On the Eve of 2023, by Fr. Dean Mercer
This simple word. Most of us will never forget where we were when the Covid lockdowns began. I certainly won’t. It was Saturday, March 14th and I was in a hotel in Kelowna, B.C., preparing for the funeral of my sister. I received an email from the Wardens that the doors of the church were ordered closed for Sunday. None of us could have known what would follow. I thought we’d reopen within two weeks - and was off by more than two years! And as we’ve discovered, the reopening has not been as simple as unlocking doors and turning on the lights. It has been a gradual affair. But with the relaxation of safety guidelines this past Easter, not only have former things resumed but wonderful new people have joined us and new programs added. Throughout it all the Lord has been good and the people of St. Paul’s have remained faithful. And on the eve of the new year, we look back on a very good year for St. Paul’s, with new growth and opportunity, and all the signs pointing in the right direction. The doors of St. Paul’s are open again. Let us give thanks to God for his faithfulness. Let us ask him to lead us and guide us in the year to come. ***** New Year’s Eve - 11.00 p.m. - Watchnight service New Year’s Day: 8.00 a.m. - English 10.00 a.m. - English 1.00 p.m. - Chinese 3.00 p.m. - Tamil 6.00 p.m. - Evensong (in-person and streamed) A Youtube recording of the 8.00 a.m. New Year's Day Service will be available by mid-afternoon, New Year's Day, here: https://stpl.ca/youtube-service-recordings.html Thank You for All Your Support Sincere thanks to everyone for your generous support of the ACSA foodbank, with more than $2500 raised; for the support of the Angel Tree Program; of the Outreach Christmas Mitten Tree; and the strong support of our Youth collecting food for the Salvation Army Food Bank. As He has taught, it is more blessed to give than to receive. Parking During Covid, parking spots available for church members on Sundays in the Centre covered parking were assigned to new Centre residents. The church only became aware of this recently and is now following this up in order to restore the weekend and Sunday parking spots that were lost. Those qualified are welcome to use any of the Disabled Parking Spots. As always it is first come, first serve, and plenty of parking is available at the Bridlewood Mall. What Comes Next? - an invitation to young adults in the parish to a study of What Comes Next? By Bishop Tom Wright on building a mature foundation for the Christian life. The study begins on Saturday January 14th at 10am in the Boundy Room. For more information, contact Fr. Dean. New Office Administrator - Sarah Mair We are happy to announce that Sarah Mair is our new office administrator. We thank each applicant and those who conducted the interviews. This, we trust and believe, is a complementary addition to Sarah’s present responsibilities as Director of Family Ministry. 2023 Envelopes Now Available The 2023 church envelopes are now available at the church. A reminder that any envelope will do so long as it is marked with your name and Church Envelope #. 2023 Vestry - Sunday, January 22, 12.30 noon Vestry Reports Due - Sunday, January 8 - all officers, please note. 2022 Expense Reports - due December 31. Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s - next meeting: Saturday, January 21 - meal, program, singing and prayers. Topic - Volunteering: Opportunities & Importance. Friday Night Bible Study of the Gospel of Luke continues this Friday in person and on Zoom, but will take a break until Friday, January 13. The next study will be on the Acts of the Apostles, the 2nd half of Luke’s Gospel, using the study guide by N. T. Wright. Copies are available from Fr. Dean for $13. Regular 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 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 Resume January 14: 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. Altar Guild Members who attend the 11:15am service and are interested in joining the Altar Guild, please contact Valerie W. 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. 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 beard3300@rogers.com. 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: splcyouthministry@gmail.com. Thank you for your Faithful Gifts and Offerings - St. Paul’s is a strong parish and remained so throughout 2022 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: stpl@stpl.ca; Fr. Dean Mercer: deanmercer@hotmail.com; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14, NRSV)
