Time to celebrate – A special presentation to a young environmental leader

It was a pleasure to visit my former congregation, the Church of the Advent in the parish of Colwood and Langford a few days ago, not only to enjoy lively worship, music, preaching, and community. I attended in order to acknowledge the leadership of a young Anglican, Taylor Gossman.

I did so in my capacity as secretary of the Anglican Communion Environmental Network, a ministry I commenced while rector of this church in 2005. I am fairly certain I baptized Taylor during this time. She plans to study in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of British Columbia in the fall. Here is the text of my commendation.

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On behalf of the Anglican Communion Environmental Network, its chair, the Archbishop of Panama, the Rt. Rev. Julio Murray, with the concurrence of Martha Jarvis, Anglican permanent representative to the United Nations, and Dr. Rachel Mash, Anglican Communion Environmental Network coordinator, we the undersigned cite and celebrate the accomplishments of Ms. Taylor Gossman, parishioner of the Anglican parish of Colwood and Langford for exemplary leadership initiative and ability.

Early in 2025 Taylor Gossman conceived, coordinated, and managed an Environmental Expo, a day filled with fun activities, informative talks, and interactive tables all centered around environmental sustainability. Participants learned about ways to reduce their carbon footprint, discover eco-friendly organizations, and connect with like-minded individuals passionate about protecting our planet.

The emerging leadership of a new generation of environmentally sensitive animators is vital to fulfilling our baptismal promise, that we all “strive to safeguard the integrity of God’s creation, and respect, sustain and renew the life of the Earth.”

Congratulations Taylor and thank you for your inspiration and leadership.

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