From the Rector's Desk

This week I have been reflecting a lot on all the ways in which scripture uses the idea of planting to help explain the kingdom of God. You know, all those "the kingdom of God is like…” parables, where Jesus talks about mustard seeds, and planting on different types of soil. And I think there are two reasons why these are occupying my mind these days.

The first is because at home, Cristopher and I have been working on some outside renovations. In March we had contractors in to rebuild our deck, as it was crossing that delicate line towards being unsafe. And this week we are having some fair-sized landscaping projects done. While we have enlisted help with some of the work, one of my jobs in all of this has been figuring out what plants would survive the summer in our very hot, west facing, full-sun front yard. So I have been doing some research about plants that are drought resistant, heat tolerant and generally all-round resilient.

The other reason that I’ve been thinking about the times Jesus talks about seeds and planting is because, well, we have done quite a bit of that here at St. Mary’s in the last little while. We have entered into a time of trust and faith as we have tried new things, like taking on the daycare as a tenant and engaging in new forms of worship. We have had to test the soil, and really look at the environment we are as we try to figure out what will grow well here in this place.

Just as in the world we see people planting their gardens and farmers planting crops, we too are in a time of planting. Planting seeds, planting ideas, planting new things to see what will take root and grow our community further. So lets keep working together to grow this community garden of faith, sharing seeds and sharing the love of God in everything we do.

Peace,

Kirsten +

 

 NOTE DAY AND TIME CHANGE

The parish council meeting will be meeting in the church on Tuesday. April 23rd at 10am

Find out first-hand what is happening at St. Mary’s.  Everyone is most welcome to attend.

 

JUNE JUMBLE SALE MEETING: TUESDAY, APRIL 23rd, 1pm at the church

The June Jumble Sale is Saturday June 1st from 10-3pm.  Tell all your neighbours and friends.

If you are splitting indoor or outdoor plants for donation to the Garden and Pet Centre, please contact Sue G .

Spring cleaning or de-owning some house or kitchen wares?  There will be a 'Boys' Toys' and Baked Goods area.  No clothing or large furniture pieces please.  We will be collecting clean bedding and towels for donation to the SPCA.

Also please bring any information, ideas etc. that you would like to share and/or add to the agenda for our next meeting. Looking forward to seeing you all!

HELP needed in THE CHURCH OFFICE

Later this year we will be needing some help in the office as KAT will be away from mid-August through until mid-October. For this 8 weeks we will need someone with some computer skills to assist Rev. Kirsten in the church office. Duties will include tasks such as:  finalizing bulletins, answering phone calls and emails, working in consultation with Kirsten and the wardens, and generally assisting with office duties. If this is something you feel you might be called to do for 8-10hrs a week or know of someone who might be a good fit, please speak to Kirsten or the wardens.

 

 

VANCOUVER ISLAND CHOIR CONCERT/FUNDRAISER

At ST. MARY’S - THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 21 at 4pm.
This choir travels approximately every two years, bringing its music to countries around the world. Previously, VIC travelled to China, Croatia, Scotland and Spain. Currently, the choir is preparing for travels in May 2024 to Malta and Italy.

For more information, please contact Patricia Plumley at plumleymusic@shaw.ca  or ntwynam@gmail.com.  The proceeds from the concert will be shared with St. Mary’s.  There will also be social time afterwards in our hall.  Everyone is welcome!

                                       

                                  

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 2024

FRIDAY APRIL 26th,  2pm at ST. COLUMBA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Inter-denominational day of prayer in Canada  is “to promote the spreading of Christ’s kingdom through united prayer and action.” This year’s theme is Palestine.

Readers Needed for Service of Lament

St. Edmunds, Parksville, has requested two people from St. Mary’s to come as readers during the Service of Lament on Sunday April 28th at 1pm. The readings are one line each expressing grief for the victims of violence and war in our world, so there won’t be any long biblical names to contend with! If this is something you can help with or would like to be a part of, please let Rev. Kirsten know.

 

 

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