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May 28, 2020 - Pentecost and the Eleventh Sunday in COVID-19 Isolation

5/28/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
​Greetings,
There is new information about the ZOOM book study below.

SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Website:  www.spiritwest.org 
Facebook: Spirit West United Church and Friends of Spirit West Outreach
Instagram: spiritwestyeg
 YouTube:  Spirt West United Church, Edmonton

  
AN UPDATE ON RE-OPENING (It’s not yet)
The Spirit West Church Board met Tuesday night and accepted the Worship Committee’s recommendation that, because of the current restrictions on religious gatherings, (no more than 50 people, no singing, no food, no hugs or handshakes, physical distancing at all times, staggered entry etc.) we continue with virtual services.  Our Worship Videos will be provided as long as it is necessary, likely throughout the summer. Whether we open up in September is unknown at this point.  The Worship Committee will continually monitor changes in Government and Public Health regulations and guidelines over the summer, and will respond as necessary.   We’ll will keep you up to date with regard to any changes.

  
WORSHIP VIDEOS
 Scripture Readers
To volunteer to be a scripture reader for one of our worship videos, send an email to Norma at spirit@telus.net  We will include you in the schedule and we will send you all the information you need about the options you have for recording your segment.
This Sunday the scriptures will be read by Liz O.

 
Sharing our Celebrations (this is New!)
In this time when it is important for us to look for signs of hope and joy, it has been suggested that opportunity be given for folks to share their celebrations (birthdays, anniversaries, new grandchildren etc) with the wider community.  So starting this Sunday, I will be announcing celebrations that have been shared with me, to share with you.  If you have a celebration you want to share please email swm@telus.net or phone the church.

 
Greeters
We are continuing  to invite members of the congregations to share virtual greetings as part of our Sunday Worship Video.  It is a way for us to see each other.  Bonnie C. is spearheading this program, and has been doing the recording.  You may get a call from her asking if you want to be a “Greeter.”  If you have not heard from Bonnie and want to be a greeter, you can call the church and your name will be given to Bonnie, or you can record you own greeting.  Record a 10-30 second greeting on your phone (record in “landscape,”  hold your phone horizontally, this way ‘---,’ not this way ‘I’) and email your video to swm@telus.net .  We will only be using three each week, so your greetings might not appear, the Sunday after you send them.

 
Feedback
I appreciate all the positive feedback that we have received about the Worship Videos.  We (Margaret, Bonnie, Glenn, Paul W. and I) are trying our best to provide you with something that will assist you in your faith journey during this “crazy” time.  We would also like to hear from you if you have suggestions on how we could make the videos better or more helpful (like Scripture readers, Greeters, music with the hymns …).   Email your comments to me swm@telus.net or post them on our Facebook page.

 
 
SO REMEMBER, AS YOU CONTINUE TO WORSHIP FROM THE SANTUARY CALLED HOME, YOU HAVE OPTIONS…
  • Option 1 - Set aside time on Sunday, or at a regular time.  Follow the Spirit West Services on YouTube.  A new Sunday Worship Video is uploaded each Saturday.
  • Option 2 - Set aside time on Sunday. Light a candle, read the readings for each day, read and discuss my reflections in the Thursday eMessage, and pray.
  • Option 3-  “Attend’ one of the live-streaming services from another United Church through the link found in SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING… below.
 
SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING ACROSS CANADA
There are a number of United Churches (and some Presbyterian) across Canada who are able to live-stream their Sunday services.  Check out this interactive map for livestreaming services across Canada: https://arcg.is/1TaKqS (and remember to take into account time zones for churches outside of Alberta)

 
THIS SUNDAY – PENTECOST
 
The Readings for this Sunday are Acts 2: 1-21 and 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13.  I am going to be talking about “Understanding others” in the Time for All Ages.  My sermon is called, “The Gifts of the Spirit”
This Sunday things really get cooking with the story of the early church.  As I said last week, it is a strongly held belief among scholars that the Book of Acts is the “sequel” to the Gospel of Luke, and written by the same person.  Luke’s Gospel is his version of the life of Jesus of Nazareth.  The Book of Acts, or to give it its full title The Book of the Acts of the Apostles is the story of the formation of the community they we now call the Church.  And the birth of this community is often associated with the event that happened at the Feast Pentecost following Jesus resurrection. Pentecost is the Jewish celebration known as Shavuot, or Feast of Weeks that takes place fifty days after Passover. (Our Pentecost is calculated as forty-nine days after Easter Sunday.)   According to Acts, on that particular Pentecost, the disciples were all together in one place. “And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.”  Needless to say, the wind and fire caused quite a stir in the neighbourhood.  And Galileans being understood in a variety of languages by the diverse ethnic groups in Jerusalem was really amazing.  But the point of the narrative is not so much about the wind, fire, and miraculous language abilities.  It tells us that God through the Holy Spirit gave the disciples the power and abilities they needed to do what had to be done, “to proclaim God’s deeds of power.”  Peter is able to explain to those present what is happening, first assuring his listeners that the disciples are not drunk because it is only nine o’clock in the morning.  He quotes from the prophet Joel (Joel 2:28-32) about the Spirit of God being poured out on all flesh.  And if we look to Paul’s first letter to the community at Corinth, we find him reminding the community that the Spirit of God is poured out to give a variety of gifts.  I think that the important line is, “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”  For the common good.  The gifts of the Spirit are given to each of us, “individually just as the Spirit chooses” for the common good. The gifts of the Spirit are not for use in isolation, not simply for the benefit of the one who has been given the gift, but are given so that working together we can be of benefit to all.   Sometimes we call the gifts of the Spirit “talents,” of “abilities.”  What talents of abilities do you have?  What has the Spirit given you for the common good?
 

