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Highlights of Our Life and Work
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Here is the latest news from our community of faith.
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Sunday Online Worship
November 15, 2020 - Unlikely Agents of Liberation
As we wrestle with rising infection rates and increased isolation, join us for worship (via video) this Sunday. We will celebrate Communion and hear the story of Deborah and some other unlikely folks who God used to bring liberation to the people. How does God invite you to be an agent of liberation? (Remember to prepare some bread and juice for communion.)
Scripture Reading: Judges 4: 1-9, 12-23
Sermon: Unlikely Agents of Liberation
For Scripture Reading, Hymns and colouring pages - Click here
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Photo: Stuart Lyster
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(11 am Sunday Morning)
Regardless of when you watch the service, you're welcome to join us for a Zoom coffee hour at our usual time 11am on Sunday. We meet altogether using Zoom and then move into break-out rooms of four or five people.
There's always room in Zoom! Even if you don't have a computer, you can join us by phone, a lot like the old party lines!
Click here to join us via zoom video on your computer.
Don't forget you can join us by phone! Here's how:
Call 778-907-2071
Enter meeting ID: 893 1783 8813
Then enter password: 2979
The flowers in the sanctuary for this Sunday's worship video are placed in memory of Neville Graham by his beloved wife, Margaret.
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Congratulations, Peninsula United Church, on your overwhelmingly positive vote at Sunday's congregational meeting to become an Affirming Ministry in the United Church of Canada.
It seems like a good time to repeat part of what Rev. Dale Johnson said in his sermon at PUC on Sept. 13, "Are You In or Out?" Click Here "By embracing radical hospitality; by modelling inclusivity; by boldly proclaiming that gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and two spirit people are welcomed and loved by God; by becoming an Affirming Congregation, we continue the process of putting an end to In and Out Theology. We declare love and acceptance are more powerful than hate, bigotry and rejection. We stand up against injustice. And we embrace a faith and theology that is reflected in compassion and justice. That is why, when we build a community, when we build a house, we boldly declare, 'All are welcomed in this place!'"
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Your Ministers are Here for You
Although Janice and Bruce cannot do home visits at this time, they are happy to speak with you by phone, especially if you are struggling with anxiety, health or family crises.
Janice: 604-531-2979 ext.2 or 778-980-8310
Bruce: 604-531-2979 ext.3 or 604-992-9183
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Announcements Deadline
Weekly bulletin announcements must be in the office by 10 am on Wednesdays.
Email to [email protected] or call 604-531-2979.
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I Believe Even When...
The Season of Advent begins on November 29.
This year we will prepare for the birth of Jesus with the help of the Worship Design Studio's worship series called "I Believe Even When..."
Click here to watch the trailer.
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There are a number of ways that you can participate in the Advent preparations.
- Make an Advent wreath at home.
We recommend 4 blue candles and one white Christ Candle. Each Sunday we will light a new candle. Would you like to video yourself lighting a candle for inclusion in the on-line worship video? Let Rev. Janice know if you would like to participate in this way. [email protected]
- Each week in the on-line worship we will sing a verse of "This Little Light of Mine" with 'sign language'.
Be prepared to learn another way of singing!
- Join the Los Posadas Journey of Mary, Joseph and the donkey (in the form of knitted stuffies).
They will be traveling through our community in
their miniature Recreational Vehicle. Because of health and safety concerns they won't be able to come into our homes but they can stay in their RV on your covered entrance or patio. And we can still have a quick, safe 6 ft visit while transporting the Holy Family from one home to another. Contact Pat Anderson 604-535-5652 if you would like to host the Holy Family for a night or two.
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- Make a luminary for your home Advent celebrations
- Record yourself or your family singing a Christmas carol outside your home or in the community. We would like to include some of these in our on-line worship. Bonus: we have some special 'covid' verses to share with you. Contact Rev. Bruce if you wish to participate.
- Play a role in the "virtual" Christmas pageant (for all ages!)
- Create a symbol of hope, love, joy or peace and decorate the Christmas tree in the entryway of the Crescent site.
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A Message from Your Covid Safety Team
As you know Dr. Bonnie Henry has alerted us to higher numbers of Covid-19 positive cases. We need to follow the orders and stop all of the in person gatherings. This does not affect the recording of our weekly services. It is prudent for all of us to be even more diligent in keeping safe...wash our hands, maintain our two meter distance, wear our masks, keep to our household bubble, etc!
If anyone wants further information on our church's safety plan it is available from the office.
The following groups have decided to put on hold their gatherings as recommended by the new provincial health orders:
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43 Moderator of the United Church of Canada
(Can you spot him in the Zoom screenshot?)
Creator,
as I prepare to go into the world,
help me to see the sacrament
in the wearing of this cloth -
let it be "an outward sign
of an inward grace" -
a tangible and visible way
of living love for my neighbours,
as I love myself.