Merry Christmas. ***** Christmas and New Year’s Schedule Christmas Eve - 6.00 p.m. - Pageant and Eucharist - in-person Christmas Eve - 11.00 p.m. - Candlelight Eucharist - in-person & streamed, using the "Church Service" Zoom link - https://stpl.ca/services.html Christmas Day: 8.00 a.m. - Tamil 10.00 a.m. - English - in person 1.00 p.m. - Chinese A Youtube recording of the 11.00 p.m. Christmas Eve Service will be available by mid-afternoon, Christmas Day, here: https://stpl.ca/youtube-service-recordings.html New Year’s Eve - 11.00 p.m. - Watchnight service New Year’s Day: 8.00 a.m. - English 10.00 a.m. - English 1.00 p.m. - Chinese 3.00 p.m. - Tamil 6.00 p.m. - Evensong (in-person and streamed) A Youtube recording of the 8.00 a.m. New Year's Day Service will be available by mid-afternoon, New Year's Day, here: https://stpl.ca/youtube-service-recordings.html Thank You for All Your Support Sincere thanks to everyone for your generous support of the ACSA foodbank, with more than $2500 raised; for the support of the Angel Tree Program; of the Outreach Christmas Mitten Tree; and the strong support of our Youth collecting food for the Salvation Army Food Bank. As He has taught, it is more blessed to give than to receive. Parking During Covid, parking spots available for church members on Sundays in the Centre covered parking were assigned to new Centre residents. The church only became aware of this recently and is now following this up in order to restore the weekend and Sunday parking spots that were lost. In the meantime, this weekend all spots along the north and south have been reserved for those attending Christmas services, and those qualified are welcome to use any of the Disabled Parking Spots. But as always it is first come, first serve. Plenty of parking is available at the Bridlewood Mall. Year-end Giving Through the end of November, the church has remained in a strong position for which we thank God and thank our members and supporters for their faithfulness. We now seek your help through the year’s end. A reminder that December 31 is the the deadline for gifts given in 2022, noting that because Christmas and New Year's falls on a Sunday, there is one less Sunday collection. A reminder - due to Covid we have made available a number of electronic means of giving - Pre-authorized giving and E-transfers being the ones we recommend. We say our prayers and do our best - to the glory of God. 2023 Envelopes Now Available The 2023 church envelopes are now available at the church. A reminder that any envelope will do so long as it is marked with your name and Church Envelope #. Thank you Matthew Waterman After three years of service as Church Secretary - he arrived just in time for Covid! - Matthew W. will be ending his service at the end of December. We pray for him in his postulancy. We will find an occasion to express our thanks. We hope to make an announcement about his successor soon. 2023 Vestry - Sunday, January 22, 12.30 noon Vestry Reports Due - Sunday, January 8 - all officers, please note. 2022 Expense Reports - due December 31. Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s - next meeting: Saturday, January 21 - meal, program, singing and prayers. Topic - Volunteering: Opportunities & Importance. Friday Night Bible Study of the Gospel of Luke continues this Friday in person and on Zoom, but will take a break until Friday, January 13. The next study will be on the Acts of the Apostles, the 2nd half of Luke’s Gospel, using the study guide by N. T. Wright. Copies are available from Fr. Dean for $13. Regular 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 NOTE: The office will be closed, Tuesday to Thursday, Christmas week. E-mail and phone messages will be monitored. 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. Altar Guild Members who attend the 11:15am service and are interested in joining the Altar Guild, please contact Valerie W. St. Paul’s Ladies Group - Attention all members - there will be a very important meeting on November 22, 2022, at 7 pm at the church. Please make an effort to attend. Thank you. Venetta S. 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. 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 beard3300@rogers.com. The Zoom Replay of the recording of the 8.00 a.m. Sunday service is at 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: splcyouthministry@gmail.com. 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: stpl@stpl.ca; Fr. Dean Mercer: deanmercer@hotmail.com; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. Light Shines in the Darkness
