Church of the Epiphany Service fo Dec. 3 (Advent One) , 2023
The flowers in the Sanctuary today are to the Glory of God and in loving memory of a dear father and mother William and Florence Brock given by Linda and Bob Aldington and family.
*Claxton Fruit Cakes available. For Civitan. $23.00 for three!
*Cookie Draw. We need 6 dozen cookies or multiples. Sat. Dec. 9 at 10 a.m. Homemade. Non gooey. Non frozen. Non Mint. This year as a bonus for the bakers. A 60$ gift basket from Karpos store One ticket for 6 dozen goodies donated. Thanks Adam for the prize.
Cookie donations. 10am Saturday, December 9. Tickets are $3 each, 2/$5 or 5/$10.
*Christmas Card stamps. Prices reduced this year! Give cards to Barb and they will be mailed with unique stamps. Thanks to Brian and Barb.
*Decorating Dec. 2 at 10 a.m.
*White Gift Sunday. Dec. 3. Soup for twoonie or better donation.
*Dec. 10 Carol Service and Cookie Draw. Stephen and friends.
*The Manor Park New Years Post with Denise Pelley. Show at 8:30. Party to Follow. $35. See Adam for tickets. Set up Saturday. Clean up day and time?
*Dec. 24. Christmas Eve is a Sunday. No church Sunday Morning. 7:00 Carols Servicer at 7:30 p.m.
*New Years Eve morning. Sun Dec. 31. Morning Prayer at 11 a.m. only
*Please remember Our food cupboard. Butch 519-615-9106.
*If you set off the security alarm, please give Barb or Adam a call or text to let them know. It saves them driving to the church.
*Mint smoothies Sandra $3.
*Cancelled stamps. Gloria Thompson.
*Rinsed empty drink containers for Keanna
*The Church Website http://www.thechurchofepiphany.com/
*The Risers . Raised $14,046.25. Still to go $1355.37. Thank You. This will make our hall a true valuable rentable venue and they will be used at our fundraiser shows such as New Years.
*Trivia Jan. 27
*Meat and Veggie Pies. Feb. 2 to 3?
*May 12. Mother’s Day. Bishop Todd visits.
*If you wish, our regular weekly donations or special donations may be sent to our Envelope Secretary:
Barb Smallman
4860 Whiteoak Road
London, Ontario
N6E 3Y8
519-680-0649
Bible Readings for December 03, Advent 1
Audio Service for December 03, Advent 1
Opening:
God of justice and peace,
from the heavens you rain down mercy and kindness,
that all on earth may stand in awe and wonder
before your marvelous deeds.
Raise our heads in expectation,
that we may yearn for the coming day of the Lord
and stand without blame before your Son, Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.
ReadingMark 13:24-37
13:24 “But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light,
13:25 and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.
13:26 Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory.
13:27 Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.
13:28 “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near.
13:29 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates.
13:30 Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place.
13:31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
13:32 “But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
13:33 Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come.
13:34 It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch.
13:35 Therefore, keep awake–for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn,
13:36 or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly.
13:37 And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.”
Sermon
Mark 13:24-37
Wait a minute.
What is going on here?
This is the first Sunday of Advent on the church calendar,
and, more than that, it is almost Christmas.
everything is decorated
===
But here we are in church
less than a month from the big day,
and we get gloom and doom.
What is going on?
Apocalyptic literature usually comes out of scary times.
Jump forward a bit
and we find the book of Revelation
coming from the end of the first century
when Christians were being brutally persecuted
because they refused to worship the Roman emperor.
While this style of literature
is definitely strange to us,
the word apocalypse itself simply means
“unveiling” .
The style of writing wants to convey a message of hope
in “code”
that would not be understandable
to those who are outsiders.
That way the author
would hope to get his or her message
across without arousing the suspicion
or anger of the hostile authorities.
Apocalyptic literature normally
has a strong and stark contrast—
simply put, good versus evil.
It relies on lots of “codes”
that only the faithful would understand.
It regards present dangers
as passing events
that will lead eventually
to God’s ultimate victory.
The Christian church
has preached this theme for generations.
Thus, we encounter the two mini-parables that Mark quotes.
