You are not alone. Come share the journey.

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

WE’RE MIXING AND MINGLING AGAIN!! Mark your calendar. There will be a Mix’n Mingle event out in front of the church, under the trees, on Wednesday, July 17 at 1:00 p.m. Beverages will be served. Just bring your lawn
chair. A good chance to chat with others and meet new people. — Hosted by your Pastoral Care and Membership Committee

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

UCC – KEEP LEARNING, KEEP CELEBRATING: WAYS TO SUPPORT INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES YEAR-ROUND – As National Indigenous Peoples Month comes to a close, we hope everyone enjoyed exploring, learning about, and celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ rich cultures, histories, and languages. Please continue to learn and celebrate throughout the year! Here are just a few ways to support Indigenous Peoples:
 Make a donation to The Healing Fund. The Healing Fund, established in 1994, is a grant that supports healing initiatives in Indigenous communities to address the ongoing impacts of the residential school system. 
Justice and Reconciliation Fund (JNR Fund). The JNR Fund was established in 2000 by the Residential Schools Steering Committee of The United Church of Canada to assist the church in understanding and responding to the legacy of harm and broken relationships that have resulted from the Indian Residential School system.
Indigenous Ministers Retreat. Northern Indigenous communities are facing an ongoing state of emergency, and their ministers are the only ones readily available to offer care, comfort, and guidance in these situations. For more information and video messages shared by Indigenous ministers for a pastors’ retreat, visit the United Church website and consider a Gift to the Pastors Retreat today.
Miigwech/Thank you for your valuable time and consideration in gifting to Indigenous initiatives. To learn more and stay connected, follow the UCCan Indigenous Ministries Facebook page.

PARKMINSTER EUCHRE CLUB INVITES YOU TO JOIN! – You are cordially invited to join our Parkminster Euchre Club for a monthly evening of fun, fellowship, and laughter! At our club, we believe in creating memorable experiences that bring people together. Our evenings are filled with friendly competition, shared stories, and plenty of laughter. And to sweeten the deal, every gathering concludes with a delightful dessert treat that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Come and be a part of our vibrant community as we shuffle, bid, and trump our way to victory in the game of Euchre. Whether you’re looking to hone your skills, make new friends, or simply unwind after a long day, the Parkminster Euchre Club is the perfect destination. RSVP to kathy.shortt.123@gmail.com for more information or to sign up as a monthly player or a spare to fill in when
necessary.

SYRIAN DINNER – THANK YOU! Fadi and his wife, Ahlam, chopped foods and cooked all day long in Parkminster’s kitchen to prepare a delicious Syrian meal for 32 last Monday evening! They were very grateful to receive amazing generosity from the diners who paid for dinner, and many who gave very generous donations for take home leftovers. It was wonderful to hear laughter and great conversation among UGO-IGO women, and my thanks goes out to all who joined for dinner. I want to give a huge shout out to 5 gentlemen, Peter Oliver, Mark Dunbar, Mike Miethig, Rick Hook, and Terry Ridgway, who set out the buffet, served us dessert and coffee, and washed all those dishes. Thank you so much for your hard work, all with a smile. — Wendy Ridgway

4 UCs YOUTH GROUP – END OF YEAR BASH on JUNE 28 – RSVP BY JUNE 19 – Hello friends! Thank you so much for all of your help in preparing and running the booth at Tri-Pride! It was a great success! While we would usually have a meeting on June 12, due to upcoming exams for our High School youth and because of all the extra time that Tri-Pride required, we are postponing until our End of Year Bash! We are planning to go to Elora Quarry for swimming, exploring, and sandcastle building on Friday, June 28th from 3pm to 6pm. We will meet at First United in the parking lot and then carpool from there. Pick up afterwards can be at First
United Church as well. However, because this is a bigger event, we need RSVPs to purchase tickets. Please email back a leader by Wednesday June 19th to let us know if you will be attending! We will send out a full list of what to bring and a liability form once we have received the RSVPs. Until then, best of luck on your exams, and thank you again for making Tri-Pride such a success! 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! 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, Rebecca Whiting, and Yoonjoo Shin

YARD SALE FUNDRAISER @ WESTMINSTER UC – JUNE 22 – Join Westminster United Church bright and early (7:30 am start!) on Saturday, June 22, 2024, for their annual “Yard” Sale fundraiser. All the shopping takes place indoors, so the weather is no issue! Lots of great deals to be had on so many different items: housewares, small appliances, decor, tools, craft supplies, office supplies, toys, games, books, furniture,
art, music, movies, clothing, linens, accessories and more!

