Sunday, June 28, 2026 The Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

 This Sunday sits squarely between Fete National and Canada Day. We give thanks for the place where we live and the gifts and blessings we find here. 

Hymn      This is God’s Wondrous World #296

Prayer:  O God, For more light in the day, we thank you, 

For gentle mornings, we thank you, 

For nighttime conversations, we thank you, 

For friends and family we thank you, 

For gardens and all manner of creatures, we thank you. 

Help us, Creator and lover of our souls. 

Help us love this earth. 

Help us dwell whole-heartedly in our lives this day. 

Help us pray as we walk, work, play, rest and create. Amen. (from Ignatieff Spirituality)

Scripture Lessons:      Psalm 13 p.734VU

                                    Matthew 10:40-42

Message

Prayer:  Loving God, Creator of all things and places, we thank you for the gift of summertimes, the days of light, warmth, and leisure. 

       Thank you for the beauty that surrounds us everywhere we look:  the multi-coloured flowers, the deep blue of the sky, the tranquil surface of lakes, the laughter of children at play, people strolling in parks, families gathered around picnic tables and the time to spend with family and friends. 

       As we open our eyes and ears to the landscape of nature and people, open our hearts to recall as a gift. Give us that insight to see you as the Divine Artist. Help us to realize and appreciate that you are labouring to keep all in existence. Warm our souls with awareness of your presence. 

       Let all the gifts we enjoy this summer deepen our awareness of your love so that we may share this with others and enjoy summertime of re-creation. Amen. ( from Marquette University) 

Hymn       Where Cross the Crowded Ways of Life #681VU

This Sunday’s services are Ormstown at 9:30 in St Paul’s. Howick’s service is at 11:00 and is a little more fluid. We are still hoping to hold the service outside, hopefully at Knox Cemetery in St Louis de Gonzague. A new sign has been put up, near house #232 on route 236, so hopefully you can find it. If the weather or the driveway does not cooperate, we will let you know Sunday morning and we will meet at the church. If we are outside, please bring a chair, a sun hat, and some bug spray (if we are at the Cemetery). We will have Noah Tolhurst providing the music and this will be a Communion service. The loose offering that will be collected on this Sunday will be used for the maintenance of the Cemetery. 

This will be the last blog for a while. I will be going on vacation until August 2nd. The next service and blog will be August 9th, though I will be back home and in the office before that. 

In my absence, the Rev. Mher Khatchikian has agreed to cover any pastoral emergencies that might arise. 

We hold in our thoughts and prayers once again the family and friends of Sharon Fletcher following her burial last week. 

Many thanks for all the help for the Strawberry Takeout that took place on Thursday. It is greatly appreciated. 

A new newsletter has been printed and is available for those who would like to receive it. 

Please keep in mind the Valley Flower Shiw that will take place Saturday, July 25th from 1-4:00 in the Ormstown Rec Centre. Admission will be $7 for adults and $2 for children 10 and under.

In August there are a number of special events happening. St Paul’s will be holding a special concert with Ryan Hull, who played at Georgetown last year. He has graciously agreed to come to play once again. The concert will be Friday, August 14th at 7pm in the church. This will be a fundraiser for Organ Transplant. 

On Sunday, August there will be a Quilt and Artisans Show at Georgetown Presbyterian Church from 11-4:00. Admission will be $10 and there will be family activities and a light lunch served for a donation. Proceeds of the event will go to local organizations, Girl Guides, 4-H, and the Health Coop. 

Sunday, June 21, 2026 The Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

 This Sunday is both Father’s Day and National Indigenous People’s Day, an interesting combination! Both deserve time and attention at this time🙏🏽

Hymn       For the Beauty of the Earth #226

Scripture Lessons:       Genesis 21:8-21

                                     Psalm 86 p.803VU

                                     Matthew 10:24-39

Message

Prayer:  O Great Spirit, whose voice we hear in the winds, and whose breath gives life to all the world, hear us.

We come before you as your children. We are small and weak; we need your strength and wisdom. 

Let us walk in beauty, 

and make our eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset. 

May our hands respect the things you have made, 

May our ears be sharp to hear your voice. 

Make us wise, that we may know the things you have taught your people, the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock. 

We seek strength, not to be superior to our brothers and sisters, but to live in harmony with ourselves and all your creation. 

Help us to be ever ready to come to you, so when life fades as a fading sunset, our spirits may come to you without shame. Amen. ( a traditional Native American prayer printed in Celebrate God’s presence, a United Church worship resource).

Hymn        Faith of our Fathers #580VU

This Sunday’s services are back to the usual schedule, 9:30 service in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown. We will be marking both Father’s Day and National Indigenous People’s Day, or the National Indigenous Day of Prayer.

Next Sunday will be a regular Sunday in Ormstown at 9:30, but in Howick we are hoping to hold an Outdoor service, possibly at the Knox Cemetery at 11:00. Please keep in contact so we can confirm or change the plans, if necessary. 

Barbara is preparing a newsletter for this Sunday. Please let us know if you would like a copy. 

St Paul’s Stewards are scheduled to meet on Tuesday, June 23rd at 7:30pm. 

The time is coming for St Paul’s Strawberry Takeout! The Takeout will be held Thursday, June 25th from 5-7:00 in MacDougall Hall in Ormstown. Prices will be $10 for adults and $6 for children 5-12. 

