First United Church is a welcome place to explore familiar faith and new ways of coming close to the holy. We are a worshiping and faith-living community that encourages, inspires and acts in this world God loves. There are so many voices and expectations that clamour for our attention, it is not always easy to discern God’s call to live justly, to practice kindness and humility. Being part of a community of faith helps. We are stronger together! If you’d like to learn more, make a difference, grow in your faith,  get involved!
Announcements
Please note that we are not having services in the month of July.  Perhaps you will celebrate your faith by attending another church in July or with quiet reflection.  The church office will be open regular office hours through the month of July: Monday and Thursday from 9:00 am to Noon.
 
Weekly happenings
 
On Facebook –
Thursday’s you’ll find upcoming readings for worship.
 
On You-Tube
You’re welcome to check out some of the Godly Play room stories and previously livestreamed services. 
 
Upcoming events
 
July 7  – James Strachan Funeral 2:00 pm
July 22-23 – Community Kitchen
July 28-31 – Vacation Bible Camp 9:00 am to Noon each day
 
 
The Holy Family is on the move … 
Pilgrimage – a journey, often into an unknown or foreign place; in search of a new or expanded understanding of self, others, nature, or the holy. You may travel virtually or physically, on your own or accompanied by others, with the same companions or open to those unexpected guests who come and go. Whether you’ve a specific destination on the horizon, or an inner space of being, you may discover the transformation happens on the way.
Pilgrims on the Way ~
We are not to play safe, to draw back out of fear.
Love may well lead us into danger.
It may lead us to die for our friend.
In a day when we are taught to look for easy solutions,
It is not always easy to hold on to that
Most difficult one of all, Love. ~Madeleine L’Engle
God, You welcome us, without judgment, without holding back. We are not always such good neighbours. Teach us to make room for difference without being indifferent. Grace us with patience as we learn and relearn new languages, new cultures, new ways of being community. Help us be the peace You intend. Amen.

Wisdom in Community

 
Pilgrims on the Way ~
“Remembering the Children Prayer”
God of our Ancestors, who holds the spirits of our grandmothers and grandfathers and the spirits of our grandchildren, Remembering the Children, we now pledge ourselves to speak the Truth, and with our hearts and our souls to act upon the Truth we have heard of the injustices lived, of the sufferings inflicted, of the tears cried, of the misguided intentions imposed, and of the power of prejudice and racism which were allowed to smother the sounds and laughter of the forgotten children.
Hear our cries of lament for what was allowed to happen, and for what will never be.
In speaking and hearing and acting upon the Truth may we as individuals and as a nation meet the hope of a new beginning. Great Creator God who desires that all creation live in harmony and peace.
Remembering the Children we dare to dream of a Path of Reconciliation where apology from the heart leads to healing of the heart and the chance of restoring the circle, where justice walks with all, where respect leads to true partnership, where the power to change comes from each heart.
Hear our prayer of hope, and guide this country of Canada on a new and different path. Amen
I wonder who you need to remember?
Pilgrims on the Way ~
May flowers spring up where your feet touch the earth. May those who have walked before you bless your every step. May the weather that’s important be the weather of your heart.
May all of your intentions find their way to the heart of God.
~ Macrina Wiederkehr, “Walk in a Relaxed Manner” Joyce Rupp
Pilgrims on the Way ~
May friends who are praying for you carry you along the way.
May friends who are praying for you be carried in your heart.
May the circle of life encircle you along the way…
May you carry your joy and your grief in the backpack of your soul.
~ Macrina Wiederkehr, “Walk in a Relaxed Manner” Joyce Rupp
Pilgrims on the Way ~
Wisdom is practiced. Develop a forgiveness mindset rather than a grievance mindset.
I do believe I have been changed for the better. And because I’ve known you, I’ve been changed for the good. God bless your pilgrim heart with interesting company, as much down as uphill path and a welcome rest before it’s needed.
I wonder who has helped you change for the good?
 
Pilgrims on the Way ~
I will open my mouth in a parable, I will reveal the hidden meaning of things in the past. Psalm 78:2. Wisdom helps us make meaning. It is not limited to a select few, nor secretive about its lessons. Even when we don’t understand, we can remember and one day we will understand.
I wonder what wisdom you will share with others?