The Burning Bush
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Winter 2014 Issue MAILING LABEL
With this issue of the Burning Bush, a new church year begins all over again. The weeks of Advent promise (‘the Coming) culminate with celebrating the birth of Christ amongst us, and then are followed by seasons in which we explore his earthly ministry, death, glorious resurrection, and the initial years of the Church, ‘the Living Body of the Living Lord’. I thought I would focus my words for this issue around a photograph. This ‘pyramid’ has been part of my life since I was a teenager in the early 70’s, when our parents squeezed my brother, sister and me into the back seat of a VW Beetle and as a family we drove into what was then known as East Germany, very much under the rule of the Communist Party.
From the Minister’s desk: My first words are of gratitude. Since my induction on Sunday October 19 as the twelfth minister of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Kingston (in 196 years!), you have welcomed me with firm handshakes and warm embraces, and I am grateful. I know that this is a time of transition for congregation as much as for minister, and I appreciate the generosity of spirit and commitment of faith that you are extending to me. And already I am impressed by all the ways members of the congregation are active in the ministry of Christ – many within the congregation, and many beyond. Perhaps the old prayer is best just slightly re-phrased into the plural for us to say together, ‘Lord, you are the potter, we are the clay … Take us, bend us, even break us, but continue to mould us and make us into a people of your grace and your good purposes’. I look forward to the years ahead!
I remember being shown the organ pipes of a village church, where the minister had hidden a home made antenna amongst the pipes, for listening to ‘western’ radio was forbidden – the church was such an abandoned place, it was a ‘safe’ place to listen to what was illegal! And it was from the back room of a wood worker’s studio that this ‘pyramid’ depicting the birth of Christ was brought out for my parents. This ‘subversive’ background of course made the pyramid of considerable interest to us as teenagers. But now it is the ‘subversive’ message of Christmas upon which I ponder. As I look at the manger, the shepherds, the magi, I am reminded … God chose to be revealed not in a capital but in an obscure village. God chose to be known not amongst the powerful of the palace or the religious of the temple, but amongst people on the periphery of society, drawing first the poor (shepherds) and strangers (magi from the east) to hear good news. God came not to confirm the way things were, but to open up a new way for humanity. The way the candles cause the pyramid to turn round and round I find not only beautiful but also meaningful. I am not suggesting that life is circular – as Christians we affirm that life is a wandering-but-sure path from origin to destiny, thanks be to God. Instead, the turning of the pyramid reminds me that we have yet another
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 opportunity, yet another Christmas, to ponder the ‘glorious impossibility’ of God-with-us. Radically different than what we hear from every other source, the message of Christmas is that new beginnings are possible. Whatever our history as individuals and families, as communities and nations, even as churches, we are not defined by our past but rather by the grace of God. As the pyramid turns, as a new church year begins, we hear again the gospel of Jesus Christ, of life, and have a new opportunity to ‘rise up and follow’ in his ways of forgiveness and generosity, of service and of trust. I look forward to the year ahead, together.
Andrew
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the Rev. Kelly Graham, Rev. Mark Tremblay, Rev. Chris Walker, Rev. Dr. Karen Bach, and Rev. Tony Boonstra to help us with the changes that were necessary before we were able to call a new minister. The session has been required to make some difficult decisions in order to move St. Andrew’s into the 21st century and it is with great relief that we now have Andrew’s encouragement and calm, caring manner to guide us as we continue on the way to the future together. We welcomed Andrew and Beatrice and their family with a congregational luncheon after his first service on October 20th. This was a great way for everyone to meet and have conversation with them. Many thanks to all who took part in the festivities of October 19th and 20th. We had bakers, kitchen help, servers and cleaner-uppers and it was indeed a joyful occasion. It is very rewarding to see the different groups who are using the church’s space to bring assistance and joy to various people in Kingston and it is very satisfying to know that we, “The Church” have had a part in this. Together we can bring the love of Jesus to downtown Kingston as we tend to our neighbour’s needs. The date of the 2014 Annual Congregational Meeting was set for Sunday March 2nd in St, Andrew’s Hall following the service. There will be a light lunch of sandwiches and coffee as well. We hope that as many of you as possible will attend. The Annual Financial Report and 2014 budget should be available from the auditors for the congregation Sunday February 23rd.
December Birthday Greetings Phyllis McInnes, Louise Axford, Bev Wells,
January Birthday Greetings
All reports for printing in the annual report should be handed in to Allison by Sunday February 2nd with no exceptions. Allison needs this time to put the Annual Report together.