The first involves a fig tree.
No curse this time as with other references in the gospels.
This time, a simple observation.
The disciples had asked for a sign ,
so Jesus offers one.
Most of the trees in that part of the world
are evergreen,
but the olive and the fig are deciduous,
losing and replacing their leaves every year.
The olive tree blossoms early,
so it is not a trustworthy indicator
that summer is around the corner.
The fig tree, however,
blossoms late,
so its blossoms promise
that summer is almost here.
In the parable,
this fig tree is not withered
but is blossoming,
a harbinger of hope.
If the first parable is about signs
the second is a reminder to stay alert.
Spiritual vigilance is important.
In some churches,
the emphasis is very heavily on apocalyptic themes
— the rapture,
the great tribulation,
and the imminent return of Christ.
Fine.
But here we would rather dial that back a notch… or two or three.
To ensure against
the danger of having our eyes
so firmly fixed on heaven
that we are no earthly good,
WE need to be living
this life with generous kindness
Then the life to come will take care of itself.
==
How do we go about it?
Well, there is some very good news for us.
Whether we realize it or not,
we have already begun…
being earthly good
by being right here in church.
It is here in God’s house
that we build the solid foundation
that is crucial to surviving
the winds and waves
that come with the storms of life.
—
Ann Weems is a wonderful poet.
She suffered a terrible time of grief.
Friends tried to help
offer consolation.
One was a seminary professor
who called to her attention
all the biblical material
that seemed to be saying
so much of exactly what she was feeling.
Noting her poetic talent,
he encouraged her to put her feelings to paper.
The result is a remarkable compilation
that not only helped her healing process
but has helped thousands of others as well.
The book is titled Psalms of Lament.
A title that
comes from that collection in scripture
where other poets
have bared their souls in despair.
Her dedication reads:
Through Tears — With Hope. Ann Weems.”
Her poetic preface,
composed after her work was done,
describes what she has learned:
It reads:
In the godforsaken, obscene quicksand of life,
there is a deafening alleluia
rising from the souls
of those who weep,
and of those who weep with those who weep.
If you watch, you will see
the hand of God
putting the stars back in their skies
one by one.1
A promise of healing and wholeness.
“Through Tears — With Hope.”
That is our church.
We need one another.
If you recall the story of creation
from the first chapter of Genesis,
you will remember the litany of
“and God created this,
and it was good…
and God created that,
and it was good,
and so on.”
It only takes until the second chapter of Genesis
for us to find something that is not good —
“and God said,
‘It is not good for human to be alone.’”
No man, no woman, no boy, no girl, is an island.
This is one of the reasons we need our church.
Why we encourage folks to attend,
and we challenge them to join
and take responsibility for what goes on.
For all its flaws,
for all its imperfections,
for all its failures,
if you get involved,
this church is God’s divinely instituted way
of offering people
who need people
the chance to find each other.
It offers the chance to give life meaning
through involvement with others.
Here in this church community,
We can make a difference,
you and I.
===
Like a story:
A man went for a walk
in the forest
and got lost.
It happens easily.
He wandered around for hours
trying to find his way back to town,
trying one path after another,
but none of them led out.
Then abruptly
he came across another hiker
walking through the forest.
He cried,
“Thank God for another human being.
Can you show me the way back to town?”
The other man replied,
“No, I am lost too.
But we can still help each other
in this way —
we can tell each other which path
we have already tried.
That will help us find the one that leads out.”4
—
That is exactly what Christ’s church
is all about.
We make our way,
it is not easy going at times,
we become confused,
we get lost,
we search for a way ahead.
We finally find our way
with the help of others who care.
That is what the church is,
Travelling our journey
Together with the help of others who care.
We learn in church
that one of the best ways
to share the way
is by the way we live.
A man named Karl Barth,
Is probably the best-known theologians
of the last century.
Dr. Barth was asked near the end
of his remarkable career
to state the most significant truth
he had come across in his lifetime of study.
After a moment of thought
he is reported to have answered,
“Jesus loves me;
this I know,
for the Bible tells me so.”
That is it,
Jesus loves us
That is our
Light and love.
