Friday 28 November 2014

CHRISTMAS TEA & BAKE SALE ST. MARK'S NOVEMBER 29 2014





























ANNOUNCEMENTS SUNDAY NOVEMBER 30TH 2014

Participating through leadership in worship this morning are:
Organist: Al Fougere
Lay Reader (St. M.): Barbara Mac Intyre
Lay Reader (St. D.): Arnold Mac Lean
Advent Wreath (St. M.): The Langdon Family
Advent Wreath (St. D.): Julia Mac Kinnon
Greeters & Collectors (St. M.): Darren & Anne Louise Blundon
Greeters (St. D.): The Timmons Family
Collectors (St. D.): Bob Downard, Alicia Vink

OFFICE HOURS:
Monday 9-12 noon, Nan at St. Mark’s
Tuesday 9-12 noon, Nan at St. Mark’s
Wednesday 9-12 noon Nan at St. David’s, Jane at St. Mark’s
Thursday 9 – 12 noon Jane at St. Mark’s
Friday – Minister’s Day Off, 9-12 noon Jane at St. Mark’s

Food Bank donations are received on the last Sunday of the month. They are also saving plastic grocery bags which can be dropped off at the Food Bank or given to one of the volunteers.

Prayer Shawl Knitting Circle Knitters and crocheters gather together in the parlour of St. Mark’s on the 3rd Monday of each month. Next time of gathering is December 15th at 1:00 p.m.

AVAILABLE AT THE CHURCH OFFICE:  
Canadian Church Calendar 2015 Cost: $6.00 (profit to go to the Mission and Service Fund, United Church of Canada) 
A beautiful calendar showcasing our own traditions with inspired photographs of Anglican and United churches from across Canada. Significant church dates and spiritually uplifting verses make it the perfect calendar to give or keep.

About Gifts with Vision
The United Church of Canada developed the giving catalogue Gifts with Vision in response to member requests to be able to give gifts to relatives, friends, and loved ones that are in direct support of the church’s Mission and Service partners across Canada and around the world. If you are seeking inspiring new gift ideas, Gifts with Vision presents a new way to celebrate special occasions. Give a gift that can help change people’s lives! Print catalogues are now available in the entry to the church and gifts can also be purchased online at www.giftswithvision.ca

Anyone interested in Confirmation is asked to please contact the Church Office at 625-2229.

Christmas Parade Float from St. David's and St. Mark's--want to help us put together a living nativity float for Port Hawkesbury's Christmas Parade? Speak to Nan or Bruce--needed are people to help put the float together and people to take part.

Advent Small Group: Working Graces This study for small groups is based on the The Letters used in the Lectionary readings for Advent. The President of Maritime Conference, Gloria Churchill and Janice MacLean reflect on Faith, Hope, and Love. These “Working Graces” inform our mission and identity in congregations. Parlour of St. Mark's, Monday mornings at 10:00 throughout December.

December 7th – Advent 2
December 14th – Advent 3
December 21st – Advent 4
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service with Communion
6:30 p.m. – Service at St. Mark’s
8:00 p.m. – Service at St. David’s

Marking the Days: Calendars for Inmates at Springhill Institution Again this year the Chaplains are seeking calendars for the inmates at Springhill Institution.  These calendars are an important point of contact with inmates especially those who are arriving in the reception area.  You could drop them off in the box provided at Church entrance.

Christmas Hope: Christmas Cards for Inmates in Segregated Populations There is prison and then there is the hole – segregation: 23 hours a day in a 6’X9′ cell.  Isolated, bombarded by the noise of an institutional machine, alone with your thoughts and feelings at Christmas time.  It is into this place that the Divine longs to be born.  If you would like to share the message of hope with an individual in prison, write a Christmas message on a Christmas Card, sign it with your first name only, place it in an unsealed envelope and either mail the envelope to Springhill Institution Chaplaincy Department, PO Box 2140 Springhill, NS B0M 1X0. The Chaplains will put the names of individuals on the Christmas cards and hand them out to the men in Segregation over the Christmas season.

November 30th, Advent 1: 4:30 p.m. - All Ages Advent Event "Preparing the Way" Activity centres including making your own family/household Nativity Scene or Creche; informal worship. Concluding with soup and hotdog supper (provided). Everyone welcome. This will be held at St. Mark’s

CHRISTMAS OLD & NEW --- is a gift of music from the Inverness County Singers and the Young County Singers, directed by Laurel Browne with piano accompaniment by Lawrence Cameron. If you missed the performance at St. Mark’s on Saturday, there is another one on Monday, December 1 at 7:30 at St. Mary’s Church in Mabou. Donations go to local charities

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ST. MARK’S FLOWERS


In Loving Memory of:
- JIM NOSEWORTHY and ALPHONSE & DOROTHY ROACH from Archie & Elaine Noseworthy & family.

