Blog Archives

December 3, 2017 - Advent 1 with communion

11/30/2017

Greetings,
Check out the details of the projects from our Outreach Committee – Gift Giving with a Difference. And please note the details about our Christmas Concert – MORNING STAR on Dec. 10.

THIS SUNDAY
Our Story begins again. This Sunday is the first Sunday of the Christian Year. It is the First Sunday of Advent, a Season of Preparation. We begin to tell again the stories of our faith. And this Sunday we recognize that we are in an strange time. We know that Jesus has come, we have heard the stories before. We know that we are the church, called the Body of Christ, empowered by God. And yet we are still waiting. We know that everything in the world is not as it should be. We live in a world that is not fully redeemed. We still have work to do. Let us listen for something new in the old stories.
The readings for Sunday are Isaiah 64:1-9 and Mark 13: 24-27. The story in the Time for All Ages is “Let me see!,” and I have titled the sermon, “The Story begins again.”
Please see the next item about our Giving Sundays
We will be celebrating the Sacrament of Holy Communion at this Service.

GIFT GIVING WITH A DIFFERENCE – Spirit West Outreach
This weekend there will be a new table at church for you to stop by and visit - The Gift of Giving Table. We invite you to:

Giving Sundays (formerly White Gift) Purchase mitts, hats, scarves, hand warmers, etc., fill a stocking or buy a gift for a child using the Bissell Centre Festive Wishlist so you can place them under our Giving Tree on Dec 3rd or 10th (these items are for those who frequent the Jasper Place Wellness Centre & the Bissell Centre) - Pick up a Bissell Wishlist flyer at the Gift of Giving Table
Pick up a Gifts of Vision book, the United Church’s Mission and Service Gift Catalogue
Pick up information regarding volunteering opportunities - like being a Bissell Elf and gift wrapping at Southgate Mall, or preparing sandwiches for the Jasper Place, or helping with the Wellness Winter Warming meals

MORNING STAR CANTATA – Sunday, Dec. 10
The choir and musicians from Spirit West, as well as guest instrumentalists, will present MORNING STAR, the Christmas story of hope and promise. This musical and narrated message is appropriate for each of us at any stage of life’s journey, reminding us that in our own dark nights, Christ, the Light of the World, has come. An event you won’t want to miss! All donations will go toward upgrading our sound system. Come one; come all on Sunday, Dec. 10 at 6:30.

The Spirit West Women's Group Christmas Party
The Spirit West Women’s Group Christmas Party will be held Mon, Dec 10th at 6:00 pm in the Lower Hall of Spirit West Church. The dinner will cost dinner is $20 per person. All women are welcome - feel free to bring a friend! There is a sign- up sheet for the evening and money can be paid to Margery Wright. We will have laughs, games and a wacky gift exchange. For those who want to participate in the gift exchange, bring a wrapped gift with a value between $15 to $20 maximum (or something homemade!) and a recipe for a Christmas dinner side dish.

PRAYER CIRCLE
There is now a Spirit West Prayer Circle. We gather at the church on Thursday mornings at 10:30. We share a reading, share our stories or concerns, and pray. There is no “sign-up” for this, just come as you feel the need. If you are interested, join us on Thursdays.

CHALLENGES TO MOBILITY?
Spirit West has a Walker (Evolution Xpresso Lite) that is available for use at the church. The walker can also be borrowed by those whose mobility is temporarily challenged. For more information about the Walker, please contact the Church office (780-481-1406).

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. (780-481-1406)

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 or call Edina T. at 780-481-3508

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

Office hours
- Norma => 11 am to 4:00 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

November 26, 2017 - Reign of Christ Sunday

11/23/2017

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Greetings,
Check out the details of the projects from our Outreach Committee – Gift Giving with a Difference. And please note the details about our Christmas Concert – MORNING STAR.

