News for the week of December 21 - 27, 2023

I’m so grateful for the opportunity I have had to be your Interim Pastor. And I would like to thank each of you for your warmth, love and support over the past year. I would encourage each of you to give the same kind of welcome and support to our new lead Pastor Ken Radant.

During my time here, it’s been my honour to reconnect with old friends and to build new friendships with so many of you. In particular, I would like to acknowledge my appreciation to Tracey Miller our Church Administrator. I simply could not have performed as well as I have without her undivided loyalty and willingness to go the extra mile. We have become good friends and her presence in the office has been outstanding. Thank you.

This Sunday will be Christmas Eve and in both of our services, in the morning and evening, we will focus our attention on the Wonder of Christmas. In the morning, I will be focussing our attention on Luke 2: 26-38. Please read through this passage and reflect on why the angel would say to Mary, “Don’t be afraid.”

What were the fears that Mary might have felt? Why is this message so important to us today?

I would also encourage you to remember Jane Megale-Sidjak’s family in your prayers. We will be hosting a celebration of life service for her at 10:30 am on December 28. Please wear something colourful and a little off the wall in honour of a woman who brought colour into everything she did. Her flamboyant nature and dress impacted so many of our lives. Also, bring along a tray of Christmas foods and goodies to share with others.

I also would like to thank you for your prayers for Marleen. She is under the doctor’s care and we hope to get to the bottom of her erratic blood pressure.

May the Christ child of Christmas fill you with both wonder and great joy.