Archpriest Robert Stephen, Matushka Dianne Kennaugh

Archpriest Robert Wayne Stephen Kennaugh (1942-2024)

and

Matushka Dianne (born Leibel) Kennaugh (1941-20__)

Early life of Robert Wayne Kennaugh

On 11 July, 1942, Robert Wayne Kennaugh was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and his parents were Stanley and Edith (born Skelding) Kennaugh.

Stanley had immigrated to Canada in 1915 (at age 2). With his family, he emigrated from Liverpool, England, by ship. They landed at Québec, Québec, and he grew up in Yorkton, Saskatchewan. He found work in Regina, and later in life, he worked with the Winnipeg Free Press.

Robert was raised as a Christian in the Anglican Church of Canada, and at first, he attended Saint Philip’s Anglican Church in Winnipeg. Both his parents were active leaders in that community.

He grew up in the Norwood neighbourhood of Saint Boniface, on the east side of the Red River.

Saint Philip’s Anglican Church

As a lively and intelligent child, Robert enjoyed pulling pranks on his siblings, William and Susan. His sense of humour remained with him always.

During the course of his life, Robert discovered that although his family immigrated from Liverpool, England, the family had connexions to the Isle of Man.

He received his primary and secondary education in Winnipeg. As a young adult, during the summers, he worked for the City of Winnipeg by selling dog licences, and bicycle licences.

At the end of his high-school days, he began to attend Saint Michael's Anglican Church. That time, the priest was Father William Turney, who began to teach at the Saint John's Boys' School. He was followed by [Jack Gibbons Father Jack Gibbons].

Higher Education of Robert

After having completed his secondary education, Bob began post-secondary education as he enrolled in the University of Manitoba at Winnipeg.

In 1962, while he was studying at the undergraduate level, during a course in philosophy at Saint John’s College, he met Antony Edwards, and they became life-long friends.

Saint John's College, University of Manitoba (second site)

After he received the Bachelor of Arts degree, he began post-graduate study for the Master’s Degree in Social Work. Upon completion of his work, he graduated, and he received this degree.

Robert Kennaugh, graduate

Employment

After graduation, Robert worked in social services positions, and also as a computer programmer for the Mincome pilot project.

Later, he worked in Braille transcription for both the “CNIB” (Canadian National Institute for the Blind), and the Department of Education, and he attended numerous conferences.

CNIB, Winnipeg

In 1965, during the course of his studies, Robert met Dianne Leibel, and they became friends.

Dianne Leibel

On 26 March, 1941, Dianne Leibel was born to Richard and Ilsa (born Brodt) Leibel in Regina, Saskatchewan.

Her grandparents, Karl (Carl) and Louise (Ludwika) (born Jäckle) Leibel, had emigrated in 1892 from Badeutz, near Rădăuți Bucovina (in the Romanian part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire) to Canada in 1892. They crossed the Atlantic Ocean, and they landed at the east coast of Canada. After travelling westwards, they settled in the Balgonie region near Edenwold, Saskatchewan (about 45 km (28 mi) northeast of Regina).

Her father, Richard, was known for his generosity and his fairness. For instance, he gave equal pay to any and every worker. Her mother, Ilsa, was a loving and patient parent, who helped greatly in teaching their daughters to manage their chores and to be independent.

The family members were both Roman Catholic and Lutheran. Dianne, blind from birth, was raised as a Christian in the bosom of a Christian family. Her elder sister, Eileen (born 18 June, 1938), was raised in the same manner, and she had been born with a similar visual impairment.

The family lived on a farm, and the children fulfilled their responsibilities doing the usual chores required with care for the garden and for animals. Both siblings grew up singing, and they both became very competent.

Bereavement, 1946

On Wednesday, 18 September, 1946, Louise (Ludwika) Leibel, grandmother of Eileen and Dianne, fell asleep in the Lord in Regina, Saskatchewan. She and her husband had retired from farming in 1943.

On Monday, 23 September, 1946, at 2:00 p.m., the funeral service was offered at Grace Lutheran Church in Regina. Pastor H Treit officiated.

Following the funeral obsequies, her body was interred at the Regina Cemetery.

Studies in Ontario

In due time, Dianne was able to travel (on her own) by railway to study at the Ontario School for the Blind. She graduated in the spring of 1960.

Her studies there gave her the qualifications for entering post-secondary education institutions. For her, this was the University of Saskatchewan in Regina, Saskatchewan, which she entered in the autumn of 1960.

By this time, Dianne’s family had moved into the city of Regina.

Higher education of Dianne

After entering the University of Saskatchewan in Regina, Saskatchewan, Dianne received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 1964.

Both being singers, Eileen and Dianne Leibel participated in singing competitions, and with success.

In 1961, “The Regina Leader-Post” reported that Dianne Leibel and Kathleen V Tastad came first in the “Lieder” (German songs), Grade A Voice and Piano Ensemble.

Bereavement, 1963

On 24 July, 1963, Karl Leibel, grandfather of Dianne, fell asleep in the Lord in Regina, Saskatchewan.

