RESETTLEMENT COMMITTEE – REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL HELP for SIHAM’S FAMILY We are looking for financial support to help cover the cost of school transportation for Siham’s family. Every month, it costs $143.52 to purchase bus passes for the three eldest children. This allows them to take the GRT bus to secondary school each day. Even with the Affordable Transit Program, a monthly pass costs $47.84. This ongoing cost presents a significant barrier to school attendance for students who live outside the boundaries where bussing is provided. If you are interested in supporting the family in this way, a contribution can be made by E-transfer to Parkminster (admin@parkuc.ca) or by the usual way that you make donations (please specify Contingency Fund – Transportation in the memo).
YOUTH OF WATERLOO UNITED CHURCHES – SHARED MEETING – DECEMBER 7 You’re invited! Our next meeting is on Thursday, December 7 @ 7:00 p.m. at First United Church. We’ll have a baking time first, and the circle time will be proceeded. A week after our first meeting in December, we are throwing a little Christmas party. A couple of activity stations, wrapping up with the year questions, and snacks will await you. If you
have any ideas for more fun, please join our next meeting and add those to the plan! 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, Yoonjoo Shin and Rebecca Whiting
ABTC – DEC PIZZA PARTY DONATIONS The last donations for 2023 pizza parties for A Better Tent City will be received on the last Sunday of December which is New Years Eve (December 31). Thank you so much for your kind and much appreciated support in 2023! ~ Roberta Hickey
ONE DECEMBER NIGHT – SUN, DECEMBER 17 Delight in the festive sounds of the season with
Parkminster’s incredible musical talents along with our special guests from Bluevale Collegiate’s concert choir! It’s a night you won’t forget! Sunday, December 17 at 7:00pm; tickets $10 per person or $20 per family.
Tickets are now on sale after worship and at the door the night of the concert.
REV. HEATHER’S FAREWELL RECEPTION – SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 – Just a friendly reminder that if you would like to attend the special farewell reception for Rev. Heather next Sunday, RSVP to Melanie in the church office (admin@parku.ca) as soon as possible. We hope many folks can attend to celebrate Rev. Heather and wish her well!
A message from Waterloo Ontario Waterways: Help is urgently needed! WHO CAN HELP?: KAIROS Canada +
member churches. WHY? Your help is urgently needed to support the people impacted by the conflict in Palestine and Israel. Three ways to help:
- Please join with KAIROS Canada and members by writing to Foreign Affairs Minister, The Hon. Mélanie Joly, and your local MP using the tool here.
- Donate Online via our secure donation page. Phone toll-free 1-800-465-3771 and use your Visa or
MasterCard. Send a cheque or money order to: The United Church of Canada, Philanthropy Unit – Emergency
Response, 3250 Bloor Street West, Suite 200, Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4 – Please be sure to note “Emergency
Response—Middle East” on the face of your cheque. - Pray: Pray for peace with justice for the people of Palestine and Israel. As people of faith, we bring the grief, compassion and concerns of a hurting world to God. Additional prayers can be found here and at Canadian Council of Churches. Links & Contact: Donate Now.
“RISING FROM COLONIALISM” – EVENT A very unique evening of solidarity celebrating the culture and resilience of Indigenous communities of Palestine and Turtle Island, on the occasion of the UN International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. What: Rising from Colonialism; When: Friday, Dec. 1 at 7pm (doors open 6:30pm) Where: Victoria Park Pavilion (80 Schneider Ave, Kit.), Coming as bookends 500 years apart in a dark period of history, Turtle Island was at the opening of the age of exploration and Palestine at the close of classic colonialism. Yet they have much to say to each other and to Canadians. The peoples of Turtle Island and Palestine stand fractured but also stand united to have truths spoken, wrongs made right and to live with dignity. The evening is an opportunity to share the journey, the learning, and the courage to overcome and heal from the damage of colonization. The program includes a drumming circle, dabke drumming, poetry, storytelling and a discussion panel of Indigenous Elders and Palestinian-Canadians. Doors open at 6:30pm for “meet and greet” and light refreshments. Program begins at 7:00pm. Tickets online $10 at eventbrite . Proceeds shared with Healing of the Seven Generations. Look forward to a unique experience of solidarity, celebration, and learning. See you there – you will not want to miss this special evening. Waterloo Region Friends of Palestine.
WATERLOO PRESBYTERY REUNION – NOVEMBER 29 Reunion for the former & present Waterloo Presbytery delegates. Wednesday November 29th from 7 – 9pm @Forest Hill United Church, Kitchener. You are invited to re-connect, celebrate, dream… Dessert – a pie for your thoughts! RSVP to Forest Hill United at 519-744-3481.
‘TIS THE SEASON SHOPPING NIGHT – WESTMINSTER UNITED Join Westminster United Church on Friday, December 8 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm for our ‘Tis the Season Shopping Night event. We are excited to announce that both Ish & Chips, as well as FunnelCloud will be joining us! Enjoy supper and/or dessert from the food trucks while you browse among arts & crafts, one-of-a-kind and brand name items provided by over 30 vendors. Perfect timing for the holiday gift giving season!
DYING WITH DIGNITY CANADA – FILM: “IN MY OWN TIME” NOVEMBER 25 Dying With Dignity Canada presents the film In My Own Time on November 25th @ 2:00pm. Location: The Bookshelf, 41 Quebec St., Guelph. Cost: Bookshelf Members $11; General Admission $14 (seniors and students).
In My Own Time follows the emotional stories of Canadians who chose to end their suffering through Medical
Assistance in Dying (MAID). Navigating this decision leads to life-affirming realizations with family and friends. Internationally recognized medical and legal experts explain why access to MAID is a right worth protecting. Produced by Ward 1 Studios. Supported by Dying With Dignity Canada // Ed Video Media Arts Centre. The film will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A. Trailer: https://www.inmyowntimefilm.com/
~ Thank you to Isobel Field for sharing this information.
QUEER VESPERS WORSHIP SERVICE – NOVEMBER 19 An invitation to all 2SLGBTQ+ Communities and Allies – an evening of community, song, and worship. Sunday, November 19th @ 7pm, Wesley United Church in Cambridge. CLICK HERE for details.
BROADVIEW MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS – CHANGES NEEDED BY NOVEMBER 18 There are currently 83 households at Parkminster receiving Broadview magazine each month. Broadview has just announced that the subscription rate is increasing from $25 to $30 in 2024. If you wish to have your name added to or deleted from the subscription list for 2024, please email Wendy Watson at wendyjwatson@live.ca by November 18.
We urge all subscribers to include the cost of their subscription in their offering, either using the special Broadview envelope (which will be included with your 2024 offering envelopes) or noting it on your regular offering envelope. [Note: Outreach will subsidize the cost for those who are unable to pay for their subscription.]
MEN’S BREAKFAST – NOVEMBER 15 The November breakfast together will be at Kypreos this Wednesday November 15 at 8:00am. Hope to see you there. ~ Jim Bowman (jbbowman@rogers.com)
PARKMINSTER CHRISTMAS PAGEANT – HELP NEEDED! Our annual Christmas Pageant will be shared during worship on Sunday, Dec. 17th and we need your help! Sandi and John McMullen are working with Rev. Heather again this year and have created a fabulous pageant to share at Parkminster. Children, youth (and interested adults!) are needed for our in-person roles. The best part? You get to wear your pjs AND a costume! Rehearsals and costume fittings will happen during worship on Nov. 26 and Dec. 3. But even if you can’t make those, you can still be a part of the fun on Dec. 17! Please contact Sandi McMullen at: mcmullensandi@gmail.com for more information.
