Dec. 23, 2012 - 4th Sunday in Advent - Love

Greetings,

If the world doesn’t end tomorrow (and I don’t expect it to), here is what is coming up in the next while at Spirit West.

Worship

This Sunday is the fourth and last Sunday of Advent. The focus of this Sunday is Mary.  Now, Mary does not get a lot of air time in the United Church, or in fact in most churches of the Reform Tradition, so this Sunday is a bit of a change.

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Prophets: Micah 5: 2-5a,  and from the Gospels: Luke 1: 39-45.  We will also sing together a Canticle or Scripture Song,  the “Magnificat” or “Mary’s Song” from Luke 1: 47-49

The sermon title is taken from the Gospel reading, “All people will call me blessed.”

Monday is the day before Christmas, so our Christmas Eve Service will be Monday night at 6:30 pm.  I am calling the Service, “Let us go now to Bethlehem.”  It is a family service based on a Service of Lessons and Carols, and will include readings, music and brief reflections that will take us to Bethlehem.  If your children want to take part in the impromptu Pageant during the Service, they can either come to the Service dressed as an shepherds or angels, or they can put one of the costumes here at the Church.

Sunday, December 30^th, Cinnamon Bun Sunday.  We will gather for worship in the Lower Hall, and as we sit around tables sharing cinnamon buns and hot drinks we will share some stories and sing hymns, songs and carols about traditions associated with Christmas, perhaps answering the question, “Where did all this stuff come from?”

Sunday School

This Sunday we will be discussing the birth of Jesus.  The real Christmas story.  We will also be doing crafts and activities.  See you then.

Christmas Hampers

Again this year, under the  guidance of Rebecca Rivet, our Church will be providing Christmas Hampers to needy families. Thank you to all who sponsored Hampers or brought gifts for the children.  “Hamper Shopping” will be on Dec 22^nd.  This is a youth focused event, interested youth are to meet at the Church at 6:00pm for pizza and then everyone will go to Wal-Mart West (18521 Stony Plain Rd) at 7:00pm for “the shopping!”. Please let Rebecca Rivet know at rebeccarivet@hotmal.com  if you will attend (pizza and shopping, or just shopping) so she can have idea of numbers.

Outreach

If you missed SOCK SUNDAY, you can still bring pairs of new warm socks (wool and “diabetic” preferred) to the Church and they will be gathered up to bring warmth and comfort to Edmonton’s homeless.

 BISSELL URGENT APPEAL    www.globaltvedmonton.com

“We are completely out of toothpaste, gloves/mitts, and socks. Anything you can do to help really makes a big difference in the lives of those living without a home at this chilling time of year!”  These items can be brought to the Church,  from whence they will be taken to the Bissell Centre.

 

SPIRIT WEST CHURCH OFFICE HOLIDAY CLOSURE

The Church Office will be closed from Monday, December 24^th until Wednesday, January 2^nd, if you need to contact the Minister during this time, call the church office at 780-481-1406 and listen to the voice-mail message for contact information.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Friday, December 21 – End of the World or just the end of a 5,125 year cycle in the Mayan Long Count Calendar according to some calculations.

(Y) Saturday, December 22 – Hamper Shopping, 6:00pm at the Church for Pizza, Shopping at Wal-Mart West starting at 7:00pm (see note above)

Sunday, December 23 at 10:30 am – Advent 4

Monday, December 24 at 6:30pm  – CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE, “Let us go now to Bethlehem”

Sunday, December 30 at 10:30 am – Cinnamon Bun Sunday, Where did we get all this stuff? ( a look at some Christmas traditions)

Sunday, January 6, 2013 at 10:30 am – Epiphany Sunday with Holy Communion

Thanks for reading,  and (if we are still around) I hope to see you over Christmas, and if not, may you and your family know the joy and blessing of Christmas and all the best in 2013.

 Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv

Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org

 

 

Dec. 16, 2912 - 3rd Sunday of Advent - Joy

Greetings

Worship

This Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent, in some churches it is called “Gaudete Sunday” from a Latin word meaning “rejoice.”.  This is the “pink” Sunday. The focus is joy and expectation.  We continue to be called to prepare for the coming of God into the world, but with this Sunday, there is a note of joy.  It is the preparation and anticipation for a new life.  It is sort of like repurposing the spare bedroom or home office for the arrival of a new baby.  It’s a lot of work, but it is usually done with joy and excitement.

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Prophets: Zephaniah 3: 14-20,  and from the Gospels: Luke 3: 7-18.  We will also say/sing together a Canticle or Scripture Song, “Give Thanks” from Isaiah 12: 1a-6

The sermon title is a question taken from the Gospel reading, “What should I do?”

Sunday School

The Sunday School lesson is called the City of David and is the story of Joseph and Marry arriving in Bethlehem (The City of David).  It is focused on the humble beginnings of Jesus and his birth in a manager in a bed of straw in a stable as opposed to the castle which one might expect for a king. 

December Celebration at City Hall

Sunday afternoon at 2:00 at the City Hall there will be a  tri-faith (Jewish, Christian, Muslim) December Celebration at City Hall. There will be Music, food and Information sponsored by the Phoenix Multifaith Society for Harmony and the Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education and Action.  Members of our choir sang at this event last year.  Musicians from a different church will be participating this year.  Your MC for the event will be your minister.

CHRISTMAS MIRACLES

Sunday evening at 6:30, come join the fun as the musicians and choir of Spirit West United Church present “Christmas Miracles,” a program of story and song for the whole family.

Outreach

If you missed SOCK SUNDAY last Sunday, you can still bring pairs of new warm socks (wool and “diabetic” preferred) to Church and they will be gathered up to bring warmth and comfort to Edmonton’s homeless.

BISSELL URGENT APPEAL    www.globaltvedmonton.com

“We are completely out of toothpaste, gloves/mitts, and socks. Anything you can do to help really makes a big difference in the lives of those living without a home at this chilling time of year!”  These items can be brought to Spirit West,  from whence they will be taken to the Bissell Centre.

Christmas Hampers

Again this year, our Church will be providing Christmas Hampers to needy families. See the posters at the back of the Church to sponsor a hamper or sign up to provide a Christmas gift for a child in need.  “Hamper Shopping” will be on Dec 22^nd.  Watch this space for more details.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Sunday, December  16 at 2:00 -  Tri-faith (Jewish, Christian, Muslim) December Celebration at City Hall. Music, food and Information sponsored by the Phoenix Multifaith Society for Harmony and the Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education and Action.

Sunday, December 16 at 6:30 pm – CHRISTMAS MIRACLES presented by the musicians of Spirit West.  A wonderful evening for the whole family!

