely day it was.

Peter

2009-05-11T22:07:00.001-03:00

Just a picture of me getting ready to go to "work" for the night shift. By the time I get 15 kilos of body armour and duty belt on I look even bigger than I am!

Stay safe everyone,

Peter

2009-04-23T22:21:00.001-03:00

On 21 April I was one of ten people who received recognition by the Town of Quispamsis for services to the community. The Mayor, Murray Driscoll, presented me with a certificate in recognition of my services to the Rothesay Regional Police Force. It was a proud moment.

Blessings,
The Chaplain

2009-04-12T17:06:00.009-03:00

Halleluia! The Lord is risen. Happy Easter Everyone!

We have had bits of snow and rain and wind and cold all day but it did not stop us from having a great day. The picture on the right shows you that you just never know who will turn up at an Easter Day service. (I mean the green guy not the one in black.)

After service the family and those who are unofficial members gather in Saint John at the Hilton for a meal. Mum and Dad always take the family, renting a private room for our comfort. The food is always the very best. These are some of the shots from our time together.

A Blesséd and Happy Easter friends,
Peter

2009-04-12T01:05:00.000-03:00

As a Medical First Responder with St. John Ambulance Brigade I sometimes get to work some interesting events. Tonight (last night actually) I did duty at Harbour Station in Saint John at the Neil Young concert. Although we had a lot of patients and casualties to deal with it was a great show - well, at least the first 40-45 minutes 'cause after that it got very busy. I was gld I was there. Great oldies plus some nice stuff from the new album.

Keep on rockin' in the free world!
Peter

2009-04-10T16:16:00.004-03:00

After the Good Friday service this morning a number of us that attended went to Tim Horton's for a coffe. It somehow developed into a "tradition" a few years ago and I'm not sure why or how. Anyway, there were about 14 of us; nearly half of those who attended the service! There were some interesting discussions around the Holy Triduum - "the still days." Who knows what goes on at Tim's!

Then after Tim's Greer and I and Em and her friend Robyn Lee went for a drive and drove down to the Rothesay Boat Dock to see the flooding of the Kennebecasis River. Not too bad - though you can see Emma checkin' it out up close.

A blessed Triduum everyone,
Peter

2009-04-06T22:09:00.000-03:00

This was yesterday afternoon at Montana's Steakhouse! Liam is a good friend and the junior warden and verger of our parish. The birthday guests get to wear the silly moosehat while the staff sing some crazy birthday song. Dispite all the foolishness the food was wonderful. The beer selection sucks but the steaks are excellent!

Happy Birthday Liam,
Peter

2009-04-04T23:31:00.004-03:00

Well, we certainly have been eating out a lot lately! Friday evening Gray took us out to Boston Pizza for supper. (That's Gray in BP, of course) Then this morning Greer and I took my Mum and Dad up to check on the summer house, Graynole, and we stopped off in the town of Rothesay to have a "snack" at my favourite Coffee shop, The Red Whale. Tomorrow we are going to a Birthday party at Montana's Steakhouse. This is doing nothing for my diet but everything for my epicurian delights!

Happy eating,
Peter

2009-04-02T23:58:00.001-03:00

Yep, that's me on the way home from the Atlantic Police Academy earlier today. At the Request of the Deputy-Director of the APA I was asked to present a lecture to the cadets of the Police Science (Cadet) Program on "Police Chaplaincy in the Field: What to Expect". The were 77 cadets. The presentation went for 50 minutes and was aided by my newly created powerpoint presentation "Here for You: the RRPF Chaplaincy Unit."

After I got home I had a number of parish things to do and then I had an Auxiliary Constables' training session at Police HQ until 10 pm. A rather long day.

Blessings everyone,
P.

2009-03-27T23:03:00.002-03:00

Greer and I did something today that we haven't done in a long, long time. We went to lunch together. And we went to our old stompin' grounds: the west side of Saint John and that great old institution known to every westsider Romano's Pizza. (That's Greer finishing up her lunch and you can see in the foreground I had a Brio. Romano's is the only place in these parts I know of where one can even get a Brio.)

Sorry you couldn't join us!
P.

2009-03-14T23:37:00.003-03:00

Ok. So it is not a great photo - what do you expect with the backlighting and a cell phone camera. However, this is our very good friend Ken enjoying a McAuslan Cream Ale (one of our very favourite beers!). Greer and I took him out to celebrate his 60th Birthday of two days ago. We first met in the summer of 1983 as American Revolutionary War Reenactors - we've been friends ever since. The brother I never had really. Even our kids sometimes call him "Uncle" Ken.

Happy Birthday buddy,
Peter

2009-03-08T18:42:00.002-03:00

Winter is beginning to wear everyone down I think. The picture was taken earlier today as we were getting ready to leave for Sunday services. In the background you can see the car - rear end into the snow bank. It had slid down the driveway about 10 metres overnight! It took four of us two hours to actually get the thing unstuck and out of the driveway. Our organist (who one lived in the rectory several years ago) said they came out one morning to find their car had slid down the driveway and across the street, backwards, and having gone over the embankment on the other side took out the mailboxes!

Enjoy the winter friends,
P.

2009-01-23T07:33:00.002-04:00

Another great Robbie Burns' Supper last night! The family and a couple of guests had our usual great time. It was on our minds that we are almost at the one year anniversary of the passing of Greer's Dad on the actual Burn's Day - the 25th. We all still miss the guy so we hoisted a whisky in his name.

Yours aye,
Seumas Peadar Gill-Iosa
(James Peter Gillies)

2008-12-30T16:53:00.001-04:00

It has been a wonderful Christmas. Andrew was with us from Nova Scotia, Jess made it home for 2 weeks from Ontario (and Andrea was able to join us for a couple of days. So was Jen. Ken made it over for two weeks as well. Of course Gray and Emma were also home. It was great. As we get older one wonders if we will all get together like this again. The odds get slimmer.

Merry Christmas to all,
Peter

2008-11-28T01:15:00.003-04:00

Well last night we celebrated Saint Andrew's Day (yes, a little early) but a great evening. This motley crew are the guys at our table. Left to Right: Terry, Don, Ken, Lowell, Jim, and Allen.

Yours aye,
Seumas Peadar Gill-Iosa
(James Peter Gillies)

2008-11-12T22:55:00.002-04:00

The Induction Ceremony and Honours and Awards Presentation of the Rothesay Regional Regional Police Force was held last Friday in the Council Chambers of Quispamsis Town Hall. The ceremony welcomed the new members of the RRPF who have been sworn in this year - including the newly sworn Chaplains. Also honoured were several members who received their national honour the Police Exemplary Service Medal and some received the bar to this award which is part of the Canadian Honours system. What a great day it was. I was so proud to be the Master of Ceremonies for the event. As well, yesterday I had the priviledge and honour of representing the force at the Remembrance Day Ceremony here in the valley by leading the prayers of the people. I am so blessed.

Blessings friends,
Chaplain Peter Gillies
RRPF

2008-11-06T01:45:00.001-04:00

Well, today is my Birthday. In a few hours I turn 57 although I feel like 100 right about now. I have tonnes of work to do - both parish and police. The police force Induction Service and Honours and Awards Ceremony is tomorrow and I still have a lot to do! No time for birthdays. I'll celebrate on the weekend - now that's the a way to slow those Birthday thingys down, eh?

