Canowindra’s Reverend Jono has been recognised for his contributions in the
church and the wider community with a new title – Canon – though he still prefers to be called “Jono”.
A Canon is someone who is given a position in the Cathedral of the Diocese and is noted as a position of leadership within. “I was made a Canon as a result of being appointed Regional Ministry Coordinator (RMC) for the Cabonne Region,” Jono said.
Jono has been ordained for 15 years and before that he was a youth minister for more than ten -years. He also has ecumenical experience within this parish, leading both the Anglican and Uniting churches. He also spent time as a jail chaplain and a juvenile justice chaplain working with
troubled children.
“It’s both exciting and daunting,” he said. “I now have a responsibility to report on behalf of eight or nine other parishes and the Hospital Chaplaincy in Orange. I’m also on a number of decision making committees at a time when the church is going through an interesting change.” “It was a difficult decision because I’ve never seen myself in that type of role; only ever as a parish priest.”
“I spoke to a number of people I consider wiser than myself and all of them said ‘of course!’, which surprised and humbled me.”
“I’m overwhelmed by the amount of people who have come up to me to shake my hand and say congratulations.” “It’s always been a privilege to serve to
the people of God wherever I have been and in this new capacity, it’s an even greater privilege.”
Jono also wanted to remind people that All Saints’ Day is an opportunity to offer a service of pastoral care to those who are going through the journey of grief. “2015 has been a particularly difficult year for the people of Canowindra and the surrounding districts, so you may know someone who would benefit from the opportunity to acknowledge their grief and give thanks for those who have made an impact upon their lives.”
“We will do that by placing a flower or posy on the altar in memory and thanksgiving of the special people in our lives. Please invite friends who may find one of these services helpful.” All Saints’ Day is on Sunday 1 November.
Services will be held in Woodstock, Canowindra, Cranbury and Eugowra.