Louise Penny, honorary chair, was on hand to launch “Saving Grace” campaign in Sutton
Louise Penny had a busy day on Saturday, April 13. She started out at the Brome Lake Book Store in Knowlton, and by late afternoon, she was in the hall of Grace Anglican Church in Sutton. At an invitation only reception, the “Saving Grace” financial campaign, to restore and maintain the church, was launched. The goal of the campaign is to raise $250,000. The first phase will be the installation of a new roof. Bathrooms and meeting rooms will then be upgraded and remodeled.
Recently a new heating system and a new organ have both been acquired and that has taken up most of the endowment fund that the church had in place.
John Dinsmore and Andre Gagnon have produced a bilingual pamphlet to support the campaign. The two men introduced the campaign, in a bilingual fashion, and after commenting on the importance of the church building to the community of Sutton and beyond, they invited Louise Penny, renowned author, and Mary Gibson, Bishop of the Diocese of Montreal, to speak.
Louise Penny’s novels have been translated into thirty-three languages. She is a recipient of the Order of Canada and the Order of Quebec. As busy as she is, being a world traveler, she made time to come to Sutton. Grace Church is dear to Louise. She is quoted in the campaign brochure as saying, “Grace Church holds a very significant place in my heart, in my life, and in that of my family. It is, without doubt, a worthy cause.” She spoke about the building being more than a brick and mortar structure. It symbolizes the power of community and kindness. She is proud to be the Honorary Chairwoman of this campaign.
Bishop Mary Gibson commented on the welcoming feeling that embraces all who enter the church. And she commented on how there is no musty smell in this church as it is well maintained and well loved. The community outside the walls is drawn in to this special place. It has a mission in the community.
Robert Benoit, the Mayor of Sutton, addressed the crowd in the hall to say that the town council has pledged $1,000 towards the Grace Church restoration project. He mentioned that history is important to the town. The town has also recently purchased the former Calvary United Church, which will be turned into a multi-purpose community building. When the Calvary United Church was first sold, years ago, the members of the United Church began to worship at Grace Church. The Anglicans welcomed them.
Rev. Tim Smart thanked all who were there to celebrate the official beginning of this public campaign. He praised how Sutton residents and those in the region are there to help to support Grace Church. This project is drawing people all together, whether or not they are regular church-goers or not. The church is a central point in the community.
A video presentation played throughout the afternoon showing photos of the building, people connected to it, and various events, over the last few years. After the guest speakers, the renewal plan was described, and questions were
answered. Cynthia Dinsmore offered a walk and talk in the Sanctuary where she described each of the stained glass windows.
Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $50 or more. Cheques can be sent to Grace Church, 52 rue Principale Sud, Sutton, Qc, J0E 2K0. Bank transfers can be sent to gracechurchsutton@gmail.com . You can help to preserve the cultural treasure and social community resource that Grace Church has become throughout its long history in the community of Sutton.