Blessings all,
Peter

2008-11-01T00:44:00.001-03:00

I'm home and exhausted. I took my last week of vacation and attended the Annual Training Seminar of the Canadian Police Chaplain Association. I spent four and a half days with 55 chaplains from across Canada on Prince Edward Island. Val Stone, author of Cops Don't Cry, A book of help and hope for police families made a great presentation. We had a CISM presentation (which was more of a refresher for me as I'm a CISM defuser) but it was one of the very best I've heard. We went next door to the conference centre and visted the Atlantic Police Academy, took a course there and experienced their driving school - wow! We also had a great presentation on Internet Safety. The Memorial Service and the Dinner were special highlights. I got home yeaterday afternoon and ended up working the Hallowe'en gig with Aux Cst. McCabe. We had a good evening though. I'm waisted - Good night (well, good morning really).

Pictures Top: Chaplains and APA Cadets milling about awaiting their turn. Bottom: Me on the way to the Memorial Service and Dinner.

Happy All Saints Day (Nov 1)
Peter

2008-10-20T23:44:00.004-03:00

The other day I discovered that the father of a parishioner, Lowell, served in the same regiment as my paternal grandfather; the 6th Canadian Seige Battery. Wow, what a small world, eh? The above photo was taken on Partridge Island (in Saint John Harbour) just before the men shipped off to England for further training. Lowell's neice had the photo and lent it to him to show me. I spoted my grandfather and of course Lowell picked out his Dad. Very cool to see it as our family gave our version of the photo to an historical group after my grandfather died in 1966.

Blessings everyone,
Peter

2008-10-15T10:19:00.000-03:00

We spent another great Thanksgiving together at Graynole (Mum's and Dad's summer place on the Bellisle) with family and friend. Gray and some of the others from L'Arche were there with her, Ken Santilli was over from Maine, family and friends from Fredericton and even cousin David (Captain in the Cameron Highlanders), was able to drop by on his way back to HQ from the USA. the food was catered by Mama George's (as per usual) and it was great (as per usual). the photo is of my "3" girls: Jen (Goddaughter) Em, and Gray in the backyard after dinner.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone,
Peter

2008-09-16T21:34:00.000-03:00

Today the Deputy-Chief took the three chaplains to the Courthouse where we were sworn in as Auxiliary Police Chaplains. It was short and sweet. But it was a profound moment in my life. I would have to put it right up there with my ordination vows.

A Humble servant,
Peter,
Chaplain Peter Gillies, RRPF

2008-08-24T19:36:00.001-03:00

A Great Anniversary Party!

Well, Mum and Dad celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary last Thursday night - the actual date of the wedding. A reception at Shadow Lawn with a recital by the Kwans made for a very special evening. Then we all spent Friday and Saturday hangin' out together in St. Martin's, Salmon River, New River Beach and the folks summer home "Graynole". We all enjoyed it, but best of all so did Mum and Dad. Here are some pictures, startinmg with thwe original wedding Photo.

Happy Anniversary,
Peter

2008-08-10T21:25:00.004-03:00

I'm feeling nostalgic again. Yeah, I know, but it gets that way sometimes. Usually after a meaningful sermon. (I don't understand that either!) Well, this time it is just weird really. After reflecting on my own sermon I got to thinking "What have I accomplished?" I suppose lots of guys ask that question: "In my life what have I accomplished?" I never did answer that question - I don't want to really 'cause then I'll have to look at what I thught I was going to accomplish and then check off what I have done so far. Gee, I'm definitely not going there! Well, this kind of thinking just makes me crazy. And what pops into my head but another song tht is part of the Soundtrack of My Life and it was a great favourite when was in my 20's for heaven's sake! I haven't thought about that song for a while. It was on the album It's Only Rock 'n Roll. The version here is the original and it ends with the guitar work of Mick Taylor who is IMHO the best of the guitar players of the Stones. (OK, that's a rant for another time!) Anyway, this song was my favourite off the album. An album that had some great numbers on it like: Ain't Too Proud to Beg, It's Only Rock 'n Roll (But I Like It), Luxury, If You Really Want to Be My Friend and Fingerprint File. It is one of those songs that triggers memories. I remember so much about that time; bring home the album to my little apartment and putting it on the stereo. It was an odd time all 'round. Terrorists were bombing like crazy all over, but especially in Britain. I was about to turn 23 and going to trade and technical school in Toronto doin' computer programing.

Anyway, even though it is a little depressing it is still a great song. So, sing along and enjoy.

Blessings everyone
and remember: Time Waits For No One
Peter

Time Waits For No One
(M. Jagger/K. Richards)

Yes, star crossed in pleasure the stream flows on by
Yes, as we're sated in leisure, we watch it fly
And time waits for no one, and it won't wait for me
And time waits for no one, and it won't wait for me

Time can tear down a building or destroy a woman's face
Hours are like diamonds, don't let them waste
Time waits for no one, no favours has he
Time waits for no one, and he won't wait for me

Men, they build towers to their passing yes, to their fame everlasting
Here he comes chopping and reaping, hear him laugh at their cheating
And time waits for no man, and it won't wait for me
Yes, time waits for no one, and it won't wait for me

Drink in your summer, gather your corn
The dreams of the night time will vanish by dawn
And time waits for no one, and it won't wait for me
And time waits for no one, and it won't wait for me
No no no, not for me...

2008-08-06T07:28:00.002-03:00

It was an interesting weekend. Friday we finally buried Jim. Greer's whole family gathered and we all had a great time. (Jimi would have wanted it that way.) We gathered at the grave side and Jimi's ashes were intered. Then we all went back to Jim's and Jo's house and remembered Jim. It was very special. Jim would have loved it I think.
On Saturday Ken and I got together with some old friends from DeLancey's Brigade days (Revoluntionary War re-enactors) in a area where we often performed and then sat down and drank beer.

The picture (taken by the waitress) was taken of (l to r): Ken, John, Bob, Bart, and me. We had a blast. It was a highlight of a weekend that was filled with all kinds of things and was pretty much non-stop from Thursday until Tuesday.

And loud Huzzah's were heard from the King's men,
Peter

2008-07-21T07:26:00.000-03:00

Once in a while we get to hear from Jess and Andrea. Usually on Facebook. This is a picture from Andrea of Jesse taken this past weekend. It reminds us how much we miss them but that we will see them in August. We are excited!

Happy bloggin' friends,
Peter

2008-07-20T00:07:00.002-03:00

Well, what a great wedding it was.

Tammy and Gary got married yesterday in Hampton. Our family (sans Jess) were at the festivities. I was pleased to add a few prayers for the couple. Two pictures here: the bottom one is our family in the garden of the Inn where the ceremony took place and the top one is, of course, The Rent Family: Tammy, Gary, and the girls (click on it for a larger, sharper image).

There are more photos on my Fb in the Summer 2008 Album.

