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June 23, 2022 - the Third Sunday after Pentecost

6/23/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
​Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – June 26 – 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.   
 
Sunday, June 26, 2022 – the Third Sunday after Pentecost
David Faber will be leading us in worship this Sunday. During the Theme Conversation, David will talk about “following through”.
His sermon is titled “Cleaning your Plate”.
The scripture readings this week are:
  • Galatians 5:1, 13-25
  • Luke 9:51-62
 
UPCOMING SERVICES
June 26 – led by David Faber
July 3 – Canada Day – no in-person or YouTube service
July 10 – led by David Faber
July 17 – led by David Faber; introduction to our new minister, Eli Carter-Morgan
July 24 – led by Eli Carter-Morgan
 
Vacation
Norma – July 3 to 10, 2022
 
WE NEED – a COMPUTER!
The computer that the Treasurer and Envelope Secretary uses is very old and still running on Windows XP!  The software that we use is no longer supported on an XP platform so that we are unable to perform critical updates.
Therefore we are asking that, if anyone has a laptop computer running Windows 10 that they are no longer using, we would really appreciate having it donated to the church.
If someone is aware of an agency that donates computers to churches, please send the information to Norma at the church.
Donations for a new computer would also be greatly appreciated.
  
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), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and 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
  
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
  
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

June 16, 2022 - The Second Sunday after Pentecost - Father's Day

6/16/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – June 19 – 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.   
 
Sunday, June 19, 2022 – Sunday School Recognition and Year-end Picnic – Father’s Day
Where do you find the comforting, empowering voice of God? What gives you strength to do God’s work?
 
These are the readings we will hear this Sunday, the Second Sunday in the Season after Pentecost (also known as Ordinary Time, or Proper Sundays).
 
•        First Kings 19:1-15 (Elijah hides from God)
This reading is set during the reign of King Ahab [Ā habb], who ruled Israel in the 9th Century BC. According to First Kings 16, Ahab “did evil in the sight of the Lord more than all who were before him.” His wife, Jezebel, encouraged the worship of the foreign god, Ba’al [BAY ell].
The prophet Elijah [ee LIE juh], speaking for God, was the primary adversary of Ahab and Jezebel. In a contest of faith just prior to today’s passage, Elijah defeated 450 prophets of Ba’al.
 
In Jewish tradition, Elijah is considered second only to Moses in importance. The work of a biblical prophet was to discern what God was saying and speak that word to the people,– sometimes in dramatic action, sometimes in the transformation of ordinary everyday things.
 
•        Luke 9:18-20 (Peter’s Confession)
Today’s Gospel reading takes place in the region of Galilee, at about the midpoint of Luke’s Gospel, after Jesus feeds a multitude. (Note: the Lectionary suggested Luke 8:26-39.)
 
The readings today invite us to wonder about God’s power to save at work among us, even when we cannot perceive it. God’s presence and care inform our own ministry as courageous and faithful agents of God’s powerful love.
 
Each of us encounters fear-filled moments of insecurity or risk that halt us from living courageously and faithfully in God’s ways; at times we may wonder if this journey is worth the effort. When we ask for truth and power to see the way forward, God responds.
 
Tuesday, June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. Check out www.canada.ca for details (https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/celebrate-canada/indigenous-peoples-day.html).
 
This will also be my last Sunday service with you (although I will be available for the rest of the month).  The year has gone by quickly! Blessings and prayers as you prepare to welcome Eli and family into your midst!
 
Stuart
 
UPCOMING SERVICES
June 19 – Father’s Day and Sunday School Recognition led by Stuart; service will be followed by our annual picnic
June 26 – led by David Faber
July 3 – Canada Day – no service
 
CHURCH PICNIC – June 19 after the worship service. 
Outside, weather permitting, otherwise in the sanctuary!
Come for Food, Games, Fellowship, Fun!  Everyone welcome! Please bring a lawn chair, if possible.
Free will donations will be gratefully accepted to help cover the cost
  
WE NEED – a COMPUTER!
The computer that the Treasurer and Envelope Secretary uses is very old and still running on Windows XP!  The software that we use is no longer supported on an XP platform so that we are unable to perform critical updates.
Therefore we are asking that, if anyone has a laptop computer running Windows 10 that they are no longer using, we would really appreciate having it donated to the church.
If someone is aware of an agency that donates computers to churches, please send the information to Norma at the church.
Donations for a new computer would also be greatly appreciated.
 
