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Advent 2015 to Reign of Christ 2016 Sunday Worship Bulletins This brochure displays the full year of bulletin samples from November 29 th , 2015 to November 20 th , 2016. Set 1 begins with bulletin #291115 on page 2. Set 2 begins with bulletin #010516 on page 14.

Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

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Page 1: Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

Advent 2015 to Reign of Christ 2016

Sunday Worship

Bulletins

This brochure displays the full year of bulletin samples from November 29th, 2015 to November 20th, 2016.

Set 1 begins with bulletin #291115 on page 2. Set 2 begins with bulletin #010516 on page 14.

Page 2: Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

2

God of all our moments, we give you thanks that

you come into every part of our lives, bringingforgiveness and change, fulfillment and hope.Help us to confess to you all our concerns, hiding nothing.

God of the dark places in our lives, we give youthanks that you understand our times of anxietyand sadness, fear and loneliness. Help us to beopen to your presence, and know that you are always with us.

God of the wilderness, we give thanks that you arein solitude as well as in the crowd. And you alwayshear our prayers. Help us to accept silence andgently seek your will for us.

God of the world, we give you thanks that youaccept us no matter who we are. Help us tochange when change is necessary. Help us toalways turn to you, O Lord, for guidance.

Amen.

291115 First Sunday of Advent

The Rev. Jean Armstrong

Photo by Marlene Handrahan, Calvin, Toronto, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship First Sunday ofAdvent

Loving God, we thank youthat you come into our

lives to reconcile us to ourselves and calm our

warring minds. Help us to be reconciled to each

other and to our world, and grant us peace.

Creator of all, Giver of Peace, we thank you that

you know our every way and understand our

needs and wants. Help us to change according to

your will, not to our own. Help us to be peacemakers

in our own time.

Ever-present God, we thank you that you sit here

with us now, holding our hands, easing our way,

encouraging us to be your disciples. Help us to

hold others; help us to heal others; help us to

respect all people. May your peace be with us always.

Amen.

061215 Second Sunday of Advent

The Rev. Jean ArmstrongThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship Second Sunday ofAdvent

291115First Sunday

of Advent

061215Second Sunday

of Advent

Page 3: Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

3

God of Mystery, God of Joy, we thank you for

your presence with us. For your light which

shines through the gloom and darkness of our world.

We thank you that nothing can separate us from

your love. You come to us with outstretched

arms no matter where we are and no matter

what our mood.

Slow our hurried pace and calm our minds

in this hectic season.

Help us to rejoice, for it is not always

easy. Somehow, because it is the season of joy,

happiness seems more distant. Be with us now

and help us to trust you; that whatever happens

you can turn it to right.

Above all the oppression and sadness of this

world, you, O Giver of Joy, reign eternal.

Amen.

131215 Third Sunday of Advent

The Rev. Jean Armstrong

Photo by Bonnie Sitter, Exeter, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship Third Sunday ofAdvent

Child of Bethlehem, as your birth draws near,

may we draw near to you. May we kneel with

the shepherds in the humble stable and give thanks.

Child of Mary, born in us today, make us mindful

of your presence through the holiday season.

Help us to remember that it is your birth that we

celebrate and it is for your life that we give you praise.

Child of us all, we give thanks today that you

were born to us. In the darkness of long ago

you came to bring food to the hungry, justice to

the oppressed and a home to the homeless. You

are with us still, bringing to fulfillment your

order of love, peace and justice. May we do likewise.

May we praise your birth in all we do.

Amen.

201215 Fourth Sunday of Advent

The Rev. Jean Armstrong

Photo by Kristine O’Brien, Trafalgar Presbyterian Church, Oakville, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship Fourth Sunday ofAdvent

131215Third Sunday of Advent

201215Fourth Sunday of Advent

Page 4: Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

4

Child of light and celebration,Saviour of all,We thank you that you cometo enter our lives.Child of Mary, help us to accept you.

We thank you that you come to bring love into our world.Child of Joseph, may we love you as you love us.

We thank youthat you came to usno matter where we are or what we do.Child of the shepherds, help us to realizethat you are always near.

We thank you that you come to us, subject as weare subject, oppressed as we are oppressed. Child of the shepherds, may we follow you no matter what the terrainor the conditions of our living.

God of all mercy and tenderness,Child of the angels,may we sing your praise.Crown our celebration and bless our gatherings.

Amen.

241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day

The Rev. Jean Armstrong

Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS, photo by Mary PycheThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship Christmas

Scrooge was “a squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping,

clutching, covetous, old sinner!” who thought

Christmas was “Humbug!” But one Christmas,

Scrooge was blessed with a new spirit that clothed

his life in new qualities. He showed kindness to his

nephew in the gift of a turkey. He had a new found

compassion for the poor and his anonymous

generosity showed humility. He was patient and

forgiving of those who ridiculed his changed

demeanor. He developed a life-long love for the

crippled Tiny Tim. And he went to church Christmas

day to sing his own spiritual songs to God. Above all

he was grateful for the Christmas gift that changed

him forever.

The blessing of God’s gift at Christmas continues to

give throughout the year through the ways we live

our changed lives. We are blessed to be a blessing.

Let us echo Tiny Tim’s prayer, “God bless us,

every one!”

271215

The Rev. Peter Coutts is General Presbyter for the Presbytery

of Calgary-Macleod, AB.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

241215Christmas Eve /Christmas Day

271215

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5

On entering the house, they saw the child

with Mary his mother; and they knelt down

and paid him homage. Then, opening their

treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold,

frankincense, and myrrh.

What can I give him,

poor as I am?

If I were a shepherd

I would bring a lamb;

if I were a Wise Man,

I would do my part;

yet what I can I give him —

give my heart.

From “In the bleak mid-winter” (No. 145) in The Book of Praise,

based on a poem by the English poet Christina Rossetti.