Blessings to them (and all of you!)
Peter

2008-07-18T22:55:00.003-03:00

Of all the things I get to do in my life - and there are a lot of them! - my greatest joy comes in being a Police Chaplain with the regional police force which serves the towns of Rothesay and Quispamsis. I visit regularly and frequently. I get do all kinds of things like ride-alongs, blessings, ceremonials, training, and goodness knows what else. I've been called to sudden deaths and suicides, been to motor vehicle accidents and the like. Visited sick, consoled survivors and escorted Santa. I usually drop in on Fridays and have lunch. Lunch is a BBQ that the members have each Friday at noon in front of HQ. The money is used for various community efforts the force makes in our towns. Officers from Saint John drop by sometimes as do members of the Kennebecasis Valley Fire Dept. (our regional fire department) and civilians a coroner or two - well, you get the idea. If you are aregular reader of this blog you have read all this before which simply confirms how much it means to me.

Happy blogging (and remember to pray for all your community's First Responders),

Chaplain Gillies

2008-07-16T09:00:00.015-03:00

This is turning out to be a summer of friends. Tammy and Gary are finally getting married! We are all so excited. Ken has been over from Maine visiting and we were all joined tonight by Antoinette and her little guy. They are here from Ontario for her sister's (Tammy) wedding. Thursday is also Antoinette's birthday so Ken had gotten her a cake so we celebrated that too. Then just as we finished eating Tammy and Gary arrived with their kids and Tammy's and Antoinette's Mum Yvonne. We all had a great evening together. Ken (who is an old reenactor friend of us all) got invited to the wedding too! We shall have a great time I'm thinkin'.

In the photo (left to right): Tammy, Yvonne, Gary, Antoinette, and Gabe. There are more photos on my FB site.

Happy blooging all (and Happy Birthday Antoinette),
Peter

2008-07-15T10:34:00.005-03:00

Lambeth

Well, the Lambeth conference starts in just a few hours. There is a website for the conference you may find interesting. It is at Lambeth Conference.

Should be interesting,
P+

2008-07-14T19:00:00.001-03:00

Just about forty years ago today (give or take a day or two) this photo was taken of me on my first venture to Europe. The photo was taken by a pro as I was about to board a boat that toured the canals of Amsterdam. After the tour ended he had the photos up on a board and for sale - obviously I bought one. I was a few month short of my 17th birthday! Amsterdam became one of my all time favourite cities and I spent more time there when I went back to Europe the next summer. Now I feel old. It is almost depressing but, hey, I'll get over it. It is why I keep busy I think.

Happy memories,
Peter

2008-07-12T02:35:00.002-03:00

Tonight, well last night now as it is early in the morning, I volunteered (St. John Ambulance) at the Salty Jam Music Fesitival in Saint John. The main tent on the harbour front operated from 8pm to midnight and had three bands play: Keith Hallett, the Jimmy Swift Band, and the amazing Walter Trout & the Radicals. Kieth Hallett was amazing. The guy wasn't even old enough to drink a beer after his set (he turns 19 next week) but he played like he understood the ways of the world. Walter Trout was so impressed he invited Kieth up on stage to jam for about 20 minutes during the Radicals' set. Kieth Hallett has his own website at dot com - check it out. If you know the blues then you will know how to find Walter. It was an amazing evening of music.

On top of all that there wasn't one patient to take care of, not even a band-aid given out. What a wonderful night. Sure wish I could volunteer tomorrow night (Oops, I mean tonight) but I have to be ready for Sunday morning. (The picture is of me sporting the new First Responder badge that I wore tonight while on duty.)

Blessings all,
Peter

2008-07-08T22:05:00.004-03:00

Well, I took the last few days off. About a week really. The family celebrated Canada Day up at Mum's and Dad's summer house (Graynole) on the Belleisle. Ken joined us - the first time he has been over in Canada on Canada Day. I think he found it very interesting. He headed back to the US on the 2nd and then went down to Vermont to celebrate Independance Day. His visits are always such a great joy. He will be back next week for a few days. I did some St John Ambulonce work on my vacation. The National Karate Championships were being held in the City of Saint John so I volunteerd for a day (that is me getting home on the second day!) and ended up doing a bit more than planned. Emma and Andrew were home for the weekend and Gray had Saturday off so we all were to gether for a while. Then Em and Andrew headed to Camp Medley, Gray and the folks at L'Arche Saint John went to Prince Edward Island for a week's vacation and it got quiet again. I still had two days left and I taught a two-day First Aid course at Saint John Headquarters.
On Saturday I took some time to strap on the collar and officiate at a wedding: Jen & Boyd. Small but a really nice wedding. Sincere it was. (That's their photo, of course, taken by Miss Margo.) On the Sunday I went to Rothesay Baptist Church where the Senior Pastor is one of our Police Chaplains. I'm back on Parish duty tomorrow with a mid-week Eucharist to start the day off .

I won't be at Holy Trinity this Sunday either as I will be preaching at Trinity Kingston. The United Empire Loyalist Association are holding a convention in honour of the 225th anniversary of the arrival of the Loyalists to this part of the world following the end of the American War of Independence (1783). (The flag is the "Queen Anne" that flew at that time in our history.) The last event on their week-long schedule is a church service in Trinity (built by the Loyalists). Should be interesting.

Blessings to all,
Peter

2008-06-29T20:29:00.004-03:00

The Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul

Well I've been pretty quiet this month, eh? It's not because I haven't been doing anything - just the opposite. It seems that June is becoming the busiest month of the year! It held a number of anniversaries as well. For one: it was the anniversary of my high school graduation 27 years ago. Man, I hated high school. Not the place as such nor my fellow students (I had lots of friends - some still are) but the idea of high school. Maybe I’ll rant about it on the 30th anniversary of said event. More significantly, June was the 13th anniversary of my ordination to the Diaconate (Allen’s too, five days before. Happy Anniversary Allen.) and on this date too - the Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

There have been lots of things going on this month. I even took some time off to teach a two-day First Aid course for St John Ambulance. It was great as it was an in-house training session for seven employees of a large retail operation in the next town over, Rothesay. It was so close I was even able to come home for lunch. It was just like having a real job!

Ken was over from Maine for a while. Andrew came to visit Emma and the family and then they were off for a training weekend at Camp Medley. Gray was home on vacation for a few weeks (that's her sitiing in the living room working on some music) and we all enjoyed the time together. It made me realize how much we all miss Jesse. We will see him twice in August though so we will have a chance to be together for the first time since Christmas.

Happy blogging everyone (if you’re still out there)
Peter

2008-05-31T23:56:00.005-03:00

On the weekend some of us from River Valley Ground Search and Rescue joined members of Tri-County GSAR, Miramichi GSAR, RCMP, and some others in looking for remains of a person lost back in October. Despite the best efforts of all we found nothing that would be of much help. The terrain was brutal with marsh, thick forest, lots of dead falls, (click on these photos for a good look) bogs, lots (and lots and lots) of mosquitos organized in attack squadrons! It was a good day in that the three GSARs worked well together and we made some good friends I think. The pictures here will give you an idea of the terrain where the team I was on were searching. The pictures of the "Big Four" in front of the command post include our own president, Curtis, who was resposible for Operation Plans. Curtis has also just recently been elected as the President of the New Brunswick Ground Search and Rescue Association, the governing body for the 11 GSARs in NB. Dirty and tired I am glad to be home!

