Sunday Worship Service - July 5, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

5TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
SUMMER WORSHIP SERVICE / CELEBRATING CANADA DAY

Featuring Canadian Hymn/Songwriters

July 5, 2020

The video for this service can be found here
You can also dial-in by phone to listen to the audio recording at 613-820-8104 

Gathering: Hymn to Freedom – Oscar Peterson  BCUC Men

Acknowledgment of Territory

We begin our worship service by acknowledging the territory where most of us gather and where I am located. We acknowledge that we are gathered on the unceded traditional territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe First Nation. We pay respect to the elders past and present and honour all indigenous people’s reverence of this land throughout the ages. May we live in peace and friendship to sustain the earth and all its people. Thank you for permitting us to live and work on this land.

Welcome & Announcements

Good day everyone! The psalmist declares, “You O God, are the light that keeps me safe. I am not afraid of anyone. You protect me, and I have no fears.”

On behalf of Bells Corners United Church, I welcome and greet you wherever you are on this second Sunday in our Psalms sermon series as we reflect on the timeless words of Psalm 46. In today’s worship service, we are Celebrating Canada Day that was observed on July 1st showcasing hymns and songs composed by Canadians. As we honour this special day, we remember and give thanks for the gifts of freedom and diversity and for all people who have been the stewards of this land. We continue to commit ourselves to the work of justice, healing, and reconciliation.

During this time when we are not able to worship in the church sanctuary, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with the weekly announcements, online meetings, events and other updates. You can also listen to the service via telephone by dialing 613-820-8104. I also encourage you to show that you care by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

Here are some announcements:

• Join us for a simultaneous prayer circle every Wednesday at 8 pm. Wherever you are, you may light a candle and say a prayer.

• David’s Flowers are back drive-through style and they are available every Saturday from 10:30 to 11:30 pm. The flowers will be displayed on tables outside the main entrance, and everyone is asked to remain in their car, bring exact change or prepared cheque for donations, and follow instructions of volunteers. Thank you for your support!

• And for those of you who are able to join us via Zoom, there will be zoom fellowship every Sunday at 11 am. Link will be emailed to you or call the office for more information.

Friends, I now invite you to be still and know that God is.

Let us gather in worship.

Lighting of the Christ Candle   Acolyte: Victoria Ogden

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.” (Colossians 3:16)

National Anthem:  O Canada! (Bilingual Version, 2018)
O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all of us command,
Car ton bras sait porter l'épée,
Il sait porter la croix!
Ton histoire est une épopée
Des plus brillants exploits,
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Call to Gather: (by David Sparks, 2017)   Lorrie Lowes, DM

The music of this faith community,
fills us with joy, enables our praise to take wing.
the friendly conversations we enjoy,
keep us in touch, allow us to give and receive support.
The Word we hear
challenges us to act justly, gives us peace in the struggle.
The way of Jesus before us
roots us in compassion, inspires us to change our world for good.
Come, let us gather.

Prayer of Praise: (inspired by the prayer of Robin Wardlaw, 2017)

Creator, Light, Shepherd, our refuge and our strength,
we trace our roots to your creative powers.
We embrace one another as children of your Spirit.
As we celebrate our Canadian history today, help us remember all of it;
that which makes us proud and that which makes us ashamed.
Remind us of your constant presence:
forgiving, restoring, recreating, and making all thing new.
Hear us, as we dwell for a moment in your goodness. Amen. 

Hymn: It’s A Song of Praise to the Maker More Voices #30 (Ruth Duck/Ron Klusmeier)

1.  It’s a song of praise to the Maker,
the thrush sings high in the tree.
It’s a song of praise to the Maker,
The gray whale sings in the sea, 

Refrain
And by the Spirit
you and I can join our voice
to the holy cry
and sing, sing, sing to the Maker too. 

2. It’s a call of life to the Giver
when waves and waterfalls roar.
It’s a call of life to the Giver
when high tides break on the shore, 

3. It’s a hymn of love to the Lover;
the bumblebees hum along.
It’s a hymn of love to the Lover,
the summer breeze joins the song, 

4. It’s the chorus of all creation;
it’s sung by all living things.
It’s the chorus of all creation;
a song the universe sings,

Words © 1992 Ruth Duck GIA Pub, Music © 1992 Ron Klusmeier  Hope Pub  Song # 88477 & 30221,  Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Storytime for the Young at Heart     Lorrie Lowes

(lots of background noise)

Good morning! Today we are talking about Psalms again and I really like the one Rev. Kim started…chose to talk about this week – Oh, just a minute!

(radio  and other noise turned off)

Ahhh, is that a little bit better? I can sort of hear myself think now and I hope you can hear me better too.

Isn’t our world noisy? I’ve noticed that a lot lately, that sometimes there are so many things going on in our world, so much noise! Our computers are going, our radios are going, there are machines going in the kitchen, there’s traffic out on the road. There just seems to be so much noise around that I can hardly hear myself think! So, I was thinking to myself today that I really love that line in this Psalm, in verse 10, that says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” It’s a line that I use often. It’s kind of a mantra for me, something I think about when I need to calm myself. It’s a way of calming myself and paying attention to what’s going on in my mind and what’s going on with God – hearing the voice of God that I don’t always hear in this noisy, noisy world.

Nowadays, when we’re starting our summer holidays, everybody’s excited about so many things to do and things they want to do and making plans. Things are changing out in our world and there are so many crazy things going on in the news – scary things sometimes going on. Sometimes we just need to take the time to stop and to calm down. Even when you get really excited and happy, sometimes people will say, “Oh, please, just be still for a minute! Just be still.” And sometimes we need to remind ourselves of that.

So, I want you to think of the ways that you calm yourself down. This one, this line, is a really good one for me. “Be still and know that I am God.” It’s kind of a way of praying as well, or remembering to pray, and remembering that God is there to help us. I like to do that when I’m on a walk outside, all by myself. Sometimes it’s easier to be quiet when you’re all by yourself. Sometimes you just need to find a place to do that.

I’m hoping that you will take that time, now that we have this beautiful summer weather, the school stuff online is all finished, plans are being made for a wonderful summer. Be excited – that’s great! – but don’t forget to take a little bit of time to just be still and know God. Amen.

Hymn: There is Room for All MV 62 (Bruce Harding / French – David Fines)

There is room for all
in the shadow of God’s wing;
there is room for all,
sheltered in God’s love.
And I rejoice and sing,    
“My refuge and my rock,
in whom I trust.”
There is room for all,
there is room for all! 

Chacun a sa place 
á l'abri sous l'aile de Dieu;
Chacun a sa place
en l'amour de Dieu.
De joie, je chanterai:
"Mon refuge en lequel
je me confie”.
Chacun a sa place, 
chacun a sa place.

Words and Music © 2004 Bruce Harding evensong.ca   French © 2006 David Fines
Song # 127055  Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Prayer for Illumination   Reader:  Keith Bailey

Open our hearts to your Word this day, O God. Open our minds to the mystery of your truth. Help us live in such a way that others may see your power shining in us. Amen.

Psalm Reading:   Psalm 46 (NRSV)

God’s Defense of the City and People

1 God is our refuge and strength,
    a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
    though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
3 though its waters roar and foam,
    though the mountains tremble with its tumult.

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
    the holy habitation of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved;
    God will help it when the morning dawns.
6 The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter;
    he utters his voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
    the God of Jacob is our refuge.

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord;
    see what desolations he has brought on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
    he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear;
    he burns the shields with fire.
10 “Be still, and know that I am God!
    I am exalted among the nations,
    I am exalted in the earth.”
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
    the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Hear what the Spirit is saying to all of us! Thanks be to God!

Choral: More Voices #77 Be Still and Know

Sermon:  “A Very Present Help in Trouble”      Rev. Kim Vidal

I was 23 years old, in my 3rd year of teaching in the Philippines, when I was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness that lasted for more than a month. During those times when my body was weak and death was seemingly very real, two things have sustained me - my faith and this prayer: “God is my refuge and my strength, a very present help in trouble…Be still and know that I am God…”

A devastating earthquake hit the Philippines in 1990 that killed a number of people and destroyed many buildings and infrastructure. I literally saw the earth opened, spitting out mud from its deep crevices. I heard the rumbling of the ocean waves that felt like the world was about to end. I looked up at the dark sky and I thought death surely is very near. In that moment of fear and chaos, I prayed and called on God to save us from this natural disaster and these words brought me assurance: “God is my refuge and my strength, a very present help in trouble…Be still and know that I am God…”

In 2007, 13 years after we moved to Canada, my father died after several months of battling cancer, at the Elisabeth Bruyere Hospital, surrounded by family and loved ones. Grief overtook each and every member of the Vidal family. In that moment of sadness and overwhelming sorrow, the words of the Psalmist brought us comfort: “God is my refuge and my strength, a very present help in trouble…Be still and know that I am God...”

Psalm 46 is one of the most beloved psalms turned into Martin Luther’s famous hymn “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”. For Luther, God is a stronghold and a tower, a bulwark never failing.  It proclaims faith in God’s protection and presence while acknowledging the challenges, dangers and difficulties that one may experience in life. 

Written around 700 BCE, when Assyrians sieged the city of Jerusalem, Psalm 46 is attributed to the descendants of Korah, believed to be porters of the temple who also provided singing during worship. This psalm is classified as a “song of Zion” where divine protection is promised to the king and is extended to include his city, Jerusalem, as place where God dwells. It is a prayer of refuge – of sanctuary and shelter, and comfort in troubled times, perhaps sung in a liturgical setting that celebrated God as protector of Zion.

In poetic language, the psalmist describes the way trouble can come. This ancient poem presents metaphorical descriptions of global catastrophes. The psalmist talks about the earth being changed, the mountains shaking in the heart of the sea and the trouble which comes with the sheer fury of a storm. We've all been caught in natural and man-made calamities and storms whether it be hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, forest fires, tsunamis or tornadoes. In those moments of fear and destruction, the psalmist offers hope that the God who created the earth and called it good is still present and in control.

On the political front, "nations are in an uproar and kingdoms fall."  I think of wars that are still raging in many parts of the world. I think of the ongoing political protests on racial injustice and discriminations of all sorts that call for people to stand in solidarity with the black community, the LGBTQ and the Indigenous peoples, to name a few. I think of the uncertainty and fear brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic that still rages in Canada and many countries in devastating proportions. It is far from being over yet. Jim Wallis, Sojourners writer commented that “this pandemic has become very revealing of the inequities in our society, the gaping holes in our safety net, and the disparities in our health care and other systems, and the reality of our relationships across racial and economic lines.” This historical crisis will change us forever. And because of this crisis, the once outdoor festive celebration of Canada Day was celebrated virtually including a 3-minute firework display on YouTube. The psalmist declares that in the midst of political chaos and economic crisis, God’s presence and protection are felt, although it may take a while to realize this.

Despite the upheavals and chaotic moments, the psalmist draws God’s comforting presence in the form of a city where peace and safety dwells. A stream flows through it, bringing gladness, nourishment, abundance, joy and life, in contrast to the shaking earth and roaring waters of destruction and death. Homiletics professor Ruthana Hooke comments that “…given natural threats and disasters, and the prevalence of war and political tumult, we may well long for a place of delight and protection such as is presented in this psalm.” Even though difficulties and challenges and changes and chaos may be all be around us, threatening to overwhelm us, in the center, in the midst of us, in our innermost being, the God of refuge dwells within.

The most quoted verse in this Psalm is this line: “Be still and know that I am God.” At first glance, we might think of stillness as a situation devoid of noise and sounds, one that soothes the mind and spirit in a relaxing mode as in a quiet meditation. But there are some interpretations that gives us new understanding. “Be still” might mean getting someone’s attention, to stop whatever is distracting or disturbing you and being conscious that God is present in that moment of silence. And one way of stilling ourselves in the presence of God is through praying.

Praying is a spiritual practice that I personally do on a regular basis.  It opens me to God’s presence and allows me to experience the holiness of a moment. Intimate time with the Holy changes how I see a situation and grants me the courage and wisdom to keep me grounded in faith. The point of praying is not just to vent, to celebrate, to ask or to emote, but also to implore wisdom by laying out and naming the desperate situation of people or the community. John Dominic Crossan defines praying as a collaboration between God and human beings, where faith and practice meet. Mother Teresa once said that: “Praying doesn’t change things. Praying changes people and people change things”. Praying may or may not change the world, but it does change the way we are in the world. Praying opens us to new perspectives and nudges us act – to reach out to people and places that needs healing, justice and reconciliation.

Troubled times abound. There are pains of individual wounds of loneliness, grief, isolation, depression, illness, unemployment, or broken relationships that call for our urgent care and attention. There are those caught up in the endless cycle of extreme poverty, not only here on the streets of Ottawa but also in many places in the world. Poverty is a disease of our time that needs healing. What about those whose human rights have been constantly violated? Women and children, the black community, indigenous people - all have been bleeding for their rights to be heard!  Psalm 46 is a prayer of being present, an important tenet of pastoral and spiritual care ministry. Knowing that “God is a very present help in times of trouble” allows me to be present for others especially those who need care in times of illness, loneliness or grief. I gleaned from my experience that being present for others is about making connections – all my relations - one that focuses on the meaning of care that has made a welcoming space for each face among us. And when we do our part in being truly present for the other, we proclaim God who is present in times of trouble through our lives.

A word caught my attention when I read the Psalms and that word is present three times in Psalm 46. That word is selah spelled as s-e-l-a-h. What is selah you might ask? The meaning of selah is not known but various interpretations have been offered. It could mean an ending of a verse in preparation of a new one. Another possible meaning is that of an ancient musical notation meaning to stop and listen, or to pause and let the words sink in. I like this second meaning of selah.  Stop. Listen. Pause and let the words sink in. 

In times of illness, grief or natural calamities,
God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble.
Selah. Stop. Listen. Pause and let the words sink in.  

In moments of political chaos, economic crisis and this period of COVID-19 pandemic,
Be still and know that I am God.
Selah. Stop. Listen. Pause and let the words sink in.  

And I would add this final verse:
God is in us. Let us be present for each other.
Let us pray and work for a better world.
Selah. Stop. Listen. Pause and let the words sink in. 

Thanks be to God. Amen. 

Choral: More Voices #14 - Where 2 or 3 are Gathered

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer   Rev. Kim Vidal

This Prayer of Gratitude, Lament, and Hope is inspired by a prayer written by Susan Lukey for Canada Day:

God in each of us, in whom all of creation and all peoples live and move and have our being, be with us as we celebrate Canada Day.

We pray in gratitude for the richness of this land that goes from sea to sea to sea:

For the First Peoples, who discovered this land millennia ago, and who teach us that we are all one with creation and with each other;

For the rich natural resources, the wonder of the variety of landscapes and ecosystems in our country, urban and rural, prairie and maritime, tundra and mountains, Canadian Shield and foothills;

For the wonderful tapestry of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures that make up our nation, making us all richer for the diversity;

For a country in which we are free and safe to cast our vote, where our vote and our voice count, and where we can give voice to what we believe, we offer our gratitude to you, Creator of Life. We pray in awe and wonder, seeking to live daily lives that reflect gratitude.

We gather in lament for the painful parts of our history:

For the devastation caused to the Indigenous Peoples through colonization of this land, the overuse of natural resources, and the loss of their cultures, spirituality, and traditions;

For all others in our country who have been discriminated against, abused, and devalued because of their ethnicity, beliefs, or country of origin;

For those who gave their lives and those who continue to experience the traumatic effects of their service in the Armed Forces, during both world wars, as peacekeepers, and in other conflicts; 

For those who have suffered devastation in both natural and human-made disasters in Canada, this we lament, God, who is very present in times of trouble. We join our voices to cry out for justice for the continuing wrongs in our country.

We dream of the future for our beloved land of Canada:

For a country where the best of Canadian values of peacemaking, compassion, hospitality, generosity, fairness, and kindness are lived day by day and extended to everyone in this land; For a country where everyone shares in the abundance, where everyone has food, shelter, safety, and employment, where everyone is valued as they are for who they truly are; 

For a country where we care for the land, the environment, and the creatures, and live with respect in creation, making wise use of our natural resources and understanding that we are one with all of creation;

For the possibilities and promise we have as a nation in which every one of us can contribute our ideas, our imagination, and our creativity for the good of all;

For the leadership and example we can offer as a nation to the world, in building right relationships between all people and in treating all citizens, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, with dignity and respect, and in radical caring for the environment;

For the vision and encouragement we can offer as The United Church of Canada, by striving for right relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, in seeking justice and proclaiming hope, as we seek to follow the Way of Jesus, to this we commit ourselves as your faithful people, Loving God.

You who reminds us to be still and know that you are God, we give thanks, we lament, and we dream, gathering all of our prayers together as we pray the words of Jesus:

Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread
And forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory,
Forever and ever,
Amen. 

Invitation to Offer:  Rev. Kim Vidal

I now invite you to offer your gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of our gratitude to God’s blessings.  If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

Offertory Prayer

Generous God, bless these gifts and bless the ministries they make possible. Encourage us to give of ourselves and our resources until we become joyful images of your love and service. Amen.

Sending Forth: Lorrie Lowes. DM

Go now into the world,
Into this country strong and free,
Knowing we are blessed and ready
to be a blessing to others.
Go into this week,
With all of its joys and all of its challenges,
Listening for the voice of God
Urging us to “Be still”
And promising to always be
Our source of refuge, strength and courage.
Go now in peace, in joy and in love. Amen 

Hymn:   When Hands Reach Out Beyond Divides - More Voices #169 (Tune: Kingsfold)          

1.  When hands reach out beyond divides
and hope is truly found,
each chain of hate will fall away
and bells of peace shall sound,
and bells of peace, of peace shall sound,
and bells of peace shall sound,
each chain of hate will fall away
and bells of peace shall sound. 

2. When fear no longer guides our steps
and days of war are done,
God’s dream for all shall live anew;
our hearts will heal as one,
our hearts will heal, will heal as one,
our hearts will heal as one,
God’s dream for all shall live anew;
our hearts will heal as one. 

3. When race and creed blind us no more,
a neighbour’s face we’ll see,
and we shall dance the whole world round,
for love will set us free,
for love, yes love will set us free,
for love will set us free,
and we shall dance the whole world round,
for love will set us free.

Words © 2005 Keri Wehlander, traditional melody
Song # 125752  Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Departing: BCUC men – Vive la Canadienne

Zoom Fellowship hosted by Lorrie at 11 am. Link has been emailed. See you there!

Sunday Worship Service - June 28, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

4TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
SUMMER WORSHIP SERVICE

June 28, 2020

[The video recording of this service can be found here]

Gathering: The Tree Song – Ken Medema     soloist: Erin Berard

Welcome & Announcements

Good day everyone! The psalmist declares, “This is the day that God has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it!” On behalf of Bells Corners United Church, I welcome and greet you wherever you are in the name of Jesus Christ who calls us to righteous living! For the next five Sundays starting today, I invite you to reflect on the book of Psalms as we experience the life of faith.

During this time when we are not able to worship in the church sanctuary, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with the weekly announcements, online meetings and events and other updates. You can also listen to the service via telephone by dialing 613-820-8104. I also encourage you to show that you care by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

I would like to highlight some announcements:

David’s Flowers are back drive-through style and they are available every Saturday from 11:30 to 12:30 pm. The flowers will be displayed on tables outside the main entrance, and everyone is asked to remain in their car, bring exact change or prepared cheque for donations, and follow instructions of volunteers. Thank you for your support!

And for those of you who are able to join us via Zoom, there will be zoom fellowship every Sunday at 11 am. Link will be emailed to you or call the office for more information.

Friends, I now invite you to open your hearts to God’s compassionate love and justice as we gather in worship.

Lighting of the Christ Candle: Acolyte: Ellen Boynton

As we light this Christ candle, 
I invite you to reflect on these words by Betty Lynn Schwab:
“Come from knowing into Mystery.
Come from certainty into Pondering.
Come from time-bound into Eternity.
Come from thinking into Being.”

Call to Gather: Lorrie Lowes, DM

From the freshness of summer, encircle us, embrace us, Creator God.
Visit us in small spaces.
Sprinkle summertime epiphanies on our paths.
Sing through our forests, splash in our rivers, dance in our fields.
Let us gather in worship, filled with the grace of the music-maker God,
the joy of Christ and the hope of the Spirit.
Let us gather in the light of God’s holy presence.

Prayer of Praise: (inspired by Psalm 1)
(written by Bruce Prewer, www.bruceprewer.com)

You, loving God, are the ground of our being and the river of life; 
you both steady our roots and draw them to seek the living waters. 
You are like the sunlight enticing us taller 
and like the breeze rustling our leaves. 
You are with us through hard seasons of summer heat, 
and in the nights when winter’s frost ice the landscape 
your love warms and sustains us. 
You are everything to us. 
O let our gratitude be great, 
let our praise be plentiful, 
let our worship be wonder-full! 
Through Jesus Christ. Amen 

Hymn: Come Touch Our Hearts   MV 12 (verses 1-4)

1.       Come touch our hearts that we may know compassion,
         from failing embers build a blazing fire;
          love strong enough to overturn injustice,
          to seek a world more gracious, come touch and bless our hearts. 

2.       Come touch our souls that we may know and love you,
          your quiet presence all our fears dispel;
          create a space for spirit to grow in us,
          let life and beauty fill us, come touch and bless our souls. 

3.       Come touch our minds and teach us how to reason,
          set free our thoughts to wonder and to dream;
          help us to open doors of understanding,
          to welcome truth and wisdom, come touch and bless our minds. 

4.       Come touch us in the moments we are fragile,
          and in our weakness your great strength reveal;
          that we may rise to follow and to serve,
          steady now our nerve, come touch and bless our wills. 

Words Music © 2002 Gordon Light, arr © 2002 Andrew Donaldson
Common Cup Co. Song # 118062  Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Storytime for the Young at Heart Lorrie Lowes

Good Morning!

For the next few weeks we’re going to be talking about the book of Psalms in our services. And so, this week Reverend Kim is starting with Psalm 1, the very first psalm in the book. So, I took a look at that and I was a little bit surprised because one of the things it says is that, as righteous people, we should be like a tree. I thought that’s a little bit different from the kind of messages that we get from Jesus because, to me a tree is something that sort of stands all by itself. It doesn’t move around; it’s not involved in a community in any way… but then I got doing a little bit of research. One of the things I found out is that scientists have discovered that trees really DO have communities. They DO communicate with each other. That’s interesting!

Apparently, they do it underground, through their roots and then past their roots there are little fungal networks that join the trees together and that’s how the trees communicate. Now they don’t communicate exactly how we communicate. They don’t use words or have conversations – but they do help each other out. One of the things I learned was that some big trees – they call them mother trees – can use their nutrients and pass them on to the younger saplings that are underneath. That’s really important because when a little tree is starting to grow, it’s often in the shade of other trees, especially in a forest and it can’t get the sunlight and things that it needs to make the kind of food that it needs to grow. So, apparently these mother trees or other trees in the area can feed those trees by sharing some of the nutrients that they get from the air and the environment around them light and water and everything else. As well, if one tree is not doing well and is about to die, it can dump all of its resources, all of its good sugars and things that trees need, into the network so that they can be used by other trees who need them. They can also send messages to other trees if they are being attacked by an insect or by a disease and they can warn other trees to put up their defenses to make sure that they don’t get struck as hard by those diseases or insects as well. So, it’s kind of a hidden network that we don’t even see, that’s under the ground. Scientists have called this the “Wood Wide Web”, kind of a fun play on words.

So when I think back on my first thought that a tree is kind of a solitary thing and Jesus asks us to live in community, now I can see that those aren’t things that are totally separate. Trees don’t live as solitary beings or solitary creations of God. They do work in community and help each other out. So I think the psalmist was right when they wrote that, as righteous people, we should be like trees – because that’s exactly what Jesus has asked us to do, isn’t it?