030116 Epiphany Sunday

Canadian Ministries The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

Good news! God’s promises are as good as a done deal. So when

the prophet Isaiah shares the LORD’s life-giving,

soul-affirming declaration to a struggling people in

exile, there is good reason to stand up, take notice and

celebrate with joyful hearts. “Do not fear, for I have

redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.”

(Isaiah 43:1b, NRSV)

In baptism, we are grafted into the covenant family of

God. At Jesus’ baptism, Luke records these words of

blessing and affirmation from the heavenly voice: “You

are my son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”

(Luke 3:22b, NRSV)

God reaches out to each one of us with words of grace

and acceptance. Whoever we are, wherever life takes us,

we are God’s. Named in baptism; loved unconditionally;

personally adopted as family, we are brothers and

sisters of our Lord. Here indeed is good news:

WE BELONG TO GOD!

100116

The Rev. Dr. Rick Horst was Moderator of the 137th General

Assembly and shares ministry at St. Andrew’s in Barrie, ON.

Photo by Rick HorstThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

030116Epiphany Sunday

100116

Page 6: Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

6

In a world wherewe can feel lonely in a crowd;

God is among us and we are not alone.

In a world where

it is hard to know who we are;

we have been created in God’s image

and called by name.

In a world where

we are not always sure of the path to follow;

we have Christ to follow,

the Spirit to lead us,

and a community

where we see God face to face.

170116

Canada Youth 2014 affirmation of faith

Photo: Canada Youth 2014, photo by Audrey CameronThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

The book of Nehemiah describes the Jews returning from exile to find Jerusalem

destroyed and permeated by injustice. With the wall

rebuilt, they gathered again as God’s people. Hearing

Ezra read God’s words, they wept in despair, realizing the

suffering their sins had caused.

Then Ezra spoke words of hope: “Go and enjoy choice

food and sweet drinks, and send to those who have

nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not

grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength”

(Nehemiah 8:10 NIV).

God speaks these same words to us today even while we

despair, feel sad, cause pain, see injustice. In God there

is hope; there is grace; there is a way back. God’s Word

strengthens and draws us into community. When we

allow God’s Word to take root in our lives we can enjoy

abundant life and share our blessings. It is this sacred

balance — between recognizing and sharing our blessings

— that brings justice to the world and connects us to the

joy of life in Christ.

240116

Jen de Combe is the Executive Director of Tyndale St-Georges

Community Centre in Montreal, QC.

Photo: Guatemala, photo by Paul Jeffrey, PWS&DThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

170116

240116

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7

Friends, hear this good news:

Love is patient; love is kind; love rejoices in

all things true.

God has already loved and accepted us —

wholly — in Christ. This is the foundation

of our faith.

Because of God’s acceptance,

we can love ourselves,

we can love one another,

and we can love God in return.

Live your life in love, for love foreshadows

life in heaven. And in all things know that you

are loved by the Joy-Giver.

310116

Canadian Ministries The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

070216

50 Wynford Drive, Toronto, ON M3C 1J7 1-800-619-7301 ext. 291

WeRespond.ca

PWS&D is a proud member of

Inspired by God’s promise of abundant life,PWS&D envisions asustainable, compassionateand just world.

By the power at work within us God can accomplish abundantly more

than all we can ask for or imagine.Ephesians 3:20

God’s promise of abundant life guides thework of Presbyterian World Service &Development. Through PWS&D, we respondwith compassion, justice and love to situationsof poverty, hunger and disaster in our global

village. We respond together to support andempower vulnerable families and communities

so that they may experience this abundance.

Because of your generosity, we are responding to help create a sustainable,compassionate and just world. Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

Faithful to our calling, we respond together.

“We didn’t know the correct process, but now we areable to sustain ourselves. Because of this we are very

thankful for your support and for thinking of us as brothersand sisters.”

Francisca Catalina Lopez received the seeds, tools and knowledge that are bringing

life to her dry land in Nicaragua and helping her break free from hunger.

“I feel that my happiness has returned.” Krishna Rana was treated with love and encouragement at the PWS&D supported

Jumla Clinic in Nepal following his diagnosis of leprosy. Krishna is healthy now and,

with the ongoing support of the clinic, has started his own small business.

“I thank God for the support I receive from Tidzalerana. I feel love when I considerwhat the club has done for me. You are a friend indeed.”

The PWS&D supported Tidzalerana Club in Malawi helped Jacob reclaim his mobility

and improve his quality of life by providing him with a wheelchair and a chance to

learn about small business development.

PWS&D is the international development and relief agency of The Presbyterian Church in Canada.

310116

070216PWS&D Sunday

Page 8: Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

8

“A wandering Aramean was my ancestor;

he went down into Egypt…”(Deuteronomy 26:5)

The preacher of Deuteronomy exhorts the children of

Israel to remember their ancestors and God’s gracious

acts made known through them: God’s acts of liberation

in the Exodus and God’s acts of providence in the

Promised Land. This is all part of their story.

We began the season of Lent this week, a season of

reflection, repentance and renewal. Our reading calls us

to remember God’s gracious acts to us, acts of liberation

and of providence. Remember your ancestors in the

faith. Their story is part of your story. Who is your

“wandering Aramean”? Not only Jacob, but a parent,

a Sunday school teacher, youth group leader, Bible study

or prayer partner? Reflect on God’s acts of liberation

in your life. Prepare to celebrate all that God has

provided for us.

140216

The Rev. Helen Smith ministers with the good folk at

Centennial in Calgary, AB.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

Our congregation’s motto is“We honour the past, and welcome the future — by being faithful in the present.”

We often say, “The past is over and gone!” But, the

continuing reality of the past is still very much with us.

We often say, “Let’s live for the moment!” But, today’s

moments are inextricably linked with the past and the future.

The “reality” of the moment comes to us from a cease-less

past; and it always and forever surges forward into an

endless future.

“I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land

of the living. Wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:13, 14a NRSV).

On Heritage Sunday

we celebrate the past —

everything which has been given to us;

we welcome the future —

being drawn towards the coming days by a loving and

sovereign God;

and we embrace the present —

by “waiting” in each moment for strong, sustaining

evidences that “the good Lord” and his gracious Christ

are with us.

