An Introduction to the Christian Faith & Life
Join us for our annual parish mission on Saturday, November 5, at 7.00 p.m. with guest speaker Fr. Theadore Hunt. Fr. Theadore is the Incumbent at St. Stephen’s, Downsview, and was an associate priest at St. Paul’s from 2012 - 2017. The annual mission is an opportunity for every member to invite friends and family for a simple introduction to the Christian faith and life. Pray that the Lord might place someone on your mind who would be well served by the Mission. Everyone is welcome. The Pans will perform. A reception will follow the evening service. Tamil Evangelical Festival Raises $4000 for Bridge of Hope It was a wonderful evening last Saturday (October 22) for the Tamil Mission with wonderful music, guest speakers, a video presentation about the Bridge of Hope Palliative Care program in northern Sri Lanka, and $4000 raised for its support. The Bridge of Hope is the only one of its kind in northern Sri Lanka, started by our Tamil congregation. New Director of Family Ministry With great pleasure we announce, effective November 1, the creation of the new position of Director of Family Ministry and our first director, Sarah Mair. In one respect, this is to merge the positions of youth and Sunday School directors, but done so in order to: *Strengthen our ministry to families; *Coordinate our service to children, youth and their families and; *Enhance the recent success of our outreach to children and youth in the community. One or two assistants will be recruited especially for Sunday School as well as a parent’s Advisory Committee to support the Director. In all of this, we seek to do our best to serve our children, young people and families through the seasons of life. Watch and pray. We have only just begun. Honoring Leila Knetsch On Anniversary Sunday, November 27, we will honor and thank Leila Knetsch for her dedicated service directing our Sunday School. She leaves a strong program and team of teachers in place. It’s a great team and we are always recruiting new teachers. If you are interested, contact Sarah. Stewardship Emphasis Next week begins a three week Stewardship Emphasis, done every year at this time. Its purpose is threefold: 1) To give an account of how the gifts received by the parish are applied. 2) To highlight the fundamental areas in the Christian mission of the parish. 3) And to emphasize the central place and grateful obligation of stewardship in the life of every Christian. St. Paul’s has seven fundamental areas of ministry and service - Christian Worship, Outreach, Pastoral Care, Education, Evangelism, Fellowship and Administration - which our Christian giving makes possible. Regular giving according to the standard of the Biblical tithe is one of the fundamental practices of a Christian. It is the offering to God of our first and best gift. It is the support of the body of which Christ has made us a part. For his sake, it is our hand extended in service to those in need and in invitation to those drawing near to Christ. The ideal is and will remain the gift given on Sunday while attending Sunday services, another of our fundamental practices. But with Covid in the air and regular attendance often interrupted, we appeal to everyone to consider alternatives. Those recommended are Pre-Authorized Giving or E-transfers. Both are secure, the P.A.G. is regular, an E-transfer can easily be made regular, and both are cost efficient, in most cases less expensive than writing a cheque. And thirdly, in our annual Stewardship Emphasis three requests are made: 1) To make a pledge for the coming year that helps us plan ahead. 2) To consider a pre-authorized gift (described above) that provides regular support for the regular expenses that the parish faces. 3) And thirdly, every member is challenged to give at least 2% on the way toward the Christian ideal of the 10% tithe. Anniversary Food Drive - in thanksgiving and preparation for our anniversary celebrations on the 181st anniversary of the parish, Sunday, November 27, we are encouraging every member to make a monetary donation to the Agincourt Community Services Food Bank. St. Paul’s played a key role in the launch of ACSA, a proud part of our heritage. We recommend that this be done using a church envelope. Simply indicate "ACSA Food Bank" on your envelope. Walk-a-Thon 2022 - a great day, great walks, and over $13,000 raised so far! Kindly hand in any outstanding pledge sheets and donations. Thanks again for your constant help and support of our many outreach projects. This is our main fundraiser. Catechism Class has begun on Saturdays at 10 am in the Boundy Room. It is for those considering baptism. That said, it also serves as a very good introduction to the faith and life and any who are inquiring about the faith or about the faith in the Anglican tradition are welcome and encouraged to join. For more information, please contact Fr. Dean. SPLC Presentation to Seniors - Programs and Services - Sunday, November 13, 12.30-1.30 pm - lunch provided. SPLC provides an array of services for seniors in the community. They are for any eligible senior in the community. Topics will include care management, caregiver support, friendly visiting services, assisted living services, meals on wheels, transportation services, and more. The speaker is Elsa Uy, SPLC Health Promotion Coordinator. Those interested are asked to sign up (or call the office). For more information, call Elsa at 416-493-3333, ext. 305, or [email protected]. 2023 Church Calendars Sign up now for the 2023 Church Calendars - $5.25 each - at the church or by calling (416-499-1545) or sending an email to the office ([email protected]). Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s The next Adzua Fellowship meeting is Saturday, November 19, from 6.30 - 8.30 p.m., featuring a presentation from M.P.P. Aris Babikian, originally a refugee from Lebanon who settled in Canada and now serves as Member of Provincial Parliament. He will talk about his experience and services available for new immigrants. A free meal begins at 6.30 p.m., followed by the presentation, followed by hymn singing and final prayers. Thank you, Leila Knetsch - For the last five years and through the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic Leila Knetsch has overseen our Sunday School program. She will step down, effective October 31st, leaving a strong program in place. Our debt to her is great and we will honor her on Anniversary Sunday, November 20. And coming as it does as we return after Covid, this is an opportunity for us to evaluate the whole of our ministry to children, youth and parents. Some very good things are in the air. Stay tuned. Sunday Hours: 8.00 a.m. - Holy Eucharist 9.15 a.m. - Holy Eucharist & Sunday School 11.00 a.m. - replay on Zoom of 8.00 a.m. service 11.15 a.m. - Holy Eucharist & Sunday School 1.00 p.m. - Chinese service 3.00 p.m. - Tamil service 6.00 p.m. - Evening Prayer (in person and online) Office Hours: Tuesday - 10.00 am to 12.30 noon Wednesday to Friday - 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 noon Looking Ahead *Feast of All Saints (transferred) - Sunday, November 6. *181st Parish Anniversary Sunday - NOTE Change of Date - Now Sunday, November 27, 10.00 a.m. (combined service), The Rev’d Dr. Ephraim Radner, guest preacher. *The SPO Holiday Concert, featuring the St. Paul’s Youth String Players, Saturday, December 3, 7.00 p.m. at the Salvation Army Citadel (check here for directions and ticket information: www.spo.ca). *Advent Memorial Service - Friday, December 16, 7.00 p.m.. *Christmas Steel Concert - Saturday, December 17, 7.00 p.m. (tickets - $20). *Christmas Services: Christmas Eve: 6.00 p.m. and 11.00 p.m. Christmas Day: 