The Day the Angels Lost Jesus

Transcription

1 Hosting Listening for Grace Directory Sunday Themes Transitions Ministers Messages Supporting our community Christian Education Update Interested in Adult Mission? Alternative Gift Giving Refugees & PWS&D Longest Night Service I Love Taiwan! LOGOS Listening for Grace - update Report from Romania Mission Knox Women Together December January Calendars Please send announcements & photos to ACross the Pews Sue Senior, Editor acrossthepews@gmail.com Due: January 15 th for the February March edition Livestreaming Sunday 10am Podcasts available at: knoxwaterloo.ca Photo: Barb Prysnuk The Day the Angels Lost Jesus Written by Maggie Brubaker For her children Advent, sometime in the 1970s Has anyone here seen Jesus? The Angels asked in dismay. We ve looked in the usual places, But He seems to be missing today. We ve searched between Father and Spirit, The place where he usually sits, But all we see is an empty space. There s got to be something to this. We ve looked through the streets of heaven; We ve combed every cloud-filled yard. So where has He gone? We d better ask God, Then finding Him won t be so hard. So the angels went to the Father And said there was something amiss. God gave each of the angels a trumpet And said, You can reach Him with this. Then the angels stood silently waiting, But the littlest angel said, Somebody must have seen Him! He s a King, with a crown on his head! No! No! said God the creator. I ve made something new today. The King has been changed to a baby, And he s lying somewhere in the hay. He s been born in a stable so lowly. He s doing some work for me. Now play on your heavenly trumpets And create a Nativity. Artists top to bottom: Leah Fryer, Renee Gaudet and Louis Nevin

2 Knox Waterloo 50 Erb Street West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 1T1 (519) Ministers: Rev. Brooke Ashfield Rev. Linda Ashfield Ministers in Association: Rev. Walter McLean Rev. Mary Whitson Office Administrator: Ruth Song Finance Officer: John Scace Christian Education Director: Laura Vander Vleuten Music Director/Organist: Terry English Coffee Hour Coordinator: Shirley Carter Greeter Coordinator: Gordon Coyne LOGOS Director: Glenda Ribey Rozomiak Multimedia Coordinator Andrew Church Retirement Home Ministry: Ellen Yessis Tech Team Coordinator: Eric Gaudet Usher Coordinators: Barb & Brad Tucker Knox: contact Ellen McIntosh Welcome Desk Coordinator: Nancy Matthews Website Administrator: Trevor Bain Clerk of Session: Deb Schlichter Lawrie Carter Heather Cawsey Gordon Coyne Sharon Feldmann Marg Johnston David Matthews Ian McLean Ruling Elders: David Ogram Barb Prysnuk Vaughn Sauve Sue Senior Greg Sennema Ken Vander Vleuten Jennifer Yessis Advent 1 Lighting the Candle of Hope Reception of New Members WORSHIP SERVICES Advent 2 Lighting the Candle of Peace Children s Christmas Pageant with Logos Tone Chimes Advent 3 Lighting the Candle of Joy Christmas Choir s Lessons and Carols Service: What Sweeter Music Advent 4 Lighting the Candle of Love Reception of New Members Longest Night Service Thahn Campbell was rescued out of Vietnam on April 12, He has a compelling story of hope to share. Sunday November 29, 10 am Sunday December 6, 10 am Sunday, December 13, 10am Sunday, December 20, 10 am Monday, December 21, 7:30 pm Christmas Eve Thursday, December 24, pm Worship for families with younger children with Knox Praise Band 7 pm Candlelight service with Brass Ensemble Instrumentalists - Natalie & Nick LaCoste Vocalist - Ayshia Bailie 9 pm Candlelight service with Christmas Choir 11 pm Candlelight Communion Service Pianist - Dantung (Tia) Tu Soloist - Corey Cotter Linforth Christmas Sunday Vocalist - Lizzie Song Brian Johnston, PCC missionary in Romania participating Epiphany Sunday Martin Luther King Sunday Sunday, December 27, 10 am Sunday, January 3, 10 am Sunday, January 17, 10 am Sunday January 24, 10 am Community Services Sunday Sponsored by Knox Global Partners Committee Theme: Inclusivity Guest speakers & community agency displays in the hall. Services are live on the radio at CKWR FM-98.5 Available on Rogers Digital Cable channel 945 Live streamed at: Across the Pews: six editions published each year Feb/Mar, Apr/May, June/Summer, Sept, Oct/Nov, Dec/Jan Monthly Deadline for Submissions Articles, Photos, News Items, Reports & More Due on the fifteenth of the month prior to distribution COMPASSIONATE ENGAGED JOYFUL 2 WELCOMING PROGRESSIVE SPIRITUAL