210216

The Rev. John Barry Forsyth, St. Andrew’s, Sherbrooke, QC.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

140216

210216

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9

Come and receive blessing upon blessing.

Have your thirst quenched and your body nourished.

Enjoy rich food, milk and wine. Your mouth almost

waters as you read these gifts from God. Now we are

talking! No more calorie counting or eating celery sticks!

Hardly. This promise is all about wholeness and

wellbeing. God is offering the chance to be renewed as

God’s covenant people. God freely offers grace out of

God’s love and a pardon that is abundantly given.

Can you imagine the relief and joy that the Israelites,

in Babylonian captivity, would experience hearing that

their thirst and heartache would soon be over?

The promise is to us as well. It sounds too good to be

true. Is anything free, worthwhile? Salvation and

redemption are given as we follow God’s calling.

How can this make sense? It doesn’t have to. God

reminds us, through Isaiah, that God’s ways are not our

ways. God’s thoughts are higher than ours. It is not for us

to dissect and analyze. It is ours to receive through faith.

280216

The Rev. Karen Horst is the minister at St. Andrew’s in Orillia, ON,

and moderator of the 141st General Assembly.

Photo by Heather Paton, Dorchester, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

Reconciliation is not a human possibility

but a God-given gift. Like conversion, reconciliation is

ultimately the work of God. Left to ourselves, human

beings would be incapable and powerless to effect the

reconciliation which God demands. Yet it is part of the

mysterious grace of God that God calls together a

powerless, despairing group of disciples, infuses them

with the hope of the resurrection and the power of the

Holy Spirit, and sends them into the whole world with

a ministry of reconciliation.

In one sense reconciliation is the work of God’s

ambassadors, as we build bridges with the gospel of

Christ to all those around us. In the deepest sense,

however, we are not so much bridge-builders as

bridge-crossers. As the mission theologian David Bosch

puts it, “The Bridge is already there — our Lord, who in

his own body of flesh and blood has broken down the

enmity which stood like a dividing wall between us.

Christ is the Bridge over which we cross to each other,

again and again.”

060316

Dr. Kevin Livingston teaches pastoral ministry and preaching

at Tyndale Seminary in Toronto, ON.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

280216

060316

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10

The Apostle Paul speaks challenging words

to the early Christian believers in Philippi and to us.

For Paul, all past accomplishments and attainments

are a loss. This is in light of his heart-changing gain

in coming to know Christ Jesus and the deep joy of

faith that comes as a gift of God’s grace — in earthly

life and living, and in the life that is yet to be.

As we worship together, deep in this season of Lent,

the words of Paul invite us to name our own

attachments and confidences in life; and to name

what we need to release and relinquish in order to

more fully experience the living presence of Christ

Jesus with us. Paul reminds us that now is the time

to know Christ and to enter into Christ’s world of

self-giving, sacrificial love for others.

130316

The Rev. Marion Barclay MacKay enjoys ministry and lobster

with St. Andrew’s, Sydney Mines, NS.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

“I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out”

(Luke 19:40 NRSV)

Jesus’ daring words to his opponents are unique to Luke.

Jesus is confident that God’s powerful initiative for new life

will not be without witnesses

even if his enemies prevail for a time.

Sometimes when we are worried for the future of the Church

we forget that the power of new life belongs to God.

We strategize about what we can do.

We change our plans; recast our vision.

But if we want to follow Jesus

on his journey toward the Cross this week,

then we too must trust that God will not be without witnesses

even when our most faithful efforts fall short.

For the power at work in Jesus’ faithfulness is God’s power.

And God’s power will not be thwarted.

Any day you worry about the future, repeat after me,

“I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out.”

200316 Liturgy of the Palms/Liturgy of the Passion

The Rev. Dr. Nancy Cocks is minister in St John’s Medicine Hat, AB,

a place of ancient stones and dinosaur bones.

Photo by Faith Sullivan, Knox, Milton, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

130316

200316Palm / Passion

Sunday

Page 11: Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

11

Jesus the Christ,this week

we join with the crowds in praise of you,

we gather around your table,

we come to the foot of your cross,

we ponder the mystery of your life and

death with Mary and the women,

we flee in fear with your followers,

we proclaim the truth of your kingship

with onlookers.

We come to you,

because you first came to us.

We love you,

but it was you who loved us first.

We serve you,

only because you first served us.

250316 Good Friday

Canadian Ministries

Photo: Crieff Hills, photo by Heather Paton, Dorchester, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

Friends want to see one another.

There is a special bond when two or three are

gathered together. The women and the disciples

wanted to see Jesus. They were seeking Jesus after

the crucifixion.

To satisfy our yearning to see and follow Jesus,

we must act. Christ is “the way, and the truth, and

the life” (John 14:6a NRSV). However, we must

actively discover the way, discern the truth, and

embrace life.

The tides of life and time constantly bring new

challenges for us to navigate. What does it mean to

seek Jesus amid such pressing social questions as

terrorism, xenophobia, delinquency, recidivism,

assisted suicide?

How does the church help us find Jesus? Can the

church be like the dazzling angels in the tomb who

point the way for those seeking Jesus?

270316 Easter Sunday

Richard Fee served as General Secretary of the Life and Mission

Agency from 2005 until 2015.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

250316Good Friday

270316Easter Sunday

Page 12: Sunday Worship Bulletins - Presbyterian Church in Canada · 2018. 3. 27. · 241215 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day The Rev. Jean Armstrong Photo: Payton, St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS,

12

The disciples have encountered the risen Christ

and then feel compelled to witness to others.

“Witness” is double sided. They first witness God’s

grace in action, and then they turn to those around

them and witness to them. Thomas must first witness

Jesus Christ and then he gives witness to others. The

disciples both receive God’s grace and bring witness

about Jesus Christ to others.

At Easter we witness a Risen Christ. This encounter

means we cannot help but give witness to others.