Good night all,
Peter

2008-05-25T23:07:00.004-03:00

I subscribe to the Bosun's Chronicle (as I am a fan of Napoleonic Naval Fiction, i.e. Forester - Hornblower [and I've read that series more than 20 times - no kidding], Parkinson - DeLancey, O"Brian - Aubrey, Stockwin - Kydd, etc.) The Bosun's Chronicle is the e-news from the web page of Julian Stockwell, author of the Kydd stories. The following was in a recent issue of said e-zine regarding the Loyal Toast as to why it is done while sitting down. Anyone who has done the toast at a formal dinner knows we always stand. To this day in the Royal Navy (including the Canadian Navy) the Loyal Toast is drunk seated, as it was in Commader Kydd's time - Know who I mean? Then this blog's for you! Why this became so has no single agreed explanation. Here is what the Bosun's Chronical wrote:
1. King Charles II was aboard one of his ships and
bumped his head on a low beam when responding to a
toast. He vowed that thenceforth his naval officers
would be allowed to remain seated when drinking his
health.
2. The Prince Regent (who would later become George IV)
while dining aboard a warship told the officers to
remain seated when they were about to drink his health,
saying, "Your loyalty is above suspicion." This was
possibly a reference to the belief that by standing a
person carrying side arms would be exposed.
3. William IV, "the Sailor King" served in the Royal
Navy and reputedly bumped his head so many times
toasting his father that he vowed that when he became
king no officer would have to suffer a similar fate...

Of course it was almost impossible to stand upright
between decks in many men o'-war, only those officers
seated between the beams could do so, with some
semblance of dignity. And in those ships with a
pronounced tumble-home (steeply sloping sides), this was
even more of a challenge. It may just have been that the
custom of remaining seated evolved over the years for
practical reasons with no directives from royal
personages...

As well as the Loyal Toast, a number of others would
have been familiar to Kydd in the Wardroom:

Sunday: "absent friends"
Monday: "our ships at sea"
Tuesday: "our men"
Wednesday: "ourselves (as no-one else is likely to
concern themselves with our welfare)"
Thursday: "a bloody war or a sickly season"
(The Thursday toast is a reference to the opportunity for
promotion via a dead man's shoes, in peacetime often the
only way to get ahead.)
Friday: "a willing foe and sea room"
Saturday: "sweethearts and wives" (may they never
meet...)

Good stuff, eh? One thing to remember about drinking a toast: One never and I repeat never, clinks glasses when drinking the loyal toast. Another thing to note is that in the Eighteenth Century the water glasses were removed from the table before Highland Regiments drank a toast to the King. That way they couldn't pass their drink over the glasses of water symbolizing the "king over the water" a.k.a. Prince Charles.

Happy toasting,
Peter

2008-05-20T23:43:00.002-03:00

Wow! What an incredibly awesome weekend! TEC 16 (Teens Encounter Christ, number 16) was fabulous. The Holy Spirit was very busy and so were the approximately 80 people on team who put together this TEC for 30 candidates (above photo). Five from our church, HolyTrinityHammondRiver, were there on team. Emma was a co-host (referred to as the Core Team) and she did an amazing job along with her co-host Brent. What a great team they were. (Sound like a proud Father? - Bet her heavenly Father was almost as proud as I was. Lol

My table partner, Mallory, was terrific (in the above photo she is second from the right). She and Emma are going to be roomies next fall in Freddy Beach while they attend St. Thomas U. I really enjoyed working with her - she is a wonderful Christian Friend. My daughter is certainly blessed to know her. The candidates at our table for the weekend were really great too. They were open and gracious and went home having encountered Christ for sure. A long weekend for sure and a great opportunity to meet new friends, see old friends, and see F’book friends in person but, hey, I’m still pretty tired but I’m pumped!

Blessings everyone,
and thank you God,
Peter

left to right: Me, Emma, and Mallory relaxing during a break.

2008-05-12T08:06:00.000-03:00

In Britain last week Christian Research's new report on the latest religious trends in the UK was released (ISBN is 978-1-85321-176-8). The three most interesting tables are: 12.6.1, which forecasts church attendance throughout the whole of Great Britain in 2050 to be at 899,000, down from around four million today, while 12.8 shows how the number of religiously active Muslims will increase from around a million today to 2.66 million in 2050, with the crossover taking place around 2035. Wonder what a similar report in Canada would say?

Check out Ruth,
Peter

2008-05-10T17:55:00.007-03:00

This week has been Emergency Preparedness Week in Canada. So this week there have been events and displays all over the place. I spent time working the River Valley Ground Search and Rescue table at the McAllister Place Mall. That's Curtis setting up our table display. St. John Ambulance was right behind us. The SJA display was staffed by Aggie, Area Officer of 286 Saint John Division and a staffer from Provincial HQ.

The GSAR seems to have actually recruited someone.

Stay safe and prepared,
Peter

2008-05-08T23:07:00.001-03:00

So I spent most of this week at an NB EMO advanced course in Emergency Operations Center Management. A great course and a great class. Wonderful folks. If any place is in crisis they would do well to have these people on their team in an EOC. I'm tired and happy. I learned a lot. It was interesting having a person (Kathy, by name) on the course who had just come off the EOC for the City of Fredericton as they dealt with the flooding of the St. John River. The picture is our cathedral (Christ Church Cathedral) with the water creeping up to the east wall. (Click on it to see larger.)

So here I was on an EMO course during Emergency Predparedness Week. Interesting, eh?

I'm glad to be home though - off to bed. Oh! by the way: Ken arrived tonight to hang out until Monday.

Keep your feet dry,
Peter

2008-05-04T17:11:00.001-03:00

The last three days I’ve been in the City of Miramichi at a St. John Ambulance competition. I got home early this afternoon. Teams from the various divisions around the province competed in three categories: Junior (First Aiders), Senior (Medical First Responders), and Open (almost all are paramedics in this category). My partner and I felt we did pretty good in the Senior category but they only announce the top three places. The really cool thing about it was that our division had a team in the Open category. They were the only two people who were MFRs; everybody else was a paramedic or a recent graduate of the Atlantic Paramedic Academy in Moncton (owned and operated by SJA). Those two (pictured here: Aggie and John) came second! Second! We were all very proud of them. Tomorrow I’m off to a four day course in Mactaquac (north of Fredericton) in Advanced Emergency Operations Center Management sponsored by NB EMO (New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization).

Good thing I’m on vacation, eh?
Peter

2008-05-01T23:28:00.004-03:00

What a great conference/training session we had for our provincial CISM Program. The speakers were great. One of them is a person I admire, Cyndy Goss of Catch-A-Falling Star, a law enforcement assistance program for officers and their families. When I asked her how I could aquire a copy of the video she helped make a couple of years ago called When Trauma Doesn't Bleed she said: "Just a minute." She then produced a copy of the video and said: "It's yours!" Way too cool, eh? Now she is even more admired.

Then I came back from that and spent all of today out with the local police force.
Peter

If you wish to see the video go to: Cops 4 Cops and scroll down to the bottom of the page.