CONRAD GREBAL – UPCOMING EVENTS

Conrad Grebel University College has a few of upcoming events you may want to check out:

  • Spirituality & Aging Seminar on Friday, June 21 (in-person and virtually) at Conrad Grebel University College. Rev. Dr. Mark Roberts presents “From Problems to Possibilities: Faith Communities enabling those in the third third of life to flourish.” This seminar challenges narratives about elders in communities, churches, and society at large; exploring the role churches can play in empowering older adults. Visit grebel.ca/spirituality for registration information. Professionals, practitioners, and all interested are welcome.
  • “Leading the Church Through Conflict” is not a workshop just for clergy and ministers (leaders), but for anyone who wants to support their congregation’s growth and community health. Plan to join us October 1 – 4, 2024 ONLINE each morning (9 am – 12:30 pm EDT) for a workshop led by Betty Pries, PhD, MTS, C. Med., for this interdenominational learning opportunity.
  • Want to enrich your spiritual journey? The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program at Conrad Grebel University College and the University of Waterloo is for students who are looking to grow in wisdom and faith, explore contemporary issues, and learn from the diverse perspectives of their peers. We strive to create leaders who will advocate for justice and inclusion of all God’s people in the church and our world. Full-time Canadian/permanent resident MTS students are eligible for full tuition scholarships. Learn more at uwaterloo.ca/theological-studies

GRASSROOTS’ RESPONSE TO THE UKRAINIAN CRISIS As you know the war in the Ukraine continues and there are many people in desperate situations. A summer house has opened on Kings St. N. This will be home for up to 156 Ukrainians from May until August as they settle into life in Canada. Life in Canada can be very difficult for these newcomers due to no income, no permanent residence, new culture, worry about family left behind, and needed language skills. Grassroots, a volunteer-based group, has reached out to our congregation for help. There are a wide variety of immediate needs. Donations of furniture, household items, food, drives to appointments, English language practice, financial contributions and social connection are all pressing needs. If you can help in any way you can contact Maryna at 226-999-3349 or Mark at 510-885-4514. If you would like to contact Grassroots directly you can go to their website: www.wrgrassrootsresponse.ca You can also email Ukrainianguesthouses@gmail.com — Submitted by Roberta Hickey

CONGREGATIONAL PHOTO DIRECTORY – RECEIVE YOUR COPY FOR FREE! Chances are you see people in church and wonder what their names are. Ever heard an announcement and have trouble putting a face to the name of a member? It is wonderful to see many new faces at Parkminster and a directory would help all of us put names and faces together and refresh our memory when those inevitable temporary lapses occur. To help us better acquaint ourselves with one another we are producing a Parkminster photo directory,
and we need your participation to make this project a success! The best news is it’s FREE. To receive your copy of the directory at no charge you simply have to get your photo taken (one directory per family). And there is no cost to Parkminster as IPC Canada offers this service free. 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. This directory will embrace all; young and old, families, couples and singles. You are all members of our church family, and our directory is not complete without you. Appointments are available August 28 and 29 (2:30 – 8:30pm); September 26 and 27 (2:30 – 8:30pm) and Saturday, September 28 (9:30 – 3:00pm). All photo sessions will take place at the church. We will have a table staffed before service (in the upper hall) and after service (in the lower hall) all Sundays in June. Please come and sign up for the date and time of your choice. Early sign-ups get the benefit of first choice appointment times. Thanking you in advance for your participation, Membership and Pastoral Care Committee