On Friday, 26 July, 1963, prayers were held at Speers Funeral Chapel. The funeral services were offered at Saint Mary’s, Roman Catholic church on Saturday, 27 July. Priest W Merx officiated.

Following the funeral obsequies, his body was interred in the family plot in the Regina Cemetery.

Interview, scholarships

In 1964, Dianne Leibel was interviewed during “White Cane Week” by the “Regina Leader-Post”.

 Far from confining her activities and interests to her studies, the young student
 leads a full life with awards and scholarships to her credit in singing.  Her own 
 criticism of life in general is aimed at the general public’s attitude towards the blind.  
 She claims that there is as much segregation of the sightless as there is of the 
 Negro or the Indian and that the general attitude of a society that stresses 
 conformity makes the sightless suffer needless isolation and a feeling of inferiority.  
 
 The young Reginian, blind since birth, says that those with sight handicaps 
 should not be segregated in schools for the blind but should, as she phrased it, 
 ‘fight their way out in sighted high schools’, and on equal footing with others not so 
 handicapped [...].

Further education

Then Dianne travelled to Winnipeg, Manitoba, as she entered the University of Manitoba. There, she began working on her second degree, the Bachelor of Social Work.

This was followed by post-graduate study, from which she received her third degree, the Master’s Degree in Social Work.

As a student, she lived with Father Jack and Peggy Gibbons and their daughter. Father Jack was rector of Saint Michael and All Angels Anglican Church in Winnipeg. It was there that she met Robert, and it was at that time that they became friends.

Working career

Dianne began work as a social worker, and she worked in this field with the Province of Manitoba in Winnipeg for many years.

Bereavement, 1967

On 25 March, 1967, Dianne’s mother, Ilsa Theresa (born Brodt) Leibel, fell asleep in the Lord at Regina, Saskatchewan.

Following the funeral obsequies, her body was interred at Riverside Memorial Park in Regina.

Marriage, 1967

On 3 June, 1967, in Regina, Saskatchewan, Robert Kennaugh and Dianne Leibel were united in marriage in Saint Matthew's Anglican Church. Their marriage was solemnised by the Anglican priest Jack Gibbons, who had travelled there for that purpose.

Saint Matthew Anglican Church

Afterwards, they travelled to Montréal, Québec, on their honeymoon to visit “Expo-’67”.

In due time, they received 2 daughters, Laurel and Suzanne ; and together, they raised both daughters.

Later, Suzanne married Richard Paintin (1994), and Laurel married Vincenzo Litardi (1997). Ultimately, the Kennaughs had the joy of receiving 5 grandchildren.

Church attendance

In Winnipeg, Robert and Dianne attended church services at the Anglican parish of Saint Michael and All Angels, where the priest who married them (Father Jack Gibbons) was serving. This parish was “high church”, as it was described.

From the time that they acquired their long-time residence at 496, Dominion Street, they had a home which was able to accommodate visitors. In this home, Robert and Dianne exercised a primary Orthodox Christian virtue : hospitality. Their hospitality was very broad in scope, but it was of particular benefit to many clergy who arrived in Winnipeg for meetings, or who were passing through on a journey. Once, they received a bishop from Kyiv, Ukraine, who was the abbot of the Kyiv Caves Monastery. Often, they received Archpriest Dennis Pihach, the chancellor of the Archdiocese of Canada (later, in monasticism, Archimandrite Alexander).

496, Dominion Street

All the while, Dianne continued singing, both at church services, and in other contexts, including competitions. Her husband supported her in everything.

The Rose Bowl, 1972

In 1972, Dianne Kennaugh entered the Winnipeg Music Festival (begun in 1919), and on that occasion, she won the “Rose Bowl” Trophy (begun in 1924). It was reported in the 18 and 20 March, 1972, editions of the “Winnipeg Free Press”.

Dianne, Bob, and the Rose Bowl

Bereavement, 1974

On 6 October, 1974, Dianne’s father, Richard Henry Leibel, fell asleep in the Lord in Regina.

After the funeral obsequies, his body was interred at Riverside Memorial Park.

Move to “Continuing Anglicans, 1979”

In 1979, several families (numbering 30 persons) left the parish because of the many changes which were occurring at the time in the Anglican communion. They spent some time in the “Continuing Anglican Church”.

For 2 years, they formed a "Continuing Anglican" parish, and they persevered for a time. However, their experience of "moving away" from something in reaction, rather than "moving towards" something in a positive manner (particularly in the context of several disconcerting events) prepared them for the next step.

Entering the Orthodox Christian Church

The next step occurred in 1981, when Father James Blomquist brought the whole community into the Orthodox Christian Church.

The whole parish (including the whole Kennaugh family) were received into the Western Rite parish of Saint Mary the Virgin, of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, in Winnipeg. They were all received by Archpriest Paul Schneirla, head of the Orthodox Western Rite Vicariate, who had come to visit the parish for this particular purpose.