Saturday, December 22 – Hamper Shopping

Sunday, December 23 at 10:30 am – Advent 4

Monday, December 24 at 6:30pm  – CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE, “Let us go now to Bethlehem”

Sunday, December 30 at 10:30 am – Cinnamon Bun Sunday, Where did we get all this stuff? ( a look at some Christmas traditions)

Thanks for reading,  and See you Sunday,

Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv

Minister
Spirit West United Church
780-481-1406
Spiritwest.minister@telus.net
Spiritwest.org

Dec. 9, 2012 - 2nd Sunday of Advent - Peace

Greetings

Worship

This Sunday is the second Sunday of Advent.  This Sunday’s focus is preparation.  We are called to prepare for the coming of God into the world.  The Scripture readings seem to have a lot to do with cleaning and straightening.  But this is not a call from a concerned parent about the state of your room or your house, but from a call from a hermit named John who seems to be living a rather wild and untidy life in the desert.

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Prophets: Malachi 3: 1-4,  and from the Gospels: Luke 3: 1-6.  We will also sing together a Canticle or Scripture Song, the Song of Zechariah from Luke 1: 68-79

The story for all ages is “Clean and Tidy”

The sermon title is again taken from the Gospel reading, “Prepare”

Sunday School

This week we will be looking at Joseph's Dream and our scripture will be Matthew 1:18 -23,  “and he will be called Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’"  We will also be doing story time and crafts.

Outreach

This Sunday is SOCK SUNDAY. Bring pairs of new warm socks (wool and “diabetic” preferred) to Church and they will be gathered together.  They will be given to bring warmth and comfort to Edmonton’s homeless.

BISSELL URGENT APPEAL    www.globaltvedmonton.com

“We are completely out of toothpaste, gloves/mitts, and socks. Anything you can do to help really makes a big difference in the lives of those living without a home at this chilling time of year!”

Christmas Hampers

Again this year our Church will be providing Christmas Hampers to needy families. See the poster at the Church to sponsor a hamper or sign up to provide a Christmas gift.  “Hamper Shopping” will be on Dec 22^nd.  Watch this space for more details.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Sunday, December  16 at 2:00 -  Tri-faith (Jewish, Christian, Muslim) Celebration at City Hall. Music, food and Information sponsored by the Phoenix Multifaith Society for Harmony and the Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education and Action.

Sunday, December 16 at 6:30 pm – CHRISTMAS MIRACLES presented by the musicians of Spirit West.  A wonderful evening for the whole family!

Saturday, December 22 – Hamper Shopping

Sunday, December 23 at 10:30 am – Advent 4

Monday, December 24 at 6:30pm  – CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE, “Let us go now to Bethlehem”

Sunday, December 30 at 10:30 am – Cinnamon Bun Sunday

Thanks for reading, and I want to close with a farewell that is heard more in the UK than here, but I think is a great sentiment for Advent:

“Mind how you go” , and See you Sunday,

 Larry

 

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright CD, BA, MDiv

Minister

Spirit West United Church

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dec. 2, 2012 - 1st Sunday of Advent - Hope

Happy New Year


Worship

This Sunday is the first Sunday of the Christian calendar, beginning the Season of Advent. In the three year Lectionary, or list of suggested readings for each Sunday, this is the start of Year C. Advent means “coming.” During Advent we prepare for two “comings.” We prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, the “coming” of God to earth as a human being. But we also recognize that everything in this world is not as it should be. In this sense, Advent is also a time to reflect on ways in which we can play an active role in preparing a way for God to “come” into our world now. The church as always proclaimed that Christ will come again. The challenge has always been to understand what that means. Is this “second coming” going to be apocalyptic, cataclysmic, revolutionary or unnoticed? There are a number of passages in Scripture that seem to indicate that there will be signs to know when God is coming into the world. We will hear a couple this Sunday.

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Prophets: Jeremiah 33: 14-16, from the Psalms: Psalm 25: 1-10, and from the Gospels: Luke 21: 25-36

The story for all ages is “Signs”

The sermon title is taken from the Gospel reading, “There will be signs.”

Sunday School

This week we will be learning about the birth of a baby. Can you guess who? We will also learn about his family and yours. Characters in our story will come to life as we read on.

Outreach

Sunday, December 9th is SOCK SUNDAY. Bring pairs of new warm socks (wool and “diabetic preferred) to Church and they will be gathered together. They will be given to bring warmth and comfort to Edmonton’s homeless.

BISSELL URGENT APPEAL www.globaltvedmonton.com

“We are completely out of toothpaste, gloves/mitts, and socks. Anything you can do to help really makes a big difference in the lives of those living without a home at this chilling time of year!”

Christmas Hampers

Again this year our Church will be providing Christmas Hampers to needy families. See the poster at the Church to sponsor a hamper or provide a Christmas gift. “Hamper Shopping” will be on Dec 22nd. Watch this space for more details.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Wednesday, December 5 - Book Study, 1:30 in the Lounge, “Conversations with God”
Sunday, December 9 – Second Sunday of Advent – SOCK SUNDAY
Sunday, December 16 at 2:00 - Tri-faith (Jewish, Christian, Muslim) Celebration at City Hall. Music, food and Information sponsored by the Phoenix Multifaith Society for Harmony and the Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education and Action.
Sunday, December 16 at 6:30 – CHRISTMAS MIRACLES presented by the musicians of Spirit West. A wonderful evening for the whole family!

Thanks for reading,

See you Sunday,

Larry

Nov 18, 2012 - 25th Sunday after Pentecost

Greetings
Worship

As some of you may have heard, the world is supposed to end next month because we are coming to the end of a 5,125 year cycle in the Mayan Long Count Calendar. End of time predictions have been common throughout Christian as well as Mayan history. Many “end of the world” dates have come and gone, including most recently May 12, 2011. But, there are a number of passages in Scripture that seem to point to an “end-time.” These passages are often referred to as “apocalyptic” which comes from a Greek word meaning to unveil or reveal. These passages tend to be in the form of prophecies, a word about the future that has been revealed or unveiled by God through the voice of the prophet. These have often been read by the Church as datable predictions of future events, readings that have been frequently proved wrong. So what do we do with apocalyptic literature? We will be looking at one passage on Sunday where the prophet is Jesus. We will also be hearing the words of Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel. Her prayer gives some insight into an understanding of God’s revelation.

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Letters: 1 Samuel 2: 1-10, and from the Gospels: Mark 13: 1-8

The story for all ages is “Metamorphosis”

The sermon title is “Labour”

Annual Stewardship Campaign

The Annual Stewardship Campaign comes to a close this Sunday. I hope you have received or picked up you Stewardship packages, if not please let the Church know, and we will make sure you get one. While the Campaign is ending our need for your support does not end. Please carefully consider the ways in which you can keep Spirit West alive and well. There will be Cake after church.

Sunday School

The lesson for this week is entitled "A Time for All Things" based on the Bible verse from Ecclesiastes 3:11 - God makes everything happen at the right time. The lesson involves using examples such as The Seasons to discuss how God makes the right time for things to happen. There will be craft activities to reinforce the lesson (and make it more fun).