We can only act as witnesses if we have encountered

something, if we have felt it with our own hands

and seen it with our own eyes. No one gets called

as a witness for a court case unless one has first

witnessed something important. With the Holy Spirit

we witness this truth — God’s power raised Jesus

Christ from the dead.

030416

The Rev. Dr. Blair Bertrand is minster at Calvin in Abbottsford, BC.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

Have you ever watched someone

make the same mistake repeatedly? Or watched learnersstruggle without assistance, disregarding yourinstructions? And you think, “If only they would listen!”

The disciples had been fishing all night without any luck.A man called out to them from shore to “cast their netson the right side of the boat.” These experiencedfishermen could have scoffed at the advice — fish swimeverywhere, not just on one side of the boat! And whowas this man on the shore to tell them how to fish?

Instead, the disciples followed the stranger’s commandand caught so many fish they could barely haul in thenet! As soon as they caught the fish, they recognized thestranger as Jesus.

How often do we insist on doing things our way insteadof God’s way? Let us remember to listen intentionally forGod’s instructions, to trust in God’s authority, and tofollow when God calls us to change our course of action.

100416

Jessica Henderson is a preschool teacher in Madrid, Spain.

She worships at the Community Church of Madrid, and

is a member of St. Andrew’s, Strathroy, ON.

Photo: Philippines, photo by Paul Jeffrey, ACT Alliance, courtesy of PWS&DThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

030416

100416

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13

A child reflects on the psalms:

Sometimes I lie down on your heart God. God, you are always special to me

and I am special to you.You will be my take care-of, God.You tell me which direction to go,

so that I would always not be lost.You love me in different ways upon yourself, God,

and sometimes fire comes out of myselfthese things all come out of you God,

because you make all things out of your love.We want to love you inside, God.Sometimes I would be a little scared,

but you help me God, because you love me.

God, I feel the things in the valley that you made for me and you feel it too.Because of you, God, I feel a little scared, God, but

you keep me safe when something wants to eat me for lunch.

God, I sometimes love you. And you always love me in your different way.

170416

Rachel Bisset, age 3, attends Calvin in Toronto, ON.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

The Apostle Peter took a lot of persuading

on some things. He was sometimes an enthusiast,

sometimes fearful. It went like this: he quickly became

a follower of Jesus, then Peter denied he knew him,

three times. After his resurrection Jesus asked Peter if

he loved him, three times, and told him to “feed my

sheep.” In this Acts passage, Peter saw a vision, three

times. Was that to be sure Peter got the message?

Well, he did! Peter got the message that no one was

to be excluded from the love of God in Jesus.

Peter’s mandate, and ours, is to take love and hope

to all colours, all nations, all sizes and shapes; to the

rich and poor, healthy and sick, friend and enemy,

neighbour and stranger. How many more than three

times is needed for us to hear?

240416 Mission Awareness Sunday

Betty Siverns is the Past President of the Women’s Missionary Society.

She lives in Langley, BC with her husband, The Rev. Ted Siverns.

Photo by Bonnie Sitter, Exeter, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

170416

240416MissionAwarenessSunday

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14

Jesus empathized with the plight of others.

Can we? Some might ask for assistance, not unlike the

Apostle Paul’s vision of the man of Macedonia begging,

“Come over to Macedonia and help us” (Acts 16:9b).

Many churches would never ask for help. Pride, ego,

insecurity and theology get in the way. They would

rather die first.

Others struggle in silence, resigned to their plight. In

John 5:1-9 Jesus encountered one such person at the

healing pool of Bethesda who had been an invalid for

thirty-eight years. Jesus asked that man, “Do you want

to get well?”

It was a profound question because the man’s life

revolved around his disability and dependency on others.

His whole life would change without it.

How would we respond to Jesus’ question? How would

your church? Perhaps God is preparing to give you a

“pick up your mat” command today.

010516

The Rev. Dr. Martin Kreplin partners in ministry at St. Andrew’s,

Moncton, NB. The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

In the spring of 2014, I was given the honour

of being present for a birth, after a long journey and

beautiful friendship with a young woman. A hope-filled

journey from life on the streets, to stability, sobriety,

and welcoming a son!

Is there any moment as hope-filled as birth? The

anticipation of a beloved child, created in the image

of God. The arrival of one most recently knit together

by God, and we wait to behold God’s masterpiece!

Those gathered cannot wait to meet this child! The

prayer, the hope, the beckoning and bidding that fills

the room is “COME.”

“Come, little one, we cannot wait to meet you…”

COME — a hope-filled word!

In Revelation and in the maternity ward,

Come, beckons a new reality,

calling forth new life, filled with hope.

COME!

080516

The Rev. Deb Rapport is Community Chaplain and Director of ARISE

Ministry of the Presbytery of East Toronto. ARISE offers outreach,

case management, and spiritual care to individuals

involved in the sex-trade.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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Set #2 begins with

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When you meet new people you can never be sure they speak your language. Anyone

watching British TV must pay close attention to understand.

Newcomers from Africa have different French expressions than

those of Québecois de souche. No wonder we sometimes

misunderstand people! Let’s find a common language that

speaks of the love of God, the glory of God and the love of

neighbour. Perhaps our acts of charity and solidarity will be

that language.

Lorsque vous rencontrez des nouvelles personnes vous ne pouvez jamais être sûr qu’ils parlent votre langue.

Tous ceux qui regardent des émissions de télévision de la France

doivent prêter attention à bien comprendre. Les nouveaux

arrivants en provenance d’Afrique ont des expressions françaises

différentes de ceux des Québécois de souche. Est-il étonnant

que nous avons parfois du mal à comprendre les gens!

Pouvons-nous nous laisser inspirer à trouver un langage

commun qui parle de l’amour de Dieu, la gloire de Dieu et

l’amour envers le prochain. Peut-être nos actes de charité et

de solidarité sauront parler clairement aux autres.

150516

Paul Clarke est directeur général chez Action Réfugiés Montréal, QC.

