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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

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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

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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?

 

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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”

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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

 

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The E-postle May 21, 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 Eucharist

Every time Christians gather at the table and share bread and wine, we re-live the reality of who we are as the people of God.  The celebration of the Eucharist, or “Great Thanksgiving”, is the work of the whole community.  The celebrant is the one who presides at the front, but the liturgy is a collective prayer-filled action.  All of us are participants and witnesses that it is Jesus Christ who is the host of this holy meal.  Sometimes the bread that is blessed is called “the host” to remind us of this truth, as it becomes for us the body of our Lord.

 

Every baptized person is a full member of the body of Christ and is welcome to receive both bread and wine.  Even small children may do so, and this discussion is part of the preparation for baptism. But no one has a complete theological explanation for the mystery and amazing love that is symbolized by this sacrament, and the Church doesn’t demand you to have one before you come to the table.  What we instinctively understand and are drawn toward is sometimes more than we can put into words.  We grow into a deeper maturity in faith as we learn through practice and reflection. For this reason, our communion services on Sunday May 28 at 8:30 am and 10 am will be Teaching Eucharists.  During the liturgy we will consider the meaning of some of the things we do.  There will be time after the service to ask questions of the clergy and each other.

 

In the Eucharist, we are transformed and strengthened for discipleship in the world.  Let us continue in the apostles’ teaching, in the breaking of bread and in the prayers, as our baptismal covenant affirms.

 

Yours in Christ,

Stephanie+

 

Readings for Easter 6, May 28th, 2017  

Acts 1:6-14; Psalm 68:1-10, 33-36; 1 Peter 4:12-14 & 5:6-11; John 17:1-11

 

Prayer Cycle

The Diocese of Northern Philippines, Bishop Brent Alawas and people,

BC Lutheran Bishop Greg Mohr, Anglican Diocesan Bishop Melissa Skelton, and this week:

St. Helen, Vancouver – The Reverend Scott Gould

St. Helen, Surrey – The Reverend Stephen Laskey

Diocesan Synod – officers and delegates.

Upcoming Dates

May 26-27- Diocesan Synod at the Italian Cultural Centre

May 28- Parish Visiting Ministry meeting at the Waltons’ home

May 29- 7 pm Parish Council in the Parish Ministry Centre, all welcome to attend

June 4- Pentecost: wear RED

June 11-17 Diocesan School for Parish Development

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

 

Stewardship Reflection

“But as it is written ‘what no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor human heart conceived, what God has
prepared for those who love him’-these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.” – 1 Corinthians 2; 9-10


God loves us. In what ways are we showing our love at St. Johns for God?

 

Opportunity to Spring Clean Your Closet and Help

Donations are needed for the 3030 Gordon Shelter. Your donation of men’s socks, underwear, sweatpants and hooded jackets are greatly appreciated. If you would like more information please contact Mary Lou Kyle at 604-461-7162 or via email at maryloukyle1234@gmail.com or Ruby Ng at 778-994-9963 or via email at rubyngchen@gmail.com

Marks of Mission Feedback at Parish Forum

At our Parish Forum on May 7, St. John’s identified the following three marks of mission as priorities for the community:

  • respond to human need by loving service
  • teach, baptize, and nurture new believers
  • seek to transform unjust structures of society, challenge violence of every kind and pursue peace and reconciliation

 

Through these, we proclaim the good news of the kingdom, and by them we seek to sustain and nurture creation.  In the worksheets that were circulated, those present were asked the following questions:

What ministries can make this Mark more visible to the world?

What changes to the building will make this possible?

 

The parish leadership is now beginning to collect up your responses and draw out the themes that are emerging to focus the parish vision.  Identifying the function (what God is calling us to) helps shape the form (the place we minister).  One of the learnings is that any renovations need to be “purpose built”: that is, we need to understand what we are going to use the space for.  Then building in both accessibility and flexibility is key.  Both teaching space and gathering space were raised as needful to address a growing community not only within the church but in our larger neighbourhood.

Being hospitable and a spiritual sanctuary means incorporating supportive functions such as toilets and parking and addressing safety concerns in the building.

