Come into each heart, each prayer, each song, each life this day so that we may live and love with purpose, courage, and enthusiasm serving our world this day and everyday.
Hymn. Spirit Divine, Attend our Prayers #385
Scripture Lessons: Acts 2:1-21
Psalm 104:24-24
John 20:19-23
Hymn Breathe on Me Breath of God #382
Meditation
Prayer: Come Holy Spirit, come: enter our lives. Free us from all fear. Give us strength to carry on. Give us hope and joy sufficient for each day.
Come Holy Spirit, come: give us power to be the church. Impart to our members, that we may be the body of Christ’s presence in the world. Free us from all fear, and renew our life together.
Come Holy Spirit, come. Bind us close together. May we rejoice with one another’s joys and weep with one another’s sorrows. Bind us together, not only with the sheep of this fold, but all of Christ’s people around this community and the world. Forgive the pride, prejudice, and self-righteousness which separate us from one another.
Come Holy Spirit, come: that all may be one in Christ, source of all true unity, who is with us today and always, even to the end of time. Amen. ( a prayer by RuthC. dDuck printed in Bread for the Journey)
Hymn. Spirit of God, Descend upon my Heart #378
This Sunday Howick United Church will be holding its Anniversary Sunday celebration, beginning at 11:00. This will include a brief worship service, some family friendly activities, and a sandwich lunch. The sandwiches will be supplied but donations of cash to cover the cost, veggies and sweets would be greatly appreciated.
Franklin United Church will be holding a Pentecost Sunday service at 9:30.
This weekend is the final weekend for beginning or renewing a subscription to Broadview. The cost is $25 for a year’s subscription. Please let Wilene Cullen know if you are interested.
St Paul’s Session will be meeting on Wednesday, May 31st at 7:30pm in the hall.
The Howick Women’s Institute will be holding an information evening with Wendy Sherry (nurse clinician at the MUHC) on Tuesday, June 13th at 7pm in the Howick United Church. All welcome.
Howick United Church Stewards will be meeting on Thursday, June 15th in the church at 7pm.
June Worship Schedule: June 4. 9:30. Ormstown. 11:00. Howick
June 11 9:30. Franklin. 11:00. Ormstown. (No service in Howick)
June 18. 9:30. Howick. 11:00. Ormstown
June 25. 9:30. Franklin. 11:00. Howick. outdoor service
Prayer: Gracious God, as Jesus’ disciples asked him to teach us to pray, so we do too. Deep within our hearts we have a great hunger and need for your presence and your guidance. Teach us to pray; teach us to love; teach us to live. This we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen. ( adapted from a prayer printed in Taste and See, by Jacqueline Syrup Bergan and S. Marie Schwan.)
Hymn. What a Friend We Have in Jesus #664
Blessing: In each breath this day, May there be peace.
In each step this day, may there be grace.
In each word this day, May there be compassion.
In eac encounter this day, May God’s presence be known. ( from Keri Wehlander’s Circles of Grace.)
This week’s services will be 9:30 in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown.
The Howick Stewards meeting has been postponed until Wednesday, June 15th at 7pm in the church hall.
St Paul’s Session will be meeting on Wednesday, May 31st at 7:30pm in the hall.
Next Sunday is planned to be Anniversary Sunday in Howick. We will begin at 11:00 with a short service and have a few intergenerational activities planned, to be followed by a sandwich lunch. All welcome to take part.
Next Sunday is also the deadline for renewing or subscribing to Broadview magazine. The cost is $25 for a year’s subscription. It can be paid in cash, by cheque (made out to Howick United Church) or by e-transfer to Howickunitedchurch@gmail.com.
The deadline for applying for the IFE or Hugh Duncan bursaries made available by Nakonhaka Regional Council for college and university students is June 1st. The application form is available on the Nakonhaka website (nakonhakaucc.ca) or Barbara can provide a copy if requested.
We continue to hold the Chisholm and Buchanan families in our thoughts and prayers, following the memorial service held yesterday in the Georgetown Presbyterian Church.
We also hold the family of George Cullen in our thoughts and prayers, following his death last week. A service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, June 3rd at 3:00, visitation being held in the church from 1:30.
Today is of course, Mother’s Day or Christian Family Sunday. We give thanks for the gifts of life and love often learned and experienced in families, whether in the families we are born into, the families we choose and make together, or both. 💞
Hymn Praise My Soul the God of Heaven #240VU
Prayer: Loving God, like a mother you are always watching over us, always caring for us. On this day, we pray for all those who are like mothers to us— all of those women who wipe away tears, who teach and guide us, who hold us and hug us and listen to our stories and tell us their wisdom. For mothers and grandmas, aunties and big sisters, neighbours and friends, who show us your love in their words and actions, we offer thanks, and ask you to bless the. Amen. (from Seasons of the Spirit 2004)
Scripture Lessons: Acts 17:22-31
Psalm 66:8-20
John 14:15-21
Meditation
Prayer: We thank you, O God, for our family and for what we mean and bring to one another. We are grateful for the bonds of loyalty and affection which sustain us and for the capacity to love and to care. Help us to be modest in our demands of one another, but generous in our giving to one another. May we never measure how much love or encouragement we offer; may we never count the times we forgive. Rather, May we always be grateful that we have one another and that we are able to express our love in acts of kindness.
Keep us gentle in our speech. When we offer words of criticism, May they be chosen with care and spoken softly. May we waste no opportunity to speak words of sympathy, of appreciation, of praise. Bless our families with health, happiness and contentment. Above all, grant us the wisdom to build a joyous and peaceful home in which your spirit will always abide. Amen. ( a prayer from Temple Beth Emanuel in Montreal)
Hymn. Love Divine #333
This week there are services in all three of our churches: 9:30 in Franklin, 11:00 in Ormstown and 11:00 in Howick with Debbie Beattie. Hope you all have a happy Mother’s Day, however you choose to celebrate it.
This coming week the St Paul’s Stewards will be meeting on Wednesday, May 17th in the hall at 7:30pm.