THIS SUNDAY
This Sunday is the last Sunday of the Christian Year. It is Reign of Christ Sunday (at one time called Christ the King). The emphasis of this Sunday is in part on the global impact that the followers of Christ can have in the world. That impact can be both positive and negative. But in the Gospel reading for Sunday, the followers of Christ are just part of humanity. In the Gospel reading we hear a story of judgement. All the nations are gathered before the “Son of Man.” And when the Bible says “all the nations,” it means “everyone, all humanity.” The people are then divided into two groups. One group is invited to “inherit the kingdom.” The other “will go into eternal punishment.” The difference between the two groups is how they responded to those in need. That’s it. There is no question about political or religious affiliation, there is no means test. The only thing that is asked is, “Did you help those in need?” It seems so simple, but is often so hard to do. As those who often pray, “thy will be done,” do we consider ourselves part of the way in which this can happen.
The readings for Sunday are Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 and Matthew 25: 31-46. The story in the Time for All Ages is “I’m a superhero,” and I have titled the sermon, “Thy will be done.”

NOVEMBER IS STEWARDSHIP MONTH
On the Sundays throughout November, we will be hearing from people of this congregation as they share brief stories about the significance of Spirit West in their lives. A proposed Narrative Budget and a Pledge Form was attached to last week’s eMessage. The Pledge Form has two sides, one outlines opportunities to participate in various activities and programs of the church. The other side asks you to consider you financial support of this work. . Please prayerfully consider your stewardship, and respond as you are able. After Church on Sunday, November 26 we will mark the completion of our Stewardship Campaign (I hope there will be cake) We ask that you return your Pledge Form to the Church as soon as possible.

GIFT GIVING WITH A DIFFERENCE – Spirit West Outreach
This weekend there will be a new table at church for you to stop by and visit - The Gift of Giving Table. We invite you to:

Purchase mitts, hats, scarves, hand warmers, etc. (these items are for those who frequent the Jasper Place Wellness Centre & the Bissell Centre) so you can place them under our Giving Tree on Dec 3rd or 10th.
Pick up a Festive Wishlist flyer from Bissell regarding their need for stockings (men and ladies) and gifts for children
Pick up a Gifts of Vision book, the United Church’s Mission and Service Gift Catalogue
Pick up information regarding volunteering opportunities - like being a Bissell Elf and gift wrapping at Southgate Mall, or preparing sandwiches for the Jasper Place, or helping with the Wellness Winter Warming meals

MORNING STAR CANTATA – Sunday, Dec. 6
The choir and musicians from Spirit West, as well as guest instrumentalists, will present MORNING STAR, the Christmas story of hope and promise. This musical and narrated message is appropriate for each of us at any stage of life’s journey, reminding us that in our own dark nights, Christ, the Light of the World, has come. An event you won’t want to miss! All donations will go toward upgrading our sound system. Come one; come all on Sunday, Dec. 10 at 6:30.

PRAYER CIRCLE
There is now a Spirit West Prayer Circle. We gather at the church on Thursday mornings at 10:30. We share a reading, share our stories or concerns, and pray.   There is no “sign-up” for this, just come as you feel the need. If you are interested, join us on Thursdays.

CHALLENGES TO MOBILITY?
Spirit West has a Walker (Evolution Xpresso Lite) that is available for use at the church. The walker can also be borrowed by those whose mobility is temporarily challenged. For more information about the Walker, please contact the Church office (780-481-1406).

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. (780-481-1406)

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 or call Edina T. at 780-481-3508

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

Office hours
- Norma => 11 am to 4:00 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

November 16, 2019 - Pentecost 24 with the sacrament of Baptism and the Fall Congregational Meeting

11/16/2017

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Greetings,
There is a lot going on this Sunday: Baptism, Congregational Meeting, deadline for ordering Cinnamon Buns and Croissants… See the details below.

