Posted on

St. Johns Street Car-Free on August 20

St. Johns Street Car-Free on August 20

On this coming Sunday, the City of Port Moody is hosting a “Car-Free Day”.  St. Johns Street is closed to all vehicle traffic between Moody and Douglas streets from 6 am to 10 pm.  Street parking on surrounding roads will be extremely limited.  The parking lot for the church will be accessible from Douglas and Elgin streets along the lane.  However, this is a great day to consider carpooling with another parishioner in your area!  Team up and save on spaces.  The following map was published by the City:

Posted on

The E-postle

July 30, 2017

 

“The Parish of St. John the Apostle is called to be

*          A Spirited Community at the heart of Port Moody

*          transformed through the experience of the      presence of Christ

*          and sent out to share God’s Love”

– mission statement

Sacred Music

Last Sunday, July 23, everyone in the congregation that was present got to choose their favourite hymn.  We selected a few to sing during the service.  What we sing reflects what we believe.  Music in liturgy has an important role to play in expressing our faith, reinforcing the teaching of Christ, and challenging our assumptions about how God works in the world. Interestingly, the songs chosen reflect what the members of this community hold dear.

The top five hymns chosen were “All Things Bright and Beautiful”, “Morning Has Broken”, “Be Thou My Vision”, “Come and Journey”, and “Holy, Holy, Holy”.  Many of the submissions had themes of praise and trust in God.  Interestingly, there were fewer choices that centre on sharing one’s faith, outreach, and mission.  These are areas that challenge us to move from our comfort zones (even in singing) and express solidarity with God’s mission and goals.

In our life together in community, we try to have a balance of old and new songs, personal and corporate expressions, joyful outpourings and lament.  The worship group will try and incorporate the hymns you suggested into the coming weeks.  As you rejoice in some and struggle with others, remember that they carry the hopes and prayers of others in our parish.  And when a new hymn comes on a Sunday morning, you are encouraged to try it to hear what God is calling out of you.  Be an active participant in the liturgy and “make a joyful noise unto the Lord” as the psalmist tells us (even if it is not necessarily a tuneful one!).

Yours in Christ,

Stephanie+

Upcoming Dates

July 30- 12:30 pm, Fawcett-Fennell Wedding

August 6- 8:30 am and 10 am, guest preacher the Rev. Michael Chin

August 28- 7 pm, Parish Council. All are welcome to attend

September 10- after 10 am service, “Back to Church” Parish Picnic

September 18- 1:30 pm, Seniors’ Tea

Stewardship Reflection
This week we hear part of the story of Jacob from Genesis 29.  When Jacob goes to work for his kinsman Laban, his uncle asks him “Tell me, what shall your wages be?”

Jacob decides to labour seven years for the hand of Rachel in marriage.  What effort are we willing to put in to make our goal a reality?  How can we maintain our persistence over the long haul?

Summer Program for Young People

Children are invited to explore stories and activities during part of the 10 am service with Ts’uwtun, our helper bear.  This week’s First People’s Principle of Learning is “learning involves generational roles and responsibilities”.  The animal chosen for this week is the sea lion, which represents the wisdom and value of the elders in community.

 BC Wildfire Response through PWRDF

PWRDF is sending an initial grant of $5,000 to the Territory of the People to support their ongoing immediate relief efforts. These funds, along with $5,000 approved from the Diocese, will augment ongoing relief expenses.  Bishop Barbara Andrews has appointed the Right Reverend Gordon Light (retired) to liaise with PWRDF and oversee disbursed funds. The Diocesan grant is paying for food vouchers, toiletries, bus fare, clothing etc., whatever is of practical help, writes Bishop Light in an email to PWRDF.  Bishop Light writes that the $5,000 grant from PWRDF will help support these immediate needs, but notes that in the longer term, funds may also be required to support post-trauma assistance. “And there may be specific projects that we can identify that would assist people/communities in which there has been loss of homes or facilities.”

PWRDF encourages donations to its emergency fund which will be used to support needs in British Columbia. Donations can be made via credit card over the phone (toll free at 1-866-308-7973), or online at our Canada Helps page at pwrdf.org/donate. Choose Emergency Response from the drop down menu.  You can also mail a cheque to The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund, The Anglican Church of Canada, 80 Hayden Street, Toronto, Ontario M4Y 3G2. Please note “Emergency Response” on your cheque.

 First Nations 101 Book Study

First Nations 101 is an easy to read primer that provides readers with a broad overview of the diverse and complex lives of First Nations people. It is packed with more than 70 subjects including education, youth, child welfare, urbanization, appropriate questions to ask a First Nations person, feminism, the medicine wheel, Two-spirit (LGBTQ), residential schools, the land bridge theory, and language preservation. Author Lynda Gray endeavours to leave readers with a better understanding of the shared history of First Nations and non-First Nations people, and ultimately calls upon all of us – individuals, communities, and governments – to play active roles in bringing about true reconciliation between First Nations and non-First Nations people.

Those interested in joining a book study on First Nations 101 in the fall can speak to one of the clergy or contact the parish office.

