The Burning Bush St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Kingston 2015 Winter 2016 From the Minister’s Desk… It is a thirteenth century window from Chartres Cathedral, France. It shows the disciple Matthew sitting atop the shoulders of the prophet Isaiah.

With the disciple we also look back. We celebrate how God came amongst us in Jesus the Christ. We hold onto the words of truth he spoke, the forgiveness and healing he extended, the death and resurrection he lived for us and our salvation.

One could argue that the window is not only magnificent but also mistaken: Matthew no more lived at the same time as Isaiah, as we live in the Middle Ages.

But there is also something of the prophet in us. We continue to look forward. We look forward to God’s great promises to be fulfilled, personal and corporate promises of wars being banished, the hungry and homeless being embraced. for this creation to be renewed.

But the point would be missed. The allusion of the window is figurative, not literal. It portrays an intimacy shared not in the flesh but in faith. In spite of the centuries separating them, both Isaiah and Matthew often viewed the world in the same light. One need only think about how the gospel writer quoted the prophet over eighty times, one way or another. What one cannot miss is how Isaiah looks up and to the future, while Matthew looks down and to the past. The coming of God to which the prophet looked forward, the disciple saw fulfilled.

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Our challenge now is to live deeply, truly, between past and future … to see how Christ continues to be born in human hearts and is at work through human hands, even our own … and to see a new world arising in the midst of the old.

In our waiting for the coming Reign of God, we become the colourful windows that declare the Christian gospel in our day and city.

Included in this Issue… From the Minister’s Desk Thoughts from the Editor God’s Beauty in the Rain The New and the Old Upcoming Events The Bells of St. Andrew Church Family Photo Album 1 Current Events from India Church Discussions Christian Journey Series

Andrew Johnston

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Community Feast in Kingston Training Session with Street Health Church Photo Album 2 Letter from the PCC Moderator The Lighter Side of Saints Baby Bottle Fund Raising God Lives Under the Bed Church Family Photo Album 3 Contemplations St. Andrew’s ‘Rose Window’

Thoughts from the Editor… Truth and Reconciliation. Are you tired of hearing about it yet? Of what is it that our denomination is so guilty? Are we morally responsible for what generations before us chose to do, generations who only followed the accepted and prevailing attitudes of their times anyway? What about those of us who came to this country as immigrants and actually were treated, albeit to a lesser degree, with the same philosophy of thought? That we must assimilate even at the cost of losing our own cultural identity. All done under the seemingly innocent and logical rationale it is for our betterment. Such is the result when people in any society stop thinking for themselves, no longer making decisions based on biblical principles, but rather buying into the philosophy of the day. A song sung several years ago by Debbie Boone included the catchy but troubling line, “It can’t be wrong if it feels so right.” Actually, it can.

“From the mid-1800s until 1996 more than 150,000 Aboriginal children in Canada were separated from their families and communities to attend residential schools. The PCC operated 11 such schools between 1884-1969. Healing from and reconciliation for these tragic events has been a common theme in our church in recent years. We have apologized, encouraged healing and reconciliation and participated in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

At this past General Assembly, the Rev. Dr. Stephen Farris presented the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, after years of crossing the country to formally listen to people’s stories. Farris said, “One has to wonder how a church and a society that knows those simple words ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” – let this happen. How would we feel if our five-year-old children were taken from us? This is not just a matter of looking back. Shame is a good thing to face and name but it may not be a good thing to carry forward. Can we move beyond the apology to a more fair and just future?” (Presbyterian Church in Canada)

‘Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.’ There is truth in this well- known quote. Certainly I was not personally responsible for what happened to the First Nation Families, nor likely was anyone reading this. But by remembering, by understanding the terrible consequences of good people following popular thought rather than morally upright thought, by daring to carefully examine majority thought knowing that the majority is capable of error, perhaps we can at the very least become part of the solution. With God’s help.

Ada Mallory, Editor

*Theology Byte: What is Intercessory Prayer? Prayer opens up a stream of grace with its resultant strength, worth, love and peace that flows from the believing intercessor through God and into the life of the person or persons in need. In essence, when we offer a prayer of intercession, we pray ourselves into the center of God’s will as revealed to us in Jesus Christ. Intercessory prayer involves a sense of co-operation. As St. Augustine stated: “Without God, we cannot; without us, God will not.” God waits for our co-operation before His will is done in many situations. Sure, God wills wholeness and happiness for everyone; but we must accept our role in the healing of our own brokenness and that of others. This is often at great personal cost to us, and is done through a faith and a love that is demanding in its discipline. Jesus went to the cross. He did not choose the most convenient way to heal mankind- nor can we, if we are to be like Christ. Excerpt from Intercessory Prayer Guide, First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio

*Reprinted with the corrected quote from St. Augustine. Apologies from the Editor…

Photographs taken in and around Victoria Park, Kingston, late October 2015. In the Rain. Ada Mallory, Editor

