Celebrate

It was a long weekend and there was every reason to believe our numbers would be small. But it was a big day for a certain eight-year-old, ready to be baptized. Guests were coming and the presider had announced the week before that the font would be filled if others wanted to join. As Sunday approached, the person in charge had a restless sense that something might happen and we should be prepared.

Sunday dawned and Martina arrived for worship. Martina was a new member, having been baptized just eighteen months earlier. She came to be with her church family, to ask for their loving support in the recent loss of her own dear daughter to cancer. Those present surrounded her with love and care and no one minded delaying the start of the service. A second delay for a special Canada Day dedication meant that the service had still not begun when a second near neighbour lady arrived. She was not unknown to us for she had attended several times before and had, in fact, taken pre-baptismal classes with Martina just last year. But for whatever reason, she had not gone ahead at that time.

Now, here she was, drawn into the sanctuary with the font prepared in anticipation of another baptism. Approaching two of the elders who'd been with her in those earlier classes she asked if she might now be baptized. She had a strong sense of being called into the church that morning and felt confirmed by what she found there. Could she be baptized too?

Time seemed to stand still as necessary conversations took place. She would need a change of clothes. White choir robes were found to facilitate the immersion. Messages passed between ministers and worshipers. The priest who had come to baptize the child  agreed to perform the second baptism. The two baptisms happened amidst great rejoicing. The child delighted to share the sacrament and invited her new sister to be confirmed with her as well. That too was arranged.

The Spirit was present in the service in great abundance. There were seventy-five people in attendance. In this congregation that prides itself in "finishing on time" no one left the extra long service and most remained to share in the BBQ lunch and fellowship that followed. The spirit of celebration extended into the afternoon and only two or three did not stay until three o'clock basking in the glow shared by our two newest members.

Since that day I have shared with Bonnie, the woman who felt called to come in, who felt so welcomed and embraced by the Spirit and by the community. She will continue her studies with those whose concern and influence she knew before. She joined the group supporting her friend Martina in her loss. Those of us who shared this experience thank God for offering so many ways to be blessed if we are just open to them. 

by Paul Fitzgeorge
Brydges Street Congregation
London, ON

Scarborough

On Monday evening, I met with the pastors of the Scarborough congregation, or as I like to call it, Toronto East. We discussed their current organizational structure, and the efforts they are making to communicate clearly, effectively, and in a modern way. The pastors discussed their six focus areas for ministry. They showed me their audio-video capacity and explained how they are using it to bring ministry. They shared about starting the year off with a baptismal service in which a mother and daughter made a covenant with Christ, and then were confirmed in a separate service. In many ways, they are off to a good start for the year.

The thing that impressed me, however, was not the plans, the graphics, or the org-chart. It was not their proficiency at creating activities or learning opportunities for their members. The thing that impressed me was the energy and enthusiasm with which they spoke about their congregation. It was clear that they are enjoying their church community and their leadership roles within it. It was obvious that their congregation actually is a community of joy for them. Said another way, their congregation is fun! Wouldn't it be great if that were always the case?

There was a second element that I found encouraging in our conversation. As I invariably asked about how the programs could bless the surrounding community, I found that there was a very “can-do” attitude present. No idea was met with a frown that said, “Oh, we couldn’t (or wouldn’t) do that,” in fact quite the opposite was the case. Every suggestion was met with a smile, an enthusiastic nod, and a comment like, “That’s a really interesting idea!” To me, leaders who are open to new ideas are always a cause for celebration.

So here’s to the leadership team in Scarborough. They lift each other up, celebrate the giftedness of their people, encourage each other, and are open to new suggestions. What more could a congregation ask?

Posted by Carman

Party

This past Sunday evening, I attended a very lovely little party. It was somewhat low-key as parties go; no blaring music or flowing cocktails, but a very enjoyable event none the less. It is a little hard to characterize this party since it combined a number of different elements. First of all, the party celebrated Christmas which is January 7 on the Russian calendar, just two days earlier. Second, the party recognized Epiphany on January 6, the date on the Christian calendar that marks the arrival of the Magi from the East to visit Jesus. Third, there were also elements of a New Year’s party, complete with party favors such as giant crackers, paper hats, jokes, riddles and little surprise toys for the children.

But this party was a fun celebration of the first gathering of 2011 for a group of people that didn’t even know each other six months ago. This was a meeting of a small group that we hope will eventually lead to a new congregation in the city of Barrie; one of Ontario’s fastest growing communities. The theme of this party was “New Beginnings,” a phrase pastor Matthew Swain upheld to the group and promised to continue to talk about for a long time to come.

