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May 28, 2023 - Pentecost

5/25/2023

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SUNDAY, MAY 28th – Pentecost
 
Hello Friends,
 I know that this is a heavy time for Spirit West United Church, but I hope to help you see the amazing potential in this moment. 
 
Let’s travel back to be with Jesus’ disciples five weeks after his death.  He is risen and seen amongst them, and then he is gone, ascended into heaven.
 
What will Jesus’ legacy be?  What will happen to his followers and his dream of the Kingdom of Heaven?
You can read the story in Acts 2:1-21
 
Travel again with me friends, 40 years into the future of the early church, when they were still a part of the synagogues.  The elders in the church remember Jesus, and many still remember Peter and Paul who had both been martyred about 15 years prior.
 
The temple in Jerusalem has been the symbol of God’s presence with the Jewish people.  Priests carried out ancient traditions.  The temple had once before been destroyed, and now it was rebuilt and had served as a tourist attraction in Jerusalem, along with being the physical presence that indicated the spiritual presence of God.
 
The Roman army has surrounded Jerusalem, and after several years, flattened it.  The word travelled quickly through the synagogues that the temple was destroyed.  What would be the legacy of the people of God?  How would their faith survive?   
 
The physician (Luke) who had travelled with Paul researched and wrote down the gospels and the book of Acts in the wake of Jerusalem’s destruction.  (Matthew was written at about the same time).
 
The Holy Spirit came upon the church in a new way in these times of transition, and we are still talking about it today.
 
44 years ago, some people came together with an idea for a United Church serving in Edmonton’s West end.  In the next little while, you will be working with the Holy Spirit to decide what the legacy of that church will be.
 
OK, you read this far, now you get a joke from the internet
Thanks for Sending a Professional—Most unlikely person
As I was gathering my sermon, I couldn’t help thinking about a story of a little girl who was home alone and ill.  She called her mother at work and told her, “Momma, I need you and I need you really bad.”  This mother asked to get off work and frantically rushed down to the corner drug store to bring home some medicine.  She notices it was beginning to rain, but she thought she would just “run in and out” to get the medicine for her sick little girl.  When she came back to her car, she noticed something quite different.  You guessed it…she had locked her keys in the car.  She ran inside to get help from the employees but none of them seemed to know what to do and finally gave her a clothes hanger and said, “good luck!” 
 
She ran back to her can, frantically trying to get the door open.  The more she tried, the harder it rained and suddenly, it came down what we call, “an old fashion gully-washer”.  Out of desperation, she cried out “Lord, I need your help and I need you right now!” Suddenly, an old pickup pulled right next to her.  She looked up and saw this man approaching her.  He was dirty, had a dew rag on top of his head with scars and tattoos all over his body, one in which you wouldn’t want to come across, especially alone.  Without thinking she embraced this man and said, “Sir, could you possibly help me.  My daughter is sick at home, and I have to get this medicine to her as soon as possible and I have locked my keys in the car.” 
 
Within a minute or two, this man successfully unlocked her car. Out of joy, she grabbed this man, giving him a huge hug, and said, “you’re such a nice man.”  The man pushed her away and said, “no, ma’am, I am not!  You see, I have just escaped from prison, and I steal cars for a living!”  Without any hesitation, this woman looked up toward heaven and said, “Thanks, God, for sending a professional!!!”
  (Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
Congregational Meeting re FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES- Sunday, May 28 – The church board met this month and discussed the very serious concerns about our congregation’s future. The reality is that our financial position requires that we need to make some difficult decisions.  These options will be discussed at our congregational meeting on May 28.  A vote will then be taken on June 4th after worship.
 
Basic choices for the Spirit West future:
1.  We find money to carry on (current cash flow analysis, based on current donations, show that we will not be able to pay our bills by Dec 31, 2023)
     a. Everyone double their givings
     b. we find a Benefactor
     c. we do a Capital Campaign
     d.  ??
2.  We sell and:
     a. Rent somewhere else
     b. Amalgamate
     c. Buy a smaller property for worship
     d. Close the church  
Please come ready to discuss these options and ask questions.  
 
Come, help us MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE at 7:00 on Friday, June 2!  HarpBeat Plus One (5 harps and 1 flute) will be joining the Spirit West Choir to present an evening of joyful music for your pleasure!  Be sure to bring a friend — invite them to enjoy vocal and instrumental music presented within the warm and welcoming faith community here at Spirit West.  Donations will be accepted to assist the ministry of Spirit West — suggested minimum donation per adult is $15.00.  Donations $20.00 or more will be given a tax receipt.
 
FLOWER BASKETS – we are going to have blossoms beautifying the front porch of the church again this summer.  This is a wonderful place for plants to grow. However, they do need to be watered. We are hoping that someone will consider giving them a good drink once or twice a week, depending on the weather. If you could do this, please call or email Norma at the church office
 
GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? – Join us in using cunning stealth and covert organization, to surprise our phenomenal Spirit West chefs.  Only at the ring of their doorbell, should they discover who will join them for dinner on their chosen night of gastronomical delights!! This fund-raiser for the church will take place in the next few months! It is a terrific time to enjoy a fabulous meal and fellowship. Those who wish to host a dinner are asked to contact Bill C 780-481-2662 or Sheila H at 780-960-3878 or  signup at the church. Hosts need to indicate the dates and times of their dinners and the number of guests they will be hosting. If there is a theme for the evening, this should also be provided.  Guests will have the opportunity to select where they will dine and to provide any dietary restrictions to the conveners (who will secretly pass on the information to the hosts).  A free will offering, in envelopes, will be collected by the host.  A minimum offering of $25.00 per person is suggested. Please plan on attending one of these sensational evening parties and generously supporting our church.
 
LADIES’ GROUP POTLUCK SUPPER – 5:30pm, June 6 at Marj H’s house. A signup sheet is available at the back or email the office and I will sign you up!
  • with suggestions for the potluck
  • with the address
Come and enjoy good company and great food!
 
LEADERS for May 28
  • Hospitality Team – Hemmerling – Georgina, Doreen, Rhea, Glenna
  • Scripture Reader – Paul F
  • Projectionist – Rebecca W
 
LEADERS for June 4
  • Hospitality Team – Sather – Ramona, Isobel, Colleen, Diane H
  • Scripture Reader – Rhea
  • Projectionist – Terri-Lynn, Sara
 
DATES TO REMEMBER
  • Make a Joyful Noise concert – Fri, June 2
  • Congregational Meeting – Sun, June 4
  • Women’s Group Potluck supper – Tues, June 6
  • Sunday School Picnic – Sun, June 11
  • Eli’s last Sunday preaching – June 18
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH – May 29-June 4
  • Mon, May 29 – Alberta Election Polling Station – 7:30am – 10:00 pm
  • Tues, May 30, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Wed, May 31, 6-9pm – Church of Christ service
  • Thurs, June 1, 8am – 10pm – set up for concert
  • Thurs, June 1, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice
  • Fri, June 2, 8am-7pm - set up for concert
  • Fri, June 2,7-9pm - concert
  • Fri, June 2, 9:30-10:30pm - set up for Church of Christ service
  • Sat, June 3, 7am - noon – Church of Christ service
  • Sun, June 4, 11:45 am – Congregational meeting
  
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
  
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • PAR - Pre-Authorized Remittance is a direct debit program run by the United Church of Canada. It allows people to support their church through an automatic monthly withdrawal from their bank account. It follows the giver's wishes (give to local, M&S, etc.). If you wish to go on PAR, please the fill out the form on the literature carousel and give the form and a cheque marked “void” to the church office.  We will do the rest! If you wish to change your PAR amount, contact the office and we will make the change for you.
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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
  
Thank you,
 Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org
 
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May 14, 2023 - Mother's Day / Christian Family Sunday

5/11/2023

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SUNDAY, MAY 14 – MOTHER’S DAY or CHRISTIAN FAMILY SUNDAY
Hello friends and family in Christ
 
This coming Sunday is Christian Family Sunday.
 
It feels like a strange sort of thing to celebrate lined up with Mothers’ Day, but it does give us a different way to think about who we are as a church.
 
