The Rev Jeffrey Donnelly
A Celebration of the Life of Jeffrey Donnelly was held on July 2, 2022 at St Saviour’s Pro-Cathedral, Nelson. Lay people and clergy from around the diocese attended the service, as well as members of the ecumenical community in Nelson.
The Most Reverend Lynne McNaughton officiated, assisted by The Venerable Chris Ross, Archdeacon, and the Reverends Suzanne Basek and Marcella Mugford.
Words of remembrance were offered by the Reverend Yme Woensdregt, Peter Wilson, and Nadja Hall.
In her message, Archbishop Lynne said (paraphrasing) that we had gathered six months after Jeff’s passing to name the gifts he had given us.
‘Giving Jeff to God’ is one of the stages of ‘letting go.’ We renew our commitment to the Church inspired by Jeff’s life.
She added, “Jeff was moved to change the Church where it has been slow to move: to celebrate the whole diversity of all creation. In that regard, Jeff had a prophet’s imagination for change, kindness, coupled with justice and humility, modesty and self-awareness… Jeff had fallen in love with Nelson.”
The Urn containing Jeff’s ashes was taken to the columbarium by Susan Warren and Sharon Compese.
Nadja Hall on cello, accompanied by Maureen Lewis on piano, provided the musical interlude: “Andantino” by Martini.
Music: Jean Simpson (organ)
Choir: St Saviour’s Pro-Cathedral Choir, with the Kaslo Choristers.
