For the third year in a row, we — Michael Tutton, a divinity intern at Saint Paul’s Anglican Church, Halifax, and his wife, Cathy — are skiing as Coureurs de Bois in the Canadian Ski Marathon.
The Canadian Ski Marathon is one of the premier cross-country skiing events in the world and the oldest event of it’s kind in North America.
Along with the challenge of the distance and unpredictable conditions, the mingling of friendly Anglophone and Francophone volunteers and skiers of all levels of expertise and ages make this event both an adventure and a gathering.
This year, on the 50th anniversary of this great Canadian Tradition, Michael and Cathy will both attempt to ski the full 160 kilometers in two days, carrying all the gear they need to camp out overnight between the two days.
The winter camping, whether it is raining, snowing or -25C plus wind, is a challenge but it is also one of the highlights of the Canadian Ski Marathon. Volunteers provide hay/straw and wood for the fire and hot water. Young scouts and cadets clear the camping area and clean up afterwards. They and all the other volunteers along the way make the Canadian Ski Marathon possible!
It is their cheery support in sometimes brutal conditions that have inspired us to find a way to “pay it forward”.
Last year we raised $800.00 for the Feed Nova Scotia food bank at Christ Church, Dartmouth. This year we would like to use our participation in this uniquely Canadian experience to inspire folks to contribute the Saint Paul’s Anglican Church, Halifax refugee support group. All the proceeds will go to bringing a refugee family to Canada.
If you would like to consider making a donation to the St. Paul’s Refugee Sponsorship program directly, please click here Pledge Form or call the Parish Office.
Or here:
There are also paper pledge forms and envelopes available at the church or from Mike or Cathy, who will pass along your contribution to the office. Tax receipts are available for donations over $20.