10.00 a.m. (English) 11.30 a.m. Christmas Day Brunch (sponsored by the English & Chinese congregations) 1.00 p.m. - Chinese Christmas Service 3.00 p.m. - Tamil Christmas Service 6.00 p.m. - Evening Prayer (English) Steel Pan Practice - Saturdays, 12.30 noon! St. Paul’s Teen Basketball Clinic - Mondays, 6.00 p.m., L’Amoreaux Collegiate Institute - as of October 18, back in the double gym St. Paul’s Children’s Basketball Clinic - as of October 17, Tuesdays, 6.00 p.m., L’Amoreaux Collegiate Institute SPARC - Thursdays, 4.00 - 5.45 pm. After School Tutoring Program, in Math and English, at 4 pm on Thursdays for children ages 6-12. Registration is at the Thursday classes. For more information, contact Kathy B. Adult Choir - occasional practices, Saturdays, 4.00 p.m. Youth Music Program Resumes: African Dance Program - Saturdays at 10.30 a.m.. Pan practices - Saturdays at 12.30 noon. A new youth voices program (ages 12+) practice on Saturdays at 4.00 pm. The string program - Saturdays, at 4.30 pm. For more information, contact Sarah M., Sylbert G., or David Mc. Adult ESL - Thursday and Saturday at 4.30 pm. Friday Night Bible - Fridays at 7.00 pm - at the church and online. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/830877703 Telephone: 647-374 4685, or 647-558 0588; Meeting ID: 830 877 703 Mission Trip & Safari to Tanzania: July 2023 - Fr. Kim Beard, leader. For anyone interested (including families) in joining a group traveling to Tanzania from July 4-22nd, 2023, please join us for an information meeting where I will present the itinerary, budget and travel information for this trip. The Tanzania experience will include five days visiting and connecting with Anglicans in Tarime and Zanzibar, the chance to see and participate in a variety of development projects, safaris to the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro National Park, and a week exploring Zanzibar island. If you would like more information please contact: the Reverend Canon Kim Beard at [email protected]. The Zoom Replay of the recording of the 8.00 a.m. Sunday service has restarted. The replay is at the usual time of 11.00 a.m., Sundays, using the "Church Service" Zoom link. A Single "Church Service" Zoom Link for all church services This new link applies to all English church services which are streamed on Zoom, for the replay of the Sunday recording, and including Evening Prayer on Sundays at 6.00 p.m. and Morning Prayer, Monday through Saturday: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86566347435?pwd=WnhpMDJQRkxjMEV3d2pMU0FCa0JuUT09 By Phone: Meeting ID: 865 6634 7435 Passcode: 501805 647-374-4685 647-558-0588 Refugee Couple - Sanaz and Alireza More good news. This past we learned that the refugee couple St. Paul’s is co-sponsoring have received their VISA and are waiting on their air tickets. War in Ukraine For those wishing to contribute to refugee relief, The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund is now accepting donations to support those displaced by the war in Ukraine, here: www.toronto.anglican.ca/news/pwrdf-accepts-donations-for-ukrainian-refugees/. Our Outreach Committee donated $2000 to refugee relief program. Online Calendar The full schedule of in-person and online services and programs can be found on the online church calendar - www.stpl.ca/calendar.html - or here: www.stpl.ca/services.html. S.P.Y. - St. Paul’s Youth - Friday nights at 7 pm. Contact Sarah for more information: [email protected]. Thank you for your Faithful Gifts and Offerings - St. Paul’s is a strong parish and remains strong due to everyone’s faithful support at a time when never has it been more important. Gifts can be dropped off at the church or sent by mail. Kindly ensure that your name and envelope number is included. Or, members may wish to sign up for the Pre-Authorized Giving Program (contact the office). Members who use online banking can now make E-transfers (instructions here: www.stpl.ca/give.html). Gifts can also be made at our website through CanadaHelps: www.stpl.ca/give.html. NOTE: Of the various means for online giving, we recommend The Pre-Authorized Giving Program. It is regular, matching the regular responsibilities of the parish, and once initiated all it takes is a phone call or quick e-mail note to increase, decrease, or cancel the donation. The monthly amount is withdrawn on the 20th of each month, and the cost to the church is 50 cents per transaction, irrespective of the amount of the gift. This makes the PAG the most economical of all methods of giving. Contact - The clergy of St. Paul’s are permitted once again to visit in homes. Don’t hesitate to call or write. Website: www.stpl.ca; Church phone: 416-499-1545; Email: [email protected]; Fr. Dean Mercer: [email protected]; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. Anniversary Food Drive - in thanksgiving and preparation for our anniversary celebrations on the 181st anniversary of the parish, Sunday, November 27, we are encouraging every member to make a monetary donation to the Agincourt Community Services Food Bank. St. Paul’s played a key role in the launch of ACSA, a proud part of our heritage. We recommend that this be done using a church envelope. Simply indicate "ACSA Food Bank" on your envelope.
City of Toronto Municipal Election - Monday, October 24 (advance polls are now open). We encourage everyone to do your civic duty. Walk-a-Thon 2022 - a great day two weeks ago and over $12,000 raised so far. Kindly hand in any outstanding pledge sheets and donations. Thanks again for your constant help and support of our many outreach projects. This is our main fundraiser. Catechism Class has begun on Saturdays at 10 am in the Boundy Room. It is for those considering baptism. That said, it also serves as a very good introduction to the faith and life and any who are inquiring about the faith or about the faith in the Anglican tradition are welcome and encouraged to join. For more information, please contact Fr. Dean. SPLC Presentation to Seniors - Programs and Services - Sunday, November 13, 12.30-1.30 pm - lunch provided. SPLC provides an array of services for seniors in the community. They are for any eligible senior in the community. Topics will include care management, caregiver support, friendly visiting services, assisted living services, meals on wheels, transportation services, and more. The speaker is Elsa Uy, SPLC Health Promotion Coordinator. Those interested are asked to sign up (or call the office). For more information, call Elsa at 416-493-3333, ext. 305, or [email protected]. 2023 Church Calendars Sign up now for the 2023 Church Calendars - $5.25 each - at the church or by calling (416-499-1545) or sending an email to the office ([email protected]). Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s With a full house in Byce Hall last Saturday, St. Paul’s launched the Adzua Fellowship, the continuation of our Immigrant Support Program. It carries on in loving memory of Timothy and Terver Adzua with the prayer that their kindness, humility and support might characterize the program. It was a great evening of African food, hymn singing, a tribute to Timothy and Terver, dancing and prayer. The full title and purpose of the program is this: The Adzua Fellowship: In loving memory of Timothy and Terver Adzua, honoring the African Presence and Contribution at St. Paul, L'Amoreaux, Supporting new immigrants, and providing a place of Friendship, Prayer and Support. The next Adzua Fellowship meeting is Saturday, November 19, at 6.30 p.m., featuring a presentation from M.P.P. Aris Babikian, originally a refugee from Lebanon who settled in Canada and now serves as Member of Provincial Parliament. He will talk about his experience and services available for new immigrants. Thank you, Leila Knetsch - For the last five years and through the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic Leila Knetsch has overseen our Sunday School program. She will step down, effective October 31st, leaving a strong program in place. Our debt to her is great and we will honor her on Anniversary Sunday, November 20. And coming as it does as we return after Covid, this is an opportunity for us to evaluate the whole of our ministry to children, youth and parents. Some very good things are in the air. Stay tuned. Sunday Hours: 8.00 a.m. - Holy Eucharist 9.15 a.m. - Holy Eucharist & Sunday School 11.00 a.m. - replay on Zoom of 8.00 a.m. service 11.15 a.m. - Holy Eucharist & Sunday School 1.00 p.m. - Chinese service 3.00 p.m. - Tamil service 6.00 p.m. - Evening Prayer (in person and online) Office Hours: Tuesday - 10.00 am to 12.30 noon Wednesday to Friday - 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 noon Looking Ahead *181st Parish Anniversary Sunday - NOTE Change of Date - Now Sunday, November 27, 10.00 a.m. (combined service), The Rev’d Dr. Ephraim Radner, guest preacher. *Chinese Evangelistic Mission - TBA. Parish Mission with Fr. Theadore Hunt - as the annual routine resumes, so also does our annual parish mission, an opportunity to invite family and friends for a simple introduction to the Christian faith and life. We are pleased that Fr. Theadore Hunt will be our guest preacher. The Mission begins at 7.00 p.m. on Saturday, November 5. A reception will follow. Steel Pan Practice - Saturdays, 12.30 noon! St. Paul’s Teen Basketball Clinic - Mondays, 6.00 p.m., L’Amoreaux Collegiate Institute - as of October 18, back in the double gym St. Paul’s Children’s Basketball Clinic - as of October 17, Tuesdays, 6.00 p.m., L’Amoreaux Collegiate Institute SPARC - Thursdays, 4.00 - 5.45 pm. Our after school tutoring program has resumed at 4 pm on Thursdays for children ages 6-12. Tutoring will be offered in math and English. Registration is at the Thursday classes, but the program is limited to 15 children. Refreshments are served at 3.45 pm., and crafts conclude the afternoon. Final prayers are said at 5.45 pm.. As we restart and reopen, we are also recruiting adult and youth Math and English tutors, 16 years and older. For high school students, tutoring is eligible for community hours. For more information, contact Kathy B. Adult Choir - occasional practices, Saturdays, 4.00 p.m. Youth Music Program Resumes: African Dance Program - Saturdays at 10.30 a.m.. Pan practices - Saturdays at 12.30 noon. A new youth voices program (ages 12+) practice on Saturdays at 4.00 pm. The string program - Saturdays, at 4.30 pm. For more information, contact Sarah M., Sylbert G., or David Mc. Adult ESL - Thursday and Saturday at 4.30 pm. Friday Night Bible - Fridays at 7.00 pm - at the church and online. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/830877703 Telephone: 647-374 4685, or 647-558 0588; Meeting ID: 830 877 703 Mission Trip & Safari to Tanzania: July 2023 - Fr. Kim Beard, leader. For anyone interested (including families) in joining a group traveling to Tanzania from July 4-22nd, 2023, please join us for an information meeting where I will present the itinerary, budget and travel information for this trip. The Tanzania experience will include five days visiting and connecting with Anglicans in Tarime and Zanzibar, the chance to see and participate in a variety of development projects, safaris to the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro National Park, and a week exploring Zanzibar island. If you would like more information please contact: the Reverend Canon Kim Beard at [email protected]. The Zoom Replay of the recording of the 8.00 a.m. Sunday service has restarted. The replay is at the usual time of 11.00 a.m., Sundays, using the "Church Service" Zoom link. A Single "Church Service" Zoom Link for all church services This new link applies to all English church services which are streamed on Zoom, for the replay of the Sunday recording, and including Evening Prayer on Sundays at 6.00 p.m. and Morning Prayer, Monday through Saturday: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86566347435?pwd=WnhpMDJQRkxjMEV3d2pMU0FCa0JuUT09 By Phone: Meeting ID: 865 6634 7435 Passcode: 501805 647-374-4685 647-558-0588 As all three services have resumed, the Sunday recording has been scaled back as the time devoted to it has now been shifted back to the three services. (The recordings with music could take 8-12 hours of preparation and involved a team of over 35 people.) That said, after experimentation, we can provide a simple but high-quality Youtube recording of the 8 a.m. service and, in most cases, have it ready for viewing and playback on Zoom by 11.00 a.m.. The playback on Zoom is offered especially for those whose contact is by telephone. Kindly note the new time for the replay. Each Youtube recording will be available on the website for several weeks. A word - at St. Paul’s we continue to uphold and support the Christian standard of gathering together on the Lord’s Day. The Youtube recordings are not an attempt to provide an electronic alternative but rather a meaningful representation of the Sunday lessons, prayers and sermon for those unable to attend. Since the invention of television, the electronic church has been with us, but it involves a significant investment of money and people and it cannot answer the duty or replace the joy of gathering and praying together. Refugee Couple - Sanaz and Alireza More good news. This past we learned that the refugee couple St. Paul’s is co-sponsoring have received their VISA and are waiting on their air tickets. War in Ukraine For those wishing to contribute to refugee relief, The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund is now accepting donations to support those displaced by the war in Ukraine, here: www.toronto.anglican.ca/news/pwrdf-accepts-donations-for-ukrainian-refugees/. Our Outreach Committee donated $2000 to refugee relief program. Indigenous Spiritual Centre at St. Paul’s On Saturday, March 12, a public meeting was held to consider the development of a spiritual centre at St. Paul’s for the indigenous community in Scarborough, serving as a bridge to youth and senior programs. The original impetus was a report to the SPLC Board (Senior Persons Living Connected) identifying a significant community of indigenous seniors in Scarborough. This possibility remains an active pursuit. A planning committee has been formed and begun. If interested, and for more information, contact Fr. Dean. Online Calendar The full schedule of in-person and online services and programs can be found on the online church calendar - www.stpl.ca/calendar.html - or here: www.stpl.ca/services.html. S.P.Y. - St. Paul’s Youth - Friday nights at 7 pm. Contact Sarah for more information: [email protected]. Thank you for your Faithful Gifts and Offerings - St. Paul’s is a strong parish and remains strong due to everyone’s faithful support at a time when never has it been more important. Gifts can be dropped off at the church or sent by mail. Kindly ensure that your name and envelope number is included. Or, members may wish to sign up for the Pre-Authorized Giving Program (contact the office). Members who use online banking can now make E-transfers (instructions here: www.stpl.ca/give.html). Gifts can also be made at our website through CanadaHelps: www.stpl.ca/give.html. NOTE: Of the various means for online giving, we recommend The Pre-Authorized Giving Program. It is regular, matching the regular responsibilities of the parish, and once initiated all it takes is a phone call or quick e-mail note to increase, decrease, or cancel the donation. The monthly amount is withdrawn on the 20th of each month, and the cost to the church is 50 cents per transaction, irrespective of the amount of the gift. This makes the PAG the most economical of all methods of giving. Contact - The clergy of St. Paul’s are permitted once again to visit in homes. Don’t hesitate to call or write. Website: www.stpl.ca; Church phone: 416-499-1545; Email: [email protected]; Fr. Dean Mercer: [email protected]; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. Walk-a-Thon 2022 - a great day two weeks ago and over $9,000 raised so far. Today is the deadline for individual walkers, to submit pledge sheets and donations. Thanks again for your constant help and support of our many outreach projects. This is our Main fundraiser.