JOINT WATERLOO UCC YOUTH GROUP EVENT: MAY 1 –

Our next youth group meeting will be on Wednesday, May 1st from 7:00-8:30pm! Join us at Westminster United Church as we play games and plan how we would like to participate in Tri-Pride as our outreach project! Bring your creative ideas. Do we want to make merch, buttons, graphics, or more? How can we use our passions to support this project? And don’t forget to get ready for some awesome post-planning games!
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! 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, Rebecca Whiting, and Yoonjoo Shin

UGO-IGO EVENT: SYRIAN DINNER JUNE 3 – (SIGN UP DEADLINE MAY 24) – We’re back!!! After our short hiatus, it’s time to reconnect; to visit with old friends, make new ones and try some new activities. What a better way to start that than over a meal. Fadi Al Mohamed, whom many of you have met or are familiar with, has offered to be our chef for a delicious (but not spicy) Syrian dinner. Fadi’s experience includes working in the kitchen at Arabesque restaurant, and he has treated Jim and Barb Bowman and guests to many special meals in their home. He has a true passion for cooking Syrian food. Our meal, which will be held at the church, will include many typical Syrian dishes that will surely satisfy your taste buds. You’re invited!
Date: Monday, June 3
Time: Come for 6:00pm to socialize and dinner will be served at 6:30pm.
Place: Parkminster Church Gym
Cost: $30 each. We require monies to be collected in advance so Fadi can purchase ingredients.
RSVP: Please no later than May 24th to w_ridgway@hotmail.com (the sooner the better)

NEW PARKMINSTER BASKETBALL FRIDAYS STARTING APRIL 26 – PUC Basketball Fridays, 7:00PM-8:00PM in the Gym, April 26, May 3, 10, 24, 31. Adults/teens, come shoot around or join in on a pick-up game! Contact: Ian McGregor (519-573-5474)

“GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER” – THANK YOU! Thank you to all who participated as hosts or guests in “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”. We have heard some wonderful accounts of friendships made and renewed, stories and laughs shared, and of course amazing foods enjoyed together. Approximately $2,200 was received from the generosity of guests who attended the homes of welcoming hosts!

UCC E-SSENTIALS: A SPECIAL GAZA CEASEFIRE PILGRIMAGE EDITION – Taken from the UCC E-ssentials newsletter: “Many of us have felt helpless, and many have felt moved to act, to march and protest in solidarity with the people and United Church partners in Palestine. Throughout Lent this year, many churches, congregations, and communities of faith across Canada and around the world have already “with their bodies, prayerfully mapped Gaza onto their own cities.” A global movement is happening—a movement of prayerful solidarity with the people of Gaza. Full information can be found here: https://mailchi.mp/779e319ae255/es230905-1054615?e=c70f5c9577

JOURNALISM IN THE FACE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS – FILM & PANEL DISCUSSION, APRIL 28 – A homegrown response to the UN’s World Press Freedom Day theme “Journalism in the face of the Environmental Crisis” is a special film and panel discussion event on Sunday, April 28, from 1 – 4 p.m., at Waterloo’s Princess Twin Cinema. Admission is $20 at the door. Members of the faith community are especially invited because of our understanding of Creation as a gift from God to be cherished and defended from abuse. This event is mounted by local journalists, many of whom are friends of the local Christian and interfaith communities. Details and advance tickets are available from https://www.inkstainedwretches.org/film-festival.html

WESTMINSTER UC FUNDRAISING CONCERT – APRIL 27 – Join us on Saturday, April 27 beginning at 7:00 pm for our fundraising concert with Rescue Junction. Free will offering to attend the concert. There will be a social reception after the concert, and a raffle for some excellent prizes! A little bit about Rescue Junction: Rescue Junction is an award-winning Canadian bluegrass band based in Ontario that has been travelling and singing together since 2009. Originally comprised of brother and sister, Kyle & Kaitlyn Gerber on mandolin and guitar respectively, the band has grown to include Roger Martin on banjo, Dallas Roth on upright bass and
Nick Huber on dobro. Rescue Junction combines a plethora of musical tastes with their passion for bluegrass resulting in a unique, refreshing style. From gospel quartet numbers to traditional and contemporary bluegrass to original songs, audiences can expect an exhilarating time with the band. https://rescuejunctionband.com/home