3 Transitions In Remembrance: Shelley Palmer, sister of Lynelle Purdy and Heather Purdy s aunt, passed away after a brief illness on October 7, Through example, Shelley taught those around her that life is always better when you look for the positive side of any situation. Thinking of You and Prayers for Paul Allan, Grace Flewelling, Jan Hayward, Ken Jessop, Barbara Mclean, Lyle Spencer, Pam Stemmler, and Mary Whitson Knox Community News Congratulations to Lawrie Carter, who, for his role as the architect of the St. Jacob's Farmer's Market, won the Ontario Wood Award at the 15th annual Wood WORKS! celebration in Toronto on November 12. This award honours the creators of new projects that push the limits of wood design in structures that demonstrate excellence in the use of wood. Lawrie is part of a select group of Ontario's leading architects to receive a Wood Design Award. The awards recognize people who, through design excellence, advocacy, and innovation, are advancing the use of wood in all types of construction." 1 Photo: Shirley Carter Congratulations to Walter Mclean for receiving KNOXFRA award on September The KNOXFRA Awards were established as a way to recognize and acknowledge excellence among former residents in terms of outstanding contributions to their professions and communities. We are proud to announce that Dr. Alexander (Sandy) Macpherson, John Warner Hoag, Abel Pandy, and the Hon. Rev. Dr. Walter McLean are this year s KNOXFRA Awards recipients. Recognized for his community building and ability to listen and respect others, Walter s legacy can be felt on the local, national and global stage. 2 [Photo: Knox College Award announcement] Thank You Note from Mary Whitson I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers over the past couple of weeks. Bless you for the lovely cards, the meals, the many phone calls and visits, and for the people of our church community who volunteered to look after my responsibilities at LOGOS. Please continue to pray for healing - Mary 1. Ontario Wood WORKS! 2015 Wood Design Award Winners Announced - Canadian Architect. Canadian Architect. November 12, Accessed November 26, "Program." Knox College RSS. Accessed November 26, GOD S LOVE INCLUDES EVERYONE

4 Minister s Message Linda Ashfield I must confess it was days before I realized what the fuss was all about. I kept seeing Facebook messages about Starbucks and red cups and I just couldn t figure it out. And when I finally understood that the furor was actually about Starbuck s red holiday cup (the thing that gets thrown out after you drink the coffee) being just red without a pattern or design on it, I could barely believe it. Social media went a bit nutty, some declaring that the missing design on these cups was an attack on Christmas and therefore on Christianity. How are snowflakes, stars or snowmen (the design that was on the cups last year) connected to Christmas? I still don t get it. I also must confess that I really don t understand why people get angry about being politically correct in our language? Originally, it was an encouragement and an invitation to use words, phrases, and behaviour, which would not offend any group of people. I think we could all agree that some words have been used for a long time that are unkind, and many have been replaced by new words that are not offensive. The words and terms may have been referring to race, gender, beliefs, religion, and sexual orientation or because of a mental or physical disability. Isn t it important for us to do our best to treat one another equally, fairly and with dignity? To include instead of exclude? However, the term to be politically correct seems to now convey something very negative or even at times seems to be taken to the other extreme. This of course brings us to another media frenzy the belief that we can t use the term Christmas at Christmas time. Frankly, I have never had anyone take offence if I wished them a Merry Christmas and no one has ever asked me not to use the phrase. Ever since I was a little girl we also wished one another Happy Holidays too. Even my friends of other faiths wish me a Merry Christmas. I quite liked a poster I saw that said: I don t understand what the big deal is if you are Jewish, tell me Happy Hanukkah ; if you are Christian, tell me Merry Christmas. If you are African American, tell me Joyous Kwanzaa but if you don t prefer those tell me, Happy Holidays I will not be offended. I will be thankful that you took the time to say something nice to me! The author and popular speaker Steve Maraboli wrote: Want to keep Christ in Christmas? Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, forgive the guilty, welcome the unwanted, care for the ill, love your enemies, and do unto others as you would have done unto you. The Grinch Who Stole Christmas Quotes. Dr. Seuss Christmas Tree RSS. Accessed November 24, We live in a post Christian age when many have never had a connection to church, ever. And yet most of these same people do want to celebrate Christmas with all its cultural trappings. What an amazing opportunity we have. It s not about red cups with or without designs; it s not about lights and trees or even presents. And really, it s not about what phrasing we choose. Even the Grinch discovered that you could take all that away. The joy and the wonder of God s loving gift to this world, is the Christ Child born for all! COMPASSIONATE ENGAGED JOYFUL 4 WELCOMING PROGRESSIVE SPIRITUAL

