Highlights of Our Life and Work
June 11, 2021
Greetings!

Here’s the latest news from our Community of Faith.
Are you seeing all our announcements?
Scroll down to find information on Sunday Online Worship, Highlights, ThirdSpace News, More News
News from the Wider Church and Community, and Reminders.

If the email has been clipped you will see a view entire message” link at the bottom of your email. Just click on this link and it will open up a window where you will see all the announcements.
Worship this Week
Celebration of Ministry & Worship with the Pacific Mountain Region.
We will be united across BC and Yukon in celebration, worship and praise, with distinguished guest preacher: Nadia Bolz-Weber and all the new candidates who will be ordained, recognized and admitted. Watch Worship Here!

There will be no Peninsula United Worship Video this week.
 
The Worship video is also available from our website.
Due to the special Regional service this Sunday, we will not have Coffee Hour. We will meet next on Sunday, June 20 at 11 am as usual. You can join by Zoom or by telephone. We look forward to seeing you then!
Highlights
Congregational Meeting
Sunday, June 27 at 11 am on Zoom (replacing the usual coffee hour).

Details to follow in next week’s email.
Join our Muslim neighbours for a Candlelight Vigil
Friday, June 11, 7- 9:30 pm
Holland Park, 13428 Old Yale Rd., Surrey
Our friends in the White Rock Muslim Association
have invited us to join them in this vigil. 
We are sad to share the news of three more deaths in our congregation
Joan Rodgers, age 97, a long time member of our church passed away with family at her side in Westminster House on Sunday May 30,2021.

Howard Kennett died peacefully, surrounded by his family, at Peace Arch Hospice on Tuesday, June 1

Gillian Cole’s husband, Nat, died on June 4.

We hold these families and all loved ones in our prayers.
Garden Helpers
Over the last few weeks a small group of gardeners have been helping out church friends with all those spring time weeds. Many hands make light work!
Hardy Chinese Ground Orchid (Bletilla striata)
Merv Lutes has one waiting for you in his garden. 
Peninsula United Church Re-opening Plan
While provincial health orders now permit in-person worship services, with a limited number (50) in attendance, there are stringent safety measures required. Safety precautions that must be followed include pre-registration, wearing of masks throughout the service, no singing, limited movement, and very little social interaction.  
 
At PUC we long to be together again, provided we can do so safely. The Covid Safety Team, along with the Worship Committee and the Strategic Leadership Committee is working hard to develop a re-opening plan that will fulfill the needs of our worshipping community. In the meantime, continue to enjoy our pre-recorded worship services and our Zoom Coffee Hour on Sundays at 11 A.M.
Mission & Service News
Just imagine the excitement and energy that filled Toronto’s Mutual Street Arena on June 10, 1925, when the founding denominations formed the United Church of Canada. This meant that the members of the Methodist, Presbyterian, and Congregational Churches could combine their finances to do more mission work in Canada and around the world. 
 
From the very beginning, our United Church was formed out of a desire to come together and serve others like Jesus did. Through Mission & Service, we have been helping to save and transform lives, inspire meaning and purpose, and build a better world for 96 years.
 
Today, we are as committed as ever. Together, we turn compassion into action every day. To put it simply, we help.
 
In Canada, we support homeless shelters, food banks, soup kitchens, and refugee programs. We reach out to young people on campuses and through camping. We care for people who are sick, suffering from addiction or at the end of life by supporting mental health, counselling services and hospice care.
 
Globally, we help people access clean water, food, and medical care, and support skills training and economic development. We help with peace-making and sustainable agriculture efforts. We provide disaster relief and advocate for the rights of those who all too often don’t get a say, like children and migrant workers.
 
We also support opportunities for people to grow spiritually in all kinds of ways.
Locally, we subsidize theological schools and education/retreat centres. We support events that promote spiritual development and personal reflection. We inspire new and innovative ministries and sustain communities of faith that are remote or in need. Globally, we support church organizations that work with theological schools, offering practical training in agriculture and health.
 