Hymn:  You Shall Go Out with Joy   Voices United #884

You shall go out with joy
And be led forth with peace,
The mountains and the hills
Will break forth before you.
There’ll be shouts of joy
And all the trees of the fields
Will clap, will clap their hands.

And all the trees of the fields will clap their hands, (clap, clap)
And all the trees of the fields will clap their hands, (clap, clap)
And all the trees of the fields will clap their hands, (clap, clap)
While you go out with joy.

Music © 1975 Stuart Dauermann, Words © 1975 Steffi Geiser Rubin Lillenas Publishing Co.
Song # 25933 Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Prayer for Illumination Reader: Victoria Ogden

Open our hearts to your Word this day, O God. Open our minds to the mystery of your truth. Help us live in such a way that others may see your power shining in us. Amen.

Psalm Reading: Psalm 1 (Common English Bible)

 The truly happy person
    doesn’t follow wicked advice,
    doesn’t stand on the road of sinners,
    and doesn’t sit with the disrespectful.
2 Instead of doing those things,
    these persons love the Lord’s Instruction,
    and they recite God’s Instruction day and night!
3 They are like a tree replanted by streams of water,
    which bears fruit at just the right time
    and whose leaves don’t fade.
        Whatever they do succeeds.

4 That’s not true for the wicked!
    They are like dust that the wind blows away.
5 And that’s why the wicked will have no standing in the court of justice—
    neither will sinners
    in the assembly of the righteous.
6 The Lord is intimately acquainted
    with the way of the righteous,
    but the way of the wicked is destroyed.

Hear what the Spirit is saying to all of us!
Thanks be to God!

Sermon: “To Be Like Trees” Rev. Kim Vidal

Today, we begin a sermon series on the book of Psalms. The book of Psalms is a collection of poetry – a total of 150 -  that were composed not only as poems but as lyrics to be sang. They are presented in different genres: praise, prayer, lament, thanksgiving, wisdom - all of which have a wonderful capacity to capture the reality of human experience. It was believed that the psalms were written over a period of six centuries from as early as 1000 BCE with its final form completed probably around 400 BCE. Psalms were often used in the context of worship. Although many writers particularly those from the priestly tradition were believed to have written the psalms, they were traditionally attributed to King David because it was believed that during his entire life, in times of joys or troubles, in battlefield or at the pinnacle of his greatness, David was immersed in the constant recitation and even singing of psalms to praise God.

In his book Spirituality of the Psalms, Brueggemann offers a framework for understanding the  book of Psalms. He classifies each psalm in three movements that speak to our lived experience. The first movement is called Psalms of Orientation. These are the psalms that give us good feelings and offer comfort and inspiration. These are psalms of gratitude for God that reflects a life full of blessings. The second movement is known as the Psalms of Disorientation. These psalms are the reaction of the faithful to God when the world they knew was broken. These are psalms of lament that move and deepen our faith. The overarching message of these psalms convey that even in the dark places, God is still present.  And the third movement is called the Psalms of Re-Orientation. These psalms move us from disorientation – from a place of darkness and lament to moments of restoration, justice and deliverance. These psalms of praise celebrating the God of salvation ushers in a new order. Using these three movements, Brueggemann suggests the book of Psalms like life, has a rhythm as it moves from one place to the next.  Lawrence Richards commented that “In every experience of our own, no matter how deep the pain or how great the frustration or how exhilarating the joy, we can find psalms which echo our inmost being, psalms which God uses to bring comfort or to confirm release.”

Psalm 1 opens the book of Psalms with these questions: “Which road will you follow? Will you take the road that leads to destruction or the road that leads to life?” And we know that choices have consequences. Rolf Jacobson remarks that “the roads signal the directions one takes in life -- and the roads are characterized not by their geography but rather by who walks on each road... Down one road walk the wicked, those who do not depend on God, the sinners, those who rebel against God's will, and the scoffers, those who mock God…This road leads to nowhere. Those who take this road end up being non-resilient -- they cannot endure suffering. Down the other road walk the righteous or those who depend on God. This other road belongs not to those who take it, but to God -- who watches over it.”

Psalm 1 presents a choice and invites us to give attention to God’s teaching and instruction. It is the psalm’s hope that we choose following God’s direction that makes it possible to be rooted in love, grounded in justice and fruitful in grace.  Walter Brueggemann says that “Psalm 1 as a preamble to the Psalter urges a lifestyle that finds its source in the Creator. The psalm speaks of life as a path or way, and of divine instruction as nourishment for the way...” For those who live their lives following the call of love, justice and grace “are like a tree replanted by streams of water, which bears fruit at just the right time and whose leaves don’t fade. Whatever they do succeeds.” (Ps 1: 3, CEB). They are like trees, whose roots are sunk deep into the earth next to a stream where they can flourish -- even when the going gets tough.

I love this image of a tree in Psalm 1 - rooted, strong, fruitful.  When I think of a tree, what comes to mind is the famous poem Trees by Alfred Joyce Kilmer that I learned when I was in Grade 4:

I think that I shall never see 
A poem lovely as a tree. 
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest 
Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast; 
A tree that looks at God all day, 
And lifts her leafy arms to pray; 
A tree that may in Summer wear 
A nest of robins in her hair; 
Upon whose bosom snow has lain; 
Who intimately lives with rain. 
Poems are made by fools like me, 
But only God can make a tree. 

No matter where you live, trees were probably part of your landscape. On my walks in the greenbelt near our house, trees abound!  I see maples, oaks, pines, and crab apples unfurling their green leaves announcing summer life. There is also a giant blue spruce tree in our front yard that offers a haven for many animals all throughout the year. These trees remind me of Tolkien’s tree-like creatures Ents, in the Lord of the Rings- ancient shepherds of the forest, wise, and strong, allies to all that’s good and righteous and true.  The arborist Criswell Davis once said that a symbiotic relationship exists between trees and humans. Humans breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, while trees breathe in carbon dioxide and exhale oxygen…The third and most important similarity between humans and trees is that each tree, like each human, is unique and beautiful in its own way.

In early June last year, Ken and I had the opportunity to visit South Korea. One of the few places that we’ve visited was the famous Hahoe (ha-hway) Folk Village, a traditional village dating from the 13th century Joseon (jo-son) era of Korean history. The village showcases Joseon period-style architecture, folk traditions, valuable books, and an old tradition of clan-based villages. In the heart of Hahoe village stands a huge 600-year old Zelkova tree also called Samsin Goddess Tree believed to be inhabited by a goddess named “Samsin” meaning three goddesses in one. Samsin is revered as the goddess of fertility and childbirth. The tree is encircled by a fence decorated by thousands of white “wish cloths”. Each cloth has a wish written on it most likely wishes or prayers for childbirth, for fertility, for good health or for good harvest. The Koreans pay homage to this timeless tree as sacred. They have preserved it for 600 years and made it a part of their way of life. It is a symbol of hope and a promise of new life.

A beautiful reflection on trees by Hermann Hesse  from his 1920 collection of fragments, Wandering: Notes and Sketches caught my attention as I reflect on Psalm 1.  Let me share with you an excerpt from his reflection:

For me, trees have always been the most penetrating preachers. I revere them when they live in tribes and families, in forests and groves…In their highest boughs the world rustles, their roots rest in infinity; but they do not lose themselves there, they struggle with all the force of their lives for one thing only: to fulfill themselves according to their own laws, to build up their own form, to represent themselves. Nothing is holier, nothing is more exemplary than a beautiful, strong tree. When a tree is cut down and reveals its naked death-wound to the sun, one can read its whole history in the luminous, inscribed disk of its trunk: in the rings of its years, its scars, all the struggle, all the suffering, all the sickness, all the happiness and prosperity stand truly written, the narrow years and the luxurious years, the attacks withstood, the storms endured... Trees are sanctuaries. Whoever knows how to speak to them, whoever knows how to listen to them, can learn the truth. They do not preach learning and precepts, they preach, undeterred by particulars, the ancient law of life... A tree says: My strength is trust. I know nothing about my parents, I know nothing about the thousand children that every year spring out of me. I live out the secret of my seed to the very end, and I care for nothing else. I trust that God is in me. I trust that my labor is holy. Out of this trust I live…Trees never try to be something else, like wart hogs or sledge hammers. They are content to be trees. Are we like trees?

Friends, there is a beautiful promise in Psalm 1. To be like trees is to have hope for today and for tomorrow; to trust in the promise that we will indeed thrive and produce, that good years will follow bad, that God’s goodness is to be counted on. To be like trees is a wonderful sign of promise that even when things get rough, there is still the promise of new life. May we all heed the way of God – the way of love, justice and grace. May we experience and exhibit the blessings and promises of a tree - fruitfulness, abundance, resilience, inclusion, patience and promise. Thanks be to God. Amen.

Sources used:

Walter Brueggemann, Spirituality of the Psalms (2002) and “Psalms”  (2014)
Lawrence O. Richards, The Teacher's Commentary, electronic media.
Joan Stott, The Timeless Psalms, timelesspsalms.net
Rev. Timothy Keyl, Bethesda Lutheran Church bethesdanewhaven.org
Rolf Jacobson, Commentary on Psalm 1, Narrative Lectionary, workingpreacher.org.
Hermann Hesse, Wanderings and Sketches (1920).

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer: Lorrie Lowes, DM

Holy One,
We find in the Book of Psalms a wealth of examples
of the ways in which your children may approach you.
Not only have you given us these models, but through them,
through everything the psalmists wrestle with,
You issue to us an open invitation to speak our hearts to you.
Hear us as we open our hearts to you this day. 

We open our hearts in gratitude
For the long days of summer,
For the time spent with family,
For the care given to each other and to the earth
in this time of pandemic.
Help us see the blessings in our lives. 

We open our hearts in sorrow
For those who are suffering illness and loss,
For those finding life difficult in these days of social isolation,
For those who struggle with basic needs at the best of times
and those who find it even more difficult today.
Help us become the blessings in their lives. 

We open our hearts in fear and anger
For the unrest in the world,
For those affected by war and violence,
For those facing discrimination and racism
– today and throughout history.
Help us see the places where we are the problem,
And help us become the allies they need. 

Open our hearts, God,
To see the wisdom in the holy words
Written so long ago as our ancestors struggled
to understand your will for your world and our place in it.
Help us see the laws laid down by Moses and the example of Jesus
As ways to move toward the vision of your kin-dom here on earth. 

These things we ask in the words that Jesus taught his disciples: 

Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kin-dom come, thy will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread
And forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kin-dom, the power and the glory,
Forever and ever,
Amen. 

Invitation to Offer: Rev. Kim

I now invite you to offer your gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of our gratitude to God’s blessings.  If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

Offertory Prayer:

Use these gifts, O God, as we offer them with humility and willingness.
Bless what we bring and use them to build God’s reign on earth. Amen.         

Sending Forth: Rev. Kim

As timeless as trees, go forth and walk each day
in communion with one another.
No matter where you go or what you do,
may the love of God walks with you,
the rays of Jesus’ light shine through you,
and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit empower you.
This day and in the days to come. Amen. 

Hymn:  Trees by Michael Morgan (2012) (Tune: DIX, VU 81)

Tree of Wisdom, fruitful, green, 
flourishing beside the stream;
spread your knowledge day and night;
make your law my true delight.
Fashion me, O Lord, to be
strong and splendid as a tree.

Tree of Justice, ever bless;
shade me with your righteousness.
Teach me how to live your ways, 
and my lips shall sing your praise.
Fashion me, O Lord, to be 
ever branching as a tree.

Tree of Plenty, feed my soul;
nurture me, and make me whole.
Give me strength, cast fear aside;
let me in your love abide.
Fashion me, O Lord, to be
firmly planted as a tree.

Tree of Promise, keep your vow:
with me then, and with me now.
Springtime blossoms, winter tears, 
mark the seasons of my years.
Fashion me, O Lord, to be
always changing as a tree.

Like a forest all around, 
so the gifts of grace abound:
flowing waters, fertile sod, 
sunlit dawn, the Word of God.
Fashion me, O Lord, to be
living, giving as a tree.

Words © 2011 Michael Morgan       Faith Alive Christian Resources          tune: DIX
Song #89337 Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214.
All rights reserved

Departing: Gaelic Blessing – Rutter    BCUC Choir

Zoom Fellowship hosted by Lorrie at 11 am. Link has been emailed. See you there!

Sunday Worship Service - June 21, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

INDIGENOUS SUNDAY / CELEBRATING FATHERS

June 21, 2020

[The video of this service can be found here]

Gathering Music Celebration Song – offered by Esther & Marlon Stewart

Acknowledgement of Aboriginal Territory Rev. Kim Vidal

Friends, the drum does not beat alone, nor does the heart, in the circle of life.
We begin our worship service by acknowledging the territory where most of us gather and where I am located. We acknowledge that we are gathered on the unceded traditional territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe First Nation. We pay respect to the elders past and present and honour all indigenous people’s reverence of this land throughout the ages. May we live in peace and friendship to sustain the earth and all its people.

Welcome & Announcements

Mino Kigijebawan! I just greeted you “good morning” in the language of the Algonquin people. On behalf of Bells Corners United Church, I welcome and greet you wherever you are in the name of the Great Spirit as we celebrate Indigenous Sunday and Celebrating Fathers. Today we join with our Indigenous brothers and sisters as they celebrate their heritage, their roots and their traditions that formed them as a people. May we with open hearts and minds, stand in solidarity with them as they continue to seek healing, truth and reconciliation. Special thanks to Esther and Marlon Stewart for their participation in today’s service. Migwech. Thank you.

Today we also pay tribute and honour the fathers, past and present, in our family, in our community and in the world. We give thanks for their contributions to the human community, for their love, their dedication, their faith, their courage, their strength and their gifts of time, talents and resources. Let us be reminded that "A father is neither an anchor to hold us back, nor a sail to take us there, but a guiding light whose love shows us the way." (Author Unknown) Happy Father’s Day!

I would like to highlight some announcements:

We welcome Victoria Ogden as our Christian Education Program Summer Student. Victoria has been an active member of BCUC particularly her involvement with UP Youth and Camp Awesome. Welcome Vicky!

David’s Flowers are back drive-through style and they are available every Saturday from 11:30 to 12:30 pm. The flowers will be displayed on tables outside the main entrance, and everyone is asked to remain in their car, bring exact change or prepared cheque for donations, and follow instructions of volunteers. Thank you for your support!

And for those of you who are able to join us via Zoom, there will be zoom fellowship every Sunday at 11 am. Link will be emailed to you or call the office for more information.

Friends, I now invite you to centre yourself in the presence of the Great Spirit, Creator God who calls us to worship in spirit and in truth.

Prayers to the Four Directions Esther Stewart & Lorrie Lowes

First Candle: Let us turn to the direction of the East, the place of the rising sun.

Great Spirit of Light, you come from the East with the power of the rising sun. Let there be light in our words, let there be light on the path that we walk. Let us remember always that you give the gift of a new day. And never let us be burdened with sorrow by not starting over again.

Second Candle: Let us face the direction of the South, the place of warm sun and new growth.

Great Spirit of creation, send us the warm and soothing winds from the South. Comfort us and caress us when we are tired and cold. Unfold us like the gentle breezes that unfold the leaves on the trees. As you give to all the earth your warm, moving wind, give to us, so that we may grow close to you in warmth.

Third Candle: Let us turn to face the direction of the West, the place of ripening growth.

Great Life-Giving Spirit, we face the West, the direction of sundown. Let us remember, every day, that the moment will come when the sun will go down. Never let us forget that we must fade into you. Give us a beautiful colour; give us a great sky for setting, so that when it is our time to meet you, we can come in glory.

Fourth Candle: Let us face the direction of the North. This is the place of cold winter winds and the rich wisdom of fruitful living.

Great Spirit of Love, come to us with the power of the North. Make us courageous when the cold wind falls upon us. Give us strength and endurance for everything that is harsh, everything that hurts, and everything that makes us squint. Let us move through life ready to take what comes from the North.

Reader 2 (Lorrie): The circle of life is a powerful image. The Earth is round, the wind in its greatest power whirls. The sun and the moon come forth and go down in a circle. Even the seasons come back to where they began. As the candles move outward, they gather us into this great circle, as separate as the four directions and as one as life itself. May we grow in light and love; may the colours of creation paint beautiful memories, and may the warmth of the creator’s Spirit inspire us to tread gently on the web of life. Amen

Peace Song – offered by Esther Stewart

Prayer of Approach: Neil Lowes

Gracious God, in the course of our life-journey, we do not only move from place to place. We also move from thought to thought, from task to task, from feeling to feeling. We move between solitude and relationship, between growth and stagnation, faith and confusion. In gathering to worship, we give thanks for all fathers whom you bless as we celebrate their presence and contributions to the human family. We offer praise to you, Father God, parent to us all, to the living Christ and to the sustaining Spirit. Be with us, care for us, comfort us with your love and grace. Through Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

Hymn: “River” More Voices #3

1 River, rush-a-down to the ocean blue,
River from a mountain high.
River, as you do what rivers do,
River, draw the Spirit nigh.

2. Spirit, come-a-down to the river-side,
Spirit, spark of wondrous thought.
Spirit, I am free for you to guide,
Spirit, pray that I be taught!

3. Water, let me drink of your healing pow’r,
Water, strength and life you give.
Water, as I travel with each hour.
Water, help my body live.

4. River, flow-a-down where you ran before, River, source of clearer view.
River, as I walk your rocky shore,
River, see my journey through.
See my journey through. (3x)

Words and Music © 2003 Julian Pattison eaglewingmusic.org Song #118178
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Storytime for the Young at Heart Lorrie Lowes

Good Morning!

Today is the day that, in the United Church of Canada, we celebrate the Aboriginal Day of Prayer. It’s an important one in our Canadian calendar, and this year, it coincides with our Aboriginal day in Canada, on June 21. Usually there are lots of powwows happening in the area and activities going on at the museums, places where we can learn a lot more about the cultures of the people that were first here on this land, people who lived here long before people from other countries in the world started coming here to settle in this beautiful, beautiful country.

Every year I look forward to getting ready for this service and the last few years it’s been really great to have Esther and Marlon Stewart and their family taking part in what we’ve been doing here at Bells Corners. They teach us so much about their culture and, because they come from a culture on the west coast of Canada, it’s very different from the Algonquin culture that we generally hear about in this area. You will have noticed this morning that the territory this church is on and the territory that all of us live on in this area belonged to the Algonquin people and it was never really ceded to the government of Canada. Zit still really belongs to the Algonquin tribes and we honour and respect that they took such good care of this land for many, many centuries.

Today we can’t have everybody in the sanctuary together but I hope you did enjoy the drumming and the Prayers to the Four Directions led by Esther this morning. I learn something new every time I do one of these services and so, I thought that today I would share something with you that I learned just last year – and that’s about the drum. You can see my drum hanging on the wall behind me here in my office. It’s a really important piece to me. What I learned about sacred drums is that they are a very sacred kind of item. They are used, not just in social things or dances that are recreational and fun. They are used in ceremonies, and so is the dancing. The drum is considered to be like the heartbeat of Mother Earth, so it is the heartbeat of the earth that they are thinking about when they are drumming, especially in their sacred ceremonies and singing and during prayer. Many of the cultures feel that the drum beat during prayer helps to send those prayers and messages to God. So the drum is a very important piece.

So, I want to show you my drum and share with you what I learned when I was creating it. As I said, I didn’t buy this drum; I created this drum. I’m being very careful not to say that I made this drum but that I created it. The way it was explained to me is that when you create a drum, you “birth” the drum. So, I gave birth to this drum. It started with just a big block of cedar and a huge deer hide and some other materials and we put them all together in a special way. If you look at the back of my drum, you can see that it’s made up of many, many parts. Each of the little angles that hold the pieces of cedar together represent the number of moons in the year. It can’t be just any size or shape but it needs to represent something that’s very important. The skin on the drum is an actual deer hide that has been carefully tanned and cured, and those of us in the class that were birthing our drums chose a part of the hide that “spoke” to us. We carefully traced out the shape we needed and soaked it overnight so that it was nice and pliable. We stretched it over the frame we had built the day before and then put it altogether with these cords. I think they would have traditionally used sinew but, in modern days, it’s happening with some more synthetic materials. Most of the materials in this drum are living materials and that’s part of what makes it special to me.

The drum and the drummer are considered to be sacred in our North American native cultures, and so when you hear someone drumming or singing, the respectful thing to do is to stand up. So, if that is happening at the front of our church, we should stand as a sign of respect – something I didn’t know last year – and when they are finished, you don’t clap, you sit down. That shows respect and keeps the feeling that this is a sacred moment.

The symbol on the drum is something that is important to you or to your culture. I chose the turtle because I’ve heard so many creation stories about the earth, and especially North America, being the turtle’s back. I chose the colours because I am very drawn to the west coast colours which tend to black, and red, and sometimes a bit of yellow.

When you play a drum, you need to heat it up first. It helps to make the skin more pliable. Remember, this was a living deer skin, so it’s important that we treat this material in a very different way than we would treat something that was made in a factory. To make the sound really good, we heat it up. I’m doing it with my hand. I’m thinking that my rubbing today isn’t going to make the sound really beautiful but this drum does have a gorgeous sound when it’s heated up properly. I hold it by the strings on the back so that it isn’t resting on anything and that helps the sound to echo through. I will play just a few little beats for you now – and, hopefully next year, I will be able to drum along with Marlon and Esther again!

Hymn: We Are One in the Spirit (They’ll Know We Are Christians by our Love)

1. We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And we pray that our unity will one day be restored

And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love.

2. We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand;
We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand;
And together we'll spread the news that God is in our land.
And they'll know …

3. We will work with each other, we will work side by side
We will work with each other, we will work side by side
And we'll guard each one's dignity and save each one's pride
And they'll know …

Words and Music © 1966 Peter Scholtes FEL Publications assigned to Lorenz Song #81199 Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Prayer for Illumination: Reader: Ian Howes

Creator of Life, through your Life-Giving Word, help us to face the truth about ourselves and humbly bring us to new life in you and with each other. Amen.

The Gospel Story: “Jesus Calms a Storm” Mark 4: 35-41 (NRSV)

35 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” 36 And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. 37 A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. 40 He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” 41 And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”

May we find ourselves renewed in this gospel story!
Thanks be to God!

Sermon: “Crashing Storms: Calming Hearts” Rev. Kim Vidal

Have you ever felt like you were being swallowed in a stormy sea or the world crashing in on you? and no matter how hard you prayed, and how intently you called for help, no one just seem to be listening or responding? Do you sometimes ask questions like: Why? Why me? What did I do to deserve this? These questions and emotional sentiments, I’m sure were the feelings expressed by most of the survivors of the residential schools. Between 1831 and 1996, residential schools operated in Canada through collaborations between the Government of Canada and several Christian churches, the United Church included. This partnership came to an end when the federal government took over sole management of the schools, and then began transferring the control of First Nations education to Indian bands. The last known residential school, the Gordon Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan, closed in 1996.

Two common objectives defined this period — the assimilation of indigenous children and convert them to being “civilized”. Thousands of indigenous children were taken forcibly from their homes, families and communities. They were stripped of their culture, language, religion, family roots and identity. Abuses in many forms were rampant. Relationships between children, their parents, their natural community, their form of worship, spirituality and cultural supports were violated. Fathers and mothers lose their capacity to nurture their children, to pass down their values and ways of life. The impact: an overwhelming failure that left the indigenous communities in anger, deep wounds, displacement, shame, and separation of families that were passed on from one generation to the next.