There is now a signup sheet on the parish news board in the hall, so please mark your availability and a time will be picked to accommodate as many as possible to attend.

Opportunity to Volunteer with the Mission to Seafarers

The Rev. Peter Smyth, senior chaplain at the Mission to Seafarers, is looking for Anglicans to volunteer as visitors to the ships who come into berth here in Port Moody.  Excellent training is provided.  There is a write-up coming in the September issue of TOPIC, but if you are interested you may contact Peter at vanchaplain.missiontoseafarers@gmail.com or phone the Flying Angels Club at 604-253-4421.

Prayer Cycle

In the Anglican Communion- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby; Primate of Canada Fred Hiltz; BC & Yukon Archbishop John Privett; our partner Diocese of Northern Philippines, Bishop Brent Alawas, and especially the people of our twin church at St. Johns Mission, Bila, Mountain Province; Diocese of New Westminster Bishop Melissa Skelton, and this week:

St. Oswald, Port Kells – The Reverend Gordon Shields

The Anglican Church Women, Diocese of New Westminster – Margaret Warwick (Chair)

The Diocese of Pennsylvania – (The Episcopal Church), The Rt. Rev. Daniel Gutierrez

The Diocese of Pittsburgh – (The Episcopal Church), The Rt. Rev. Dorsey W M McConnell

The Diocese of Saskachewan (Council of the North)-  the Rt. Rev. Michael Hawkins,

Indigenous Bishop Adam Halkett;

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada- National Bishop Susan Johnson,

BC Synod Bishop Greg Mohr;

The brothers and sisters who share our worship space: The Port Moody Korean

Presbyterian Church and the Polish Evangelical Church.

Readings for Pentecost 9/Transfiguration, August 6, 2017 

Daniel 7:9-10, and 13-14; 2 Peter 1:16-19;  Luke 9:28-36

Important Contact Information

Interim Priest– The Rev. Stephanie Shepard rev.seshepard@gmail.com or 778-773-6816

Parish Office– Karen Evans stjohn7@shaw.ca or 604-936-7762

Wardens– Geri Grigg gerigrigg@gmail.com Terry Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

Maureen Simons mesimons@telus.net or through the parish office

Treasurer– Chelsea Belyk chelsea.belyk@gmail.com

Parish Council– Adelaine Miller, Secretary adelainemiller@shaw.ca

St. John Prayer Circle– Sue Ellliott Elliott.sue1@gmail.com

Pastoral Visiting Ministry– Joanne Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

or Alma Oldenburg almaolden@hotmail.com

Anglican Church Women (ACW)- Sue Hall 604-936-0176 sbhcat@hotmail.com

Posted on

The Epostle – July, 23rd, 2017

The E-postle

July 23, 2017

 “The Parish of St. John the Apostle is called to be

*          A Spirited Community at the heart of Port Moody

*          transformed through the experience of the presence of Christ

*          and sent out to share God’s Love”

– mission statement

Education for Ministry (aka EfM) for Fall 2017

As we study more of our scripture and our tradition, we work towards developing and creating a faith that means most to us.  Study is not about denying what was said in the past but about learning how God’s message from the past impacts our actions now and in the future.

In a recent posting in his daily reflection Richard Rohr wrote …“transformation does not mean simply acquiring a new set of beliefs, but becoming a new person, a person in communion with God and others through Jesus Christ. It is in that moment that we can love each other unconditionally, not to get something in return, but because we are all held together in the love of God.”

The EfM program offers a chance for us to transform ourselves into being all that God wants us to be and to be bearers of God’s love with all of creation.

The theme for each year of study is

Year A  “Living Faithfully in Your World”

Year B  “Living Faithfully in the Global Village”

Year C  “Living as Spiritually Mature Christians”

Year D  “Our Journey into God”.

The EfM curriculum has been recently updated. Some of the study materials over the four years are:

Hebrew Scripture (Year A); Christian Testament (Year B); ‘The First Three Thousand Years of Christianity’ (Diarmaid MacCulloch) (Year C); ‘Theology: A Very Short Introduction’ (David Ford),  ‘Mysteries of Faith’ (Mark McIntosh), ‘The Christian Moral Life: Practices of Piety’ (Timothy F. Sedgwick), ‘My Neighbor’s Faith’ (Jennifer Howe Peace, Or N. Rose, and Gregory Mobley, eds) (Year D).

To help us reflect theologically on the world we will also be reading this year ‘Fighting with the Bible: Why Scripture Divides us and How it Can Bring us Together’ (Donn Morgan) and ‘The Dream of God: A Call to Return’ (Verna Dozie).

There is a display of the books we have read over the years in the Narthex and a sign-up sheet for those who wish to be contacted about participating. The Mentors are Debora Jones-Akiyama and Deacon Anne Anchor who are required each year to attend a refresher training session. This program is strongly supported by Bishop Melissa Skelton who has been a student and mentor in the past. The Deanery has had a group running yearly since 1998 and we have many graduates from EfM who are members of St. John’s.

We meet Wednesday evenings at 6:45–9:15 pm, September to May, with breaks for Christmas and Holy Week.  Please contact Anne Anchor at a.anchor@telus.net if you would like to sign up.