5 Minister s Message Brooke Ashfield Love came down at Christmas Christina Georgina Rossetti 1885 Love came down at Christmas Love all lovely, love divine Love was born at Christmas Star and angels gave the sign. Love shall be our token Love shall be yours and love be mine Love to God and to all men Love for plea and gift and sign... I did not say that we were ministers. This is a dose of reality for those of us who are used to attending church. Abuse of the vulnerable, hatred of minorities, espousal of a narrow view of a bitter vengeful god, are all part of what many think might be going on in a church. We know that this is not what we are about. But how will others know this? It is part of our ministry to be a voice of compassion and humanity in our city and region. It is also part of our ministry to welcome with warmth and acceptance all who gather the courage to walk through our doors. Some people have been hurt in church. Some people have never given a thought to church in their entire lives. When I travel through a new neighbourhood or city, I always notice all the church buildings. Occupational hazard I guess. But for many, the churches are just archaic historical artefacts of a time that is gone. I remember these words from our old Hymn Book. It was a quiet and lovely song, with music written by Carmen Milligan. Carmen was the organist of St. Andrew s Presbyterian Church in Ottawa, located immediately across from the Supreme Court of Canada on Wellington Street at Kent. He was also my music teacher at the Ottawa Technical High School. I have not thought about high school in a long time. I was in a math and engineering program. I did not become an engineer. I actually thought that I would be an engineer at one point. I have no regrets. I have been blessed in serving you as one of your ministers. I am privileged to be part of so many families and be part of so many stories. As we voted in an advanced poll just prior to our recent Federal Election, we fell into conversation as we waited in line. It was a long line. The person in front of us expressed delight that we were voting in a school, and not in a church. Churches this person said; make me uncomfortable. I said, I know that for many people, uneasiness in church is very real. With so much negative news about religion in our world, I can recognise that a person can never be sure they are in a place of hatred or of acceptance. This 21 st Century, is a time of mission and ministry. The greatest mission fields surround us in this tenth largest urban area in Canada. The mission is to be a light of spirituality in our evolving world. We are to demonstrate and proclaim a gospel of inclusion, authenticity, compassion, and compelling love in the name of Jesus. This is an awesome and wonderful time to be a follower of our Lord. May Christmas this year deepen and enrich your journey of faith and joy in service. Happy Advent and Merry Christmas 1 Pastors Postings. December 24, Accessed November 24, GOD S LOVE INCLUDES EVERYONE

6 SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY LOCALLY & GLOBALLY Pneumonia Vests Ellen Yessis We received five pneumonia vests from Eleanor Larter and seven from her friend and neighbour, Jeanette Couture. They were packed for the bale at St. Andrew s Presbyterian Church in Kitchener in October. We re happy that our mission extends beyond our church here in Waterloo to Malawi and India. Physicians in those countries express the need for these pneumonia vests that save many young children from the ravages of pneumonia. The bale is now sent through donations to a Bale Fund at St. Andrew s Church. If you would like to aid the ministry by making a donation, you can donate to Knox Presbyterian Church in your givings and designate it for the bale for pneumonia vests. White Gifts during Advent Kathleen Forde Nov. 29 Dec. 13 The tradition 1 of the White Gift was initiated at a small Methodist church in 1904 as an idea to solve the problem of inequity of gifts given at the Sunday school Christmas party. Instead of focusing on receiving gifts, the focus shifted to bringing gifts to Jesus that could in turn be shared with people around the world who did not have very much. All the gifts would come wrapped in plain white paper, so that no one would know which was an expensive gift and which was a more modest one. No one would feel ashamed of their gift and everyone would share in the joy of giving to others. White Gifts are a way for us to share the spirit of Christ and the God of love with our community. We will donate the white gifts to to Marillac place. Marillac Place provides a safe home for women between the ages of 16 to 25 who are pregnant, who have a child in their care, or who are attempting to regain care of their child. Mothers who go to Marillac Place receive 24 hour guidance and support, continue their education, and are empowered with the life-skills they need to care for themselves and their child. Suggestions for white gift items include new clothes for children, newborn to age 2; new clothes for young mothers; infant items, toys, books; chocolates; Tim s cards, other gift cards, new, unwrapped personal hygiene items and toiletries; Christmas cards; greeting cards. Gifts to be delivered to the large box near the Caroline Street entrance 1. Accessed November 25, uploads/2010/09/ advent-4-love-white-gift-sunday.pdf. House of Friendship - Christmas Hampers Sharon Feldmann Consider supporting the Christmas Hamper program this year. You can: collect food items, bake cookies, sponsor food for a family of four, hand out turkeys, package bulk food, deliver the hampers, set up & clean up the warehouse. If you are interested in volunteering or contributing to the program please contact Tony Bender at x335. The majority of the work is done Monday-Friday (8:30-4:30) with a soup lunch provided for volunteers. There is a need for volunteers to make the soup with ingredients provided by The Charles Street Men's Hostel kitchen as well as to assist with opening mail and answering phones. For more information, please visit Other ways to help include purchasing items such as: clothing, personal hygiene items; gift certificates for bowling, movies, Rangers tickets, restaurants and more; bus tickets, playing cards/games, notebooks, new and gently used children's toys/games/books, cooking utensils and special treats such as chocolates or nuts. These items are distributed to men and women participating in residential programs during Christmas and other times during the year. COMPASSIONATE ENGAGED JOYFUL 6 WELCOMING PROGRESSIVE SPIRITUAL