by Fr. Dean Mercer Wednesday night at Parish Council, Sarah reported on the children and youth ministry. It is very encouraging: *a great basketball tournament last week for our youth; *with more room now needed for the children's basketball; *a growing Friday night youth group where young people get the chance to reflect on their lives before God; *a bunch of them off to Wonderland last night (Friday) for a year end party; *with kids in our pan program preparing for this evening's concert; *with plans falling into place for a great Christmas Eve pageant led by our youth and children; *and with two great recent performances by our string ensemble at the Anniversary service and at the Scarborough Philharmonic holiday concert. Our kids played with the SPO. And when you listen to the recording, they didn't just play - they kept up with musicians who frequently perform with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra! The doors are reopening and people are walking through. And this, from this morning’s reading. A report has just been released on the effect of Covid in The Episcopal Church, the American equivalent to the Anglican Church of Canada. It is honest and even-handed and avoids the hysteria, as author David Goodhew puts it, of those "addicted to bad news and panic". (https://covenant.livingchurch.org/2022/12/16/facing-episcopal-church-decline-after-covid/). My sense is that the situation is roughly in line with our situation in Canada. But one point within the study, and his concluding four recommendations, are what caught my attention. According to the Pew Institute Research, 55% of parishes made no provision for children and youth education during Covid - and my thoughts went immediately to Leila, Sarah and our great team of teachers and youth leaders who hung in there during a very hard time. Which led to his four recommendations. First, "those who intend to grow will tend to grow". Hard as the pandemic was, for the sake of the Gospel, we never gave up. And to rebuild and grow after the pandemic was our motivation, even when only a few people were allowed into the building. We had no intention of surrendering. We did our best. We could hardly wait until the doors reopened. Furthermore, he made the point made by Ephraim Radner, our preacher on Anniversary Sunday - the lesson for from Covid is not to start from scratch. The point is to rebuild on the foundation of parish ministry: prayer, the sacraments, trustworthy preaching and teaching, care of each other, and reaching out with the Good News of the Gospel and with hands open and willing to serve. What you see is what you get here, but parishes like St. Paul’s are real and living outposts of the Kingdom. Which is why, as David Goodhew noted, St. Paul cared equally about the great matters of theology and settling the quarrel of two humble members. Secondly, Covid highlights the "fuel" for recovering: hope from the resurrected One reaching across the empty tomb. Never has the Gospel been more important for a battered people. Thirdly, post-pandemic planning is crucial for the first year, the third year and the fifth. But can you guess what he recommends: "I'd put work with children and families at the top of the list." Finally, there will be closures. But as he sees it, this "should not distract us from the urgent need for church planting — notably in areas of expanding population, new housing, and ethnic diversification" - which we remain ready to do at the drop of a hat! I think David Goodhew is thinking about Scarborough. I think he's been making secret visits to St. Paul's. Because here, we remain convinced that it is for others to be discouraged. For the sake of Jesus Christ, and for the sake of the tired and battered world God loves, we've no time for it. The Lord has given us too much to