Greetings
Happy St. Patrick's Day
Today is St. Patrick's Day. Patrick, who may have been born in Wales, was captured by Irish pirates at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland. He eventually escaped and returned to his family. After becoming a priest, Patrick voluntary returned to Ireland to bring the new faith to the people of his former captivity. Among the legends that are associated with Patrick are his driving of the snakes from Ireland, and his explanation of the Trinity using the shamrock.
This Sunday is Palm Sunday, the Sunday that begins our journey through Holy Week. On this Sunday we remember how the crowds in Jerusalem welcomed Jesus shouting “Hosanna,” and waving palm branches. We will also be singing “Hosanna,” and waving palm branches.
The passages that will be read on Sunday are from Psalm 118 and Luke 19: 28-40. I have titled the Sermon “I love a parade!”
HOLY WEEK SERVICES
Maundy Thursday – This year we will not be having a Seder, but will be remembering the Jesus’ Last Supper with a special Communion Service on Thursday, March 24 at 6:00 pm. The service will include the ancient practice of foot washing. Those present who so wish may have their hands of feet washed.
Good Friday – On Friday, March 25 at 10:30 am, we will spend time in the presence of the Cross as we remember in prayer and hymn the Crucifixion.
EASTER –The Feast of the Resurrection - On Sunday, March 27 at 10:30 am, we will celebrate the Feast of Feasts, The Sunday of Sundays, the Resurrection of Christ. Join us for this celebration of joy.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS NEEDED
Our Sunday School is GROWING and it is important that we provide the children with a positive experience in their time together. We are looking for people who are willing to share some time with the children on Sunday. We have a great curriculum called Seasons of the Spirit which is quite adaptable and easy to use (you do need a computer and internet access for the preparation). If you are not sure, consider joining the class for a couple of weeks and learning with the children. If you have any questions, call Margery W. At 780-419-3224. A signup sheet is on the cabinet by the office.
MEN’S BREAKFAST – There will be a Men’s Breakfast this Saturday, March 19 in the Lower Hall at 8:00 am.
AFTERNOON LENTEN STUDY – The Trinity & Everyday Spirituality – Session 6
The sixth and final session of our study will be Wednesday, March 23 at 1:30 in the Lounge. This time we will be celebrating what we have learned and experienced of the Trinity in a special Celtic Liturgy.
HOPE SPRINGS FORTH – Join us for this special concert of sacred and secular music proclaiming the message of hope. A free-will offering will be received to help provide hope for the homeless and helpless in Edmonton’s west end.
GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER - The dinners have begun, and the word is out: They are great fun with great food! Those who still wish to host a dinner but haven’t committed to a date can still contact Bill C. at 780-481-2662. Hosts need to indicate the date and time of their dinner and the number of guests they are able to host. If there is a theme for the evening, this should be provided. Guests will have the opportunity to select where they will dine. Diners should provide the conveners with information on allergies and dietary restrictions (this information will be discreetly passed to the hosts) Diners will be provided ahead of time with directions to their chosen dinner and with an offering envelope for a free-will offering which will be collected by the hosts and returned to the church. A minimum donation of $25 per person is suggested. See the display board at the back of the church for a list of dinner opportunities.
MESSY EASTER- April 9 ??
I have decided to pick a date for Messy Easter, Saturday April 9. If you are interested in becoming involved or have any questions please call me at the church office as soon as possible. It’s work, but it is also so much fun. Give me a call!
MESSY CHUCH WORKSHOP
Holy Trinity Anglican Church is hosting a MESSY CHURCH WORKSHOP on Saturday, April 9 (same day as our Messy Church) from 10:00 am to 3:00. We could go right from the Workshop to our Messy Church all enthused! The workshop is advertised on the Alberta and Northwest Conference website http://albertanorthwestconference.ca/14057-messy-church-workshop-to-be-offered-in-edmonton/
Emergency Food Hampers The Jasper Place Wellness Centre supplies basic emergency food hampers. At the present time their stocks are very low. A bin will be by the front door where you can leave donations of dry pasta, rice, canned beans, canned meat or fish, soup, crackers, peanut butter, hot chocolate, and tea bags. Your donations will be taken by Doreen to JPWC on Mondays. Your support of the work of Spirit West at the JPWC is greatly appreciated.
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 Shannon F. at 780-481-5262, Marian T. at 780-487-2851 or Bonnie C. at 780-444-2230.
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 => 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, Monday to Friday
- 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