The New and the Old By Ralph Kendall I grew up in Winnipeg, a rather young city. Nothing seemed old, certainly not ancient. I wondered what it would be like to visit a country where things were oldreally old. I got the opportunity! In the south of England is the village of StondonMassey. In the countryside nearby there is a small church. Parts of the building go back a thousand years to Saxton times. On the exterior of the building is a small opening. I was told it was so that lepers, forbidden to enter, could at least see inside. The floor inside was stone. Carved into the stone were the names of those buried under the floor-hundreds of years ago. My daughter attended this church. She knew the lay leader, who had asked that I might preach. The reason was “Mothering Sunday”, a tradition when mothers and their new babies were welcomed. I did so, standing on the stone floor, over bones buried five hundred years ago, and helped welcome these little babies, quite unaware of how much history surrounded them. The new and the old…

In the south of France I stayed in the village of Villelongue dels Monts. From there it is a short drive south to the Mediterranean and not much further west to Spain. Throughout history this area has been French or Spanish or Catalan or whatever the local powers were at the time. The lady who lived next door proudly told me: “I am pure Catalan, born at the foot of Mount Canigou”. The local churches date back to the early Middle ages. It has seen its share of conflicts, evidenced by the musket balls on the wooden door. Services are still held there; the choir is directed by my son-in-law’s father. He and his wife have visited Montreal, where my daughter and family now live, and worshipped in the Presbyterian church they attend. And from those visits he has picked up a new tradition, which he has introduced into his home church in France. When the service ends, it is hard to exit the church because of all the enthusiastic people crowded around a table at the back. Why? The church now has an idea from Canada- a coffee hour! The new and the old…

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The Sundays of Winter… December

January

February

March

6 13 20 24 27 3 10 17 24 31 7 14 21 28 6 13 20 25 27

Advent 2 'He shall purify' Holy Communion White Gifts Lessons and Carols Congregational Meeting Advent 4 Church School Skit Pot Luck Christmas Eve 7:30 p.m. Christmas 1 Jesus Christ the Apple Tree Epiphany 1) Magi Holy Communion Epiphany 2) Herod Epiphany 3) The Christ Child Pot Luck The Baptism of Jesus Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Transfiguration Holy Communion Lent 1 Revelation: Lampstands Lent 2 Guest Preacher Pot Luck Lent 3 Revelation: Angels Lent 4 Revelation: Lamb Holy Communion Lent 5 Revelation: Prayers Palm Sunday Revelation: Rider Pot Luck Combined Good Friday Service Easter Sunday

If nothing ever changed, there would be no butterflies… …anonymous

Upcoming Events… From: Anne Marie Mortensen ([email protected]) November-20-15 11:28:37 AM to amallory1@live.

Hello! We want to let you know what's happening with Bottle Tree into the month of December. 

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A Christmas Carol, The Musical is set to be a new December tradition! Tickets are on sale for this show, which plays in the Grand Theatre from December 17-19 (7:30pm, 90 minutes, no intermission) and Sat. Matinee Dec 19 at 2:00pm. You can read more about the show and order your tickets here: http://kingstongrand.ca/event/christmas-carol-musical-0 We are happy to announce that our project for MUSICAL THEATRE CLASS is Shrek, the Musical JR. Musical Theatre class starts in January for young people age 10-17. You can see more about that class here: http://www.bottletreeinc.com/musical_theatre_class.html And finally - we are in the homestretch for our FALL session of classes. The young actors are busy learning their lines and getting ready to perform for family and friends at the Baby Grand at the end of the month! Our next session of Stage Right acting classes starts in January - you can register for those classes now, here: http://www.bottletreeinc.com/acting_classes.html Your support for our creative efforts is much appreciated. Warm regards,

Ann Marie Mortensen From the Special Meals Co-ordinator Bev Woodcock: Our Special Meals Christmas Dinner will be held on December 20th. So please if there is anyone who would like to donate $10.00 toward the gift certificates for our clients, this year, please let me know as soon as possible. I will be purchasing the gift certificates from the MacDonald's outlet on Division street. Last year, they donated the first $100.00 worth, so I am hoping they will do the same this year. I have lots of Christmas cards left from last year and have started a stash of candy for the children’s candy bags. What I have so far has been donated. We will also have music again for the dinner, and I have booked Mary and her group called "Fiddle Earth" to come and play for us. Mary has also volunteered to bring a pot of cooked turnip to contribute to the meal. Contact Bev at [email protected]

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Poster by Marie Wilson

Whig Standard Magazine August 18, 1990

The Bells Of St. Andrew’s

“It’s strange that this peal of bells should be found in a Presbyterian Church. In the past, Presbyterians were suspicious of music created by instruments other than the human voice”

Terry French demonstrates the 'Ringing of the Bells' of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church

Article contributed by Bill Bentley

Church Family Photo Album 1

Glad Tidings is a mission magazine of The Presbyterian Church in Canada

An autumn meeting of the Women’s Missionary Society. Or rather the tea after the meeting!

National Board of KAIROS. The national board of KAIROS met at St. Andrew's for two full days in October. This coalition unites 11 Canadian churches and church agencies around social and environmental issues in Canada and around the world.