We will be fixing the berries on Wednesday, June 24th beginning at 11:00. If you can come and help, please bring your bowl or paring knife (and apron), if possible. Your help would be greatly appreciated! 

Barbara will be going on holidays following the June 28th service. The Rev Mher Khatchikian will be available to assist in an emergency. 

Sunday, June 14, 2026 The Third Sunday after Pentecost

 This Sunday is Fair Sunday in Howick and Ormstown. We give thanks to God for the fruitfulness of the earth and all the blessings God’s creation gives to us. 

Hymn         Let Us with a Gladsome Mind #234

Scripture Lessons:        Genesis 18:1-15, 21:1-7

                                      Psalm 116 p.836VU

                                      Matthew 9:35-10:8

Message

Prayer:  When you told us to leave our old lives behind, to set out on a path you would show us and to put our trust in you, 

We laughed in our fear. We thought we might get lost. 

When you told us we were special, that you had chosen to bless us and lead us, and bless the world through us, 

We laughed in our astonishment. We thought we were too ordinary. 

When you told us you would make us you would create blessings numerous as the stars, 

We laughed in our doubt. We thought we were barren. 

But when the promise was fulfilled, and we held in our arms evidence of your love, the power of your faithfulness, 

We laughed in our joy, out loud! 

We laughed because it filled us out, and poured out our souls—

And because we heard you laughing as well! ( written by Anna Shirey and printed in Before the Amen edited by Maren Tira C. Tirabassi and Maria I Tirabassi.)

Hymn        All the Way my Saviour Leads Me #634VU

This Sunday there will be no service in Howick, but there will be a service at 11:00 in St Paul’s in Ormstown. 

Howick UCW will meet on Wednesday, June 17th at 7pm in the church hall. Our guest speaker will be Kim Wilson who will speak at the beginning of the meeting. The business meeting will follow. 

Barbara will be preparing a newsletter for next Sunday. Please let Barbara know if there are items to be included. 

There will be no Steward’s meeting in Ormstown this week. Instead they will meet  on Tuesday, June 23rd at 7:30pm, so we can set up tables for the Strawberry Takeout. 

St Paul’s Strawberry Social will take place Thursday, June 25th from 5-7:00 in the church hall. Prices will be $10 for adults and $6 for children 5-12. 

The strawberries will be prepared on Wednesday, June 24th in the hall at 11:00. If you can come and help, please bring bowls and knives, if possible. 

Howick United Church is planning to hold its annual Outdoor service on Sunday, June 28th, at 11:00, which will include the celebration of Communion. We are hoping to be able to return to the Knox Cemetery in St Louis de Gonzague, if the weather and the state of the driveway cooperate. Please keep in touch, in case we need to make a last minute decision. 

Barbara will be on holiday in July, until August 2nd. In case of a pastoral emergency, the Rev Mher Khatchikian will be available to help. 

Sunday, June 7, 2026 The Second Sunday after Pentecost

 Today is also Union Sunday, when we celebrate the beginning of the United Church, which was formed June 10, 1925. We celebrate more than a century of the United Church! 

Hymn       O God of Bethel #650VU

Scripture Lessons:        Romans 4:13-25

                                      Psalm 33 p.760VU

                                     Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26

Message

Prayer:  God of the way, you are the road we travel, and the sign that we follow, you are bread for the journey, and the wine of arrival. 

   Guide us as we follow in your way, holding on to each other, reaching out to your beloved world. 

And when we stray, seek us out and find us, set our feet on the path again, and lead us safely home. 

In the name of Jesus, our Companion, we pray. Amen. (written by Janet Cawley, printed in Voices United, #648.)

Hymn.      My Faith Looks Up to Thee #663VU

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

This is also the day we will be celebrating Anita Greig’s birthday in Howick. There will be a lunch following the 11:00 Sunday services, the reception itself will be held from 1:30-4:00.  All welcome to come and offer your good wishes. 

Congratulations to Ruth Tannahill who celebrated 100 years with her family yesterday. 🎂🥳

Next Sunday there will be no Sunday service in Howick, because of the Ormstown Fair. There will be a Sunday service in Ormstown at 11:00. 

Sunday, June 28th will be the annual Outdoor service for Howick United Church, at 11:00, assuming the weather cooperates. We are hoping to return to the Knox Cemetery site, depending on the state of the driveway. Please keep in touch as the final decision about the service may have to be made on Saturday. 

St Paul’s is planning to hold its Strawberry Takeout Thursday, June 25th from 5-7:00 at MacDougall Hall. The prices will be $10 for adults and $6 for children. We will be preparing the strawberries on Wednesday June 24th at 1:00 also in the hall. Bring your bowls and paring knives and lend a hand! 

Barbara will be preparing a newsletter for June 21st. Please let her know if there is news to be included.

June is observed by many churches and organizations as Pride month. The United Church is committed justice and equity for all LGBTQ2+ people, both within and outside the church. 

Sunday, May 31, 2026 Trinity Sunday

 

Hymn.      Morning Has Broken #409VU

Scripture Lessons:         Genesis 1:1-2:

                                       Psalm 8 p.732VU

                                       II Corinthians 13:11-13

Hymn.        God, Whose Almighty Word #313VU

Message

Prayer:  O Living God, for your good creation, for the beautiful workings of our bodies, for your image deep within us, for your presence strong among us, we give thanks and we pray:  BLESS US, O GOD.

