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June 30, 2016 - Pentecost 7 - Canada Day

6/30/2016

Greetings
This Sunday I am moving away from the Lectionary and using readings that were at one time suggested for the Sunday nearest Dominion Day (it goes back a ways). Of course Dominion Day is now Canada Day. But, do you know why Canada was at one time called the Dominion of Canada. John A. MacDonald wanted to call the new country formed in 1867 the “Kingdom of Canada.” The British Colonial Office was hesitant. The did not want to antagonize the Republic south of the new nation with such a “pretentious” name. Sir Leonard Tilley of New Brunswick suggested “The Dominion of Canada” with a reference back to Psalm 72: 8. “He shall have dominion from sea to sea and from the rivers unto the ends to the earth.” Of course the motto of Canada “A Mari usque ad Mare” (From Sea to Sea) continues this reference back to the Psalm. Reading Psalm 72 can give us some understanding of the vision for Canada. Have we lived up to it. The Gospel reading is one of the judgement passages which talks about how “the nations” will be judged.

The readings for Sunday are Psalm 71: 1-8 and Matthew 25: 31-46. In the Time for All Ages I will be looking at some symbols associated with Canada. I have called the sermon “God keep our Land”

CHILDREN AT CHURCH DURING THE SUMMER
Although the Sunday School has ended for the season, children are still welcome at church! We will have Activity Packs (look for the maroon nylon cases at the welcome table) which children can explore either in the sanctuary or in the lounge

SUMMER HOLIDAYS
I will be taking some holidays this summer, but the church will not be closing! I will be away from July 8 to August 5. During that time I will be attending the North American Interfaith Network Connect (conference and AGM) in Guadalajara, Mexico. Rebecca and I are delegates, Margery and Paul are going as tourists and we will all have some holiday time in Guadalajara after the conference. After we get back, I will also have the opportunity to attend the 10 year reunion of Task Force Orion (TF 1-06), the Battle Group I served with in Afghanistan. We will also be spending some time in Regina and southern Saskatchewan.
For the time I am away, John P. and the M & P Committee have started to find some interesting people (live, not on video) to provide Sunday Supply. For pastoral concerns between Sundays, call Norma at the church office.

KEEP THE DATES – THURSDAY, AUGUST 18 AND FRIDAY, AUGUST 19
Spirit West Community Garage Sale: Table can be rented for $20 or you can donate items to a Spirit West Table.

RIDE TO CHURCH?
From time to time we encounter people who would like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because they do not have means of transportation. Can you give a ride? If you would be willing to make yourself available to provide a ride to church please call the church office. Do you need a ride? Would you like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because you have no ride, please call the church office.

Spirit West Prayer Chain
The Spirit West Prayer Chain is a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call Shannon F. at 780-481-5262, Marian T. at 780-487-2851 or Bonnie C. at 780-444-2230.
SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!

Our Website is at www.spiritwest.org .
Our Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/SpirtWestUnitedChurch

Office hours
- Monday to Friday 9:30 – 2:30
- Norma => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Tuesday to Friday (on holidays from July 8 to Aug 5)

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

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June 23, 2016 - Pentecost 6

6/23/2016

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Greetings
This Sunday, the readings point to Freedom. Now, when you look up “freedom” on the internet you find a lot of references to Mel Gibson and Braveheart, or to “American” democracy. Neither of these images are particularly helpful in understanding the concept of Christian freedom, because true freedom in Christ involves a paradox. John Donne, a 17th century English Anglican priest and poet, tried to capture this paradox in a collection of poems called the Holy Sonnets. In one sonnet, which starts, “Batter my heart, three-person’d God,” Donne says, “Take me to you, imprison me, for I, Except you enthrall me, never shall be free.”   We will look more deeply at our understanding of freedom, and reflect on how freedom in Christ is experienced and demonstrated on our daily lives.
The readings for Sunday are Galatians 5:1, 13-25 and Luke 9:51-62.   In the Time for All Ages I will be sharing Margaret Wise Brown’s story “Runaway Bunny”. I have called the sermon “Freedom Bound”
We will be celebrating the Sacrament of Holy Communion this Sunday, to move it away from the Canada Day long weekend.

