SHARE:  

The Messenger

Glimmers by Rev. Lori

Jesus often used parables as a teaching tool for his hearers and many of us rely on those memorable teachings to inform and shape our faith. Parables are not meant to be allegories (where each element is meant to match exactly to what it may represent) but rather thought exercises that point to a larger truth (in Jesus’ case ~ the nature of the Kingdom of God). We can learn more about this together!

 

We can find parables across many cultures & many teachers. There is a body of Japanese parables or Zen teachings called ‘koan’. Teachings intended to produce doubt, reflection, discussion, and new perspectives.

They are also used in Buddhist teaching ~ did you know that Buddhism is not considered a religion but a path or way of living? You could be a Christian & a Buddhist at the same time!

 

On Sunday (October 13) I plan to include the following koan in my sermon and thought it might be valuable to allow you to read ahead and do your own reflection.


Pema Chödrön, in her book The Wisdom of No Escape: How to Love Yourself & Your World tells the story: There is a woman running away from tigers. She runs and runs and the tigers are getting closer and closer. When she comes to the edge of a cliff, she sees some vines there. She climbs down and holds on to the vines. Looking down, she sees that there are tigers below her as well. She then notices that a mouse is gnawing away at the vine to which she is clinging. She also sees a beautiful little bunch of strawberries close to her, growing out of a clump of grass, so she looks up and she looks down. She looks at the mouse. Then she just takes a strawberry, puts it in her mouth, and enjoys it thoroughly.

 

Hmmm.


Focus Scripture Philippians 4:4-9


Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.


Coffee & Bible Study

We had a wonderful response to our September coffee time on Thursday mornings. Real church stuff has been happening ~ prayer, sharing, helping, learning… and everyone is welcome. It is drop-in or stay as you choose. We are beginning to add a Bible Study focusing on the scripture for the following week. Bible Study will run from 11 am – 12 pm and is optional~ you can keep on chatting or join in. The whole morning is very low demand/low expectation… we are practicing listening for and moving as the Spirit moves us. The gathering will take place in the FELLOWSHIP HALL on October 10th.

 

"Big Stories"

Many of us were raised on the Big Stories in the Bible… the oft-repeated Sunday School Lessons about Noah, Joseph, Moses, David, Jesus & the disciples. These stories shaped our faith and are still kept deep within us. We are going to explore some of these stories through worship & sermons reflecting on their impact and how we can dig into them for today and our faith right now. What scripture stories helped shape your faith earlier in your life? What stories still guide your life today? What readings do you feel are important to share with our children & grandchildren? What story would you like to explore again? If you have a song associated with the story, share that, too! Submit suggestions to mfunitedrev@outlook.com, or make a little note and pass it to Rev. Lori (whose memory may not be enough on a Sunday morning!)

Rev. Lori hopes to plan a series of sermons using the "Big Stories" of our faith, spread out over the year.

Thanksgiving with a heart of gratitude

Today let’s cultivate a heart of gratitude. May we pause to count our blessings, expressing gratitude to God and to the people around us. In every season let’s remember that gratitude is not just a momentary feeling but a way of life. As we live with hearts full of gratitude, we will experience joy, contentment, and a deep relationship with our loving Father. Let us be thankful every day, not just at Thanksgiving.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend.

Nature Appreciation Walk

Join the Green Team for a walk along the Saugeen Trail as we learn about, observe, and appreciate the local flora and fauna. Saturday, October 19th

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet at the trailhead by the Mount Forest Sports Complex. All ages and abilities are welcome. Rain or shine.

Mount Forest United Anniversary

Mount Forest United is celebrating its 180th anniversary on Sunday, October 20th at 11:00 am. Rev. Bonnie Holliday will be our guest speaker. Music will be provided by our talented choir. Service will be followed by an oh-so-yummy potluck luncheon! Bring your family, friends, neighbours and a healthy appetite and worship with us.

(PAR) Pre-Authorized Remittance

Do you want to take something off the to-do list on Sunday mornings? With PAR, you don’t have to worry about writing a cheque or forgetting to donate. Signing up for the Pre-Authorized Remittance (PAR) program is easy and each month your giving’s are automatically withdrawn from your bank account and you can increase or decrease amounts at any time. Contact Juliann at the Church office at 519-323-1910 ext. 1 for more information or to register.

Dying to Talk

Trick or Trunk

Meeting Reminders

October 15 - Worship Committee Meeting 4:30 pm (Fellowship Hall)

October 15 - Leadership Team 7:00 pm (Fellowship Hall)


Pastoral Care

If you’d like the Pastoral Care Team to pray for you or someone you know or are aware of any hospitalizations, sickness, or special occasions, contact one of the following members of the team.  Betty Seminowicz at 519-923-5416, or by Email: betvansemi@hotmail.com or Daphne Rappard at 519-323-2505, Email:drappard@wightman.ca.

 

We would also be happy to have one of our team members visit you in person or by phone. All requests are shared only with the Pastoral Care Team and are kept confidential. 

How much do you know about

Western Ontario Waterways?

Check out what is happening at Western Ontario Waterways, click on the link below. Many resources are available on their website along with upcoming events and continuing education opportunities! You can also sign up for their newsletter. www.wowrcucc.ca

Visit WOWRC Website
Contact Us
Visit our website
Wish to make a donation. Click here.
Facebook  Instagram  Youtube