Greetings,
This Sunday – Transfiguration - “Nebulous visibility”
Although it may seem like taking a short cut, I am using the lectionary commentary for this Sunday written by Kim Vidal of Bells Corners United Church, Nepean, Ontario for Gathering (the United Church worship resource magazine).
“The word transfiguration is about change, but it emphasizes a dramatic change in appearance. Especially, it means a change that glorifies or exalts somebody. In her lectionary blog (www.bethscib.com/blog), the author and theologian Beth Scibienski talks about “nebulous visibility” and “momentary clarity.” Peter had his moment of nebulous visibility when he spontaneously suggested erecting three dwelling places for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. James and John had their moment of nebulous visibility when, upon seeing Jesus transfigured, they were overwhelmed by fear. What is your nebulous visibility moment? Have you had a transformational experience? Has there been a moment when your life was suddenly illuminated? Did a cloud descend upon you, wrap you up, and then release you, and suddenly you knew exactly what you were called to do? With Jesus as an example, it becomes clear the we, too, are meant to be transfigured. We are to be transfigured as his followers of all times and places. We, too, are to shine with Jesus’ presence in our lives, wearing robes of love and compassion, garments of justice and peace. Moments of transfiguration change us, sustain us, prepare us, encourage us, and guide us into the future regardless of the circumstances we face. They show us who we are – the transfigured people of God.”
The readings for Sunday are Exodus 24: 12-18, and Matthew 17: 1-9. In the Time for All Ages we will say, “Wow, look at that!” The title of the Sermon is “Nebulous Visibility.”
Please remember that our church is a “scent-free” zone because of some severe allergies and sensitives. We would ask that you refrain from using scented beauty or grooming products such as perfume, after-shave, etc. when attending services and programs at Spirit West.
OUTREACH ACTIVITIES
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – Feb 23
There will be a Congregation Meeting following the Service this Sunday, February 23 to review, through the Annual Reports, (sent out by email last Thursday) the mission and ministry of the Spirit West United in 2019. We will also make such decisions as will determine our vision for the Congregation in 2020. You attendance and input at this meeting is greatly desired
THE START OF LENT AT SPIRIT WEST
Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, in Wednesday is February 26, 2020. The day before the start of Lent is Shrove Tuesday, sometimes called Pancake Tuesday. Since Spirit West does not observe Pancake Tuesday or Ash Wednesday on their specific dates, we have combined their observance on the first Sunday in Lent, March 1. So the service on Sunday, March 1 will include the Imposition of Ashes for those who wish it, and the service will be followed by a Pancake Lunch. This will also be the first Sunday of the Month so we the service will include the celebration of Communion.
PANCAKE LUNCH AFTER CHURCH – SUNDAY, MARCH 1
As noted above, there will be a Pancake Lunch following the service on Sunday, March 1. Please come and enjoy a time of food and fellowship together. The preparation for the lunch is being coordinated by Don D. and the Spirit West Men’s Breakfast Group. If you would like to help with preparation or clean-up (you don’t have to be a man or part of the Breakfast Group) call or email Don or the Church office.
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP EXPLORATION – Our Family, Our Stories
Starting on Sunday, March 1 after the Pancake Lunch, we will be have the first of a series on Church Membership Exploration. If you are not a member of Spirit West United Church or a member of United Church of Canada, and are interesting in exploring the possibility of membership, this is for you. The series is also open to those who are members of Spirit West and just want to learn more about what that means. This series which will run after church through the first five Sundays in Lent will look at membership through stories; God’s stories, Jesus’ stories, the Church’s stories, Spirit West’s stories, My stories. The exploration will end on one of the Sunday’s around Easter with a celebration of Confirmation/Membership for those who desire it. If you are interested talk to Larry.
LENTEN BIBLE STUDY 2020
Watch this space next week for details about a Bible Study in Lent, starting on Wednesday, March 4. For those of you who would like to participate in a Bible Study but are not available on Wednesday afternoons, please see the sign-up sheet by the 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 during the months of late March, April and May! 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 or Colleen F. 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.
