Wellington Square United Church Burlington Ontario - Online Members Forum

Mexico Missions Chili Lunch and Silent Auction

2012-02-01T17:46:00.002-05:00

Sunday, February 5 from 11-3 in St Paul’s Hall. Come check out our Silent Auction and grab a warm bowl of chili, plus buns and dessert. Lunch tickets $10/Adult, $6/Under 12, Free/Under 2. All funds go towards Outreach and Mexico 2012. Tickets available after both services at the Welcome Centre, or from Caitlin Belanger youth@wsquare.ca, Nancy James 905-631-8337 njames@wsquare.ca or the church office office@wsquare.ca.

Annual General Meeting

2012-01-31T07:03:00.000-05:00

Please join us to discuss the year past and the year ahead Tues. Jan. 31. Coffee and dessert at 6:30pm, meeting to begin at 7pm.

Herma Bailey's 100th Birthday

2012-01-30T21:31:00.002-05:00

Hope and Joy at the Downtown Community Dinner

2012-01-26T23:55:00.002-05:00

We love to hear the stories of hope and joy that friends feel when they come to the Downtown Community Dinner. While walking up the sidewalk one friend overhead a Mom of two older special needs boys saying, "Look at what is painted on the side of the shed. It's LOVE." Then she added, "That's what you are going to find inside this place." The love that she sees and feels is shown when friends work together to set up the dining room with special touches, volunteers connect while cutting vegetables in the kitchen, and guests are welcomed in with hugs, smiles and friendly conversations. It is a blessing to see the relationships that are forming and the important friendships that are continuing outside of the dinners. Thanks to the support we receive from so many faith groups, organizations and individuals in the community, we are able to serve a delicious meal to over 180 people every week, hand out over 50 snack bags to school aged children, and provide gently used clothing/coats/shoes and other items for those who need them. With your donations of unopened candies and cookies, every friend went home with a special treat from the New Year's dinner. We are excited that every few weeks we will also be handing out some much needed items for seniors who attend the dinners. We continue to pray for strength and healing for 12-year old Shannon, who is battling brain cancer. She will undergo another round of chemotherapy at the end of this month if her levels are stable. It means a great deal to Shannon's family to know that there are so many people who care about them.

"Love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too should love one another."
John 13: 34

Most needed items:

Adults or older youth to help monthly with the children's crafts/activities (5-6:00 pm or 6-7:30pm)
Individuals who have a heart for caring about and connecting with others
Help to buy groceries on Thursday or Friday am
Source to purchase name tags (we use 200 every Friday)
Source to purchase items for seniors (i.e. Polident, diabetic cookies, reading glasses, etc.)
Valentine's Day candy treats
Desserts for Friday dinners

Upcoming Dinners:

Jan. 27 – Burlington Meeting House

Feb. 3 – Wellington Square and Friends/Men In Apron's (volunteers for both shifts needed..no more children)
Feb. 10 – St. Luke’s (second shift volunteers needed)
Feb. 17 – Burlington Baptist
Feb. 24 –Burlington Meeting House

March 2 – Wellington Square and Friends/Men In Apron's (volunteers for both shifts needed)
March 9 – Wellington Square and Friends (volunteers for both shifts needed)

*Due to the fact that more guests are coming early to set up the dining room, we have fewer jobs for children to do at the dinners.

tgif - Friday, January 27

2012-01-26T23:45:00.000-05:00

Sunday, January 29, 2012

2012-01-26T23:44:00.000-05:00

Teaching With Authority

They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
“Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.
The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.
—Mark 1:21-28 (NIV)

Silent Auction

2012-01-26T23:42:00.002-05:00

If you have anything you would like to donate to the Mexico Youth Silent Auction, please contact
Nancy james at njames@wsquare.ca by Thursday February 2.

WWS Meeting (formerly UCW)

2012-01-26T23:41:00.002-05:00

Monday, February 13 @1:30pm. Topic: Getting to know you. Our Pam Butler will talk about her life experience.

Celebrating 100

2012-01-26T23:40:00.000-05:00

Join us for a luncheon reception in the Pritchard Room on Sunday, January 29 at 12 noon to celebrate Herma Bailey’s 100th birthday.
All are welcome! Please come in and sign the card.
There will also be a place to leave “Anecdotes of Herma” to place in her new memory book.

LENT EVENT

2012-01-26T23:37:00.000-05:00

What is it?

An opportunity for everyone to participate in a faith based discussion.

Sunday messages will be talked about with others.
If, for some reason you miss a Sunday, that won’t matter. You can still join in and be part of the conversation!

Why participate?

• to experience the value of gathering together with others in small groups
• to have the chance to ask questions and talk about our faith with others
• to make new friends

When?

During the 6 weeks of Lent (February 26-April 7)

To make this work for you, we are offering many options through-out the week. See what day fits your schedule.

Sign up Sunday in the foyer or contact the church office during the week.

905-634-1849 or office@wsquare.ca

We would love to have you join us!

LENT EVENT

Small Group Schedule

Sunday
10:30-11:30am After 9am Service at Wellington Square
12:30-1:30pm After 11am Service at Wellington Square

Monday
12:00-2:00pm Monday Men @ Wellington Square
1:30-3:00pm WWS (formerly UCW) at Wellington Square

Tuesday
9:30-11:30am Mom’s and Tots at Wellington Square

Wednesday
7:15-8:30am Wednesday Morning Women at Cora’s on Fairview for Breakfast
6:45-8:00am Wednesday Morning Men at Cora’s on Fairview for Breakfast
12:00-2:00pm Hebron Group at Wellington Square (meeting every 2nd week starting Wednesday, March 7, discussion will cover 2 weeks at a time)
1:30-3:00pm Mosher’s Group at Wellington Square
7:00-9:00pm Wednesday Evening Women at Wellington Square

Thursday
7:00-8:00am Seven Men’s Group at Bruce Magwood’s Office (855 Brant Street, corner of Brant and Fairview)
12:00-1:30pm Joyful Spirits (men and women) location tbd
7:00-9:00pm Meet, Pray, Love (men and women) Brian & Mardi Vicker’s Home

World Day of Prayer 2012

2012-01-24T08:48:00.002-05:00

March 2, 2012

St. Elizabeth's Anglican Church, 5324 Bromley Rd. @ 1:30pm

Salvation Army Corps, 2090 Prospect @ 7:30pm

Flowers Sunday January 22, 2012

2012-01-22T13:02:00.000-05:00

Flowers are placed in the chancel today to the Glory of God and in loving memory of Etta and Chris from Jim, Lynn, John and Kayla.

Working Alongside Our Friends at the Downtown Community Dinner

2012-01-21T20:29:00.000-05:00

It is such a blessing working together serving with our friends who come to the Downtown Community Dinner. One gentleman came in earlier in the afternoon while we were setting up, feeling very alone, sad and without hope. We spoke for some time and then with no plan of anywhere else to go, he asked if he could help. We invited him into the kitchen to help the gentlemen doing the early prep making the cheese sauce. His eyes lit up as he told us he loves to cook. He spent the rest of the afternoon right up until 6:00 working alongside the volunteers, and joined the team for the kitchen announcements and blessing. He was then asked to join the group at the buffet table serving the meal he had spent all afternoon preparing. At the end of the evening this friend asked if he could come and help again next week. Thank you for welcoming in our friends, walking alongside them, caring for them and showing God's love.
The Burlington Baptist crew had a busy evening preparing, serving and cleaning up the meal for over 180 people. It was wonderful to welcome old friends back who have been away from the dinner for some time, and to meet new people who came after hearing that the dinner is a fun place to be where they can come and share conversations and connect with people who care. Thank you for the ongoing blessings of time, financial support and food donations that make these dinners possible. We look forward to serving with the Burlington Meeting House next week.