VOICES OF FAITH SPEAKER – LAURA MACGREGOR – APRIL 14 The Voices of Faith Sunday Morning Speaker Series continues Sunday, April 14th. This is where people of faith from the community at large come and preach about whatever might be sitting on their hearts at the moment as something of importance they want to share. We are pleased to welcome Laura MacGregor. Laura is a writer, researcher, ethicist, hiker, and knitter. A lapsed academic, Laura volunteers with The Island Walk (PEI), the Grand Valley Trails Association (ON), and the Canadian Non-Fiction Collective. She spends most mornings wrestling with a manuscript telling the story of walking around PEI – literally – as a way to process her son’s death. Laura previously focused her research on caregiving to those living with differing abilities. Her research interests also explored the spiritual journeys of parents whose children require complex care and how the church can be supportive of caregivers.

SOUP 4 KIDS SOUP LUNCH – CE & OUTREACH – APRIL 7: Parkminster’s Christian Education and Outreach Committees are partnering to provide a soup luncheon immediately after the service. This event used to be called the Plett Soup lunch. As you heard at the recent congregational meeting, we are no longer involved with
the Plett organization. Outreach and CE have decided to use this opportunity to support our local
organization called Food 4 Kids. We’re calling this lunch Soup 4 Kids. Come, enjoy great food and good company, and make a donation to support children and families in our community. Food 4 Kids is a charitable organization in Waterloo Region that helps school children receive weekend packages of healthy food. It helps to fill the weekend and holiday hunger gap from school-based food programs that only operate on school days. Food 4 Kids relies on community donations to provide this valuable support. So, mark your calendars and plan to stay for lunch after the service on April 7th! Hope to see you there!

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 Melanie in the office: admin@parkuc.ca

LAUGHTER CLUB with KEVIN SMITH: The Laughter Club is always happy to welcome new members! The group meets in the double classroom on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday evening of each month. Please contact Kevin Smith for details: kevedsmith@gmail.com

“GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER” … EXPLAINED What is “GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER” ?
It’s an evening of surprise and fun, while supporting a Parkminster fundraiser. There is an option for everyone…here’s how:

  1. HOSTS – Choose your date (April 5 or 6) and how many people to host. Prepare a dinner party for your guests and await the surprise of who your guests are! When the doorbell rings the fun begins!
  2. GUESTS – Choose your date (April 5 or 6), note allergies or special concerns. Late afternoon on chosen date you receive a phone call from organizers providing you with an address for your dinner party (no name). Show up at the assigned time and bring your best smile! So where does fundraiser come in? Hosts provide the dinner. Guests bring a cheque (in a sealed envelope) to dinner; we
    suggest you consider an amount you would spend to dine out and enjoy an evening of fun. The envelopes will be placed in offerings on Sunday by the hosts. Lastly, enjoy the new friendships you have made. Parkminster is blessed with wonderful people, and whether you have attended for decades or just a short time, this event will give you an opportunity to meet someone new or get to know someone better.

COVENENTING SERVICE FOR REV. HEATHER – NORVAL UNITED – APRIL 14 All are welcome to attend a special Covenanting service celebration between Rev. Heather, Norval United, and Horseshoe Falls Regional Council on Sunday, April 14th at 3:00pm. A reception will follow. It would be wonderful for her to see some familiar Parkminster faces in person; the service will also be livestreamed via Facebook and YouTube. Norval United Church is located at 14015 Danby Rd., Georgetown. For more information, please contact Rev. Heather: heather@norvalunited.ca

