Lent & Easter 2015 Newsletter

Transcription

1 Page 1 Lent/Easter 2015 Lent & Easter 2015 Newsletter Rector s Message Dear parishioners, We are about to begin the Season of Lent which over 40 days, will lead us to the joys of Easter. God s power is seen best when fear and darkness seem to have the upper hand. We have all experienced in some manner or other, the darkness and fear that terrorists and other murderous misfits sought to inflict in France and Denmark, with the killing of Canadian soldiers in Quebec and Ottawa, and very recently, the foiled plot to kill innocent shoppers at the Halifax Shopping Centre. These acts were meant to instill fear and to make us a less tolerant and kind society. Jesus died because the religious and political leaders were fearful of him. They feared that his message would liberate and transform people taking them out of the control of the religious leaders. They feared that this man s Good News message might lead people in a different direction than what the authorities wanted to maintain. The political leaders feared he was King of the Jews and God s long awaited Messiah who might cause the people to rise up and throw off the yoke of oppression. The religious and political leaders conspired to silence him and to stop his disciples by putting him to death by means of the cruelest forms of punishment, crucifixion. The anecdote to fear is love. There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears punishment has not been perfected in love. 1John 4:18 (NET). I suspect this is what Jesus was trying to have Mary understand when she came in darkness and fear to the tomb to anoint a dead body. Instead, she found an empty tomb and a risen Lord who took her from fear to joy. She runs to the others and declares that she has seen the risen Lord. The disciples meet the risen Lord who says to them: Peace be with you. The Season of Lent can lead from darkness and fear to deep peace in the light and joy of Easter. In his 2014 Easter Sermon, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said the disciples had pinned all their hopes on Jesus - and on the people of Israel to recognise Him. But "the rulers of Israel held on to what they knew, for fear of something unexpected and worse, and did what we all do: failed to see the evidence of God in front of them." Archbishop Justin stressed that "a joyful and celebratory church is based not in vain human optimism but in the certainty that God raised Jesus from the dead and will also raise us. As a result we know our fallibility and become merciful and kind with each other, we know God s call and never give up working for and expecting a new shape and life to the church." Archbishop Justin added: "God gives us life in all fullness when we open our lives to Him. The church heals lonely brokenness with love and forgiveness of one another. We find the grasp of the risen Jesus always making us new. We are aflame with the truth that Christ is risen, and life is filled with creative hope and purpose." As we set out together on the Lenten journey to Easter, I encourage you to offer to the Lord those things and powers that hold you in fear. Focus on the Lord who is the source of our love and joy. Take time each day for yourself and time with God. There are some excellent Lenten prayer books available, as well as a number of special programs and services throughout the Season. I wish each of you a very happy and joyful Easter. Michael+

2 Page 2 Lent/Easter 2015 A note from Barbara.. Music At St. John s Our choirs were very busy over the Christmas season and we are so fortunate that so many give of their time each week to support our music program in the parish. Numbers often dwindle in the winter months as some members travel south. We, of course, miss them and at the same time welcome new members who would care to join us Wednesday evening at 7 for Chancel Choir and Tuesday evening at 7 for St. John s Ringers. On January 18 at 2 pm our chancel choir joined me in celebrating evensong at St. Barnabas Church in Blue Rocks. It was a lovely service, conducted by Rev. John Wright with Reg MacDonald guest preaching. At 7 pm a number from our choir also participated in the Annual Service of Christian Unity at St. Norbert s. Choirs and music committee came together to present the fourth annual Souper Market on Saturday, February 14 at 11 am to 1:30 pm in the Parish Hall. Admission was $10 ($5 for students) at the door. We do hope you came and enjoyed our tasty soups and desserts and visited our treasure tables where you could purchase a variety of items old and new. The first Music and Meditation presentation for Lent will take place on February 18 and continue till April 1. These are half hour musical presentations each Wednesday at noon and feature a number of friends of our music program. See the next page for detailed information. King s College Chapel Choir with Paul Halley conducting returns to St. John s on Saturday, April 11 at 4 pm in a performance of J.S. Bach s great choral masterpiece, the B minor Mass. If you have any questions about any aspect of our music ministry here at St. John s, it would be a pleasure to hear from you. Pre Authorized Remittance (PAR) Did you know that in case of illness, or absence from the parish, you can still ensure that you are able to make your offering to God and the support of the parish? By using the Pre Authorized Remittance (PAR), you are able to do so. You may get your form at the Parish office or at the church to sign up. The set up process is very easy and simple. We have many parishioners already using this method of placing their offering and they really like the convenience. It is a great way to make your contributions to the parish all year long, especially the snow birds and those who are with us in the summer months. If you have questions or want help to complete the form, please give Mary a call at the office