It’s a win-win. We trust that when people are in tune with their meaning and purpose, they will naturally want to help change lives and make the world a better place for all. At Peninsula United, M&S is important to all of us and to date our contributions for 2021 amount of $28,421.48. Thank you for your gifts through Mission & Service. Your support makes a world of difference.
Canada Day Activity Booklets
Enjoy the rest of this activity book with some Canada Day fun including games & trivia to enlighten your day in this difficult time and to keep you busy!

If you would like an activity book but are unable to print at home. Please call the office and we will be happy to set up a time for you to stop by and pick one up!
Peninsula UC is looking forward to welcoming an Eritrean refugee family. 
MEET THE FAMILY: The family have kindly given us permission to show this picture. From left to right, Ftsum, Delina (6), Metkel (10), Sirak (9), Helen. They are currently in an apartment in Addis Ababa, awaiting medical and security checks, and travel documents.
 
Fundraising: To participate or make a pledge, contact John Leighton or Teri Lydiard ([email protected] or 604 538-6352). More details next week.
 
Furniture and Housewares: Volunteers required to assist with the following:
  • A “communicator” to draft information for the church newsletter.
  • A “recorder” to take notes at Zoom meetings.

If you can help this team, or have goods to donate, please contact Pat at [email protected]
Financial Snapshot for 4 months ending April 2021:
financial_accounting.jpg
YTD offerings of $84,057 were below budget by $7,610 and down from the same period in 2020 by $1,516.

$18,175 in Federal Wage subsidy grants were received to the end of April.
Total YTD expenses of $171,202 were $10,000 below budget.

Thank you for your continued support of Peninsula United and its ministries.

Letter of the Faithful
Nature, environment, universe, creation: What do these words mean to you?  
 
Join Peter Jones for an evening of sharing stories and deepening our theological understanding of Creation. Our discussion will be input to the Letter of the Faithful project of the ecumenical initiative, For the Love of Creation. Learn more
 
Our evening conversation will be on ZOOM from 7:00-8:30 PM on Tuesday, June 15. To register: contact Peter Jones at [email protected]
 
Everyone is welcome regardless of their knowledge and experience. Questions will be provided in advance, and some personal reflection and pre-reading will be recommended. Bring a Bible!
“Savor Summer" Series - Offered by Marilyn Hahn
(*Please note changes to times for workshops*)
We invite you to join Marilyn Hahn and like-minded hearts for weekly art talk workshops to inspire a summer of creativity, connection, and healing.  

Topics include:
  • Your Home, a Source of Healing: 4 Tuesdays, 10am - 12pm, starting June 8
  • In Search of Deep Soul: 4 Wednesdays, 6pm - 8pm, starting June 9
  • Love is Already Here to Help You: 4 Thursdays, 10am - 12pm, June 10
  • My Soul, My Purpose: 4 Fridays, 6 - 8pm, June 11
There is a creativity component to each session, which requires simple drawing/coloring materials, as well as conversation, reflection, journaling, etc. 
 
NO ART EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED!
Just trust in the process, trust me, and trust your power of curiosity.  
 
Payment is by donation. 
Sessions are on Zoom and are limited to 8 participants. Supplies list will be emailed before each session.
Contact Marilyn Hahn for more information.

Sponsored by:
We need your support for Harmony
There is the possibility of affordable and inclusive housing in South Surrey.
This project of a 91 home, 6 story, affordable rental housing needs letter writing support. 
Surrey council is not showing enthusiasm for providing this type of housing for essential workers, seniors, families, people with disabilities.
Click on this link to learn why support for this project will be life changing. 
Come to Camp Spirit at Peninsula United Church!

Tues. August 3 to Fri. August 6 9am to 3pm
Camp Spirit continues your Child's journey of Wonder - encouraging campers to explore faith through listening and experiencing the sacred stories, enjoy times of creativity and science, move to music, share a meal together and appreciate getting to know one another! Trained, screened staff & volunteers provide leadership and care while following health orders and camp's comprehensive COVID-19 protocols.

Day Camp for Children 5-11 years! Leader In Training Program for
Youth 12-14 years!
Signs of Hope and New Life 

What signs of hope and new life are you seeing? Send us your photos: [email protected].  
 
