Photo courtesy
Father Tyson Røsberg leads a visioning session in Cowansville on Nov. 26, bringing together representatives from ten parishes to discuss the future of Anglican ministry in the Eastern Townships

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Father Tyson Røsberg, based in Stanbridge East, has spent the past two years leading the Eastern Townships Regional Ministry in the Diocese of Montreal. Under his leadership, ten rural Anglican parishes have been navigating the challenges of declining attendance, financial pressures, and community changes. A recent meeting in Cowansville brought representatives together to reflect on their progress and chart a hopeful path forward.

Collaborative efforts amidst rural challenges

At the heart of the Regional Ministry is a commitment to collaboration. “We started this team ministry experiment two years ago,” Father Røsberg explained in a recent interview, “to see how we could partner together and share the costs of ministry.” The experiment was born from necessity, as no single parish could sustain a full-time priest. By pooling resources, these rural parishes aim to preserve their presence and impact in the Eastern Townships.

However, the challenges remain significant. Many of these parishes are situated in communities that have experienced decades of rural out-migration. Speaking on one example, Father Røsberg painted a vivid picture: “It’s literally a church in a cornfield. There’s nothing around anymore.” The situation has been compounded by rising operational costs, including heating and insurance.

In this changing landscape, the Regional Ministry has fostered a sense of unity. Regular joint worship services, particularly on months with a fifth Sunday, have been pivotal. These gatherings often attract over 100 attendees, a stark contrast to the dwindling numbers at individual churches. “People expressed a desire to have more of these—maybe even once a month,” Father Røsberg shared, highlighting the joy and vitality these services bring to small, rural congregations.

The future

The Cowansville meeting was an opportunity to dream about the future of Anglican ministry in the region. Representatives from nearly all ten parishes participated, reflecting on their journey and brainstorming new initiatives. “We asked ourselves what has worked, where do we want to go from here, what are our goals, our priorities,” said Father Røsberg.

Key strategies discussed include continuing the shared financial model and consolidating events. Instead of multiple church suppers or fundraising initiatives, the group explored the idea of larger, regional efforts. These changes aim to maximize resources and foster a stronger sense of community across the parishes.

A legacy of resilience

The Eastern Townships, historically an Anglophone region, is now predominantly French-speaking. Recognizing this shift, Father Røsberg incorporates French into services and sacraments. “It’s not the Anglophone bubble anymore,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of engaging with Francophone neighbours.

Despite these transitions, Anglican parishes remain a vital part of the community. Many have long histories as gathering places for milestones and celebrations. This legacy continues through efforts like the St. James the Apostle Youth Council in Stanbridge East. Founded in 2023, the council has raised over $6,000 for youth and family initiatives. Annual events, such as an ice cream social, bring together diverse groups in support of local causes.

Hope and connection

For Father Røsberg, the Regional Ministry is about more than just survival. It’s about building a model that fosters connection and purpose. “My greatest clergy goal has been to gently break down the barriers between rural parishes,” he said, reflecting on the progress made. The recent meeting left participants feeling “a sense of hope, joy, fellowship, unity, and encouragement for the future.”

Looking ahead, the ministry plans to build on this foundation. Father Røsberg is exploring potential partnerships with neighbouring dioceses to address shared concerns. Christmas, a significant time for the church, will feature services of lessons and carols, as well as gift collections for inner-city families in Montreal.

Moving forward

As the Eastern Townships Regional Ministry prepares for its next chapter, it stands as a testament to resilience and collaboration. With a dedicated team and a focus on community, these parishes are finding ways to thrive despite the odds. For Father Røsberg, the journey is deeply meaningful: “It is hard work, but it is holy work.”