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), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and 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
  
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
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

June 9, 2022 - Trinity Sunday

6/9/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – June 12 – 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.   
 
Sunday, June 12, 2022 – Trinity
 Where do we see God’s creative power? How do we share Christ’s ministry? How does the Spirit guide us?
 
These are the readings we will hear on this Trinity Sunday, the first Sunday in the Season after Pentecost (also known as Ordinary Time, or Proper Sundays).
 •        Psalm 8 (God’s Creative Power)
The Psalms were the hymns of the ancient Hebrews. Today’s psalm praises God as Creator, singing of the balance and harmony between the Creator and all created things.
 
•        Romans 5:1-5   (Justified by Faith in Jesus)
The Letter to the Romans was addressed to the church in Rome, which Paul had not yet visited. Paul reminds the early Christians in Rome that God, through Christ, has brought peace and reconciliation to Creation, and encourages them to hang on to their belief in God’s loving care.
 
•        John 16:12-15 (The Spirit of Truth)
The Gospel of John is very different from the other three Gospels, in themes and time lines. Chapters 13 to 17 are set as the last teachings of Jesus, on the evening before his arrest and crucifixion. In this passage, Jesus speaks about the role of the Holy Spirit in the faith and lives of the disciples and the church.
 
Although the Bible never uses the term “Trinity” to speak of God, it does use many images and names to describe God’s relationship to us and the world. This week’s scripture readings invite us to experience three aspects of the Divine Presence: Creator, Wisdom, and Spirit. They offer an image of a delightful relationship among the persons of the Trinity, who call us to live and move and have our being in God.
 
Stuart
 
UPCOMING SERVICES
June 12 – Trinity Sunday led by Stuart
June 19 – Father’s Day and Sunday School Recognition led by Stuart; service will be followed by our annual picnic
June 26 – led by David Faber
July 3 – Canada Day – no service
 
CHURCH PICNIC – June 19 after the worship service. 
Outside, weather permitting, otherwise in the sanctuary!
Come for Food, Games, Fellowship, Fun!  Everyone welcome! Please bring a lawn chair, if possible.
Free will donations will be gratefully accepted to help cover the cost
  
WE NEED – a COMPUTER!
The computer that the Treasurer and Envelope Secretary uses is very old and still running on Windows XP!  The software that we use is no longer supported on an XP platform so that we are unable to perform critical updates.
Therefore we are asking that, if anyone has a laptop computer running Windows 10 that they are no longer using, we would really appreciate having it donated to the church.
If someone is aware of an agency that donates computers to churches, please send the information to Norma at the church.
Donations for a new computer would also be greatly appreciated.
  
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), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and 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
 
 CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
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

June 2, 2022 - Pentecost Sunday and Union Sunday

6/2/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – June 5 – 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.   
 
Sunday, June 5, 2022 – Pentecost
 How do we witness to the powerful deeds of God?
 
This week we will celebrate the 97th Anniversary of the formation of The United Church of Canada. On June 10, 1925, more than 8,000 people gathered in the Mutual Street Arena in Toronto to mark the event. The Basis of Union was formally signed by the chief officers of the supreme courts of The Methodist Church, The Presbyterian Church in Canada, and The Congregational Union of Canada; several hundred Local Union Churches, formed in anticipation of Union, were also represented. The assembly participated in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper and in the service of hallowing and consummating the Union.
 
On a related note, the Northern Spirit Regional Council will be livestreaming the Celebration of Ministry Service this Sunday, June 5, at 1:00 PM, with In Memoriams, Retirements, and an Ordination. The YouTube link is available at https://northernspiritrc.ca/june-5-celebration-of-ministry-service-for-northern-spirit/
 
These are the readings we will hear on this Pentecost Sunday, the birthday of the Christian Church. Red is the symbolic colour of the flames which, according to the reading from Acts, touched each believer on the first Pentecost Sunday.
 
•        Acts 2:1-21 (The Gift of the Spirit)
Pentecost was a Jewish festival, 50 days after the Passover, giving thanks for the harvest of winter wheat. Jews from all over the known world, along with the followers of Jesus, had gathered together for this festival.
 
