Following is the November, 2007 CONTACT,
online version:
Reverend Sheldon LeGrow's Covenanting Service
Music Director: Al Fougere, Christine & Sheldon LeGrowand Guest Speaker Rev. Heather Manuel.
Contact Online is a Blog for St. Mark's United Church Community of Faith, Region 15 of the United Church of Canada. 504 Bernard Street, Port Hawkesbury, N.S. B9A 1L2, E-mail: stmarksuc@gmail.com St. Mark's United Church accepts and welcomes all people as we share and grow in acceptance, learn, love and share our Christian faith in God's love. Phone: (902) 625-2229, Church Services are held every Sunday at 9:30 a.m.
Friday, 30 November 2007
CONTACT November 2007
Following is the November, 2007 CONTACT,
online version:
Reverend Sheldon LeGrow's Covenanting Service
Music Director: Al Fougere, Christine & Sheldon LeGrowand Guest Speaker Rev. Heather Manuel.
The Editor
We now have a new addition to the blog team: Jim McLean, who has a fabulous new camera and will be taking pictures at St. Mark’s. I’m very grateful to Yvonne Fox, Arnold MacLean and Ian MacKinnon for their visual recording of events at St. David’s. Thanks for keeping the blog up to date during my two-week absence.
It’s a bit chilling to see snowflakes falling after a week on a mission trip to sunny Mexico. However, we do have a lot to be very thankful for here in Cape Breton, even though our weather is cold and grey. We don’t have to live in a gated compound and we have fresh running water in abundance and electricity (most of the time).
On departure day, the plan was to attend our Service of Remembrance. Hurricane Noel had paid us a visit leaving many areas without power, so our trip into Port Hawkesbury to attend Church was in vain. The notice on the door of the darkened Church stated that the service was cancelled. This is such a rare occurance that it was hard to believe!
We expect everything will continue as usual. Sometimes we need to be shaken up by something out of the ordinary. Mexico was that! We stood outside our comfort zone and allowed God to reveal new things.
Feliz Navidad!
Camille Chapman
It’s a bit chilling to see snowflakes falling after a week on a mission trip to sunny Mexico. However, we do have a lot to be very thankful for here in Cape Breton, even though our weather is cold and grey. We don’t have to live in a gated compound and we have fresh running water in abundance and electricity (most of the time).
On departure day, the plan was to attend our Service of Remembrance. Hurricane Noel had paid us a visit leaving many areas without power, so our trip into Port Hawkesbury to attend Church was in vain. The notice on the door of the darkened Church stated that the service was cancelled. This is such a rare occurance that it was hard to believe!
We expect everything will continue as usual. Sometimes we need to be shaken up by something out of the ordinary. Mexico was that! We stood outside our comfort zone and allowed God to reveal new things.
Feliz Navidad!
Camille Chapman
Minister’s Message
This is my first message for contact. What a wonderful way to keep in touch and to let folks know what’s happening in our spiritual community. Perhaps the most important aspect of any community is good communication. contact in newsletter and blog form does just that for us.
However, we mustn’t forget that we are a part of the greater United Church of Canada and it, too, has its media: The United Church Observer and wondercafe.ca. It’s important to keep up with what’s going on in our community and the world. It informs our faith and our spirituality. It helps us put things into context and challenges us to think about who we are and who God calls us to be. The world is changing. Ideas about religion and spirituality are changing. We can build on the past but we can’t cling to it. God isn’t there. God moves us ever forward and it’s in moving forward, into the unknown, that we exercise our faith.
Christine and I are really happy to be here at St. Mark’s and St. David’s. Everyone has been wonderful and we look forward to a fruitful ministry. Of course the term fruitful can be interpreted several ways but to let you know where I’m coming from, I have a definition of the role of an ordained minister.
Here it is:
The ordained minister has the theological education to appreciate many theological positions, recognizing that many people experience life differently and therefore experience God in different ways. The minister, therefore, encourages and invites education and spiritual development.
The minister encourages ownership by the congregation. It is their church community and they make the decisions, getting out of it what they seek in proportion to what they contribute.
The minister is seen as an enabler and facilitator; a non-biased, non-judgemental individual encouraging members of the congregation to come to their own decisions.
An ordained minister must help the congregation develop a vision as a community; to encourage them in seeing who and where they want to be in the future and helping them on their way.
An ordained minister must be a marketer. What we have is a product that can transform people’s lives and build community. That product must be attractive enough to invite people outside, inside.
The minister must inspire the congregation and provide an example for them to follow.
The minister should get to know the congregation. Pastoral care and visiting are important.
The minister is the bearer of God’s love and caring. This means offering oneself to be with those in distress, listening to them, comforting them, praying with and for them.
The minister provides a priestly role in the ritual of worship and sacrament; offering prayers on behalf of the congregation and individuals as well as presiding at worship services and offering inspirational messages.
The minister is the visible representative of the church to the congregation and the community.
As we enter into this new ministry I would ask you to ponder a few questions just for your own personal reflection.
1. Who or what is God, for me? In other words, what is your concept of God. Try to come up with a reasonable workable impression of how you think about God.
2. Who is Jesus, for me? Same idea as number 1.
3. What does the word faith mean to me and what does it mean to speak about my faith?
4. Do I want to grow, spiritually and experience God’s deeper presence in my life?
This should help in your self-reflection and as we meet and talk with one another, maybe we can share some of the insights we come up with.
In Christ,
Rev. Sheldon
Inverness County Welcomes Refugees Resettlement Project
We are very pleased to pass along the Kalley’s news. Donald was accepted into the post-graduate course in Marine Geomatics that began in September at the NSCC Campus in Lawrencetown. The family are renting a two-bedroom semi-detached house in Lawrencetown.
Michelle Campbell was buying a new vehicle so she very generously gave the Kalleys her 1998 Caravan - with all repairs up to date. Donald was thrilled to have the independence of a set of wheels!
Donald started a summer job at a new quarry on the Mulgrave side of the Strait on July 6th. Having the van was a real asset for this job and the company even paid for his mileage.
Now they are well settled in their home in Lawrencetown. Donalda celebrated her first birthday on October 14th and she has learned to walk!
Donald is doing very well with his studies. In fact he is tutoring some other students in math.