Listen to a survivor’s story shared by Karina Roman of CBC News[1]:

This is the story of Edmund Metatawabin, a Cree from Fort Albany First Nation and his was a success story. But when he was seven years old, he had no idea what was in store for him. In 1956, surrendering to pressure from Catholic priests, Edmund's father dropped him off at St. Anne's Residential School in Fort Albany. Edmund says students were hit, by hand or with objects, for the smallest of infractions, or for no reason at all. And it only got worse. Edmund was there for eight years. But his summers back at home, on the land with his father, were a respite he treasured. Edmund recalls: "And one of my father’s stories is that I would never be a trapper or a hunter. That my life would be with a pencil." His father was right. Edmund went to high school in Kirkland Lake, where despite being too afraid to speak in class, he succeeded because of athletics. "I learned to run. Long distance, cross country. Because I could beat the guys who were teasing me. So my body did the talking. That was my saving grace there." He went on to university and was working on his master’s degree when he was summoned back to Fort Albany to be chief where he served for 10 years. During those years as chief, he organized a conference for St. Anne's Residential School survivors in 1992. He saw the suffering of people in his community and thought it was time they told their stories. "All we want is justice," he said. "All we want is a movement that will make us feel it’s finally over…” But we know that it’s not over yet.

Edmund’s story is one of a kind – a success story for sure, for he rose against the storms of victimization and oppression. He did not succumb to anguish and depression and held on to what his father dreamt of what he will be – a life with a pencil! Thanks to his father’s wisdom and guidance, Edmund saw success in life. His story is just one story among thousands of survivor’s stories. What about those who did not make it in life? What about those who are still suffering from the scars of abuse and humiliation? those who are still living the brunt of racism and labelling? The legacy of racism and colonialism put upon to the indigenous communities resulted to family dysfunction, cultural uprootedness, not to mention, increased rates of chronic and infectious diseases, mental illnesess, substance abuse and suicidal behaviours, particularly among the young people. And add to that the plight of the families of the missing aboriginal women. As a community of faith, how do we respond to this complicated issue? Some of us might feel that it is not our business to solve the problem – after all, we were not there when the residential schools were put in place. But we know that doing nothing or being silent to this issue makes us complicit to the systemic abuse that permeates the indigenous communities to these days. We need to do something to heal the brokenness and be a part of the solution.

Come and step in the boat with me and perhaps an invitation for truth telling, for reconciliation, for mutual respect and for healing awaits us. Jesus was tired. He had been teaching and healing and socializing. He needed rest. The disciples took him to a boat and headed to "the other side." The other side indicates not only the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee. The other side was the location of an enemy zone! The boat carrying Jesus and his disciples turns from a familiar Jewish territory and heads across the water for unfamiliar regions, remote, unwelcoming, foreign – reminiscent of the uprooting of indigenous children from a safe, welcoming, happy place to an unknown ground where fear, pain, abuse and loneliness loomed large. As familiar land receded into the background, the skies darkened, the winds began to howl and the waves began to rise. Storm was on the way!

The storm evoked fear from the disciples – fear that could be easily interpreted as lack of faith. But was it really lack of faith? or was it just pure and simple fear in the face of a death-threatening storm? Would we not react the same way as the disciples did if we encounter the same? Sharon Salzberg writes: “Faith doesn’t mean the absence of fear. It means having the energy to go ahead, right alongside the fear.”[2] When Jesus awakes from sleep in response to his disciples’ cry for help, he didn’t chastise them for their display of fear. Instead, he invites them to examine why they were afraid—why they have let the storm rule their reality—and invites them to go back to their faith in God’s power that will accompany them amid their fears. Mark says that Jesus quiets the storm, and then quiets the disciples’ hearts. He calls on the wind and waves to be still, and then calls on them to have trust. Mark’s community who has heard this story equates the storm with the persecution they experienced from the imperial powers of Rome. Mark’s community shared this story to profess that God’s power is stronger than any storm; stronger than any imperial, oppressive powers on earth.

Storms are all around us. Storms of war are still raging in many parts of the world. Storms of poverty and famine flourish in developing countries. The COVID-19 storm still rages that affects many countries in devastating proportions. What about those who struggle through the storms of death, or illness or despair? We hear of those who are in stormy relationships and those who have not survived the storms of natural calamities. Storms of racial injustice and discrimination of all sorts are still alive that kills rather than heals. The George Floyd story is still fresh in our minds that calls for the world’s attention to stand in solidarity with the black community. Systemic racism is very much alive in this part of the world like a crashing storm that diminishes human lives particularly those of the indigenous communities.

This year marks the 5th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that drafted 94 “calls to action”. We need to review these calls to action particularly those that are addressed to faith communities like ours and do our part in promoting understanding and developing meaningful, respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. As the Body of Christ, we are asked not to ignore the storms around us, but to walk into a storm supporting each another, hand in hand, in faith and in love. And some of us will continue through life without having heard about the residential schools and their continuing impact on First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people in our country. Some of us will continue to judge, to discriminate against, and to put down indigenous people. It is our responsibility to spread the word about residential schools including its demeaning impact and to keep us informed of what’s happening. The healing and reconciliation that we are seeking for all people will be hampered as we continue in our conflict and division. The winds will still rage. The waves will fill our boat with water until we sink and die. And the boat will rock until we can stand it no more. I don’t know what the next steps are but what I know is that there is no quick fix to this issue. Not even apologies that two of our United Church moderators have expressed will mend the scars right away. We will for sure be in for a long haul and God knows how many more storms we will meet on the way until this issue will be put to rest. Jesus spoke a word of peace and the storm calmed down.

Perhaps, like Jesus, we need to offer a word of peace. And to do this, we need to change the way we treat others. When we look at an indigenous person and treat him or her like a brother or a sister, that is a starting point. We can never move past our prejudices and biases until we see ourselves in the “other” particularly those who are different from us. May we listen attentively to their stories and their struggles, to acknowledge their past, to appreciate the beauty of their culture and spirituality and to stand with them as they advocate for the government to live out its responsibility. May we plant seeds of respect, honour and compassion and pray that God’s grace will bless those seeds until they grow and blossom into the reality of truth and reconciliation.

We can also show our support through art and poetry. On June 16th, Patricia Heinzman, former mayor of Squamish, British Columbia was our guest participant at the lectionary group study. Patty, as we fondly call her, wrote a powerful poem in response to a young First Nations man who wrote and performed a spoken-word poem during a Bright New Day Reconciliation Circle that Patty attended. Patty’s poem is a reminder of the ongoing struggle of the Indigenous peoples and one that opens our heart to respond. Let me share her poem with you:

Truth. Reconciliation.
Is more than an apology and deprecation,
a prayer to remove a stain upon our nation,
a shame rooted in colonial aspiration.
This failure of Christianity, of humanity,
our arrogance and vanity,
is Canada’s unfortunate profanity.
Our era without sanity.
With complete disregard and without considerations,
deference and dignity, and with near surgical ablations,
we systematically cut the First Nations,
demoralized generations,
destroyed languages and cultures to the quick, realpolitik.
So it’s time to be introspective.
Not just to remember our history selective.
150 years we’ve been in denial
of this bias we must reconcile.
The art of the possible is what I choose,
It’s harmony that we should collectively infuse
to rectify this system of abuse.
A country’s consciousness to transfuse.
With prisms new and a sense of hope,
positive reflections viewed through a common kaleidoscope,
evolving patterns, transparent, rotating perspectives
engender a uniquely Canadian antidote.
We’re birds of a feather,
in the same canoe pulling together.
After all, humanism is Canada’s shared endeavour,
everyone’s welfare our promotion, our devotion…whatsoever
C’est notre raison d’être, it’s in our DNA.
And it’s why we’re here to celebrate Indigenous Day
We all need to hear what our first peoples have to say to usher in a bright new day. O’siem.

And finally, dear friends, let us offer our support through words of encouragement and inspiration. Let me offer this blessing of peace written by Jan Richardson to our indigenous brothers and sisters as we journey with them in their continuing struggle for truth and reconciliation:

I cannot claim/ to still the storm/ that has seized you, cannot calm/ the waves that wash through your soul, that break against your fierce and aching heart. But I will wade into these waters/ will stand with you in this storm, will say peace to you / in the waves, peace to you / in the winds, peace to you / in every moment that finds you still within the storm. In the name of the Great Spirit, Amen.

[1] St. Anne's Residential School: One survivor's story by Karina Roman, CBC News Posted: Dec 18, 2013.

[2] Sharon Salzberg,  “Choosing Faith over Fear”, O Magazine, January 2002.

Moment of Remembrance: Esther Stewart (on recordings only)

The Great Spirit Prayer[3]: Lorrie Lowes, DM

Oh, Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the wind,
whose breath gives life to all the world.
Hear me; I need your strength and wisdom.
Let me walk in beauty and make my eyes
ever behold the red and purple sunset.
Make my hands respect the things you have made
and my ears sharp to hear your voice.
Make me wise so that I may understand
the things you have taught my people.
Help me to remain calm and strong
in the face of all that comes towards me.
Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock.
Help me seek pure thoughts and act
with the intention of helping others.
Help me find compassion without empathy overwhelming me.
I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother or my sister.
Make me always ready to come to you
with clean hands and straight eyes.
So when life fades, as the fading sunset,
my spirit may come to you without shame.

[3] Author unknown.

This is our prayer in the name of the Risen Christ who taught us the way to restorative justice through the Lord’s Prayer written for the First Nations People.

Great Spirit, whose long house is in the sky,
whose hunting ground is the earth,
mighty and fearful are you called,
Ruler over storm, over human, bird and beast,
over earthway, over skyway;
Find us this day our meat and bread,
that we may be strong and brave.
Put aside from us our wicked ways,
as we put aside bad works of them who wrong us.
Let us not be led into troubled roads
but keep us from all evil.
For yours is all that is: the earth, the sky, streams and hills,
the stars, the moon, the sun,
and all that live and breathe the wonderful shining mighty,
mighty Spirit. Amen

Invitation to Offer: Rev. Kim Vidal

I now invite you to offer your gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of our gratitude to God’s blessings. If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

* Offertory Prayer (together)

God, who is like a providing father to us, we give you thanks for your love and presence in our lives. With these gifts we now offer, help us to bring new life to our homes, to heal and to be healers in our families and in our communities. Amen.

Sending Forth: (by Lee Claus, Francis Sandy Theological Centre, 2008) Rev. Kim Vidal

Return now to the circle of Life, knowing,
That the love of Creator God is with us,
The compassion of Jesus inspires us,
The hope of the Holy Spirit comforts us.
May everyone we meet, know of our praise
of God’s name, by the singing and dancing
of our hands, heart, and feet! Amen.

*Hymn: My Love Colours Outside the Lines More Voices #138

1. My love colours outside the lines,
exploring paths that few could ever find;
and takes me into places where I’ve never been before,
and opens doors to worlds outside the lines.

2. My Lord colours outside the lines,
turns wounds to blessings, water into wine;
and takes me into places where I’ve never been before
and opens doors to worlds outside the lines.

We’ll never walk on water if we’re not prepared to drown,
body and soul need a soaking from time to time.
And we’ll never move the grave-stones if we’re not prepared to die,
and realize there are worlds outside the lines.

3, 4 My soul longs to colour outside the lines
tear back the curtains, sun, come in and shine;
I want to walk beyond the boundaries where I’ve never been before,
throw open doors to worlds outside the lines

Words and Music © 1995 Gordon Light, arr. © Andrew Donaldson Common Cup Company
Song #119027 Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All right reserved

Extinguishing the Candles to the Four Directions: Lorrie Lowes, DM

1: All good things come from the East The freshening wind brings warm rain and sunshine. Each day guide us to see you in everything we do, everyone we meet. Be kind in your blessings, Lord.

2: The warming south winds bring new growth, gentle rain, healing sunshine. Bless us with enough food and the good things from the earth. As we eat nourishing food help us to know you as the giver of all good gifts, Lord.

3: The sun sets in the West giving us glorious colors in our life. Night can sometimes be scary. The darkness can also mean calming, healing sleep. May good dreams and deep sleep cleanse us from all that is bad or evil. Renew and refresh us, O Lord.

4: North winds sometimes bring stormy weather and snow. Let your warmth in our coldness wrap us as with a blanket of love to keep away all that hurts. May all our people have warm houses and full tables against winter’s chill, Lord.

Zoom Fellowship hosted by Lorrie at 11 am. Link has been emailed. See you there!

Sunday Worship Service - June 14, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION SUNDAY
Sunday School Closing & Celebration
All-Ages Worship

June 14, 2020

[The video of this service can be found here]

Gathering: More Voices #26 Your Love is Amazing – BCUC band

Words and Music; Brenton Brown and Brian Doerksen © 2000 Vineyard songs
Song #5b057fdf9f6f6 Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214.
All rights reserved

Welcome – Rev. Kim Vidal

Good day everyone! On behalf of Bells Corners United Church in Ottawa, I welcome and greet you in the name of Jesus Christ who calls the children to come to him and lifts them up as belonging in the Kin-dom of God. Today we are celebrating Christian Education Sunday. It is an opportunity for us to celebrate and acknowledge the presence of our youth and children at BCUC as we continue to journey with them in faith and in love. We also extend our sincerest thanks and appreciation to Lorrie Lowes, our diaconal minister, who looks after our Christian Education ministry and all of the Sunday School teachers, youth leaders, nursery providers and other volunteers as they continue to support and nurture our youth and children.

Whether you are joining us from Ottawa or other parts in Canada or perhaps in other countries like the United States or in the Philippines, thank you for being part of our virtual worship service today.

During this time when we are not able to worship in the church sanctuary, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with the weekly announcements, online meetings and events and other updates. And in this trying time of COVID-19 pandemic, I encourage you to show that you care by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

Friends, I now invite you to centre yourself in the presence of God who welcomes us like a child, full of wonder and trust. Let us gather in worship.

Lighting of Christ Candle: Acolytes: Wightman Family

Voice 1: “Jesus called a child, whom he put among them, and said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Voice 2: Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” (Matthew 18: 2-5)

*Call to Gather: Berard Family

Reader 1:
We are the children of the world,
and despite our different backgrounds,
we share a common reality.

Reader 2:
We are united by our struggle to make the world
a better place for all. You call us the future,
but we are also the present.

Reader 3:
So come, sisters and brothers of every age!
Come, cousins and kin from every land and place!
As children in this time and in this place—
disciples of Christ and children of God—
we’re here with the belief that the world can be different.

All:
We’re here with the belief that God’s love,
living in us and through us, changes the world! Alleluia!

Richard Bott, ‘We Hold These Children”, A Service for Children’s Sunday.

Prayer of Approach: (written by Rt. Rev. Richard Bott) Wendy Morrell & Dan Lanoue

(arms open wide) Holy God,
(arms move in, pretending to rock a baby)
you were with us when we were born,
(squatting down, slowly rising with arms overhead)
you are with us as we grow,
(covering heart with hands and crumpling a bit)
you are with us when we hurt,
(standing tall, arms to side) you are with us when we are whole.
(cupping hands at belly) Thank you.
(raising cupped hands to chest level) Thank you!
(raising hands above head) THANK YOU!
(making “binoculars”) Would you help us to see?
(cupping ears) Would you help us to hear?
(stretching arms out) Would you help us to love?
(making 360-degree turn) So we might change ourselves.
(making 360-degree turn) So we might change the world!
(arms open wide) Amen.

Hymn: “One More Step” Voices United #639

1.One more step along the world I go;
one more step along the world I go,
From the old things to the new,
keep me traveling along with you.
And it’s from the old I travel to the new,
keep me traveling along with you.

2.‘Round the corner of the world I turn,
more and more about the world I learn;
all the new things that I see;
you’ll be looking at along with me.
And it’s from the old I travel to the new,
keep me traveling along with you.

3.As I travel through the bad and good,
keep me traveling the way I should;
where I see no way to go,
you’ll be telling me the way, I know.
And it’s from the old I travel to the new,
keep me traveling along with you.

4.Give me courage when the world is rough;
keep me loving though the world is tough;
leap and sing in all I do,
keep me traveling along with you.
And it’s from the old I travel to the new,
keep me traveling along with you.

5.You are older than the world can be,
You are younger than the life in me,
Ever old and ever new,
keep me traveling along with with you:
And it’s from the old I travel to the new;
keep me traveling along with you.

Words and Music; Sydney Carter © 1971, Stainer & Bell Ltd Song # 03216
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Time of Celebration & Appreciation Lorrie Lowes

If we were at the church today, everything would be abuzz! The CGs and Bell Canto would be warming up with the band, Rev. Kim would be making sure the children and youth had their parts for the service, “Two Men and a Stove” would be firing up the barbecue, and the UP Group would be setting up for games on the lawn. This was supposed to be an all-ages service in celebration of the end of the regular Sunday School and Youth programs followed by our Sunday School picnic. From what I see on the weather forecast, it should be a perfect day for it – sunny but not too hot. It is disappointing that we can’t be doing all of these things – but we can still celebrate!

Today I celebrate all of the children and youth who bring such life and spirit to this faith family. As I plan your programs each week, I think about each one of you and am excited about the ideas and wisdom you will bring to the lessons. I look forward to the time when you come forward for our chancel chat before you head off to your classes. I love how engaged you are and how willing and eager you are to share your ideas. You make all of us at BCUC very proud. As you think about putting away your school books for the summer, I wish you sunshine and joy and I look forward to the time when we can gather on the chancel again. I look forward to your smiles and your hugs!

Today we also celebrate all the folks who make this program work – the teachers, the youth leaders, for Erin who puts in so much love and time to help you create the music and the creative activities in response to the lessons. I celebrate the teamwork of the teachers who are willing to jump in and help wherever they are needed. I appreciate them all so much and I know you do too.

We can’t hand them a flower or a little gift in person this year – so here is our gift to them…

(Photos of Sunday School children with thank you cards for their teachers)

Hymn: I’ve Got Peace Like A River Voices United #577

I’ve got peace like a river (3x) in my soul
I’ve got peace like a river (3x) in my soul

2-Joy like a fountain 3- Love like an ocean 4- Peace, joy, love like a river, fountain, ocean

Words and Music; public domain Song # 95106
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Prayer for Illumination: Leader: Raven Miller

Dear God, we come as children, humble, innocent and trusting. We come, ready to hear your Word. Let the words speak in each heart. Let the truth set each one free. Let gospel inspire us for justice. Let the Spirit’s presence fill us with joy. Amen.

The Gospel Story: Reader: Phoenix Miller

“Jesus Blesses Little Children” Mark 10:13-16 (NRSV)

13 People were bringing little children to Jesus in order that he might bless them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. 14 But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to his disciples, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. 15 Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took the children up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.

May we find ourselves renewed in this gospel story!
Thanks be to God!

Reflection: “What Do We Want To Tell the Children?” Rev. Kim Vidal

(inspired by the writing of Ann Weems in Reaching for Rainbows)

I’m a big fan of Ann Weems. In case you are not familiar with her, Ann Weems was a celebrated American poet, a prolific author, a Presbyterian elder and a profound lecturer. She passed away in 2016 at a ripe age of 81. She wrote a number of books, most of which are in my personal library. Her books revealed her beliefs, her convictions, her spirituality, her theology, her love for humanity, particularly children. The first book that introduced me to Ann Weems was Reaching for Rainbows. In this book, she offered words of joy and hope, faith-filled prayers and contemporary worship resources. She had a big heart for children. That’s why I am using some inspiration from one of her works to celebrate our youth and children at BCUC. She wrote a short essay about what do we want to tell the children. I have highlighted some of her thoughts and added them to mine in this reflection.

In the rush and crunch of our mission as God’s children, we sometimes forget who we are: the children of God.

In our grown-up practicality, in our busy adult-conscience productivity, we sometimes forget that Jesus said, “Unless you become as little children, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven.” We even forget who Jesus is and we begin telling the story all wrong.

What about the children of this world who are not filled with life’s joys? What about the children who are “have-nots” – who have not food, clothing, medicine, warm shelter, parents? What about the abused or neglected child? And the child who lives in darkness?

Gabriela Mistral, Nobel prize-winning poet from Chile, has written: “We are guilty of many errors and many faults, but our worst crime is abandoning the children, neglecting the fountain of life. Many of the things we need can wait. The child cannot. Right now is the time the child’s bones are being formed, blood being made, senses being developed. To a child, we cannot answer “Tomorrow”. The child’s name is “Today!”

The United Nations has declared that every child in this world must have certain rights:
The right to affection, love and understanding.
The right to adequate nutrition and medical care.
The right to free education.
The right to full opportunity for play and recreation.
The right to name a nationality.
The right to special care, if handicapped.
The right to be among the first to receive relief in times of disaster.
The right to be a useful member of society and to develop individual abilities.
The right to be brought up in a spirit of peace and universal community.
The right to enjoy these rights, regardless of race, colour, sex, religion, national or social origin.

What do we want to tell the children?

Ann Weems said that children know the fears of darkness. But we want to tell them that a man named Jesus came, taught us about God’s love and took our hands and held them so that we would be safe. Children know about holding hands with someone who can make them safe. We are now the hands of Jesus so let us hold their hands in love.

We want to tell them that Jesus led us into the Light and that’s where we need to live now – in the Light! Each child must learn what it means to go from darkness to light.

It’s like when nighttime comes and you run upstairs in a hurry because you feel like something will get you and you run as fast as you can and turn on the light and you feel safer. Then you go and find your mom or dad or someone who will put their arms around you and then you know you’re safe. We are now the light of Christ to every child. Let that light guide them to safety and peace.

That’s why Ann Weems thinks, and I agree with her, why we come to church. We come to be in the Light. We come to thank God for the Light, and we go out into the world and find people who are hurting and crying, and we pick them up and carry them into the Light. We wipe away their tears and tell them that they can stay in the Light, and we hold their hands so they won’t be scared anymore.

At BCUC, I am proud to say that we treat each other like a family, where each one, particularly the children and the youth is invited, welcomed, listened to, blessed and loved. BCUC is our spiritual home – a home of God’s grace. More than memories, more than experiences, more than the physical space. In this church, there are rooms for everyone and everyone has a place. It reminds me of Rudyard Kipling’s quote on family: “A family shares things like dreams, hopes, possessions, memories, smiles, frowns, and gladness...A family is a clan held together with the glue of love and the cement of mutual respect. A family is shelter from the storm, a friendly port when the waves of life become too wild. No person is ever alone who is a member of a loving family.”

In the song We Are the World – it seems that the late Michael Jackson paraphrased today’s gospel story. The song tells us what it means to be a child, welcomed and embraced by Jesus. Jackson’s musical theology is one that resonates the true meaning of God’s kin-dom. “We are the world – we are the children. We are the ones who make a brighter day so let's start giving. There's a choice we're making. We're saving our own lives. It's true we'll make a better day, just you and me”. These words embrace a vision and hope for young people like Terry Fox who raised awareness and healing through his unfortunate cancer and physical disabilities; of Craig Kielburger who organized Free the Children movement against child labour; of the young Ryan from Kemptville, just outside Ottawa, who started the well project for clean waters in Africa; of the Japanese girl Sadako who raised world peace awareness through the peace cranes that she folded, of the African Children’s Choir whose melodic voices challenge the powers-that-be in diminishing the humanity of women and children in Africa, of the Pakistani young woman, Malala whose activism for girls’ education spread like a wildfire and the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize; of young environmental and climate change activists like Greta Thunberg and Autumn Peltier who inspire people and leaders to pay attention to the groaning Mother Earth.

Here at BCUC, I am proud to say that our youth, young adults and children are doing their part in making a difference: Hazel & Doyle Smith who travelled with Lorrie in a partnership visit to Chipembi; 16 people, including 10 youth and young adults who went to Nicaragua and built homes for those in need; Elly Crow who raised awareness on body shaming; some members of the UP Youth who ran the Camp Awesome program with Tamara; children and youth who offer their gifts and talents, their voices, their participation, their questions and their presence that touch many of us in the congregation and beyond.

Friends, let us go and tell the children that here at Bells Corners United Church, in this church family, and around the world, that there’s still a lot of love going on.

What do we want to tell the children?