STEWARDSHIP CAMPAIGN RESULTS: Your Stewardship Committee is pleased to share the results of the ‘campaign’ with you. Response forms indicate that Intended givings for 2024 will be up by close to $20,000…a result we are pleased with given the economic times we are living in….food and gasoline prices, mortgage rates and taxes all on on the rise…and many other charitable causes calling for much-needed increased support. So thank you Parkminsterites for the always generous contributions of time, talents and treasures. It is anticipated that we will finish the year with a deficit, but with changes occurring and strategies under consideration, we’re expecting that to turn around in 2024. Stewardship Committee – Bill Spall (Chair), Wilma Bakelaar, Ed Dixon, Thelma Hamilton, Bruce Mutton and Marg Parkinson
UCC: CANADIAN GOVERNMENT MATCHING DONATIONS FOR GAZA & WEST BANK Donate: As a member of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, the United Church is participating in the Humanitarian Coalition appeal to provide tangible support to people in the Middle East. Gifts raised through the generosity of Canadians for the United Church appeal between October 7 and November 12, 2023, will be matched by the Government of Canada. Double the impact of your gift—give today. Advocate: Also, your advocacy can make a difference! Write to Foreign Affairs Minister, The Hon. Mélanie Joly, and your local MP and call on the Canadian government to respond to the escalating violence in Palestine and Israel by calling for an immediate ceasefire and ensuring humanitarian assistance. Use our online letter-writing template to send your email directly to your government officials. Please send your email today! The United Church has also been part of two press conferences in Ottawa advocating for peace this past week with a pan-Canadian coalition (watch the recording Pan-Canadian Coalition Calls for Ceasefire in Gaza) and a multifaith coalition including Muslim and Jewish organizations. Pray: Your prayers matter! Please continue to pray for peace with justice for the people of Palestine and Israel. You can find a Prayer for Peace in the Middle East on our website. Additional prayers can be found on our site and on the Canadian Council of Churches website. Keep up to date on the response of the United Church and our partners to the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East on our website and on social media accounts.
SPEAKER SERIES – PARKMINSTER WELCOMES PAUL KNOWLES – NOVEMBER 26 “Get It in Writing”
Paul will share the process of writing our own stories, and the benefits arising from this exercise. He will give tips about getting started and suggest the best ways to archive your work. In addition to his work as a travel journalist, Paul has written more than 16 published books, ranging from garden books to niche histories to murder mysteries. He has ghost-written autobiographies and has written thousands of personal columns. He has also studied “journalling” as part of his work with the late Dr. Delton Glebe of WLU and has given journalism seminars and classes at the college level.
FALL AND WINTER CLOTHING DRIVE FOR “GOING MOBILE” AND “TINY HOME TAKE OUT KITCHEN” “Going Mobile” has a clothing give away the second Thursday of every month. There is a growing demand in our region as the number of people experiencing homelessness continues to increase. The clothing collected is given to people in encampments and hotels. “A Better Tent City” also receives clothing from them. Here is a list of requested items for men and women – new or in good condition secondhand clothing are accepted:
Jeans and cotton pants, sweaters and hoodies, winter coats winter boots, mitts and gloves, hats (these items should not be woolen as they get too wet.), Toiletries, such as shampoo, disposable shavers for men, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes. These items will be collected during the month of November at our church. If you would like more information about Going Mobile, please visit: Tiny Home Takeout/Going Mobile .
OMAS SISKONA HOLIDAY MARKET – SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12 OMAS SISKONA (Grandmothers Together) of Kitchener-Waterloo is pleased to be back hosting their annual fund-raiser at Parkminster United Church again this year – Sunday, November 12, from 1:30pm-4:30pm. All are welcome to join us for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, shopping, and a Tea Room in the Gym where you can enjoy delicious goodies as you relax between activities! Those popular Gift Baskets, Baking and Preserves will be available again this year! There will be a large choice of Books, Games and Puzzles and an Artisan Market! The Corner Classroom downstairs is going
to be a Kid’s Shoppe… with face painting AND special “kid friendly shopping”. All proceeds go to support the work of The Stephen Lewis Foundation in Sub-Saharan Africa. The Grandmothers-to-Grandmothers Campaign was launched by SLF in 2006 to help African Grandmothers to develop sustainable industries to support their orphaned grandchildren whose parents had died as a result of HIV Aids. Omas Siskona of KW was started 15 years ago, one of many groups in Canada and other countries. Progress has been made in combatting the disease, but it is not over yet! We are pleased to be able to celebrate 20 years of the SLF as we display the Nurturing the Generations under the Canopy of Sisterhood Quilt! The quilt has been travelling across Canada to Grandmother’s Groups and we are excited to have it!
MEMBERSHIP AND PASTORAL CARE COMMITTEES – MIX ‘N MINGLE – NOVEMBER 1: We had great success with our Mix’n Mingle events in the past year or two…several outside under the trees and a sing-along in the gym. We want to continue with that success but include our new people. It will be a great way to meet old friends and make new ones. So here’s the plan. On Wednesday, November 1st, from 2:00 to 3:30 pm, you are invited to get together at the church to meet and chat with others over coffee and cookies AND enjoy music by Bob Hudgins at the piano. Everyone is welcome. Come when you can. Stay as long as you wish. If you need a ride, call Mary Reynolds (519-501-4355) or Ginny McQuay (519-742-8944) at least 24 hours ahead and we’ll arrange transportation for you. It’ll be a very relaxed, informal get-together. We hope you will plan to attend.
LAUGHTER YOGA WITH KEVIN: Join us to relax, stretch and laugh away the tension! The group meets every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month, from 6:00-8:00pm. Feel free to bring a yoga mat if you have one. For details, please contact Kevin Smith: kevedsmith@gmail.com
FAMILY HALLOWEEN PARTY – THANK YOU! Thank you to all of the families who joined us for our spooktacular Halloween Party on Saturday evening! Over 50 people attended and enjoyed dinner, games, and a chance to connect. Special thanks to members of the Christian Education (CE) Committee and all of our volunteers and helpers!
STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY – OCTOBER 29 – LUNCHEON: All are invited to attend a free luncheon in the gym after the service on Sunday, October 29. The theme for the morning service will be Stewardship, and the purpose of the luncheon is to celebrate. We are a dynamic congregation that enriches the lives of those of us who call Parkminster our church home…known in our community and the wider church for our justice and outreach ministry. We want that to continue to happen. Hence this ‘campaign’ initiative by the Stewardship Committee (as was last done with a 2019). The luncheon provides an opportunity to hear from the Committee and to think about your gifts of time, talents, and treasures. So that we know how many are coming, please sign up on the sheet at the Stewardship table in the Upper Hall after the October 22 Sunday service. To ensure that we reach everyone, a congregational email is going out later this week with a request to RSVP if you haven’t already signed up to attend. We will also attach the information piece and Givings Response form that is otherwise available for pick up in the Upper Hall. We urge you to attend…there is no charge…we need your support.~ Your Stewardship Committee (Bill Spall, Chair, Wilma Bakelaar, Ed Davis, Thelma Hamilton, Bruce Mutton, Marg Parkinson, and Finance Liaison, Jack Reynolds)
PARKMINSTER YOUTH: Sunday, Nov. 12th from 6 – 7:30 pm – join Rev. Heather and others for a special worship service and event in Kitchener geared for youth and young adults with The Hub Youth Network. We are also planning a special “Last Hurrah!” with Rev. Heather on Saturday, Dec. 3rd. More details coming soon!