Chris started a course with Young Drivers of Canada on November 24th, so she should find getting around with two children much easier.
We wish them continued blessings in their second year living in Canada.
Camille Chapman
Michelle Campbell was buying a new vehicle so she very generously gave the Kalleys her 1998 Caravan - with all repairs up to date. Donald was thrilled to have the independence of a set of wheels!
Donald started a summer job at a new quarry on the Mulgrave side of the Strait on July 6th. Having the van was a real asset for this job and the company even paid for his mileage.
Now they are well settled in their home in Lawrencetown. Donalda celebrated her first birthday on October 14th and she has learned to walk!
Donald is doing very well with his studies. In fact he is tutoring some other students in math.
Chris started a course with Young Drivers of Canada on November 24th, so she should find getting around with two children much easier.
We wish them continued blessings in their second year living in Canada.
Camille Chapman
Port Hawkesbury Food Bank
Fall is upon us and so is the preparation for the Christmas season at the Food Bank. For several weeks we have been putting aside items which make good stocking stuffers or gifts such as hair products, soaps, candy, etc. The donations from the area Churches received on the last Sunday of each month are truly appreciated. Recently two of our volunteers gave a presentation to a community group in the West Bay area regarding the operation of the Food Bank. A week later a person who attended that session donated five hundred pounds of apples! Many groups during this season of the year are committing to donations to the Food Bank instead of having office parties or giving personal gifts.
Over the past year we have been encouraged to see some people who have had to use the Food Bank on occasion move into the work force. There are also those who are unable to do so and have to rely on social assistance for income which in most cases is inadequate to cover their expenses. Consider the case of a single person in a rural community who has just lost a job. We’ll call him Bob. Bob does not have enough hours to qualify for employment insurance and he only has a grade eleven education. If he qualified for social assistance and had no special circumstances he would receive $5,422.00 a year or $451.00 a month for rent, food and utilities, etc. The poverty line in 2005 was $17,895.00. To reach that he needs $12,473.00. So get a job Bob. If he got a job at minimum wage, the Department of Community Services would garnishee 70% of what he earns. If he worked thirty-five hours a week he would take home $4,000.00. All he has to do now is find another $8,000.00 to bring his income to the poverty line - he is caught in a poverty trap. The garnisheeing of income while on social assistance prevents many parents from entering the work force especially when child care is a factor to be considered.
From time to time we have people inquire about the operation of the Food Bank. We invite people who are interested to drop in on a Monday morning and see the crew hard at work and have a guided tour of the facility.
Thanks to all who help with this work and donate to the Food Bank.
Annabel Butts
Over the past year we have been encouraged to see some people who have had to use the Food Bank on occasion move into the work force. There are also those who are unable to do so and have to rely on social assistance for income which in most cases is inadequate to cover their expenses. Consider the case of a single person in a rural community who has just lost a job. We’ll call him Bob. Bob does not have enough hours to qualify for employment insurance and he only has a grade eleven education. If he qualified for social assistance and had no special circumstances he would receive $5,422.00 a year or $451.00 a month for rent, food and utilities, etc. The poverty line in 2005 was $17,895.00. To reach that he needs $12,473.00. So get a job Bob. If he got a job at minimum wage, the Department of Community Services would garnishee 70% of what he earns. If he worked thirty-five hours a week he would take home $4,000.00. All he has to do now is find another $8,000.00 to bring his income to the poverty line - he is caught in a poverty trap. The garnisheeing of income while on social assistance prevents many parents from entering the work force especially when child care is a factor to be considered.
From time to time we have people inquire about the operation of the Food Bank. We invite people who are interested to drop in on a Monday morning and see the crew hard at work and have a guided tour of the facility.
Thanks to all who help with this work and donate to the Food Bank.
Annabel Butts
Inverness-Guysborough Presbytery
Presbytery met at St. David's
We met at Greenwood United, Baddeck on September 11, 2007. Our guest at that meeting was Gary MacDonald, an Overseas Personnel member who has been serving in China for sixteen years. He lives in the north-west (Gobi desert area) of China and teaches English to students from remote areas. After their graduation these students will return to their homes to be English teachers. The average Sunday attendance at the church he attends is approximately 400.
Covenanting services were held for three new ministers to our Presbytery.
September 23, 2007 at St. Stephen’s United, Port Hood for the Rev. Roger Moore.
October 28, 2007 at St. Paul’s United, Canso for the Rev. Heather Manuel and November 21, 2007 at St. Mark’s United, Port Hawkesbury for the Rev. Sheldon LeGrow.
A JNA committee has been formed for the West Bay Pastoral Charge as Rev. Jim Bragan finishes his term as Interim minister at the end of December.
Presbytery received requests for discernment from Lana MacLean, Port Hawkesbury and Erin Hart, Margaree.
At the October meetings, held at St. Paul’s United, Canso a statement expressing Presbytery concerns of the recent actions of the Executive of the General Council in reducing the number of staff members at Head Office and cutting back on some programs was prepared and forwarded to the Executive of Maritime Conference for forwarding to General Council.
The November meeting was held at St. David’s United, Port Hastings.
The January meeting will be on January 22, 2008 at Stewart United, Whycocomagh and Barbara Rafuse, president of Maritime Conference will be our guest.
Maxine Smith,
Secretary
Choir Notes
On July 29 the choir conducted the service at St. Mark’s and on November 25 the combined choirs participated in the 122nd Anniversary service at St. David’s. Again this year the ecumenical choir sang for the Festival of Trees, a condensed version of the Frank Mills concert that we have performed several times before.
We were happy to welcome Patsy Brander and Emma Barss into the choir this autumn. There’s always room for more people who enjoy music.
Dave Chapman
Lest We Forget
The Remembrance service of St Mark’s was stormed off this year. It was intended to be 5th November, but overheated planetary conditions intervened.
The Port Hawkesbury Cenotaph columns (stylised cairns representing the three main conflicts of the last century) were rebuilt this year and walkways widened. The surrounding land is now dedicated Veterans Park. The Town Council and Federal Government supported this project and a great vote of thanks to all concerned is the order of the day.
The newly restored Memorial Park was officially unveiled during a ceremony held August 11. A delegation of Veterans and dignitaries gathered at the cenotaph for the ceremony and to pay their respects to all those who have served Canada.