"I will turn their mourning into gladness. I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow."
Jeremiah 31:13
Next WS and friends date is February 3rd, please sign up on the community bulletin board on the foyer wall outside St. Paul's Hall. Contact Lisa at communitydinner@wsquare.ca
Most needed items:

Valentine's treats for the February 10th dinner
Containers for take out food (recycled sour cream, small ice cream, yogurt, etc)
A supplier for name tags which are now handed out to all friends (180) each week
Size 4 diapers and baby wipes
Playing cards, cribbage board, other small games for people to play at the dinners
Warm men's gloves and balaclava face warmer for man (size large)

Memorial Service

2012-01-20T09:40:00.002-05:00

Rev. Merrill James
In his 86th year; Husband and best friend of Helen for 60 years, and caregiver to her for 19; Father of Rev. John (Barbara), Rev. Orville (Nancy) and Rev. Paul (Carol). Eight grandchildren, and their growing families. He served congregations in Illinois and Ontario from 1951 to 1990 in the Evangelical United Brethren Church, and the United Church. A man of faith, his ministry was steeped in grace, and he took great joy in affirming people.
Visitation at Butler Funeral Home, Niagara Street, St Catherines on Friday, Jan 20th from 6 to 9p.m.
Memorial service at First-Grantham United Church on Linwell St. in St Catherines, at 12 noon, Sat. Jan 21st.

Special Celebrations at the Downtown Community Dinner

2012-01-20T09:36:00.001-05:00

This past Friday we celebrated birthdays with four of our Community Dinner friends. It is hard to believe that it has been a whole year since we last celebrated with one of our youngest dinner friends who comes every Friday with his Mom. For many, being acknowledged with a special dessert and birthday song with all of the dinner friends is so important, as for some this is their only celebration. As the New Year begins we continue to be thankful for so much. Once again our friends at The Martini House threw together a delicious pea and ham soup that so many people raved about. We continue to receive weekly food donations from Partnership West Food Bank, Refresh Foods, St. Vincent de Paul and the Poacher Restaurant, which help to sustain the dinners each week. We are also so appreciative of the ongoing financial and food donations which we receive from different faith groups and people in the community.
We are blessed that many of our dinners guests are also becoming an important part of helping with the dinners and we will continue to encourage their participation. When I arrived this past week the tables were set and the clothes were all laid out on the gently used tables. Each week other guests give out the children's snack bags and organize the birthday plates, while others stay until the end of the evening packing clothes back up and stacking tables and chairs. We are all one community of friends working together to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Just before Christmas, our amazing custodian, Jamie, was getting his hair cut in Jackson Square in Hamilton and he overhead two gentlemen talking about how much they love to go to the Community Dinner in Burlington, and that they come for a meal, enjoy their time and go home with extra food .

Please save your small ice cream, yogurt and sour cream containers for us to use for take out food at the dinners.

Contact Lisa at communitydinner@wsquare.ca
" And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased."
Hebrew 13:16

happenings

2012-01-20T09:21:00.002-05:00

Sunday we celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism

9am
Brayden Carpenter
Son of Scott and Tiffany Carpenter

Adam Luckanuck
Son of John and Jennifer Luckanuck

Miles Shuker
Son of Anthony and Megan Shuker

11am
Kaiden Fisher
Son of Matthugh Fisher and Nicole Wojcik

Prayer with the Songs of Taize

2012-01-20T09:18:00.000-05:00

A service of Prayer with the Songs of Taize will be held Sunday, January 22 at 4:30pm at Port Nelson United Church, 3132 South Drive. Come to experience the quiet beauty of the ending day and surround yourself with God’s peace and love. Readings, prayer, chants, instruments, silence. A wonderful way to begin the week!

outreach

2012-01-20T09:16:00.000-05:00

There is lots going on in this ministry, as we look to be the “hands and feet” of Jesus, impacting lives in both our global and local communities. Your continued support, through your weekly offerings, makes a difference to many in need!
For more info, or to get involved, contact outreach@wsquare.ca. Here’s a just a few ways we’re making a difference:

Global Mission | Hearts are gearing up for our upcoming Youth Mexico mission trip this March. The Malawi Africa mission team is busy preparing for their mission in May. Your continued support and prayers for all of our mission teams are much appreciated!

Local Mission | Friday Downtown Community Dinner. As the New Year begins we continue to be thankful for so much – such as the ongoing financial and food donations which we receive from different faith groups, organizations and people in the community. We are blessed that many of our dinner guests are also becoming an important part of helping with the dinners. Here’s what one of our guests was overheard saying to her teenage sons: “You won't believe how wonderful the food is that is served here.” She then told her sons to look at what was painted on the side of the shed. “It’s LOVE,” she told them, and then she added: “That's what you are going to find inside this place.”
Don’t forget to bring in your plastic containers for our guests’ take-away food!
For more info, contact communitydinner@wsquare.ca

Midweek and Creative Arts Ministries for Kids

2012-01-20T09:10:00.000-05:00

Power of a Whisper

2012-01-20T09:07:00.002-05:00

In this powerful, practical 4-week video-based study, we will learn how to discern the voice of God, how to invite His input into our daily lives and how we can make a difference in this world using this heaven-sent input. Tues. Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 at 7pm. Please contact Joy Magwood for more information at jmagwood@wsquare.ca

Bible 101

2012-01-20T09:06:00.002-05:00

The Bible stands as central to our faith. Yet, many of us don’t open it, or if we do, we are quickly bewildered by what is inside. This 3-week study will focus on what is in the Bible, the different kinds of writing and how to read it in ways that increase our knowledge, deepen our understanding, and build our faith. Wed. Jan. 25, Feb. 1, Feb. 8 at 7pm. Please contact Rob Irish for more information: rirish@wsquare.ca

Trivia Night: Saturday February 18

2012-01-20T08:58:00.001-05:00

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?

Mark the date on your calendar and gather your team to have a bit of fun and healthy competition! This is a fellowship evening for both services and the community at large. Bring along friends, family and neighbours. It’s for a good cause, too, for Outreach. Here are three ways you can get involved:
1. Buy tickets: $20 each. Build a multi-generational team for success in answering trivia from all decades!
2. Be a Sponsor: sponsor a Round of Trivia, or Grand Prizes, or Food
3. Donate Door Prizes: wine, chocolates, beauty products, candles, flowers, kitchen or household items, gift certificates.
Contact Chris or Beth Carver at 905-632-0000 or bcarver@wsquare.ca

Sunday, January 22, 2012

2012-01-20T08:55:00.000-05:00

“What’s a ‘Son of David’to me?”