Tell them that everyone is a child of God.
Tell them that Jesus calls them to him just the way they are.
Tell them that they are cherished and that we love them strongly.
Tell them to speak up and let their voices be heard.
Tell them that we care.

Let us celebrate the children!

Thank you Lorrie, the Sunday School teachers, youth leaders, nursery providers and volunteers! Thank you yound people and Sunday School children! Thank you Ann Weems! Thank you Jesus! Thank you God! Amen.

Invitation for Prayer: “Lord, Listen to your Children Praying” VU#400 – BCUC choir

Lord, Listen to your children praying.
Lord, send your Spirit in this place.
Lord, listen to your children praying.
Send us love, send power, send us grace.

Words and Music: Ken Medema © 1971 Hope Publishing Song # 384
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Prayers of the People & Lord’s Prayer Lorrie Lowes

Loving God,
Hear us as we lift up our prayers for ourselves, our family, our friends, our community, and your world today.
We thank you for each new day given to us,
And we give thanks especially for the days that bring us together as a family of faith,
even when we can’t meet in the sanctuary of our church.
We thank you for the many blessings this community brings.

Compassionate God,
There is so much happening in the world that confuses us, frightens us, and even angers us.
We pray that you give us strength as we cope with the new realities the Covid-19 pandemic brings.
We pray for those who are suffering, for families who are missing close connections, for people feeling isolated and trapped in their homes.
We pray for the frontline workers who work so tirelessly to provide the necessities of life – health care, safety, protection, and comfort.
We pray for all those who are unable to work and for those who are preparing to make their way back to their jobs.
We pray for the teachers, the ministers, the counsellors, and all who support us as we navigate these strange times through technology.
Help us see not only the struggles but also the blessings these days bring.

God, we lift up those around the world who do not have enough,
enough food…
enough access to health care…
enough peace…
enough love…
enough joy.

We pray that you help us cope with the racial injustice and violence that is happening all around us. Make us see each other as you see us all, through the eyes of love.
Help us recognize the systemic racism in the world, in our own country, and in ourselves.
We pray for all racialized people and today, especially for people of colour.
Help us understand their anger and their grief.
Help us be part of the solution by becoming the allies they need in this struggle.
Jesus told his disciples to become like little children.

Today we celebrate the children and youth who are such a vital part of our faith family.
We recognize and give thanks for their enthusiasm, their commitment, and their insight into what it means to be a follower of Jesus today.
We give thanks for the vision they bring to us of better tomorrows.
We give thanks for all those who nurture them and help them on their faith journey.

Thank you for the Sunday School Teachers, the Youth Group Leaders, the “Secret Pals”, and all those who take the time to listen and to encourage.
Lead us to work for the welfare and protection of all young people.
May we respect their dignity that they may flourish in life.
All these things we lift up to you in the name of Jesus who taught these words to his disciples.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.

The Offering: Rev. Kim Vidal

I now invite you to offer your gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of our gratitude to God’s blessings. If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

*Offertory Prayer (together)

Holy God, we thank you for all the gifts that you have given us. With thankful hearts we offer our gifts for the care and the healing of your world. Use our gifts and bless all that they may touch. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sending Forth: A Blessing for All the Children of the World (by Alyson Huntly) Lorrie Lowes, DM

Children of God,
May someone hold you close tonight,
and may you never wake alone.
May you have food to eat,
and may you never wake hungry.
May you sleep in a safe and quiet place,
and may you never wake to the sound of fighting.
May you have someone to love and protect you,
and may you never wake in fear.
May you have a shelter over your head,
and may you never wake in the cold.
May you always know that you are one of God’s beloved one,
may you never wake alone. Amen.

*Hymn: Go, Make a Diff’rence More Voices #209

Refrain:
Go make a diff’rence.
We can make a diff’rence.
Go make a diff’rence in the world.
Go make a diff’rence.
We can make a diff’rence.
Go make a diff’rence in the world.

1- We are the salt of the earth,
called to let the people see
the love of God for you and me.
We are the light of the world,
Not to be hidden but be seen.
Go make a diff’rence in the world. Refrain

2- We are the hands of Christ
reaching out to those in need,
The face of God for all to see.
We are the spirit of hope;
We are the voice of peace.
Go make a diff’rence in the world. Refrain

3 – So let your love shine on,
let it shine for all to see.
Go make a diff’rence in the
world. And the spirit of
Christ will be with us as we go.
Go make a diff’rence in the world! Refrain

Words and Music © 1997 Steve Angrisano and Tom Tomaszek spiritandsong.com
Song # 82988 Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Departing: My Lighthouse - the Rend Collective – BCUC Band

Chris Llewellyn, Gareth Gilkeson © 2013 Thankyou Music
CCLI Song #7002032 CCLI License #11199365

Zoom Fellowship

Hosted by Lorrie at 11 am on Sunday, June 14.
Link has been emailed. See you there!

Sunday Worship Service - June 7, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

A CELTIC TRINITY SUNDAY

95th ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

WORSHIP SERVICE

June 7, 2020

[The video of this service can be found here]

Gathering: Be Thou My Vision - arr. Mark Hayes Abe - piano

Words of Welcome & Announcements – Rev. Kim Vidal

Good morning! On behalf of Bells Corners United Church in Ottawa, I welcome and greet you in the name of the Triune God: Creator, Christ and Companion on this Trinity Sunday. Today we are celebrating the 95th anniversary year of the United Church of Canada which was inaugurated on June 10, 1925. Whether you are joining us from Ottawa or other parts in Canada or perhaps in other countries like the United States or in the Philippines, thank you for being part of our virtual worship service today.

During this time when we are not able to worship in the church sanctuary, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with the weekly announcements, online meetings and events and other updates. And in this trying time of COVID-19 pandemic, I encourage you to show that you care by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

In light of the ongoing racial strife in the United States that sparked anger and awareness in many parts of the world, Canada included, I urge you to offer your solidarity with the black community in their continued fight against racial injustice and to offer prayers of healing and reconciliation. Let us be reminded of our call as followers of Jesus - to stand up against all forms of injustice and to welcome people of every colour, ethnicity and creed.

I now invite you to centre yourself in the presence of the Triune God who calls us to gather in the name of justice and love. Let us gather in worship.

Lighting of the Three Candles: (A Celtic Tradition) Acolytes: Davidson Family

One: I will light a light in the name of God,
who lit the world and breathed the breath of life into me. (light the first candle)

Two: I will light a light in the name of Jesus whose compassion
blessed the world and stretched out his hand to me. (light the second candle)

Three: I will light a light in the name of the Spirit
who encompasses the world and blesses my soul with yearning. (light the third candle)

All: Three lights for the trinity of love:
God above us, God beside us, God beneath us;
the beginning, the end, the everlasting one.

*Call to Gather: (Celtic Prayers) Lorrie Lowes

I arise today
through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity,
through the belief in the threeness,
through the confession of the oneness
of the Creator of Creation.

Three folds of a cloth, yet only one napkin is there;
Three joints in the finger, but still one finger fair;
Three leaves of the shamrock, yet no more than one shamrock to wear;
Frost, snowflakes and ice, all in water their origin share.
Three Persons in God: to One God alone we make our prayer.

*Opening Prayer: (reflecting the four core functions of the United Church of Canada: witness, faith formation, community and service by Rod Sykes):

For 95 years, the Triune God has called the people of the United Church of Canada toward greater faithfulness: to witness to the power of God’s love in transforming self and society.
Triune God of hope, strengthen our resolve.
For over nine decades God has shaped this church to be a home for the hungry heart where faith is formed.
Triune God ever questing, ever yearning, grant us wisdom.
Through fourscore years and fifteen, God has nurtured this body of Christ, caring for each other with open hearts and hands.
Triune God, bring to birth among us true companionship in Christ.
Throughout the generations, the good news of the Way of Jesus has moved our forebears to respond to human need and challenge social wrong.
Triune God, ignite within us renewed commitment to your Reign. Amen.

Opening Hymn: I, the Lord of Sea & Sky - Voices United #509

1 - I, the Lord of sea and sky
I have heard my people cry
All who dwell in dark and sin
My hand will save
I, who made the stars of night
I will make their darkness bright
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?

Refrain:
Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night
I will go, Lord, if you lead me
I will hold your people in my heart

2 - I, the Lord of snow and rain
I have borne my people's pain
I have wept for love of them
They turn away
I will break their hearts of stone
Give them hearts for love alone
Who will speak my word to them
Whom shall I send? Refrain

3 - I, the Lord of wind and flame
I will tend the poor and lame
I will set a feast for them
My hand will save
Finest bread I will provide
'Til their hearts be satisfied
I will give my life to them
Whom shall I send? Refrain

Words & Music © 1981 Daniel L. Schutte New Dawn Music Song#80670
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved.

Storytime for the Young at Heart with Lorrie

How do you introduce yourself?

I usually say, “Hi, I’m Lorrie!” … well most of the time…
I might say, I’m Will’s mom, or maybe I’m Bree’s grandma… or Neil’s wife… or one of the ministers at BCUC… or your new neighbour…
Hmmm… I guess it depends on who I’m introducing myself to!
Sometimes people will ask me for my full name – like on a registration form, or at the doctor’s office or the bank… Then I would say, “Lorraine Ann Lowes” …

In high school my friends had a nickname for me. They called me Lorrie-belle…
My kids call me Mom – well except for my oldest son. He likes to call me Ma when he’s being silly….
My brother calls me Lor
Neil calls me “Hon”
Some people call me Mrs. Lowes, others call me Aunt Lorrie…
When I was little my grandma called me Lorelei Kilgallon – no idea where that came from!

I can keep going! There are so many different names for me…
It seems kind of confusing, doesn’t it? But, know what? I always know that they are talking to me or about me, no matter which name they use. I recognize their voices or the situation or the story.
I think it’s kind of the same thing with God.

Today is called “Trinity Sunday”. It’s a day when we talk about God being three in one. It’s a concept that is important to Christians but confusing at the same time. How can there be just one God but we talk about that God as Father, Son (or Jesus), and Holy Spirit? It sounds like 3 different things altogether!

I think we use different names for God depending on the situation, or our feelings at that moment, or our relationship with God – just like people use different names for us depending on those things.
I find it interesting that, although we talk about the Trinity, we have so many more names for God than just three:
Creator… Redeemer… Breath of Life… Savior…Yahweh …Jehovah… Lord… Holy Mystery…Love…Christ…

Just a walk through our hymn book gives many examples. I’m sure you can think of more. But each time, no matter which of these words we use, we are still talking about the same God. Just like I am the same person, even though I am addressed in many different ways.
And that reminds me that no matter how many names I use for God, I am still talking about the same one…
And that one God recognizes all of those names and listens to what I have to say.
Sometimes I wonder what God’s answer would be if we asked what God’s full name is…

Children’s Hymn: Father, I Adore You (sung in a round)

Father, I adore you,
lay my life before you,
how I love you.

Jesus, I adore you,
lay my life before you,
how I love you.

Spirit, I adore you,
lay my life before you,
how I love you.

Three-in-One, I adore you,
lay my life before you,
how I love you

Words & Music © Terry Caelho © 1972 Maranatha! Music
CCLI LICENSE #1199365. All rights reserved.

Prayer for Illumination: (written by Beth W. Johnson) Reader: David Stafford

Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, your Word is a light in the shadows, nourishment for our hunger, challenge for our complacency, and comfort for our sorrow. Enlighten, feed, challenge and cheer us today. Amen.

Epistle Readings

Ephesians 4: 4-6

4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Creator of all, who is above all and through all and in all.

2 Corinthians 13: 11-13

Final Greetings and Benediction

11 Finally, brothers and sisters farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 12 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you.

13 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.

Hear what the Spirit is saying to all of us. Thanks be to God!

Sermon: “Trinity Talk: One-in-Three - God as Holy Mystery” Rev. Kim Vidal

You all know me as Kim – a minister, a teacher, a mother. But I am also a daughter, a sister, a wife. I describe myself as an empowerer, a lover, a friend. Three distinct words for one “me”. Not three Kims. Only one Kim. Now if you were to describe God, what words would you use? I’m sure you will have more than one description for God. I ask this question in the context of today’s sermon on the doctrine of Trinity. Like many other Christians, I wonder why we even spend time focusing on this 4th century doctrine. I believe that taking time to intentionally and thoughtfully examine the doctrine of Trinity is absolutely crucial to our understanding of the nature and character of God.

The first woman to have been ordained as a rabbi in Reconstructionist Judaism is Sandy Eisenberg Sasso. She had written a wonderful children’s book called In God’s Name. This book affirms the need to call God by many names: Source of Life – Creator of Light – Maker of Peace – My Rock –Ancient One – Mother – Father – Friend. The progressive Christian and professor, the Rev. Carl Gregg wrote: “We call God by many names because we recognize the limits of human language and that our lived experience of God is so diverse that no ONE name for God can capture the fullness of God.” The composer Brian Wren wrote a beautiful hymn called “Bring Many Names.” The lyrics he wrote in naming God is diverse: “Strong mother God, working night and day…Warm father God, hugging every child…Old, aching God…wiser than despair…Young, growing God, eager, on the move, crying out for justice…” Sasso, Gregg and Wren urge us to bring many names for God. They are windows of our lived experience of who God is in our lives.

Within Christianity, the most common expression of naming God is profound in the doctrine of Trinity expressed as Three-in-One, One-in-Three. Sounds like the 3 Musketeer’s motto: “All for one and one for all!” Putting words to that distinction, the church fathers who proposed this doctrine in the early 4th century chose to designate the Trinitarian Formula as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. There is no doubt, however, that this designation is both hierarchical and patriarchal. And the major problem flowing out of this is that the Christian Church itself, following the culture of its day, also became obsessed with hierarchy and patriarchy – top down and male dominated. This approach has had profound and oftentimes devastating political, religious and social consequences especially for women.

One of my Catholic colleagues from St. Paul University recalled the first time he became aware of just how difficult and obscure the doctrine of the Trinity can be. He said that as a teenager growing up in the Roman Catholic Church, he was asked to recite the Athanasian Creed. When he got to the part which reads, The Father incomprehensible, the Son incomprehensible, and the Holy Ghost incomprehensible, he muttered, too loudly to the horror of those around him, “Geez! The whole damn thing is incomprehensible!' I totally agree with him! His story does express a general feeling among many Christians, you and I included. ‘Trinity’ is incomprehensible indeed! Over the years, people came up with images and ideas to illustrate the Trinity. “Trinity is like an egg: shell, albumen and yoke, one thing.” How about this illustration from the Celtic tradition: “Trinity is like a three leaf clover: three leaves, one clover.” Or this: “Trinity is like water: three forms (ice, steam, liquid) as one substance.” But the funniest I’ve ever heard is this: “Trinity is like 3-in-1 shampoo: shampoo, conditioner, body wash - one substance.”

It is helpful to remember feminist theologian Elizabeth Johnson’s comments that “The New Testament…contains no full-blown doctrine of the Trinity…nor does the word ‘Trinity’ even appear.” A bit of history here. It was not until almost 200 years after Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians that the Christian apologist Tertullian, writing in the early 3rd century, attempted to apply the Greek word “Trinity” to Christian theology. And it was yet another century before the doctrine of the Trinity was more fully debated and formulated at the Council of Nicaea in 325 and the Council of Constantinople in 381. In other words, it would take 350 years after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus before Christians, particularly the Church Fathers, were able to articulate a full-fledged doctrine of the Trinity. During those three centuries, there were also many other diverse ways that Christians understood their experiences with God besides the threefold pattern that eventually became the orthodox position. And here we are in the 21st century- still trying to decipher what could Trinity mean for us today.

A problem that may arise in our understanding of the Trinity is the fact that we see the Trinitarian God as a Person. We were taught in church particularly in Sunday School, that Trinity is God in Three Persons – this is what we profess in hymns like Holy, Holy, Holy or in the ancient creeds that some still recite. The late NT scholar Marcus Borg suggested that the Latin and Greek word “persona” translated as ‘person’ does not mean what ‘person’ most commonly means in English. Today, a ‘person’ means a separate being. But ‘persona’ in the ancient texts refers to the mask worn by actors in Greek and Roman theatres. Borg’s comments caught my imagination: “To speak of one God and three persons is to say that God is known to us wearing three different ‘masks’... in three different roles” (Borg 1997:98). Indeed, a Holy mystery. A multi-faceted sacredness - creating, indwelling, sustaining, resisting, recreating, challenging, guiding, liberating, completing. Borg suggests that when we step away from a literalist understanding, ‘Trinity’ shows that God is not primarily a lawgiver and judge but the compassionate one. And the religious life is not about requirements, but about relationship.” So where does that leave us in terms of understanding the doctrine of the Trinity in this time and place?

In her book, She Who Is, Elizabeth Johnson traces the origin of Trinitarian thinking to early Christians especially those who follow Paul and his teachings. Although Paul did not attempt to define the doctrine of Trinity, the closing verses in most of Paul’s authentic letters and those attributed to him accentuate how the early Christians “experienced God in a threefold way.” His letters particularly to the 2nd Corinthians is a good resource in understanding Trinity. Paul, Johnson writes, “experienced the saving God in a threefold way as God beyond them, God with them, and God within them, that is, as utterly transcendent, as present historically in the person of Jesus, and as present in the Spirit within their community. These were all encounters with only one God. Accordingly, the early Christians talk about God in this threefold pattern: “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” Early Christian letters and gospels are filled with this threefold cadence that appears in hymns, greetings, confessions of faith, liturgical formulas, doxologies, and short rules of faith…. In the process, the monotheistic view of God flexed to incorporate Jesus and the Spirit…. Their language expanded creatively to accommodate their threefold religious experience.

I like what Johnson proposes, that the early Christians believed in one monotheistic God, but they experienced this one God in at least three particular ways: “beyond them, with them, and within them.” I think this is one of the many ways we could address this doctrine of Trinity in this day and age. Like the early Christians, we may experience a transcendent God who is beyond us. This means that the fullness of God is beyond our language, beyond our knowledge, and beyond our experience. On June 10th, the United Church of Canada is turning 95 years old. In the United Church of Canada’s Song of Faith, we profess that God is Holy Mystery. But this does not mean that we should sit comfortably and say – I do not need to explain this because mystery is mystery. I think we are making a big mistake if we ignore to understand and unearth this Holy Mystery in our midst. The best way to do this is naming God that speaks to our own lived experience. When I was about 5 years old, I imagine the vast ocean as God – with all living creatures underneath, the endless horizon touching the sky and the beautiful waves that kiss the shore. Through the years, I’ve added more to the mysteriousness of God by embracing more liberal, unorthodox concepts. God is like a tree – with branches and leaves and flowers and fruits – yet it is one huge tree. God is a positive energy giving life to all creation. Do not be afraid to use metaphors when you talk about God. Such is the beauty of expanding our thoughts and understanding of challenging doctrines like the Trinity.

Time and time again, we experience God with us in the flesh, believed historically in the person of Jesus. This became known as the theology of Incarnation: that Jesus embodied the ways of God through his life. We also experience God as within us, “as present in the Spirit within our community.” So, although there was a transcendent aspect of God that would always be beyond our experience and even after Jesus was no longer physically with us, we still experience the presence of God through the power of the Holy Spirit.

So here’s my challenge for you as you reflect on Trinity. How do you respond to the traditional language of Father, Son, Holy Spirit? Are you comfortable with these words? What feelings, thoughts, or memories emerge in response to these metaphors? For me, I see the doctrine of Trinity as a metaphor for connectedness or relationship. It encompasses God as a creative energy, present in Jesus - a just companion in our journey and alive in a community through the Spirit of mutual trust and friendship. I also embrace Augustine’s one of many attempts at alternative Trinitarian language: “Lover, Beloved, Love.” God is the Lover, Jesus is the Beloved, and the Spirit is Love. When we acknowledge a loving God, following the teachings of Jesus the beloved, who promotes the Spirit of love, imagine how the world will be like. A world where hatred and violence will be no more, where we are able to embrace the other as our sister or brother no matter what colour of the skin, no matter which status in life, no matter what creed one professes. What about you? How would you name God? What is your personal understanding of Trinity?

Deeply seated in the Celtic tradition is the mystery of God as One in Three. It was believed that St. Patrick taught the early Irish people the meaning of Trinity through the image of a shamrock. A poem attributed to St. Patrick during his Irish ministry in the 5th century expresses the Celtic meaning of Trinity. I leave you this prayer as you continue to reflect on the meaning of Trinity: I bind unto myself today The strong Name of the Trinity, by invocation of the same The Three in One and One in Three. Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore me. Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ in quiet, Christ in danger, Christ in hearts of all that love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger. I bind unto myself the Name, The strong Name of the Trinity, By invocation of the same, The Three in One and One in Three. Amen.

Prayers of the People

Let us join our hearts prayer

Creator, Christ, Comforter, today we celebrate the 95th anniversary of The United Church of Canada. We give thanks for the many ways of being a community of love, a community that embraces inclusion, compassion, justice, and truth. We celebrate how we continue to work towards living in right relationships and in healing the world. We pause to honour those who have gone before us and those who are still with us: ministers, lay leaders, educators, preachers, teachers, administrators, caregivers, dishwashers, builders, bakers, storytellers, peacemakers, musicians, and so many more—all part of the cloud of witnesses.

Lover, Beloved, Love, we are grateful for your constant caring among us in our faith community. We pray for our young ones and elders, our families, the singles, the couples, those of us who yearn for companionship. We pray for the wider church, the Regional Council where we belong, our Moderator and all the leaders of the United Church of Canada that they may guide us to life-giving ministries. I pray that all hearts and voices be heard as each congregation take a significant step in their desire to becoming one family of faith.

Compassionate God, we pray for people for whom the world is dark, for those who are dealing with pain and suffering, illness, loneliness, homelessness, poverty, disability, hunger, addictions, and broken relationships. May your light and love fill their lives so they may be both healed. We take a moment now, in silence, to offer the names of those who need your healing touch...

Justice-seeking God, there is an ongoing racial strife in the United States that sparked anger and protests in the US, here in Canada and many parts of the world. We pray that racial justice may be attained very soon, that it may lead us to dream with Martin Luther King. Jr where children are not judged by the colour of their skin. Empower us to welcome people of every colour, ethnicity and creed. Encourage us to be advocates of the sacredness of human life that welcomes all. We pray for those who are trying to survive devastating periods of terror, violence, war, unrest, hunger, displacement and the continued challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Triune God, deliver us from fear, greed, and all evil things that keep us away from your love.

Be with us as we long for fresh hopes and dreams for a better world. And with grateful hearts, let us unite in this prayer that Jesus taught us in the language of your choice:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.

The Offering: Rev. Kim Vidal

I now invite you to offer our gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of our gratitude to God’s blessings. If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

Offertory Prayer

Gracious God, may love, hope and shalom be a reality through the sharing of our time, talents, treasures and commitment. Accept what we offer and who we are. Amen.

Sending Forth: (inspired by the words of UCC Song of Faith) Lorrie Lowes

May God, who we speak of as one and triune: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
be with you as you go from here.
May you be strengthened by the Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer,
Emboldened by God, Christ, and Spirit,
Held by Mother, Friend, and Comforter,
Inspired by the Source of Life, Living Word, and Bond of Love,
And, as you go, may you know that the One on whom our hearts rely,
blesses us and sends us forth to witness to Holy Mystery that is Wholly Love. Amen

Departing Music: My Soul Cries Out - More Voices #120

1. My soul cries out with a joyful shout
that the God of my heart is great,
and my spirit sings of the wondrous things, that you bring to the ones who wait.
You fixed your sight on your servant’s plight, and my weakness you did not spurn, so from east to west shall my name be blest. Could the world be about to turn?

Refrain
My heart shall sing of the day you bring. Let the fires of your justice burn. Wipe away all tears, for the dawn draws near, and the world is about to turn!

