Sunday, October 18, 2026 World Food Sunday

 Friday, October 16 th is officially World Food Day when we consider the fact that the earth produces more than enough food for all who live upon it, so the issue is not abundance but distribution. We launch our campaign for the Canadian Food Grains Bank this Sunday, seeking not just to feed the hungry but also to help them to feed themselves for the future. 

Hymn      I Sing the Mighty Power of God #231VU

Scripture Lessons:        I Thessalonians 1:1-10

                                      Psalm 99 p. 819VU

                                      Matthew 22:15-22

Message

Prayer:   God of renewal and new life, loving and wonderful God, you know us. You know our needs and our bodies. You made us to eat. You have kept us fed. You give us bread to fill our bellies, and Scripture to feed our souls. Thank you for your bounty. Thank you for your love. Thank you for Jesus, the bread of life, who broke for us. God of bread and food, this is the season of Thankfulness. And so we thank you for caring for us. Amen 

Giving and Providing God, as we sit at our tables, we remember that you have fed millions; you have made bread fall from heaven in the desert. You made a few fish and loaves multiply. Help us to feed our neighbours, as you have fed us. Through our hands, feed the hungry. Through our gifts, help the food insecure. Amen. ( from the UCC worship resources.) 

Hymn       Jesus Calls Us #561 VU

This Sunday’s services are 9:30 in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown. We will be launching our campaign for the Canadian Food Grains Bank. There are some envelopes in our churches or you can make a donation at foodgrainsbank.ca. 

This Sunday St Paul’s will be holding a Craft Day for children and youth during its 11:00 service. 

La Bouffe Additionelle wishes to express their thanks for the food donations made last week. It amounted to 86kg of food as well as cash donations. WOW! 

Next Sunday October 25th Howick United Church will be holding a Craft Day for children and young people. Come and join the fun! 

Howick United Church will be holding Muffin Mornings each Monday at about 9:30am. All welcome to come and join in the conversation! 

St Paul’s Stewards meeting has been delayed for a week. They will meet on Wednesday, October 28th at 7:30pm. 

Howick UCW will meet this Wednesday, October, 21st at 7pm in the church hall. We will be having a chair yoga session and those attending are asked to bring a yoga mat, if possible, though we will not be doing our exercises on the floor. 

Sunday, November 1st will be All Saints Sunday and we will be singing hymn requests from the congregation. Nominate your favourite hymn and/or dedicate a hymn to the memory of someone. You can speak to Barbara or nominate a hymn in the box in the entry. 

Sunday, October 11, 2026 Thanksgiving Sunday

 

Hymn.      Come You Thankful People Come #516

Scripture Lessons:       Deuteronomy 8:7-18

                                     Psalm 65 p.782VU

                                     II Corinthians 9:6-15

Hymn.      We Plough the Fields and Scatter #520VU

Message 

Prayer:  God, giver of all good, you continually pour your benefits upon us. 

Age after age the living wait upon you and find that your faithfulness has no end, 

That your care is unfailing. 

We praise you that the mystery of life is a mystery of infinite goodness. 

We praise you for the order and constancy of nature; 

For the beauty and bounty of the earth; 

For day and night, summer and winter, seed time and harvest; 

For the varied gifts of loveliness which every season brings. 

We give you thanks for all the comfort and joy of life, for our homes, for our friends, 

And for all the love, sympathy, and goodwill of all people. Amen. ( from the UCC’s worship resource, Celebrate God’s Presence.)

Hymn.      Now Thank We All our God #236

This Sunday’s services are 9:30 in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown. In Ormstown we will be collecting food and donations for our local food bank, La Bouffe Additionelle. Donations of seasonal produce and non-perishable food items as well as monetary donations by cash or cheque would be welcome. 

Howick United Church will begin its Muffin Mornings this coming Wednesday, October 14th at about 9:30, in the church hall/ basement. We will discuss how to go forward, and the day might change to Monday, as Wednesday seems to be quite a busy day. Please let us know if you are interested. 

St Paul’s Session will meet on Wednesday, October 14th at 7pm in the hall. 

St Paul’s Stewards have delayed their meeting to Wednesday, October 28th at 7:30pm in the hall. 

