Kitchen Use Workshop: If you are interested in learning the new rules for Parkminster’s kitchen, meet Mary Willsie and Liz Forde at 6:30 PM on Tuesday September 30th for a quick in-service. If you are interested but can’t make it at that time, please contact Liz Forde at 519-576-1233 or eforde@sentex.ca.
House group leaders and committee members are encouraged to attend.
Remember Me Walk: Please join the Healing of the Seven Generations on Tuesday, September 30th for a community walk for Truth and Reconciliation. This is to remember and honour all of our children as we spread awareness and reflect on the tragedies experienced in residential schools by Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island. All are welcome to join this walk!
The walk will begin at 300 Frederick St. in Kitchener at 10 AM. You are invited to meet at Parkminster at 9:38 AM if you are interested in joining a carpool.
Guest Speaker: Clarence Cachagee on Sunday, September 28th. In recognition of the Sunday closest to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Clarence Cachagee from Crow Shield Lodge will share truths from an Indigenous perspective with kind honesty, offer a smudge ceremony and speak about traditional medicines. The flow of the worship service will be different from our usual pattern, as we make space to receive the unique gifts Clarence Cachagee brings. The service has been shaped to accommodate these gifts, so that together we might listen, learn, and be transformed. Those with sensitivities to smoke should be aware that the smudge ceremony will form part of our worship.
About Clarence: Clarence Cachagee, from Chapleau Cree First Nation, is a community leader, author, and founder of Crow Shield Lodge, a non-profit organization focused on land-based healing and teaching. He has worked in social services, supporting Indigenous communities in areas like homelessness and education. His biography, North Wind Man, shares his personal journey of overcoming trauma and oppression, and his path to becoming a helper and leader. We invite everyone to join this important time of listening, learning, and reflection.
Strawberry Thanksgiving and Communion: The Strawberry Thanksgiving and Communion is an annual event that recognizes and encourages the work that churches are doing to live into justice and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It centres on learning and teaching about a “Spiritual Covenant” between churches and local First Nations or First Nations’ organizations, an initiative of Adrian Jacobs of Six Nations that has been supported by various denominations. Therese Samuel, the WOW Regional minister for Indigenous Relations, has organized an online event with Adrian Jacobs to learn more about this in the United Church context.
Wednesday September 24th at 10:00 AM
Held remotely via Zoom
Register here.
Empty Plate Fundraising Dinner: Join for an evening of learning, resistance, and cultural sharing to raise funds for families in Gaza. No food will be served as an act of solidarity with Palestinians living under forced famine.
Saturday October 4th at 7:00 PM
The Church of St John the Evangelist
23 Water St. N. Kitchener N2H 5A4
Register here.
Family programming at Parkminster has resumed! We have several programs that run throughout the year to support our children and youth in their faith journey. For more information or to inquire about volunteering, contact bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca.
Sunday Mornings
Sunday School (JK+): Every Sunday during worship from September 14th to December 21st.
Jr. Youth (Grades 4-7): First and third of each month, excepting intergenerational services.
Other Times
Joint Youth Group (Grade 7+): Every other week alternating hosting churches.
Family Parties: The CE Committee runs family parties 3-4 times a year. Our first party will be around Halloween, so keep an eye out for information coming soon!
Volunteering
We are looking for new volunteers! There is a sign up sheet available online here, or in the upper foyer on Sunday mornings.
God and Pod Discussion Group: Ever listen to a podcast and think, “I’d love to talk about that with someone!”? That’s exactly the idea behind Pod and God—a new discussion group where we’ll listen to engaging podcasts on faith, spirituality, and life, then gather to share thoughts, questions, and a few laughs along the way.
We’re putting the pieces together and want your input! Click here to fill out a quick survey about your interest, as well as times and locations that might work for you. If you have questions or would like to suggest podcasts and/or episodes, contact Rev. Joe at revjoe@parkuc.ca.
Valley of the Birdtail Book Study Meetings: See below for details about our book study meetings. If you are interested in joining the book study but have not yet signed up, contact Briar in the office at admin@parkuc.ca or Nancy at nancydykstra@gmail.com.
October 7th at 1 p.m.
October 8th at 7 p.m.
October 22nd at 2 p.m.
Job Posting: Church Administrator at First United Church in Waterloo. The successful applicant should be prepared to begin work in November with onsite training with the current church administrator. The job posting is available on the First United Church website at https://www.firstunitedchurch.ca.