Youth

The next Youth of Edmonton United event is the Inner-City Scavenger Hunt and Movie Night. This will be held on Saturday, November 24th from 3-9:30 pm. Meet at Robertson-Wesley United Church (10209- 123 St). Dress warmly and be prepared to walk. Please bring $5 for dinner. All youth are welcome! [See the poster on the notices table]

Hunger Games Foodraising

If you made a pledge to support the Hunger Games Foodraising, don’t forget we are now in November.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Wednesday, Nov. 21 - Book Study, 1:30 in the Lounge, “Conversations with God”

(Y) Saturday, Nov 24, Inner-City Scavenger Hunt and Movie Night, 3-9: 30 pm


Thanks for reading,

See you Sunday,

Larry


(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
phone: 780-481-1406
spiritwest.minister@telus.net
website: spiritwest.org

Nov. 11, 2012 - 24th Sunday after Pentecost and Remembrance Day

Worship


This Sunday, we will participate in a Remembrance Day service. The service will include poetry of war passages, the Last Post, two minutes of silence, reveille and the presentation of the wreath

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Prophets: Isaiah 11: 6-9 and Micah 4: 2-3 and from the Gospels: Luke 12: 48-53

The sermon title is “God, I have a question”

Annual Stewardship Campaign

The Annual Stewardship Campaign is underway. Shortly you will be receiving by email and/or Canada Post your Stewardship Package, which will include the proposed Narrative Budget for 2013 and a Pledge Form. Please carefully consider the ways in which you can keep Spirit West alive and well.


Youth

The next Youth of Edmonton United event is the Inner-City Scavenger Hunt and Movie Night. This will be held on Saturday, November 24th from 3-9 pm. This event is being organized by Robertson-Wesley. Mark your calendars and watch this space for more details.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Sunday, Nov 11 – Remembrance Day, Our Worship Service starts as usual at 10:30, and will include a time of Remembrance at 11:00.

(Y) Saturday, Nov 24, Inner-City Scavenger Hunt and Movie Night, 3-9pm

Thanks for reading,

Nov. 4, 2012 - 23rd after Pentecost and Rodeo Sunday

Howdy Pardners! (Yup, it’s that time of year) and Happy All Saints Day.


Worship

Part of the Spirit West “tradition” is to mark the arrival in Edmonton of the Canadian Finals Rodeo (Nov 7-11). So this Sunday is Rodeo Sunday. The Service will, in part, celebrate our horse-back heritage and the music will have a decidedly “western” feel. So even if you are an urban Cowboy (Cowgirl) put on your boots, your fancy duds and your Stetson and come on down to worship. We will also be gathering around the Table for Communion. The scripture readings focus on “the basics.” What is the most important commandment? How do we follow it in our day?

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Letters: Hebrew 9: 11-15, and from the Gospels: Mark 12: 28-34

The story for all ages is “What’s this for?”

The sermon title is “The Bottom Line”

Annual Stewardship Campaign

The Annual Stewardship Campaign is underway. Shortly you will be receiving by email and/or Canada Post your Stewardship Package, which will include the proposed Narrative Budget for 2013 and a Pledge Form. These Packages are also available for pick-up at the Church. Please carefully consider the ways in which you can keep Spirit West alive and well.

Youth

The next Youth of Edmonton United event is the Inner-City Scavenger Hunt and Movie Night. This will be held on Saturday, November 24th from 3-9 pm. This event is being organized by Robertson-Wesley. Mark your calendars and watch this space for more details.

Vacation

I will be on vacation next week (Nov. 5-9), visiting in Calgary. I will be back for the service on Nov. 11

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Sunday, Nov. 4 – Rodeo Sunday and Communion
Wednesday, Nov. 7 - Book Study, 1:30 in the Lounge, “Conversations with God”
Sunday, Nov 11 – Remembrance Day, Our Worship Service starts as usual at 10:30, and will include a time of Remembrance at 11:00.
(Y) Saturday, Nov 24, Inner-City Scavenger Hunt and Movie Night, 3-9pm

Thanks for reading,

See you Sunday,

Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv

Minister

Spirit West United Church

phone: 780-481-1406

email: spiritwest.minister@telus.net

website: spiritwest.org

Oct. 28, 2012 - 22nd Sunday after Pentecost - All Saints Sunday

Worship


This Sunday is the Sunday before Halloween, which means it is also the Sunday before All Saints Day. The Scripture Readings are actually for All Saints Day. For the children I will be talking about what saints look like and with the adults I will be looking at whole Halloween/All Saints package – where it comes from, where the church has taken it, what do we do with it today.

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Revelation: Revelation 21: 1-6a, and from the Gospels: Matthew 5: 1-12

The story for all ages is “Have you ever seen a Saint?”

The sermon title is “Halloween and Halos”

Annual Stewardship Campaign

This Sunday also marks the start of the Annual Stewardship Campaign during which we will be highlighting ways in which you can support your church with your time, talents and treasure. Shortly you will be receiving by email and/or Canada Post your Stewardship Package, which will include the proposed Narrative Budget for 2013 and a Pledge Form. Please carefully consider the ways in which you can keep Spirit West alive and well.

Sunday School

This week we encourage children to wear their Halloween costumes. We will be having our own all-ages gathering. We will see who "Calmed the Storm" as we cook our own storm

Book Study

The book study “A Conversations with God” (an uncommon dialogue) Book 1 by Neale Donald Walsch, will continue each Wednesday at 1:30pm in the Lounge. If there is enough interest I will also offer an evening study. There are copies of this book at Chapters: Gateway, West Edmonton Mall, and Kingsway Mall. You may also check second hand book stores or Amazon. Please phone Anne Dingwell with enquiries. 780-244-9525.

Youth

The next Youth of Edmonton United event is the Hallowe’en Dance on Saturday, Oct 27, 7:30pm, hosted by Riverbend, but being held at Knox-Metropolitan (8307 109 St.). Check out Youth of Edmonton United on Facebook.

Movie Night

Friday, October 26, North Edmonton Cineplex, 14231-137 Ave.

To see CLOUD ATLAS at 6:40 P.M. Starring Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant, Ben Whishow & the list goes on.