7 Collective Kitchen University/College Students join us for Collective Kitchen on the last Wednesday of each month: Jan 27, Feb 24, and Mar 30. Starting at 4:30pm in the kitchen at Knox, we will measure, chop, stir and cook meals for you to package up and take home for the freezer. We will also share a meal and fellowship together. Join the group on Facebook and let us know you are coming. Contact Laura Vander Vleuten (laurav@knoxwaterloo.ca) for information. Adult Mission Trips Knox, Waterloo Over the years, many youth, youth teams and adult teams have had the opportunity of participating in a mission trip with Knox, Waterloo. Our young people have gone with Youth in Mission to places such as Malawi, Ghana, Scotland, Taiwan, Hungary and three youth teams have traveled to Winnipeg to serve with the PCC First Nations Ministry there. Adult teams from Knox have travelled to China, Iona Scotland, built houses with Habitat for Humanity in Romania and with the PCUSA in the States (after Hurricane Katrina). We have also enjoyed two trips that included travel, worship and learning together when we went to the Holy Land (Israel, West Bank and Egypt) and a Celtic Odyssey (Ireland and Scotland). There is a desire among some folk to organize another (one or two) adult trip for You might be interested in seeing the beautiful sites of Italy, or perhaps Scotland. Maybe you would like to sign up to teach English in China this summer for three weeks. On the other hand, you might be interested in joining with a Knox International Habitat for Humanity build, perhaps early next fall. If you are interested in joining with a group from Knox, speak with Linda Ashfield. Please also note the posters and sign-up sheets after worship in the hall. Signing your name only indicates that you are interested and would like to know more. It also helps us to focus in on what/where our next trip might be. Thank you for your continued interest in serving Christ not only here in our community but also in various places throughout our world. Youth, young adults and youth leaders together for five days of soul-satisfying worship, recreation, small group discussions, workshops, faith exploration and joyful celebration! If you are a youth or young adult and you want to worship, play, create, learn, dance, act, make new friends, study scripture, share joy, laugh, discover, play crazy games, reflect, pray, sing and share then CY 2016 is for YOU! Check out the website: or contact Laura V (laurav@knoxwaterloo.ca) for more information. Subsidies are available. Upward Ball Hockey starts Tuesdays 6-8pm January 19 to March 29, 2016 for kids in Grades 1-6. Cost is $75.00, which includes game day jersey, mini stick and end-of-season celebration. Players must bring helmet with cage and hockey gloves. Sticks are provided; half time devotions are shared each evening. Upward coaches are University and High School students. Upward Ball Hockey stresses values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, integrity and respect. Register online at Contact Laura V (laurav@knoxwaterloo.ca) or Vaughn Sauve for information about coaching. GOD S LOVE INCLUDES EVERYONE

8 This Christmas, give a gift with meaning Come to the Global Partners table at coffee hour to find out more about these three alternative gift options. 1. As we look forward to celebrating our fifth Christmas in our building, we continue to enhance our outstanding ministries to families, children and youth and expand newer ministries with seniors, students and singles. Consider a gift in the name of someone to support the many ministries and outreach projects here at Knox. Make a donation to Knox and we will provide a lovely Christmas card for you to give to your honouree. When we give to Knox, Knox gives back so much to so many. 2. Contribute to the Knox refugee fund in the name of a loved one. Led in large part by Grant Birks, Knox has been working through the extensive paperwork to sponsor an Eritrean refugee named Helen, the cousin of our church custodian Mulugeta. Helen has her UN refugee status, but there are still more hoops to jump through before we can welcome her to Canada. We are also actively monitoring the PCC activities regarding Syrian refugee sponsorship to see how we can contribute. Global Partners will provide updates on how our refugee fund will be used as more information is available. 3. Donate in honour of a friend, teacher, loved one through PWS&D. The PWS&D Gifts of Change catalogue supports marginalized communities across Canada and around the world. Not only is giving a gift from the catalogue unique, but you can be sure your gifts will be used to carry out lifechanging programs that are responding to the needs of people affected by poverty, hunger, natural disasters and conflict. Come to the Alternative Gifts table during coffee hour to find out more about donating. We can provide you with a Christmas card and an insert describing your gift. There are plenty of life-changing gifts offered. For example: Sowing the Seeds of Food Security (PWAGR01) Subsistence farmers in developing countries work hard on small plots of land, struggling to provide food for their families. Your gifts provide food for today, but also the skills to improve crops, conserve resources, reduce vulnerability and earn an income for the future. A Classroom for Every Child (PWEDU01) Education is one of the most critical tools in breaking cycles of poverty. By opening classroom doors and providing the necessary supplies, your gifts will help children reach their full potential and access better opportunities for the future. Responding to Emergencies (PWEMRG01) Respond to disasters, war and persecution by providing immediate relief, emotional support and long-term rehabilitation for people in crisis. Disasters strike when we least expect them. To allow PWS&D to respond as soon as an emergency occurs, consider making a gift to be used where and when needed most. Donate at the Global Partners table during coffee hour. Learn more about Gifts of Change on the PWS&D website: Grant & Mulugeta preparing the application for Helen. Photo: Ruth Song To donate online, go to the secure PCC gift shop: LNG=EN&DID=1248 COMPASSIONATE ENGAGED JOYFUL 8 WELCOMING PROGRESSIVE SPIRITUAL

