The Gospel this Sunday is one of those passages that can be a bit troubling for some. There is a real emphasis in the passage on community, which is good. We are reminded that faith is not lived out in a vacuum. But the perhaps troubling part is the emphasis on accountability. We are responsible to each other and for each other. In our current society with its emphasis on self-reliance and independence, the thought that we should call someone out for their behavior (in person, not on Facebook, or the we might be called out might be considered insulting. But Jesus points out that faith is lived in community and says to us “Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”
The reading from the Law is a passage that talks about the first Passover, the start of the journey of the People of Israel toward a promised land.
The scripture readings are Exodus 12: 1-14 and Matthew 18 21-35. In the Time for All Ages I will be looking at “One More Step”, and the title of the sermon is “Where two or three are gathered.”
We will be welcoming a young child into the church through the Sacrament of Baptism at this Service.
WELCOME BACK SUNDAY
SUNDAY SCHOOL starts this Sunday. We need parents/guardians to fill out registration forms after church. We will continue to use the Season’s of the Spirit program starting with Creation. The first topics are forest and land. Also there will be a barbeque after church which we hope you will be able to attend. Most of our teachers will be there for the parents to meet. Have a great weekend and see you Sunday. Edina T., Sunday School Coordinator.
Ladies Group Welcome Back Social –
September 11 at 7pm, in the sanctuary. Everyone Welcome! We are going to have a dessert party and get to know you social. We are asking everyone who attends to bring their favorite dessert recipe. A sign-up sheet we will be available soon. Our theme for the year is “Recipes” which we will be including at every meeting and sharing them at the end of the year.
THE SPIRIT WEST APPLE TREES
The apple trees along the north side of the Spirit West property are ready for picking (some almost past ready). There are a variety of trees; tart apples that are good for baking and sweeter apples good for eating. There are also crab apples (jelly made from these apples is available for $5/jar) So bring a bucket or a bag and help yourself!
INNER-CITY PASTORAL MINISTRY LUNCH – SUNDAY, OCT 1 Save the date!
Spirit West will be co-sponsoring the ICPM Lunch at the Bissell Centre on Sunday, October 1.
We will be looking for: Donations of time, food, and/or money if you are unable to help volunteer your time cooking or working;
Various food donations (loaves of sandwiches, cut raw vegetables, desserts, whole fruit, etc.);
10 - 12 volunteers to deliver the food to Bissell, help prepare it for the people who come to the lunch, and to serve. (A time commitment of approx. 830am - 2pm)
Lori W. will have sign-up sheets available on the 10th of September at the back of the church for food and volunteers. If you have questions or you want to confirm earlier than that what you can contribute, you can leave a message on Lori’s home phone or call her after the 3rd of September.
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 => 11 am to 4 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