Summer Program for Young People

Children are invited to explore stories and activities during part of the 10 am service with Ts’uwtun, our helper bear.  This week’s First People’s Principle of Learning is “learning involves recognizing the consequences of one’s actions”.  The symbol chosen for this week is the Salmon.  It represents determination and persistence in its return home from the sea, as well as abundance and prosperity because it is a principal food source for First Nations peoples.  The salmon life cycle also reminds us of the renewal of life, and how we are responsible for the future as well as the present.

image sourced from Heisla-Heiltsuk artist Mervin Winsor, courtesy of First Nations Squamish Lilwat Cultural Centre

 

Upcoming Dates

July 23- “Hymns from a Hat” Sunday

July 26- 9:30 onwards, Coffee & Crafts in the hall

July 29- 1:30 pm, Vegt-Easton Wedding

July 30- 12:30 pm, Fawcett-Fennell Wedding

September 10- after 10 am service, “Back to Church” Parish Picnic

 

Stewardship Reflection
Do we put God first in our lives? The Bible gives us a guide for our giving in the tithe, which means one tenth, or 10%.  What might be the standard in your community? Is there room for you to grow your proportion? Consider a personal goal of 5% to the parish and diocesan outreach and 5% to favorite charities.  – from Glen Mitchell

 

Interim Working Group

The interim working group met on Monday July 10 to begin dividing up the work of preparing for the writing of a parish profile by researching what we know about our community and what we still need to discern.  A survey is being prepared for all parishioners, especially those who have not had the opportunity to engage in the larger group processes.  Hopefully this will be distributed by email soon and taken out to all who do not have the means to reply electronically.

 

3030 Gordon House

The ongoing outreach through 3030 Gordon is looking for donations of new/gently used socks and new underwear to distribute to those in need.  For more information, speak to Mary-Lou Kyle or Ruby Ng.

 

First Nations 101 Book Study

“This is a book I wish I had as a professor of Native Studies.  It is a book I wish I had written.”

-Dr. Martin Brokenleg

 

First Nations 101 is an easy to read primer that provides readers with a broad overview of the diverse and complex lives of First Nations people. It is packed with more than 70 subjects including education, youth, child welfare, urbanization, appropriate questions to ask a First Nations person, feminism, the medicine wheel, Two-spirit (LGBTQ), residential schools, the land bridge theory, and language preservation. Author Lynda Gray endeavours to leave readers with a better understanding of the shared history of First Nations and non-First Nations people, and ultimately calls upon all of us – individuals, communities, and governments – to play active roles in bringing about true reconciliation between First Nations and non-First Nations people.

Those interested in joining a book study on First Nations 101 in the fall are asked to speak to one of the clergy or contact the parish office.  Day or evening sessions will be decided to accommodate the most participants.

Prayer Cycle

In the Anglican Communion- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby; Primate of Canada Fred Hiltz; BC & Yukon Archbishop John Privett; our partner Diocese of Northern Philippines, Bishop Brent Alawas, and especially the people of our twin church at St. Johns Mission, Bila, Mountain Province; Diocese of New Westminster Bishop Melissa Skelton, and this week:         Osun North East Diocese (Ibadan, Nigeria) – The Rt Revd Humphery Olumakaiye;Diocese of Saskachewan (Council of the North)-  the Rt. Rev. Michael Hawkins, Indigenous Bishop Adam Halkett; St. Christopher, West Vancouver –beginning interim ministry with the Rev. Karen Urquhart;   St. Anne, Steveston – The Rev. Brian Vickers, The Rev. Mark Munn The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada- National Bishop Susan Johnson, BC Synod Bishop Greg Mohr;The brothers and sisters who share our worship space: The Port Moody Korean Presbyterian Church and the Polish Evangelical Church.

Readings for Pentecost 8:  July 30, 2017 

Genesis 29:15-28; Romans 8:26-39; Matthew 13:31-33 and 44-52

 Important Contact Information

Interim Priest– The Rev. Stephanie Shepard rev.seshepard@gmail.com or 778-773-6816

Parish Office– Karen Evans stjohn7@shaw.ca or 604-936-7762

Wardens– Geri Grigg gerigrigg@gmail.com Terry Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

Maureen Simons mesimons@telus.net or through the parish office

Treasurer– Chelsea Belyk chelsea.belyk@gmail.com

Parish Council– Adelaine Miller, Secretary adelainemiller@shaw.ca

St. John Prayer Circle– contact Joan Scott until July 25 at Joan.Scott@hotmail.com

Pastoral Visiting Ministry– Joanne Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

or Alma Oldenburg almaolden@hotmail.com

Anglican Church Women (ACW)- Sue Hall 604-936-0176 sbhcat@hotmail.com

Posted on

The E-postle July 16, 2017

 

 

Summer for the children

Last week we introduced the learning topic during the summer for the children, during the readings and homily.

They will be learning the ‘First People’s Principles of Learning’ The First Principle for last week was….

     ‘Learning ultimately supports the well-being of the self, the family, the community, the land, the spirits and the ancestors’ and the image selected for this was the whale. Each principle is also a reflection of what they learn in Godly Play about God and Jesus.

