As we move closer to Christmas, I wish to take the opportunity to wish you all the best of the season. It is an exciting time in the life of our congregation with new initiatives and traditions being expressed among us. Last Sunday afternoon, we enjoyed a wonderful Carol service, thanks to Wayne Gilpin, a wonderful group of singers, and Worship and Sacrament Action Group coordinating all the readers. The feeling in the church was warm and inviting. This past Wednesday evening Westminster hosted the Refugee Family in our auditorium as the sponsors from many churches helped them celebrate a Canadian Christmas. The same evening, a group of carolers from our church brought cheer to the patients of Headwaters Healthcare Centre.
Many thanks to those who have contributed to the life of our church through gifts of time and financial support.
Here are some reminders and items that I do not want you not to miss!!!
May God bless you all!
Rev. Sandra
Breakfast with Santa: photos are ready for pick up in the church office
Pottery Party: Itemsthat the ladies made on December 4th are ready for pick up at the church office.
Offering Envelopes for 2010 are at the back of the church. If you need envelopes or wish to go on PAR (preauthorized remittance)...give us a call.
This Sunday December 20th 10:30 a.m.
*New choir gowns will be dedicated
* Memorial Poinsettias
*The Anthem: "God Bless My Family" will be sung by the Celebration Choir in memory of Martin James, our former Minister of Music.
*Framed Photos of some of the former music directors of Westminster will be presented by the Worship and Sacrament Action Group.
Advent activities continue in the children's ministry program
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CALLING ALL CHILDREN, YOUTH AND ADULTS....even if you have not been to church much this year...really!
WE NEED YOUR HELP. On Christmas Eve December 24th!!!
December 24th - 4:00 p.m. "Come to the Cradle". A service geared to younger children, toddlers and babies. We need those who are willing to be dressed as Mary, Joseph, shepherds and angels for the Outdoor Nativity. You would be outside from 3:30-4:00 p.m. and 4:45-5:15-ish! Live Animals! Hot chocolate for all!
December 24th - 7:00 p.m. Family Service " A Mall and the Night Visitors" a contemporary Christmas Play based on Menotti's "Amahl and The Night Visitors" with Indoor Nativity Tableau will be presented.
We require Mary, Joseph, Shepherds, Angels, 3 Wise Men. There are no speaking parts. The tableau will be formed while the choir sings "Were you There" ¾ way through the service and then exit at the end.
If you wish your child to be involved... sign the sign up sheet in the auditorium this Sunday or let Sonja Wolter know a.s.a.p. so we can have the costumes in place. sonja11@rogers.com.
December 24th at 10:00 p.m. Holy Communion and the Bells of Westminster
"Remembering the departed"
December 27th at 10:30 a.m. "The Christmas Visitor"
Lots of Carol Singing Rev. Sandra conducting worship
Wednesday December 30th "Festival of Lights House Tour" 6:30-11:00 p.m.
Nice way to unwind over the holidays. Tour 4 homes, treats, and entertainment. Only 20 tickets left $25.00 per person call Joyce 519-941-4206
January 3rd - 10:30 a.m. "The Coming of the Wise Ones"
Epiphany - Rev. Sandra conducting worship
January 10th - Spirit Band and Rev. Sandra
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On Monday, December 14th, the Board of Westminster United Church approved a list of Strategic Plan priorities. You can find this document online:
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Thanks to all who have engaged in acts of charity and benevolence this Christmas season.
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I wanted to take this opportunity to thank the area churches for their continuing support for Pastoral Care at Headwaters. Your prayers and financial donations are deeply appreciated.
As we celebrate the mystery of "Emmanuel: God With Us", I am conscious that chaplaincy gives us the opportunity to draw alongside of people, to remind them of God's presence, support them and lovingly listen with an attitude of compassion and grace.
We are grateful for the number of churches which help us continue this ministry.
I pray that each of you will have a blessed and holy Christmas. As you celebrate with your community of faith, may peace abide. As you celebrate with family and friends, may you be refreshed in your spirits.
Blessings,
Barbara Moulton