Current Events From Our Mission Field in India! This email was just received by me as well as the other members of our team that went to Central India in March of this year. It is exciting because it illustrates completely how the seed of God’s Word, planted at great personal sacrifice and so long ago by Presbyterian missionaries such as John and Mary Buchanan, has taken root and grown solidly and steadily. Amkut is where the Presbyterian mission field started. It is where John Buchanan’s Book “Jungle Tales” was written. Young people abound in this part of the world and they are hungry for God’s Word. And so very excited by their faith! And one cannot help but ‘catch’ the fervor of their love for God… Ada Mallory, Team Member From: Aisling Boomgaardt Sent: Sunday, November 15, 2015 12:26 AM To: Karen Plater; Don Muir; Mary & Alistair Mollison; Sandra Hamlyn; Ada Mallory Subject: Amkhut News

Namaste friends! I wanted to send a quick note to let you know that Sunday morning in Amkhut there will be 400 young people worshiping in Amkhut. This weekend Amkhut is hosting a youth conference for the entire diocese of Bhopal, so there are a number of congregations who have sent young people to attend the event. It is the first time Amkhut has hosted and I think they are quite excited about it. I have attached a few photos along with an itinerary, so you can see what they have been up to. The church is still under repair, as you can see. It looks like they have removed the side doors, thereby expanding the seating area inside the sanctuary. Rev. Navneet told me that everyone enjoyed the first day (Friday)..but the entire day was "tight." (I assume he means it was a full day.) Last month I described Thanksgiving and the harvest time to Rev. Navneet, who thought it sounded like a

great "festival." He mentioned that in Amkhut farmers have also finished their harvest and it will soon be winter. A number of Amkhut farmers, in order to make a decent living, have migrated to the nearby state of Gujarat for the winter...this makes it difficult for the women and children left behind. Hope you are all well...I'm sure you're busy preparing in various ways for Advent. Oh, I also heard from Mr. Roshan {one of our drivers} that he contracted typhoid in Ujjain. He seems to be on the mend, getting good care at the hospital in Indore. It reminds me of that letter from Dr. John Buchanan which Pauline read to us -- he described Ujjain as being a "dirty city." Peace and Blessings,

Aisling

Church Vision Discussions At a regular meeting of the Kirk Session of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Kingston of September 14, 2015, a Report From the Finance and Vision Committees concerning the cost of repair and restoration to the sanctuary and roof was received. This report queried how best to communicate these costs to the congregation in order that an informed decision might be made about the future of St. Andrew’s.

It was decided to schedule a series of after service congregational discussions, discussions that would explore the options for our future ministry with respect to our present building. A comment box would be placed in St. Andrew’s Hall to invite additional thoughts following each session. Our minister wrote, “In preparation, you are invited to reflect upon two facts: a) the “church” is a particular people, not a particular building, and b) God has no need for church buildings- as Stephen reminded the religious authorities before whom he was brought, ‘The God who made the world and everything in it, he who is the Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by human hands’ (Acts 7:48). Church buildings have integrity only in as much as they serve the people of God in their witness to the Living God. It is up to us to discern whether our Christian presence and work will be stronger with or without the present sanctuary. Some will question whether a significant investment in stone and plaster is the best way to advance the Christian witness of the people of St. Andrew’s. Even if answered in the affirmative, some will ask whether we have the necessary financial resources to make such a commitment. Others will suggest that such a space of beauty at the centre of the city could be more and more appreciated as an introduction to the gospel in an increasingly secular society. God can bless and use whatever decision we make with prayerful confidence. This discussions will be open and full and we trust that as many of the congregation can participate as possible. Your minister has pledged to accompany the St. Andrew’s congregation through the living out of any direction to which the congregation feels called.”

Sunday, September 27, 2015: The focus of this meeting: to provide a foundation for the series of congregational discussions. The cost estimates involved in the restoration and repair of the sanctuary and the building to be presented. Illustrations by Rose DeShaw

Sunday, October 4, 2015: Discernment Meeting Number 1 The focus of this meeting: to initiate a discussion about the witness of St. Andrew’s, and the particular strengths of the congregation on which we might build.

Church Vision Discussions continued… Sunday, November 1, 2015: Discernment Meeting Number 2 The focus of this meeting: to discuss the community around, and the opportunities St. Andrew's has to connect with the joy and service of the Christian faith. Sunday, November 29, 2015: Discernment Meeting Number 3 The focus of this meeting: to determine the role the present church building has in the future witness of St. Andrew's.

Sunday, December 13, 2015 Meeting of Conclusion and Direction: To determine a consensus of thought in the future direction of St. Andrew’s. Options to be presented and discussed.

As the congregation of St. Andrew’s, let us move forward prayerfully, in unity of spirit and intent, mindful of the scriptural exhortation to be the salt and light of the world in which we live. Matthew 5:13-16 College and Careers Dinner At the minister’s home in November. The nations represented included Brazil, Canada, Ghana, Malaysia.

Would more of those delicious sandwiches make these choices any easier???

