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Orders of Service 

5th after Epiphany,    10:30 a.m.   February 5, 2012 

THE GATHERING

 HYMN SING: 

            Hymns are from the United Church Hymnal "Voices United" (VU)

672 Take Time to be Holy (Holiness)

670 Precious Lord, Take My Hand (Precious Lord)

612 There is a Balm in Gilead (Balm in Gilead)

619 Healer of Our Every Ill (Healer)

 

CALL TO THE GATHERED

Welcome to this special time of community celebration…
CHOIR       a time to pause…

CHOIR       a time to be still…
CHOIR       a time for reflection…
MEN           a time to ask questions…
MEN           a time to connect with our inner selves…
WOMEN    a time to touch what is sacred and holy…
WOMEN    a time to touch and be healed…
WOMEN    a time to be transformed by the Spirit…

Bev              Let’s sing, dance and feel the energy of the Spirit.

CONCERNS AND JOYS OF OUR CHURCH FAMILY

HYMN:   312 Praise with Joy the World’s Creator (Lauda Anima)

 Greet  one  Another 

HYMN: 381 Spirit of Life

PRAYER OF THE GATHERED: (together)

Today, we think of wellness and healing as we journey.
The world longs for kind hands, gentle hearts, and loving actions.
Where there is hatred and mean-spiritedness, may there be love;
Where there is lack of acceptance, may there be genuine care;
Where there is doubt and despair, may there be understanding;
Where there is disinterest and apathy, may there be passion;
Where there is darkness, may there be light and hope;
Where there is pain, may there be healing;
Where there is healing, let there be peace.
Let this be our prayer. Let it be!

LIGHTING OF THE “CHRIST/ PEACE” CANDLE (children)

We light this candle to remind us that we are surrounded with light.

LEARNING TOGETHER – Children and adults learn together

Story - On Eagle’s Wings based on  Psalm 91     

 

HYMN: 808 On Eagle’s Wings  (Choir sing verses, all sing Chorus) 

(Children proceed to Sunday School and Nursery).

WE HEAR GOD’S WORD

FROM THE PSALMS:  868-869 part1 Psalm 147:1-11, 20   

Words inspired by the Psalmist Reader: Mary R.     Thanks be to God!             

FROM THE CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURES:         Mark 1:29-39 (NRSV p.35)

Healings and exorcisms                 

29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30 Now Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. 31 He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began to serve them.

32 That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. 33 And the whole city was gathered around the door. 34 And he cured many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him.

Summary of Jesus' activity

35 In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. 36 And Simon and his companions hunted for him. 37 When they found him, they said to him, "Everyone is searching for you." 38 He answered, "Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do." 39 And he went throughout Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons.The Word of our God.                   

Thanks be to God!                  

HYMN FOR ILLUMINATION: 377 Holy Spirit, Hear Us (Ernstein)

MINUTE FOR MISSION 

The Journeys of  Black Peoples   

MINISTRY OF MUSIC: Behold the Beauty of the Lord -Anderson

SERMON   Seeking the Holy               Rev. Bev Irwin

                                       

                                        RESPONDING TO THE WORD

SHARING OUR TITHES AND GIFTS

358         When Jesus the Healer (Healer)

Presentation: 540 

    Grant us, God, the grace of giving, with a spirit large and free,

    that ourselves and all our living, we may offer faithfully. 

 

 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER: 921

Dedication of Memorial Library Books

 

                                                    SENDING FORTH

HYMN OF PEACE AND COMMITMENT:  682 O Day of Peace                        (Jerusalem)                                                   

   BENEDICTION – GOOD WORDS!

   CHORAL BLESSING:  Go Now in Peace     Besig

   POSTLUDE:  Voluntary – John Stanley

*********************

A warm welcome is extended to all. Especially those who are worshipping at St. John’s for the first time or who have returned after an absence. Your presence enriches us, and this time of celebration together.

Those visiting, please sign our Visitors book. at the front door.
Fellowship hour follows this time of celebration.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

We give thanks for all volunteers who give time and talents so generously to life in this church.

This morning:

Ushers:  Joan & Paul

Greeters:  Ruth & Evelyn

Hospitality Hosts:  Fran, Airlie & Doris

Sound System Operator:  Ian

Nursery Supervisor this morning:  Dorothy

We thank you & all others not mentioned.

 

LECTIONARY READINGS FOR NEXT WEEK:

Hebrew Scripture: 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30,

Christian Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Mark 1:40-45 

Stewardship Thought- Great are the works of the Lord.  As stewards of God’s creation, we delight in them

St. John’s needs YOUR help!- I would like to thank everyone who has signed on to various committees for the 2012 Church Council.  If you are not already a member of a committee, please consider volunteering for the remaining vacancy:

·       Northern Waters Presbytery (1 member needed)

If you can devote some time and your talents to this position, please contact:  Wayne 705-435-5540 or email: wdnoye@bell.net  

 

 

Floor Hockey

St. John’s Tuesday night Floor Hockey is back!  Join the fun for 6 weeks beginning January 31st.

Time:  6:30 – 7:30 pm    Place:  Faith Hall           

Ages:  Grade 4 and up

Registration is required and registration packages are available in the church office.

Ella Bateson UCW – Will be meeting on Wednesday, February 8th at 7:30 p.m.  The guest speaker will be Jackie Rudd who is the Co-President of the Northern Waters UCW Presbyterial.

Upcoming Covenanting Service for Rev. Bev Irwin 

Sunday, February 12th at 7:00 p.m. - between Alliston St. John’s Pastoral Charge, Northern Waters Presbytery and Rev. Beverly A. Irwin M.Div.  in the St. John’s United Church Sanctuary.

Description: chefs,cooking,cooks,dining,females,food,frying pans,pancakes,people,persons,skillets,womenPancake Supper- Date:  February 21st , 5:00 p.m to 7:00 p.m. in Shilton

 

Hall.  The supper is earlier this year and also includes sausages, beverage & dessert.  We hope to see you there!

Helpers Needed please sign-up on sheet outside Shilton Hall 

Description: celebrations,hearts,holidays,love,romances,special occasions,symbols,Valentines DayGrandmothers Embrace

Valentine Tea and Bake Sale

St. John’s United Church

Saturday, February 11, 12 – 2:30

Tickets $8.00

available in Shilton Hall after service

or phone 705-434-1354

Proceeds support African grandmothers and the AIDS orphans in their care through The Stephen Lewis Foundation

Sunday School Children Need Your Help

To provide some special lessons for the children of the S.S. during monthly ‘Open Sunday School” sessions, congregation members are invited to share their talents and love. Some of things that have been ‘special’ for the children from last fall were: baking flatbreads in preparation for the Simple Lunch, and participating in the “Mitten Tree” lesson and project. All congregation members are invited to offer their love and talents to the children in the sharing of a ‘special’ lesson. Consider something to do with Valentine’s Day, Lent, Easter, Earth Day or whatever message you wish to offer. Contact Andy or any one of the S.S. teachers.