ST. MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS


St. Mark’s Welcomes You! Refreshments in the church hall following worship—please join us! There is a quiet nursery space above the stage in the hall—reached via the stairs by the church office door. There you will find toys, change table, crib, rocking chair for your use. We’re so glad you came today.

St. Mark’s Courtesy Car: Contact person for the Courtesy Car is Andy Palmer. His telephone number is 625-2748.

FundScrip Order Sunday will be December 7th  and Delivery Sunday will be December 14th. FundScrip will resume with an order Sunday January 11, 2015.
Promotions for December are as follows:
Fairmont Hotels                              10% ( Regular 8% )
Kernels Popcorn                              10% ( Regular 5%)
Cara Restaurants ( Includes Hudson’s Bay   5% ( Regular 3% )
& Home Outfitters)
 FundScrip will resume in 2015 with an order Sunday on January 11th, 2015. Please contact Patsy Brander at 902-625-1062 or Bonnie Dawson at 902-625-3838 if you have any questions about the program or if you wish to join the program.

Lay Readers:
December 7th – Jean Mac Pherson
December 14th – Clark Brander
December 21st – Julia Mac Quarrie
December 24th – Archie Noseworthy

Observer Subscriptions:  Please use one of the envelopes in the narthex to subscribe or renew and place on the collection plate by December 14, 2014.  Cost is just $20/yr.  For more info, please contact Lorna Harvey at 902-625-0535 or lorna.harvey3@gmail.com.
**********

ST. DAVID’S FLOWERS

In Loving Memory of:
- IAN A. MACKINNON & daughter SUSAN MAC KINNON from Jane & Family

ST. DAVID’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

Lay Readers:
December 7th – Mary Jess Mac Donald
December 14th – Lisa Rhynold
December 21st – Kenzie Mac Lean
December 28th -

Hall Cleaners for December are Jean Hatcher & Marjorie Langford.
**********

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Leeside Christmas Program Leeside Transition House provides Christmas gifts and food to families in need who use our sevices.  Many families receive assistance only from Leeside.  Donations from the community make the Christmas program possible.  You can help in one of the following ways: -Make a cash donation -Donate a gift card from a grocery store -"Adopt" a child or family to buy gifts for -Tell others about the Leeside Christmas program For more info. call Leeside at 902-625-1990.

An Olde Tyme Christmas at the Port Hastings Museum and Artisans Collective on Friday to Sunday, Nov. 28th to Nov. 30th  and Friday, Dec. 5th to Sunday, Dec. 7th - daily 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Special Christmas Displays throughout the Museum, quality hand crafted woven, quilted, knitted and carved gift items for Christmas from local artisans, childrens activities.  Bake sale on both Saturdays beginning at 2:00 pm.

Christmas House Tour – Strait Area Curling Club will sponsor a Christmas House Tour on Saturday December 6th. St Marks Church will be featured with mangers from around the world, along with 6 houses in the community. A tea will follow at the Curling Club on Macquarrie Drive. Tickets are available from Valli Ross and Jean Macpherson and various locations in Port Hawkesbury and the surrounding area

December 6th Evergreen Seniors Club Christmas Bazaar & Tea from 1:00 – 4:00pm Doors open at 12:30 to view items for auction. Auction 1 pm sharp Bake table, crafts, Gramma’s attic, sale of tickets on handmade quilt, & Christmas Basket. $2.00 admission.

Lights of Love Christmas Campaign- join the celebration this year by helping the R.K. Mac Donald Nursing Home light up their tree with bulbs dedicated to love. You can dedicate a bulb in memory of a deceased loved one or honour someone presently in your life. Monies raised will be used toward the construction of a Four Seasons Solarium/Sunroom, adjacent to the dining room at the nursing home. Solariums provide year-round natural light which will enhance psychological and physical well-being for all residents of the R.K. If you would like to make a donation in memory of a loved one, and are not already on our mailing list, please call the RK Foundation office and leave us your mailing address- 902-863-2578 Ext. 223. Please join us on Sunday, December 7, at 7 pm in the R.K.MacDonald Chapel for the dedication ceremony.

Strait Area Women’s Place and Public Heath are hosting a Flu Clinic. Open to the public on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2014 from 1pm-6pm at 609 Church Street Suite 104. Bring your health card.

Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. You are invited to participate in a vigil of Remembrance and Hope on December 5, 2014 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at Strait Area Women’s Place Suite 104-609 Church Street, Port Hawkesbury. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information please call Strait Area Women’s Place at 902-625-1614. In 1991 December 6th was declared Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. The vigil is a time to remember all women and girls who live with violence or who have died as a result of violence. It is an opportunity to nurture our hope. The violence can end. You can make a difference.