On Sunday, October 18th we will be launching our campaign for the Canadian Food Grains Bank. Envelopes for donations will be available in our churches. 

St Paul’s will hold a Craft Day for children and youth Sunday, October 18th at the 11:00 service. 

Howick United Church will hold a Craft Day for children and youth Sunday, October 25th during the 11:00 service. 

Sunday, October 4, 2026 The Fifth Sunday of Creation

 This Sunday is also Worldwide Communion Sunday and we will be celebrating the sacrament of Communion in both St Paul’s and Howick United Church this Sunday. 

This Sunday is also St Francis of Assisi Day. St Francis is the saint of animals and creation. Today many churches will bring their observance of the Season of Creation to an end ( I like to continue it to Thanksgiving Sunday, I think it makes sense) and to hold blessing of the animals services. May the joyful, loving, and peaceful spirit of St Francis be revealed in our living and our serving. 🌏🌈

Hymn        How Firm a Foundation #660

Scripture Lessons:       Exodus 20:1-4,7-9,12-20

                                     Psalm 19 p.740VU

                                     Philippians 3:4b-14

Message

Prayer:  We thank you, O God, that you have strengthened us through your nearness and we pray:

Grant that the ears that have heard your Word may be closed to the voice of discord; 

That the eyes which have seen your great love may see the blessedness which you have promised; 

That the tongues which have sung your praise may testify henceforth to the truth; that the hands that have received your gifts may do good to your honour; that the feet which have brought us to this place may not stray from the way of your light; that the bodies that have been strengthened by your gifts may be ready to live a new life in you. And to you be honour and glory forever and ever. Amen. (a prayer from the Church Office of the Evangelical Church of Kurhesses-Waldeck, Germany, printed in Gifts in Open Hands edited by Maren Tirabassi and Kathy Wonsan Eddy)

Hymn        O Jesus Thou Joy of Loving Hearts #472

This Sunday’s services will be Communion services, offering the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. In Ormstown this will be held at 9:30 and in Howick at 11:00. 

Many thanks to all who supported Howick’s Benny’s BBQ Chicken dinner last Sunday. It raised more than $2000 for the life and work of the church. 

We express our appreciation to Claude Gervais and his helpers who have decorated the St Paul’s Church and Main Street in Ormstown with seasonal fruits and vegetables and help us to rejoice in the harvest season and prepare for our Thanksgiving celebrations. 

Next Sunday will be Thanksgiving Sunday in both our churches. In Ormstown we will be collecting food for La Bouffe Additionelle (the local food bank), both non-perishable food items as well as seasonal food items. Donations of cash and cheques can also be made. 

St Paul’s in Ormstown will be holding a Craft Day on Sunday, October 18th during the 11:00 service. 

Howick United Church will hold its Craft Day on Sunday, October 25th during its 11:00 service. 

If you know of anyone interested in taking part in a Confirmation Class, either this fall or in the new year, please contact Barbara. 

Congratulations to the Rev. Eric Hebert Daly, who has been the Executive Minister for the Nakonhaka Regional Council, as well as 2 others, and who has now been named as the incoming Executive Secretary of the General Council level of the United Church. 

Sunday, September 27, 2026 The Fourth Sunday of Creation

 This Sunday is being observed as Orange Shirt Sunday by many churches, in preparation for Truth and Reconciliation Day on Wednesday, September 30th, also known as Orange Shirt Day. 

Hymn          Lord Speak to Me #589VU

Scripture Lessons:       Exodus 17:1-7

                                     Psalm 78 p.792VU

                                     Philippians 2:1-13

Message

Prayer:  Creator, you made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them. You made us as people, as communities, and as families. You intend for us to grow and flourish together. You command us to do good works, to be generous, and to build a good life for all. 

         Some of us wear orange to say that we did not always experience what you want for us, because we were taken away from our families and communities against our will. 

         Some of us wear orange to acknowledge that we are not yet who you intend us to be, and that we have not lived up to your commandments. 

         All of us wear orange to say that Every Child Matters, and that we want to help create a future that values all Indigenous peoples. 

         Our prayers today are not simple expressions of hope for justice, they are our commitment to create your justice on earth. 