O Jesus our Saviour, for your sharing of our life, for your calling of us as your friends, for your cherishing of us in our brokenness, for your inviting us to follow you in the fullness of our humanity, we give you thanks and we pray:  BLESS US, O CHRIST.

O Spirit of grace and truth, for revealing yourself in community, for laying bare the grievous wounds of oppression and injustice, for bringing us healing through the work of justice and mercy, for inspiring us and firing us with courage to change, we give thanks and we pray:  BLESS US, O SPIRIT.

O Trinity of life, for the company of faithful people, for the work and witness of many across the world, and for the ones known and dear to us, who have lived, and who have died showing the face of God to others, because they trusted in a whole body and a common humanity and the unity of God, we give thanks and we pray:  BLESS US THIS DAY AND ALWAYS. AMEN. (adapted from a prayer from Praying for the Dawn from the Iona Community)

Hymn.        How Great Thou Art #238VU

This Sunday there will be a single combined service held in St Paul’s in Ormstown at 11:00. We will begin gathering for coffee, juice, and goodies at 10:30 in the church. 

This Sunday is also graduation day at CVR. Congratulations and best wishes to our graduates. 

This Sunday is the deadline for applying for the bursaries offered by the Regional Council. The application can be found at Nakonhaka.ucc.ca. 

Next Sunday will be the day we celebrate Anita Greig’s birthday. Members of the congregations are invited to join her family for lunch and there will be a reception in the church hall in Howick beginning at 1:30. Please, just bring your best wishes. 

Sunday, June 14th there will be no service in Howick, as it is Fair Sunday. There will be a service in Ormstown at 11:00. 

Barbara is hoping to produce a newsletter in June. Please let her know if there are any items to include. 

The Board of Stewards in Howick have decided to begin the work on the church building with painting the louvers on the steeple. There is also more painting and masonry to be done on the church. We will do them as soon as funds allow. 

Sunday, May 24, 2026 Pentecost Sunday

 

Hymn.      As Comes the Breath of Spring #373

Scripture Lessons:        Acts 2:1-21

                                     Psalm 104:24-34 p.827VU pt 2

                                     John 20:19-23

Hymn.       Breathe on Me Breath of God #382VU

Message

Prayer:  Holy God, we thank you for the gift of your Spirit in the church and in all who love you and try to keep your commandments. Without the power of your Spirit, we would faint and die, but in your Spirit all things are possible. We thank you that you have been stronger than we knew, better than we believed we could be:  you have given us the courage to forgive, despite our anger, peace, in the midst of confusion and grief, and the grace to carry on, when we were sure we had reached the end. You have given us laughter and love and beauty: we are fed from your hand. Amen. (from the United Church’s worship resource, Celebrate God’s Presence.)

Hymn.        Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart #378VU

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

Next Sunday’s service, on May 31st will be a combined service at 11:00 in St Paul’s in Ormstown. There will be a fellowship time with refreshments beginning at 10:30, also in the church. 

The Board of Stewards of Howick United Church will meet on Wednesday May 27th at 7pm in the church. This is to finalize the plans for upkeep for the church in the coming months. 

The deadline for applying for the bursaries that the Regional Council is offering is quickly approaching. Bursaries are available for confirmed members of congregations in the region who are attending university, college or CEGEP. The application form can be found on the Regional Council’s website, Nakonhaka.ucc.ca and the deadline for applying is May 31st. 

Please keep in mind the birthday celebration for Anita Greig which will be held on Sunday, June 7th in Howick United Church. There will be a lunch after the 11:00 service for members of Howick and St Paul’s, which will be followed by a reception beginning at 1:30 in the church hall. Just best wishes, please. 

Worship Scedule for June:  June 7.  9:30 Ormstown        11:00.  Howick

June 14.       no service in Howick (Fair).       11:00.      Ormstown

June 21.       9:30.     Howick.        11:00.  Ormstown.      Father’s Day service

June 28.       9:30.   Ormstown       11:00 Outdoor service in Howick with Communion

July     Barbara on vacation

August 9.    Services begin again

Sunday, May 17, 2026 The Seventh Sunday of Easter

 This Sunday can have many names: Ascension Sunday, when we remember the story of Jesus’ return to heaven, and bringing to an end the Season of Easter;  Rogation Sunday, when we pray for God’s blessing on our fields and seeds and planting;  as well as the middle of a long weekend, when we may have many tasks to do. 

Hymn.        Give Praise to God #875

Scripture Lessons:       Acts 1:6-14

                                     Psalm 68 p.787VU

                                    John 17:1-11

Message

Prayer:  O Christ, tirelessly you seek out those who are looking for you and who think that you are far away:  teach us, at every moment, to place our spirits in your hands. While we are still looking for you, already you have found us. However poor our prayer, you hear us far more than we can imagine or believe. Amen

Risen Christ, today, tomorrow and always, your Spirit lives in us. Sometimes we feel we understand so little. But remaining in your presence, wherever we are, is prayer. And perhaps close to you, O Christ, silence is often everything in prayer. And then we sense that, our whole life long, we advance when trust in you guides every step, when a trusting heart is at the beginning of everything. Amen. (prayers  from the Taize community.) 

