What if there was a church that allowed you to explore issues of life and faith at your own pace? What if there was a church that celebrated the presence and participation of children of all ages, a church where you could dress casually, enjoy a variety of music, and be challenged to think about the important issues of your life? What if there was a church that was not afraid to hear your doubts and be challenged by your questions? What if you could find that kind of church?
We believe you just did.
Welcome to First United Church!
How is God calling you?
First United Church is a welcoming place to start your spiritual journey or refresh yourself along the way!
In accordance with Alberta Health Services Guidelines, we are taking a Sabbath from our Sunday face to face gatherings.
You can connect with others nationally … Beginning Sunday, March 22, 2020, United Church of Canada Moderator Richard Bott will be offering an online worship service each Sunday for the duration of the COVID-19 outbreak. This will be a video-recorded service you can join on the United Church of Canada website or Facebook page. The prayers, hymns, and reflections from the Moderator’s online worship will also be available in audio and text form. www.united-church.ca
Weekly worship outlines will be available on this site on the “Prayer and Care” page. Some video and some video postings will be on our Facebook page. First United Church, Wetaskiwin.
To prepare holy space at home or within anytime, you might try some of the following:
* Light a candle in a quiet space in your home.
* Take a few moments to quiet your breathing and sing or hum a well- loved Hymn.
* Say a prayer of thanks for the blessings you have received. Offer a prayer for those who are on your hearts, and/or anyone who is facing a challenging time.
* Read one or two of your favourite Biblical stories or a Psalm. Stop and reflect on why you chose these, and how they speak to the way you are feeling right now.
* Take a walk outside if you are able and look around at all the beauty of our world. Listen to bird song, or the sound of the wind. Reflect on those things we can count on; the sun rising, animals going about their business, the promise of longer days and warmer air.
* Take time to rest, and renew your souls in ways that are meaningful to you.
* Reach out to one another via a friendly phone call to pass time and let others know you are thinking about them.
Text versions of our worship are available on the Prayer & Care page as well as links for services posted on our Facebook page.
Together we will weather this turbulent time. Together we will grow strong in our faith. Because we are not alone. We live in God’s world!
Ever faithful God, break through our fear. When we would withdraw, open our arms to embrace your way of reconciliation. When we are tempted to deny Your promise of life, refresh us with Your hope. Roll away our doubts. Call out our courage. Help us live in Christ’s name. Amen.