Howick’s Stewards will be meeting the following Wednesday, May 24th in the church hall at 7pm.
Unit B of the Howick UCW will be meeting for a soup lunch at the home of Thyra Ness Wednesday, May 24th at 11:45.
The deadline for beginning or renewing a subscription to Broadview is approaching, May 28th. The cost is $25 for a year’s subscription. Please get cash or cheque (made out to Howick United Church) to Wilene Cullen or you may make an e-transfer to Howickunitedchurch@gmail.com, including your name and address for the subscription.
Georgetown Presbyterian Church will be holding a flower and plant sale Monday, May 22nd from 9:-12:00. Hanging baskets and bedding plants will be sold on a first come, first served basis. For more information, please call Amy at 450-825-2872.
May 14th is the application deadline for the Youth Climate Motivators that the United Church is hiring this summer. Applicants need to be between 14 and 19 years of age and will work with faith communities across the country. More information and the application form is available on the Job and Volunteer Opportunites page on the United Church website, united-church.ca.
The application deadline for the IFE and Hugh Duncan bursaries is June 1st. The bursaries are provided by the Nakonhaka Regional Council to confirmed members of the United Church who are attending college or university. Application forms are available on the regional council website, nakonhakaucc.ca or you may speak to Barbara and she will provide one.
This is also the end of Mental Health Awareness Week. We pray for the health and well-being of all God’s people, for both their physical, mental and emotional health.
Hymn How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds #344
Prayer: Jesus, you are the Living Stone, chosen by God and precious. We desire to be like you, living stones, built into a spiritual house. Let this time of worship open us to your presence and transform us into a holy priesthood in your name. Amen. (written by Kate Crawford of Huron Shores United Church, Grand Bend ON and printed in Gathering L/E2020)
Scripture Lessons: Acts 7:55-60
Psalm 31:1-5, 15,16
I Peter 2:2-10
Meditation
Prayer: God, we thank you for the hope of a new day and a fresh start. We give thanks for the reminder that “it’s ok not to be ok” and that it’s better to tell the truth about what’s really going on for us, get support and help, than to suffer in silence and alone. We thank you God that you never give up on us even when we feel like giving up on ourselves. We thank you that we can hold onto hope one day at a time. We are grateful for this faith community where we can experience sacred welcome, inclusion, support, and engagement for mental health. Bless us with the power of your Spirit that is holy as we share your love with others in our mission to end the stigma and shame of mental illness. In the name of the Disabled and Neurodiverse God we pray. Amen. (a prayer written by the Rev. Dr. Sarah Lund and included in the resources for Mental Health Sunday.)
Hymn Christ is Made theSure Foundation #325
We continue to hold in our thoughts and prayers the family of Charles Harvey following the service of remembrance and thanksgiving for his life held on Saturday.
The Howick UCW will be meeting Wednesday, May 10th at 7pm at the home of Marina and Scott Templeton, to learn and try out some flower arranging techniques.
St Paul’s United Church Session will be meeting on Wednesday, May10th at 7:30pm in the hall.
St Paul’s Stewards will be meeting on Wednesday, May 17th at 7:30pm in the hall.
Congratulations to the Rev. Patricia Lisson who has been granted an honorary doctorate and the Rev. Ken Delisle who has been awarded the Craig Chaplin Award by the combined colleges of the Montreal Diocesan College and the United Theological College. The awards will be presented at the combined convocation to be held May 8th in the Christ Church Cathedral.
The deadline for the Hugh Duncan and IFE bursaries offered by the Nakonhaka Regional Council will be June 1st. Bursaries are available for both college and university students who are confirmed members of the United Church of Canada. Application forms are available on the Nakonhaka website (nakonhakaucc.ca) or you may request a copy from Barbara.
The United Church is hiring 16 Youth Climate Motivators aged 14-19 to work with communities of Faith over the summer. The application date is May 14th. More information is available on the Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities webpage, accessed the the United Church website, united-church.ca.
This Sunday is known as “Good Shepherd Sunday” when we celebrate God’s goodness and faithfulness to us, as revealed in Jesus of Nazareth.
Hymn Come Let Us Sing of a Wonderful Love #574
Prayer: Holy God, our good shepherd, lead us to the peace and calmness that restore our souls; so that we may live faithfully in Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. ( a prayer by Patricia Catellier, printed in Before the Amen, edited by Maren Tirabassi and Maria I. Tirabassi)
Scripture Lessons: Acts 2:42-47
Psalm 23 p. 749VU
John 10:1-10
Hymn The Lord’s My Shepherd #747
Meditation
Prayer: Most compassionate God, we thank you that you have come to us in Jesus Christ, sharing our common lot. As the shepherd seeks a lost, sheep, you seek us when we wander; finding us, you receive us with rejoicing. Since you have claimed us, fill us with your Spirit, that we might be channels of your tender care for those who are broken-hearted or wandering. Amen. ( a prayer by Ruth C. Duck and printed in Bread for the Journey, edited by Ruth C. Duck.)
Hymn He Leadeth Me #657
This Sunday there will be a combined service for our three congregations to be held in St Paul’s in Ormstown. The service will be at 11:00 and we will begin with a fellowship time at 10:30 in the church.
A belated congratulations to Donald and Grace Brown who celebrated their 50th anniversary last week.
This afternoon there will be a Memorial Tea in honour of Marjorie Templeton from 2-4pm in the church hall.
We have been saddened by the news of the death of Charles Harvey this week. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. A service of remembrance and thanksgiving will be held on Saturday, May 6th at 2pm, at St Paul’s United Church, Ormstownwith visitation at the church from 1-2 preceding the service.
Congratulations to the Howick United Church Women, who raised more than $1000.00 (1016.34) through the bread sale. Thanks to those who planned, organized, and supported this fundraiser.
There will be a session on hearing loss and accessibility led by Abby Stonehouse offered by the Howick WI and hosted by the Howick UCW, to be held Tuesday, May 2nd at 1:30pm in the Howick United Church hall. All welcome to attend.