When I say Christian Family Sunday I don’t mean a Sunday for families (or households) who are Christian, I mean a Sunday for our whole Christian family.  As a church, we are called to be like relatives for each other in the best way possible.  We are each other’s siblings, grandparents, aunties and nephews, supporting each other and cheering each other on.
 
I grew up in the church, as I know many of you did.  Do you remember the church family of your childhood?  Were they a good, loving supportive family, or were they a bit (or a lot) dysfunctional?
 
I remember how the ladies of the church looked after me and fussed over me as a small child like having a crowd of loving grandmas and aunties all around.  I couldn’t name them, yet there they were making sure I always got my cup of juice after church.  A cloud of family and friends.
 
This week our scripture is a part of how Jesus says goodbye to his disciples.  A challenging one for me at this time, but I feel like I want to tell all of you the same sorts of things as Jesus tells his disciples.  He keeps telling them over and over again to love one another, and then he promises them that they will not be alone, another helper is being sent to them.
 
The other helper who is sent to the first Christians is sent to us as well, the Holy Spirit.  It’s hard to figure out how to say in English what John says in Greek that Jesus said.  Paraclete – like the bird with an extra L.  The word means both advocate and comforter.  (John 14:15-21.)
 
When I hear Comforter, that brings me back to my church ladies – and their quilts.  In the many ways we come together and create communities of love and support, the quilting and scrapbooking, the coffee chats and community groups we are a part of, whether or not they are a part of any ‘church’, we are building Jesus’ dream of communities held together by love.
 
An advocate and comforter – One of the first of these that many of us meet who fits that description is a mother – our own or someone else’s.  May we all be a source of love, support and advocacy for each other.
 
Our other scripture will come from the book of Acts as Paul helps the Athenians to see how God has been with them, around and between them without them even knowing it.  God is the one in whom we live and move and have our being.  Acts 17:22-31
 
The children will be presenting flowers to the women of the church.
 
If you wonder how my family manages Mother’s and Father’s day – Jen gets Mother’s Day, I get Father’s day. 
 
(Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING - Sunday, May 28 – The church board met this past Wednesday and discussed the very serious concerns about our congregation’s future. The reality is that our financial position requires that we need to make some difficult decisions.  The board is finalizing some options to bring before you at our congregational meeting on the 28th of May.  There will be more information in the 18th of May email message as well as the announcements next Sunday
 
Come, help us MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE at 7:00 on Friday, June 2!  HarpBeat Plus One (5 harps and 1 flute) will be joining the Spirit West Choir to present an evening of joyful music for your pleasure!  Be sure to bring a friend — invite them to enjoy vocal and instrumental music presented within the warm and welcoming faith community here at Spirit West.  Donations will be accepted to assist the ministry of Spirit West — suggested minimum donation per adult is $15.00.  Donations $20.00 or more will be given a tax receipt.
 
HANGING BASKETS – we are going to have blossoms beautifying the front porch of the church again this summer.  This is a wonderful place for plants to grow. However, they do need to be watered. We are hoping that someone will consider giving them a good drink once or twice a week, depending on the weather. If you could do this, please call or email Norma at the church office
 
GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? – Join us in using cunning stealth and covert organization, to surprise our phenomenal Spirit West chefs.  Only at the ring of their doorbell, should they discover who will join them for dinner on their chosen night of gastronomical delights!! This fund-raiser for the church will take place in the next few months! It is a terrific time to enjoy a fabulous meal and fellowship. Those who wish to host a dinner are asked to contact Bill C 780-481-2662 or Sheila H at 780-960-3878 or  signup at the church. Hosts need to indicate the dates and times of their dinners and the number of guests they will be hosting. If there is a theme for the evening, this should also be provided.  Guests will have the opportunity to select where they will dine and to provide any dietary restrictions to the conveners (who will secretly pass on the information to the hosts).  A free will offering, in envelopes, will be collected by the host.  A minimum offering of $25.00 per person is suggested. Please plan on attending one of these sensational evening parties and generously supporting our church.
 
MEN’S BREAKFAST, 8:30 AM. Sat, May 20
Gather with other men of the congregation in the Lower Hall for fellowship and a breakfast of pancakes, sausages and eggs.  Come a few minutes early and help cook if you would like. All men welcome!
 
LADIES’ GROUP POTLUCK SUPPER – 5:30pm, June 6 at Marg H’s house. A signup sheet is available at the back or email the office and I will sign you up!
  • with suggestions for the potluck
  • with the address
Come and enjoy good company and great food!
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH – May 15-22
  • Mon, May 15, 6-8:30pm – Embers
  • Tues, May 16, 7-9pm – Shores AGM
  • Tues, May 16, 9-10pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Wed, May 17, 6-9pm – Church of Christ service
  • Thurs, May 18, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice
  • Fri, May 19, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Sat, May 20, 7am - noon – Church of Christ service
  • Sat, May 20, 8:30-10am – Men’s breakfast
  • Sun, May 21, 10:30 am – our service led by David Faber
  • Sun, May 21, 1-3pm – Soul Harvesters Ministries service
  • Mon, May 22 – office closed all day
 
LEADERS for May 14
  • Hospitality Team – Ludlow – Diane L, Norma, Carol & Bruce S
  • Scripture Reader – Diane L
  • Projectionist – Bruce C
 
LEADERS for May 21
  • Hospitality Team – Doyle – Don & Daphne, Cathy & David, Tony
  • Scripture Reader – Rhea O
  • Projectionist – Rebecca W
 
LEADERS for May 28
  • Hospitality Team – Hemmerling – Georgina, Doreen, Rhea, Glenna
  • Scripture Reader – Paul F
  • Projectionist – Terri-Lynn & Sara
 
DATES TO REMEMBER:
  • Men’s Breakfast – 8:30am, Sat May 13
  • Congregational Meeting – after worship, Sun, May 28
  • Make a Joyful Noise concert – 7pm, Fri, June 2
  • Ladies Group Potluck Supper – June 6
  • Church School Picnic – June 11
 
OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES
  • An invitation to Edmonton and Area UCs (clergy and lay) to gather, to share, around the health and viability of their Community of Faith.  May 27th at McDougall UC, 10 am-2pm. Come have conversation about resources, both people and money, leadership, administration and… What consumes your energy now? What is happening with leadership both clergy and lay? Are there ways we can share resources, both human and otherwise around the tasks of work we all need to do? and then “What’s Next?” Bring your own lunch. Coffee, tea, snacks and parking will be provided. RSVP to McDougall UC 780-428-1818 or finance@McDougallUnited.com by May 19th.
  • Older, Bolder, BetterTM Seniors Exhibition & Symposium, Thursday, June 8, Westend Seniors Activity Centre, 9629 176 st, Edmonton. Entertainment by Bob Layton
  • St. Stephen's College Fundraising Gala - Friday, June 16, 5-10pm, JW Marriott Ice District - 10344 102 St NW, Edmonton. Featuring live painting by Giselle Denis, live entertainment, guest speakers & silent auction - $250 per person, or $2000 per table of 8. A deductible charitable tax receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket price after the event
  • Community & Connection – 2SLGBTQ1A+ and Advocacy Conference, June 22-24, Robertson-Wesley UC, 10209-123 St. Bringing together those who do work in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to share their challenges and experiences with each other and the greater community. More information at www.communityandconnection.com  
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
  
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • PAR - Pre-Authorized Remittance is a direct debit program run by the United Church of Canada. It allows people to support their church through an automatic monthly withdrawal from their bank account. It follows the giver's wishes (give to local, M&S, etc.). If you wish to go on PAR, please the fill out the form on the literature carousel and give the form and a cheque marked “void” to the church office.  We will do the rest! If you wish to change your PAR amount, contact the office and we will make the change for you.
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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
  
Thank you,
 Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org
 
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April 30, 2023 - Fourth Sunday of Easter

4/27/2023

0 Comments

 
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Sunday, April 30, 2023 – Fourth Sunday of Easter

Greetings in Christ, our hope and our strength,
 
I am holding all of you in prayer as I walk these next two months with you.  I hope to see you catch a glimpse of where God is calling you as a church together through whatever changes may come.
 
I am with you as the pain and shock of my departure ripples through the community.  I know that this is a difficult time. 
 