Port Hawkesbury Seasonal Services is once again preparing to provide Christmas Dinner Boxes for those in need in the Town. Anyone wishing to donate financially to this project may do so by contacting Jo-Anne MacDonald at 625-3003. Donations may also be left at the Pitt Street Post Office with Rosanne or Roberta. Donations may be left in your name, at the Royal Bank of Canada


ORDER OF SERVICE NOVEMBER 30TH 2014-ADVENT 1-SACRAMENT OF COMMUNION

The Congregations of St. Mark’s and St. David’s
United Church of Canada
Port Hawkesbury/Port Hastings, NS
Office: 625-2229, Fax 625-3597, e-mail: stmarks1@eastlink.ca
Presbytery Website: inverguyunited.ca
Ministers: The Whole People of God
Ministers: Nan Corrigan D. M.
Minister of Music: Al Fougere
November 30th, 2014-Advent 1-Sacrament of Communion
Julia MacKinnon and grandson Nolan light the Hope candle in the Advent Wreath

Announcements The Work of Church and Community

WE GATHER TO WORSHIP GOD

Greeting
One: The peace of Christ be with you. All: And with your spirit
*Introit        Procession & Hanging of “Hope” Banner
*Call to Worship
One: People of God, come, for the light of hope beckons us together.
All: From our solitude, we are called into community; from our brokenness, we are called into wholeness; from our fading, we are called into fullness; and from our wind-swept wandering, we are called to the path of new life.
One: People of God, come, for the light of hope beckons us together.
All: Let us take the hand of God and carry this light together. Come, let us worship.

Advent Candlelighting Liturgy

Child: With the lighting of this candle, we celebrate the hope of Israel, and the hope that we have in Jesus Christ.
Congregation: We continue to hope in God’s promise that Christ will come again to fill our lives and the life of the world with love and joy and peace. Let us pray:
Prayer: O God, help us to be open to your shaping of our lives, that we may be channels of hope, love, peace, and joy to our hurting world. Amen.
*Candlelighting Hymn              Hope Is a Star verse 1        VU 7
Opening Prayer
*Hymn                 My Lord, What a Morning               VU 708

WE LISTEN FOR GOD’S WORD

Isaiah 64:1-9 Tear open the heavens and come down.
One: This is the witness of the Hebrew people. All: Thanks be to God.
Psalm 80              Shine upon us, shepherd of Israel    VU794, Pt. 1
*Hymn              All Earth Is Waiting                     VU 5
Opening the Word
The Gospel Acclamation
Mark 13:24-37 You will see 'the Son of Man coming in clouds'.
One: The gospel of Jesus Christ. All: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

WE RESPOND IN FAITH

Minute for Mission           A Story from the Peace Box
Offering Our Gifts to God
*Offering Prayer
One: Holy Creator, today we dedicate ourselves anew. Even in our doubt, we promise our faith. Even in our fear, we promise our courage. Even in our comfort, we promise our eternal commitment to seeking justice and peace on earth.
All: Bless this worship, and this of­fering, that they may be a reflection of our striving to live in the tension and the promise that are ours as your people. Amen.
*Hymn               As We Gather at Your Table                 VU 457
Sacrament of Communion Insert, cover of Voices United
Distribution Hymn God Is So Good
God is so good;
God is so good;
God is so good;
Oh! So good to us!

WE GO TO SERVE GOD

*Hymn              May the God of Hope Go with Us            VU 424
* Commissioning and Benediction
All: Let us step into the world of this season, and take God’s hand, trusting in God’s wisdom even when our own cannot be found.
One: Go in the hope of new life that is held in the promise of this light, and go in peace.

*Choral Amen

Saturday 22 November 2014

ANNOUNCEMENTS SUNDAY NOVEMBER 23RD 2014

Participating through leadership in worship this morning are:
Organist: Al Fougere
Lay Reader (St. M.): Karen Mac Kinnon
Lay Reader (St. D.): Margie Mac Intyre
Greeters & Collectors (St. M.): Darren & Anne Louise Blundon
Greeters (St. D.): The Timmons Family
Collectors (St. D.): Bob Downard, Alicia Vink

OFFICE HOURS:
Monday 9-12 noon, Nan at St. Mark’s
Tuesday 9-12 noon, Nan at St. Mark’s
Wednesday 9-12 noon Nan at St. David’s, Jane at St. Mark’s
Thursday 9 – 12 noon Jane at St. Mark’s
Friday – Minister’s Day Off, 9-12 noon Jane at St. Mark’s

Food Bank donations are received on the last Sunday of the month. They are also saving plastic grocery bags which can be dropped off at the Food Bank or given to one of the volunteers.

