Pancake breakfast at St. James

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Published on Saturday, February 28, 2015

By Jessie Bell

It was a stormy evening with temperatures in the low -20s but some 70 people braved the weather to attend St. James’ Anglican Church pancake and sausage supper on Feb. 18. It was to mark Shrove Tuesday, which precedes the 40 days of Lent leading up to the festival of Easter. The diners were welcomed at the basement entrance by George Roberts, cashier for the meal.

Chefs this year were Glenn Maguire, Greg Esplin and Henry Lepp. When their pancake mix wasn’t just right for pouring on the griddles, they summoned Jim Frank, who was busy mixing it in a large container in the kitchen. Also sharing kitchen duties was Tom Ryall, making tea. McGee Smith, Gordon Allen and Bruce Cochrane kept the tea and coffee cups filled.

A small group of Anglican ladies sat the side, overlooking the proceedings. It is the only food event in the year when they sit while the men do the work. Some ,however, prepared five different fruit toppings and whipped cream for the pancakes.

It was 7 p.m. when Don McFadden arrived for supper. As he was teased for being late (supper was advertised as served from 5-6:30 p.m.) he said he thought he was early as he usually doesn’t eat until 9 p.m.