A BETTER TENT CITY: Numbers at A Better Tent City have increased significantly during the last few months. There are officially 51 residents. However, between 90 and 100 people are now showing up for dinner. Many of these are without shelter or “living rough” A Better Tent city has applied for regional funding but presently is without government support. They rely on the food bank, donations, and volunteers. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the pizza party fund on the last Sunday of the month. To date $2,848 has been contributed. That is a lot of pizza and pop to brighten the day of the people at A Better Tent City. Thank you also for the donations this summer to provide ice cream treats and fruit. We were able to provide fresh
fruit or ice cream treats from July to the end of September. Twice a month our dessert team provides desserts to the people of A Better Tent City who look forward to our delivery every second Thursday. Our dessert team has lost a few members who have moved, and the number of desserts needed has increased. We need 4 or more “desserters” who can provide a dessert for 12 once a month. Desserts are brought to the church between 3:00pm and 3:15pm on alternate Thursdays. If you can help once a month, please contact Roberta Hickey at rmahickey@gmail.com . Always Needed Items: mugs, bowls, plates, forks, spoons, and towels. No unsolicited clothing please.
2024 UNITED CHURCH CALENDARS: UCC calendars will soon be here. Please speak with Lyn McNiffe (519-885-4319) or Wendy Watson (519-579-3555) to order one.
YOUTH MINISTRY: This past spring, the four Waterloo United Churches gathered at Emmanuel United to discuss ways of collaborating and working together. Thanks to some very dedicated individuals, a group for youth in Grades 7 – 12 has started and welcomes youth from the four Waterloo UC’s and beyond to join them! Leaders Yoonjoo Shin and Rebecca Whiting extend a warm welcome to all youth who wish to attend. The next youth group meeting will take place on the 27th of October. Please keep in mind that it will be Friday (NOT
Thursday) this time. We are planning an excursion, and the detailed information will be emailed to the parents/guardians within a week. In the coming weeks, the group will start navigating several discussion topics such as justice, disabilities, a sense of belonging, gender identity, sexual orientation, and climate change as part of the first half of the meeting. For the latter half, we freshly baked a playlist full of our favourite songs for the background music. With the exception of October 27th, the group meets on Thursday evenings. This is explicitly a 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive and neurodiverse accepting group. Come as you are: come with your sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic, racial, and cultural backgrounds, mental and physical ability, and spiritual beliefs. Let’s create a brave space together! YOU ARE LOVED. YOU MATTER TO US. EVERYONE IS WELCOME. If you are interested in the joint youth group, please feel free to reach out to info@emmanueluc.ca – Parkminster youth and families can also reach out to Rev. Heather (revheather@parkuc.ca) to get connected.
SPEAKER SERIES: Paul Knowles Sunday, November 26, 7:30 p.m. Topic: Get It In Writing
Paul will share the process of writing our own stories, and the benefits arising from this exercise. He will give tips about getting started, and suggest the best ways to archive your work. In addition to his work as a travel journalist, Paul has written more than 16 published books, ranging from garden books to niche histories to murder mysteries. He has ghost-written autobiographies, and has written thousands of personal columns. He has also studied “journalling” as part of his work with the late Dr. Delton Glebe of WLU, and has given journalism seminars and classes. More details: Click here All are welcome – Bring Friends – Free Will Offering
Hospice at LBGTQIA+ Potluck Nov 4 For the LGBTQIA+ community, assisted health care can be a terrifying prospect! What has hospice done to make a safe space for you? Saturday November 4th, 2023 Bring your own meal, or food to share for the LGBTQ+ and Allies Potluck Meet at 6, Eat at 6:30 A free-will offering is accepted Click here for more details
WITH GRATITUDE AND THANKS FROM YOUR OUTREACH COMMITTEE Your Outreach Committee wants to share the wonderful generosity that our congregation showed last Sunday, September 24th as they placed money in the pizza boxes on their way out of church! TOTAL donated was $204.15. This continues our pledge to provide a monthly pizza night for the residents of A BETTER TENT CITY. Parkminster has continued to be mindful of the great need in our community to ensure that no one goes hungry and so you donated $3,000 this summer which was doubled to $6,000 by the Allan Bush Financial Team for The Food Bank of Waterloo Region! Thanksgiving Day is almost upon us. Hunger for many is not going away so…Conestoga Meats is stepping up again this year to match all donations to the Food Bank in time for Thanksgiving! Arnold Drung, President, Conestoga Meats says “All our team members believe in supporting the community. Folks are happy to help, and we’re proud to do so too. The Food Bank has confirmed that we have until Thanksgiving Monday, Oct. 9 to submit our donations to have them matched! THANK YOU PARKMINSTER!
PRODIGALS @ THE PUB – Hosted by Emmanuel United Church This conversation group is hosted by Emmanuel United Church with Rev. Brenda Woodall
- WHEN: Monday, October 16, 2023
- WHERE: The Huether (Barley Works), 59 King St. N., Waterloo
- TIME: 7:00pm-9:00pm
- WHO: Anyone 18-30ish
Grab a drink of your legal choice and to your liking. Spend an hour with Rev. Brenda discussing such topics as difficult
dialogue, mental health, community organizing, and God encounters. Spend the next hour in conversation with each
other.
KATHLEEN VANDERLINDEN: A PERSONAL JOURNEY – LIVING WITH DEMENTIA In the following video link, Parkminster member Kathleen Vanderlinden shares some of her journey living with dementia and the ways she continues to find joy and hope in community and nature. Thank you, Kathleen, for your vulnerability, openness and sharing: https://vimeo.com/innertainment/review/866394712/b3e1ddb300
STAND UP FOR THE CHILDREN — YOUR SUPPORT IS NEEDED! Parkminster member, Kevin Smith put together this petition as part of the outreach done by the Inclusive Ministries Committee. This is a request for the petition in support of the staff at the Waterloo Region District School Board, found at the link
below. Children need our active support to resist activities that can bring them harm. We hope you will read on and sign the petition to show your support. Thank you! https://www.change.org/p/support-equity-initiatives-at-the-waterloo-region-district-school-board
FROM “UNITED IN LEARNING”: FALL WORKSHOPS & LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism: Live events every Tuesday, from October 10–November 28 Please join us for this popular annual series! Weekly Tuesday events are opportunities to take part in lively online discussions with dynamic speakers, writers, and leaders in anti-racism work. Register for this FREE series and join us for any or all of the live discussions. Recordings will also be available after each live event, and registrants will receive a weekly reminder e-mail. This year’s 40 Days program also features daily stories (except on Sundays) with opportunities to learn, reflect, and act. Please sign up for the 40 Days newsletter to stay up-to-date! 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism Study Group: Study groups from October 16–December 8 These study groups are a great way to explore 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism daily content with a wider group of people! The weekly online study sessions will run between October 16-December 8, and it will give everyone
a chance to dive deeper into the week’s content. There is no cost to attend these sessions. Find out more!