2008-04-28T06:17:00.003-03:00

For the next couple of weeks I'm actually taking some time off to do some courses and stuff. This week I'm off to Fredericton to participate in the Annual Conference and Advanced Training Sessions of the Critical Incident Stress Management Program of the NB Depatment of Health and Wellness - Mental Health Division. (That's the logo above) I'm on the Saint John CIS Response Team.

See ya on the other side!
Peter

2008-04-14T18:49:00.001-03:00

These few days are all anniversary dates of the American Civil War (and one or two of a couple of other wars of course).

Yesterday (April 13) was the anniversary in the Amer Civil War, in 1861, which was the day that Fort Sumter surrendered. After thirty-three hours of bombardment by the Confederates the Fort had had enough. It was the first engagement of the war.

On this date in 1865, John Wilkes Booth, actor and Confederate, shot President Abraham Lincoln at a play at Ford's Theater in Washington, D.C. This was only five days after Robert E. Lee surrendered at Appomattox Court House in Virginia.

Gotta love history, eh?
Peter

2008-04-13T23:59:00.003-03:00

OK, so we saw The Proclaimers. If you have a chance to see them on this tour then do so. The tickets were a steal - they were worth far more than we paid. They did all their great songs and lots of new ones. In the photo, left to right: Stevie Christie, Keyboards; Charlie Reid, Guitar and Vocals; Craig Reid, Percussion and Vocals; Zac Ware, Guitars and Vocals; Clive Jenner, Drums; and Garry John Kane, Bass.

If I'da knowed it was to be that good I woulda walked 500 miles!!

I'm happy and hummin',
Peter

2008-04-09T07:06:00.003-03:00

On this day, 143 years ago, was the surrender at Appomattox Court House.

Just remembering,
Peter

2008-04-06T20:50:00.003-03:00

I have been a fan of Charlie and Craig Reid, known to the world as The Proclaimers, for a long time. Next Sunday evening they play in Saint John at the Imperial Theatre. The fam is goin' and I'm excited! Geez, ya'd think I was a kid again - well, maybe that should be "still"! I suspect my kids think I'm nuts especially when they found out we have seats in the front row! Anyway, I'm glad I can drive to the concert 'cause I don't think I could walk 500 miles... way too old for that stuff.

Happy hummin' friends,
Peter

2008-03-24T09:49:00.002-03:00

Yesterday was Easter Sunday - it was wonderful. The church was excited. Yep, ya would have thought there was something to celebrate! Although there were about four families away the place was full but the really exciting part was they were all regulars with the addition of a few folks visiting family. No "C and Es". It was very encouraging.

After service our family all got together at the Hilton in Saint John for our annual Easter brunch together. (that's the photo - everybody but Mike who took the photo) A great day to celebrate the Risen Lord.

Today I relax after all the busyness of Holy Week and Eater celebrations. It is a good day to reflect: it is the 12th Anniversary of my ordination to the Priesthood.

Still, there are lots of Home Communions to do this week. Hey, more celebrating! Alleluia!

Blessings everyone,
P+

2008-03-12T23:40:00.006-03:00

As Sue Careless wrote earlier this month: "You know there must be something terribly wrong in the Anglican Church of Canada when one of its bishops threatens to suspend a world-renowned theologian whom Time magazine has called the 'doctrinal Solomon' of Christian thinkers. The Bishop of the Diocese of New Westminster, Michael Ingham, has sent Dr. J.I. Packer a letter threatening suspension from ministry.

Back in December the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin (the see city is Fresno) voted by about 90 % to leave the Episcopal Church of the USA. Then they joined the Anglican Province of the Southern Cone. Then today this statement from the House of Bishops of the Episcopal Church meeting in Navasota, Texas:

Calling on the reconciling love of our Lord Jesus Christ and mindful of our call to be servants of one another and of the mission and ministry of the whole church, we have taken the action of consenting to the deposition of our two brother bishops, John-David Schofield (that is his photo) and William Cox. This outcome was is the painful culmination of a lengthy process of conciliation and review led by two Presiding Bishops. While earnest voices were raised asking if there were other alternatives at this time, the conclusion of the House of Bishops is that this action is based on the facts presented to us and is necessary for the ongoing integrity of The Episcopal Church. We seek also to respond to the needs of the people of the Diocese of San Joaquin. We are saddened by what we believe to be this necessary action and we have taken it only after deep prayer and serious conversation. We also wish to express our continuing commitment to work for reconciliation with our brothers and the People of God who have been the recipients of their pastoral leadership and care through the years.

As somebody said: It is like telling someone they're fired after they've quit.

For some interesting reading see the blog of the Diocese of San Joaquin.

Ain't church excitin'?
P+

2008-03-01T08:02:00.001-04:00

Well the British Charities Commission has brought out their ruling on charities. From the Introduction to the new interpretation I quote: "All charities must have charitable purposes or ‘aims’ that are for the public benefit. This is known as the ‘public benefit requirement’. Although all charities already have to meet this requirement, the Charities Act 2006 highlights it by explicitly including public benefit in the definition of a charitable purpose. We expect these changes to take effect from 1 April 2008. From that point, all organisations wishing to be recognised as charities must demonstrate, explicitly, that their aims are for the public benefit. Previously the law presumed this to be the case for charities that advance education or religion or relieve poverty. The Charity Commission has to ensure all charities meet the public benefit requirement and provide guidance on what the requirement means. Charity trustees will be required to have regard to the Commission’s public benefit guidance and to report on their charity’s public benefit." Hmmmm...

Happy more pondering,
P+

2008-02-29T06:13:00.003-04:00

In Britain today the Charity Commission will release its ruling on charities that may affect religious groups including the Christian churches. The buzz is that they are recommending that religious charities will have to prove there is a public benefit to what they do in order to justify their charitable status. Evidently the Commission has also looked at how to define what followers of a religion must believe in! That should make you nervous.

What is the public benefit to one's church? We could probably think of several theological and religious ways but if you are a non-believer than what purpose (of a positive nature) can you come up with for the reason the church on your corner should get a tax break?

The other thing happening today is the move into a Hamilton, Ontario court after attempts to settle the dispute between the Diocese of Niagara and the three breakaway congregations in Lowville, Oakville, and St. Catharines failed yesterday over who owns the bulidings. All the lawyers (and there seems to be lots of them) are expected to continue in court today. Hard to focus on Lent with all this other stuff goin' on.

Happy pondering,
Peter

2008-02-27T23:30:00.000-04:00

Ok. So Monday night Les and I wrote our Searcher 1 exam from the NBGSARA (New Brunswick Ground Search and Rescue Association). We are members of River Valley Ground Search and Rescue, one of the eleven GSAR organisations in the province. Passing the exam meant we were presented with our searcher's hat and an orange T-shirt with the NBGSARA logo on the front with the name River Valley underneath. You can see in the photo what is on the back. I got home wearing my new hat and my wife just shook her head. She figures half my clothes are some form of uniform. She might be right.