“ An exploration of how the actions & consequences of individual lives impact one another throughout the past, the presence & the future. Action, mystery & romance weave dramatically through the story as one soul is shaped from a killer into a hero & single act of kindness ripples centuries to inspire in the distance future.” All invited back to Marian’s after the show for refrreshments & socializing.(Beverages are provided. If you wish to bring some nibbles feel free to do so.) Sounds like this one will bring on a lively discussion. Directions available at the theatre from Marian.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

• Friday, October 26 - Movie Night, North Edmonton Cineplex, 14231-137 Ave. to see CLOUD ATLAS at 6:40 P.M.
• Saturday, Oct 27, - Men’s Breakfast, 8:00 am, Lower Hall
• (Y) Saturday, October 27 – Halloween Dance. Knox-Metropolitan (8307 - 109 St.), 7:30pm $5/person
• Wednesday, Oct 31 – Book Study, 1:30 in the Lounge, “Conversations with God”
• Sunday, Nov. 4 – Rodeo Sunday and Communion

Thanks for reading,

See you Sunday,

Larry
(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv
Minister
Spirit West United Church
phone: 780-481-1406
email: spiritwest.minister@telus.net
website: spiritwest.org

Oct. 21, 2012 - 21st after Pentecost and Word Food Day

Worship
This Sunday we will be looking at three passages from Scripture. The first, from Job, is part of God’s answer to Job’s complaints, the second from Hebrews focuses on Jesus as High Priest, and the third, from Mark shows us a couple of disciples arguing about who will sit next to Jesus in heaven. All three passages are unique, but each one offers us a challenge. How do we really view ourselves, our neighbours and our relationship with God? Believe it or not, the answers to these questions are not simple or simplistic.

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Prophets: Job 38: 1-7, from the Letters: Hebrews 5: 1-10 and from the Gospels: Mark 10: 35-45

The story for all ages is “Screaming Me-mes!”

The sermon title is “It’s not all about you!”

The Service will be followed by a Congregational Meeting where we will be electing and confirming our Church Board for 2013. It is important that you give your time to be part of the decisions affecting your church.


Sunday School

"Tending the Garden". This week we will discover whose garden this is and who is to look after it.

Will our Garden look like God's?

Book Study

The book study “A Conversations with God” (an uncommon dialogue) Book 1 by Neale Donald Walsch, will continue each Wednesday at 1:30pm in the Lounge. If there is enough interest I will also offer an evening study. There are copies of this book at Chapters: Gateway, West Edmonton Mall, and Kingsway Mall. You may also check second hand book stores or Amazon. Please phone Anne Dingwell with enquiries. 780-244-9525.

Soul Circle

SOUL CIRCLE starts Friday, Oct. 19 (tomorrow) at 1:30 in the lounge. Bring an art or craft to work on. Newcomers welcome. Call Lou at 780-481-4991 for more info.

Youth

The next Youth of Edmonton United event is the Hallowe’en Dance on Saturday, Oct 27, 7:30pm, hosted by Riverbend, but being held at Knox-Metropolitan (8307 109 St.). Check out Youth of Edmonton United on Facebook.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Friday, Oct 19 – Soul Circle, 1:30 in the Lounge

Saturday, October 20 – Fall Supper and Silent Auction. Starting at 5:30pm, $25/person, $60/family $15/student. We are looking for donations of new goods and services from individuals or businesses for the Silent Auction. Folks can contact either Cathy or Dave.

Sunday, Oct 21 – Congregational Meeting with Election of Officers for 2013, after Church. Without people there is no church. If you consider Spirit West to be your Church, please make every effort to attend this important meeting.

Wednesday, Oct 24 – Book Study, 1:30 in the Lounge, “Conversations with God”

Friday, Oct. 26 - Movie Night

Saturday, Oct. 27 - Men's breakfast

(Y) Saturday, October 27 – Halloween Dance. 7:30pm $5/person


Thanks for reading,


See you Sunday,


Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv

Minister

Spirit West United Church

phone: 780-481-1406

email: spiritwest.minister@telus.net

website: spiritwest.org

OCT. 14, 2012 - 20th Sunday after Pentecost

Worship


There are no “extras” in the Service this Sunday. We are simply gathering to worship, pray and listen for what God is saying to us. One thing I am very aware of is that what I think I have said to you on a Sunday, may not be what you hear. On a few occasions I have had people thank me for saying something that they needed to hear. Don’t thank me, thank God. Of course there are other occasions when people have shared with me that a particular sermon or reflection just did not speak to them, and perhaps they even disagreed with what they heard. That’s okay, as long as I am not missing the mark with too many people too much of the time. We all are there on Sunday to listen for what God might be saying to each of us. I may be sparked by something I say, it might be the words of a hymn that for some reason you hear differently. It might even occur over coffee (tea) before or after the service. But we need to be open to the possibility. One of the ways to be open is to ask questions. Now, I am not sure how asking questions in the middle of the service would go over. It might throw me off my stride, but we might try it sometime. Often in our current society, the church is criticised for being an institution that works on simple blind faith and that’s it. Faith is at the core of who we are, but I hope our faith is not blind. True Christian faith is not about obedience to some distant rule maker, it is about a relationship with Source of life, and relationships are about dialogue. The scripture readings for this Sunday point to people who did not just pose questions about God, they posed questions to God.

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Prophets: Job 23: 1-9, 16-17 and from the Gospels: Mark 10: 17-31

The sermon title is “God, I have a question!”


Book Study

The book study “A Conversations with God” (an uncommon dialogue) Book 1 by Neale Donald Walsch, will begin on October 17th at 1:30pm in the Lounge. If there is enough interest I will also offer an evening study. There are copies of this book at Chapters: Gateway, West Edmonton Mall, and Kingsway Mall. You may also check second hand book stores or Amazon. Please phone Anne Dingwell with enquiries. 780-244-9525.

Soul Circle

SOUL CIRCLE starts Oct. 19 at 1:30 in the lounge. Bring an art or craft to work on. Newcomers welcome. Call Lou at 780-481-4991 for more info.

Youth

The next Youth of Edmonton United event is the Hallowe’en Dance on Saturday, Oct 27, 7:30pm at a Church to be confirmed. Check out Youth of Edmonton United on Facebook.


Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Wednesday, Oct 17 – Book Study, 1:30 in the Lounge, “Conversations with God”

Friday, Oct 19 – Soul Circle, 1:30 in the Lounge

Saturday, October 20 – Fall Supper and Silent Auction. Starting at 5:30pm, $25/person, $60/family $15/student. We are looking for donations of new goods and services from individuals or businesses for the Silent Auction. Folks can contact either Cathy or Dave.

Sunday, Oct 21 – Congregational Meeting with Election of Officers for 2013, after Church. Without people there is no church. If you consider Spirit West to be your Church, please make every effort to attend this important meeting.

(Y) Saturday, October 27 – Halloween Dance. 7:30pm $5/person


Thanks for reading,

See you Sunday,

Larry

(Rev.) Larry K. Wright, CD, BA, MDiv

Minister

Spirit West United Church

phone: 780-481-1406

email: spiritwest.minister@telus.net

website: spiritwest.org

Oct. 7, 2012 - Thanksgiving and World Wide Communion

Here is the weekly message from Spirit West.