Questions and/or a request for the full job description should be directed to hr.firstunitedwaterloo@gmail.com.
Red Scarf Drive: Thrive—formerly known as ACCKWA—is having their Red Scarf Drive again in November. Any knitter looking for a project is invited to knit a red scarf as a donation to this awareness event. Scarves are auctioned off and any leftovers are donated to people who could really use a warm up.
Have a scarf to donate? Give it to Liz Forde at Sunday service or contact her by email at eforde@sentex.ca or by phone at 519-576-1233 to arrange a pickup.
Thrive appreciates the continued support from Parkminster!
Volunteers needed for Monday Playgroup: We are looking for volunteers who would like to spend one Monday morning a month helping set up and take down equipment for toddlers and their caregivers. We are not responsible for the children. We provide a space to play, snacks, and toys. We visit with the children and their caregivers. It is a fun way to spend a Monday morning if you have the time to do so. We set up at 9:00 and clean up at 11:00. If interested contact Liz Forde at 519-576-1233 or eforde@sentex.ca.
Call for Volunteers: Alzheimer Society of Waterloo Wellington is looking for volunteers to assist with our Minds in Motion classes for people living with dementia and their care partners. Our volunteers assist once a week for 2 hours in light exercise and social recreation. Come out and join in the laughs while helping your community and yourself! All of our programs and services are free of charge.
Please call Tom Connelly at 519-742-8518 x2028 or go to alzheimer.ca/ww/en/take-action/volunteer for more information.
Outreach Coffee Time: Please join the members of the Outreach Committee on Sunday September 21st for some beverages, treats, and conversation. The Outreach Committee is very grateful to the congregation for all their support and generosity — now we would like to hear from you!
Do you have any topics or speakers you would like to hear? Do you have any community groups you think should be included in Outreach donations or projects? Maybe you have a suggestion for how to promote Mission and Service. Come meet the members of Outreach and share your ideas with us!
Foster Care Info Session: FACS Waterloo is in urgent need of foster caregivers! Join us for an in-person foster care info session to learn about how you can help foster the future.
September 17th at 6:30 PM
The Family Centre
65 Hanson Ave, Kitchener
To register or for more information, call 519-576-0540 or email fostering.kids@facswaterloo.org
WELCOME BACK SUNDAY: Come and join for an ice cream treat at Welcome Back Sunday on Sunday, September 14th following the service. The Four All ice cream cooler on wheels will be out front after the service and we will be serving up delicious ice cream for all.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a beverage, treats, and ice cream while renewing and making new friendships — and of course there will be some fun activities for the children, too!
Hope to see you there!
Welcome Lisa! Lisa Leffler, our new part-time Lay Pastoral Care Professional, is now available if you’re in need of emotional and/or spiritual support. She has prepared a video introduction, which can be viewed here.
Lisa can provide you with a listening ear, accompaniment through a difficult time, and help you reflect on the place of faith in your life circumstances. She will have office hours on Tuesdays from 10 am to 1 pm if you’d like to drop in, and otherwise can be reached by calling the church at 519 885 0935 ext. 22 or emailing lisa@parkuc.ca to arrange an in-person, telephone, or ZOOM appointment.
She will be present in worship on the second Sunday of each month and occasionally on other Sundays as her hours and supply preaching schedule permits. Rev. Joe continues to be available for pastoral care as well.
Valley of the Birdtail Book Study and Meet-the-Authors Event: A 2023 national bestseller, Valley of the Birdtail tells the story of two communities – one white and one Indigenous – situated across from each other along the Birdtail River in Manitoba. It follows multiple generations of two families, weaving their lives into the larger story of Canada.
In preparation for a Meet-the-Authors event in October, we are organizing a book study. Anyone is welcome to join, and we will organize dates and times based on the preferences of those who show interest. Contact Briar at the Parkminster office at admin@parkuc.ca if you would like to join.
Discounted books ($14) are available. Contact Nancy at nancydykstra@gmail.com if you’d like one.
Meet the Authors
October 24 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church
50 Erb St Waterloo
No charge but please register here to reserve a seat.
Hosted by the KW Living Into Right Relations ecumenical group.
Living Into Right Relations – August Events:
Aug 5-24: Online Auction for the All Nations Grand River Water Walk taking place Sept. 21-27.
Aug 20: Public Virtual Screening of Silent No More through the Woodland Cultural Centre. 6-7:30 PM.