2. Though I am small, my God, my all,
you work great things in me,
and your mercy will last from the depths of the past to the end of the age to be.
Your very name puts the proud to shame, and to those who would for you yearn,
you will show your might,
put the strong to flight,
for the world is about to turn. Refrain

3. From the halls of power to the fortress tower, not a stone will be left on stone.
Let the king beware for your justice tears, ev’ry tyrant from his throne.
The hungry poor shall weep no more,
for the food they can never earn;
there are tables spread, ev’ry mouth be fed, for the world is about to turn. Refrain

4. Though the nations rage from age to age, we remember who holds us fast:
God’s mercy must deliver us from the conqueror’s crushing grasp.
This saving word that our forebears heard
is the promise which holds us bound,
‘til the spear and rod can be crushed by God, who is turning the world around. Refrain

Music: traditional melody Ireland Words and arrangement: © Rory Cooney - GIA pub
Song #00762 Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Choral Blessing: The Irish Blessing – Traditional words, music: Douglas Nolan

BCUC choir & Leslie Wade - violin

Bonus: We Rise Again – Dubinsky Abe - piano

Sunday Worship Service - May 31, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

PENTECOST SUNDAY
WORSHIP SERVICE

May 31, 2020

[The video recording of this service can be found here]

Gathering songs: More Voices #13 – O Let the Power Fall on Me

O let the power fall on me, my Lord, let the power fall on me.
O let the power from heaven fall on me, let the power fall on me.

For we want justice and truth and love, my Lord, we want justice and truth and love
For we want justice and truth and love, my Lord, we want justice and truth and love

Music: traditional Caribbean song Words verse 1 and Adaptation by Birchfield Aymer
arrangement by Patrick Prescod © the Caribbean conference of Churches
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

More Voices #6 – Holy Spirit, Come Into Our Lives

Holy Spirit, come into our lives. Holy Spirit, make us truly wise (continuously)

Words and Music © 1998 Ken Canedo OCP Publications Song # 83119
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Words of Welcome & Announcements – Rev. Kim

Welcome! Bienvenue! Bienvinidos! Maligayang Pagdating!

On behalf of Bells Corners United Church, I greet you in the name of Jesus Christ as we celebrate Pentecost Sunday – the birthday of the Christian Church. Wherever you are, whatever time of the day, whoever you’re with or just by yourself, I am so glad that you have joined us in our virtual worship service!

In this time of church closure, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Please check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with our weekly announcements and updates.

Beyond worship service, there are other weekly activities and meetings offered online. And in this time of pandemic, I encourage you to make a difference by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

Friends, as we worship together,
May we feel the presence of the Holy Spirit, like the people gathered on that Day of Pentecost.
May the winds of change and the tongues of flame rush into our hearts and empower our souls.
Let us now centre ourselves in the presence of God as we gather in worship.

Lighting of Christ Candle: Peck-Jones Family

We light this candle as a symbol of the presence of Christ.
Christ was known to us through the stories we share.
Christ was experienced by us through the gathered community.
Christ is present to us through the Spirit that is in our midst.
Come, Holy Spirit! Be with us today. Fill our hearts with joy and confidence!

Call to Gather: Lorrie Lowes & Nicole Beaudry

Holy Spirit, Giver of life, in the beginning of time,
you moved over the face of the waters;
you breathe into every living being the breath of life.
Come, Creator Spirit, and renew the whole creation.

Esprit-Saint, voix des prophètes:
(Holy Spirit, voice of the prophets:)
tu enflâmes des hommes et des femmes d’une passion pour ta vérité,
(you enflame men and women with a passion for your truth,)
et à travers eux, tu appelles ton peuple à des voies de justice et de compassion.
(and through them, call your people to ways of justice and compassion.)
Viens, Esprit de justice, et brûle dans nos cœurs.
(Come, Spirit of Righteousness, and burn in our hearts.)

Holy Spirit, Advocate, Friend, Wind and Flame
You break down barriers of language, race, and culture,
and heal the divisions that separate us.
Come, Spirit of Power, make us bold witnesses of your redeeming love.

Viens, Esprit réconciliant
(Come, Reconciling Spirit,)
et unis-nous tous dans l'amour de Dieu.
(and unite us all in the love of God.)
Viens, Esprit Créateur,
(Come, Creator Spirit,)
et fais de nous de nouvelles créations en Jésus-Christ.
(and make us new creations in Jesus Christ.)

Paul Detterman, Reformed Worship Magazine. French text translated by Nicole Beaudry.

Opening Prayer: (by Rt. Rev. Richard Bott) Erin, Noah & Nicolas Berard

With the beat of a wild wing (clap hands together)
With the rush of a mighty wind (rub hands together building tension)
With the Pentecost flame (place hot palm against forehead)
Touch us, Holy Spirit! (Open and cross hands, linking thumbs, so hands become a bird)
Love us into being, Spirit of God! (Bird flies to the left)
Love us into wholeness, Spirit of Wisdom! (bird flies to the right)
Love us into newness, Spirit of Christ!
(Bird flies straight up and hands undo, arms opening in praise)
Alleluia! (hands up in the air)
May it ever be! (hands over your chest)
Amen. (hands folded over chest)

Opening Hymn: Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness (Souffle, vent doux du Saint-Esprit) VU#375

Refrain (English):
Spirit, spirit of gentleness,
blow through the wilderness,
calling and free,
Spirit, spirit of restlessness,
stir me from placidness,
wind, wind on the sea.

1-Tu touchas la terre Esprit créateur
Tu dressas les montagne,
en gloire et splendeur;
à travers les âges, tu crias à tous vents: “déployez vos ailes, sortez du néant.”

Refrain (French):
Souffle, vent doux du Saint-Esprit;
Tu grâce me conduit hors du desert.
Souffle, grand vent du Saint-Esprit,
secoue notre apathie, vent, vent sur la mer.

2-You swept through the desert,
you stung with the sand,
and you goaded your people
with a law and a land;
and when they were blinded
with idols and lies,
then you spoke through your prophets
to open their eyes.

Refrain

3-You sang in a stable, you cried from a hill
then you whispered in silence
when the whole world was still;
and down in the city you called once again,
when you blew through your people
on the rush of the wind.

Refrain

4-You call from tomorrow,
you break ancient schemes.
From the bondage of sorrow
all the captives dream dreams;
our women see visions,
our men clear their eyes.
With bold new decisions your people arise.

Refrain

Words & Music © 1978 James K. Manley Translation © 1995 Andrew Donaldson
Song #44816 Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Storytime for the Young at Heart with Lorrie:

Good Morning!

Today is Pentecost Sunday. It’s a pretty important day in the year of our church. It’s kind of the beginning of how church began. Today’s story explains how that happened. So, it happens in Jerusalem, a couple of months almost after Easter. The disciples and the followers of Jesus were in Jerusalem and they were in a room or a building together. They were probably wondering what they were supposed to do now that Jesus wasn’t with them anymore – but he had promised them that he would send the Holy Spirit to help them out, and that’s what happened that day! They describe it as if a big wind came into the building all of a sudden and it took their breath away… and then it seemed that there were little flames above everybody’s heads that they could see. I think that means that they got really excited or “fired up” about something, maybe about sharing the news about Jesus. And the other really exciting thing that happened was that they could be understood by everybody around! That was a big deal because outside of the building were people from all over the world at that time. People who spoke all kinds of different languages – and they could all understand what the followers of Jesus were saying when they came out of that building! That would be pretty neat to hear all of those languages at once and be able to hear your own language and be able to understand what was being said.

Do you speak more than one language? Most of you take French at school, I imagine, so that gives you English and French. Some of you may speak another language at home if that’s part of your family heritage. You may have learned another language from your grandmother or from your parents. You are really lucky if you can do that! I really love to learn languages and I try to learn a little bit of the language everywhere I go. But, you what? I think we already DO speak a lot of languages – all of us, even you! Language is a way we share our thoughts and our feelings. We usually think about that as words but there are other ways that we share our thoughts and our ideas and our feelings too…

Think about art. Art is a kind of language – a way to express how we’re feeling or to express ideas. You, for sure, draw pictures of things that you’d like to build or fantasy things that you’d like to see, or pictures that make you happy – or pictures to tell other people how you feel about them. That’s a way of expressing your ideas, thoughts and feelings, so that’s a kind of language.

Another one would be music. Musicians express their thoughts and feelings when they write or when they perform music. Often when we hear music it makes us feel in a certain way, which is exactly what the writer or the composer or the performer was trying to do for us. Even when we sing a song, that often expresses how we’re feeling as well. So music is another kind of language that we all have a bit of in us.

Sometimes we might express ourselves in negative ways. We might stomp our feet if we’re really angry, or scowl at someone or even shake a fist. That’s not exactly a great kind of language - but it is body language and people understand what you’re trying to say, even without words. But, I think I like the body language of a smile better. So, if you’re feeling really good about things, or you like someone and you give them a big smile, that tells them something too. Again, no words needed.

I bet you’ve told someone how much you care about them when you give them a big hug when you see them. There’s another way that you have language without using any words.People sometimes talk about flowers as being a kind of language. Have you ever picked a bouquet of dandelions for your Mom or Grandma? That’s a way of expressing your ideas or your feelings about things. That’s something that people do a lot, for special occasions or bringing flowers into the house is a way of expressing yourself. So, maybe there’s a language of flowers as well.

Even doing a good deed for someone is a kind of language because it conveys what you think about the world and what you think about the world around you. Right now, even wearing a mask is a good deed because you’re protecting the people around you and it tells them that you care about them. Staying home is another part of that these days. It’s kind of strange…but there are a lot of good deeds that we do – helping out around the house, helping at school, helping your neighbours…all of these things are ways that you tell people, without words, exactly how you feel and that , probably, you are a follower of Jesus because you’ve learned those lessons well.

So, all of those things are ways of expressing love – which is the language Jesus really wanted us to learn, isn’t it? So, see! You can speak lots of languages already! That’s a pretty amazing thing – and I think that’s the message we should be taking away from this story about Pentecost. We can share our understanding, we can share our love for each other, we can share what we learn from Jesus’ teachings – and all of those things can be done in languages that don’t need words. So, Pentecost, when that happened for the disciples and all the other followers of Jesus, was a very important day in our church history…

And so, today we celebrate that and we say, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CHURCH!

Children’s Hymn: Over My Head MV#88

Refrain (English)
Over my head,
I hear music in the air. (3x)
There must be a God somewhere.

Refrain (French)
Au-d’ssus de moi,
c’est d’la musique que j’entends. (3x)
Il y a un Dieu quelque part.

When the storms of life are ragin’
I hear music in the air. (3x)
There must be a God somewhere.

When the winds of strife are blowin’
I hear music in the air. (3x)
There must be a God somewhere.

When the Spirit lives within me,
I hear music in the air. (3x)
There must be a God somewhere.

Words and Music: African-American spiritual French translate © 2006 Denise Soulodie
arrangement © 2006 Stephen Lee – Professional Music Services Song# 30114796
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Prayer for Illumination: Reader: Alison Bridgewater

Holy God, your Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Let the Holy Spirit give us grace to receive your truth in faith and love, and strength to follow on the path you set before us through Jesus Christ. Amen.

NT Reading: “The First Pentecost” Acts 2:1-21(NRSV)

2 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.

5 Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. 6 And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. 7 Amazed and astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? 9 Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabs—in our own languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.” 12 All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” 13 But others sneered and said, “They are filled with new wine.”

14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, “Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. 15 Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o’clock in the morning. 16 No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel:

17 ‘In the last days it will be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh,
and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
and your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.
18 Even upon my slaves, both men and women,
in those days I will pour out my Spirit;
and they shall prophesy.
19 And I will show portents in the heaven above
and signs on the earth below,
blood, and fire, and smoky mist.
20 The sun shall be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood,
before the coming of the Lord’s great and glorious day.
21 Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

Hear what the Spirit is saying to all of us. Thanks be to God!

Sermon: “Winds of Change” Rev. Kim Vidal

There’s a huge celebration going on in the streets of Jerusalem. This is because of a religious festival known as Feast of Pentecost or Feast of Harvest that gathers thousands of Jewish people from all over the Empire. This festival is linked to the Jewish Festival of Shavuot which commemorates the day God gave the Torah to the entire nation of Israel that assembled at Mount Sinai. It also celebrates the first harvest giving thanks to God for the blessings of food and sustenance.

While people outside are busy doing their festival business, a group of about 120 people gathered inside a big room praying and praising God. Whether Luke is exaggerating or not, this gathering marked by the presence of the whooshing winds, tongues of fire, and speaking in different languages make me think that Pentecost was a huge event that will change the lives of the first followers of Jesus forever.

The story of Pentecost is about how the Christian church came alive by the power of the Holy Spirit. It was a life-changing event. It was a gathering that inaugurates the first followers of Jesus to carry on his teachings to the world. From ordinary folks, they became transformed, empowered and equipped for ministry. On that day, they received the power of the Holy Spirit to take the gospel from the room where they gather to the streets there in Jerusalem... and eventually throughout the world. What happened that day was such a powerful experience that the people gathered there had to turn to extraordinary symbols and metaphors to describe what happened. Luke says it was like a mighty violent wind blowing on them and tongues of flaming fire sitting over their heads. A sense of community and understanding transcended the differences of language and ethnicity of the first believers. That rushing violent wind-- was the exciting sound of old barriers broken down and old ways being shattered. On the day of Pentecost, the followers of Jesus acquired a holy boldness that they’d never had before. If before Pentecost, they were living in moments of grief, uncertainty, fear and despair, now they were totally changed! Prodded and empowered by the Holy Spirit, the once disheartened followers moved on to proclaim the good news of God’s love through the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Imagine how this group of believers who gathered in that first Pentecost will change. They’ll struggle with pressures, put-downs and persecutions from powers that be. They’ll attempt to spread the good news about Jesus and God’s love and sometimes they will fail at it. They’ll be fired up wanting to convert newcomers to the faith but will find some challenges along the way. They’ll try to be inclusive, but not always successful. They’ll argue and debate about the best way to go on and they will sometimes quit and give up. Sound like any church if you ask me!

Change among the first believers was not always easy. But they understood that change is part of a life of faith. Invited or not, welcomed or not, change always knocks on every door.

Heraclitus, the Greek philosopher once said that the only constant in life is change. I totally agree with him. Nothing in life ever stays the same. People change. Perspectives change. Relationships change. The world changes on a daily basis. Today we are living in a time of huge change: technological, political, cultural, religious, mostly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Empty streets, schools are closed, social distancing, virtual worship services, travel restrictions, no large gatherings and the list goes on. We have never seen change like this before! So, it’s no wonder if we feel anxious… disoriented… and afraid.

But I think we’re in a time when God is trying to do amazing new things, through us. It’s a time when we need to be honest and to open ourselves to the work of the Holy Spirit – to offer love and kindness, to lift each other up in prayer, to offer support where it is needed, to proclaim that there is hope amidst the uncertainties. The Spirit is and will always be on the move! Pentecost reminds us that the winds of change still blow into our lives to prod and urge us to move forward!

How will the Spirit be poured out on us individually and communally and change the way we relate to each other? Language matters. That is one of the messages of Pentecost. And sometimes we need to hear the story in different languages. Pentecost asks us, to open our ears - to listen to one another in diverse ways - to welcome the untamed wind who blows through closed doors and closed minds- to be opened to the flames of power to transform us, both as individuals and as a community. The diversity of our church life is amazing, each one brings their authentic faith, lived experience and gifts that brought us together to this church at some point in our lives. In our stories, I hear an urgent message to all of us –that even in this time of social distancing, even when we do not see each other face to face, there is still a hunger for deep joy, authentic longing, renewed hope and meaningful connections.

The Holy Spirit – that agent of change comes in like tongues of fire and moved the lips and hearts those who are gathered in Jerusalem on that Feast of Pentecost. And now, and always, there are and will be an endless array of voices, of deep wisdom and conviction. These voices are the winds of change. They speak. And we listen.

From the tongue of Leonard Cohen, legendary Canadian singer, songwriter, poet and author: “Ring the bells that still can ring / Forget your perfect offering / There is a crack in everything / That's how the light gets in.”

From the tongue of 12th century German mystic, Hildegard of Bingen, who chose life in a cell over the other options available to her in her culture and time, these words: “Fire of the Spirit, life of the lives of creatures, Spiral of sanctity, bond of all natures, Glow of charity, light of clarity, Taste of sweetness to the fallen, Be with us and hear us.”

From the tongue of Oscar Romero, Catholic Archbishop, martyr and champion of the poor: “We are prophets of a future not our own. We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs. We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that”.

From the tongue of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first black president, Nobel Prize winner and anti-Apartheid icon: “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

From the tongue of Nellie McClung, Canadian feminist and social activist: "I saw what could be done with words, for I had a vision of a new world as I talked."

From the tongue of the poet William Blake, I close this reflection with these words: “Unless the eye catch fire, God will not be seen. Unless the ear catch fire, God will not be heard. Unless the tongue catch fire, God will not be named. Unless the heart catch fire, God will not be loved.

Unless the mind catch fire, God will not be known.”

So let the fire and spirit of God fall afresh on us, opening our lips to preach and sing and our hearts to love. We ask God’s fire and spirit to ignite our hearts and inflame our souls that we may burn anew with God’s love. We ask the Pentecost God to give us the fire and spirit of lively living, believing and holy babbling; to take our words and speak through them; to take our minds and think through them; to take our hearts and set them on fire; to take our spirit and make us winds of change! Thanks be to God. Amen.

Prayer for Pentecost

God, the light of your Spirit has fallen upon us,
The seal of your ownership is on us,
You have placed the Holy Spirit in our hearts.
Like tongues of fire it has renewed and restored.
In our rising and our sleeping,
In our working and our playing,
In our joys and in our sorrows,
Your Spirit’s brightness has dispelled the darkness,

In our loving and caring,
In our touching and our listening,
In our thoughts and in our actions,
God’s Spirit has brought life out of death.

(Pause to silently invite the Holy Spirit to touch those who need healing and God’s presence)

God, your spirit fell like tongues of fire.
It filled those that were empty,
It empowered those that were weary.

God, your spirit fell like tongues of fire.
It brought together those that were divided,
It reassured those who were afraid.

God, your spirit fell like tongues of fire.
By its power we can walk together as one,
By its power we can find strength to share.

God, your spirit fell like tongues of fire.
By its power we can find freedom in loving each other,
By its power we can find life in you. Amen.

Part of a longer litany used at the Mustard Seed House. Posted on Godspace.com

And with grateful hearts, let us unite in this prayer that Jesus taught us in the language of your choice:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.

The Offering: Lorrie Lowes

I now invite you to offer our gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of our gratitude to God’s blessings. If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

Offertory Prayer

Generous Spirit, bless these gifts of time, talents and treasures that we offer and guide us as we use them. May your power be added to all that we bring. Amen.

Sending Forth: (inspired by a blessing written by Robin Wardlaw) Rev. Kim Vidal

We have opened our hearts to God’s Spirit
on this day of Pentecost.
As you go from this time of worship,
let your breath give life to others
and to all of God’s creation.
Let God’s Spirit breathe into us with goodness,
and breathe out of us in love.
With your every breath and with the breath of all that lives,
give praise to God.
Gracias a Dios! Salamat sa Dios! Grâce à Dieu ! Thanks be to God!
Amen.

Departing Music: Come O Holy Spirit MV 23

1. Come, O Holy Spirit,
set the Church on fire;
strike it as the lightning
hits a posing spire.
Burn away the structures
and consume the sham
of our holy systems:
Come, in Jesus’ name!

Refrain (English)
Come, come, come, in Jesus name!
Take our hearts by storm.
All the world lies open
Pentecost is now!
I said a - Repeat refrain

Refrain (French)
Viens, viens, au nom de Jésus
Tempête en nos coeurs;
Partout c’est l’attente
La Pentecôte est là!
Et je dis: - repete

2. Blow away the cobwebs
of our stubborn past.
Come, send flying from us
myths unfit to last.
Wind of change, refresh us
and disturb our calm;
teach us what true love is,
take our hearts by storm. R

3. Free us from the babble
of our Babel mind;
spark in us a language
all can understand.
Lighten then our darkness,
Come and show us how
all the world lies open:
Pentecost is now! R

A-----men!

Words © 1972 Fred Kaan rev. 1998– Hope Publishing Co. Song # 18536
Music © 2000 Ron Klusmeier www.musiklus.com Song# 80560 French © 2006 David Fines
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Sunday Worship Service - May 24, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

7th SUNDAY OF EASTER
WORSHIP SERVICE

May 24, 2020

[The video recording of this service can be found here]

Gathering: The music of Chipembi Mission of the United Church of Zambia

Words of Welcome & Announcements – Lorrie Lowes DM

Good morning! On behalf of Bells Corners United Church, I welcome and greet you in the name of Jesus Christ whose love and teachings bind us together on this seventh Sunday of Easter. Wherever you are, whatever time of the day, if you are with family or if you are alone, we are so glad you have joined us in our virtual worship service!

In this time of church closure, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with our weekly announcements and updates.

Beyond worship service, there are other weekly activities and meetings offered online. And in this time of pandemic, I encourage you to make a difference by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

Friends, let us gather together today where our journeys overlap.

Lighting of Christ Candle

Lorrie Lowes BCUC:

No matter when or where we gather,
If we gather in Christ’s name,
we are assured of His presence among us.
And so, as we begin out service of worship today,
We light a candle as a symbol of that Holy Presence with Bells Corners United Church…

Keith Jeacle, Emmanuel United Church:
… and we light a candle as a symbol of that Holy Presence with Emmanuel United Church…

Representative from Chipembi, Zambia:
… and we light a candle as a symbol of that Holy Presence with Chipembi.

May Christ bless us as we join our hearts in loving partnership.

Call to Gather: Lorrie Lowes

From the comfort of our homes,
Alone or in small family groupings
We gather our hearts in worship.
In this time of uncertainty, we seek connection to the Divine.
We seek the companionship and warmth of the community we so dearly miss.
Let this shared experience of worship remind us of the love that connects our faith family,
Whether we are in one building or spread around the globe.
In spirit, let us worship God together.

Prayer of Approach*: Lorrie Lowes

Let us pray…
God, you invite us into community with you – at your table and in your world.
The responsibility is awesome
To love one another as Christ loves us.
Thank you – for this community of love.
Thank you - for being more than we can imagine.
Thank you, God!
Amen.

*Written by Richard Bott, Gathering, Lent- Easter 2016, p30. Used with permission

Opening Hymns: You Are Holy (MV45)

1. You Are Holy, You show us the way (4x)
You show us, You show us, You show us the way (4x)
2. You Are Freedom, You show us the way (4x)
3. You Are Justice, You show us the way (4x)

Words & Music © Traditional song South Africa
English paraphrase and arrangement More Voices 2007
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Know That God is Good (MV104)

Know That God is Good (3x), God is good, God is good. (English)

Mu-ngu ni mwe-ma (3x), ni mwe-ma, ni mwe-ma. (Swahili)

C’est vrai Dieu est bon! (3x), Dieu est bon! Dieu est bon! (French)

Ka-ton-da mu-lun-gi, (3x), mu-lun-gi, mu-lun-gi. (Luganda)

Words & Music © Traditional song Congo Song #94990.
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved.

Storytime for the Young at Heart with Erin Berard

Alright, take one of your hands and tuck it behind your back! Now that you have just one of your hands, think of some things that might be really tricky to do now. Like, can you tie your shoe with only one hand? Or how about operate a can opener? Or, how about putting your hair up in a pony tail? Sometimes having two hands is definitely better than one!

Think about some games and things we do for fun. Have you ever tried riding a seesaw by yourself? Or playing a game of Battleship? It's a lot more fun when you have 2 people!

Think, too, about group projects you've done at school before. Sure, it's sometimes tricky working with other people. Somebody might boss the group around, or some people might not do their fair share of the work, and you have to get consensus on all the different ideas you have. But working together lets us benefit from everyone's strengths. You get to share ideas and build off of one another. It should make work easier, and hopefully a lot more fun, too. We can all help each other succeed.