Christian Journey Series…. She walks among us at St. Andrew’s quietly, belying the very full and noteworthiness of the journey of her life. She is always ready to warm your heart with her smile. Mary Elizabeth MacInnis was born the younger of twin girls. Because the hospital in Orillia was experiencing an infectious outbreak at this time, she and her sister Jean were born in the Manse, each weighing just over 3 pounds. They were daughters and granddaughters of Presbyterian ministers. Their father, J. A. MacInnis, at one time Moderator for the PCC, was the minister of The Orillia Presbyterian Church. Their mother, Marjorie, as well as being a homemaker, was very involved in church activities. Marjorie’s father, D. G. McQueen of Edmonton, had been a Moderator for the PCC at one time as well. A sister, Kay, almost four years older than “the twins” (as they were commonly referred), took great delight at the arrival of her tiny sisters and played a significant role in the early years of their lives. As twins, May and Jean were often treated as being one entity. As a result there were times that they decried the lack of a personal identity. They were difficult to tell apart. As young girls, they were often dressed the same. But Jean was the quieter of the two and Mary would often do the talking for them. And Mary was outwardly more fun loving and mischievous. As twins, they were never lonely always having each other for company. Their childhood was essentially a safe and happy one. Mary warmly recalls playing games on the front lawn of the Manse. Growing up, she enjoyed school and time spent with her friends. Her scholastic strengths involved mathematics and science. She participated in sports, basketball being a favorite. Church activities involved singing in the choir and participating in junior Women’s Missionary Society.

Mary tells of her mother being the more conservative of her parents. Her father, having experienced the world through his participation in World War 1, had as a result, become more open minded in his thinking. He strongly encouraged education for his daughters, their involvement in church and community events, a compassionate attitude towards the wounded people in society, those wounded in spirit, wounded in body. And since her father as the minister rarely had people that were seeking his counsel visit in the church office, but rather in their home, Mary learned much about people and their varying needs.

The MacInnis Family with Friends 1935 Bk Lt to Rt: J.A. MacInnis, Mrs & Mr J.L.Taylor, Marjorie MacInnis Lt Centre Front: Mrs Jas Dixon with Ron & Marilyn, Centre: Mary, Kay, Jean MacInnis Photographer: R.L. Taylor

She decided very early in life that she wanted to become a nurse. Certainly both parents played a large role in influencing the young Mary to pursue a career that would involve caring for and helping people.

In 1952, Mary graduated from the School of Nursing at Kingston General Hospital as a Registered Nurse. It was just the beginning of an auspicious career. Seemingly not content to work as a staff nurse, she aspired to nursing administration and by 1970 had received her Bachelor of Nursing Science in Nursing Service Administration from The University of Western Ontario. By 1984 she received her Certification as a Health Executive from the Canadian College of Health Service Executives. Positions held throughout her career included:  1952-1954 Staff Nurse to Head Nurse at Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario  1955 (6 months) Staff Nurse at Toronto Psychiatric Hospital, Toronto, Ontario  1955 (6 months) Toronto Eye Surgery, Toronto, Ontario.

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1956 Staff Nurse in Psychiatry at Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, B.C. 1957-1959 Office Nurse at a Diabetic Clinic, Toronto, Ontario. 1959 Assistant Head Nurse, then Head Nurse of Surgery at Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario. 1960 Night Supervisor Kingston General Hospital 1961-1966 Clinical Coordinator of Medicine at Kingston General Hospital 1963-1970 (part-time) Nursing Sister, Canadian Forces, H.M.C.S. Cataraqui, Kingston, Ontario. 1966-1968 Associate Director of Nursing Services, Kingston General Hospital 1968-1970 Faculty of Nursing Health Nurse and Student Counsellor, School of Nursing, Kingston General Hospital 1970-1988 Clinical Nurse Coordinator, Associate Director of Nursing, Director of Nursing, Vice President of Nursing and Vice President as Nursing and Patient Representative all in succession at The Victoria Hospital Corporation, a large teaching hospital in London, Ontario (now part of London Health Sciences Centre), affiliated with the University of Western Ontario. 1989-1992 Associate Director, Nursing Operations at Kingston Psychiatric Hospital, Kingston, Ontario.

Mary’s Community involvements throughout her career include being a board member for The Victorian Order of Nurses, a Consultant re Nursing Practice for a legal firm, a guest lecturer for nursing students at Fanshawe College and The University of Western Ontario, an honorary member for life with the London Health Sciences Auxiliary and a former member of the Frontenac Kingston Council on Aging. Mary also served as the Governor and Board Member of Kingston General Hospital and The Canadian Club of Kingston. International involvements are highlighted in 1984 with Mary’s participation in an educational exchange program in the People’s Republic of China following the collapse of China’s Cultural Revolution. (Here Mary had the opportunity to walk on the Great Wall of China!) With her team members of China, Mary helped to reestablish nursing standards. (1.5 million people were killed during this purge by China’s leaders, decimating infrastructure and basic health care for decades to come.) Projects in which Mary were involved throughout her career, were numerous and impressive. But outstanding in her accomplishments are:  Planned and implemented a Pastoral Care Department in Victoria Hospital  Planned and implemented a Patient Representative Program in Victoria Hospital.  Directly involved in the planning and creation of the London Health Sciences Centre. Mary helped coordinate and implement the transfer of 600 patients- in one day- from the old hospital to the new! In 1977, Mary was presented with the Queen’s Jubilee Medal by the Board of Directors of the Victoria Hospital Corporation. Mary remains associated with Kingston General Hospital Alumnae of Nurses. Mary Elizabeth MacInnis Suffice it to say, Mary Elizabeth MacInnis has led a full and highly accomplished life. But when Mary was asked about her faith in God and what part this faith had played throughout her journey, she said simply that she has always had a strong sense of God’s direction and influence in her life. Confirmed in the church as a young woman, her faith has remained steadfast throughout the years.

