93 November 2010

Children’s day in Brazil (see page 26 )

Parkdale United Church 429 Parkdale Ave. Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 1H3 Telephone: (613) 728-8656 Fax: (613) 728-9686 E-mail: [email protected] Rev. Dr. Anthony Bailey: [email protected] Barbara Faught: [email protected] Melodee Lovering: [email protected] Website: www.parkdaleunitedchurch.ca WELCOME TO PARKDALE IMPORTANT DATES

November 2010 A special 2010 welcome to Park- If you are visiting, please ask for dale United Church. We enjoy a copy of the ‘Welcome to Park- meeting you and being together dale’ edition of the Messenger. It November 6 Yuletide Bazaar in ministry. has a striking goldenrod cover. ‐ Jewelry, Old Linens & Lace, Jams & Jellies, Please take a copy home to read. Parkdale’s congregation responds We hope you will come again for Baking, Crafts, Books, Antiques & Collectibles to God’s call and Jesus’ teach- worship and fellowship. and Attic Treasures ings by: November 7 Remembrance service The Parkdale Congregation a) Uniting in joyful worship as November 7 3.30pm Musical, “The Rock” an act of praise and grati- November 13 In From the Cold Ministry begins tude, for inspiration and Where to find it... November 14 Intergenerational Service and baptism guidance November 20 7.30pm Parkdale Orchestra Concert b) Providing learning oppor- tunities for the Christian Minister’s Message ...... 4 November 26 9.00am Craft Day for Jesse Tree way of life and to enhance CGIT reunion...... 9 November 28 Advent Luncheon Biblical literacy c) Supporting one another What brought you to Parkdale?...... 10 through pastoral care and Recipe ...... 13 December 2010 concern d) Reaching out to people in News from the pews...... 14 need Celebrating our Cultures...... 16 December 5 Communion e) Promoting justice Alzheimer pioneer...... 22 December 10 Pageant rehearsal f) Praying for guidance, December 12 Children's Pageant wisdom, and support. Presbytery Report ...... 24 Dispatches from Brazil...... 26 December 15 Reflective Christmas Service Visitors and newcomers to Park- Where are they now...... 30 December 19 Cantata dale, be on the lookout for our December 24 7 pm family service, 10 pm ‐ candlelight communion hospitality team on Sunday For all time...... 32 mornings. They wear pale yel- service low name tags and would be December 26 Lessons & Carols pleased to meet you and to an- swer questions about our worship service and about activities that go on through the week at Park- dale. 2 3 MINISTER’S MESSAGE “God is Holy Mystery, We witness to Holy Mystery that beyond complete knowledge, is Wholly Love…. Our recent trip to day after what has come to be above perfect description. known in Protestant liturgical Oberammergau Finding ourselves in a world of and the heart of circles as Reformation Sun- Yet, beauty and mystery, Europe was inspir- day. It commemorates the in love, of living things, diverse and inter- spirit of the Reformation in- ing and refreshing. the one eternal God seeks rela- dependent, Praise be to God! cluding the restating of tionship. of complex patterns of growth and As I mentioned in creedal faith in the Reformed evolution, tradition. As a denomination my September So God creates the universe of subatomic particles and cosmic Messenger article, of the Reformed tradition, the and with it the possibility of swirls, Wendy and I were privileged to lead United Church of Canada has being and relating. we sing of God the Creator, a group of twenty-seven on this pil- done just this at the time of its God tends the universe, the Maker and Source of all that grimage/tour – including seven from founding in 1925 in its Basis of Un- mending the broken and is… ion, and again in 1940 and 1968. The Parkdale United. I was glad that we reconciling the estranged. began with the experience of the most recent restatement of the col- God enlivens the universe, historic six-hour long Passion Play lective faith of the United Church of guiding all things toward har- Made in the image of God, Canada, as a number of you would as well as the experience of the hos- mony with their Source. we yearn for the fulfillment that is pitality and “vibe” of the people of remember, was in 2006 with a docu- life in God. the town of Oberammergau and area. ment entitled “A Song of Faith”. Grateful for God’s loving ac- Yet we choose to turn away from