Alec Mills
The nursery will be ready shortly for any babies and young toddlers who attend on Sunday. Lucy Allan has worked hard to clean the room and some new things have been purchased by her. A qualified caregiver will be present to care for the infants.
Please send us the names of people celebrating anniversaries (birthday or wedding) so that we may include them in our celebrations box. Only the month of the anniversary is required
We are in need of new candle holders for the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. The session wondered whether a member of the congregation might be able to offer these as a special gift. They will cost approximately $1 each.
Dennis Clark, Don Hay
February Birthday Greetings
Update from Session On October 19th, 2013, Rev. Dr. Andrew Johnston was inducted as the twelfth minister of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Kingston. This ended a long three years of transition with interim moderators and interim ministers. We greatly appreciated the caring efforts of
The Salon Group have agreed to occupy the manse. They will start to move in by November 15th with full occupancy by the new year. Negotiations are continuing regarding their monthly contribution to St. Andrew’s. I am in the process of finalizing a new ushering schedule for the new year. Ushering/greeting is a very important ministry as yours is the first face that new people see
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 when they come to worship. It is also a very rewarding experience to be able to provide hospitality to all. The session would welcome any one who feels called to this ministry, even if you are relatively new to the congregation. Please talk to me after the service if you would like to be on the schedule for the coming year.
In God’s service Donna Delacretaz A
Report from General Assembly
The theme of this year’s General Assembly is “THAT ALL MAY BE ONE”. This is the first time that two presbyteries hosted it. These were the Presbyteries of Oak Ridges and East Han-CA. The Rev. David Sutherland was elected the moderator of the 139th General Assembly. He is the first moderator from the presbytery of Newfoundland and the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. His message was “The goal of all we say and do at this assembly is to glorify Jesus Christ. The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. I believe there is a bright future for the church in our culture if we learn to celebrate a ministry of the spirit.” Mrs. Lizzie Shumba, Mr. Malumbo Mithi and Mrs. Esther Maoma of Malawi worked with Presbyterian World and Development. They spoke about the progress and increase in farming with the use of farming systems used in Canada. The formula for Presbyterian Sharing should be ten percent of the congregation’s dollar base. Assembly Council believes this is fair because some will be able to donate more while others may not achieve this goal. This change will take place commencing in 2014. The idea of having biennial General Assemblies was discussed. There was a lengthy discussion including listening to the Young Adult Representatives explained this change would limit them to maybe one trip to General Assembly. Several spoke against the motion. While others acknowledged that the time has come to make changes for the benefit of our congregations and to be good stewards. Financial constraints were the main concern. Another concern was whether the staff should spend more time on mission or putting together assemblies. An amendment was made that revised the original recommendation to say that the proposed regarding biennial Assemblies be circulated to the
committees and courts of the church for study and report by January 31, 2014. Dr. H.F. Gale led a service of remembrance and celebration. We were asked to pause and celebrate the generosity and foresight of the people that went before us. He reminded the court of the great parade of Pro Visionaries within our church including Donald Smith (founder of Canadian Pacific Railroad),James Naismith (inventor of basketball),Colonel MacLean (founder of Maclean Publishing}, and others who have left a lasting positive influenced on the life and work of the church through their gifts. He also noted individuals, still living, who are enhancing the ministry of the church through planned giving. The Rev. Emily Bissett introduced the Good News in the Church creating vibrant connections. The Rev. Lara Scoley from Scotsburn, N.S., a rural village with a population of five hundred people talked about how her church is thriving. She firmly believes “all churches are called by God to do extraordinary things. We live in hope that we are open to change, with God, anything is possible.” The Rev. Jim Smith of central church in Vancouver, BC explained how he worked to make his church thrive. This is done through air space and no mortgage was needed. They changed their priorities by starting a number of activities serving the community such as a community breakfast, food bank and they opened their doors to AA, and a karate school, allowing a steady stream of community people coming through the doors. They do not charge rent to community groups but ask them to donate to community outreach programs (breakfasts, etc.) and they actually received twice the amount of money that way. The Rev. Lynne Donovan from the Kingston presbytery told how reaching out to the community and making circles of friends through new projects such as raising money for Ten Thousands Villages and Reaching for Rainbows, over and above the church’s budget. A bequest allowed them to make a major shift in the physical building to help them with their new goals. All the speakers told amazing stories of revitalization. The Women’s Missionary Service will be commemorating one hundred years while envisioning a new future as a national mission society. Their annual meeting will be changed to every two years. We received some interfaith visitors, Pandit Roopnauth Sharma , the founder and spiritual leader of Mississauga Ram Mandir Hindu temple, his wife Raymathee, and two associates, Jeydeep Patel and Jay Patel. Mr. Sharma