•        John 14:1-27 (The Advocate, or Helper)
The Gospel of John is very different from the other three Gospels, in themes and time lines. Chapters 13 to 17 are set at the table of the Last Supper, just prior to the arrest of Jesus. They form a series of teachings and prayers for the disciples. In this week’s passage, Jesus promises that the disciples will not be left abandoned after his death.
 
While we are more familiar with the gift of the Holy Spirit in the Pentecost account from the Book of Acts (which is the continuation of the Gospel of Luke), the Gospel of John has Jesus imparting the Spirit on the first Easter Sunday evening.
 
Stuart
 
UPCOMING SERVICES
June 5 – Pentecost with communion led by Stuart – wear red!
June 12 – Trinity Sunday led by Stuart
June 19 – Father’s Day and Sunday School Recognition followed by our annual picnic
June 26 – led by David Faber
July 3 – Canada Day – no service
 
CHURCH PICNIC – June 19 after the worship service. 
Outside, weather permitting, otherwise in the sanctuary!
Come for Food, Games, Fellowship, Fun!  Everyone welcome! Please bring a lawn chair, if possible.
Free will donations will be gratefully accepted to help cover the cost
 
WE NEED – a COMPUTER!
The computer that the Treasurer and Envelope Secretary uses is very old and still running on Windows XP!  The software that we use is no longer supported on an XP platform so that we are unable to perform critical updates.
Therefore we are asking that, if anyone has a laptop computer running Windows 10 that they are no longer using, we would really appreciate having it donated to the church.
If someone is aware of an agency that donates computers to churches, please send the information to Norma at the church.
Donations for a new computer would also be greatly appreciated.
  
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), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and 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
 
 CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
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

May 19, 2022 - the Sixth Sunday of Easter

5/19/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – May 22 – NO 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.   
 
Sunday, May 22, 2022 – The Sixth Sunday of Easter
 Because so many of us will be away this long weekend, we will not be gathering in person. The pre-recorded service will be posted to our YouTube channel.
 
What visions of new life does God’s presence inspire in you? How is the Spirit leading you and the church?
 
Easter is about change,– not just in Jesus, but in us. As Easter people, we live with mystery, and are transformed.
 
•        The Gospel of John 14:23-29 (Jesus promises the Holy Spirit)
 Chapters 13 to 17 of John’s Gospel are set at the table of the Last Supper, just prior to the arrest of Jesus. They form a series of teachings and prayers for the disciples.
 
The Gospel of John is very different from the other three Gospels, in themes and time lines. In this week’s passage, Jesus promises that the disciples will not be left abandoned after his death.
 
While we are more familiar with the gift of the Holy Spirit in the Pentecost account from the Book of Acts (which is the continuation of the Gospel of Luke), the Gospel of John has Jesus imparting the Spirit on the first Easter Sunday evening.
 
We will only read the Gospel Lesson in our pre-recorded service. You may want to read the other suggestions:
•        Acts 16:9-15 (Paul follows a vision)
•        Psalm 67 (May God bless us)
•        Revelation 21:10,22 to 22:5 (The New Jerusalem)
 
Hospitality is a major theme in the Bible. It is so because hospitality was a major duty in the cultures of that day. Opening one’s table to others, friends and strangers, formed a primary expression of hospitality. It was especially vital in a world where inns or restaurants were few and far between.
 Stuart
 
UPCOMING SERVICES
May 22 – available on-line; no in-person service
May 29 – Easter 7 led by David Faber
June 5 – Pentecost with communion led by Stuart – wear red!
 
VACATION
Stuart – May 16 to 30 inclusive
 
WE NEED – a COMPUTER!
The computer that the Treasurer and Envelope Secretary uses is very old and still running on Windows XP!  The software that we use is no longer supported on an XP platform so that we are unable to perform critical updates.
Therefore we are asking that, if anyone has a laptop computer running Windows 10 that they are no longer using, we would really appreciate having it donated to the church.
If someone is aware of an agency that donates computers to churches, please send the information to Norma at the church.
Donations for a new computer would also be greatly appreciated.
  
HANDBELLS
The two Robertson-Wesley United Church handbell choirs are holding a concert on Thursday, May 26, 7:30 p.m., at Robertson-Wesley, 10209 123 Street, Edmonton.  This will include a guest performance by Emmy Ozakawa-Bortolin, solo bell ringer.  Free will offering, proceeds to the R-W Music Society.  Reception to follow.
  