9 The Longest Night Community Service Monday December 21, 7:30 PM Over this past year the stories of refugees have dominated much of the news. We pause to reflect and pray for hope in a world that knows so much darkness. Thahn Campbell was orphan number 32 of 57 refugee orphans rescued out of Vietnam on April 12, 1975 on a Canadian Forces Hercules 130. After arriving in Hong Kong, the orphans then boarded an Air Canada flight to Toronto. Thahn was eventually adopted into a Presbyterian minister s family in Cambridge, Ontario. He has since called himself a Vietnamese- Scottish Canadian. Thanh has a compelling story of hope to share with anyone who is looking for courage this Christmas Season. The Longest Night Service is open and welcoming to all. This is for everyone, with or without a faith history. There is quiet music, a story to inspire, and a quiet moment to light a candle as a symbol of assurance in our times of darkness. This service is planned for anyone who is finding this Christmas season difficult or sad for any reason or for those who wish to pause for a time of reflection. We need this because: Christmas is a difficult and sad time for many people. Some have recently lost a loved one are lonely or ill. Some are devastated by life and are finding it difficult to connect with a loving God. The Christmas season makes it more difficult to cope, whether one has a religious tradition or not. For these reasons, and more, this service is offered as a gift to our community. There is no collection. There is quiet reflection, words of hope, lighting a candle, and a brief address. Gentle comforting music to soothe our souls will be featured. Casual dress is expected. The Knox Pastoral Care committee provides light refreshments for all after the service. There is plenty of free parking. Perhaps you, or a friend or loved one, could use a sign of hope this year. Save the Date: Saturday April 2, 2016 A Day with Kennon Callahan On the Saturday after Easter, we are delighted to announce that Kennon Callahan returns to Waterloo. We were blessed to have Dr. Kennon Callahan as the featured speaker at a Presbytery sponsored event held here at Knox Waterloo in He is a warm, compelling, wise and very funny speaker. He was here on a Monday in 2013 and we still had 200 people from Southern Ontario attend this event, (including 17 from Knox.) The Presbyterian Church in Canada has invited Dr. Callahan to return to Canada in 2016, and we are extremely fortunate to have him with us again at Knox. Our Presbytery is helping fund this event. He is a wonderful storyteller, and one of the most sought after speakers and consultants in North America. Book the date now. You will blessed with participation in this event. GOD S LOVE INCLUDES EVERYONE

10 I Love Taiwan 2015 Lizzie Song God, in the most unexpected of ways, sends us all on journeys and missions every single day. This summer, I was called to participate in the I Love Taiwan mission trip. Initially, I was very hesitant to apply for this trip as I thought leaving my family and friends for a month right before college would be too hard, especially as my family was moving. Leading up to the trip, I was very nervous and overwhelmed, but I decided to put all my trust in God and believed that His plan would make me a better person. And thankfully, it did. I had the pleasure of meeting seven other Canadians on this trip: Esme Campbell, Nolan Goodman, Katy Sniderhan, Alan Wei, Annie Wei and Matt Foxall, the YIM coordinator. The program started in Taipei where we stayed at TamKang High School - my father s high school. We trained for our missions and discussed worldwide issues that included human trafficking and sexuality. One thing that I learned while participating in a discussion about sexuality is that no matter where someone was from or what their thoughts were on the subject, almost everyone agreed that our opinions really don t matter. If God is the judge of everything, our ideas on someone else shouldn t matter; the only thing we should focus on is treating everyone with love and respect. speaking with churches, singing, helping children s programs and experiencing Bunun culture. The Bunun people were the most spiritual and faithful people I have ever met. Their love for God was so apparent and almost overwhelming. They were so kind and treated all of us with so much love everywhere we went. Despite everything they have endured, they were still very faithful to their culture. Everything they did was for God, especially in their Bunun traditions. Many of the ministers that we met in Taiwan were missionaries to Canada and had even stayed with my family. Most of the other ministers knew and/or went to school with my relatives in Taiwan. Being able to meet everyone on this trip, some of whom I never thought I would see again, made me realize how truly blessed I am. God has given me an abundance of gifts and talents; being able to use them in Taiwan was the most amazing gift of all. I would have never been able to experience this without the help of the Presbyterian Church in Canada or Knox Waterloo. Your love and support in everything I have done is kept very close to me in my heart. Thank you so much. May God bless you all. After three days of training in Taipei, the entire conference split into several groups. Each group travelled to a different place in Taiwan to help a church/community in many different ways. I had the opportunity to travel all over the country with six other people from Canada, Korea, Malaysia, Zimbabwe and Taiwan. We took part in the Ecumenical Department, which focused on the aboriginal Bunun tribe. For ten days, we attended many different churches and talked with numerous ministers. We spent most of our time COMPASSIONATE ENGAGED JOYFUL 10 WELCOMING PROGRESSIVE SPIRITUAL