Happy bloggin'
Peter

2008-02-19T23:51:00.001-04:00

One of my great joys is being a chaplain with our local police force. I have been doing this now for about a year. I make regularly scheduled visits to headquarters, am on call 24/7, participate in some of the events sponsored by the force (escort to Santa Claus was cool), attend training sessions, ride-along, and spend a lot of time listening and drinking coffee at the Red Whale. Yesterday and today were pretty much two full days devoted to the men and women of the force. I made a presentation in the morning on Tactical Law Enforcement Medical First Responder training for the Public Order Team. Then I attended a training session with two of the platoons held in an unused school in the city of Saint John. This morning I did a ride-along, visited HQ and some of the personnel. The picture was taken by my daughter when I got home. Yesterday, after we had returned from training, while unloading the cars, a sergeant turned to me and said: "Thanks for being with us today. I know you pray for us so keep prayin'." That pretty much says it all doesn't it?

Blessings all,
Chaplain Peter

2008-02-09T06:35:00.000-04:00

The St. Andrew's Draft of the Anglican Covenant has been released. The idea for an Anglican Covenant come out of the Windsor Report. The Joint Standing Committee of the Primates and of the Anglican Consultative Council commissioned a study paper on the idea in March 2005, Towards an Anglican Covenant. At the committee's meeting in May 2006, they asked the Archbishop of Canterbury to establish a Covenant Design Group (CDG) to carry all this out. The group gave a preliminary report to the Primates Meeting at Dar es Salaam in February of last year. The CDG met again at the end of January 2008, and produced a second report in draft form known as the St. Andrew's Draft This draft took into account many of the submissions the group received from all the provinces and many others from around the Communion. The draft is also being sent to all the bishops for their reflection on it for when they gather at this year's Lambeth Conference in July. The CDG will meet again later this year sometime after the Conference. If you are an Anglican you may wish to read it (and some of the related comments).

Read the complete text of the St. Andrew's Draft at the Anglican Communion Office website.

Comments about the draft and other related links can, of course, be found on Ruth Gledhill's (of the London Times) blog.

2008-02-02T10:36:00.000-04:00

Remembering Jim
Rick, Greer, Jo, Les, and Hank at the Reversing Falls Restaurant on Wednesday night. Twenty family members gathered to lift a rum and Coke to Jim (notice he has one too!)

Many of my friends and family will know the name Mike Mullen. The man came off of one of the outer islands of Grand Manan - amazing, eh? My predecessor, the late Rev. Lance McAdam was one of his teachers at Grand Manan High. Anyway, Mike has written an article on Jimi, my late father-in-law. It was published in the Telegraph-Journal this morning and appeared on page B3. It is copied below in its entirety (mistakes and all). A fine obituary. Thanks Mike.

'Loyalist Man' creator was gifted painter to the larger world

SAINT JOHN - Inspired by the fickle water of the Bay of Fundy outside his Rocky Bluff Terrace home studio on the city's west side, and the beauty of our rivers, onetime commercial artist Jim Stackhouse became best-known in his later years for his landscape watercolours.

His much-loved and prolific paintings were exhibited at local galleries, as well as those in New York, London and Toronto, and continue to grace countless homes, hotel suites and business offices around the globe.

Yet, ironically, its his original design for the Port City's once-iconic Loyalist Man and his compatriot, Squire John, or the covers he once did for the Atlantic Advocate magazine, that many locals will remember.

Stackhouse, whose talents also found a place in the early days of local television both behind and in front of the camera at CHSJ-TV, died at home on Monday. He was 83.

He's being remembered for his strength, humour, creativity, warmth and hospitality - and love of family.

"He was very private, but loved people," said his son Hank. "He was private about what he did, but absolutely loved to share it with people not on a public scale, but a private scale. His art gallery was his house and those who knew and loved him gathered there."

Local art community dean Fred Ross, a classmate of Stackhouse's from their days at Saint John Vocational School, was among those who expressed sadness at his old friend's passing.

"As you know, a lot of his work was in the commercial field," he said. "At the same time, he was a wonderful watercolour painter."

Ross said the two lost track of each other for years, but on visits to Stackhouse's home in later years he found the private, but friendly man, to be very amusing and a good raconteur.

"He was a great family man and a good father - and always in a happy mood," he added. "The fact that these people are so important in the community, when they pass on, it diminishes the community."

Onetime Liberal cabinet minister Jane Barry expressed similar sentiments about Stackhouse.

"Jim had a very gentle and kindly manner and overcame many obstacles to continue his artistic career until recently, with the support of and encouragement of Jo (wife Josephine)," she said. "He was a talented artist who reflected his love of our coast and nature in his work."

She recalled the active political role both Jim and Jo Stackhouse played in the fight to clean up the city's western beaches, where a well-used walking trail now runs close by their home.

Born on Oct. 2, 1924, James Clarke Stackhouse was a son of the late Ursula (Ellis) and James Clarke Stackhouse, a west side carpenter.

Besides Vancouver native Jo (Castillou), his wife of 55 years, Stackhouse's survivors include four children, sons daughters Greer Stackhouse and Leslie Burgess and sons Hank and Eric; two sisters, two brothers, eight grandchildren and one great-grandson.

One son, Jay, predeceased him.

Stackhouse was encouraged early on to pursue art by his mother and teachers and, by the time he attended Voc, became part of a flourishing city art community. After serving in the Royal Canadian Navy, he was encouraged by Miller Brittain to seek commercial work in Toronto, where Stackhouse was to establish his first graphic art studio.

It was also where he fell for cowboy-boot wearing Jo, one of his art students.

Jo said the young couple came to Saint John for a visit in the mid-1950s and never went back to Toronto.

"We were both brought up on the ocean and that's where we wanted to be," she said, as she recalled the excitement the dapper Stackhouse, attired in suits from Jack Calp's, had about working in graphic arts and the new medium of TV.

He went to open Stackhouse Studios on the corner of Princess and Water streets, where the award-winning artist's stable of clients included governments and Barbour's Foods.

But with the stroke that left him partially paralyzed on the left side for the rest of his life, he made good on a promise to one day return to fine art. "He had a lot of talent," said Jo. "Watercolour landscapes were his favourites, but he tried several media and styles. (It's true) he didn't like publicity, but he loved people. If we went to a party, people gravitated to him. He was a fun-loving fellow with a wonderful sense of humour, and you never knew what he was up to next."

2008-01-27T23:20:00.000-04:00

Friday Night I lost the member of my wife's family I've known the longest. No, it is not my wife but her Dad. Jimi was, in many ways, an old friend. I knew him a couple of years before I went out with Greer, the woman who would be my wife. Greer's older brother, Jay, was a friend of mine and we went to high school together. Jay used to do work for his Dad at his graphics design studios - cleaning up on the weekend; that kind of stuff. then on Monday or Tuesday Jay and I would wander down to Stackhouse Studios so Jay could pick up his money. We were able to hang around and I got to know Jim a little. That would have been '68- '70.

Several months later, the very first time I went to the house to visit Greer (December 4, 1971 - yup, I actually remember the date!) I sat down in the living room to wait for her. Jim came out of the kitchen, stopped, looked at me and said: "Hey Pete, what are you doing here?" "I'm here to see Greer." says I. Then Jay came out of his room, sat down on the sofa next to me, and said: "What are you doin' here. Are we doin' somethin' tonight?" "Naw, I'm here to see your sister." I replied. "Really" says he. "Really" says I. I clearly remember Jay saying "Ok then." I knew I was in 'cause Jay was so protective of Greer.