CHILDREN AT CHURCH DURING THE SUMMER
Although the Sunday School has ended for the season, children are still welcome at church! We will have Activity Packs (look for the maroon nylon cases at the welcome table) which children can explore either in the sanctuary or in the lounge

SUMMER HOLIDAYS
I will be taking some holidays this summer, but the church will not be closing! I will be away from July 8 to August 5. During that time I will be attending the North American Interfaith Network Connect (conference and AGM) in Guadalajara, Mexico. Rebecca and I are delegates, Margery and Paul are going as tourists and we will all have some holiday time in Guadalajara after the conference. I will also have the opportunity to attend the 10 year reunion of Task Force Orion (TF 1-06), the Battle Group I served with in Afghanistan. We will also be spending some time in Regina and southern Saskatchewan.
For the time I am away, John P. and the M & P Committee have started to find some interesting people (live, not on video) to provide Sunday Supply. For pastoral concerns between Sundays, call Norma at the church office.

KEEP THE DATES – THURSDAY, AUGUST 18 AND FRIDAY, AUGUST 19
Spirit West Community Garage Sale: Table can be rented for $20 or you can donate items to a Spirit West Table.

RIDE TO CHURCH?
From time to time we encounter people who would like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because they do not have means of transportation. Can you give a ride? If you would be willing to make yourself available to provide a ride to church please call the church office. Do you need a ride? Would you like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because you have no ride, please call the church office.

Spirit West Prayer Chain
The Spirit West Prayer Chain is a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call the church office at 780-481-1406 and be directed to a person..

SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Our Website is at www.spiritwest.org .
Our Facebook page is  https://www.facebook.com/SpirtWestUnitedChurch

Office hours
- Monday to Friday 9:30 – 2:30
- Norma => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 9:30 am to 2:30 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

June 91, 2016 - Pentecost 5 - National Aboriginal Sunday and Father's Day

6/16/2016

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Greetings
This Sunday, the fifth after Pentecost, is another Sunday that marks a couple of significant dates. June 21 is National Aboriginal Day, and this Sunday is Aboriginal Sunday. While this will not be the focus of the service here on Sunday, it is nonetheless an important occasion to consider how we as a church and as individuals relate to our First Nations people. I would suggest that you take time on Tuesday to learn at least one new thing about our First Nations peoples and their history, because it is only through knowledge and understanding that we will be able to establish right relationships. Sunday is also Fathers’ Day, and we will briefly acknowledge this during the Time for All Ages. The main focus of the Service will be on the themes brought out by the Scripture readings for the day. In the reading from Galatians, Paul makes the radical statement that in Christ all divisions that mark his society are wiped away. All who follow the Way of Christ are equal. In the structured society of Paul’s day and even in our own day, recognizing the equality of those different from “us” can be very challenging. The Gospel story is that of the “Gerasene Demoniac.” He’s the fellow who lived naked among the tombs of the Gerasenes, and has the famous line that have even made it into video games, “I am Legion.” The story is not so much about encountering differences, but about responding in a different way than expected in order for healing to occur.
The readings for Sunday are Galatians 3:23-28 and Luke 8:26-29. In the Time for All Ages I will be looking at “Differences” using tea bags. I have called the sermon “That’s different.”

MEN’S BREAKFAST
The Men of Spirit West will be gathering for Breakfast this Saturday, June 18 at 8:00 am in the Lower Hall. Breakfast is open to any man who wants to come out for a great breakfast. As a note, each man usually put in $10 dollars, this covers the breakfast supplies and the surplus is put into a fund that offsets the cost of minor repairs around the church.

KEEP THE DATES – THURSDAY, AUGUST 18 AND FRIDAY, AUGUST 19
Spirit West Community Garage Sale: Table can be rented for $20 or you can donate items to a Spirit West Table.