Burning Bush: Winter 2014 said “I consider this history in the making since I understand this is the first time a Hindu has made a presentation to this gathering. That tells of the change that is taking place in the world, especially within the Canadian context.” He went on to speak of Hinduism’s basic principles and noted concerns facing Hindus such as being accepted in Canada and respected for their way of life. He expressed a longing to build relationships that will benefit all faiths and build harmony. He said “Canada is the only country in the world where people of many faiths talk about how they can work together instead of how much they hate each other.” The International Affairs Committee request that the moderator write letters to certain companies and government departments requesting information on policies to ensure that their products are not used in situations where human rights are violated. In conclusion does not call for a boycott or sanctions against Israel. The recommendations, taken together, suggested peaceful action for change. As Christians, we are connected to the land in which our savior lived and carried on his ministry. Jesus’ teachings – and our calling to how we live out our faith in the world – are rooted in the great commandment - to love God above all else to love our neighbours as ourselves. When human dignity is diminished or human rights are violated, the church is called to respond. Christ brings hope; all things are made new and we are empowered to work for a ministry of reconciliation based on right relationships, justice and peace. We pray for the peace of Jerusalem, and the peace, safety and wellbeing of all people who live in Israel and the Palestinian territories. An additional motion was presented to the committee to compile a summary of previous Assembly decisions regarding the right of Israel to exist within secure borders and of actions implementing those decisions, report to the 140th General Assembly, and publish this information in other church publications as appropriate. In response to the remarks about counseling for clergy, the office if Ministry and Church Vocations be asked to study and evaluate the level of support for clergy counseling and to report to the 2014 General Assembly. The Presbyterian Record has found that digital publications are becoming more popular than the printed version. They are in the process of changing from paper to digital, but will still produce the printed copy. The cost savings will be achieved with less mail expenses. The Presbyterian Record had to change and upgrade their letters of continuance and their by-laws in accordance with the new” Canada Not for Profit
page 4 Corporations Act”, as required by law. It was also noted that every member of the Record have received an award. Albert Einstein said that significant problems that we face cannot be solved at the same level as we created them. Good news in the church by creating vibrant connections. The Rev. Matthew E Rattan from Barrie, Ontario, had a small congregation with no money in the bank. Nothing motivates change like the smell of death. After attending Stewards by Design, they started looking for the positive assets such as blended worship and a more kid friendly climate. They became more involved in community activities and now have become a thriving church. Our own The Rev. Lynne Donovan also gave an inspiring talk about how her church went through renewal and vision. Sunday afternoon, we attended Vaughn Community Church and learned about the growth and development of the new church which construction was finished last year. A panel discussion was made up of The Rev. Lynne Donovan, The Rev. Clyde Ervine, The Rev. Peter Han, The Rev. Matthew Rattan, The Rev. Lara Scholey, and The Rev. James Smith. The Rev. Peter Han spoke about how his church grew to approximately 1500 families and 250 children for the nursery and Sunday school. The Rev. Clyde Ervine provided a theological and historical reflection on ecclesiology and the purpose of congregations. The panel fielded questions and then we were treated to western and Korean foods. The church service of word and Holy Communion was presented in both English and Korean. The choir was about one hundred and the musical accompaniment was about twenty. The young people in a band performed some music. Tours of the church were given. Ms. Norma Sanders and Dr. Gail Allan were the ecumenical visitors from the United Church of Canada. Ms. Sanders noted that the theme of the assembly is “That All May Be One” is the Latin phrase found on the denomination’s crest. She also added “God wants us all to be one community.” The world has changed since 1925 and we need to find new ways to share our faith and the hope we find in Jesus Christ. People are hungry for the sense of meaning we can offer. We need to find ways to share the message with the next generation that will be meaningful to them. She referred to Romans 12:9-16 and said what a wonderful adv ice for any generation. God is working within us and among us in this place today.
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 Let us open our eyes for the ways that Christ is alive in the world today. The architecture committee provides feedback on, and gives approval for drawings for new buildings or major renovations. Congregations should contact the committee to find out what they can do for them. The advice is professional, impartial and free. Archives staff can provide advice to congregations and other church courts encouraging them to plan and budget for the microfilming of their records. The primary reason is that it acts as a form of insurance on your records. If anything adverse should happen to the originals you can be assured that a certified copy will exist in the Archives. Records can be digitalized at the same time, although we still request that the microfilm copy be made as the primary preservation for The Presbyterian Church in Canada Archives. General Assembly is considering having biennial assemblies to save money. This would involve changing the bylaws in the Barrier Act and the Book of Forms which would be accomplished by every presbytery voting on each change. The disadvantage to this is less comradeship and especially less chance for the Young Adult Representatives to learn what happens at General Assembly and give some of their ideas and opinions. It has been sent back to committee to examine and explore the questions with the help of the presbyteries to be decided at the next general assembly. We were privileged to hear excellent messages from The Rev Dr John Vissers and the recipient of EH Johnson Award, the Reverend Doctor Abraham Adu Berinyuu. The moderator and the assembly were treated to a very comical rendition of General Assembly with a stuffed moose as moderator. The Young Adult Representatives took an avid interest in what was happening and their input was greatly appreciated and valued by the assembly.
