August 2nd, 2026 – Proper 13
My original letter focused on Emancipation Day. A day of remembrance, acknowledgement and celebration to the end of slavery. The reality is that racism and the notion of superiority are still prevalent in the world. Slavery continues to hold people in its clutches even today.
As believers of the God of grace and love, followers of the Christ of justice and equity and recipients of the Spirit of courage and perseverance, we continue to work towards the end of division and the creation of equity and peace. Since Wednesday’s discovery of the body of 11-year-old Parker, I realized that I needed to acknowledge the many who were drawn to the plight of Parker and felt the need to contribute to efforts of finding Parker and bringing him home to his family. Throughout the last thirteen days, strangers, who never met Parker, joined family and first responders in searching for this young, missing individual. Those who could not assist in the physical aspect of the search, offered prayers, checked their yards daily, looked at door ring cameras regularly, and kept their eyes open for a glimpse of Parker.
None of the narrow constraints that humans place on whether someone matters, played a part in people becoming involved. The very thing that is the heart of our humanity is the need to protect the young and the vulnerable. The grief that Parker’s family are experiencing is unimaginable. The first responders and volunteers who searched round the clock are hurting. The community who prayed and worried are dealing with the sadness of the outcome. A community, a city, a province came together to bring a child home. My heart goes out to all who enveloped Parker in word and deed, in love and hope.
Rev. Deborah
Image by yourillustration from Pixabay. Used with permission
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CARD RECREATORS ON BREAK: The Card Recreators will NOT meet Thursday, Aug 6 or Thursday, Aug 13. They’ll be back at work on Thursday, Aug. 20.
WED. SEPT 30, 6:30 PM: HORIZON STAGE - NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION: Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove is hosting an evening of reflection and connection as we mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Through stories, reflections and open conversation, we will honour the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples. This is a time to listen, learn and explore how each of us can commit to the work of healing and reconciliation. Tea, Bannock and light refreshments will be served. This event is free, but you must reserve tickets. For more information and to reserve tickets, see the following:
https://www.horizonstage.com/season-shows/national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliation/
REMINDERS
WED AUG 5 WHISPERING WATERS SERVICE 7:15 PM: We will go to Whispering Waters on Wed. Aug 5 at 7:15 pm for our monthly communion service. If you’d like to help, please contact Linda Maki. Everyone is welcome!
SAT. AUG 15, 2026 MEWASSIN 100th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: You are joyfully invited to join us in celebrating 100 years of Ministry at Mewassin United Church on Saturday, August 15 starting at 1 pm. There will be a short service at 1 pm followed by Pig Roast and Brisket with all the trimmings and Games for the kids. Free will offering gratefully accepted. This is a perfect time to connect with our Church Family, friends and community members as we come together to celebrate and to honour God’s faithfulness over the years.
EDMONTON PRIDE PARADE SAT. AUG 22: The Northern Spirit Affirm Committee is hosting an entry in the Edmonton Pride Parade and inviting Affirming congregations and ministries, and all United Church members and friends who are interested, to walk together. Every participant needs to be registered. Parade starts at 1pm (line up begins at 11:30.) If you want to walk with us in the Edmonton Pride Parade on August 22nd register here: NS Affirm Parade Registration Link
PASSING ON YOUR CONCERNS: If you know of anyone who would like a visit or a card, please contact the Care Committee, Rev. Deborah or the Church Office (780 963-4745) or email
MEWASSIN SUMMER SERVICES SCHEDULE
July 5 to Aug 2 inclusive: No Services (Summer Break)
Sun. Aug 9 Regular Service
Sat. Aug 15: 100th Anniversary Service
Sun. Aug 16 No Service
Sun. Aug 23 Regular (Communion) Service
Aug 30 No Service (Camping Weekend)
REV DEBORAH’S SCHEDULE FOR UPCOMING SUNDAYS:
Sun. Aug. 2, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at SP
NO SERVICE IN MEWASSIN
Sun. Aug 9, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at SP and MEW
SAT AUG 15, 2026 1 pm Special Service at Mewassin to celebrate 100 years of Ministry
Sun. Aug 16, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at Devon UC. SP Presider Brenda Cleland
NO SERVICE IN MEWASSIN
Sun. Aug 23, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at SP and MEW.
SP: Paper Bag Communion/Picnic Service
MEW: Regular Communion Service
Sun. Aug 30, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at Devon UC. SP Presider: Terry Blois
NO SERVICE IN MEWASSIN (Camping Weekend)
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
Ukuleles & Choir: No practices until Sept 2 or 9 unless otherwise notified
Card Recreators: Thursdays, 10 am ***NOT AUG 6 or 13***
MEETINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS
July 5 to Aug 2 inclusive – No Services at Mewassin (Summer Break)
Wed. Aug 5 7:15 pm Whispering Waters Service
Sat. Aug. 15 MEWASSIN 100th Anniversary Service
Sun. Aug 16 NO SERVICE AT MEWASSIN
Fri. Aug 28 to Sun. Aug 30 MEWASSIN Camp out at Entwistle RV Campground
Sun. Aug. 30 NO SERVICE AT MEWASSIN
Sat. Sept 26 MEWASSIN Bottle Drive
Wed. Sept 30 6:30 pm Horizon Stage – Truth & Reconciliation