 

Your participation in this discussion is very important.  Worksheets are available on the parish website at www.stja.ca and can be emailed back to the parish office at stjohn7@shaw.ca

 

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

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

or Alma Oldenburg almaolden@hotmail.com

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The E-postle-May 14, 2017

Baptism and Confirmation

I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

It is such a simple sentence.  But with these words, we acknowledge the love of God active in our lives from the moment of birth.  We choose the One who has already chosen us, and we do so in the sight of the community.  It is a crucial turning point: to forgiveness, healing, and strength in a new life of service.  We use the language of dying and rising again, of being washed clean, of becoming part of a new humanity. It is the first decision in faith that we make for ourselves or our child, and we have the rest of our lives to work out God’s purpose.  Ongoing participation in a Christian community is how we grow into this new life together.

Strengthen, O Lord, your servant with your Holy Spirit;empower him/her for your service; and sustain him/her all the days of his/her life.”

If you were baptized as a young child, or if you are coming to a point in your life when you feel it is important to make a public declaration of your faith, you might want to consider the rite of Confirmation. In previous generations, young people had to wait until they were confirmed to receive communion.  This was in part a historical consequence of a bishop’s inability to be in every parish to do baptisms, so the bishop had to come around to “confirm” what the local priest had done to teach and initiate new believers.  With the liturgical renewal of the 1960’s and 1970’s, a regained understanding that baptism is the “full meal deal” introduced young people to the life of the Eucharist at a much earlier age.  But there are still good reasons why an individual might want to be confirmed.  Maybe your godparents made promises on your behalf that you now want to say for yourself.  Perhaps your life journey has led you away from the Church, and your return to a faith community is a significant step.  Or you are now making the transition from someone who has always been in the pews to a more committed disciple.  If it is important for you to say “yes” again to God, then consider inviting the power of the Holy Spirit personally into your heart by having hands laid on you prayerfully by our Diocesan Bishop Melissa Skelton.

The Sacrament of Baptism and Confirmation comes after a time of preparation in the parish when you are instructed in your promises and covenant, and encouraged to explore and ask questions about your faith in Jesus Christ.  Baptisms often take place at the high holy festivals of the church year:  Easter season, Pentecost, All Saints Day, or the Baptism of our Lord (January).  Confirmation is usually in the Easter season, and next year we will have Bishop Melissa visit St. John’s on Sunday April 29, 2018.  To help you discern, instruction called Catechism- literally “the Teaching”- is offered by the clergy and lay leaders.  Those interested in joining a Catechism Class are invited to speak with one of the clergy.  Regular meetings will then be set according to the group’s needs.

Yours in Christ,

Stephanie+

Readings for Easter 5, May 21st, 2017

Acts 17:22-31; Psalm 66:7-18; 15-16; 1 Peter 3:13-22; John 14:15-21

Upcoming Dates

May 13- 10:30 am Diocesan Confirmations at Christ Church Cathedral

May 18- Anglican Church Women Meeting 7 pm in the Church Hall

May 26-27- Diocesan Synod at the Italian Cultural Centre

May 28- Parish Visiting Ministry meeting at the Waltons’ home

May 29- 7 pm Parish Council in the Parish Ministry Centre, all welcome to attend

June 4- Pentecost

June 11-17 Diocesan School for Parish Development

 

Stewardship Reflection

“I am with you”. “I will go with you”. ” I will be with you”. – The S Word: Douglas Hambidge
“As I was with Moses so I will be with you. I will never leave you nor forsake you…. the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:1-10

Believing this, how does it make a difference to your stewardship?

This week, we give thanks for the work of the Anglican Church Women in putting on the Spring Tea, which raised over $1200.  We also give thanks for those who shared food and helped with our potluck lunch last Sunday, at which parishioners had an opportunity to share where the parish may go with God’s help.

Opportunity to Spring Clean Your Closet and Help

Donations are needed for the 3030 Gordon Shelter. Your donation of men’s socks, underwear, sweatpants and hooded jackets are greatly appreciated. If you would like more information please contact Mary Lou Kyle at 604-461-7162 or via email at maryloukyle1234@gmail.com or Ruby Ng at 778-994-9963 or via email at rubyngchen@gmail.com

Sources of Transformation Feedback at Parish Forum

During Lent, we explored sources of transformation already at work in the parish.  From your feedback, we learned the following:

–        People come to St. John’s for many reasons, but stay because they feel welcomed, accepted and fed.  Our responsibility is to be more intentional about how we invite, orient, and incorporate recent arrivals and seekers and offer ways to grow deeper in the faith

–        We gather in worship that restores and challenges our understandings.  We have a diverse community that thrives with creative liturgy while recognizing our Anglican heritage.

