Delightful Father Ted by Tina Johanssen Dedels Guelph's magnificent Church of Our Lady boasts majestic architecture, exquisite stained glass and a beautiful sunny perch overlooking downtown. Topping the list of gifts possessed by the church, however, is a devoted congregation and the guidance of the absolutely delightful Father Ted. He looks like a cross between George Costanza and a college rugby player . . . and he¹s all heart. The Church of Our Lady was built in 1888, but the parish has been thriving since way back in 1827. The rectory houses the offices and priest's residence. It has been home to many priests over the years; some of whom left behind more than spiritual enlightenment upon their departure. As the priests moved on, some of their possessions did not. When Father Ted took over as new pastor he discovered that the attic and outbuildings housed old treasures and antiques, mismatched pews, an old Brunswick pool table, all kinds of old furniture and collectables and odds and ends. And a whack of ten speed bikes among many other things. (Those Catholic priests like to keep fit.) In an effort called 'Make Our Lady Immaculate', two massive cleanups were performed, yielding 9.7 tonnes of garbage and enough quality items to hold an impressive auction sale. (Many discarded items were recycled, Father Ted would like to note.) The events of the day were a community effort. Aside from the auction sale, the Church hosted a garage sale on its lovely grounds. Through donations from members of the congregation and the gift of their time manning the tables, the sale was a great success. The philosophy is that the church is an extension of the home. While Father Ted and I were outside talking, enjoying the sunshine, a man greeted him with, "Great weather, Father Ted. Did you have something to do with it?" Father Ted's quick reply, "Oh, no, I'm in sales," and pointing heavenward he continued, "He's in management." Father Ted is such a treat. He took the stage and welcomed everyone to the auction. The auctioneer wasn't quite ready to begin, so Father Ted had to kill a few moments on the mike. He announced an impromptu Bible quiz - tongue in cheek! Experienced auctioneer Dan Bailey expertly conducted the sale. No small feat considering the volume of merchandise and the size of the crowd (many of whom were tempted to attend by the tax exempt status of their purchases.) Having Father Ted on hand was a terrific advantage. In many cases he was able to explain the origin or significance of an item. In the case of the exercise bike, he even gave a demonstration. (Apparently, there was a whole lotta jiggling goin' on.) You¹re a good sport, Father Ted! Sensitive about preserving church treasures, Father Ted noted that nothing of historical significance was to be sold. Similarly, sacred, holy and blessed items were not permitted to go up for bid. Instead, crosses, for example, were given to those who would appreciate them in a devotional way. A number of interesting time-worn paintings were found which Father Ted had appraised. He was told they were originally vent covers. The appraiser emphasized that the quality of the art was such that the paintings were best viewed at a distance. Talk about diplomacy! Though not valuable in the traditional sense of the word, a couple of them are now housed at the Guelph Museum. The church kept a few and the rest were put up for sale. Father Ted's mission statement has been accomplished. His intention was to simplify the church and transfer surplus items to people who will put them to good use, with the proceeds of the sale earmarked for the Church of Our Lady Preservation Fund. Are you sure you're not in management, Father Ted? Byline: Tina Johanssen Dedels writes for the Woodbridge Advertiser, Ontario's Auction Paper. Website: www.ontariosauctionpaper.com