Prayer Shawl Knitting Circle Knitters and crocheters gather together in the parlour of St. Mark’s on the 3rd Monday of each month. Next time of gathering is December 15th at 1:00 p.m.

AVAILABLE AT THE CHURCH OFFICE:  
Canadian Church Calendar 2015 Cost: $6.00 (profit to go to the Mission and Service Fund, United Church of Canada) 
A beautiful calendar showcasing our own traditions with inspired photographs of Anglican and United churches from across Canada. Significant church dates and spiritually uplifting verses make it the perfect calendar to give or keep.

About Gifts with Vision
The United Church of Canada developed the giving catalogue Gifts with Vision in response to member requests to be able to give gifts to relatives, friends, and loved ones that are in direct support of the church’s Mission and Service partners across Canada and around the world. If you are seeking inspiring new gift ideas, Gifts with Vision presents a new way to celebrate special occasions. Give a gift that can help change people’s lives! Print catalogues are now available in the entry to the church and gifts can also be purchased online at www.giftswithvision.ca

Anyone interested in Confirmation is asked to please contact the Church Office at 625-2229.

Christmas Parade Float from St. David's and St. Mark's--want to help us put together a living nativity float for Port Hawkesbury's Christmas Parade? Speak to Nan or Bruce--needed are people to help put the float together and people to take part.

Advent Small Group: Working Graces This study for small groups is based on the The Letters used in the Lectionary readings for Advent. The President of Maritime Conference, Gloria Churchill and Janice MacLean reflect on Faith, Hope, and Love. These “Working Graces” inform our mission and identity in congregations. Parlour of St. Mark's, Monday mornings at 10:00 throughout December.

CHRISTMAS OLD & NEW --- a gift of music from the Inverness County Singers and the Young County Singers, directed by Laurel Browne with piano accompaniment by Lawrence Cameron. Please join us at St. Mark’s United Church, Port Hawkesbury on Saturday, November 29 at 7:30. Other performances are on Friday, November 28 at 7:30 at St. Joseph’s Church in Southwest Margaree; or Monday, December 1 at 7:30 at St. Mary’s Church in Mabou. Donations go to local charities.

November 26th10:30 a.m. - Service at Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home.

November 30th – Advent 1 Sacrament of Communion
December 7th – Advent 2
December 14th – Advent 3
December 21st – Advent 4
December 24th – Christmas Eve Service with Communion
6:30 p.m. – Service at St. Mark’s
8:00 p.m. – Service at St. David’s

Meeting of Inverness Guysborough Presbytery at St. Mark's United Church, Tuesday, November 25th from 10:00 to 2:00. Everyone welcome. 

Marking the Days: Calendars for Inmates at Springhill Institution Again this year the Chaplains are seeking calendars for the inmates at Springhill Institution.  These calendars are an important point of contact with inmates especially those who are arriving in the reception area.  You could drop them off in the box provided at Church entrance.
Christmas Hope: Christmas Cards for Inmates in Segregated Populations There is prison and then there is the hole – segregation: 23 hours a day in a 6’X9′ cell.  Isolated, bombarded by the noise of an institutional machine, alone with your thoughts and feelings at Christmas time.  It is into this place that the Divine longs to be born.  If you would like to share the message of hope with an individual in prison, write a Christmas message on a Christmas Card, sign it with your first name only, place it in an unsealed envelope and either mail the envelope to Springhill Institution Chaplaincy Department, PO Box 2140 Springhill, NS B0M 1X0. The Chaplains will put the names of individuals on the Christmas cards and hand them out to the men in Segregation over the Christmas season.

November 30th, Advent 1: 4:30 p.m. - All Ages Advent Event "Preparing the Way" Activity centres including making your own family/household Nativity Scene or Creche; informal worship. Concluding with soup and hotdog supper (provided). Everyone welcome. This will be held at St. Mark’s.

ST. MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

St. Mark’s Welcomes You! Refreshments in the church hall following worship—please join us! There is a quiet nursery space above the stage in the hall—reached via the stairs by the church office door. There you will find toys, change table, crib, rocking chair for your use. We’re so glad you came today.

St. Mark’s Courtesy Car: Contact person for the Courtesy Car is Andy Palmer. His telephone number is 625-2748.

FundScrip Order Sunday will be November 23rd and Delivery Sunday will be November 30th. Promotions for November are as follows:
Petro-Canada               2.5%         (Regular 2%)
WaySpa                       13%          (Regular 10%)
Sears                          5%            (Regular 3%)
( Includes Home Outfitters & Hudson’s Bay)
Please contact Patsy Brander at 902-625-1062 or Bonnie Dawson at 902-625-3838 if you have any questions about the program or if you wish to join the program.