Hymn.         What a Friend We Have in Jesus #664VU

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

We hold in our thoughts and prayers the family and friends of Elwood Quinn who died in December and whose life and legacy is being remembered this weekend at Quinn Farm. 

St Paul’s Stewards will meet on Wednesday, May 20th at 7:30pm in the hall. 

The Stewards of Howick United Church will meet on Wednesday May 27th at 7pm in the church, to finalize the plans for repairs and upkeep this spring and summer. 

Next weekend the First Third Ministries (formerly Youth and Young Adults) of the Nakonhaka Regional Council will be holding a Youth Forum at Emmanuel United Church in Cowansville. Please contact Barbara for more information. 

Nakonhaka Regional Council is once again offering bursaries to university, college, and CEGEP students who are confirmed members of a congregation in the region. The application form is available on the council’s website, Nakonhaka.ucc.ca and the deadline for applying is May 31st. 

Sunday, May 10, 2926 The Sixth Sunday of Easter

 Today is, of course, Mother’s Day, sometimes known in the church as Christian Family Sunday. We give thanks this day for all kinds of mothers and families who share our lives with us. ❤️

This Thursday May 14th will be observed across this country as a day to stand and work and pray against violence against women, particularly indigenous women, known as the Moosehead Campaign. There will be ceremonies across the country, and the one in Toronto will be live-streamed. 

Hymn       Praise My Soul the God of Heaven #240VU

Prayer:  As the morning light appears, May I be ready to walk humbly and gently on Mother Earth, with all my relations; May I be ready to share all that I have with my sisters and brothers and may I be open to hearing your voice as it speaks to me. 

    As the light reaches its zenith in the sky, May I continue to lift my hands and my heart in service of others. 

    As the evening light meets the horizon May I always be ready to come to you, Creator, with peace in my soul and with a gentle spirit. Amen. ( a prayer by Alf Dumont and printed in That All May Be One, 2004) 

Scripture Lessons:      I Peter 3:13-22

                                    Psalm 66:8-20 p.785VU pts 2 & 3

                                    John 14:15-21

Hymn       Love Divine.  #333VU

Message

Prayer:  Loving God, in the Bible we find many kinds of families, and we learn that your love has no boundaries. Just as you called Peter to recognize the God-given worth in all people, so help us to affirm all the families and homes in our community. Singles, couples, people with and without children, groups large and small, people who are related and those who have simply found each other:  we pray that you would bless them all, and help us to make room at the table of our hearts for all your children. May homes and families - of all shapes and sizes- model your unconditional love, be places of safety and trust, nurture and laughter, so that, grounded in their love, we may reach out in love to all our brothers and sisters - your family. Amen. (from the Seasons of the Spirit worship resources, 2004)

Hymn      For the Beauty of the Earth #226VU

This week’s services will be 9:30 in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown. We will be observing Christian Family Sunday. 

We hold in our thoughts and prayers the family and friends of Marion Bannerman who died this past week. 

St Paul’s Session will meet on Wednesday, May 13th at 7pm in the hall. 

Howick UCW will be holding a Friendship Luncheon on Thursday, May 14th in Howick United Church. We will begin gathering at 11:30 to be ready to serve lunch at noon. The seatings will be limited to 30, so a place needs to be reserved. You can reserve a place by speaking to the person who may have invited you, contacting Marlene Stuckey, or, if you attend the Seniors Card Party at the Town Hall, speaking to Helene Monache. The lunch itself is free, but donations will be collected, and if there is more than is needed, the excess will go to a local non-profit chosen by the attendees. 

Nakonhaka Regional Council is once again offering bursaries to university, college, or CEGEP students who are confirmed members of a congregation in this region. The application form is available on the region’s website, Nakonhaka.ucc.ca. The deadline for applying is May 31st. 

              

Sunday, May 3, 2026 The Fifth Sunday of Easter

Friday was May 1st, May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day. We pray for God’s blessings on all those who work, for a living and for others. 

 Tuesday, May 5th is Red Dress Day, a Day to bring awareness to the problem of murdered and missing indigenous women. It is a day to hang up a red dress or wear red to show your awareness of the problem and to seek for solutions. 

Hymn.       How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds #344

Scripture Lessons:        I Peter 2:2-10

                                      Psalm 31 :1-5, 15, 16 p.758VU pts 1 & 3

                                      John 14:1-14

Message:

Prayer:  The earth awakens after winter’s sleep:  Awaken us to your glory, O God. 

Leaves emerge from winter’s shelter and stretch out to face the sun:  Awaken us to your light, O God. 

Birds that hid from frost and snow now sing out from the treetops: Awaken us to your presence, O God. 

That which seemed dead has now been born anew:  Awaken us to your life, O God. Amen. ( written by Simon Taylor, printed in Spring from Wild Goose Publications of the Iona Community) 

Hymn.        God, Take My Hand and Lead Me #638VU

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

St Paul’s Session will meet on Wednesday, May 13th at 7pm in the hall. 

Howick UCW will be hosting a Friendship Luncheon on Thursday, May 14th in Howick United Church. The gathering will begin at 11:30 so the lunch can be served at noon. The lunch is limited to 30 people, so if you wish to attend, please reserve a place. You can do so by responding to the person who invited you, by sending an email to Marlene Stuckey at marlenestuckey68@gmail.com, or if you attend the Seniors’ Card Party, by speaking to Helene Monaste. A donation box will be available to help cover expenses. Any extra funds will be directed to a local non-profit organization, chosen by those who are attending. 