The time has come to renew or begin a subscription for Broadview, formerly The Observer, which combines both general interest articles as well as news from the United Church of Canada. The cost for an annual subscription is $25.00. Wilene Cullen is collecting the subscriptions. They can be made in cash or cheque (made out to Howick United Church) or by e-transfer to Howickunitedchurch@gmail.com.
The deadline for the Hugh Duncan and IFE bursaries offered by the Nakonhaka Regional Council is June 1st. Application forms are available on the Nakonhaka website (nakonhakaucc.ca) or speak to Barbara and she will provide one for you.
Prayer: God of the heavens and the earth, with joy we praise you, we thank you, we honour you.
Because you have made us like yourself, made us to be creative in your world, we praise you.
Because you have freed us through Jesus, freed us to be people of light and love, we thank you.
Because your Spirit is present with us, present to guide and renew, we honour you.
God of the heavens and the earth, with joy we praise you, we thank you, we honour you for ever. Amen.
Hymn Fairest Lord Jesus #341
Prayer: Generous and loving God, we thank you for your blessings without number.
We bless you for the beauty of creation: for day and night, for summer and winter;
for sun and rain, for seed-time and harvest;
for your bounty supplying all our needs.
We bless you for protecting us in our weakness, and renewing our strength of spirit; for guiding us as we resist evil, and calling us to your truth, and to your service.
We praise you for sending Jesus to be among us: for his life on earth, and the lessons he found there; for his sufferings and death, which revealed to us the height and depth and breadth of your love for us; for his resurrection to new life and the gift of your Holy Spirit.
Grant, O God, that our hearts may grow in thankfulness for these and all your gifts of grace, so that as the people of new life, we may proclaim your praise; in Jesus’s name. Amen.
Hymn For the Beauty of the Earth #226
This week Barbara is on educational leave and Debbie Beattie will be leading the Sunday services in Franklin (9:30) and Howick (11:00). Many thanks Debbie!
Barbara will be back in the office on Monday.
Next Sunday will be a combined service in Ormstown. The service will begin at 11:00 and there will be a time of fellowship, beginning at 10:30 in the church.
My apologies for those who were looking for the blog last weekend. I had not realized that I had not published the blog before I sent out the email. Once again, I am sorry. B
Hymn The Day of Resurrection #164VU
Scripture Lessons: I Peter 1:3-9
Psalm 150 p.874VU
John 20:19-31
Hymn Jesus Stand Among Us #396VU
Meditation
Prayer: Praise to you, my risen Redeemer, who keeps on challenging the doubt in me, who perceives the Thomas in me and allows me those graceful times when I, too, can put my fingers into the signs and wounds of my everyday life and there come in contact with you.
Praise to you, my risen Lord, who keeps on meeting me in the garden of my life, who keeps on calling my name, allowing me to feel loved, blessed, and cherished.
Praise to you risen Jesus, who walks with me on my Emmaus journeys, coaxing the ache out of me, comforting and strengthening me with the intimate presence of yourself.
Praise to you, my risen Saviour, who surprises me on the sandy beaches of my so often planned and programmed life, inviting me to come and taste what you have prepared. Time after time, you nourish me with all that I need to carry your risen presence with me, wherever I go and to who ever I meet. Amen. ( a prayer from Joyce Rupp’s Fresh Bread and other gifts of Spiritual Nourishment)
Hymn Christ the Lord is Risen Today #157VU
Barbara will be away this week on educational leave. Debbie Beattie will be leading the services in Franklin and Howick next Sunday, April 23rd.
We are delighted this Sunday to welcome 7 new members into St Paul’s, Ormstown through Profession of Faith.
Sunday, April 30th will be a combined service for our 3 congregations held in St Paul’s in Ormstown at 11:00. Fellowship time will begin at 10:30 in the church.
There will be a Memorial Tea held for Marjorie Templeton on Sunday, April 30th from 2-4pm in the Howick United Church Hall.
This week has been labelled as Earth Week, leading into Earth Day on Saturday April 22nd. We are invited to consider how we can show our care and concern for the Earth, our environment this week and beyond. In Ormstown there will be a forum with many groups and organizations organizing displays as well as the Scouts offering a lunch at the Rec Centre in Ormstown 10:00-1:00.
The 4-H Square Dancing Competition will be held Saturday, April 22nd at 1pm in the Industrial Building at the Fairgrounds.
The Nakonhaka Regional Council is now receiving applications for the IFE and Hugh Duncan bursaries. The deadline for applying is June 1st. It is open to confirmed members of a United Church congregation who are studying at a college level or university level school. The application form is available on the Nakonhaka website (nakonhakaucc.ca) or request a copy from Barbara.
Prayer: God of Easter surprise and everlasting presence: on this joyous day, we feel as if anything is possible. In the mystery of love you empower us to join with you in helping transformations happen in this world. The hallelujahs of Easter equip us for the opportunities you send our way. And we are glad. Amen. ( a prayer written by Joanna MacQuarrie and printed in Courage for Hallelujahs, edited by Keri Wehlander)
Scripture Lessons: Acts 10:34-43
Psalm 118:14-24 p. 837 pts 2&3
John 20:1-18
Hymn The Strife is O’er #159
Message
Prayer: Hurray, hurray, a million hurrays. All praise to you, God most holy. O mystery of mercy, O surprise of love. All was failing and loss. All was lost and death. Jesus our hope was murdered, all was buried and gone. But, O God, in wild abandon, in foolish wisdom, you raised Christ our hope from death to life. In Christ’s birth you announced your grace and favour. In Christ’s life he proclaimed your love and care. In his death he revealed you are with us always, and in his resurrection you revealed a new creation and new possibilities. You have given new worth to us and to the whole world. Hurray, hurray, a million hurrays. O God of mystery, O surprise of love. Amen. ( adapted from a prayer found in the United Church’s worship resource, Celebrate God’s Presence)
Hymn. Jesus Christ is Risen Today #155
A blessed and joyful Easter to you all! Unfortunately, the plans have changed for our Easter services this year. The service in Howick has had to be cancelled as Debbie has come down with COVID. We hope she will be feeling better shortly. There will be services in Franklin (9:30) and in Ormstown (11:00). Franklin’s service will also be a Communion service.