Lay Readers:
Nov. 30th – Barbara Mac Intyre
December 7th – Jean Mac Pherson
December 14th – Rebecca Roussey
December 21st – Julia Mac Quarrie
December 24th – Archie Noseworthy

November 28th 7-9 pm. St. Mark’s Christmas Tea & Sale- Bake Table, Crafts & Knitting and New-To-You-Table. The church will be open 6-8 pm Thursday evening to receive donations and again 1 pm. on Friday. If you have items for the New-To-You-Table please drop off on Thursday evening or early Friday afternoon.

Observer Subscriptions:  Please use one of the envelopes in the narthex to subscribe or renew and place on the collection plate by December 14, 2014.  Cost is just $20/yr.  For more info, please contact Lorna Harvey at 902-625-0535 or lorna.harvey3@gmail.com.
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ST. DAVID’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

TODAYSt. David’s Official Board Meeting following Worship Service.
Lay Readers:
Nov. 30th – Arnold Mac Lean
December 7th – Mary Jess Mac Donald
December 14th – Lisa Rhynold
December 21st – Kenzie Mac Lean
December 28th -

Hall Cleaners for November are Claudette Fox & Ashley Fox.

The Board of Stewards would like to thank everyone who helped out in any way to make the Roast Beef supper the great success it was. Profit from the supper was $2620.00. Submitted by Ashley.

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COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

There will be an evening of prayer, music and scripture for families and friends of those who have died while in the care of St. Martha’s Regional Hospital from February 1st, 2014 to July 31st, 2014. This service will be held in the Clare Marie Auditorium (former St. Martha’s Chapel) on Monday, November 24th, 2014 at 7:15 pm. Refreshments will follow.
Leeside Christmas Program Leeside Transition House provides Christmas gifts and food to families in need who use our sevices.  Many families receive assistance only from Leeside.  Donations from the community make the Christmas program possible.  You can help in one of the following ways: -Make a cash donation -Donate a gift card from a grocery store -"Adopt" a child or family to buy gifts for -Tell others about the Leeside Christmas program For more info. call Leeside at 902-625-1990.

An Olde Tyme Christmas at the Port Hastings Museum and Artisans Collective on Friday to Sunday, Nov. 28th to Nov. 30th  and Friday, Dec. 5th to Sunday, Dec. 7th - daily 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Special Christmas Displays throughout the Museum, quality hand crafted woven, quilted, knitted and carved gift items for Christmas from local artisans, children’s activities.  Bake sale on both Saturdays beginning at 2:00 pm. Caroling under the gazebo Friday, Nov. 28th at 6:30.

Christmas House Tour – Strait Area Curling Club will sponsor a Christmas House Tour on Saturday December 6th. St Marks Church will be featured with mangers from around the world, along with 6 houses in the community. A tea will follow at the Curling Club on Macquarrie Drive. Tickets are available from Valli Ross and Jean Macpherson and various locations in Port Hawkesbury and the surrounding area

December 6th Evergreen Seniors Club Christmas Bazaar & Tea from 1:00 – 4:00pm Doors open at 12:30 to view items for auction. Auction 1 pm sharp Bake table, crafts, Gramma’s attic, sale of tickets on handmade quilt, tickets on Christmas Basket. $2.00 admission.

Lights of Love Christmas Campaign- join the celebration this year by helping the R.K. Mac Donald Nursing Home light up their tree with bulbs dedicated to love. You can dedicate a bulb in memory of a deceased loved one or honour someone presently in your life. Monies raised will be used toward the construction of a Four Seasons Solarium/Sunroom, adjacent to the dining room at the nursing home. Solariums provide year-round natural light which will enhance psychological and physical well-being for all residents of the R.K. If you would like to make a donation in memory of a loved one, and are not already on our mailing list, please call the RK Foundation office and leave us your mailing address- 902-863-2578 Ext. 223. Please join us on Sunday, December 7, at 7 pm in the R.K.MacDonald Chapel for the dedication ceremony.

Holiday Bazaar – Strait Area Women’s Place invites you to share some Holiday Spirit from 10am-12 noon on Wednesday, November 26th. Door Decorating, Treats, Crafting, Games, Cookie Decorating, Cheerful Conversation.

Strait Area Women’s Place and Public Heath are hosting a Flu Clinic. Open to the public on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2014 from 1pm-6pm at 609 Church Street Suite 104. Bring your health card.

Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. You are invited to participate in a vigil of Remembrance and Hope on December 5, 2014 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at Strait Area Women’s Place Suite 104-609 Church Street, Port Hawkesbury. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information please call Strait Area Women’s Place at 902-625-1614. In 1991 December 6th was declared Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. The vigil is a time to remember all women and girls who live with violence or who have died as a result of violence. It is an opportunity to nurture our hope. The violence can end. You can make a difference.


ORDER OF SERVICE SUNDAY NOVEMBER 23RD 2014-REIGN OF CHRIST SUNDAY

The Congregations of St. Mark’s and St. David’s
United Church of Canada
Port Hawkesbury/Port Hastings, NS
Office: 625-2229, Fax 625-3597, e-mail: stmarks1@eastlink.ca
Presbytery Website: inverguyunited.ca
Ministers: The Whole People of God
Ministers: Nan Corrigan D. M.
Minister of Music: Al Fougere
November 23rd, 2014—Reign of Christ Sunday

This week we reflect on how we understand the judgment of God, how we embrace the most vulnerable, and the intent of our actions. How might Christ’s reign of justice, peace, and love be made more visible through you, individually and as the church?
Copyright © Wood Lake Publishing Inc. 2013 Seasons of the Spirit
SeasonsFUSION Season of Creation • Pentecost 2 2014 p. 167
Announcements The Work of Church and Community

WE GATHER TO WORSHIP GOD

Greeting
One: The peace of Christ be with you. All: And with your spirit.
*Call to Worship      Make a joyful noise all the earth!     VU 820
*Prayer of Approach       Back of bulletin
*Hymn      All Who Hunger       VU 460

Prayer for Forgiveness
One: We are sorry,
All: we are sorry for those moments we put our own needs
first, especially at the cost of hurting your children.
God, forgive.
Words of Affirmation
One: Friends, we are loved with a love that knows no bounds. God is good; God’s steadfast love endures forever. May we be this love in the world. All: Thanks be to God. Amen.

WE LISTEN FOR GOD’S WORD

Ezekiel 34:11–16, 20–24 God searches for the sheep
One: This is the witness of the Hebrew people. All: Thanks be to God.
Ephesians 1:15–23 A spirit of wisdom, revelation, and hope.
Hymn       What a Friend We Have in Jesus       VU 664
Opening the Word & The Lord’s Prayer
The Gospel Acclamation
Matthew 25:31–46 When you helped the least of these, you helped me
One: The gospel of Jesus Christ. All: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Opening the Word 2

WE RESPOND IN FAITH

*Hymn      Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ      VU 468
Minute for Mission & Offering Our Gifts to God
*Offering Prayer
One: May we respond to basic needs of life: food, water, shelter, love;
All: and offer nourishment, warmth, shelter, protection.
One: May we recognize the stranger,
All: and offer friendship, kindness, and welcome.
One: May we recognize the sick,
All: and offer comfort, peace, and patience.
One: May we recognize the imprisoned,
All: and offer time, graciously, out of concern and love. May our gifts meet the longings of your people. Amen.
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession

WE GO TO SERVE GOD

*Hymn        Holy God, We Praise Your Name Verse 1      VU 894
*Sending Out
One: Go from this place, encouraged to act graciously and love abundantly.
All: We go ready to act lovingly, openly, honestly, and humbly, in the way of Christ.

*Choral Amen

Tuesday 18 November 2014

Advent Small Group: Working Graces


Advent Small Group: Working Graces  

This study for small groups is based on the The Letters used in the Lectionary readings for Advent. The President of Maritime Conference, Gloria Churchill and Janice MacLean reflect on Faith, Hope, and Love. These “Working Graces” inform our mission and identity in congregations. 

Parlour of St. Mark's, Monday mornings at 10:00 throughout December beginning December 1st.

Friday 14 November 2014

THE UNITED CHURCH OBSERVER SUBSCRIPTIONS

The United Church Observer


In the Print Edition

Founded in 1829, The United Church Observer is the oldest continuously published magazine in North America, focusing on faith, justice, ethics, living and popular culture. Help celebrate the 185th anniversary of the Observer by signing up for a new subscription Cost is $20 for 11 issues….that is less than $2.00 an issue, a real bargain! Envelopes are available in the narthex for you to enclose your payment and leave it on the collection plate, by December 14th. If you require more information please contact Lorna Harvey, either by e-mail at lorna.harvey3@gmail.com or call 902-625-0535

ANNOUNCEMENTS SUNDAY NOVEMBER 16 2014

Participating through leadership in worship this morning are:
Organist: Al Fougere
Lay Reader (St. M.): Brenda Mac Innis
Lay Reader (St. D.): Dave Pringle
Greeters & Collectors (St. M.): Darren & Anne Louise Blundon
Greeters (St. D.): The Timmons Family
Collectors (St. D.): Bob Downard, Alicia Vink

OFFICE HOURS:
Monday 9-12 noon, Nan at St. Mark’s
Tuesday 9-12 noon, Nan at St. Mark’s
Wednesday 9-12 noon Nan at St. David’s, Jane at St. Mark’s
Thursday 9 – 12 noon Jane at St. Mark’s
Friday – Minister’s Day Off, 9-12 noon Jane at St. Mark’s

Food Bank donations are received on the last Sunday of the month.
They are also saving plastic grocery bags which can be dropped off at the Food Bank or given to one of the volunteers.