“Our cenotaph was indeed in a very bad state, and increasingly becoming dangerous to the public,” said Arthur Riley, Chair Cenotaph Restoration Project. “It is really gratifying to know that all of us can come together on behalf of our Canadian Veterans, and especially those who made the supreme sacrifice and, in fact, are still making it.”
The Canadian Peacekeepers and the Afghanistan NATO efforts continue to give grave concern to all involved. Our continued prayers for success are needed more than ever. Material effort to support our troops is called for 100 percent.
Is there a peep of daylight on the horizon: The American troop surge in Iraq was effectively declared over yesterday, when officials announced that 5,000 soldiers will this week begin pulling out in response to declining violence.
AMEN, to that.
Lest we Forget
Bill Charlton
Chaplain
Branch 43
Royal Canadian Legion
The Port Hawkesbury Cenotaph columns (stylised cairns representing the three main conflicts of the last century) were rebuilt this year and walkways widened. The surrounding land is now dedicated Veterans Park. The Town Council and Federal Government supported this project and a great vote of thanks to all concerned is the order of the day.
The newly restored Memorial Park was officially unveiled during a ceremony held August 11. A delegation of Veterans and dignitaries gathered at the cenotaph for the ceremony and to pay their respects to all those who have served Canada.
“Our cenotaph was indeed in a very bad state, and increasingly becoming dangerous to the public,” said Arthur Riley, Chair Cenotaph Restoration Project. “It is really gratifying to know that all of us can come together on behalf of our Canadian Veterans, and especially those who made the supreme sacrifice and, in fact, are still making it.”
The Canadian Peacekeepers and the Afghanistan NATO efforts continue to give grave concern to all involved. Our continued prayers for success are needed more than ever. Material effort to support our troops is called for 100 percent.
Is there a peep of daylight on the horizon: The American troop surge in Iraq was effectively declared over yesterday, when officials announced that 5,000 soldiers will this week begin pulling out in response to declining violence.
AMEN, to that.
Lest we Forget
Bill Charlton
Chaplain
Branch 43
Royal Canadian Legion
Relay for Life
On June 1st and 2nd, 2007, Port Hawkesbury’s first Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life was held on the grounds of the Tamarac Elementary School. This was a celebration of survival, a tribute to the lives of loved ones and a night of fun, entertainment, friendship, great food and fund raising to beat cancer. This was a 12-hour overnight non-competitive relay. Participants took turns walking, running or strolling around a track. Cancer survivors were invited to walk the first lap, it was very emotional as we watched the survivor’s victory lap which acknowledges and celebrates their courage in their struggle with cancer. At dusk, luminaries were lit all around the track. These are purchased In memory of or In honour of loved ones. They stayed lit all night as a quiet remembrance. St. Mark’s team, “St. Mark’s Striders”
consisted of 15 members who raised funds and sold luminaries. The total raised by St. Mark’s team was $1,744.00 exceeding our goal of $1,500.00. The overall amount raised over the two days was approximately $98,000.00. A BIG THANK YOU, to everyone who participated and helped.
Elaine Noseworthy
Team Captain
consisted of 15 members who raised funds and sold luminaries. The total raised by St. Mark’s team was $1,744.00 exceeding our goal of $1,500.00. The overall amount raised over the two days was approximately $98,000.00. A BIG THANK YOU, to everyone who participated and helped.
Elaine Noseworthy
Team Captain
Quilt Show and Sale at St. David’s
The Tea Thyme Quilters @ St. Mark’s had a very successful Quilt Show and Sale in August, at the beautiful St. David’s Church. The church was in full regalia with over 100 quilts on display. The show brought in visitors from far and wide: England, USA and Cape Breton. Those who came where both pleased and amazed at the different styles and works of the Cape Breton Quilters and particularly the beauty of the church. Ladies from St. David’s greeted the visitors and shared information on the history of the church with the many visitors. Donations were received and everyone signed the guest book.
Quilts were hung between the windows, over the balcony and placed on all the pews, for a spectacular view. Many also enjoyed viewing the Blankets of Love Quilts made by local quilters. These quilts are made for patients in Nova Scotia suffering from a mental illness.
After viewing the quilts the visitors came into the hall for tea and cookies and especially to buy the many smaller quilted items for sale.
The Quilters are looking forward to next year’s show and hope it will be bigger and better than last year’s. (Especially with the Candy Shop traffic!)
Barb MacIntyre
Quilts were hung between the windows, over the balcony and placed on all the pews, for a spectacular view. Many also enjoyed viewing the Blankets of Love Quilts made by local quilters. These quilts are made for patients in Nova Scotia suffering from a mental illness.
After viewing the quilts the visitors came into the hall for tea and cookies and especially to buy the many smaller quilted items for sale.
The Quilters are looking forward to next year’s show and hope it will be bigger and better than last year’s. (Especially with the Candy Shop traffic!)
Barb MacIntyre
St. David’s 122nd Anniversary November 25th, 2007
For the one hundred and twenty second anniversary of the official opening of St. David’s Church, Lorna MacRury carried on a tradition that kept the church going through the years. Although the area was settled in the 1790’s and the first recorded Presbyterian service was held by missionary clergy in 1818 in a building on Lorna’s great, great grandfather, Adam MacPherson’s farm in Askilton, it wasn’t until 1832 that the first minister, Rev. Dougald McKichan arrived and settled in the River Inhabitants area.
In fact, when Rev. William Gordon Forbes retired in 1881 after 29 years of ministry in the Strait area, the congregation continued with plans to build a new church. St. David’s Presbyterian Church was officially opened on November 29th, 1885, but it would be two more years before they had a minister when Rev. Donald MacDonald arrived.
Lorna noted that St. David’s is well cared for and loved by those who worship here, leaving lasting legacies such as the the Rosetta window and the Christ the King stained glass window.
It was lay people like Lorna who provided continuity over the years as ordained ministers come and go.