A few months after Greer and I were married Jay died. I lost a friend but that is how Jimi became the member of that family I knew the longest.

In those early years, however, I travelled on the bus with Jim (neither one of us drove a car), met him in odd locations, and generally just saw him around. We had some great talks, especially in those early years. I learned to enjoy both wine and rum because of Jimi - I always called him Jimi for as long as I can remember.

Then early this evening I stared singing an old Wings song to myself. It just came to me. I haven't thought of it in years. A song called "Picasso's Last Words." So here ya go Jimi, a song just for you man:

The grand old painter died last night
His painting' s on the wall
Before he went, he bade us well
And said goodnight to us all
Drink to me, drink to my health
You know I can't drink any more
Drink to me, drink to my health
You know I can't drink any more

Three o'clock in the morning
I’m getting ready for bed
It came without a warning
But I'll be waiting for you, baby
I'll be waiting for you there, So...
Drink to me, drink to my health
You know I can't drink any more
Drink to me, drink to my health
You know I can't drink any more

Drink to me, drink to my health
You know I can't drink any more
Drink to me, drink to my health
You know I can't drink any more

When the Sun is over the yardarm tomorrow Jimi I'll hoist a rum to ya and drink to your health 'cause I know ya can't drink any more.

Here's to ya bud,
Pete

2008-01-25T23:45:00.001-04:00

Well, another successful Robert Burns Dinner sponsored by the Saint Andrew’s Society of Saint John. Nine of us attended. There were the family members: Jim, Peter, Greer, Gray, and Emma plus our good friends Anne and Don but we were joined by my friend Ken and Em’s Andrew.too. A great evening. (click the photos for larger versions) Ken came over from Maine and Andrew came up from Nova Scotia. Here is a picture of Bill Kerwin (the man who proposed the toast to the Immortal Memory) between Ken and I. The three of us were all re-enactors together back in the mid-1980’s. Anyway, Bill did a great job. In fact, I think it was the best job of proposing the toast to the Immortal Memory we have had in a long, long time. It was simple in the presentation but with much content and well thought out. It gave new info on Burns most of us were unaware of but it wasn't filled with a whole lot of academic "stuff" (if you know what I mean). Yet, the analysis of the focus of the toast (a letter written in 1794 by Burns) was well thought out and helped give substance to the whole thing. It was a great talk. Finally, there is a very nice shot of the girls. A wonderful evening.

Yours aye,
Peadar

2008-01-23T20:20:00.000-04:00

I added a link a while ago (over there on the right) for the Red Whale. A neat little coffee shop in the next town over, here in the Kennebecasis Valley, Rothesay. Sean is doing a great job with the place. If you live in the area I highly recommend the place. The lunches are really great too! The desserts will kill you but you will go with a smile on your face. The above photo of our family was taken at the Red Whale when we were all together at Christmas. Left to right, front row: Jess, Ken (honourary uncle), and Greer. Standing at the back: Me, Em, and Gray. Maybe we'll see you there.

2008-01-16T22:50:00.000-04:00

Well, Christmas has come and gone and so have all the guests. Only Emma remains at home since there is the lockout/strike at St. Thomas University. We are all thankful for the wonderful time we all had together. Thanks be to God. Our youth group was given tickets to attend a SeaDogs hockey game too. What fun they all had. It turned out the night they got tickets for was one of the nights I had volunteered to work for the St. John Ambulance, but at least it was at the game too.

2007-12-01T00:12:00.000-04:00

Tonight (well last night now I guess) was the Saint Andrew's Society of Saint John's Annual Dinner. Following a well done introduction by Don Mills I had the great honour to be the guest speaker. It seems to have gone over very well. I was given my own quaich engraved simply ST. ANDREW'S NIGHT, 2007. A great night for my Dad and I and a few friends (including the above Police Officer).

2007-11-25T14:39:00.000-04:00

Today we hosted the Annual Church Service of the Saint Andrew's Society, at Holy Trinity Hammond River, our little church in Quispamsis. In the large group photo from left to right, are the members who were in attendance: Bruce Campbell, Secretary; Rory Grant; James Kupkee, 1st Vice and incoming President; Gordon Graham; David Nickerson; me, incoming Chaplain; James McKenzie, incoming 1st Vice; Neil Graham, President; Willaim Kerwin, Society Pipe Major; Laurie Hossack, Treasurer; Gerald McRae; and Donald Mckay. In the smaller photo is Judy LeClue, of our parish, who finished made the Chaplain's Tippet which will be passed on from Society Chaplain to chaplain. It was a really special day following a very busy but special weekend.

Yours aye,
P+

2007-11-24T23:30:00.000-04:00

Well this past Thursday was the American Thanksgiving. For the first time Greer and I celebrated it. We went to Ken's new place in Ludlow, Maine on Friday. What beautiful place! Ken even cooked the turkey and did a great job! Yep, it's true. I guess you really can teach an old dog new tricks. He calls Greer once in a while for cooking tips for other meals as well. Who would have thought, eh? Anyway, after spending the night we headed back home as I was in the Santa Claus Parade with the Regional Police Force - they escort Santa.

2007-11-17T08:01:00.000-04:00

November 6 was my 56th Birthday. Nothing really special about it although Greer made my traditional Birthday cake, the same one that was the Birthday Cake for my great-grandfather. That is always a good thing! However, a package arrived yesterday from our son Jess in Ontario. He sent me 3 bottles of beer we cannot get here in New Brunswick. He wrapped the present in plain brown paper and then added one of his designs to the top of the package. It may be more impressive then the beer!

Thanks kid,
Your dear sweet wonderful Father

2007-10-27T22:25:00.000-03:00

Well, I managed to complete my St. John Ambulance Instructor training this week. I'm exhausted!

2007-10-20T08:20:00.000-03:00

Yesterday I presided over the wedding of Mark and Nicole. It was a great time and the couple are really special. they will do well. I hate doing weddings because I think so many are ridiculous. This was really a great one. The couple are a little older than most and are more together as it were. Everybody was very excited for them..

Blessings to you both,
P+

2007-09-29T23:12:00.000-03:00

A blessed feast of St Michael & All Angels to all.

Whenever I think of this day I think of this huge bronze statue, designed by Sir Jacob Epstein, depicting St. Michael overcoming the Devil. Standing victorious above the Devil defeated, St. Michael symbolises the strength of good over evil. It is on the front of Coventry Cathedral in England.

Gracious Father we remember that Saint Michael, the Archangel, will defend us in battle and be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the devil. Rebuke the evil one, we humbly pray, and send Michael, Prince of the heavenly host, by your power, to thrust into Hell Satan and the other evil spirits who prowl about the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.