Next Sunday, April 16th, will be Confirmation and Communion Sunday in Ormstown. The service will be at 11:00, following Howick’s usual service at 9:30.
Barbara is planning to be away for a week of educational leave April 17th to 23rd.
Sunday, April 30th there will be a combined service in St Paul’s in Ormstown, beginning at 11:00. Coffe and munchies will be offered in a fellowship time from 10:30. All welcome.
Also, please keep in mind the Memorial Tea that will be held SundayApril 30th to celebrate the life of Marjorie Templeton. The tea will be held in the Howick United Church Hall from 2-4:00.
Howick UCW (unit c) will be meeting Wednesday April 12th at 7pm in the Howick Church Hall.
St Paul’s Session and Stewards will be meeting on Wednesday, April 12th. The Session will meet on Wednesday, April 12th at 1pm in the hall and the Stewards will meet on at 7:45 in the hall, following the Confirmation Class.
April 16th to 23rd is Earth Week and there will be a Forum held in the Rec Centre in Ormstown Saturday April 22nd (Earth Day) from 10 - 1:00. Many organizations will be there and a lunch will be offered by the Scouts.
Prayer: Holy God, who has opened our ears to hear your Word and our lips to proclaim your truth: open our eyes this day to see in the cross the revelation of your love; through Jesus the Crucified, to whom with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, be honour and praise, now and forever. Amen. (a prayer from the United Church’s worship resource, Celebrate God’s Presence)
Scripture Lessons: Isaiah 52:13-53:12
Psalm 22:1-18
Matthew27:45-55
Hymn When I Survey the Wondrous Cross #149
Message
Prayer: O Saviour of the world, we praise you again for the victory of the cross and for your finished work.
You have done for us what we could never do for ourselves, and what we did not deserve you to do; and you have done it once and for all.
Through your perfect and all-sufficient sacrifice sin is conquered, death is destroyed, humanity is redeemed, and heaven is opened. To God be the glory for ever and ever. ( a prayer by Frank Colquhoun and printed in Contemporary Parish Prayers)
Hymn. Beneath the Cross of Jesus #135
Have a blessed and a joyful Easter! We were planning to hold Easter services in all three of our churches, but we have heard from Debbie that unfortunately she has come down with Covid and is unable to lead worship for us this Sunday. We hope she will soon be recovered and back with us soon. Members of Howick are invited to join with the Franklin (9:30) or Ormstown (11:00) congregations for an Easter service. An Easter blog will also be posted, and we will continue to celebrate the good news of Easter through the Easter season.
Prayer: Jesus invites us to a way of celebration, meeting and feasting with the humble and poor.
Let us walk his way with joy.
Jesus beckons us to a way of risk, letting go of our security.
Let us walk his way with faith.
Jesus challenges us to listen to the voices of those who have nothing to lose.
Let us walk his way with compassion and empathy.
Jesus points us to a way of self-giving, where power and status are overturned.
Let us walk his way with courage and conviction.
Jesus calls us to follow the way of the cross, where despair is transformed by the promise of new life.
Let us walk his way with joy. Amen.
Hymn. All Glory, Laud and Honour #123VU
This Sunday will be our Palm Sunday and Communion Sunday, celebrated at 11am.
In Ormstown, we will be celebrating Palm Sunday and will also be offering some craft activities for children and families. The service and activities will begin at 9:30am in the church.
The following Sunday, all three of our churches will be holding Easter Sunday services: in Howick the service will be at 11am with Debbie Beattie; in Franklin we will be holding our Easter Sunday service with Communion at 9:30 and in Ormstown we will be celebrating our Easter Sunday service in the church, beginning at 11am. All welcome.
We will be holding a Confirmation and Communion Sunday service in Ormstown, on Sunday, April 16th, beginning at 11am.
Barbara will be taking a week of Continuing Education leave from April 17-23. Debbie Beattie will be leading Sunday worship in Franklin (9:30) and Howick (11:00) in her place.
Please keep in mind Howick United Church Unit C’s fundraising bread sale. Forms are available in the church or from one of Unit C’s members. Orders need to be in by Saturday, April 15th and are to be picked up Wednesday, April 26th from 12-2pm, at the church.
Prayer: God, breath of life, there are moments when I feel like the dry bones filling Ezekiel’s valley. When those times come upon me, help me to trust in you, to believe in your dance of life in me. Do not allow me to lose heart or abandon hope. You can take the dry bones of my life and enliven them in a way I have never dreamed possible. Bless my dry and dusty spirit with your deep and stirring love. Renew my dreams. Fill me with enthusiasm for life. May I always look to you as my source of Life. Amen. (a prayer from Joyce Rupp’s May I Have This Dance?)
Scripture Lessons: Ezekiel 37:1-14
Psalm 130 p.853VU
John 11:1-45
Hymn Breathe on Me Breath of Life #382
Meditation
A Sprin Blessing: Blessed are you, spring,
bright season of life awakening. You gladden our hearts with opening buds and returning leaves as you put on your robes of splendour.
Blessed are you, spring,
In you is a life no death can destroy. As you exchange places with winter you harbour no unforgiving spirit for broken tree limbs and frozen buds.
Blessed are you, spring,
You open the closed buds of our despair as you journey with us to the flowering places.
Blessed are you, spring,
Free gift of the earth. Without cost we gaze upon your glory. You are a gospel of good news for the poor and rich alike.
Blessed are you, spring,
Your renewing rain showers and cathartic storms nurture the potential that sleeps in Earth’s heart and in our own earthen hearts.
Blessed are you, spring,
Season of resurrection, sacrament of promise. Like Jesus you rise up out of darkness, leaving around you a wake of new life.