We pray ….. to acknowledge the harm caused by residential institutions and to honour all who were taken. 

….. for the end of racial discrimination against Indigenous children

….. for the end of racist colonial systems that continue to harm all Indigenous peoples

….. for the humility to open ourselves to the task before us, and the courage to work together. 

You tell us to build up a good foundation for the future, so that we might “take hold of the life that is really life.” As we wear orange, we commit to the life you intend us to live together. ( a prayer by Sara Stratton, Reconciliation and Indigenous Justice Animator, slightly adapted.) 

Hymn        Blest be the Tie that Binds #602VU

This Sunday’s services will be 9:30 in Ormstown and 11:00 in Howick. If you have reserved a meal from Howick for the Benny’s BBQ Chicken fundraiser please pick it up after the 11:00 service, or stay and eat the meal together. Thank you for your support for this fundraiser for the church. 

We hold in our thoughts and prayers, the family and friends of Jean Niles, following the burial service held for her on Saturday. 

If you have not received a copy of the new newsletter, please let us know if you would like to receive one, by email or printed. 

Next Saturday, October 3rd the Nakonhaka Regional Council will be holding a Celebration of Ministry service at Summerlea United Church on 50th Ave in Lachine. This recognizes retirements and admissions and will also include the ordination of 2 candidates as well, Jessica Gauthier and Marie Silvenie Chery. All welcome. Reception to follow. 

Next Sunday will be Worldwide Communion Sunday and we will be celebrating the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper at 9:30 in Ormstown and Howick at 11:00. 

Sunday October 11th will be Thanksgiving Sunday in both churches. St Paul’s will continue its tradition of collecting food for the food bank. Non-perishable food items and seasonal produce or donations by cheque or in cash are all appreciated. 

If you know of someone who would be interested in participating in a Confirmation Class, please have them contact Barbara. We are deciding when to hold the class: fall, winter, or spring. 

Sunday, September 20, 2026, the Third Sunday of Creation

 

Hymn       How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds #344

Scripture Lessons:        Exodus 16:2-15

                                      Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45

                                      Matthew 20:1-16

Message

Prayer:  God of the universe, whose light shines in every culture and tradition, hold close to you today the many women, men and children who give of themselves in order to bring justice and peace on this earth. The bridge builders, the artists, the hidden saints, the risk-takers, the intercessors, the campaigners, and all those who will not lie down to injustice even at the cost of their lives. And may we ourselves be in their midst— alive to the possibilities of your justice-filled Spirit at the heart of Creation. Amen. ( a prayer by Peter Millar, shared by the Iona Community.)

Hymn        All the Way my Saviour Leads Me #635VU

This Sunday’s services will be 9:30 in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown. 

A new newsletter has been printed and is available. Please let us know if you would like to receive one. 

We continue to hold in prayer the many families and friends of those who have died in the past weeks and months, including the family and friends of Jack Peddie who died recently. His burial service is being held in Riverfield Cemetery on Saturday, September 19th at 11:00, followed by a reception at the Town Hall. 

Next Sunday September 27th, Howick United Church will be holding its Benny’s BBQ Chicken fundraiser, following the 11:00 service. Meals are available for Takeout or eat-in and need to be ordered from Wilene Cullen, Anita Greig, or Allyson Orr by September 23rd. The prices for the meals are $20 for Chef’s choice chicken dinner and $12 for chicken nuggets. 

Last spring we had inquiries about a Confirmation Class, which we put off. Now I am wondering when would be the best time to plan these classes, this fall, or next winter or spring. Please let me know if you know of someone who would be interested and when would be the best time for it to be held. 

Sunday, September 13, 2026 The Second Sunday of Creation

 This weekend is the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hoshanah for our Jewish sisters and brothers. This marks the Jewish New Year and we wish for them Shana Tova, or a sweet and good new year. 

Hymn       Joyful, Joyful #232

Scripture Lessons:        Romans 14:1-12

                                      Psalm 114

                                      Matthew 18:21-32

Message

Prayer:  Holy One, I said “Oops” this week: I forgot to hold someone’s hand; 

I said the wrong thing to a friend in pain; I didn’t finish what I said I would do;

I didn’t look for you in the eyes of a stranger. 