 

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

Worship

This is Thanksgiving and Worldwide Communion.  We all know what Thanksgiving is about (or do we?).  But what about World Communion?  In much of the Protestant tradition, Communion or the Lord’s Supper is not celebrated every Sunday as it is in some traditions.  The minister of a Presbyterian Church in the US started a movement to have the different Protestant churches in his community come to the Table together, if not in the same place, at least at the same time or same day.  This idea spread, so we can know that as we gather on Sunday, others will have and will be gathering at the Table.  This link gives a brief history and reflection on World Communion. http://www.stltoday.com/lifestyles/faith-and-values/civil-religion/christopher-keating/world-communion-sunday-draws-christians-to-one-table-one-bread/article_9592d7a0-eb0a-11e0-b374-001a4bcf6878.html

From the Scriptures we will hear from the Prophets: Joel 2: 21-27 and from the Gospels: Luke 12: 13-21

The sermon title, Ευχαριστώ, is the Greek work for Thanks and is also the word that gives us the English word Eucharist.  Thanksgiving and Communion are closely related.

 

Youth

The next Youth of Edmonton United event is the Hallowe’en Dance on Saturday, Oct 27, 7:30pm at a Church to be confirmed.  Check out  Youth of Edmonton United on Facebook.

 

Soul Circle

SOUL CIRCLE starts Oct. 19 at 1:30 in the lounge.  Bring an art or craft to work on.  Newcomers welcome.  Call Lou at 780-481-4991 for more info.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Sunday, October 7 – Thanksgiving and Worldwide Communion

 

Saturday, October 20 – Fall Supper and Silent Auction.  Starting at 5:30pm, $25/person, $60/family $15/student.  We are looking for donations of new goods and services from individuals or businesses for the Silent Auction. Folks can contact either Cathy or Dave.

 

(Y) Saturday, October 27 – Halloween Dance.  7:30pm $5/person

 

Sept. 30, 2012 - Blessing of the Animals

Hi again,


From now on, you will find this message divided into sections. I hope you read all of it, but the sections may help you narrow in on a particular activity or event.

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

Worship

This is Blessing of the Animals Sunday. In a number of Christian traditions, our connection to all life on the planet, especially to those animals with whom we share our homes is celebrated. The timing of these celebrations usually coincides with the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (Oct 4) which is next Thursday. So you are invited to bring your pets to church. It is important that you have positive control of your pet during the service, we don’t want one pet eating another, or running away. So far at Spirit West, the pets who have attended have been quite well behaved. We want both you and your pets to feel comfortable. If you feel that your pet(s) might not do so well among other animals and people, then please bring a photo. The Blessing will take place near the beginning of the service.

From the Scriptures we will hear Genesis 1:26 – 2:1, and Matthew 6: 25-29

I have not come up with a good Sermon title, so you will have wait and see.

Sunday School

This Sunday we are blessing the animals. God had Noah build an ark to save 2 of every animal.

We are going to find out who was in "The Bottom of the Boat" and how they survived. If the weather holds out we will see how many we can get in our ark

Youth

On Saturday, the Youth of Edmonton Presbytery will be involved in a Progressive Dinner. The theme for the Dinner is “Hunger Games.” The images from this book will be used as a background for an evening of fun at three different Edmonton United Churches. At the same time we will also be exploring “Hunger.” If you have read the book (or know a teen who has) you will understand that the story involves a fierce competition. We are also have some competition, but not with such deadly consequences. The enemy being fought in our “Hunger Games” is hunger. Dessert and the “Final Challenge” will be at Spirit West. Check out Youth of Edmonton United on Facebook.

Soul Circle

SOUL CIRCLE starts Oct. 19 at 1:30 in the lounge. Bring an art or craft to work on. Newcomers welcome. Call Lou at 780-481-4991 for more info.

Stewardship and Finance

The Stewardship and Finance Committee feels that it is important to provide you with periodic updates as to our Church finances.

The 2012 projected budget deficit for the year is $7700. Our actual deficit as of Aug.30, 2012 is -$26,626. Unfortunately donations are down 17%.

As a congregation we need to pull together and grow our revenues by continued fund raising and donations. This fall is a critical time for us.

Please be generous.

Yours in faith

The Stewardship Committee

As well, please note the Important Dates and Youth Events (Y) below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Sunday, October 7 – Thanksgiving and Worldwide Communion

Saturday, October 20 – Fall Supper and Silent Auction. Starting at 5:30pm, $25/person, $60/family $15/student. We are looking for donations of new goods and services from individuals or businesses for the Silent Auction. Folks can contact either Cathy or Dave.

(Y) Saturday, October 27 – Halloween Dance. Southminster-Steinhauer UC, 7:30pm $5/person

Sept. 23, 2012 - 17th Sunday after Penecost or 3rd Sunday of Creation Time - Fire Drill Sunday

Hi again,


This message has a bunch of parts, please read all them.

Worship

Well, we are getting back into the swing of things. There are two Services this Sunday. The Morning Service (sounds old fashioned, but it’s not) at 10:30 am will look at the story in Mark’s Gospel of Jesus explaining faith by using the example of a child. We will be adding a bit of excitement to the Service by closing with a Fire Drill. As a public building, we are supposed to have periodic fire drills, so in consultation with Captain Murray Pauluk of the Edmonton Fire Department, we are having our first fire drill on Sunday. This is a training fire drill which is why there is so much notice. Come out, share worship with others and learn how we will keep safe.

From the Scriptures we will hear James 3:13 – 4:3, 7-8a and Mark 9: 30-37 .

I have titled my Sermon, “Our Faith – Childlike or Childish”

The Evening Service at 7:00 pm is officially called the “Covenanting Service for the New Pastoral Relationship between Larry K. Wright, Spirit West United Church and Edmonton Presbytery.” It is the official recognition by the Church that I am your minister for as long as you want me. The Service will be led by the Rev. Deborah Hoekstra, Chair of Edmonton Presbytery and the Preacher will be the Rev. Dr. John Henry Weinlick, former minister of this congregation and recently retired from McDougall United Church.

From the Scriptures we will sing Psalm 23, and hear John 10:2-5, 11-15

John Henry’s Sermon is “The Good Shepherd is a Leader”

Sunday School

Are you ready to get wet? In this week's all-ages lesson we will be learning the story of Baby Moses: discussing our fears, taking comfort in God, and the importance of knowing which materials float!

Youth

On the evening of Saturday, Sep 29, the Youth of Edmonton Presbytery will be involved in a Progressive Dinner. The theme for the Dinner is “Hunger Games.” The images from this book will be used as a background for an evening of fun at three different Edmonton United Churches. At the same time we will also be exploring “Hunger.” If you have read the book (or know a teen who has) you will understand that the story involves a fierce competition. We are also have some competition, but not with such deadly consequences. The enemy being fought in our “Hunger Games” is hunger. You can help the “Spirit West District” earn points by responding to the call to “Foodraise.” Bring an item (or items) of non-perishable food to church on Sunday and put it (them) in the Hunger Games Bin. You can also extend your help by making a “Foodraising Pledge” As One Star pledge is a commitment to contribute one item of non-perishable food once a month until the end of June 2013. A Four Star pledge is a commitment to make the contribution weekly. All food collected will go to the Edmonton Food Bank. Bring your food on Sunday and sign a Pledge. Help feed Edmonton and help “Spirit West District” win the Hunger Games! Also, check out Youth of Edmonton United on Facebook.