Christ,
since my lips will be covered,
uncover my heart,
that people would see my smile
in the crinkles around my eyes.
Since my voice may be muffled,
help me to speak clearly,
not only with my words,
but with my actions.
Holy Spirit,
as the elastic touches my ears,
remind me to listen carefully -
and full of care -
to all those I meet.
May this simple piece of cloth
be shield and banner,
and each breath that it holds,
be filled with your love.
In your Name
and in that love,
I pray.
May it be so.
May it be so.
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 We are sad to share the news of two deaths in our congregation.
Don Wilson died on Nov. 7, 2020. Please hold his wife Lucille and the rest of the family in your prayers.
Barry Charlebois died on Nov. 11, 2020. Please hold Judith and the rest of Barry's family in your prayers.
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Nitelights Potpourri Sale
The Nitelights will be holding a pandemic potpourri sale of home crafted items - fruitcakes, Christmas masks and fabric gift bags, toques, and aprons - on Saturday Nov. 28 and Sunday Nov. 29 from 11 till 2 on the driveway at Val Weinert's house, 13761 -18A Avenue.
Please wear a mask and respect physical distancing rules.
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Que alegria.
On October 23 there was a joyous celebration of 25 years on the land of Tierra Nueva. ( It has been 20 years since we helped them gain title to that land.)
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| | The cooks preparing the food. |
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| | There were 3 piñatas and both Canada and BC flags were prominently displayed. |
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| | You get a peek at a surprise being prepared for us. |
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| | A celebration of the bounty. |
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 Welcoming a New Baby!
"I have been blessed with the birth of my first grandchild on October 5, 2020. What a wonderful gift she is and all is well."
- Kathy Matusiak
Congratulations to Kathy and family! |
Guests at the EWS at Peace Portal need: warm, all weather coats and gloves, boxers and underwear for women, and backpacks. Other important needs are: disposable razors, small toothpaste and toothbrushes, band aids and small polysporin tubes.
These items can be dropped off Mon- Friday at Peace Portal Alliance Church
15128 27B Ave. 604-531-4733
PUC volunteers and others are partnering with Peace Portal Alliance supporting guests at the Shelter.
Please contact Jon LeFave [email protected] with any questions or if you'd like to make a financial donation for some toiletries which could purchased in bulk.
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From the Envelope Secretary
Thank you for your continued financial support of the church through Envelopes and PAR givings.
For Envelope users, 2021 Envelopes will be available by the end of December, and we will let you know at that time how they can be picked up.
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Rev. Janice wants to direct you to "Willow":
A local organization which seeks to help transform end-of-life planning into a rich opportunity for personal growth and community connections. Janice shared some of their thoughts about grief and mourning in last week's sermon. Check out their website for more really helpful information.
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Tuesdays at 7:30 am, Crescent site
We are a small group of 4-12 people who gather for 20 minutes of contemplative, silent prayer,
followed by coffee and conversation.
Due to increased numbers of covid 19 infections in the Fraser Health area, we have resumed praying in our individual homes on Tuesday mornings three times a month followed by zoom coffee.
As long as our Health Officer permits, on the first Tuesday of the month, starting Dec. 1, we will meet in the sanctuary at the Crescent site to pray in silence and then visit. We are following safety protocols, including wearing masks and sitting 6 ft apart in a large circle.
Bring your own coffee or other beverage should you wish one. For more information email or call Rev. Janice
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News from Ministry & Personnel
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Thank you from Beth Henderson:
"Over five years ago I joined the staff at First United Church to help out for days off and holiday coverage. I never thought at that time that I would stay this long! Working through the amalgamation was a challenge, but fun too. The ministers and office staff are amazing! My job would not have been as joyful without all of the many volunteers I've met along the way.
I am ready for retirement and look forward to what life holds for me.
Thank you for all your kind words and for your generous retirement gift card. My phone number is in the directory so don't hesitate to call."
~ Beth Henderson
Beth has decided that it's time to step back from her office duties and pursue some of those hobbies that she has put on the back burner. Thank you, Beth, for your efficiency and dedication - and the warm welcome you extended to everyone who came into the church office.
There will be a party for Beth but she prefers to wait until life has settled down a bit regarding Covid-19.
Wishing you good health and lots of fun in your retirement, Beth.
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Welcome Nikkie!
Nikkie Ripka is energetic, competent and was steeped in the United Church from youth. Some of you know her already from Thirdspace activities and because she has been covering for Beth during her vacations at the Sunnyside office.
With Beth's retirement, we are fortunate that Nikkie has agreed step in at the Peninsula United Church office, in addition to her Thirdspace work. Nikkie is familiar with our congregation and has worked with both staff and congregation. There will be some adjustments for everyone as we change schedules and learn new tasks. Please, be patient and kind.
Welcome NIkkie!
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Change to Office Hours
With these staff changes we have had to adjust the times that staff will be at the office. The new hours are Tuesdays 9 am to noon and Thursdays 11 am to 2 pm. Calls outside of those hours will be returned on a timely basis. Joanne continues to work her regular hours from home.