Aug 23: Grand River Water Ceremony at Otterbein Kayak Launch in Kitchener. Please arrive before 8 AM. Wear ceremonial regalia as your spirit calls. Drums and shakers are also suggested.
Aug 19-27: Journey of reconciliation on Lake Temagami. A fully funded canoe trip for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth, aged 14-18. See the Gibimishkaadimin website for information and the application form.
Aug 27: Grandmothers’ Tea at St. George United Church, 9 Beverly St. E., St. George from 12-2 PM. Potluck lunch and sharing time. Contact Joan (519-754-8786) or Shirley (519-753-5789) for more information.
Waterloo Wayside is hiring a Wayside Program Support Worker! The primary function of the Wayside Program Support Worker is to foster a sense of care and community at the Wayside Center while working with program leaders to ensure that programs operate as planned.
Email your resume and cover letter to info@waterloowayside.org by Friday, August 29th at 11:59 PM to be considered for this position.
Spread the word: Waterloo Wayside needs volunteers! With the mission of building and nurturing community, Waterloo Wayside focuses on the needs of seniors and the marginalized, offering several programs in Kitchener-Waterloo like drop-in centres and clothing exchanges. Through partnerships with other community-based organizations and a dedicated team of volunteers, Waterloo Wayside is able to host and foster grass-roots programs that address real needs within the community.
To volunteer, call 519-886-1471 or email info@waterloowayside.org.
Apology to the Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ communities from the United Church of Canada: On Friday, August 8, the United Church of Canada will offer a somber and historic apology to Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ communities. This formal apology reaffirms our commitment to radical hospitality and full inclusion of Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people in all aspects of church life. It acknowledges past harm and shortcomings, while continuing to build towards a world of radical love and affirmation for all identities. Parkminster’s own Rev. Fred Monteith was involved in the development of this apology from the UCC. Click here to register for the Zoom event.
Food Bank of Waterloo Region Full Bellies, Happy Hearts Challenge: School’s out for the summer, but hunger doesn’t take a vacation. More kids in our community than ever are in need of food assistance. By giving today, you can ensure that children have the fuel they need to thrive this summer.
The Allan Bush Investment Team is matching your donations for a limited time. That means your gift will go twice as far to provide fresh meals for hungry children. Join the Full Bellies, Happy Hearts challenge by donating today.
Conversations in Cultural Fluency Series: Six Nations Polytechnic and Nations Uniting invite us to attend a five-part cultural learning event hosted by Five Oaks at 1 Bethel Road, Paris, Ontario, from August 8-10.
$200 for accommodations and meals for the weekend
Only 12 seats available! Registration closes July 25th.
Contact Rhonda Johns at 519-445-2424 or nations.uniting@gmail.com to register
Volunteer Gardeners Needed! Anishnabeg Outreach in Kitchener is seeking experienced gardeners to help care for their community garden spaces.
Location: Anishnabeg Outreach – 236 Woodhaven Rd., Kitchener, ON N2C 1V5
Schedule: Flexible — volunteers can drop in occasionally or come on a regular basis
Contact: clem@aocan.org
Whether it’s tending to plants, sharing gardening knowledge, or simply giving a bit of time to care for the land, every contribution helps our gardens — and community — thrive.
Healing of the Seven Generations Backpack Program: It’s that time of year again! If you have the means, please consider contributing to the Backpack Program – one of many important services provided by Healing of the Seven Generations (H7G) – by donating new school supplies to support Indigenous youth in Waterloo Region as they begin a new school year. Donations might include backpacks, water bottles, lunch bags, pencil cases, pencil crayons, markers, scientific calculators, lined paper, and other school supplies. There’s also a need for new socks and running shoes of all sizes, as well as gift cards to Footlocker. Place donations in the orange collection bin in the upper hall at Parkminster or contact Adrienne at abarretthofman@gmail.com to arrange for pickup or drop-off. Financial contributions are also welcome. If a charitable receipt is desired, please donate directly to Parkminster UC, along with a note directing the funds to H7G. No donation is too small. Thank you for your generous support!
A Message from the Kitchener-Waterloo Outreach Group: For the past eight years, you have been co-constituent partners with us in sponsoring (collectively) 13 Syrian refugee families to our community. In these transactions, your congregations have provided KWOG with the official link to the national United Church of Canada (the Sponsorship Agreement Holder) and have managed KWOG’s funds for us, that have covered support and the settlement expenses for these families. Our thanksgiving for your partnership is unbounded. We are pleased at how well these families have assimilated into Canadian life and now seek your support for new businesses that two of these families have established in KW:
Pearl Painting and Renovations: Yasin Al Abdalla, a painter for over 30 years, has already pleased customers
with the quality of his work. You can explore his website at pearlrenovation.ca, call 1 (226) 507-7502, or
email info@pearlrenovation.ca.