In today's service, we get to learn more from Lorrie about BCUC's partnership with the Chipembi community in Zambia.

Think more about partnerships as you check out this week's Sunday School materials, and also check out BCUC's Facebook page. There's a post there with a question for you. You can comment or add a photo of your ideas of how two is better than one.

Children’s Hymn: I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me – Voices United #575

1. I’m gonna live so God can use me
Anywhere, Lord, any time!
I’m gonna live so God can use me
Anywhere, Lord, any time.

2. I’m gonna work so God can use me…

3. I’m gonna pray so God can use me…

4. I’m gonna sing so God can use me…

Words & Music © African American Spiritual Song #95386
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved.

Prayer for Illumination: Reader: Neil Lowes

O God, we pray that you will open our hearts and minds
to hear your message of love
in this reading today.
May it inspire us as we continue your work in the world. Amen.

Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (The Message)

The Value of a Friend

9-10 It’s better to have a partner than go it alone.
Share the work, share the wealth.
And if one falls down, the other helps,
But if there’s no one to help, tough!

11 Two in a bed warm each other.
Alone, you shiver all night.

12 By yourself you’re unprotected.
With a friend you can face the worst.
Can you round up a third?
A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped.

Hear what the Spirit is saying to all of us. Thanks be to God!

Reflection: Lorrie and Neil Lowes

We have been waiting so long to tell you about this last visit to the Chipembi Mission in Zambia! This pandemic has really affected so many aspects of our lives and this is just one small example.

When we left for Zambia on March 12 of this year, news of the Covid-19 virus was still fairly new. We were concerned that the trip might be cancelled - either by flight cancellations or border restrictions, or maybe that the people receiving us might see us as a health threat – but we were assured that everything was under control and that the people of Chipembi were eagerly awaiting our arrival. So, off we went, armed with Lysol wipes, and hand sanitizers to keep us safe on the plane and in the airports.

This was not a first visit to Chipembi for me. I traveled there two years ago with a group of Young Adults, including Hazel and Doyle Smith from our own congregation. It was a profound experience for me. One of the big realizations I had at that time was that this kind of visit has a limited effect. The visitors often have their eyes opened to life in cultures very different from their own. The hosts put a great deal of work into making the experience meaningful for the guests and appreciate getting to know something about us and our culture too. The concern and the work that is done during the visit is appreciated. The “partnership” aspect, however, seems to be lost once the visitors have returned home. Hopefully, we visitors come home with a renewed outlook on the world - but often the connection between new friends gets lost as life goes back to normal in both corners of the world. So, I returned from that first trip, determined to change that for us here at BCUC and for our new friends in Chipembi.

Our reading today focusses on working together in a partnership. It makes me wonder – What is the difference between helping out a neighbour on a one-time basis and becoming partners? I think it all comes down to relationship. In order to be partners, all parties need to be in a relationship of mutual care and respect for each other. The help and support are mutual things – every member is concerned for and ready to help make the others the best they can possibly be – for the benefit of everyone involved. Think of this in terms of teamwork… Games are not won by one member of the team. It takes the skill and the resources and the effort of every player to reach a victory. Some may stand out from time to time as the “stars” of the team but they reach that status with the support of the rest of the team.

When we think of this in terms of outreach work in the church, this moves us from a traditional charity model – where there is one magnanimous giver and one or more humble receivers – to a model that benefits all parties. As Christians, we want to help others – and that’s a good thing. We aren’t always as willing, however, to express our own needs or accept help from someone else. I think the important aspect that’s often missing in that traditional charity model is respect – and that’s something that is foundational in a partnership – and foundational in the concept of loving one’s neighbour.

On the wall in my office, I have posted an African Proverb:

“I see you and you see me, and therefore we shall be concerned for each other.”

It’s an expression of the Africa concept of “ubuntu”, a philosophy that I believe expresses this concept well. Ubuntu is an African word which means "I am who I am because of who we all are". It highlights the fact that we are all interdependent. We can compare it to “The Golden Rule” in western culture but I think it takes it a step further. I think it gives a clearer picture of what it means to be in relationship as partners in creation.

Today’s reading from Ecclesiastes also gives us the image of a three-stranded rope – an image I love for our context. The partnership we are building includes three communities – Bells Corners United Church, Emmanuel United Church, and the community of the Chipembi Mission. Like the three-stranded rope, we are all strong and vibrant communities on our own but can be so much stronger when we work together.

I have so many things to tell you about our last visit with our friends in Zambia! Neil will share some of his reflections with you this morning but there will be many more stories to tell once we can be together again in community.

My Reflections of Chipembi and the way ahead – Neil Lowes

My first trip to Zambia and I had been warned that the country and the people would affect me. Too true…..I found the people open, warm, caring, and above all receptive to our combined mission (BCUC and Emanuel United) of renewing the Partnership Agreement with the Chipembi Congregation of the United Church of Zambia.

We stayed at the farm of Omega Bula (Makumba Farm) named after her father who was a United Church Minister. The farm is a 40 minute walk to the village. Early in the trip, Lorrie and I walked to the village to orient ourselves to our surroundings. We only saw 1 snake on the trip and the hike had made me a little warm despite the summer clothes and ventilated hat I was wearing. I decided that a beard trim and a hair trim would solve things. So picture this old white guy sitting on a wooden chair with the barber working his magic, while three local children stood on a chair outside the window watching the old white guy get his head shaved and his beard trimmed close to his face. I think a good project would be to get hydro in his barber hut so his clippers wouldn’t rely on charge state of the 12V car battery.

Working, viewing, and discussing the workings of the Chipembi Mission site over the time we were there enabled us to identify many potential “Projects” that would improve the life and well being of the citizens of Chipembi, and the members of the United Church of Zambia in Chipembi.

The community “Leaders” are an ad-hoc committee made up of the minister of the United Church, Head Teacher (Director) of the Chipembi Girls Secondary School, Head of the Basic School, Head of the Chipembi Agricultural College, Secretary of the United Church Congregation, Director of the Chipembi Medical Centre, and several forward thinking young people. We met with these folks several times over the course of the week, and came to an understanding that while we all agreed there were projects that we all would like to fund and see to completion, however,

it would be the responsibility of the Chipembi Leaders to prioritize projects based on agreement among the leaders as to what projects are on the project lists and the importance of each.

This is an important aspect of the partnership so that the “we” side of the partnership doesn’t deliver a project that would not meet the goals of the Chipembi leaders. For example, while in church on our first day there it was hot and I thought ceiling fans would be a great idea to keep up air circulation and cool things down a bit. Then I noticed several men in suit coats and sweaters, while the women were covering their legs with a chitenge (like a blanket). Clearly, I was using our Canadian values to solve a perceived need that was not shared by this congregation.

Some of the projects identified over the course of our meetings, in no particular order are:

• Addition to the Church Building:

The committee has had architectural drawings done of the building addition, but the project has not yet had a project estimate done. Scope of the project would provide the minister with a proper office facility rather than the cupboard he currently uses.

In addition to a proper minister’s office, the addition would provide a Vestry Room, lounge, and conference room with washroom facilities. The current church building is used as a conference room when required. For example, The Director of the Girls Secondary School uses the church when he needs to address his full student population of 600 girls.

The new conference room would also be used as a community centre, providing space for activities such as sewing lessons for the women. There have been a number of sewing machines donated but there is no place to use them.

• Expansion of the Chipembi Basic school building to include Secondary school to grade 12:

Currently, the primary school in Chipembi stops at Grade 8 and students going on to grade 12 attend a secondary school 13KM away. Both boys and girls go for the week, walking to get there while carrying their food for the week. Expanding the Chipembi school would improve safety, security and overall learning performance for the students in Chipembi.

• Establishment of a computer Lab in Basic school with basic LAN, MS Office and Internet access:

There exists an 8 computer “Lab” in the primary school but the computers are old and no longer supported by Microsoft. There is no connectivity between any of the computers, each is an island unto its own.

This project would be an ongoing exercise to equip the younger generation with computer skills aimed at preparing them for the world towards which Zambia is rapidly moving. There is an extensive cellular data network in and around Chipembi and pretty much everyone has a smartphone. Laptop Computer Expansion within the student population at the primary and secondary schools would facilitate their ability to prepare for country wide standardized testing which they must take using the scarce numbers of computers available

• Bursaries for deserving students at Primary and Secondary Levels

It costs $75 US to send a student to school for a year. Not all families are able to afford this so deserving students don’t get the education they should. If the school waives the tuition, the school suffers funding loss paying the teaching staff and for projects they would otherwise undertake. The community leaders are the committee that decide which students would receive the bursary.

• Equipment for Medical centre

We toured the medical Centre and witnessed a shortage of medical support items that would be beneficial. Proper hospital beds are needed, maternity chairs / beds, and wheelchairs to name a few.

For example, on our tour we saw a wheelchair with only 3 wheels. I priced a replacement while I was in Lusaka, the city, and a brand new wheelchair is $350 US. Certainly a worthwhile project.

Overall a life changing experience, and, working in partnership with Emmanuel United, I believe the opportunity exists to not only fundraise for projects, but I believe we can become true partners with Chipembi by having members of the BCUC family participate both here and on site in Zambia to bring the prioritized projects to completion.

Lorrie

One small image I will leave with you is the overwhelming emotion I felt during the church service we attended on our first Sunday there. The music and the joy were amazing! And for me, one of the most powerful moments was when we recited the Lord’s Prayer. The words may be ancient and sometimes feel foreign to our modern ears, but when people come together from far apart places on this earth and recite those words together in worship, the feeling of being united in a faith family stirs the heart.

For thine is the kin-dom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever….

Amen.

Prayers of the People & The Lord’s Prayer

Our prayer this morning is a meditation from Africa by Michael Colpey and Guy Gibbon
(The People - Meditations from Africa - Michael Colpey and Guy Gibbon)

Let us pray:

May we heal the fissures and cracks in our collective soul

May we see ourselves from a different point of view

May we let go of outmoded beliefs

May we recognize the opportunities our stories offer for growth and acceptance

May we release the love

May love replace fear

May we each accept our personal responsibilities to make a difference

May we see that there is enough for everybody

May we eradicate poverty consciousness from our destiny path

May we be open to receive abundance from the law of sharing

May we dedicate ourselves to the Earth and her changes

May we make a leap of faith into a new way of relating to our planet and her people

May we stand in our truth and not be afraid to dream big

May we acknowledge that each person has something beautiful to offer

May we not be blind to these sacred gifts

May we not put limits on our creator

May we remember our true purpose

May each soul be like a bead strung on the necklace of cooperation and teamwork

May humility have its way

May we experience balance and beauty

May we commit ourselves to peace

May we celebrate our diversity in the oneness of love

May we be ourselves and flower freely

May we resonate and glow

May we take the next step

The Lord’s Prayer

And we respond in the familiar words that Jesus taught his followers:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.

The Offering

I now invite you to a time to express our gratitude for God’s blessings by offering our gifts of time, talents and resources. If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

Offertory Music: Chipembi Mission of the United Church of Zambia

Offertory Prayer*

Gracious Creator, we’re never really sure where giving ends and receiving begins. Or is it where receiving ends and giving begins? All we know is that in the process of giving and receiving, we are warmed by your goodness. May this offering be only the beginning of your good work in us. Through Jesus we pray. Amen

*Written by Kate Gregory, Gathering, Pentecost 1 2020, p47. Used with permission.

Sending Forth*

And may God, who brought us into being to care for creation and one another,
bless us as we leave:
May we be blessed in the air we breathe,
the relationships we nurture,
and the acts through which love is shared,
That God’s blessing, light and love will be known by all.
Go in joy, blessed to be a blessing.
Amen.

*Written by Bob Root, Gathering, Pentecost 1 2020, p48. Used with permission.

Closing Hymn: Alleluia, Praise to God - More Voices #59

1. Alleluia, praise to God
Alleluia, praise to God
Praises, high praises, we bring you, O God.
Alleluia, praise to God.

2. Songs of joy sing out to God.
Songs of joy sing out to God.
Dancing and singing, we praise you, O God.
Songs of joy sing out to God.

3. Beat the drums, sing out to God.
Beat the drums, sing out to God.
Praises, high praises we bring you, O God
Beat the drums, sing out to God.

Traditional Yoruba song, Nigeria translation © Emmanuel Badejo
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved.

Departing music by Chipembi Mission of the United Church of Zambia

Sunday School at-home activities - May 24, 2020

Opening

Can you walk across the floor using just your hands? Give it a try… Just your hands, don’t let your feet touch the ground!

Unless you are a gymnast or an acrobat, this is really hard to do! Try it again with a partner. Let your partner hold your feet off the ground (like a wheel barrow). It’s still a little tricky - but much easier with a partner to help.

Reading

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 The Message (MSG)

9-10 It’s better to have a partner than go it alone.
Share the work, share the wealth.
And if one falls down, the other helps,
But if there’s no one to help, tough!
11 Two in a bed warm each other.
Alone, you shiver all night.
12 By yourself you’re unprotected.
With a friend you can face the worst.
Can you round up a third?
A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped.

Theme Discussion (Younger children)

Our Bible reading today talks about the importance of working together. Watch and listen to this video about working together.

Talk about examples from the reading and the video where people supported one another. Can you think of other some times when it helps to have a partner working with you? (tidying your room, getting your coat on, carrying something heavy, playing a game…)

It’s also wonderful to have someone else around when you’re not feeling your best, like if you fall down, or feeling disappointed plans got changed... Can you think of other times it’s good to have another person there by your side?

BCUC has been working with Emmanuel United Church, here in Ottawa to create a partnership with the Mission in Chipembi, Zambia. Lorrie and Neil went there as representatives from Bells Corners and they traveled with some people from Emmanuel. They didn’t know each other very well before they left on this trip, but now they have become a team – and there are people in Chipembi who are part of that team too.

Our reading also talks about a “three-stranded rope.” Have you ever braided three strands of wool or string together? If you braid it or twist it good and tight, it is really hard to break it! Just like the rope, it takes all three partners working together to make this relationship strong so it will last a long time.

Theme Discussion (Older children and Youth)

This week, Lorrie and Neil will be sharing reflections from their recent Partnership Visit to Chipembi, Zambia. This is the second time that Lorrie has been to Chipembi but this time, the purpose of the trip was a little different. BCUC has been working with Emmanuel UC, here in Ottawa to create a partnership agreement with the Mission in Chipembi. Lorrie and Neil went as representatives from Bells Corners and they traveled with some people from Emmanuel. They didn’t know each other very well before they left on this trip, but now they have become a team – and there are people in Chipembi who are part of that team too.

Our reading today talks about the importance of working together – that’s what a partnership is all about, really – working with a friend or friends who have the same goals and concerns as you do, and helping each other along the way.

What partnerships are there in your life right now? What types of things do you contribute to the relationship? In what ways do you depend on others? What challenges are there when working as a team? How do you overcome them?

Our reading also talks about a “three-stranded rope.” Have you ever braided three strands of wool or string together? If you braid it or twist it good and tight, it is really hard to break it! That is kind of like what we are doing in joining with Emmanuel United Church and Chipembi. We are forming a partnership that is strong. Just like the rope, it takes all three partners working together to make this relationship strong so it will last a long time.

Response Activity Ideas

Good Friend worksheet

Print out the following worksheet. On it, draw a picture of you and a friend or sibling helping each other. Write about how you share your strengths and talents as you work together.

Click to print PDF

Braiding craft

Visit this website and follow the instructions to make a beaded, braided bracelet. The basic instructions can be followed using whatever size string and beads you have at home.

Learn more about Zambia

Visit:

• www.zambiatourism.com/about-zambia/people/

• www.africa.com/real-life-lusaka-zambia/

• www.unicef.org/zambia/

• www.google.ca/amp/s/kaitlinbardswich.ca/2013/09/25/chipembi-a-school-without-books/amp/

or search other areas of interest.

Consider some similarities and differences between the Canadian and Zambian way of life.

What are their gifts? What are their needs? In what ways could their lives be better/more enjoyable/improved through the partnership?

What are our gifts? What are our needs? In what ways could our lives be better/more enjoyable/improved through the partnership?

Closing Prayer

Thank you, God, for partners.
Thank you for all the ways our friends and partners have helped us.
Help us be good partners to others.
Help us to learn more about people around the world
And how we can partner with them to build your kin-dom here on earth.
Amen

Sunday Worship Service - May 17, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

6th SUNDAY OF EASTER
WORSHIP SERVICE

May 17, 2020

[The video recording of this service can be found here]

Gathering: Humoresque - Dvorak, Leslie Wade-violin

Words of Welcome & Announcements – Kim

Good morning! On behalf of Bells Corners United Church, I welcome and greet you in the name of Jesus Christ who calls us to be witnesses of God’s love on this sixth Sunday of Easter! Wherever you are, whatever time of the day, whoever you’re with or just by yourself, I am so glad you have joined us in our virtual worship service!

In this time of church closure, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Please check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with our weekly announcements and updates.

Beyond worship service, there are other weekly activities and meetings offered online. And in this time of pandemic, I encourage you to make a difference by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

Friends, as we worship together,
may the love of God welcomes us,
the grace of Christ awaits us,
and the joy of the Spirit enfolds us.
Let us now centre ourselves in the presence of God as we gather in worship.

Lighting of Christ Candle: Fowler Family

Let the light of Christ draw us in: beautiful, life-giving, healing.
Come into the resurrection light. Come into the light of grace and peace.

*Call to Gather: Lorrie

What does this gathering need?
Space where faith can grow,
music that blossoms hope,
scripture that puts love into action,
prayers that seek healing,
gifts offering service of the heart.
Who shall come to this gathering?
All who are seeking to follow God in their lives
that they may be alive with opportunities for service.
In faith, we gather now as friends and kin,
seeking new life in Christ.

Prayer of Approach: Lorrie

Let us pray.
God of new life, we dance with the fires of faith,
sing with the winds of peace
and whisper with the language of love.
Transform our worship into moments of renewal:
to risk for the gospel,
to free us from our worries and fear;
to bring about change.
In the name of the Risen Christ, we pray. Amen.

Opening Hymn: Praise the Lord with the Sound of Trumpet – Voices United #245

(Words & Music: Natalie Sleeth)

Praise the Lord with the sound of trumpet,
praise the Lord with the harp and lute,
praise the Lord with the gentle sounding flute.

Praise the Lord in the field and forest,
praise the Lord in the city square,
praise the Lord anytime and anywhere.

Praise the Lord in the wind and sunshine,
praise the Lord in the dark of night,
praise the Lord in the rain or snow or in the morning light.

Praise the Lord in the deepest valley,
praise the Lord on the highest hill,
praise the Lord, never let your voice be still.

Praise the Lord with the crashing cymbal,
praise the Lord with the pipe and string,
praise the Lord with the joyful songs you sing.

Praise the Lord on a weekday morning,
praise the Lord on a Sunday noon,
praise the Lord by the light of sun or moon.

Praise the Lord in the time of sorrow,
praise the Lord in the time of joy,
praise the Lord in the every moment, nothing let your praise destroy.

Praise the Lord in the peace and quiet,
praise the Lord in your work or play,
praise the Lord everywhere in every way!

Words & Music © 1976 Natalie Sleeth, Hinshaw Music Inc. Song# 24936
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved.

Storytime for the Young at Heart with Lorrie:

Hi Everyone!

In today’s scripture reading we hear that Peter and the other apostles have been preaching about Jesus on the steps of the Temple in Jerusalem and the priests there are not happy about it. When they are told to stop, they say “That’s impossible! We have to tell everyone what we have witnessed.” They just can’t hide their excitement and their commitment to what they have seen and learned from Jesus. Have you ever heard the expression, “Once you see it you can’t un-see it”? That’s what is happening here. These men are so sure that what they heard and saw when they were with Jesus was good and true, that they can’t look at the world in any other way. So, they are “witnessing” that to everyone who will listen – and, since these messages are about God and the Way to make the world the kin-dom that God dreams of for us, the Temple seems the most logical place to begin that witnessing.

How does that apply to us today? Are we as excited and committed to Jesus and his message as those men were? I think here at BCUC, we all can agree that what Jesus taught about loving your neighbour and sharing and forgiveness are all things that we believe are good and true – that they are necessary ways to live if we want to help create God’s kin-dom here on earth. We aren’t always good at shouting out that news once we leave the sanctuary though. We are a little shy, I guess, when it comes to telling the world – or even our friends – what we believe. But I think there are other ways we can show those things.

I have a few special pieces of jewelry that I like to wear. There are some crosses…I like to collect new ones when I travel to other places in the world… and this one is the stylized fish symbol that the early Christians used to identify themselves to other Christians. Some people have those on their cars too. Sometimes they are just this symbol and sometimes they have the word “Jesus” in the middle. Most people who see me wearing these symbols know that they signify that I am a follower of Jesus – especially when they see the cross – and I don’t have to stand up on a soapbox and tell them.

I think when people see that I am wearing a symbol that says I am a Christian, they look for other signs too – in what I say and how I act. I am showing the world what it means to be a follower of Jesus. If I am wearing these things, they help remind me of that too and maybe that makes me more careful or intentional about what I say and what I do.

Some of us in the church go on to become ministers and preach from the pulpit. That’s maybe a little closer to what Peter and his friends were doing on the Temple steps. Many other people though show their commitment to Jesus and his teachings in other ways. Here at Bells Corners we have some who teach Sunday School, some who sing and play music for worship, some who cook and bake and host communal dinners like Jesus did with his friends. Some work on committees that help other people in the community and even in other places in the world. Still others say prayers for people who are sick or hurting or make phone calls and visits to shut-ins. I think all of these things are ways that we “witness” to the world that we are Christians.

Are we like the apostles on the steps of the Temple? If someone were to say to us, “Stop doing all those things for everybody else!” I hope we would all say, “That’s impossible! We have to show the world what we have learned by following Jesus.”

Children’s Hymn: Shout for God - Voices United #246

(Words: Walter Farquharson / Music: Ron Klusmeier)

1
Shout for God (Shout for God!)
Make a happy sound!
(Make a happy sound!)
Clap for God! (Clap for God!)
God is all around! (God is all around!)

2
Hush for God! (Hush for God!)
Let the quiet sing. (Let the quiet sing.)
Wait for God. (Wait for God.)
Deepest feelings bring.
(Deepest feelings bring.)

3
Sing for God! (Sing for God!)
Sing a pleasant song. (Sing a pleasant song.)
Work for God. (Work for God.)
Good replaces wrong.
(Good replaces wrong.)

4
Praise our God! (Praise our God!)
Care for all God’s friends!
(Care for all God’s friends!)
Love our God! (Love our God!)
God’s love never ends!
(God’s love never ends!)

Words © 1984 Walter Farquharson, Music © 1985 Ron Klusmeier, Hope Publishing Co. Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. Song#80462 All rights reserved.

Prayer for Illumination: Reader: Rick Morrison

Make us witnesses, O God. Make us bold to tell the good news of the Risen Christ, inviting others to join with us as followers of Jesus’ way. Amen.

NT Reading: “Peter and the Apostles before the Council” Acts 5: 27-32 (NRSV)

Background:

This episode in Acts 5 denotes that some religious leaders arrested, detained, and interrogated the apostles for preaching the resurrection of Jesus. The religious authorities want them to keep quiet but Peter and the apostles persisted not to be silenced and proclaimed these powerful six words: “Obey God rather than human authority!”

27 When they had brought them, they had them stand before the council. The high priest questioned them, 28 saying, “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you are determined to bring this man’s blood on us.” 29 But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than any human authority. 30 The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. 31 God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior that he might give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him.”

Hear what the Spirit is saying to all of us. Thanks be to God!