This truly set the tone for our trip. tion, God. According to the document, “this We cannot keep from singing. We surrender ourselves to sin, One of the stops we made after leav- statement of faith seeks to provide a a disposition revealed in selfish- verbal picture of what The United ing Heidelberg, on the way to With the Church through the ness, cowardice, or apathy. Bernkastel Kues, was in the town of Church of Canada understands its ages, Becoming bound and complacent Worms. Worms is Germany’s oldest faith to be in its current historical, we speak of God as one and in a web of false desires and political, social, and theological town with many old buildings and triune: Father, Son, and Holy wrong choices, monuments. We visited the monu- context at the beginning of the 21st Spirit. we bring harm to ourselves and ment to Martin Luther and other century. It is also a means of ongo- We also speak of God as others. ing reflection and an invitation for Reformers as well as toured the Cas- Creator, Redeemer, and Sus- This brokenness in human life and tle Church in which we saw the the church to live out its convictions tainer community stained glass tribute to Martin Lu- in relation to the world in which we God, Christ, and Spirit is an outcome of sin. ther; the only one in a Roman Catho- live.” Mother, Friend, and Comforter Sin is not only personal lic Church in Germany we were told. Source of Life, Living Word, but accumulates I would like to share some excerpts On October 31, 1517 Martin Luther and Bond of Love, to become habitual and systemic nailed his 95 theses to the door of from this “Song of Faith”. and in other ways that speak forms the Wittenburg Castle Church, de- (Experience the entire statement at: faithfully of of injustice, violence, and ha- http://www.united-church.ca/beliefs/ nouncing the sale of indulgences and the One on whom our hearts tred… other objectionable things being statements/songfaith). rely, Yet evil does not—cannot— practiced by the Roman Catholic the fully shared life at the undermine or overcome the love Peace and blessings to you all Church at that time. heart of the universe. of God.

The month of November begins the anthony 4 5

God forgives, God calls us to be doers of the by all manner of demonic powers. We sing of God’s mission… and calls all of us to confess our word and not hearers only. He crossed barriers of race, class, fears and failings culture, and gender. We are each given particular gifts of with honesty and humility. The Spirit breathes revelatory He preached and practised uncon- the Spirit. God reconciles, power into scripture, ditional love— For the sake of the world, and calls us to repent the part we bestowing upon it a unique and love of God, love of neighbour, God calls all followers of Jesus to have played normative place love of friend, love of enemy— Christian ministry… in damaging our world, ourselves, in the life of the community. and he commanded his followers and each other. The Spirit judges us critically to love one another Carrying a vision of creation healed God transforms, when we abuse scripture as he had loved them. and restored, and calls us to protect the vulner- by interpreting it narrow- we welcome all in the name of Christ. able, mindedly, Because his witness to love was Invited to the table where none shall to pray for deliverance from evil, using it as a tool of oppression, threatening, go hungry, to work with God for the healing exclusion, or hatred… those exercising power sought to we gather as Christ’s guests and of the world, silence Jesus. friends… that all might have abundant life. We find God made known in Jesus He suffered abandonment and of Nazareth, betrayal, We place our hope in God. We sing of grace… and so we sing of God the Christ, state-sanctioned torture and execu- We sing of a life beyond life the Holy One embodied. tion. and a future good beyond imagining: We sing of God the Spirit, He was crucified. a new heaven and a new earth, faithful and untamable, We sing of Jesus, the end of sorrow, pain, and tears, who is creatively and redemp- a Jew, But death was not the last word. Christ’s return and life with God, tively active in the world. born to a woman in poverty God raised Jesus from death, the making new of all things. in a time of social upheaval turning sorrow into joy, We yearn for the coming of that fu- The Spirit challenges us to cele- and political oppression. despair into hope. ture, brate the holy He knew human joy and sorrow. We sing of Jesus raised from the even while participating in eternal life not only in what is familiar, So filled with the Holy Spirit was dead. now…. but also in that which seems for- he We sing hallelujah. eign… that in him people experienced the Grateful for God’s loving action, presence of God among them. The Risen Christ lives today, we cannot keep from singing. Scripture is our song for the jour- We sing praise to God incarnate. present to us and the source of our Creating and seeking relationship, ney, the living word hope… in awe and trust, passed on from generation to gen- Jesus announced the coming of we witness to Holy Mystery who is eration God’s reign— We sing of a church Wholly Love. to guide and inspire, a commonwealth not of domina- seeking to continue the story of that we might wrestle a holy reve- tion Jesus Amen.” lation for our time and place but of peace, justice, and recon- by embodying Christ’s presence in from the human experiences ciliation. the world… and cultural assumptions of an- He healed the sick and fed the The church has not always lived other era. hungry. up to its vision. He forgave sins and freed those held captive

6 7 CG I T REUNION-2010 There was so much laughter! And there was also an awareness that we still have strong church connections and these connec- tions were forged in our youth at CGIT.