The parish of Saint Mary the Virgin was founded in 1979 by Archpriest James Blomquist and his wife Susan (born La Fortune). Father James was a graduate first of Nashotah House in Wisconsin, and then of Saint Vladimir’s Seminary at Crestwood, New York.

They participated in the parish of Saint Mary the Virgin on Winnipeg Avenue near Arlington Street. It was part of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America.

At about the same time, Anthony Edwards had been received into the Orthodox Christian Church, into the same community. He was close enough to the Kennaugh family that he had an avuncular relationship both with the children and the grandchildren.

After a time, Anthony Edwards was ordained to the Holy Diaconate and then to the Holy Priesthood. Then, he was assigned to serve the parish of Saint Mary the Virgin after Father James Blomquist completed his service there.

After due preparation and examination, Robert was proposed and prepared to be ordained to the Holy Diaconate under Father Anthony Edwards. Metropolitan Philip (Saliba) of the Antiochian Archdiocese requested that Metropolitan Vladimir (Nagosky) (Rector in retirement of Holy Trinity Cathedral in Winnipeg) ordain Robert on his behalf.

Laurel (right) and Suzanne (left)

Diaconal ordination, 1983

On 4 September, 1983, at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Robert Wayne Kennaugh was ordained to the Holy Diaconate by Metropolitan Vladimir (Nagosky). Robert was given the additional name Stephen at that time.

Deacon Robert Stephen W Kennaugh was assigned to serve as deacon at Saint Mary the Virgin Church in Winnipeg.

From that time on, there began a joke amongst Father Robert’s friends. They teased him about having a liking for camels. The humour, however, became a fact ; and then from one, his collection of camels in one or another form (except alive) grew to be substantial.

Because the English-speaking component of the Orthodox Christian Church in Winnipeg was very small at the time, Deacon Robert and Dianne came into contact with parishioners of Holy Trinity Sobor in Winnipeg (at Manitoba Avenue and McKenzie Street), and of Saint Nicholas Church at Narol, north of the city.

In the context of this relationship, the Kennaughs hosted a regular inter-Orthodox Bible-study in their home for a long time. It included, amongst others, Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary graduate Constance Kucharczyk, and Esther Juce, who also attended this seminary.

Transfer to the Archdiocese of Canada (OCA), 1991

Deacon Robert and Dianne were content with their service and worship in their home parish of Saint Mary the Virgin. However, a pastoral need developed in the Archdiocese of Canada (OCA), and the Bishop of Ottawa and Canada, Seraphim (Storheim) approached Deacon Robert about considering the possibility of transferring to that diocese, and to taking a pastoral responsibility as a priest. After having given the situation serious consideration, Deacon Robert and his family agreed to the proposal. The proposal had been to take up the pastoral care of the Saint Nicholas Parish at Narol, Manitoba (a settlement just north of Winnipeg, on the Henderson Highway). It was about a half-hour’s drive from their home.

He and his family had already had some experience in this parish from the time of Father Lowig, when they had visited the community on special occasions.

In 1991, after the necessary permissions were sought and granted, Deacon Robert was transferred from the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America to The Orthodox Church in America, and he was assigned to the Archdiocese of Canada. His wife Dianne and his daughters went with him.

In 1991, Priest Evan Lowig, rector of the parish of Saint Nicholas at Narol had been transferred away to another parish.

Presbyteral ordination, 1991

On 23 June, 1991, at the Divine Liturgy, at Holy Trinity Sobor in Winnipeg, Manitoba, with the blessing of Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor), Deacon Robert S W Kennaugh was ordained to the Holy Priesthood by Bishop Seraphim (Storheim).

Pastoral service

The Priest Robert S Kennaugh was assigned to the Church of Saint Nicholas in Narol, Manitoba, as Rector.

He was assigned also to the Parish of Saint Nicholas in Sandy Lake, Manitoba, as Priest-in-charge.

Father Robert, Dianne, Laurel, at Saint Nicholas Church

Father Robert, Dianne, Esther Juce, at the icon corner, at Pascha

Father Robert, his wife, Matushka Dianne, and their family devoted a great deal of attention over many years to serving this community, and to helping it grow stronger. Matushka Dianne’s many years of leading the singing enabled not only a more co-ordinated and stronger way of singing, but also she strengthened and expanded the repertoire of “Galician Chant” melodies (a sort of relative of “Carpatho-Rusyn Chant” of Transcarpathia and Eastern Slovakia) which were part of the liturgical inheritance of this and many other parishes.

She managed to do this, because both she and Father Robert (affectionately known as “Father Bob”) would transcribe the service-texts onto braille paper so that she could read the texts. She learnt all the melodies by heart. Moreover, she prepared many texts in braille on her own.

Under Father Bob’s pastoral guidance, the parish of Saint Nicholas grew steadily from being a Temple served intermittently, into a full-fledged parish with a regular liturgical and social life. At last, services were offered every Sunday, and then every Saturday evening and Sunday morning.