3 Page 3 Lent/Easter 2015 Music & Meditation for Lent At St. John s St. John s Anglican Church in Lunenburg presents Music and Meditation for Lent beginning on Wednesday, February 18 at noon. Each half hour presentation features musical friends of St. John s music program. The music is an eclectic mix of various styles of music suitable for meditation and reflection. Organist Nick Veltmeyer will open the 2015 Lenten Music and Meditation Series. Born in Halifax, 1991, he is the Sub Organist of the University of King's College and Assistant Director of Capella Regalis Men and Boys Choir. He was also the Organist at St. Stephen s Anglican Church in Chester, Nova Scotia from He now directs a choir for Sunday services at King's, teaches the Organ Scholars at King's, and teaches piano and music theory privately. Since 2010, Nick has served under his mentor, Paul Halley, at King's, and previously with Paul Halley at St. George's Anglican Church in In 2011 Nick was awarded a scholarship and bursary from the Nova Scotia Talent Trust for his studies at King s. He is a Classics and Religious Studies Major at the University of King's College, and has particular interest in the theological symbolism of Bach's organ works. In 2015 the King's College Chapel Choir premièred his original composition, a setting of the Nunc Dimittis, for Septuagesima at the King's Chapel. Nick has also studied conducting at the Tafelmusik Baroque Summer Institute and organ at the Summer Academy of the Haarlem International Organ Festival. Nick s program will include the Lenten organ prelude O Mensch, bewein dein Sünde groß by J. S. Bach and also Bach s partita Sei gegrüsset, Jesu gütig. The full series will contain seven presentations, ending on Wednesday, April 1. The public is cordially invited to attend. Free will offering only. Wednesday, February 18 at noon Nick Veltmeyer, organ Wednesday, February 25 at noon Mary Knickle, vocalist Wednesday, March 4 at noon John Barr, vocalist Wednesday, March 11 at noon David Findlay, organ Wednesday, March 18 at noon Judith van Ryckevorsel and Robin Stadnyk, duo harpists Wednesday, March 25 at noon Judith Burdett, soprano; Barbara Butler, piano/organ Wednesday, April 1 at noon Sharon Gow-Knickle, piano For More Information: barbara.butler@ns.sympatico.ca or, the church office at

4 Page 4 Lent/Easter 2015 Sunday School Activities in November 2014 The Sunday School was very busy in November First they got to go as a group and spend the morning decorating the St. John s Church Christmas Tree at the Lunenburg Bandstand in preparation for the big light-up later in the month. They were early birds as you can see only two trees are decorated in the picture below. Then they helped get the dory ready for the Annual Lunenburg Christmas Parade. On the day of the parade they proudly represented St. John s as they rode in the dory and greeted the crowds who lined the streets. (see the picture on the next page). Of course they had secret helpers in the form of our wonderful adults who run the Sunday School and keep everyone on track. Christina Bower, Sherry Skinner, Louise Holdbrook, Emmi Fraser, Brooke Nodding, Barbara Our happy Sunday School crew after decorating St. John's Christmas Tree at the Lunen- West, Missy Romkey, Viola Green burg Bandstand on the chilly Sunday morning of November 23. Delightful hot chocolate Lori Nickerson, Rena Demone, and treats at the Parish Hall warmed them up afterwards. Youth Assistants: Alex Payne, & Nikki Saunders. Special Thanks go to Howard Keeping, Jim Green, Alex Green, Raymond Francis and Jane Ritcey for their assistance with the float, and also to Father Michael and Mary Meisner who walked with the float that day. Our dory-mates having fun aboard St. John's float in the Lunenburg Christmas Parade on November 29.

5 Page 5 Lent/Easter 2015 Holy Week - Easter Schedule Palm Sunday: March 29 8:30am Service BCP. 10:30am - Liturgy of the Palms and Liturgy of the Passion with Holy Eucharist Again this year, we invite parishioners to bring to church on Palm Sunday, used coats in good condition, which will then be gathered and shared with those in need. Tuesday in Holy Week: March 31 6:00 pm Seder Supper in the Parish Hall. We partake of the ancient Passover Meal and hear the story of the Old Testament, leading up to the Messiah. Enjoy a delicious meal of Lamb or chicken. Free will offering. Maundy Thursday: Thursday, April 2 7:00pm Maundy Thursday Service with the Washing of the Feet and the Liturgy of the Lord's Last Supper. Sign up for the Prayer Vigil. Good Friday: April 3 10:00am The Liturgy of Good Friday commemorating the death of Christ, Solemn Petitions and the Veneration of the Cross 11:30am Ecumenical outdoor "Walk with the Cross" starts at St. John s Church following this service. All are welcome. Easter Vigil: Holy Saturday, April 4 7:00pm The Liturgy of the Easter Vigil one of the oldest prayers of the Church Lighting the New Fire and Pascal Candle, Baptisms and Renewal of Baptismal Vows. Easter Sunday: April 5 8:30am Easter Holy Eucharist (BCP) 10:30am Easter Choral Holy Eucharist (BAS) 2 nd Annual Palm Sunday Collection of Coats When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut palm branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!" On Palm Sunday, you are invited to bring to church a used coat in good condition, which will be shared with those in need of a coat. Last year, parishioners donated approximately 80 coats which were given to the Salvation Army. In their thank you to the parish, they remarked on the excellent quality and generous number of coats which were shared. Thank you.