ZOOM BOOK STUDY –  Wednesdays, at 1:30 “When Bad Things Happen to Good People”
 There were a few people at our ZOOM gathering on Wednesday, and I know there are more of you who want to participate.  So we are going ahead.
We will be discussing chapter 1,  “Why Do the Righteous Suffer” at our ZOOM gathering next Wednesday, June 3 at 1:30.  Digital and print versions of the book are available on line (Kindle, Kobo, Amazon etc.) 
As you read or re-read this chapter, think about the following: What is wrong, according to Kushner, with the quotations from the Bible on page 12 (your page numbering may be different, the quotations are Isaiah 3:10-11, Genesis 38:7, Proverbs 12:21 and Job 14:7)? Such teachings tell us that God is in control and makes things happen for a reason; why does Kushner disagree with the perspective they express?
To join the gathering, you must save this email and on Wednesday, June 3, click (you might have to ctrl-click) on this ZOOM Link.  If you are not familiar with ZOOM, give me a call at the church and I will walk you through the process.  You can also join the study by phone, but you will have to call me before Wednesday so that I can give you the numbers you need.  I will also be posting the information about this study to our Facebook page.

  
OUTREACH – Underwear  and Face Masks Needed at Bissell Centre
Thank you to those of you who dropped underwear at the church. Earlier this week, Lori delivered to Bissell what had come in so far.
So our collection boxes at the Church are empty again, and there is still a need at Bissell for UNDERWEAR. Ladies and Men’s - sizes Medium  and Large.
If any of you would like to shop and deliver undies to the church, Lori will pick them up and deliver them to the Bissell Centre.  If you would rather have your donation picked up, call the church office to arrange it.
They are also taking donations of FABRIC FACE MASKS. So any of you crafty people out there - We know there are a few quilters out there with a good stash of fabric - if you would like a little project to do in your self-isolation (patterns can be found online) ..... Again - these can be dropped at the church (or call the church office to arrange pick-up) and Lori will deliver them to the Bissell Centre.

  
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH – (Update)
Now that you are spending more time at home, and perhaps (though I hope not) drinking more, you may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can still bring them to the church (or you can call for pick up).  If you want to bring your bottles (and any other recyclable beverage containers) in during our office hours and put them directly in the Bottle Shed (by the garage), give us a call, and we can have the shed open for you.  All money raised from the return of bottles goes towards paying down the principal on our mortgage.  Don D. recently returned the bottles from the shed, raising $170.45 to the church.

 
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
We would like to offer a big thank you to those of you who have been able to support the work of Spirit West, particularly those of you who have mailed in your donations or dropped them off at the church.  You generosity, as well as that of those on PAR, is greatly appreciated, especially as we have lost our rental income.
Please remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.) The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate by Norma’s office.  We are also working on making e-transfers possible.  We will let you know in a future Thursday eMessage when this option is available.  You can also donate online, see ANOTHER WAY TO CONTRIBUTE… below.
 

 PASTORAL CARE DURING A PANDEMIC
 Phone Ministry
A team has been put together to begin a phone ministry.  We will be reaching out by phone to members of Spirit West to remind ourselves that we are a community of faith, even if at the moment we have to practice social distancing, and in some cases self-isolation.  The team will initially target those whom we believe are most likely to be isolated.  We may not always get it right.  If you get a call, and think you really didn’t need it, thank the caller anyway.  If you don’t hear from anyone in the next week or so, and really would like a call, let me know.  We are playing this by ear in an “interesting” time.

  
Shopping Ministry
If you are self-isolating for whatever reason (you are not feeling well, you are in a susceptible population, or you are just not taking chances) and you cannot get out to do shopping, let us know.  There are people in the congregation who will do your shopping and deliver it to your home.  Mention this to the caller from the phone ministry, or call or send an email to the church to let us know. 
If you would like to volunteer as a “shopper” let me know by phone or email.

  
Casserole Ministry
David S. has started a Casserole Ministry as part of Pastoral Care. Volunteers from Pastoral Care at Spirit West will deliver a casserole to someone in isolation, recovering from illness, or grieving the loss of family members.
 We would need a supply of three or four casseroles made by members of Spirit West in tin foil pans and frozen in the church freezer available for delivery. The casseroles should be dated and labelled with all ingredients and the instructions for reheating. The supply of casseroles can be replenished as needed. If you are interested in providing a casserole please call David S. so he can keep an accurate inventory of casseroles (not too many, not too few).
  
Spirit West Prayer Chain
Prayer is important. We know that  people still face challenges and difficulties not related to Covid-19, and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain will continue to be active.  If you have a prayer request, please send it to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com.  These requests will be shared regularly with the prayer chain.
 
               
ANOTHER  WAY TO CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY TO SPIRIT WEST DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC
You are stuck home, Spirit West is not holding services, you are not on PAR, but you want to make a financial contribution to the  work of Spirit West, because the church has bills to pay even when we are not gathering on Sunday.   Check out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 

 
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office remains open.
 Office hours 
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
-  Larry => 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org


0 Comments

May 21, 2020 - Seventh Sunday of Easter and the tenth in COVID-19 Isolation - Ascension Sunday

5/21/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings,
There is new information about the ZOOM book study below.

SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Website:  www.spiritwest.org 
Facebook: Spirit West United Church and Friends of Spirit West Outreach
Instagram: spiritwestyeg
YouTube:  Spirt West United Church, Edmonton
  
WORSHIP VIDEOS
 Scripture Readers
To volunteer to be a scripture reader for one of our worship videos, send an email to Norma at spiritw@telus.net  We will include you in the schedule and we will send you all the information you need about the options you have for recording your segment.
This Sunday the scriptures will be read by Bill C.
 
