All Saints Sunday, November 1, 2020

 I hope that you have survived Hallowe’en, if you have chosen to celebrate it this year. Now that we may have scared away the goblins, it is now time to celebrate the saints of the church. And this means you too! 

Hymn.     For All the Saints #705 VU

Scripture Lessons:    Joshua 3:7-17

Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 pp. 831-2 VU pts 1 & 4

I Thessalonians 2:9-13

Message

Prayer:  We confess, O God, that when we think of saints, we think often of different people, special people, holy people who glow with your light, your love, and your Spirit. We may not think of our neighbours, our families, or ourselves. Yet you call each and all of us to be your saints: to listen to your word; to follow in the way of our Saviour; and to bring hope, healing, and blessing to your children. As we pause to give thanks for those who have gone before us, who have taught us and shown us your love and grace, help us to dare to seek to be saints as well, to open ourselves to your spirit, and to live your love day by day. We pray in the name of our Saviour, Jesus the Christ. Amen. 

Hymn.     A Mighty Fortress is our God #262VU

 We continue to hold in our thoughts and prayers the many families over this year who have lost family members over this year and who continue to mourn their loss and give thanks for their lives. 

Congratulations to Abigail Chisholm, daughter of Bart Chisholm and Emily Dragunas, who was baptized in Howick United Church last weekend. 

For members and adherents of Howick United Church: The Trustees of the Howden-Templeton Bursaries are now inviting applications for the bursaries. The applications are on the website and the deadline for applying is December 1st. Please share this information with those who might be interested. 

We are starting to think about Advent and Christmas. Alyson Orr would like us to know that even if there is no Mitten Tree this year, we can still collect hats, scarves, mittens, and gloves to be distributed to those who need them. Start knitting, everyone! (If you haven’t already.)

The United Church is welcoming a new Executive Secretary for the Denominational (national) Council. His name is the Rev. Michael Blair, he was covenanted with the Executive last weekend and officially starts today!