do! Year-End Reminder It’s been another remarkable year as the people of St. Paul’s have faithfully supported their parish through an extraordinary time. Through the end of November, we have been in a strong position, now seeking your help through the year’s end. A reminder that December 31 is the the deadline for gifts given in 2022, noting that because Christmas and New Year’s falls on a Sunday, there is one less Sunday collection. Alternatively, because of Covid we have made available a number of electronic means of giving - Pre-authorized giving and E-transfers being the ones we recommend. We say our prayers and do our best - to the glory of God. Steel Pan Christmas Concert -7.00 p.m., Saturday, December 17. Featuring: Gemini Pan Groove & St. Paul's Steel Orchestra. Tickets: $20 - contact the office or band members. Doors open at 5.45 pm. Light refeshments The Angel Tree Program, run by Prison Fellowship Canada, aims to establish and maintain healthy relationships between incarcerated parents and their children, and also between these children, their caregivers, and a church community within their neighbourhood. Volunteers shop, wrap and deliver gifts to families. Monetary donations are also needed, visit the church website for information on how to give. The sign-up sheet for Angel Tree is in the church entrance or you can sign-up online: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DQSIkWdsW0yxEjajBLZtrQAAAAAAAAAAAAO__ZvaYgBUQUdEOEwyMkNKUTlPS1JMV1VLR0pSUFJGRC4u We need more shoppers to be able to effectively run the program this year. Thank you. Jacqueline. Thank you Matthew Waterman After three years of service as Church Secretary - he arrived just in time for Covid! - Matthew W. will be ending his service at the end of December. We pray for him in his postulancy. We will find an occasion to express our thanks. We hope to make an announcement about his successor soon. The Christmas Tree Mitten Outreach Program - donations of knitted mittens and scarves now being received - in support of ACSA and the Dr. Roz Healing Centre. 2023 Vestry - Sunday, January 22, 12.30 noon Vestry Reports Due - Sunday, January 8 - all officers, please note. 2022 Expense Reports - due December 31. Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s - next meeting: Saturday, January 21 - meal, program, singing and prayers. Topic - Volunteering: Opportunities & Importance. Friday Night Bible Study of the Gospel of Luke continues this Friday in person and on Zoom, but will take a break until Friday, January 13. The next study will be on the Acts of the Apostles, the 2nd half of Luke’s Gospel, using the study guide by N. T. Wright. Copies are available from Fr. Dean for $13. Regular 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 *Christmas Services: Christmas Eve: 6.00 p.m. and 11.00 p.m. (11 pm is on Zoom and in-person) Christmas Day: 10.00 a.m. (English) 11.30 a.m. Christmas Brunch (sponsored by the English & Chinese congregations) 1.00 p.m. - Chinese Christmas Service 3.00 p.m. - Tamil Christmas Service *Watchnight Service - New Year’s Eve - 11.00 p.m. *New Year’s Day - Feast of the Epiphany 8.00 a.m. (English) 10.00 a.m. (English) 1.00 p.m. - (Chinese) 3.00 p.m. - (Tamil) 6.00 p.m. - Evening Prayer Steel Pan Practice - Saturdays, 12.30 noon. The Christmas Tree Mitten Program - in support of ACSA and the Dr. Roz Healing Centre. See Jennifer B. for more information. 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. Altar Guild Members who attend the 11:15am service and are interested in joining the Altar Guild, please contact Valerie W. St. Paul’s Ladies Group - Attention all members - there will be a very important meeting on November 22, 2022, at 7 pm at the church. Please make an effort to attend. Thank you. Venetta S. 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. 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 beard3300@rogers.com. The Zoom Replay of the recording of the 8.00 a.m. Sunday service is at 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: splcyouthministry@gmail.com. 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: stpl@stpl.ca; Fr. Dean Mercer: deanmercer@hotmail.com; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. Advent Memorial Service - Friday, December 16, 7.30 pm - remembering loved ones as we approach Christmas.