Stylish Barber Shop Inc: A walk-in men’s hair salon at 470 Highland Rd. W., Kitchener. Meet Miassar Al
Shaar or phone him at (226) 868-1985. After three years working in Canada and learning English, he has begun his own business. Check him out online: stylishbarbershop.ca
Broadview National Online Reading Club: Join us live on Monday, July 7 from 7 – 8 p.m. Eastern via Zoom, as United Church minister and Broadview contributor Christopher White speaks with Ian Williams and Steven Kabuye, both featured in our July/August issue. After our guests have spoken, there will be some time for discussion. Here’s a question to spark conversation: Think of a difficult conversation you have had in the past. What made it successful or unsuccessful and what did you learn from that experience? Register for the event here.
Living Into Right Relations – Summer 2025: June is National Indigenous History month, with Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. There will be events around KW to listen, learn, and celebrate the history and culture of our Indigenous community members.
Tues. July 1, 2025, 7:00 AM: Sunrise Ceremony – Norm Hill Park, 251 Jacob Street, New Hamburg. We would like to welcome everyone to the third annual Sunrise Ceremony led by an Elder and Firekeeper from Crow Shield Lodge that will take place beside the Nith River, starting at 7:00 a.m.
Aug 10-18: Invitation to join Community Peacemaker Teams (CPT) delegation to the Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek (Grassy Narrows First Nation). Apply here by July 1.
Aug 19-27: Journey of reconciliation on Lake Temagami. A fully funded canoe trip for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth, aged 14-18. See the Gibimishkaadimin website for information and the application form.
BLACK HISTORY (or AFRICAN HERITAGE) MONTH: Officially recognized in Canada since 1996, this is a time to honour the contributions and struggles of peoples of African descent. To honour and celebrate Black History Month, your Inclusive Ministries Committee, supported by the Rev. Gord Dunbar, will be using video clips from the CBC series “Being Black in Canada” to help us deepen our understanding of the Black experience in Canada. There will be questions to prompt reflection with family and friends. Let’s join the Church School children in embracing the “River of Justice”.
POSTCARD PROJECT: Let’s Celebrate our 100th Anniversary! Parkminster United Church has been invited by Agassiz United Church in British Columbia to participate in a project called “Postcards Uniting Canada”. Aggassiz United will have a list of participating churches by March 11th. Participating churches will mail a postcard to each of the churches involved. (So far there are 17 confirmed participants.) Postcards will be provided on Sunday, March 16th after our worship service. Please come, select a postcard, take it home, write a brief message, write Parkminster’s return address on the card, and then mail it. We provide the card. You provide the stamp. Simple as that! Parkminster United Church will receive postcards from churches all over Canada. Let’s celebrate our Churches from far and wide over Canada!~ Roberta Hickey, Outreach (rmahickey@gmail.com)
PHOTO DIRECTORIES ARE HERE! The Membership/Pastoral Care Committee is greatly relieved to announce that the photo directories have finally arrived and are available for pickup in the Upper Hall after
the service this coming Sunday. Given the company’s delays on this, your patience has been greatly appreciated.
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER – Friday, March 7, 2025: First United Church, Waterloo is hosting the service this year and is issuing an invitation to everyone. The service will take place, Friday, March 7th from 10:00am to 11:00am. It was developed by the WDP committee and sisters of the Cook Islands (who are facing
significant problems with rising water levels) and is a video service which will be shown on large screens in the sanctuary. Refreshments to follow.
ASH WEDNESDAY – JOINT SERVICE OF THE FOUR WATERLOO CHURCHES: On March 5, at 7:00pm, a joint Ash Wednesday service will be held at First United Church. Everyone is welcome. We hope you are able to attend.
ART AND VESPERS 2025 EXHIBIT LAUNCH | MARTIN LUTHER UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
Martin Luther University college running the exhibit from February 2 to April 30. It’s
called Images of God through the lens of disability. It opens on February 2 with a Vespers
service at 3:00PM. CLICK the LINK for full details:
https://search.app/J7Aj6TCWp3LRpKrSA
WESTMINSTER UC IS SAYING GOODBYE AND BEST WISHES TO REV. ANDREA ALLAN:
Andrea Andrea’s last Sunday is February 9th so Westminster is inviting anyone to trek to
their church that day to say “Farewell” and to celebrate her six years of ministry after their
worship service (around 11:30 a.m.). If you wish to send a message to Andrea, please contact Gord to add to their book of messages.
