WORSHIP BLOG, PICTOU UNITED CHURCH,

February 26, 2012, First Sunday in Lent

Service began with the ministry of music provided by flautist Angela Campbell, accompanied by Dave Pos. Reverend Moriarity spoke of Lent, historically, being a period of giving things up, but more recently it has been looked upon as a time of taking on, of opening up and anticipating new beginnings. It is an opportunity for a fresh start. She spoke of Lent being a season of deepening awareness of God and of our own holiness within. She continued, saying that Lent is also a time for the renewal of intention. Reverend Moriarity moved to a discussion of play as a form of spirituality. She reminded us that play provides joy and nurtures our inner being. It is a well-documented form of healing, which heals the individual and moves outward to heal communities and the world itself. Play connects us to creativity and that, in turn, connects us to our spirit.

The reading was Mark 1: 9-15

Staying with the theme of play, next week’s service will celebrate the 100^th birthday of Dr. Seuss. There will be a “Green Eggs & Ham” potluck following the service. Also, from7-8:30pm on March 5 and the three following Mondays, how play is an important spiritual practice will be explored.

The Steward was Jim Parker and greeting the congregation was Donna Weaver.

Submitted by Paula Millman

Celebrating ‘Seuss’

Pictou United Church ~ Sunday, March 4^th @ 10:30am

Join us as in worship we celebrate

Dr. Seuss’ (Theodor Seuss Geisel) Birthday

Whether you dress up or dress down,

wear a smile or wear a frown;

It will be a day worship and fun,

of sharing and singing and joining as one.

Dr. Seuss was a life-long practicing Lutheran, so it is of no surprise that spiritual and moral themes are woven through any, if not all, of his 46 published books.

So on this Sunday we celebrate the wisdom Dr. Seuss continues to offer to all of us: young and not so young.

Following worship all are invited to bring something to share (perhaps Seuss inspired)

as we gather for a “Green Eggs and Ham” POTLUCK Lunch

Feel free to wear something Seuss inspired, or bring your favourite Dr. Seuss book or other Seuss item to church.

ps…. This worship celebration coincides with the film release of “The Lorax”; a book that focuses on the plight of the environment and our call to be stewards of creation.

All ARE INVITED TO JOIN US!

On behalf of the congregation, Brian Burris (left) our current Chairperson and Diane Vaughan (right) our current vice-Chair, offer their thanks to Brad MacCallum (centre) for his years of service as the Chairperson of our Council and Congregation

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WORSHIP BLOG

PICTOU UNITED CHURCH, February 19, 2012

The Seventh Sunday after Epiphany began with Second Cup Sunday. Members of the congregation met before service to enjoy refreshments and conversation. After the service, the choir’s Chicken Burger Luncheon was enjoyed. Following lunch, the 87^th Annual Meeting of Pictou United Church took place.

These activities led well into the themes of today’s service. They included having and sharing bounty, possessing unity in purpose and ministry, and living with peace, love and faith. During the service the Sacrament of Communion was celebrated.

Reverend Moriarity read from “Creating the Church of Tomorrow” by Archbishop Oscar Romiero.  He tells us that no task is ever completed, but how this is very liberating. We do not have to accomplish everything, only plant seeds along the way. In her Reflections, Reverend Moriarity spoke of our lives as a patchwork of stories. She also likened this image to the events and stories of Pictou United over the past year. Reverend Moriarity asked us to lift them together in celebration and gratitude of God’s love.

The Scripture Wisdom was Luke 5: 4-11, inspired by “The CottonPatch Gospel” by Clarence Jordon.

The Steward was Jim Parker and the Lay Reader was Susan Parker.

Serving Communion were Jane and Brian Burris, Art MacDonald, Bruce Wallis, Diane Vaughan and Carolyn Moore.

Carolyn Moore, Jane Burris and Linda Tucker presented Second Cup refreshments.

Submitted by: Paula Millman