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The closing of the General Assembly was completed by singing the one hundred and twenty second psalm.
Faithfully submitted by Don Hay (General Assembly Representative)
Christmas Moonless darkness stands between. Past, the Past, no more be seen! But the Bethlehem-star may lead me To the sight of Him Who freed me From the self that I have been. Make me pure, Lord: Thou art holy;
Make me meek, Lord: Thou wert lowly; Now beginning, and alway: Now begin, on Christmas day.
Gerard Manley Hopkins
Mission Session Committee SAT 7 International and SAT 7 Canada broadcast Christian programs by satellite television to people in the Middle East and Canada in several common Arabic languages. In the Middle East they broadcast in Lebanon, Jordan, Iran, Egypt, Morocco, Saudi Arabia. As we have many Arabic people living in Canada, the programs are also in their native language. In 2007 SAT 7 International launched it’s “SAT 7 Kids” program. Five years later this Christ-centred entertainment for children had a audience of 7.6 million children under the age of 15 in six countries in the Middle East. Parents listen with their children. They contact the SAT 7 counselling centres by internet telling of their interest in the programs and with questions about Christianity. A “SAT 7 Kids” program was launched in Canada a few years ago. However, sadly it has been cancelled in Canada because of lack of funds. SAT 7 receives many calls from parents wanting to know why they can’t get the program anymore. Please pray that doors will open for this to happen, that God would burden someone’s heart with the vision to make this possible financially.
Louise Axford.A
W.M.S. News The Women’s Missionary Society welcomed guest speaker Gail Shillington to their meeting on October 21st. Gail was the co-ordinator for the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoe Box project in Kingston for many years. She has also taken part in many short term mission trips to needy areas in the world. Her latest trip with the International group “Make Amark” took her to Liberia, a country with much poverty and continuing governmental instability. Gail gave an inspiring message about the mission team’s interaction with the people, teaching them of the love of Jesus and enjoying
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 fun activities like games and making crafts. Work on the renovations at the Bible College in Monrovia, the capital of Liberia, that had been begun by a previous mission team were continued by Gail’s team. The slides Gail showed of the work at the college and the interaction of the mission group with the Liberians made the presentation very meaningful. Gail was introduced by Joan Barr-Knox and thanked by Audrie Cossar. At our December meeting each of our members will bring a dozen Christmas cookies which will be arranged on large trays to be given to a homeless shelter in Kingston. Our meetings are held on the third Monday each month, omitting July and August, at 1:30 P.M. in St. Andrew’s Hall. We hope to see you there.
Louise Axford. A
Mission Update Home Base Housing, Kingston Exciting News! Home Base Housing have been looking for a new home for the overcrowded IN FROM THE COLD emergency shelter and now have the perfect solution at 540 Montreal Street. The building will be a co-location of the shelter, the Housing Help Centre, Home Base Housing administrative offices, 7 affordable apartment units and the new office for Independent Living Kingston. IN FROM THE COLD was established in 2000 as a temporary, over the winter emergency shelter located at 426 Barrie Street. By 2004, the need in our community was so great that they began operating on a nightly basis. At this site, up to 24 youth and adults sleep in one room alongside kitchen and laundry facilities and share one shower. The shelter is known for assisting individuals who experience a variety of challenges including mental illness and medical problems. People who have been discharged from hospital also arrive at the door. Enhanced services at the IN FROM THE COLD emergency shelter will include 5 private beds to assist individuals who are released from hospital with aftercare needs. The infirmary beds increase the number of available beds to offer temporary shelter to 29 people in a spacious area that includes an expanded kitchen, accessible showers, lockers, and a private counseling office for partner agencies to consult with clients. Renovations are taking place now and they plan on being ready to make the move to this location by January 2014.
Since 1987, Home Base Housing has provided services to those seeking housing through its continuum of services. They currently provide five distinct programs: The Housing Help Centre; In From the Cold emergency shelter for single men, women and youth; Lily's Place emergency shelter for families; Supportive Housing and Youth Services. Home Base Housing are grateful for the support from St, Andrew's parishioners. Thank you for your contributions to this mission outreach.