Remit 6 :  FYI

What is a remit?  A remit is a referral to presbyteries and sessions (or equivalents i.e. Church Council) for a vote. The following is drawn from “background document” see below.

The 40th General Council that met in Kelowna, British Columbia, August 2009 approved a motion to add to the Doctrine section in the Basis of Union three other doctrinal statements that General Councils of the United Church have approved since 1925.

Those three statements are the Statement of Faith (1940), A New Creed (adopted in 1968; revised in 1980 and again in 1994), and A Song of Faith (2006). For this proposed action to take place, the General Council authorized remits, which are votes by presbyteries and, in this case, also by pastoral charges, on whether to add some or all of these three statements to the Doctrine section of the Basis of Union.

In summary, the remit before the church reflects the Reformed practice of adopting additional subordinate standards from time to time. The proposals to include A New Creed and A Song of Faith as subordinate standards acknowledge current expressions of faith now widely in use across the church. The additional inclusion of the 1940 Statement of Faith acknowledges that it was used widely in the United Church into the 1970s. It reminds us that subordinate standards represent the desire of the church to give expression to its faith in its day, and that the theological journey of the church continues over time…

St. John’s Church Council will be submitting the vote on these statements before the dead line date: May 15, 2012

A copy of the full account:  Our Words of Faith - Cherished, Honoured and Living is available in the church library for reading    OR    find on United Church website

www.united-church.ca  open: Our Words of Faith Remit 6; scroll down to and open “background document” for the complete study.

Submitted by:   Faith Formation Committee

Reminders:

The Bible Study group will continue to meet in the Dermott Room each Thursday night at 7:00 p.m.  Rev. Arch McCurdy will be leading the study group.

 

ANNUAL REPORT- Ministry Chairs and Staff, please submit your reports to the church office.  If you are on-line you could submit them to stjohnsunitedchurch@bellnet.ca or on disk or memory stick.

If computers are not in your life, please submit to the church office the good old fashioned way. Thank you to those who have already submitted .

Shona. 

Community Announcements

Classical Concert

Beethoven, Chopin, Bach, Gershwin, Liszt & others

Pianist Shawna Wang invites you to come and enjoy her classical repertoire along with vocal & instrumental guests.

Date: February 11, 2012

Location: St. John’s Sanctuary

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Tickets: $10.00

(available in church office & Modern Conservatory of Music)

Proceeds will help Shawna as she starts post-secondary education. 

Workshop in Centering Prayer

Trinity United Church, 37 Centre St. Beeton On

Sunday, February 12, 2012 from 2-4 pm

For more information call Marilyn 905-729-3923

or Beeton United Church  905-729-3302

Gibson Centre Events

Please see the Bulletin Board for Great Winter Season Performances which will be taking place at the Gibson Center for community arts and culture.  This coming Wednesday, February 8th The Harlem Gospel Choir at 7:00 p.m.

THIS WEEK IN OUR CHURCH

SUNDAY    February 5, 2012

4th Sunday after Epiphany

10:30 a.m.   Worship - The Rev. Bev Irwin

11:45 a.m.   Fellowship-Shilton Hall

 (All are welcome for Tea or Coffee following the Service.)

 

MONDAY –February 6, 2011

10:00 a.m.   NW Revitalizing Church Circle - CR# 2

TUESDAY-

10:00 a.m.   Toronto Conference Exec- CR#2/Kitchen

6:30 p.m.    Quilters Corners Guild - Shilton Hall

6:30 p.m.    Al Anon “Big Book Meeting” - SS# 1

7:00 p.m.    GNO Choir - Sanctuary

7:00 p.m.    NW Youth Cluster - Dermott Room

7:30 p.m.    Mission & Outreach - Library

8:30 p.m.    Narcotics Anonymous - Faith Hall

WEDNESDAY

6:30 p.m.    Sparks-Faith Hall

7:00 p.m.    Horticultural Executive - Library

7:30 p.m.    UCW – Ella Bateson Unit – Dermott Room

7:00 p.m.    Stephen Ministry – Library (not confirmed)

THURSDAY

9:00 a.m.     NW Presbyterial Executive – Dermott Room

10:00 a.m.   Ladies Exercise Class - Faith Hall

10:30 a.m.   Staff Meeting - Library

6:30 p.m.    Brownies - Faith Hall

7:00 p.m.    Bible Study – Dermott Room

8:00 p.m.    Choir-Sanctuary

8:30 p.m.    Alcoholics Anonymous-Faith Hall

SATURDAY

12:30 p.m.  Valentine’s Tea & Bake Sale - Shilton Hall

6:30 p.m.    Classical Concert with Shawna Wang - Sanctuary

SUNDAY    February 12, 2012

6th  Sunday after Epiphany

10:30 a.m.   Worship – The Rev. Bev Irwin

11:45 a.m.   Fellowship-Shilton Hall

(All are welcome for Tea or Coffee following the Service.)

7:00 p.m.    Covenanting service for Rev. Bev Irwin

 

February is Black History Month 

The United Church of Canada can tell one of the key stories about Black History in Canada - namely the ministry of the church’s first Black Moderator, the Very Reverend Dr. Wilbur Kenneth Howard.

Wilbur Howard was born Thursday, February 29, 1912 in Toronto as what the “Observer” calls “a third or fourth generation Canadian.”

His father and brother were railway porters – one of the few jobs open to blacks in the 1930’s, but Wilbur was able to get an education and attended Emmanuel College.  He was invited by, and attended church with a white family, resulting in his calling into the ministry of a segregated church at a segregated time, even in Canada.  In 1941 Wilbur was ordained by Toronto Conference, but could not be settled in a congregation due to the atrocious parochialism of Canadian society at the time.  In fact, “He didn’t find a congregation until he was hired to join the pastoral team at Dominion Chalmers United Church in Ottawa, more than 20 years after he was ordained.” (The Globe and Mail)

That was in 1965.  At the 1974 General Council meeting Wilbur Howard found himself nominated as a candidate for Moderator.  To the world’s surprise, he was elected.  After the election, members of the General Council sat in their table groups and talked about what they had done.  Rev. Howard sent them back to their congregations with these simple words of prayer:

              “God help us to grab this moment.