Photo: Martine and Laurence. Action Réfugiés Montréal’s twinning program provides

support and friendship to refugee women and helps them begin new lives in Canada.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

I met some Indigenous protesters

camped on the Manitoba legislative grounds last

summer. They were demanding a National Inquiry on

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women in Canada.

I introduced myself as a First Nation woman, offering

support to a group sitting by a campfire. Then I said,

“I am a member of The Presbyterian Church in Canada.”

This statement turned heads. I explained my involvement

with healing and reconciliation and my role with the

church. One protester said that’s fine so long as I didn’t

preach or try to convert them. I felt alienated from my

own people because of my faith, because I choose to

walk a different path. I know the church has hurt my

people; I understand why they feel this way. I wanted to

share with them about how I live my life and why; but

that day they would have heard just my words. I sat with

them quietly knowing that the right time will come for

the right words to be spoken and heard.

220516 Healing & Reconciliation Sunday

Vivian Ketchum is an activist and a member of Place of Hope Presbyterian Church,

Winnipeg, MB. She is a story teller and freelance writer, and now learning

to tell stories as an amateur photographer.

Photo: Truth and Reconciliation Commission closing event, Ottawa, ON,

photo by Katharine MastertonThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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A prayer for the General Assembly of The Presbyterian Church in Canada(Inspired by the faith of the centurion whose servant was healed in Luke 7:1-10)

Living God,

we ask your blessing

upon the General Assembly moderator, commissioners, conveners,

guests and staff

soon to be united in worship, discernment and fellowship.

May they hear the clear voice of Jesus

above the din and distraction of everyday living.

May they value highly

those who are suffering

in this nation and around the world.

May they pray earnestly for healing and new life

for the church and all creation.

Though unworthy of your holy presence,

may they offer profound thanks for every sign of heavenly grace.

Speak to them words of faith, hope and love, we humbly pray,

that they may return home ready to share

renewed faith, joyful hope and generous love.

In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

290516

The Rev. Don Muir is a Deputy Clerk in the

General Assembly Office.

Photo: St. Andrew’s, King St., Toronto, ON, photo by Ian McDonaldThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

The story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath

in 1 Kings 17 defies natural explanation. It is important to

seek a deeper level of meaning by reflecting on the

mystery-miracle and to learn from it practical applications

for our personal ministries.

• Each of us is called and gifted by God — we are expected

to use our gifts, even if they seem meagre, in God’s service.

• In sharing our gifts they will not be depleted —

they will be blessed.

• God is the One who provides for the needs of God’s

people — God uses us as instruments in ministry.

• Don’t confuse big with significant — there are no

unimportant gifts or ministries.

• God does not expect us to perform miracles — only to

offer what we have, and leave the results to God.

Listen for God’s voice in these questions:

What are your gifts?

What are the opportunities for ministry?

How can you share your gifts?

050616

Nancy Harvey is an elder at Summerside and is currently sharing her gifts

by serving as clerk of the Presbytery of Prince Edward Island.

Photo: Summerside, PE choir participating in Holy Humour Sunday,

photo by Ralph CarruthersThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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What is acceptable behaviour in church?

What customs and practices comprise “good” Christianworship? The Bible’s answers are surprising.

In Galatians, Paul paves the way for us “Gentiles” toworship in our traditional ways. We do not have to adoptthe Jewish laws and traditions. We may retain and adaptour ancestral customs for observing the seasons to theworship of Christ; we can bring out the holly, the ivy andthe pine trees, the bunnies and the colorful eggs, and playmusic we like, on instruments like pipe organs and acousticguitars. Our faith, what we believe, is what matters. It isour faith that matters; it is by faith that we are saved.

We rejoice that we can express our faith in the rituals thatwe find meaningful, even if they may be as strange toothers as the woman’s actions cleansing Jesus’ feet were to the Pharisees.

As we welcome peoples of other cultures into our churchesin Canada, including the original peoples of this land, we can keep this reading in mind.

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Lori Ransom is an elder at St. Andrew’s, King Street, Toronto, ON. Her career has

been dedicated to supporting Canada’s Indigenous peoples and healing and

reconciliation between peoples as an expression of her faith.

Photo: Cecile Desjarlais, Saskatoon, SKThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

“Why did you let me down? Why am I walking around in tears?”

(Psalm 42:9)

Often the people I serve feel that God has let them down.

Their lives are filled with too many tears.

Too often I hear the refrain, “If you love us so much God,

why don’t you help us?”

I witness first-hand the devastating generational effects

of colonization and the residential school legacy. I have

come to know that those who hate the church do so

for good reasons. When they cry out, “Where is this God

of yours?” they have not experienced pure genuine

unconditional love and respect from the people of God.

To get to a place where they can utter words similar to

the opening of Psalm 46, and stand courageous and

fearless in the face of ongoing affliction, they first need

to meet Jesus in the flesh. We are the body of Christ!

Love someone into being!

190616 Aboriginal Sunday

The Rev. Dr. Margaret Mullin is the minister of Place of

Hope Presbyterian Church and the Executive Director of

Winnipeg Inner City Missions, Winnipeg, MB.

Photo: Place of Hope, Winnipeg, MBThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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190616Aboriginal DaySunday

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18

You are the God who works wonders

Silent prayersQuiet reflectionsLonging for the presence of God

Curious questionsDeep conversations for the futureGrateful and open hearts

Seeking fresh learningDefining new rolesCreating a connected community

Clapping handsStamping feetGathered voices raised in praise

Bright faces caught in laughterForging new bonds of friendship and faithConnected to home and looking beyond

Profound devotionConfident in God’s planReady, willing and able to serve

As youth, young adults and youth leaders arrive from across the country for Canada Youth 2016, we give thanks for thewonder-filled work of God present with them.

260616

Jo Morris is the Canada Youth 2016 Co-ordinator

and worships with Grace in Calgary, AB.