UPCOMING HOLY WEEK SERVICES: Palm Sunday – March 24, 10:00 am: Come and be part of the crowd that triumphantly welcomes Jesus into Jerusalem. Come and experience the hope that He held out to so many
people. Ponder where you and our world are in need of the hope and the promise Jesus brings. Enter gently into Jesus’ final week. Maundy Thursday – March 28, 7:00 pm: A shared service hosted by Parkminster. On
Maundy Thursday we will experience the intimacy of Jesus’ last night with his friends. Come and be part of the final lesson of service and love Jesus imparted to his disciples. Be a part of the last meal he shared with his friends. Ponder the meaning and promise of love, service, hospitality and sacrifice in your life and our world. Good Friday – March 29, 10:00 am: A shared service hosted by Emmanuel. Come and experience the betrayal, the rejection, and the pain of Jesus’ crucifixion. Experience the vulnerable love of one who surrendered all for the sake of God’s call to serve others. Experience the cynical manipulations of those who lived in fear of love. Ponder what this story means for your life and our world. Go to the depths, hold out hope not for our own power but for God’s grace. Easter Sunday – March 31, 10:00 am: Come and experience the joy of resurrection! Be carried away by the music. Behold with awe the power of life over death. Experience the wonder of what God can do in the midst of despair. Travel from the depths of human hopelessness to the heights of faith in God’s grace. Ponder where the need and the hope for resurrection lies in your life and our world.

MEMOIR-SHARING GROUP – Next Meeting March 14: The memoir-sharing group will meet in the family room at 10:30 am on Thursday, March 14th. Everyone interested please join us! No need to phone ahead. Hope to see you this week! ~ Joan Gugeler

TCOW INITIATIVES ON HOLD – MESSAGE FROM COLLEEN USATY: The committee of Two Countries One World (TCOW) has made the tough decision to wrap up our initiatives for now. Additionally, due to low enrollment our sleepover event on March 22-23 will be cancelled. After 20 wonderful years, the team is ready to rest and excited to see what new path TCOW may take in the future. Following our Easter theology, we look forward to discovering how God will guide the resurrection of TCOW and its values in the future, and
what other forms it may take. We would like to extend our greatest thanks and appreciation to all who have been involved with TCOW over the years. We have been so overwhelmed by the support, involvement, encouragement, ideas, participation, eagerness to learn, and excitement that so many people have contributed to TCOW. Thank you to past participants & leaders, volunteers, family & friends, congregations, churches, and everyone who has supported TCOW emotionally, spiritually, financially and otherwise throughout our first 20 years. Our four pillars have allowed us to serve and learn through relationships with communities in Nicaragua, Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Colombia. What a difference we have all made in so many ways, including the development of active faith and global citizenship among hundreds of United Church youth. We look forward to future opportunities and conversations about Two Countries One World. The website (waterlootcow.ca) and email (info@waterlootcow.ca) will continue to be monitored for anyone looking to reach out. Again, thank you for all your efforts. We hope to be in contact in the future with exciting news! ~ Colleen Usaty (She/Her), On behalf of the TCOW Committee

NEW MEMBERS SUNDAY IN MAY: Are you interested in exploring becoming a member of the
United Church of Canada and/or Parkminster United Church? We will be celebrating a New Members Sunday on May 12th as part of our worship service. If you have questions or know you would be interested in membership, please speak with Rev. Joe (519 885-0935 ext. 23 or revjoe@parkuc.ca).

“GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER”: APRIL 5/6 – There is excitement in the air as this popular fundraising event is returning this year! Sign up sheets will be available next month – choose to Host a dinner party or attend as a Guest. Stay tuned for more details…and…Save these Dates– Friday, April 5/Saturday, April 6.

WATERLOO UCs – SHARED YOUTH GROUP MEETUPS – SAVE THE DATES! Join our next youth group on Feb 28th for a cozy crafty night! Do you have a project you are working on? Bring your knitting, cosplay, STEM projects, or whatever else you are working on! If you don’t have a project right now, no worries! We will have some starter activities for new crafts. We will meet from 7-8:30 on Wednesday Feb 28th in the Parlour at First United. In addition, in the next few weeks we will be brainstorming an outreach activity or project. This starts on the 28th, so you are welcome to start thinking of ideas now to bring to our time together. Our upcoming youth group dates are:

  • Wed, Feb 28th
  • Wed, Mar 6th- Please note that this is one week after the 28th, not two as is typical.
  • Wed, Mar 20th
    Come as you are! This is explicitly a 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive and neurodiverse accepting group! If you have any
    questions, feel free to reach out to info@emmanueluc.ca, who will direct you to the appropriate person to answer
    your inquiry. YOU ARE LOVED. YOU MATTER TO US. EVERYONE IS WELCOME.
    Blessings, Bethany McMullen, Yoonjoo Shin, and Rebecca Whiting

UGO-IGO – LET’S GET GOING…AGAIN! UGO-IGO is a multi-generational ladies group formed several years ago to connect women at Parkminster by enjoying activities and events together. Although inactive for some time now, there has been recent interest re-establishing those connections and events for this group. In the past we have done cooking classes, line dancing, theatre shows, yoga, book sharing evenings, to name just a few. We need your help to ‘get going’ once again!

  • Firstly, it is time to update the email list for the group. If you would like to be added to this group, or if you
    receive emails and wish to be removed from the list, please email sarah_quanz@hotmail.com
  • Secondly, do you have a suggestion for an event or activity? Please share that
    with w_ridgway@hotmail.com. We would love to hear from you.
  • Thirdly, there is an evening event being planned for May. Stay tuned!

KWOG WELCOMES ASMAA & MOHAMMAD AL ADAWI AND FAMILY TO CANADA! – A Pizza Party Monday Night (Feb 19) to Welcome Asmaa and Mohammad Al Adawi and their three children to their new home in Canada! Thank you to Wendy Watson and the Outreach Committee for sponsoring this family with KWOG
(Kitchener/Waterloo Outreach Group), and to Jack Reynolds who has faithfully managed our funds! – Elizabeth Moffat

SUNDAY WORSHIP “VOICES OF FAITH” GUEST SPEAKER – PAUL OKOYE, MARCH 3 – Paul Okoye-Voices of Faith Speaker: The Voices of Faith Sunday morning speaker series continues on Sunday, March 3rd. This is where people of faith from the community at large come and preach about whatever might be sitting on their hearts at the moment as something of importance they want to share. We are please this month to welcome
Paul Okoye. Paul is a consultant with Credence and Company, Waterloo, bringing to the team his background in organizational change, culture transformation, organization design, and training. A trusted business advisor with over 15 years of management consulting experience, Paul has worked with a number of global business strategy firms. He specializes in driving business transformations and accelerating adoption of large-scale organizational changes. Paul has led several complex business and technology transformation projects. His professional experience spans a number of industries and multinational organizations across North America, Africa and Europe. Paul has a Bachelor of Commerce (Management Information Systems) from the University of Ottawa, a Master of Business Administration (Organizational Enablement) from Georgia State University, and a Master of Theological Studies from the University of Waterloo.

REMIT DECISION DUE MARCH 31, 2024: MESSAGE FROM DEB SIERTSEMA, CHAIR OF COUNCIL – An Invitation toward Decolonizing the Structure of the United Church of Canada. Remit 1: Establishing an
Autonomous National Indigenous Organization. During the March Council meeting, Council will be making a decision to deal with the Remit from the General Council on establishing an autonomous national Indigenous
organization within the United Church of Canada. On February 4, Sandi McMullen shared information during the announcement time to understand the importance of this decision within the church. More information was included in the Sunday Plus Newsletter which was recently emailed to the congregation. There are a number of very well-done videos which help to inform our decision. There have also been a few Q & A sessions with our Regional Council which were attended by Rev. Joe and Deb Siertsema, Chair of Council. There are a number of resources included on the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council website (wowrcucc.ca). Before Council makes their decision, we are asking for members of Parkminster United to take time to review information, view the videos available and be prepared connect with Council members before their meeting on March 19th. Please watch the What’s up for opportunities to meet together for a post-worship service discussion on March 10th. This will help to inform Council as they prepare to vote on this remit. Thanks for your commitment to Parkminster United Church and the broader United Church of Canada. REMIT NEWS – from WOW REP, MAEDITH RADLEIN – A new document addresses Frequently Asked Questions, and a new video also responds to key questions that have been raised. Full information—including voting cards—are available on the website for General Council 44. If you have additional questions, please be in touch with your regional council.