A First Nations bear puppet, that we have named Ts’owton and means helper in Strait Salish, will be the leader to the class and return to the liturgy

This week the children will be introduced to the Second Principle….

Learning is holistic, reflexive, reflective, experiential, and relational (Focused on             connectedness, on reciprocal relationships and a sense of place).

 

The symbol chosen for this is the wolf.

These summer  sessions have been prepared by Christina Anchor and Deacon Anne.  

“The Parish of St. John the Apostle is called to be

*          A Spirited Community at the heart of Port Moody

*          transformed through the experience of the presence of Christ

*          and sent out to share God’s Love”

– mission statement

 

Yours in Christ,

Stephanie+

 

Upcoming Dates

July 16- guest preacher and presider the Rev. Peter Smythe, Mission to Seafarers

July 17- 7:30-9 pm, Beer & Bible at the Parkside Brewery, 2731 Murray Street, Port Moody

July 23- “Hymns from a Hat” Sunday

July 26- 9:30 onwards, Coffee & Crafts in the hall

 

Stewardship Reflection
Do we put God First in our lives?

Financial resources and their proper use are a popular theme in the Bible.We are expected to make informed and appropriate decisions about our resources. What do we now have? What do we now give away? How might we be encouraged to take a step in faith beyond that and gradually increase giving to 1 %, 2 % or 3 % of income until a definition of a tithe is achieved? Glen Mittchell

 Prayer Cycle

In the Anglican Communion- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby; Primate of Canada Fred Hiltz; BC & Yukon Archbishop John Privett; our partner Diocese of Northern Philippines, Bishop Brent Alawas, and especially the people of our twin church at St. Johns Mission, Bila, Mountain Province;

Diocese of New Westminster Bishop Melissa Skelton, and this week:

St. Mary Magdalene, Vancouver – The Reverend John Marsh

The Deanery of Kingsway, The Reverend Heidi Brear, Regional Dean   The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada- National Bishop Susan Johnson, BC Synod Bishop Greg Mohr;The brothers and sisters who share our worship space: The Port Moody Korean Presbyterian Church and the Polish Evangelical Church.

 

Cookies for Mission to Seafarers

Whether it be local, national or international, the global network of Mission to Seafarers centres (www.missiontoseafarers.org) offer a warm and hospitable “home away from home,” for those who visit the worlds ports.  As we welcome the Rev. Peter Smythe this weekend, we also invite you to bake a few batches of cookies for Rev. Smythe to take back and share those treats with those who would appreciate them the most!! Your donation of cookies for the Mission is greatly appreciated!

Thanks to you, $379,000 is eligible for government Famine Relief matching fund

The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund is pleased to report it has received $379,000 in donations toward famine relief. These funds will be matched 1:1 in the federal government’s Famine Relief Fund, which ran from March 17 to June 30, 2017.
Using $20,000 of its equity in the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, PWRDF has already supported an ADRA (Adventist Relief and Development Agency) South Sudan food distribution project.
Over the coming weeks and months, PWRDF will be funding projects in the worst affected countries under the direction of Humanitarian Response Coordinator Naba Gurung and members of PWRDF’s Development Team. “PWRDF will continue to support the work of ACT Alliance members and forums who have long experiences in applying community-based approaches,” says Gurung.
Churches and individuals responded to the desperate need in amounts large and small. “Having just spent two weeks in East Africa, meeting with farmers, business people, government officials and church leaders, including those from Somalia, Burundi, Kenya and South Sudan, I know the needs are high and that support is critical and life-saving,” says PWRDF’s Executive Director Will Postma. “PWRDF, with our partners on the ground, are grateful for prayers and this funding, from all across Canada. It’s an amazing show of support and solidarity.”
The federal fund matching period has ended, but PWRDF is still accepting donations to its Famine Relief Fund as the need continues. THANK YOU!

 

Readings for Pentecost 7:  July 23, 2017 

Genesis 28:10-19a; Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13:24-30 and 26-43

 Important Contact Information

Interim Priest– The Rev. Stephanie Shepard rev.seshepard@gmail.com or 778-773-6816

Parish Office– Karen Evans stjohn7@shaw.ca or 604-936-7762

Wardens– Geri Grigg gerigrigg@gmail.com Terry Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net  Maureen Simons mesimons@telus.net or through the parish office

Treasurer– Chelsea Belyk chelsea.belyk@gmail.com

Parish Council– Adelaine Miller, Secretary adelainemiller@shaw.ca

St. John Prayer Circle– Sue Elliott elliott.sue1@gmail.com

Pastoral Visiting Ministry– Joanne Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

or Alma Oldenburg almaolden@hotmail.com

Anglican Church Women (ACW)- Sue Hall 604-936-0176 sbhcat@hotmail.com

 

Posted on

The E-postle July 9, 2017

The E-postle

July 9, 2017

 

Summer for the children

Over the summer months the children will have an opportunity, during the readings and homily, to learn about the ‘First People’s Principles of Learning’ that were presented to us at Diocesan Synod this year.  They will hear a story from the First Nations tradition and in their own colouring books (which they can take home at the end of summer) they will colour a First Nations symbol that reflects the learning. Each principle is also a reflection of what they learn in Godly Play about God and Jesus.