THIS SUNDAY

When someone asks us if we have any talents, we generally do not think that they are asking for investment capital. But at one time, a talent was a measure of precious metal, some have estimated that one talent was about 58.9 kg of silver and could be worth 6,000 denarii. In the reading for Sunday we hear the parable of the talents. It is a story of investment. Slaves are given talents and expected to do something with them. Now remember that a talent is worth a lot. The master is not just giving them some loose change for a bit of fun. The level of investment varies between the slaves, and the reaction of the master also varies. It is from this parable that the English language got the word talent. And it is from a broader reading of this parable that the current meaning of talent; a skill or ability is derived. I did not pick this Gospel because November is our Stewardship month. It is actually the Lectionary reading for this Sunday. Let us hear what the Spirit is saying to the church.
The readings for Sunday are Psalm 78:1-7 and Matthew 25: 14-30. I have titled the sermon, “God given talents”
At this service we will be welcoming a new member of the family of God through Baptism.

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – This Sunday, November 19
The will be a Congregational Meeting of Spirit West United Church this Sunday, November 19, 2017 following the Service. The meeting has two purposes, the main one is to elect the Members of the Spirit West Board who will serve the Congregation in 2018. This is very important to the ongoing work of the Congregation. We will also get a first glance at our 2018 Congregational Budget. This is just a preliminary look, as the final Budget will be passed at a Congregational Meeting in February. It is important that as many of you as possible attend this meeting.

NOVEMBER IS STEWARDSHIP MONTH
On the Sundays throughout November, we will be hearing from people of this congregation as they share brief stories about the significance of Spirit West in their lives. A proposed Narrative Budget and a Pledge Form was attached to last week’s eMessage. The Pledge Form has two sides, one outlines opportunities to participate in various activities and programs of the church. The other side asks you to consider you financial support of this work. . Please prayerfully consider your stewardship, and respond as you are able. After Church on Sunday, November 26 we will mark the completion of our Stewardship Campaign (I hope there will be cake) We ask that you return your Pledge Form to the Church by December 31 if possible.

Croissants and Cinnamon Buns – orders are due this Sunday.
The Spirit West Women’s Group is once again selling frozen unbaked Croissants and Cinnamon Buns. To place an order, call Diane L. (780-444-0284) or Carol C. at 780-419-3224 or talk to them on Sunday. Please have your orders in by this Sunday, November 19th.   Our prices this year remain at $8.00/dozen for the croissants and $8.00/half dozen for the cinnamon buns. The date for pick-up will be Wednesday December 6th from 3-5 pm if possible.

PRAYER CIRCLE
There is now a Spirit West Prayer Circle. We gather at the church on Thursday mornings at 10:30. We share a reading, share our stories or concerns, and pray.   There is no “sign-up” for this, just come as you feel the need. If you are interested, join us on Thursdays.

CHALLENGES TO MOBILITY?
Spirit West has a Walker (Evolution Xpresso Lite) that is available for use at the church. The walker can also be borrowed by those whose mobility is temporarily challenged. For more information about the Walker, please contact the Church office (780-481-1406).

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. (780-481-1406)

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 or call Edina T. at 780-481-3508

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

Office hours
- Norma => 11 am to 4:00 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

November 9, 2017 - Pentecost 23 - Rodeo Sunday

11/9/2017

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Greetings,
As you read this eMessage, please take note that November is Stewardship Month, and there is a Congregational Meeting on November 19, see below.

THIS SUNDAY – Rodeo Sunday
Following Spirit West tradition, this Sunday is Rodeo Sunday. It coincides with the presence of the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton. So in keeping with that tradition, you might want to deck yourself in your western finery for the service. The Scripture readings for the Service are taken from the Common Lectionary, the list of readings that I normally use from Sunday to Sunday. This Sunday’s readings point to being prepared. In the picture that is at the beginning of this message we see a kneeling cowboy. We expect that he is praying that he does well and remains safe in his event. But we also probably realize that he is not depending on prayer alone. He has practiced his event over and over again. He is properly dressed with his heavy chaps. He is prepared. In the Gospel for this Sunday, Jesus talks about ten women, described in English as bridesmaids who are waiting for the bridegroom. Half of them considered the possibility that the bridegroom might arrive late in the evening, and were prepared with lamps and flasks of extra oil, the other half had lamps which ran out of oil before the bridegroom arrived, which was at midnight. By the time the second group found more oil for their lamps, the bridegroom had arrived, and been taken to the wedding venue by the bridesmaids who were prepared. The door was shut. Sometimes, simply waiting and praying are not enough.
The readings for Sunday are Psalm 78:1-7 and Matthew 25: 1-13. In the Time for All Ages, we will look at “Surprise!”. I have titled the sermon, “Are you ready?”

CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – Sunday, November 19
The will be a Congregational Meeting of Spirit West United Church on Sunday, November 19, 2017 following the Service. This meeting has two purposes, the main one is to elect the Members of the Spirit West Board who will serve the Congregation in 2018. This is very important to the ongoing work of the Congregation. We will also get a first glance at our 2018 Congregational Budget. This is just a preliminary look, as the final Budget will be passed at a Congregational Meeting in February. It is important that as many of you as possible attend this meeting.

NOVEMBER IS STEWARDSHIP MONTH
It would be wonderful if a church like Spirit West could be run on faith alone. But alas it cannot. For us to survive and thrive we need the time, talent and treasure of you who consider Spirit West to be your church. During the month of November we are asking you to consider the ways that you can support the ongoing work of this church. On the Sundays throughout November, we will be hearing from people of this congregation as they share brief stories about the significance of Spirit West in their lives. A proposed Narrative Budget and a Pledge Form are attached to this email. The Pledge Form has two sides, one outlines opportunities to participate in various activities and programs of the church. The other side asks you to consider you financial support of this work. . Please prayerfully consider your stewardship, and respond as you are able. We ask that you return your Pledge Form to the Church by November 26 if possible.

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS
Spirit West will be taking orders for Christmas poinsettias from now until next Tuesday, November 14, with delivery to the church on about December 15. We ask that you allow your poinsettia to be displayed at the front of the church for two Sundays, December 18 and 24, and then take it home or to a friend to enjoy. Poinsettias come in three sizes: 6" pot for $17, 8" pot for $30, or a 10" pot for $41 (same prices as last year).   Contact Margery W. (780 419 3224, wrightlk@telus.net) for details and to order.

PRAYER CIRCLE
There is now a Spirit West Prayer Circle. We gather at the church on Thursday mornings at 10:30. We share a reading, share our stories or concerns, and pray.   There is no “sign-up” for this, just come as you feel the need. If you are interested, join us on Thursdays.

CHALLENGES TO MOBILITY?
Spirit West has a Walker (Evolution Xpresso Lite) that is available for use at the church. The walker can also be borrowed by those whose mobility is temporarily challenged. For more information about the Walker, please contact the Church office (780-481-1406).

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. (780-481-1406)

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 or call Edina T. at 780-481-3508

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

Office hours
- Norma => 11 am to 4:00 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

November 2, 2017 - Pentecost 22 - All Saints' Day and Remembrance Sunday

11/2/2017

0 Comments

Greetings,
Please take special note that MESSY CHURCH is this Saturday! See the details below. Also take note that November is Stewardship Month, again see below.

THIS SUNDAY – Remembrance Sunday
This Sunday is all about remembering. It is the Sunday between the Feasts of All Saints and All Souls (Nov 1 and 2) and Remembrance Day (Nov11), and it is also the first Sunday of the month. The focus of All Saints is to remember and give thanks to God for all those in the world and in our lives, past and present, who have maintained the Christian faith and have acted as witnesses and guides along our journeys of faith. While in the United Church we do not recognize saints in the formal way that some denominations do, we can recall that Paul (Saint Paul) addressed all of the Christian faithful as saints. The purpose of All Souls is to remember and give thanks for all who have died (the saints, the sinners and those who are both). Of course in Canada and the Commonwealth, Remembrance Day is set aside to remember the human cost of war, the military personnel and civilians killed in armed conflicts, those fighting for a better world. And on the first Sunday of the month, at Spirit West we celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion, in which Jesus says to us, “Do this in remembrance of me.”
The readings for Sunday are Ephesians 6: 10-17and John 15: 9-13. In the Time for All Ages, we will look at “Mnemonics.” (A great word that means things that help you remember, the first “M” is silent). I have titled the sermon, “Do this in remembrance.”