There is something refreshing about a group that gathers together to celebrate a future that cannot yet be seen and must merely be dreamed. Oh, it is quite true that contacts are being made and possibilities are being discussed, but no one can say with any certainty what the future of this new baby seedling church plant might be. Despite all of that, there is reason to celebrate: possibilities exist, new friendships are being formed, opportunities are being explored, and dreams are being shared. In fact, there was a fair amount of all of those things being talked about at the party.

New beginnings; the first gathering of 2011, the first Christmas/Epiphany/New Year’s party of this new community, and further more, the first time two young guitar players demonstrated their brand new skills in public! That is all cause for a celebration.

Hey…we should have a party!

Posted by Carman

Directors

This past weekend, 34 people met together at Scarboro Missions for the 2010 Directors Retreat. This is an annual meeting of our camp, reunion and retreat directors, some of their key staff, plus people who are being mentored as directors of the future. It is always a weekend well spent.

For me, this year was especially rewarding because it was the first time this event was led by our new CEM Camping Commission. Despite having worked very hard to be ready, this four person team was understandably nervous. They needn’t have been; they did a great job, and they were embraced by the wonderfully supportive members of our wonderful camping community. Our camps will grow stronger because of their efforts.

Generally the meeting begins with a review of the season just past. Here we share our successes and celebrate victories. This year we were especially thrilled to hear stories of young lives changed and transformed as a result of the loving and accepting community found at camp. Just one story of a life changed in this way makes all the planning, all the phone calls searching for competent staff, and all the work of preparation worthwhile. Tears of joy were shed, for these are lives saved and transformed. We thank God.

Soon the group turns its attention to learning from each other. We listen to those who have achieved great success in their particular area. This year, we celebrated excellence in children’s programming at Erie Beach reunion, and exceptional team building in the leadership of Senior High camp. In this section of the weekend, techniques are shared and ideas explored as we seek to learn from each other’s success.

As the comfort level in the group grows, problems are also revealed, explored and wrestled with. Questions are raised about ways to handle difficulties already experienced, or anticipated in the future. As always, I am impressed with the serious level of intensity directors and staff brings to this effort. Discussion and debate ensue. Sometimes solutions are found, and sometimes we decide we need to keep struggling for an answer. At least one persistent problem comes up every year, and every technique we can think of has been tried. It is a small problem really, but a nagging one. Once again, possible solutions are suggested, and we will try again.

Finally, our attention turns to new ideas, and there are some good ones. For example, what if we chose one reunion and focused on helping parents understand the various stages of child development? What if we had marriage counselors on staff, and instructors who could give parents solid, proven ideas about how to deal with difficult situations? What if we also offered the Good Sense course right at the reunion? Should we do this at an existing reunion or should it be a new camp? Who would staff such an effort? Who would lead it? Where and when would we hold it? This is just one of several new ideas explored.

For all those who look forward to the six reunions, four youth camps, and numerous retreats that happen every year, you may be interested to know that the work of thinking about and planning for next year’s camping season has already begun. There is much to do, but many hands make light work. Perhaps you might like to help. If so, why not give the director of your camp or reunion a call to offer your services? They will be delighted to take your call.

Posted by Carman

Chile

I am writing this post on Thursday, so it will probably be old news by the time you read it, but I still think it is worth a comment or two.

This morning, as yesterday morning, the news is all about the successful rescue of the 33 Chilean miners trapped underground for the past 69 days. In fact, yesterday I don’t think there was any other news! Even the Commonwealth games hardly got a passing mention on the Canadian news channels, and that is highly unusual. Today the rescue is the lead story, but the closing ceremony of the games will also be covered at least, and there will be some handwringing over the fact that Canada only came away with 75 medals. I guess things are returning to normal (sigh).

But it is amazing and wonderful to have such a good news story so fully occupy the attention of broadcast journalists and news anchors, not just here but around the world. It is really quite refreshing. It is lovely to see Chileans proudly waving their flags, and celebrating this successful rescue. Little wonder they are so excited; after all, the entire world is watching. Most of the world probably didn’t know where Chile is, let alone know anything about this remarkable country.

The rescue has given the people of Chile much to feel good about, and clearly they do. Of course they have much to be proud of anyway, but the rescue has given them a reason to hold a wonderful celebration, which I heard described as the “World’s biggest street party.” As the balloons rise, the champagne corks pop, and the streamers fly, our hearts celebrate with the people of Chile. Our congratulations, prayers of gratitude and good wishes join with theirs. Well done! Chile is definitely the good word of the day.

