Dear friends,
The session has put in place a search committee to initiate the quest for our congregation’s next music director. This dedicated committee is composed of the following individuals: Kunle Akingbola, Christianne James, Sandra O’Brien, Carol Ritchie, Cindy Similas, and Steven Szeto. Your prayers and support for the search committee and their important task are greatly appreciated.
Brooks Gorst has graciously accepted the role of interim music director, for which we are deeply appreciative. Brooks’ generosity and dedication are truly commendable. While Brooks will lead us on numerous Sundays, we will also extend a warm welcome to guest musicians who will serve as accompanists during this interim period.
Remembrance Sunday – This Sunday, November 5
This Sunday, November 5, is Remembrance Sunday. We gather to remember the importance of peace and those whose lives are changed forever. The purpose of our worship is not to glorify a war, but to remember the stories of people whose lives were forever changed by a war and remind each other, “Please, never again.” We thank Al Harris for helping us to deepen our remembrance.
Rev. Beaton and Virtual Book Study Session – Sunday, November 12
On Sunday, November 12, Rev. Gordon Beaton will co-lead the worship service. After the service at 1 PM, there will be a virtual book study session. Please note that the virtual book study has been rescheduled to November 12 due to a congregational meeting planned for November 19 (see below). Right after the Nov. 12 service, the Nurture and Education Committee will convene a meeting to discuss the women’s retreat. We extend an invitation to anyone interested in participating in future retreats to join the meeting.
Congregational Meeting – Sunday, November 19
On Sunday, November 19, immediately following the church service, we will hold a congregational meeting to discuss and initiating a motion/motions on the future direction committee’s report and recommendations.
We extend an invitation to each of you, encouraging not only prayerful reflection upon your own individual desires for our church but also the discernment of how best to serve God collectively through our congregation. May we openly share our thoughts and actively listen to one another, seeking to perceive God’s voice within each of us, for we firmly believe that God speaks through each of God’s children. We are committed to supporting whatever choice the congregation makes. We believe in the collective wisdom and unity of our community, and we trust that the congregation’s decision will be in the best interest of all. Our strength lies in our ability to come together, make informed choices, and stand united behind the outcomes of our collective decisions.
Rev. Helen Smith and Christmas tree decorating – Sunday, November 26
On Sunday, November 26, we are very blessed to have Rev. Helen Smith leading the worship service. Following the service, we will come together to decorate the Christmas tree.
Quiet Prayer and Communion Service – Wednesday, November 29
On Wednesday, November 29 at 7:30 PM, we will host a quiet prayer and communion service in the sanctuary. In the midst of our often busy and hectic lives, finding moments for prayer and listening to God can be challenging. Our communal silence and prayer provide a space to enhance our connection with God. Please, come and pray with us.
—Rev. Chuck Moon
Image credit: “Johnmccraememorialbookcloseup02.JPG” by Lx 121. Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license. Taken from the Wikimedia Commons.
A version of this message appeared in the Friday, November 3, 2023 edition of Tidbits.