11 The youth at LOGOS are spreading the word of Jesus Christ through mission this Christmas season. Glenda Ribey Rozomiak Hard to believe we have almost completed the first half of our LOGOS year. We have had a great start! We were welcomed back to LOGOS with Welcome to the Ranch, there were some fun Tacky Tourists we celebrated Thanksgiving together, we have been KOOKIE and SPOOKIE and met some best friends. What a whirlwind it has been. I continue to be amazed by the level of commitment by all of our adult participants. LOGOS at Knox is an amazing night every Thursday because of every one of the relationships that are being built. When children, youth and adult participants make a strong weekly commitment to LOGOS, this program becomes the mid-week bridge for young and old to see each other in a different context. THANK YOU to everyone who makes this ministry work! On November 26 th the theme at LOGOS was KNOX YOUR SOCKS OFF. Everyone was invited to donate warm new socks for the Out of the Cold Program. The Jr. Highs will be going shopping to support the Angel Tree using the money they have raised from the Cookies and Brownies In a Jar sales. Thank you to everyone who helped in this initiative. A LOGOS tradition is a Christmas service after dinner on the last evening we meet in December. With youth and adults leading us, we will stand in a circle to light each other s candles and sing Silent Night. Family, friends and members of Knox congregation are invited to join us in the sanctuary at 6:45 on Thursday, December 10. Our kitchen team will be preparing a traditional Christmas dinner. Everyone is invited to join us for dinner on Thursday December 10 th and to stay for our Christmas worship. Please RSVP by Friday Dec. 4 th to the church office via knox@knoxwaterloo.ca. The cost for dinner is $5 / person. From all of us at LOGOS to the entire Knox Community, we wish you a very Merry Christmas. During this holy season, may your hearts be illuminated with love, joy and peace. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord Luke 2:11 Blessings, Glenda Ribey Rozomiak LOGOS Director Thank you! Thank you! THANK YOU! Many thanks to everyone who came to the performance, Listening for Grace and joined in on the conversation about the church and same sex relationships. The sanctuary was filled and it was a very moving performance of dialogue and music by Ted & Co. A big thank you to everyone who supported this inclusion initiative, by attending, by generously sponsoring the event and by helping out with the many jobs that needed to be done. The Inclusion Committee thanks you from the bottom of our hearts. Shared comments Opened the door to family conversations People appreciative of the warm, welcoming place at Knox Wanted to commend us on the open, safe place Performance demonstrated so many points of view, but not in any judgmental way Extremely impressed and motivated by the performance People were moved to tears Q & A [afterwards] was so great Range of ages came and benefitted Clearly dealt with scripture passages and provided insight What a gift Knox gave to us! Timing was perfect in our journey at Knox of having [inclusion] conversations GOD S LOVE INCLUDES EVERYONE