Nakonhaka Regional Council is once again offering bursaries to university, college, or CEGEP students who are confirmed members of a congregation in the region. Application forms are available on the Regional Council website, nakonhaka.ucc.ca and the deadline for applications is May 31st. Please speak to Barbara if you have any questions. 

Sunday, April 26, 2026 Good Shepherd Sunday

 This past week has not only been Earth Week but Volunteer week, and Library week as well! We can give thanks for all that we receive and share and have a chance to discover. This coming week will be organ transplant awareness week, so more to consider! 

Hymn       I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say #626VU

Scripture Lessons:       Acts 2:42-47

                                     Psalm 23 p.749VU

                                     John 10:1-10

Message

Prayer:  O Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the winds, and whose breath gives life to all the world, hear me! I am small and weak. I need your strength and wisdom. 

       Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset.

       Make my hands respect the things you have made and my ears sharp to hear your voice. 

       Make me wise so that I may understand the things you have taught my people. 

       Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock.

       I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother, but to fight my greatest enemy, myself.

       Make me always ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes. 

So when life fades, as the fading sunset, my spirit may come to you  without shame. (a Lakota prayer, printed in In Touch with the Word  by Lisa-Marie Calderone-Stewart)

Hymn        He Leadeth Me #657VU

This Sunday’s services will be 9:30 in Ormstown and 11:00 in Howick. This will be a Craft Day in Ormstown for young people in the congregation. All welcome. 

The Stewards in Howick will meet on Tuesday, April 28th at 7pm in the church. 

Howick UCW will be hosting a Friendship Luncheon on Thursday, May 14th at the church for a time of friendship, food and fellowship. We will begin to gather at 11:30 for the meal to begin at noon. To help with the planning, reservations are required, as space is limited to 30 guests. Please reserve your place by responding to the person who gave the invitation, or emailing marlenestuckey68@gmail.com. If you are part of the Wednesday afternoon seniors card group, please give your answer Helene Monaste. All responses must be in by May 10th. A donation box will be available to help cover meal expenses. Any removing funds will be directed to a local non-profit organization, chosen by those attending. We look forward to seeing you there. 

Georgetown Presbyterian Church will be holding a Youth Rally on Friday, May 1st beginning at 7pm. It will include worship and praise, games, words of encouragement and snacks. Young people from local congregations are invited to attend. 

There will also a Youth Forum offered by the First Third Ministries of the Nakonhaka Regional Council held May 22-4th at Emmanuel United Church in Cowansville. More information will follow. 

Once again Nakonhaka Regional Council will be offering bursaries to university, college, and CEGEP students who are confirmed members of a congregation in the region. Application forms are available on the website, Nakonhaka.ucc.ca and the deadline for applying is May 31st. 

On Monday, May 4th the current Moderator of the United Church, the Rt Rev Kimberly Heath will be in Montreal and will be speaking on the Future of Christian Witness in Canada at 3:30-5:00 at St George’s Anglican Church at Place du Canada in Montreal. (This precedes the Convocation celebration for the United and Diocesan Theological Colleges which will take place at 7pm at St George’s as well.)

Sunday, April 19, 2026 The Third Sunday of Easter

 This Sunday is the beginning of Earth Week, as we prepare to mark Earth Day on April 22nd. 🌏

Hymn       All Creatures of our God and King #217VU

Prayer:  Loving and gracious God, you are a God of Creation.  Create in me a faithful steward of your world, showing me opportunities to make a difference, that I may live with respect in Creation. 

You are a God of Incarnation. Make me your heart and mind, equipping me to work for change. 

You are a God of Resurrection. Help me see new ways and new hope, planting in me the seeds of restoration and renewal. 

God of Creation, Incarnation, and Resurrection, help me go gently in this fragile world. Amen. ( from the United Church website, prayers for Earth Week.)

Scripture Lessons:       I Peter 1:17-23

                                     Psalm 116 p. VU

                                     Luke 24:13-35

Message

Prayer:  Creating God, you have called us to be in loving relations with all the Earth, living with respect in creation, choosing love and seeking justice at all times. 

Instead, humankind has acted in hateful ways, exploiting natural resources, choosing power and seeking wealth in the present over future abundance. 

We need your help to fight for a better future. 

Help to reawaken our love for Creation, that is so magnificent that we, with all our creativity and knowledge, could never articulate it, and so passionate that we, with the personal price and communal cost, would still fight for it. 

Help to deepen our relationships and love for each other: affirming the wisdom of youth strikers, so that we are not discouraged by empty platitudes and naysayers; and growing our community of allies, so that we can create a sustainable and faithful response to the imminent climate crisis. 

For the sake of your majestic creation, and for the love of all our relations. Help us to fight for a better future. Amen. (also from the UCC website.) 

Hymn     Thine is the Glory #173VU

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 Sharon Fletcher, who died this past week. No arrangements have been made at this time. 

Wilene Cullen Treasurer for Howick, has prepared a quarterly financial statement that she wishes to share with the congregation.

St Paul’s Ormstown will be holding a Craft Day for young people on Sunday, April 26th at the 9:30 service in the church. All welcome. 

Howick Stewards will meet Tuesday, April 28th at 7pm in the church. 