And this is the same Mary MacInnis who walks so quietly amongst us at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church today. A woman whose life, whose character, whose faith, serves as a testament and an inspiration to us all. Editor, from an interview

Community feast in Kingston, Ontario November 9, 2016 Following the close of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the Katarokwi Grandmothers Council partnered with KAIROS and its Board of Directors to host a community feast on October 21 in Kingston, Ontario. It brought together various circles on the shared traditional territory of the Anishnaabe and Haudenosaunee nations. To the accompaniment of singing and drumming, close to 200 people shared a meal of moose and buffalo stew, wild rice, three sisters soup, and bannock, all wonderfully prepared by Carol Ann Maracle of Tyendinaga. Many thanks to the Presbyterian Church in Canada’s Healing and Reconciliation Fund for their very generous support of the feast!

IN THE WORDS OF SOME PARTICIPANTS: What a powerful beginning to a life long journey of friendship and unity among neighbours… The Grandfather drum’s voice and heart beat immediately set the tone and calmed. The Grandmother drum circle added customary softness and soothing rhythm. The food was delicious, served with kindness and friendship. It was truly a privilege to meet some KAIROS board members, and to chat with Jennifer. She and I will keep in touch as a personal choice. Andrew, you lit a special fire when you reached out to the Grandmothers to join KAIROS in a feast. Your openness rekindled the flames of inclusivity in many, many hearts last night. I recognized an unspoken willingness in most or our guests to perhaps, just perhaps, place hesitant trust in people they might otherwise walk by on the street without a glance; in others to not be so afraid to approach “the Judi Montgomery ‘Indian’ next door.” And people from the indigenous community “had fun”, sang Katarokwi Grandmothers' Council along with Kate and Sue, nodded heads in approval hearing Gillian’s voice, “want to do this again”, gingerly engaged in chats – with table mates, and thought the night was “awesome.” SO DID I! Miigwetch Barbara Hooper, Katarokwi Grandmothers Council Everyone went home smiling, chatting, up-beat with full tummies and plans for future gatherings and circles. I met some old friends, made some new friends and thoroughly enjoyed the whole evening. I had the advantage of seeing everyone arrive and received many hugs and smiles as they left. There was not a lull the entire time. I could barely speak for the emotions running through me, but I hope I conveyed the wonder and joy I felt at having been part of the event. Judi Montgomery, Katarokwi Grandmothers Council

The sacred drum was in the centre…sounding the heartbeat of the Creator…sounding the good heart within us all. My wee grandson, usually a shy boy, walked with me to the front. I held his tiny hand. And as we held hands with so many gathered that evening, the Circle song gifted from the Creator almost ten years ago, found new heart and soul for me. Dancing in peace, in the Circle, with respect, dancing with good heart… towards right relations. Sue Paterson

Left to Right: Onagotay, Andrew Johnston, Paul Carl, Master of Ceremony. Andrew Johnston of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church Kingston worked with the Grandmothers on behalf of KAIROS.

Two of feast participants speak about the REDress Project that creates a visual reminder of Indigenous women who have been murdered or gone missing. I am overjoyed and was amazed at the conversations I saw started during the night. I really believe everyone learned so much. One thing I have seen is that while our community is comfortable coming together themselves, they are still learning that they are welcomed outside that comfort zone. And last night I saw that. What a night – great words, drumming, prayers and singing. Paul Carl, Master of Ceremonies

Photographs by Ada Mallory

The feast was very symbolic. I like how you said that we all were there on behalf of each other, but also ourselves, as a way to rekindle and build upon the things that make this country so great. I only felt peace and love in that building yesterday! Nick Castel, a Queen’s University student who assisted by serving elders at their tables.

Training Session with Street Health… Street Health Centre Needle Exchange And Harm Reduction

Below: Discard containers to be used for used syringes and other drug paraphernalia. Right: Tina from Street Health who spoke to the committees.

Supplies

SHC

This fall, at a Property & Maintenance Committee meeting, a discussion ensued concerning the dangers to church staff and/or volunteers, who might be handling abandoned drug paraphernalia- even abandoned clothing or bedding- found on the church grounds. Agreement was reached to invite a representative from the Street Health Centre to provide an information session for St. Andrew’s staff and committee members. Consequently, in November of this year, the P&M Committee, Personnel committee and all church staff met with Tina, a Street Health Counselor, for training on the proper protocol for safely dealing with this difficult issue. Information gleaned from this session will be used in the future training of summer tour guides.