Helen Ledford Mission Committee of Session.A
Mission Moments
Dec. to Jan.
World AIDS Day The Presbyterian Church in Canada, through Presbyterian World Service & Development, continues to support HIV and AIDS programs that work against stigma and discrimination, teach and equip people to prevent the spread, and provide home based care and medications to help those living with the disease cope. PWS&D works with partners to prevent the transmission between mother and child, provide counselling and testing, and support and care for orphans and vulnerable children. Take the lead, inspire others to learn more, and raise funds for PWS&D’s AIDS programs. To learn more about our church’s work in the fight against HIV and AIDS, visit WeRespond.ca.
Singing praises to God Gifts to Presbyterians Sharing support Brian Johnston as he teaches English and music at the Protestant Theological College in Cluj, Romania. Brian leads two choirs consisting of theological students. Choir members can practice their English and share their faith through music. Karikas Orsolya, a second year student and member of the girls’ choir, writes, “In this choir we can develop and we can learn beautiful songs. Through the singing we can express our feelings. Everybody has the same importance and is treated with equal respect. I like singing here. I like that we learn religious songs, in
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 which we can glorify God who has given us all individual gifts.”
Rewarding Initiative in Mozambique Asuncion grew up in a community abundant with cattle before moving to Nacala ten years ago. After realizing there was no butchery in her new town, she decided to open her own business and has become a very successful entrepreneur. With support from Presbyterian World Service & Development and partner COCAMO—an organization that supports community development through grassroots micro-enterprise in Mozambique—Asuncion joined a savings group and received a small loan, which she used to purchase a single cow. With subsequent loans she expanded her business by investing in a refrigerator and a portable barbeque. “I believe that any hard working woman with initiative could get a lot from these services,” affirms Asuncion.
Reaching out to young moms St. David’s Inner City Outreach in Hamilton, Ontario provides programming and outreach to residents in Hamilton’s north end community, one of the most poverty stricken areas in Ontario. This area is densely populated, with no amenities. Poverty, crime and hunger are chronic. The ministry’s “Young Moms” program is making a big difference. It is designed to promote healthy living, teach life skills and encourage young mothers to discuss issues and have fun. Teenaged moms do not have much support at home, and enjoy coming to a place where they feel accepted. Moms in their twenties enjoy fellowship, share a meal together, and discuss current issues. Supplies such as diapers, formula, clothing, gift cards and bus tickets are available for those who need them. Presbyterians Sharing is making a difference in the lives of these young moms.
Bringing hope to prisoners Presbyterians Sharing supports the Rev. Todd Statham as he serves at Zomba Theological College in Malawi. Recently Todd visited Mikuyu prison with students and
staff from the college. With a small grant from Presbyterians Sharing, they were able to bring the prisoners gifts of soap, sugar and even a few goats for their meals. Todd shares that the officer in charge of the prison was full of gratitude to the College and the PCC. As the prisoners cheered and clapped, she mentioned that funds are so scarce that their one meal a day is often missed. She also made a point that struck Todd: “Don’t look too hard in judgment on these boys; for maybe the next Nelson Mandela is among them.”
Hunger and a changing climate At least 70 % of the people who regularly go to bed hungry are farmers in developing countries. While it may be surprising, it is often the people who produce food that do not have enough to eat. Climate change means higher temperatures, drought, parched crops and flooding. For many people, it also means more hunger. PWS&D and Canadian Foodgrains Bank are teaching farmers strategies to adapt to climate change and grow more food. We also work to end global hunger by influencing public policies. Join the Harvest of Letters campaign and write a letter to your MPs urging the Canadian government to provide support to vulnerable populations dealing with climate change. To learn more, visit WeRespond.ca.
Experiencing Mission in Taiwan Each year, young Christians from around the world gather in Taiwan for two weeks to work with our partner church, The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan. In July 2013, Abbey Poser and Tom Ball travelled to Taiwan to teach English to children at day camps, learn about Taiwanese culture and share their faith journey with others. Abbey writes, “One day I was sitting and playing my ukulele during the break and a little boy brought over his book so I would play the camp theme song for him. He made me play it over and over so he could sing it. A small group of children formed and they all sang while I
Burning Bush: Winter 2014 played. It gave me a real feeling of worth.” Gifts to Presbyterians Sharing help support Youth in Mission so that young Presbyterians can experience mission in lifechanging ways.