Yvonne Fox
SAERC Graduates 2007
Jessica Bussey
Lauren Gillis
Jessica MacInnis
Kyle MacDonald
Luke MacNeil
Craig MacRae
Ernest Reinberger
Sara Wagar
Sara WagarThe following SAERC graduates did not submit their photo:
Timothy Gillis
Alex Greencorn
Sherry Shear
Alex Greencorn
Sherry Shear
Luke 11:9
“And so I say to you: Ask, and you will receive; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.”
Our University Graduate
Brent Butcher
Graduated from
University of Kings College
June 2007
Bachelor of Journalism
Son of Frank & Annemary Butcher
Grandson of
Hermann & Anna Hildebrandt
Graduated from
University of Kings College
June 2007
Bachelor of Journalism
Son of Frank & Annemary Butcher
Grandson of
Hermann & Anna Hildebrandt
In Memoriam
ST. MARK’S
Laura Elizabeth Swain
November 28, 1929 - August 12, 2007
Lester Herbert Swain
July 16, 1926 - August 14, 2007
Olive Mary King
May 3, 1918 - September 10, 2007
Garfield Emerson Long
January 16, 1959 - September 19, 2007
Wilma Gertrude Monahan
March 18, 1920 - September 25, 2007
(Graveside Service Only)
ST. DAVID’S
November 28, 1929 - August 12, 2007
Lester Herbert Swain
July 16, 1926 - August 14, 2007
Olive Mary King
May 3, 1918 - September 10, 2007
Garfield Emerson Long
January 16, 1959 - September 19, 2007
Wilma Gertrude Monahan
March 18, 1920 - September 25, 2007
(Graveside Service Only)
ST. DAVID’S
Sarah Catherine MacQuarrie
February 27, 1919 - June 13, 2007,
Robert Gordon MacGregor
April 10, 1922- October 7, 2007
Robert Gordon MacGregor
April 10, 1922- October 7, 2007
Baptisms
ST. MARK’S Baptism October 21, 2007
Kale Donald Hart
Son of Lennan B. Hart & Heather (Urquhart) Hart
Born June 19, 2007
Coleson Willam Morris
Son of Nicolas Morris & Jennifer Arnold
Born November 3, 2007
ST. MARK’S Baptism October 28, 2007
Carter Laughlin Petrie
Son of Winston Harvey Petrie & Megan Hudson Petrie
Born June 29, 2004
Clara Eaton Petrie
Daughter of Winston Harvey Petrie & Megan Hudson Petrie
Born April 20, 2007
Kale Donald Hart
Son of Lennan B. Hart & Heather (Urquhart) Hart
Born June 19, 2007
Coleson Willam Morris
Son of Nicolas Morris & Jennifer Arnold
Born November 3, 2007
ST. MARK’S Baptism October 28, 2007
Carter Laughlin Petrie
Son of Winston Harvey Petrie & Megan Hudson Petrie
Born June 29, 2004
Clara Eaton Petrie
Daughter of Winston Harvey Petrie & Megan Hudson Petrie
Born April 20, 2007
Covenanting Service for Reverend Sheldon LeGrow
A service of Covenanting to recognize the ministry of the Rev. Sheldon LeGrow of the St. Mark’s Pastoral Charge took place by Commission of the Inverness-Guysborough Presbytery at St. Mark’s United Church, Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia on Sunday, November 18th, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. Rev. Donna Tourneur, Chair of Presbytery, presided over the act of covenanting and the sermon was delivered by the Rev. Heather Manuel.
The Warrant to Covenant was read by Maxine Smith, secretary of the Presbytery.
Rev. LeGrow was presented to the Chairperson and the congregation by Annabel Butts, a member of St. Mark’s Pastoral Charge and Ian MacKinnon, a member of St. David’s Pastoral Charge.
The symbols were presented by members of the Pastoral Charges: Bowl and Water (Andy Palmer); Seeds (Page Walker); Bread and Wine (Larry MacKeigan).
Commissioning and Benediction were pronounced by Rev. LeGrow.
Following the service there was a time of fellowship and refreshments.
Maxine Smith
The Warrant to Covenant was read by Maxine Smith, secretary of the Presbytery.
Rev. LeGrow was presented to the Chairperson and the congregation by Annabel Butts, a member of St. Mark’s Pastoral Charge and Ian MacKinnon, a member of St. David’s Pastoral Charge.
The symbols were presented by members of the Pastoral Charges: Bowl and Water (Andy Palmer); Seeds (Page Walker); Bread and Wine (Larry MacKeigan).
Commissioning and Benediction were pronounced by Rev. LeGrow.
Following the service there was a time of fellowship and refreshments.
Maxine Smith
St. Mark’s Congregational Board
The short dark days of fall have arrived, but on a brighter side our church community has taken on new energy with the fall activities and the arrival of Rev. Sheldon LeGrow and his wife Christene to the Pastoral Charges. They are settling in nicely, have made numberous contacts through visitation and community events and we look forward to their Ministery here. We of course were saddened by the departure of Rev.Wilf and Melita Pelly but know that they also are happy in their new home.
The nominating committee of the Board is now preparing to bring in the new slate of officiers for the year 2008. It is hoped that many will offer for another term but also that new people will come forward with an interest in serving on one of the committees.
I would like to thank those who helped me through my year as Board Chairperson especially Ruth, as Board Secretary, Jane as Church Secretary, and the Committee chairpersons.
We are now entering the Season of Advent so let us remember the true meaning of the Season as we celebrate with our families and friends.
May God richly bless us all through out the Season and the coming year.
Annabel Butts
The nominating committee of the Board is now preparing to bring in the new slate of officiers for the year 2008. It is hoped that many will offer for another term but also that new people will come forward with an interest in serving on one of the committees.
I would like to thank those who helped me through my year as Board Chairperson especially Ruth, as Board Secretary, Jane as Church Secretary, and the Committee chairpersons.
We are now entering the Season of Advent so let us remember the true meaning of the Season as we celebrate with our families and friends.
May God richly bless us all through out the Season and the coming year.
Annabel Butts
St. David’s Official Board
Since the last contact of June 2007 was issued, St. David’s has experienced a loss in the retirement of Rev. Wilfred Pelley. We wish both him and Melita much happiness as they pursue activities that they have put on the back burner over the last few years. With that, we welcome Rev. Legrow and his wife Christine to our church community. We are happy to see that he has brought a renewed life to St. David’s following the absence of a minister during the summer months. We appreciate the energy and commitment he brings to the congregation.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Kalley family as they continue the transition of making a home in Nova Scotia.
