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presbyterian.ca
FALL 2022
Connection
PRESBYTERIAN
17
 37 Years
of Ministry
at Forbes
By Carol Rigler, Forbes Presbyterian Church in Grande Prairie, Alta.
The congregation at Forbes Pres- byterian Church in Grande Prairie, Alta., celebrated the retirement of the Rev. George Malcolm on June 12, 2022. Enjoyed by 130 people, it was a day of fellowship for fam- ily and friends that included lunch and a program of music, tributes, stories and best wishes.
The Rev. George Malcolm re- ceived an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Knox Col- lege in Toronto on May 11, 2022. Our congregation was blessed to be able to celebrate this special achievement with George and his family online and later congratu- late him in person.
A special gift was presented to George during his final service at Forbes on June 26, convey- ing the following inscription: “In appreciation for your faithful and dedicated service to our church community. Your ministry makes a difference in so many lives and is deeply appreciated.”
The following words of appre- ciation were shared as part of a tribute read to George during his last service: “George began his ministry in Grande Prairie 37 years ago, April 1985. He has a mind that is like a sponge. George absorbs everything! He is a mas- ter at multitasking. His incredible memory allows him to retain, ex- plain and use material creatively in leadership, teaching and inspiring sermons. George balances family life, community involvement and church involvement. He remem- bers everything and answers all
RECOGNITIONS
    Achieving a Lifetime Goal
On June 30, Vivian Ketchum graduated Grade 12 as a mature student at the Winnipeg Adult Education Centre, which had been a lifetime goal. Vivian is a member of Place of Hope Presbyterian Church in Winnipeg, Man., and a former member of the Life and Mission Agency Committee. She originates from the Wauzhushk Onigum Nation of Northern Ontario.
“I was inspired to complete my Grade 12 by my late son, Tyler Ketchum,” Vivian explained. “He passed away in 2011 from a brain tumour. During his short illness, he told me I must carry on and not to grieve for him too long. Going back to school was my way of honouring his last wish. To carry on.”
In addition to her diploma, Vivian was awarded the Union Station Community Contributor Award for positively contributing to the community through exceptional service.
“Vivian lives up to the spirit of this award through her active volunteerism, community activism,
and the role that she has played within the school and larger community assisting others to find
their respective voices,” wrote Aaron Bernarroch, school principal. “Vivian is a noteworthy graduate of the Winnipeg Adult Education Centre and we are confident that she will continue to make a positive impact in the community along her journey.”
Vivian felt supported by her community to continue her education. “I appreciated the support and thank those who walked with me on this educational journey.”
Congratulations, Vivian!
  our questions. When there is a problem or question, we know we can ‘Ask George.’”
George has always been a great storyteller, so it was no surprise that his last Sunday in- cluded story time with the Sun- day School children, along with a special event where the children received awards.
The choir sang “Give Me That Old Time Religion” and “Precious Memories,” and concluded with his favourite song: “It Only Takes
a Spark to Get a Fire Going,” which was sung at his ordination 42 years ago.
A slideshow presentation high- lighted pictures of the congrega- tion over the years. This goodbye was made easier knowing that George and Janice will remain in Grande Prairie and still be able to enjoy the many friendships they’ve made over the years.
Congratulations to George and Janice! Thank you for always be- ing there for us!
 





































































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