Greeters
You will have noticed in last Sunday’s Worship Video that we now have members of the congregations sharing virtual greetings.  It is a way for us to see each other.  Bonnie C. is spearheading this program, and has been doing the recording.  You may get a call from her asking if you want to be a “Greeter.”  If you have not heard from Bonnie and want to be a greeter, you can call the church and your name will be given to Bonnie, or you can record you own greeting.  Record a 10-30 second greeting on your phone (record in “landscape,”  hold your phone horizontally, this way ‘---,’ not this way ‘I’) and email your video to swm@telus.net .  We will only be using three each week, so your greetings might not appear, the Sunday after you send them.
 
Feedback
I appreciate all the positive feedback that we have received about the Worship Videos.  We (Margaret, Bonnie, Glenn, Paul W. and I) are trying our best to provide you with something that will assist you in your faith journey during this “crazy” time.  We would also like to hear from you if you have suggestions on how we could make the videos better or more helpful (like Scripture readers, Greeters, music with the hymns …).   Email your comments to me swm@telus.net or post them on our Facebook page.
  
SO REMEMBER, AS YOU CONTINUE TO WORSHIP FROM THE SANTUARY CALLED HOME, YOU HAVE OPTIONS…
  • Option 1 - Set aside time on Sunday, or at a regular time.  Follow the Spirit West Services on YouTube.  A new Sunday Worship Video is uploaded each Saturday.
  • Option 2 - Set aside time on Sunday. Light a candle, read the readings for each day, read and discuss my reflections in the Thursday eMessage, and pray.
  • Option 3-  “Attend’ one of the live-streaming services from another United Church through the link found in SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING… below.
 
SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING ACROSS CANADA
There are a number of United Churches (and some Presbyterian) across Canada who are able to live-stream their Sunday services.  Check out this interactive map for livestreaming services across Canada: https://arcg.is/1TaKqS (and remember to take into account time zones for churches outside of Alberta)

 
THIS SUNDAY – ASCENSION SUNDAY
 The Readings for this Sunday are Acts 1: 6-14 and John 17: 1-11.  I am going to be about “Physical Distance” in the Time for All Ages.  My sermon is called, “Why do you stand looking up?”
This Sunday is the last Sunday of the Easter Season.  This week, Jesus says good-bye to his disciples again. The moment Jesus has been preparing the followers for has arrived.  Jesus is leaving them, apparently for good.  Of course, Jesus is not just leaving town or moving to another area of Israel.  Jesus’ departure as described by Luke in the Book of Acts (scholars are pretty certain that the Book of the Acts of the Apostles is in reality the Gospel of Luke, part 2) involves Jesus rising up into the clouds and disappearing in front of his followers.    This is physical distancing at a whole new level.  But Jesus has been reminding his followers that even after he has left them physically, he will still be looking out for them, and that and advocate, the Spirit will be with them always.  But of course, when the time comes for Jesus to depart, the disciples are really ready.  Their response is to stand around looking up.  So two angels appear. I wonder if they were the same angels who spoke to Mary at the tomb.  In any case their role seems to be to remind Jesus’ followers that they are looking in the wrong place.  In this time of quarantine and self-isolation we have begun to learn how to stay connected with those from whom we are separated.  It’s not the same as being face to face, but it is a valuable connection.  It is a connection that Jesus followers had to learn.  They had to realize that physical distance or separation are not barriers to love, or care.  As we try new ways (ZOOM, Skype, Facetime, Facebook, email, drive-byes…) to stay connected with one another, let us not forget to stay connected (prayer, meditation, worship, study...) with God.

 
ZOOM BOOK STUDY –  Initial Meeting, Wednesday, May 27 at 1:30 “When Bad Things Happen to Good People
 We are going to look at the book by Rabbi Harold Kushner, “When Bad Things Happen to Good People.”  It is a question that many people nowadays are asking. And according to some studies, they are turning to people and communities of faith for an answer.  So what do we say?  The old stock answer of “it’s God’s will,” is not going to work, for us, or for anyone.  So using Rabbi Kushner’s book as a starting point let us look at how we can speak as people of faith when bad things happen to good people.
The initial ZOOM gathering will be next Wednesday, May 27 at 1:30. You need do not to have read the book for that gathering. But you will need to have a copy for subsequent gatherings.  Digital and print versions are available on line (Kindle, Kobo, Amazon etc.)  We will confirm the timing of future gathering next Wednesday. Then we will read a chapter or portion of the book each week and then ZOOM together to discuss what we have discovered or what left us with more questions.
On Wednesday, click on this ZOOM Link to join the gathering.  If you are not familiar with ZOOM, give me a call at the church and I will walk you through the process.  You can also join the study by phone, but you will have to call me before Wednesday so that I can give you the numbers you need.
 

OUTREACH – Underwear  and Face Masks Needed at Bissell Centre
Thank you to those of you who have dropped underwear at the church. (Yup, I just wrote that)
And there is still a need at Bissell for UNDERWEAR. Ladies and Men’s - sizes Medium and Large.
If any of you would like to shop and deliver undies to the church (there are boxes just inside the doors), Lori will pick them up and deliver them to the Bissell Centre.  If you would rather have your donation picked up, call the church office to arrange it.
They are also taking donations of FABRIC FACE MASKS. So any of you crafty people out there - We know there are a few quilters out there with a good stash of fabric - if you would like a little project to do in your self-isolation (patterns can be found online) ..... Again - these can be dropped at the church (or call the church office to arrange pick-up) and Lori will deliver them to the Bissell Centre.

 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH – (Throw your bottles at the [mortgage] principal)
Now that you are spending more time at home, and perhaps (though I hope not) drinking more, you may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can still bring them to the church (or you can call for pick up).  If you want to bring your bottles (and any other recyclable beverage containers) in during our office hours and put them directly in the Bottle Shed (by the garage), give us a call, and we can have the shed open for you.  All money raised from the return of bottles goes towards paying down the principal on our mortgage.

