From the very beginning, I knew the arrival of Archbishop Miller would change us forever.
I have had the privilege of working with – and for – three Archbishops over the last 30 or so years. Each one was special, holy, and unique. They had different personalities and work styles, but similar traits: they were devoted to the faithful here in the Archdiocese, fervent in prayer, and men of deep religious conviction.
A new beginning
When we learned that Archbishop Miller was coming to Vancouver as Co-Adjutor Archbishop, we could never have imagined how the future would unfold. Archbishop Roussin charged me with “looking after” the new Archbishop – showing him the ropes and helping him acclimatize to the people, culture, (and weather) here.
I remember clearly when he arrived all those years ago. At the Welcome Mass he said, “As the Church of God in Vancouver travels the road of the opening decades of the Third Christian Millennium, it needs many things for its journey. I am honoured – and delighted – to be able to accompany you on this pilgrimage.”
At that time, he reminded us that in a city as large and diverse as Vancouver, where so many people do not consciously know the love of God, we are impelled – every one of us, he said – by a pressing concern to offer others the joy of knowing Christ and his Gospel.
He gave us a glimpse into what was to come – a pastoral presence rooted in conviction, humility, and hope.
Getting to know him
From his first day in the office – meeting and greeting all the staff with exuberance and gusto – to offering Mass in our little old chapel, I knew we were on to something wonderful. Time has proven that this devout and holy man has led us to great things.
I was not a particularly good secretary, but I was good at taking Archbishop Miller to events, appointments, and in general chauffeuring him around the archdiocese as he got to know people.
It was the best of times. Lots of good conversation as we got to know each other and figured out how we fit in the scheme of things.
On his part, there was time for a million questions. He was interested in everything – from historical bits about Vancouver neighbourhoods to “How much does it rain?” I can’t remember how many times I must have said, “I don’t know,” especially when it came to anything with numbers. He wanted to know how many, how big, how far, how much. I’m sure there were times he wondered if I knew anything at all! To this day, he is excited about and interested in everything – and I still don’t know!
During the time Archbishop Roussin was preparing to retire, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Archdiocese. It was another great opportunity to show our soon-to-be new Shepherd how we could throw a good party, host a massive reception, and offer a grand celebration at the Pacific Coliseum for starters. I believe I can safely say, we’ve never looked back.
What a journey it’s been, and what an enormous blessing to have walked and travelled this road alongside him.
A living witness
Years later, Pope Francis wrote about bishops in The Joy of the Gospel. “The bishop must always foster this missionary communion in his diocesan Church, following the ideal of the first Christian communities, in which the believers were of one heart and one soul (cf. Acts 4:32).
“To do so, he will sometimes go before his people, pointing the way and keeping their hope vibrant. At other times, he will simply be in their midst with his unassuming and merciful presence. At yet other times, he will have to walk after them, helping those who lag behind and – above all – allowing the flock to strike out on new paths. (EG 31)”
He was describing Archbishop Miller!
Archbishop Miller gave so many of us opportunities to grow, to learn, and to serve the Church – using our gifts and talents for the good of all. It is apt that the reading from the Farewell Mass touched on this belief: that we are all blessed and have a particular purpose in this life.
How many times over the years did he come to my office, sit down, and say, “You know Barb, I’ve been thinking…” I knew what that meant – something new was about to unfold, and I was there to be part of it.
The opportunity to go to Rome in 2008 for a conference on Mulieris Dignitatem (On the Dignity of Women) was just one example. His respect and admiration for the role of women in the Church is legendary, as so many local conferences, workshops, and appointments attest. His support for the Catholic Women’s League is well known and a powerful witness of his gratitude for the work women do in our parishes and in our Church.
A legacy of trust
For me, serving alongside a person whose main interest is seeing his people succeed has been a joy and a blessing. Having the opportunity to collaborate at this high level is something I could never have imagined.
Over the years, my role as a woman in the Church has proven to be one of value. Whether directing the Stewardship Office, serving as Chancellor, or sitting on any number of diocesan committees, I knew I was a trusted and respected colleague.
So much has been written and said already about Archbishop Miller – not the least of which is his incredible ability to remember not only faces and names, but also when they last met!
In recent times, I had the honour of accompanying the Archbishop on 25 parish visits – an experience so rich, not only for him, but for all the parishioners who were able to encounter their Shepherd first-hand. Those visits have continued and are part of his lasting legacy.
There have been too many firsts and unique undertakings to mention, and as he leaves us, we recognize how much he has been a living gift to the Church in Vancouver.
For me, it was the best of times. Through thick and thin, in the good and bad of Chancery life, Archbishop Miller exuded deep compassion for people who suffered abuse or trauma of any kind. His words of consolation were always authentic and profound. He felt the pain – and he cared.
It has been a gift and a privilege to travel this road with such a passionate leader, prophetic pastor, devoted Bishop – and good friend.
Barbara Dowding has helped shape the modern Church in Vancouver through decades of service, including as stewardship director, Synod organizer, and the Archdiocese’s first female chancellor. She now serves as special assistant to Archbishop Miller.
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