SAVE THE DATE! FAMILY HALLOWEEN PARTY! – OCTOBER 21 Children and their families are invited to join Christian Education members, volunteers, and Rev. Heather for our Annual Halloween Party! Join us on Saturday, October 21 from 5:30-7:30 pm for an evening of dinner, games, and fun for all ages! Wear a costume if you’d like and get into the Halloween spirit! Please RSVP to Rev. Heather as soon as possible at: revheather@parkuc.ca and indicate any allergies or dietary restrictions for both children and adults.
Hope to see you there for a spooky good time!
PARKMINSTER YOUTH GROUP – OCTOBER 14 Youth are invited to join us on Saturday, October 14th from 1:45-3:30pm at the church for some outdoor fall fun! For more information, please contact Rev. Heather: revheather@parkuc.ca
SUNDAY ACTIVITIES LEADERS – HELP WANTED! As we embark on another year of learning and growing in faith together, we are in need of some more volunteers to help lead our weekly Sunday activities with children. We cannot do this without your help! Please speak to Christian Education Chair, Franceen Wagner, or Rev. Heather for more information.
A BETTER TENT CITY – THANK YOU! Thank you to all our regular “desserters” and members of the congregation who contributed donations for either ice cream or fresh fruit for A Better Tent City. Your donations provided enough money to purchase treats until the end of September. Consequently, there will be no one to receive donations at the church until October. Donations for The Better Tent City Pizza Party will resume the last Sunday in September (Sept. 30). Thank you Parkminster for all your help and support for ABTC. ~ Roberta Hickey, organizer
FOOD BANK of WATERLOO REGION – THANK YOU! THANK YOU PARKMINSTER! Since late June, your Outreach Committee has been making regular appeals to our congregation to provide financial support for the Food Bank of Waterloo Region. As we all know from local news coverage, the need is great…and growing! 1 in 14 households struggle to put food on the table (up from 1 in 20 last year) 1 in 5 children live in a food-insecure household (as of June 2023). Good news at that time was that: Allan Bush, Senior Wealth Advisor with C.I.B.C. Wood Gundy in Waterloo, came forward with an offer to MATCH donations to the Food Bank prior to August 31,2023. GOOD NEWS AT THIS TIME IS THAT, on Monday, August 28, 2023, we were able to deliver a cheque for $3,000 to the Food Bank that will result in $6,000 due to matching! It was well received, and we were told it would provide 12,000 meals! We know the NEED is NOT going away, so let’s build on the momentum and…KEEP IT GOING! ~ Elna Robertson, member of Outreach
MEN’S BREAKFAST – SEPTEMBER 20 The September men’s breakfast gathering will be at Kypreos
restaurant (305 Lancaster St. W) at 8:00am this Wednesday September 20. Hope to see you there! For more info, contact Jim Bowman (jbbowman@rogers.com) .
AUTUMN LABYRINTH WALK – OCTOBER 1 @ 2:30pm Come out on Sunday, October 1st at 2:30 pm for a guided labyrinth walk. Under the leadership of Mary Sander and Rev. Joe Gaspar we will be using the labyrinth as a tool to reflect on the spiritual lessons of the season of autumn for our lives. You’re invited to bring a pen, journal/notebook, and appropriate outdoor clothing for the day. Please contact Rev. Joe Gaspar (519-885-0935 ext.23, revjoe@parkuc.ca) to RSVP or for more information. You’re welcome to drop in on the day but it’s always handy to know how many people to expect. Mary Sander has been a student and teacher of Earth Based Spirituality for more than 30 years and as such, honours the turning of the Wheel of the Year—the changing of the seasons—and the ways in which it can deepen our connection to Spirit. She has been a spiritual seeker for the whole of her life and finds joy in the many ways that spirituality can lift and heal us. Sharing that joy in community is a special joy and the reason that Parkminster has become a welcoming sacred home.
NEW MEMBERS SUNDAY – OCTOBER 1 Are you interested in becoming a member of the United Church of Canada and Parkminster United Church? We will be celebrating a New Members Sunday on October 1st 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).
LAUGHTER YOGA IS BACK! They say “Laughter is the Best Medicine” … Come and find out for yourself as we laugh & stretch it out together! Join us Tuesday, July 25 @ 6:30pm. Yoga will take place on the front lawn – if it rains, class will be in the Family Room. Contact Kevin Smith: kevedsmith@gmail.com to sign up
HUNGER DOES NOT TAKE A SUMMER HOLIDAY – HELP FEED CHILDREN IN OUR COMMUNITY:
Many people enjoy vacation and time away from regular routines during the summer. Sadly, there are children in our community who won’t have such a carefree time and may be hungry, unsure where their next meal will come from. Hunger in our community does NOT take a summer break! In fact, the need for food assistance is increasing. We are seeing the highest need in our 38-year history. In February 2023 the Food Bank saw
36,077 visits an increase of 56%.
Parkminster United Church responded very generously to our request for help at Thanksgiving totalling $1,865 — and that was doubled to $3,730 because Conestoga Meats had promised to match all donations at that time! Guess what? In the SPRING 2023 edition of FRESH APPROACHES, The Food Bank of Waterloo Region says “Today is the ideal time to give because you can have TWICE the impact! The Allan Bush Investment Team is offering a MATCHING GIFT for this challenge.” Your Outreach Committee is confident that our congregation WILL respond with generosity and increase their donations by the Matching Gift from the Allan Bush Investment Team (matching Challenge ends August 31st). Just make your donation by e-transfer, cheque or cash in an envelope indicating your gift is for The Food Bank and place on the offering plate. THANK YOU! Remember, hunger doesn’t take a holiday! Of the 40,530 people served by our Food Bank each year, 35% are children and that is more than 14,000!
SUMMER HELP NEEDED FOR A BETTER TENT CITY: During summertime several of our regular “desserters” go to cottages or enjoy some holidays. This leaves us short for dessert providers. If you can help once or twice over the summer months, it would be most appreciated. Dessert days are Thursdays, August 3, 17 & 31.
- On August 17 we will be providing ice cream treats. A donation of $10 mailed or e-transferred to Roberta would be most helpful.
- August 3 and 31 will be fresh fruit. You can either bring fruit to the church or provide a $10 donation.
- If you can help out by bringing a dessert (baked or purchased) to the church on July 6 or by providing a $10 donation for the weeks of July 20 or August 17, please let Roberta know – rmahickey@gmail.com
PIZZA PARTY DONATIONS: Thank you for your generous contributions to the Pizza Party fund for a Better Tent City. To date $2,369.55 has been collected. That is a lot of pizzas and happy faces! There will be no more pizza box collections until the last Sunday in September.
BACKPACK PROGRAM – HELP SUPPORT INDIGENOUS YOUTH IN OUR COMMUNITY – Summer tends to go quickly (sob), so we’re encouraging you, if you have the means, to contribute to the Backpack Program – one of many important services provided by Healing of the Seven Generations (H7G). To support Indigenous youth in the Waterloo Region as they begin a new school year, H7G gathers new items including backpacks, water bottles, lunch bags, pencil cases, pencil crayons, markers, scientific calculators, lined paper, and other school supplies. There’s also a high need for running shoes of all sizes, as well as gift cards to Footlocker, where H7G receives a discount. Items can be placed in the collection bin in the Upper Hall at Parkminster, or you can contact Adrienne at abarretthofman@gmail.com or Lisa at lhicknell@gmail.com to arrange for pickup or drop-off. Cheques to the organization are also welcome. No donation is too small. Thank you for your generous support!