Steel Pan Christmas Concert -7.00 p.m., Saturday, December 17. Featuring: Gemini Pan Groove & St. Paul's Steel Orchestra. Tickets: $20 - contact the office or band members. Doors open at 5.45 pm. Light refeshments The Angel Tree Program, run by Prison Fellowship Canada, aims to establish and maintain healthy relationships between incarcerated parents and their children, and also between these children, their caregivers, and a church community within their neighbourhood. Volunteers shop, wrap and deliver gifts to families. Monetary donations are also needed, visit the church website for information on how to give. The sign-up sheet for Angel Tree is in the church entrance or you can sign-up online: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DQSIkWdsW0yxEjajBLZtrQAAAAAAAAAAAAO__ZvaYgBUQUdEOEwyMkNKUTlPS1JMV1VLR0pSUFJGRC4u We need more shoppers to be able to effectively run the program this year. Thank you. Jacqueline. Thank you Matthew Waterman After three years of service as Church Secretary - he arrived just in time for Covid! - Matthew W. will be ending his service at the end of December. We pray for him in his postulancy. We will find an occasion to express our thanks. Church Secretary St. Paul’s is now looking for a part-time Church Secretary (15 hours, Tuesday to Friday mornings), someone who is comfortable and familiar with standard computer programs and would be a good ambassador for St. Paul’s. Application deadline: December 13. The Christmas Tree Mitten Outreach Program - donations of knitted mittens and scarves now being received - in support of ACSA and the Dr. Roz Healing Centre. 2023 Vestry - Sunday, January 22, 12.30 noon Vestry Reports Due - Sunday, January 8 - all officers, please note. 2022 Expense Reports - due December 31. Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s - next meeting: Saturday, January 21 - meal, program, singing and prayers. Topic - Volunteering: Opportunities & Importance. Looking Ahead * Christmas Eve - 6 p.m. pageant and service; 11 p.m. midnight service *Christmas Day - 10am - followed by brunch, sponsored by English and Chinese congregations. Signup for brunch in the church. No service of evening prayer. *Watchnight Service - New Year’s Eve - 11 pm. *New Year’s Day Sunday Services - 8.00 am, 10.00 am, 1.00 pm (Chinese), 3.00 pm (Tamil), 6.00 pm (Evening Prayer) Friday Night Bible Study of the Gospel of Luke continues this Friday in person and on Zoom, but will take a break until Friday, January 13. The next study will be on the Acts of the Apostles, the 2nd half of Luke’s Gospel, using the study guide by N. T. Wright. Copies are available from Fr. Dean for $13. Regular 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) Please note - the 9.15 & 11.15 am services are combined next Sunday, November 27, for the Anniversary Service. Office Hours: Tuesday - 10.00 am to 12.30 noon Wednesday to Friday - 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 noon Looking Ahead *Advent Memorial Service - Friday, December 16, 7.30 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 Brunch (sponsored by the English & Chinese congregations) 1.00 p.m. - Chinese Christmas Service 3.00 p.m. - Tamil Christmas Service *Watchnight Service - New Year’s Eve - 11.00 p.m. *New Year’s Day - Feast of the Epiphany 8.00 a.m. (English) 10.00 a.m. (English) 1.00 p.m. - (Chinese) 3.00 p.m. - (Tamil) 6.00 p.m. - Evening Prayer Steel Pan Practice - Saturdays, 12.30 noon. The Christmas Tree Mitten Program - in support of ACSA and the Dr. Roz Healing Centre. See Jennifer B. for more information. 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 Note: we are now on Christmas Break, resuming Friday, January 13. Altar Guild Members who attend the 11:15am service and are interested in joining the Altar Guild, please contact Valerie W. St. Paul’s Ladies Group - Attention all members - there will be a very important meeting on November 22, 2022, at 7 pm at the church. Please make an effort to attend. Thank you. Venetta S. 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. 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 beard3300@rogers.com. The Zoom Replay of the recording of the 8.00 a.m. Sunday service is at 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: splcyouthministry@gmail.com. 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: stpl@stpl.ca; Fr. Dean Mercer: deanmercer@hotmail.com; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. Anniversary Service