Blessed are you spring, miracle child of the four seasons. With your wand of many colours you work magic in the corners of our darkness.
Blessed are you spring,
Season of hope and renewal. Wordless poem about all within us that can never die. Each year you amaze us with the miracle of returning life. (from The Circle of Life by Joyce Rupp and Macrina Wiederkehr)
Hymn O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing #326
This Sunday Howick United Church will be holding a Pancake Luncheon following our 11:00 service. All welcome. A free will offering will be taken to help to defray expenses.
The Confirmation Classes will be continuing this week, on Wednesday evening, 6:30-7:30 in the hall in Ormstown.
Unit C of the Howick UCW is now holding a fundraising bread sale offering Grant’s bread. There are order forms available in the church or orders may be placed with the members of Unit C. The deadline for orders is April 15th and the day to pick up your orders is April 26th from 12-2pm in the church hall.
Applications for the IFE and Hugh Duncan bursaries offered through the Nakonhaka Regional Council are now being accepted. Application forms may be found on the Nakonhaka website (nakonhakaucc.ca) or request one from Barbara and she will make one available to you.
We continue to hold in our thoughts and prayers the families who have lost members this past week. A memorial service will be held for Robert Ness on Saturday, April 8th at 1pm in Howick United Church. A visitation will be held Friday night in the Town Hall.
The Women’s Institute is holding a public meeting concerning poverty in our communities. Speakers from Pacte du Rue and Residence-Elle will be present to speak. The meeting will be held in the Village Church Thursday, March 30th at 1pm. All welcome.
Worship Schedule: April 2 Palm Sunday service, Communion Sunday in Howick
April 9 Easter Sunday Communion Sunday in Franklin
April 16 Confirmation and Communion Sunday in Ormstown
April 23
April 30 Combined Service in St Paul’s in Ormstown 11am
Please keep in mind a Memorial Tea will be held for Marjorie (Hooker) Templeton on Sunday, April 30th 2-4 pm in the church hall in Howick. This is an opportunity to remember Marjorie’s life and to share our memories and stories of Marjorie.
This past week we will have marked St Patrick’s Day and this coming week will be the official start of spring (we will see!) and also World Water Day when we consider the use and the conservation of a very precious resource, water.
Hymn. Open My Eyes #371VU
Prayer: Loving God, radiance of our lives, you are the light to our darkness, hope to our despair, promise to our dreams. Gift our lives with an unfolding awareness of your life within us. Let us live in the joyful surprise of your transforming work, continually creating us anew, birthing through us, Christ to the world. Amen. (a prayer from Jacqueline Syrup Bergan and S. Marie Schwan’s Taste and See.)
Scripture Lessons: I Samuel 16:1-13
Psalm 23 p. 749VU
John 9:1-41
Hymn The Lord’s My Shepherd #747VU
Meditation
Prayer: O God, source of love and compassion, in the sufferings of all your children, we offer our compassion also for the hungry, and the sick in body, mind, or heart, the depressed and the lonely, all living in fear and under stress, all stricken in grief, the unemployed and the rejected, and those burning with hatred.
Strengthen us to work for their healing and inspire us to build with you the kingdom of love where none shall cause suffering to others and all be caring, loving children of yours, our compassionate, all-embracing God, ever present, ever loving, never failing. Amen. (adapted from a prayer by George Appleton and printed in With All God’s People from the WCC, compiled by John Carden)
Hymn. He Leadeth Me #657VU
We hold in our thoughts and prayers the families and friends of Robert Ness and Myrna Rees who died this past week.
We have also deeply saddened by the news of the death of Jade Ouellette who died this week. We pray for her family and friends in this very difficult time.
Unit C of Howick United Church is offering a bread sale to members of the congregation and the community. The deadline for ordering is April 15th and the bread will be delivered on Wednesday, April 26th. Orders may be made through members of Unit C or on the form in the church.
The Confirmation Classes are continuing to meet on Wednesday evenings, 6:30-7:30pm in the hall in Ormstown.
St Paul’s Session will be meeting this Wednesday, March 22nd at 1:00 in the church hall.
St Paul’s Stewards have decided to cancel their meeting for this month. They will be meeting again on April 19th.
A reminder for those who may make donations to Howick United Church by e-transfer: the email address to be used for this has changed to howickunitedchurch@gmail.com.
Best wishes to Merging Waters Pastoral Charge (Union Church Ste Anne’s and Beaurepaire United Church) as they mark the beginning of the new ministry that they will be sharing with Lisa Byer-deWever.
This week we marked International Womens’s Day, recalling the many gifts and contributions women bring to our community, giving thanks for them, and praying for justice, peace, and equality for all women all around the world. Next Tuesday March 14th (3.14) is PIE Day (Public, Intentional and Explicit) offering support to congregations who are affirming and welcoming to LGBTQ+ members. The Moderator of the United Church has posted a message on the website and on the church’s YouTube channel.
Hymn. Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah #651VU
Prayer: Gracious God, may your love, like water, pour over our thirsty spirits, cleansing, refreshing, renewing us. Be present as we seek to know you, to love you, and to respond to your unconditional love for us. Amen. (a prayer from Jacqueline Syrup Bergman and S. Marie Schwan’s Taste and See)
Scripture Lessons: Exodus 17: 1-7
Psalm 95 p.814VU
John 4:5-42
Meditation
Prayer: God our Mother, Living Water, River of Mercy, Source of Life, in whom we live and move and have our being, who quenches our thirst, refreshes our weariness, bathes and washes and cleanses our wounds, be for us always a fountain of life, and for all the world a river of hope springing up in the midst of the deserts of despair. Honour and blessing, glory and praise to you forever. Amen. (a prayer from Miriam Therese Winter’s Woman Prayer Woman Song)
Hymn. I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say #626VU
The Stewards of Howick United Church will be meeting March 14th at 7pm in the hall.
The Session and Stewards of St Paul’s United Church have delayed their meetings until next week, March 22nd.