MUSIC SUNDAY IS RETURNING! – JUNE 11th – It is with great joy that I can announce Music Sunday will be on June 11th! This special service will be a return to celebrating all the amazing ensembles we have at Parkminster. Groups participating that morning will be the band, men’s chorus, Celtic Crossing, Cast in Bronze bell choir, and Voices United choir. There is such positive energy leading up to this service on June 11th, that I think it will prove to be a spirited morning filled with inspiring music. Hope to see you there! ~ Neil Murray
JOINT WATERLOO UCS WORSHIP AT EMMANUEL UNITED – JUNE 4 at 10AM – Join us in-person or online as the Waterloo United Churches gather together for worship on June 4, hosted at Emmanuel United (22 Bridgeport Rd. W.) with guest speaker, Cheryl-Ann Stadelbauer-Sampa, Executive Minister, Antler River Watershed, Western Ontario Waterways and Horseshoe Falls Regional Councils and other guests. Worship is at 10:00 a.m. For those who wish to worship online, please visit: https://emmanueluc.ca/ and click the Zoom link for worship. Please note there will be no worship service or Sunday school at Parkminster on that date.
A BETTER TENT CITY – Thank you to everyone who continues to contribute donations to our friends of “A Better Tent City”. Upcoming donation dates are June 8 and 22. Drinking boxes and granola bars are received at the church parking lot between 3:00pm and 3:15pm. If you are unsure about whether there will be a regular pick up, please email Roberta at rmahickey@gmail.com
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS FOR “tri-Pride” EVENT – JUNE 10 – Once again Parkminster will have a table at “TRI-Pride” on Sat., June 10 at Victoria Park, in Kitchener. We are inviting anyone to join us who is willing to help run the table. It is fun and your task is to greet people and just chat to any willing listener. We offer two-hour shifts: 11:00am – 1:00pm, 1:00pm -3:00pm and 3:00pm-5:00pm. If you are unable to work at our table but plan to come to the festival, please drop by our booth and have a short visit. Parkminster is recognized as being a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community and we often receive a lot of kind feedback. Contact Liz Forde at eforde@sentex.ca if you are willing to work a shift.
Our Sunday school Picnic returns! – Sunday, June 11: We are so excited to see this beloved tradition return again this year! There will be games and activities for children, and lunch after the service for everyone! Parents and caregivers: Weather permitting we are hoping to have all of our activities outside and some may involve water play so children are invited to dress accordingly to take part in all of the fun! The Christian Education Committee will provide the BBQ if the congregation is willing to bring the rest. If your last
name begins with A-L please bring a dessert, M-Z a salad to share. Juice/lemonade will be provided with thanks to the House Group for June. In an effort to be environmentally friendly we also invite you to bring your own dishes and cutlery. Please keep food items nut-free and label any items containing eggs. Please provide a list of ingredients or a recipe card with your contribution. You are welcome to bring a chair to enjoy the outdoors. Looking forward to a great celebration with everyone!
Summer is almost upon us and it’s a great time to dive into reading! The United Church Bookstore (ucrdstore.ca) is the perfect place to find resources to strengthen your soul, ponder questions — there’s even fun activities you can find for the kids! Does someone special have a birthday coming up? The UC bookstore also has gift cards! Check it out today!
UGO-IGO BOOK SHARING EVENING: MAY 25: Join the group on Thursday, May 25 at 7:00pm! Hostess: Sarah Quanz. If you are interested in attending, please contact Sarah at sarah_quanz@hotmail.com
TACO SUPPER & BAKE SALE FUNDRAISER @ WESTMINSTER UNITED – MAY 16 Westminster United Church is excited for the return of its annual Taco Supper & Bake Sale fundraiser on Tuesday, May 16th, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Be sure to join in the fun for tacos with all the fixings & beverages. Free will offering; take out available. There will be a bake sale, too! CLICK HERE to see poster.
THE HEALING OF THE SEVEN GENERATION: On Sunday, May 14th, there are two events being held by The Healing of the Seven Generations (H7G) to remember and honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) across Turtle Island. In the morning, we are invited to join H7G for their annual walk, which begins at 10 am at the H7G building at 300 Frederick St., and travels to Kitchener City Hall. In the evening, all are invited to a candlelit vigil at the Clocktower in Victoria Park. The vigil begins at 7 pm. Our presence and participation in these events are a meaningful show of support and care. Solidarity can also be shown by wearing a red t-shirt purchased from the H7G online store at https://h7gshop.square.site/s/shop .
PATHFINDERS/FOODBANK: As part of a volunteer activity, 9th Waterloo Pathfinders are seeking donations to support The Foodbank of Waterloo Region. There is a box in the Upper Hall where you can place your non-
perishable donations. The box will be removed June 11th. Thank you for your support!
CUSTODIAN FOR A DAY: The Ministry and Personnel Committee is looking for anyone who would be
keen to take on the task of “Custodian for a Day”, or more, on occasions that our custodian Linda, is scheduled for vacation or has to take a health care day. We are looking for more than one person, if possible, to cover for these breaks in custodial care for our building. Training will be provided regarding tasks required. Financial compensation at the full rate of pay per hour, for the custodian. If you are interested or know of someone who may be interested, please contact John Watson at 519-579-3555 to register your interest. ~ from the Ministry and Personnel Committee
GOVERNANCE OF NATIONAL CHURCH: In 2018 -19 the UCC presented congregations with remit questions which changed the governance structure of the national church. Parkminster voted on all these remits in a
congregational meeting. Now we’re being asked to consider another remit question – it asks about the creation of an autonomous National Indigenous Organization within the United Church of Canada. The deadline is next year, March 2024. You thus have lots of time to inform yourself about the question. It will be Council, not the congregation that votes, but input from the congregation will be asked for in due course.
The question and background information can be found at the following link, UCC establishing-autonomous-national-indigenous-organization?
GOING MOBILE KW AND TINY HOME TAKEOUT (St. Mary’s Catholic Church) in downtown Kitchener collect and distribute clothing, shoes and toiletries to individuals experiencing homelessness. They are looking for women’s and men’s used in good condition running shoes as they transition to the warmer weather. Women’s sizes 8, 8 1/2, and 9 and men’s sizes 9, 10, 11, and 13 are especially needed. They also need used in good condition men’s and women’s summer hats, shorts and t-shirts. In addition, they are collecting body lotion, deodorant, toothbrushes, shampoo, combs, brushes and sunblock. There will be a bin for these items in the narthex for the month of May. Also requested are clean containers for A Better Tent City to store food. Especially needed are the round microwave containers with lids. There will be a separate bin for these during the month of May as well. Contact is RobertaHickey – rmahickey@gmail.com
FOOD BANK: WLU in collaboration with the Food Bank of Waterloo Region will host the 25th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser to raise funds for The Food Bank of Waterloo Region and awareness about hunger in the community. Empty Bowls is open to the public and donations to the Food Bank are encouraged. The event takes place Wed, May 31st. All guests will receive a handmade bowl created by a member of the Waterloo Potters’ Workshop. Full details here: Empty Bowls 2023
BUILDING BRIDGES THROUGH MUSIC: Brought to you by Canadian Interfaith Conversation, https://www.interfaithconversation.ca/ Join in this fun-filled, faith event demonstrating the power of music to bring about understanding. Inshallah, Monday, May 8th at 7:30 pm, Knox Presbyterian Church, 50 Erb St W,
Waterloo ON N2L1T1. Engage in an arts-based workshop about conflict resolution through music.