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), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and 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
  
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
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

May 12, 2022 - The Fifth Sunday of Easter

5/12/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – May 15 – 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.   
 
Sunday, May 15, 2022 – The Fifth Sunday of Easter with the Sacrament of Baptism
 God still does new things in our midst. How can we welcome the unfolding story of God’s gracious actions?
 
Easter is about change,– not just in Jesus, but in us. As Easter people, we live with mystery, and are transformed. These are the readings we will hear this Sunday.
 
The Revelation to John 21:1-6
 
The Book of Revelation records the vision of a man named John of Patmos [PAT moss], who was in exile near Asia Minor. The book was probably written around the turn of the First Century, several years after the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple, during the reign of the Roman emperor, Domitian. There had been some persecution of Christians under emperors Nero and Caligula. Domitian insisted that he be called “My Lord and My God.” Christians refused to pledge allegiance to him in this way and were punished for their refusal.
 
The Gospel of John 13:31-35
 
Chapters 13 to 17 of John’s Gospel are set around the table of the Last Supper, just prior to the arrest of Jesus. They form a series of teachings and prayers for the disciples. This passage is sandwiched between the prediction of betrayal by Judas, and the prediction of Peter’s denial.
 
Perhaps the past informs the present, but this week’s scripture readings invite us to also imagine how the future informs the present. When we place ourselves in God’s presence, new possibilities for life and service become visible. How do glimpses of God’s new heaven and new earth inspire you to help bring renewal right here, right now?
 
Stuart
 
UPCOMING SERVICES
May 15 – baptism
May 22 – available on-line; no in-person service
May 29 – Easter 7 led by David Faber
June 5 – Pentecost with communion led by Stuart – wear red!
 
VACATION
Stuart – May 16 to 30 inclusive
Norma – May 16
 
WE NEED – a COMPUTER!
The computer that the Treasurer and Envelope Secretary uses is very old and still running on Windows XP!  The software that we use is no longer supported on an XP platform so that we are unable to perform critical updates.
Therefore we are asking that, if anyone has a laptop computer running Windows 10 that they are no longer using, we would really appreciate having it donated to the church.
If someone is aware of an agency that donates computers to churches, please send the information to Norma at the church.
Donations for a new computer would also be greatly appreciated.
  
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), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and 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
  
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
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 28, 2022 - the Third Sunday of Easter

4/28/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – May 1 – 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.   
 
Sunday, May 1, 2022 – The Third Sunday of Easter
 How do we encounter the risen Jesus? How do we live out Christ’s commission in the world?
 
Easter is about change,– not just in Jesus, but in us. As Easter people, we live with mystery, and are transformed.
 
•        John 21:1-19 (The risen Christ at the sea shore)
The final chapter of John appears to have been added to the Gospel by a later editor, possibly after Peter’s death. As we read the Gospel account of another encounter with the risen Christ, keep in mind Peter’s actions on the night before the crucifixion. After boldly declaring that he would die with Jesus, Peter denied three times that he knew Jesus (see John 13:31-38; 18:1-27).
 
Because this week’s Gospel reading is longer than usual, it will be the only reading used in our service. You may want to read the other suggestions:
 
•        Acts 9:1-20 (The conversion of Saul)
•        Psalm 30 (Praises to God)
•        Revelation 5:11-14 (Worthy is the Lamb who was slain)
 
Also, this Sunday’s service will include the Sacrament of Communion, so have your elements ready if you plan to participate on line.
 
Stuart
 
UPCOMING SERVICES
May 1 – communion
May 8 – Mother’s Day
May 15 - baptism
 
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 now 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.
-  And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors.
-  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
  
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
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 21, 2022 - The Second Sunday in Easter - Earth Day

4/21/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – April 24 – in person worship services)
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.  There you will see all of our services that have been posted to YouTube. 
 
Sunday, April 24, 2022 – The Second Sunday of Easter – Earth Day
 What might people in our community learn about God from the witness of our lives,– and the life of our church?
 
Easter is about change,– not just in Jesus, but in us. As Easter people, we live with mystery, and are transformed. For the Season of Easter, we will be reading about the life of the early church from the Book of Acts.
 