Book Study

Our 1st event will be a book discussion on "Conversation with God"'. "Suppose you could ask God the most puzzling questions about existence--questions about love and faith, life and death, good and evil. Suppose God provided clear, understandable answers. It happened to Neale Donald Walsch. It can happen to you. You are about to have a conversation..." This is an extremely interesting and enlighten book. The Book discussion will be led by Anne Dingwell. It will start the week of Oct. 8 to the week of Nov. 21. The exact date and time will be determined by those attending. Please let us know if you want to participate in his discussion.

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates and Youth Events (Y) below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

(Y) Saturday, September 29, 5:00 pm-9:00? pm – HUNGER GAMES PROGRESSIVE DINNER

Sunday, September 30 – BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Bring your pet(s) to church and give thanks for all God’s creation. Those of you who have been here for this service in the past know what a wonderful time it is for all present. If it is awkward to bring your pet(s), because it’s hard to move the 100 gallon aquarium or for any other reason, bring a picture of them.

Sept. 16, 2012 - 16th Sunday aftr Pentecost (2nd Sunday of Creation Time) with baptism and confirmation

Hello,


It was great to see so many of you last Sunday for our Welcome Back. It was also really great to see all the children who will benefit from all the planning the Dana and Edina have been doing for the Sunday School. I hope the adults got a chance to look at the displays, and see the number of activities and programmes we would like to see happen to keep Spirit West a dynamic, thriving and nurturing community of faith.

This Sunday, the readings are pointing to a topic that was touched on in the middle of August- Wisdom. Again, from the Writings, we see hear Lady Wisdom in Proverbs calling to us to heed her words. In his letter to Christians, James creates a somewhat disturbing picture of the damage our words can do using the image of the tongue, comparing the small size of the tongue with the great damage that is done. And in Mark’s Gospel, we see my favourite disciple (Peter) opening his mouth and getting it right and then almost immediately opening his mouth and getting it wrong.

We will be celebrating Aurora's baptism and Daniel's confirmation.

From the Scriptures we will hear Proverbs 1:20-33; James 3:1-12 and Mark 8:27-38

I have titled my Sermon, “Speaking Wisdom”

Free Books

There are still books on the bookshelf at the back of the sanctuary. They are free for the taking. If you see something you like, it’s yours. If you see something that you think should be in the church library set it aside. I will leave them out for a few weeks more and then what is left will probably be recycled and the shelf will find a home elsewhere in the church

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates and Youth Events (Y) below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates and Youth Events (Y)

Saturday, September 15, 8:00 am – Men’s Breakfast, Lower Hall. All Men of Spirit West are welcome to attend. There is a nominal cost to cover supplies.

Sunday, September 16, 10:30 am – Baptism and Start of Sunday School Classes

(Y) Sunday, September 16, 6:00 pm – Trinity United Band Concert (youth $5, adults $7)

Sunday, September 23, 10:30 – FIRE DRILL SUNDAY. In response to recommendation from the Edmonton Fire Department, we will be having a Fire Drill at the end of the Service. This will be a training fire drill so that we all know what to do.

Sunday, September 23, 7:00 pm – COVENANTING SERVICE for Rev. Larry Wright and Spirit West United Church. This is the formal service that marks the pastoral relationship that began July 1.

(Y) Saturday, September 29, 5:00 pm-9:00? pm – HUNGER GAMES PROGRESSIVE DINNER

Sunday, September 30 – BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Bring your pet(s) to church and give thanks for all God’s creation. Those of you who have been here for this service in the past know what a wonderful time it is for all present. If it is awkward to bring your pet(s), because it’s hard to move the 100 gallon aquarium or for any other reason, bring a picture of them.

Sept. 9, 2012 - 15th Sunday after Pentecost or 1st Sunday of Creation Time

Hi everyone,


Among the most divisive words in the English language are third person plural pronouns, “they, them, their.” Every time we use these pronouns we set up a division. “They” are always not “us.” Sometimes we use the words merely as a convenience to refer back to a group we have already named. “The Stewardship Committee met a Dave’s place. ‘They’ decided on ideas for a Fall Campaign.” But many times we use these words to set people apart. As soon as we refer to a group as “they”, we are not a part of it. We have seen much of this sort of thing recently in the United States around the GOP and Democratic Conventions, and we have also see it in the election campaign in Quebec. Sentences and questions like, “What do ‘they’ really want?” “’Their’ plan will not...” “If the voters give ‘them’ a mandate, who know what will happen.” All point to a separation between us and this other group. When we regularly use these words when talking about groups of people in our society, there can be problems. “I have heard that ‘they’...! People lumped in groups lose their identity as individuals, their belonging to a particular part of society defines who “they” are. In the Gospel reading this Sunday, Jesus encounters one of “them.” In fact the Samaritan women is one of “them” on two counts. She is a Samaritan. Jews in Jesus’ day did not associate with “them.” She is also a unrelated women, not part of the family of Jesus, meeting Jesus in public. Men of Jesus’ day would avoid any public association with “them.” Jesus response to the women is a bit shocking for us, as he appears to uphold the standard of the day and responds to her quite rudely. But she has a response to Jesus that changes things. We will have a look at how we relate to “them” in our own world. For us, who are “they?”

From the Scriptures we will hear Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23; James 2:1-17 and Mark 7:24-37

I have titled my Sermon, “Who is ‘They’?”

Free Books

There are still books on the bookshelf at the back of the sanctuary. They are free for the taking. If you see something you like, it’s yours. If you see something that you think should be in the church library set it aside. I will leave them out for a few weeks more and then what is left will probably be recycled and the shelf will find a home elsewhere in the church

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates

Saturday, September 15 – Men’s Breakfast, Lower Hall, 8:00 am

Sunday, September 16 – Baptism and Start of Sunday School Classes

Sunday, September 23, 10:30 – FIRE DRILL SUNDAY. In response to recommendation from the Edmonton Fire Department, we will be having a Fire Drill at the end of the Service. This will be a training fire drill so that we all know what to do.

Sunday, September 23, 7:00 pm – COVENANTING SERVICE for Rev. Larry Wright and Spirit West United Church. This is the formal service that marks the pastoral relationship that began July 1.

Sunday, September 29 – BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Bring your pet(s) to church and give thanks for all God’s creation. Those of you who have been here for this service in the past know what a wonderful time it is for all present. If it is awkward to bring your pet(s), because it’s hard to move the 100 gallon aquarium or for any other reason, bring a picture of them.

