Creston’s Christ Church Anglican Welcomes New Priest and Partnership

A significant transformation is underway at Christ Church Anglican in Creston, British Columbia. The church has formed a new partnership with several neighbouring congregations, welcoming Rev. Juliet Thondhlana as its new ministry team leader. This collaboration, known as the Churches of the Transfiguration, includes Anglican congregations from Castlegar, Trail, Salmo, Fruitvale, and New Denver. The initiative aims to strengthen community ties and foster shared worship experiences across the West Kootenay and Boundary regions.

Rev. Thondhlana, who brings over 15 years of ministry experience, is committed to social justice, pastoral care, and family ministry. She holds a Master’s degree in Theology and Ministry with a specialization in social justice, along with diplomas in Religious Studies, Theology, and Systemic Family Counselling. Originally from Zimbabwe, she offers a unique global perspective to her new role. Rev. Thondhlana, her husband Frederick Thondhlana, and their daughter Blessing moved to the Kootenays in December 2024, answering a call to serve in a new environment. Frederick is also involved in ministry at Nelson United Church.

“Rev. Juliet is such a good choice for this moment in our life as a parish,” stated Mel Davis, Incumbent’s Warden at Christ Church. “With the majority of the world’s Anglicans living in the Global South, Reverend Juliet’s experience will guide us as we step into a new way of being church together.”

Rev. Thondhlana expressed her dedication, saying, “I believe God brought me here to serve with humility, to listen deeply to the hearts of the people, and to walk with this community through both its beauty and its challenges.” As the ministry team leader, she will regularly travel among the six congregations, fostering relationships and providing support tailored to each community’s needs.

The first opportunity for congregants to worship with Rev. Thondhlana will be on Sunday, February 1, 2025, during the 11 a.m. service at Christ Church Anglican. Parishioners are eager to meet her and engage in shared worship.

Christ Church Anglican emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and life experiences. The congregation gathers every Sunday at 11 a.m. and also hosts a monthly gathering on Wednesday evenings, featuring a shared meal followed by an Evening Prayer service. New and long-time residents are encouraged to join these communal events, reflecting the church’s commitment to unity and outreach within the community.