              God help us if we don’t.

              God help us if we do.

              Let’s go.”

In 1975 The Right Reverend Wilbur Howard was heading to South Africa to represent The United Church of Canada and encountered problems when everyone expected him to be white.   He remembered,

“I think the immigration authorities in Johannesburg read every word on my papers…but I had a little document from their embassy in Ottawa facilitating my entry, so that made it easier.”

This quiet man and beloved prophet blazed a trail as the first black person to graduate from Emmanuel College, to be ordained in The United Church of Canada and the first black person to be elected Moderator.  The church is grateful for the contributions of Dr. Howard and many other African Canadians, for their role in shaping our life and ministry.

 

Services for February 2012  

February 5th            5th after Epiphany - Rev. Bev Irwin

February 12th                    6th after Epiphany – Rev. Bev Irwin

                                7:00 p.m.  Covenanting service for Rev. Bev Irwin

February 19th                    Transfiguration Sunday – Rev. Bev Irwin

February 26th                    1st in Lent- Communion – Rev. Bev Irwin

 

Description: C:\Documents and Settings\wk4\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\6GOSUPT0\MC900391216[1].wmfThank you to St. John’s……

For such a warm welcome back.  It was so kind of some of you to take the time to drop by and see me to welcome me in person…… (I needed that!).  The year just flew by and I truly cherished the time at home I spent with Charlotte.  She is in good hands while I spend my days in the office, and enjoys the other children at the daycare.  I am also thankful that Mary Jane filled in here and left things in such good order for my return. 

Shona 

 

CHURCH STAFF

Interim Minister                                     Rev. Bev Irwin x:202

Minister Emeritus                                  Rev. Lorne O’Neill

Minister Emeritus                                  Rev. Arch McCurdy-435-6254 x:203

Volunteer Associate Minister               Rev. Kerrie Perry 800-446-4729 ext: 241

Minister of Music                                   Dr. Kenneth Inkster x:204

Office Administrator                             Shona Reuter x: 201

Custodians                                             Orville & Anne Dungey x:205

Church Office                                        Tel:  435-6732      Fax:  435-1052

e-mail:                                                   stjohnsunitedchurch@bellnet.ca

                                ***********************************

4th after Epiphany,    10:30 a.m.   January 29, 2012 

THE GATHERING

 

ORGAN PRELUDE:  

Simple Gifts (Shaker Melody) – Adrienne Tindall & Austin Lovelace

Fairest Lord Jesus – Richard Ellsasser

The Ash Grove – James Loeffler

             Hymns are from the United Church Hymnal "Voices United" (VU)

PROCESSIONAL HYMN:  352  I Danced in the Morning   (Simple Gifts)

CALL TO THE GATHERED:

One:    Come, friends, open your spiritual pores to the wonder and                            mystery of the Holy.

All:      We come with full anticipation of experiencing the thin

            places of God-with us, Christ-new-Life around us, Spirit-

            in-us.

One:    Let us continue to dance our way into all our living. 

HYMN:  415 God, We Praise You for the Morning (Dickey)    

PRAYER OF THE GATHERED: (together)

Spirit of Mystery, Light and Beauty, we are here to experience something of Your wonder. We have felt that warmth before. Each time it moves us to a deeper awareness of  what is holy and sacred. We have experienced a personal sense of call to do what we can to make this world a better place. Today we celebrate the personal gifts we have and how they come together in concert, giving blessing to each other thus transforming the world.  In community we pray. Amen. 

LIGHTING OF THE “CHRIST” CANDLE (children)

We are thankful for the gift of light. We light this candle to remind us of what the word ‘Christ’ means – peace, hope, joy, and love.

 HYMN #585  Jesus Bids Us Shine            (Jesus bids us shine)

 LEARNING TOGETHER – Children and adults learn together

Jesus goes to the Synagogue - Based on a story by Ralph Milton, found in Lectionary Story Bible (YearB)

SONG: –Hallelu – Hallelu –Hallelu – Hallelujah (VU 958)

(Children proceed to Sunday School and Nursery). 

WE HEAR GOD’S WORD

THE HEBREW SCRIPTURES:  Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV p. 174 )

Moses assures the people that when he is gone God will raise up a new prophet who will speak with God’s authority just as he has.

    The Word of God.    Thanks be to God!      Reader: Mary Jane

THE CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURES:  Mark  1:21-28    (NRSV p.35 )

A new teaching, uncommon authority. What is the basis of Jesus’ authority?

    The Word of our God.      Thanks be to God!                

MINUTE FOR MISSION    “Changing  Lives”  

MINISTRY OF MUSIC: Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies

– Keith Bissell  (Words - VU 336 verse 1)

SERMON  Speaking with Authority – Healing from the Heart  Rev Bev

                                        RESPONDING TO THE WORD

SHARING OUR TITHES AND GIFTS

Offertory:  506 Take My Life (Mozart)

Presentation: #552  

            For food in a world where many walk in hunger,

            For faith in a world where many walk in fear;

            For friends in a world where many walk alone,

            We give You humble thanks. (WORLD HUNGER)

 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE THE LORD’S PRAYER: VU 921

 AFFIRMATION OF FAITH:  P.918 Voices United

                                                SENDING FORTH

 HYMN OF COMMITMENT:  #481 Sent Forth by God’s Blessing

                                                                                    (The Ash Grove)BENEDICTION – GOOD WORDS! 

CHORAL BLESSING:  Go Now in Peace     Besig

POSTLUDE:  Toccata in G Major – William Hieronymous Pachelbel 

*********************

A WARM WELCOME is extended to all who are worshipping with us

this morning. If you are a guest, visitor or new-comer, please

make yourself known to us and sign our guest book.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

We give thanks for all volunteers who give time and talents so generously to life in this church.

This morning:

Ushers:  Ian & Paula

Greeters:  Fran & Maureen

Hospitality Hosts:  Lyn, Ruth & Nancy

Sound System Operator:  Tom

Nursery Supervisor this morning:  Dorothy

We thank you & all others not mentioned.

 

LECTIONARY READINGS FOR NEXT WEEK:

Hebrew Scripture: Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 147:1-11,20c

Christian Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39

Stewardship Thought -.As we give of ourselves, we are able to receive.  

Dedication of Memorial Books for Library – Change in Plan!