A blind man ... began to shout, “Jesus,
son of David, have mercy on me.”
-- Mark 10:47 (NIV)

I’ve Been Thinking …
… about housecleaning – in Christianity. This week I’ve been going daily to St. Catharines to help clean out and downsize my parents’ 2-bedroom condo. Many good things are being passed on to children and grandchildren. Many other things are sorted, discarded, and delivered to a Christian charity shop.
Does this kind of housecleaning happen in the family of faith? YES. “Every five hundred years, the church cleans out its attic and has a giant rummage sale ...
We are living in such a time. A time of dizzying upheaval and hopeful promise.”
There is a new kind of Christianity being born – lower denominational boundaries coupled with higher spirituality and closer friendship with Jesus. I want to tell you about it – and start us all thinking about how Wellington Square can continue to stay ‘ahead of the curve,’ and be effective in helping spiritually hungry people in our city.
I hope to share some of that at our Congregational Meeting on Tuesday, January 31st. Our gatherings of this faith family have been pretty good lately. Interesting and productive. There has always been some fun to it; you meet new people, you learn something, you feel an increased sense of comfortable belonging.
Next week’s topics will include contracted staff replacements (for spring/summer) when I’m on sabbatical after Easter (and possibly longer). Of course we’ll discuss budgets and finances, the progress we made this year, and further growth to support the needs of this evolving congregation.
And I hope to share with you some future directions in spirituality in our culture – how Christianity is changing, and why. So please give yourself a unique experience as we join together as Jesus’ team on Tuesday, January 31st at 7pm.
As you read this, I’m travelling toward a week of church leaders’ conferences and networking. I’ll be bunking with ministers from London and Vancouver, and then a Reformed Church pastor in NYC. Hoping I learn lots, and come back full of ideas and inspiration to share with you, and help continue to transition our church for the exciting future ahead.

Blessings & Peace … ORVILLE

Canadian Federation of University Women

2012-01-16T14:49:00.000-05:00

General Meeting of CFUW

Monday, January 23, 2012

This meeting is open to visitors. All welcome.

Meetings take place at

The Seniors' Centre (Central Park)

2285 New Street, Burlington, ON

7:00 pm - Socializing Time

7:30 pm - Meeting

"The Impact of Toxic Stress on the Developing Brain"

Dr. Jean Clinton eminent psychiatrist, professor and renowned children's advocate, will discuss the impact of stress in pregnancy through childhood onwards and she will describe key strategies for buffering the brain.

Jean Clinton BMus MD FRCP(C)

For more information contact Eleanor Christie echristie@wsquare.ca

GraceLand Pajama Day

2012-01-11T11:25:00.002-05:00

WOW News

2012-01-09T22:28:00.002-05:00

Book Club: Next Selection Ruins & Relics by Alice Zorn to be discussed March 5 available at A Different Drummer Books (mention Wellington Square or WOW Book Club)

Retreat: June 8-10, 2012 | Mount Mary Retreat Centre. Theme: Amazing Peace. Facilitator: Judy Savoy (watch for registration info coming soon)

RSVP wow@wsquare.ca

Youth Groups

2012-01-09T14:38:00.002-05:00

Children's Ministry & Youth Ministry at Wellington Square

2012-01-09T14:36:00.000-05:00

Flowers Sunday, January 8

2012-01-08T11:01:00.001-05:00

With a profound sense of gratitude to Almighty God and many, many great memories of years as members of Trinity/Wellington Square, the flowers on the chancel Sunday are in celebration of the 65th Wedding Anniversary (Wednesday, January 4) of Sophie and Duncan McFadgen.

New Faces around the dinner table this Friday night!

2012-01-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

This week, greetings of "Happy New Year" rang out as friends arrived for dinner which was then followed by hugs or handshakes.

For those who were not able to make it to our New Years Dinner last week, it was a wonderful time to re-connect and touch base. Many conversations focused on catching up and finding out how each other's week went to celebrate or commiserate but mostly to celebrate the beginning of the weekend.

Thanks to our wonderful team of dedicated volunteers everything went smoothly in all aspects from setup, kitchen prep, clothing, snack program, kids craft area to cleanup each person helped out where needed. We had a wonderful dinner of ham, rice, mushroom rice, baked beans, peas, green beans, along with our fabulous salad bar that included two extra special salads; chickpea with avocado, celery, onion and coriander along with a tasty bean salad. And of course the wonderful dessert bar!

Thank you to all of our friends who gave of their time to help prepare, serve and clean up from Friday's meal. We also appreciate the ongoing support of many who take the time to connect with friends in the dining room and children at the crafts and activities, to support parents and their children with the snack program and to set up and take down the gently used clothing/boots/coats.

This week we noticed quite a few new faces and had 5 new families who signed up for the snack program. The Friday night dinners continue to be a place where friends and families connect and build relationships!

Thank you. communitydinner@wsquare.ca

Isaiah 1:17 " and learn to live right. See that justice is done. Defend widows and orphans and help those in need."

tgif night - Friday, January 27, 2012 - Note new start time!!

2012-01-05T12:53:00.002-05:00

Link to Professor Grant Horner's Bible Reading System

2012-01-01T12:51:00.001-05:00

Website recommended by James Bretzler in sermon Sunday, January 1, 2012

http://www.wbfva.org/files/professor_grant_horners_bible_reading_system.pdf

Ringing in the New Year at the Downtown Community Dinner

2011-12-31T19:35:00.001-05:00

It was a pleasure to ring in the New Year with our friends at the Downtown Community Dinner. We had a great group of Burlington and Oakville Meeting House folks in to prepare, serve and clean up from the meal of delicious beef, gravy and Yorkshire Pudding. The donations of fancy desserts were enjoyed by all and all friends went home with boxes of chocolates, cookies and candy from our raffle table. The volunteers and guests had fun interacting and playing games, while coming up with a letter matching name (Kissable Kaylee, Marvelous Miranda, Caring Cathy, and Bad Belle) and answering paper questions (What is the weirdest food you have ever eaten? If you were an animal what would you be and why?) and sharing them with friends at their tables. The special appetizers of shrimp, crab dip, quiches and sausage rolls that were served to guests were a nice touch before dinner. One friend commented on how much fun she had and said, "I just wish we could take a picture of all of this to remember it all! It is just so special." Friends are grateful that they have a place they can go on holidays and other celebrations and be with people who care about them. It is also a good distraction from some of life's challenges that can seem so big for many people at this time of year. We continue to be thankful for all of our volunteers who help each week, the monetary and food donations, as well as the prayers and support we receive from so many friends in Burlington.
Wishing you love, friendship and good health in the New Year!

communitydinner@wsquare.ca

Please keep saving those take out containers as we don't have any left for next week.

"Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary." - Isaiah 40:31

Merry Christmas from the Downtown Community Dinner

2011-12-26T13:54:00.001-05:00

There was so much joy at the Friday Night Christmas Downtown Community Dinner. Friends were happy to come and spend a holiday meal with people who care and enjoy a turkey dinner with all of the fixings. With the help of the Burlington Meeting House, we served a delicious meal of turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, broccoli, squash, corn, green and yellow beans and buns to over 200 friends. The spread of tasty donated desserts were enjoyed by all and the decorations made the evening festive. We had some great games organized for the children and Santa even came for a special visit to bring Christmas cheer.
Thank you to all the volunteers who spent 3 days cooking turkeys and the team who prepared, served and cleaned up from the feast. We are grateful to Partnership West Food Bank, The Poacher Restaurant, Bob's No Frills, The Martini House and Refresh Foods for the ongoing support with the dinners. We had hundreds of friends who helped us fill over 200 Community Care Bags for each of the guests, as well as stockings for all of the children. A big thank you to our committed team of volunteers from many different churches and organizations who make these dinners possible every Friday. We are so blessed that although some families and individuals are finding life to be challenging, we can be there to bring hope and love over the holiday season and beyond.