The Principle for the week will be introduced at the Children’s Talk by a First Nations bear puppet who will be their leader to the class and their return to the liturgy

The First Principle for this week is….

     ‘Learning ultimately supports the well-being of the self, the family, the community, the land, the spirits and the ancestors’ and the image selected for this is the whale

 

These summer sessions have been prepared by Christina Anchor and Deacon Anne.

 

“The Parish of St. John the Apostle is called to be

*          A Spirited Community at the heart of Port Moody

*          transformed through the experience of the                 presence of Christ

*          and sent out to share God’s Love”

– mission statement

Upcoming Dates

July 8- 9 am to noon, summer yard and garden clean-up

July 9- guest preacher and presider the Most Rev. Douglas Hambidge, retired Archbishop

July 12- 9:30 onwards, Coffee & Crafts in the hall

July 16- guest preacher and presider the Rev. Peter Smythe, Mission to Seafarers

July 17- 7:30-9 pm, Beer & Bible at the Parkside Brewery, 2731 Murray Street, Port Moody

July 23- “Hymns from a Hat” Sunday

July 26- 9:30 onwards, Coffee & Crafts in the hall

Stewardship Reflection

Do we put God first in our lives?

God does not judge us by how much we give but by how faithful we are in making that gift. So it is too with our talents and our time. What counts is the extent to which we give each away, in faith, to help others.    Glen Mitchell
Summer Yard and Garden Clean-up

Volunteers needed Saturday July 8, 9:00 til 12:00 noon  Edge the lawns, weed the flower beds, and clean the car park.  Help get the church looking neat and tidy for the summer!

Prayer Cycle

In the Anglican Communion- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby; Primate of Canada Fred Hiltz; BC & Yukon Archbishop John Privett; our partner Diocese of Northern Philippines, Bishop Brent Alawas, and especially the people of our twin church at St. Johns Mission, Bila, Mountain Province;

Diocese of New Westminster Bishop Melissa Skelton, and this week:

The Diocesan Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund Unit (PWRDF) – Peter Goodwin (Chair)

The Diocesan Ecumenical Multifaith Unit-The Reverend Robin Ruder-Celiz (Chair)

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada- National Bishop Susan Johnson, BC Synod Bishop Greg Mohr;

The brothers and sisters who share our worship space: The Port Moody Korean Presbyterian Church and the Polish Evangelical Church.

 

Readings for Pentecost 6:  July 16, 2017 

Genesis 25:19-34; Romans 8:1-11; Matthew 13:1-9 and 18-20

  

A Message from Deacon Trudi

After many months of hoping and praying we have heard some encouraging news about the family we are hoping to help settle in the Tri-Cities area!  They have been given a date for their interview, which means the process is going forward and hopefully we can expect them within the next few months.  The Refugee ReSponse Steering Committee meets next Tuesday and will be speaking with the brother of the family to get a better idea of what will be needed to set up the accommodations he has provided for them.

We are hoping we can put together a team of about 5 volunteers from the deanery parishes who will help get things ready.

We are also looking at the possibility of helping another family settle in our area, so more opportunities to volunteer will be available.  We have a person at St. Catherine’s who will be coordinating and vetting donations of goods, so when we know what we need we will be letting you know.

We thank you for your patience and prayers and ask you to continue to keep all refugees in your prayers.

 Volunteers needed for 3030 Gordon

Volunteers from St John parish has been helping with the clothing sorting at 3030 Gordon Ave, Coquitlam, a shelter that provides transitional housing for those in need. Currently, they are in dire need of socks and underwear for both men and women.  You may approach Rosa, Marylou or Ruby if you would like to donate the items.

For more info on the project, you may log in to: http://www.raincityhousing.org/what-we-do/3030-gordon-project-coquitlam/

 Important Contact Information

Interim Priest– The Rev. Stephanie Shepard rev.seshepard@gmail.com or 778-773-6816

Parish Office– Karen Evans stjohn7@shaw.ca or 604-936-7762

Wardens– Geri Grigg gerigrigg@gmail.com Terry Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

Maureen Simons mesimons@telus.net or through the parish office

Treasurer– Chelsea Belyk chelsea.belyk@gmail.com

Parish Council– Adelaine Miller, Secretary adelainemiller@shaw.ca

St. John Prayer Circle– Sue Elliott elliott.sue1@gmail.com

Pastoral Visiting Ministry– Joanne Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

or Alma Oldenburg almaolden@hotmail.com

Anglican Church Women (ACW)- Sue Hall 604-936-0176 sbhcat@hotmail.com

Posted on

The E-postle- June 25, 2017

 

“The Parish of St. John the Apostle is called to be

*          A Spirited Community at the heart of Port Moody

*          transformed through the experience of the                                presence of Christ

*          and sent out to share God’s Love”

– draft mission statement

The Work Does Not Stop

As we come to the end of June, many of us are looking forward to some down time during the summer months.  For the community of St. Johns, however, the work continues to identify the vision and goals. It is vitally important that you keep in touch with what is going on through email, contacts, and participation in the ongoing interim process.

