Sermon by Rev. Shawn Newton.

First, an important announcement:

In light of the rapidly rising Covid case numbers in this fifth wave of the pandemic, our leadership team has decided to suspend the in-person option for our upcoming services. While there is much that remains uncertain about the severity of this wave, the impact on day-to-day life over the coming days and weeks is shaping up to be significant, with particular concern, of course, for the well-being of our healthcare system. We will continue to monitor conditions and guidance from public health officials to gauge when we can return to offering an in-person option to those who wish to gather in our sanctuary. Thank you for your understanding.

Amid this time of added concern and unwelcome complications, we are also in a season of celebration. We invite you to join us for any and all of our upcoming services, in hopes they will provide you with meaning and connection in the days ahead:

This Sunday, December 19th, at 10:30am, I’ll be reflecting on “The Wish List” and the struggle of not always getting what we want.

On the night of Monday, the 20th—at 7pm (note the new time)—we will gather virtually for our annual Solstice Vespers service, with a sermon from Rev. Lynn titled “Night Light.”

And on Christmas Eve, the 24th—again at 7pm—we will celebrate Christmas with readings, reflection, music, and candlelight. My sermon is titled “Bless Us, Every One!”

Please note that we will not be holding a Sunday morning service on December 26th.

On January 2nd, we will mark the beginning of the new year with our Fire Communion Service. My sermon that day is called “The All-Important Spark.”

For all of these services, you may want to have a candle or two at the ready to help you fully take part in the spirit of the season.

In whatever ways you celebrate, may you take time over the holidays to savour some of winter’s stillness and prepare for the arrival of a new year. May you reflect on the connections and blessings that sustain you. And may you seek to share some portion of what you have—including yourself!–with others.

Wishing you happy holidays

In faith and love,
Shawn

Read Sermon