What are the hazards of needlestick and sharps injuries? These injuries transmit infectious diseases, especially blood-borne viruses. Concern includes the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which leads to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.

Church Family Photo Album 2

Above: Our hymn sings for the Bible Study were accompanied by Helen Lowe at the piano. Below: The wonder of the sanctuary- Jacqueline, grand-daughter of Marilyn and Peter Trudeau.

Animate Faith: St. Andrew’s Autumn Study Series, a seven session adult faith formation course led by our minister. A new generation of pastors and theologians explored foundational Christian themes in ways that sparked discussion. (Looks like this study has almost everyone stumped…) A great study for all!

Who is this ridiculously happy Presbyterian anyway? None other than Dave Minaker, recording secretary for Property & Maintenance Committee.

Moderator Issues Pastoral Letter Regarding Overtures on Human Sexuality The Rev. Karen Horst, Moderator of the 141st General Assembly (2015), has issued a pastoral letter regarding the denominational conversation and period of discernment that began at this year’s Assembly on issues of human sexuality within the church. Dear Members and Adherents of The Presbyterian Church in Canada,

In June the 141st General Assembly determined that sessions, congregations, presbyteries and synods should spend a year of prayer, study and conversation regarding the subject of Rev. Karen Horst Human Sexuality. Justice Ministries of the Life and Mission Agency and the Committee on Church Doctrine were invited to prepare a study to facilitate the conversation. Body Mind and Soul was to be produced by the end of October. Given the fact that Assembly met in June and the summer when many people are not as available, these groups need to be commended for producing the materials within this deadline. Obviously, the study is not exhaustive but it will be an important start in helping people struggle with the questions. This is not an easy topic to discuss but it is important for us to seek God’s guidance as we study the Word, reflect theologically and share openly and honestly with one another in a loving manner. It is important to use a variety of materials for conversation and allow people to share their stories. This is not just an “issue” as much as it is about people; often about people we know. As Moderator of this year’s Assembly, I had a comprehensive view of commissioners and resource persons as they sat at round tables and talked about their ideas and concerns. I was moved by the degree of empathy and compassion expressed at the tables by people on opposite ends of the debate. It is possible for us to talk about this subject and cherish one another as we wrestle through the complexities. Honouring Christ means we will be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit rather than driving our own opinion and agenda. God has been faithful to us in the past and God will again lead us as we open our hearts and minds and souls. Many of us are wondering what the process will be as we go forward. You will discover the next steps clearly outlined on the next page. We hope you will fully participate. The Bible invites us to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) and in so doing we will fulfill the calling of Christ. It is my prayer that everyone will take the time to study, pray and seek God’s leading and then we can trust that God’s sovereign purposes will be fulfilled as future decisions are made. Rev. Karen Horst Using the study guide Body Mind and Soul is one of the means by which our church is called to a year of study and discernment on Human Sexuality within the church. The survey at the back of the guide, and online [presbyterian.ca/sexuality] provides a means to offer both feedback on the study itself, and your reflections on the issue of Human Sexuality in the church. Your feedback will be very helpful to the Committee on Church Doctrine and the Life and Mission Agency (Justice Ministries) as they formulate responses to the various overtures to bring to the 2016 General

Assembly. Feedback is welcome from individuals, study groups, and courts of the church. In order for your feedback to be considered by the committees as they prepare their report, please send it by 15 February 2016. Responses received after that date will be forwarded to both committees but may not be able to be used in the report to the 2016 General Assembly. All responses may be sent to survey [at] presbyterian [dot] ca and will be received by both committees.

The Lighter Side of Saints Getting Into Heaven A fellow finds himself in front of the Pearly Gates. St. Peter explains that it's not easy to get into heaven. There are some criteria that must be met before entry is allowed. For example, was the man a church-goer or religious? No? St. Peter told him that's bad. Was he generous, giving money to the poor or to charities? No? St. Peter told him that that, too, was bad. Did he do any good deeds, such as helping his neighbor? Anything? No? St. Peter was becoming concerned.

Exasperated, the Saint says, 'Look, everybody does something nice sometime. Work with me, here! I'm trying to help. Now think!' The man thinks for a minute, then says, 'Well, I did help this old lady once. I came out of a store and saw that a dozen Hell's Angels had taken her purse and were shoving her around. I threw my bags down and got her purse back, then I told the biggest biker there that he was cowardly and I spat in his face.' 'Wow,' said St. Peter, 'That's impressive! When did this happen?' 'Oh, about 15 minutes ag,' replied the man.

Wedding Vows

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During the wedding rehearsal, the groom approached the pastor with an unusual offer. "Look, I'll give you $100 if you'll change the wedding vows. When you get to me and the part where I'm to promise to 'love, honor and obey' and 'forsaking all others, be faithful to her forever,' I'd appreciate it if you'd just leave that part out." He passed the minister a $100 bill and walked away satisfied. The next day during the wedding ceremony, the time came for the bride and groom to exchange their vows. The pastor looked the young man in the eye and said, "Will you promise to prostrate yourself before her, obey her every command and wish, serve her breakfast in bed every morning of your life, and swear eternally before God and your lovely wife that you will not ever even look at another woman, as long as you both shall live?" The groom gulped, looked around, and said in a tiny voice, "Yes." He then leaned toward the pastor and hissed, "I thought we had a deal." The pastor put the $100 bill into the groom's hand and whispered back, "She made me a much better offer."

