Rev. Moon’s Message for October 29, 2023

Dear Friends,

Sunday, October 29 is a day of appreciation and recognition for our beloved music director, Rachelle Risling, and her dedicated ministry among us. This Sunday will also mark Rachelle’s final service with us before she embarks on her new role at Clarkson Road Presbyterian Church in Mississauga, starting on November 5. We extend a warm invitation to all to partake in our celebration of Rachelle’s time with us and to congratulate her on her new journey. Additionally, the Bells of Guildwood will grace us with their performance.

I’m sure many of you are pondering about what lies ahead for us. 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. While we embark on this search, we’ll welcome guest musicians each week, possibly even some familiar faces. Your prayers and support for the search committee and their important task are greatly appreciated.


Remembrance Sunday – Sunday, November 5

Sunday, November 5th is the 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.”

Please, send us a photo of a loved one, ie. parent, grandparent or other family member that was part of the Armed Forces during WWI, WWII, Korea, Afghanistan or during peacekeeping times. The name and where the loved one served should also be included to go along with the photo. For example:

Walter Harris, Late Father of Al Harris
Lance Corporal
Royal Canadian Army Service Corps
86th Bridge Company
WWII

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 initiate a motion/motions on the Future Directions Committee’s report and recommendations.

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

A version of this message appeared in the Friday, October 27, 2023 edition of Tidbits.