
This Sunday, as we will have just marked the 150th anniversary of Confederation, I am not using the readings from the Lectionary, I have chosen readings that for me speak to Canada, and a vision for our country that may have been in the minds of those around the table at Confederation. The one reading is from Psalm 72, verse 8 is the clue to its significance for Canada. The Gospel reading is from John 8 and speaks of what gives us true freedom. I will look at this passage in the context of the line from our anthem “…the true north, strong and free.”
The Scripture readings are Psalm 72: 1-8 (we will actually be singing the Psalm) and John 8: 31-36. During the Time for All Ages, I will be asking, “Where are you from?” The title of the sermon is “Strong and Free.”
We will be celebrating the Sacrament of Holy Communion at this Service.
KIDS IN CHURCH (yes please)
Although the Sunday School Program is over until the fall, kids are still part of the church. Now some kids (and some adults) find sitting for a hour a challenge. I hope that the Sunday Services during the summer will be varied enough to keep everyone interested. However, we will also have available Activity Packs at the welcome table. These maroon cases contain paper, pencils, stickers, puzzles and colouring pages which can be explored either in the sanctuary or the lounge.
(Remember Matthew 19:14, Mark 10: 14 and Luke 18:16)
SUMMER HOLIDAYS
So, believe it or not, ministers take summer holidays. I am going to be on holidays from July 3rd to 17th, part of that time we will be spending in Vancouver, BC. Margery will representing Alberta at a National UCW event taking place in Vancouver. I will also be taking some time from July 31st to August 14th. At that time Rebecca, Paul and I will be going to San Diego for a bit of a holiday and to attend the NAIN (North American Interfaith Network) Connect 2017. Recently, the Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education and Action elected Rebecca as their voting delegate to the NAIN Annual General Meeting which will be held during the Connect in San Diego.
PRAYER CIRCLE
There is now a Spirit West Prayer Circle. We gather at the church on Thursday mornings at 10:30. We share a reading, share our stories or concerns, and pray. There is no “sign-up” for this, just come as you feel the need. If you are interested, join us on Thursdays.
CHALLENGES TO MOBILITY?
Spirit West has a Walker (Evolution Xpresso Lite) that is available for use at the church. The walker can also be borrowed by those whose mobility is temporarily challenged. For more information about the Walker, please contact the Church office (780-481-1406).
RIDE TO CHURCH?
From time to time we encounter people who would like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because they do not have means of transportation. Can you give a ride? If you would be willing to make yourself available to provide a ride to church please call the church office. Do you need a ride? Would you like to come to church at Spirit West, but are unable to because you have no ride, please call the church office. (780-481-1406)
Spirit West Prayer Chain
The Spirit West Prayer Chain is a group of people who have committed to continue our prayers of concern from Sunday through the week. To be part of this ministry, email your request to spiritwest.prayerchain@gmail.com . You may also email a request for prayer to the same email address. If you would prefer to talk to someone, you can call the church or call Edina T. at 780-481-3508
SPIRIT WEST ONLINE!
Our Website is at www.spiritwest.org .
Our Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/SpirtWestUnitedChurch
Office hours
- 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
Larry
(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org