When sending pictures for inclusion in the weekly email or the worship video, the images work best if they are a minimum of 1000 pixels.
Friendship Garden
Thanks to many of our church family here is a new hosta friendship garden in the Thorner’s back yard this spring. Each different hosta was shared by Pat Logie, Winnie Kowalewich, The Lutes’s, Anna Paton, Val Austring, Helen Virgo and Teri Lydiard!

#1 - 1381 George St. 
White Rock, BC 
V4B 2L1
ThirdSpace Conversation Café
Join Rev. Bruce for our weekly Thirdspace Conversation Café...
Every Wednesday at 10:30 - 11:30am VIA ZOOM!
 
Join us for a gently facilitated conversation! 
Check ourthirdspace.com for upcoming topics.

To Join:
Online Via Zoom:
Meeting ID: 883 7065 1699
Password: Please contact us at [email protected] for password
 
Dial In:
Dial: 778 907 2071
Meeting ID: 883 7065 1699
Password: Please contact us at [email protected] for password
 
For further information click here!
ThirdSpace Virtual Drop-In Café - Online
Due to current BC Government restrictions on gatherings, our Drop-In is temporarily back online.

Friday morning 10am - 11am, grab your java and join us from the warmth and comfort of your own home!
 
How to join us:
Virtually Via Zoom: 
Meeting ID: 999 4167 9678 
Passcode: Please contact us at [email protected] 
 
Or Dial by Phone:
Dial: 778 907 2071 Canada
Meeting ID: 999 4167 9678
Passcode: Please contact us at [email protected]
More News
News from Affirming Ministry
Language changes over time, and can be confusing. Time magazine explains gender-neutral pronouns.
Stewardship Seconds
June 13: Third Sunday after Pentecost

Stewardship is about allowing ourselves to be led by the Spirit.
Tuesdays at 7:30am on Zoom
  
We are a small group of 4-12 people who gather for 20 minutes of contemplative, silent prayer,
followed by coffee and conversation. 
 
Due to increased numbers of Covid 19 infections in the Fraser Health area, we have resumed praying in our individual homes on Tuesday mornings followed by zoom coffee at 8 am. Join us here. 
 
For more information contact Rev. Janice Young:
 
When our Health Officer permits, we will begin meeting in person on the first Tuesday of the month in the sanctuary at the Crescent site to pray in silence and then visit. 
 
To learn more about Centering Prayer watch this 8 minute introduction video by Thomas Keating.


Click here for information on how to continue your offerings during this changing time.

News from the Wider Church & Community
United Church of Canada E-ssentials Newsletter
Awards for Broadview Magazine, Preparing for Retirement Webinar, United Church Face Masks, and more. Read the newsletter here.
Read the Online Together Newsletter to see what's happening in the Pacific Mountain Region of the United Church of Canada during Covid-19 physical distancing measures.
Reminders!
Prayer Ministry Requests
During the Coronavirus Pandemic, since we are no longer placing written requests in the sanctuary Prayer Box, members and adherents can submit prayer requests to Louise Bureau or Olive Lee by email or phone. 

You can find our contact information in the church directory. If phoning in a request, please phone before 8 PM. You may also submit requests through our ministers. Thank-you. It is our privilege to serve you through our prayer ministry.
Your Ministers are Here for you!
Although Janice and Bruce cannot do home visits at this time, they are happy to speak with you by phone, especially if you are struggling with anxiety, health or family crises. 
 
Janice: 604-531-2979 ext.2 or 778-980-8310
 
Bruce: 604-531-2979 ext.3 or 604-992-9183 
Announcements Deadline
Weekly bulletin announcements must be in the office by 10 am on Wednesdays. 

Email to [email protected] or call 604-531-2979.
Office Closed but Staff is on the job!
The office and ThirdSpace will be closed for the foreseeable future but all our staff are available by phone and email.
 
Peninsula UC Office:
Joanne Feuer (Office Administrator): [email protected]  778-984-7768
Nikkie Ripka (Administrative Assistant):
[email protected]  604-531-2979
 
ThirdSpace Office: 604-385-0822 
 
Click here for information about access to office and church buildings during COVID-19 restrictions.

15639 24th Avenue,
Surrey, BC V4A 2J6
604-531-2979