Hymn: Come Thou Long Expected Jesus
Come, thou long expected Jesus,
born to set thy people free;
from our fears and sins release us,
let us find our rest in thee.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
hope of all the earth thou art;
dear desire of every nation,
joy of every longing heart.
Born thy people to deliver,
born a child and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever,
now thy gracious kingdom bring.
By thine own eternal spirit
rule in all our hearts alone;
by thine all sufficient merit,
raise us to thy glorious throne.
The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God,
the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again.
He ascended into heaven,
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again
to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
Prayers:
We seek the mighty God
in the most unlikely places
as a child in a stable,
and in an empty tomb.
May God hear these prayers,
which come from the unlikely corners of our lives.
Prayers: Gloria A. (Carol); Jack, Lisa, Mike (Keeling), Julie; Christine A.; Bob A.; Bob H.; Dori; Garfield; Eunice S.; Connie C.; (Church) Belinda,; Ross B., Francis & Bill W.; Jeff G. (Dori); Kenny; Jim T.; Norma A,;Dave F.; Peter T.; Dan B.;. (Garfield & Diane); Maryanne; Gus; Jay P.;; Randy; Rick W.;.; Sharon; Anne F.; Marcel D.; Jeff B.; (Sandra); Joel; Melanie; Marlene H. Pam B. (Barb & George); Ella D., Keanna, Nancy (Dan & Sue); Donna Mc.; (Ron and Jan); Jamie; (Gloria); Marilyn; Val ; Karen T.;Bill, Sheila, Jessica, Sonya, Jamie (Peter); Wendy; Sarah-Jane P.; Linda H.; Sharon D.; Philip D; Jacquie and Cam D.; Janice L & Darrin R; Roland; .(Suzie D.)
We remember and Pray for Norm Ball, and all who mourn his passing.
Give us ears to hear, O God,
and eyes to watch,
that we may know your presence in our midst
during this holy season of joy
as we anticipate the coming of Jesus Christ. Amen.
As our Savior taught us, let us pray,
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done;
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever. Amen.
Glory to God,
whose power, working in us,
can do infinitely more
than we can ask or imagine.
Glory to God from generation to generation,
in the Church and in Christ Jesus,
for ever and ever. Amen.
Prayer based on Scripture:
Creator of the world,
you are the potter, we are the clay,
and you form us in your image.
Shape our spirits
by Christ’s transforming power,
that as one people
we may live out your compassion and justice,
whole and sound in the realm of your peace. Amen.
Blessing from the Book of Common Prayer:
The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, be amongst you, and remain with you always. Amen.
Our Parting Blessing Song:
May God’s blessing surround you each day
As you trust Him and walk in His way
May His presence within guard and keep you from sin,
Go in peace, go in joy, go in love.
Go in peace, go in joy, go in love.
Norman Laird Ball
July 16, 1928 – November 26, 2023
Peacefully at Victoria Hospital on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at the age of 95. Norman was born on July 16, 1928. Loving husband of the late June Evelyn (née Lilley) Ball. Father of James Ball (Coral) of North Bay and Susan Daines (late Richard) of Stoneycreek. Grandfather of four grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Brother of Marjorie Wilson (late Bruce), Ena Parker (late Douglas) and the late Jessie Butson. A funeral service will be conducted at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 12:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment at Woodland Cemetery, London. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Norman are asked to consider the LHSF – Cancer Program or a charity of their choice.
Kim Ruth Partgeter
Of St. Thomas, passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on October 5, 2023, at the St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital, in her 65th year. Beloved wife and best friend of Scott Pargeter. Dearly loved mother of Melissa Patel (Sunny) and Brittany Letkemann (Bryan). Cherished grandmother of Nora and Wyatt. Dear sister of Pam (John), Ross (Tammy) and Rob (Karen). Lovingly remembered by several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Kim was born in London on March 14, 1950, daughter of the late Jack and Doris Black. Kim was a retired unit clerk at LHSC. She loved to scrapbook and will be sadly missed by her fellow “Scrapbook Girls”. The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Dr. Mark Vincent at the London Regional Cancer Program for the compassionate care he gave to Kim throughout her journey.