The Canadian Interfaith Conversation is supported by the United Church of Canada.
Spectrum has received a federal grant from Sport Canada, to expand their programming and encourage the
2SLGBTQIA+ community to engage in sports. Three sessions are offered across Waterloo Region on Saturdays: Downtown Community Centre, Kitchener (4:00pm – 5:30pm), Stanley Park Community Centre, Kitchener (12:15pm-2:00pm), and Kinbridge Community Association, Cambridge (12:00pm-2:00pm). Ages 18+. No cost to participants,and they offer free Grand River Transit passes. Lots of other great things to do too! https://www.ourspectrum.com/
SUMMER CAMPS: Parents & Caregivers – trying to find summer camps for the kids? We may have a solution.
Two tenants will be hosting summer camps at Parkminster! Registration is OPEN NOW!
MINDFUL MAKERS: (basement classrooms) Taking place throughout July & August. Camps
rotate on weekly basis. Camps are for elementary age kids (arts & crafts) to teens
(leadership training). www.mindmakers.com
GIRLS ROCK!: (gym) Holding camps throughout in July and one week in August.
https://www.girlsrockcamp.ca/ . Click on “Waterloo North” tab for Parkminster.
A BETTER TENT CITY – Thank you to everyone who continues to contribute donations to our friends of “A Better Tent City”. Upcoming donation dates are May 11 and 25. Drinking boxes and granola bars are received at the church parking lot between 3:00pm and 3:15pm. If you are unsure about whether there will be a regular pick up, please email Roberta at rmahickey@gmail.com
MEN’S BREAKFAST: The April Men’s Breakfast will be at Kypreos Restaurant, Kitchener, Wednesday, April 19th at 8:00am. Hope to see you there! Contact is Jim Bowman
SPRING CLEANUP: The Property Committee is looking for volunteers to help with outside Spring cleanup. Anyone who is interested is welcome to come to the church on Mon, April 24, starting at 5:00pm. Everyone is welcome to help. Please bring your own rakes/shovels labelled with your name.
LGBTQ2S+ Friends and Allies! Everyone is invited to attend the upcoming potluck for LGBTQ2S+ Friends and Allies! Join us Saturday, April 29th in the Gym. Mingling starts at 6:00 pm, dinner starts promptly at 6:30 pm. Please bring your own food. We will provide coffee and tea. Cait Glasson will talk about ways of confronting transphobia and hate in the Waterloo Region. For more information, please e-mail Liz Forde: eforde@sentex.ca .
“DYING TO KNOW”: Hospice of Waterloo Region is partnering with St. Andrews Presbyterian Church to offer
seminars, exhibits & discussion about death, dying and navigating grief, April 28 to 30th Poster and Schedule.
Dr. Sammy Winemaker and her colleague Dr. Hsien Seow will start the event on Friday. They are the well-known creators of “The Waiting Room Revolution” podcast and their mission to help navigate our own/loved one’s serious illness journey through the health care system. Over the weekend you can drop in, stay for the morning/afternoon the dying process is discussed, along with estate planning, Medical Assistance in Dying, and explore art as grief therapy. For more information and to register visit www.dyingtoknow.ca Register now!
Questions? Contact Sheli O’Connor sheli@hospicewaterloo.ca
Introducing Broadview’s first podcast! “And Also Some Women” looks at biblical women through a feminist lens. Each 30-minute episode, hosted by popular pastor Rev. Junia Joplin, and reported and researched by long-time Broadview contributor Anne Thériault, will explore popular Biblical women, including Eve and Ruth, through a feminist lens by interviewing theologians like Diana Butler Bass and other expert guests and scholars. You can read more about the inspiring gift from Lillian and John Perigoe and the podcast here
The podcast will be released in May on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts
and Overcast. Don’t forget to listen to the trailer and make sure to share it with friends.
oneROOF: Our friends at oneROOF are hosting a small business market, showcasing 30+ local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and independent artists. Proceeds raised will go to oneROOF Youth Services Lifeline Program. The event will take place at Bethel Evangelical Church, Kitchener, Sat, May 6th, 10:00am to 6:00pm. Details here.
10TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AGEING & SPIRITUALITY: Taking place at Conrad Grebel University College, June 4-7, 2023. Registration for pre-conference sessions is separate from the main conference; $50 per session, $15 Lunch. Register online or call 519-885-0220 x24232. See poster here for details. Register now!
SHOPPING NIGHT: Join Westminster United Church on Wednesday, April 26 from 6:00pm to 9:00 pm for their first-ever shopping night! They have over 25 vendors with a large variety of items for sale. Everything from Pampered Chef, Avon and Norwex to handmade jewelry, crocheted items, and pre-loved clothing! Something for everyone, and with Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations, birthdays, bridal showers, and weddings, you can get all your spring and summer shopping done in one place! No entry fees. Tuck shop of beverages and home-baked goods available for $1 per item. Come enjoy a relaxing evening browsing (and buying!).
SUNDAY, APRIL 16, 7:30 P.M. – PAUL ROORDA: A MOMENT BETWEEN ART, TIME,
MEANING AND CLIMATE CHANGE. Paul will discuss the creative process and ideas behind recent photography, sculpture, and mixed media projects. His art deals with perception, nostalgia, and the human response to climate change. He is a Waterloo artist who has exhibited extensively with solo exhibitions in Canada, the U.S. and Germany. He has been awarded numerous regional, provincial, and national arts council grants. Paul was the artist in residence for City of Kitchener in 2007 & at GlogauAIR in Berlin in 2012 and 2015. Everyone is welcome. Free will offering.
BAPTISM: Our next Baptism Sunday will be Sunday, May 14th. If your family is interested in baptism on that date, please contact Rev. Heather as soon as possible – revheather.parkminster@gmail.com
SAVE THE DATE – SOUP LUNCH FOR OUTREACH – Please plan to join us on Sunday, April 16th after worship for the return of our soup lunch! All are invited to stay and join us for some delicious soups, buns, and desserts. More details to come but we hope to see you there!
Do You Have a Paint Job in Need of a Painter? Just letting you know that Yasin Al Abdullah, father of one
of our externally funded refugee families, has started up his own company, Sham Painting. He is a painter
by trade, has received several jobs to be done, but is looking for more business, particularly with the onset
of warmer weather. If you need any painting done at your place, it would mean a great deal to this family
if you gave Yasin a call or email to have him do that work for you. He can be reached at: 519-574-7420 or
shampainting6@gmail.com … Thank you from your Outreach Committee
Annual Easter Egg Hunt & Celebration! Children are invited to join in the fun of this annual tradition as we celebrate all things Easter together as our activity time that morning during the service. All children are welcome!
KIDS PARTY/GROWNUPS NIGHT OUT – SATURDAY, MAY 6 – 5:30 – 7:30PM – It was so nice, we are doing it twice this year! Children are invited to join our Children’s Ministry Team for dinner and activities while grownups enjoy their own evening out. Please RSVP to Rev. Heather (revheather.parkminster@gmail.com) and indicate name(s) of child(ren), any allergies/dietary restrictions, and a contact number for a parent/caregiver.