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 2020 – this annual ecumenical worship service will be held at 2pm on March 6 at St. Matthias Anglican Church (6210 – 188 st). A reception will follow the service. The theme this year is “Rise! Take your Mat and Walk” prepared by the women of Zimbabwe. People from Spirit West will be participating in the service. Please join us in this meaningful experience.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS NEEDED
For as many or as few Sundays as you wish. We continue to use Seasons of the Spirit curriculum. Right now we are looking for teachers for the Sundays in March (except March 15). If you want to teach one or more Sundays, please add your name to the signup sheet by the church office. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a teacher, call Larry at 780-481-1406
Your Favourite Hymn
Do you have a favourite hymn that you’d like to hear included in one of our worship services? Please let Bonnie C. know your choice and she will make sure it is sung within the month.
A WAY TO CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY
You don’t have offering envelopes, you are not on PAR, and you don’t get to church as often as you would like, but you want to make a financial contribution to work of Spirit West, and receive a tax receipt. Now you can! Check out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar.
RIDE TO CHURCH?
From time to time we encounter people who would like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because they do not have means of transportation. Can you give a ride? If you would be willing to make yourself available to provide a ride to church please call the church office. Do you need a ride? Would you like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because you have no ride, please call the church office. (780-481-1406)
Spirit West Prayer Chain
The Spirit West Prayer Chain is a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call the church.
SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Website: www.spiritwest.org
Facebook: Spirit West United Church
Instagram: spiritwestyeg
Office hours
- Norma => noon to 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Larry
(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org
This Sunday – Transfiguration - “Nebulous visibility”
Although it may seem like taking a short cut, I am using the lectionary commentary for this Sunday written by Kim Vidal of Bells Corners United Church, Nepean, Ontario for Gathering (the United Church worship resource magazine).
“The word transfiguration is about change, but it emphasizes a dramatic change in appearance. Especially, it means a change that glorifies or exalts somebody. In her lectionary blog (www.bethscib.com/blog), the author and theologian Beth Scibienski talks about “nebulous visibility” and “momentary clarity.” Peter had his moment of nebulous visibility when he spontaneously suggested erecting three dwelling places for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. James and John had their moment of nebulous visibility when, upon seeing Jesus transfigured, they were overwhelmed by fear. What is your nebulous visibility moment? Have you had a transformational experience? Has there been a moment when your life was suddenly illuminated? Did a cloud descend upon you, wrap you up, and then release you, and suddenly you knew exactly what you were called to do? With Jesus as an example, it becomes clear the we, too, are meant to be transfigured. We are to be transfigured as his followers of all times and places. We, too, are to shine with Jesus’ presence in our lives, wearing robes of love and compassion, garments of justice and peace. Moments of transfiguration change us, sustain us, prepare us, encourage us, and guide us into the future regardless of the circumstances we face. They show us who we are – the transfigured people of God.”
The readings for Sunday are Exodus 24: 12-18, and Matthew 17: 1-9. In the Time for All Ages we will say, “Wow, look at that!” The title of the Sermon is “Nebulous Visibility.”
Please remember that our church is a “scent-free” zone because of some severe allergies and sensitives. We would ask that you refrain from using scented beauty or grooming products such as perfume, after-shave, etc. when attending services and programs at Spirit West.
OUTREACH ACTIVITIES
- Jasper Place Wellness Bagged Lunch - Our 2nd lunch is scheduled for this Saturday, Feb 22nd. We need 2 or 3 people to help make the sandwiches and pack the lunches, about a 30 minute commitment. We will meet at the church at 5:00 pm to do this. Please call Lori at 780-221-7729 if you are able to help!
- Seasonal items continue to be collected for the Jasper Place Wellness Center and the Bissell Center – underwear, socks, scarves, mitts, refillable water bottles, hand warmers, etc. These can be left at the giving tree for distribution.