In keeping with her wishes, a private family service will be held. Cremation has taken place with interment of ashes in Woodland Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (ALK Research) or to the London Regional Cancer Program. Williams Funeral Home, 45 Elgin Street, St. Thomas entrusted with arrangements.
Jack Graham Phoenix
PHOENIX, Jack Graham
March 6, 1944 – September 28, 2023
London, Ontario
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jack Graham Phoenix at University Hospital. Jack has been a resident of the new Southbridge Long Term Care Home (formerly Chelsey Park) since 2015, soon after his stroke. He is a lifelong resident of London with the exception of a few years where he lived in St. Catharines, and a couple of decades in Kitchener-Waterloo. He worked in the Heating and Air Conditioning business for the majority of his working years, retiring from the City of Kitchener Gas Company. He grew up in East London and attended Ealing Public School and Beal Secondary School. As a teenager, he began serving his community as a Disc Jockey doing parties for young people. He operated a “Young People’s Group” and later served on the Board of Directors at the Boys’ and Girls’ Club of London. He continued that hobby throughout his life and has been a part of many people’s celebrations over many decades. He was the resident disc jockey at the nursing home, doing Gaither Gospel and other events during his time in LTC, right up until this past summer. He was the Charter President for the London-Middlesex Civitan Club in 1975. The club’s motto is “Builders of Good Citizenship” and is a volunteer organization dedicated to serving individual and community needs with an emphasis on helping people with developmental disabilities. During his time with the KW Civitan Club he appeared as the life-sized version of the “Good Bear” in association with the Waterloo Regional Police Department. This project provided for the distribution of “Good Bear” teddy bears in traumatic situations. He was at many City of Kitchener family functions, parades, festivals and celebrations in conjunction with the Police force. He was often found at the Police and Fire & Safety Village working alongside the officers and fireman encouraging good safety practices. The name Civitan is derived from the Latin word meaning citizenship and Civitan members are known to have certain traits in common. The strength of conviction, the courage to care, the desire to get involved and make a difference and they all have a BIG heart. Jack has demonstrated these qualities throughout his life, both before and through Civitan. Jack remained a lifetime member of the London Middlesex club and helped to sponsor progressive Euchre tournaments at Chelsey Park to raise money for the Home’s recreation department (prior to Covid). He made many friends at the nursing home and that community is going to deeply miss his dynamic presence throughout the entire home. Jack is survived by his wife for just short of 60 years, Julie (nee Forgrave), his daughters Cheryl (Bill) Taylor and Tracie (Mark) Hilchey, as well as his grandchildren, Matthew (Naama), Casey (Karen), Weston (Meaghan), Micartney (Vitoria), Gage (Krystina), Brock, Chase and his great-grandchildren, Billie, Saul and Daniel. He was predeceased by his parents Milton and Dorothy (Oscar), his brothers Ray (Doris), Bob, stepbrother Conrad, stepsister Donna, as well as his niece Kathy. He will be missed by his only remaining sibling Elaine (Bill) Blaney as well as his stepsister Gwenda (Lloyd) Kirilenko and his many nieces and nephews. Jack had many very close friends throughout his lifetime, an impossible list to define. A celebration of life service will take place at The Church of the Epiphany at 11 Briscoe St. W. London, Ontario, on Saturday, October 7 at 10:30 a.m., with a time for lunch to follow where I’m sure many memories will be shared. Please RSVP if possible so that we can prepare appropriately to host you at; jackphoenixservice@gmail.com. In lieu of Flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: The Church of The Epiphany, St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation (specifically in honour of the Heart Failure Clinic) who provided exceptional care during his most difficult last few months, London Health Science Centre (specifically in honour of the ICD Clinic) who helped to keep him with us for the extra time we had or (specifically in honour of the Cardiology Department) whose angels cared for him and remained with him in his final hours).
Food Cupboard Wish List
Here’s an updated wish list for our food cupboard
Brown Beans with or without pork,
Mushroom soup,
Vegetable soup and
Chicken noodle soup,
Canned vegetables except cream corn,
Uncle Bens Rice,
Sidekicks,
Minute Rice,
Pancake Mix (just add water kind),
Pancake Syrup,
Sugar,
Jam,
Cheese Whiz,
Canned fruit,
Any canned meat like Tuna, Flakes of Ham, Chicken or Turkey and luncheon meat.