12 Report from Romania Brian Johnston Dear friends at Knox, My ongoing work here in Romania is continuing well. September was very special for me as my sister Ruth, her partner and another friend visited me in Cluj. We all travelled to Budapest for their last weekend in Europe. The following week, the much-anticipated PCC delegation arrived in Romania and we spent four days together as part of their official Eastern European tour. The delegation included our present PCC moderator Rev. Karen Horst, her husband Rick and Rev. Glynis Williams, Associate secretary of International Ministries. I arranged their program here with the assistance of David Pandy Szekeres, my colleague working at present with the Hungarian Reformed Church in Ukraine. Many Canadians will remember Tokes Attila who was my musical assistant in the first Canadian tour of my male choir (2001) and billeted at the home of Jean Shantz, my former elder and very good friend. Attila with three others from his village participated in the concert I had arranged for the guests. He spoke strong words of appreciation concerning the assistance he has received from PCC s Gifts of Change (Share the Gift of Music in Romania). A recent donation from this fund assisted him in making copies of his musical group's first CD. We had meetings with the two bishops of the Hungarian Reformed Church in Romania and again in my institute with my rector and other professors. I organized a special concert for them involving many present and former students and we visited two village congregations where our guests could witness the fine pastoral work of two of my former students who have really made a difference in their congregations and community. Knox Waterloo s Habitat for Humanity mission team also visited both pastors in 2013, Nagy Tibor in Kide and Tordai Arpad in Nuseni. Our Autumn Concert (Nov.10) was a big success and besides the two choirs, a large number of our own students performed as soloists. The concert featured religious works, folk music, Broadway selections and a special jazz program starring a local professional group. Once again, the expenses of this special event - including a professionally produced DVD - were covered by the PCC Gifts of Change. Oh Lord, how the gift was multiplied! I officially finish my contract with International Ministries at the end of May 2016 as English teacher/choir director, but the Romanian Music Fund will continue. Each year more and more Canadian Presbyterians donate to this fund with a particularly high number from Knox, Waterloo I will be in Canada for a two-week visit in December and participating in the Sunday morning service at Knox on Dec. 27 th. I look forward to seeing many of you again, and as has become the custom when I visit Knox, I will have some new photos for display after the service. With great affection, Brian For more information about Brian s work, please check out his website at: brianjohnston.ro COMPASSIONATE ENGAGED JOYFUL 12 WELCOMING PROGRESSIVE SPIRITUAL

13 A CROSS THE PEWS DECEMBER 2015 JANUARY 2016 ~Wednesdays at Knox~ It's very hard to believe that our first term is almost over! After a spectacular fall, the weather is turning cooler and wetter, and will be cold and white before we meet again! Our presentations, food, and fellowship continue to be outstanding, and we thank you all for your participation, encouragement, love, and prayers. Most of all, we thank God for you. This weekly event is open to everyone (although we don't provide child care), so if you find you have a lunch hour free, please join us in the church hall, starting at 11:30 on Wednesdays, for coffee and fellowship, followed by devotions, lunch for $5, and a different presentation each week. We adjourn at 1pm. If you have any questions or need a ride, phone Ellen McIntosh (519) or e mail: emcintosh1130@rogers.com. Callie Dougall, artwork 2014 Dec 2 nd Christina Yun: Knox Music Scholar Sings For Us Mezzo-soprano Christina Yun is currently completing her Bachelor of Music at Wilfrid Laurier University for Voice Performance and is a Music Scholar here at Knox where she not only sings with the Chancel Choir, but also co-leads our youth Praise Band. Christina will sing a collection of songs that have become her favourites including a contemporary Korean sacred song, which translates to "The Grace of God". Come and enjoy this special musical treat. Dec 9 th Christmas Luncheon and Special Music Join us for our traditional Christmas meal, catered by Angie's Kitchen, and followed by some wonderful music by Andrew Song on the piano. Tickets ($12) will be sold on Wednesdays and Sundays at the Welcome Desk until December 6th. We wish you a very Merry Christmas, a wonderful New Year, and precious time together with family and friends. See you back at W@K on January 13th, 2016, when our speaker will be Shawn Lauzon, Peer Navigator, Mental Health and Addictions, Specialized Mental Health Program at Grand River Hospital. He will be speaking about navigating the mental health "system", combating stigma, and seeking healthy recovery options. Let's give Shawn a warm Knox welcome! Women Together invites women of all ages and stages for an evening of conversation, learning, fellowship and fun. Bring a sister, a mom or a friend for an informal Monday evening each month from 7:30-9pm. Monday, December 14 th "I Need a Silent Night". In the hustle and bustle known as Christmas preparations, Women Together along with guest (artist and speaker) Lori Hoffman will create a time for conversation and quiet reflection as we make a Christmas card for ourselves on the theme of peace. Monday, January 18 th Join us as we welcome Karen Ball-Pyatt, Local History Librarian at the Kitchener Public Library. She ll talk about ancestry research and genealogy and how to look into family history as we share anecdotes about our family stories. Join us in 2016! Mark your calendars: Jan 18, Feb 22*, Mar 21, and of course the WEEKEND RETREAT at Crieff Hills April 29-May 1. Karen Ball-Pyatt, Local History Librarian Photo:Peter Lee, Record staff GOD S LOVE INCLUDES EVERYONE