So party on Chile; you deserve it, and may the joy you feel this day last a long long time!
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Posted by Carman

Gobble

Definition:

1. The gurgling sound made by a male turkey.
2. To devour in greedy gulps.

Canadian Thanksgiving is over. The hours of stuffing and cooking the turkey, making the cranberry sauce, peeling the potatoes and turnip, baking the pumpkin pies and whipping the cream are done. The meal has been eaten and the family has left for home. The house that bulged with the sounds of eighteen people talking and playing is now strangely quiet. The only sounds are the keys on my computer and the quiet splash of the dishwasher doing the last load of dishes for the evening. Ah bliss!

Despite good intentions about not overeating, my waistband feels a little snug at the moment. It must have been the fact that there were four different desserts on offer, and I knew I would be asked my opinion on at least three of them! I am happy to report that regular pumpkin pie with a healthy dose of spice and a dollop of whipped cream is still far superior to cream-cheese pumpkin pie. I can further opine that apple crisp made without wheat flour should only be eaten by people who are wheat intolerant. They will be very thankful for a dessert they can safely eat. The rest of us should stick to regular apple crisp!

All in all, today was a good day at our house. We have greeted each other, talked, laughed, eaten, enjoyed the children, and even celebrated three October birthdays while we were at it. Now we have sent everyone safely on their way home to bed. No better day than that!

Now, so that we don’t forget how and what we gobbled too soon, click on the following link for a very cute You Tube video called The Gobble Song.

Posted by Carman

Floor

There is is in all its glory! Word just in from Johanne Chauvin, chair of the Mcgowan's Lake Campground Board and chief cheer-leader for the project to build the new shower house there.

Her enthusiasm just bubbles out of the email that accompanied this picture under the heading of Hallelujah!

Oh it's been a journey alright. Ask anyone from the Ottawa/Kingston/Belleville area for the story and be prepared to listen a long time.

But as Johanne tells us now, the challenges have been overcome, construction is beginning, the adventure is unfolding and "we are standing on the promises of God!" Not to mention a beautiful concrete floor. There it is! We can see it!

They've worked hard and the work isn't done yet, but the celebration is well underway. Johanne tells us, this dedicated group of folks are committed to keep going, celebrating the support they've received and will keep receiving, walking on the promises and looking forward to great ministry, sharing and relating to God and God's people in years to come.

(Is that floor hard enough yet to dance on Johanne?)

Posted by Marion

Retirement

Today (Friday) is one of those rare days when you get a “two for one” sale on What’s the Good Word? Today, Marion Smith will be honoured in Independence, Missouri for her retirement from World Church employment. Now, before anyone panics or misunderstands, let me emphasize that this is retirement from “World Church” employment. Technically that event happened some months ago, however Marion continues to work faithfully and diligently, but in the service of Canada East Mission. Hopefully that can continue for some time to come. And by the way, if there were any panicking to be done about this, you would need to get in line behind me!

While Marion continues to serve us all with her great resources of wisdom and knowledge, this occasion seems to be a good time to reflect on some possible understandings of this word, “retirement.”

There is an old story, possibly apocryphal, about Bishop G. Leslie DeLapp. DeLapp was Presiding Bishop of the church for many years and saw it through some very difficult times. When he retired, he was asked what he planned to do in his retirement. He is reported to have replied, “I plan to sit in the rocking chair on my front porch, and early in the morning of the second week, I plan to start rocking gently!” The Bishop had surely earned his rest.

An epilogue to that story came some years later when this anecdote was repeated to retiring Presiding Evangelist Roy Cheville. When asked if he planned to do the same, Cheville is reported to have responded scornfully, “I’m going to kick the thing to pieces!”

Not long after his retirement, Doc Cheville was a weekend guest minister at a congregation where I happened to be pastor. He told me personally that his definition of retirement was to “put on new tires and keep on going!” He was true to his word. When I drove him to Toronto airport at the conclusion of that weekend, he was on his way to Japan. Clearly there was no rocking chair in his future!

Whatever your definition of retirement, it is only appropriate to end this post as it began, in tribute to our beloved Marion. Well done, oh good and faithful servant! Thank you! We appreciate all you do.

While Marion may be slightly surprised and embarrassed to be featured on ‘the front side’ of this page instead of behind the pen, I’m sure she would be delighted to hear from you. Why not send her a thank you by clicking on the “Read or Post Comments” box now?

Posted by Carman

Days

You may have noted, as did Carman, that I did not post anything yesterday regarding International Women's Day. My feelings about this special day, one among many days to honour this group or that, are dubious.