The Library committee has postponed the date for dedication of books donated in memory of someone or in celebration of a milestone in our lives to next Sunday, February 5th.  Anticipate lots of new and interesting reading material for the rest of 2012 and beyond. 

 

Floor Hockey

St. John’s Tuesday night Floor Hockey is back!  Join the fun for 6 weeks beginning January 31st.

Time:  6:30 – 7:30 pm

Place:  Faith Hall                             

Ages:  Grade 4 and up

Registration is required and registration packages are available in the church office. 

 

Description: celebrations,hearts,holidays,love,romances,special occasions,symbols,Valentines DayGrandmothers Embrace

Valentine Tea and Bake Sale

St. John’s United Church

Saturday, February 11, 12 – 2:30

Tickets $8.00

available in Shilton Hall after service

or phone 705-434-1354

Proceeds support African grandmothers and the AIDS orphans in their care through The Stephen Lewis Foundation

 

Sunday School Children Need Your Help

To provide some special lessons for the children of the S.S. during monthly ‘Open Sunday School” sessions, congregation members are invited to share their talents and love. Some of things that have been ‘special’ for the children from last fall were: baking flatbreads in preparation for the Simple Lunch, and participating in the “Mitten Tree” lesson and project. All congregation members are invited to offer their love and talents to the children in the sharing of a ‘special’ lesson. Consider something to do with Valentine’s Day, Lent, Easter, Earth Day or whatever message you wish to offer. Contact Andy or any one of the S.S. teachers.

 

Community Announcements 

Upcoming Covenanting Service

Today! at 2:30 p.m. – between Nottawa/Rob Roy Pastoral Charge, Northern Waters Presbytery and Mary Elizabeth Piercy, candidate for Diaconal ministry.

Where: Rob Roy United Church (469487 Grey Road 31, Grey Highlands On)

 

Upcoming Covenanting Service for Rev. Bev Irwin

Sunday, February 12th at 7:00 pm - between Alliston St. John’s Pastoral Charge, Northern Waters Presbytery and Rev. Beverly A. Irwin M.Div.

Where: St. John’s United Church Sanctuary

  

ConcertClassical

Beethoven, Chopin, Bach, Gershwin, Liszt & others

Pianist Shawna Wang invites you to come and enjoy her classical repertoire along with vocal & instrumental guests.

Date: Saturday, February 11, 2012

Location: St. John’s Sanctuary

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Tickets: $10.00

(available in church office & Modern Conservatory of Music)

Proceeds will help Shawna as she starts post-secondary education.

 

Workshop in Centering Prayer

Trinity United Church

37 Centre St. Beeton On

Sunday, February 12, 2012    2-4 pm

For more information call Marilyn 905-729-3923

or Beeton United Church  905-729-3302

 

THIS WEEK IN OUR CHURCH

SUNDAY          January 29, 2012

4th Sunday after Epiphany

10:30 a.m.       Worship - The Rev. Bev Irwin

11:45 a.m.       Fellowship-Shilton Hall

(All are welcome for Tea or Coffee following the Service.)

 

MONDAY –January 30, 2011

TUESDAY-

6:30 p.m.        Al Anon “Big Book Meeting” – SS# 1

7:00 p.m.        GNO Choir - Sanctuary

7:00 p.m.        NW Youth Cluster – Dermott Room

8:30 p.m.        Narcotics Anonymous – Faith Hall

WEDNESDAY

7:00 p.m.           Stephen Ministry - Library

THURSDAY

10:00 a.m.       Ladies Exercise Class – Faith Hall

10:30 a.m.       Staff Meeting - Library

8:00 p.m.           Choir-Sanctuary

8:30 p.m.        Alcoholics Anonymous-Faith Hall

SUNDAY          February 5, 2012

5th Sunday after Epiphany

10:15 p.m.      Hymn Sing

10:30 a.m.       Worship – The Rev. Bev Irwin

Dedication of Memorial books for church library

11:45 a.m.       Fellowship-Shilton Hall

(All are welcome for Tea or Coffee following the Service.)

 

Services for January & February 2012  

January 29th               4th of Epiphany  - Rev. Bev Irwin

February 5th                  5th after Epiphany - Rev. Bev Irwin

February 12th                6th after Epiphany – Rev. Bev Irwin

February 19th                Transfiguration Sunday – Rev. Bev Irwin

February 26th                1st in Lent- Communion – Rev. Bev Irwin

 

Description: chefs,cooking,cooks,dining,females,food,frying pans,pancakes,people,persons,skillets,womenPancake Supper

St. John’s Shrove Tuesday pancake supper is earlier this year.  Includes pancakes, sausages, beverage & dessert.

 

Date:  Tuesday, February 21st  

Location:  Shilton Hall

Time:  5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Helpers Needed – please sign-up on sheet outside Shilton Hall

                                        ************************************

February is Black History Month 

The United Church of Canada can tell one of the key stories about Black History in Canada - namely the ministry of the church’s first Black Moderator, the Very Reverend Dr. Wilbur Kenneth Howard.

Wilbur Howard was born Thursday, February 29, 1912 in Toronto as what the “Observer” calls “a third or fourth generation Canadian.”

His father and brother were railway porters – one of the few jobs open to blacks in the 1930’s, but Wilbur was able to get an education and attended Emmanuel College.  He was invited by, and attended church with a white family, resulting in his calling into the ministry of a segregated church at a segregated time, even in Canada.  In 1941 Wilbur was ordained by Toronto Conference, but could not be settled in a congregation due to the atrocious parochialism of Canadian society at the time.  In fact, “He didn’t find a congregation until he was hired to join the pastoral team at Dominion Chalmers United Church in Ottawa, more than 20 years after he was ordained.” (The Globe and Mail)

That was in 1965.  At the 1974 General Council meeting Wilbur Howard found himself nominated as a candidate for Moderator.  To the world’s surprise, he was elected.  After the election, members of the General Council sat in their table groups and talked about what they had done.  Rev. Howard sent them back to their congregations with these simple words of prayer:

                  “God help us to grab this moment.

                  God help us if we don’t.

                  God help us if we do.

                  Let’s go.”

In 1975 The Right Reverend Wilbur Howard was heading to South Africa to represent The United Church of Canada and encountered problems when everyone expected him to be white.   He remembered,

“I think the immigration authorities in Johannesburg read every word on my papers…but I had a little document from their embassy in Ottawa facilitating my entry, so that made it easier.”

This quiet man and beloved prophet blazed a trail as the first black person to graduate from Emmanuel College, to be ordained in The United Church of Canada and the first black person to be elected Moderator.  The church is grateful for the contributions of Dr. Howard and many other African Canadians, for their role in shaping our life and ministry. 