As we prepare for the Advent Season we hope that all will take time out of their busy schedule for personal reflection and to make time to spend with family and people in their community.
Alicia Vink
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Kalley family as they continue the transition of making a home in Nova Scotia.
As we prepare for the Advent Season we hope that all will take time out of their busy schedule for personal reflection and to make time to spend with family and people in their community.
Alicia Vink
St. David’s Board of Stewards
St. David’s Church and hall now have energy saving lights installed. In early May Port Hastings Fire Department was given information on these lights and were lucky to obtain a good number to do all the Church and upstairs of the Church hall. These lights do make a difference in lighting. Thanks to the personnel who replaced the bulbs and cleaning all the fixtures.
St. David’s has a new wind break at the door of the Church hall. Thanks to Harvey and Douglas Timmons for replacing the wind break. Looks great!
In August of 2008, again St. David’s will host the Quilt weekend. Last year the event went very well. Members of the congregation will again be asked to help out. Anyone interested in helping you can contact any board member. Mostly the work is at the door passing out information and greeting people. Great to make a schedule early as lots of hands make light work.
Ian MacKinnon
St. David’s has a new wind break at the door of the Church hall. Thanks to Harvey and Douglas Timmons for replacing the wind break. Looks great!
In August of 2008, again St. David’s will host the Quilt weekend. Last year the event went very well. Members of the congregation will again be asked to help out. Anyone interested in helping you can contact any board member. Mostly the work is at the door passing out information and greeting people. Great to make a schedule early as lots of hands make light work.
Ian MacKinnon
Helping Hands
Once again St. Mark’s Helping Hands organized a very successful Yard Sale and Bake Sale on September 15th. The amount raised was an amazing $900.00!
Thanks are given to all who helped set up, brought in items and especially those who baked for the kitchen sale.
On September 18th, the Congregational Board received a cheque in the amount of $1000.00 from the Helping Hands account to be used for the taxes on the manse.
Barb MacIntyre
Thanks are given to all who helped set up, brought in items and especially those who baked for the kitchen sale.
On September 18th, the Congregational Board received a cheque in the amount of $1000.00 from the Helping Hands account to be used for the taxes on the manse.
Barb MacIntyre
St. Mark’s Worship and Pastoral Care Committee
Since our last contact, a Discernment Committee has been appointed for a one year period to assist Lana MacLean in exploring her vocational direction toward ministry.
Church services were held at St. David’s during the month of July. Services at St. Mark’s in August were led by Lana MacLean, Marina Martins & Joyce Oliver-Snair, Chris Cook and Gary MacDonald, Bob Latimer led the service on September2nd. Starting September 9th services were held at St. Mark’s and St. David’s led by Ruth Digdon, Lorna MacRury, Linda Schurzinger and Jim St. Clair. We were extremely grateful to the clergy and lay ministers who shared their gifts until our new minister was able to begin his ministry with us. A big thank you goes out to committee members June Oliver and Marie Horton who worked hard over the summer to arrange for supply ministry for this period.
Reverend Sheldon LeGrow performed his first service on October 7th and we all welcome Sheldon and his wife Christine to our community. Rev. LeGrow’s Covenanting Service was held on November 18th.
Communion was served on May 27 serving 92 members and Thanksgiving Sunday, October 7, serving 142.
The sanctuary was beautifully decorated for Thanksgiving by Bonnie Dawson for which the Worship and Pastoral Care Committee were very appreciative.
On October 21, Colson Morris (son of Jennifer Arnold and Nick Morris) and Kale Donald Hart (son of Lennie and Heather Hart) were baptized and on October 28, Carter Loughlin Petrie and Clara Eaton Petrie (children of Winston & Megan Petrie) were baptized.
One marriage ceremony has been approved for 2008.
Archie Noseworthy
Church services were held at St. David’s during the month of July. Services at St. Mark’s in August were led by Lana MacLean, Marina Martins & Joyce Oliver-Snair, Chris Cook and Gary MacDonald, Bob Latimer led the service on September2nd. Starting September 9th services were held at St. Mark’s and St. David’s led by Ruth Digdon, Lorna MacRury, Linda Schurzinger and Jim St. Clair. We were extremely grateful to the clergy and lay ministers who shared their gifts until our new minister was able to begin his ministry with us. A big thank you goes out to committee members June Oliver and Marie Horton who worked hard over the summer to arrange for supply ministry for this period.
Reverend Sheldon LeGrow performed his first service on October 7th and we all welcome Sheldon and his wife Christine to our community. Rev. LeGrow’s Covenanting Service was held on November 18th.
Communion was served on May 27 serving 92 members and Thanksgiving Sunday, October 7, serving 142.
The sanctuary was beautifully decorated for Thanksgiving by Bonnie Dawson for which the Worship and Pastoral Care Committee were very appreciative.
On October 21, Colson Morris (son of Jennifer Arnold and Nick Morris) and Kale Donald Hart (son of Lennie and Heather Hart) were baptized and on October 28, Carter Loughlin Petrie and Clara Eaton Petrie (children of Winston & Megan Petrie) were baptized.
One marriage ceremony has been approved for 2008.
Archie Noseworthy
St. Mark’s Trustees and Finance Committee
We have installed a loop transmitter for the sound system which broadcasts a radio frequency signal that can be picked up by telecoils in most modern hearing aids. This makes it possible for people with hearing aids to hear the sound system directly without background noise. The system was installed by a group of retired telephone employees who install these systems for the audio in public buildings on a volunteer basis at minimum charge. It was installed in September and paid for from the Memorial Fund. For best reception, one should sit within about ten feet (three meters) of the sidewall or the back of the sanctuary. One person, who attends faithfully, said it was the first time she had heard the whole service in three years.
If you have any questions, ask Andy Palmer. Some hearing aids have to be switched manually to RF mode.
The interior of the manse was painted during the summer after Rev. Pelley moved out.
A ride-on mower has been purchased and tested. It works well. Next spring we will need a shed for it. This will save volunteers from having to bring their own mowers, and should make it a lot easier to get volunteers for the job.