MESSY CHURCH – This Saturday, November 4
We are having a Messy Church this Saturday, November 4 from 4-6 pm. The theme for this Messy Church will be Remembrance and Peace. We will learn about our symbols of Remembrance, and we will be reminded of the Christian call to be peace makers in our world. There will be stories, and crafts and dinner. It’s for the whole family. Children should bring their parents or grandparents. Bring friends as well! See you then! In order to have the right amount of craft supplies and food for dinner, please let us know if you are coming to MESSY CHURCH (and how many) Phone or email the church, or message us on Facebook.

NOVEMBER IS STEWARDSHIP MONTH
It would be wonderful if a church like Spirit West could be run on faith alone. But alas it cannot. For us to survive and thrive we need the time, talent and treasure of you who consider Spirit West to be your church. During the month of November we are asking you to consider the ways that you can support the ongoing work of this church. On the Sundays throughout November, we will be hearing from people of this congregation as they share brief stories about the significance of Spirit West in their lives. Attached to this eMessage is a pledge form. The pledge form has two sides, one outlines opportunities to participate in various activities and programs of the church. The other side asks you to consider you financial support of this work. Please prayerfully consider your stewardship, and respond as you are able.

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS
Spirit West will be taking orders for Christmas poinsettias from now until November 14, with delivery to the church on about December 15. We ask that you allow your poinsettia to be displayed at the front of the church for two Sundays, December 18 and 24, and then take it home or to a friend to enjoy. Poinsettias come in three sizes: 6" pot for $17, 8" pot for $30, or a 10" pot for $41 (same prices as last year).   Contact Margery W. (780 419 3224, wrightlk@telus.net) for details and to order.

LADIES GROUP CRAFT NIGHT – Monday, November 6
The ladies of Spirit West will be gathering for a Craft Night on Monday, November 6 at 7:00 pm. We will be making a craft for each person to take home from our Christmas dinner (even if you don’t come to the Craft Night. The crafts will be suitable for all ages and abilities. Each lady is asked to bring a pair of tweezers (not you best ones, the may get glue on them!) The cost is $3 per person and will be collected at the Craft Night. There is a sign-up sheet on the credenza by the office. You are also asked to bring a favourite recipe for Christmas baking.

PRAYER CIRCLE
There is now a Spirit West Prayer Circle. We gather at the church on Thursday mornings at 10:30. We share a reading, share our stories or concerns, and pray.   There is no “sign-up” for this, just come as you feel the need. If you are interested, join us on Thursdays.

CHALLENGES TO MOBILITY?
Spirit West has a Walker (Evolution Xpresso Lite) that is available for use at the church. The walker can also be borrowed by those whose mobility is temporarily challenged. For more information about the Walker, please contact the Church office (780-481-1406).

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. (780-481-1406)

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 or call Edina T. at 780-481-3508
SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Our Website is at www.spiritwest.org .
Our Facebook page is  https://www.facebook.com/SpirtWestUnitedChurch
Office hours
- Norma => 11 am to 4:00 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

December 3, 2017 - Advent 1 with communion

November 26, 2017 - Reign of Christ Sunday

November 16, 2019 - Pentecost 24 with the sacrament of Baptism and the Fall Congregational Meeting

November 9, 2017 - Pentecost 23 - Rodeo Sunday

November 2, 2017 - Pentecost 22 - All Saints' Day and Remembrance Sunday

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