Supporting people with disabilities in Malawi Life in Malawi is hard enough for the majority of people without the compounded struggle of a physical or mental disability. Through the Tidzalerana Club in Blantyre, people with disabilities are discovering that disability is not inability. Tidzalerana means “we care for one another,” and rightly so. Led by dedicated volunteers, the club provides a place where those with physical and developmental disabilities feel loved and accepted. Participants of all ages receive a nutritious meal while learning practical skills such as sewing, mat weaving and business management. Club members also meet weekly to listen to one another’s concerns, learn new skills and sing songs together. Programs like these are made possible thanks to the compassionate support of Presbyterians.
Discerning where God is at work Two Rivers Mission in Guelph, Ontario is a new worshipping community which is reaching out to people who are open to conversations about faith and spirituality and looking for community. Under the leadership of the Rev. Glen Soderholm, the congregation is exploring ways to be present and attentive to where God is at work amongst their neighbours and friends in the places they inhabit. They gather in people’s living rooms for worship, work together in a community garden, prepare and serve meals for one another and their neighbours, host coffeehouses with local entertainment, and participate in a movie club. Presbyterians Sharing supports new church developments as they reach out to their communities in new ways.
presbyterian.ca/mission-moments/ A PresbyCan Daily Devotionals Time For Celebration! Seventeen years after it was launched in 1996, the PresbyCan Daily Devotional is read by over 6,000 e-mail subscribers, and the newly re-written web site receives 9,000 hits every day, of which 25% use the smartphone
page 8 version! This outreach is as good a reason for celebration as any, thanks be to God. There are more than 6,280 archived devotionals, so anyone seeking a devotional on a specific subject will likely find one. The Presbyterian Church in Canada fully supports the Daily Devotional, along with 250 other congregational, presbytery, and synod sites, so there is no cost to the Daily. Over the years, there have been 420 contributors from different parts of the world, and in any one month there may be 20 to 25 writers. Rev. Robin Ross, who founded the Daily, attributes its success to its content guidelines. Rather than being preachy or full of "theology", the devotionals use reallife experiences to draw out spiritually relevant and inspiring points, always with an application to real life. The contributors reflect varied, interesting lives, and there are responses from readers every day, which are posted on the web site. Responses like these are common: "Your message today is just what I needed!" "Your recent devotional was written just for me – I know it!" "I really needed to hear what you had to say today." Sometimes, a response is suggestive of a devotional; contact is made, and most often, a devotional results. Some devotionals are re-printed in church bulletins or newsletters; some are used in sermons; some are read at ladies groups and Bible studies; some result in children's stories; and all of them are posted on Facebook and Twitter daily. Who is behind all this? Some of the volunteers, besides Robin Ross, the Technical and Oversight Editor, are James T. Hurd, Devotional Editor; Garnet Schenk, PrayerLine Editor; Jane Anne Waller, Feedback Editor; and Terry Folster, Facebook and Twitter Editor. Theirs is a labour of love, and Daily could not exist without them. Robin Ross calls his job a great retirement project, like having a cyber-congregation. All the programs that automate the Prayer Line and the subscription and emailing functions are his writing. In order to do the job, it required over two years to learn several new computer languages. There are two innovations. The first is the "I Prayed For You" button beside each Prayer Line request, which allows anyone to join in the request and optionally to leave an encouraging message. These results are e-mailed each night to whoever made each request. The second innovation is the intriguing "Thought for the Day". The devotionals and their effect would not be what they are without Robin Ross. Writing for and subscribing to the PresbyCan Daily Devotional is not restricted to Canadians or Presbyterians. To subscribe, visit the website at www.presbycan.ca. *All through the month of
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 December, the Daily features devotionals for the Advent and Christmas season. Because it's such a special time of year, it's one of the best times to be introduced to the Daily. Mark 4:26-27, in part, helps to describe the outreach of the Daily. Jesus said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how."
Jack Vallance, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Nanaimo BC A
Forthcoming Services of Worship
Holy Communion – We continue with the custom of celebrating the Lord’s Supper the first Sunday of each month (December 1, January 5, February 2). The Sundays of Advent – In our preparation for the celebrations of Christmas, we will explore the great song of Mary, known as the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55). Sunday morning December 15, children and leaders of the Church School will lead us in worship around the theme ‘P is for Practice and Singing Gloria’, with a special Christmas Luncheon to follow. Candlelight Christmas Eve Service – Tuesday December 24, 7 p.m. Join with family and neighbours to fill the sanctuary with carols and candlelight as we celebrate God coming among us in Jesus Christ, ‘God of God, Light of Light’ Epiphany Sunday – Sunday January 5, we celebrate the coming of the magi from the east to the manger of Bethlehem with a prayer that we also might be led to worship deeply and joyfully the Christ Child as we sing ‘O star of wonder, star of light, star of royal beauty bright, westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light’. And a special French ‘Gateau des Rois’ will be shared after the service! Week of Prayer for Christian Unity – Sunday January 26 Reception of New Members – Sunday February 23. All who are currently without a church home and feel that they might continue to grow along their Christian journey with the people known as St. Andrew’s are invited to speak to any of the elders or the Minister about formally joining this congregation within the Church of Christ – you would be welcome!