These next few weeks are busy for me with a lot of in and out of the office.  Next week I’ll be at the regional gathering (Conference Meeting) in Camrose for 5 days.  The week after, I’m back in the office, then on study leave from May 15-21.   If you are wanting to talk with me one on one while I am still with you, please take a moment to contact me and set up a time.  I will also make sure to have some time back on the church porch now that it is getting warmer.
 
During the season of Easter, we read from the book of Acts in the Christian scriptures rather than from the Hebrew scriptures, and we learn a bit about the early church.  There was a short time, a Camelot moment, when everyone in the early church shared everything in common.  (Acts 2:42-47)  The wealthy sold their possessions to give money to the poor.  That moment didn’t last terribly long, but it does help us to imagine what is possible, and challenges us to reconsider how we share what we have.  It will also be the topic of children’s time.
 
Spirit West is going to benefit from all of you being willing to both share what you have and receive what others offer.  The need for material resources is real, but I am actually thinking more about ideas, wisdom and energy.    The way things have been will no longer be possible, but a new future awaits.  What will that future be? It’s up to you to decide.  Bring your ideas and your openness to the ideas of others.  Listen to the voices from the edges, they often hold much wisdom.
 
The other scripture for this week is Psalm 23.  These often memorized words offer comfort in times of transition.  God cares for us with love, and leads us to what we most need.
 
 (Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
ADVENTURING WORSHIP – SUNDAY, MAY 7 - Have you ever wondered how other worship services in other churches are conducted? This is your chance to choose another church that you would like to visit. On May 7th, Eli will be away at the Northern Spirit Regional Council Conference along with all the other United Church ministers in the Region. Coincidently, it also happens that our music leaders are away that Sunday as well so there will be NO service at Spirit West. Instead, you are encouraged to worship anywhere else and then we hope that you will report back on what you observed and experienced. Perhaps you’ll see and experience other ways of greeting people when they arrive, different ways of extending hospitality, different order in the service, interesting decorations, different musical presentations / participation, interesting ways of praying, Sunday School observations, ideas for fund-raising, interesting ways of using technology, etc.
 
There is a “cheat sheet” available at the back or by email from the office on which you can record observations. These sheets can be dropped off at the church or you can attend the “Reflection Conversation” at 2:30pm, May 9th in the lounge. 
 
There is a sheet on the credenza by the office for signing up to be a driver and a sheet for those who need a ride or would like to car pool. Safe driving and Happy Adventuring.
 
GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? – Join us in using cunning stealth and covert organization, to surprise our phenomenal Spirit West chefs.  Only at the ring of their doorbell, should they discover who will join them for dinner on their chosen night of gastronomical delights!! This fund-raiser for the church will take place in the next few months! It is a terrific time to enjoy a fabulous meal and fellowship. Those who wish to host a dinner are asked to contact Bill C 780-481-2662 or Sheila H at 780-960-3878 or  signup at the church. Hosts need to indicate the dates and times of their dinners and the number of guests they will be hosting. If there is a theme for the evening, this should also be provided.  Guests will have the opportunity to select where they will dine and to provide any dietary restrictions to the conveners (who will secretly pass on the information to the hosts).  A free will offering, in envelopes, will be collected by the host.  A minimum offering of $25.00 per person is suggested. Please plan on attending one of these sensational evening parties and generously supporting our church.
 
LADIES’ GROUP POTLUCK SUPPER – 5:30pm, June 6 at Marg H’s house. A signup sheet is available at the back
  • with suggestions for the potluck
  • with the address
Come and enjoy good company and great food!
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH – May 1-13
  • Mon, May 1 & 8, 6-8:30pm – Embers
  • Tues, May 2 & 9, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Wed, May 3 & 10, 6-9pm – Church of Christ service
  • Wed, May 10, 7-9pm – Board Meeting via ZOOM
  • Thurs, May 4 & 11, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice
  • Fri, May 5 & 12, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Sat, May 6 & 13, 7am - noon – Church of Christ service
 
LEADERS for April 30
  • Hospitality Team – Sather – Ramona, Isobel, Colleen, Diane H
  • Scripture Reader – Bill C
  • Projectionist – Terri-Lynn / Sara
 
LEADERS for May 14
  • Hospitality Team – Ludlow – Diane L, Norma, Bruce & Carol
  • Scripture Reader – Diane L
  • Projectionist – Bruce C
 
DATES TO REMEMBER:
         Adventuring Sunday – May 7 – no service at Spirit West; enjoy a service elsewhere
         Board Meeting, Wed, May 10, 7pm – via ZOOM
         Ladies Group Potluck Supper – June 6
         Church School Picnic – June 11
 
OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES
  • Chalmers-Castledowns UC SPRING CRAFT MARKET. Sat, May 13, 10am-3pm. This fundraiser supports the life & work on the church in North West Edmonton
  • An invitation to Edmonton and Area UCs (clergy and lay) to gather, to share, around the health and viability of their Community of Faith.  May 27th at McDougall UC, 10 am-2pm. Come have conversation about resources, both people and money, leadership, administration and… What consumes your energy now? What is happening with leadership both clergy and lay? Are there ways we can share resources, both human and otherwise around the tasks of work we all need to do? and then “What’s Next?” Bring your own lunch. Coffee, tea, snacks and parking will be provided. RSVP to McDougall UC 780-428-1818 or finance@McDougallUnited.com by May 19th.
  • Older, Bolder, BetterTM Seniors Exhibition & Symposium, Thursday, June 8, Westend Seniors Activity Centre, 9629 176 st, Edmonton. Entertainment by Bob Layton
  • ST. STEPHEN'S COLLEGE FUNDRAISING GALA - Friday, June 16, 5-10pm, JW Marriott Ice District - 10344 102 St NW, Edmonton. Featuring live painting by Giselle Denis, live entertainment, guest speakers & silent auction - $250 per person, or $2000 per table of 8. A deductible charitable tax receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket price after the event
  • PROVIDENCE RENEWAL CENTRE upcoming programs:
    • Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola
    • Centering Prayer
    • Spring Retreat
    • Self-care day
    • More information at  www.providencerenewal.ca
  • COMMUNITY & CONNECTION – 2SLGBTQ1A+ and Advocacy Conference, June 22-24, Robertson-Wesley UC, 10209-123 St. Bringing together those who do work in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to share their challenges and experiences with each other and the greater community. More information at www.communityandconnection.com  
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – April 30 – also, in person worship service
To watch online, you will need to go to YouTube and google “Spirit West United Church”.
This action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.   
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
 
 FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • PAR - Pre-Authorized Remittance is a direct debit program run by the United Church of Canada. It allows people to support their church through an automatic monthly withdrawal from their bank account. It follows the giver's wishes (give to local, M&S, etc.). If you wish to go on PAR, please the fill out the form on the literature carousel and give the form and a cheque marked “void” to the church office.  We will do the rest! If you wish to change your PAR amount, contact the office and we will make the change for you.
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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
 
 Thank you,
 Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org
 
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April 23, 2023 - Third Sunday of Easter

4/20/2023

0 Comments

 
Picture
Sunday, April 23, 2023 – Third Sunday of Easter
Hello Friends,
What does courage mean to you?  When have you needed to be brave?
 
I’ve heard courage means being scared and doing something anyway, and that is certainly a part of it, but I think courage can mean so much more.  Do you remember the French word for heart?  Coeur – the root from where we have the word courage  - to take heart.   I think one of the places we most often have to be brave in our world today comes in the form of difficult conversations.  When we have to tell loved ones something we know they will find difficult to hear, but we have the conversation anyway, that takes courage. 
 
In our scriptures this week Peter encourages the growing church by teaching how we have to be different from the world around us and deeply embracing loving one another – “genuine mutual affection, love one another deeply from the heart . . into something imperishable – the living, enduring word of God.”  That word of God endures from his day 2000 years ago, and still lives in and through us as followers of the way of Jesus.   The path of genuine love takes a lot of courage so that we can speak and hear truths we would rather avoid. 
 
We will have the pleasure of two scripture readers holding
 
Acts 2:36-41 – the first big speech Peter gives on behalf of the newborn church –
And 1 Peter 1:20-23 – from the letter written by Peter to the church years later
 
Together they show the heart, the soul, of Peter, Jesus’ closest disciple’s faith.
 