We are looking for donations of extra unopened chocolates, candy and cookies to use for a game to give out to guests next Friday, December 30th, for our special New Year's Dinner. The church is open on Friday or you can contact me to make arrangements to drop them off. Thanks so much.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday.
Lisa and the Community Dinner team communitydinner@wsquare.ca

"And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth." Luke 1:14

Christmas Eve at Wellington Square

2011-12-26T08:54:00.000-05:00

Christmas 2011 at Wellington Square United Church

2011-12-22T20:52:00.000-05:00

Sunday, Nov. 27
9 and 11 am Advent 1 – Communion

Sunday, Dec. 4
9 and 11 am Inter-generational Services

Sunday, Dec. 11
9 and 11 am Worship Services

Sunday, Dec. 18
9 and 11 am Worship Services

Saturday, Dec. 24
4:30 pm Fun, interactive service for kids & their families
6 pm Christmas Eve worship with The Band (programming provided for Grade 4 and under)
8 pm Christmas Eve worship with Sanctuary Choir
10 pm Candlelight communion service

Sunday, Dec. 25
10 am Worship Service (no children’s programming)

Sunday, Jan. 1
10 am Worship Service (children’s ministry: movie and activities)

Christmas 2011 at Wellington Square United Church

2121 Caroline St., Burlington, Ontario

2012 Offering Envelopes

2011-12-22T20:51:00.001-05:00

Pick up your envelopes Sunday in St Paul’s Hall.

UCW Meeting

2011-12-22T20:50:00.002-05:00

UCW Meeting | Mon. Jan. 9, 2012 at 1.30pm. Speaker from Halton Regional Police will speak on Elder Services fraud.
All women welcome.

Grateful for Giving

2011-12-22T20:49:00.000-05:00

We have helped so many in need, locally and across the globe with our Christmas Joy programs. And that is on top of giving to our Outreach programs that are supported by our weekly offerings. As we say goodbye to 2011, the Outreach team would like to share with you where a portion of your weekly offerings have made a difference.
In 2011, your givings have supported:
Salvation Army
Room at the Inn
Compassion Society
Habitat for Humanity
Sierra Leone – Wellington Orphanage
Canadian Foodgrains Bank
Wesley Urban Ministries
Partnership West Foodbank
Rhonda Elgersma – YUGO Ministries
Mexico Mission
Malawi (Hands&Hearts for Africa)
African Famine Relief
And of course,
The Downtown Community Dinner
This is truly a community effort to welcome over 150 people in each week, provide a nutritious meal and support them with other resources, and most importantly, love and caring.
To volunteer for a January Friday night dinner, sign up after the service or contact Lisa Lunski-Wood at
communitydinner@wsquare.ca.

People experience God's love through the giving of our resources, time and love, and for that we are grateful. May we continue to grow our hearts, hands and feet for Jesus, as we give generously and joyfully in His name.

I’VE BEEN THINKING…

2011-12-22T20:44:00.002-05:00

…wondering actually – how to maximize the positive impact of this Christmas season. Can lives be changed? New habits developed? Society improved?

I’m curious about this because of what’s happening in Britain’s churches. Most of you know that I’m an anglophile – love Britain; have a daughter & son-in-law living there; served the British Methodist Church on two ministry ‘exchanges’. So this week I read an article titled “God in Austerity Britain”. Here’s part of what they said:
“With the core cultural activity of modern Britain- shopping for stuff – losing its lustre, there are hints of a nation groping for something more profound. For millions, austerity Christmas will include a dose of carols. The trend has been noticeable for a couple of years. The great cathedrals expect to be packed on Christmas Eve.” (‘The Economist’ magazine, p63, Dec 10th, 2011)

Well – that’s good isn’t it? Yes, of course. Yet how far does it go? Will it lead to growth in faith and service, and genuine sacrifice for the benefit of others? Maybe. For some at least, yes. But there’s a lot of evidence that so far, this rekindled spirituality is still shallow. “True, religious music is popular. In some places that shows a yearning for faith. But if cathedrals are increasingly popular, it is in part because they are anonymous, admits a priest: there is no danger of being asked to visit a sick parishioner afterwards.” Or serve on a missions team, or participate in a Bible study or prayer group, or plan your finances so that you can give a tenth of God’s blessings for Holy purposes (tithing).

I’m glad that our church was packed for several services on Christmas Eve. We average 1200-1500 attendees most years, which is 3 times a normal Sunday mornings attendance. That’s good. It is a chance to plant seeds of faith in hearts that increasingly distracted by secular materialism. So HURRAY for the Christmas season, and the receptivity of people to spiritual things. From this, may lives be changed, new habits developed, and society improved, all because people began to become disciples of the Bethlehem babe.

Blessings & Peace to you in the year ahead,
ORVILLE

Mountains of Joy at the Downtown Community Dinner

2011-12-19T21:48:00.000-05:00

Dear friends,
What a blessing it was to be part of such joyful giving and sincere appreciation. This Friday at the Downtown Community Dinner we distributed children's stockings and Care Bags full of hygiene items, which so many of you were a part of filling. We also had a room full of new toys and stocking stuffers donated by Partnership West Food Bank and Nissan/Toyota Burlington. Every parent/guardian was able to shop in the room and pick out one or two items for each of their children. The tears of joy and appreciation were most evident from those single parents who are struggling to make ends meet and didn't know where the money was going to come from to buy a present for their children. One Mom expressed, "Christmas is about family and all of you have made me feel that my family is bigger...and it includes all of you." One of our volunteers helped choose a special toy for one of the little boys who attends and Mom commented, "Wow! I see you guys care and truly know my kids which is touching. I feel peace when I leave this dinner every week...and I feel friendship." The holidays can be a very difficult time for those who are struggling financially, don't have friends or family to spend Christmas with and those who are mentally and physically unwell. We are indeed so fortunate that we can make a difference by bringing joy and relief in some small way. Thank you for the ongoing support from Partnership West Food Bank, The Poacher Restaurant and Refresh Foods, as well as so many of you who have helped us financially, donated food and other items and give of your time to put these dinners together. This truly is a community effort to welcome over 150 people in each week, provide a nutritious meal and support them with other resources (lunch snacks, additional grocery items, coats and boots, crafts for children, hygiene items and Christmas gifts). People see God's love through the giving of our resources, time and friendship, and for that we are grateful.

"Christmas is most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it most."
Contact Lisa at communitydinner@wsquare.ca

Bell Choir - Sunday, December 18, 2011

2011-12-19T17:31:00.000-05:00

Sunday, December 18, 2011 - Advent IV - Candle Lighters at 11

2011-12-19T12:38:00.002-05:00

Sunday, December 18, 2011

2011-12-17T12:46:00.000-05:00

"God Will Be With Us" (When The Messiah Comes)

I’ve Been Thinking …
    … of how to be ready for Christmas. Most of us have personal habits and family traditions that we go through to make Christmas 'happen' at our house, and in our lives. Nothing wrong with that. And yet, I'm intrigued by the role model of Mary - who when told by the angel "You will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus", simply said "Yes" and allowed Christmas to come to her.
    “We think we have to make Christmas come … When all God needs is a willing womb (heart), a place of safety, nourishment, and love. What is it that delivers Christ into the world? Mary offered only space, love, belief.”
    So imagine a Christmas service where the worshipers come in their holiday finery to find a sanctuary empty of all the glittering decorations, silent of holiday carols. What if on Christmas Eve people came and sat in the dim pews, and someone stood up and said, "Something happened here while we were all out at the malls, while we were baking cookies and fretting about whether we bought our brother-in-law the right gift: Christ was born. God is here"?
    We wouldn't need the glorious choruses and the harp and the bell choir and the organ (as good as they all are). We wouldn't need the poinsettas or tree strung with lights. We wouldn't have to deny that painful distance between the promise and hope of Christmas, and a world wracked with sin and evil. And no one would have to preach sermons to work up our belief.
    All of that would seem gaudy and shallow in comparison to the sanctity of that still sanctuary. And we, hushed and awed by something greater and wiser and kinder than we, would kneel of one accord in the stillness. We would be filled with all the fullness of God.
    Probably few of us have the faith or the nerve to tamper with hallowed Christmas traditions on a large scale, or with other holiday celebrations. But a small experiment might prove interesting. What if, instead of doing something, we were to BE something special? Be a dwelling for God. Be a still quiet open heart. Be surprised.