Other Special Events Caroling along Princess Street Saturday December 21, 3 p.m. At the suggestion of a member of the congregation, an opportunity to not only
sing some of the great carols of the season, but to share them and the joy of the Christian faith as we walk down Princess Street, stopping by a few coffee shops en route, ending up at the Minister’s home (38 Ordnance between Rideau and Bagot) for a cup of hot chocolate. (We will offer rides back to the church for those who wish to retrieve their cars!)
St. Andrew’s Annual General Meeting Mark the date now! The Session has set the annual congregational meeting for Sunday March 2, after the morning service. All members and adherents are encouraged to attend and support this important gathering with their presence and participation (sandwiches will be offered). All 2014 budget requests are to be received by the Finance Committee by December 31, and all contributions that are to be included in the Annual Report must be received by February 2. Remembrance Sunday 2013 – Accompanied wonderfully by Trumpeter Larry House, we remembered in silence the cost of war and our Lord’s call to be peacemakers. Pictured above by the Royal Military College window are some of the veterans of our congregation who were present (Ray Quenneville, Tom Mein, Mitch Scott) and Lieutenant Colonel James Muth of the Staff College who read the Scripture Lessons. St. Andrew’s Special Meals, November gang! That is Bev Woodcock on the left, who coordinates various churches of the city to provide this gesture of Christian care every Sunday evening in Gill Hall.
New Year Almighty God, by whose mercy my life has been yet prolonged to another year, grant that thy mercy may not be in vain. Let not my years be multiplied to increase my guilt, but as age advances, let me become more pure in my thoughts, more regular in my desires, and more obedient to thy laws. Let not the cares of the world distract me, nor the evils of age overwhelm me. But continue and increase thy loving kindness towards me, and when thou shalt call me hence, receive me to everlasting happiness, for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen
Samuel Johnson Epiphany
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 Guiding God, bless us on the road we have chosen to seek your star. Light-shedding God, light up our minds with your truth that lets us ignore the bad-news Herods and keep on going toward that certain glow in the sky of our lives. Beckoning God, help us to bring gifts worthy of the Christ. Then, we too shall be known by you as wise women and men. We pray in Christ’s name. Amen.
Glen E. Rainsley
You keep us loving, You, the God whose name is love, Want us to be like you… To love the loveless and the unlovely and the unlovable, To love those near us without jealousy or design or threat, And, most difficult of all, To love ourselves…. So, thank you for the loving time. And in all this You keep us. Through hard questions with no easy answers, Through failing where we hoped to succeed And making an impact when we felt we were useless. Through the patience and the dreams and the love of others, And through Jesus Christ and His Spirit, You, keep us…. So, thank you for the keeping time and for now and for ever AMEN
Some members of the November Tuesday Evening Bible Study (others had already headed out before we remembered to take the photo for this issue of the newsletter!) We looked at Paul’s great chapter 12 of his letter to the Romans that concludes with the exhortation ‘Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good’.
Prayers For the Weeks Ahead
(The Iona Community, Scotland)
St. Andrew’s Circle of Community Did you know that St. Andrew’s has welcomed the following groups to make our church facilities their home?
Bottletree Productions Seasonal dramatic productions that involve children, youth and adults.
Advent
The Mess
You keep us waiting, You, the God of all time Want us to wait For the right time in which To discover who we are, Where we must go, Who will be with us, And what we must do….. So, thank you for the waiting time.
Tuesdays and Thursdays. Building community through art.
You keep us looking, You, the God of all space, Want us to look In the right and wrong places For signs of hope, For people who are hopeless, For visions of a better world Which will appear Among the disappointments Of the world we know… So, thank you for the looking time
Seniors’ Computer Class Monday to Thursday, with a drop-in Wednesday mornings
VON Seniors Exercise
Senior Fitness, Wednesday mornings
Upper Canada Academy of Arts Voice, Piano Lessons and Body Movement Classes
Kingston Street Mission Every evening 8 p.m. – midnight. Providing warmth and refreshment during the winter months.