St. Paul’s Academic and Music Bursaries: Today an academic and music bursary are being presented to two young people in the parish. The awards come from three funds, Berthabell Moo Bursary fund and the St.Paul’s Memorial Academic and Music funds. The Berthabell Moo Bursary has been made possible by a gift from the estate of the late Berthebell Moo. The St.Pauls Memorial Bursaries are supported by gifts given and received in memory of loved ones. Gifts and Memorials for these bursaries are always welcome and greatly appreciated. Catechism Class will be beginning Saturday, October 15 at 10 am in the Boundy Room, an adult catechism class will be offered for those considering baptism. That said, it also serves as a very good introduction to the faith and life and any who are inquiring about the faith or about the faith in the Anglican tradition are welcome and encouraged to join. For more information, please contact Fr. Dean. Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s With a full house in Byce Hall last Saturday, St. Paul’s launched the Adzua Fellowship, the continuation of our Immigrant Support Program. It carries on in loving memory of Timothy and Terver Adzua with the prayer that their kindness, humility and support might characterize the program. It was a great evening of African food, hymn singing, a tribute to Timothy and Terver, dancing and prayer. The full title and purpose of the program is this: The Adzua Fellowship: In loving memory of Timothy and Terver Adzua, honoring the African Presence and Contribution at St. Paul, L'Amoreaux, Supporting new immigrants, and providing a place of Friendship, Prayer and Support. The next Adzua Fellowship meeting is Saturday, November 19, at 6.30 p.m., featuring a presentation from M.P.P. Aris Babikian, originally a refugee from Lebanon who settled in Canada and now serves as Member of Provincial Parliament. He will talk about his experience and services available for new immigrants. Thank you, Leila Knetsch - For the last five years and through the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic Leila Knetsch has overseen our Sunday School program. She will step down, effective October 31st, leaving a strong program in place. Our debt to her is great and we will honor her on Anniversary Sunday, November 20. And coming as it does as we return after Covid, this is an opportunity for us to evaluate the whole of our ministry to children, youth and parents. Some very good things are in the air. Stay tuned. Sunday Hours: 8.00 a.m. - Holy Eucharist 9.15 a.m. - Holy Eucharist & Sunday School 11.00 a.m. - replay on Zoom of 8.00 a.m. service 11.15 a.m. - Holy Eucharist & Sunday School 1.00 p.m. - Chinese service 3.00 p.m. - Tamil service 6.00 p.m. - Evening Prayer (in person and online) Office Hours: Tuesday - 10.00 am to 12.30 noon Wednesday to Friday - 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 noon Looking Ahead *Thanksgiving Sunday - October 9. *Tamil Evangelistic Mission, Saturday, October 22. *English Evangelistic Mission - with Fr. Theadore Hunt - Saturday, November 5. *181st Parish Anniversary Sunday - NOTE Change of Date - Now Sunday, November 27, 10.00 a.m. (combined service), The Rev’d Dr. Ephraim Radner, guest preacher. *SPO/St. Paul's Holiday Concert - Saturday, December 3, 7.00 p.m. *Chinese Evangelistic Mission - TBA. Steel Pan Practice - Saturdays, 12.30 noon! St. Paul’s Teen Basketball Clinic - Tuesdays, 6.00 p.m., L'Amoreaux Collegiate Institute - as of October 18, back in the double gym St. Paul’s Children’s Basketball Clinic - as of October 17 Mondays, 6.00 p.m., L'Amoreaux Collegiate Institute SPARC - Thursdays, 4.00 - 5.45 pm. Our after school tutoring program has resumed at 4 pm on Thursdays for children ages 6-12. Tutoring will be offered in math and English. Registration is at the Thursday classes, but the program is limited to 15 children. Refreshments are served at 3.45 pm., and crafts conclude the afternoon. Final prayers are said at 5.45 pm.. As we restart and reopen, we are also recruiting adult and youth Math and English tutors, 16 years and older. For high school students, tutoring is eligible for community hours. For more information, contact Kathy B. Adult Choir - occasional practices, Saturdays, 4.00 p.m. Youth Music Program Resumes: African Dance Program - Saturdays at 10.30 a.m. - NOTE: beginning October 15. Pan practices - Saturdays at 12.30 noon. A new youth voices program (ages 12+) practice on Saturdays at 4.00 pm. The string program - Saturdays, at 4.30 pm. For more information, contact David McCartney. Adult ESL - Thursday and Saturday at 4.30 pm. Friday Night Bible - Fridays at 7.00 pm - at the church and online. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/830877703 Telephone: 647-374 4685, or 647-558 0588; Meeting ID: 830 877 703 City of Toronto Municipal Election - Monday, October 24 (advance polls are now open). We encourage everyone to do your civic duty. Mission Trip & Safari to Tanzania: July 2023 - Fr. Kim Beard, leader. For anyone interested (including families) in joining a group traveling to Tanzania from July 4-22nd, 2023, please join us for an information meeting where I will present the itinerary, budget and travel information for this trip. The Tanzania experience will include five days visiting and connecting with Anglicans in Tarime and Zanzibar, the chance to see and participate in a variety of development projects, safaris to the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro National Park, and a week exploring Zanzibar island. If you would like more information please contact: the Reverend Canon Kim Beard at [email protected]. The Zoom Replay of the recording of the 8.00 a.m. Sunday service has restarted. The replay is at the usual time of 11.00 a.m., Sundays, using the "Church Service" Zoom link. A Single "Church Service" Zoom Link for all church services This new link applies to all English church services which are streamed on Zoom, for the replay of the Sunday recording, and including Evening Prayer on Sundays at 6.00 p.m. and Morning Prayer, Monday through Saturday: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86566347435?pwd=WnhpMDJQRkxjMEV3d2pMU0FCa0JuUT09 By Phone: Meeting ID: 865 6634 7435 Passcode: 501805 647-374-4685 647-558-0588 As all three services have resumed, the Sunday recording has been scaled back as the time devoted to it has now been shifted back to the three services. (The recordings with music could take 8-12 hours of preparation and involved a team of over 35 people.) That said, after experimentation, we can provide a simple but high-quality Youtube recording of the 8 a.m. service and, in most cases, have it ready for viewing and playback on Zoom by 11.00 a.m.. The playback on Zoom is offered especially for those whose contact is by telephone. Kindly note the new time for the replay. Each Youtube recording will be available on the website for several weeks. A word - at St. Paul’s