Bishop Paul Idlout remembered for kindness and faith

Bishop Paul Idlout, who died on New Year's Eve at 90, was remembered at a funeral in Iqaluit attended by about 90 people where Gov. Gen. Mary Simon sent condolences.

Bishop Paul Idlout died on New Year's Eve at age 90 and was remembered at a funeral service at St. Jude's Anglican Cathedral in Iqaluit. The ceremony drew family members, community leaders, RCMP officers and representatives of the Anglican Church. A statement from Gov. Gen. Mary Simon was read at the service, and speakers recalled Idlout's commitment to faith, community and Inuit representation. Over his life he served in several roles across Nunavut and continued pastoral and cultural work in retirement. Key details: - Idlout died on New Year's Eve and was 90 years old. - The funeral at St. Jude's in Iqaluit was attended by at least 90 people, including politicians, RCMP and Anglican community members. - Gov. Gen. Mary Simon sent condolences and noted his role as a prominent elder who championed peace, reconciliation and love. - Idlout served as an RCMP special constable, a translator, an ordained priest and became the first Inuk bishop in 1996. - In retirement he continued pastoral work, hunted and taught traditional skills. - The service included prayers, Bible readings, hymns and communion; his coffin was draped with a Canadian flag that was later presented to his family. Summary: Idlout's funeral underscored his role in strengthening bonds between the Anglican Church and Arctic communities and his influence on Inuit faith leaders. Undetermined at this time.