Under his pastorship, during the 1990s, there began a steady and determined programme of modernisation and beautification of the Temple. Most of this work was accomplished under the leadership of Stephen Bilan, with the help of his 2 sons. It was also under his guidance that the services came to be served entirely in English. The parish came to be “teeming” with young families (most of them recently received into the Orthodox Christian Church).

The singing, led by Matushka Dianne Kennaugh, became better and stronger. For a long time, on the fourth Sunday of a month, a deacon (usually Protodeacon Raphael Cole) would lead the services while Father Bob was serving in the parish of Saint Nicholas in Sandy Lake, Manitoba. In Narol, the service offered was the Obednitsa (a version of the Typical Psalms).

Frequent concerts

In addition to her service in the parish, Dianne had been persuaded early on to provide a concert of various songs. She was accompanied by the family’s neighbour, Stuart McVey, an organist. Sometimes, another person would sing with her. The concerts (usually once yearly) began in the parish hall of Holy Trinity Sobor. Then, they moved to larger places, usually a United Church in the Fort Rouge area of Winnipeg. These concerts continued for many years (until other factors made it too difficult), much to the joy of their friends and others.

Renovations at Narol

Renovations were undertaken during the pastorship of Father Bob, which began very soon after his arrival. This major work was undertaken by Steven Bilan, and his sons Ryan and Kevin. The interior of the Temple was re-finished with cedar boards. This project was concluded in 1995.

Priest Evan Lowig, Robert S Kennaugh, Steven and Marie Bilan

Pilgrimages to Sifton, Manitoba

During a series of years (including when he was the dean of the region), Father Robert S Kennaugh gathered people from Winnipeg and from the nearby towns (including those still living near Sifton, Manitoba) on an annual basis. The purpose of this gathering was to recover and to keep the regular pilgrimage which had been undertaken historically while the Monastery of the Holy Ascension at Sifton was active. There would be services in the hamlet of Sifton, and then a panikhida (memorial service) at the monastery cemetery.

Eventually, the pilgrimages led to an attempt to restore Holy Resurrection Church in Sifton from its rather run-down condition. As a consequence, not only was the restoration completed, but also the Temple served as a museum, and it was declared to be a historic site. This situation continued only until 2010, when a sudden fire destroyed everything.

1994 : Bicentennial of Orthodox Christianity in North America

In 1994, the parish of Saint Nicholas, Narol, was host for the Archdiocese of Canada’s celebration of the Bicentennial of Orthodoxy in North America.

Archpriest Robert Stephen Kennaugh

Service in the diocesan administration

On 4 May, 1996, Priest Robert S Kennaugh was assigned to be Assistant Dean of the Manitoba and Saskatchewan combined deanery.

Sunday of Orthodoxy at Saint Mary Protectress Sobor

1998 : Archdiocesan assembly in Winnipeg

In July, 1998, the parish was the host and organising parish for the triennial assembly of the Archdiocese of Canada, held in Winnipeg.

Father Robert, Father Anatoliy and Matushka Irene Mel'nyk discussing diocesan assembly details

]

Matushka Dianne and Esther Juce (bandura) sing and play at a preparatory meeting

During this assembly, with the great help of the parishioners of Saint Nicholas, Bishop Seraphim served the Thursday morning Divine Liturgy, which was sung completely in Galician Chant.

On the Friday evening, Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor), Archbishop Mark (Petrovtsiy), Bishop Seraphim (Storheim) and other clergy served a moleben (prayer service) in Saint Nicholas' Church, which was followed by a social. The weather was particularly hot and humid.

Dean of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, 1998

On 15 October, 1998, Priest Robert S Kennaugh, retaining all his other responsibilities, was released from his responsibility as Assistant Dean of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. He was assigned to be Dean of the Manitoba and Saskatchewan combined deanery.

For many years thereafter, Father Bob Kennaugh (as he was affectionately called) served as the Dean of Manitoba, and as the Dean of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Alone, and together with his wife, he travelled all over the 2 provinces in order to lead meetings and to visit parishes. He did all this while he was still in full-time employment within the CNIB.

Major renovations at Saint Nicholas Church, 1999

In 1999, the parish commenced a renovation project which dramatically changed the nature in which the parish’s social life functioned. It was the “pièce de résistance”. The result was a new parish hall, vestibule, and elevator (making it a wheelchair accessible building).

First, the Temple was moved off its foundation and moved to one side. A basement was then dug, and a foundation was poured for a basement, which replaced the previous ground-level foundation. The new basement was purposefully larger than the existing Temple. This allowed for a later expansion of the western entrance to the Temple. After the basement was completed, including running water, electricity and a septic system (which meant the end of the use of the nearby out-houses), the Temple was moved to its permanent site above it, on the now larger “platform”. Again, Steve Bilan was the manager of the project. Once everything was in place, the basement was slowly finished. First, a modern and adequate commercial-style kitchen was installed, a fellowship-and-meeting space was developed, and eventually a fire-escape and an elevator were installed.