I’m sure that I can safely say that

a highlight for all of us at the

lunch was the presence of Blue and white balloons Corinne Redlich who was the danced from the trees but they person in charge of the C G I T did not broadcast a birthday. program at Parkdale for so many Rather, these balloons marked years. Corinne’s kindness and the location of a Parkdale patience influenced all of us and I United C G I T reunion held at think it is safe to say that her the home of Gail Cleaver work has lived on in the lives of Christy on September 22, 2010. many women.

The brainchild of Nancy Hill We thank Nancy Hill Peters for Peters, a grand time was had by gathering the following women the eight members and leader together: Corinne Redlich who gathered

to reminisce over a (of course) Carolyn Jowett Cameron tasty pot luck lunch. A blue Gail Cleaver Christy and white flower table centre Joan Thomas Dewis piece, created by Nancy Peters, Marilyn Argue Mills and a cake, decorated with the Lynne Boyd Patterson C G I T crest, added to the Alice Smeathers celebratory tone. Lynne Meredith Williamson

Corinne Redlich Many of us had not met for

perhaps fifty years so we had to submitted by: sort each other out (really we (Rev.) Gail Cleaver Christy had not changed all THAT much) and then we had the fun of sorting through pictures of camp activities and graduation ceremonies.

8 9 How and what brought first brought us to Parkdale when This “grazing” initiative provided Gloria White and Richard Rev. Norman Coll was preach- an opportunity to get an approxi- Sewell, since 2000 you to Parkdale ? ing. I and my older sister Mary mate sense of a given church’s started in Sunday School, then worship and program activities. Our worker was telling us about Corinna Anderson, since 2006 joined CGIT and later on were While this wasn’t by any means Parkdale United Church and confirmed here. intended as a scientific study, it asked if we wanted to attend. I saw the signs for either the rum- helped to identify which congre- We said yes because it was closer mage sale or bazaar posted out- Hannie Fitzgerald, since 2000 gation would likely make us feel than All Saints Anglican and St. side the church. That got me at home. Josephs in Sandy Hill where we interested so I attended the next I honestly don't know when I used to live. We live at Parkdale service. I found the people started attending Parkdale....at After having scoped out a few and Wellington so it is very con- friendly. During Rally Sunday I least 10 years ago, or maybe other churches, our first encoun- venient. We became members saw many displays that interested more. I was looking for a more ter with Parkdale was the of the church just this year. me, such as the singles group and fulfilling church experience and clincher. The worship service Bible studies, so I joined a num- Parkdale was one I visited. I had and music were very meaningful ber of groups. I particularly en- been there once or twice before and inspiring, but what made the Lorraine Pearce, since 1981 joy Bible studies, helping out when Rev. Gervis Black was the difference was a sense that this with In from the Cold and Har- minister and I enjoyed his ser- was a big “family.” That was I was born in Ottawa but retired vest helpers. I have since trav- mons. I visited many churches confirmed immediately when the back here after working in To- elled to Nicaragua with the looking for one that I felt would service ended, and a diminutive ronto for many years. I settled church. be good for me. The one I settled grandmotherly-appearing lady in the Mooney’s Bay area. My on turned out to be Parkdale just approached us with a big smile, brother and sister-in-law who had Paul Anderson, since 2007 before Anthony was chosen as introduced herself as Doris lived on Sherwood Drive for the new minister, and I have been McDowell, and then promptly about 40 years and were long The reason I came to Parkdale very happy with my connection took us around to meet a large time members of Parkdale had United was to keep my daughter to it even since. number of other Parkdalers. also moved to the Alta Vista area Corinna company. And about We’ve been part of the Parkdale just before I retired. Since it was once a month I join my son’s Kathryn and Peter Meerburg, family ever since. a bit far from Parkdale they of- family at St. Martins Anglican, since 1972 fered to drive me to church where allowing me to enjoy both my (Our experience simply demon- Rev. Gervis Black was the children and two different church When we relocated to Ottawa strates the importance of greeting preacher. I’ve been here ever traditions. from the Maritimes in 1972 with and welcoming visitors and new- since. our four-month-old daughter comers - an essential element in Ruth Whitney, since 1940 Gayle, we took some time to find the life of any congregation.) compiled by Valerie Hum. If you a new home congregation. That would like to share your story, Our family moved to the Sher- basically involved visiting differ- please contact Valerie at wood Drive area in December ent churches for Sunday morning 613-728-8830 or 1940. It was our mother who worship services. Email: [email protected]