Your reflections on the Sources of Transformation gatherings during Lent, the parish forum on Goals and Marks of Mission, and the Liturgy Workshop are being collated for themes.  Based on what you have provided, an interim working group composed of the wardens and synod delegates/alternates is busy with four tasks:

  1. To develop an electronic/written survey for individuals that will help each person’s voice be part of the parish identity and priorities
  2. To write a narrative statement of “who we are” as a parish
  3. To describe the challenges for this community
  4. To research the components of a parish profile document in preparation for the fall

The next step coming out of these tasks is to reflect what we have gathered back to the parish community, through group gatherings and perhaps some one-on-one visiting for those who find it difficult to attend events.  We can then discern the pieces that are still missing and how to fill in the gaps.  When we get to the stage of writing the parish profile that will call a new rector, it will reflect the depth and honesty of the work we have put into it.  Please be a part of this great work.

Yours in Christ,

Stephanie+

Upcoming Dates

June 25- 11:30 am-3 pm, Deanery Picnic at Blue Mountain Park

June 26- 7 pm, Parish Council in the Parish Ministry Centre, all welcome to attend

July 9- guest preacher and presider the Most Rev. Douglas Hambidge retired Archbishop

July 12- 9:30 onwards, Coffee & Crafts in the hall

July 16- guest preacher and presider the Rev. Peter Smythe, Mission to Seafarers

July 23- “Hymns from a Hat” Sunday

July 26- 9:30 onwards, Coffee & Crafts in the hall

Summer Program for Children at St. Johns

Our Sunday school will be taking a break from Godly Play over the summer and instead will be focusing on the 9 First Peoples Principles of Learning. The lessons will be simple and fun and will entail reading a simple children’s story book and linking the lessons of the stories to an Animal Spirit image. The children will then have a colouring activity to go along with these teachings. These lessons will take place in the Nursery and should be done in time to join in the Passing of the Peace.  Due to vacations, we are finding ourselves a bit short of teachers. All lessons will be pre-planned and all materials and teaching goals laid out, ready and waiting in the room for you! If you feel that you would like to be a part of these lessons over the summer (and perhaps continuing on when Godly Play resumes in September!), please contact Christina Anchor at clanchor15@gmail.com

 Stewardship Reflection
What are our priorities?
“Again, Jesus said, ‘take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions’” – Luke12:15

 Christ’s values are in contrast to the values of our contemporary society. We are being challenged to get our priorities right.  This is the heart and soul of Christian stewardship. The Baptismal Covenant is a helpful guide- the promises can become our Rule of Life. We dedicate ourselves to worshipping and praying, reflecting, seeking forgiveness and returning to God, living by Christ’s model, serving others in Christ’s name, and working toward justice and peace.
How might each of us carry this out, day by day and week by week?

AN IMPORTANT NOTE: Year-round stewardship means that we do not forget about God’s work when July and August roll around.  What can I do for the community of St. Johns during the summer months that is different from how I contribute the rest of the year?

 Special Sundays Coming Up

The next few Sundays each have a special focus, and ways for you to get involved in the life of St. Johns.  Our interim priest, Stephanie Shepard, will be away on vacation July 3-July 17, but…On Sunday July 9 we will be graced (literally) by retired Archbishop Douglas Hambidge, who brings his considerable experience and wisdom about stewardship to the parish.

On Sunday July 16, the Rev. Peter Smythe from the Mission to Seafarers will bring stories and news of this important diocesan ministry to those who come by ship to Burrard Inlet or Robert’s Bank.  Your contributions of warm socks or warm cookies for the seafarers is appreciated to put in our collection net this day.

On Sunday July 23 will be your opportunity to hear some special music as we play “Hymns from a Hat”.  Flip through the blue Common Praise hymnbook in the pews and consider your all-time favourite.  When you come to church that day, you will be asked to write down the number and title on a slip of paper, and we will draw entries to sing during the service.  “Silent Night” for the gradual, perhaps?  At the conclusion of the worship, how about an auction for the recessional number (How much would you pay not to hear a certain hymn?)

Coffee & Crafts: Double the Summer Fun!

The Coffee & Crafts group will be meeting twice a month in the summer to work on a variety of projects towards a fall bazaar.  Make new friends and learn new skills, or just sit and chat while admiring the handiwork of others.  All ages and abilities welcome.  Considering the parish hall has to be one of the coolest spots in town during the heat, this is the place to be.  9:30 am onwards on the following Wednesdays:  July 12, July 26, August 9, and August 23. 

No Garage Sale

No one has stepped forward to coordinate a garage sale, so there will not be a sale scheduled for this summer.  Please do not bring sale items to the Parish Ministry Centre until further notice. If you have an idea for a fundraising event that you are willing to spearhead, please speak to a warden or bring a proposal to Parish Council.  While recognizing that fundraising from parish events is important, there is understanding that parishes in transition have to prioritize how to best use people-power. If you do not have the energy to contribute time or talent to a fundraiser, consider how you can support the church’s vision budget over the summer months.

