Elijah then came near to all the people, and said, “How long will you go limping with two different opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” The people did not answer him a word. – 1 Kings 18:21
Happy Halloween Kindred in Christ,
This week many hands have been working to make this weekend a hit, because this is a big weekend! We celebrate our congregations 187 anniversary this weekend, and we hope you will come and celebrate with us. For our anniversary service the Right Reverend Richard Bott, Moderator of the United Church of Canada, will be preaching. Wilmot and Forest Hill United Churches will be joining us for our celebration. The Time, Talent and Treasure Silent Auction will start after service and run through our Anniversary Spaghetti supper which starts at 5pm in Frasier Memorial Hall. Join us for fellowship, good food and fun!
Some of the Auction items on the block include a Painting by Marguerite Macalpine, Sermon preached on your choice of topic, or even a Rumpot Chicken Dinner for 4. God gifted us all, so we all have something to offer! Auction off your time and talents or treasures to support God’s work done through St. Paul’s. You still have time to get your items in to Kelly Simpson kelmurandco@gmail.com
An important reminder to everyone that this Sunday is “Time change Sunday” so before you go to bed turn your clock back an hour.
It is also Pantry Sunday- this program and the wonderful people who serve in this ministry create a welcome and opening space in which people feel safe admitting they need help. It is such an important resource in helping to prevent hunger in our community. We have seen a constant stream of people accessing the Pantry, the items that are most needed this week include: toilet paper, puddings, Kleenex, cheese wiz, ketchup, mayonnaise, dish soap, cleaning supplies, pancake syrup, white sugar, and soup except tomato.
As we turn the calendar page and head into November there are so many great opportunities ahead of us to gather together, praise and grow in God and be the church.
Next Youth group This FRIDAY! Come out as we decorate cupcakes for the Anniversary Supper and engage in board games and discussion when we are done. A great opportunity to de-stress. See you at 7pm. Other youth dates include Nov. 15th, (Carol’s by Glow stick on Nov 29th), and Dec 6th.
Pictures Pictures Pictures, if you ordered pictures they are in the office stop by and pick them up.
If you would like your picture in the directory and didn’t get your picture taken here, you can send it to stpaulsoffice224@gmail.com Photo directories will not be available until the new year.
A Capella Music Concert is at St Paul’s Sunday November 3rd! The River Valley Chorus (Fredericton) under the direction of Chris Freeman is hosting the Elm City Echoes Women’s Chorus (Fredericton) and the Men of Fundy (Saint John Chorus) at 2 pm. here in the sanctuary. If you like A Capella barbershop four part harmonies you won’t want to miss this concert. This is a fund raiser for the RVC and a good will offering will be received.
Angel Tree is coming soon in November (week after Remembrance Day). Awesome way to help local families. Make sure you show up early to get your gift tag. Details coming soon!
St Paul’s United Children’s Handbell Choir is starting November 17th Sunday’s 10-10:30. This program is for children 6 years of age and older. Contact Tricia Berry tmberry@rogers.com .
St Paul’s Yarn Ministry meets on the third Wednesday of each month. Our next meeting will be on the evening of November 20. The exact time/location has yet to be confirmed, but I’m looking at the Purrfect Cup Cat Cafe on the North Side, at 7. All are welcome – no previous experience or affiliation with St. Paul’s required.
Reflective Bible Study and Prayer Group Sundays at 9:15 am in the office. Tammy Landry is hosting. Come enjoy the scripture and watch the sermon come to life! Stick around afterwards for prayer. Everyone is welcome!
The UCW will be selling Mince Meat Pies, small $6.00, Large $13.00. Sign up sheet is on the bulletin board. We are making pies tomorrow November 4th at 9am. Please come along and join the group!! call Donna Chauvin 458-5885
UCW Luncheon/Bake/Craft sale is on Saturday Nov 16th. Time for the event… doors open at 10:30 AM. Lunch from 11 to 1 PM. Menu – chicken-a-la-king, salad, angel food cake. Shop before and after lunch!! Pay at the door for lunch $12.00.
Christmas Carols, the story of Christmas and Glowsticks! Fredericton’s Second Annual Carols by Glowstick is happening at St. Paul’s United Church November 29th 6-7pm. This indoor Christmas Carol event is a great way to kick off the season as we join our voices together to sing our favorite carols by child friendly glow stick. Come out and raise your voice, swing your glowstick and enjoy the glow of the season. Stay after the singing for cookies and apple cider. Your ticket includes one glowstick per person. Facebook link https://www.facebook.com/events/1364601377051923/ Eventbrite link https://www.eventbrite.com/e/carols-by-glowstick-tickets-79360089163 Family ticket (up to 5 people) $20 Individual tickets $5.50, Additional Glow products available to purchase that night. Tickets available through eventbrite or church office 224 York Street.
This week we turn to 1 Kings 18:20-39. The Prophet Elijah speaks out to the Israelites …prompting them to choose. To choose between the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and The Canaanite god, Baal, who King Ahab and his wife Queen Jezebel served and worshiped. Like so many of us when asked to make a choice, the gathered people were silent. Limp with indecision. So Elijah lays down a gauntlet, challenging to the prophets of Baal, let the strength and power of their god be known, to compete against his God. Join us Sunday to hear how this story will end.
As we enter into this Anniversary weekend, I encourage you to spend some time reflecting on how you have thrown your support behind our God – the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob – who came, dwelled among us and who displayed faithful love to the cross and beyond. What ways has the witness of God’s faithfulness inspired you to decision and action? And how has St Paul’s United Church helped you on your faith journey?
On this wet Thursday let us pray,
God of all,
creator and redeemer of the world,
sometimes we fail to see your mighty hand at work,
and in turn start to turn our eyes towards others who promise results and action.
Help us to stay rooted in your love, your faithfulness,
that we may see your power and grace manifested before our eyes.
Strengthen us again for this road of faith,
help us to stand strong so that you may work in and through us.
And keep us mindful of how we in our words and actions are witnesses of your love.
Amen.
On this wet day, let us also hold all of the little ones and their parents in our prayers, as they dress up and head out to trick or treat this evening. May they all be safe and return home sound, by the grace of Christ.
Blessings on your week and see you Sunday
Rev. Michelle