Readings for Sunday 1st November, All Saints and All Souls
Psalm 119.89-96
Reading: 1Thessalonians 2-1-8
Gospel: Matthew 22.34-46
Psalm response: “Taste and see that God is good, happy are they who trust in God”
Commemoration of the Departed– Each year, we celebrate All Saints Day on the first Sunday of November. It is an occasion when we remember the Communion of Saints, living and dead. During the 10:00 am service today, you are invited to light a candle during the Prayers of the People in honour of your departed loved ones.
Stewardship Thought: Precious Already – On All Saints Day, we remember those whose lives have been refined by God’s love. We are not loved because we are perfect; we are precious because we are God’s beloved children. And God’s love changes us, teaching us to see the worth of others and to share what we have. As we continue our appeal, Love, Richer Than Gold, consider how your time, talents and treasure can help God’s love shine more brightly in the world.
Outreach
This month we continue to support St. Paul’s food bank, and our own breakfast program.
The next food bank Sunday is 8th November.
The 5 K run/walk was held on Sunday October 18th. This is the major fund raiser for our twice monthly breakfast program. Thanks to our outstanding parish family and friends, the funds raised to date total $21790.50. The campaign runs until November 2nd if you would like to donate to this vital outreach ministry. Our next breakfast is November 7th, and all are welcome to join us between 9 and 10:30 am.
Fundraising and Social
Rick will be in the Narthex between the services to take your card orders. Even if you don’t usually get these useful cards, remember they make excellent stocking stuffers!
Derek has arranged it for Tuesday 10th November, at Formaggios. All parish men are invited, and why not bring a friend?
NB. We are still needing new men or women volunteers.
Festival Choir rehearsals continue Thursdays at 7:30 pm. We are learning a Christmas Cantata called “The Mystery and the Majesty” by Joseph M. Martin. Please join us as we learn this festive music!
This year's Christmas cards evoke the miracle of Jesus’ birth under a dark night sky. Just as the weary world rejoiced 2,000 years ago, we too feel the thrill of hope as we celebrate Christmas. Choose from two watercolour illustrations: In “O Holy Night,” a caribou admires the Northern Lights shimmering over a cozy log cabin; in “Our Dear Saviour’s Birth,” Joseph and Mary admire the newborn King. Order cards by contacting Anslim Hameed at (416) 822-9083 or toll-free at 1 (877) 936-9199 ext. 228, or by email at ahameed@alongsidehope.org , or contact him with any questions. A minimum donation of $25.00 is suggested for a package of 12 cards.
Learning Together
The Pilgrim Course –Sign up for the next six-session course led by Father Kevin, Tuesdays from 7:00-8:30 pm. Our next course will explore the Eucharist, starting on November 17th – online. Make spiritual formation a priority! Sign-up sheets are in the narthex. Available resource materials are limited so act quickly.
Learning Together
Happy birthday! This week to Nicole N. (25th October) and Ann D. (28th). Hope you both have happy celebrations.