–         Teaching is an important expression of our apostolic calling to proclaim the good news.  A good number of parishioners spend time in learning groups such as Education for Ministry (EfM), Godly Play, and Bible study.  Commitment to opportunities for theological reflection in our life together will help us deepen our spiritual practices.

–        Fellowship and opportunities to eat, talk, and be with each other help us find comfort and support.  However, those who have done so well to organize in the past need help, and the parish must find ways to both pass on experience and allow others to grow into leadership roles.

–        St. John’s identifies as a faith community that reaches out in action to the wider neighbourhood through ministries such as the Birds’ Nest, the Food Bank, Anglican Church Women outreach projects and the 3030 Gordon shelter.  Donations and volunteers assist, but most take place off-site and under different agencies.  How could St. John’s be more visible in the community, and how could the buildings better support loving service in action?

–        Good communication is a top priority for sharing ideas and planning forward

Parishioners were invited to reflect on whether anything is missing from draft Mission Statement, which will come to Parish Council for recommendation and then to Vestry for final adoption:

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

Those present then considered how to enflesh the Mission Statement. Three of the Five Anglican Marks of Mission are identified as priorities for this community.  In order of support, they are

–        respond to human need by loving service

–        teach, baptize, and nurture new believers

–        seek to transform unjust structures of society, challenge violence of every kind and pursue peace and reconciliation

Through these, we proclaim the good news of the kingdom, and by them we seek to sustain and nurture creation.   The way we go about setting goals for meeting these marks will shape the way our buildings need to be reconfigured or utilized.  Individuals and table groups entered discussion about strengths, challenges, and next steps for our buildings.  In the next issue of the E-postle, some of the feedback from the plenary and the worksheets on parish goals will be shared.

 

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-  While Sue Elliott is away until May 14, please direct requests to Joan Scott at scott.joan@hotmail.com or via phone at 604-941-5795.

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

or Alma Oldenburg almaolden@hotmail.com

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Parish Email List

 

In an effort to improve communications between the Parish and it’s members,  we have moved forward with the weekely E-postle( which is the an e- version  of the weekly announcements). It is a green alternative to the traditional insert in the weekly bulletin and an efficient way to get information out to members of St. John’s!

If you have not already signed up for the Parish List, please drop Karen a note at stjohn7@shaw.ca with the subject “add me” and your name will be added to the email list!

*Please know your information is never traded or sold to anyone!!!

Posted on

The E-postle May 7, 2017

 

Partners in Christ:  New Westminster and Northern Philippines

The Episcopal Church in the U.S., ECUSA, has oversight of the Diocese of Northern Philippines, which centres on Mountain Province around the city of Bontoc, in the northern or Luzon area of the islands known collectively of as the Philippines.

In May 2016, The Diocese of New Westminster accepted the invitation of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Philippines (EDNP) to enter into a companion relationship seeking opportunities for prayer, mutual learning, and witness to the gospel.  Within the Anglican Communion, this is known as a “Companion Relationship”.  New Westminster had previously had Companion Diocese relationships with Argentina (1989-1999) and Taiwan (2000-2015).  Exploratory conversations with Bishop Brent Alawas and his staff and the Provincial Office of the Episcopal Church in the Philippines (ECP) occurred, and visits had been made by senior clergy and our Bishop Melissa Skelton.  Bishop Brent then came to our Diocesan Mission Conference last spring.

Now we are moving forward to build bridges of communication. The hope is to link parishes to pray with each other and to share opportunities to serve.  Each parish has been asked for a liaison to be in contact with a recently developed diocesan committee for the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Philippines (EDNP). That person would also encourage a parish group to develop an electronic document profiling the parish and congregation, worship, activities etc. that we can share with our brothers and sisters overseas. This will be a very useful drafting exercise for our parish profile.  Our liaison does not have to have previous knowledge of the Philippines (although if you do, God may be leading you to this) nor does he or she have the responsibility of doing the profile (that’s something we need to get working on anyway!).  But if you have a heart for ministry beyond Canada and a love for learning about new places and cultures, please prayerfully consider this exciting opportunity. Please speak to Stephanie or one of the Wardens.

