A dear friend from Seminary, a minister in the United States - shared a lengthy post on Facebook the morning after the US elections. She shared her thoughts and lament for those who are disappointed, those who are devastated, those who are now afraid for the future of their country after the results became official. And at the end of her comments, she wrote Psalm 34:18 "God is near to the broken hearted and uplifts those who are crushed in spirit."
No matter what our political leanings are, we know that there are hundreds of thousands of people to our south right now who are reeling at the moment. We know that there are people who are afraid, uncertain, and weary of the days ahead. And so whatever your personal political stance is - I invite you to hold our neighbours to the south in prayer as they navigate days, weeks and months ahead. Pray for those who are in power to do what is good for all not just a select few, and that love and peace will find a way to reign in the hearts of the people.
And I leave you with a prayer, written by Steven Charlston, Native American theologian and former Episcopal Bishop in Alaska ; "When others hate, may you love. When others curse, may you bless. When others hurt, may you heal. When others divide, may you unite. When others rage, may you calm. When others deny, may you affirm. You are a servant of the light. You need not be afraid of the darkness. God strengthen you to carry on with your work and faithfully live you who are in Christ; Love for stranger, love for enemy, love for neighbour." Amen!
Yours in Christ,
Kirsten +
Due to the November 11 statutory holiday.
The more the merrier! There will also be a brief Christmas Tea meeting afterwards.
The Celebration of life for John will be at St. Philip by the Sea Lantzville November 16 at 1:30pm. All are welcome to attend. There will be an interment for John at St. Mary's at a later date.
Tell all your neighbours and friends and mark your calendar!! This will be a festive afternoon tea with delectable treats.
Cost: $15/person at the door.
Grab a few posters this Sunday after the service if you can help with posting them around Nanoose, Parksville, Qualicum Beach and Lantzville.
There will also be a bake table (Pat N) and a Christmas craft table (Marg D).