Oops… A minister told his congregation, “Next week I plan to preach about the sin of lying. To help you understand my sermon, I want you all to read Mark 17.” The following Sunday, as he prepared to deliver his sermon, the minister asked for a show of hands. He wanted to know how many had read Mark 17. Several hands went up. The minister smiled, “Mark has only sixteen chapters. I will now proceed with the sin of lying.”

The Vicar and His Son Andrew was watching his father, a Vicar, write a sermon. 'How do you know what to say?' Andrew asked. 'Why, God tells me', the father replied. 'Oh, then why do you keep crossing things out?'

CHANGE FOR LIFE (Those baby bottles you filled for KPCC) Can you believe that the family at St. Andrew`s filled those baby bottles to the tune of $691.50 on behalf of the work of the Kingston Pregnancy Care Centre! All this given at the same time as we were donating toward Syrian refugee relief! Thank you so much on behalf of all the mothers, babies and toddlers who are served by the ministry. Together 42 churches from the Greater Kingston area sent home baby bottles with their members between Mother`s Day and Father`s Day this year and they were returned with a total of over $24,000.00. If you are not familiar with this work in Kingston, their office is on the top floor over the Main Post Office on Clarence Street. Open most days between 11:00 and 4:00pm, there is a sandwich board on the sidewalk outside offering free pregnancy tests. Among their many other services are counselling for women who are in a unexpected pregnancy, parenting advice, the facts about abortion, health advice and support from the beginning of a pregnancy to the delivery. Some women do choose abortion and although this is not an option we recommend, we always make clear that the choice is up to the individual who is not judged by the staff. Recently, we have been encouraging fathers to come along for information and advice as well. Many women are panicked at the thought perhaps of telling their parents, raising a child, interrupting their education or just going through with the birth without support. KPCC provides trained counsellors and sometimes additional mentors to reinforce the belief that God cares for all life, for them in particular and certainly for their child. Thank you again for your generosity. You have made an impact on the lives of families in Kingston by being God’s hands in this ministry. Phyllis Ann McCormick

On the first Advent Sunday, St. Andrew’s Choir, under the leadership of John Hall, sings “The Lord is My Shepherd”, a rendition of the 23rd Psalm and composed by Howard Goodall.

Just For Your Inspiration…

God Lives Under the Bed I envy Kevin. My brother Kevin thinks God lives under his bed. At least that's what I heard him say one night. He was praying out loud in his dark bedroom, and I stopped outside his closed door to listen. "Are you there, God?" he said. "Where are you? Oh, I see. Under the bed." I giggled softly and tiptoed off to my own room. Kevin's unique perspectives are often a source of amusement. But that night something else lingered long after the humor. I realized for the first time the very different world Kevin lives in. Kevin was born 30 years ago, mentally disabled as a result of difficulties during labor. Apart from his size (6foot-2), there are few ways in which he is an adult. He reasons and communicates with the capabilities of a 7year-old, and he always will. He will probably always believe that God lives under his bed, that Santa Claus is the one who fills the space under our tree every Christmas, and that airplanes stay up in the sky because angels carry them. I remember wondering if Kevin realizes he is different. Is he ever dissatisfied with his monotonous life? Up before dawn each day, off to work at a workshop for the disabled, home to walk our cocker spaniel, return to eat his favorite macaroni-and-cheese for dinner, and later to bed. The only variation in the entire scheme is laundry, when he hovers excitedly over the washing machine like a mother with her newborn child. Kevin does not seem dissatisfied. He lopes out to the bus every morning at 7:05, eager for a day of simple work. He wrings his hands excitedly while the water boils on the stove before dinner, and he stays up late twice a week to gather our dirty laundry for his next day's laundry chores. And Saturdays—oh, the bliss of Saturdays! That's the day my Dad takes Kevin to the airport to have a soft drink, watch the planes land, and speculate loudly on the destination of each passenger inside. "That one's goin' to Chi-car-go!" Kevin shouts as he claps his hands. His anticipation is so great he can hardly sleep on Friday nights. And so goes his world of daily rituals and weekend field trips. He doesn't know what it means to be discontent.