With the children we will re-visit the story on the road to Emmaus where a stranger interprets scripture to the disciples, and is revealed to be Jesus when he breaks the bread. 
 
On a personal note, my family will be welcoming Jen’s father’s  2 six year old bichon shih Tzu dogs into our home, so please ask us about Molly and Tia.
Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday!
(Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
Faith Exploration - Explore big questions – What do we mean when we say God, Who was/is Jesus and how does he matter? What is the Bible and how should it influence us? What are your big questions? The Study Group open to anyone wherever you are on your faith journey. This can lead to Confirmation or Re-Affirmation of faith.  Please Let Eli know if you are interested. 
Schedule - after Church/Lunch on Sunday and on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm
  • April 19, 23 – Life, Death, Life beyond Death
 
ADVENTURING WORSHIP – Sunday, May 7 - Have you ever wondered how other worship services in other churches are conducted? This is your chance to choose another church that you would like to visit. On May 7th, Eli will be away at the Northern Spirit Regional Council Conference along with all the other United Church ministers in the Region. Coincidently, it also happens that our music leaders are away that Sunday as well so there will be NO service at Spirit West. Instead, you are encouraged to worship anywhere else and then we hope that you will report back on what you observed and experienced. Perhaps you’ll see and experience other ways of greeting people when they arrive, different ways of extending hospitality, different order in the service, interesting decorations, different musical presentations / participation, interesting ways of praying, Sunday School observations, ideas for fund-raising, interesting ways of using technology, etc. There will be a “cheat sheet” available next Sunday or by email from the office on which you can record observations. These sheets can be dropped off at the church. There is a sheet on the credenza by the office for signing up to be a driver and a sheet for those who need a ride or would like to car pool. Safe driving and Happy Adventuring.
 
GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? – Join us in using cunning stealth and covert organization, to surprise our phenomenal Spirit West chefs.  Only at the ring of their doorbell, should they discover who will join them for dinner on their chosen night of gastronomical delights!! This fund-raiser for the church will take place in the next few months! It is a terrific time to enjoy a fabulous meal and fellowship. Those who wish to host a dinner are asked to contact Bill C 780-481-2662 or Sheila H at 780-960-3878 or  signup at the church. Hosts need to indicate the dates and times of their dinners and the number of guests they will be hosting. If there is a theme for the evening, this should also be provided.  Guests will have the opportunity to select where they will dine and to provide any dietary restrictions to the conveners (who will secretly pass on the information to the hosts).  A free will offering, in envelopes, will be collected by the host.  A minimum offering of $25.00 per person is suggested. Please plan on attending one of these sensational evening parties and generously supporting our church.
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH - Apr 23-30
         Mon, April 24, 6-8:30pm – Embers
         Tues, April 25, 5:30-9:30pm – City of Edmonton planning meeting
         Tues, April 25, 9:30-10:30pm – set up for Church of Christ service
         Wed, Apr 26, 2-4pm – Faith Exploration
         Wed, April 26, 6-9pm – Church of Christ service
         Thurs, Apr 27, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice
         Fri, April 28, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
         Sat, Apr 29, 7am - noon – Church of Christ service
 
LEADERS for April 23
  • Hospitality Team – Hemmerling – Georgina, Doreen, Rhea, Glenna
  • Scripture Reader – Glenna W
  • Projectionist – Rebecca
 
LEADERS for April 30
  • Hospitality Team – Sather – Ramona, Isobel, Colleen, Diane H
  • Scripture Reader – Bill C
  • Projectionist – Terri-Lynn / Sara
 
DATES TO REMEMBER:
   Adventuring Sunday – May 7 – no service at Spirit West; enjoy a service elsewhere
         Board Meeting, Wed, May 10, 7pm – via ZOOM
         Church School Picnic – June 11
 
OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES
  • Chalmers-Castledowns UC SPRING CRAFT MARKET. Sat, May 13, 10am-3pm. This fundraiser supports the life & work on the church in North West Edmonton
  • An invitation to Edmonton and Area UCs (clergy and lay) to gather, to share, around the health and viability of their Community of Faith.  May 27th at McDougall UC, 10 am-2pm. Come have conversation about resources, both people and money, leadership, administration and… What consumes your energy now? What is happening with leadership both clergy and lay? Are there ways we can share resources, both human and otherwise around the tasks of work we all need to do? and then “What’s Next?” Bring your own lunch. Coffee, tea, snacks and parking will be provided. RSVP to McDougall UC 780-428-1818 or finance@McDougallUnited.com by May 19th.
  • Older, Bolder, Better - Seniors Exhibition & Symposium, Thursday, June 8, Westend Seniors Activity Centre, 9629 176 st, Edmonton. Entertainment by Bob Layton
  • ST. STEPHEN'S COLLEGE FUNDRAISING GALA - Friday, June 16, 5-10pm, JW Marriott Ice District - 10344 102 St NW, Edmonton. Featuring live painting by Giselle Denis, live entertainment, guest speakers & silent auction - $250 per person, or $2000 per table of 8. A deductible charitable tax receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket price after the event
  • COMMUNITY & CONNECTION – 2SLGBTQ1A+ and Advocacy Conference, June 22-24, Robertson-Wesley UC, 10209-123 St. Bringing together those who do work in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to share their challenges and experiences with each other and the greater community. More information at www.communityandconnection.com  
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – April 23 – also, in person worship service
To watch online, you will need to go to YouTube and google “Spirit West United Church”.
This action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.   
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
  
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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
  
Thank you,
 Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org
 
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April 13, 2023 - Holy Humour Sunday

4/13/2023

0 Comments

 
Picture
Sunday, April 16, 2023 – Holy Humour Sunday
Happy Easter everyone!!
 
I can feel the new life emerging around us as Easter so nicely lines up with the beginning of spring-like weather.  I hope you have all had an opportunity to experience resurrection in some way this year.
 
This Sunday is Holy Humour Sunday, so come prepared to smile and laugh at God’s great prank of defeating death.  Experience the joy of Mary and the disciples discovering that Jesus is Risen.
 
Our readings are Ecclesiastes 3 – a poem about a time for all things, and John 20: 11-18, Mary meets the gardener.
 
For Children’s time I’m reading “the Boy in the Drawer” by Robert Munsch.
 
For the sermon I’m talking about how Jesus seems to keep showing up to his friends and followers but they do not recognize him.  Where is the risen Christ in our midst.  I may try my hand at stand up comedy, but I don’t think it will go well.  Please be kind and laugh anyway?
 
Anyway, here’s some jokes to get you warmed up.
 
Where was Solomon’s temple located? – On the side of his head.
 
36. What's a miracle that can be done by a complainer? Turning anything into whine.
 
Wrong Email Sent
A Minneapolis couple decided to go to Florida to thaw out during a particularly icy winter. They planned to stay at the same hotel where they spent their honeymoon 20 years earlier. Because of their hectic schedules, it was difficult for the couple to coordinate their travel plans. So the husband left Minnesota and flew to Florida on Thursday, while his wife planned to fly down the following day.
 
The husband checked into the hotel. There was a computer in his room, so he decided to send an email to his wife. However, he accidentally left out one letter of her email address and sent the email without realizing his error.
 
Meanwhile, somewhere in Houston, a widow had just returned home from her husband’s funeral. He was a Baptist minister who was called home to glory following a heart attack.  The widow decided to check her email, expecting condolence messages from family and friends.
 
But after reading her very first email, she screamed and fainted. The widow’s son rushed into the room, found his mother on the floor, and saw the computer screen which read:
 
To: My Loving Wife
Subject: I’ve Just Arrived Today.  I know you’re surprised to hear from me. They have computers here now and you are allowed to send emails to your loved ones. Since I’ve just arrived, I thought I would send you an email.
 
Everything has been prepared for your arrival tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing you then! Hope your journey is as uneventful as mine was.
 