Laundry soap,
Plus anything else you think of except tomato soup, toilet paper and instant coffee which we luckily have an abundance of.
Thank you for your generous donations.
Cans for Keanna
Don’t throw out that aluminum. Save it and bring it to Epiphany. Crush it down first if you are able.
Epiphany Service for November 26 , 2023
The flowers in the Sanctuary today are to the Glory of God and In loving memory of a dear husband Robert, Granddaughter Lindsey, Grandson Michael, Parents Leslie & Ethel Whittington, and sisters Linda and Dianne, given by Sharon Williams & Family.
*Thank you Peter for preaching at the 11 a.m. Service.
*Bazaar. $2500.00 and counting. Beautiful Gift Items still available. Thank You For help and attending.
*Claxton Fruit Cakes available. For Civitan. $23.00 for three!
*Win Christmas Baking Draw tickets available.
*Christmas Card stamps. Prices reduced this year! Calculate the cost of your cards using the sheet at the back. Write a cheque or give cash to Barb for Epiphany. Give cards to Barb and they will be mailed with unique stamps. Thanks to Brian and Barb.
*Food Cupboard Fundraiser. James Reaney’s Gentle Rain Food Co-op. Thank you Adam and Kydra and all the actors and audience members! Raised 375$!! Plus food donations. Our young generation has a big heart!
*Decorating Dec. 2 at 10 a.m.
*White Gift Sunday. Dec. 3 . Soup Lunch for twoonie or better donation.
*Dec. 9. Cookie Tins. We need 6 dozen cookies. Homemade. Non gooey. Non frozen. 60$ gift basket prize from Karpos Fruit and Nut store in the village for the bakers. One ticket for 6 dozen goodies. Tickets for sale.
*Dec. 10 Carol Service and Cookie Draw. Stephen and friends.
*The Manor Park New Years Post with Denise Pelley. Show at 8:30. Party to Follow. $35. See Adam for tickets. Set up Saturday. Clean up day and time?
*Dec. 24. Christmas Eve is a Sunday. No church Sunday Morning. 7:00 Carols Servicer at 7:30 p.m.
*New Years Eve morning. Sun Dec. 31. Morning Prayer at 11 a.m. only
*Please remember Our food cupboard. Butch 519-615-9106.
*If you set off the security alarm, please give Barb or Adam a call or text to let them know. It saves them driving to the church.
*Mint smoothies Sandra $3.
*Cancelled stamps. Gloria Thompson.
*Rinsed empty drink containers for Keanna
*The Church Website http://www.thechurchofepiphany.com/
*The Risers . Raised $13,328.25. Still to go $2073.37. Thank You. This will make our hall a true valuable rentable venue and they will be used at our fundraiser shows such as New Years.
*Meat and Plant based Pies. Jan. 25-27?
*May 12. Mother’s Day. Bishop Todd visits.
*If you wish, our regular weekly donations or special donations may be sent to our Envelope Secretary:
Barb Smallman
4860 Whiteoak Road
London, Ontario
N6E 3Y8
519-680-0649
Bible Readings for November 26
-
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 and Psalm 100
-
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 and Psalm 95:1-7a
-
Ephesians 1:15-23
-
Matthew 25:31-46
Audio Service for November 26
Opening:
Shepherd of Israel, hear our prayer
as your Son heard the plea
of the criminal crucified with him.
Gather into Christ’s holy reign
the broken, the sorrowing, and the sinner,
that all may know
wholeness, joy, and forgiveness. Amen.
Reading Matthew 25:31-46
25:31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory.
25:32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats,
25:33 and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left.
25:34 Then the king will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world;
25:35 for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me,
25:36 I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.’
25:37 Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink?
25:38 And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing?
25:39 And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’
25:40 And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’
25:41 Then he will say to those at his left hand, ‘You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels;
25:42 for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink,
25:43 I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’
25:44 Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not take care of you?’
25:45 Then he will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’
25:46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
Sermon
The Sheep And The Goats
Matthew 25:31-46
It seems that there are
three points that this parable
is attempting to make this morning.