His life is simple. He will never know the entanglements of wealth or power, and he does not care what brand of clothing he wears or what kind of food he eats. His needs have always been met, and he never worries that one day they may not be. His hands are diligent. Kevin is never so happy as when he is working. When he unloads the dishwasher or vacuums the carpet, his heart is completely in it. He does not shrink from a job when it is begun, nor does he leave a job until it is finished. But when his tasks are done, Kevin knows how to relax. Kevin is not obsessed with his work or the work of others. His heart is pure. He still believes everyone tells the truth, promises must be kept, and when you are wrong, you apologize instead of argue. Free from pride and unconcerned with appearances, Kevin is not afraid to cry when he is hurt, angry or sorry. He is always transparent, always sincere. And he trusts God. Not confined by intellectual reasoning, he approaches his faith as a child. Kevin seems to know God - to really be friends with Him in a way that is difficult for an "educated" person to grasp. God seems like his closest companion. In my moments of doubt and frustrations with my Christianity, I envy the security Kevin has in his simple faith. It is then that I am most willing to admit that he has some divine knowledge that rises above my mortal questions. It is then I realize that perhaps Kevin is not the one with the handicap - I am. My obligations, my fear, my pride, my circumstances - they all become disabilities when I don’t trust them to God's care. Who knows if Kevin comprehends things I can never learn? After all, he has spent his whole life in that kind of innocence, praying after dark and soaking up the goodness and love of God. And one day, when the mysteries of heaven are opened, and we are all amazed at how close God really is to our hearts, I'll realize that God heard the simple prayers of a boy who believed that God lived under his bed. Kevin won't be surprised at all! Kelly Adkins Global Community for All is a PEERS empowerment website

Church Family Photo Album 3

Remembrance Day at St. Andrew’s November 11 Upper Left: Worship on this day was accompanied by the Baroque Ensemble with Lisa Szeker-Madden and John Hall Upper Right: Larry House on the Trumpet Right: In honour of veterans of the past, present and future, 127 Canadian flags and one Ontario provincial flag flew along Bayridge Drive near Norman Rogers Airport. Left: William Bentley Bill, who has attended St. Andrew’s since 1947 and a veteran of WW 2, gazes pensively into the past..

Contemplations… To get Home before dark.. It’s sundown, Lord. The shadows of my life stretch back into the dimness of the years long spent. I fear not death, for that grim foe betrays himself at last, thrusting me forever into life: Life with You, unsoiled and free. But I do fear. I fear the Dark Spectre may come too soon – or do I mean, too late? That I should end before I finish or finish, but not well. That I should stain Your honor, shame Your name, grieve Your loving heart. Few, they tell me, finish well . . . Lord, let me get home before dark. The darkness of a spirit grown mean and small, fruit shriveled on the vine, bitter to the taste of my companions, burden to be borne by those brave few who love me still. No, Lord. Let the fruit grow lush and sweet, a joy to all who taste; Spirit-sign of God at work, stronger, fuller, brighter at the end. Lord, let me get home before dark. The darkness of tattered gifts, rust-locked, half-spent or ill-spent, a life that once was used of God now set aside. Grief for glories gone or fretting for a task God never gave. Mourning in the hollow chambers of memory, Gazing on the faded banners of victories long gone. Cannot I run well unto the end? Lord, let me get home before dark. The outer me decays. I do not fret or ask reprieve. The ebbing strength but weans me from mother earth and grows me up for heaven. I do not cling to shadows cast by immortality. I do not patch the scaffold lent to build the real, eternal me. I do not clutch about me my cocoon, vainly struggling to hold hostage a free spirit pressing to be born. But will I reach the gate in lingering pain, body distorted, grotesque? Or will it be a mind wandering untethered among light phantasies or grim terrors? Of Your grace, Father, I humbly ask. . . Robertson McQuilkin Let me get home before dark. Submitted by Bob Stevenson, Bay Park Baptist Church

The Gift The candles that shine at Christmas time are more than a pretty sight. They remind us all that Jesus, the Christ, is the source of all wisdom and light. See the flames as they flicker and fade, casting their mellow glow. As light into the darkness of all our hearts, Christ was sent that night long ago. But have we received Him into our lives and heeded his beckoning call? Or like busy travelers to Bethlehem, do we pay no attention at all? For Christmas is not just some pleasant season; it's the time our God became Man. The promised Messiah came to earth as God's salvation plan. As hard as we try, we're not deserving of life, forgiveness or love. But by that baby's birth, life and death, we're restored to our Father above. The Christmas story is lovely, 'tis true - Holy child in a crude stable born. But that's only a part of the gift for the victory was Easter morning.

By Barb Zabel

This is known as a rose window and was made by the company Castle and Sons. It dates to the rebuild of the church in 1890. Rose windows are popular in Presbyterian churches as they represent unity since they are circular. They are considered to be a part of the gothic architectural style. Rose windows can also be called 'Catherine windows'. 'Wheel windows' are also similar, but to be a 'rose window' the circular window must be complex with a centre and then be surrounded by a pattern that could represent petals of a rose. For St. Andrew's design, when the sun shines through the rose window, it lights up the pulpit where the bible rests, and this is beautifully symbolic. Back in the 1950's when the hall extension was added, they considered adding a balcony to the sanctuary, but decided against it because it would compromise the rose window which everyone agreed was a focal point in the sanctuary.

Kalista Clement St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 130 Clergy Street East, Kingston, Ontario, K7K 353, (Tel. 613-546-6316: Fax: 613-546-8844)e-mail

[email protected]. Minister/Consultant: Andrew Johnston. Editor/Production: Ada Mallory [email protected]