There were also included storage space, and the necessary accessible lavatories. Then, the lower hall was named the “Metropolitan Theodosius Parish Hall”. Next came the installation of a wheel-chair accessible ramp at the exterior west entrance, the installation of an interior elevator from the main floor to the basement, and the construction of an extension to the western part of the Temple. This provided a large narthex and entrance to the Temple.

Until this renovation, the main site for warm weather socialising (after the Divine Liturgy) was the large garage of John and Sophie Barchyn. On some occasions, the parishioners would travel to Lockport, where they met at “Skinners”.

The entire parish was involved in the extensive works involved in the renovations. They provided the resources through personal giving, fundraising projects, perogy-making and sales, bake sales, garage sales, and hard physical labour.

Even in the midst of all this work, the parishioners managed to donate to the “North End Sponsorship Team” (NEST) which helps in the sponsorship of refugees to Winnipeg. They contributed to “Loonies for NEST” during Great Lent, and during Advent, they donated winter clothes to needy local children through “Koats for Kids”.

In embracing these renovations and yet more projects, a commitment was made (as God may bless) to continue serving for another century. The Saint Nicholas parish family provides a true haven of rest, encouragement and hope for all who call it home. The members of this parish family come from both the countryside and from the city.

Retirement of Matushka Dianne, 2000

In February, 2000, Matushka Dianne Kennaugh retired from her work as a social worker, and she began to serve her family as a “baby-sitter” on weekdays for the grand-children. In addition, since the home was also a sort of office, the family telephone served the parish as well.

Matushka Dianne supported her husband in taking messages, helping with counselling, and with providing food and other needed items for the needy. This included not only some parishioners, but also some in the neighbourhood where they lived.

Archdiocesan Assembly, Edmonton, Alberta, 2001

As usual, Father Bob and Matushka Dianne participated in the triannual Archdiocesan Assemblies of the Archdiocese of Canada.

In 2004, the assembly was in Edmonton, Alberta, and it was hosted by Saint Herman of Alaska Sobor. Near its conclusion, as was customary, a dinner for all participants was shared, this time within the “Muttart Conservatory” in central Edmonton, in the North Saskatchewan River Valley.

Saint Arseny Institute, 2002

In October, 2002, the Saint Arseny Orthodox Christian Theological Institute was blessed into formal existence. Father Bob had already been very active in its formation, and on this occasion, he was named the first dean of the institute. Spencer Estabrooks was named the first director. In addition, Protopresbyter Mirone Klysh was named the first registrar ; Archpriest Anatoliy Melnyk was named the first chaplain ; Protodeacon Raphael Cole was named the first treasurer.

Bereavement, 2002

On 12 November, 2002, Father Bob's mother, Edith Priscilla (born Skelding) Kennaugh, fell asleep in the Lord at Lions Manor in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She had been ill for a long time. She had been a longtime member of the Women’s Guild at Saint Philip’s Anglican Church, and a member of the Princess Elizabeth Hospital Guild.

On Friday, 15 November, 2002, at 1:00 p.m., the Funeral Service was offered at Saint Philip’s Anglican Church in Winnipeg. Priest Brian Flower presided.

Following the funeral obsequies, her body was interred at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens in Winnipeg.

The pall-bearers were : Richard Paintin, Vincenzo Litardi, Joel Armstrong, Kent Cancilla, John Derkach, Ryan Tsutsumi.

Bereavement, 2003

On Tuesday, 30 December, 2003, Father Bob’s father, Stanley Kennaugh, fell asleep in the Lord.

On Saturday, 3 January, 2003, at 1:00 p.m., the funeral service was offered at Saint Philips Anglican Church (240, Tache Avenue at Eugenie Street), with the Priest Brian Flower officiating.

Dianne Kennaugh was the solist, and the organist was Stuart McVey. Pallbearers were Richard Paintin, Vincenzo Litardi, Joel Armstrong, Kent Cancilla, Jon Derkach and Mark Brimson. A reception in the parish hall followed the services.

Following the funeral obsequies, the body of Stanley Kennaugh was interred at the Chapel Lawn Cemetery in Winnipeg.

Archdiocesan Assembly, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, 2004

On 20-23 July, 2004, Father Bob and Matushka Dianne attended the regular Archdiocesan Assembly, which took place in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Metropolitan Herman (Swaiko) and Archbishop Mark (Petrovtsi) (of the Moscow Patriarchate Parishes in Canada) were both present during this meeting.

As a regional dean, Father Bob was elected again to serve on the Archdiocesan Council.

Most of the time, Matushka Dianne was requested to sing something during one or more of the informal sessions of these assemblies.

Dean of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, 2005

On 10 November, 2005, in the context of a renewal of the combined Deanery of Manitoba-Saskatchewan, the Dean of Manitoba, the Priest Stephen Kennaugh, retaining his other responsibilities, became the Dean of the new Deanery of Manitoba-Saskatchewan.