 
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
We would like to offer a big thank you to those of you who have been able to support the work of Spirit West, particularly those of you who have mailed in your donations or dropped them off at the church.  You generosity, as well as that of those on PAR, is greatly appreciated, especially as we have lost our rental income.
Please remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.) The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate by Norma’s office.  We are also working on making e-transfers possible.  We will let you know in a future Thursday eMessage when this option is available.  You can also donate online, see ANOTHER WAY TO CONTRIBUTE… below.

 
PASTORAL CARE DURING A PANDEMIC
 
Phone Ministry
A team has been put together to begin a phone ministry.  We will be reaching out by phone to members of Spirit West to remind ourselves that we are a community of faith, even if at the moment we have to practice social distancing, and in some cases self-isolation.  The team will initially target those whom we believe are most likely to be isolated.  We may not always get it right.  If you get a call, and think you really didn’t need it, thank the caller anyway.  If you don’t hear from anyone in the next week or so, and really would like a call, let me know.  We are playing this by ear in an “interesting” time.

  
Shopping Ministry
If you are self-isolating for whatever reason (you are not feeling well, you are in a susceptible population, or you are just not taking chances) and you cannot get out to do shopping, let us know.  There are people in the congregation who will do your shopping and deliver it to your home.  Mention this to the caller from the phone ministry, or call or send an email to the church to let us know. 
If you would like to volunteer as a “shopper” let me know by phone or email.

  
Casserole Ministry
David S. has started a Casserole Ministry as part of Pastoral Care. Volunteers from Pastoral Care at Spirit West will deliver a casserole to someone in isolation, recovering from illness, or grieving the loss of family members.
We would need a supply of three or four casseroles made by members of Spirit West in tin foil pans and frozen in the church freezer available for delivery. The casseroles should be dated and labelled with all ingredients and the instructions for reheating. The supply of casseroles can be replenished as needed. If you are interested in providing a casserole please call David S. so he can keep an accurate inventory of casseroles (not too many, not too few).

  
Spirit West Prayer Chain
Prayer is important. We know that  people still face challenges and difficulties not related to Covid-19, and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain will continue to be active.  If you have a prayer request, please send it to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com.  These requests will be shared regularly with the prayer chain.
                     
ANOTHER  WAY TO CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY TO SPIRIT WEST DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC
You are stuck home, Spirit West is not holding services, you are not on PAR, but you want to make a financial contribution to the  work of Spirit West, because the church has bills to pay even when we are not gathering on Sunday.   Check out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 

 
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office remains open.
Office hours 
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
-  Larry => 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org



0 Comments

May 14, 2020 - The Sixth Sunday of Easter and the Ninth in COVID-19 Isolation

5/14/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings,
 
Some of you may be wondering about the “re-opening” of Spirit West and a return to “live” worship because it was announced yesterday by Premier Kenney and Dr. Hinshaw that Places of Worship may re-open under strict guidelines set out by the province.  The information is located in Alberta Biz Connect https://www.alberta.ca/biz-connect.aspx#guidance.
 
There are also specific guidelines for Places of Worship https://www.alberta.ca/assets/documents/covid-19-relaunch-guidance-places-of-worship.pdf .
 
The United Church of Canada has also produced a set of documents relating to the re-opening of churches https://www.united-church.ca/community-faith/being-community/reopening-churches-during-covid-19
 
The guidelines are all quite strenuous: limited numbers, continued 2m (6 ft) distancing during the service, no choir or congregational singing, no food or beverages, sanitizing public washrooms after each use, as well as the ongoing concern for the presence of people over 60 and those who have existing health concerns or challenged immune systems (this last one affects me as someone over 60 who has had recent lung surgery).
 
Next week the Spirit West Worship Committee will be meeting (by ZOOM) to review the various guidelines, and begin to develop a plan for Spirit West.  The Worship Committee’s thoughts and any recommendations will presented to the Church Board at their (ZOOM) meeting on May 26 for further discussion.  In short, we are not going to rush to get back together.  We will certainly let you know as things progress.  So for now, see you online!
 
Please see the note below about the possibility of a ZOOM book study.

 
SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Website:  www.spiritwest.org 
Facebook: Spirit West United Church and Friends of Spirit West Outreach
Instagram: spiritwestyeg
YouTube:  Spirt West United Church, Edmonton

  
WORHIP VIDEOS
 Scripture Readers
I am looking for people who would like to volunteer to read the scripture readings.  We will send you the readings for your Sunday, and you can record your reading at home using your phone.  When you are done, either send an email to me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with the video as an attachment, or you can save the video to a memory stick and drop it off at the church (in the mail-box outside if you wish, just let us know).  These will need to be in my inbox or at the church by the Thursday before your Sunday.
If you want to volunteer, send an email to Norma at spirit@telus.net and we will include you in the schedule.
This Sunday the scriptures will be read by Rhea O.
 
Feedback
I appreciate all the positive feedback that we have received about the Worship Videos.  We (Margaret, Bonnie, Glenn, Paul W. and I) are trying our best to provide you with something that will assist you in your faith journey during this “crazy” time.  We would also like to hear from you if you have suggestions on how we could make the videos better or more helpful.   Email your comments to me or post them on our Facebook page.
 
SO REMEMBER, AS YOU CONTINUE TO WORSHIP FROM THE SANTUARY CALLED HOME, YOU HAVE OPTIONS…
  • Option 1 - Set aside time on Sunday.  Follow the Spirit West Services on YouTube.  A new Sunday Worship Video is uploaded each Saturday.
  • Option 2 - Set aside time on Sunday. Light a candle, read the readings for each day, read and discuss my reflections in the Thursday eMessage, and pray.
  • Option 3-  “Attend’ one of the live-streaming services from another United Church through the link found in SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING… below.
 
SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING ACROSS CANADA
There are a number of United Churches (and some Presbyterian) across Canada who are able to live-stream their Sunday services.  Check out this interactive map for livestreaming services across Canada: https://arcg.is/1TaKqS (and remember to take into account time zones for churches outside of Alberta)

 
THIS SUNDAY - THE SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
 
The Readings for this Sunday are Acts 17: 22-31and John 14: 15-21.  I am going to be calling the story in the Time for All Ages, “Dinglehopper” a reference to the Little Mermaid.  My sermon is called, “Things are changing.”
 
This Sunday is the second last Sunday of the Easter Season.  In the readings for Sunday we, through the followers of Jesus, are being  prepared for changes.  In the reading from Acts, taken from an episode in Paul’s journeys which happens quite a while after the Resurrection, we find Paul in Athens.  He tells the people of Athens, who “would spend the their time in nothing but telling or hearing something new” that he has found among their objects of worship an altar, “To an Unknown God.”  Paul, aware of the vast pantheon of Greek gods, tells the Athenians that the only God they really don’t know is the one “God who made the world and everything in it.” He then proceeds to teach them this new way of faith and understanding. (side note: the painting with this reflection is called “He was despised and rejected” by Sigismund Goetze (1904).  In it the figure of Christ is bound to an altar labelled in Latin “Votum Deo Ignoto” which is a bad Latin translation of Luke’s Greek from Acts “'Αγνώστω θεώ” “to an unknown God.”  Jesus is ignored by the best of Edwardian England, apparently only noticed by the Nursing Sister to the right of the altar).  In the Gospel, Jesus continues to prepare his followers for a change, for his final departure from them.  His followers have already been through Jesus’ death and resurrection, now Jesus is going to leave again.  “In a little while the world will see me no more.”  It turns out that Jesus followers will make Jesus “visible” by keeping his commandments with the help of the “Spirit of truth.”  But they will have to wait a little while.
 

INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA, TRANSPHOBIA AND BIPHOBIA
 This Sunday is also the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.  This is an opportunity for us as a society and as a church to acknowledge the ways in which we have marginalized and persecuted those of our community whose sexual orientation or gender expression have been regarded by many for so long as sinful or unnatural.  In doing so, often using a biased and faulty understanding of a few passages in Scripture, we have ignored the overriding Commandment of Jesus “to love one another.”  “For God so loved the world (the cosmos, all creation)…”

 
ZOOM BOOK STUDY – “When Bad Things Happen to Good People
I have received a suggestion that at this complicated and challenging time, it might be an idea to look at the book by Rabbi Harold Kushner, “When Bad Things Happen to Good People.”  It is a question that many people nowadays are asking. And according to some studies, they are turning to people and communities of faith for an answer.  So what do we say?  The old stock answer of “it’s God’s will,” is not going to work, for us, or for anyone.  So using Rabbi Kushner’s book as a starting point let us look at how we can speak as people of faith when bad things happen to good people.
This study would take the form of a ZOOM gathering.  Participants would acquire copies of the book on their own, digital and print versions are available on line.  We would read a chapter or portion of the book each week and then ZOOM together to discuss what we had discovered or what left us with more questions.
If you are interested in being part of this study, please email a note to me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net.  I hope we can get started fairly soon.

 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH – (Throw your bottles at the [mortgage] principle)
Now that you are spending more time at home, and perhaps (though I hope not) drinking more, you may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can still bring them to the church (or you can call for pick up).  If you want to bring your bottles (and any other recyclable beverage containers) in during our office hours and put them directly in the Bottle Shed (by the garage), give us a call, and we can have the shed open for you.  All money raised from the return of bottles goes towards paying down the principle on our mortgage.

 
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
We would like to offer a big thank you to those of you who have been able to support the work of Spirit West, particularly those of you who have mailed in your donations or dropped them off at the church.  You generosity, as well as that of those on PAR, is greatly appreciated, especially as we have lost our rental income.
Please remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.) The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate by Norma’s office.  We are also working on making e-transfers possible.  We will let you know in a future Thursday eMessage when this option is available.  You can also donate online, see ANOTHER WAY TO CONTRIBUTE… below.

 
OUTREACH – Underwear  and Face Masks Needed at Bissell Centre
A big thank you to those of you who have been dropping underwear at the church (another phrase I was not prepared for in seminary) But there is still a need at Bissell for UNDERWEAR. Ladies and Men’s - sizes Medium and Large.
If any of you would like to shop and deliver undies to the church (there are boxes just inside the doors), Lori will pick them up and deliver them to the Bissell Centre.  If you would rather have your donation picked up, call the church office to arrange it.
They are also taking donations of FABRIC FACE MASKS. So any of you crafty people out there - We know there are a few quilters out there with a good stash of fabric - if you would like a little project to do in your self-isolation (patterns can be found online) ..... Again - these can be dropped at the church (or call the church office to arrange pick-up) and Lori will deliver them to the Bissell Centre.

 
 
PASTORAL CARE DURING A PANDEMIC
 
Phone Ministry
A team has been put together to begin a phone ministry.  We will be reaching out by phone to members of Spirit West to remind ourselves that we are a community of faith, even if at the moment we have to practice social distancing, and in some cases self-isolation.  The team will initially target those whom we believe are most likely to be isolated.  We may not always get it right.  If you get a call, and think you really didn’t need it, thank the caller anyway.  If you don’t hear from anyone in the next week or so, and really would like a call, let me know.  We are playing this by ear in an “interesting” time.

 
Shopping Ministry
If you are self-isolating for whatever reason (you are not feeling well, you are in a susceptible population, or you are just not taking chances) and you cannot get out to do shopping, let us know.  There are people in the congregation who will do your shopping and deliver it to your home.  Mention this to the caller from the phone ministry, or call or send an email to the church to let us know. 
If you would like to volunteer as a “shopper” let me know by phone or email.

