He said to them, “Isaiah prophesied rightly about you hypocrites, as it is written, “This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching human precepts as doctrines.’ You abandon the commandment of God and hold to human tradition.” – Mark 7:6-8
Kindred in Christ,
We live in a fallen world, full of fallen people. This is brought to the foreground whenever we hear about violence, people who use and abuse others and the disregard for relationships with the world and each other. This week, I was reminded of this brokenness when I got a few emails from members of the congregation letting me know that they were getting scam emails with my name attached to it. I wanted to take the opportunity to remind people that internet scams are real and to check out the information before you respond to requests of any kind. Ensure that you look beyond the name and look at the email address that sent the information. Report fraudulent addresses. Check the facts with the person if you know them and if the request seems weird. Also keep in mind that any donations solicited for the ministry of St. Paul’s or by its staff would be processed through the office. In the Gospel of Matthew Jesus said “See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” (Matthew 10:16). We are called to be people who follow God’s lead loving and serving others, but we are not called to do that blindly or foolishly.
We hope that you will join us for the events of the upcoming weeks…
Organ Recital Hosted by St. Paul’s very own Dr. Sharon Pond, in Memory of David Drinkell. 3 PM Sunday February 23rd for those who love organ music you will not want to miss this special event. Sponsored by the Fredericton Organists Association and St. Paul’s. Donations to establish a scholarship in David’s name.
Come early and sing yourselves in to the worship service on
February 23 at 10 AM. This continues to be an uplifting time to
prepare yourselves for the service. Saints and Sinners look forward to hearing your voices join our musical selections.
The UCW will meet in the Lady’s Parlour on Monday February 24th at 10 AM. Please answer Roll Call with fresh fruit or vegetables, yogurt or cheese, for Grace House. All women of the Congregation are invited to join us.
Donna Chauvin 458-5885
The Men of St. Paul’s are hosting the pancake supper on February 25th at 5:30 and we are seeking volunteers. Let Eric know in the office or contact Harold Raper.
ANNUAL REPORTS are due if you haven’t completed one yet please do so asap.
Ash Wednesday service February 26th 7pm all welcome!
If you have an online presence, you should be showing the world the best possible version of “you”. Instead of dodgy selfies, showcase the competent, polished, human you are with a professional headshot by Moments by Kassie. On February 26, our very own Kelly S. will be hosting a headshot day at St. Paul’s. For the amazing price of $60, you’ll get a 15 minute shoot with Kelly, who will capture your fabulous (and properly lit) self for posterity. You’ll then get to choose one photo to be edited, which will be sent to you electronically. Don’t delay – only 20 spots are available and they’re already filling up! Contact me at kelmurandco@gmail.com All proceeds go to support the Brown Bag Lunch and Pantry programs.
The Fredericton Women’s Inter-Church Council will be presenting the following three services to mark World Day of Prayer:
Friday, March 6 at 7pm at the Salvation Army Church
Sunday, March 8 at 2pm at St. Peters Anglican Church
Sunday, March 8 at 2pm at Wilmot United ChurchTheme: Rise! Take Your Mat and Walk; written by the Women of Zimbabwe Donna Chauvin will be taking part in the Wilmot service. Information: Ann Raper 457-0164
This week we have the first of two sermons purchased at the Time, Talent and Treasure auction. For only $50 he won the privilege of telling us what to preach on. This Sunday Rev. Richard will be preaching on Sin. Join us as we explore what sin is and how we talk about sin today.
Loving God,
We pray for your guidance on our path.
Help us to walk in your way,
seeking to be in right relationship with you and each other.
Help us to work for your great vision of love and justice.
Convict us when we rely on our won wisdom and cling to the false security of putting our desires and gains above all else.
Guide us this week to be your light and love in the world,
challenging our commitment to the established traditions that separate us from each other and you.
This we pray in Christ’s name
Amen
Yours in Christ
Rev Michelle and Rev. Richard