P. S. Sure is hot down here!!!
 
Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday!
(Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
Faith Exploration - Explore big questions – What do we mean when we say God, Who was/is Jesus and how does he matter? What is the Bible and how should it influence us? What are your big questions? The Study Group open to anyone wherever you are on your faith journey. This can lead to Confirmation or Re-Affirmation of faith.  Please Let Eli know if you are interested. 
Schedule - after Church/Lunch on Sunday and on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm
  • April 16 – Seek Justice, Resist Evil
  • April 19, 23 – Life, Death, Life beyond Death
 
LADIES GROUP GET-TOGETHER, 7pm, Tuesday, April 18
This informal get-together is being held in the sanctuary this Tuesday at 7pm.  Come ready to laugh, talk and share snacks.  See you then!
 
GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? – Join us in using cunning stealth and covert organization, to surprise our phenomenal Spirit West chefs.  Only at the ring of their doorbell, should they discover who will join them for dinner on their chosen night of gastronomical delights!! This fund-raiser for the church will take place in the next few months! It is a terrific time to enjoy a fabulous meal and fellowship. Those who wish to host a dinner are asked to contact Bill C 780-481-2662 or Sheila H at 780-960-3878 or  signup at the church. Hosts need to indicate the dates and times of their dinners and the number of guests they will be hosting. If there is a theme for the evening, this should also be provided.  Guests will have the opportunity to select where they will dine and to provide any dietary restrictions to the conveners (who will secretly pass on the information to the hosts).  A free will offering, in envelopes, will be collected by the host.  A minimum offering of $25.00 per person is suggested. Please plan on attending one of these sensational evening parties and generously supporting our church.
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH - Apr 13-22   
         Thurs, Apr 13, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice
         Fri, April 14, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
         Sat, Apr 15, 7am - noon – Church of Christ service
         Sat, April 15, 8:30am – Men’s breakfast
         Tues, April 18, 7-9pm – Ladies Group Meeting
         Tues, April 18, 9-10pm – set up for Church of Christ service
         Wed, Apr 19, 2-4pm – Faith Exploration
         Wed, April 19, 6-9pm – Church of Christ service
         Thurs, Apr 20, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice
         Fri, April 21, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
         Sat, Apr 22, 7am - noon – Church of Christ service
 
LEADERS for April 16
  • Hospitality Team – Ludlow – Diane L, Norma B, Carol & Bruce S
  • Scripture Reader – Glenna W
  • Projectionist – Norma B
 
LEADERS for April 23
  • Hospitality Team – Hemmerling – Georgina, Doreen, Rhea, Glenna
  • Scripture Reader – Glenna W
  • Projectionist – Rebecca W
 
OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES
  • Chalmers-Castledowns UC SPRING CRAFT MARKER. Sat, May 13, 10am-3pm. This fundraiser supports the life & work on the church in north west Edmonton
  • HOW IS IT GOING? An invitation to Edmonton and Area United Churches (clergy and lay) to gather, to share, around the health and viability of their Community of Faith.  May 27th at McDougall United Church, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Come have conversation about resources, both people and money, leadership, administration and… Café Style with Juicy Questions. What consumes your energy now? What is happening with leadership both clergy and lay? What is happening with Committee work? Are there ways we can share resources, both human and otherwise around the tasks of work we all need to do? and then “What’s Next?” Bring your own lunch. Coffee, tea, snacks and parking will be provided. RSVP to McDougall United Church 780-428-1818  or finance@McDougallUnited.com by May 19th
  • ST. STEPHEN'S COLLEGE FUNDRAISING GALA - Friday, June 16, 5-10pm, JW Marriott Ice District - 10344 102 St NW, Edmonton. Featuring live painting by Giselle Denis, live entertainment, guest speakers & silent auction - $250 per person, or $2000 per table of 8. A deductible charitable tax receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket price after the event
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – April 16 – also, in person worship service
To watch online, you will need to go to YouTube and google “Spirit West United Church”.
This action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.   
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
  
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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

Office Hours for April 16-22
Norma =>      Mon & Wed => noon to 5pm
                           Tues & Thurs – 9:30am to 2:30pm
Eli =>           Minister’s work days next week Sunday-Thursday.  Please let Eli know if there is anyone you think they should call or visit.
 
 Thank you,
 Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org

0 Comments

April 2, 2023 - Palm Sunday

3/30/2023

0 Comments

 
Picture
Sunday, April 2, 2023 – Palm Sunday
Hello Everyone and greetings in Christ.
 
It’s almost Holy Week, are you ready yet?  I think I might be expected to find a hollow chocolate Baby Yoda – the parent’s Easter Candy hunt that happens before Jesus has even made it into Jerusalem.  Just like the dollar store putting out Easter Candy before Epiphany (Ukrainian Christmas, Jan.6), we always seem to be ahead of ourselves.
 
We go back through this drama every year, and it is so tempting to fast-forward through the coming week.  Can’t we just go from Palm Sunday’s Celebration that Jesus is King right into Easter Sunday – He is Risen?  Don’t you wish you could do that in real life? . . . .   But do you really?
 
Sit with that question for a moment.  What if you could skip over the hard parts of life?  The hard parts of Holy Week prepare us for when we face these moments ourselves.  We remember that Jesus endures betrayal and accusation.  We sit with him in the garden, and that opens our hearts to realize that he sits with us in that terrible waiting room where we wait for a nurse to come off shift to tell us how the surgery is going.  We go with him to the tomb, and we learn what it feels like so we know he goes with us to the funeral home.
 
In all three worship gatherings over the 8 days between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday – the longest worship service of the year because it is actually one week long worship service, we will sing “Stay with us through the night”.  https://youtu.be/LAYSeZ9C0DY
 
I am inviting you to enter into Holy Week next week.  Plan a way you will take in this ancient story.  Perhaps you will listen to a musical version like Jesus Christ Superstar or Bach’s St. Matthew’s Passion   Perhaps you will re-read the story.  Biblegateway.com will give you access to all kinds of versions.  The whole story is Matthew 21-27.  I will link the Contemporary English Version because it is an easier to read version.  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+21-27&version=CEV
 
This Sunday’s worship service will begin with a Palm parade with its events for Sunday.  With the children we will learn how Jesus overturned the tables in the temple on Monday.  We will go on to hear the stories associated with each day of this Holy Week, ending with Thursday.    We will not do communion this week even though it is the first week of the month.  Instead we will celebrate next week with Easter Communion.
 
 (Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
Faith Exploration - Explore big questions – What do we mean when we say God, Who was/is Jesus and how does he matter? What is the Bible and how should it influence us? What are your big questions? The Study Group open to anyone wherever you are on your faith journey. This can lead to Confirmation or Re-Affirmation of faith.  Please Let Eli know if you are interested. 
Schedule - after Church/Lunch on Sunday and on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm
  • April 2 – Live with respect in Creation
  • April 12, 16 – Seek Justice, Resist Evil
  • April 19, 23 – Life, Death, Life beyond Death
 
GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? – Join us in using cunning stealth and covert organization, to surprise our phenomenal Spirit West chefs.  Only at the ring of their doorbell, should they discover who will join them for dinner on their chosen night of gastronomical delights!! This fund-raiser for the church will take place in the next few months! It is a terrific time to enjoy a fabulous meal and fellowship. Those who wish to host a dinner are asked to contact Bill C 780-481-2662 or Sheila H at 780-960-3878 or  signup at the church. Hosts need to indicate the dates and times of their dinners and the number of guests they will be hosting. If there is a theme for the evening, this should also be provided.  Guests will have the opportunity to select where they will dine and to provide any dietary restrictions to the conveners (who will secretly pass on the information to the hosts).  A free will offering, in envelopes, will be collected by the host.  Please plan on attending one of these sensational evening parties and generously supporting our church.
 
