Greetings
This Sunday, the Second after Pentecost, focuses on faith. Now in our society faith is viewed with some skepticism. It is seen as unscientific, perhaps emotional way of looking at the world. A phrase we sometimes hear is “blind faith.” But there is a Christian understanding of faith that is much more nuanced. It recognizes that we cannot see, and know and measure all of the world around us. Paul in his Letter to the Hebrews says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Heb 11:1) It is a wonderful definition. It points out that every day we act by faith. My favourite is example, as some of you know, is a belief in the existence of Australia if you have never been there. You accept that Australia exists because you have faith in the sources (books, teachers, friends, Wikipedia) that tell you Australia exists, the conviction of things not seen. Where it gets complicated is when we talk about God and faith in the same sentence. Then all of a sudden we are irrational. In the readings for Sunday, we will hear stories of people who acted on faith (one of them is a Roman soldier) and what that faith accomplished.
The readings for Sunday are 1 Kings 18:20-21, 30-39 and Luke 7:1-10. In the Time for All Ages I will be sharing the story of Mary Jones’ Bible.” I have called the Sermon, “Faith of a Soldier”
SPIRIT WEST PLANT SALE – thank you!
A big thank you to all those of you helped out at the Plant Sale, especially Bonnie C., Margery W. and Margaret B. And a big thank you to all those who bought plants. We did make a profit in spite of the less that glorious weather, but the final numbers are not in yet.
Spirit West Movie Friday - Money Monster
On the last Friday of each month, a group of people from Spirit West gather to see a move together, after the movie there is usually an informal time of fellowship, discussion and food at someone’s home. This Friday (tomorrow, May 27) the group will gather to see Monster Money at 6:30 pm at the Cineplex Odeon Windemere, 6151 Currents Drive (take the Terwilligar exit west off the Anthony Henday) Anyone interested is welcome to attend!
After the movie, you are welcome to come to John P.’s home (780-481-4991) for fellowship and a snack.
Celebration of Ministry Service – Alberta and Northwest Conference
Everyone from all the Edmonton United Churches and beyond are invited to the 2016 Celebration of Ministry service on Sunday, June 5th at 10 a.m. at McDougall United Church, 10025 101 Street, Edmonton. This Service includes the Ordination and Commissioning of new ministers and the welcoming of ministers coming into the United Church from other denominations. A reception to follow.”
Free Drop-In Bike Safety Program – June 8
The Glastonbury Community League is offering a Free Drop-In Bike Safety Program which will take place in the Spirit West parking lot on Wednesday, June 8, 4:00-7:00 pm. Free and fun basic bike safety skills are the focus for participants of all ages on 2 wheels or 4 wheels! Children 5 and under require a parent or guardian to attend the program. Families are encouraged to participate. Participants must have their own bikes. A CSA approved helmet is mandatory for participation.
FIRES IN FORT MCMURRAY AND ELSEWHERE IN ALBERTA
We continue to follow the news from Fort McMurray and elsewhere in Alberta about the devastating fires that have swept through, destroying homes, business and the natural environment. Many lives have been radically altered by the events of the past week. A question that may have come into your mind: “How can I help?” There are many ways. Donating to the Red Cross is one, and your donation will be doubled by the federal government. The United Church of Canada is also involved in relief efforts through Alberta and North West Conference (ANWC). Check out the Conference response at this link:
http://albertanorthwestconference.ca/14283-assistance-fort-mcmurray/
On behalf of Spirit West, a donation of $750 was made to the ANWC Fire Appeal from the money raised for Outreach at the “Hope Springs Forth” Concert.
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.
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 office at 780-481-1406 and be referred to someone.
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
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