Lent is upon us, last night members from St. Paul’s and Wilmot gathered to mark Ash Wednesday. As the joyful psalms of last year were burned we remember our hopes and expectations that didn’t manifest and the ways in which we have sinned and turned our back against God. Traditionally these ashes are placed on us with the words “from dust we have come and to dust we return”, as a reminder of our mortality. And yet, the black ashes that mark the foreheads of those who attend the Ash Wednesday service are in the shape of a cross and serve as a strong reminder that even when we find ourselves in tough and ugly parts of life, that God in Christ is there for us. That in death is resurrection, in reflection and repentance new life.
Last Sunday we had heard the story about the blind man who was given sight, the sign and the controversy that caused. In the discussion and in explanation of this sign, read John 10:1-18, Jesus says “I am the Gate” (to the sheep fold) and “I am the Good Shepherd.” In short, I am the one who keeps you safe and the one who leads you out into the world. For the next 40 days, the season of Lent, let us be intentional about spending time with the Good Shepherd so that as we go about our lives, we will know the voice of Jesus when we are called. We can do this in a few simple ways, attending worship (in-person or on-line), engaging in prayer (like daily praying the Lord’s prayer), pulling out the bible and reading for at least a few minutes, or attending bible study (which will resume on March 16th). As a congregation we have major decisions and opportunities in front of us, we would be well served to ensure we are familiar with our shepherd’s voice as we discern our path ahead. So can you? Will you? Take this next 40 days to intentionally practice your faith?
As we head towards the weekend let’s join in a Lenten prayer found in Voices United 110
God of love,
as in Jesus Christ you gave yourself to us,
so may we give ourselves to you, living according to your holy will.
Keep our feet firmly in the way where Christ leads us;
help our lips speaking the truth that Christ teaches us;
fill our bodies with the life that is Christ within us.
In His holy name we pray. Amen.
1) Sunday March 6th – Worship
2) Upper Room Daily Devotional – March-April
3) Bible Study
4) FundScrip
5) 190th Anniversary – Year of Celebration
6) Space Rental
7) Pantry
8) Brown Bag Lunch Program
1) Worship March 6th, 2022
On Feb 28th the province moved to level 1 which means that we can welcome back the choir and congregational signing with marks on. This week we will be graced with a Choir Anthem. To attend in-person worship here at St. Paul’s United Church we will no longer require you to show proof of vaccination. COVID protocols still in play include:
– Wearing a mask at all times
– Sanitizing one’s hands on entry
– Sitting in the marked pews to maintain distance
– Being aware of social distancing when entering and leaving building
As always, if you are not ready to join us in person we hope to see you on Zoom – link is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86854718551 Passcode: 165090
You can also join by phone only if you would prefer, if you don’t have a long distance plan charges would apply. All you need to do is call 1 647 558 0588 and follow the prompts to enter Meeting ID: 868 5471 8551 and Passcode: 165090
2) Upper Room Daily Devotional: The Upper Room Daily Devotional for March-April has arrived! Available for purchase in the office for $2.
3) Bible Study: This week is cancelled; however, you are invited to read this coming week’s John 13:1-17 and reflect on the God’s Story Our Story insert in the bulletin.
4) FundScrip: March orders are due this Sunday, March 6. Order forms are available in the Narthex or click here FundScrip Order Form. Retailers offering increased donations to St. Paul’s this month are Boston Pizza (8 per cent, up from 5); Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic (all now 9 percent, up from 5). Want to know more about this program? Please speak to Carole Peacock. New supporters are always welcome. Remember: Shopping is fundraising for St. Paul’s!
5) 190th Anniversary – Year of Celebration: Are you interested in hosting an Anniversary event? Seeking individuals or groups interested in planning and hosting special events, projects or special presentations in celebration of St. Paul’s 190th Anniversary. Please speak with Rev. Michelle today!
6) Space rental: As businesses take steps towards opening and more regular activities resuming, we wanted to remind everyone that St. Paul’s has space to rent. If you know of people needing office space or short-term rentals for meetings, receptions or other groups let them know we are an option. All enquires are encouraged to call the church office for more details.
7) Pantry: Next week is pantry Sunday. A few of the major needs currently are pudding cups, sugar, mustard, Kleenex, hot chocolate, coffee mate and condensed milk.
8) Brown Bag Lunch Program: The program needs proteins with flip top lids. Thank you in advance for your generosity.