Kingston Community Strings Friday evenings. Will be performing a concert in St. Andrew's Sanctuary in March.
St. Andrew’s Special Meals Sunday afternoons, offering a nourishing and caring time for both individuals and families.
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 Social Planning Council
8
Ezekiel 34.11-31
Raising awareness of, and engagement in, the social issues of this city.
9
James 1.1-27
10
James 2.1-26
11
James 3.1-18
12
James 4.1-17
13
James 5.1-20
14
Isaiah 35.1-10
15
Matthew 11.1-19
16
Proverbs 3.1-20
17
Titus 1.1-16
18
Titus 2.1-15
19
Titus 3.1-15
20
Romans 1.1-17
21
Matthew 1.18-25
22
Isaiah 8.5-18
23
Isaiah 8.19-9.7
24
Luke 2.1-14
25
John 1.1-14
26
Acts 6.1-15
Editors Note We have decided to publish the Burning Bush quarterly. That being the case the due date for submitting articles is as follows. Spring issue; February 15, Summer; May 15, Fall; August 15, Winter; November 15. Each issue will come out in March, June, September and December respectively. I will also publish the deadlines for submissions in subsequent issues of the Burning Bush. Proofreaders are still needed for the burning bush. Please contact me if you are able to help in this regard at 613-544-3722 or send an email to
[email protected]
IHS Dennis Clark editor Burning Bush A
Daily Bible Readings December Date
Reading
27
Hebrews 2.1-18
1
Luke 1.1-25
28
Hebrews 3.1-19
2
Zechariah 9.1-17
29
Isaiah 52.1-12
3
Isaiah 11.1-16
30
Isaiah 63.1-14
4
Psalm 72.1-20
31
Luke 2.15-21
5
Romans 15.1-13
6
Matthew 3.1-12
Burning Bush Copy Deadline for Spring issue is Saturday February 15, 2014 Please, send email submissions to
[email protected]. You may send them as a text file, or Word attachment. Hand written articles may be posted on the bulletin board outside of the church office addressed to Burning bush. Thank you. 7
Leviticus 19.1-19
Daily Bible Readings January Date
Reading
1
Ecclesiastes 3.1-15
2
Ezekiel 17.22-24
3
Revelation 21.1-7
4
Isaiah 60.1-22
5
Micah 4.6–5.5
6
Matthew 2.1-12
7
Isaiah 42.1-13
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Burning Bush: Winter 2014 8
Isaiah 42.14-25
3
Isaiah 58.1-14
9
Psalm 29.1-11
4
Psalm 112.1-10
10
Acts 10.34-48
5
1 Corinthians 2.1-9
11
Matthew 2.13-23
6
1 Corinthians 2.10-16
12
Matthew 3.1-17
7
Ezekiel 16.1-14
13
Isaiah 49.1-13
8
Ezekiel 16.15-34
14
Isaiah 49.14-26
9
Matthew 5.13-20
15
Psalm 40.1-17
10
Job 6.1-13
16
1 Corinthians 1.1-9
11
Deuteronomy 30.1-20
17
1 Corinthians 10.1-17
12
Psalm 119.1-16
18
Matthew 16.1-20
13
1 Corinthians 3.1-9
19
John 1.29-42
14
1 Corinth. 12.31b–13.13
20
Matthew 4.12-25
15
Exodus 20.1-17
21
Isaiah 8.11-9.7
16
Matthew 5.21-37
22
Psalm 27.1-14
17
Psalm 119.17-32
23
1 Corinthians 1.10-17
18
Psalm 119.33-48
24
Galatians 1.11-24
19
Psalm 119.49-64
25
Acts 9.1-25
20
Leviticus 19.1-19
26
Acts 26.1-23
21
Leviticus 19.20-37
27
Micah 6.1-16
22
1 Corinthians 3.10-23
28
Psalm 15.1-5
23
Matthew 5.38-48
29
1 Corinthians 1.18-31
24
Exodus 23.1-19
30
Matthew 5.1-12
25
Exodus 23.20-33.5
31
Psalm 84.1-12
26
Exodus 24.1-18
27
Psalm 2.1-12
28
2 Kings 2.1-18
Daily Bible Readings February Date
Reading
1
Hebrews 2.1-18
2
Luke 2.22-40
Readings are recommended Canadian Bible society
readings
of
the
130 Clergy Street East, Kingston, Ontario, K7K 3S3 Telephone: (613) 546-6316, FAX: (613) 546-8844, E-Mail: –
[email protected] Minister: Andrew Johnston Interim Moderator: Karen Bach www.StAndrewsKingston.org Editor/Production: Dennis Clark