Howick WI will be holding an Anniversary Tea Thursday, April 23 at 1:30 in the Howick United Church. The program will include Evie Kerr, Abby Stonehouse and some music and will be followed by refreshments. Wear your hat, gloves, or fascinator and come share in the celebrations. All welcome. 

Nakonhaka Regional Council is once again offering bursaries to university, college, or CEGEP students who are confirmed members of a congregation in the region. The application form can be found on the Regional Council website, Nakonhaka.ucc.ca and the deadline for applying is May 31st. Please contact Barbara if you have any questions. 

Sunday, April 12, 2026 The Second Sunday of Easter

 

Hymn.       Jesus Stand Among Us #396VU

Scripture Lessons:         I Peter 1:3-9

                                       Psalm 16 p.738VU

                                       John 20:19-31

Hymn.        The Strife is O’er

Message

Prayer:  O Christ, today, gloriously, joyfully, you live for ever in the life of the world, in the hearts of those who love you, in the power of the Spirit to transcend even death. May we who love you, and find in our hope, bear witness, as Thomas did, that your risen body still carries the marks of the world’s violence, injustice, and greed, and as we remember and rejoice, help us to keep faith with all who still, today, suffer the outrages of violence, injustice and greed. In our actions, in our prayers, in our choices and in our commitment, teach us the true meaning of good news for the poor. Amen. (a prayer by Kathy Galloway from Friends and Enemies)

Hymn        The Day of Resurrection #164

This Sunday’s services will be 9:30 in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown. We will continue to celebrate our Easter faith and joy. 

St Paul’s Stewards will meet at 7:30pm on Wednesday, April in the hall in Ormstown. 

Howick UCW will meet on Wednesday April 15th at 7pm in the church hall. 

Howick’s Stewards will meet on Tuesday, April 28th at 7pm in the church. 

Howick WI will hold an Anniversary Tea on Thursday, April 23rd at 1:30 in Howick United Church. There will be a program including Evie Kerr, Abby Stonehouse, and music, followed by refreshments. Memorabilia will also be displayed. If you choose, you might put on a hat, gloves, or fascinator for the celebration. All welcome. 

Nakonhaka Regional Council is once again offering bursaries to university, college, and CEGEP students who are confirmed members of a congregation in the region. Applications can be found on the council website, Nakonhaka.ucc.ca and the deadline for applying is May 31st. Please contact Barbara if you have any questions. 

Sunday, April 5, 2026 Easter Sunday

 This week both Jews and Christians are celebrating our major holidays. Many Jews will be observing Passover and sharing in a Seder. As Christians we will be celebrating the central holy day of our faith, Easter and celebrating the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. 

Hymn       Welcome Happy Morning #161

Prayer:  Almighty and everlasting God, we come with joy to worship you this Easter Day. And our joy is this, that the one who was crucified, dead and buried is now alive forevermore, our risen and reigning Lord. As we celebrate his resurrection, we pray that his joy may abide in our hearts and that our lives may proclaim his praise. To him be the honour and glory, this day and forever. Amen. (a prayer from Frank Colquhoun’s Contemporary Parish Prayers, written by Frank Colquhoun, adapted.)

Scripture Lessons:        Acts 10:34-43

                                      Psalm 118:14-24 p. 837 VU parts 2, 3

                                      John 20:1-18

Hymn        Come Children Join to Sing #345

Message

Prayer:  it is the Lord, in the dawning, in the renewal, in the arrival, in the new day. 

It is the Lord, in the crowd, in the church, in the conversation, in the crisis. 

It is the Lord, in our joys, in our sorrows, in our sickness, in our health. 

It is the Lord, in the stable, in the humble,in the stranger, in the poor. 

It is the Lord, risen and returned, alive forevermore, giving me new life, saving me in strife, it is the Lord. (by David Adam, printed in Bread of Tomorrow, edited by Janet Morley)

Hymn        Jesus Christ is Risen Today #155VU

Benediction:  May the love of the cross, the power of the resurrection, and the presence of the Living Lord, be with you always. And the blessing of the Eternal God, Creator, Sustainer, Risen Lord and Saviour, Giver of Holiness and love be upon you now and evermore. Amen. 

This Sunday we will be celebrating Easter with a Communion service in both congregations: in Ormstown at 9:30 and Howick at 11:00. All are welcome to join us in this celebration. 

Did you know that our Moderator , Kimberly Heath has prepared an Easter message? You can find it on the United Church’s YouTube channel, on Facebook or on the United Church’s website, united-church.ca. 

Our Regional Council is once again offering bursaries to university, college, or CEGEP students who are confirmed members of a congregation in the region. Application forms are available on the council’s website, Nakonhaka.ucc.ca and the deadline for applying is May 31st. Please speak to Barbara if you have any questions. 

A new newsletter has been prepared and printed and is available in our churches, or you can request a copy from Barbara or one of the elders. 

The Howick Women’s Institute will be holding a Tea to celebrate its 115th anniversary on Thursday. April 23rd from 1:30, in Howick United Church. We are invited to dress up to celebrate the occasion, with entertainment offered by Evie Kerr, Abby Stonehouse, as well as music, and followed by refreshments. The event is open to the public, so you can share the invitation. 