Howick UCW (unit C) will be holding a fundraiser, a sale of a selection of Grant’s bread (white, whole wheat, Canadian Harvest, Austrian, molasses oatmeal, farmer’s rolls, raisin bread, and pizza crusts). Orders need to be handed in by Saturday, April 15th and delivery will be on Wednesday, April 26th between 12 and 2 in the church hall. Members of Unit C can take your order. Your support would be greatly appreciated!
The Confirmation Class will be meeting this week, on Wednesday night in the hall in Ormstown, from 6:30-7:30pm.
Howick United Church is planning a Pancake Luncheon for Sunday, March 26th following the Sunday service. All welcome to come and join in the fun. A free will offering will be taken to try to cover the costs.
Please mark your calendars: a memorial tea will be held Sunday, April 30th from 2-4pm in the hall in Howick United Church to remember and to give thanks for the life of Marjorie Templeton.
Prayer: Creator God, from quark to planet your universe is awesome.
Give us eyes to gape at the wonders daily about us,
And the will to live in the harmony of your creating.
Help us to recognize and honour the connections of all things,
Even at cost to our own wants and comforts;
So we may live gently on earth,
And all creation praise you. ( a prayer by Chris Polhill and published in the Iona Community’s Lenten worship resource, Eggs and Ashes, edited by Ruth Burgess and Chris Polhill)
Scripture Lessons: Genesis 12:1-4
Psalm 121 p.842VU
John 3:1-17
Meditation
Prayer: By the prayers of Jesus, Lord teach us how to pray.
By the gifts of Jesus, Lord, teach us how to give.
By the the toils of Jesus, Lord, teach us how to work.
By the love of Jesus, Lord, teach us how to love.
By the cross of Jesus, Lord, teach us how to live. Amen. (printed in Frank Colquhoun’s Contemporary Parish Prayers)
Hymn I Love to Tell the Story #343
Next Sunday will be the combined service and annual meeting in both Franklin and Ormstown. Franklin’s service will begin at 9am and Ormstown’s at 11:00 in the hall. Annual reports are available for those who have not yet received one.
Upcoming Events in Howick: Stewards meeting Tuesday, March 14th 7pm in the church hall.
Pancake Luncheon following the 11am Sunday service March 26th
A Memorial Tea held for Marjorie Templeton Sunday April 30th, 2-4pm, in the church hall.
Please mark your calendars!
The Confirmation Classes have begun on Wednesday evening from 6:30-7:30pm in the hall in Ormstown. We will be beginning again after March Break, on March 15th.
Prayer: Most Holy God, before you feel the limitations of our human power and goodness. We thank you that your forgiveness is as eternal as your righteousness. Teach us never to doubt your love, but always to trust in you, through the grace of Jesus Christ. Amen. (a prayer by Ruth C. Duck printed in Bread for the Journey, edited by Ruth C. Duck.)
Scripture Lessons: Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7
Psalm 32 p.759VU
Romans 5:12-9
Hymn Grace Greater than all our Sin
Meditation
Prayer: Teach us, O God, so to use this season of Lent that we may be drawn closer to you and to our Lord and Saviour, and in fellowship with him may learn to resist sin, to overcome temptation, and to grow in holiness, that our lives may be strengthened for your service and used for your glory. We ask this in Christ’s name. Amen. ( a prayer adapted from one by Frank Colquhoun and printed in Contemporary Parish Prayers, edited by Frank Colquhoun)
Hymn. Amazing Grace #266
Following yet another earthquake in Turkey and Syria this past week, I will include the information for donating to the United Church’s Relief Fund again. Donations may be made online through the church’s website, united-church.ca or by phone with a credit card at 1-800-268-3781 ext.2738 or send a cheque to The United Church of Canada, Philanthropy Unit - Emergency Response, 3250 Bloor St W, Suite 200, Toronto, On, M8X 2Y4. Please mark “Emergency Response— Türkiye” on the face of your cheque.
The address for e-transfers to Howick United Church has changed. It will no longer be Wilene’s personal account. In stead it will be howickunitedchurch@gmail.com. Please use this instead as it will simplify the transfer of funds into the church account. If you have any problems, please let her know. Thanks.
Plans are being made for Confirmation Classes to be held. Please contact Barbara if you know someone who would like to participate.
This is the last Sunday of Epiphany, before the beginning of the season of Lent. Do you have plans for observing the season? Starting with pancakes on Tuesday or ashes on Wednesday? Giving something up or trying something on for the season? Reading a series of readings from a book of readings? UCRD has one for this year, called Good Courage. It can be ordered in print or as an e-book.
Hymn: Holy Holy Holy
Prayer: God of power and wonder, we are awestruck by the glory of your presence. We rejoice at what we can see; we marvel at what we cannot see. You dazzle us with your brightness; you overshadow us as with a great cloud. Loving, protecting, challenging, nurturing, you strengthen and transform us. May we love and serve you, in all that we are and do. Glory be to you. Amen. (from the United Church’s worship resource, Celebrate God’s Presence)
Scripture Lessons: Exodus24:12-18
Psalm 99 p.819VU
Matthew 17:1-9
Hymn. Fairest Lord Jesus
Meditation
Prayer: O Shining One, you are the flame burning within, the beacon on the horizon, the radiance in all creation, the bright idea apprehending us, the sparkling in the eyes of our loved ones, the uncreated light that is lighting all.
Transfigure us, this very day, as we open into the radiance of the Christ in each other, in song, in word, and witness. May this be the day of our enlightenment, when we see with clarity the sacred life we are called to manifest.
Remake us as sacraments of the Holy, that we might embrace our calling: to see with new eyes, reach out with gentle hands, imagine with transformed minds, be still with hallowed presence, and be filled with grateful prayers. In the name of the Transfigured One we pray. Amen. (a prayer written by Bruce Sanguin and published in his book, If Darwin Prayed.)