With Love … ORVILLE

outreach

2011-12-17T12:45:00.000-05:00

Sharing God's Joy | We are so blessed in this community! Thank you for your incredible outpouring of love and support for our Christmas programs. We have helped so many in need, locally and across the globe! May this spirit of generosity live within us all year round, as we show God's love to the world.

The Downtown Community Dinner ministry continues to expand as we reach out to meet the needs of so many in our community. With your generosity, this week we will begin to hand out Community Care Bags (filled with hygiene items) for everyone who comes to the dinner. Every child will also receive a stocking, and we have a special donation of gifts coming from Burlington Nissan, Burlington Toyota and Partnership West Food Bank, so parents will the opportunity to choose a new gift for each of their children.
We have so many people to thank for the success of these dinners including all of our volunteers who help both at the dinners and behind the scenes, those who provide financial assistance and donations of food, as well as the support and prayers from so many people in the Burlington Faith Communities and beyond.
We look forward to serving with Burlington Baptist and the Burlington Meeting House over the next 3 weeks of the holiday season. To volunteer for a January Friday night dinner, sign up after the service or contact Lisa Lunski-Wood at comunitydinner@wsquare.ca

library

2011-12-17T12:41:00.002-05:00

Footsteps Library will be open Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 before and after the 10am service. Please use the Self-checkout system to borrow items. We have some new items such as Crazy Love and Erasing Hell by Francis Chan, The Resolution for Women (from the creators of Fireproof and Courageous the Movie), Choosing to See by Mary Beth Chapman, and The Berenstain Bears Gossip Gang. We also have a Christmas collection with a variety of items for all ages.

Baptism

2011-12-17T12:40:00.000-05:00

The sacrament of baptism will be celebrated on January 22, 2012. For information contact the church office office@wsquare.ca

Monday Men

2011-12-17T12:39:00.002-05:00

Monday Men meet every Monday from noon till 2pm. Join us for a God-centered time of friendship, discussion, and lunch. New members are always welcomed. The group will be breaking for Christmas, returning Mon Jan 9. Please contact Duncan McFadgen at 905-634-7559.

God’s Love in Action

2011-12-17T12:38:00.003-05:00

Bring Christ's care to hurting people. Do you have gifts of compassion? Are you a good listener? There are many people in our community and congregation who are in need of a caring presence and a listening ear. But while the need is plentiful, currently the workers are few. Our goal is to match compassionate people with folks in need in a way that is friendly to busy schedules and has a short-term commitment. To find out more about using your gifts and passions, please come to a no-strings-attached information session on Monday, January 16, 2012 at 7pm in the McMillan Room.

Children's Ministry

2011-12-17T12:38:00.000-05:00

Advent GraceLand Themes:
Why Mary and Joseph?
Why Angels?
Why Shepherds?
Why Jesus?

Christmas Day | No Children's programming during 10am service.

GraceLand Needs: 2 CD boom boxes in good working condition.

Note: for safety and by-law requirements, ALL children MUST have a Participant Form signed by a parent or guardian.

May the Christmas presents remind you of God's greatest gift — His only begotten Son.
May the Christmas candles remind you of Him who is the — Light of the world.
May the Christmas tree remind you of another tree on which — He died for you.
May the Christmas cheer remind you of Him who said, — 'Be of good cheer.'
May the Christmas feast remind you of Him who is the — Bread of Life.
May the Christmas snow remind you of the cleansing power — of Christ.
May the Christmas bells remind you of the glorious proclamation — of His birth.
May the Christmas carols remind you of His glad tidings which we proclaim — to all mankind.
May the Christmas season remind you in every way of — Jesus Christ your King.

giving to God

2011-12-17T12:34:00.004-05:00

The Christmas Story is filled with many messages for our lives, including reflective stewardship messages:

Lesson from the Shepherds - The shepherds came from the fields bringing only themselves and their sheep. We all have gifts to give, even if all we have to give is our caring and our time, those are important gifts to give.

Lesson from the Wise Men - Like most of us, the Wise Men were men with many blessings. They are praised in the Christmas Story not just for coming to worship Jesus but also for bringing him luxurious gifts. We are encouraged to present our gifts to God and share our generosity with others.

Through the beauty of this season, we pray that all of us will experience the great gifts of God and share joy, peace and generosity with others.

Message from the Board

2011-12-17T12:34:00.000-05:00

The time is here again for us to begin thinking about who will serve on our Board for next year. The commitment is for one year and an individual can be re-elected for repeated years.

Our Nominations Task Group is ready to receive nominations from the congregation for potential Board Members for the coming year. The Task Group will include Orville, Katie and the current Board Chairperson Lindsay Foster.

This group will accept nominations from anyone who has 10 names/signatures of support on a nomination form and agreement from the person being nominated. The Nominations Task Group may also bring forward names using the same process. Nomination forms, once completed, can be handed in at the office or to any member of the Nominations Group. The group will vet those names to ensure the individuals possess the qualities and characteristics set out for a member of the Board. This may include an interview process. On the back of the nomination form there is a description of the traits that are key for this role. Nomination forms are available at the Welcome Center.

A slate of nominees will be recommended to the Congregation and each nominee will provide the same information on their background (family, career, church membership, previous church and leadership experience, photo) This will be published prior to the Annual Congregational Meeting on January 31, 2012. We have seven people from the present Board who will let their names stand for another term: Lindsay Foster, Tish Buckley, Pam Butler, Alicia Holloway, Jeremy Cox, Rob Smith and Alvin Kiers. At present, our Board is made up of 8 people plus our two ministers. We require a minimum of 6 people and a maximum of 9 people to serve on the Board, not including Orville and Katie.
Sincerely,
Your Board

youth

2011-12-17T12:32:00.001-05:00

Full Youth calendars are available online.

Edge | Grades 9-12 every 2nd & 4th Wed of the month 7-9pm
Dec 18 - Edge Xmas Party 6-8pm
Dec 24 - 4:30pm Xmas Eve Service

Rockpile | Grades 7-8 meet every 1st & 3rd Wed 7-8:30pm
Dec 21 - Rockpile Xmas Party 6-8pm
Dec 24 - 4:30pm Xmas Eve Service

DIVE | Every 2nd Sunday of the month from 10:45-11:45am! For grades 7&up! Next meeting Jan 8

FUSION | For guys grades 7 & up. Next meeting January 27th 9-10pm Contact teenguys@wsquare.ca

Mexico 2012 | Next meeting Jan 15. Friends, flights, insurance, sponsors, teams and more!

4:30pm Christmas Eve Service |
Hey gang, we'll be running the 4:30 kids service. Please come for 12pm for drama, props and music prep. Talk to Cait if interested.