SUNDAY SCHOOL HELPERS NEEDED: We are still looking for volunteers to fill in dates for our Sunday School and Jr. Youth. There is a printed copy of dates in the Narthex. You are being asked to volunteer one Sunday every two months. Thanks to those who have already signed up! If you are able to help, please contact Bethany McMullen by email at bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca
THANKS TO OUR “A BETTER TENT CITY” DESSERTERS: A BIG THANK YOU to those dessert makers who so faithfully create delicious desserts for our ABTC friends. This past week we had a record number of yummy desserts delivered on a very cold day. Even the ABTC cook could hardly
wait for supper! So, thank you again and again for your dedication to this mission! — The
Outreach Committee
CHRISTIAN POETS’ SOCIETY: A SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDY AND LISTENING CIRCLE
Come share reflections on shards of biblical wisdom, with participants from two other liberal
churches. At home each of us will have “researched” the week’s lectionary readings to
unearth meanings relevant to our own lives (AI can be a fun helper for translations and
context/history/metaphor clues). Meetings will involve respectfully speaking our own truths
about what moved (or bugged) us, and the joy of deep listening for understanding without
judgment. Sundays, 7:00-8:30p, Jan 19, 26, Feb 2, 9, 16, 23, at Grand River Unitarian
Congregation, 299 Sydney St. S. Contact Ian McGregor ian.mcgregor@uwaterloo.ca if
interested.
PIZZA SUNDAY: Our next Pizza Sunday will be January 26, 2025. Thank you for your continued generousity to this most worthy initiative for A Better Tent City.
– Roberta Hickey, Outreach
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION – VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY! Our Valentine’s Day Parents’ Night Out will happen this year on Saturday, February 1st from 5:30-7:30pm. Have a date night while your kids enjoy pizza and snacks, crafts and activities in the gym – no parents allowed! RSVP with your child(ren)’s information by January 28th to bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY: CE Committee is looking for some volunteers to help with set up and take down, as well as helping to run crafts and a
quiet space for our Parents’ Night Out on February 1st. We will feed you! The party runs from 5:30-7:30pm, with set up starting at 4:30pm. If you are interested, please email bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca
UCC MISSION AND SERVICE UPDATE: JANUARY 12 – “FAITH IN ACTION: EMPOWERING GLOBAL PEACE” Project Ploughshares is a Canadian peace research institute with a focus on disarmament efforts and international security. It is also one of our dedicated Mission and Service partners. Continue reading the full article by clicking this link: FAITH IN ACTION
SUPPORT FOR THE AL SHAAR FAMILY: Parkminster has partnered with KWOG (Kitchener/Waterloo Outreach Group) to bring the Al Shaar family to Canada, and in a few short years husband and father, Miassar, has opened his own Barber Shop near Westmount and Highland. Here is the link. Let’s support him with our heads and hearts. Check out his barber shop online! STYLISH BARBER — submitted by Elizabeth Moffat
BROADVIEW MAGAZINE: Please note that the Broadview magazine subscription fee continues to be $30/yr. That amount is written on the envelope that Broadview subscribers received with your 2025 offering envelopes…but the fee was incorrectly shown as $25 in the letter that
accompanied those envelopes. Please pay your fee in January or February if possible, using the special Broadview envelope. If you pay your fee using a regular offering envelope (perhaps in combination with your offering), please write Broadview and the amount on the ‘Other’ line on the offering envelope. Otherwise we don’t know if you have paid, and unpaid subscription fees are then paid out of the Outreach budget. We encourage more people to subscribe…just let Melanie in the office know (admin@parkuc.ca) if you want to get started. Broadview continues to inspire hope, raise awareness of social issues and encourage spiritual growth. An email received from Friends of Broadview in December said, “The Canada postal strike has had devastating consequences on the revenue of Broadview”. If you would like to donate to assist Broadview through a difficult period (beyond your subscription fee), go online and google “Friends Fund/Donate to Broadview Magazine” (this site is for donations only, not a subscription payment). – submitted by Roberta Hickey and Jack Reynolds
ONE DECEMBER NIGHT – DECEMBER 15: Join us Sunday, December 15th at 7PM for a heartwarming celebration of holiday music at our annual event, “One December Night.” Our Parkminster choirs and musicians are thrilled to welcome back our friends, the “Bluevale Singers” from Bluevale Collegiate. Tickets are available now for $10 per person or $20 per family. You can purchase tickets from members of the Voices United Choir and Cast in Bronze Handbell Choir, or at the door. Mark your calendars—this is a fabulous event you won’t want to miss!