April 3, 2026 Good Friday

 

Hymn       Go to Dark Gethsemane #133 VU

Prayer:  Holy God, who has opened our ears to 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 when with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, be honour and praise, now and forever. Amen. ( from the United Church’s worship resource, Celebrate God’s Presence.) 

Scripture Lessons:       Isaiah 52:13-53:12

                                     Psalm 22:1-22

                                     Matthew 27:27-55

Hymn      There is a Green Hill Far Away #152

Message

Prayer:  Christ, when we survey the wondrous cross, strengthen us to face the very worst in our world:  hatred, greed, lust for power, fear that we are small or in significant or ugly or unworthy, violence, oppression. Help us to bring your truth, grace, faith, hope, wisdom, and love— the greatest of these being love. For your love has the power to destroy all that has brought you to this cross and us to your side. Amen. (a prayer from the UCC’s 2016 Lenten study, Parables, Prayers, and Promises)

Hymn       When I Survey the Wondrous Cross #149

There is no Good Friday service in Ormstown or Howick. There is the walk of the Cross led by the Huntingdon Ecumenical Community that begins at 9:30am in Huntingdon, at St John’s Anglican Church. 

We will celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus with an Easter Sunday service with Communion in both our churches, 9:30 in Ormstown and 11:00 in Howick. All are welcome to join in this celebration. 

Sunday, March 29 Palm Sunday

 

Hymn       All Glory Laud and Honour #122VU

Prayer:  Merciful God, as we enter Holy Week, turn our hearts again to Jerusalem, to the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Bring us at the last with him and all the faithful to your new Jerusalem, your kingdom of peace and justice for all. We ask it in the name of Jesus. Amen ( from the United Church’s worship resource, Celebrate God’s Presence, slightly adapted.)

Scripture Lessons:       Philippians 2:5-11

                                     Psalm 118:19-29 p.837VU

                                     Matthew 21:1-11

Hymn          Hosanna Loud Hosanna #123VU

Message

Prayer:  O God, we give you thanks for the gift of Jesus Christ, your Son.  We thank you for the splendour of Christ’s life of faithfulness, compassion and service. We thank you for the symbols of love and humility he has given us to remind us. We ask that you will strengthen us for the service to which you call us, that we may find in serving and in other acts of mercy the fullness of life that we see in Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit live in eternity, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (a prayer from the Book of Worship of the United Church’s of Christ, adapted) 

Hymn      Ride On, Ride On in Majesty #127VU

This Sunday’s service will be a combined service in Howick United Church at 11:00, with members of the community choir taking part. We will begin with a fellowship time at 10:30 in the church hall downstairs

There will be a new newsletter available this Sunday. 

There will be an extra blog this coming week for Good Friday. The walk of the cross will also take place in Huntingdon on Good Friday, April 3rd beginning at 9:30am at St John’s Anglican Church.

There will also be a Sunrise Easter service at the Huntingdon Hospital Gazebo at 7am followed by a Pancake Breakfast at Huntingdon United Church. 

The Easter Sunday services will be held at 9:30 in Ormstown and 11:00 in Howick. We will be celebrating the sacrament of Communion as well. 

The time has come to apply for the Regional Council bursaries off to university, college, and CEGEP students who are confirmed members of congregations in the region. Applications are available at the Regional Council website, nakonhakaucc.ca and the deadline for applying is May 31st. 

Sunday, March 22, 2026 The Fifth Sunday of Lent

 Ramadan ends this weekend, with Eid. Meanwhile, we continue our journey through Lent. Saturday, March 21st is also the International Day to Eliminate Racism, so perhaps something to consider in our Lenten reflections. 

Hymn.       As Comes the Breath of Spring #373

Prayer:  Almighty God, who did not spare your own Son, but did deliver him up for us all: in humility and penitence we draw near to you. As we call to remembrance the passion and sufferings of your Son, we beseech you to stir up within us the precious gift of faith, that we may rejoice in your great salvation, and offer to you the worship of our hearts and the service of our lives, through Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord. Amen. (adapted from a prayer in the United Church’s 1968 Service Book)

Scripture Lessons:           Ezekiel 37:1-14

                                         Psalm 130 p.853VU

                                         John 11:1-45

Hymn.      All People that on Earth Do Dwell #822VU

Message 

Prayer:  Eternal God, late in this season we gather beneath the lengthening shadow of the cross, and we are very much aware of evil’s reality and death’s power. There are times when this awareness makes us captives of our fears and imprisons us in the tomb of despair, and there is no life in us. 

Living and Eternal One, breathe your Spirit upon us that we may awaken to the life that is ours in Jesus Christ and rise with him to serve you in faithfulness and justice all our days. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen. ( from Gathering LEP2011, written and shared by John Moses then of Trinity UC, Charlottetown PEI.)

Hymn         Beneath the Cross of Jesus #135VU

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

We continue to hold in prayer the family and friends of those we have lost in the past weeks. This includes Donald Grant, Bill Templeton, and Jean Niles. 

Next Sunday will Palm Sunday and we will be holding a combined service in Howick at 11:00. We will also be welcoming the Community choir to the service. There will be a fellowship time before the service, beginning at about 10:30. 

There will be an extra blog on Good Friday, April 3rd. 

We will be celebrating Easter Sunday with a Communion Sunday service, at 9:30 in Ormstown and 11:00 in Howick.