 

CHURCH STAFF

Interim Minister                                   Rev. Bev Irwin x:202

Minister Emeritus                                Rev. Lorne O’Neill

Minister Emeritus                                Rev. Arch McCurdy-435-6254 x:203

Volunteer Associate Minister             Rev. Kerrie Perry 800-446-4729 ext: 241

Minister of Music                                 Dr. Kenneth Inkster x:204

Office Administrator                            Mary Jane Mathieu x: 201

Custodians                                             Orville & Anne Dungey x:205

Church Office – 435-6732              Fax – 435-1052

e-mail:  stjohnsunitedchurch@bellnet.ca

 

                                ************************************

3rd after Epiphany,    10:30 a.m.    January 22, 2012

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity ends

THE GATHERING

Let us be still to listen to the Spirit God.

(Based on:  Psalm 48)

GATHERING MUSIC:  Let the sounds and energy of the music prepare your souls for this communal Spirit-filled time.

Sweet Hour of Prayer “A Walk in the Woods” – Ann Louise Fetters

Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling - Van Denman Thompson

God of Grace and God of Glory (Words VU 686) – Hal H. Hopson

                 Hymns are from the United Church Hymnal "Voices United" (VU)

PROCESSIONAL HYMN:  402 We Are One

CONCERNS AND JOYS OF OUR CHURCH FAMILY

GREET ONE ANOTHER

HYMN: 241  Oh, Sing to Our God (Cantad Al Senor) 

PRAYER OF THE GATHERED:  (together)

We gather in community

to rest from the busyness of our lives,

to greet our friends and neighbours,

and to open our being to light, insight and intuition

of that greater reality of which we are a part.

In community we pray.  Amen. 

LIGHTING OF THE PEACE CANDLE         

Let us light this candle to remind us of God’s wondrous energy that is present in our midst.

RESPONSE:  958 Halle, Halle, Hallelujah

PRAYER OF AWARENESS:  (together)

Spirit  of Light, Spirit of Joy, Spirit of Community…

We are grateful for the companionship of hearts and minds,

seeking to speak the truth in love.

We are grateful for the heritage of the men and women whose imagination, dedication and prophetic words and deeds make possible our dreams.

We gather, grateful for the gift of life itself, mindful that to respect life means both to celebrate what life is, and to insist on what it can become.

May we always rejoice in life, and work to cultivate a sense of its giftedness.  Amen.

CHILDREN’S HYMN:  96  Will You Come and See the Light                                                                                                       (Kelvingrove)

LEARNING TOGETHER – Children and adults learn together

Story – A funny story about Jonah based on the Book of Jonah

Song – Hallelu – Hallelu – Hallelu – Hallelujah

    

WE HEAR GOD’S WORD 

CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURE:   Mark 1:14-20    (NRSV p. 35)

How do we invite others to share the Holy mystery of faith-filled living?

Thanks be to the story that energizes and fills us with wonder.

Thanks be to God!                            

MINUTE FOR MISSION                 

MINISTRY OF MUSIC: I Thank the Lord for You - Wilson-Greer

SERMON                  Turning Around            Rev. Bev Irwin

 

RESPONDING TO THE WORD

WE OFFER OUR GIFTS

Offertory:  582 There’s a Spirit in the Air (Lauds)

Presentation:     O God, may we who bear Your Name

                   by gentle love Your Grace proclaim,

                   Christ’s gift of peace on earth declare

                   and Your anointing Spirit share. Amen.

(Old 100th, VU 541) Reprinted by permission of the publishers from Touch Holiness, Ed. Ruth C. Duck and Maren C. Tirabassi c.1990 by The Pilgrim Press.

PRAYER & LORD’S PRAYER 

 

                                                SENDING FORTH

HYMN: 691 Though Ancient Walls (Karr)

COMMISSION & BLESSING

  CHORAL BENEDICTION:   Go Now in Peace  - Besig  

     POSTLUDE: Jig Fugue in C Major – Dietrich Buxtehude 

*********************

A WARM WELCOME is extended to all who are worshipping with us

this morning. If you are a guest, visitor or new-comer, please

make yourself known to us and sign our guest book. 

LECTIONARY READINGS FOR NEXT WEEK:

Hebrew Scripture: Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111

Christian Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28

 

Looking for Volunteer “Facilitator”

Job description: Find/Recruit scripture readers for Sunday worship services.  If you have the qualifications please contact Rev. Bev or the church office. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

We give thanks for all volunteers who give time and talents so generously to life in this church.

This morning: 

Ushers:  Shirley & Nancy

Greeters:  Airlie & Greta

Hospitality Hosts:  Kathy, Vera & Patti

Sound System Operator:  Riker

Nursery Supervisor this morning:  Dorothy

We thank you & all others not mentioned.

Stewardship Thought-.Stewardship asks us to share God’s love with all Gods people, not just a select few.

Puppet Play Christmas Pageant – Jan. 29

Due to popular request, the children and youth will perform the puppet play again in Shilton Hall following the service on Sunday, Jan. 29. The entire congregation is invited to watch this performance.

UCW Annual Meeting

The UCW of St. John’s will be holding its Annual Meeting on Monday, January 23rd at 7:30 p.m. in Shilton Hall.  Business will include the presentation of committee reports and the installation of the new Executive.  The Programme will be Rachel, sharing her experiences in Kenya this summer.

Men’s Fellowship Breakfast -The next meeting of the Men’s Fellowship Breakfast will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 8:45 a.m. in Shilton Hall.   The guest speaker, Art Nolan will talk about “Paramedics and the services they perform”.  If you plan to attend, please sign the list in Shilton Hall before Tuesday, January24.

 

Coffee Time Helpers Needed

Do you make a great cup of coffee or tea?  We’d all love to share it together on Sundays after the worship service.  The sign-up sheet for Hospitality Hosts is in the hallway between the Sanctuary and Shilton Hall. 

Floor Hockey

St. John’s Tuesday night Floor Hockey is back!  Join the fun for 6 weeks beginning January 31st.

Time:  6:30 – 7:30 pm

Place:  Faith Hall                      

Ages:  Grade 4 and up

Registration is required and registration packages are available in the church office.

St. John’s needs YOUR help!

