This week in Christian history: First recorded Christmas celebration; ‘Amazing Grace’ hymn writer dies
Henry Budd ordained – Dec. 22, 1850
This week marks the anniversary of when Henry Budd became the first Native American to be ordained in the Anglican Church of Canada.
Born at York Factory and originally named Sakachuwescum, Budd was ordained at St. Andrew’s Church on the Red River and served as a missionary among the Woodlands Cree people.
Even before he was ordained, Budd was involved in mission work, helping more than 80 Native American adults and children come to faith in Christ.
“After his ordination the Reverend Budd was given a new mission at Nipowewin, now known as Nipawin, Saskatchewan,” wrote Raymond Beaumont of the Frontier School Division in 1992.
“He worked there for fifteen years also ministering to the needs of the residents of the Prince Albert area. He died on April 2, 1875, at the age of 61 and was buried at The Pas, Manitoba.”