  
Casserole Ministry
David S. has started a Casserole Ministry as part of Pastoral Care. Volunteers from Pastoral Care at Spirit West will deliver a casserole to someone in isolation, recovering from illness, or grieving the loss of family members.
We would need a supply of three or four casseroles made by members of Spirit West in tin foil pans and frozen in the church freezer available for delivery. The casseroles should be dated and labelled with all ingredients and the instructions for reheating. The supply of casseroles can be replenished as needed. If you are interested in providing a casserole please call David S. so he can keep an accurate inventory of casseroles (not too many, not too few).

  
Spirit West Prayer Chain
Prayer is important. We know that  people still face challenges and difficulties not related to Covid-19, and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain will continue to be active.  If you have a prayer request, please send it to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com.  These requests will be shared regularly with the prayer chain.

                
ANOTHER  WAY TO CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY TO SPIRIT WEST DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC
You are stuck home, Spirit West is not holding services, you are not on PAR, but you want to make a financial contribution to the  work of Spirit West, because the church has bills to pay even when we are not gathering on Sunday.   Check out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 

 
CHURCH OFFICE
At the present time, the Spirit West Church office remains open.
 Office hours 
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
-  Larry => 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday

Larry
(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org
0 Comments

May 7 - Fifth Sunday of Easter and the Eighth in COVID-19 Isolation

5/6/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Greetings,
SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Website:  www.spiritwest.org 
Facebook: Spirit West United Church and Friends of Spirit West Outreach
Instagram: spiritwestyeg
 YouTube:  Spirt West United Church, Edmonton

 
 THIS SUNDAY - THE FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER – Mothers’ Day or Christian Family Sunday
 
The Readings for this Sunday are 1 Peter 2: 2-10, Psalm 31: 1-5, 15-16 and John 14:1-14.  There will be a special presentation for Mothers’ Day.  I am calling my sermon, “Like a Rock.”
 
This Sunday is Mothers’ Day, though a few years ago the church began to call it Christian Family Sunday.  At Spirit West we have acknowledged it as Mothers’ Day, and in more typical years have had the children give flowers or chocolates to the mothers and other women in the congregation during the Sunday service.  Things are different this year, but we will still pay tribute to mothers during the worship video.  In that regard, we are normally used to hearing God referred to as Father.  Jesus calls God “Father” in the Gospel reading this Sunday.  But what are probably not as familiar are the images of God as Mother that can be found in the Bible.  You may see some of them in the Sunday video.
In terms of the scripture readings for Sunday, I again see that Easter theme of the difficulty of recognition.  Initially we saw that Jesus’ followers had a lot of trouble recognizing the risen Christ. Then we began to see a larger concern about the inability of those around Jesus to see when God is at work in the world.  But, this week’s readings come with the underlying reassurance that God continues to be active in our world, even when we do not or cannot see it. In the first letter of Peter, we are encouraged to grow to our full potential in faith.  In John’s gospel, Jesus’ followers want to see God.  And Jesus has to say to them, basically, “haven’t you been paying attention to what I have been doing and saying?”  And the reading from Psalm 31 is part of a prayer for deliverance, a prayer that we all could be praying right now.  Because in the face of difficulty the psalmist is able to say to God, “You are indeed my rock” and “My times are in your hand.”  And the psalm ends with words of encouragement, “Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord.”

 
WORHIP VIDEOS
 
Scripture Readers
I am looking for people who would like to volunteer to read the scripture readings.  We will send you the readings for your Sunday, and you can record your reading at home using your phone.  When you are done, either send an email to me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with the video as an attachment, or you can save the video to a memory stick and drop it off at the church (in the mail-box outside if you wish, just let us know).  These will need to be in my inbox or at the church by the Thursday before your Sunday.
If you want to volunteer, send an email to Norma at spirit@telus.net and we will include you in the schedule.
This Sunday the scriptures will be read by Bob H.
 
Feedback
I appreciate all the positive feedback that we have received about the Worship Videos.  We (Margaret, Bonnie, Glenn, Paul W. and I) are trying our best to provide you with something that will assist you in your faith journey during this “crazy” time.  We would also like to hear from you if you have suggestions on how we could make the videos better or more helpful.   

  
SO REMEMBER, AS YOU CONTINUE TO WORSHIP FROM THE SANTUARY CALLED HOME, YOU HAVE OPTIONS…
  • Option 1 - Set aside time on Sunday.  Follow the Spirit West Services on YouTube.  A new Sunday Worship Video is uploaded each Saturday.
  • Option 2 - Set aside time on Sunday. Light a candle, read the readings for each day, read and discuss my reflections in the Thursday eMessage, and pray.
  • Option 3-  “Attend’ one of the live-streaming services from another United Church through the link found in SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING… below.
 
SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING ACROSS CANADA
There are a number of United Churches (and some Presbyterian) across Canada who are able to live-stream their Sunday services.  At least three Edmonton churches are doing this: Millwoods, Robertson-Wesley and Southminster-Steinhauer.   Check out this interactive map for livestreaming services across Canada: https://arcg.is/1TaKqS (and remember to take into account time zones for churches outside of Alberta)

 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH – (Throw your bottles at the [mortgage] principle)
Now that you are spending more time at home, and perhaps (though I hope not) drinking more, you may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can still bring them to the church (or you can call for pick up).  If you want to bring your bottles (and any other recyclable beverage containers) in during our office hours and put them directly in the Bottle Shed (by the garage), give us a call, and we can have the shed open for you.  All money raised from the return of bottles goes towards paying down the principle on our mortgage.

 
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
We would like to offer a big thank you to those of you who have been able to support the work of Spirit West, particularly those of you who have mailed in your donations or dropped them off at the church.  You generosity, as well as that of those on PAR, is greatly appreciated, especially as we have lost our rental income.
Please remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.) The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate by Norma’s office.  We are also working on making e-transfers possible.  We will let you know in a future Thursday eMessage when this option is available.  You can also donate online, see ANOTHER WAY TO CONTRIBUTE… below.