 Prayer Cycle

In the Anglican Communion- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby; Primate of Canada Fred Hiltz; BC & Yukon Archbishop John Privett; our partner Diocese of Northern Philippines, Bishop Brent Alawas, and especially the people of our twin church at St. Johns Mission, Bila, Mountain Province;

Diocese of New Westminster Bishop Melissa Skelton, and this week:

St. David / St. Paul, Powell River – The Reverend Faun Harriman

Our Deanery of Tri-Cities / North Burnaby – The Reverend Stephanie Shepard, Regional Dean

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada- National Bishop Susan Johnson, BC Synod Bishop Greg Mohr;

The brothers and sisters who share our worship space: The Port Moody Korean Presbyterian Church and the Polish Evangelical Church.

Readings for Pentecost 4:  July 2, 2017 

Genesis 22:1-14; Romans 6:12-23; Matthew 10:40-42

 Important Contact Information

Interim Priest– The Rev. Stephanie Shepard rev.seshepard@gmail.com or 778-773-6816

Parish Office– Karen Evans stjohn7@shaw.ca or 604-936-7762

Wardens– Geri Grigg gerigrigg@gmail.com Terry Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net  Maureen Simons mesimons@telus.net or through the parish office

Treasurer– Chelsea Belyk chelsea.belyk@gmail.com

Parish Council– Adelaine Miller, Secretary adelainemiller@shaw.ca

St. John Prayer Circle– Sue Elliott elliott.sue1@gmail.com

Pastoral Visiting Ministry– Joanne Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

or Alma Oldenburg almaolden@hotmail.com

Anglican Church Women (ACW)- Sue Hall 604-936-0176 sbhcat@hotmail.com

Posted on

E-postle June 18, 2017

The E-postle

June 18, 2017

 

“The Parish of St. John the Apostle is called to be

*          A Spirited Community at the heart of Port Moody

*          transformed through the experience of the presence of Christ

*          and sent out to share God’s Love”

– draft mission statement

 

National Aboriginal Day

June 21 is celebrated across Canada as National Aboriginal Day, and the General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada designates an Aboriginal Day of Prayer to be observed this day or on the Sunday closest.  This Sunday, therefore, we gather together to worship and to walk the path that Jesus sets before us towards truth, justice, and healing.  Whether we are settlers, First Nations, Inuit, or Metis on this land, we acknowledge that our Creator has given us responsibility to steward and share it with all creation.  Our gathering prayer sets the tone, as we invite the Spirit’s reconciling love to be with us.  We have still much to learn.    The following First Peoples Principles of Learning invite us to be open to other peoples’ teachings that are also grounded in the Good News.

Learning ultimately supports the well-being of the self, the family, the community, the land, the spirits, and the ancestors.

Learning is holistic, reflexive, reflective, experiential, and relational (focused on connectedness, on reciprocal relationships, and a sense of place).

Learning involves recognizing the consequences of one’s actions.

Learning involves generational roles and responsibilities.

Learning recognizes the role of indigenous knowledge.

Learning is embedded in memory, history, and story.

Learning involves patience and time.

Learning requires exploration of one’s identity.

Learning involves recognizing that some knowledge is sacred

and only shared with permission and/or in certain situations.

(for more information, visit www.fnesc.ca )

Yours in Christ,

Stephanie+

 

Upcoming Dates

June 20- 7 pm, Interim Working Group meeting in PMC

June 25- 11:30 am-3 pm, Deanery Picnic at Blue Mountain Park

June 26- 7 pm, Parish Council in the Parish Ministry Centre, all welcome to attend

July 9- guest preacher and presider the Most Rev. Douglas Hambidge, retired Archbishop

July 16- guest preacher and presider the Rev. Peter Smythe, Mission to Seafarers

Stewardship Reflection
In my Baptismal covenant, with God’s help:
I will continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers.

I will persevere in resisting evil and whenever I fall into sin, I will repent and return to the Lord.

I will proclaim by word and example the good news of God in Christ.

 I will seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving my neighbour as myself.

I will strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of every human being.


I will strive to safeguard the integrity of God’s creation, and respect, sustain and renew the life of the earth.

What do we give? Tom Shifflet says in living the life of the steward, as named in the Baptismal Covenant, “that each person offers whatever he\she has to Christ as a response to God.” Jesus ‘ own words are the key. “Much is required from the person to whom much is given”(Luke 12:48)

Glen Mitchell, Draw near to God

 

Interim Working Group

This week, the wardens, delegates and alternate delegates to Synod met to gauge where St. Johns is in the interim process. In the last five months, parishioners have been encouraged to be involved in the conversations, gatherings, and questions asked.  Now your ideas and comments are beginning to be collated to see what themes are emerging.  The next step will be to find ways to fill in the gaps of knowledge and to create a parish survey so that every voice will be heard and reflected in the process.

