A Lenten Journey: Engaging Difference - Seeing Christ in One Another'
You are invited to be part of this four session Lenten discussion group. Sessions will be held on Wednesday evenings: February 24, March 2, 9, 16 from 7:30-9:30 pm. or Friday mornings: February 26, March 4, 11, 18 from 10 am - noon. Participants can register for either of the days and can switch back and forth if needed.
This Lenten group will offer the opportunity to explore the diversity in this congregation and in the wider community. Dianne Hope, has been engaged in learning and educating others about the ways that congregations can be more open to the diversity in their midst and more aware of the ways that a variety of cultures and heritages can enrich our experience of the Spirit of Christ. Using resources from the 'Deepening Understanding for Intercultural Ministry Program' along with scripture, music, video clips and interactive activities, Dianne Hope and Kathy Toivanen will guide the participants through this Lenten Journey.
You can register now with Kathy Toivanen at kathy@emuc.ca or sign up at EMUC. Registration is $10/person for materials.
Refugee Sponsorship News
Erin Mills United Church, in partnership with Erindale United and Streetsville United will be sponsoring a refugee family under the guidance and direction of the United Church of Canada. The three churches have committed to raising a total of $40,000 and the portion committed to by Erin Mills United is $15,000. The appeal to support this initiative was launched last Sunday. To contribute, please make a cheque payable to Erin Mills United Church and clearly indicate that it is for refugee sponsorship.
For more information contact the EMUC Refugee Sponsorship task force: Hermine Bingham, Muriel Hamdani, Debby Sturgeon, Dianne Hope, Catharine Watts or Lorraine Brignall.
Calling All Euchre Players
Save Saturday March 5 for an evening of progressive euchre and yummy desserts. Arrival time is 6:30. Games start 7 p.m. sharp. Cost $10.00 To reserve a seat and number attending contact maryanna.williams10@gmail.com
Pair and single players welcomed.
Comfort Kits
It's time to start bringing in all those travel-sized hygiene products, tissues, pens/pencils/small notepads, socks, etc. for our annual Comfort Kits campaign. As well, we are asking for small, generic (non-holiday) gift bags to fill with the items. Please bring in your items by Sunday, Feb. 21. This effort supports the outreach ministry of the Open Door at Square One.
Women for Women and Friends
EMUC women and their friends are invited to a dinner meeting on Friday February 26th from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. Following dinner ($10/person) there will be a presentation on 'birding'. Equipment demonstratins, birding checklists, and a series of Ontario 'hotspots' for viewing birds will be made available. Please register in advance by contacting Laura at lmacro@rogers.com or Cindy at cynthia.young@rogers.com
The Deacon's Cupboard
With the recent spike in the cost of groceries, please remember to be generous in your contributions to the cupboard. In February, you are invited to donate canned fruit (preferably fruit in its own juice)
Planning for Kathy Toivanen's Retirement.
EMUC wishes to support Kathy and celebrate with her as she makes the transition from full-time ministry to retirement. If you are interested in helping to take part in the planning and organizing of events to mark this transition; or if you would like more information on how you can help out, please speak to Joanne Hines (Chair of EMUC Leadership Circle) , Laura Macro or Barb Jennings (past chairs of the LC).
Lenten Booklet of Reflections: 'With Us Always'
Zooming in on key scenes from popular movies and finding parallels in biblical stories, this book of Lenten devotions demonstrates how our faith journey can be explored and energized through popular culture. Designed for personal reflection and prayer throughout the Lenten season, this booklet is written by a variety of United Church contributors. Copies are available at EMUC for $14 or you can order your own e-book by going to http://www.ucrdstore.ca/with-us-always-daily-devotions-framed-by-the-movies.html
Community Worship Service at Solel Synagogue
EMUC is invited to attend the Sabbath worship service at Solel Synagogue on Friday March 4th at 8 pm followed by refreshments. This is always an inspiring event, and offers us the opportunity to meet newly appointed, Rabbi Audrey Pollack. Please sign up to indicate your attendance.
