August 30th, 2026
This Sunday’s gospel lesson is a continuation of last Sunday’s discourse. While last Sunday we noted the different viewpoints to the identity of Jesus, this week the focus is on a willingness to follow where Christ leads.
Being a community of faith rooted in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus is not an easy task. All we need do is look at the letters that Paul and others wrote to the early
Christian communities. The letters often start with a collective reminder that the community is not strictly made up of individuals who happen to get together on occasion, but rather of individuals bound together to create a more cohesive and whole community. The kind of community where everyone has a part to contribute no matter how insignificant it may seem.
This is an important reminder for us today. In a world where divisions and differences are constantly thrown in our faces by political parties, economic disparity, racial tensions, gender dynamics, ability and age discrimination, to be the church that brings people together, building on a foundation of equity, justice, compassion, respect and
love, is challenge and purpose.
My parents were worthy role models of what it meant to put faith into action. Neither my father nor my mother was perfect. But what set them apart for me from others is
that they did not only speak, or in my father’s case preach, about the love of God, but that they found concrete and effective ways to bring that love to fruition both in their
church life and in their private life.
While I have tried to follow their example, I always feel like I come up short. While I have reached retirement age and will celebrate 40 years of active ministry effective
September 1st, 2026, I still have much to learn. I am grateful for all those who have shaped my faith throughout the years. I am grateful for those with whom I share ministry with in the three congregations I currently serve. These folks continue to challenge me, nurture me, and call me to be accountable as we seek to build churches that truly are a haven for friend and stranger alike. Places where all are welcome regardless of racial or ethnic origin; economic status, gender expression and sexual orientation, age and ability.
Thank you for 40 years. On to the next decade!
Rev. Deborah
ANNOUNCEMENTS
WED. SEPT. 9 UCW MEETING: 1:30 PM “Truth and Real – Reconciliation”. All women welcome.
SAT. SEPT. 12 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM UCW Fall Rally: All women are invited to the Fall Rally at St. Albert United Church, 20 Green Grove Drive. St. Albert UCW is the host. The theme is "Hope in Our Changing World", speaker Rev. Chelsea Masterman of Grace United Church in Edmonton. It will follow the format of previous Fall Rallies. Cost is $10. There will be a book exchange table if you wish to contribute to that. Bring your own lunch. Coffee, tea, water and muffins will be available. We need to know who plans to attend so we can convey numbers to St. Albert and arrange for car pooling. We look forward to sharing a wonderful day together.
SUN. SEPT. 20 - LUNCH SUNDAY: Please join us for lunch after the service. This is our chance to say thank you to our administrator for her many years of service. Please let the Church office know if you would like to help.
REMINDERS
AUG. 28 - 30 MEWASSIN CAMPING WEEKEND: Camping weekend at Entwistle RV Campground is happening from Friday, Aug. 28 to Sunday Aug. 30. Everyone is welcome – either to come and camp for the weekend or come for a visit. There will be a service & pot-luck supper on Saturday. Watch for more information via e-mail closer to the date. There is no service at Mewassin on Sun. Aug. 30. If you need directions or more information, please contact Sandra McNab at 587 785-0628.
WED. SEPT. 2: WHISPERING WATERS SERVICES: All are welcome to come over and assist with singing (choir is not back yet). This is an opportunity to visit with folks there, including some friends. Rev. Deborah presiding as Communion is offered.
TUES. SEPT 15, 7 PM: TOWN OF STONY PLAIN - LET’S TALK CAREGIVING: The Town of Stony Plain is facilitating a Community conversation hosted by Caregivers Alberta to share your experiences, connect with others, and help identify the supports caregivers need most in our region.
The event is free, the location is 107, 4613-52 Ave Stony Plain, AB.
Please RSVP: 780 963-8583 or
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/
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
REV DEBORAH’S SCHEDULE FOR UPCOMING SUNDAYS:
Sun. Aug 30, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at Devon UC. Presider: Sharon McRann
NO SERVICE IN MEWASSIN (Camping Weekend)
Sun. Sept 6. 2026 Rev. Deborah away. Pulpit Supply Lesley Janke
Sun. Sept 13, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at Devon UC. Presider SP Darlene Nelson
Sun. Sept. 20, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at SP and MEW.
Sun. Sept. 27, 2026 Rev. Deborah in person at SP and MEW.
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
Ukuleles & Choir: No practices until Sept 2 or 9 unless otherwise notified
Card Recreators: Thursdays, 10 AM
MEETINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS
| Sunday, August 30 | NO SERVICE AT MEWASSIN |
| Wednesday, September 2 | Evening service at Whispering Waters Senior Lodge |
| Tuesday, September 15 | 7:00 PM - Town of Stony Plain "Let's Talk Caregiving" |
| Sunday, September 20 | SP - Lunch Sunday after service |
| Saturday, September 26 | MEWASSIN Bottle Drive |
Wed. Sept 30 6:30 pm Horizon Stage – Truth & Reconciliation