14 29 Advent 1 Worship 10am Pageant Rehearsal 11:15 Food for Thought 6:30pm 6 Advent 2 National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women 3 Worship 10am Christmas Pageant DECEMBER 2015 Universal Human Rights Month Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 30 1 World 2 4 AIDS Day 1 FOCUS 6:30 Sounds of Christmas 2pm Sounds of Christmas 2pm 13 Advent 3 Worship10am Lessons & Carols Wellington Winds Concert 8pm 7 Hanukkah 4 (sundown to 14 th ) 14 Knox Combo 7:30pm Women Together with Lori Hoffman 7:30pm Knox Quilters 10am Daughters of Christ 1:30 Praise Band 7:15pm Upward Sports 6pm 8 Knox Quilters 10am Praise Band 7:15pm Circle of Care 7:30 15 Praise Band 7:15pm W@K 11:30am *RHM Clair Hills 2:00pm 9 Knox Knitters 9:30am *RHM The Westhill 10:30am W@K Christmas Luncheon 11:30am Erb & Good Community Memorial Service 7pm 16 *RHM Lanark Heights 10:30am 3 Day of Disabled Persons 2 Fitness & Fellowship 9:45am LOGOS 4:30pm Chancel Choir 7:45 10 Human Rights Day 5 Fitness & Fellowship 9:45am LOGOS 4:30pm Chancel Choir 7:45 17 Chancel Choir 7:45 AA 8pm 11 *RHM Beechwood Manor 2pm FOCUS 6:30 AA 8pm 18 *RHM Waterloo Heights 10:45am FOCUS 6:30 AA 8pm 5 Pageant Rehearsal 10am Sounds of Christmas 2pm & 7pm 12 Crieff Hills: An Evening of Christmas Turkey Dinner served Family Style 4:30pm 19 Men s Breakfast Knox 20 Advent 4 Worship10am Reception of New Members *RHM Bankside 2pm 21 Winter Solstice & Yule 6 Mawlid Al-Nabi [Sunni] 7 Longest Night Service 7:30pm Christmas Eve Services 5 pm 7 pm 9 pm 11 pm 25 Christmas Mawlid Al-Nabi [Shi a] 8 26 Kwanzaa 9 Boxing Day AA 8pm 27 December Worship10am 28 29*RHM Terrace on the Square 9:30am 30 31*RHM Parkwood Mennonite 10am 1 January Temple Day 1 2 *RHM ~ Retirement Home Ministry Multicultural Observances & Festivals: 1. World Health Organization 2. United Nations 3. Canada 4. Judaism 5. United Nations 6. International & Wicca 7. Islam (Sunni) 8. Islam (Shi a) 9. African-American/Canadian COMPASSIONATE ENGAGED JOYFUL 14 WELCOMING PROGRESSIVE SPIRITUAL

15 January 2016 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Epiphany Epiphany Sunday Worship 10am Daughters of Christ 1:30 LOGOS 4:30pm Chancel Choir 7:45 8 *RHM Beechwood Manor 2pm FOCUS 6:30 10 Worship 10am 3pm Food for Thought 6:30pm 17 World Religion Day 3 Worship10am Martin Luther King Sunday *RHM Bankside 2pm Food for Thought 6:30pm 24 Community Services Sunday: Theme: Inclusivity Worship10am Annual Reports are due. *Note*Annual Congregational meeting: Sun. Feb. 21 2pm Food for Thought 6:30pm 11 Knox Combo 7:30pm 18 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. s Birthday 4 Women Together with Karen Ball- Pyatt 7:30pm 12 Praise Band 7:15pm Presbytery of W loo-wellington 7pm Circle of Care 7:30 19 Upward Sports 6pm Finance Mtg 7pm Praise Band 7:15pm *RHM Terrace on the Square 9:30am Upward Sports 6pm Praise Band 7:15pm Session Meeting 7:30 *RHM Clair Hills 2:00pm 13 *RHM The Westhill 10:30am W@K 11:30am 20 *RHM Lanark Heights 10:30am W@K 11:30am 27 Knox Knitters 9:30am W@K 11:30am Book Club 1:30pm Collective Kitchen 4:30pm Knox Stampers 7pm 14 Makar Sankranti 2 Fitness & Fellowship 9:45am LOGOS 4:30pm Chancel Choir 7:45 21 Fitness & Fellowship 9:45am LOGOS 4:30pm Chancel Choir 7:45 28 Fitness & Fellowship 9:45am *RHM Parkwood Mennonite 10am LOGOS 4:30pm Chancel Choir 7:45pm AA 8pm 15 FOCUS 6:30 AA 8pm DEADLINE Jan.15 th ACross The Pews Feb Mar Edition 22 *RHM Waterloo Heights 10:45am FOCUS 6:30 AA 8pm 29 FOCUS 6:30 AA 8pm 16 Men s Calvin PC 8am *RHM ~ Retirement Home Ministry Multicultural Observances & Festivals: 1. Buddhist 2. Hindu 3. Baha i 4. American

16 A CROSS THE PEWS DECEMBER 2015 JANUARY 2016 Photographer: Barb Prysnuk knoxwaterloo.ca 50 Erb Street West, Waterloo ON. N2L 1T1 (519)