Photo: Canada Youth 2014, photo by Audrey CameronThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadacanadayouth.ca

Living in Christian community

is unlike anything else I have experienced. There is

something so holy about living as a large family diverse

in theology, background and future plans; yet being

united by Christ. At camp we live communally; sharing

moments of joy, challenge and peace. We spend the first

month coming together in preparation and building

community as a group united in the common purpose of

Christ’s work. For the remaining months we open our

doors each week to a new group of campers and

welcome them into our community. Through the grace of

God we share the Gospel, teach the Gospel and make it

come alive through our actions in community. Campers,

alongside of counsellors, are invited to be part of the

body of Christ and to seek Christ in the ordinary

moments of the day. This is when the ordinary becomes

extraordinary, and we become open to transformation.

Christ is ready and waiting for us in those moments.

030716 / 100716

Whitney Pyche Melanson is the Camping and Youth Consultant

for the Synod of the Atlantic Provinces.

Photo: Camp Kintail, photo by Alex FenshamThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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19

Praise the Lord! Praise Him!

Praise the Lord! This is repeated many times in Psalm 150 and nothing

could be clearer in what we are to do. Where can we

Praise Him? Anywhere we go, from the time we wake

to the time we lay our head on the pillow. God is

everywhere and has created everything for us to enjoy.

Praise God for the water, food, air, and fire.

Praise God for all of the animals of the forest.

Praise God for people of all ages.

Praise God for smiles, tears, laughter, and singing.

Praise God for churches, camps, chapels, and gatherings.

Just praise God!

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Cara Penman is the Director at Camp Kannawin, a camping ministry

owned and operated by the Synod of Alberta Northwest,

located on beautiful Sylvan Lake, AB.

Photo: Jake at Gracefield Christian Camp and Retreat Centre, Gracefield, QC,

photo by Joanne LauzonThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

The game was over. Campers and staff emerged from the depths of the forest

to the trail that led back to the field, swinging their

flashlights and chattering.

I had elected to play without a flashlight. Night vision

and the many gradients of greys had guided me during

the game, but on the uniformly-shaded path I was

nearly blind.

What saved me from veering off the trail were other

people’s lights. As I struggled to see on a path with no

distinguishable markers, flashes of illumination from

other groups’ lights kept me moving forward. When I

could not see the path I walked, the feet of those who

walked before me became guideposts to follow.

Sometimes God chooses to lead us not through direct

revelation but through the example of others. We are part

of the fellowship of all believers, those alive on earth and

those who have gone before, those near and those on the

far side of the planet. God is with us. We are not alone.

310716 / 070816

Janet “Thistle” Eastwood is a regular volunteer at Camp Douglas

in Roberts Creek, BC. She has a master’s degree in children’s

literature and looks forward to a career in publishing.

Photo: Camp Christopher, Christopher Lake, SKThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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Camp types have always known this:

at camp, when you’re out of your comfort zone, that’s

when you’re likely to have a life-changing encounter

with God. So it was for Jacob, who — after deceiving

his blind, dying father Isaac — finds himself fleeing

to far-away Haran in order to save his life

(Genesis 28:10-17).

While on his way, he has to spend a rough night camping

in a desolate place. Alone and using a stone for a pillow,

that’s when he meets his father’s God in a mysterious

and memorable way. So powerful is this experience, that

even conniving, arrogant and irreverent Jacob stammers,

“If God stands by me and protects me, this God will be

my God.” And so Jacob starts the process towards a

personal and owned faith, eventually becoming “Israel.”

At camp, most of us are Jacob — and are forever grateful

for the experience.

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Anita Mack is a volunteer at Camp d’action biblique near Richmond, QC,

where she loves watching many a ‘Jacob’ turn into ‘Israel’.

Photo: Camp d’action bibliqueThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

For as the heavens are high above the earth,

so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;

as far as the east is from the west,

so far he removes our transgressions from us

(Psalm 103:11-12).

Years ago, as a summer staff member at Camp Kintail,

I hosted a group of teenagers from inner-city Toronto.

They were not very impressed with our camp that

encouraged singing over stereos, co-operation over

competition, and morning chapel over sleeping in.

That changed when we took them down to the beach

as the sun was sinking towards the water. This loud

boisterous group stopped and opened their mouths in

awe, and stayed silent.

Majesty, glory, might and beauty surrounded them and

they could only stay silent and still in the face of it.

As the rest of us followed, we too were silent in the face

of the everlasting mercy of God, which stretched from

east to west, north to south, heavens to the earth.

280816 / 040916

The Rev. Theresa McDonald-Lee is now the Co-Director

of Camp Kintail, Goderich, ON.

Photo: Camp Kintail, photo by Travis Allison, www.travisphoto.caThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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The only good thing about being lost

is getting found. You wander off in the mall, but your

mom finds you huddled in a clothing rack. You’re too

stubborn to ask for directions, but your friend finds

you on the map and gets your travels on track. Your

bookmark falls out of your book, but your spouse

knows where you left off from your last anecdote.

We end up lost more often than we’d like to admit,

but there is always something or someone to find us.

Even when all seems lost and we are stuck in a dark

place, God finds us and turns on the lights to reveal

a party in our honour. Despite how foolish we feel for

getting lost and separating ourselves from God, God

looks beyond it and rejoices in the fact that you are

reunited. It isn’t about what happened to get you lost,

but what will happen now that you are together again.

110916

Jessica Foy is an MDiv student at Knox College in Toronto, ON.

Photo by Bonnie Sitter, Exeter, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

A group from St. Andrew’s Hall

shuffled into the Chapel of Divine Providence, in San Salvador. Here in 1980 Archbishop Oscar Romerowas assassinated while leading worship; murdered forpublicly criticizing the government and supporting thepoor. Romero understood that the gospel compels us tospeak prophetically in support of the poor. The prophetJeremiah does the same. Wherever injustice, greed,oppression and violence appear in our broken, sinfulrelationships God is at work, prompting people to standin solidarity with the poor and persecuted.

