Charles Arthurson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Right Reverend Charles Arthurson |
|
|---|---|
| Suffragan Bishop of Saskatchewan | |
| Church | Anglican Church of Canada |
| Diocese | Saskatchewan |
| In Office | 1989–2008 |
| Predecessor | Office established |
| Successor | Adam Halkett |
| Other posts | Rector of All Saints, La Ronge (part-time) |
| Orders | |
| Consecration | 25 January 1989 by Tom Morgan |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 3, 1937 Norway House, Manitoba, Canada |
| Died | August 30, 2025 (aged 88) Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Canada |
Charles John Arthurson (born July 3, 1937, died August 30, 2025) was an important Canadian leader in the Anglican Church of Canada. He served as a special kind of bishop, called a suffragan bishop, in the Diocese of Saskatchewan from 1989 until he retired in 2008. Charles Arthurson was from the Cree people. In 1989, he made history by becoming the very first Indigenous person to be made a bishop in the Anglican Church of Canada.
Contents
Charles Arthurson: A Leader in the Anglican Church
Early Life and Spiritual Journey
Charles Arthurson was born on July 3, 1937. His birthplace was near Norway House in Manitoba, Canada. He was a proud member of the Cree First Nation community. In 1972, he became a priest in the Diocese of Keewatin. A priest is a religious leader who performs church services. He worked in many northern communities. These included places like Shamattawa, Norway House, Big Trout Lake, Split Lake, and Sioux Lookout. In 1983, he and his family moved to La Ronge, Saskatchewan.
Becoming a Bishop: A Historic Moment
In 1989, Charles Arthurson was chosen as a suffragan bishop. A suffragan bishop helps the main bishop of a diocese. His job was to help lead the churches in the northern parts of Saskatchewan. This election was very important. It made him the first Indigenous bishop in the entire Anglican Church of Canada. He served in this special role until he retired in 2008. Even after retiring, he stayed active in the church. He worked part-time as the rector of All Saints Anglican Church in La Ronge. A rector is the main priest in charge of a church.
Life Beyond His Official Role
Charles Arthurson was married to Faye Arthurson. She was a schoolteacher. They had two children named Devon and Ritchie. In 2002, he received a special award. It was the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal. This medal honored his great service to his church and his community. Charles Arthurson passed away on August 30, 2025. He was a respected leader and a kind person.