UPCOMING SERVICES IN DECEMBER – WE HOPE YOU CAN JOIN US Sun, Dec 8: Advent 2 – Rev. Orv James (10am) Sun, Dec 15: Advent 3 – Rev. Gord Dunbar (10am) Sun, Dec 15: One December Night concert (7pm) Sat, Dec 21: The Longest Night – hosted by First United-details to come Sun, Dec 22: Advent 4 – Rev. Gord Dunbar (10am) Tues, Dec 24: Christmas Eve – Rev. Gord Dunbar (4pm-Family & 10pm-Communion) Sun, Dec 29: Shared Service – details to come
YOUTH GROUP MEET-UP: DECEMBER 11 YOUTH GROUP MEET-UP: DECEMBER 11
Wednesday, December 11 is our last meeting before Christmas so that obviously means
Christmas crafts, Christmas cookies, and much holiday cheer! And of course we’ll be talking
about the story of Christmas! We will meet at First United Church in the parlour from 7:00-
8:30pm. You are invited to wear your ugliest (or prettiest!) Christmas sweater, or whatever helps you get in the holiday spirit! Our next dates will be in January, so stay tuned! We’d like to kindly remind everyone to fill out our registration forms – caregiver release forms can be found here. Youth information forms can be found here. Come as you are! We strive to create a brave space for all of you by being an explicitly 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive and neurodiverse accepting group! We also recognize that youth group can be intimidating for Indigenous and racialized youth, and we are committed to building a welcoming and inclusive group. Please feel free to contact us at
bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca if you have any questions. YOU ARE LOVED. YOU MATTER TO US. EVERYONE IS WELCOME. Blessings, Bethany McMullen and Rebecca Whiting
FINANCIAL UPDATE 2024: It is at this time of year that we update you on how we’re doing in
meeting our financial goals. We are tremendously grateful for the continuing generosity, particularly as families face rising living costs. LOCAL: Goal is $300,000. As of Nov. 30th, we’re at $274,400. OUTREACH: Goal is $80,000. As of Nov. 30th, we’re at $63,700.
OUTREACH UPDATE: PIZZA SUNDAY & TREATS FOR “ABTC” – Thank you for the $215.00 donation towards the monthly pizza and pop dinner for A Better Tent City on Nov. 24th. The next pizza Sunday will be on December 29th. On Thursday, December 12, our faithful “desserters” will be providing Christmas squares and cookies for A Better Tent City. A Better Tent City now feeds over 100 people some nights, in addition to the residents of the 50 cabins, are accommodated. You are invited to support our “desserters” in their efforts to bring Christmas cheer to A Better Tent City by providing a dozen or two Christmas cookies or squares. You may drop your Christmas goodies off on Sunday, December 8th or bring them to the church on Thursday, December 12th between 3pm and 3:15pm. If you are dropping them off at the church on the 8th, please just mark the ABTC. Many thanks for all you do to help the less fortunate. ~ Roberta Hickey
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION’S FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY – DEC 7: Our Christmas Family Party will happen this year on Saturday, December 7 from 4:00-6:00pm. Don your favourite holiday pyjamas and enjoy the spirit of the season! Parents and children of all ages are invited to join us in the gym for crafts, board games, and holiday cheer! We will gather at 5:15pm for dinner. All are welcome! please RSVP to bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca by Dec 3rd and include any food allergies. We ask parents to plan to attend the entire event with their children. Details: Parkminster United Church, 275 Erb St., E., Waterloo – December 7, 4pm to 6pm, Dinner at 5:15pm, FREE!
PASTORAL CARE COVERAGE – NOW UNTIL NOVEMBER 29 October 15-November 7: Rev. Brenda Torrie (Emmanuel) at 519-886-1471 or email: revbrendat@emmanueluc.ca . Her scheduled days off are Fridays & Saturdays.
November 8-17: Rev. Fred Monteith (Parkminster member) at 519-575-6407.
