Please take note of the updated information regarding Sunday School, Choir and Men’s Breakfast.
THIS SUNDAY - THE “BASIS OF UNION” LECTIONARY
Article II – Of Revelation.
Article II of the Basis of Union deals with how we come to know God. While the article points out the importance of the Scriptures in our Christian life, it also reminds us that “God has revealed Himself in nature, in history and in the heart of man.” The language of 1925 is dated and we could say that “God is revealed in nature, in history and in the human heart.” But that phrasing makes revelation passive. It is important to realize that revelation is a Divine action.
The readings I have chosen for this Sunday are Nehemiah 8: 1-3, 5-6, 8 and Mark 4: 1-20. In the first reading, In the reading from the prophet Nehemiah, the Jewish people have returned to Jerusalem from their Babylonian captivity. Now that they are “home” they must reestablish their identity. So the Scriptures are brought before the people and read and interpreted for them. In the Gospel reading, Jesus is tells the parable of the sower. In both readings not only is the revelation important, but the response to that revelation is crucial.
SUNDAY SCHOOL – Something New!
Sunday School starts this Sunday! This year we hope to offer a variety of experiences for different age groups. We want to have separate classes for the younger and older children. There is a big difference between a 5 year old and a 10 year old. Paul W. would also like to have a monthly group for teens. In order for all this to happen we do need children and youth participating and adults willing to teach and help. Call Edina (780-481-3508) if you have any questions about Sunday School. Those interested in a teen program should call Paul at 780-710-3224. See you Sunday!
Choir begins tonight! - Newcomers are welcome. Contact Bonnie C at 780-444-2230 for more information.
MEN’S BREAKFAST
The Men of Spirit West will be gathering for Breakfast on Saturday, September 15 at 8:00 am in the Lower Hall. Breakfast is open to any man who wants to come out for a great breakfast. As a note, each man usually put in $10 dollars, this covers the breakfast supplies and the surplus is put into a fund that offsets the cost of minor repairs around the church.
Ladies Group Welcome Back Social and Meeting - Sept 17 at 7pm, in the sanctuary. Mexican theme! Food provided by the executive. All women welcome! A sign-up sheet is on the table by the office.
THE NEW UNITED CHURCH REGIONS and a Contest to “Name That Region”
As you might know, at the recent General Council of the United Church of Canada, the plans were approved to restructure our denomination. As of January 1, 2019 we move from four levels of governance (Pastoral Charge, Presbytery, Conference, and General Council) to three levels (Faith Community, Region, and Denominational Council) Spirit West changes from being a Pastoral Charge in Edmonton Presbytery, Alberta and Northwest Conference to being a Faith Community in Region 2. “Region 2” is a place holder name for the region. We want a “real” name. Please see the newsletter on the literature carousel for information on our new Regions, and on the contest to “Name That Region”.
Outreach at Spirit West
Seasonal items are being collected for the Jasper Place Wellness Centre and the Bissell Centre. As we move into the fall, socks and underwear would be helpful. These can be left at the Giving Tree by the lounge windows
A NEW 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. It was suggested at a Board Meeting that everyone give the donate button a try (just to make sure it works, of course)
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 [email protected] . 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
- Norma => 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Larry
(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
[email protected]
Spiritwest.org