I
First, the parable suggests that we are to view each individual as though he or she was Christ himself.
“Lord, when did we feed you, or clothe you, or visit you in prison?” was the question that was asked.
Came the response:
When you did it unto the least of these my brethren, you did it unto me.”
There is an old story,
The Knight’s aide advised the mayor of a small village
that his majesty was going to be making a visit
to their humble little village.
With great fanfare
the mayor began to make the appropriate arrangements.
On the day of the arrival the mayor,
waited in joyful anticipation.
The hours slowly ticked away
but no one ventured into the village.
No one, that is,
except a lonely lame beggar
who asked the mayor
for a drink to quince his thirst.
==
At the end of the day the mayor stood alone;
the King had never arrived.
Furiously he wrote the King’s aide asking what had gone wrong,
only to be told that the King had indeed passed through his village that day.
He had come in the disguise of a lonely lame beggar.
Who is Christ?
Christ is everyone.
II
Secondly, the parable suggests
that in the end t
he criteria by which we shall all be judged will be simple acts of kindness.
In the story the King allows entrance
into his kingdom not by affiliation with any particular religious group,
or fame, or fortune, or credential
. No, the final judgment
is based upon how kind an individual was:
feeding those who were hungry,
showing concern for those in prison,
taking care of those who did not have sufficient clothing.
Who would ever have thought that such simple acts
would carry so much weight on the final day?
Jesus is saying that the main business that we are in
is the business of kindness,
and it is this criterion by which God will view our life.
III
Third, this parable suggests that it is
the good that we do not do that matters.
Remember?
I was thirsty and you gave me no water,
I was in prison and you never came to see me,
I was without warm clothes and you never gave me any.
There are many who are fine, decent respectable people
who are not doing anything for anyone.
Remember?
Jesus told the story about a person
who took a thousand dollars and buried it.
Why did Jesus express disapproval of him?
Not because he gambled it away,
not because he frivolously spent it,
but because he did nothing with it,
Doing nothing is not enough.
Like the story behind a man named Henry Dunant.
He was born to wealthy parents in Switzerland in 1828.
A deeply compassionate man,
he devoted considerable time
assisting and encouraging young people,
especially the poor.
At about eighteen years of age,
he founded a Young Men’s Christian Union.
In 1859, at the age of 30, Dunant was traveling in northern Italy.
He had only one goal
… to get the support of the Emperor of France
for a business project in Algeria.
But the Emperor, Napoleon III,
was busy driving the Austrians out of Northern Italy.
Arriving on the day of the Battle of Solferino,
Dunant could not believe what he saw.
The horrors of war in person….
Dunant never did see the Emperor
but what he did see changed him
and the world forever.
He joined in the work of relief,
sent his horse drawn coach to bring supplies,
and wrote to his friends in Switzerland for aid.
Then he returned home and he began writing.
He made an appeal against what he had witnessed.
He hoped he could influence people
to prevent or to reduce the suffering of soldiers.
The result of his writings was a book:
printed in Geneva in October 1862.
This famous book,
mailed by the author to influential people
throughout Europe,
inspired them beyond all expectation.
In the last chapter of his book
he made some proposals on field hospitals,
trained volunteers,
and the necessity for international cooperation.
Finally, five years later,
at the Geneva Convention of 1864
sixteen nations signed accords-
modeled on Dunant’s proposals.
They acknowledged the neutrality of medical personnel
in times of hostility.
For their banner and symbol
they chose a white flag with a red cross.
And so the Red Cross was born!
Conclusion:
We need to look upon each person
as though he or she was Christ.
Kindness is the criteria
by which we will be judged.
What good we can do, we must.
Hymn: All Glory Laud and Honour
All glory, laud, and honor
to you, Redeemer, King,
to whom the lips of children
made sweet hosannas ring.
You are the King of Israel
and David’s royal Son,
now in the Lord’s name coming,
the King and Blessed One.
The company of angels
is praising you on high;
and we with all creation
in chorus make reply.
The people of the Hebrews
with palms before you went;
our praise and prayer and anthems
before you we present.
To you before your passion
they sang their hymns of praise;
to you, now high exalted,
our melody we raise.
