It’s September already, many kids are back in school already or will be very shortly. And here at Spirit West, we are gearing up for our fall activities. Stay tuned to the space below for all the details of coming events and programmes at SW.
This Sunday
This Sunday I am going to continue looking at the letter of James, and in particular at the tension that often seems to exist in the Church between what is to be considered more important in the Christian life, what we believe or how we act. Is what we believe more important that what we do, or is it the other way around. Or is this whole conversation about a false dichotomy, in other words, it is not one or the other it’s both together. In the time for all ages, I ask the question “Do you believe in Bosnia?” We all believe in things we have not seen, such as a country we have not ever visited. Our belief that Bosnia exists has very little effect on our lives until we act upon that belief and decide to visit. What are some of the things we believe in that do affect our lives and the way we live them.
The readings for Sunday are James 2: 1-10,14-17 and Mark 7: 24-37.
Journeys in Faith (Church Membership Program) starts This Sunday
I will be starting the Journeys in Faith Membership Program on this Sunday right after church. The program will continue for 5 Sundays, with Confirmation or Reception on Thanksgiving Sunday. This is open to anyone, youth or adult seeking to confirm their faith, those wishing to join the United Church from another faith community, or anyone else looking for an opportunity for some faith exploration. If you are interested, or just have questions, please give me a call or just meet me in the Lounge on Sunday.
I was recently asked: Do I have to be a member to be part of worshiping community at Spirit West? The answer is: No, everyone is invited to participate in the life and work of Spirit West.
SPIRIT WEST CHOIR resumes practices on Thursday, September 10th
Choir Practice resumes on Thursday, September 10th at 7:00 pm at the church. Newcomers are always welcome. If you are interested or have questions contact Bonnie C. at 780-444-2230
FALL START-UP BBQ AND CORN ROAST on September 13th
To mark the resumption of activities and programmes at Spirit West, we would like to kick things off with a BBQ and Corn Roast on Sunday, September 13th after Church. If you are interested in helping with this event please let me know soonest or sign the Corn Roast sheet by the church office.
SUNDAY SCHOOL START UP on September 13th
We will be starting Sunday School on Sunday, September 13. We still need people who are willing to give some time as teachers or helpers. If you are interested call the office or sign your name on the Sunday School sign-up sheet by the church office.
VISIT BY REV. GARTH BOGART
A number of you will remember Garth Bogart, who was the minister at Gilchrist/Spirit West until 2011. Garth and Orilla will be coming to visit from the home in Ecuador. Garth will be here at Spirit West on Sunday, September 13th.
MESSY CHURCH on September 19th
Mark your calendars for Messy Church! Saturday, September 19th, The Good Shepherd. A number of people have stepped forward with some great ideas for a fun time. Come and learn why Jesus is the Good Shepherd and have a good time! We could use a few more volunteers who want to help.
And remember Saturday, November 28th, Messy Advent. .
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 => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Thursday
- Larry => 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Tuesday to Friday
See you Sunday,
Larry
(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org