Saturday, February 27, 2021
Late in the year 1975 I was appointed Rector of the Church of the Epiphany, Scarborough. I was taken to see the Church, and I was introduced to two people whom I was told “Really makes our Church shine”. It was, of course, Norma and Les Smale. Very quickly, Norma and Les became not just colleagues and devoted servants of the Church of the Epiphany, but strong personal friends for my wife Bonnie and me. I could say so much about Norma’s wonderful work at the Church and her skills in altar guild and needle work and full support of me and other clergy who served there. But what Bonnie and I will remember is all the fun we had with Norma and Les. We frequently raided Lesley’s special Opimiun wines.. We had so many great meals together, including many New Year’s Eve banquets with our other dear friends, June and Phil McKim. And I shall never forget the hospitality at 984 Midland Ave.
Sadly when I left Epiphany for other appointments we were not able to see as much of a Norma and Les as we would have liked. But for the last 41 years Norma (and Les) have remained in our hearts. Valerie, Ron and Nancy (who we only saw seldom but who was a “pub friend” of one of my cousins in England) were kind enough to keep us posted. Bonnie and Norma were such special friends at the Epiphany.
Sadly because of the pandemic we can’t see Nancy, Valerie, Ron and Cheryl in person. But please know our prayers are with you. The Church of the Epiphany, where we first all knew each other was such a special place for so many people, and much if that was due to the presence of Norma and Les.
Thank you Valerie for keeping in touch over the years and for letting us know of your Mom’s death. We were so pleased to be able to attend the Funeral Liturgy, if only virtually.
As we commit Norma to God’s care, please be assured of our prayers for her. May she Rest In Peace and rise with Christ, in glory.
(Bishop) +Michael Bedford-Jones