As you received their praises,
accept the prayers we bring,
for you delight in goodness,
O good and gracious King!
The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God,
the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again.
He ascended into heaven,
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again
to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
Prayers:
As the shepherd who cares for the flock, O God,
you guide all things through Jesus
whom you have exalted over all creation as king.
Hear the prayers we offer in his name
for the creation he cherished
and that you entrust to us.
Prayers: Gloria A. (Carol); Jack, Lisa, Mike (Keeling), Julie; Christine A.; Bob A.; Bob H.; Norm B.; Dori; Garfield; Eunice S.; Connie C.; (Church) Belinda,; Ross B., Francis & Bill W.; Jeff G. (Dori); Sig & Buffy (Lois);Kenny; Tuckey; Norma A,;Dave F.; Peter T.; Dan B.;. (Garfield & Diane); Maryanne; Gus; Jay P.;; Randy; Rick W.;.; Sharon; Anne F.; Marcel D.; Jeff B.; (Sandra); Joel; Melanie; Marlene H. Pam B. (Barb & George); Ella D., Keanna, Nancy (Dan & Sue); Donna Mc.; (Ron and Jan); Jamie; (Gloria); Marilyn; Val ; Karen T.;Bill, Sheila, Jessica, Sonya, Jamie (Peter); Wendy; Sarah-Jane P.; Linda H.; Sharon D.; Philip D; Jacquie and Cam D.; Janice L & Darrin R; Roland; .(Suzie D.)
Look upon your people who rejoice in your justice and mercy,
and grant that the prayers we make
may reveal Christ’s reign in our time. Amen.
As our Savior taught us, let us pray,
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done;
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever. Amen.
Glory to God,
whose power, working in us,
can do infinitely more
than we can ask or imagine.
Glory to God from generation to generation,
in the Church and in Christ Jesus,
for ever and ever. Amen.
Prayer based on Scripture:
You raised up your Son, O God,
and seated him at your right hand
as the shepherd and king
who seeks what is lost,
binds up what is wounded,
and strengthens what is weak.
Empowered by the Spirit,
grant that we may share with others
that which we have received from your hand,
to the honor of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Blessing from the Book of Common Prayer:
The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, be amongst you, and remain with you always. Amen.
Our Parting Blessing Song:
May God’s blessing surround you each day
As you trust Him and walk in His way
May His presence within guard and keep you from sin,
Go in peace, go in joy, go in love.
Go in peace, go in joy, go in love.
106th Service of Remembrance
Year 2023 marks the 106th year that a service of Remembrance was was held at the corner of Briscoe and Holborn. Here are some pictures from our annual service.
On November 10th, the Orange Owls from Western Daycare visited with their teachers.
Here’s some pictures from the 106th Service of Remembrance
And after the service
More photos to follow
Jack Black
BLACK, John Ross Albert “Jack”
After a lengthy illness, Jack Black of London, found his peace on Monday, January 30, 2023 in his 88th year.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Doris (nee Whittington) Black. Loving father of Kim (Scott), Ross (Tammy), Robert (Karen) and Pam (John). Proud grandfather to 9 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Ruth Ann MacFarlane of Hamilton, Bob Black and his wife Gloria of Quebec and brother-in-law of Beverly Black of London. Predeceased by his brothers William, James and Thomas.
Born in Kapuskasing, Ontario to Goldie and Bert Black. He was a proud veteran of the Royal Canadian Regiment serving 28 years at home and abroad. In his retirement he enjoyed time fishing on the great lakes. He was a long-time member of the Masonic Lodge, and devoted participant.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, February 3, 2023 from 1-1:45 p.m., followed by a Masonic Service under the auspices of Middlesex Lodge No. 379 A.F. & A.M. at 1:45 p.m., and the memorial service at 2 p.m., all held at the Church of the Epiphany, 11 Briscoe Street West, London. PLEASE NOTE: As a request by the family, masks are required to attend the church. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Jack are asked to support the London Regional Cancer Program, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com
Manor Park New Years Eve 2022
A great time was had by all at the Manor Park New Year’s Eve show.
Before the party
Food Prep
Alvego Root Fun
The Party
Denise and Steve Serenade us!