I would like to thank everyone who has signed on to various committees for the 2012 Church Council.  However, more volunteers are needed to share the load of operating our church.   If you are not already a member of a committee, please consider volunteering for one of the remaining vacancies:

·      Vice-chair of Church Council

·      Northern Waters Presbytery (1 member needed)

If you can devote some time and your talents to either of these positions, or for any other committee within St. John’s please contact:

Wayne 705-435-5540 or email: wdnoye@bell.net

 

Sunday School Children Need Your Help

To provide some special lessons for the children of the S.S. during monthly ‘Open Sunday School” sessions, congregation members are invited to share their talents and love. Some of things that have been ‘special’ for the children from last fall were: baking flatbreads in preparation for the Simple Lunch, and participating in the “Mitten Tree” lesson and project. All congregation members are invited to offer their love and talents to the children in the sharing of a ‘special’ lesson. Consider something to do with Valentine’s Day, Lent, Easter, Earth Day or whatever message you wish to offer. Contact Andy or any one of the S.S. teachers.

Text Box:

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Services for January / February 2012

January 22nd       3rd after Epiphany – Rev. Bev Irwin

January 29th        4th after Epiphany / Dedication of Memorial Books Rev. Bev Irwin

February 5th                    5th after Epiphany – Rev. Bev Irwin

February 12th        6th after Epiphany/Covenanting Service (7:30 pm)

February 19th        Transfiguration Sunday

February 26th        1st in Lent/Communion

 

CHURCH STAFF

Interim Minister                               Rev. Bev Irwin x:202

Minister Emeritus                            Rev. Lorne O’Neill

Minister Emeritus                            Rev. Arch McCurdy (H)-435-6254 x:203

Volunteer Associate Minister        Rev. Kerrie Perry 800-446-4729 ext: 241

Minister of Music                            Dr. Kenneth Inkster x:204

Office Administrator                       Mary Jane Mathieu x: 201

Custodians                                        Orville & Anne Dungey x:205

Church Office – 435-6732    Fax – 435-1052

e-mail:  stjohnsunitedchurch@bellnet.ca

 

Community Announcements

Upcoming Covenanting Service for Rev. Bev Irwin

Sunday, February 12th at 7:30 pm - between Alliston St. John’s Pastoral Charge, Northern Waters Presbytery and Rev. Beverly A. Irwin M.Div.

Where: St. John’s United Church Sanctuary

 

THIS WEEK IN OUR CHURCH

SUNDAY    January 22, 2012     3rd Sunday after Epiphany

 

10:30 a.m. Worship - The Rev. Bev Irwin

11:45 a.m. Fellowship-Shilton Hall

            (All are welcome for Tea or Coffee following the Service.)

 

MONDAY –January 23, 2011

7:00 p.m.   UCW Annual Meeting – Shilton Hall

TUESDAY-

10:00 a.m. NW Personnel/Congregational Support – CR# 2

7:00 p.m.   GNO Choir - Sanctuary

7:30 p.m.   Church Council – Dermott Room

8:30 p.m.   Narcotics Anonymous - Faith Hall

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

8:30 a.m.   Men’s Fellowship Breakfast – Shilton Hall

10:00 a.m. Ladies Exercise Group - Faith Hall

10:00 a.m. Staff Meeting - Library

7:00 p.m.   Bible Study (Rev. Arch McCurdy) - Dermott Room

8:00 p.m.   Choir-Sanctuary

8:30 p.m.   Alcoholics Anonymous-Faith Hall

SUNDAY    January 29, 2012    4th  Sunday after Epiphany

10:30 a.m.          Worship – The Rev. Bev Irwin

11:45 a.m. Fellowship-Shilton Hall

(All are welcome for Tea or Coffee following the Service.)

 

                            ****************************************

 Epiphany/ Baptism of the Lord     10:30 a.m.    January 8, 2012 

THE GATHERING

God is in this holy temple; let all the earth keep silence.

(Based on:  Habakkuk 2:20)

ORGAN PRELUDE:  

O’er the Earth There Shines a Great Light – G. Winston Cassler

How Brightly Beams the Morning Star (VU 98) – G. W. Cassler

O Radiant Christ, Incarnate Word (VU 84) – Christine Kraemer

Christ, Our Lord, to Jordan Came – J. S. Bach  (Listen for Bach’s sound picture of the waters of the River of Jordan)

 

               Hymns are from the United Church Hymnal "Voices United" (VU)

PROCESSIONAL HYMN:  412 This Is the Day  

CALL TO THE GATHERED:

One:         This is the day which God has made!

All:           We will rejoice and be glad!

One:         Let us gather to worship God.

All:           We come seeking comfort, inspiration, community and        

                    insight.

One:        Come with hearts and minds open to the power of God’s

                  presence in our midst. 

All:          We come to offer up the seasons and the turnings in our

                 lives, and to ask God to be with us in our learning and in

                 our growing. 

PRAYER OF THE GATHERED:

One:     Gracious God, who creates, sustains, and redeems all life,

All:      we seek Your disturbing presence and Your comforting peace.

One:     We praise You for the joy of being Your people.

All:      May Your Spirit be with us and move within us, in this time of

            worship.

One:    Give us hearts that hear Your Word,

All:      and minds that are open to the transforming power of Your

             love.  Amen.

 

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE                

CHILDREN’S HYMN: 87 I Am the Light of the World

                                                                                            (Light of the World)CHILDREN’S MOMENT:       Nancy

 

WE HEAR GOD’S WORD

RESPONSIVE PSALM:  Psalm 29 (VU 756)

Hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church.

Praise be to God!              Reader:  Paula

HEBREW SCRIPTURE:   Genesis 1:1-5 (NRSV p. 1)

Hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church.    Praise be to God!

MINUTE FOR MISSION: 

MINISTRY OF MUSIC: The Three Kings – Peter Cornelius

                                                               Soloist: Catherine Robbin

CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURE:  Mark 1:4-11 (NRSV p. 34)

Hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church.

Praise be to God!     

HYMN:  100 When Jesus Comes to Be Baptised  (Winchester New)

 

DRAMATIC MONOLOGUE:      “The Riverside”    Brenda McCurdy 

 

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH    p. 918 Voices United

 

RESPONDING TO THE WORD 

 

SHARING OUR TITHES AND GIFTS

Offertory:  Our Hope Is in This Child – Judith Snowdon

Presentation:        O God, may we who bear Your Name

                   by gentle love Your Grace proclaim,

                   Christ’s gift of peace on earth declare

                   and Your anointing Spirit share. Amen.

(Old 100th, VU 541) Reprinted by permission of the publishers from Touch Holiness, Ed. Ruth C. Duck and Maren C. Tirabassi c.1990 by The Pilgrim Press.) 