September 2, 2012 - Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost with Communiom

Hi everyone,

The was much concern in the time of Jesus about what made a person “clean” or “unclean” before God.  Jesus was concerned that sometimes the rules about cleanliness were actually preventing people from truly following God.  Both the readings talk in one way or another about this concern.  Our current society seems equally obsessed with cleanliness, though not necessarily before God.  Does our unwillingness to get dirty hamper our efforts as God’s people in the world.  As Christians should we be more Martha Stewart or Mike Rowe?  We will also be sharing in the Sacrament of Holy Communion this Sunday.

From the Scriptures we will hear James 1:17-27 and Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

I have titled my Sermon, “Cleanliness Is Next to Godliness?”

 

General Council

For information on the what the General Council did and decided to do, go to www.gc41.ca

 Free Books

There are still books on the bookshelf at the back of the sanctuary.  They are free for the taking.  If you see something you like, it’s yours.  If you see something that you think should be in the church library set it aside.  I will leave them out for a few weeks and then what is left will probably be recycled and the shelf will find a home elsewhere in the church

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates and the Youth Events below.  If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.


Important Dates

Sunday, September 9 – WELCOME BACK SUNDAY with Lunch and Sunday School and Group Information and Registration after the Service.

Sunday, September 16 – Baptism and Start of Sunday School Classes

Sunday, September 23, 10:30 – FIRE DRILL SUNDAY.  In response to recommendation from the Edmonton Fire Department, we will be having a Fire Drill at the end of the Service.  This will be a training fire drill so that we all know what to do.

Sunday, September 23, 7:00 pm – COVENANTING SERVICE for Rev. Larry Wright and Spirit West United Church.  This is the formal service that marks the pastoral relationship that began July 1.

Sunday, September 29 – BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS  Bring your pet(s) to church and give thanks for all God’s creation.  Those of you who have been here for this service in the past know what a wonderful time it is for all present.  If it is awkward to bring your pet(s), because it’s hard to move the 100 gallon aquarium or for any other reason, bring a picture of them.

 Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19?  Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)?  If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September.  Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

Aug. 26, 2012 - Thirteenth after Pentecost with baptisms

Hi everyone,


I find the readings for this Sunday very interesting. In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul talks about putting on the whole armour of God. In the Gospel, the disciples are having difficulty following Jesus, both in physical terms and in terms of what he is saying. This combination of “armour” and “difficulty” reminded me immediately of my Basic Military Training. I know that most people’s minds would not necessarily go in that direction, but mine did. I share with you the connections I made our journey of faith

From the Scriptures we will hear Ephesians 6: 10-20 and John 6: 56-69 and we will sing a version of Psalm 84

I have titled my Sermon, “Basic Training”

General Council

For information on the what the General Council did and decided to do, go to www.gc41.ca

Free Books

There are still books on the bookshelf at the back of the sanctuary. They are free for the taking. If you see something you like, it’s yours. If you see something that you think should be in the church library set it aside. I will leave them out for a few weeks and then what is left will probably be recycled and the shelf will find a home elsewhere in the church

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates and the Youth Events below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates


Sunday, September 2 – Holy Communion

Sunday, September 9 – WELCOME SUNDAY with Sunday School Registration

Sunday, September 16 – Baptism

Sunday, September 23, 10:30 – FIRE DRILL SUNDAY. In response to recommendation from the Edmonton Fire Department, we will be having a Fire Drill at the end of the Service. This will be a training fire drill so that we all know what to do.

Sunday, September 23, 7:00 pm – Covenanting Service for Rev. Larry Wright and Spirit West United Church. This is the formal service that marks the pastoral relationship that began July 1.

Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19? Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)? If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September. Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

August 12, 2012 - Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost

This Sunday Larry is on vacation. Anne Dingwell and Edina Tillotson will be leading us in worship. Larry is back on Tuesday, Aug. 14.


From the Scriptures we will hear 1 Corinthians 2: 1-5, Hebrews 11:1-7 and 1 John 5: 13-15

Anne has titled her Sermon, “Faith”

See you Sunday,

Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator

As well, please note the Important Dates and the Youth Events below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates

Sun, Aug 26 – Worship with Baptism

Mon, Aug 27 – Board Meeting

Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19? Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)? If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September. Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

August 5, 2012 - Tenth after Pentecost

This Sunday Larry is on vacation. Anne Dingwell and Edina Tillotson will be leading us in worship


From the Scriptures we will hear1 Kings 8:27-30, Psalm 139 and Luke 11:1-10

Anne has titled her Sermon, “Thy Will be Done”

See you Sunday,

Norma Balcombe
Office Administrator

As well, please note the Important Dates and the Youth Events below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates

Larry on holiday from July 23 – August 13.

Anne Dingwell will be taking the Services during this period. For other pastoral concerns, please call the church office

Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19? Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)? If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September. Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

Future Quest Program for Youth 14-17, Aug 4-18, 2012 at Queen's School of Religion, Kingston ON

For more information see the Pamphlet on the Info Table or http://www.queensu.ca/theology/leadership/futurequest/summer.html

July 22, 2012 - 8th after Pentecost

Hi everyone,


I am back from Atlanta, Georgia. For those of you who didn’t know I was gone, I was in Atlanta from the 13th to the 18th with my daughter Rebecca to attend NAINConnect 2012 which is the annual meeting and conference of the North American Interfaith Network. I am the current chair of the Edmonton Presbytery Inter-Church Inter-Faith Committee, I am also a member of the Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education and Action which is a member of NAIN. I will probably share a few of my experience on Sunday. Ask me about “Flipper Temple.”

In keeping with my recent interfaith experience and some other recent experiences, I am using as a title for my sermon an old Yiddish proverb. The thought behind the proverb is supported by the reading from the Prophets where David is certain that he should build a temple for God, but God has other ideas. We often make plans with the assumption (conscious or unconscious) that we know what’s best for our situation and sometimes what is best for others. From time to time, it seems that God steps in and we are compelled to reconsider our plan, and new possibilities are opened to us.

From the Scriptures we will hear 2 Samuel 7: 1-14a and Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56

I have titled my Sermon, “We Plan – God Laughs”

Garth left many books in the office which I need to clear out in order to make room for my books. I have separated out those that I do not want for myself or the church and have put them on a bookshelf and a table at the back of the sanctuary. They are free for the taking. If you see something you like, it’s yours. If you see something that you think should be in the church library set it aside. I will leave them out for a few weeks and then what is left will probably be recycled and the shelf will find a home elsewhere in the church

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates and the Youth Events below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates


The importance of these dates may be questioned, but I will be on holiday from July 23 – August 13.