Romero wrote, “For the church, the many abuses ofhuman life, liberty, and dignity are a heartfelt suffering.The church, entrusted with the earth’s glory, believesthat in each person is the Creator’s image and thateveryone who tramples it offends God. As holy defendersof God’s rights and of God’s images, the church must cryout.” As prophetic Presbyterians, moved by grace fromthe cross to the resurrection morn, how will we declarethe goodness of God today in solidarity with the poor?

180916

The Rev. Dr. Ross Lockhart is Director of Ministry Leadership &

Education at St. Andrew’s Hall, Vancouver, BC.

Photo: mural of Oscar Romero, San Salvador, photo by Ross LockhartThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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It’s a crazy time to buy property

with Jerusalem under siege, Jeremiah under arrest, andJeremiah’s prophecy of 70 years of Babylonian rule!

Yet, Jeremiah buys a field occupied by the Babylonian army(Jeremiah 32:9). Not a wise economic decision! Jeremiah buysthe field because he believes God’s promise that the land willbe restored to the people.

Jeremiah’s purchase backs up his beliefs with action; it demonstrates hope and faith that God is still in charge.

Every year Presbyterians gather at General Assembly andadopt a budget for Presbyterians Sharing, representing thehopes and dreams of what God may accomplish through ourchurch in the coming year.

Through Presbyterians Sharing, we show we are aconnectional church: we support one another’s ministries,help start new congregations and renew others; wecollaborate with mission partners worldwide, learn together,share experiences and establish ways of working together; we walk with theological students and speak for justice.

By supporting Presbyterians Sharing, we back up our beliefswith actions, demonstrating hope and faith in God today.

250916

As Associate Secretary for Stewardship, Karen Plater loves

exploring how we can use our gifts to do God’s mission.

Photo: Tucker and Emily at Crieff Hills, photo by Kristine O’Brien, Oakville, ONThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

Creator, Christ, and Spirit, Deeply we hunger for fulfillment and

deeply you feel our desire and you fill us;

you are our provider;

you are our bread and our sustenance in all seasons.

Deeply we thirst for communion with you and

deeply you invite us to drink;

you are the sweetness of life;

you are the fullness of life;

you are life itself.

Deeply we desire for what is true, what is authentic,

and what endures;

it is you alone who is truth;

you alone who is genuine;

you alone who was, who is, and who shall be.

Creator, Redeemer, and Spirit;

you are our hunger filled;

you are our thirst quenched;

and you our desire fulfilled

so this day and always, we give you our praise.

021016 World Communion Sunday

Canadian MinistriesThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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“With all my heart I shall give thanks to the Lord

in the congregation.” (Psalm 111 REB)

Every Sunday could be called a Thanksgiving Sunday; giving

thanks is at the heart of any act of worship.

“Great are the works of the Lord; the Lord provides food…”

(Psalm 111 REB). On this Sunday, we offer gratitude for God’s

grace in creation, through which we receive the blessing of food.

We join with the psalmist: “We thank you, our provider…for the

seedtime and the harvest, our life, our health, our food. All

good gifts around us are sent from heaven above; …we thank

you, Lord, for all your love.” (“We plough the fields and scatter,”

The Book of Praise (No. 807), Matthias Claudius; translation,

Jane Montgomery Campbell)

In our thanksgiving, the Spirit prompts us to sing: “Show forth,

O God, your purpose; direct our will and hand to share your

love and bounty with all, in every land.” (“Give thanks, my soul,

for harvest,” The Book of Praise (No. 805) 1961, renewed 1989

The Hymn Society [admi Hope Publishing Company])

091016 Harvest Sunday

The Rev. Dr. P.A (Sandy) McDonald is the minister of St. Andrew’s, Dartmouth, NS.

Scripture quotations taken from the Revised English Bible, copyright © Cambridge University Press and Oxford University Press 1989. All rights reserved.

Photo: St Paul’s, Peterborough, ON, photo by George TurnerThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

“Theological education, if it is to be faithful and be for ministry,

is not like education for other professions.

Theological education must be professed and, therefore,

the process fosters spiritual receptivity

and sensitivity toward a discernment of God’s calling.”

The Rev. Dr. Art Van Seters (1934-2011)

The three theological colleges of The Presbyterian

Church in Canada equip people for the exciting work

of ministry in a complex and dynamic world by

passing on the teachings of the faith and nurturing

the call of God in the lives of women and men.

161016 Students & Colleges Sunday

In 1974 The Rev. Dr. Art Van Seters began 26 years of teaching and

administration at The Presbyterian College (Montreal, QC),

Vancouver School of Theology (Vancouver, BC), and

Knox College (Toronto, ON).

Photo: Students at Vancouver School of TheologyThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

091016Harvest Sunday

161016Students andColleges Sunday

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24

Why are you here this morning?

According to Psalm 65 you are here because it is yourduty. Why? Because God answers prayers and Godforgives! Why are you here this morning? Out of duty.That is the first step on our Christian journey — gratitude that is dutiful.

However, there is so much more says the Psalm. Our gratitude changes to praise-filled awe when weexperience the magnitude of God’s being, the magnitudeof God’s grace and mercy.

The Psalm then describes the extravagantly beautiful and generous creation. It was the phrase “God is full ofwater” (vs. 9b) that got my attention. It is water thatnourishes, that restores, that refreshes, that makes newdried out places. What a wonderful metaphor!

In our journey we will experience gratitude that isdutiful, and praise-filled awe. But because God is full of water, we become extravagantly generous andbeautiful for God.

Why are you here?

231016

The Rev. Annabelle Wallace serves at Westmount

Presbyterian Church, Edmonton, AB.The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

Habakkuk 1:1-4 — A Burden and a Prayer

What does it mean to be in relationship with God?According to the prophet Habakkuk it involves a burdenand a hope. The book opens with the title “The oraclethat the prophet Habakkuk saw.” The word oracle meansliterally a burden. The burden Habakkuk caries is seeingso much violence, destruction and injustice. Hecomplains to God: “O LORD, how long shall I cry for help,and you will not listen?” But the book closes withchapter three and a second heading: “A prayer of theprophet Habakkuk.” And it concludes with a declarationof confidence: “GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makesmy feet like the feet of a deer, and makes me tread uponthe heights” (Habakkuk 3:19 NRSV).