Yours in Christ,

Stephanie+

Readings for Easter 5, May 14h, 2017  

Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16; 1 Peter 2:2-10; John 14:1-14

Upcoming Dates

 

May 8- Seniors’ Tea 1:30 pm in the Church Hall

May 8- New Synod Delegates Meeting 7 pm at Holy Trinity Cathedral, New Westminster

May 9- Provincial Election

May 18- Anglican Church Women Meeting 7 pm in the Church Hall

May 26-27- Diocesan Synod at the Italian Cultural Centre

May 28- Parish Visiting Ministry meeting at the Waltons’ home

June 11-17 Diocesan School for Parish Development

 

Stewardship Reflection

 From Jean Vanier “The sign of spiritual maturity is to grow in responsibility to care for others and to become good shepherds: servant leaders.”

How is this speaking to you?

  Bales to the North

A.C.W. Place is in need of large blankets and men’s clothing for the “Bales to the North” outreach which shares needed items with Anglican communities in remote northern areas.  Please contact Ann Adair-Austin or Sue Hall.

Potluck at St. John the Apostle

After the 10 am service this Sunday, the community will gather to eat and consider how to flesh out our Mission Statement.  This is a very busy weekend for community events, so we are asking for those who are not involved with the Spring Tea to step up and help with table set-up and kitchen assistance.  If we are truly 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

how does this then shape our priorities and ministries in the years ahead?  How can we show the marks of the risen Christ by our actions? The Anglican Marks of Mission are to:

  1. proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom
  2. teach, baptize, and nurture new believers
  3. respond to human need by loving service
  4. seek to transform unjust structures of society, challenge violence of every kind and pursue peace and reconciliation
  5. strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth

If we want to concentrate on one or two of these, what do we need to do with our building?

Readers and Intercessors

Prayerfully consider whether you might be called to the ministry of reading Scripture in our worship or helping with the prayers of the people as an intercessor.  The schedule for June to September is in process, and there is room for you to give your time and talents to God in these ways.  A workshop for refreshing and training is in consideration for June, and job descriptions are in process.

Godly Play Figures Needed

Godly Play is looking for Playmobil people. These would not be those that are made or dressed as characters but are simply people. Also we are looking for the figures of the Playmobil figures of Mary and Joseph. If you have any such figures tucked away in your ‘attic’ or see any at a thrift store please think of the need for them at Godly Play. Thank you.

Flowers for the Altar

The Altar Guild would like to draw your attention to the flower chart in the Narthex by the chapel door.

Please consider signing up to place flowers at the Altar in thanksgiving for something, or in loving memory of a family member, or friend. A member of the Altar Guild will contact you the week before to see what type of flowers you would like and also the wording for the Bulletin.

 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

Posted on

The E-postle April 9, 2017

 

Everyone on the parish e-list will be receiving a weekly update of notices and coming events instead of an insert in the Sunday bulletin.  Physical copies of this email will be available on Sundays for those who do not have email or prefer a paper version.

 If you know of an event of interest to the parish, please send details to the parish office. 

A Safe Community

On Saturday April 1, members of the St. John’s community who work with vulnerable persons gathered for a training workshop on the diocesan sexual misconduct policy.  We are called to grapple with this sensitive topic because, as Bishop Melissa Skelton reminds us:

“All Christians- lay and ordained- are called to be signs and agents of God’s love in the world.  The church must therefore be a place of welcome, respect, and safety for all people.  No one entering our community should ever have cause to fear for their well-being or the betrayal of their trust… You are helping to ensure that our church remains a place of safety and dignity where all may know the forgiveness and peace of God”.

 

Some simple and important guidelines:

  1. Ask before you give a hug.
  2. When you see or experience inappropriate behaviour ask that it be stopped.
  3. Do not be alone with a child.
  4. If an unusual or inappropriate encounter occurs, tell someone.
  5. All of us have a responsibility for maintaining a safe environment.

If your ministry involves working with the elderly, children, or vulnerable persons, or you are in a position of authority within the Church and have not taken this workshop in the last five years, speak to me about future workshops.  As part of our commitment to each other in faith, position descriptions for volunteers in the church which outline responsibilities and risk assessments are in process.