CROW SHIELD LODGE EVENT: Saturday, April 29 – 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Youth 12 years and up and adults from the four Waterloo United Church communities are invited to a workshop at Crow Shield Lodge. We will be learning from staff and each other about ‘living into right relations’ through allyship in our region: what the needs are in the Indigenous communities here, ways we can “show up”, and perhaps learning from the life experience of the workshop leaders. Includes a light lunch. Interested Parkminster youth, please contact Rev. Heather (revheather.parkminster@gmail.com) or Wendy Rudd (ruddwendy840b@gmail.com) for
more information. Spaces are limited. Thanks to Nancy Dykstra for coordinating this opportunity!
LIFTING THE LID: At our recent annual meeting, it was announced that Parkminster will be entering into a process of discernment called “Lifting the Lid”. This process will be facilitated by Trinity Centres Foundation, a group with a wealth of experience in helping congregations reimagine themselves in a changing world. This initiative will include significant consultation with the congregation and the community – everyone will have an opportunity to contribute to the conversation! The cost associated with this process is $15,000.00. Funding will come, in part, from the Capital Fund and the Trustee’s yearly disbursement allocation from the Endowment fund. If you would like to contribute toward this investment in Parkminster’s future and can make a donation over and above your usual offering, your support would be greatly appreciated. This can be done by cheque or e-transfer. (Please specify ‘Lifting the Lid’ on your cheque or in the e-transfer message.) Thank you for your support! Parkminster Church Council
The 3rd Waterloo Pathfinders – Milk Mats Project: Milk mats protect people who are experiencing homelessness in low-income shelters and precarious housing from specific diseases that affect our Kitchener/Waterloo region. These mats can provide immense comfort, keep people dry, and prevent bugs from entering the shelter. Your donation of unwashed, fully intact milk bags that 4 L of milk come in are appreciated. Milk bags CANNOT be tattered, ripped, or rotten. In addition, we will only accept milk bags that are NOT washed out. If there is milk in the bottom, pour or shake it out, but otherwise, refrain from washing the bags.
PARKMINSTER YOUTH – Have You Saved the Date? The next meet-up is this Saturday, March 25 at 1:00pm in the youth room. Contact Rev. Heather for details by email at (revheather.parkminster@gmail.com). Hope you can make it!
TCOW IS RETURNING: TCOW (Two Countries One World) is excited to announce the return of our program for 2023-2024. As we prepare for our return to Colombia in March 2024, we are calling out for fresh ideas and new committee members. TCOW is a volunteer-based committee where members can contribute as much as they like, and decisions are made by consensus. Click here to see who is currently on the committee: https://www.waterlootcow.ca/meet-the-volunteers-of-the-tcow-committee/ If you are interested in joining the committee and nurturing the next generation of global citizens, please contact Colleen Usaty at info@waterlootcow.ca. Details about information sessions here.
LINE DANCING EVENING: Dig out your dancing shoes or cowboy boots for what promises to be a fun night of dancing. Join us on Tuesday, March 28 at 7:00pm in Parkminster’s Double Classroom (downstairs). Nora Hustwitt is the organizer, and she has booked an instructor for the event. Would you like to join in the fun? Please reply directly to Nora Hustwitt at nhustwitt@gmail.com “There are shortcuts to happiness and dancing is one of them.”
EARTHQUAKE FUNDRAISER: A delicious plant-based halal meal prepared by Queen Shwarma Turkish Cuisine. When: Sunday, March 15th, 5:00pm at St. John’s Anglican Church, Upper Hall, 23 Water ST. N. Kitchener (Enter off Duke), Cost: Donation. Funds to be donated to the Red Cross. Registration is necessary. Please register or donate at https://grfsociety.ca/fundraising. Your support is appreciated.
EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS: Thank you for the generous donations that continue to come in for the earthquake victims. Your response has been truly heartwarming. Siham and Fadi’s family members are in our prayers as we think of those who have lost homes or had homes severely damaged in the earthquake in Turkey, Syria and Lebanon. If you have not yet donated for their family, and are planning to, please send your contribution (cheque/e-transfer) to Parkminster with a note saying it is for earthquake relief directly for Siham and Fadi’s families. Thank you so much – your Resettlement Committee. If you wish to donate to the UCC Emergency Response Fund, you may do so directly through this link, or provide a cheque/e-transfer to Parkminster. Please indicate “UCC Emergency Response Fund” on your gift. Donations through Parkminster will also be included in your Parkminster tax receiptable donations for 2023.
YOUTH GROUP ACTIVITY: Join us this Saturday, February 25th at 12:45pm at Crock a Doodle Pottery Painting located at The Boardwalk! For more information or to join us please contact Rev. Heather:
revheather.parkminster@gmail.com
LENTEN PAUSE 2023: Lent is just around the corner, a time to nurture and deepen our faith as we enter into the story of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem and the events of Holy Week. If you can I encourage you to participate in the Ash Wednesday service on February 22nd (Westminster United Church). Beginning Wednesday March 1st and then March 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th you are invited to explore how the Lenten path of dying to self in preparation for resurrection speaks to your life. Sessions will run from 6:45-8:45. We’ll explore such themes as discerning the presence of God, letting go of and expanding our notions of God, control, and vulnerability, sacrifice and power. Rev. Joe will be your host for these sessions. Any questions or to express your interest, contact Rev. Joe at revjoegaspar.parkminster@gmail.com or 885-0935 ext. 23.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN WORSHIP: In February we commemorate Black History Month. During worship, following the announcement time there will be time set aside to reflect and share on a question that has come up amongst the people engaged most intently in helping Parkminster become an anti-racist church. The question will be shared in the Friday worship e-mail so you’ll have an opportunity to reflect on it before Sunday. Thankyou for helping Parkminster live into our commitment to become an anti-racist church.
PRAYER SHAWL GROUP: If you or anyone you know is experiencing a significant life change, prayer shawls are available at the church on Sundays and throughout the week during office hours. Please help yourself.
Alternatively, you may also contact Rev. Heather (revheather.parkminster@gmail.com), Rev. Joe (revjoegaspar.parkminster@gmail.com) or Roxy Linkletter (roxylinkletter@gmail.com) to discuss.
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.
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION: Please join the MCEC Truth and Reconciliation Working Group in a four-part book online study. Walking Together: Intercultural Stories of Love and Acceptance challenges the church to grapple with questions of racism and Christian supremacy. We will meet online every other Wednesday, 7-9 p.m. The authors, Edith and Neill von Gunten will join us for the first week, Feb.15. For details, registration and where to buy the book click this link. from Nancy Dykstra
PiE FOR SUPPER: Young adults are invited each week to build connections with others seeking justice-minded faith expressions. Each evening dinner will be provided and a short time of worship before breaking off into small groups or social time. Monday nights @ 6pm held at WK United Mennonite Church, 15 George St., Waterloo. This program is happening now and ends on March 6th. Visit https://pastorsinexile.org/ for full information about this organization. Contact: Steph Chandler Burns, they/them/theirs (steph@pastorsinexile.org) .
UNITED AGAINST HATE – AFFIRM UNITED EVENT: As a special United in Learning event, join Affirm United/S’affirmer Ensemble and Affirming Connections to learn about the malicious misinformation campaign and threats that have been launched against the drag and 2SLGBTQ+ communities across Canada – and what you can do. For full details and to register, please visit: United Against Hate: February 15
MEN’S BREAKFAST CLUB: The February Men’s Breakfast will be at Kypreos Restaurant this Wednesday, February 15 at 8:00AM. We hope you can make it.