A window has been installed in the door to the minister’s office, and arrangements are being made to bring high speed internet to the minister’s computer.
Dave Chapman
If you have any questions, ask Andy Palmer. Some hearing aids have to be switched manually to RF mode.
The interior of the manse was painted during the summer after Rev. Pelley moved out.
A ride-on mower has been purchased and tested. It works well. Next spring we will need a shed for it. This will save volunteers from having to bring their own mowers, and should make it a lot easier to get volunteers for the job.
A window has been installed in the door to the minister’s office, and arrangements are being made to bring high speed internet to the minister’s computer.
Dave Chapman
St. David’s U.C.W.
St. David’s UCW resumed monthly meetings on September 12th when we met at the home of Yvonne Fox. In October, we met at Patsy Swain’s and were pleased to have Rev. LeGrow and Christine drop in for a visit and a cup of tea. We will continue to meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 1:30 p.m. instead of at noon. All women of the congregation are invited to attend.
In September, we received a rebate check from Sobey’s for $266.00 which was a tremendous boost to our finances. Thank you to Margaret Ashford for all her work tabulating the cash register slips and to the congregation for supporting this project.
Our group looked after the food for two receptions in October following a funeral and a committal service. We catered the evening meal for the Inverness Guysborough Presbytery meeting on November 13th. Our pie sale originally scheduled for December 6th has been postponed for now. We will do our annual Christmas Dinner Boxes for needy families in our area. We also plan to collect used winter clothing to send to the Brunswick Street Mission in Halifax.
St. David’s UCW members extend a warm welcome to Rev. Sheldon and Christine LeGrow and hope they will have a happy time in our midst.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Julia MacKinnon
In September, we received a rebate check from Sobey’s for $266.00 which was a tremendous boost to our finances. Thank you to Margaret Ashford for all her work tabulating the cash register slips and to the congregation for supporting this project.
Our group looked after the food for two receptions in October following a funeral and a committal service. We catered the evening meal for the Inverness Guysborough Presbytery meeting on November 13th. Our pie sale originally scheduled for December 6th has been postponed for now. We will do our annual Christmas Dinner Boxes for needy families in our area. We also plan to collect used winter clothing to send to the Brunswick Street Mission in Halifax.
St. David’s UCW members extend a warm welcome to Rev. Sheldon and Christine LeGrow and hope they will have a happy time in our midst.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Julia MacKinnon
St. Mark’s Men’s Group
We donated $50.00 each for two delegates to the Youth Forum. One could not attend due to a conflicting activity so her cheque was returned.
Since we had purchased a new computer for the Church earlier in the year, we chose to pass on our annual $500.00 donation to the General Fund this year.
We will probably do our usual fundraiser, possibly a buffet supper, likely on February 1st. This is on the agenda to be discussed at our December meeting.
Dave Chapman
Since we had purchased a new computer for the Church earlier in the year, we chose to pass on our annual $500.00 donation to the General Fund this year.
We will probably do our usual fundraiser, possibly a buffet supper, likely on February 1st. This is on the agenda to be discussed at our December meeting.
Dave Chapman
St. Mark’s Mission and Outreach Committee
What is the Mission and Service Fund?
The United Church is able to love, serve, and minister in the world
thanks to the Mission and Service Fund. This unified fund connects us to
others around the corner and around the world to whom we offer a loving
hand of support. The M&S Fund connects us to each other as members of
the United Church in Canada and Bermuda, enabling us to speak with a
united voice in advocacy and justice work and to participate together in
our worship life. The M&S Fund connects us to our faith: we live in
God's world, we believe in God who works in us and by the Spirit. The
M&S Fund is the only fund in which members and friends of the United
Church pool their givings. Gifts are also given by members to their
local church, but it is through the Mission and Service Fund that we
collectively live our creed "to be the Church, to celebrate God's
presence, to live with respect in Creation, to love and serve others,
and to seek justice and resist evil."
Gifts to the Mission and Service Fund from congregations, individuals,
and from bequests have exceeded $30,000,000 annually since 2000. This
money is spent in hundreds of different ways. Some of the money supports
congregations, programs, and new church development. Some of the money
is spent in Canadian outreach programs; some on international relief and
development programs; some to train ministers; some to maintain
ecumenical relationships; some to administer the work of the church.
Supporters of the Mission and Service Fund want to give their gifts to
support work that reflects their values and beliefs. The United Church's
Mission and Service Fund works with partners in Canada and
internationally to ensure that needs are assessed quickly and
accurately, that responses are immediate, and that ongoing support helps
prevent problems from recurring. Because of the Mission and Service
Fund, the United Church is able to quickly respond to emergency
situations without waiting for media appeals to create interest in them.
Working with reliable trusted partners in Canada and in 37 countries
means that less money is spent coordinating and delivering aid and more
money goes where it is needed. The United Church is also blessed by the
countless hours of work fulfilled by hundreds of United Church
volunteers. These individuals enable more of your M&S gifts to go to our
partners and to the work we share.
Consider supporting the Mission and Service Fund. You can make a gift
through your local church. At St. Mark's we have a commitment of
$12,600 for the year 2007 and already $11,000 of that has been submitted
to the national church. Last year we exceeded our commitment and we
hope to do so again. It is by giving that we receive, and we are truly
blessed in our congregation that so many people believe in helping
others through the Mission and Service fund of our church. If you don't
already contribute to the Mission and Service fund, please consider an
extra few dollars for the work of the church in the world--remember you
need to mark your envelope with the portion to go to M & S. Thank you
for your support.
Lana MacLean
The United Church is able to love, serve, and minister in the world
thanks to the Mission and Service Fund. This unified fund connects us to
others around the corner and around the world to whom we offer a loving
hand of support. The M&S Fund connects us to each other as members of
the United Church in Canada and Bermuda, enabling us to speak with a
united voice in advocacy and justice work and to participate together in
our worship life. The M&S Fund connects us to our faith: we live in
God's world, we believe in God who works in us and by the Spirit. The
M&S Fund is the only fund in which members and friends of the United
Church pool their givings. Gifts are also given by members to their
local church, but it is through the Mission and Service Fund that we
collectively live our creed "to be the Church, to celebrate God's
presence, to live with respect in Creation, to love and serve others,
and to seek justice and resist evil."