we continue to uphold and support the Christian standard of gathering together on the Lord’s Day. The Youtube recordings are not an attempt to provide an electronic alternative but rather a meaningful representation of the Sunday lessons, prayers and sermon for those unable to attend. Since the invention of television, the electronic church has been with us, but it involves a significant investment of money and people and it cannot answer the duty or replace the joy of gathering and praying together. Refugee Couple - Sanaz and Alireza More good news. This past we learned that the refugee couple St. Paul’s is co-sponsoring have received their VISA and are waiting on their air tickets. War in Ukraine For those wishing to contribute to refugee relief, The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund is now accepting donations to support those displaced by the war in Ukraine, here: www.toronto.anglican.ca/news/pwrdf-accepts-donations-for-ukrainian-refugees/. Our Outreach Committee donated $2000 to refugee relief program. Indigenous Spiritual Centre at St. Paul’s On Saturday, March 12, a public meeting was held to consider the development of a spiritual centre at St. Paul’s for the indigenous community in Scarborough, serving as a bridge to youth and senior programs. The original impetus was a report to the SPLC Board (Senior Persons Living Connected) identifying a significant community of indigenous seniors in Scarborough. This possibility remains an active pursuit. A planning committee has been formed and begun. If interested, and for more information, contact Fr. Dean. Online Calendar The full schedule of in-person and online services and programs can be found on the online church calendar - www.stpl.ca/calendar.html - or here: www.stpl.ca/services.html. S.P.Y. - St. Paul’s Youth - Friday nights at 7 pm. Contact Sarah for more information: [email protected]. Thank you for your Faithful Gifts and Offerings - St. Paul’s is a strong parish and remains strong due to everyone’s faithful support at a time when never has it been more important. Gifts can be dropped off at the church or sent by mail. Kindly ensure that your name and envelope number is included. Or, members may wish to sign up for the Pre-Authorized Giving Program (contact the office). Members who use online banking can now make E-transfers (instructions here: www.stpl.ca/give.html). Gifts can also be made at our website through CanadaHelps: www.stpl.ca/give.html. NOTE: Of the various means for online giving, we recommend The Pre-Authorized Giving Program. It is regular, matching the regular responsibilities of the parish, and once initiated all it takes is a phone call or quick e-mail note to increase, decrease, or cancel the donation. The monthly amount is withdrawn on the 20th of each month, and the cost to the church is 50 cents per transaction, irrespective of the amount of the gift. This makes the PAG the most economical of all methods of giving. Contact - The clergy of St. Paul’s are permitted once again to visit in homes. Don’t hesitate to call or write. Website: www.stpl.ca; Church phone: 416-499-1545; Email: [email protected]; Fr. Dean Mercer: [email protected]; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s
With a full house in Byce Hall last night, St. Paul’s launched the Adzua Fellowship, the continuation of our Immigrant Support Program. It carries on in loving memory of Timothy and Terver Adzua with the prayer that their kindness, humility and support might characterize the program. The evening was made special not only by a great group of friends from the GTA, but also a group of fifteen who traveled to Toronto this weekend for a condolence visit in support of the Adzua family. Timothy and Terver died within a year of each other during some of the strictest periods of Covid restrictions. It was a great evening of African food, hymn singing, a tribute to Timothy and Terver, dancing and prayer. The full title and purpose of the program is this: The Adzua Fellowship: In loving memory of Timothy and Terver Adzua, honoring the African Presence and Contribution at St. Paul, L'Amoreaux, Supporting new immigrants, and providing a place of Friendship, Prayer and Support. Thanks to the kitchen crew and everyone who helped out. God bless the Adzua family. The next Adzua Fellowship meeting is Saturday, November 19, at 6.30 p.m., featuring a presentation from M.P.P. Aris Babikian, originally a refugee from Lebanon who settled in Canada and now serves as Member of Provincial Parliament. He will talk about his experience and services available for new immigrants. City of Toronto Municipal Election - Monday, October 24 (advance polls are now open). We encourage everyone to do your civic duty. Walk-a-Thon 2022 - a great day last Saturday, and over $9,000 raised so far - $2,500 more than last year at this point. You are welcome to take an individual walk, submitting pledge sheets and donations by Thanksgiving Sunday, October 8. Thanks again for your constant help and support of our many outreach projects. This is our Main fundraiser. Thank you, Leila Knetsch - For the last five years and through the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic Leila Knetsch has overseen our Sunday School program. She will step down, effective October 31st, leaving a strong program in place. Our debt to her is great and we will honor her on Anniversary Sunday, November 20. And coming as it does as we return after Covid, this is an opportunity for us to evaluate the whole of our ministry to children, youth and parents. Some very good things are in the air. Stay tuned. Sunday Hours: 8.00 a.m. - Holy Eucharist 9.15 a.m. - Holy Eucharist & Sunday School 11.00 a.m. - replay on Zoom of 8.00 a.m. service 11.15 a.m. - Holy Eucharist & Sunday School 1.00 p.m. - Chinese service 3.00 p.m. - Tamil service 6.00 p.m. - Evening Prayer (in person and online) Office Hours: Tuesday - 10.00 am to 12.30 noon Wednesday to Friday - 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 noon Looking Ahead *Thanksgiving Sunday - October 9. *Tamil Evangelistic Mission, Saturday, October 22. *English Evangelistic Mission - with Fr. Theadore Hunt - Saturday, November 5. *181st Parish Anniversary Sunday - NOTE Change of Date - Now Sunday, November 27, 10.00 a.m. (combined service), The Rev’d Dr. Ephraim Radner, guest preacher. Steel Pan Practice - Saturdays, 12.30 noon! St. Paul’s Teen Basketball Clinic - Tuesdays, 6.00 p.m., L'Amoreaux Collegiate Institute St. Paul’s Childrens Basketball Clinic - Thursdays, 6.00 p.m., Brookmills Jr. Public School. A great launch this past Thursday with 18 kids already enrolled. SPARC - Thursdays, 4.00 - 5.45 pm. Our after school tutoring program has resumed at 4 pm on Thursdays for children ages 6-12. Tutoring will be offered in math and English. Registration is at the Thursday classes, but the program is limited to 15 children. Refreshments are served at 3.45 pm., and crafts conclude the afternoon. Final prayers are said at 5.45 pm.. As we restart and reopen, we are also recruiting adult and youth Math and English tutors, 16 years and older. For high school students, tutoring is eligible for community hours. For more information, contact Kathy B. Adult Choir - practices, Saturdays, 4.00 p.m. Youth Music Program Resumes: African Dance Program - Saturdays at 10.30 a.m. - NOTE: beginning October 15. Pan practices - Saturdays at 12.30 noon. A new youth voices program (ages 12+) practice on Saturdays at 4.00 pm. The string program - Saturdays, at 4.30 pm. For more information, contact David McCartney. Adult ESL - Thursday and Saturday at 4.30 pm. Friday Night Bible - Fridays at 7.00 pm - at the church and online. Next week: Luke 11 - Lesson 13. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/830877703 Telephone: 647-374 4685, or 647-558 0588; Meeting ID: 830 877 703 Mission Trip & Safari to Tanzania: July 2023 - Fr. Kim Beard, leader. For anyone interested (including families) in joining a group traveling to Tanzania from July 4-22nd, 2023, please join us for an information meeting where I will present the itinerary, budget and travel information for this trip. The Tanzania experience will include five days visiting and connecting with Anglicans in Tarime and Zanzibar, the chance to see and participate in a variety of development projects, safaris to the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro National Park, and a week exploring Zanzibar island. If you would like more information please contact: the Reverend Canon Kim Beard at [email protected]. The Zoom Replay of the recording of the 8.00 a.m. Sunday service has restarted. The replay is at the usual time of 11.00 a.m., Sundays, using the "Church Service" Zoom link. A Single "Church Service" Zoom Link for all church services This new link applies to all English church services which are streamed on Zoom, for the replay of the Sunday recording, and including Evening Prayer on Sundays at 6.00 p.m. and Morning Prayer, Monday through Saturday: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86566347435?pwd=WnhpMDJQRkxjMEV3d2pMU0FCa0JuUT09 By Phone: Meeting ID: 865 6634 7435 Passcode: 501805 647-374-4685 647-558-0588 As all three services have resumed, the Sunday recording has been scaled back as the time devoted to it has now been shifted back to the three services. (The recordings with music could take 8-12 hours of preparation and involved a team of over 35 people.) That said, after experimentation, we can provide a simple but high-quality Youtube recording of the 8 a.m. service and, in most cases, have it ready for viewing and playback on Zoom by 11.00 a.m.. The playback on Zoom is offered especially for those whose contact is by telephone. Kindly note the new time for the replay. Each Youtube recording will be available on the website for several weeks. A word - at St. Paul’s we continue to uphold and support the Christian standard of gathering together on the Lord’s Day. The Youtube recordings are not an attempt to provide an electronic alternative but rather a meaningful representation of the Sunday lessons, prayers and sermon for those unable to attend. Since the invention of television, the electronic church has been with us, but it involves a significant investment of money and people and it cannot answer the duty or replace the joy of gathering and praying together. Refugee Couple - Sanaz and Alireza More good news. This past we learned that the refugee couple St. Paul’s is co-sponsoring have received their VISA and are waiting on their air tickets. War in Ukraine For those wishing to contribute to refugee relief, The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund is now accepting donations to support those displaced by the war in Ukraine, here: www.toronto.anglican.ca/news/pwrdf-accepts-donations-for-ukrainian-refugees/. Our Outreach Committee donated $2000 to refugee relief program. Indigenous Spiritual Centre at St. Paul’s On Saturday, March 12, a public meeting was held to consider the development of a spiritual centre at St. Paul’s for the indigenous community in Scarborough, serving as a bridge to youth and senior programs. The original impetus was a report to the SPLC Board (Senior Persons Living Connected) identifying a significant community of indigenous seniors in Scarborough. This possibility remains an active pursuit. A planning committee has been formed and begun. If interested, and for more information, contact Fr. Dean. Online Calendar The full schedule of in-person and online services and programs can be found on the online church calendar - www.stpl.ca/calendar.html - or here: www.stpl.ca/services.html. S.P.Y. - St. Paul’s Youth - Friday nights at 7 pm. Contact Sarah for more information: [email protected]. Thank you for your Faithful Gifts and Offerings - St. Paul’s is a strong parish and remains strong due to everyone’s faithful support at a time when never has it been more important. Gifts can be dropped off at the church or sent by mail. Kindly ensure that your name and envelope number is included. Or, members may wish to sign up for the Pre-Authorized Giving Program (contact the office). Members who use online banking can now make E-transfers (instructions here: www.stpl.ca/give.html). Gifts can also be made at our website through CanadaHelps: www.stpl.ca/give.html. NOTE: Of the various means for online giving, we recommend The Pre-Authorized Giving Program. It is regular, matching the regular responsibilities of the parish, and once initiated all it takes is a phone call or quick e-mail note to increase, decrease, or cancel the donation. The monthly amount is withdrawn on the 20th of each month, and the cost to the church is 50 cents per transaction, irrespective of the amount of the gift. This makes the PAG the most economical of all methods of giving. Contact - The clergy of St. Paul’s are permitted once again to visit in homes. Don’t hesitate to call or write. Website: www.stpl.ca; Church phone: 416-499-1545; Email: [email protected]; Fr. Dean Mercer: [email protected]; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. We are facing a major challenge as we re-open the doors at St. Paul’s, one for which I invite every member to join, emphasizing that we enter this challenge from a position of strength.
"Back to Church Sunday" used to be a Diocesan-wide affair, but we’ve kept it each year and I think to good effect. At the end of a two-year hiatus due to Covid, it is also timely. This is what I see and believe: *An ordinary parish can expect to lose about 10% each year due to ordinary attrition. If the average Sunday pre-Covid is the measure, at St. Paul’s that’s about 30 people a year. (Early on in ministry a friend pointed out that if you need growth of 10% a year just to stay even, "maintaining" a parish is no small accomplishment.) Families are still realizing that Sunday School has resumed, but we’re already back to about 210 attending. Our finances have remained very strong and this makes me think that our supporting congregation is at least 50+ more than those showing up so far. *We’ve just experienced 2 ½ extraordinary years when the ordinary attrition occurred, another kind of attrition occurred due to Covid, AND we were not able to draw in new members (or didn’t know how) as we would ordinarily - with the exception of a stream of new African members which inspired the formation of an African fellowship. *All things being equal, healthy things grow. For my part I’ve tried to concentrate on health in the parish which is why Alan Kreider’s book (Back to Church Sermon below) caught my attention. *During Covid I’ve also tried to prepare the parish (and myself) for what we would experience when the pandemic ended, preparing us for the challenge of a three-year parish re-building project, with the goal of getting back to where we were before Covid - about 300+ on Sundays. Three years may be long, but the challenge is a large one and who’s going to complain if it ends sooner than expected. Why 300? Because over the years St. Paul’s has inherited a large responsibility for the parish, for the Centre senior residence and in the community. Unless the Lord tells us otherwise, this is the mission and responsibility we have received. *While trying to remain forthright and realistic, and in spite of a general sense of discouragement in the society about the church, what we've experienced so far is bright green lights for everything we've re-opened: Bible studies, the