Readings for Sunday 3rdJanuary 2021, Christmas 2; First reading: Jeremiah 31.7-14; Psalm 147, 12-20; Second reading: Ephesians 1.3-14; Gospel: John 1.1-18

Prayer and Pastoral Care

Please pray this week for – Lydia; plus Ben and Trish; Brenda; Betty and Ruth; Margaret and Anita; Anne; Margaret and Jennifer; Fran and Bill; Loraine and Gord; Toby- Lindsey- Erin- Theresa and family; Victoria plus Karen and Debbie; Nelson; Ray; Margaret; Pat and Sean; Brenda; Laurel and Rob; Nancy June; Susan; Stephanie and Ron; Scott and Logan; Beth; Mary Anne; Cathy and Susan; Charles and Pauline; Irene and Yoli; Izzy; Phyllis; Jen; Alison; Jamie and Cathie; plus Keith and Cate; Diane; Fred and Marlene; Davina and Sangeeta; Matt; Jennifer; Tammy; Magdalena; Steve and Margaret. AND for those who are in need of prayer but have no one today to remember them by name; and those known to each of you alone.

Rest in Peace – Alyson (pedestrian in MVA and daughter to Brenda in prayer list). May Alyson find rest eternal and rise in glory. May Brenda and family find strength and comfort as they grieve. And The Venerable Archibald (Archie) Howard Skirving (Retired). May rest eternal and light perpetual shine upon Archie and his soul rise in Glory. Pray that family, friends, and many colleagues and parishioners who knew Archie find comfort and strength as they mourn his passing.

Pray – for the community as we move into COVID19 lockdown; for front line and essential workers who give of themselves so others may have needed supplies, care, support and services. For all infected with this dreaded virus, may they have healing; and for those in isolation, may they have hope. May common sense and a sense of optimism prevail even as we face the limitations of lockdown and follow public health directives.

Pray – with thanks for the starting of vaccine immunization project against COVID. May understanding and patience be evident as this major health project unfolds.

Pray – for all those who will be missing community in person worship services, connections with family and friends, and participating in traditional activities. May the message of the Good News of the Kingdom be treasured and sustain everyone for another year, and help all to focus on the reasons for gratitude and blessings.

Pray – forBishop Todd and our priest Bill, as they strive to shepherd their flock through unchartered and troubled times.

Anglican Fellowship of Prayer, Huron Executive Reflection: While the Twelve Days of Christmas, Christmastide, (December 25th – January 6th) is a festive Christian season celebrating the Nativity of Jesus, Christmas is not a single event but a journey over these 12 days. A time to wonder at the myriad of miracles happening with the birth of the Christ child. And we offer a prayer during this Christmastide Journey: Gracious and loving God, with the angels, we shout loud praises over the birth of Jesus; with the shepherds, we respond with joy for the gift of a Saviour; with Mary, we treasure and ponder this good news in our hearts. You have been faithful to fulfill ancient prophecies and Your covenant promises. Because of Jesus’ ministry, we now live in Your perpetual favor; and because of the Spirit’s ongoing work, we humble ourselves before You. We give you thanks for the gift of your son and Your eternal grace to all of humanity. Jesus brings Good news to our broken world. Messages of hope and love during a time of global pandemic. The light that a vaccine may help prevent more sickness and death. A time when people draw together, realizing that relationships are our most wanted and needed desire. Amen and Amen.

Cycle of Prayer for December – Transformation – Transforming Society: “To seek to transform unjust structures of society”, to challenge violence of every kind, and to pursue peace and reconciliation, is a call to go beyond charitable giving and help change a world that creates human needs. To join in God’s work in building the Kingdom by transforming society. Prayer: Lord, let the fire of your goodness and justice burn into us and through us, that we may seek to transform the unjust structures of society. Let your glory fill this place, Let your glory fill this world! We honour ministries in support of TRANSFORMING SOCIETY, the Fourth Mark of Mission. Support for: New Comers To Canada, and LIRSA, North East Neighbourhood Group, Marriage Canon Work- Marriage inclusivity, Pride walk, Crisis Response, PWRDF, London Food Coalition, IJM (International Justice Mission) Prayer Partner.

Outreach

Community Breakfast Program – The next take-out breakfast is this Saturday, 2nd January 2021 – 9:00am – 10:30am.

LET’S CELEBRATE!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! this week to: Myrna Walsh (31st December), Geoffrey Viglianti (1st January) and Jennifer Chalmers (2nd ). Hope you all have a happy day!

IPad case – in the office, a strong plastic “bumper” case for Apple iPad, free to anyone who could use one.

Our best wishes to all parish members for a safe and happy celebration of this wonderful Festive season, and a Happy and safe New Year.