Gifts to the Mission and Service Fund from congregations, individuals,
and from bequests have exceeded $30,000,000 annually since 2000. This
money is spent in hundreds of different ways. Some of the money supports
congregations, programs, and new church development. Some of the money
is spent in Canadian outreach programs; some on international relief and
development programs; some to train ministers; some to maintain
ecumenical relationships; some to administer the work of the church.
Supporters of the Mission and Service Fund want to give their gifts to
support work that reflects their values and beliefs. The United Church's
Mission and Service Fund works with partners in Canada and
internationally to ensure that needs are assessed quickly and
accurately, that responses are immediate, and that ongoing support helps
prevent problems from recurring. Because of the Mission and Service
Fund, the United Church is able to quickly respond to emergency
situations without waiting for media appeals to create interest in them.
Working with reliable trusted partners in Canada and in 37 countries
means that less money is spent coordinating and delivering aid and more
money goes where it is needed. The United Church is also blessed by the
countless hours of work fulfilled by hundreds of United Church
volunteers. These individuals enable more of your M&S gifts to go to our
partners and to the work we share.
Consider supporting the Mission and Service Fund. You can make a gift
through your local church. At St. Mark's we have a commitment of
$12,600 for the year 2007 and already $11,000 of that has been submitted
to the national church. Last year we exceeded our commitment and we
hope to do so again. It is by giving that we receive, and we are truly
blessed in our congregation that so many people believe in helping
others through the Mission and Service fund of our church. If you don't
already contribute to the Mission and Service fund, please consider an
extra few dollars for the work of the church in the world--remember you
need to mark your envelope with the portion to go to M & S. Thank you
for your support.
Lana MacLean
Ten Thousand Villages Sale Was the Best Yet!
Ten Thousand Villages Fair Trade Craft Sale held October 27, 2007 at St. Mark’s realized $11,819.35 before taxes. This is greater than last year’s total sales of $11,200. The profit from $3,500 in sales would keep a family of four for one year. The profit that St. Mark’s garnered for the crafts people, this year, was sufficient to keep 3.4 families of four for one year!
Thanks to all who worked at the sale, unpacked, set up, those who worked on checkouts, those who prepared food for the volunteers, those who packed up the remaining crafts at the end of the sale and those enlightened, discerning shoppers who chose to support this admirable cause. A special thanks to Jean Wilson, who opened her home to the people from the Mennonite Central Committee. Ten Thousand Villages is a non-profit program of Mennonite Central Committee, the relief and development agency of Mennonite and Brethren in Christ churches in North America. St. Mark’s has hosted this Craft show and sale for a number of years and it was decided to do it again next year. So, mark your calendar for October 25, 2008.
Lana MacLean
Ten Thousand Villages Fair Trade Craft Sale held October 27, 2007 at St. Mark’s realized $11,819.35 before taxes. This is greater than last year’s total sales of $11,200. The profit from $3,500 in sales would keep a family of four for one year. The profit that St. Mark’s garnered for the crafts people, this year, was sufficient to keep 3.4 families of four for one year!
Thanks to all who worked at the sale, unpacked, set up, those who worked on checkouts, those who prepared food for the volunteers, those who packed up the remaining crafts at the end of the sale and those enlightened, discerning shoppers who chose to support this admirable cause. A special thanks to Jean Wilson, who opened her home to the people from the Mennonite Central Committee. Ten Thousand Villages is a non-profit program of Mennonite Central Committee, the relief and development agency of Mennonite and Brethren in Christ churches in North America. St. Mark’s has hosted this Craft show and sale for a number of years and it was decided to do it again next year. So, mark your calendar for October 25, 2008.
Lana MacLean
St. Mark’s Ways & Means Committee
The amount that was turned in from the Pringle Can summer fundraiser to date is $770.95. Not all of the cans that were taken in the Spring have been returned, so if you have a Pringle Can at home with your change in it, please bring it or give it to Gladys or any member of the Ways & Means Committee as soon as possible.
Our last fundraiser was a very successful roast beef dinner that was held on November 2nd. We made a profit of $1820.00. There were enough donations made by members of the congregation to cover the cost of the groceries, which was a tremendous help. A few notes were made following the dinner on quantities to buy or make for our next dinner, i.e. throw a few more potatoes in the pot, cook more turnips, make more gravy, don’t let Angus drain the peas, etc., and hopefully there will be enough food left for the crew who worked so hard dishing up, serving, cleaning up, doing dishes or whatever anyone did on that day. We received many great compliments on the meal and the desserts. There is a new member on the W & M Committee this year who is a keeper in the kitchen - no names mentioned but he is tall, has grey hair and works at a car dealership, and there are a couple of other members who are great potato peelers. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed in any way - without your support this annual event would not take place and it is truly appreciated.
Ruth MacRae
Our last fundraiser was a very successful roast beef dinner that was held on November 2nd. We made a profit of $1820.00. There were enough donations made by members of the congregation to cover the cost of the groceries, which was a tremendous help. A few notes were made following the dinner on quantities to buy or make for our next dinner, i.e. throw a few more potatoes in the pot, cook more turnips, make more gravy, don’t let Angus drain the peas, etc., and hopefully there will be enough food left for the crew who worked so hard dishing up, serving, cleaning up, doing dishes or whatever anyone did on that day. We received many great compliments on the meal and the desserts. There is a new member on the W & M Committee this year who is a keeper in the kitchen - no names mentioned but he is tall, has grey hair and works at a car dealership, and there are a couple of other members who are great potato peelers. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed in any way - without your support this annual event would not take place and it is truly appreciated.
Ruth MacRae
St. Mark’s Church Directory
This is the fourth time that St. Mark’s has had a pictorial directory and the second time it has been combined with St. David’s. It is also the second time for Universal Portrait Studios of Church Point, Nova Scotia, to do the directory. Much effort has been made to have the directory as complete and accurate as possible. Ninety-six of St. Mark’s families will be represented in the directory. Some people have worked many hours to help prepare this directory. Dorothy Dingle, Ruth MacRae, Gladys and Rilla phoned the 188 families on our congregational list to see if they wanted their pictures taken. Jean Wilson, Linda Howlett, Judy Castle, Ruth Laskey, Gladys and Rilla acted as greeters for the six days of the photo shoot. Ruth MacRae typed the Church Roster a number of times to ensure we have all the names spelled correctly plus correct phone numbers and addresses. Camille Chapman helped to choose, lay out and write captions for the four pages of pictures that will give a view of life at St. Mark’s for the past five years since the last directory. She also prepared the submitted photos that Jim McLean took for the people unable to keep their appointments.