Sermon: “Witness Dialogues” Rev. Kim Vidal

Following the event of that first Easter and in the aftermath of the Holy Spirit’s coming at Pentecost, the formation of an early church begins to unfold. Peter took the reins and led the followers of The Way, which historically points to those who believe and follow in the teachings of Jesus. In this particular story in Acts, Peter and the former disciples, now called apostles, meaning “those sent in a mission”, were teaching and healing at the temple in Jerusalem with great success. They wasted no time in gathering people proclaiming the powers of God through the Risen Christ – teaching, healing, witnessing.

They are now famous - like tele-evangelists. The verses just before this morning’s reading indicates that “A great number of people would also gather from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all cured.” So when Peter and his cohorts walk down the street, people would bring out the sick in hopes of being healed. A crowd would follow and gather wherever they go and listen to Peter’s preaching. But to make matters more scandalous, Peter and company would use the steps of the Temple to do their ministry. They were healing in the name of Jesus Christ just outside the doors of the Great Temple!

This did not sit well with the Jewish Council or the Sanhedrin who works under the authority of the Roman Empire at that time. Fearing that this would cause trouble or even instigate a rebellion, they had Peter and the apostles arrested and thrown into prison. But the prison cells, according to the writer of Acts, could not hamper the power of God. The prison doors did not stay locked. According to the writer, an angel of the Lord – now I will not take this literally as a celestial being with fluttering wings - but someone who might be a follower of Jesus, opened the prison doors and told Peter and the apostles to go stand in the Temple and continue with what they were doing. So that’s what happened. They escaped but fearlessly went back to the Temple with their healing and teaching and witnessing. The Roman authorities and the Temple leaders were not happy with this persistent behaviour of Peter and his companions. In no time, the Temple police arrested Peter and his companions and brought them before the Jewish Council to be tried. And here is where this morning’s story begins.

The opening statement of the High Priest was enough to give us a hint of the Council’s aversion: “Did we not tell you to keep quiet?” “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name, (referring to Jesus), yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you are determined to bring this man’s blood on us.” I think the high priest and the other members of the Sanhedrin were scared. They did not want another Jesus problem – they thought he was already crucified, dead and silenced – so why is his voice still as loud as a thunder causing uproar in Jerusalem? The movement the Council had hoped would go away re-emerged with a greater following. The Romans in power don’t like this at all - it might instigate another people’s rebellion. It would for sure disturb Pax Romana or the peace in the land controlled by Rome. I can imagine the interrogation went on further. “Why do you insist on teaching about Jesus? Don’t you know the danger you put yourselves in? Don’t you know the danger you bring to the people you ‘teach’ with your nonsense propaganda?”

Peter this time did not run to the nearest cave to hide nor did he say: “I’m sorry your honour, we shall cease and desist and will stop teaching and healing in the name of Jesus”. No - that’s not what he said. Peter’s reply is something worth reflecting on: “We must obey God rather than any human authority.” This is a difficult aphorism to understand. Who is this God that Peter and the apostles must obey? What and who is this human authority that they detest? I think what Peter is claiming here is pure allegiance to the one true God – the very same God that Jesus followed and preached about. Peter and the apostles declared to obey this loving non-violent God over that of an oppressive human authority – the ruling Roman power.

“We must obey God rather than any human authority.” Here is my personal take on this and you do not have to agree with me. Through this statement, Peter has testified that he and the other apostles were witnesses to the acts of love, justice and compassion. They are witnesses to a non-violent God proclaimed by Jesus. A witness, like Peter and the apostles in this sense, is not simply a passive observer of an event, but rather someone whose life proclaims and acts out the teachings of Jesus about the God of restorative rather than retributive justice - a God of love and compassion, justice and hope. A witness like Peter and the apostles claim that this God they must obey is the very same God whom Jesus followed even to his death - not the god of the empire – not the human authority that promotes violence and fear.

But there is a danger that I see in this text. I agree, that if taken literally, these texts may unearth some tones of religious fundamentalism or bigotry. It may sound as if Peter is asserting that the God whom he believes is the only one true God that needs to be proclaimed and worshipped. I do believe that the God of love and justice is not exclusive to Christianity. Certainly – many religions including Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Indigenous Spirituality – all have taught about this God – this Divine Creator, this Supreme Being as source of love and justice. Truth be told that we are living in a pluralistic, secular society where freedom of religion is respected.

A healthy pluralism is one which genuinely respects differences and values them as such. To discredit or claim one religious or non-religious tradition better over the other is the root of discrimination and resentment rather than promoting tolerance and peace. It is of crucial importance to participate in open dialogues where we listen to each other – to celebrate our common ground and to appreciate our differences as unique ways of professing our faith or way of life.

I don’t know about you but I chose to be a Christian not because Christianity promotes absolute truths about God – not because I am far better than our brothers and sister who profess different faiths, but because I acknowledge that the teachings of Jesus are inclusive and embracing. Jesus promotes non-violence and through his barrier-breaking approach to life, the dividing wall that separated many races, cultures and creeds has been taken down, proclaiming a new way of life. Why are dialogues and collaboration important? Because if we think we are better than others, if we proclaim that we are the only ones who hold the truth, we may resort to violence and enmity. We lose our humility and we lose sight of God’s grace.

Friends – we need to undergo a serious discernment. It’s time we listen to the voice of authority –whether human or divine –if and only if that voice warrants right relationships, reign of shalom, mutual love and restorative justice. It’s time we become witnesses to the universal definition of Love and Justice.

Witnesses transform the world and they are unstoppable even in this time of COVID-19 pandemic!

• A witness like Dr. Colin Brathwaite of a hospital in New York inspiring many with his moving rendition of Andra Day’s song "Rise Up" on the piano in honour of and as a tribute to his colleagues on the front lines.

• Witnesses like the “caremongering groups” in many cities in Canada offering help to seniors and those most at risk amid the outbreak. They pick up groceries and prescription drugs, help set up computers and making masks producing hand sanitizers. They deliver food to the shut-ins and offer words of encouragement and assurance via email or telephone.

• Witnesses like children and students in many places sending homemade cards and letters to older folks in isolation.

• A witness like David Donaldson who brings flowers of cheer to those celebrating their birthdays; or witnesses like those in our congregation who gather virtually every Wednesday at 8 pm to lift everyone in prayer; or witnesses like Pat Stoate and Roger Champagne who drove to my house, stood outside my front lawn with a large poster that says: “It’s so long without you. We miss you. Keep well. Stay safe. We love you!”

You can’t stop witnesses to stand up and testify about this God that Peter and the apostles obey and follow– this God that Jesus claims as “Abba -Father” – the One whose grace and love abounds!

Love and compassion. Oppressive human authority will get them completely wrong.

Peace and justice. Autocratic human authority will deny them.

But you can’t stop God and God’s love for the world. If you claim to be a witness of God, ask these 6-word questions yourselves: Am I walking the Peace way? Am I embracing justice and compassion? Am I offering love and kindness? Go then and be a living witness! May you proclaim peace, compassion, justice, love and kindness in word and in action. May you step into the world with a word of truth to proclaim and may you proclaim it with humility. May you walk as advocates of faith determined to testify to God’s grace- here and now. Thanks be to God. Amen.

Prayers of the People & The Lord’s Prayer

God of new life and resurrection, we look up to you today for strength, comfort and hope. Like Peter and the apostles who became bold witnesses, speak to us through our lives as witnesses to Christ's way. Help us to proclaim your ever-unfolding story through our words and actions, in our prayers and in our day by day choices, for we are your people, your stewards in making a difference in the word.

Compassionate God, look into our hearts and minds and guide us in dealing with our personal fears and challenges. Help those in this church who labour with church duties, guide them in resolving difficult problems, clarify their vision to help focus the congregation in gaining insight into your message. Give us the strength to integrate that message into the actions and attitudes of our daily life.

God of healing, gently touch the lives of those needing comfort and wholeness in distressed lives and souls. With love and earnest concern, we pray for those in retirement homes and long term care facilities especially those who are affected by COVID-19 and those unnamed among us in need of your healing touch. We continue to pray for the families of those who have died from the virus, may healing love be with them in this time of sorrow. For those who are sick and those recovering from illness, may they find comfort from those who tend to them.

For the doctors, nurses, researchers, first-line responders and all health workers who seek to heal the sick and who put themselves at risk, may they know that many are praying for them and rallying behind them. For the leaders in all sectors of the society, may they lead with wisdom and foresight to act with love and true concern for the well-being of the people they are meant to serve. We pray for those carrying heavy burdens. May we comfort those who have suffered deep losses in their lives and those who are troubled and distressed. We pray for peace in our neighbourhood. We remember the grieving families of the six members of the Canadian Armed Forces who died in a helicopter crash. We pray that they may find comfort knowing that we are thinking of them in their deep loss.

Journey with us with a heart willing to change and a heart ready to accept your call as your witness to love, justice and compassion. And with grateful hearts, let us unite in this prayer that Jesus taught us in the language of your choice:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.

The Offering

I now invite you to offer our gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of our gratitude to God’s blessings. If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

Offertory Prayer

God of abundance, bless the gifts we present to you.
May all that we offer this day enable us to serve you faithfully. Amen.

Sending Forth

Go out into the world as witnesses
of a holy life that knows no barriers;
mindful of how demanding this call can be;
yet alive to its vision of goodness and beauty.
May the wisdom of God,
the compassion of Christ
and the presence of the Spirit
bear us up and fill us with renewed strength
for the journey. Amen.

Departing Music: Spirit, Open My Heart – More Voices #79

Refrain:
Spirit, open my heart to the joy and pain of living.
As you love may I love, in receiving and in giving, Spirit, open my heart.

1 God, replace my stony heart with a heart that’s kind and tender.
All my coldness and fear to your grace I now surrender. R

2 Write your love upon my heart as my law, my goal, my story.
In each thought, word, and deed, may my living bring you glory. R

3 May I weep with those who weep, share the joy of sister, brother.
In the welcome of Christ, may we welcome one another. R

Words © 1996 Ruth Duck, arr. © 1997 Arthur Clyde The Pilgrim Press. Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. Song# 118139 & 94352 All rights reserved.

Blackbird - David Barclay & Will Wightman

Sunday School at-home activities - May 17, 2020

Opening

Do you a favourite sports team that you cheer for? A favourite brand of juice or pop that you prefer over the others (Coke vs. Pepsi?) How about a preferred restaurant? Do you sometimes have to stand up and defend your choice when others have a different favourite? Remind your family now about what makes your favourite ‘thing’ the best of the rest! In today’s story, Jesus’ followers are standing up for and sharing about what they believe in.

Theme Discussion

Beginner to Grade 5

Today’s Bible story takes place after Jesus has died. His followers have been preaching on the Temple steps, telling everyone about the wonderful things that Jesus said and did. We call what they were doing “witnessing” to their faith in Jesus. Even though the Priests told them to stop, they didn’t. They thought the message was important and they were brave enough to keep telling it.

When we “witness” our faith, sometimes we do this in words – maybe telling someone else the things we know and believe about Jesus and the lessons he taught us. We have some hymns that talk about this… “I want to Shout, Shout, Shout Out My Love for Jesus, for Jesus”… Or “Shout for God”.

Sometimes we use actions to show what we believe instead of words. Can you think of some ways that you can “witness” the lessons that Jesus taught? How do you show the world that you are a Christian, a follower of Jesus?

Intermediate and UP Group

Acts 5:27-32 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

27 When they had brought them, they had them stand before the council. The high priest questioned them, 28 saying, “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you are determined to bring this man’s blood on us.” 29 But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than any human authority. 30 The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. 31 God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior that he might give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him.”

After Jesus’ death, the disciples – or apostles as they were now called – continued to teach the lessons that he had taught and to tell the world that Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah, and the Son of God. They wanted people to hear and understand Jesus’ vision of “The Way” – a way to live that could change the world. Remember that these apostles were Jewish men. They didn’t see themselves as starting a new religion; they were looking at a different way of understanding the Jewish scriptures, a different way of being faithful to God’s dream for a better world. It made sense that they would do their preaching in the places that Jewish people gathered. In this story, they have been preaching right on the steps of the Temple – and the Temple Priests weren’t happy about it. They arrested them and took them before the council or court of the Temple.

“We told you to stop this! You are making us look bad!” they were told.

“We can’t stop,” they answered. “We believe this message is the truth that God wants the people to hear and we have to share it.”

What the apostles are doing is “witnessing”. We all know that word when it comes to court cases or trials. A witness is someone who saw it happen and are asked to stand up in court and tell the truth about it. Well, this is what the apostles were doing. They had seen what Jesus did and they had heard what he said – and they saw the difference that these teachings could make. They were standing up to tell the people the truth as they witnessed it.

Today in the church, we still talk about “witnessing”. It means proclaiming your faith or your beliefs. In our United Church context, this doesn’t usually mean standing on a street corner proclaiming your faith in words or preaching, but it does mean showing your faith in your actions.

Can you think of some people you know who are good witnesses to the teachings of Jesus? What do they do that makes you think this?

How can you witness your faith today?

Response Activity Ideas

Sharing my faith

Print out the following template. In each of the speech bubbles, draw or write about ways you show your faith through actions or words. Colour the person to look like you!

Click to print PDF

Beaded fish or cross craft

Materials: beads, string/yarn, pipe cleaner, beading wire.

Make a ‘Jesus’ fish or cross ornament or key chain to show your beliefs.

Younger children could try this version using larger beads and pipe cleaners.

If you have the materials available, older children/youth could modify the craft by using smaller beads, putting beads on a piece of beading wire instead of a pipe cleaner, and perhaps stringing as a necklace or key chain.

This website shows how to make a beaded cross. Just use regular white glue if you don’t have glue dots and wait for it to dry before continuing.

Random Acts of Kindness

Cut 10 or more strips of paper. On each write a random act of kindness you could do for someone this week. Put the completed strips in a jar or container. Each morning pull one out and challenge yourself to do that act of kindness before the end of the day!

Closing Prayer

Loving God,
Help us not to be afraid to tell others about who we are.
Give us the strength to make good choices
and live out our beliefs in the world.
Be with us today and through the week ahead.
Amen

Sunday Worship Service - May 10, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

5th SUNDAY OF EASTER WORSHIP SERVICE

NURTURING SUNDAY & CELEBRATING MOTHERS

May 10, 2020

[The video recording of this service can be found here]

Gathering Music: Pachelbel’s Canon – Noah Berard

Words of Welcome & Announcements – Rev. Kim

Good morning! The spirit of God calls us from many places; some of us come from busy homes; some of us live alone. Still we are a part of God’s family. Today I welcome and greet you in the name of Jesus Christ as we celebrate and honour mothers. Everyone has mothers in various definitions. We have biological mothers, adopted mothers, surrogate mothers, mothers who have pets instead of children, single mothers and many others. An anonymous writer once said that a mother is “your first home, your first love, your first friend, and nothing on earth can separate you. Not time, not space...not even death!” So let us celebrate mothers as we worship together.

In this time of church closure, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Please check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with our weekly announcements and updates.

Beyond worship service, there are other weekly activities and meetings offered online. And in this time of pandemic, I encourage you to make a difference by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

Let us now centre ourselves in the Spirit of Life as we gather in worship.

Lighting of Christ Candle: Susan, Katrina & Heidi TeGrotenhuis

On this Mothering Sunday, we light this Christ candle to remind us that: “The love of a mother is the veil of a softer light between the heart and God.” (Samuel Taylor Coleridge)

Call to Gather: Lorrie Lowes

Sisters, brothers, children, welcome to this place!
Mothers, fathers, sing praises to God.
Grandmas, grandpas, share the story.
Aunts, uncles, dance with joy.
Family by love, Christ’s own body.
Family by Spirit, God calls us as one.
As one family, we gather to worship our God.

Opening Prayer: The Heart of God (by Christine Sine)

God with a mother’s heart, you gather us as your children.
You comfort and hold us in your warm embrace.
When we hurt, your arms enfold us.
When we are afraid, your wings protect us.
When we are hungry, you feed us with the bread of life.

God with a mother’s heart, your love surrounds and supports us.
In good times and in tough, in the midst of joy and pain, always and everywhere.
You will never leave nor abandon us.

God eternal and loving one,
God with a mother’s heart,
We thank you this day.
for being part of your family. Amen.

Opening Hymn: Would You Bless our Homes and Families - Voices United #556

1 Would you bless our homes and families,
Source of life who calls us here,
in our world of stress and tension,
teach us love that conquers fear.
Help us learn to love each other
with a love that constant stays;
teach us when we face our troubles,
love’s expressed in many ways.

2 When our way is un-demanding,
let us use the time that’s ours.
To delight in simple pleasures,
sharing joys in gentle hours.
When our way is anxious walking
and a heavy path we plod.
Teach us trust in one another
and in you, our gracious God.

3 From the homes in which we’re nurtured,
with the love that shapes us there,
teach us God, to claim as family
everyone whose life we share.
And through all that life may offer,
may we in your love remain,
may the love we share in families
be alive to praise your name.

4 Let us reach beyond the boundaries
of our daily thought and care
till the family you have chosen,
spills its love out everywhere.
Help us learn to love each other
with a love that constant stays;
teach us when we face our troubles
love’s expressed in many ways.

Words © 1977 Walter Farquharson, Music © 1977 Ron Klusmeier, Hope Publishing Co. Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. Song#80568 All rights reserved.

Storytime for the Young at Heart

Sit back and listen to a beloved story written by Robert Munsch called “Love You Forever”. The story opens with a young mom singing to her newborn son and follows that little boy as he goes through the stages of childhood and becomes a man.

With permission from Firefly Press, our own Will Wightman will read (and sing) the words as we enjoy the original illustrations by Sheila McGraw.

“I’ll love you forever,
I’ll like you for always,
As long as I’m living
My baby you’ll be.”

Children’s Hymn: Jump for Joy! (I Can Feel You Near Me God) More Voices #48

1. I can feel you near me God I can feel you near
Yes I know you’re with me God I feel you here
I can feel you near me God I can feel you near
Yes I know you’re with me God Heaven is here.

Refrain:
And I’ll jump for joy I’m singing Alleluia
Jump for joy for you I will jump for joy
I’m singing Alleluia Jump for joy for you.

2. I can feel you loving me yes I know you care
God I know you’re loving me always everywhere
I can feel you loving me yes I know you care
God I know you’re loving me I know you’re there.

Words & Music © 2000 Pat Mayberry, arrangement © 2006 Margaret Stubbington,
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214 Song# 123573 All rights reserved.

Prayer for Illumination: Reader: Barbara Bole

Mothering God, continue to surprise us and breathe your spirit freshly upon us as your family, that renewed in faith, we may know your wisdom through this story in the Bible. Amen.

OT Reading: “Hannah Pours Out Her Heart to God & Hannah’s Prayer”

1 Samuel 1:4-20; 2:1-10 (NRSV)

4 On the day when Elkanah sacrificed, he would give portions to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters; 5 but to Hannah he gave a double portion, because he loved her, though the Lord had closed her womb. 6 Her rival used to provoke her severely, to irritate her, because the Lord had closed her womb. 7 So it went on year by year; as often as she went up to the house of the Lord, she used to provoke her. Therefore Hannah wept and would not eat. 8 Her husband Elkanah said to her, “Hannah, why do you weep? Why do you not eat? Why is your heart sad? Am I not more to you than ten sons?”

9 After they had eaten and drunk at Shiloh, Hannah rose and presented herself before the Lord. Now Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the doorpost of the temple of the Lord. 10 She was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord, and wept bitterly. 11 She made this vow: “O Lord of hosts, if only you will look on the misery of your servant, and remember me, and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a male child, then I will set him before you as a nazirite until the day of his death. He shall drink neither wine nor intoxicants, and no razor shall touch his head.”

12 As she continued praying before the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. 13 Hannah was praying silently; only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard; therefore Eli thought she was drunk. 14 So Eli said to her, “How long will you make a drunken spectacle of yourself? Put away your wine.” 15 But Hannah answered, “No, my lord, I am a woman deeply troubled; I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been pouring out my soul before the Lord. 16 Do not regard your servant as a worthless woman, for I have been speaking out of my great anxiety and vexation all this time.” 17 Then Eli answered, “Go in peace; the God of Israel grant the petition you have made to him.” 18 And she said, “Let your servant find favor in your sight.” Then the woman went to her quarters, ate and drank with her husband, and her countenance was sad no longer.

19 They rose early in the morning and worshiped before the Lord; then they went back to their house at Ramah. Elkanah knew his wife Hannah, and the Lord remembered her. 20 In due time Hannah conceived and bore a son. She named him Samuel, for she said, “I have asked him of the Lord.”

Hannah’s Prayer

2 Hannah prayed and said,
“My heart exults in the Lord; my strength is exalted in my God.
My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in my victory.
2 “There is no Holy One like the Lord, no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God.
3 Talk no more so very proudly, let not arrogance come from your mouth;
for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.
4 The bows of the mighty are broken, but the feeble gird on strength.
5 Those who were full have hired themselves out for bread,
but those who were hungry are fat with spoil.
The barren has borne seven, but she who has many children is forlorn.
6 The Lord kills and brings to life; he brings down to Sheol and raises up.
7 The Lord makes poor and makes rich; he brings low, he also exalts.
8 He raises up the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from the ash heap,
to make them sit with princes and inherit a seat of honor.
For the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s, and on them he has set the world.
9 “He will guard the feet of his faithful ones, but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness;
for not by might does one prevail.
10 The Lord! His adversaries shall be shattered; the Most High will thunder in heaven.
The Lord will judge the ends of the earth; he will give strength to his king,
and exalt the power of his anointed.”

Hear what the Spirit is saying to all of us. Thanks be to God!

Sermon: “Celebrate with Hannah!” Rev. Kim Vidal

Today is Mother’s Day! It seems like such a small token to honour those who have nurtured us throughout our lives. There are lots of wonderful mothers: mothers in traditional families, mothers in special circumstances, single mothers, step mothers, pet mothers, religious mothers, mothers who open their homes and hearts to anyone needing a friend. Not every woman is a mother by standard definition - that a mother is a woman who gave birth to a child. But you can call someone your mother if she brings you up as if you were her child. Can someone be a mother without bearing a child? Absolutely! You might consider yourself a surrogate mother, a caregiver, an aunt, a sister or a single woman – you are a mother in your own rights and everyone here has a mother. Mothers deserve our honour today.

And here is a story of a mother. We meet her for the first time in the book of Samuel. She is a woman of prayer and of great faith. Her name is Hannah which means “grace”. Her husband’s name is Elkanah meaning the zeal of God. He is wealthy, well-known in the community, a man who knows his roots. There are some aspects of Hannah’s story that we don’t find easy to relate with. She was in a polygamous marriage and she was barren – for a certain period of time. In those days, polygamy was very much part of the culture. Elkanah had a second wife named Peninnah meaning “fertile” who bore him sons and daughters. Elkanah loved Hannah and he really didn't need children from her - anyway--he had plenty from Penninah. So he couldn't see what the big deal was . . . why it seemed that Hannah was so unhappy, all alone and sad . . . after all, she was his favourite! But the fact of the matter was: while Penninah's tent was filled with little voices, Hannah's tent was silent. While children ran around the camp and climbed onto Elkanah's lap to amuse him, Hannah knew in her heart she had not contributed to the legacy Elkanah was building. Hannah’s life seemed glaringly empty.

And to add to Hannah’s heartbreak, Peninnah would look at Hannah with pity, or sarcasm or even remorse. She would brag about her dozen children and used that privilege to taunt Hannah with words like: “Oh you poor woman – it must have been difficult when God closed your womb!” In that period, women lose their status in the society if they were barren – if they were childless. Remember the story of Sarah or Elizabeth in the Bible. There are many people today who know all about that sort of grief, and even if we aren’t familiar with it, we’ve all had times when we longed for things and our longing was not fulfilled. Hannah seems to understand that if it was indeed God who closed her womb, then only God can open it and allow her to bear children. And she persistently went to God in prayer.