PASTORAL PRAYER

THE LORD’S PRAYER: VU 921

 

                                                    SENDING FORTH 

HYMN OF COMMITMENT:  710 Shall We Gather at the River

 COMMISSION & BLESSING

 

POSTLUDE:  Song for a New Year – Gilbert M. Martin

 

*********************

 

A WARM WELCOME is extended to all who are worshipping with us

this morning. If you are a guest, visitor or new-comer, please

make yourself known to us and sign our guest book.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

We give thanks for all volunteers who give time and talents so generously to life in this church.

This morning:

Ushers:  Gord & Joan

Greeters:  Helen & Anita

Hospitality Hosts:  John, Nancy, Barbara & Greta

Sound System Operator:  Ian

Nursery Supervisor: Dorothy

We thank you & all others not mentioned.

 

LECTIONARY READINGS FOR NEXT WEEK:

Hebrew Scripture: 1 Samuel 3:1-10, (11-20), Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18

Christian Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51

 

Stewardship Thought- Trusting comes before giving. It teaches a reliance on God that is fundamental to our relationship with God.

 

UCW Annual Meeting

The UCW of St. John’s will be holding its Annual Meeting on Monday, January 23rd at 7:30 p.m. in Shilton Hall.  Business will include the presentation of committee reports and the installation of the new Executive.  The Program will be Rachel, sharing her experiences in Kenya this summer.

 

Coffee Time Helpers Needed

Do you make a great cup of coffee or tea?  We’d all love to share it together on Sundays after the worship service.  The sign-up sheet for Hospitality Hosts is in the hallway between the Sanctuary and Shilton Hall. 

 

Thursday, January 12th 7:00 p.m.   Bible Study

- will resume, this week –  led by Rev. Arch McCurdy.

 

**Reminder** - the UCW Ella Bateson Unit will be meeting in the Dermott room at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 11th.  We are inviting ALL the ladies of the congregation to attend what promises to be an interesting evening program as our guest speaker will be Brenda McCurdy. 

Book Club

St. John’s book Club will be reviewing and discussing the book ”The Midwife of Venice” by Roberta Rich on Monday evening, January 9th.  If you have read the book, please join us! 

3rd Annual Pot Luck Dinner-

Theme: “O Canada” Reserve Sunday, January 15th at 5:30 p.m. for a fun evening celebrating Canada’s 145th birthday year.  There will be wonderful food and surprises.  Please see the sign- up sheet for the potluck on the bulletin board.  For more information contact Joyce  705-435-7089

                    Sponsored by the Membership Committee

  

ANNUAL REPORT

Good news for all Committee Chairs!

The date of the Annual Meeting has been moved back to March 4, 2012.  The suggested date for submissions to the office via email, memory stick or hard copy is now February 9th

Thank you, Mary Jane

 

St. John’s needs YOUR help!

I would like to thank everyone who has signed on to various committees for the 2012 Church Council.  However, more volunteers are needed to share the load of operating our church.   If you are not already a member of a committee, please consider volunteering for one of the remaining vacancies:

·      Vice-chair of Church Council

·      Secretary of Church Council

·      Faith Formation committee (5 members needed)

·      Northern Waters Presbytery (1 member needed)

If you can devote some time and your talents to any committee listed above, or for any other committee within St. John’s please contact:

Wayne Noye 705-435-5540 or email: wdnoye@bell.net

 

NOTICE

Please notify the church office if you know of anyone who is ill, in hospital, or would appreciate a pastoral visit.  The information will be passed on to St. John’s Membership committee and our Minister of visitation if so desired.

 

Benevolent Fund  Thank you for contributing to the St. John’s Benevolent Fund.  There are still many in our community who would benefit from the support of the St. John’s Benevolent Fund during this winter season.

 

Services for January 2012

 

January 8th       1st after Epiphany (Baptism of Christ) Brenda McCurdy

January 15th     2nd after Epiphany/Week of Prayer, Christian Unity

January 22nd   3rd after Epiphany - Rev. Bev Irwin 

January 29th    4th after Epiphany / Dedication of Memorial Books

                                                                            -  Rev. Bev Irwin

 

CHURCH STAFF

Minister                                        Rev. Bev Irwin

Minister Emeritus                       Rev. Lorne O’Neill

Minister Emeritus                       Rev. Arch McCurdy-435-6254

Volunteer Associate Minister    Rev. Kerrie Perry 800-446-4729 ext 241

Minister of Music                        Dr. Kenneth Inkster

Office Administrator                   Mary Jane Mathieu

Custodians                                    Orville & Anne Dungey

Church Office – 435-6732 Fax – 435-1052

e-mail:  stjohnsunitedchurch@bellnet.ca

 

THIS WEEK IN OUR CHURCH

SUNDAY    January 8, 2012

1st Sunday after Epiphany

10:30 a.m.          Worship – Brenda McCurdy

11:45 a.m. Fellowship-Shilton Hall

(All are welcome for Tea or Coffee following the Service.)

MONDAY –January 9, 2011

9:00 a.m.   Seed Growers Meeting - Dermott room

7:30 p.m.   Book Club - Dermott Room

7:30 p.m.   Membership - Library

TUESDAY

6:30 p.m.   Al Anon “Big Book Meeting” - SS# 1

7:00 p.m.   GNO Choir - Sanctuary

7:30 p.m.   Mission & Outreach (**note date change) - Dermott Room

7:30 p.m.   Faith Formation - Library

8:30 p.m.   Narcotics Anonymous - Faith Hall

WEDNESDAY

10:00 a.m. NW Exec. Officer Planning Mtg. - CR# 2

7:30 p.m.   UCW Ella Bateson Unit - Dermott Room

THURSDAY

10:00 a.m. Lady’s Exercise Class - Faith Hall

10:30 a.m. Staff Meeting - Library

7:00 p.m.   Bible Study - Dermott Room

8:00 p.m.   Choir-Sanctuary

8:30 p.m.   Alcoholics Anonymous - Faith Hall

FRIDAY

8:00 p.m.   GSA Dance (Banting HS) - Faith Hall

SUNDAY    January 15, 2012

2nd Sunday after Epiphany

10:30 a.m.          Worship

11:45 a.m. Fellowship - Shilton Hall

(All are welcome for Tea or Coffee following the Service.)

                                        ***********************************

 First Sunday after Christmas/New Years Day

10:30 a.m.   January 1, 2012 

THE GATHERING

God is in this holy temple; let all the earth keep silence.