6 Page 6 Lent/Easter 2015 Lenten Cafés In Lunenburg Lenten Café Fellowship & Worship Where: Zion Church Hall When: Wednesdays in Lent Time: 11:00am - 11:45am Hosting Clergy/Church February 18 St. John s February 25 St. Andrew s March 4 St. Norbert s March 11 Zion March 18 St. Barnabas March 25 Central United Offering to: Lunenburg Food Bank Lenten Music and Meditation St. John s Church, Each Wednesday in Lent Time: 12:00 Noon - ½ hour or so Lenten Soup Luncheon Central Church Hall, Wednesdays in March Time: 11:30am - 1:30pm, Cost: $8.00 L U N E N B U R

7 Page 7 Lent/Easter 2015 Spiritual Development Ministry Lenten Challenge 2015 It s about the World: God so loved the world, that he gave This year in Lent we will once again focus on the Sunday Gospel readings for our reflection. Our Diocese has prepared a series entitled It s about the world. It provides discussion points and questions for reflection centred on the Gospel readings for the five Sundays in Lent and Palm Sunday. One page leaflets will be available every Sunday for us to take home for our personal Lenten reflection. On 4 Sundays (March 01, 08, 15, & 22), we will meet after both the 8:30 & 10:30 services in the Interpretive Centre (lower level) to spend some time with the Gospel, and the reflections & questions in the series for that day. Please consider helping out with preparations and refreshments for these sessions. If you would like to help please contact Mary at the parish office or Louis at ( louisq@eastlink.ca). We look forward to being together once again as we journey through Lent. St. John s Spiritual Development Ministry Tenth Anniversary Of The Re-Opening Of St. John s This year 2015 is the 10 th anniversary of the reopening and rededication of the Church. This took place on June 15, 2005, following a four year period of restoration. The 10 th Anniversary is a significant time when we can give thanks once again, for the restored church and for the men and women who acted with faith and determination to bring this about. There will be a special day of celebration on June 14 th with an afternoon service with our Diocesan Bishop, Ron Cutler followed by a Community BBQ. We encourage you to invite friends and neighbours to this event and other events that will take place throughout the year. The Restoration Committee in their final report to the congregation as the restored church was to open, chose this Doxology from Holy Communion as a lasting legacy for us to remember: Glory to God, whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory to God from generation to generation, in the Church and in Christ Jesus, for ever and ever. Amen.

8 Page 8 Lent/Easter 2015 Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals Lenten Challenge Although the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals is predominantly a British based organization there are members throughout the world, and a number of them are here in Canada. They have come up with a new way of celebrating Lent. Instead of giving something up for Lent why not switch it around and do an act of generosity and/or kindness, every day throughout the 40 days of Lent. Since this newsletter will not reach you until Lent is underway you could double up some days to ensure that you reach the target of 40 acts of generosity/kindness. This is a great idea that has been around a while for acts done for people, but perhaps we could mention to our Church leaders and friends that those acts of generosity/kindness don t necessarily only need to be made to human beings they could be acts of generosity and kindness to our planet and to our fellow creatures. For example: Commit to walk an elderly person s dog once a week Give a gift of pet food to a pet owner you know is struggling financially Commit to feed the wild birds throughout Lent very important this time of year as they approach the egg laying and chick rearing season Walk or use your bike for short trips Commit to eat less meat or give it up completely for the period of Lent (good news for our Planet!) Change a favourite toiletry item to one that is animal friendly if you haven t done so already! Research the ASWA and perhaps mention ASWA to a Christian friend! The ASWA are not advocating that you miss human beings out of this initiative altogether but perhaps some of those days you could include animals or the planet or both! There are three levels of challenge; GREEN : these acts take five minutes or less, and will usually be free (or really cheap!) to complete. YELLOW: a little more challenging than the green acts, but these won t take more than fifteen minutes, or a couple of Dollars ($) RED: for those who love to push themselves to extravagance or those who have done 40 acts before take your generosity habit to the next level. Check out the challenges at they will provide challenges if you cannot think of some for yourself. This article is taken from an sent by Samantha Chandler, Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals Submitted by Brian Kenefick St. John s Anglican Church 81 Cumberland Street PO Box 238 Lunenburg, Nova Scotia Canada B0J 2C0 we re on the web Phone: Fax: stjohnslunenburg@eastlink.ca