Sunday Worship
This Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday which closes the Christmas/Epiphany cycle, Lent begins on Wednesday. In the story of the Transfiguration, three of Jesus' followers, Peter, James and John, are given a special insight into who Jesus is, in a rather spectacular way. It is an insight which initially does not sink in. The response from Peter shows a particular lack of understanding. If the Transfiguration had happened today, I think Peter would probably have tried to take a "selfie" to post on Facebook. How often do we in our own lives miss the true meaning of a moment because we want to extend or record it for some future date. Do we come away from encounters with God with a new understanding of who we are, or just a souvenir of the event.
The readings for Sunday are 1 Corinthians 4: 3-6 and Mark 9: 2-9. In the Time for all Ages we will play and talk about the finger game “Wow, look at that!” The Sermon is titled “This has to go on Facebook”
Congregational Meeting
The Congregational General Meeting will follow the Service on Sunday February 22, 2015. At this meeting we will review the Annual Report and take any actions necessary to guide the work of our congregation for the coming year.
Lenten Study
On Wednesday, February 25, at 1:30 in the Lounge we will start a Lenten Study using as our resource a book called: "Give it UP!" This Lenten study reflects on all the things that hold our attention, occupy our minds and monopolize our time, yet still isolate us from God and the world around us. Things like social media, phones, the noise of life, and focus on the external. Imagine taking on the challenge of giving up each of these for a week. During this seven-week study, Dottie Escobedo Frank takes the reader on a journey of self discovery, where he or she learns that the power of release brings great gain. The biggest gain is a stronger relationship with Christ. In the release, each person is freed to "give it up" in applause and praise for a life deeply lived in Christ.
Furniture Request from the Capital Region Interfaith Housing Initiative (of which the United Church is a part)
As we all strive to end homelessness in Edmonton, Homeward Trust Edmonton, through the FIND social enterprise, has taken on the responsibilities of housing the homeless 'free of charge' and are currently providing furniture for over 20 housing units per week. While the demand keeps increasing, the supply of donated furniture is now at a low point.
As a result they are in urgent need of couches, love-seats, kitchen table/chairs and dressers to set up these units for those individuals transitioning out of homelessness back into the surrounding communities. Therefore, I am writing to faith communities asking for support for this worthy cause.
Any assistance that can be rendered at this time would be greatly appreciated. Information about FIND and their request for donations of used furniture is available at www.findedmonton.com
Thank you for your continued support.
Regards,
Bob McKeon
For the Capital Region Interfaith Housing Initiative
Spirit West Woman’s Group’s Valentine Luncheon
will be held this Sat, Feb 14, 11:30 am, at the Homefire Grill, 18210–100 ave. Tickets are $20.00 each, available from Janice Shields. Please bring a personal hygiene item suitable for men and women which will be donated to the Jasper Place Health and Wellness Centre. All the women of the congregation are invited for good food and fellowship.
Computer Needed
We are making an appeal for a donation of a computer to replace one of the office computers which is old and slow. Ideally we would like to have a laptop. If you know of or have a computer (3 years old or less) to donate to the church, please talk to Norma or Fraser.
Presbytery Representative
Edina Tillotson, our current representative, has been forced to resign because of ill health. We are now seeking a person to fulfill this position. If you are interested, please talk to Larry.
MESSY CHURCH
We hope to hold a Messy Church based on the story of Jonah within the next month or so. Watch this space for more details. If you are interested in helping make this happen, please let me know as soon as possible.
Spirit West Prayer Chain
Spirit West has a Prayer Chain, a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call Marian T. at 780-487-2851 or Bonnie C. at 780-444-2230.
NEW WEBSITE!
Check out our New Website at www.spiritwest.org . Thanks to our Webmaster: Bonnie S.
Office hours
- Monday to Friday 9:30 – 2:30
- Norma => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Office will be closed on Monday, February 16th for Family Day.
Remember to check us out on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SpirtWestUnitedChurch
See you on Sunday!
Larry