Pilgrimage to Ukraine ; Elevation to archpriest, 2006

On 24 May, 2006, at the request of Bishop Seraphim (Storheim), during a pilgrimage to Ukraine, in Romne, Ukraine, Priest Robert S Kennaugh was elevated to the dignity of archpriest by Archbishop Mark (Petrovtsiy) of Sumy, Ukraine. At that time, Archbishop Mark decided that the name “Robert” could be improved, and so he called Father Robert “Father Bogdan”, in the context of the Ukrainian environment. Thus, there came yet another name. Archbishop Mark had met and known Father Bob previously while he was serving as a bishop for more than a decade in Western Canada. (For interest, “Bogdan” is a translation of the Greek “Theodoros”, which means “gift of God”, an appropriate supplement in this case).

Father Bob and Matushka Dianne participated in one other pilgrimage to Ukraine, in 2010.

On the Pilgrimage to Ukraine in 2010, there was an unexpected possibility to visit the northern province of Bucovina in Romania. A small group of the pilgrims was able to visit the Monastery of Saint John the New in Suceava, to venerate the Holy Relics of Saint John, to visit the Putna Dormition Monastery, and to see the area of the city Radauti, from which region Matushka Dianne's grandparents had emigrated to Canada.

Archpastoral visit, 2010

At the end of January, 2010, Bishop Irénée (Rochon) was present in the parish of Saint Nicholas, Narol.

At the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, he ordained the Deacon Anthony Spencer Estabrooks to the Holy Priesthood. The new priest began to serve the Mission of the Theotokos of the Life-giving Spring in Winnipeg.

In addition, Priest Anthony Estabrooks had been leading the formation of the Saint Arseny Orthodox Christian Theological Institute since 2002, a project in which Father Kennaugh was very active.

Release from decanal responsibility, 2010

Then, on 15 June, 2010, Archpriest Robert S Kennaugh was released from his responsibilities as Dean of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Nunavut, while retaining all other responsibilities.

During all these years, Father Robert Stephen and Matushka Dianne travelled by car and other means of transport in order to attend Archdiocesan Assemblies, Archdiocesan Council meetings, and All-American Council meetings. On many of these occasions, reasons were found for Matushka Dianne to sing, always to the delight and joy of the participants.

During all these years also, Father Stephen and Matushka Dianne travelled to Ukraine with pilgrimage groups from the Archdiocese of Canada. They were times of joy and blessing.

Much can be said about Father Bob’s wife, Matushka Dianne, and her time of service as the choir director at Saint Nicholas. Matushka Dianne worked full-time for many decades as a social worker in Winnipeg, until her retirement. However, she continued on leading the singing, both in Narol, and in other places her husband served. As a leader of the singing, she did not immediately follow her husband into retirement, because in the parish there was a clear need for continuity in the worship. Her commitment and perseverance in leading the choir and congregation in singing is a blessing. Her continued work in directing and leading the congregation in singing traditional Galician chant, has been made all the more remarkable by the fact that she was born blind. Later, when Yuri Hladio became available, Matushka Dianne did retire from the responsibility of leading the singing, but she did not retire from her active presence and support of the sustaining and development of good singing in the Lord’s worship.

Bereavement, 2010

On Wednesday, 16 June, 2010, Eileen (born Leibel) Young, elder sister of Dianne Kennaugh, fell asleep in the Lord in Toronto, Ontario.

On Friday, 18 June, 2010, at 2:00 p.m., a Memorial Service was conducted in the Meeting Room of the condominium of Eileen Young’s husband, Jim Young.

Jewelled Cross

In May, 2011, Archpriest Robert S Kennaugh was awarded by the Holy Synod of Bishops of the OCA, the right to wear the Jewelled Cross.

Retirement from pastoral service, 2012

Because there were developing concerns about his health and strength, Father Bob found it necessary to retire from active pastoral service.

On 1 September, 2012, Archpriest Robert S Kennaugh was released from his responsibilities as Rector of the Church of Saint Nicholas in Narol, Manitoba, and as Priest-in-charge of the Church of Saint Nicholas in Sandy Lake, Manitoba.

He was attached as the Rector Emeritus in the Temple of Saint Nicholas.

Priest Gregory Scratch

At this time, Priest Gregory Scratch (together with his wife Taesia and their 4 children) was assigned to succeed Father Robert Stephen Kennaugh as rector of the parish. He was given the responsibility of Saint Nicholas, Sandy Lake, just as Father Robert had had.

Father Gregory took care to follow the pastoral direction set by Father Bob, and at the same time to care for Father Bob and Matushka Dianne.

Priest Stephen Sharman

At about this time, Father Stephen Sharman began visiting the parish of Saint Nicholas for various services. He was at that time an Anglican cleric who had long served at “Saint Andrew’s on the Red” Anglican Church at Saint Andrews (across the Red River, west from Narol). After a period of such visits, he retired from active service in the Anglican Church ; he entered the Orthodox Christian Church, and he was received at Saint Nicholas Church, Narol.