RIDE TO CHURCH?
From time to time we encounter people who would like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because they do not have means of transportation. Can you give a ride? If you would be willing to make yourself available to provide a ride to church please call the church office. Do you need a ride? Would you like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because you have no ride, please call the church office.

Spirit West Prayer Chain
The Spirit West Prayer Chain is a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call the church office at 780-481-1406 and be directed to someone.

SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Our Website is at www.spiritwest.org .
Our Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/SpirtWestUnitedChurch

Office hours
- Monday to Friday 9:30 – 2:30
- Norma => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 9:30 am to 2:30 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

June 9, 2016 - Pentecost 4 - Union Sunday; Sunday School Picnic

6/9/2016

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Greetings
I’m back. This Sunday, the fourth after Pentecost, is special for a couple of reasons. One is that this is Union Sunday. Now that’s not Labour Union, but Church Union. Tomorrow, June 10th is the Ninety-first Anniversary of the formation of the United Church of Canada. WE will be acknowledging that on Sunday. This Sunday is also the Sunday when we as a Congregation celebrate our Sunday School. During the Time for All Ages we will recognize the children who have been our Sunday School, and we will thank those who have offered their time and talents to provide a Sunday School program that is loved by the children.

It has sometimes been said, usually by people outside the church, that the church is full of sinners. To quote a recent post I saw on Facebook, “It’s not full, there is always room for more.” In the gospel reading for Sunday, Jesus addresses the concerns of those at a dinner to which he has been invited about the behaviour of a women in their midst. She has come in off the street weeping carrying ointment. The story says that she bathed Jesus feet with her tears, dried them with her hair and anointed them with the ointment. The host, a man of some social standing, says to himself about Jesus,” If this man were a prophet he would know what kind of woman this is who is touching him – that she is a sinner.” Of course talking to yourself around Jesus is always risky. Jesus answers the man’s thoughts with a parable about the power of forgiveness. This story is followed by a very brief reference to Jesus ministry in the cities and villages. The scripture says that “the twelve” [disciples] were with him, as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities. The passage names three; Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, but adds “ and many others, who provided for them [Jesus and his followers] out of their resources.” Jesus is accompanied and financially supported by a group of independent women, many of whom seem to have what used to be euphemistically called “a past.” Jesus has shown them the great love of God, they have been forgiven. The women now show their great love by making it possible for Jesus to touch others as they themselves were touched. Jesus comments at one point, “the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little."

The readings for Sunday are Galatians 2:15-21 and Luke 7:36-8:3.   In the Time for All Ages we will be celebrating our Sunday School.” I have called the sermon “To show great love”

SUNDAY SCHOOL CELEBRATION AND BBQ – This Sunday
Alas, the Sunday School year is coming to an end.   Celebration of this event will occur this Sunday. During the church service there will be recognition given to all the students that have attended Sunday School this year. We will also recognize the wonderful teachers and their leadership.
After the service there will be a PICNIC outside, weather permitting, or inside if the weather is bad. There will be a yummy BBQ and lots of games. Please plan on    joining us for fabulous fun and food. (donations will be gratefully appreciated.)

What DOES the Minister Do?
Last Sunday during the Time for All Ages Lil K. asked the children, “What DOES the Minister Do?” I was not sure how this would go. I was not going to be there. Lil had told me that she might share with me the insights gained. She left me a note outlining some of the wisdom. I thought I would share it here, so that those like me, who were away last Sunday, might perhaps see ministry in a new light.
What does Larry do? – He tells stories about girls.
Do you remember where he is today? – Downtown – at MacDougall meeting with lawyers; Just lawyers? – No, ministers and lawyers.
What is his job? – Visit sick people. Do they ask him to come? – No, he just visits them.
So, he tells stories only about girls? – No, guys too, but there was a girl who walked a lot of miles to get a Bible and there were none left. [story from May 29] He tells jokes. Sometimes good ones.
Is Larry the most important person? Does he make the church? – No, we do! [from a 4 year old]

KEEP THE DATES – THURSDAY, AUGUST 18 AND FRIDAY, AUGUST 19
Spirit West Community Garage Sale: More details to follow.