Blessings to all,
P+

2007-09-14T06:07:00.000-03:00

Man, I'm in such a funk. What is happening. I'm filled with nostalgia. As an historian I've always been interested in the past but only as it relates to the present or future. But of late there is this longing for the people and places of my past. Maybe it is because I'm alone here while everybody is away or moved on. That seems too obvious to me though. There is something more to it - I can feel it. I suspect it is a place of my own making but I have been using this expression for the last year and a half or so (but only with my wife) that doesn't actually make alot of sense. I will say, every now and then, "I wanna go home." It makes no sense because I am home. Well, physically anyway. So where is this home I want to go to?

It makes me think of one of the songs that is on the soundtrack to my life and guess what? It is from 1972! How typical. Nostalgia yet again, I guess, but, oh well, here goes:

Here in this prison
Of my own making
Year after day I have grown
Into a hero
But there's no worship
Where have they hidden my throne?
I'm alone here,
with emptiness, eagles, and snow.
Unfriendliness chilling my body
and screaming out pictures of home.

Here I am pouring this out on a blog. That is OK really 'cause everybody who used to blog seems to have let home too. So, really, there is no one to read this anyway save for a few. Oh heck, I like bloggin' too. Maybe some day folks will return to this weird place. Until then dr mills and piratepete will, in deed, wax nostalgic and keep blogland plugged into life support.

Keep bloggin' all you Space Truckers,
P.

2007-09-12T23:37:00.002-03:00

I've posted the photo below before but there have been a couple of people who wanted to know more, but this is mostly for you Ray Roy. Ray and I were good friends - I guess we still are though we haven't seen each other (except on Facebook) in twenty years or more. (We need to get together this winter Ray!)

Both Ray and Mike Biggar were wondering about tapes of Tunnel. The tapes seemed to have disappeared somewhere around 1992 or so. I think they are gone forever. Some of the stuff was actually recorded one weekend in your place Ray during the summer of 1972.The stuff was mostly our own: songs like Yo he amado (that was the Spanish/English song that was Santana influenced and very, very popular - the title translates as I have loved), and a popular10 minute number of ours called Friends (Its been a long time comin'). There were some others as well on those tapes.

As to who is who:
1 Ron Richard - truck driver and member of Odin's Wrath MC. Went to Saudi Arabia to drive for the Saudi's back in the 70's
2 Joe Emery - Bass player (photo on Ray's Facebook) and owner of the largest collection of shoes I ever saw. He OD'ed in the mid 80's.
3 Bob Young - Guitar and vocals. Became a taxman and lived and worked in Toronto and Ottawa and now lives in Quispamsis.
4. Peter Gillies - Congas, percussion, vocals. Now an Anglican Priest.
5 Earl Chisholm - One of (if not the) greatest guitar players I ever had the privilege to play with. I heard he was in the States.
6 Johnnie Alaine - Roadie. No idea what happened to him.
7 Mike McGrath - Roadie. I don't know where he is either. But those two guys were great. Reliable, trustworthy, and great friends.
8 Louise Blanchard - she was Paul's Girlfriend and they eventually got married, had children, and split up. She was our mother and we all loved her. I saw her about 10 years ago and we had a chat.
9 Loraine Hayes - A good friend of Lou's and the (then) wife of guitar player Dave Hayes of arguably Saint John's greatest performing band The Killer Egg. She is now known as Lorraine Harding-Barrette and if we ever meet up again I'm sure we will still be friends!

10 Paul Belyea - Drums and lead vocals. Best @#*$in' drummer I ever knew. He is still around. Guy should 'a' left SJ and gone to TO.
Of note: Paul and Lou had two boys. They made up two thirds of the band Ermine out of Halifax. Rockin' (they are still on Facebook and myspace - I think).

The photo was taken out front of Paul's home on Sherbrooke Street in the summer of 1972 on the west side by Paul's cousin from California. There is a entry about the truck in a previous blog. Click here

strange memories
Yo he amado, babe!
P.

2007-09-11T07:04:00.000-03:00

I'm feeling rather strange these days.

I've been revisiting Mr Cohen of late. I was such a fan of his poetry, his strange books, incredible songs, deep and dark voice, and it is all coming back. Maybe its that nostalgia thing again. Even Tower of Song has been sticking in my brain lately too.

Well my friends are gone and my hair is grey
I ache in the places where I used to play
And Im crazy for love but Im not coming on
Im just paying my rent every day
Oh in the tower of song.

(Ever hear or see the version done with U2? Very cool - of course.)

I fought in the old revolution
on the side of the ghost and the King.
Of course I was very young
and I thought that we were winning;
I can't pretend I still feel very much like singing
as they carry the bodies away. - L.C.

A blessing to all still blogging (and those that don't)
P

2007-09-10T22:12:00.000-03:00

This month is a real time of change around here at the rectory. Jen (who spent the better part of 4 years living in our basement) has gone to Prince Albert, SK to take up her duties as Co-ordinator of Yoth Ministry for that Diocese. Emma has now moved into St. Thomas University and Gray, of course, is at L'Arche. Jesse, who has lived apart from us for about 10 years moved home for a few days until he headed for London, ON. Even Greer has been away. Her Mom is in Ireland so Greer is looking after her Dad for a two week stretch. That leaves Chaos the Cat. He is the only one who should move! Anyway, the photo was taken just this summer at a wedding at the Cathedral in Fredericton - one of the few times we were together in one place.

So now, I actually find myself missing everybody even though my lifestyle means I'm hardly around to see anybody anyway. Weird, huh?

Blessings to all,
P

p.s. The word is that Ken's house dealings have all gone through and he should be in his new log home on the 24th.

2007-08-17T21:15:00.001-03:00

Well my friend Ken left on Wednesday (that's us wearing our "Camp Brookwood T's") for his home in Vermont. The day before he got word that an offer has been made on his place there so he will be able to buy the log home just outside Houlton (that's the house in the picture). He should be in by the first of October. Now he will be 3 hours away instead of eight. We are all happy that he will be able to be close to his friends here in NB. Now he and Harold and I can spend more time at the Ale House!

2007-08-10T22:30:00.000-03:00

Ken and I spent the better part of the day at Fort Beauséjour. We are in the midst of the 250th Anniversary of the French & Indian War so it was interesting to make the visit. The fort was built by the French in 1751 to defend their interests in the region and to counter the British Fort Lawrence built in 1750 just across the small river. After four years of looking at each other the Fort fell to British and provincial (colonial) forces after a short siege in the summer of 1755.

2007-08-09T23:05:00.000-03:00

My friend Ken went to Camp Brookwood this week. He took one of his fancy telescopes and did some stargazing with the kids and staff. After a day or two there he has come down to visit me. Greer is still there as a volunteer - having fun to be sure. Why he just doesn't move to NB is beyond me.

2007-07-30T09:14:00.000-03:00

Every summer Greer and I go to Camp Brookwood as the chaplains for the Senior Teens Week (15 - 16 year olds). We just got back from this year's trip. What a great week. For the second year in a row we ended camp with a baptism. The night Sam was baptised he had chosen Dusty as one of his godparents/sponsors - Dusty was the guy who was baptised last summer. The date, as it turned out, was exactly one year to the day - actually to the hour! If that wasn't enough another guy, Tyler, decided he wanted to be baptised and his parish will be doing that later in September. His priest Ellen+ (seen in the pictures) came down from New Denmark for the event to help with Sam's as he was a CIT when she was the chaplain.