“PIZZA SUNDAYS” – HELPING A BETTER TENT CITY – Pizza Sundays are usually on the last Sundays of the month. In March it will be on March 24 instead of Easter (the 31st). Loonies and Toonies will be collected
for Pizza for A Better Tent City on February 25, March 24, April 28, May 26, and June 30.

LENTEN TOILETRY COLLECTION – Tiny Home Takeout Kitchen and Clothing Room has asked us to collect soap, shampoo, and body lotion. These items will be shared with people who come to the clothing room on Thursdays for needed clothing and toiletries. Delivery teams also take these needed supplies to those living rough and those being sheltered temporarily in hotels. Individual sizes and larger sizes are most appreciated. Items will be collected until Palm Sunday, March 24th. Questions? Please contact Roberta Hickey at rmahickey@gmail.com

LENTEN PAUSE ON ZOOM WITH REV. JOE: BEGINS FEBRUARY 26 – You’re invited to begin the Lenten journey with the Ash Wednesday service on February 14th at Westminster United Church and then come together on ZOOM beginning Monday, February 26 and the next four Mondays, from 6:30pm to 8:30 pm.
Together we’ll enter the story of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem and his final week, we’ll explore the spiritual lessons and life implications of dying to self in faith and anticipation of resurrection. This year we’ll explore this season and Jesus’ journey through the lens of power. We’ll be watching, reflecting, and sharing on the wisdom of Rev. René August. As a priest in the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, Rev. August grew up in Apartheid in South Africa. Classified by the South African government to be “colored,” Rev. August came into adulthood during one of the most historic movements of justice in the last century. We’ll learn from her experience and expansive study of how the love of the Divine can be made present through storytelling, understanding power and seeking justice. Rev. August will help us understand the social, economic, political, and historical context of sacred texts. She’ll guide us to explore the nature of power in the world as it is, the challenges this poses for the Christian life and how Jesus shows us an alternate relationship with power.
If you have any questions or to express your interest, please contact Rev. Joe at revjoe@parkuc.ca or 519-504-9835, or 519-885-0935 ext. 23.

PARKMINSTER SPEAKER SERIES: MIKE MORRICE, MP – FEBRUARY 18 @ 7:30PM – Join us for another public lecture! On Sunday, February 18, 7:30 p.m., we welcome Mike Morrice, Member of Parliament for Kitchener Centre. Mike will talk about cross-party efforts to generate a citizens’ assembly on electoral reform, including his own private members motion which has inspired current debate and a vote in the new year. Learn how such reform will help to address the unprecedented threats currently facing our democracy–low voter
turnout, mistrust in institutions, polarization, and hostile partisan politics. Everyone is welcome! Free-will offering.

QUEER VESPSERS IS BACK: https://docs.google.com/document/d/194MsP_ZlOa6FtC3Nz_x7f-OeEyGAu19Q0ecwyMlma50/edit

JOINT YOUTH GROUP of the FOUR UNITED CHURCHES: NEXT MEET-UP WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 – From Rebecca Whiting and Yoonjoo Shin: The next joint youth group meeting is on February 14th, a.k.a Valentine’s
Day! Presumably, it will be our last try for ice skating this winter, and wherever we meet, we’ll serve hot chocolate with so much love. Please meet us at Waterloo Public Square Rink (75 King St. S.) instead of at a church building. Please make sure to bring your own skates since the rink doesn’t offer skate rentals on-site. If you want to borrow skates, please check the availability from the Eastside and McCormick Branches of Waterloo Public Library (https://wpl.ca/Skates). There is more information listed below for renting skates for those who may need them. Once again, this event will be weather permitting, so if we need to change plans, another email will be sent out. No email means we are good to go for skating! Mark your calendar for these upcoming youth group meetings: Wed, Feb 28, Wed, Mar 6, and Wed, Mar 20. Come as you are! This is explicitly a 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive and neurodiverse accepting group! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to info@emmanueluc.ca, who will direct you to the appropriate person to answer your inquiry. YOU ARE LOVED. YOU MATTER TO US. EVERYONE IS WELCOME.