He became a regular and faithful parishioner, and he was ordained a subdeacon in 2014. Then, he was ordained to the Holy Diaconate in 2016, and to the Holy Priesthood in 2018. Since he was living in Selkirk by then, he was able with some ease to help in the liturgical and pastoral life of the parish. He also took an active interest in the welfare of Father Bob and Matushka Dianne.

Failing health

During the subsequent years, the physical health of Father Robert slowly and steadily declined. There were many visits to active treatment hospitals. Because of the situation, their home was sold, and they both moved into an apartment on Wellington Crescent in Winnipeg (near the Maryland Bridge). The apartment had a view of the Assiniboine River, and many trees.

277, Wellington Crescent

In the course of his medical treatments, it was determined that Father Robert was suffering from a less common sort of dementia, for which there were some treatments, but no known cure.

Then, at length, he entered the Riverview Health Centre’s Long Term Health Care facility at 1, Morley Street, Winnipeg.

Riverview Health Centre

Almost daily during the subsequent years, Matushka Dianne made her way to Riverview in order to spend several hours visiting with her beloved husband, and supporting his care besides. Father Bob, in return, used his mobile telephone to call her frequently when she was at home.

Matushka Dianne ensured also that as often as possible, Father Bob could be transported to Saint Nicholas Church in Narol for the Divine Liturgy, and other special services. Indeed, it may be said that (using a popular idiom) “she moved Heaven and earth” to do this.

Support from Matushka Susan Blomquist

For many of these years, Matushka Dianne was aided in very many ways by her long-time friend, Matushka Susan Blomquist.

Later, it was written about Matushka Susan that

 her life as a wife, mother, and Matushka, manifested the generosity of Christ towards humanity.  She was ever 
 dedicated (even to the day before her repose) to seniors and shut ins : visiting them, driving them to church,
 doctor’s appointments, or driving them to visit family in nursing homes.  She provided flowers and food for parish 
 feasts (especially those dedicated to the Mother of God) and those who were hungry, all the while giving what little 
 energy, or funds she had.

Father Bob, daughter Suzanne, 2018

Bereavement, 2018

Suddenly, on Wednesday, 7 November, 2018, Matushka Susan Blomquist fell asleep in the Lord in her apartment in Winnipeg. She had suffered a major heart-attack.

On Thursday, 15 November, 2018, at 7:00 p.m., a Panikhida (Memorial Service) was offered at Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church, 5635 Henderson Highway.

On Friday, 16 November, 2019, at 10:00 a.m., the Funeral Service for a Lay-person was offered.

Following the funeral obsequies, the body of Matushka Susan Blomquist was interred at the Saint Nicholas Cemetery, at Saint Nicholas Church, Narol.

Matushka Susan Blomquist

Besides the visits of Matushka Dianne (and of Matushka Susan until her repose), Father Bob received many others. His daughters, their husbands, and their children visited frequently. Many relatives and friends visited also. As a consequence, when he was able to communicate comfortably, Father Bob showed that he was “au courant” with all sorts of current news and activities. It was always a joy to those near him to be able to experience these moments when his illness subsided enough for such communication. He was not a complainer, but it could not be other than a sort of torture to be alert within, but not be able to communicate clearly, save on brief occasions.

Father Bob and Matushka Dianne at Riverview, 2023

Repose, 2024

In late January, 2024, Father Robert was admitted to hospital with shortness of breath, an erratic heart-beat, and some other irregularities. It was then that it became clear that he had contracted pneumonia, and his health deteriorated very quickly. The pneumonia did not relent ; his family were called, and they were by his side in his room.

On Friday, 12 January, 2024, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the Servant of God, the Archpriest Robert Wayne Stephen Kennaugh (Father Bob) fell asleep in the Lord.

On Friday, 19 January, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Priest was offered at Saint Demetrius Greek Orthodox Church (2255 Grant Avenue) in Winnipeg, by Archbishop Irénée (Rochon), who was assisted by 9 priests and 1 deacon.

Funeral service

On Saturday, 20 January, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., the Memorial Divine Liturgy was served at Saint Demetrius Greek Orthodox Church by Archbishop Irénée (Rochon), who was assisted by 9 priests and 1 deacon. The pallbearers were Dale Douma, Jasper Litardi, Nicholas Litardi, Vincenzo Litardi, Christina Paintin, Malcolm Paintin, Richard Paintin, David Pensato, and Scott Thorne.

After the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, the final Litiya (Trisagion) was served, including the Prayer of Forgiveness. At the end, those present came to the coffin in order to give the Last Kiss to the newly-departed Archpriest Robert S Kennaugh.

Memorial Divine Liturgy, Great Entrance

Final Litiya (Trisagion)

The Last Kiss

Following the Divine Liturgy, a memorial lunch was served by family, friends, and parishioners in the Parish Hall.

Following the funeral obsequies and the repast, there was a procession of vehicles to Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church at 5635, Henderson Highway, Narol, Manitoba. There, a Memorial Litiya (Trisagion) was served in the Temple, after which the body of the Archpriest Robert S W Kennaugh was interred in the parish cemetery.

