Arthur Gordon Peters

It is with great love and a sense of loss we share the death of the Most Rev. Arthur Gordon Peters of Halifax on All Saint’s Day, November 1st, 2026, at the age of 90. He is remembered as a kind and gentle man who cared deeply for his family, community, and church.

Born in North Sydney, Cape Breton, Arthur was the son of the late William and Charlotte Peters. After graduating from Thompson High School, he completed his Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Sacred Theology, and Bachelor of Divinity at the University of King’s College. He went on to receive Honourary Doctor of Divinity degrees from both King’s College and the Atlantic School of Theology.

Ordained deacon in 1962 and priest one year later, Arthur and his wife, Elizabeth, travelled abroad allowing Arthur to study in Canterbury, Geneva, and Jerusalem. This sparked an affection of international travel in the young couple, who also attended two Lambeth Conferences of Bishops from the worldwide Anglican community.

Arthur served as rector of St. Peter’s Church in Weymouth (1964), the Parish of Annapolis-Granville (1968), and Christ Church in Sydney (1973). He was elected Bishop Coadjutor of the Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island in 1982, installed as Diocesan Bishop in 1984, and elected Metropolitan (Archbishop) of the Ecclesiastical Province of Canada with pastoral oversight of seven dioceses in 1997. Arthur faithfully served and touched countless lives in beautiful ways.

During his time as Archbishop, he deftly navigated several difficult diocesan matters, advanced the ordination of women, advocated for the inclusion of all people regardless of sexual orientation, made continuing education a priority for clergy, and served as Chairman of the King’s College Board of Governors.

Arthur modelled a strong work ethic for his children who fondly remember him strapping on cross country skis when an exceptionally snowy day made it nearly impossible to walk or drive to church. His sense of humour, which often included a wink, had a way of making everyone feel special.

Following his retirement in 2002, Arthur and Elizabeth enjoyed spending summers at their Annapolis cottage, being involved in the lives of their grandchildren, and sharing in the fellowship of friends. Arthur stayed active by skating, cycling, and canoeing.

He could often be found puttering in his shed, surveying the waterfront or pruning a rosebush. His simple pleasures included saying his Daily Office of morning and evening prayers, having lunch under the apple tree, watching for activity on the river, and raising a glass of scotch at the end of the day.

Arthur is survived by his wife Elizabeth (Baert) of 64 years; three children – Charlotte, Johanna (Hamish Calder), Nicholas (Starr Cunningham); and five grandchildren – Alice (David), Ursula, Peter; Caelan (Thomas), Hannah, and their mother (Monique Field). He was predeceased by his parents Charlotte (Symes) and William Peters; and brother William.

The family would like to express gratitude to Dr. Ken Rockwood and the team at 6 West Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Hospital, for treating Arthur with such kindness during his final six months.

Funeral services will be held at the Cathedral Church of All Saints in Halifax on Monday, November 9th at 11:00 am. All welcome.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alongside Hope at www.alongsidehope.org or to a charity of your choice.

Happy are the people whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on the pilgrims' way. Psalm 84.5