  • Skate rental information: Two Waterloo Public Library branches rent ice skates. Please follow this link: https://wpl.ca/Skates .

SHARED ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE – HOST: WESTMINSTER UC, FEBRUARY 14 @ 7:30pm –

Ash Wednesday Service: February 14th, 7:30 pm at Westminster United Church and online. This is a shared
service of the Waterloo United Churches. Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, a time of preparing ourselves to experience the power and passion of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem and the final week of his life. Lent is a time of introspection and deepening our connection with the Sacred. You’ll be invited to receive the mark of the ashes on your forehead or hand as a sign of our mortality, a reminder of our vulnerability as living beings, our utter dependence on grace and the urgency to live this life more fully. The journey begins February 14th, you are invited to be a part of it. NOTE: The online service link will be provided in the days to come.

ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – SAVE THE DATE – SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25 – Our Annual Congregational Meeting will be held Sunday February 25, 2024, after worship. There will be a short break
between the service and the meeting for time to get a coffee and a snack. Please plan to attend. Hope to see you there.

VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY FOR YOUNG FAMILIES! – SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 – Young families are invited to join in the fun at our Valentine’s Day Family Party this Saturday, February 10 from 5:30 to 7:00pm. Drop off your kids and have a little time to yourself! Contact Bethany McMullen for details. Please email at Bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca .

MESSAGE FROM BETHANY MCMULLEN, SUNDAY SCHOOL & YOUTH COORDINATOR – WE’RE TRYING SOMETHING NEW! I want to put your creation on the big screen! Every week I’m going to send two questions/activities for pictures and a colouring page for kids (or kids at heart!) to do at home. Pick one thing to do (or all!), send them to me at bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca by Wednesdays at 9:00am for it to go into the slides that Sunday, or after for the next week. If you have any questions, please email me at bethany.mcmullen@parkuc.ca . This Week’s Activities: The Prodigal Son * send to Bethany by Wed, Feb 7 *

  1. Take a picture of a time that you felt loved this week.
  2. Take a picture of a time you felt God this week.
    Click this link for the colouring page: SS-Feb-4-colouring-page.pdf

FEBRUARY IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH (or African Heritage Month) – Officially recognized in Canada since 1996, this is a time to honour the contributions and struggles of people of African descent. Check out the Black History Month blog on the United Church of Canada website. New contributions weekly throughout February. Black History Month Community Events – All events are free. Registration may apply.
We thank the Inclusive Ministries Committee for supplying this information.

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

VOICES OF FAITH – SUNDAY MORNING SPEAKER SERIES: FEBRUARY 4 – GUEST, BETTY PRIES: The Voices of Faith Sunday morning speaker series continues on February 4th. This is where people of faith from the community at large come and preach about whatever might be sitting on their hearts at the moment as something of importance they want to share. We are please this month to welcome Betty Pries. Betty is a highly regarded conflict, change, and leadership specialist. She is also a specialist in equity, diversity,
and inclusion and offering support to organizations wrestling with EDI challenges. She is Co-Founder and CEO at Credence and Company; Betty has a Ph.D. from the Free University Amsterdam on the topic of conflict
transformation. She is a Chartered Mediator with the Alternate Dispute Resolution Institute of Canada and a member of the ADR Institute of Ontario. Betty is a regular instructor at the University of Waterloo. She is a life-long Mennonite and is an active member of her church.

Two Countries One World (TCOW), a United Church service and learning initiative, is excited to host a sleepover event for youth and youth leaders in March 2024. The sleepover will include dinner on Friday, and
breakfast and lunch on Saturday. Events during the sleepover will include youth group games, social time/movie, and on Saturday we’ll explore what TCOW is all about through fun group activities before a
closing reflection. When:  6 PM, March 22 to 3 PM, March 23, 2024 Where:  Parkminster United Church (275 Erb St E, Waterloo) Who:  Youth (grades 8-12+) and Youth Leaders Cost: $5/person to donate to the Foodbank of Waterloo Region

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