 
OUTREACH – Underwear  and Face Masks Needed at Bissell Centre
We got a thank-you letter from Inner City Pastoral Ministry (Bissell Centre) thanking us for the lunches we provided.  A very special thanks was included for our Lori W. who with Bill and Adam did all of the leg work on our behalf.
But we also have learned that Bissell is in need of UNDERWEAR. Ladies and Men’s - sizes Medium and Large.
If any of you would like to shop and deliver undies to the church (there are boxes just inside the doors), Lori will pick them up and deliver them to the Bissell Centre.  If you would rather have your donation picked up, call the church office to arrange it.
They are also taking donations of FABRIC FACE MASKS. So any of you crafty people out there - We know there are a few quilters out there with a good stash of fabric - if you would like a little project to do in your self-isolation (patterns can be found online) ..... Again - these can be dropped at the church (or call the church office to arrange pick-up) and Lori will deliver them to the Bissell Centre.

 
PASTORAL CARE DURING A PANDEMIC
Phone Ministry
A team has been put together to begin a phone ministry.  We will be reaching out by phone to members of Spirit West to remind ourselves that we are a community of faith, even if at the moment we have to practice social distancing, and in some cases self-isolation.  The team will initially target those whom we believe are most likely to be isolated.  We may not always get it right.  If you get a call, and think you really didn’t need it, thank the caller anyway.  If you don’t hear from anyone in the next week or so, and really would like a call, let me know.  We are playing this by ear in an “interesting” time.

 
Shopping Ministry
If you are self-isolating for whatever reason (you are not feeling well, you are in a susceptible population, or you are just not taking chances) and you cannot get out to do shopping, let us know.  There are people in the congregation who will do your shopping and deliver it to your home.  Mention this to the caller from the phone ministry, or call or send an email to the church to let us know. 
If you would like to volunteer as a “shopper” let me know by phone or email.

 
Casserole Ministry
David S. has started a Casserole Ministry as part of Pastoral Care. Volunteers from Pastoral Care at Spirit West will deliver a casserole to someone in isolation, recovering from illness, or grieving the loss of family members.
We would need a supply of three or four casseroles made by members of Spirit West in tin foil pans and frozen in the church freezer available for delivery. The casseroles should be dated and labelled with all ingredients and the instructions for reheating. The supply of casseroles can be replenished as needed. If you are interested in providing a casserole please call David S. so he can keep an accurate inventory of casseroles (not too many, not too few).
  
Spirit West Prayer Chain
Prayer is important. We know that  people still face challenges and difficulties not related to Covid-19, and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain will continue to be active.  If you have a prayer request, please send it to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com.  These requests will be shared regularly with the prayer chain.

              
ANOTHER  WAY TO CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY TO SPIRIT WEST DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC
You are stuck home, Spirit West is not holding services, you are not on PAR, but you want to make a financial contribution to the  work of Spirit West, because the church has bills to pay even when we are not gathering on Sunday.   Check out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 

 
CHURCH OFFICE
At the present time, the Spirit West Church office remains open.
 Office hours 
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
-  Larry => 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org

0 Comments

April 30, 2019 - Fourth Sunday in Easter and seventh in COVID-19 Isolation

5/4/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
​Greetings,
SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Website:  www.spiritwest.org 
Facebook: Spirit West United Church and Friends of Spirit West Outreach
Instagram: spiritwestyeg
 YouTube:  Spirt West United Church, Edmonton

 
WORHIP VIDEOS
 Scripture Readers
In order for a variety of voices to be heard in our worship videos, I am looking for people who would like to volunteer to read the scripture readings.  Now, in order to keep you as safe as possible, you do not have to come to the church to do the reading.  We will send you the readings for your Sunday, and you can record your reading at home using your phone.  When you are done, either send an email to me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with the video as an attachment, or you can save the video to a memory stick and drop it off at the church (in the mail-box outside if you wish, just let us know).  These will need to be in my inbox or at the church by the Thursday before your Sunday.
If you want to volunteer, send an email to Norma at spirit@telus.net and we will include you in the schedule.
This Sunday the scriptures will be read by Peter K.
 
Feedback
I appreciate all the positive feedback that we have received about the Worship Videos.  We (Margaret, Bonnie, Glenn, Paul W. and I) are trying our best to provide you with something that will assist you in your faith journey during this “crazy” time.  We would also like to hear from you if you have suggestions on how we could make the videos better or more helpful.   As a result of suggestions that have come in, we are trying to ensure consistent audio volume throughout the videos, and as you see above, we are trying to get more people involved (in a safe manner.)

 
THIS SUNDAY - THE THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER – The Road to Emmaus
 The Readings for this Sunday are Acts 2: 42-47 and John 10:1-10.  We will also be singing a version of Psalm 23.  I will have a children’s story called “Sharing, sharing, sharing”  I am calling my sermon, “Following.”
 
In the Gospel reading for this Sunday, we continue to see a concern about the followers of Jesus not recognizing him. In the story which takes place fairly early in his ministry, Jesus talks about being the “good shepherd,” the one who has the best interests of the sheep at heart.  He expresses concern that there are others pretending to be the shepherd who are really thieves.  Continuing his “shepherd” analogy, Jesus talks about being the one who comes into the sheepfold through the gate and not by climbing over the fence.  He talks about being the shepherd whose voice the sheep recognize and follow, and about the sheep who will run from the voice of a stranger.  Unfortunately according to John, “Jesus used this figure of speech with them [some Pharisees], but they did not understand what he was saying to them.”  Jesus is talking to the religious leaders of his community about being able to recognize God at work in the world.  And the religious leaders do not get it.  We may want to feel a little smug, thinking about religious leaders who cannot recognize the presence of God in Jesus.  But discerning what voice is speaking to us, with our best interests in mind is not that easy.  Never mind listening for the voice of God, it seems some of us have trouble with the voice of reason.  In our world today, we have voices telling us to follow instructions, and stay home.  We have other voices suggesting that drinking bleach might be helpful.  Many people are staying home, but, unfortunately some are drinking bleach.  And others don’t want to be told by anybody what to do or where to go.  We have seen churches that have continued to gather, saying that Jesus will bring them through the pandemic.  One denomination in the southern United States, which continued to meet in large numbers, often against state “stay home” orders has had 30 of their pastors die of Covid-19.  Can you imagine the difficulty Jesus would have had if Facebook had been available in his day.  We have a great opportunity to reflect on what kind of followers we are, and whom we have decided to follow, or not follow for that matter.  Jesus says to those listening, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy, I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”