DATES TO REMEMBER:
  • Good Friday Service – 10:30 am, Fri, Apr 7
  • Easter Sunday Service – 10:30am, Sun, Apr 9
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH - Apr 2-10
         Mon, April 3, 6-8 pm – Embers (Brownies)
         Tues, April 4, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
         Wed, April 5, 6-9pm – Church of Christ service
         Thurs, Apr 6, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice
         Fri, April 7, 10:30 am – our Good Friday service
         Fri, April 7, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
         Sat, Apr 8, 7am - noon – Church of Christ service
         Sun, Apr 9 – 10:30am to noon – our service
         Mon, Apr 10 – office closed for Easter Monday
 
LEADERS for April 2 (Palm Sunday)
  • Hospitality Team – Callas – Carol & Bill, Sue & Gerry
  • Scripture Reader – Paul F
  • Projectionist – Terri-Lyn / Sara
 
LEADERS for April 7 (Good Friday)
  • Scripture Reader – Bob H
  • Projectionist – Norma
 
LEADERS for April 9 (Easter Sunday)
  • Hospitality Team – Doyle – Don & Daphne, David & Cathy, Tony
  • Scripture Reader – Peter K
  • Projectionist – Bruce C
 
OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES
  • UNITED CHURCH EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE - Sun, April 9 (7:00am), Fire Pit at Emily Murphy Park, Edmonton (11904 Emily Murphy Park Rd NW). Warm yourself around a shared fire as the sun’s new light creeps through the trees and sing the first Hallelujahs of a new Easter morning. Bring your favorite morning beverage to enjoy. Organized by United Churches in Edmonton. For more information, contact Blaine Gregg at minister@spiritofhope.ca.
  • Chalmers-Castledowns UC SPRING CRAFT MARKER. Sat, May 13, 10am-3pm. This fundraiser supports the life & work on the church in north west Edmonton
  • HOW IS IT GOING? An invitation to Edmonton and Area United Churches (clergy and lay) to gather, to share, around the health and viability of their Community of Faith.  May 27th at McDougall United Church, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Come have conversation about resources, both people and money, leadership, administration and… Café Style with Juicy Questions. What consumes your energy now? What is happening with leadership both clergy and lay? What is happening with Committee work? Are there ways we can share resources, both human and otherwise around the tasks of work we all need to do? and then “What’s Next?” Bring your own lunch. Coffee, tea, snacks and parking will be provided. RSVP to McDougall United Church 780-428-1818  or finance@McDougallUnited.com by May 19th
  • ST. STEPHEN'S COLLEGE FUNDRAISING GALA - Friday, June 16, 5-10pm, JW Marriott Ice District - 10344 102 St NW, Edmonton. Featuring live painting by Giselle Denis, live entertainment, guest speakers & silent auction - $250 per person, or $2000 per table of 8. A deductible charitable tax receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket price after the event
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – April 2 – also, in person worship service
To watch online, you will need to go to YouTube and google “Spirit West United Church”.
This action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.   
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
  
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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
 
 Thank you,
 Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org

0 Comments

March 19, 2023 - Fourth Sunday in Lent

3/16/2023

0 Comments

 
Picture
Sunday, March 19, 2023 – Lent Sunday in Lent
Blessings in the name of God who was, who is and who is to come.
 
I have a busy weekend ahead with both the men’s and the women’s groups eating on Saturday.  I’m sure looking forward to seeing so many of you at these events.
 
This week we are focussing on how David was chosen to be King.  1 Samuel 16:1-13.  This will also be the children’s story, including some oil for anointing.  He was the youngest brother, not even brought along for the sacrifice (read party) but left at home with the sheep.  He is God’s choice to be Israel’s next king.  He will be far from perfect, especially in his private life, but he will be a better King than Saul, and will bring in the Golden Age of Israel. 
 
Samuel is told to give up on King Saul and move on to something new, to literally take his anointing oil and go anoint a new king.   Even though it looked at one time like Saul would be the best king, God and Samuel both now know that isn’t true.
 
Sometimes we have to take up the anointing oil of our own life and put it somewhere new – a new job or relationship, a new home, a new city or country.  Can we take courage from Samuel and David’s story?  Is there fresh hope in some new beginning for us to bless?  Have you given it your best shot and now it’s time to move on?  If God can do it, so can you.
 
King David would be the writer of great psalms.  Psalm 23 is probably the best known.  David was a shepherd, and he wrote about how God was his shepherd.  What about you? If you imagine God  having your career or life’s work, how would your psalm go?  The Lord is my teacher . . . my nurse . . . my parent . . .I shall not  . . . . .
 
Maybe you can write your own psalm about God.
  (Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
Faith Exploration - Explore big questions – What do we mean when we say God, Who was/is Jesus and how does he matter? What is the Bible and how should it influence us? What are your big questions? The Study Group open to anyone wherever you are on your faith journey. This can lead to Confirmation or Re-Affirmation of faith.  Please Let Eli know if you are interested. 
Schedule - after Church/Lunch on Sunday and on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm
  • March 22, 26 – The Spirit and the Church
  • March 29, April 2 – Live with respect in Creation
  • April 12, 16 – Seek Justice, Resist Evil
  • April 19, 23 – Life, Death, Life beyond Death
 
MEN’S BREAKFAST, 8:30 AM. Sat, March 18
Gather with other men of the congregation in the Lower Hall for fellowship and a breakfast of pancakes, sausages and eggs.  Come a few minutes early and help cook if you would like. All men welcome!
 
WOMEN’S GROUP LUNCH and ANNUAL MEETING
The Spirit West Women’s lunch and annual meeting will be held on Saturday, March 18 at 11:30am at the Boston Pizza at 17002 – 90 ave.  Access is easy and there is plenty of parking.  Please sign up on the sheet by the office or call the church office at 780-481-1406.
 
GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? – Join us in using cunning stealth and covert organization, to surprise our phenomenal Spirit West chefs.  Only at the ring of their doorbell, should they discover who will join them for dinner on their chosen night of gastronomical delights!! This fund-raiser for the church will take place in the next few months! It is a terrific time to enjoy a fabulous meal and fellowship. Those who wish to host a dinner are asked to contact Bill C 780-481-2662 or Sheila H at 780-960-3878 or  signup at the church. Hosts need to indicate the dates and times of their dinners and the number of guests they will be hosting. If there is a theme for the evening, this should also be provided.  Guests will have the opportunity to select where they will dine and to provide any dietary restrictions to the conveners (who will secretly pass on the information to the hosts).  A free will offering, in envelopes, will be collected by the host.  Please plan on attending one of these sensational evening parties and generously supporting our church.
 
DATES TO REMEMBER:
  • Men’s Breakfast – 8:30am, Sat, March 18
  • Women’s Group Lunch and AGM – 11:30 am, Sat, March 18
  • Board Meeting – 7pm, Wed, Mar 22 via ZOOM
  • Good Friday Service – 10:30 am, Fri, Apr 7
  • Easter Sunday Service – 10:30am, Sun, Apr 9
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH BUILDING March 19 to 26, 2023
  • Mon, March 20, 6-8 pm – Embers (Brownies)
  • Tues, March 21, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Wed, March 21, 4:30-7:30am – Church of Christ service
  • Wed, March 22, 2pm – Faith Exploration – The Spirit & the Church
  • Wed, March 22, 7-11pm – Church of Christ service
  • Thurs, March 23, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice
  • Fri, March 24, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Sat, March 25, 4am - 4pm – Church of Christ service
  • Sun, March 26 – 10:30am to noon – our service
  • Sun, March 26  – after worship - Faith Exploration – The Spirit & the Church
 
LEADERS for March 19
  • Hospitality Team – Hemmerling – Georgina, Doreen, Rhea, Glenna
  • Scripture Reader – Bill C
  • Projectionist – Norma B
 
LEADERS for March 26
  • Hospitality Team – Sather – Ramona, Isobel, Colleen
  • Scripture Reader – Bob H
  • Projectionist – Terri-Lynn / Sara
 
OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES
  • UNITED CHURCH EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE - Sun, April 9 (7:00am), Fire Pit at Emily Murphy Park, Edmonton (11904 Emily Murphy Park Rd NW). Warm yourself around a shared fire as the sun’s new light creeps through the trees and sing the first Hallelujahs of a new Easter morning. Bring your favorite morning beverage to enjoy. Organized by United Churches in Edmonton. For more information, contact Blaine Gregg at minister@spiritofhope.ca.
  • ST. STEPHEN'S COLLEGE FUNDRAISING GALA - Friday, June 16, 5-10pm, JW Marriott Ice District - 10344 102 St NW, Edmonton. Featuring live painting by Giselle Denis, live entertainment, guest speakers & silent auction - $250 per person, or $2000 per table of 8. A deductible charitable tax receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket price after the event
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – March 19 – also, in person worship service
To watch online, you will need to go to YouTube and google “Spirit West United Church”.
This action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.   
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
  
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 

Office Hours for March 19-25
Norma =>      Mon & Wed => noon to 5pm
Tues & Thurs – 9:30am to 2:30pm
Eli =>              Sun to Thurs this week.  Please let Eli know if there is anyone you think they should call or visit.
 