•        Acts 5:27-32 (The apostles before the Council)
This passage describes the growing tension between the apostles and the religious authorities. The apostles have been arrested for preaching about Jesus in the Temple. You may want to start the reading from verse 12, which records the arrest of the apostles the day before today’s setting.
 
•        John 20:19-31 (Jesus appears to the disciples)
This week’s Gospel passage begins on the evening of the first Easter Sunday. The disciples receive the Holy Spirit (similar to the Pentecost story from Acts 2, which is set on the 50th day after the first Easter).
 
You may want to start reading from the start of Chapter 20 (last Sunday’s reading), with Mary Magdalene as the first witness to the empty tomb. Most biblical scholars agree that Chapter 20 was the original ending of John’s Gospel, with Chapter 21 added later, as an epilogue.
 
Stuart
 
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 now 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.
-  And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors.
-  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
  
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
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 7, 2022 - Easter Sunday

4/14/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – April 15 and 17 – in person worship services)
To watch online, you will need to:
  • click on this link https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrJQ5ljHCSPBV3F8TmIhvVA OR
  • go to YouTube and google Spirit West United Church.
Either action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.  There you will see all of our services that have been posted to YouTube. 
 
Sunday, April 10, 2022 – Easter Sunday
 David Faber will be leading us in worship on Easter Sunday. In his Theme Conversation, David will be discussing “from darkness to lightness”.  David’s sermon in entitled “Let us sing of a wonderful Love”.
 
UPCOMING SERVICES – In-Person and Online
  • April 15 – Good Friday
  • April 17 – Easter Sunday
  
OUTREACH NEWS
I wanted to give a shout-out to our congregation for donations of money and time for Outreach.   A special thanks to Ramona S and Diane H who joined Bill and me on the 28th of March to make 24 sandwiches and bagged lunches for the Jasper Place Wellness Center.    Another round of applause please to Ramona S, Vivian A and Diane H who joined us on the 2nd of April to make 100 sandwiches and bagged lunches for the Bissell Center.  I am so grateful for your support in helping these worthy organizations do what they can for those in need.  Lori W.
 
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 now 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.
-  And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors.
-  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
 
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday
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 7, 2022 - The Sixth Sunday in Lent - Palm Sunday

4/7/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Greetings
 
YouTube Videos Worship Services – April 10 – in person worship service)
To watch online, you will need to:
  • click on this link https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrJQ5ljHCSPBV3F8TmIhvVA OR
  • go to YouTube and google Spirit West United Church.
Either action will bring you to the Spirit West United Church YouTube page.  There you will see all of our services that have been posted to YouTube. 
 
Sunday, April 10, 2022 – The Sixth Sunday in Lent – Palm Sunday
 On Passion Sunday we hear again the account of the last days in the life of Jesus,– the events of his betrayal, denial, betrayal, sentencing, and crucifixion. Once again, we hear the account of how far God goes to show us love and forgiveness.
 
For the Sixth Sunday in the Season of Lent, also known as Palm or Passion Sunday, we will be reading most of the Passion Narrative from the Gospel of Luke 22:14 to 23:56. It is a long reading, but one that needs to be read as a whole. We will hear it read in two voices, interspersed with sung responses and time for meditation.
 
At home, you may want to read the other scriptures designated for this Sunday.
•        Luke 19:28-40 (The Triumphal Entry)
•        Psalm 118:1-2,19-29 (“Open the gates of the temple”)
•        Isaiah 50:4-9 (The Suffering Servant)
•        Psalm 31:9-16 (“Be gracious to me, O Lord”)
•        Philippians 2:5-11 (The obedience of Christ)
 
The solemnity of this week’s service, which will include the Sacrament of Communion, helps prepare us for Good Friday, when we will reflect on “Seven Last Words from the Cross”. The Good Friday AM service (10:30 AM on April 15) will also be livestreamed.
 
Stuart
 
UPCOMING SERVICES – In-Person and Online
  • April 10 – Palm Sunday with communion
  • April 15 – Good Friday
  • April 17 – Easter Sunday
  
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 now 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.
-  And remember that if you are not on PAR(Pre-Authorized Remittance), you can also 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.)
-  The church office is open and you can drop off your offering/donation in the offering plate just inside the front doors.
-  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
  
CHURCH OFFICE
The Spirit West Church office is open. 
-  Stuart => 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday
-  Norma => Noon to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday (vacation day – April 11, 2022)
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
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