You are not alone. Come share the journey.

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

WATERLOO UNITED CHURCHES – SHARED YOUTH MEETING: Happy New Year! It’s a good time of the year to make a new habit, such as joining a youth group 😉 We are trying out Wednesday meetings instead of Thursdays in January, so if you are available on Wednesday nights, please consider coming to our meeting this year. Our first joint youth group meeting of this year is scheduled for January 17th (Wed) at 7:00 p.m. If the outdoor skating rinks are in good condition that week, we’ll meet at the Waterloo Public Square rink (75 King Street South). 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 Branch of Waterloo Public Library website: https://wpl.ca/skates. Our second youth meeting will be on the 31st of January. 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, Rebecca Whiting and Yoonjoo Shin

VOICES OF FAITH WORSHIP SERIES: At Parkminster we hold dear the idea that we’re all on a journey of faith and different journeys reveal different truths about faith, our understandings of God and how this affects how we move in the world. Beginning this month and for the next 5 months we’re going to be inviting people of faith from the community at large to come and preach about whatever might be sitting on their hearts at the moment as something of importance they want to share. In addition to preaching these speakers will pick a scriptural passage and a hymn. Rev. Joe will put the rest of the service together and be present to preside. The hope is to have one such speaker per month. This initiative is also part of the Ministry and Personnel Committee’s strategy in supporting Rev. Joe as he transitions into a changed role with added responsibilities.
The first speaker in this series will be Rev. Jenn Hind on January 14th. You might likely know them best as the former Minister at Emmanuel United Church. Rev. Hind has since moved on to work at the Stedman Community Hospice in Brantford. She graduated Seminary from Martin Luther University College in 2016 with a Masters Degrees in Divinity as well as Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy. Jenn will speak to us on darkness as a generative place, as God’s Womb. She will draw directly from their experience of providing spiritual care in a Hospice where she is bearing witness to grief, loss and death everyday and has come to see dark and light not as binaries in opposition but rather each having their own purpose.

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM BETHANY MCMULLEN (SUNDAY SCHOOL COORDINATOR): My name is Bethany McMullen and I’m thrilled to be the new Sunday School co-ordinator and youth group leader here. I have been a member here at Parkminster for 5 and a bit years now, alongside my mom and grandparents, and if you’ve seen me around, it’s probably been in the choir or helping with the Christmas pageants the last couple years.
I am finishing up my Social Development Studies degree specializing in Education at the University of Waterloo, and I’m very passionate about children’s education and social justice issues. I’ve been lucky to research anti-Black racism in connection with restorative education practices as a research assistant, and have taken many courses on social movements, educational equity, children’s rights, and diversity and inclusion. I also have a strong interest in how we develop children’s confidence and encourage their exploration in their faith and the world. I am passionate about how we treat our children and youth and that they feel like as valued as they truly are here at Parkminster. Because of this – I’d like to try something new
and unfortunately parents, this means you have some homework… I’m hoping to include some pictures of what the kids here have talked about in Sunday School in the service during announcements. Along with the What’sUp I’m going to be sending either a prompt for photos or a picture to colour and if you email it to me by Wednesday night, I’ll put it together into the slides. If you don’t get it to me in that time, I’ll include it the next week so if that schedule doesn’t work for your family, no worries! I look forward to getting to know all of the kids and youth here for the rest of the school year!

SONGS THAT GO LIKE THIS BY THE RAINBOW CHORUS – JANUARY 27, 2024 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm at Harcourt Memorial United Church (87 Dean Avenue in Guelph, Ontario) Conducted by Artistic Director Alison MacNeill (she/her) with Collaborative Pianist Chris Fischer (they/them) Come hear the Rainbow Chorus of Waterloo-Wellington present Songs That Go Like This, a Dose of queer choral joy is a perfect antidote to the winter blues. This concert was partially inspired by works heard at last season’s Stratford Festival with a nod towards Spamalot with The Song That Goes Like This by Monty Python’s Eric Idle as well as Johnathan Larson’s beloved Seasons of Love from RENT. Favourites from Elton John, Gordon Lightfoot, Sara Bareilles,
Erasure, and others will provide laughter, beauty, contemplation, and community. Single tickets are available for $25/adults and $10/students online at rainbowchorus.ca Last minute tickets available at the door as supplies last. Get yours now to avoid disappointment! The Rainbow Chorus of Waterloo-Wellington is a community choir that welcomes members of all genders, sexualities, gender expressions, and allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. No auditions are required of members and the chorus welcomes varying levels of musical skills, including those who do not read sheet music and who learn by listening and repetition.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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