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
  
Thank you,
 Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org

0 Comments

March 12, 2023 - Third Sunday in Lent

3/9/2023

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Picture
Sunday, March 12, 2023 – Third Sunday in Lent
Greetings and Blessings in Christ who is our living water.
 
I, Eli, am not in a meeting and do not need your help with something right away. Someone is pretending to be me.    Please ignore, block and or report this scam if it comes to you, at least two people have been targeted.  If you are a victim of this crime, contact the police.
 
This week we are looking at two stories about thirstiness. Our Hebrew Scriptures are a story of the people who have escaped slavery travelling across the desert.   They have no water and start complaining. Moses gets irritated, but God provides miraculous water from a rock. (Exodus 17)
 
With the children we will talk about Jesus in John 4. Jesus has travelled a long way in a hot arid climate and meets a forbidden outcast stranger.  She gives him water, he elevates her as  an apostle to the Samaritans, giving her the living water of new perspectives.
 
What is the sustaining living water that we need, so that we, like the woman at the well don’t need to keep coming back for more, but the Spirit of Christ rises up within us.
 
We are looking for what rocks to hit with which stick for living water to flow.
 
Jesus understands our struggles and our thirst. May we reach deep within and find the living water of the Spirit of  Christ rising up within and between us.
 
 (Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
Faith Exploration - Explore big questions – What do we mean when we say God, Who was/is Jesus and how does he matter? What is the Bible and how should it influence us? What are your big questions? The Study Group open to anyone wherever you are on your faith journey. This can lead to Confirmation or Re-Affirmation of faith.  Please Let Eli know if you are interested. 
Schedule - after Church/Lunch on Sunday and on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm
  • March 15, 19 – Jesus
  • March 22, 26 – The Spirit and the Church
  • March 29, April 2 – Live with respect in Creation
  • April 12, 16 – Seek Justice, Resist Evil
  • April 19, 23 – Life, Death, Life beyond Death
 
MEN’S BREAKFAST, 8:30 AM. Sat, March 18
Gather with other men of the congregation in the Lower Hall for fellowship and a breakfast of pancakes, sausages and eggs.  Come a few minutes early and help cook if you would like. All men welcome!
 
WOMEN’S GROUP LUNCH and ANNUAL MEETING
The Spirit West Women’s lunch and annual meeting will be held on Saturday, March 18 at 11:30am at the Boston Pizza at 17002 – 90 ave.  Access is easy and there is plenty of parking.  Please sign up on the sheet by the office or call the church office at 780-481-1406.
 
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – Mar 12
There will be a Congregation Meeting following the Service on Sun, Mar 12 to review, through the Annual Reports, the mission and ministry of the Spirit West in 2022.  We will also make such decisions as will determine our vision for the Congregation in 2023. You attendance and input at both these meetings is greatly desired.
 
DATES TO REMEMBER:
  • Daylight Savings Time begins – spring ahead 1 hour – 2am, Sun, March 12
  • Congregational Meeting – Sun, Mar 12 after the worship service
  • Women’s Group Lunch and AGM – 11:30 am, Sat, March 18
  • Men’s Breakfast – 8:30am, Sat, March 18
  • Board Meeting – 7pm, Wed, Mar 22 via ZOOM
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH BUILDING March 13 to 18, 2023
  • Mon, March 13 – 6-8pm – Embers (Brownies)
  • Tues, March 14, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service (assuming the church is not rented to another group)
  • Wed, March 15, 2pm – Faith Exploration - Jesus
  • Wed, March 15, 7-10pm – Church of Christ service
  • Thurs, March 16, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice 7-8:30pm
  • Fri, March 17, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service (assuming the church is not rented to another group)
  • Sat, March 18, 7-10pm – Church of Christ service
  • Sat, March 18, 8:30 am - Men’s Breakfast
 
LEADERS for March 12
  • Hospitality Team – Ludlow – Diane, Norma, Carol & Bruce
  • Scripture Reader – Sheila Hoy
  • Projectionist – Rebecca W
 
LEADERS for March 19
  • Hospitality Team – Hemmerling – Georgina, Doreen, Rhea, Glenna
  • Scripture Reader – Bill C
  • Projectionist – Norma B
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – March 12 – also, in person worship service
To watch online, you will need to go to YouTube and google “Spirit West United Church”.
This action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.   
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
  
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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
  
Thank you,
 Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org
 

0 Comments

March 5, 2023 - Second Sunday in Lent

3/2/2023

0 Comments

 
Sunday, March 5, 2023 – Second Sunday in Lent
May the abundance of God’s blessings surround you all.
 
I’m starting to notice the nights getting shorter, so perhaps it’s time we talk about the blessings of night time.
 
At night, Nicodemus sneaks out to meet Jesus.  (John 3:1-7) He’s curious, even excited about the possibility of Jesus’ vision of the Kingdom of God, but he may be a bit afraid of what he has to loose. He is a religious leader and needs to seem respectable, and Jesus already has a reputation for upsetting the status quo. 
 
Please note, Nicodemus and Jesus are the same religion. This might look like me sneaking out at night to hear what Paul Walfal or Helen Reed have to say. 
 
Jesus says that you have to hold loosely to all your power and privilege, in fact, become like a child, reborn to understand God’s vision.
 
We have the privilege of hosting the Church of Jesus Christ for two worship services a week.  If you come in while they are set up, there are chairs for over 200 people.  Members of our congregation ask how we could grow to be that big.
 
If I knew the answer and had the ability to make it so I would, but I would suggest that perhaps we need to be reborn as well. Christianity is growing in the global South and East.  What is God doing there? How can we learn from them about what it means to be the church?
 
The promise of God to continue to bless the earth for generations stretching far into the future comes from deep in the past, and with the children we'll be talking about God's promise to Abraham and Sarah.
 
Our study group examining big faith questions starts this Sunday after church and enough time to run out and grab a bag lunch(12:30 ish) looking at the question "What do we mean when we say God?"  Repeat experience on Wednesday afternoon at 2.
 
 (Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
Faith Exploration - Explore big questions – What do we mean when we say God, Who was/is Jesus and how does he matter? What is the Bible and how should it influence us? What are your big questions? The Study Group open to anyone wherever you are on your faith journey. This can lead to Confirmation or Re-Affirmation of faith.  Please Let Eli know if you are interested. 
Tentative Schedule - after Church/Lunch on Sunday and on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm
  • March 5, 8 – God
  • March 15, 19 – Jesus
  • March 22, 26 – The Spirit and the Church
  • March 29, April 2 – Live with respect in Creation
  • April 12, 16 – Seek Justice, Resist Evil
  • April 19, 23 – Life, Death, Life beyond Death
 
MEN’S BREAKFAST, 8:30 AM. Sat, March 18
Gather with other men of the congregation in the Lower Hall for fellowship and a breakfast of pancakes, sausages and eggs.  Come a few minutes early and help cook if you would like. All men welcome!
 
WOMEN’S GROUP LUNCH and ANNUAL MEETING
The Spirit West Women’s lunch and annual meeting will be held on Saturday, March 18 at 11:30am at the Boston Pizza at 17002 – 90 ave. This is just north of West Edmonton Mall. Access is easy and there is plenty of parking.  Please sign up on the sheet by the office or call the church office at 780-481-1406.
 
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – Mar 12
There will be a Congregation Meeting following the Service on Sun, Mar 12 to review, through the Annual Reports, the mission and ministry of the Spirit West in 2022.  We will also make such decisions as will determine our vision for the Congregation in 2023. You attendance and input at both these meetings is greatly desired.
 