 
Communion this Sunday
 This Sunday, we will celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion.  The celebration at the Church will involve only Margaret, Glenn, Paul W. and me, but I would like you to be able to participate as fully as you can.  So I would suggest that, if you can, watch the video at our usual church time of 10:30 on Sunday morning and that you have some bread and grape juice (or wine) for each member of your household.  Follow the service and share together at your table, be it the kitchen table, dining table or the TV table you have put in front of your television.  And as you share the bread and cup in your home, know that others are sharing at the Table of Christ in their homes and around the world. 

 
SO REMEMBER, AS YOU CONTINUE TO WORSHIP FROM THE SANTUARY CALLED HOME, YOU HAVE OPTIONS…
  • Option 1 - Set aside time on Sunday.  Follow the Spirit West Services on YouTube.  A new Sunday Worship Video is uploaded each Saturday.
  • Option 2 - Set aside time on Sunday. Light a candle, read the readings for each day, read and discuss my reflections in the Thursday eMessage, and pray.
  • Option 3-  “Attend’ one of the live-streaming services from another United Church through the link found in SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING… below.
 
SUNDAY SERVICES LIVE-STREAMING ACROSS CANADA
There are a number of United Churches (and some Presbyterian) across Canada who are able to live-stream their Sunday services.  At least three Edmonton churches are doing this: Millwoods, Robertson-Wesley and Southminster-Steinhauer.   Check out this interactive map for livestreaming services across Canada: https://arcg.is/1TaKqS (and remember to take into account time zones for churches outside of Alberta)
 

FINANCIAL SUPPORT
We would like to offer a big thank you to those of you who have continued to support the work of Spirit West, particularly those of you who have mailed in your donations or dropped them off at the church.  You generosity, as well as that of those on PAR, is greatly appreciated, especially as we have lost our rental income.
Please remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.) The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate by Norma’s office.  We are also working on making e-transfers possible.  We will let you know in a future Thursday eMessage when this option is available.  You can also donate online, see ANOTHER WAY TO CONTRIBUTE… below.

 
OUTREACH – Underwear  and Face Masks Needed at Bissell Centre
We got a thank-you letter from Inner City Pastoral Ministry (Bissell Centre) thanking us for the lunches we provided last Sunday.  A very special thanks was included for our Lori W. who with Bill and Adam did all of the leg work on our behalf.
But we also have learned that Bissell is in need of UNDERWEAR. Ladies and Men’s - sizes Medium and Large.
If any of you would like to shop and deliver undies to the church (there are boxes just inside the doors), Lori will pick them up and deliver them to the Bissell Centre.  If you would rather have your donation picked up, call the church office to arrange it.
They are also taking donations of FABRIC FACE MASKS. So any of you crafty people out there - We know there are a few quilters out there with a good stash of fabric - if you would like a little project to do in your self-isolation (patterns can be found online) ..... Again - these can be dropped at the church (or call the church office to arrange pick-up) and Lori will deliver them to the Bissell Centre.
 

 PASTORAL CARE DURING A PANDEMIC
 Phone Ministry
A team has been put together to begin a phone ministry.  We will be reaching out by phone to members of Spirit West to remind ourselves that we are a community of faith, even if at the moment we have to practice social distancing, and in some cases self-isolation.  The team will initially target those whom we believe are most likely to be isolated.  We may not always get it right.  If you get a call, and think you really didn’t need it, thank the caller anyway.  If you don’t hear from anyone in the next week or so, and really would like a call, let me know.  We are playing this by ear in an “interesting” time.

  
Shopping Ministry
If you are self-isolating for whatever reason (you are not feeling well, you are in a susceptible population, or you are just not taking chances) and you cannot get out to do shopping, let us know.  There are people in the congregation who will do your shopping and deliver it to your home.  Mention this to the caller from the phone ministry, or call or send an email to the church to let us know. 
If you would like to volunteer as a “shopper” let me know by phone or email.

  
Casserole Ministry
David S. has started a Casserole Ministry as part of Pastoral Care. Volunteers from Pastoral Care at Spirit West will deliver a casserole to someone in isolation, recovering from illness, or grieving the loss of family members.
 We would need a supply of three or four casseroles made by members of Spirit West in tin foil pans and frozen in the church freezer available for delivery. The casseroles should be dated and labelled with all ingredients and the instructions for reheating. The supply of casseroles can be replenished as needed. If you are interested in providing a casserole please call David S. so he can keep an accurate inventory of casseroles (not too many, not too few).

 
 Spirit West Prayer Chain
Prayer is important. We know that  people still face challenges and difficulties not related to Covid-19, and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain will continue to be active.  If you have a prayer request, please send it to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com.  These requests will be shared regularly with the prayer chain.

         
ANOTHER  WAY TO CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY TO SPIRIT WEST DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC
You are stuck home, Spirit West is not holding services, you are not on PAR, but you want to make a financial contribution to the  work of Spirit West, because the church has bills to pay even when we are not gathering on Sunday.   Check out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 

CHURCH OFFICE
At the present time, the Spirit West Church office remains open.
 Office hours 
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
-  Larry => 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org


0 Comments

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