Hello Again Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
They say that time flies when you are having fun. That could explain why this week has seemed to just evaporate before us. We kicked off Monday with the amazing showing of the silent film “Phantom of the Opera” with organ accompaniment. Close to 300 people joined us for the event and close to 75 bags of popcorn were sold in support of the youth group. Everyone left with smiles.
Tuesday and Wednesday Rev. Michelle and our Office Administrator Cathy Simpson were out of the office taking a first aid course. As per New Brunswick workplace legislation we have to have a certain number of trained first aiders. In our time away we learned how to deal with major and minor medical emergencies and how to use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Through training staff in first aid we are taking serious commitment to care for those in our midst. Did you know that St Paul’s has an AED? It is a physical example of our commitment to care for you as fully as possible.
While the rest of the team was out of the office Rev. Richard was busy with planning this weeks Remembrance service, visiting up at the hospital and other pastoral visits and of course prayers in the parlor on Wednesday morning.
Due to a conflict with the Middle School’s event on Nov 3rd, we will be shifting our youth group gathering to November 10th. We will meet at the church, play some games that explore the theme of serving others. Then come up with a plan on how we are going to reach out to share God’s love with our hurting world. Mark your calendar now, youth group will also be on November 17th.
There are a few things that you might want to remember this weekend. The first is the Fall UCW Bazaar and luncheon. Come by the church from 11am-1pm to see the wares that they have for sale and an amazing chicken a-la king meal with dessert for 12 dollars. If you haven’t already placed an order for mincemeat pies come early so that you don’t miss out. To pre-order lunch or pies call Donna C @458-5885.
This Sunday is the first Sunday of the month which means it is Pantry Sunday! Since September we have served over 50 families. With such a large number of people needing support it has been difficult to keep the shelves stocked. This Sunday if you are able please bring an item or items for the Pantry and place them in the box in the narthex (front of the church before going into sanctuary). While all items are accepted some of the most needed items include: waxed paper, instant coffee, oatmeal porridge, cookies, juice, Cheez Whiz, cereal, Kraft dinner, facial tissues, rice, Ketchup, small fruit cups, mayonnaise, baking soda, baking powder and tooth brushes.
Also for those who like to sleep in a little, this is the weekend for you. It is time to turn the clocks back an hour. So before you go to bed on Saturday don’t forget to change the time, if not you might be the early bird for service. This Sunday we will be taking a moment to remember the sacrifices of those who fought and died in service to our country. As an added blessing, our children’s choir will be sharing their gifts with us through the singing of “I’ve Got Peace Like a River”. For those who have been following the biblical journey this week we hear about the prophet Elijah’s in 1 Kings 19:1-18 and we are invited to listen to God’s still small voice in our own lives, calling us on and encouraging us as we go.
It is hard to believe that Rev. Michelle has been with us for 5 months, yet we have not formally covenanted with her and Presbytery. On November 12 at 2:30 you are invited to join us for a special covenanting service here at St. Paul’s. In this service our congregation, Rev. Michelle and Presbytery make promises to each other and mark this new pastoral relationship.
Looking forward to seeing you soon
Rev. Michelle and Rev. Richard