In those days it was customary for people to go on pilgrimage to Shiloh, a significant place in Israel. Shiloh was the sanctuary above all others where the Israelites felt they could meet with God. So on one of those occasions, after they had enjoyed their meal, Hannah pulled herself together, she rose, slipped away from the family group and entered the sanctuary. That part of the story caught my attention. I could not resist saying: “That’s it, Hannah- go for it!” For when we are bullied or rejected or misunderstood, there's no need to spend time simply crying about it, or being depressed about it. Hannah rose and I think that's what we should do as well.

There was an old priest named Eli, who was “the man-in-charge” of that worship centre. He was sitting on a seat beside the door, and he saw Hannah going into the sanctuary. He saw this woman –who was deeply distressed and wept bitterly as she prayed to God. In her prayer, she made a vow to God- if God would give her a son, she would offer him to God as a Nazirite – one who abstains from drinking wine and one who will never cut his hair. I agree that asking for a male baby is somewhat unfair when baby girls are also as valuable as baby boys. But the story was written in a time when patriarchy was the predominant social system and sons in that system were favoured over daughters. Sadly, a lot of cultures today still embrace this system which I think needs to be addressed. Let’s go back to Hannah’s story.

Eli, the priest was watching Hannah with uneasiness. Hannah was doing something unusual; she was praying silently. Most people in those days prayed out loud. In Hannah’s case, though, her lips were moving but she was not sounding out the words. Eli totally misinterpreted the situation; he thought that Hannah was drunk, and so he got upset with her. “Woman, you are drunk! How long will you plan to keep this up? Be sober!” But Hannah replied, “No, my lord, I am a woman deeply troubled; I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been in pain, unhappy and desperately praying to God to give me a son”.

Eli knows his position too well - he knows his responsibilities as a priest and keeping the order would be one of them. You can't just come into the holy place - walking right past the boss of the sanctuary, and be odd, or drunk, or out of order. Sometimes, we, too, would act that way – we have to maintain our decorum! But there is something deeper going on here. Some people find it uneasy going "straight to God" with their prayers, without asking the priest or the minister to represent them. Again, that may ring a bell for us today- if we think we can't speak directly to God, think twice! Prayer is a person’s lifeline to God and we can approach God directly with our deepest concerns. God is always there listening to our prayers if we but open ourselves to God.

Hannah is a model of direct, authentic prayer, “the prayer of the heart”. She shows up, without bringing an offering, without asking directions from the priest, and simply prays, soaring past all the liturgical conventions of her age, boldly presenting her petition before her God without benefit of clergy. She uses her own words, her own voice, without representation. Hannah, this broken-hearted, misunderstood and taunted woman leads us to further reflect on our own prayer life. I am reminded of what Mahatma Gandhi said about praying: “Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is daily admission of one's weaknesses. It is better in prayer to have a heart without words than words without a heart”. What about looking at our lives as prayers in action? Hannah’s life is a prayer of the heart. Hannah’s prayer was answered. She gave birth to a son named Samuel who grew up under the mentorship of the priest Eli and later on became a judge and a prophet. It was Samuel who anointed David as king of Israel.

Hannah walked in as a woman of faith, pressed down but trusting and ready to pour out her heart and expose her need, and she walked out a woman of faith, radiant with confident joy that what she needed would be coming her way. Hannah finds her voice - she does experience a kind of transformation. The song attributed to her celebrates God – the holy one – her rock and refuge. Hannah sings a song that inspires the song of Mary, the Magnificat, which we still love reciting today especially in Advent, perhaps without noticing the kind of radical transformation it expresses, of the mighty brought down and the lowly lifted up. Surely, the lives of Hannah and Mary and many like them on the margins long ago and today as well, have been transformed by God’s enduring love.

In reflecting Hannah’s story, what prayers of the heart do you have in this very moment? Are you weighed down by emptiness because of grief or illness or barrenness of your spirit? Take heart – for God is with us – all we have to do is open ourselves to God with our own truths in prayer. Sometimes our prayers are not answered but there must be reasons behind each unanswered prayer – at times, the answer is “wait and see.. be patient”. And no matter what answers we receive, let us always count our blessings and be grateful for every circumstances life may offer. Because when God sometimes closes a door, God will surely open a window for us. When Hannah poured out her grief and emptiness in the presence of God, she was finally able to see that her life was, indeed, filled with good things. Filled, piled high, overflowing, lavishly supplied . . . with everything she needed.

Today, as we celebrate and honour all kinds of mothers, nurturers and life-givers, as we honour families in all of its configurations, their presence in our lives, let us rejoice for the many Hannahs in the world. Let us remember those who chose to live - out of love, devotion, faith and prayer. Hannah stands for those mothers whose heart aches with longing, grief, and even bitterness but also those who live with courage, persistence and hope. Wherever life takes us this day and in the days to come, let us approach God with the prayers of our hearts. Follow the simple and powerful example of Hannah and view your life, not through the circumstances that makes life seem empty, but rather through the lens of God's goodness filling your life with blessings and grace. For this reality . . . or for this hope that we cling to, even in the most desperate times, I can only think to say this morning: let us celebrate life! Let us celebrate mothers and life-givers! Let us celebrate with Hannah! Thanks be to God. Amen.

A Litany for Mother’s Day

Mothers come in many different forms,
and today we celebrate them all!
Thank God for mothers!

Everyone here is either a son or a daughter.
Thank God for my mother!

For those women who have passed and
whom we miss dearly here on earth.
Thank God for the mothers of the past.

For every woman who is working day and
night to raise her children right now.
Thank God for the mothers of today.

For all the women who are expecting,
but aren't quite mothers yet!
Thank God for the soon-to-be-mothers.

For the women who took in others' children
through adoption and foster care.
Thank God for the mothers with hearts so big.

For those women who have lost a child to death and must carry on.
Thank God for the mothers who are so strong.

For all the women who have desperately wanted to have children of their own,
but chose instead to mother everyone else.
Thank God for the mothers in spirit.

We also pray for those who lost their mothers in this time of pandemic.
And those who are in the wilderness of illness, loneliness and grief.
We thank you, God, for the women and life-givers
who have helped us, loved us, supported us and influenced our lives in so many ways.
We pray that we will honour them in everything we do.

All these things we ask in the name of Jesus Christ who taught us to pray.
Please join me as we recite together the inclusive version of the Lord’s Prayer.

The Lord’s Prayer (Inclusive Version)

Blessed One, our Father and our Mother
Holy is your name.
May your love be enacted in the world.
May your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread
And forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us in the time of trial
and deliver us from evil.
For all that we do in your love,
and all that your love brings to birth,
and the fullness of love that will be
are yours, now and forever. Amen.

The Offering

I now invite you to offer your gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of your gratitude to God’s blessings. If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

Offertory Prayer

Giver of life, may these offerings of time, talents and treasures be a “breaking open of your abundant love as we serve others and the world. Amen.

Sending Forth: A Mothering Blessing

May God who brought us to birth by the Holy Spirit,
strengthen us for the Christian life.
May God who provides for all our needs
sustain us day by day.
May God whose steadfast love is constant as a mother's care,
send us out to live and work for others.
And the blessing of God: Creator, Christ and Comforter
be with you and remain with you always. Amen.

Departing Music: Are You a Shepherd? More Voices #126

Are you a shepherd, good shepherd who leads us
safely through danger, while calming our fears?
Are you a father who shelters and feeds us,
shares in our laughter and wipes away tears?

Refrain
Yes, you are shepherd, parent and teacher,
but you are greater than all that we know.
Holy and living, loving and giving,
God, you are with us wherever we go.

Are you a mother, good mother who bears us,
comforts, protects us and helps us to rest?
Are you a teacher who daily prepares us,
challenging students to offer their best?

Great, gentle shepherd, forever beside us,
lead all you children in paths that are right.
Great, loving parent, wise teacher, you guide us.
We want to love you and bring you delight.

Words & Music © 2002 Selah Publishing Co Inc. www.selahpub.com
Words: Ruth Duck Music: William P. Rowan Song# 31202 & 47832
Reprinted with permission ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved

Sunday Worship Service - May 3, 2020

BELLS CORNERS UNITED CHURCH

4th SUNDAY OF EASTER / BCUC 169th ANNIVERSARY

May 3, 2020

[The video recording of this service can be found here]

Gathering slides of BCUC history

Music: How Lovely is Your Dwelling Place (Better is One Day) - More Voices #29
Performed by BCUC band at Homecoming service in October 2016

Words and music (c) Matt Redman 1995 Thank you Music - CCLI lic # 1199365
Abe - piano, Kim & Will - guitars, Erin - flute, Leslie - violin, Dan - Cello, Sue & Wendy - drums

Words of Welcome & Announcements – Rev. Kim

Good morning! The psalmist declares: “O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, our shelter from the stormy blast, and our eternal home.” I welcome and greet you in the name of Jesus Christ as we worship together on this 4thSunday of Easter. Wherever you are, whatever time of the day, whoever you’re with or just by yourself, I am so glad you have joined us in our virtual worship service! Today we are celebrating 169 years of ministry at Bells Corners United Church. We give thanks for the many ways God has blessed and continues to bless this congregation through the years.

In this time of church closure, please know that BCUC offers worship service in a number of ways. Please check our website at bcuc.org, for our worship service in audio, video and text formats along with our weekly announcements and updates.

Beyond worship service, there are other weekly activities and meetings offered online. And in this time of pandemic, I encourage you to make a difference by connecting with each other through emails, phone calls and prayers.

Celebrating Lorrie’s Graduation

And here’s some good news. On April 25th, just a week ago, Lorrie has finally completed the Diploma in Diaconal Ministry at Centre for Christian Studies. We offer our joyful congratulations to her in this well-deserved achievement. We are incredibly blessed to have Lorrie continue to share her gifts with us at BCUC. Congratulations Lorrie on your graduation.

Let us now centre ourselves in the presence of God’s spirit as we worship together.

Lighting of Christ Candle: Wightman Family

We light this Christ candle to honour and to celebrate who we are as people of faith. We do so by giving thanks of the varieties of gifts that we share and of the love that bind us together.

Call to Gather: Lorrie Lowes

From before the beginning, and beyond the end,
you are our God, the God who claims us as yours.
We come, as faithful people have come,
for many generations.
We may break our promises and abandon our covenants,
but you meet all our endings with a new beginning.
Stir in us a joyful celebration for what you have done
and continue to do among us;
From before the beginning, and beyond the end,
you are our God. We delight in you.

Prayer of Approach

Let us pray.

Companion God, through the years you have loved us dearly and have nurtured us since the beginning. The abundance that surrounds us is astounding, and all we can do is marvel and give thanks. With joy-filled hearts let us proclaim the Good News that you are among us. Dance with us as we embrace one another in love and in thanksgiving. Walk with us as we celebrate your promises of grace and hope. Pray with us as we journey together as followers of Jesus. Amen.

Opening Hymn: We Are One - Voices United #402

1 We are one as we come, as we come, joyful to be here, in the praise on our lips there's a sense that God is near.
We are one as we sing, as we seek, we are found; and we come needful of God's grace as we meet, together in this place.

2 We are one as we share, as we share brokenness and fear, in the touch of a hand there's a sense that God is here.
We are one as we care, as we heal, we are healed; and we share warmth in God's embrace as we pray together in this place.

3 We are one as we feast, as we feast, peace becomes the sign; in the bread and the wine there's a sense of love divine.
We are one as we come, as we feed, we are fed; and we feel God's refreshing grace as we meet at table in this place.

4 We are one as we hear, as we hear, heart and hand unite; in the word we receive there's a sense that God is light.
We are one as we leave, as we love, we are loved; and we seek justice in God's ways as we move together from this place

Words © 1988 Doreen Lankshear-Smith, Music © 1987 Jeeva Sam,
Arranged © 1995 David Kai Song#59e0e28addd02
Reprinted with permission under ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved.

Storytime for the Young at Heart with Lorrie

Happy Birthday!!

I know it’s probably not really your birthday today – but it is OUR birthday! Today Bells Corners United Church is 169 years old! That’s really old! It’s 100 years older than me! Pretty amazing, eh?

When we think about it, that means we can look back in history to 1851 and see that our church family was already here in Bells Corners. We were here even before Canada was born!

That kind of blows my mind!

When we think about our church being here, are we talking about the building where we worship together? No… our beautiful building with its huge roof that stands on the corner of Moodie Drive and Richmond Road wasn’t here when our first members were gathering on Sunday mornings. It was in a small building beside the cemetery down the road near the Anglican Church. It wasn’t even a United Church. Back then even the United Church of Canada hadn’t been born!

So, if we are not talking about our church building, then what is it we are celebrating? Last year when we celebrated our church anniversary, I explained it like this – “Church” is not a noun or a name for a thing, “Church” is a verb. It’s an action word, something we do. And it’s something we’ve been doing in this community for 169 years.

A friend of mine told me that someone asked her, “Where do you church?” That’s what gave me that way of understanding the word “church” – it’s not where you go, it’s what you do.

These days we can’t go to our church building – but that doesn’t mean we can’t still “church”. Think of all the ways we are living our faith while we are all stuck at home. It’s a little harder, but it is happening! Rev. Kim and Abe and I are creating church on the internet… Erin and I are planning Sunday School and Youth activities that you can do at home… meetings are happening on Zoom… people are phoning to check on friends and family…

When we are together at BCUC, we talk a lot about how we need to be followers of Jesus every day, not just on Sunday. These days I think that’s just as important – maybe even more important.

I’m disappointed that we aren’t all together at our church this morning. I know there would have been cake today! But, even without the cake, this is a day to celebrate. We can celebrate the fact that our faith family has been in Bells Corners being church and doing church for 169 years! If we keep the love in our hearts and keep spreading it out in the world, I bet our BCUC family will still be here in another 100 years or more!

Happy Birthday, Bells Corners United Church!

Children’s Hymn: Dance With the Spirit - More Voices #156

Dance/Move/Sing with the Spirit early in the mornin’,
Dance/Move/Sing with the Spirit throughout the long day.
Work and hope for the new life a-bornin’,
listen to the Spirit to show you the way.

Words and Music © 1995 Jim Strathdee Desert Flower Music www.strathdeemusic.com
Song#60013 Reprinted with permission ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved.

Prayer for Illumination: Rev. Kim

Let grace, let love, let hope flow through your Word to us, O God.
Let your Word transform us today and always. Amen.

NT Reading: “Life Among the Believers” Acts 2: 42-47 (NRSV)

Reader: Jan Pound

42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. 44 All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45 they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

Hear what the Spirit is saying to all of us. Thanks be to God!

Sermon: “Keeping the Faith Alive” Rev. Kim Vidal

A church anniversary celebration without retelling its history is like planting a tree without its roots. “Memories are important to all of us.” These are the words of Bob Ferguson and David Beard in the Book of Memories they put together in January of 2000. And they continue: “When we forget or lose our memories, we lose a great part of our being. It is the same for a church. Our history is an integral part of who we are, where we have been and what we have contributed in the past.” These words affirm the fact that “the church is not a building nor a steeple but a people.” The church is about what we do and who we are as God’s people – past, present and future. We are not defined by the building where we gather or worship together. Certainly, these words ring a bell especially in this time of COVID-19 pandemic when we are not able to gather for worship in our church building. Worship services are being offered online and this for sure has been a “new normal” to many of us. But we are still the church, no matter where we are, whatever distance or how isolated we are from each other, no matter how computerized our meetings and gatherings these days, we are still the church.

One of the vital, more important aspects of being church is the retelling of our stories – the sharing of our lived experience of how God had shaped and is still shaping our lives. I call these stories of faith. Through these stories, we are able to enter into the heart of God. We are able to share our lives to one another, a story of revelation or a story of welcome. One of the pillars of the church who passed away last year was Bob Southern. Bob submitted 8 stories in the Book of Memories, all of which speak of revelation and welcome. They remind us of our life as people of faith. Let me share one of the stories Bob wrote which he titled “The Creaky Pews”.

In the late 1950’s and early 60’s, the little church on Robertson Rd., now a spa, was very full on Sunday morning as the new residents from Lynwood began filling the pews. It was a mistake to be late for church. Not only was space difficult to find but you were thoroughly announced as a late arrival, since the pew seats and backs were not really fastened together except at the end. As a late arrival tried to slip into a seat and sit down quietly, the seat let out a giant squawk as the wooden seat moved and rubbed against the pew back. One such greeting was enough to “get me to the church on time.”

From its humble beginnings in 1851, when the first regular ministry of the Presbyterian Church in Bells Corners came in place; when the congregation called the Drummond Presbyterian Church was part of the Goulbourn-Nepean Circuit; when the first church building was dedicated in 1898; when Drummond Presbyterian Church joined the church union in 1925, changed its name to bells Corners United Church and became part of a three-point charge congregation with Britannia and Fallowfield; when in December 1962, the building where we currently worship on Old Richmond Rd. was dedicated; today marks the 169th anniversary of Bells Corners United Church. Friends, we have come a long way!

The reading in Acts gives us a glimpse of life as people in the faith. It describes the beginning stages of the early Christian community in the first century. The activities of the faith community described in this text are not extraordinary or controversial. No talks about what colour of the floor must be installed. No squabbles about financial deficits. No disagreements regarding which minister to hire. These 5 verses define the life of an ideal church since time immemorial. The members of the early Christian church are doing theology and having faith-talk, they are living together, having meals together, praying together-- they look after one another, support each other and attend to each other’s needs. This is a kind of community that most churches today would embrace without any doubt. And while this part of the story is not as noisy as the gathering from the first Pentecost, it has its own unique utopian character. The early Christians literally shared their wealth and resources in a common pot so that no one will be hungry or homeless or in need. And they do it all in awe and with gladness and with joy--and the community just keeps growing every single day. This story of the beginning of the church is inspiring. This is the Easter Church that the Jesus’ movement has envisioned.

And while many agree that the early church has not stayed the same, the church described in this Acts passage reminds me in some ways of our life at BCUC! Today, we celebrate and honour the women and men, ministers, youth, young adults and children whose faith has encouraged them to persist in making BCUC an active presence in the community. This church stands as a witness to the faith of those who built it and those who come to find spiritual nourishment in this sacred space and for those who worked over the years to keep BCUC open and alive and active. This church is a haven of friendship– where people pray and where kindred souls meet. We live our faith by the many outreach programs that we support far and wide. We offer a safe space for learning, nurturing and growing- where friends and strangers, young and old alike, no matter what race, creed, colour, sexual orientation or social status are welcome. We gather for potlucks and fellowships and we celebrate the many joys and achievements of each one. We are indeed the body of Christ!

Friends, we have come a long way in keeping our mission statement alive and in progress. We have anchored our faith building in these 4 evocative words: rejoice, renew, respond, reach out. But these words will remain futile if we don’t do our part. We know that the world out there needs healing and hope. From the four corners of the church building, we move out to a world where God’s message of love and hope will be fully tested. Our mission statement acclaims both passion and compassion; theology and praxis; silence and evocations. Indeed, we have drawn our strengths not only from noble ideas but also from the strength of ordinary people like you and I called to make a difference in the world. We proclaim that Jesus Christ is the light of the world and we follow his way of life.

How do we keep our faith alive? As a faithful congregation, we have a responsibility to care for our children and young people, to nurture them and prepare them for life. We have a responsibility to our seniors and elderly, to help meet their needs in a changing world. We have a responsibility to the community around us, to proclaim the good news of love by word and by our actions. Let the stories of faith, commitment, and service strengthen us, prepare us, and propel us into the countless years of ministry in this place. Do your part even in small ways. That is how our church vision is accomplished.

May we continue to think freely and talk openly about who we are, whose we are and how we are called to be. May we continue building a community that has love as its highest aim above personal gratification and self-congratulation. May we follow in the steps of those who have given us a great beginning; the founders and foreparents, the movers and shakers of this congregation, who believed there was an exciting ministry to be had in this time and in this place. Let us be blessed by the words of Ahsha Williams, when at a young age of 7 years old, wrote this blessing in the Book of Memories: “I bless this church and this church blesses me. I care for this church and this church cares for me. I love this church.” Thanks be to God for Bells Corners United Church! Amen.

Prayer of the People & The Lord’s Prayer

Let us gather our hearts in prayer. Holy God, on this Anniversary Sunday, we reflect on your past help, your indwelling Spirit in the present and the courage to seek hope for the future. Through the years O God, you have blessed and continue to bless your people in this congregation – a community of faithful believers, a heritage of mission and service, a haven of creativity, vibrant worship services with amazing music and loving fellowship. Continue to bless us with your presence, as you come to us in Word and sacraments, and make of us a community of love and care, a light that cannot be hidden, that others may know of your great love.

Holy God, we remember all those who help this church grow in wisdom and in faith. And so we pray for our leaders, the board and committee members, our music director and the choirs, Sunday School teachers, and many others who provide leadership and support to this faith community. We give thanks for all of the members and adherents, young and old alike, who fulfill each day the vision of being an active Christian presence in the community. May we be a church where the good news of Jesus Christ for all people is made real amongst us. May we be a church which manifests unity through diversity. May we be a church where the gift of friendship flourishes and nourishes us as we make friends in many different ways. Today we are grateful for the graduation of Lorrie. We ask for your blessings upon her as she continues to serve BCUC as a diaconal minister committed to her call.

God of Healing, we pray for people for whom the world is dark especially in this time of pandemic. We pray for those dealing with pain and suffering, loneliness, homelessness, poverty, disability, hunger, addictions, and broken relationships. We ask your guidance and blessings for those who make our lives easier as we live through the challenges brought about by COVID-19. We ask for your blessing upon the community where we live and the world.

God who journeys with us, hold our lives together in the thread of your rainbow grace. We rejoice with hope and great joy, remembering Jesus Christ, the mover and shaker of our faith as we abide in his love now and in the years to come. All these things we ask in the name of Jesus Christ who taught his disciples this prayer:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.

The Offering

I now invite you to offer your gifts of time, talents and resources as expressions of your gratitude to God’s blessings. If you are not on PAR and wish to send in your offering and donations, you can drop them in the slot by the kitchen door of the church or mail them to BCUC. You can also send in your support through e-transfer. Thank you for your continued love and support to BCUC.

Offertory Prayer

Loving God, on this our Anniversary Sunday, may these gifts of time, talent and treasures be bright threads shining in the tapestry you weave for your people. Bless these gifts as we use them to bless others. Amen.

Sending Forth

Go forth into the world,
rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Be strong and of good courage,
for the God of yesterday, today
and tomorrow walks with you.
Be filled with the peace of Christ
now and always. Amen!

Departing Music: Let Us Build A House (All Are Welcome) - More Voices #1

1 Let us build a house where love can dwell and all can safely live,
A place where saints and children tell how hearts learn to forgive.
Built of hopes and dreams and visions,
rock of faith and vault of grace;
here the love of Christ shall end divisions:
All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

2 Let us build a house where prophets speak, and words are strong and true,
where all God’s children dare to seek to dream God’s reign anew.
Here the cross shall stand as witness and as symbol of God’s grace;
here as one we claim the faith of Jesus:
All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

3 Let us build a house where love is found in water, wine and wheat;
a banquet hall on holy ground, where peace and justice meet.
Here the love of God, through Jesus, is revealed in time and space;
as we share in Christ the feast that frees us:
All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

4 Let us build a house where hands will reach beyond the wood and stone
to heal and strengthen, serve and teach, and live the Word they’ve known.
Here the outcast and the stranger bear the image of God’s face;
let us bring an end to fear and danger:
All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

5 Let us build a house where all are named, their songs and visions heard
and loved and treasured, taught and claimed as words within the Word.
Built of tears and cries and laughter, prayers of faith and songs of grace;
let this house proclaim from floor to rafter:
All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

Words and Music © 1994 Marty Haugen GIA Publications, Inc.
Song#00004 Reprinted with permission ONE LICENSE #A-733214. All rights reserved.