Holy One, forgive me my “Oops”—

And help me to forgive others their “Oops”

Wrap me up safe in your grace, 

And give me the courage to keep on trying. Amen. (a prayer by Jane O. Sorensen, printed in Before the Amen edited by Maren C. Tirabassi and Maria I. Tirabassi)

Hymn       Amazing Grace #266

This Sunday’s services will be 9:30 in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown. 

We hold in our thoughts and prayers the family and friends of John (Jack) Peddie, who died last week and whose funeral in Ottawa is being held this weekend. Next weekend Saturday September 19th there will be a burial at the Riverfield Cemetery at 11am to be followed by a reception at the Town Hall in Howick. All are welcome to come and remember Jack and to offer support to Gloria and the family. 

St Paul’s Session will meet on Wednesday, September 16th at 7:30pm in the hall. 

A new newsletter will be produced this month, please let Barbara know if you have any items to include. 

After conversations with the Sessions, a Confirmation class is being planned for sometime this year (2026-7). When would be best to hold these classes? Fall, winter or spring? Evening or afternoon? Please let Barbara know your thoughts. 

Howick United Church will be holding its Benny’s BBQ Chicken fundraiser on Sunday, September 27th following the 11:00 service. The lunch can be takeout or eat-in and the price is $20 for the dinner (chef’s choice) or $12 for nuggets. Please reserve your dinner by Wednesday, September 23rd by contacting Wilene Cullen, Anita Greig, or Allyson Orr. We thank you for your support. 

The OHO Quilters will be holding their Quilt Show Friday and Saturday September 18th and 19th between 10-4:00 at the Ormstown Curling Club. The price of admission is $5 and includes the tearoom as well. Any profits go to local charities. 

Sunday, September 6, 2026 The First Sunday of Creation

 Today is, of course, Labour Day weekend, which is now often overlooked as the school year has (mostly) already started and it is (mostly) observed as a holiday rather than a time to honour those who work for, with, and amongst us. Let us give thanks especially for those who must work this weekend. 

Hymn       All Things Bright and Beautiful #291

Scripture Lessons:       Romans 13:8-14

                                     Psalm 149 p.873VU

                                     Matthew 18:15-20

Message

Prayer:  All powerful God, you are present in the universe and in the smallest of your creatures. You embrace with your tenderness all that exists. Pour out upon us the power of love, that we may protect life and beauty. Fill us with your peace, that we may live as brothers and sisters, harming no one. O God of the poor, help us to rescue the abandoned and forgotten of this earth, so precious in your eyes. Bring healing to our lives, that we may protect the world and not prey on it, that we may sow beauty, not pollution and destruction. Touch the hearts of those who look only for gain at the expense of the poor and the earth. Teach us to discover the worth of each thing, to be filled with awe and contemplation, to recognize that we are profoundly united with every creature as we journey towards your infinite light. We thank you for being with us each day. Encourage us, we pray, in our struggle, for justice, love and peace. Amen. ( a prayer by Pope Francis, included in his 2015 encyclical, Laudate Si’). 

Hymn       Love Divine #333VU

This week’s services will be 9:30 in Ormstown and 11:00 in Howick. The service in Howick will be followed by the memorial service for Alec Templeton, with visitation beginning at about 1:00 and the service at 2:00. The service will be followed by a reception at the Town Hall. 

We also hold in our thoughts and prayers the family and friends of Jack Peddie, who died this week. A celebration of his life will be held in Howick at the Town Hall on Saturday, September 19th. 

St Paul’s Session will meet on Wednesday, September 9th at 1:00 in the hall. 

Howick United Church will be holding its annual Benny’s BBQ Chicken lunch following the 11:00 service at Howick Sunday, September 27th. Tickets will be $20 for the adult dinner (chef’s choice) and $12 for the chicken nugget meal. They are available for takeout or eat-in. Please order your tickets from Wilene Cullen, Anita Greig, or Allyson Orr by September 23rd to receive your meal. 

The OHO Quilters will be holding their Quilt Show again this year on Friday and Saturday, September 18th and 19th from 10-4:00 at the Rec Centre in Ormstown. Admission will be $5 and will include a tea as well. Any profits will be given to local charities. Your support would be greatly appreciated.