Yours in Christ,

Stephanie+

Readings for Easter Sunday April 16th

Jeremiah 31:1-6

Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

Acts 10:34-43

Matthew 28:1-10

Upcoming Dates

April 13- Maundy Thursday supper 5:30 pm, liturgy 7 pm beginning in the Church Hall

April 14- Good Friday service 10 am

April 16- Easter Sunday services 8:30 and 10 am

April 17- Fellowship Supper with Lower Mainland Moslem Community

April 22- Re-Sponse Refugee Deanery Gathering and Potluck @ St. Laurence, Coquitlam

April 29- Healthcare Forum in the Church Hall

May 6 – Spring Tea 2-4 pm

May 9- Provincial Election

Sources of Transformation Lenten Series

During our period of preparation for Holy Week and Easter, the parish has been focusing on how God continues to transform us in community. Worksheets for you to provide input are still available at the back of the church or through the parish website at www.stja.ca  if you have missed a Sunday.  Please forward all comments to the parish office.  A summary of your comments will be available shortly for your review.

Birds Nest Collection

Thank you for your donations of spare change to the Birds’ Nest Society to assist First Nations youth.  Bring your tins to church on Easter, or bring a bag full of change to add to the collection, marked “Birds Nest”.

 

Maundy Thursday Simple Supper and Liturgy

This coming Thursday April 13, St. John’s is hosting members of St. Andrew’s United Church for a simple soup and bread supper and a joint liturgy beginning at 5:30 pm in the hall.

CHANGE OF PLANS:  The community kitchen to make turkey soup on Saturday is cancelled.  Instead, members of St. John’s who are willing to make a pot of soup to share are invited to continue to sign up on Sunday on the downstairs flipchart or email the parish office to indicate.

Stewardship Reflection

In the bread and the wine God is saying,

“I love you.”

In the offering, no matter how small or inadequate it may be, I am saying to God,

 “I love you too”.  (the Most Rev. Douglas Hambidge)

 This week, you are asked to offer thanks for those who took the time to assist with the Spring Clean-up of the parish grounds on Saturday.  If you were unable to help out, there are always tasks that you can do on your own schedule.  Please contact Rich Thompson at 604-939-1258 or rich.thompson@shaw.ca to discern where you might offer stewardship of our property resources.

Easter Flowers

The Altar Guild is planning to decorate the church for Easter on Saturday April 15th and donations towards the flowers and lilies would be appreciated. If you wish to do so, you may allow us to purchase an Easter lily for you. As in previous years, we would order the lilies to come in on Saturday, use them in the church for Easter Sunday and they could then be taken home after the 10 a.m. service.  To order a lily, which will cost $10.00, please speak to a member of the Altar Guild or phone Brenda Binns at 604 931 2482.Thank you.

Dinner with the Muslim Community
Enjoy dinner with members of the Muslim community on Easter Monday, April 17 2017. It will be an unforgettable experience of dialogue and inspiration.  This will be an unprecedented opportunity for our respective congregations to build bridges of peace and tolerance by sharing personal journeys and learning about the journeys and values of each other. Proceeds will support mobile medical units for the Rohinga people in Myanmar. Please reserve tickets in advance by calling Rachel at 604-363-3144 or emailing zarah.rachel@gmail.com. She is coordinating church group attendance and seating and can either drop tickets off at St. John’s or leave them at the door during the event. 6:30 – 10:00 PM at the Aria Banquet Hall, 12350 Pattullo Pl, Surrey.  Tickets $30/person; must be reserved in advance.
Forum on Public Health Care

On Saturday April 29th,  St. John’s will be hosting a Forum on Public Health Care where the BC Health Coalition will be speaking on their various advocacy campaigns in support of public healthcare in advance of the provincial election.  Come get informed on issues and ask your questions.

 

Community Choral Event

The Coquitlam Chorale presents “Canadian Choral Fantasy”, to be held at Eagle Ridge Bible Fellowship church Saturday, April 22nd at 7:30 pm Sunday, April 23rd at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $20.00 for adults/seniors, and $10.00 for children, and can be purchased from Charlotte Robertson 604 937-5724.

St. John’s Spring Tea

You are invited to our Annual Spring Tea on Saturday, May 6th, between 2 pm and 4 pm to be held in the church hall downstairs, entered from the back of the church.   Delicious pie and ice cream and a beverage for $5.   Visit our bake table, craft table and plant table.   Parking at the back and the side of the church.    Tickets at the door.

Who You Gonna Call?

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