Hymn: All Beautiful the March of Days #530VU
We have been saddened to hear of the death of a former minister of St Paul’s United Church in Ormstown, the Rev. Irvine Johnson has died, at the age of 98. A funeral will be held Tuesday, February 21st 2pm. An obituary can be found at the website for Wartman’s Funeral Home in Napanee. Our thoughts are with the family, including the Duncan family in Ormstown.
Unit B of Howick’s UCW will be gathering for lunch this week, on Tuesday, February 21st. We will be gathering for lunch and we are invited to bring a can of soup and a few cookies to share.
St Paul’s Stewards will be meeting this week on Wednesday, February 22nd at 7:30pm in the hall.
The annual meetings for Franklin and Ormstown will be held on Sunday, March 12th in combination with the worship service. Franklin’s meeting will start at 9:00 and Ormstown’s at 11:00. Annual reports are now available for all 3 of our congregations.
Prayer: You asked for my hands that you might use them for your purpose.
I gave them for a moment, then withdrew them because the work was hard.
You asked for my mouth to speak out against injustice.
I gave you a whisper that I might not be accused.
You asked for my eyes to see the pain of poverty.
I closed them for I did not want to see.
You asked for my life that you might work through me.
I gave a small part that I might not get too involved.
Lord, forgive my calculated efforts to serve you only when it is convenient for me to do so, only in those places where it is safe to do so, and only with those who make it easy to do so.
Lord, forgive me, renew me, send me out as a usable instrument that I might take seriously the meaning of your cross. ( a prayer written by Joe Seremane, of South Africa and published in Bread of Tomorrow, edited by Janet Morley)
Hymn Take My Life and Let it Be #506
Benediction: Look at your hands, see the touch and the tenderness— God’s own for the world.
Look at your feet, see the path and the direction— God’s own for the world.
Look at your heart, see the fire and the love— God’s own for the world.
Look at the cross, See God’s Son and our Saviour— God’s own for the world.
This is God’s world and we will serve God in it.
May God bless you, may he keep you ever in his care and lead your lives with love.
May God’s warm welcome shine from your hearts, and Christ’s own peace prevail through every day till greater life shall call. Amen.
If you are looking for a way to respond to the crisis in Turkey and Syria following the earthquake there, options include the Global emergency relief fund of the United Church of Canada (which can be found at united-church.ca) Canadian Food Grains Bank, and many organizations listed on theCanadaHelps website. The United Church is in contact with its overseas partners to see how it can best to offer our support. More information may follow.
Many thanks to all who were able to attend Howick’s annual meeting last Sunday. The annual reports are still available for those who have not yet received one.
The Official Board meeting for the Ormstown-Franklin Pastoral Charge will take place Wednesday, February 15th at 1:00 in the hall. The annual meetings will take place on Sunday, March 12th in combination with the worship service, at 9:00 and 11:00 respectively. The annual reports have been printed and are now available.
We are trying to plan for a Confirmation Class for this winter/spring. Please let Barbara know by the 15th of February if you are interested in taking part, so we can make plans for the classes.
February is Black History Month. How will we observe it this year? Read a book, take a course, attend a lecture? There are lots of possibilities out there!
Hymn Jesus Bids Us Shine #585
Scripture Lessons: Isaiah 58:1-12
Psalm 112 p.834VU
Matthew 5:13-20
Hymn.
Meditation
Prayer: Lord, you placed me in the world to be its salt.
I was afraid of committing myself, afraid of being stained by the world.
I did not want to hear what “they” might say.
And my salt dissolved as if in water.
Forgive me, Jesus.
Lord, you placed me in the world to be its light.
I was afraid of the shadows, afraid of the poverty.
I did not want to know other people.
And my light slowly faded away.
Forgive me, Jesus.
Lord, you placed me in the world to live in community.
Thus you taught me to love, to share in life, to struggle for bread and for justice, your truth incarnate in my life.
So be it, Jesus. Amen. ( a prayer by Peggy M. de Cuehlo, of Uruguay, from Your Will Be Done, Christian Conference of Asia Youth, 1984 and published in Bread of Tomorrow, edited by Janet Morley.)
Hymn. Give Me Oil in My Lamp
This week Howick United Church will be holding its annual meeting in combination with our worship service, beginning at 11:00. The annual reports are now ready and can be reviewed before the meeting.
St Paul’s will be holding its service at 9:30 am. The annual meeting is planned for both Franklin and Howick to be held on Sunday, March 12th beginning at 9am and 11:00 respectively. The Official Board meeting will be held Wednesday, February 15th (snow date the 22nd) at 1:00 in MacDougall Hall in Ormstown.
I am continuing to invite possible participants for a confirmation class offered this year, probably in the spring. I am going to ask those who might be interested to contact me by February 15th so we can make plans on how to move forward.
We hold the families of Donald Gruer and Garth Coffin in our thoughts and prayers. Don died unexpectedly last week and a service of remembrance will be held in the summer. Garth died this week after a time of illness and the service of remembrance will be held this week in Prince Edward Island.
This week is also a week for awareness of Islam and against Islamophobia, recalling the shooting in the Quebec City Mosque 6 years ago. We hold our Muslim brothers and sisters in our thoughts and prayers at this time of remembrance.
We can also recognize that this Friday was Holocaust Remembrance Day as well, held on the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. At this time when anti-semitism seems to be on the rise, it is even more important to remember. Hopefully we can be united in our grief and in our work for justice for all people.
Hymn. Blest Are the Pure in Heart
Scripture Lessons: Micah 6:1-8
Psalm 15 p.736
Matthew 5:1-12
Meditation
Prayers: Gracious God, you have commissioned us to make our common home a place of justice for all. In your generous love, you send rain on the righteous and the unrighteousness and, in Jesus, teach us to love without discrimination. We confess that we have failed to follow this teaching by: disrespecting our neighbours; spreading falsehoods through various social media; participating in the disruption of social harmony. Our conduct risks making the world a barren field that no longer brings forth justice for all of creation. May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive our sins, and lead us to eternal life. Amen.