RIDE TO CHURCH?
From time to time we encounter people who would like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because they do not have means of transportation. Can you give a ride? If you would be willing to make yourself available to provide a ride to church please call the church office. Do you need a ride? Would you like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because you have no ride, please call the church office.

Spirit West Prayer Chain
The Spirit West Prayer Chain is a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call Shannon F. at 780-481-5262, Marian T. at 780-487-2851 or Bonnie C. at 780-444-2230.

SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Our Website is at www.spiritwest.org .
Our Facebook page is  https://www.facebook.com/SpirtWestUnitedChurch

Office hours
- Monday to Friday 9:30 – 2:30
- Norma => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 9:30 am to 2:30 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

June 2, 2016 - Second Sunday of Pentecost - Recall Ministry

6/2/2016

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Greetings
At Spirit West this Sunday, the Second after Pentecost, the focus will be on the ReCall to Ministry. This Sunday is also the Sunday when Alberta and Northwest Conference of the United Church of Canada will be ordaining and commissioning new ministers for the church at a special Celebration of Ministry service at McDougall United Church. At the McDougall Service, the Conference will also be welcoming ministers from other denominations who wish to continue their ministry within the United Church of Canada. This weekend will also be the occasion of the Minster ReCall, a two day program for ministers in the Conference to connect with their colleagues and attend presentations by three theologians (but no business or reports, and no workshops, working groups, table groups or focus groups) The Conference has encouraged congregations to pick up on the theme of ReCall to Ministry in their own worship services this Sunday. What is “ministry” in the church. What role do the “ministers” play in this ministry and what role do you play. Can you recall your call to the church and the ways in which you have responded to that call. The readings for Sunday are Jeremiah 1:4-9 and John 13:2-17.   In the Time for All Ages the question will be asked “What DOES a Minister do?.” The Sermon will focus on “ReCall to Ministry”

SUNDAY SCHOOL CELEBRATION AND BBQ – Sunday, June 12
Alas, the Sunday School year is coming to an end.   Celebration of this event will occur on June 12th. During the church service there will be recognition given to all the students that have attended Sunday School this year. We will also recognize the wonderful teachers and their leadership. After the service there will be a PICNIC outside, weather permitting, or inside if the weather is bad. There will be a yummy BBQ and lots of games. Please plan on    joining us for fabulous fun and food. (donations will be gratefully appreciated.)

Free Drop-In Bike Safety Program – Wednesday, June 8
The Glastonbury Community League is offering a Free Drop-In Bike Safety Program which will take place in the Spirit West parking lot on Wednesday, June 8, 4:00-7:00 pm. Free and fun basic bike safety skills are the focus for participants of all ages on 2 wheels or 4 wheels! Children 5 and under require a parent or guardian to attend the program. Families are encouraged to participate. Participants must have their own bikes. A CSA approved helmet is mandatory for participation.

RIDE TO CHURCH? From time to time we encounter people who would like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because they do not have means of transportation. Can you give a ride? If you would be willing to make yourself available to provide a ride to church please call the church office. Do you need a ride? Would you like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because you have no ride, please call the church office.

  Spirit West Prayer Chain
The Spirit West Prayer Chain is a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call the church office at 780-481-1406 and you will be referred to someone.

SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Our Website is at www.spiritwest.org .
Our Facebook page is  https://www.facebook.com/SpirtWestUnitedChurch
Office hours
- Monday to Friday 9:30 – 2:30
- Norma => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 9:30 am to 2:30 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

June 30, 2016 - Pentecost 7 - Canada Day

June 23, 2016 - Pentecost 6

June 91, 2016 - Pentecost 5 - National Aboriginal Sunday and Father's Day

June 9, 2016 - Pentecost 4 - Union Sunday; Sunday School Picnic

June 2, 2016 - Second Sunday of Pentecost - Recall Ministry

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