Prayer Shawl Knitting Circle Knitters and crocheters gather together in the parlour of St. Mark’s on the 3rd Monday of each month. Next time of gathering is November 17th at 1:00 p.m.

AVAILABLE AT THE CHURCH OFFICE:  
Canadian Church Calendar 2015
Cost: $6.00 (profit to go to the Mission and Service Fund, United Church of Canada) 
A beautiful calendar showcasing our own traditions with inspired photographs of Anglican and United churches from across Canada. Significant church dates and spiritually uplifting verses make it the perfect calendar to give or keep.

About Gifts with Vision
The United Church of Canada developed the giving catalogue Gifts with Vision in response to member requests to be able to give gifts to relatives, friends, and loved ones that are in direct support of the church’s Mission and Service partners across Canada and around the world. If you are seeking inspiring new gift ideas, Gifts with Vision presents a new way to celebrate special occasions. Give a gift that can help change people’s lives! Print catalogues are now available in the entry to the church and gifts can also be purchased online at www.giftswithvision.ca

Anyone interested in Confirmation is asked to please contact the Church Office at 625-2229.

Christmas Parade Float from St. David's and St. Mark's--want to help us put together a living nativity float for Port Hawkesbury's Christmas Parade? Speak to Nan or Bruce--needed are people to help put the float together and people to take part.

Advent Small Group: Parlour of St. Mark's, Monday mornings at 10:00 throughout December.

CHRISTMAS OLD AND NEW ---A gift of music from the Inverness County Singers and Young County Singers; Director Laurel Browne, Accompanist Lawrence Cameron Sat., Nov. 29th, 7:30 p.m. St. Mark's United Church. Freewill donations go to local charities.
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ST. MARK’S ANNOUNCEMENTS


St. Mark’s Welcomes You! Refreshments in the church hall following worship—please join us! There is a quiet nursery space above the stage in the hall—reached via the stairs by the church office door. There you will find toys, change table, crib, rocking chair for your use. We’re so glad you came today.

St. Mark’s Courtesy Car: Contact person for the Courtesy Car is Andy Palmer. His telephone number is 625-2748.

FundScrip Order Sunday will be November 23rd and Delivery Sundays will be November 16th and 30th. Promotions for November are as follows:
Petro-Canada               2.5%         (Regular 2%)
WaySpa                       13%          (Regular 10%)
Sears                          5%            (Regular 3%)
( Includes Home Outfitters & Hudson’s Bay)
 Please contact Patsy Brander at 902-625-1062 or Bonnie Dawson at 902-625-3838 if you have any questions about the program or if you wish to join the program.

Lay Readers:
Nov. 23rd – Vida Hood
Nov. 30th – Connie Fowlie

November 18th – St. Mark’s Congregational Board Meeting: 6:30 p.m. Executive, 7:00 p.m. Committees, 8:00 pm. Combined Board

November 28th 7-9 pm. St. Mark’s Christmas Tea & Sale- Bake Table, Crafts & Knitting and New-To-You-Table. The church will be open 6-8 pm Thursday evening to receive donations and again 1 pm. on Friday. If you have items for the New-To-You-Table please drop off on Thursday evening or early Friday afternoon.

Observer Subscriptions:  Please use one of the envelopes in the narthex to subscribe or renew and place on the collection plate by December 14, 2014.  Cost is just $20/yr.  For more info, please contact Lorna Harvey at 902-625-0535 or lorna.harvey3@gmail.com.

November 30th, Advent 1, 4:3O pm: All Ages Advent Event "Preparing the Way" Activity centres including making your own family/household Nativity Scene or Creche; informal worship. Concluding with soup and hotdog supper (provided) at 6:00 pm. St. Mark's Church hall. Everyone welcome.

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ST. DAVID’S ANNOUNCEMENTS

Lay Readers:
Nov. 23rd – Margie Mac Intyre
Nov. 30th – Arnold Mac Lean

Hall Cleaners for November are Claudette Fox & Ashley Fox.

St. David's UCW meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2014 at the home of Sally Fox at 1:30 pm.

