The snow is gently falling and the New Year has begun.

As we carefully put our nativity scenes away, I pray that we will not put our faith away only to bring it out again next Christmas. God's call is a daily call to find meaning, spiritual grounding and service to the community through our family of faith. Westminster United Church has a mission to fulfill and accountability to one another. We belong to a denomination that takes seriously the call of the Christmas story, "Behold I bring you Good News that shall bring great joy..."

I am delighted by the new faces and returning faces that I see on Sunday mornings and in the many groups that meet at our church. Healthy relationships build strong communities.  This is why we are offering programs for most ages so that we can explore what it is to live as followers of Christ's teaching.

I want to personally thank all those who contributed in any way to our Advent and Christmas celebrations at Westminster.  Services were well attended.  The live nativity was a big hit !!

Thank you to all who responded to our Christmas financial appeal.  The Christmas letter donations totaled $6,250.00.  Our appeal in 2009 raised $9,900.00.  Here is a summary from our treasurer... 

Financial Summary - Operating Fund 2010-2011 

                                       Oct           Nov            Dec        6 mo. YTD

Income                         $18,890     $25,787       $46,558        $142,431

Expenses                     $26,289     $26,353       $25,198        $141,138

Excess (Shortfall)          ($7,399)      ($566)        $21,360          $1,293

Budget:  income $25,316 - expense $26,239 = ($923) per month.

December was a very good month and we pray for continued support.

On January 2, we began the church season of Epiphany which runs until February 27^th. In worship each Sunday, our focus will be on God's expression of "light" to the world.  Each week that I am preaching there will be a practical tip for the week of how to stay grounded in the light of God.

I am delighted to announce that Debbie Bolland and Janet Jones are our Christian Education Coordinators.  Their energy, creativity and passion bring a tremendous joy to our program.  They have a great team of teachers and supportive parents but are always looking to new volunteers to lend a hand.  Those wishing to receive computer training on the Linux program in our computer lab to work with the Sunday school on Sunday mornings, please let us know at the office.  Murray Saul, professor at Seneca will be facilitating this training for the Christian Education Department.  The course should begin early Feb.  Our computer lab has the potential of providing a state of the art approach to Christian education.

Would you like to volunteer your time on Sunday mornings in the lab with the youth of our church?  Let us know. Many hands share the load.

Those wishing to transfer their membership to our church are requested to contact the church office.   We will be having a reception of new members and Holy Communion February 6^th. I will be away January 18-25.

 

I have included a short inspirational video entitled "Irish Blessing". 

 Please enjoy the scenery, the words and the music.

 

See you in church, Rev. Sandra

Rev. Sandra will be running 4 classes to augment the confirmation weekends as outlined below. E-mail the church office if you are interested in confirmation this year Rev. Sandra would be pleased to answer any questions.

Living Waters & Northern Waters Presbyteries Confirmation Class February 25-27, 2011 at St. John's, Alliston April 1-3, 2011 at Muskoka Woods, Rosseau.Both Living Waters and Northern Presbyteries are offering a Confirmation Class for youth from those Presbyteries. The class includes participation at both of the events shown above. Space is limited, and so participants must be in Grade 7 or higher, with preference given to those 14 years of age and older. If youth are unsure if they are ready for Confirmation, they may wish to have a conversation with their minister before registering. For all the information please download the following:

Confirmation Class Information              Muskoka Woods Waiver

Decadent Chocolate Silent Auction and Sale 
 

A fun evening of music and British Music and Comedy Sketches.
 

Door Prizes / Punch / Nosh

Westminster Church February 12, 2010

7:30 p.m.

Tickets:$25 each; $40/couple 
 

Available at the church office 941-0381 & Kids Can Do - 163 First St.