Anne Dingwell will be taking the Services during this period. For other pastoral concerns, please call the church office

Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19? Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)? If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September. Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

Future Quest Program for Youth 14-17, Aug 4-18, 2012 at Queen's School of Religion, Kingston ON

For more information see the Pamphlet on the Info Table or http://www.queensu.ca/theology/leadership/futurequest/summer.html

July 15, 2012 - 7th after Pentecost

This Sunday Larry will be on vacation, attending a conference in Atlanta with his daughter, Rebecca. Rev. Lyn Lamers will be leading us in worship


From the Scriptures we will hear 2 Samuel 6:1-5. 12b-19 and Mark 6: 14-29

Lyn has titled her Sermon, “I didn’t see it coming”

As well, please note the Vacation Schedule and the Youth Events below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Spirit West Staff vacation schedule:

 Norma → July 16 (church office will be closed)

 Larry → July 11-18; July 23 – Aug. 13

Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19? Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)? If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September. Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

Future Quest Program for Youth 14-17, Aug 4-18, 2012 at Queen's School of Religion, Kingston ON

For more information see the Pamphlet on the Info Table or http://www.queensu.ca/theology/leadership/futurequest/summer.html

July 8 - 6th after Pentecost with Communion

This Sunday we will be celebrating Holy Communion. And for the Service I am back to using the lectionary. This Sunday’s readings look at images of Christian leadership. In this day and age we tend to distrust notions of “Leadership,” we see “leadership” exercised in corrupt or abusive ways and our response to “Leaders” is to say that no one will tell us what to do or where to go. In this environment, how do we speak of Christian Leadership and how, where and when do we exercise it? The sermon title might be a bit of a clue.


From the Scriptures we will hear 2 Corinthians 12: 2-10 and Mark 6: 1-13

I have titled my Sermon, “Servant Leader”

We will again have the rEvolve Basket out Sunday as we seek to support the United Church/Edmonton based band rEvolve produce their new CD “Bring It to the Table.” Our goal is $1000, and I think we are about halfway there. If we reach this target, we will have a live rEvolve concert at Spirit West in the fall. If you want to donate, make a cheque out to Spirit West United Church with “rEvolve” on the memo line and drop your cheque in the rEvolve basket on Sunday. If you want to give cash, put this in an envelope marked “rEvolve”, but include your name and church envelope number.

Now that I am your Minister, I am making the Minister’s Office my own. Garth left many books in the office which I need to clear out in order to make room for my books. When he was here visiting, I asked him what he wanted done with the books, he told me that he did not want any of them and I could do anything I wanted with them. So this week, with the help of my daughters, I have been sorting all those books. I have separated out those that I do not want for myself or the church and have put them on a bookshelf and a table at the back of the sanctuary. They are free for the taking. If you see something you like, it’s yours. If you see something that you think should be in the church library, set it aside. I will leave them out for a few weeks and then what is left will probably be recycled and the shelf will find a home elsewhere in the church

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates and the Youth Events below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates

Sunday, July 8, 10:30 am – Celebration of Holy Communion

Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19? Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)? If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September. Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

Future Quest Program for Youth 14-17, Aug 4-18, 2012 at Queen's School of Religion, Kingston ON

For more information see the Pamphlet on the Info Table or http://www.queensu.ca/theology/leadership/futurequest/summer.html

July 1, 2012 - Canada Day

This Sunday is Canada Day, and things are going to be a little different at Spirit West. First off, we’re having a Pancake Breakfast starting at 9:30. This will be followed by an Outdoor Service at 10:30 (pray for good weather). I am not using the readings from the Lectionary for this Sunday. Instead, I have picked a couple of passages that speak to us as people of faith and as Canadians. Does verse 8 of Psalm 72 sound at all familiar? Come out and celebrate! Bring your appetite for the Pancakes and Lawn chairs for the Service. Hey, why not get really crazy and incorporate red and white into your wardrobe!


From the Scriptures we will hear Psalm 71: 1-8 and Matthew 25: 31-41

I have titled my Sermon, “God, Keep Our Land”

Remember also that we are raising money to support the United Church/Edmonton based band rEvolve produce their new CD “Bring It to the Table.” Our goal is $1000. If we reach this target, we will have a live rEvolve concert at Spirit West in the fall. If you want to donate, make a cheque out to Spirit West United Church with “rEvolve” on the memo line and drop your cheque in the rEvolve basket on Sunday. If you want to give cash, put this in an envelope marked “rEvolve”, but include your name and church envelope number.

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates and the Youth Events below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates

Sunday, July 8, 10:30 am – Celebration of Holy Communion

Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19? Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)? If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September. Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

Future Quest Program for Youth 14-17, Aug 4-18, 2012 at Queen's School of Religion, Kingston ON

For more information see the Pamphlet on the Info Table or http://www.queensu.ca/theology/leadership/futurequest/summer.html

June 24, 2012 - 4th Sunday after Pentecost

We live in a damaged world and in a broken relationship with God. I don’t mean just current concerns such as Climate Change, I am talking long term. The opening chapters of the book of Genesis in the Bible use the story of Adam and Eve to describe the human desire to be as “God” or to be “God.” What follows from that desire to go it alone is a separation from God and from perfection, “thrown out of the Garden.” We are no longer in that intimate relationship with God. Most of the Bible continues with stories of peoples who worked with God, against God, in spite of God and in the end usually turned to God when things got really tough. With Jesus, that rift with God has been in part repaired, but we still live in this world where we are not immune to the brokenness that still continues. Bad stuff still happens, at times we still face situations which scare and disturb us. So what are we to do? Yell at God whom we so often ignore? This Sunday’s readings are two stories about people who yelled at God (Jesus). One of them is Job, who did have a lot to complain about, and the others are Jesus’ disciples in a sinking boat. We will look at the Divine response to being yelled at. As a heads up, the responses are a lot more hopeful that one might expect.


From the Scriptures we will hear Job 38: 1-41 and Mark 5: 35-41

I have titled my Sermon, “Jesus, Wake Up”

See you Sunday,

Blessings,

Larry Wright

As well, please note the Important Dates and the Youth Events below. If you have any questions about any of the events, please contact the church.

Important Dates

Sunday, July 1, 09:30 am – Canada Day – pancake breakfast followed by the worship service to be held outside (weather permitting). Bring your appetites, your lawn chairs, sun hats and sun screen. A silver collection will be taken to help offset the expenses of the breakfast.

Sunday, July 8, 10:30 am – Communion

Youth

Youth at Spirit West – Are you between the ages of 12 and 16 or between the ages of 17 and 19? Are you interested in getting together once a month as teens or young adults of Spirit West for fun, interaction, (the possibilities are not endless, but pretty broad)? If the answer is yes, I would like to start something in September. Email me at spiritwest.minister@telus.net with your name, age, level of interest and any ideas you have about what could be done. (Adults reading this should pass it on to the nearest youth)

Future Quest Program for Youth 14-17, Aug 4-18, 2012 at Queen's School of Religion, Kingston ON

For more information see the Pamphlet on the Info Table or http://www.queensu.ca/theology/leadership/futurequest/summer.html