November 18-29: Rev. Andrea Allan (Westminster) at 519-301-7864 or
email: rev.andrea.allan@gmail.com or. Her days off are Saturdays & Mondays.
CENTENNIAL YEAR CALENDAR: Celebrate The United Church of Canada’s Centennial year with us! Focusing on the theme of our Call to Deep Spirituality, Bold Discipleship, and Daring Justice, this bilingual calendar features colourful photos from communities of faith across the country plus all the special days, church seasons, and lectionary dates. A definite keepsake! Outreach will be selling the calendars soon. Stay tuned for details!
CHILD WITNESS CENTRE: On Sunday, October 20th, Robin Heald, Executive Director from the Child Witness Centre spoke to the congregation. We learned that on average 17 local young people become new clients every week. The Child Witness Centre supports over 1,500 children and youth victims of abuse or crime in cases every year in Waterloo Region, Guelph and Waterloo County. It walks with them through the criminal justice process, providing comfort, education and advocacy. This essential, free service must rely on the community for 80% of its funding. You can help by mailing a donation to Child Witness Centre, 11 Duke Street East, Kitchener, ON. N2H 1A4 or donating online at www.childwitness.com — Roberta Hickey, Co-Chair, Outreach
Conrad Grebel University College has a variety of events and opportunities coming up in November – check them out! High School Students! Are you thinking of attending the University of Waterloo? On Saturday, November 9 from 10am – 5pm, attend the UWaterloo Open House and stop by the Conrad Grebel University College residence, right on the UWaterloo campus. Learn about the supportive residence environment that this small and vibrant faith-based community can provide for students studying in any faculty or program atUWaterloo. uwaterloo.ca/grebel/tour
Eby Lecture: Paint as Protest | Thursday, November 14, 7:30 PM. Reading socio-political experiences through
graffiti and street art in conflict-affected societies. Through his field research, Dr. Eric Lepp will engage with graffitias a spatial and temporal resource in societies undergoing social and political transformation. grebel.ca/eby
Curious about graduate studies? Passionate about peace and justice? The Master of Peace and Conflict
Studies program is hosting information sessions throughout November, where you will gain an overview of the
program and have an opportunity to connect with staff, faculty, and current students. The first session on Tuesday, November 19 is in-person. Register online to save your spot: uwaterloo.ca/master-peace-conflict-
studies/events
Interested in pastoral training? Conrad Grebel University College at the University of Waterloo offers a two-
year Master of Theological Studies degree for people from a range of academic backgrounds. Integrate academic study and practical internships to prepare for a pastoral role in congregations, chaplaincy in hospitals, prisons, or elder care facilities, or social service work in varied settings. Full-time Canadian/permanent resident MTS students are eligible for full tuition scholarships. Learn more at uwaterloo.ca/theological-studies.
SHARED YOUTH GROUP MEET-UP: OCTOBER 30
Hello Friends! Get ready for some Halloween fun on Wednesday, October 30 from 7-8:30pm at First United. We’ll be doing gourd decorating, trick or treating, and good Halloween fun! We’ll also be talking about the very
spooky story of Lazarus! Costumes are highly encouraged. Mark your calendars for our next dates: November 13, November 27, December 11. Come as you are! We strive to create a brave space for all of you by being an explicitly 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive and neurodiverse accepting group! We also recognize that youth group can be intimidating for Indigenous and racialized youth, and we are committed to building a welcoming and inclusive group. Please feel free to contact us at rebecca.w.westminster@gmail.com if you have any questions. YOU ARE LOVED. YOU MATTER TO US. EVERYONE IS WELCOME. Blessings, Bethany McMullen and Rebecca Whiting
RED SCARF PROJECT
Once again ACCKWA (The Aids Committee of Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo & Area) is collecting hand knit (or crochet) red scarves. The scarves are needed by mid-November, but if we are too late getting them made, we store them and hand them in next year. Parkminster has donated six scarves for this current year. Please give any completed scarves to Liz Forde or email her to have them picked up (eforde@sentex.ca). To learn more about the RED SCARF PROJECT CLICK HERE .