pans, the strings, the choir, youth programs which, plain and simple, are sky-rocketing, adult classes for ESL that combine an introduction to the faith, AND several new opportunities such as the new African fellowship, a possible Indigenous spiritual centre, and also on the radar is the possibility of a South Asian young adult fellowship in response to a steady stream of Indian and Sri Lankan young adults. Chins up, dear friends. No one is complaining when the church is true to itself as the humility, kindness and self-sacrifice of Queen Elizabeth II demonstrated. We do our very best to conduct our affairs transparently. Around finances and conduct with children and vulnerable people, the protocols of the Anglican Church are some of the strictest anywhere in our society. And where we are being scorned for dedication, high moral standards, and the defense of every life precious to God, we always have. From the very beginning, for the very same things, we always have! And this. During Covid a loyal congregation of about 30 began meeting every day on Zoom for Morning Prayer, Mondays through Saturdays and Sunday night for Evening Prayer. The offices of Morning and Evening Prayer should be done in person, but as the Anglican standard for daily prayer the Offices were also designed to be said alone. It is a whole lot more encouraging to do it together in the cloud. And because we follow the prayerbook on its own terms, there’s a little company at St. Paul’s who have been tutored in the merits and beauty of the Offices. And the prayers of the parish are offered to God each day. A major challenge is before us, but we enter it from a position of strength. *Finally, several times in recent months I have mentioned the scholarly work of Alan Kreider. In the early church he discovered two things supporting the first Christians when no other support was offered. First was the power of Christian conviction about the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the patience of God. They were not afraid to die. They were patient with themselves and others because God was patient and kind. Secondly, they discovered the power of a Rule of Life that accurately targetted the most prominent of the degrading forces at work in contemporary society. These are the "powers and principalities" from which the life of Jesus Christ is meant to bring freedom, leading us to friendship with Jesus Christ and into his service, the true and supreme longing of every person. A Rule of Life may sound new, but it sits at the climax of our Catechism (BCP, p. 555) and true altogether to the Christian faith and life we’ve received in the Anglican tradition. We are not the only ones facing this time of rebuilding and we can expect a lot of sensational solutions to appear. But let us fix our sights on Jesus Christ, on the beauty, order and mission of our life in the church, with hearts open to what God promises do, patient with what he will do for the sake of the world He loves. ******** Back to Church Sermon: After Covid - September 23, 2022 In his book The Patient Ferment of the Early Church (Baker Academic, 2016), Alan Kreider looks at why the early churches were growing in spite of persecution and with no support in the society at large. In fact, most if not all early Christians were prepared to die for their faith. And while the number of congregations grew quickly, individual congregations were very small, their activities done in secret for fear of persecution. And yet without any of the support we would expect ourselves, the churches grew dramatically. Why? And what support did they have? Three things emerge. First, the early Christians believed that God was patient. And if God could be patient, they could be patient. They trusted God with the results and what he would do with their lives. And they concentrated on bringing their lives into harmony with his will. They could be patient about how God would use their lives. They could be patient about their own Christian growth and maturation. For many, their lives, and the way they conducted themselves, was changing dramatically. But it wouldn't all be progress. There were setbacks. Real people were being reformed and renewed. It required patience. And importantly, they were patient with others. They resisted forcing or manipulating new people seeking to enter the Christian life or neighbors who believed in other gods. The church father Tertullian describes the patience of Jesus. You can see how it would have had the effect that it did. I quote: How odd Jesus’s story is . . . whose labors (unlike [the Roman god] Hercules's) did not include killing, capturing, and stealing but who instead kept a low profile, who bore reproaches, who would not hear of forcing people, who ate at anyone's table, who declined to call for massive angelic intervention, who rejected the avenging sword, who healed the servant of his enemy, and thereby "cursed for all time the works of the sword . . . Patience such as this no mere man had ever practiced." In the early church Alan Kreider sees at work a process of patient ferment. Most times, most people outside the church couldn’t see anything at all. And given how humble those Christians were, most people didn’t even bother to look. But the Christians concentrated on the change in their heart and the changes this meant for their actions and their way of life. What Jesus Christ had done and offered to them was their concern. The results were left with God. Secondly, the early Christians had witnessed the resurrection of Jesus Christ. They had seen God bring good out of the very worst that could be imagined, that is, the unjust crucifixion of the innocent Jesus. They saw him suffer and die. And on the third day, when all hope was gone, they saw him rise again. In their hearts they were experiencing this same resurrection power. Dying to old lives. Rising to new life with him. Unafraid of their mortal end, whether natural or by violent means. And thirdly, they were taught to proclaim the great news of Jesus Christ through their changed lives, letting their new lives be the words by which they told others the Good News of Jesus Christ You may or may not find this surprising, but among the first Christians, a person wishing to be baptized had to prove themselves teachable. But you can see why when you consider what was being left behind and how hard it would be to do so: Idolatry - the distraction, burden and vice-like grip of false gods. Violence - a society maintained by force, founded on violence and entertained by the gladiators. Covetousness - so much grasping for material things. Promiscuity - when many filled empty lives through self-indulgence. And in those early years, these four great changes were emphasized (Justin Martyr) all of which are relevant for us today. First, a Christian must resist idolatry - the worship of false gods - ‘useless things’ as St. Paul calls them (Acts 14.15) - in favor of single-minded devotion and loyalty to God. In the first centuries, this was a call away from the worship of many different gods in Roman society. Like the addictions of our time to pornography, alcohol, drugs - even work - the false gods are made by human hands and substituted for the Creator of all things. Secondly, Christians were to resist violence in favor of living peaceful lives - starting in their own hearts, homes and congregations - and did so in a society ruled by a brutal army and entertained by gladitorial sports. But for the Christians, every life is sacred before God and to be treated as such. Most of us are not struggling each day with murderous thoughts and plans. But we live in a callous society that, on a dime, discards the unwanted through abortion and