We pray for those who live in the midst of injustice. Encourage us to lift up their voices and strength their hope. We pray for those who continue to perpetuate injustice. May your kindness fill our hearts and make us agents of freedom and peace. We pray for every institution and person who stands for justice. Let us act justly according to your words. Today we ask you: O God, hear our prayer and grant us your justice.
We thank you for the many colours, cultures, and customs that we share in this world. In our differences, unite us by your love. Enable us to act together to uphold life and to make this world a just and peaceful household for all humanity. Today we ask you: O God, hear our prayer and grant us your peace. Amen. (a series of prayers from www.week of prayer.ca)
Hymn. Blest Be the Tie that Binds. #602 VU
This Sunday’s services will be 9:30 in Franklin and 11:00 in Howick.
Next Sunday Howick United Church will be holding its annual meeting in combination with the worship service. All members and adherents are invited to attend, to review what has been done in the past year and to look forward to the coming year. (The annual meetings for Franklin and Ormstown will also be held in combination with the worship service, on Sunday March 12th. In Franklin we will begin at 9am and in Ormstown at 11:00.)
We are planning to hold a Confirmation Class this year, either this winter or in the spring. Please let me know if there is someone who would like to take part and possibly join the church. Give me a call (450-829-3855) or send me an email (ormstownfranklin59@yahoo.ca) so we can begin making plans.
This Sunday is right in the middle of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The week begins on Wednesday, January 18th, the Feast of the Confession of St Peter to January 25th, The Feast of the Conversion of St Paul. This year’s theme is “Do Good, Seek Justice.” During this week we pray for more understanding and cooperation between churches, and also between people of other faiths as well.
Hymn When Morning Gilds the Skies #339
Scripture Lessons: Isaiah 9:1-4
Psalm 27:1,4-9 p. 754VU
I Corinthians 1:10-18
Meditation
Prayer: O Lord our God, listening to us here, you accept also the prayers of our sisters and brothers in Africa, Asia, the Pacific, the Americas and Europe.
We are all one in prayer. So May we, as one, rightly carry out your commission to witness and to love in the church and throughout the world. Accept our prayers graciously, even when they are somewhat strange. They are offered in Jesus’ name. Amen. (a prayer from the church in Ghana and printed in the Iona Community’s A Wee Worship Book, the 4th incarnation)
We pray for the visible unity of the Church.
Lead us to fulfill Jesus’ prayer that we may be one and work together to manifest your Kingdom.
Today we ask you: O God, hear our prayer and grant us passion for unity. Amen. ( from resources for Week of Prayer for Christian Unity)
Hymn Jesus, United by Thy Grace #591
The dates for our annual meetings for all three congregations have now been set. For Howick, the date will be Sunday, February 5th in combination with the service, beginning at 11:00. For Franklin and St Paul’s, the date will be Sunday, March 12th, in combination with the worship service, beginning at 9:30 and 11:00 respectively. The time has come for reports to be turned in for the annual report. The deadline is January 29th.
St Paul’s Stewards will be meeting on Wednesday, January 25th at 7:30pm in the hall.
We are hoping to offer a Confirmation Class this year. If you know of someone who might be interested in participating, please let them or Barbara know. The classes might be offered during the winter or spring, hopefully in person, but possibly partly on Zoom as well. Those interested could contact Barbara by phone or email.
Did you know that this weekend is Martin Luther King Junior Weekend and that tomorrow is Martin Luther King Day in the US? Maybe reflecting on his life and ministry may bring inspiration on how to be God’s servants in the world today.
Hymn. You Servants of God #342
Scripture Lessons: Isaiah 42:1-6
Psalm 40:1-11 p.764VU
John 1:29-42
Hymn. Just As I Am #508 VU
Mediation
Prayer: Through human lips, Christ is speaking.
Through human hands, grist is healing.
Through our hearts, Christ is loving.
Through us all, Christ is working.
So we behold the truth: God is living, loving, speaking and healing through Christ our Saviour. Amen
(written by Richard Becher and printed inSeeing Christ in Others edited by Geoffrey Duncan)
Hymn. Songs of Thankfulness and Praise #101
Howick United Church has set the date for their annual meeting for this year. It has been set for February 5th, during the 11:00 service. Please get your annual reports in to Wilene as soon as possible so the reports can be printed and distributed as soon as possible.
Annual reports are also being prepared for the Franklin and Ormstown congregations. Deadlines for these reports is January 29th.
St Paul’s Session will meet on Wednesday, January 18th in the hall at 1pm.
St Paul’s Stewards’ meeting will be delayed for a week, until Wednesday, January 25th at 7:30 pm in the hall.
Anyone interested in a Confirmation Class this year? It could be held this winter, during Lent, or later this spring. We can do it in person, on Zoom or perhaps a combination of the two. Please let me know if you are interested and what might work best for you.
Prayer: We give you thanks, O God, for those who believed Jesus to be your Promised One. We thank you for Mary, who praised your name because you chose her as mother of the Christ. We thank you for sages who were led from the East by signs in the sky to greet the holy birth. We give you thanks for John, who bore witness to Jesus. Most of all, we give thanks that when Jesus was baptized, you showed your affirmation of Jesus as your beloved child and servant.
Through the word of many witnesses, we too name Jesus as our Christ and Saviour, our Light and Life. Shine in our hearts through the light of Christ that we may be signs of your presence on earth, making peace and doing justice. May your people be a light to the nations, through Jesus, your faithful servant. Amen. (a prayer from the Book of Worship of the United Church of Christ published in 1986).
Hymn The First Nowell #91
As we begin a new year and a new season, Epiphany, may you know God’s blessings.
Also, as we begin a new year, we will be collecting the reports for our annual report for last year, 2022. We will need them by the end of the month.
This Sunday’s services will be held in Ormstown at 9:30am in the hall and in Howick at 11:00.
Howick United Church’s Board of Stewards will be meeting on Tuesday, January 10th at 7pm in the church hall.