A very special Anniversary service last Sunday. Pictoral highlights here: https://stpl.ca/youtube-service-recordings.html Thank you Matthew Waterman After three years of service as Church Secretary - he arrived just in time for Covid! - Matthew W. will be ending his service at the end of December. We pray for him in his postulancy. We will find an occasion to express our thanks. Church Secretary St. Paul’s is now looking for a part-time Church Secretary (15 hours, Tuesday to Friday mornings), someone who is comfortable and familiar with standard computer programs and would be a good ambassador for St. Paul’s. Application deadline: December 13. Advent Service of Lessons and Carols - this Sunday, December 4, 6.00 p.m.. The service will be streamed, using the Church Services Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86566347435?pwd=WnhpMDJQRkxjMEV3d2pMU0FCa0JuUT09 By Phone: 647-374-4685 or 647-558-0588 Meeting ID: 865 6634 7435 Passcode: 501805 Advent Memorial Service - Friday, December 16, 7.30 pm - remembering loved ones as we approach Christmas. Steel Pan Christmas Concert -7.00 p.m., Saturday, December 17. Featuring: Gemini Pan Groove & St. Paul's Steel Orchestra. Tickets: $20 - contact the office or band members. Doors open at 5.45 pm. Light refeshments The Angel Tree Program, run by Prison Fellowship Canada, aims to establish and maintain healthy relationships between incarcerated parents and their children, and also between these children, their caregivers, and a church community within their neighbourhood. Volunteers shop, wrap and deliver gifts to families. If you would like to volunteer please sign-up online or contact Jacqueline Abel. Monetary donations are also needed, visit the church website for information on how to give. The Christmas Tree Mitten Outreach Program - donations of knitted mittens and scarves now being received - in support of ACSA and the Dr. Roz Healing Centre. Adzua Fellowship: The Immigrant Support Program of St. Paul’s - next meeting: Saturday, January 21 - meal, program, singing and prayers. Topic - Volunteering: Opportunities & Importance. New Director of Family Ministry With great pleasure we announce, 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. Looking Ahead * Christmas Eve - 6 p.m. pageant and service; 11 p.m. midnight service *Christmas Day - 10am - followed by brunch, sponsored by English and Chinese congregations. (No service of evening prayer.) *Watchnight Service - New Year’s Eve - 11 pm. *New Year’s Day Sunday Services - 8.00 am, 10.00 am, 1.00 pm (Chinese), 3.00 pm (Tamil), 6.00 pm (Evening Prayer) Friday Night Bible Study of the Gospel of Luke continues this Friday in person and on Zoom, but will take a break until Friday, January 13. The next study will be on the Acts of the Apostles, the 2nd half of Luke’s Gospel, using the study guide by N. T. Wright. Copies are available from Fr. Dean for $13. 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. Please join us for this important meeting to sign up to join the team. Spaces are limited on the team. We will be meeting at St. Paul's on Wednesday, December 7th from 7:30 -8:30 p.m.. If you would like more information please contact: the Reverend Canon Kim Beard at beard3300@rogers.com. Stewardship Emphasis The purpose of the annual Stewardship Emphasis 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. Regular 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) Please note - the 9.15 & 11.15 am services are combined next Sunday, November 27, for the Anniversary Service. Office Hours: Tuesday - 10.00 am to 12.30 noon Wednesday to Friday - 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 noon Looking Ahead *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). *Tamil Congregation Lessons and Carols - Saturday, December 3, 5.00 p.m. *Advent Lessons and Carols - Sunday, December 4, 6.00 p.m. *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 Brunch (sponsored by the English & Chinese congregations) 1.00 p.m. - Chinese Christmas Service 3.00 p.m. - Tamil Christmas Service Steel Pan Practice - Saturdays, 12.30 noon. Angel Tree Program - delivering gifts to children who have an incarcerated parent - now in search of donors, gift wrappers and deliverers. See Jacqueline A. for more information. The Christmas Tree Mitten Program - in support of ACSA and the Dr. Roz Healing Centre. See Jennifer B. for more information. 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 Altar Guild Members who attend the 11:15am service and are interested in joining the Altar Guild, please contact Valerie W. St. Paul’s Ladies Group - Attention all members - there will be a very important meeting on November 22, 2022, at 7 pm at the church. Please make an effort to attend. Thank you. Venetta S. 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 beard3300@rogers.com. 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: splcyouthministry@gmail.com. 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: stpl@stpl.ca; Fr. Dean Mercer: deanmercer@hotmail.com; Rectory phone: 416-497-6352. |
Archives
December 2023
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