To be in relationship with God is to care about theinjustices of this world. To be in relationship with Godalso means that we live with confidence and hope. “The LORD is in his holy temple; let all the earth keepsilence before him!” (Habakkuk 2:20). It is a life of bothburden and prayer.

301016

The Rev. Dr. Dale Woods is Principal of

The Presbyterian College, Montreal, QC.

Photo: Kenya, photo by Paul Jeffrey, ACT Alliance, courtesy of PWS&DThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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25

After laying wreaths on graves

in Arlington, Virginia, wreath company owner, MorrillWorcester was asked, “Are you a veteran?” Morrill said, “I am not, but I make it my business never to forget.” (Rick Hampson, “Gift of Wreaths Touches Nation,” USA Today,December 15, 2007)

It is our business and duty never to forget the sacrificeCanadian Armed Forces men, women and families have made.

It our business never to forget the freedoms we enjoy due tothe price they paid with their lives.

It is our business never to forget those who return woundedin body, mind and spirit.

It is our business never to forget those whose lives war hasimpacted, like a mother who told me, “…when my son died, I died too.”

It is our business never to forget to pray for the protection ofwomen and men in danger zones, defending and feeding thehelpless.

On Remembrance Day let us go to graves and cenotaphs — to lay wreaths, flowers, and offer prayers — to show ourgratitude to God.

061116 All Saints Day / Remembrance Sunday

The Rev. Maj. Charles Deogratias is a chaplain in the Canadian

Armed Forces and is stationed in Gagetown, NB.

Photo by Ian McDonaldThe Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

On November 15th, National Philanthropy Day,®

Canadians celebrate philanthropic contributions and encourage

generous giving to charity. As Christians we know the true source of

the philanthropic spirit: the Spirit of God our Creator, who is still

creating a new and better world:

For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth… (Isaiah 65:17)

Amidst power struggles and inequities, Isaiah envisioned a whole new

world of abundance and harmony. The wonder is that God uses the

contributions of ordinary people like you and me in building that

new world.

The Presbyterian Church in Canada has every reason to celebrate

National Philanthropy Day®. Throughout Canada’s history

Presbyterians have been integral to philanthropic endeavour:

• Donald Smith (aka Lord Strathcona) funded the Donalda

Endowment (1884), admitting the first women students to

McGill University

• James Naismith, who studied at Presbyterian College, invented

basketball (1891) as his legacy to the world

• Ordinary Presbyterians, through bequests and other planned

gifts, have grown PWS&D’s Loaves and Fishes Fund from

$0 (2006) to more than $2 million today

How will you celebrate National Philanthropy Day®? What will your

legacy be?

131116

The Rev. Dr. Herb Gale served as Associate Secretary of

Planned Giving from 2004-2015. The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

061116All Saints Day /RemembranceDay Sunday

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26

Sometimes people speak with brutal honesty.

Jeremiah certainly did.

He held nothing back when he criticized the leaders ofhis day. He lived in tough times and he told the truth:the people of God were being destroyed by leaders wholet them down.

But Jeremiah was also a person of deep faith. God was at work. Tough times do not last forever. God raises upnew and better leaders.

That’s why Jeremiah pointed to a coming leader, a kingwho would reign rightly, with wisdom and justice. Thepeople of God would be saved from their peril andflourish (Jeremiah 23:1-6).

Christians believe this promise is fulfilled in the comingof Jesus. Jesus is the leader who never lets us down.Jesus is the king who saves.

Today we celebrate the reign of Christ and pray that wemay experience it in our lives, our churches, and ourworld.

201116

The Rev. Dr. John Vissers is Director of Academic Programs and

Professor of Historical Theology at Knox College, Toronto, ON. The Presbyterian

Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

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Jesus empathized with the plight of others.Can we? Some might ask for assistance, not unlike the

Apostle Paul’s vision of the man of Macedonia begging,

“Come over to Macedonia and help us” (Acts 16:9b).

Many churches would never ask for help. Pride, ego,

insecurity and theology get in the way. They would

rather die first.Others struggle in silence, resigned to their plight. In

John 5:1-9 Jesus encountered one such person at the

healing pool of Bethesda who had been an invalid for

thirty-eight years. Jesus asked that man, “Do you want

to get well?”It was a profound question because the man’s life

revolved around his disability and dependency on others.

His whole life would change without it. How would we respond to Jesus’ question? How would

your church? Perhaps God is preparing to give you a

“pick up your mat” command today.

010516

The Rev. Dr. Martin Kreplin partners in ministry at St. Andrew’s,

Moncton, NB.

The Presbyterian Church in Canadapresbyterian.ca/worship

Bulletin numbers:29 11 15

29 is the day 11 is the month 15 is the year

God of all our moments,

we give you thanks that

you come into every part of our lives, bringing

forgiveness and change, fulfillment and hope.

Help us to confess to you all our concerns,

hiding nothing.

God of the dark places in our lives, we give you

thanks that you understand our times of anxiety

and sadness, fear and loneliness. Help us to be

open to your presence, and know that you

are always with us.

God of the wilderness, we give thanks that you are

in solitude as well as in the crowd. And you always

hear our prayers. Help us to accept silence and

gently seek your will for us.

God of the world, we give you thanks that you

accept us no matter who we are. Help us to

change when change is necessary. Help us to

always turn to you, O Lord, for guidance.

Amen.

291115

First Sunday of Advent

The Rev. Jean Armstrong

Photo by Marlene Handrahan, Calvin, Toronto, ON

The Presbyterian

Church in Canada

presbyterian.ca/worshipFirst Sunday ofAdvent

Bulletin Samples 2015-2016November 29th, 2015 – November 20th, 2016

Please contact Canadian Ministries with comments or suggestions.1-800-619-7301 or 416-441-1111, email: [email protected]

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