euthanasia. And while some have had to face this directly, the effect for most of us will be in the support we show for seniors who are frail, parents who have their hands full, friends and neighbors who are weak, the poor and mentally ill - now being euthanized in Canada for those reasons! And some, more personally, must attend to the anger in the heart, dealing seriously with unresolved conflict. The Lord promises to keep us in his peace. This is a promise to collect. Thirdly, the intimate life of Christians would be modest and purposeful, ruled by the boundaries of marriage and the calling of Christ. Thou shalt not commit adultery. We will serve the Lord and only him. It is important to see how marital discipline and the calling of the Lord are connected. God has given our lives dignity and purpose. But if we live as if God does not exist, as if any purpose in life will do, the pressure is overwhelming to turn in on ourselves. As Fr. Ajit said last Sunday, we live in a time where many suffer from great loneliness and emptiness. Loneliness that can do great harm if we try to fill it wrongly. God has given a noble purpose for our union in marriage. It is that place where children are born and raised. It is a little university for us to explore and understand the depths of God’s love for us. But it simply is not the greatest calling. That calling is the call of Jesus Christ of every Christian, under whom all else finds its place. Who calls every one of us to himself and into his family. Who knows each one of us by name and answers the deepest longing in each one of our hearts. As our Lord put it, ‘my brothers and sisters are those who obey the will of God.’ And as Paul put it, I imagine with a shrug of his shoulders: "I'm unmarried. I serve the Lord. "I'm married. I serve the Lord. "In whatever state - I Serve The Lord! And where this leads is straight into the beauty and mystery of life in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ. I give away my life for his sake. I am given back more than I could ever imagine by the One who loves us and calls us by name. Fourthly, Christians would not be materialists. Thou shalt not covet. This applies in two ways. We will not be ruled by possessions. And we will not be driven by the competitiveness that so often accompanies the pursuit of wealth and the ill and unjust treatment of others for the sake of business. And so, in a time when there’s much that turns our heads away from God and onto useless things, a time when many innocent lives, young and old, are violently discarded, when anger poisons our hearts, when we fill empty lives with stimulants, material possessions or self indulgence, where shall we look? Well, for starters, we would do well to consider what’s found at the conclusion of our Catechism (BCP 555). There, every Christian is urged to "frame" for themselves a RULE OF LIFE in accordance with the Gospel and "the faith and order of the Church," committing ourselves to the following six things: 1 Regular attendance at public worship and especially at the holy Communion. 2 The practice of private prayer, Bible-reading, and self-discipline. 3 Bringing the teaching and example of Christ into everyday life. 4 The boldness of our spoken witness to our faith in Christ. 5 Personal service to the Church and the community. 6 The offering of money according to our means for the support of the work of the Church at home and around the world. This is a wise and strong rule of life for every Christian to consider seriously and one that I encourage all of us to act on and accept. But for those moved to do so, for those who may be tired of the faith being too much in the head and not enough in daily life, who may be dragged down by the useless things of our time - maybe there’s a place for the addition of these four specific rules AND a fellowship of like-minded people to live this way together - to honestly and humbly face the addictions, anger, greed, and indulgence that haunt and depress our lives. To become a peaceful people. To accept and to share the kindness of the Lord. In the early church, changed lives attracted the notice of others. Is there reason to think that following the Rule of Life in our time would attract the same notice and attention now? So try a little thought experiment. What if a person attended church on the Lord’s Day? Who as a matter of principle and practice for themselves and their families, takes one day a week to pray, to rest, to enjoy the fellowship of family and friends, whose eyes are lifted in prayer to see the world God loves. Whose children are, for this reason, kept out of the expensive and all-consuming Sunday sports programs - the national sport being among the worst. Would anyone notice? What if a person took time each day to pray and read the Bible and let the thoughts and prayers of those few moments percolate throughout the day? In the cloud with the St. Paul's congregation or following Daily Bread a few minutes before work? Would anyone notice? What if a person pushed back when a fellow employee was bullied, a company leader tried cheating? What if a person joins in the large projects of the Diocese and at St. Paul L'Amoreaux to provide a home for low income seniors, to provide the relief of food and shelter to those stricken by circumstances through ACSA, to provide comfort to cancer patients in their final hour through the Bridge of Hope in Sri Lanka. Would anyone notice? What if casual conversation with friends was about more than sport scores and new shoes and included reflection about the faith? What if rather than sidestepping the hard questions and troubles of our friends, instead we opened our hearts to them and the Lord, listening carefully and answering in the spirit of Christ, "unafraid because the words will be provided." Would anyone notice? What if the necessary time we take for rest and recreation also included a visit to a lonely senior, help in the Sunday School, or a morning at the Food Bank? Would anyone notice? What if our charity was not random but regular and generous for what God might do with our many hands and nickels together. Would anyone notice? I knew someone quite proud of his generosity and the charity he showed to street people, sharing a loonie or toonie on the occasions he noticed them. From what he told me, I had reason to believe this was his only charitable giving. I thought, and still believe, that his kindness meant something, but with a six figure annual income, I also did the math, estimating a few gifts a month for 12 months a year, and understood in an instant why the average Canadian gives less than 1/2 percent a year and, by contrast, the merits of the Christian tithe, where every gift, regular and sustained, becomes part of the economy of God. And for those moved to do so, addicted to and dragged down by "the useless things" of our time, who will deal seriously with the addictions, anger, greed and indulgences of our time in the safe and confidential company of like-minded people with experienced and competent guides, seeking the new life promised and offered by our Lord. Would anyone notice? My prayer during this time of reopening and rebuilding - as we return and invite family and friends back to church - is that our heads are not turned by quick fixes and spectacles, but rather that we will live by the patience and kindness of the Lord. That what turns our heads is the work of God’s spirit in our hearts and lives and changed lives that can wordlessly proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. Let this be where our attention rests. Let us trust God to use our lives as he sees fit - to proclaim the great things of the Lord. |
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