PALESTINIAN PETITION: The three local Regions of the United Church of Canada, Horseshoe Falls, Antler River Watershed and Western Ontario Waterways, recently agreed to circulate the attached petition to their Pastoral Charges through their Discipleship and Justice Commissions. The petition is urgent and addresses the situation of the Gazan Palestinians who are in grave danger. The petition has been printed and available just outside the sanctuary for signing for one more Sunday. Please discern whether you are called to sign this petition and/or print this petition and ask others to sign it. Parliamentary Paper Petitions [PPP’s] require supporters only to provide handwritten signatures and home addresses. Only 25 such identifications are required for a PPP to be accepted. PPPs are, therefore, more personal documents than electronic petitions and, in theory, will consequently get more attention by the politicians receiving them. PPPs must be sponsored by an MP. If you receive the 25 signatures, please make contact with your MP and send it to them who will then forward it the Parliamentary Clerk of Petitions who approves it and returns it to the sponsoring MP who must present it in the House of Commons. The petition is then forwarded to the minister[s] responsible for the issues mentioned in the petition, who must send a written reply within 6 weeks. If you have questions about this specific petition, please direct them to Mervyn Russell, mervynrussell1003@gmail.com, a retired United Church Minister who is leading this initiative. If you would like to learn more about the situation in Gaza or discern how you or your community might respond, consider connecting with the United Network for Justice and Peace in Palestine/Israel (www.unjppi.org) or our regional justice staff.
UPDATE CONGREGATIONAL PHOTO DIRECTORY August photo session appointments are now full. If you are booked August 28/29 you should receive a reminder call 1-2 days prior. When you arrive at Parkminster for your photo session there will be a member of Membership & Pastoral Care Committee there to greet you. We will ask you to verify some information such as spelling of your name(s), address, email address and phone number.
Tips on preparing for your portrait session:
- A rich, colour co-ordinated wardrobe will complement your portraits.
- Wearing long sleeves will re-direct the attention to your face.
- Always dress for a full-length portrait.
- Your hair and grooming are an important part of photography.
If you have not yet booked the good news is there are still appointments available Friday, September 27th (evening) and Saturday, September 28th (9:30-3pm). We have also added one additional date, Monday, September 30th (2:30-8:30pm) due to the fantastic response for photos. Thank you all for that. To receive your FREE copy of the directory be sure to book your session. There is no cost to you or to Parkminster as IPC Canada offers this service no charge. But know that if it is time for an updated family portrait you will have the opportunity to purchase photographs to share with family and friends should you wish, all done at the same appointment time as your photo session which takes only 30- 45 minutes in total. All photo sessions will take place at the church. Let’s build community together.
Thanking you in advance for your participation, Membership and Pastoral Care
HUNGER DOESN’T TAKE A HOLIDAY – OUR HELP IS GREATLY NEEDED! Please take a copy of the Food Bank’s “FRESH APPROACHES” brochure home with you next time you’re at the church – plenty of copies in the Upper Hall. This brochure outlines the growing need in our community and the numbers cannot be ignored! GOOD NEWS … the Allan Bush Investment Team, CIBC Private Wealth, will MATCH all donations until August 31, 2024. Thank you for your generosity. – Elna Robertson
OBTAINING MINUTES & ANNUAL REPORTS – SECURE ADMINISTRATIVE PORTAL: Minutes and Annual Reports are available to everyone. They can be accessed through our website, using a password to enter the secure administrative portal or by contacting the church office. All minutes are of public record with the
exception of Ministry & Personnel. If you require assistance, please contact the office: admin@parkuc.ca
PRAYER/COMFORT SHAWL MINISTRY – ROXY LINKLETTER Prayer/Comfort Shawls are presented as a tangible sign of care and compassion offered by the Parkminster community of faith. Shawls are available for anyone (you, family, or friend) who is in need of comfort in difficult times as well as in good times. For more information contact Rev Joe Gaspar at revjoe@parkuc.ca or Roxy Linkletter at roxylinkletter@gmail.com
Do you knit or crochet? Do you wish to contribute your care and concern to this ministry? Do you have yarn that you will no longer use? Your yarn donations would be appreciated. For more information contact Roxy Linkletter at roxylinkletter@gmail.com
HEARING ASSIST UNITS: We are pleased to announce that the hearing assist units have arrived for use in the sanctuary with our new AV system. There are 4 units available. Access may also be obtained by using your own smart phone. Please click here for instructions. The AV team will be happy to assist you.
How Can I Help Ukraine? United Church Mission and Service and Partners are responding to the rapidly unfolding crisis in Ukraine. To find out how to show your support and make a gift united-church.ca/social-action/act-now/ukraine-crisis
Anti-Racism
United Church’s 40 Days of Engagement to Become an Anti Racist Church: https://united-church.ca/social-action/justice-initiatives/anti-racism/40-days-engagement-anti-racism