Contact Cait at youth@wsquare.ca

group life

2011-12-17T12:26:00.000-05:00

Bible 101 | The Bible stands as central to our faith. Yet, many of us don't open it, or if we do, we are quickly bewildered by what is inside. This 3-week study will focus on what is in the Bible, the different kinds of writing and how to read it in ways that increase our knowledge, deepen our understanding, and build our faith. Wed. Jan. 25, Feb. 1, Feb. 8 at 7pm. Please contact Rob Irish for more info rirish@wsquare.ca

Power of a Whisper | In this powerful, practical 4-week video-based study, we will learn how to discern the voice of God, how to invite His input into our daily lives and how we can make a difference in this world using this heaven-sent input. Tues. Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 at 7pm. Please contact Joy Magwood for more info at
jmagwood@wsquare.ca

Community Dinner - Holiday Season...a Difficult Time for Many

2011-12-11T22:38:00.001-05:00

We enjoyed having the Wellington Square Board of Directors come to join us to help prepare, serve and clean up from the spaghetti dinner, which we served to over 130 guests Friday night. Although the holidays are exciting for many, for others they are a time of loneliness or not knowing how they will buy gifts for their children or provide that special dinner. One lady was in tears because she has been separated from her grandson, and another family who is new to the country can barely afford food, and providing gifts and a tree is not possible. There are others who only hope to have a place they can go, and will look to find a free dinner where they can spend time with others...even strangers on this special day. We continue to provide prayers of peace and healing for 11-year old Shannon and her family. Shannon has a brain tumour and begins her second round of chemo this coming week. She hopes to be well enough to spend Christmas at home with her Mom and sisters. We thank so many friends who have offered this family hope during a very difficult time. With the generosity of many, next week we will begin to hand out Community Care Bags (filled with hygiene items) for everyone who comes to the dinner. Every child will also receive a stocking, and we have a special donation of gifts coming from Burlington Nissan, Burlington Toyota and Partnership West Food Bank, so parents will the opportunity to choose a new gift for each of their children.
We have so many people to thank for the success of these dinners including all of our volunteers who help both at the dinners and behind the scenes, those who provide financial assistance and donations of food, as well as the support and prayers from so many people in the Burlington Faith Communities and beyond.
We look forward to serving with Burlington Baptist and the Burlington Meeting House over the next 3 weeks of the holiday season.

"It is the beautiful task of Advent to awaken in all of us memories of goodness and thus to open doors of hope."
Contact Lisa at communitydinner@wsquare.ca

Sunday, December 11

2011-12-11T20:15:00.002-05:00

Our Puppet Team - December 11, 2011

2011-12-11T20:13:00.002-05:00

The Band - Sunday, December 11

2011-12-11T20:11:00.002-05:00

1 of the Candle Lighters at 9am

2011-12-11T20:03:00.002-05:00

Candle Lighters at 11

2011-12-11T17:50:00.000-05:00

Celebrating the Holidays at the Downtown Community Dinner

2011-12-06T14:37:00.001-05:00

We are so blessed that close to 140 people come through our doors every Friday evening to enjoy a meal and fellowship at the Downtown Community Dinner. For some, Christmas is a time of special traditions and happy times, and for others it brings with it anxiety about not having the financial resources to buy gifts and a meal for the family. The holidays can also be a lonely time without family, friends or people that care. We hope to make the holidays a little brighter for some by offering a traditional Christmas Dinner on December 23rd, giving out Community Care Bags which contain personal hygiene items, as well as by handing out stockings for the children. We will be preparing turkey for the holiday dinner and if you are available to help cook the birds during the day at Wellington Square on the 22nd or 23rd please let us know. We would also love some holiday baking to serve for dessert. We have 3 groups (tennis club, church small group and hockey team) who have offered to fill stockings for the children who attend the dinners. We are still in need of another 40 stockings to be filled. If you have a group (family, team, office staff) that would like to fill 5 or more of these stockings please let us know as soon as possible. We have them labeled with each child's name and age and will include a list of ideas (approximately $25/stocking). We hope to have the stockings collected for distribution by Dec. 14th.

We continue to be thankful for so many churches, organizations and people living in the Burlington Community who help to make these dinners possible. We couldn't do it without the financial and food donations from Partnership West Food Bank, Refresh Foods, The Poacher Restaurant, The Martini House, St. Vincent de Paul, as well as many faith groups and individuals. With the help of so many, we continue to provide juice boxes and snacks for every child who attends the dinners each week. The extra produce and other food items are a big help to many families and individuals who are struggling to make ends meet. Thank you to all of our volunteers who come to prepare food, set up the children's crafts, organize the gently used clothing, fill snack bags, serve the dinner and clean up after the meal. There are also so many individuals who are not able to attend the dinners but contribute in other ways and for that we are grateful.

Although we provide a nutritious meal every Friday, many of our friends come in the doors because they feel welcomed and cared for. It is a place where people are treated with dignity and respect and accepted for who they are. I want to share part of a letter that one of the guests who has been attending our dinners for some time wrote to us about the love she feels.

"The most important love we can feel is the Love that God gives you because that Love is not just a feeling. I would like to tell you about another feeling of Love when perfect strangers do things that make you feel Loved. Every time you walk into Wellington Square on a Friday night for their free supper you see the tables laid out with plates, cutlery and napkins. You know they have been put there by people you don't even know but you feel their Love. You see a whole host of people in the kitchen praying over the meal they have prepared and the Love they have for all the people who will eat it. Then the servers that bring out the food all welcome you to come and eat. You feel the Love of their hands as they serve it. The dinners is served to about 165 people from all walks of life...angry people, lonely people, sad people, sick people and sometimes financially desperate people. In that one hour of the dinner they all share with each other and with the workers Love. They have been Loved by all the people who prepared this meal, who made the main ingredient Love. If each of us could show Love in some way to one stranger, what a difference this world would be. Thank you for helping me to feel that Love. It helps me to pass that Love onto others and then I know What Love Feels Like."

Most needed items:

*small chest freezer
*children's skating helmets (with working straps)
*size 2 diapers
*Children's Tylenol and baby wash
*size 12-18 month girl pants and tops (please label bag)
*lip balm, razors (especially women's, wash clothes, bath puffs for Community Care Bags (by this Sunday)
*small chocolate treats for Community Care bags (by this Sunday)

Upcoming Dinners: (please let us know if you would like to help in any way)

Dec. 9 – Wellington Square Board and friends (no more volunteers)
Dec. 16 – Burlington Baptist
Dec. 23 – Burlington Meeting House Group 1
Dec. 30 – Burlington Meeting House Group 2

Jan. 6 – Wellington Square and friends (volunteers for both shifts needed)
Jan. 13 –Wellington Square and Pathways Group Home (volunteers for both shifts needed)
Jan. 20 – Burlington Baptist
Jan. 27 – Burlington Meeting House

Please enjoy this most recent video which highlights the ongoings at the Downtown Community Dinners.
http://youtu.be/B67pH6p7Cyw