Sunday, March 15, 2026 The Fourth Sunday of Lent

 St Patrick’s Day is coming soon! We can enjoy the music, the parades and the celebrations, but let us remember this is also a religious celebration, celebrating St Patrick’s faithfulness, forgiveness, and vision of the faith, informed and shaped by his relationship with nature that helped to spread the Christian faith. 🙏🏽☘️

This is also the Sunday in Lent sometimes known as Mothering Sunday, which is not in fact a Sunday celebrating mothers, but our mother churches, where our faith was born and nurtured. 💒

Hymn        Open My Eyes #371VU

Prayer:  Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, 

Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, 

Christ in breadth, Christ in length, Christ in height, 

Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me, 

Christ in the heart of everyone who speaks of me, 

Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me. 

I arise today through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity, through belief in the threeness, 

through confession of the oneness of the Creator of creation. Salvation is of the Lord. Salvation is of the Lord. Salvation is of Christ. May your salvation, O Lord, be ever with us. Amen. ( the closing words of St Patrick’s Breastplate.)

Scripture Lessons:      I Samuel 16:1-13

                                    Psalm 23 p. 749VU

                                    John 9:1-41

Message

Prayer:  The Lord is our hope, we shall not let go of. 

She makes us seek universal justice, peace, and dignity. 

She leads us toward reconciliation. She restores broken communities. 

She takes us to places of horror, so that we can better proclaim the gospel of peace for her sake. 

Even though we walk through uncertainty, indifference, and opposition, 

We will continue to seek a better future for Israelis and Palestinians, for Iranians and Iraqis, and Lebanon. 

For you are with us, your kingdom of justice, peace, and dignity for all comforts us. 

You prepare tables of dialogue and opportunities for truth-telling around us. 

You open the hearts of hurting people. 

We witness to small signs of hope! 

Surely we will continue to seek justice and resist evil, all the days of our lives, until we are all able to live abundantly. Amen. ( a prayer based on Psalm 23 and the Kairos document, developed and shared by the United Church of Canada.) 

Hymn        He Leadeth Me #657VU

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

We continue to hold in our thoughts and prayers the family and friends of Donald Grant, whose memorial service is Saturday, March 14th at the Athelstan Presbyterian Church.

We also remember the family and friends of Bill Templeton who died last weekend and whose memorial service will be next Saturday, March 21st at 2pm in St Paul’s United Church. There will be visitation held on Friday, at the McGerrigle Funeral Home from 2-4 and 7-9pm as well as from 1:00 at the church. 

The Howick UCW meeting scheduled for last Wednesday was cancelled and will be rescheduled, probably to Wednesday, March 18th at 7pm in the church hall. 

St Paul’s Session will meet on Wednesday, March 18th at 1pm in the hall. 

St Paul’s Stewards will meet on Wednesday, March 18th at 7:30pm in the hall. 

Have you heard of PIE Day? It is March 14th 03/14) when individuals and churches and other organizations show their Public, Intentional, and Explicit support for LGBTQ2S+ people in our community and world. The Moderator the Right Rev. Kimberley Heath has prepared a message for this day which can be found on the UCC YouTube channel, Facebook, as well as the United Church’s website, united-church.ca. 

Sunday, March 8, 2026 The Third Sunday of Lent

 Today is International Women’s Day! Who are the women you would like to celebrate? Let us recognize and celebrate the gifts that many women bring to our community and to our world! 💐

Hymn.        I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say # 626

Prayer:  God of the Wilderness, God of the journey, soften our ears that we might heed Wisdom’s call. Stir us to vision and action, that we may extend your love wherever there is need for hope and healing. Amen. (a prayer from the United Church’s worship resource, Celebrate God’s Presence.) 

Scripture Lessons:        Exodus 17:1-7

                                      Psalm 95 p. 814VU

                                      John 4:5-42 

Hymn       Rock of Ages

Message

Prayer:  O God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. 

I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following your will does not mean I am actually doing so. 

But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. 

I hope I will never do anything apart from that desire. 

And I know that if I do this, you will lead me by the right road though I may know nothing about it. 

Therefore will I trust you always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. 

I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone. Amen. 

(prayer by Thomas Merton, found in In Touch with the Word by Lisa-Marie Calderon-Stewart)

Hymn        Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah #651VU

This Sunday’s services are 9:30 in Howick and 11:00 in Ormstown, which is the annual meeting service for the congregation. 

Barbara will be preparing another newsletter before Easter. Please let her know of any items to be included. 

Howick UCW will meet Wednesday, March 11th at 7pm in the church. This will be a planning meeting for the rest of the year. 

There will not be a St Paul’s Session meeting this week. It will be held next week instead, on Wednesday March 18th at 1pm, in the hall. 

St Paul’s Stewards will meet on Wednesday March 18th at 7:30pm in the hall. 

We hold the family and friends of Donald Grant (Wilene Cullen’s father) in our thoughts and prayers following his death on Friday. There will be a service to remember and celebrate his life next Saturday, March 14th, at 1:30 in the Athelstan Presbyterian Church. 

Upcoming Worship Schedule for Holy Week: 

Sunday, March 29 11:00 Palm Sunday service, combined service in Howick for Howick and Ormstown. 

Sunday April 5. Easter Sunday service with Communion, 9:30 Ormstown, 11:00 Howick 

A Good Friday blog will also be prepared and posted along with the Easter Sunday one.