November 23rd – St. David’s Official Board Meeting following Worship Service.
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COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Stella Maris Ladies Auxiliary Fall Bazaar on Sunday, November 16, from 1:00 to 2:30 pm at the Creignish Recreation Center.  The bazaar will feature a bake table, crafts, fish-pond, cake walk, silent auction, parcel post, new to you items, bingo, and kids “make & take,  50/50 draw, Tea/Coffee/Dessert --- fun for the whole family. 

There will be an evening of prayer, music and scripture for families and friends of those who have died while in the care of St. Martha’s Regional Hospital from February 1st, 2014 to July 31st, 2014. This service will be held in the Clare Marie Auditorium (former St. Martha’s Chapel) on Monday, November 24th, 2014 at 7:15 pm. Refreshments will follow.
Leeside Christmas Program Leeside Transition House provides Christmas gifts and food to families in need who use our sevices.  Many families receive assistance only from Leeside.  Donations from the community make the Christmas program possible.  You can help in one of the following ways: -Make a cash donation -Donate a gift card from a grocery store -"Adopt" a child or family to buy gifts for -Tell others about the Leeside Christmas program For more info. call Leeside at 902-625-1990.

An Olde Tyme Christmas at the Port Hastings Museum and Artisans Collective on Friday to Sunday, Nov. 28th to Nov. 30th  and Friday, Dec. 5th to Sunday, Dec. 7th - daily 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Special Christmas Displays throughout the Museum, quality hand crafted woven, quilted, knitted and carved gift items for Christmas from local artisans, children’s activities.  Bake sale on both Saturdays beginning at 2:00 pm. Caroling under the gazebo Friday, Nov. 28th at 6:30.

Christmas House Tour – Port Hawkesbury St. Mark’s Church, 504 Bernard Street Mangers from Around the World and 5 Summit Drive, 213 Philpott Street, 219 MacSween Street, 55 MacLaughlin Drive, 508 Prince Street, 38 Embree Island Road. Christmas tea to follow at the Port Hawkesbury Curling Club. Tickets $15. Saturday, December 6th 2:00 pm to 6:00pm. Tickets available at Fresh Mart, Mabou – Route 19 General Store, Troy, Home Hardware, Port Hood – Wayne’s Variety, Judique – Farmer’s Daughter, Whycocomagh, Bean There Café, Baddeck – Seal Cove Restautant, Loisdale – Jeantie’s Mini Mart, Arichat, - Lynn’s Flowers and Gifts, St. Peters – Bennett’s Market and Bakery, Antigonish. In Port Hawkesbury at the Reporter, Civic Centre, and Glorious Floral Design.

November 22nd, 2014 from 4:00pm-6:00pm – Roast Beef Dinner in support of a Port Hawkesbury Ranger traveling with Girl Guides of Canada to Mexico held at St. Mark’s Church Hall. $12.00 per person. For further information call 625-1969

December 6th Evergreen Seniors Club Christmas Bazaar & Tea from 1:00 – 4:00pm Doors open at 12:30 to view items for auction. Auction 1 pm sharp Bake table, crafts, Gramma’s attic, sale of tickets on handmade quilt, tickets on Christmas Basket. $2.00 admission.

Lights of Love Christmas Campaign- join the celebration this year by helping the R.K. Mac Donald Nursing Home light up their tree with bulbs dedicated to love. You can dedicate a bulb in memory of a deceased loved one or honour someone presently in your life. Monies raised will be used toward the construction of a Four Seasons Solarium/Sunroom, adjacent to the dining room at the nursing home. Solariums provide year-round natural light which will enhance psychological and physical well-being for all residents of the R.K. If you would like to make a donation in memory of a loved one, and are not already on our mailing list, please call the RK Foundation office and leave us your mailing address- 902-863-2578 Ext. 223. Please join us on Sunday, December 7, at 7 pm in the R.K.MacDonald Chapel for the dedication ceremony.

Holiday Bazaar – Strait Area Women’s Place invites you to share some Holiday Spirit from 10am-12 noon on Wednesday, November 26th. Door Decorating, Treats, Crafting, Games, Cookie Decorating, Cheerful Conversation.

Strait Area Women’s Place and Public Heath are hosting a Flu Clinic. Open to the public on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2014 from 1pm-6pm at 609 Church Street Suite 104. Bring your health card.

Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. You are invited to participate in a vigil of Remembrance and Hope on December 5, 2014 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at Strait Area Women’s Place Suite 104-609 Church Street, Port Hawkesbury. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information please call Strait Area Women’s Place at 902-625-1614. In 1991 December 6th was declared Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. The vigil is a time to remember all women and girls who live with violence or who have died as a result of violence. It is an opportunity to nurture our hope. The violence can end. You can make a difference.