Contact Lisa at communitydinner@wsquare.ca

GraceLand Christmas Presentation - Sunday, December 4

2011-12-06T14:23:00.002-05:00

GraceNotes Choir

2011-12-06T14:21:00.002-05:00

GraceLand Dancers

2011-12-06T12:55:00.000-05:00

GraceLand Presents

2011-12-04T22:51:00.002-05:00

Sunday, December 4, 2011

2011-12-04T22:48:00.004-05:00

Sunday, December 4, 2011

2011-12-04T22:45:00.002-05:00

Sunday, December 4, 2011

2011-12-04T22:45:00.000-05:00

Angel Wings Wrap Up

2011-12-04T22:44:00.000-05:00

Advent II at 9 am

2011-12-04T22:36:00.002-05:00

GraceNotes

2011-12-04T22:24:00.002-05:00

11am Candle Lighters

2011-12-04T12:28:00.004-05:00

A "CommUNITY" of Pathfinders at the Downtown Dinner

2011-12-03T21:59:00.001-05:00

This Friday a number of Pathfinder girls and their leaders were in to do something positive to impact their community. Not only did they help to set up all of the many facets of the dinner including the children's crafts and activities, gently used clothing/coats/boots, the lunch snacks/food bags, and dining room tables, but they also prepared, served and cleaned up from the meal of turkey breast, carrot casserole, broccoli, mashed potatoes, beef barley soup and gravy. More importantly the girls were able to be a part of this "commUNITY" of people who come to share a meal, connect in with friends and spend time with those who care. Although we provide a meal for some who are struggling to make ends meet and would otherwise go without, there are many people who come simply because they enjoy the fellowship and friendships that they make at the dinners. Thank you for all of the donations that were provided by Refresh Foods, Partnership West Food Bank, St. Vincent de Paul, The Poacher Restaurant, friends from The Martini House, as well as this week's extra donations of boxes of diapers and new winter coats. We appreciate the extra canned food donations that one of the Pathfinder girls collected from both her school and outside in the greater community. Thank you also to the Men In Apron's from Port Nelson United Church who helped with the dinner clean up.
The importance of the fellowship that can be seen at the dinners each week is evident from stories that one of our volunteers shared. Last week she went up and put her arms around an older lady who attends the dinner each week. This lady broke down in tears and said, "It is not often that I get hugs like that. It makes me realize that I am loved." Then she added, "I come here because I look forward to seeing the people and feeling welcomed." Another lady also commented, "I don't come here because I need the food but because I love to connect and see a familiar and friendly face, and sit down and talk and share. I can't imagine my week without it."

"To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world."

Upcoming Dinners:

Dec. 9 – Wellington Square Board and Friends
Dec. 16 – Burlington Baptist
Dec. 23 – Burlington Meeting House Small Group 1
Dec. 30 – Burlington Meeting House Small Group 2

Jan. 6 – Wellington Square and Friends
Jan. 13 –Wellington Square & Friends & Pathways Group Home
Jan. 20 – Burlington Baptist
Jan. 27 – Burlington Meeting House

Contact Lisa at communitydinner@wsquare.ca

GraceLand Christmas Presentation - Sunday, December 4

2011-12-02T19:40:00.001-05:00

Sunday, December 4, 2011

2011-12-02T19:40:00.000-05:00

“When He Cometh: There Will Be Peace”

I’ve Been Thinking …

… of the spiritual paradox of this season. In one sense there is nothing we can do to make Christmas happen, and in another sense if the Christ is going to come to us, we must prepare.
Advent literally means ‘arrival’. God’s arrival. Take note that God’s kingdom is not formed by any human discovery or intention, however daring and noble, but by the coming of Christ. That’s good news, because the needs in this world, and in our lives, are so overwhelming that we cannot hope to meet them on our own. Only divine intervention can change our world, and our hearts.
Advent might be compared to a prison cell "in which one waits and hopes and does various unessential things…but is completely dependent on the fact that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside." (Dietrich Bonhoeffer)
Christmas means that God broke into our world, to free us from disease, death, sin, despair, loneliness, and wandering confusion. Jesus is God’s divine rescue mission bringing direction, fellowship, hope, mercy, resurrection, and healing. All a gift that we can only receive. We are completely dependent on God. And yet …
And yet, dependency does not release us from responsibility. There is something we can do — prepare ourselves, and wait in expectancy.
How many of us share the longing of the ancient prophets, who awaited the Messiah with such aching intensity that they foresaw his arrival hundreds of years before he was born?
So find your way to prepare — read Isaiah, whose prophecies we are examining this month; read the Gospels accounts of Jesus’ arrival (Matthew, Luke and John); take time to be still, absorb the songs of Christmas. Pray. Pray morning and evening that God’s Spirit will come to you, will come upon you, arriving with quiet gentle power. Find your way to prepare, and wait with anticipation and expectancy. Christ is coming.
Let Joy prevail in this season of our Lord’s birth …
ORVILLE

Habitat for Humanity Halton

2011-12-02T19:32:00.000-05:00

Habitat for Humanity volunteers needed for local project.
Habitat Halton is looking for volunteers to assist with interior painting of condo units here in Burlington thatthat are being prepared for new families. Saturdays, December 10 & 17 from 9:30 - 4:30. For more information, please contact lfergusson@wsquare.ca

Poinsettias

2011-12-02T19:26:00.000-05:00

For those of you who ordered Christmas flowers in support of the Youth Mexico Mission 2012, they can be picked up Sunday in St. Paul’s hall after the service. For those of you who missed the order deadline, the good news is that we ordered extra items, so come on in and check it out.

Quilts

2011-12-02T19:25:00.002-05:00

Dot Gow Workshops Quilts for sale Sunday between services.

UCW Meeting

2011-12-02T19:24:00.002-05:00

Monday, December 12
Come out for tea and dessert, and listen to music by Sharon McGibbon, followed by a sing song, business meeting and worship in the Pritchard Room.

God’s Love in Action

2011-12-02T19:23:00.001-05:00

Bring Christ’s care to hurting people. Do you have gifts of compassion? Are you a good listener? There are many people in our community and congregation who are in need of a caring presence and a listening ear. But while the need is plentiful, currently the workers are few. Our goal is to match compassionate people with folks in need in a way that is friendly to busy schedules and has a short-term commitment. To find out more about using your gifts and passions, please come to a no-strings-attached information session on January 16, 2012 at 7:00 pm in the McMillan room.

Children's Ministry

2011-12-02T19:23:00.000-05:00

Advent GraceLand Themes:
Why Mary and Joseph?
Why Angels?
Why Shepherds?
Why Jesus?

GraceLand Needs
2 CD Boom Boxes in good working condition.

Note: for safety and by-law requirements, ALL children MUST have a Participant Form signed by a parent or guardian.

giving to God

2011-12-02T19:21:00.000-05:00

It is so easy to get wrapped up in the approaching holiday season, picking up an extra gift here, spend a little extra there … If this sounds familiar, then perhaps you should consider participating in our next Financial Peace University course. Learn some financial foundations, practical tips and smart money decisions to apply to your life. Wellington Square has had many graduates already — in fact, the highest number of participants are actually community residents, who don’t attend our church!

Come and see for yourself what the attendees are learning — Financial Peace University classes meet for two hours each week for 13 weeks, during which time the average family pays off $5300 in debt and saves $2700! This is a highly reputable program that runs across North America and you can participate right here at our church! The next course begins in the new year, be sure to look for sign-up information in the coming weeks, or check out the website, http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu, for more
information about the program content.

Lighting the Candle for Advent I

2011-11-27T12:51:00.002-05:00

Flowers Sunday, November 27

2011-11-27T12:50:00.000-05:00

Flowers are placed in the chancel Sunday to the Glory of God and in loving memory of Babs and Jack Ball and Kay and brother Don from Betty McLeod.