(Based on:  Habakkuk 2:20)

        Hymns are from the United Church hymnal "Voices United" (VU)

HYMN SING:

529 Great God, We Sing that Mighty Hand (Wareham)

530 All Beautiful the March of Days (Forest Green)

528 God of Life (Beecher)

45 Joy Is Now in Every Place (Resonet in Laudibus) 

CALL TO THE GATHERED: 

One: A year has ended.

All:  A year has begun.

One: We now pass from the excitement of celebrating the birth of the Christ Child to the quiet and cold of January,

All:  We sometimes feel a let-down after Christmas.

One: Yet this year is going to be different than other years.

All:  It is the beginning of a new way of being a faith community          here at St. John’s United! Let us make the most of the time as we create new opportunities to live the Gospel of the Christ.

HYMN:  288 Great Is Thy Faithfulness (Faithfulness)   

PRAYER OF THE GATHERED (together)

Great Spirit, we thank You for Christmas time, when we celebrate the birth of the Christ Child. Help us to retain some of the excitement of Christmas all year long as we go about Your work. We especially need that excitement with us this year as we begin a new way of being a faith community. In community, we pray. Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE CHRIST CANDLE

One: As we light the Christ Candle today, we acknowledge the beginning of Jesus’ life on earth and also the beginning of a new year for us.

All:  Let this light remind us that new beginnings are exciting          and empowering. (light candle)

PRAYER OF AWARENESS (together)

All:  We celebrate the richness and beauty and diversity of life in     the presence of the Holy Mystery. We are here in response to a deep desire that yearns for an experience of the Holy.
         We have heard the bells.
         The universe is ablaze with Christmas lights and music.
         We have given and received gifts of love.
         We want to express our joy and our thankfulness and to          hear and feel anew this new life that is calling out to us.          Amen.

AFFIRMATION OF GOD’S LOVE (together)

All:  God is with us, we are not alone. Thanks be to God!

CHILDREN’S HYMN: 96 Will You Come and See the Light                                                                                                                                        (Kelvingrove) 

CHILDREN’S MOMENT:      

 

WE HEAR GOD’S WORD 

HEBREW  SCRIPTURE         Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 (NRSV p. 614)

For everything there is a season 

CHRISTIAN SCRIPTURE: Matthew 25:31-40 (NRSV p. 29)

When I was hungry, you gave me food

         The Word of the Lord.         Thanks be to God!             

MINUTE FOR MISSION                

MINISTRY OF MUSIC: Where Will It Lead? Besig and Price

HYMN: 600 When I Needed a Neighbour (Neighbour) 

SERMON                 Rev. Kerrie Perry                        

                 RESPONDING TO THE WORD

WE OFFER OUR GIFTS

Offertory:  592 Come, Now, You Blesssed

Presentation:        Grant us, God, the grace of giving,

                          With a spirit large and free,

                          That ourselves and all our living

                          We may offer faithfully.

                          AMEN. (VU 540)    

PASTORAL PRAYER and LORD’S PRAYER:

                                    SENDING FORTH 

HYMN: 713  I See a New Heaven – Carolyn McCade 

COMMISSION & BLESSING

CHORAL BENEDICTION:  Go Now in Peace  - Besig 

POSTLUDE:  Of the Father’s Love Begotten (VU 61) - John Cook

 

*********************

A WARM WELCOME is extended to all who are worshipping with us

this morning. If you are a guest, visitor or new-comer, please

make yourself known to us and sign our guest book.

 

Offering Envelopes 2012 – Your new offering envelopes for 2012 are ready for pick up in Shilton Hall today and next Sunday, January 8th.  The envelopes are arranged in numerical order, and everyone has the same number as last year.  As of January 1, 2012 please be sure to use your 2012 envelopes! 

Thank you.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

We give thanks for all volunteers who give time and talents so generously to life in this church.

This morning: 

Ushers:  Ruth & Nancy

Greeters:  John & Janet

Hospitality Hosts: Shirley, Gordon, Marg & Grant

Sound System Operator: Orville

We thank you & all others not mentioned.

 

LECTIONARY READINGS FOR NEXT WEEK:

Hebrew Scripture: Isaiah 60:1-6,

Psalm 29, (p. 755 Responsively)

Christian Scripture: Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11

 

Stewardship Thought- Praise the Lord! From God’s fullness we have all received grace upon grace. 

Benevolent Fund  Thank you for supporting the St. John’s Benevolent Fund.  There are still many in our community who would benefit from the support of the St. John’s Benevolent Fund during this winter season.

 

Coffee Time Helpers Needed

Do you make a great cup of coffee or tea?  We’d all love to share it together on Sundays after the worship service.  The sign-up sheet for Hospitality Hosts is in the hallway between the Sanctuary and Shilton Hall. 

 

St. John’s needs YOUR help!

I would like to thank everyone who has signed on to various committees for the 2012 Church Council.  However, more volunteers are needed to share the load of operating our church.   If you are not already a member of a committee, please consider volunteering for one of the remaining vacancies:

·      Vice-chair of Church Council

·      Secretary of Church Council

·      Faith Formation committee (3 members needed)

·      Northern Waters Presbytery (1 member needed)

If you can devote some time and your talents to any committee listed above, or for any other committee within St. John’s please contact:

Wayne Noye 705-435-5540 or email: wdnoye@bell.net

 

ANNUAL REPORT

Good news for all Committee Chairs!

The date of the Annual Meeting has been moved back to March 4, 2012.  The suggested date for submissions to the office via email, memory stick or hard copy is now February 9th

Thank you, Mary Jane

  

Natural Laws of Life:        

1. Murphy’s Law of Lockers – if there are only 2 people in a locker room, they will have adjacent lockers, at an end in a corner.

2. Wilson’s Law of Commercial Marketing Strategy – As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.

  

 Services for January 2012  

January 1st                1st after Christmas / New Year’s Day

    (Rev. Kerrie Perry)

January 8th                1st after Epiphany (Baptism of Christ)

 

January 15th              2nd after Epiphany/ Week of Prayer for Christian Unity      

January 22nd             3rd after Epiphany  (Rev. Bev Irwin)

 

January 29th              4th after Epiphany  (Rev. Bev Irwin)

 

                                        ************************************

                                                             

The Frosted Pane 

By: Charles G. D. Roberts (1860-1943)

One night came Winter noiselessly, and leaned

Against my window-pane.

In the deep stillness of his heart convened

The ghosts of all his slain.

 

Leaves, and ephemera, and stars of earth,

And fugitives of grass,

White spirits loosed from bonds of mortal birth,

He drew them on the glass.