January 31, 2024
Musings
written by Chris Mereschuk
No one can tame the tongue. We use it to say, “Praised be our God and Creator,” then we use it to curse each other—we who are created in the image of God. – James 3:8-9
“Dad, I have to tell you something,” my child said cautiously.
“Yes honey, what is it?”
“I…I know some bad words.”
I was interested to know what words he thought were bad, so we worked our way through the alphabet.
Afterwards he asked, “Why do kids say those words? I think they just want to sound like grown-ups.
But that’s not how grown-ups talk, right Dad?”
“That’s right, sweetie. I love you. Good night.”
I got a little misty, marking this childhood milestone of curse-word acquisition.
But it also made me think that I need to be more careful about what I say.
Honestly, I’m not too worried about the kind of “bad words” my child listed.
What I want him to learn is the power of words to affirm, encourage, and build up a person—and the power of words to demonize, dehumanize, and tear down.
I need to model that for my child.
This is where the author of James calls me out, and where my child’s question calls me in.
Years ago, a friend observed that I could seemingly “find something bad to say about anyone.”
It stung because it was true.
Being a parent makes me want to change that in myself so that I do not pass it on to my child.
If he hears me cutting down and tearing up others, how could he take me seriously when I chide him for gossiping or putting others down?
And how can he trust that my sweet words are sincere and that my bitter words won’t be directed at him?
Maybe I can’t tame my tongue completely, but for my child’s sake, I’ll watch my mouth!
Holy One, may the words of my mouth honor your presence in others.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Our next session will be held on Monday, February 5, at 7:30 pm via Zoom.
Log on and come and find the quiet centre within.
Fun, fun, FUN!!
For Grace kids 12 and over on Friday, February 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm as we enjoy some skating at Kivi Park, followed by refreshments at Tim Hortons (Algonquin Road).
It’s going to be awesome; spread the word around!
Membership
If there is sufficient interest, Rev. Erin would be pleased to offer an Adult Membership Preparation Program in February for those of our faith family who would like to officially become members of Grace United and the United Church of Canada.
For more information, and to express your interest, please speak to Rev. Erin at your earliest convenience.
From Our Mission and Outreach Team
After a slow start in January, we will be continuing our Care Project in support of
Small Things Cats through the month of February.
Items needed by Small Things Cats are as follows:
Food – dry or wet, any kind other than “Meow Mix”
Litter – any type
Treats – any type, but Temptations are the best.
Toys – any type
Old Towel
Cat Beds
Monetary Donations
Donations can be brought to church and placed in the “care basket” in the narthex 😊
Excitement is Growing …
… For our Grace United Cookbook!.
Many thanks to all of you who have already submitted your favorite recipes.
For those of you who have yet to do so, we’re hoping to receive at least ONE submission from each family.
The timeline for publication also has been extended to September, with hopes of an “unveiling” at our Christmas Luncheon 😊
Debbie would be grateful to receive your contributions via email at: harleychyk.ds@gmail.com
Alternately, you can hand hardcopies to Debbie, Sarah or Leona, or place them in the envelop on the bulletin board.
Let’s make this fundraiser roaring success!
From Our Fundraising and Fellowship Team
Our FunScrip Program is an on-going fundraising program that runs at Grace.
We all seem to purchase gift cards, and this program lets the church benefit from earning a percentage from each gift card purchased.
Ordering is simple and payment can be made through your online banking system.
For those of you who are not internet savvy, Treasurer Laurie has very generously offered to place orders on your behalf.
Please feel free to email Laurie at laubertin86@gmail.com or call her cell at 705-618-3256 if you need assistance or would like her to order for you.
The ‘Order Form’ tells you what vendors are available and the %% donation Grace United will receive.
The invitation code for Grace United is P4RKX9
See the attached flyer for this month’s special deals!
From Our Property and Finance Team
More than ever, your financial support is needed in order for our church and its ministry to survive and thrive.
You are invited to give as you are able by:
*Signing up for Preauthorized Payments – tax deductible receipt
*E-transfers to Laurie Aubertin (our Treasurer) – tax deductible receipt
*Having a box of envelopes with an assigned envelope number to put on the offering plate on Sundays – tax deductible receipt
*Our online payment option through Canada Helps (you can find the link on our Website or Facebook page) – tax deductible receipt
*Putting loose money on the offering plate on Sunday – no tax deductible receipt
If you would like a box of envelopes with an assigned number, please speak with Linda Arseneau, linda_arseneau@hotmail.com, the ushers, or simply drop a note on the offering plate requesting envelopes.
This Week’s Lectionary Lessons
Isaiah 40:21–31
Those who wait upon God shall renew their strength.
Psalm 147:1–11, 20c
God heals the broken-hearted.
1 Corinthians 9:16–23
I have become all things to all people for the gospel’s sake.
Mark 1:29–39
Simon’s mother-in-law and many others healed.
Grace United Church Sudbury 