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – Feb 23
There will be a Congregation Meeting following the Service this Sunday, February 23 to review, through the Annual Reports, (sent out by email last Thursday) the mission and ministry of the Spirit West United in 2019. We will also make such decisions as will determine our vision for the Congregation in 2020. You attendance and input at this meeting is greatly desired
THE START OF LENT AT SPIRIT WEST
Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, in Wednesday is February 26, 2020. The day before the start of Lent is Shrove Tuesday, sometimes called Pancake Tuesday. Since Spirit West does not observe Pancake Tuesday or Ash Wednesday on their specific dates, we have combined their observance on the first Sunday in Lent, March 1. So the service on Sunday, March 1 will include the Imposition of Ashes for those who wish it, and the service will be followed by a Pancake Lunch. This will also be the first Sunday of the Month so we the service will include the celebration of Communion.
PANCAKE LUNCH AFTER CHURCH – SUNDAY, MARCH 1
As noted above, there will be a Pancake Lunch following the service on Sunday, March 1. Please come and enjoy a time of food and fellowship together. The preparation for the lunch is being coordinated by Don D. and the Spirit West Men’s Breakfast Group. If you would like to help with preparation or clean-up (you don’t have to be a man or part of the Breakfast Group) call or email Don or the Church office.
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP EXPLORATION – Our Family, Our Stories
Starting on Sunday, March 1 after the Pancake Lunch, we will be have the first of a series on Church Membership Exploration. If you are not a member of Spirit West United Church or a member of United Church of Canada, and are interesting in exploring the possibility of membership, this is for you. The series is also open to those who are members of Spirit West and just want to learn more about what that means. This series which will run after church through the first five Sundays in Lent will look at membership through stories; God’s stories, Jesus’ stories, the Church’s stories, Spirit West’s stories, My stories. The exploration will end on one of the Sunday’s around Easter with a celebration of Confirmation/Membership for those who desire it. If you are interested talk to Larry.
LENTEN BIBLE STUDY 2020
Watch this space next week for details about a Bible Study in Lent, starting on Wednesday, March 4. For those of you who would like to participate in a Bible Study but are not available on Wednesday afternoons, please see the sign-up sheet by the 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 during the months of late March, April and May! 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 or Colleen F. 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.
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 2020 – this annual ecumenical worship service will be held at 2pm on March 6 at St. Matthias Anglican Church (6210 – 188 st). A reception will follow the service. The theme this year is “Rise! Take your Mat and Walk” prepared by the women of Zimbabwe. People from Spirit West will be participating in the service. Please join us in this meaningful experience.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS NEEDED
For as many or as few Sundays as you wish. We continue to use Seasons of the Spirit curriculum. Right now we are looking for teachers for the Sundays in March (except March 15). If you want to teach one or more Sundays, please add your name to the signup sheet by the church office. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a teacher, call Larry at 780-481-1406
Your Favourite Hymn
Do you have a favourite hymn that you’d like to hear included in one of our worship services? Please let Bonnie C. know your choice and she will make sure it is sung within the month.
A WAY TO CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY
You don’t have offering envelopes, you are not on PAR, and you don’t get to church as often as you would like, but you want to make a financial contribution to work of Spirit West, and receive a tax receipt. Now you can! Check out the online donation option on our website spiritwest.org and click on the Donate tab in the navigation bar.
RIDE TO CHURCH?
From time to time we encounter people who would like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because they do not have means of transportation. Can you give a ride? If you would be willing to make yourself available to provide a ride to church please call the church office. Do you need a ride? Would you like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because you have no ride, please call the church office. (780-481-1406)
Spirit West Prayer Chain
The Spirit West Prayer Chain is a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call the church.
SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Website: www.spiritwest.org
Facebook: Spirit West United Church
Instagram: spiritwestyeg
Office hours
- Norma => noon to 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Larry
(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org
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