Saint Nicholas Cemetery

40th Day Memorial, 2024

On Thursday, 22 February, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., a Fortieth-Day Memorial Panikhida (Memorial Service) was offered for the newly-departed Archpriest Robert Stephen Kennaugh at Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church, 5635, Henderson Highway. Archpriest Gregory Scratch led the prayer-service.

The family invited all attending for a meal following the service, which was served in the parish basement Metropolitan Theodosius Hall.

A Panikhida had been served the evening before at Annunciation to the Theotokos Cathedral in Ottawa, Ontario.

Move to assisted living, 2024

Even before the repose of her husband, Matushka Dianne Kennaugh had been quite aware that her own physical condition had become greatly weakened. She understood that it was too difficult to remain alone in her apartment. Therefore, with the help of her family, she investigated various sites which offered assisted living apartments. Two alternatives came to her attention, and after visits, she made her choice. She gave up her apartment, greatly reduced her belongings, and in early June, 2024, she moved into an apartment in an assisted-living facility in western Winnipeg.

With the help of friends and parishioners, she was able to continue to attend services at Saint Nicholas Church at Narol.

Reflections

It was reported about Father Bob that, after his repose, at the washing of the body, his flesh was supple and as though he were alive. There were other positive phenomena.

It is not an understatement to say that Father Bob guided the community of Saint Nicholas, Narol, to accept those seeking the fulness of the Orthodox Christian Faith. He did so in the spirit of Christian humility. He did not attract attention to himself. Rather, he went about his life caring for and nurturing his family, and caring for and nurturing his parishioners in a similar manner. He was an exemplary Orthodox Christian pastor. Moreover, he and his wife, Matushka Dianne, went about all this together. Their gifts and talents were mutually complementary, and they bore fruit in the lives of those they touched.

During the time of his pastorate, there was a substantial expansion of the entrance (narthex) area at the west end of the Temple. A new artophor (tabernacle) was purchased for the Holy Table, which was also reduced in size and re-sanctified. There is a relic of Saint Tikhon (Belavin) of Moscow in the Holy Table. New icons were also commissioned, and the main Icon of the Theotokos in the High Place was chief amongst them (prepared by local iconographer Vera Senchuk). Mother Magdalen (Williams) wrote the icons of the deacons’ doors. Mother Magdalen had been a student of Vera Senchuk, along with Hilary Cole and Connie Kucharczyk. Vera Senchuk, one of the premiere iconographers in Canada, had been student of Dmytro Bartorshuk (who had learned his craft in Ukraine, before emigrating to Manitoba).

During the whole course of his pastoral service, Father Robert Stephen Kennaugh carefully guided the parish family at Saint Nicholas Temple, Narol, Manitoba, as they grew in their natural hospitable disposition to welcome into their family the many who were approaching the parish in their search for the fulness of the Orthodox Christian Faith.

Esther Juce Engel wrote truthfully and accurately that

 Father Bob was a particularly humble man who, during his 22 years as rector, helped to build 
 up the Body of Christ at Saint Nicholas parish.  Through his painstakingly precise efforts, he 
 printed texts for all the services, so that the Faithful would have ‘something in their hands to 
 follow’.  He was renowned for his great pastoral care, gently guiding his flock through a time 
 of trial and transition.  His sermons were sound and balanced, and can still be enjoyed 
 in print.  Even during his times of ill health, he would remember the concerns and 
 cares of others.  Father Bob was a man of remarkable faith and love, and he will be 
 dearly remembered by all who had the joy and privilege of knowing him.

After the 40th Day Panikhida, Matushka Dianne wrote to the parishioners on behalf of her family :

 We write to express our heartfelt thanks to each of you for your prayers, 
 support and loving kindness to our family upon the repose of Father Bob 
 and throughout his life, both as priest of this community as well as through 
 his retirement and subsequent illness.
 
 Although he was a husband, father and grandfather, we humbly offer and 
 have heard he simply was a fine example of an Orthodox priest.  Of course, 
 like all of us, he sinned and made mistakes, however he was always kind, 
 loving, generous, and balanced in his approach to faith and life. 
 
 As several of you know, many of his sermons were printed and given to us 
 and our children as an example of our father’s/their grandfather’s work. 
 These remain a teaching tool for those who wish, within our parish and far 
 beyond.  They are available in print or memory stick.
 
 Although Father Bob had dementia and lived in Riverview personal care 
 home for 8 years, he was frequently able to rise above the dementia to 
 provide us with direction and advice.  During his time in Riverview, he was 
 able to help many people better understand our Orthodox Faith through 
 conversations and witness.
 
 Over our collective years of life, we have witnessed the death of many loved 
 ones.  We are overwhelmed and so grateful for the out-pouring of donations, 
 cards, letters, love, sympathy, and support that we have received from here, 
 across Canada and the United States. 
 
 It is my great privilege to know, love, and to have lived with him for almost 
 56 years.  I continue to thank God for having chosen him for me.  It has 
 been our great privilege to have had him as our father.