We thank all of you who supported this project by posing or helping. We hope you like your pictures and use the new Church directory for the next five years.
Rilla McLean
We thank all of you who supported this project by posing or helping. We hope you like your pictures and use the new Church directory for the next five years.
Rilla McLean
St. Mark's Special Events Group
We held our Christmas Bazaar on Friday, November 23rd. This included a bake table with a pies, pies and more pies, a new to you table, crafts table and of course a cup of tea with lots of goodies. It was a great a success giving us a total of $2,146.25! Thanks all!
The Special Events group made donations to the following, Food Bank, Brunswick Street Mission, LeesideTransition House, Seasonal Services and to our Foster Child. We will also be giving candy to our residents in the nursing home for Christmas.
We prepared lunch for several funerals and prepared sandwiches for the Ross wedding and catered to Presbytery Meeting.
We were all very saddened by the death of Laura Swain who was a long time, dedicated member of our group. We will certainly miss Laura’s imput and her presence at our meetings.
June Oliver
The Special Events group made donations to the following, Food Bank, Brunswick Street Mission, LeesideTransition House, Seasonal Services and to our Foster Child. We will also be giving candy to our residents in the nursing home for Christmas.
We prepared lunch for several funerals and prepared sandwiches for the Ross wedding and catered to Presbytery Meeting.
We were all very saddened by the death of Laura Swain who was a long time, dedicated member of our group. We will certainly miss Laura’s imput and her presence at our meetings.
June Oliver
St. David’s Sunday School
St. David’s Sunday School opened Sunday September 16, 2007. We are again using the Seasons Of The Spirit curriculum. This year we ordered the multi-age package, which is for children 5 to 12 years old, and we have been doing well with it.
We are very excited to have Page Walker back teaching again this year. All the Children love her and she is a fantastic asset to our Sunday School program.
The children are becoming very excited as we prepare for the Advent Season and for the White Gift Service on Sunday December 9, 2007.
I would like to thank everyone for their continued support and hope everyone enjoys a safe and happy Holiday season.
Lisa Rhynold
We are very excited to have Page Walker back teaching again this year. All the Children love her and she is a fantastic asset to our Sunday School program.
The children are becoming very excited as we prepare for the Advent Season and for the White Gift Service on Sunday December 9, 2007.
I would like to thank everyone for their continued support and hope everyone enjoys a safe and happy Holiday season.
Lisa Rhynold
St. Mark's Sunday School & Christian Education Committee
The 2006-07 year ended with a pool party, followed by cake and ice cream. Everyone had great time.
We are very fortunate to have twelve Sunday School teachers. We welcome the addition of Karen MacKinnon as a new teacher who has replaced Brenda MacEachern. The Sunday School extends a heartfelt Thank You to Brenda who has given a great deal of her time, and continues to support the Sunday School through her work with the Christian Education Committee. If there are any members of the congregation who would like to participate in the Sunday School program, we would welcome their involvement at any time. We are currently without a Sunday School Superintendent. As a result, the Christian Education Committee has taken over this role.
Nursery coverage has been discontinued at this time. We are encouraging parents to utilize the Nursery and would like to remind them that the church service is broadcast there via speakers.
On September 16th, we began Sunday School Registration. We currently have 16 children registered. We are continuing to use the One Room Sunday School curriculum, with separate Junior and Senior Sunday School groups. Our registration is ongoing, and we would welcome children to join the Sunday School at any time.
On October 15th, the Sunday School Teachers and Christian Education Committee members held a tea. Rev. and Mrs. LeGrow were present. There was discussion about Rev. LeGrow’s goals for the Sunday School, and how we as teachers can best prepare the children for Confirmation. It was a very enjoyable evening, and was wonderful to become more acquainted with the LeGrows.
The Sunday School children participated in the Thanksgiving service by carrying the congregation’s food donations to the altar. The food was later delivered to the Port Hawkesbury Food Bank. Thank you to all who donated items, and to those who delivered them.
There were four children Baptized this Fall. The Sunday School children presented each child with a banner, made by the Sunday School children, and a lamb with the child’s name and date of baptism which remain on the Cradle Roll banners.
We will soon be preparing for the Hanging of the Greens service at St. Mark’s on Sunday December 2nd at 7 p.m. The service will include both the Sunday School children and the youth. We encourage the congregation to attend this beautiful service.
Thank you to the Christian Education Committee for the support they are providing to the Sunday School. Thank you to Jane for all that she does to help us, and to Al and the Choir for their support to the Sunday School throughout the year. The Sunday School extends a heartfelt welcome to Rev. and Mrs. LeGrow, and thanks them for the wonderful support and guidance they have already provided.
Heather Brander
St. Mark's Christmas Bazaar & Tea
St. Mark's Special Events Group (U.C.W.) outdid themselves again this year with a grand total of $2,146.25 profit. Thanks to all who contributed to this event, either by baking, making crafts, selling at tables, taking admission, working in the kitchen serving the tea and setting up and cleaning up after it was over. Great work everyone!
Wednesday, 21 November 2007
St. Mark's Annual Christmas Bazaar & Tea, Friday November 23
St. Mark's Annual Bazaar & Tea
November 23, 2007
7:00 p.m. - 9 p.m.
*********************************************
Tea, Home Baking, Crafts and New-to-you Table
Admission: $2.00 per person
*********************************************
For information contact:
June Oliver 625-1098, Connie Fowlie 625-1417 or Annabel Butts 625-0741
November 23, 2007
7:00 p.m. - 9 p.m.
*********************************************
Tea, Home Baking, Crafts and New-to-you Table
Admission: $2.00 per person
*********************************************
For information contact:
June Oliver 625-1098, Connie Fowlie 625-1417 or Annabel Butts 625-0741
Tuesday, 20 November 2007
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