We can't miss the signs of fall returning to Southern Ontario. In spite of the warm temperatures, leaves are turning beautiful colours and some are beginning to drop to the ground. Fresh local corn and tomatoes are disappearing from the farmers markets just as the squash and pumpkins are arriving. The most poignant for me are the Canada Geese flying in their distinctive V formations, calling out the coming new season.

"Lessons from the Geese" was originally written in 1972 by Dr. Robert McNeish of Baltimore, Maryland. I see in his essay a wonderful metaphor for church life.

So here are 5 ways that a church is like a flock of Canada Geese:

1.     Cooperation: That V formation is for aerodynamics. A flock of geese is like a team. Flying together creates an uplift, a surge that carries the whole farther than its individual parts could go by themselves. When the members of a church work together, they can achieve greater things than as individuals. Think about the programs and the outreach that are done as a community.

2.     Planning: The geese know their destination and the route that will take them there. A healthy faith community looks ahead to the future; creating a vision of what might be and planning missions to bring it into reality.

3.     Encouragement: The geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. Those who volunteer their time, energy and hearts as leaders in the church will stay longer and feel better about the work of the church when they get a thank you and some positive affirmation of their work.

4.     Shared Leadership: When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into formation and another goose flies at the point position. It is healthy for the church and our volunteers if they can take a break from time to time. It brings fresh ideas and fresh energy

5.     Compassion: When a goose gets sick or wounded or is shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it is able to fly again or dies. They then launch out on their own, with another formation or catch up with the flock. With Jesus as our example, the people of the church care for each other; visiting, helping, praying until God's healing is accomplished and the member is able to return or until they leave this earthly home for a new one.

"Lessons from the Geese" is a beautiful analogy for any Christian. Imagine if every church behaved like a flock of geese: flying in perfect formation; cooperating as a team: unified behind strong, healthy leadership; constantly encouraging those around us; and helping our brothers and sisters in the faith. Those who practice these things will reach the flock's destination, the Kingdom of God here on earth!

                                                                             Rev. Kathi Phillips

Happy New Year!  No, you have not mistakenly picked up January's copy of the Communique.   I'm sure I'm not alone when I say that September often feels more like a new year than January.  Certainly, as a teacher, September is truly a new year for me, but even here around the church, this fall month often signifies new initiatives, new volunteer opportunities and new faces.  Our newest face is, of course, our new full-time minister, Rev. Kathi Phillips.  Kathi has had an opportunity to lead several worship services and meet many of you throughout the last few weeks.  We have waited excitedly for her arrival and are so grateful to have her finally here with us.

We have also launched our new website, which I encourage you to explore.  Thanks to Barb Jennings and Owen Luo for committing much of their summer to this updating project.

It is always a hope that after a refreshing and renewing summer, folks will return to EMUC feeling rested and ready to become reengaged.  Your offerings of time and talent continue to be imperative and necessary to carry on the work that we do.  Our sincerest gratitude to those of you that offer your assistance in so many ways, both within our church home and out into the wider community.

As we approach the anniversary of 25 years within this building, we hope you continue to enjoy the traditions of Erin Mills United Church as well as the new opportunities and fresh ways to engage in the community.  Try out a new committee or join an interest group.  Be inspired by the message and the music during Sunday worship.  Enjoy the fellowship of familiar friends and new faces.  Stay connected and watch for interesting, new events throughout this busy season.

                                 May you find blessings and peace in this place.

                                        Joanne Hines, Leadership Circle Chair

Today, Sunday October 1, we celebrated with joy the 25 years of this building as our church home.  The official opening was held on Sunday October 4, 1992.  The Chancel Choir sang 'Bless This House'.  Everyone was give the opportunity to state what brings them joy in this building. Memories of 25 years were shared over coffee, tea and cake following the service. 

 

This is an invitation to all euchre players to join us for an evening of card playing.  

Where:   Erin Mills United Church, Lower Hall.

When:   Saturday, October 14th.   Arrive 6:30 pm.  Play starts 7 pm.