DATES TO REMEMBER:
  • Daylight Savings Time begins – spring ahead 1 hour – 2am, Sun, March 12
  • Congregational Meeting – Sun, Mar 12 after the worship service
  • Women’s Group Lunch and AGM – 11:30 am, Sat, March 18
  • Men’s Breakfast – 8:30am, Sat, March 18
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH BUILDING March 6 to 11, 2023
  • Mon, March 6 – 6-8pm - Brownies
  • Tues, March 7, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service (assuming the church is not rented to another group)
  • Wed, March 8, 7-10pm – Church of Christ service
  • Thurs, March 9, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice 7-8:30pm
  • Fri, March 10, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service (assuming the church is not rented to another group)
  • Sat, March 11, 7-10pm – Church of Christ service
 
LEADERS for March 5
  • Hospitality Team – Doyle – Don & Daphne, Tony, Dave & Cathy
  • Scripture Reader – Peter K
  • Projectionist – Bruce C
 
LEADERS for March 12
  • Hospitality Team – Ludlow – Diane, Norma, Carol & Bruce
  • Scripture Reader – Sheila Hoy
  • Projectionist – Rebecca W
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – February 26 – also, in person worship service
To watch online, you will need to go to YouTube and google “Spirit West United Church”.
This action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.   
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
  
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  • We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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

Office Hours for March 6 to 11, 2023
Norma =>   Wed => noon to 5pm
                        Tues & Thurs – 9:30 am to 2:30 pm
Eli =>         Eli will be working Sunday to Thursday this week.  They will be taking some Fridays off as Study leave this winter to do an online course on adaptive leadership.  They are happy to discuss both the course itself and the impact on working days. 
  • Please let Eli know if there is anyone you think they should call or visit.
  • Eli is trying to get to know members of the congregation and they would love to meet with you in your homes, their office, or a favourite coffee shop. They are hoping to meet with a few people each week.
Thank you,
 
Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org
 


0 Comments

February 26, 2023 - First Sunday in Lent

2/23/2023

0 Comments

 
Picture
Sunday, February 26, 2023 – First Sunday in Lent
 
Greetings in the name of Christ who was and is and is to come.
 
It’s the second day of Lent – are you tempted yet?  When I was looking for images for the slides on Sunday, I noticed that most of pictures for temptation involved things that were not actually “sin”. Either they showed special food treats like cakes and cookies, sometimes compared with solid everyday foods like green vegetables, or they showed someone who appeared to be offering their enthusiastic consent to . . . close body contact. 
 
Neither chocolate nor sex are in and of themselves sin, despite the fact that there can be exploitation with either one.  Too often our society puts the focus on individual piety – whether in food, or recycling habits or relationships, and looks away from the way we do harm together.  Too often we are silenced into thinking we can’t change the way the world is even though we carry the biggest vote of them all – our wallets.  Perhaps for a Lenten ‘fast’ we can pay attention to some of the ways we spend our money, which companies we support, and how our spending reflects what is most important to us. 
 
Please stop for a minute and think about what you value most about Spirit West United Church.
Why do you give money, or time to our church?  Why did you bother to open this email?
 
Please hold those values close to your hearts as we consider the realities ahead of us.
 
As a congregation, we are facing our own difficult truths.  We have the opportunity to  face down the temptation to look away and stay comfortable, and move instead  into uncomfortable spaces and difficult conversations.   The future cannot continue in the same way as the past.  With hope, we can carry the hard choices together, resisting the urge to let it be someone else’s responsibility.
 
It is an exciting time to be a part of Spirit West United Church because this is a time of choosing a direction and making plans to live into the future God is calling us towards.  Yes we can have the coffee and the chocolate if we choose.  Every good and perfect gift comes down from the Parent of heavenly lights after all.
 
Our scripture this week is the story of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness from Matthew 4:1-11.  With the children, we will talk with the snake (a large toy stuffed snake) about the garden of Eden,  and I will try (in a minute or two) to open the conversation about “the satan” (devil in Greek), and help them understand about being wary of – not terrified of - the voice that tempts and accuses.
 
 (Rev) Eli Carter-Morgan (they/them)
Spirit West United Church
Proud to share the land through Treaty 6
 
Faith Exploration - Explore big questions – What do we mean when we say God, Who was/is Jesus and how does he matter? What is the Bible and how should it influence us? What are your big questions? The Study Group open to anyone wherever you are on your faith journey. This can lead to Confirmation or Re-Affirmation of faith.  Please Let Eli know if you are interested. 
Tentative Schedule - after Church/Lunch on Sunday and on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm
  • March 5, 8 – God
  • March 15, 19 – Jesus
  • March 22, 26 – The Spirit and the Church
  • March 29, April 2 – Live with respect in Creation
  • April 12, 16 – Seek Justice, Resist Evil
  • April 19, 23 – Life, Death, Life beyond Death
 
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – HOSPITALITY - Currently there are 5 teams.  We are looking for a few people to join our current teams. Duties at this time will focus on bringing squares or cookies and helping out with beverages as well as cleanup. If you could help, please sign the sheet at the back of the church or call Carol C at 780-481-2662.  Thank you!
 
WOMEN’S GROUP LUNCH AND ANNUAL MEETING TBD
The annual Women’s Group Lunch and AGM is being planned now.  It will be held near the end of March, either March 18 or March 25. More information will be coming soon!
 
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – Mar 12
There will be a Congregation Meeting following the Service on Sun, Mar 12 to review, through the Annual Reports, the mission and ministry of the Spirit West in 2022.  We will also make such decisions as will determine our vision for the Congregation in 2023. You attendance and input at both these meetings is greatly desired.
 
DATES TO REMEMBER:
  • Annual Congregational Meeting – Mar 12 after the worship service
 
EVENTS Happening in the CHURCH BUILDING Feb 27 to March 4, 2023
  • Mon, Feb 27 – 6-8pm - Brownies
  • Tues, Feb 28, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Wed, March 1, 7-10pm – Church of Christ service
  • Thurs, March 2, 7-8:30pm  – choir practice 7-8:30pm
  • Fri, March 3, 6-7pm – set up for Church of Christ service
  • Sat, March 4, 7-10pm – Church of Christ service
 
LEADERS FOR Feb 26
  • Hospitality Team – Callas – Bill & Carol, Gerry & Sue
  • Scripture Reader – Rhea Olson
  • Projectionist – Terri-Lynn Hyland
 
LEADERS FOR March 5
  • Hospitality Team – Doyle – Don & Daphne, Tony
  • Scripture Reader – Peter K
  • Projectionist – Bruce C
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – February 26 – also, in person worship service
 To watch online, you will need to go to YouTube and google “Spirit West United Church”.  This action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.   
 
SPIRIT WEST PRAYER CHAIN
Prayer is important. We know that  people face challenges and difficulties and we cannot forget them.  Our Prayer Chain continues 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 and may form part of the Prayers of the People in our Sunday Worship. 
Please remember to have people removed from the prayer chain if the prayers are no longer needed. 
 
YOUR BOTTLES FOR THE CHURCH
You may have bottles piling up for recycling.  You can 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 and interest on our mortgage. 
 
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
  •  We can accept donations by eTransfer.  The contact name for the eTransfer is Spirit West United Church, and the email address is spiritw@telus.net .  If you include a security question with your eTransfer, please notify Norma at the church office by phone or email of the answer.
  • And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance) or even if you are , you can mail in cheques to the church office (Spirit West United Church, 7003 – 199 St. NW Edmonton, AB  T5T 3A8, include your envelope number if you have one.)
  • You can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors or place it in the mailbox.
  • You can also donate online by checking out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar. 
 
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

Office Hours for February 17 to March 4, 2023
Norma => Wed => noon to 5pm
                      Tues & Thurs – 9am to 2pm
Eli =>         Eli will be working Sunday to Thursday this week.  They will be taking some Fridays off as Study leave this winter to do an online course on adaptive leadership.  They are happy to discuss both the course itself and the impact on working days. 
  • Please let Eli know if there is anyone you think they should call or visit.
  • Eli is trying to get to know members of the congregation and they would love to meet with you in your homes, their office, or a favourite coffee shop. They are hoping to meet with a few people each week.
Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator
Spirit West United Church
7003 - 199st.NW Edmonton, AB T5T 3A8
phone:     (780) 481-1406
email:     spiritw@telus.net
website: www.spiritwest.org

 

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