[Just a side note here: dubious doubtful, uncertain, wavering or hesitating in opinion,inclined to doubt . ]

About twenty years ago my employer said to me "You're a woman; why don't you organize International Women's Day this year?" But he really couldn't give me much guidance as to the objectives of such recognition. Is it to celebrate the accomplishments of women? Is it to highlight the inequities, the injustices, the many ways women of the world continue, with their children, to be the ones who most suffer from poverty, hunger, violence, war? Just what is the purpose of this special Day anyway?

We have lots of days in our culture. In fact I understand our federal government is about to institute a Seniors' day (I'll likely get to organize that one now too.) We recently observed Family Day here in Ontario. That was fun. My cat and I got some cleaning done.

I recall Mothers' Day was the day the women got to organize the Sunday service, and our youth still get pulled into service for Children's Day or Youth Day. Neither of those circumstances ever seemed quite right to me.

If issues are worth crusading for--ending poverty, treating human beings equitably, stopping violence in families, in society, providing proper care for children, women, men!--then we ought not to be limited to a single day. In fact most of those things are much too important to allow the possibility that anyone might say "Oh we have a Day to pay attention to that"!

And if someone's accomplishments are worthy of honour or celebration, then find as many ways and days to honour and celebrate tham as you can. I'd be happy to have special days popping up all over the place. But make your day a day of genuine celebration; pull out all the stops, or take home a big bouquet, or spend the whole day with your family in the park, or whatever pleases you.

There you have my cynical rant on special Days! I'd be really pleased to hear from our readers holding a different perspective. As I said earlier, I'm still wavering, and am ready to be convinced otherwise. What do you think?

Posted by Marion

True Spirit

Here's Cheryl Brooks' report of the weekend we shared in Montreal. She acknowledges it's lengthy--but I'm going to give the whole thing to you. Enjoy her account of our visit with the Montreal congregation:

TRUE SPIRIT

This past weekend I accompanied a good friend on a road trip to Montreal. Not only did we share wonderful “windshield time” as Marion called it, but I also received “blessing time” from a congregation that knows how to show their true spirit.

We arrived at the church (which is located directly on an intersection and is attached to a car wash) on Saturday afternoon where we met the pastor – Albert – vacuuming and preparing for the evening service. Instantly, we were greeted and welcomed and yes, an invitation was even extended for me to offer a prayer in the Sunday morning service. – which I accepted. (Marion was giving a morning message for them)

(You see Albert is very good at inviting – a few years ago he put a guitar outside their front door and a young man came in and asked if they needed a guitar player – he is still playing that guitar for their services)

That evening’s praise service was amazing as young people led with songs, prayers, chants and lots of thanksgiving. A message was shared from Matthew about the 10 bridesmaids and being ready when Christ returns. Very powerful service – truly upbeat and lively.
Sunday morning we arrived early to find many helping Albert to get ready – microphones tested, instruments warmed up, coats hung up (you see Albert insisted on this since he was expecting all seats to be filled), and amongst all this activity there were still greetings given by everyone. By 10:30 maybe 25 were there to worship when we began and then people gradually kept coming in until we probably had 100.

No hymn books are available here but a few praise/chant books are, which most do not need since songs are mainly memorized and repeated joyously with clapping and dancing. No bulletins are used but there is great order in the service with the worship planner leading the congregation and the presider, Albert, with a loving hand over the service and aware of what’s taking place. No offering plates here but decorated colourful cloth baskets are used because offering time is joyful, full of singing and praise which flows right into the service.

Bibles, however are brought by most (hmm, something we don’t see in majority of our congregations) so when the scripture is read they can turn to the verses and follow along – also, most usually stand at this time.

Marion’s message shared about the gifts everyone has to offer along with how we are all connected as a mission center within our many diverse congregations. Another preacher (from a different denomination) followed her with a great passion to share the word as we were basically leading into a “revival” type message calling all to show what it truly means to have the spirit within us and do what Christ leads us to do.

Music was great throughout the weekend with lots of microphones (used to fullest potential), electric guitars, drums & keyboards. Praise and thanksgiving for everything is something this congregation shows enthusiastically. This is a congregation who is mainly Haitian, and they know all too well about loved ones who are suffering from Haiti yet they continue to praise God for everything.

All ages shook hands, extended greetings, some translated & most said God Bless. Oh, and did I mention I do not speak their language? - it did not matter.

Invitation, welcoming, gathering, sharing about Jesus & living it, - sounds like some aspects of the Healthy Congregation and our 2020 visioning goals!!

Let’s share the excitement of having Jesus in our lives – Let’s show what it means to have the TRUE SPIRIT of Christ within us.