Greetings Brothers and Sisters in Christ!
What a start we have had to our fall! Our Welcome Back Sunday was nothing short of absolutely amazing! We gathered for worship at the regular time, heard the story of creation and of God’s great love for us, and then we had a wonderful fellowship BBQ. Our cooks Harold Raper and Brad Green made sure everyone was filled with food even as we were filled with the Holy Spirit that brought us together. We plan to have more opportunities for fellowship like this, the soonest of which will be happening on September 24th. On this date we will be having our first Bring a Friend to Church Sunday of the fall season. All are encouraged to bring a friend, family member, co-worker, whoever to share in the Good News that we proclaim on a Sunday morning. Following that service will be a potluck lunch, so if you can, bring some sandwiches, or some soup, or salad, or even a dessert. Even if you can’t bring any of those, bring yourself and share in the community and the food, there’s no charge!
Also this past week, our Seniors Book Study began on Tuesday. Each Tuesday morning at 10 am, seniors (men and women) are invited to gather in the Ladies’ Parlour and to share in conversation around the book Aging Faithfully. This study is being led by Chris Grant, a member of the congregation.
On that same Tuesday the Board of St. Paul’s met for the first time this fall. Along with doing the work of overseeing committees and looking forward to the rest of the fall and into the winter, the Board engaged in some reflective work. This work focused on rediscovering what it means to be a member of the Board and a spiritual leader in the church.
This Sunday, September 17th, we will continue our journey through what is called the Narrative Lectionary. The focus scripture for this week will be The Binding of Isaac (Genesis 21:1-3, 22:1-14). Hear the story and journey with your brothers and sisters in Christ as we seek together to discover what God is saying to us today. If you are parent of young children and are wondering if there is a place for them during worship, wonder no more! We have Sunday School classes for children aged 4+, and our nursery is staffed with volunteers for children 3 and under. All are welcome, and all have a place to call their own at St. Paul’s.
Speaking of youth, beginning on Friday, September 22th, our Youth Group, led by Rev. Michelle, will be gather every other Friday from 6:30-9:00 PM. There will be games, popcorn, and spiritual practices, so come and experience your faith in a different way.
Also starting next week are our two adult book studies. The women’s group, Spirit Sisters will meet for the first time on Monday September 18th and the Men’s Conversation Group is gathering on September 20th. Both groups begin on their respective days at 7 pm, and both groups will be looking at the book Bullseye: Aiming to Follow Jesus. Join us for the journey as we explore how we are called to be followers of Christ.
Lastly, as many know already, Rev. Richard took on the role of President of the Maritime Conference this past May. The summer had a few times where he was representing the church across the country, but the fall will also be a busy time. Next week, he will be visiting the Valley Presbytery in Nova Scotia, speaking about the importance of our being a Christ centered people in the United Church. Feel free to ask Rev. Richard about his work as president any time.
It’s going to be a busy fall, and we hope you find a place in the midst of it to worship and pray with us.
Blessings,
Rev. Richard & Rev. Michelle