Access to the church buildings continues to be restricted at this time.
Click here for information about access to office and church buildings during COVID-19 restrictions.
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Local Acts of Practical Reverence
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JOIN Skipper Otto...
and be confident of the taste and quality of your fish purchases.
This is a practical way to support our local fishery.
The system is flexible, letting you pick what you like from the year's catch. Everyone's share looks differently depending on family size and how often you eat seafood.
It's easy: sign up online, order on line and pick-up at Choices Market on King George Blvd.
For more detailed information visit:https://skipperotto.com
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A Rocha Environmental Centre
Cozy toques, cup of hot coffee, winter squash, and more! It's been a busy fall at A Rocha.
New winter hours:
Tues, Thurs & Fri: 1pm - 5pm
Wed & Sat: 10am - 3pm
Volunteers are the back bone of A Rocha (the Rock), and as they are located in S. Surrey at 192 & 16th.
Curb-side pick-up or mail-delivery to your home!
To learn more or to get involved: |
#1 - 1381 George St. White Rock, BC V4B 2L1
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What's New at ThirdSpace?
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Due to the current BC Government restrictions on gatherings, Thirdspace is temporarily moving our Conversation Café back online.
Topic for November 18: If you had intro music, what would it be?
To Join:
Online Via Zoom:
Meeting ID: 883 7065 1699
Password: Please contact us at [email protected] for password
Dial In:
Dial: 778 907 2071
Meeting ID: 883 7065 1699
For further information click here!
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Due to current BC Government restrictions on gatherings, our Drop-In temporarily back online.
Friday morning 10am - 11am, grab your java and join us from the warmth and comfort of your own home!
How to join us:
Virtually Via Zoom:
Or Dial by Phone:Dial: 778 907 2071 Canada Meeting ID: 999 4167 9678 Passcode: Please contact us at [email protected]
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Looking for that special gift for someone that has everything?
Everyone enjoys delicious Purdy's Chocolates for Christmas! Delicious Georgia Browns, Yummy Hedgehogs, Gift Boxes, stocking stuffers and even no sugar alternatives.
Purdy's catalogues and order forms will be available at the church office or call Teri Lydiard 604 538-6352. Or, you can order online
All profits will go towards our church. Return your order with cheque payable to Teri Lydiard by Sunday November 22nd, and your items will be available after November 29th --no mall panic required
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Gifts with Vision
A new year of giving through Gifts with Vision has begun! There are lots of great new gifts for our partners in Canada and across the world, along with some of your favourite projects from previous catalogues.
The world has changed so much since this time last year, and some of the new gifts reflect that, showing how our partners are responding to the pandemic. Your gifts bring help to those who need it most.
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Stewardship Seconds
November 15: Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost
The gifts of this world will not last past our lifetimes, but God's gifts to us-and our gifts to God-will last through this life and beyond. |
Covid-19 Safety Protocols at Peninsula United Church 
During the Pandemic our Covid-19 Safety Team (Kathy Matusiak, Anna Paton, Lee Chamberlain,Carol Monaghan and Nikkie Ripka) continues to ensure that safety protocols are in place.
Click here for information about access to office and church buildings during COVID-19 restrictions .
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Your Generous Gifts are More Important than Ever
Click here for information on how to continue your offerings during this changing time. |
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Our congregation has purchased an "All Access Pass" - a new initiative from Naramata Centre in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. What does this mean for you?
Click here to learn more about Peninsula's All Access Pass
Click here to check the Naramata website for upcoming Fall retreats
If you need the discount code or have questions, feel free to give Barbara Gregg a call 604-649-4926.
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News from the Wider Church and Community
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Wonderful News!
The Naramata Slow group, through their green ribbon campaign, raised over $850,000 which was the target to enable the Regional District of Similkameen and Okanagan to purchase the Naramata Beach. This will ensure that it will remain a beach in perpetuity, with the RDOS doing the maintenance and giving priority to Naramata Centre during the summer months. A win-win-win for everyone!!
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| | Click here to see what's happening in the Pacific Mountain Region of the United Church of Canada during Covid-19 physical distancing measures. |
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Prayer Ministry Requests:
During the Corona Virus Pandemic, since we are no longer placing written requests in the sanctuary Prayer Box, members and adherents can submit prayer requests to Louise Bureau or Olive Lee by email or phone. You can find our contact information in the church directory. If phoning in a request, please phone before 8 PM. You may also submit requests through our ministers. Thank-you. It is our privilege to serve you through our prayer ministry.
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Office Closed But Staff is on On the Job
The office and ThirdSpace will be closed for the foreseeable future but all our staff are available by phone and email.
Peninsula UC Office :604-531-2979
ThirdSpace Office: 604-385-0822
Click here for information about access to office and church buildings during COVID-19 restrictions.
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