Mark Your Calendars

2011-11-27T12:46:00.000-05:00

Next Congregational Meeting Tuesday January 31st.

The Mitten Tree

2011-11-27T12:30:00.004-05:00

The Mitten Tree | is located in the foyer outside the office. All donations will go to the Friday Night Community Dinner and to the Compassion Society.

Volunteer Painters Wanted for Sunday, 2 - 4 pm

2011-11-26T18:48:00.000-05:00

We have been helping out a Mom whose 11 year old daughter has been diagnosed with brain cancer. She just started treatments at McMaster Children's Hospital and they have a very long haul ahead of them. We have been doing some cleaning and are ready to start painting the house, in order to prepare it for when her daughter can come home. We have a group ready to go but can do with about 4 more people who have some experience with painting. We will be painting ceilings and walls in the kitchen, hall and living room as well as two closets. We will also be doing the walls going upstairs and the upstairs hall. We are very thankful that all of the paint and most of the painting materials have been donated. If you are able to help any time between 12:00-4:00 pm that would be great.
Please let me know if you are able to come.
Thanks so much.
Lisa communitydinner@wsquare.ca

Sunday, November 27 - Advent I

2011-11-26T10:42:00.000-05:00

“When He Cometh: There Will be Light”

In days to come the mountain of the LORD’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised above the hills; all the nations shall stream to it. Many peoples shall come and say, ‘Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.’ For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord! –Isaiah 2:2,3,5 (NRSV)

I’VE BEEN THINKING…
…about how to communicate a vision? You wake up from a vivid, multi-coloured dream…try to describe it… a blur of clear images, and fuzzy experiences.
Time, as well, blends into past, present and future. Actual happenings in history make strange connections with current events and then fade into premonitions of things to come.
Listen to Isaiah 1:1 –“The vision of Isaiah son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of…” Isaiah’s book is not history, or poetry, or even prophecy. Like the final answer on a multiple choice test, Isaiah is ‘all of the above’.
Martin Luther King is best known for his speech, ‘I Have a Dream.” He dreamed of equality of the races and social justice for all people. The book of Isaiah might be read as God saying, “I Have a Dream.” God dreamed of a future in which righteousness prevailed among the people and peace prevailed among the nations.
Isaiah wrote about 700 B.C. conveying something timeless. Did he know? Had he caught a glimpse? of The Dream? of He that cometh?
God went so far as to foretell how the world would be redeemed through the coming of His servant, the Messiah, ‘Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace’ (Is. 9:6).
Messiah – God’s ‘anointed one’, He that Cometh…
During the next 4 weeks, this season of Advent leading to Christmas, we will explore Isaiah’s vision, a different aspect each week.
‘When Messiah Cometh’, He will bring…
Light –Is 2:1-5 (November 27th);
Peace-Is 11:1-10,(December 4th);
Singing –Is 35:1-10 (December 11th), and
God will Be With us –Is 7:10-16 (December 18th), and
‘A Child Will Be Born’ Is 9:2-7,(December 24th)
Please consider reading Isaiah – the dream, the vision of God, for our world, through He That Cometh.
Blessings & Peace to you all… ORVILLE

Communion Sunday Collection for the Crisis Care Fund

2011-11-26T10:37:00.000-05:00

Sunday we invite you to contribute to our Crisis Care Fund — a vital resource used with prayerful discernment by your ministry team. It allows us to provide care and hope for those in our wider community as they cope with some of life's harshest realities. Our prayer is for a day when such a fund will have no use ... and we pray, until that day arrives, you will continue to contribute generously.

Flower Team

2011-11-26T10:31:00.000-05:00

Would you enjoy being part of this team, leading the decorating of the sanctuary for various seasons of the year? Contact the office office@wsquare.ca

Office Closed

2011-11-26T10:30:00.001-05:00

The church office will be closed Monday, December 26 through Friday, December 30, 2011

2012 UCC Calendars

2011-11-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

Wall calendars are available to purchase from the office for $5.

2012 Daily Bible Reading Guide

2011-11-26T10:28:00.001-05:00

2012 Daily Bible Reading Guide is now available at the Welcome Center.

Bell Choir

2011-11-26T10:28:00.000-05:00

Bell Choir is performing at the Halton Regional Police Chorus’ “The Sounds of Christmas” on December 3.
For tickets and info contact Gord Wright 905-637-7357.

WOW News

2011-11-26T10:27:00.001-05:00

Book Club: Next Selection The Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennett to be discussed January 9 available at A Different Drummer Books (mention Wellington Square or WOW Book Club to get 20% off this book)

Retreat: June 8-10, 2012 | Mount Mary Retreat Centre. Theme: Amazing Peace. Facilitator: Judy Savoy (watch for registration info this fall)

RSVP wow@wsquare.ca

group life

2011-11-26T10:27:00.000-05:00

Meet, Pray, Love |Starting Thursday November 24, we will be studying the book of Ephesians, until we break for Christmas. We are a mixed group of men, women and couples. Everyone welcome to join us! Contact Mary Jane Pearson at mjpearson@wsquare.ca or 905 335 5933 for more information.

Community Care Bags for Christmas

2011-11-26T10:26:00.000-05:00

A local Christmas Joy program. Please bring in personal care items such as:
soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, washcloths, body lotion, etc. and children’s products such as Tylenol, Q-tips, baby wash. These items will help to make Community Care Bags for the folks who come here for the Friday Night Downtown Community Dinner. Every Friday we share a meal and fellowship with over 130 families living in the Burlington area at the Downtown Community Dinner. This Christmas we are once again collecting the above personal care items in order to prepare Community Care Bags for each guest who wishes one. We hope to have a bag for over 200 men, women and children this year. Thanks so much for supporting this local caring ministry!
CONTACT: Lisa Lunski-Wood- communitydinner@wsquare.ca

Angel Wings Update

2011-11-26T10:17:00.002-05:00

We have had a tremendous launch thanks to your enthusiasm! All “Wish Tags” for the children and teens have been taken. Now we turn our focus to the second part of the program ….. cash for family needs and for food vouchers. We still need $4,500 to meet our commitments for 2011. Thank you in advance for your consideration, in SHOWING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY THAT WE CARE!

Chickens for Christmas

2011-11-26T10:13:00.000-05:00

Living in poverty means children and adults go without adequate food, much less sufficient nutrition. Chickens offer a simple, sustainable solution. The Poultry Project in Sierra Leone provides chickens, training, and lifestyle support so that impoverished farmers can become successful poultry farmers able to put food on the table and provide medical care and education for their children by raising chickens, eating or selling the eggs. You can help a family rise out of poverty in one of the poorest countries in the world.
“Give a man a chicken and you’ll feed him for a day;
Teach a man to raise chickens and his family will eat for a lifetime.”
CONTACT: Wendy Clifton - wclifton@wsquare.ca

T.L.C. Malawi

2011-11-26T10:12:00.002-05:00

Think! Learn! Care! Malawi!
We were pleased to welcome Helen Jones Sunday, November 20th to share in our worship services! Helen and her husband Paul have been directors of Emmanuel International Malawi for over 20 years. Our Malawi team HAHFA (handsandheartsforafrica) is fortunate to have this Canadian Christian global organization as our partner on the ground in Malawi. This partnersip has allowed us to meet many wonderful folks as well as offer assistance in many forms to some of the people of Malawi. You can help children in Malawi counter the effects of malnutrition by purchasing a special set of blocks that are designed and being made by young apprentice carpenters in Malawi. Contact fgray@wsquare.ca