EARTHQUAKE: On Monday, February 6, a series of powerful earthquakes struck southern Türkiye (Turkey) near the border with Syria. The quakes caused extensive damage and loss of lives. At time of writing, the death toll has surpassed 20,000 people, and thousands more are missing. The winter weather makes the situation even more dire for people who are without shelter, warm clothes, blankets, water, and food. Some of the people affected by the earthquake were already displaced by conflict. Today, people need emergency shelter, blankets, mattresses, clean water, food, and hygiene items. We join Mission & Service partners the Middle East Council of Churches, ACT Alliance, the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, and the Humanitarian Coalition to show tangible support for the people of Türkiye and Syria. You can be a part of these efforts by donating now. You are welcome to make a donation through Parkminster (via an envelope or e-transfer) – the money will be sent by Parkminster to The United Church of Canada. Donations through Parkminster will also be included in your Parkminster tax receiptable donations for 2023. Alternatively, you may visit this link to donate directly through The United Church of Canada’s Emergency Response Fund: https://united-church.ca/social-action/act-now/earthquake-turkiye. Thank you for your generosity.
MIX’N MINGLE SOCIAL: The Membership and Pastoral Care Committee is organizing another Mix’n Mingle social event. Wednesday, February 15, 1:30-3:00PM. This time it’ll be an old-fashioned sing-along with Bob Hudgins at the keyboard, and Delores Benedik and Darlene Basse leading the singing. Song sheets will be provided…old time favourites…Heart of My Heart, Get Me to The Church on Time, McNamara’s Band, My Wild Irish Rose, Somewhere Over The Rainbow, Show Me The Way to Go Home, and dozens of others. Desserts and beverages will be provided. So, plan to come along and sing-along, and bring a friend. It’ll be a fun afternoon!
PARKMINSTER LENTEN CALENDAR: Here it is! Your 2023 version of the Parkminster Lenten Calendar which begins Wed, February 22nd (Ash Wednesday). Please let us know what some of your outcomes were…Did you learn something new about recycling? Share a new recipe you used? What was the first sign of Spring you saw? Did you find clothing that you forgot you had? What would you add to the calendar as a suggestion for an activity? We would
also like to share calendar info during Blessings /Concerns time. Thank you, Shelley Mutton, Wendy Watson
A BETTER TENT CITY: This Sunday, January 29, Nadine Green, will talk to the congregation about A Better Tent City (ABTC). Nadine has been instrumental in setting up ABTC, lives in one of the tiny homes and is the On-Site Supervisor and Site Coordinator. Parkminster has a strong connection with A Better Tent City. Laura Hamilton, a Parkminster member, prepares meals and is the co-ordinator for the volunteers who provide the daily meals. Parkminster also has a group of regular volunteers who provide desserts bi-monthly and there is a bi-monthly collection of juice boxes and granola bars. Please plan to join us for worship that morning. A time for questions and a chance to connect with Nadine will follow the service in the gym. To learn more about homelessness and A Better Tent City please click on this link to an excellent video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hhRe1HHkfU&ab_channel=AlairHomesy
PIZZA PARTY FOR A BETTER TENT CITY: On the fourth Sunday of every month there will be an
opportunity to contribute towards a monthly pizza dinner for residents of A Better Tent City. Just drop
your loonies, toonies and small bills into the pizza boxes in the Narthex after the service. Donations will
be sent to A Better Tent City to help provide a monthly pizza meal. Donations can also be sent by
mailing a check to the church or by e-transfer. Be sure to write ABTC Pizza on your check or e-transfer.
WORKSHOPS—ANTI-RACISM AND THE UCC: Join other United Church people for these A
two exciting workshops on February 7th and March 7th and play your part in helping the
UCC become an anti-racist church, information here . Workshops are free of charge and
feature dynamic facilitators. Attending both is preferred but if that’s not possible feel free
to go to the one that works for your schedule.
THANK YOU FROM ONE-ROOF: “Dear Congregation at Parkminster United, On behalf of the oneROOF Youth Services Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and the youth we serve, I would like to thank you for partnering with us as we continue to support the youth of Waterloo Region. Youth who are homeless, or at-risk of homelessness, rely on oneROOF Youth Services to provide basic needs, shelter and staff support; as well as referrals. Your generosity allows us to continue to offer these services to youth, and helps us to address the growing gaps in services for this vulnerable population. Thank you for joining us in our belief that one youth on the street is one too many.” Sandy Dietrich-Bell MSW, RSW, CEO “Thank you for reaching out to oneROOF Youth Services and keeping us in your thoughts at this time of year. We are grateful for your generosity and to inform you that all of the items are in circulation. We appreciate your thoughtfulness and supporting our mission that “one youth on the street is one too many”. It truly takes a
village…thank you for doing your part so that we can continue to do ours!” from Bonnie Kropf, Fund Developer
FIRST UNITED CHURCHFREE Noon Hour Concerts 2023
(King & William Streets, Waterloo)
Tuesdays 12:15 – 12:45 (45th Season)
Lunch available from 11:30/Donations welcome Click here for schedule
GRAND RIVER COMMUNITY PLAY PROJECT: This community play is already well underway. If you love community theatre and love the Grand this might capture your imagination. There’s time to get involved, since the play itself is planned for next year, 2024. Click here for more information.
The January Men’s Breakfast gathering will be at Kypreos Restaurant at 8:00am this
Wednesday, January 18th. Hope to see you there!
After SEVEN years, Sue Usaty is passing the baton to John Bain as the group’s new
Coordinator. If you, or anyone you know, is interested in joining the weekly walking group,
please email John at 2thebains@gmail.com . A big thanks to Sue for helping the group get
their steps in over these many years!
THANKS TO OUR YOUTH GROUP! Many thanks to Wendy Rudd and members of Parkminster’s youth group for packing up and delivering all of The Giving Tree donations collected over the Advent/Christmas season to oneROOF. Their efforts are greatly appreciated – as were the many donations brought in this year!
JANUARY YOUTH MEETUP: Our next youth group gathering will be on Saturday, January 21 at the church (Youth Room) from 1:00 – 3:00p.m. All youth are welcome!
YW Shelter Thanks You! – THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP! Your Outreach Committee is grateful for the talented bakers who provided a great variety of homemade baked goods for the YW Shelter. These were enthusiastically welcomed by the YW Shelter staff on the afternoon of Wednesday, December 14th. Thank you also for the cash donations used to purchase 3 turkeys which were delivered at the same time and much appreciated! The Halal turkey was purchased and delivered on December 18. Generosity for those in need is a Parkminster blessing!
THANK YOU PARKMINSTER!!! Your Outreach Committee is happy
to share Good News! Parkminster heard the need for cash
donations to The FoodBank of Waterloo Region, and your generous
response brought in a total of $1,865! When matched by Conestoga
Meats, that worked out to a $3,730 donation! Thank you so much,
but more importantly, hundreds in our community thank 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
The Inclusive Ministries Committee has created a Black History Month calendar that corresponds with the themes of our Sunday Services in February. Each week contains questions for reflection and/or prompts for conversation and action. 2022-Black-History-Month-Calendar-IV.pdf