Church Picnic at  Blue Mountain Park

On Sunday June 25, 2017, Anglicans from across the Tri-Cities North Burnaby Deanery will be gathering for worship, food, and fun at Blue Mountain Park in Coquitlam.  The festivities begin at 11:30 am with a joint worship.  There will be a regular 8:30 am service and shortened 10 am service at St. Johns this day to allow people to choose to either come and have Eucharist here first or sleep in J and go directly to the park.  Following a “Prayer and Praise” in the park, lunch will be shared at the picnic shelters.  Participants are invited to bring lunch for themselves and something to share, e.g. vegetable sticks, cookies, watermelon, cheese and crackers, drinks.  That way, any guests or newcomers can be warmly invited to attend and to eat, drink, and be merry!  Those who have outdoor games suitable for any age are encouraged to bring them along (perhaps mark your name and phone number on the equipment).  Lawn darts or full contact croquet, anyone?

Refreshment Roster

The Refreshment Roster for Sundays is posted on the board where coffee is being served. Should you be willing to help out with getting coffee ready, or would like to provide TREATS for the 10 am service, please sign up or speak with Mel Moore or any of the volunteers.

A reminder that there will be no refreshments after the 10 am service on Sunday June 25 as the Deanery Picnic in Blue Mountain Park starts at 11:30 am.  Join us there for food and fellowship!

Prayer Cycle

In the Anglican Communion- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby; Primate of Canada Fred Hiltz; BC & Yukon Archbishop John Privett; our partner Diocese of Northern Philippines, Bishop Brent Alawas, and especially the people of our twin church at St. Johns Mission, Bila, Mountain Province;

Diocese of New Westminster Bishop Melissa Skelton, and this week:

St. Alban, Richmond –

The Reverend Maggie Rose Muldoon

St. Alban the Martyr, Burnaby –

The Reverend Roberta Fraser

St. John the Baptist, Sardis –

The Reverend Allan Carson

 

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada- National Bishop Susan Johnson, BC Synod Bishop Greg Mohr;

The brothers and sisters who share our worship space: The Port Moody Korean Presbyterian Church and the Polish Evangelical Church.

On Sunday June 18 we also celebrate those who are fathers in our lives:  our biological fathers, those we have known as Dad, and men who have encouraged, mentored, or counseled in our life journeys.  May the God who is Father of us all bless and hold them in love.

Readings for Pentecost 3: June 25th, 2017 

Genesis 21:8-21; Romans 6:1b-11; Matthew 10:24-39

Note: There is a regular 8:30 Eucharist and a shortened 10 am Eucharist on this Sunday.

 Important Contact Information

Interim Priest– The Rev. Stephanie Shepard rev.seshepard@gmail.com or 778-773-6816

Parish Office– Karen Evans stjohn7@shaw.ca  or 604-936-7762

Wardens– Geri Grigg gerigrigg@gmail.com Terry Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net  Maureen Simons mesimons@telus.net or through the parish office

Treasurer– Chelsea Belyk chelsea.belyk@gmail.com

Parish Council– Adelaine Miller, Secretary adelainemiller@shaw.ca

St. John Prayer Circle– Sue Elliott elliott.sue1@gmail.com

Pastoral Visiting Ministry– Joanne Walton terry&joanne_walton@telus.net

or Alma Oldenburg almaolden@hotmail.com

Anglican Church Women (ACW)- Sue Hall 604-936-0176 sbhcat@hotmail.com

Posted on

Deanery Picnic at Blue Mountain Park

On Sunday June 25, 2017, Anglicans from across the Tri-Cities North Burnaby Deanery will be gathering for worship, food, and fun at Blue Mountain Park in Coquitlam.  The festivities begin at 11:30 am with a joint worship.  There will be a regular 8:30 am service and shortened 10 am service at St. Johns this day to allow people to choose to either come and have Eucharist here first or sleep in J and go directly to the park.  Following a “Prayer and Praise” in the park, lunch will be shared at the picnic shelters.  Participants are invited to bring lunch for themselves and something to share, e.g. vegetable sticks, cookies, watermelon, cheese and crackers, drinks.  That way, any guests or newcomers can be warmly invited to attend and to eat, drink, and be merry!  Those who have outdoor games suitable for any age are encouraged to bring them along (perhaps mark your name and phone number on the equipment).  Lawn darts or full contact croquet, anyone?

 

Posted on

The E-postle May 28, 2017

 “The Parish of St. John the Apostle is called to be

*             A Spirited Community at the heart of Port Moody

*             transformed through the experience of the presence of Christ

*             and sent out to share God’s Love”

– draft mission statement Continue reading “The E-postle May 28, 2017”

Posted on

Camp Artaban registraion is OPEN!

 

Registration for Camp Artaban is open and places are available in all the camps. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to experience summer camp. At Camp Artaban, we have campership bursaries to enable those who can’t afford the full fees to still attend. If you know of a child or family would benefit from Camp, please contact the Camp office for more information or to begin the application process or have the family contact us directly.

If you would like to support the campership program, we accept donations which are earmarked just for that purpose. You can donate through the Camp office or securely online at http://campartaban.com/make-a-donation.

Please do not hesitate to contact the office on 604-980-0391, 604-379-9074 or by return email.

campartaban.com