Dean David Tiessen heartily and warmly welcomed former Dean Nissa to our 8:00 am and 10:00 am services, Sunday, June 26 at the Cathedral Church of St Michael and All Angels in Kelowna. After Dean David’s sermon (at the 10:00 am service) Nissa led us in a beautifully sung communion,”The Living Name of God. A Table Prayer,” (my most favourite!). It is a beautiful setting that warms one’s heart and the music stays with you. It moves one to tears at least that is what Rev Alan Akehurst said happened to him.
Nissa only sang it once a year when she was with us! It was such a gift on this celebration day. It was so nice to break bread with Nissa as a whole parish family after this Covid time and its restraints. It was a great way to say “Goodbye,” to say “Thank you” for pastoring our Cathedral family, and to say “Happy Retirement” …all at once.
Beautiful hymns were chosen for the service. Our very talented choirs united as one voice under the expert leadership of Music Director Andrew Fraser, and they sounded wonderful!
At the end of the service, the choirs lined up on the outsides of the pews and sang a special hymn just for Nissa …something she had always hoped for. The words to the hymn (Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise) were rewritten by our very own witty and fun-loving poet Maureen Tinker telling of our relationship with Dean Nissa and her time at the Cathedral.
A lovely and delicious luncheon was then held in her honour after the 10:00 am service. Over 140 parishioners happily attended the luncheon. People came out of the woodwork to be there for Nissa! Andy Griffin was the Master of Ceremonies and speeches were delightfully delivered by former Office Administer Shea McClean and Archbishop David Crawley! We all enjoyed a few laughs, a few hugs, and a few tears with our guest of honor Nissa.
“St. Michael’s Cathedral Angels”: Joanne Ritchie, Cass Cress, Louise Griffin, and Penny Venables coordinated the luncheon. A huge crew of “St Micheal’s Angels” helped with setup, cleanup, decorating, and serving at this celebratory event.
A special Thank you to all of those hard workers who put on this beautiful finale …
It was a great celebration !
We are grateful for the 12 years Nissa worked as our priest, making changes and overseeing huge building renovations. Nissa quietly met people where they were at and encouraged church growth. She challenged us to deepen our faith; to work on our bible study; and to reach out to our community and beyond.
Thank-you Dean Nissa …we love you!
Thank you! Happy Retirement to you!