10 11 IN FROM THE COLD PARKDALE’S RECIPE MINISTRY YULETIDE BAZAAR Baking Powder Biscuits Saturday, November 6, 2010 From Mrs. Cook’s Kitchen by Gay 10 am Cook

It’s September and time to pre‐ Here is a wonderful recipe to make for pare for our Christmas Bazaar! the baking table at our annual bazaar This is our major fundraiser of the Would You Like To Help? year and we need your help.

Our In From the Cold Can you help by contributing your

time and/or talents? Ministry begins its ninth year Saturday, November 13 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour or bread flour and continues each Satur- ∙Jams/jellies and baking are al‐ 1 tbsp baking powder day until March 26, exclud- ways good sellers ½ tsp cream of tartar ing December 25 and ∙Crafts, knitting, and sewing are ½ tsp salt January 1. Brochures ex- in demand ½ cup cold butter ∙Costume jewelry, scarves, linens 7/8 cup milk plaining the program, as sell extremely well ¼ cup flour for dusting well as volunteer sign-up ∙Plants, dried flowers always sheets for NEW volunteers, 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. needed 2. In a bowl combine flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, salt. outlining the various tasks, ∙Help before and on the day of are located at the four 3. Using a pastry blender grate the fat into the dry ingredients . the Bazaar is most appreciated. 4. Use a fork to stir the milk through the batter until soft and moist. Sanctuary doors. Com- 5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Dusting your hands pleted sheets may be Why not help by advertising this with more flour gently knead the dough 4 or 5 times, shaping dough placed on the collection event to your friends, families and into a ¾” flat circle. A gentle touch is required. plate or taken to the neighbours by phone or email or 6. Using a cookie cutter cut out 3” rounds. Gently press together the church office. posting a flyer. Flyers can be scraps to make more biscuits. picked up from the tables in the 7. Place the rounds with sides just touching each other on a parchment lined cookie sheet . This produces soft sided biscuits that should rise Sanctuary or from the office. For further details contact evenly. For crispier sides place biscuits apart. Jennifer Reid in the Church 8. Cover the biscuits with a towel and let rise for 5 minutes on top of office at 613-728-8656. For information, suggestions or to stove. volunteer please call 9. Bake 12 – 14 minutes until golden. the church office at 10. Makes about 16 biscuits 3” across. 613‐728‐8656 11. Steps 2 -4 can also be done in a food processor.

12 13 NEWS FROM THE PEWS

Birthdays in If you would like your birthday to be November a secret, please let Jennifer in the Our warmest office know and we will leave you off greetings to: the list.

Nov 1 Jenna Lester Nov 2 Neil McGraw Arianne Laurita EPALE was Nov 3 Uyo-obong Akpan born on Thanksgiving Monday, Nov 3 Ekom Akpan October 11, 2010. Arianne is Nov 3 Rob Hilkes the daughter of Doretta and Dina, Nov 4 Barbara Baird and brother of Cordell. Nov 5 Alex McGregor Nov 6 Emily Menzies Nov 6 Seth Hilkes Gloria White & Richard Sewell were married on October 14 at Nov 8 Chris Halstead Parkdale. Congratulations! Nov 8 Alexandra Stockwell Lillian Garrett died on October 1,

Nov 9 Liese Manchester 2010 at the age of 97. Her fam- Parkdale’s Nigel Bell was one of Nov 10 Barbara Hills ily wrote in her obituary that the prominent participants in the Nov 12 Jeanetta McGarry Mrs. Garrett’s credo was honesty, ceremonies that recently installed Nov 12 Jennifer Reid purity, unselfishness and love. David Johnston as Canada’s 28th Nov 15 Matthew Goetz Our thoughts and prayers are Governor General. Nigel – that Nov 16 Blaine Pauling with her friends and family. would be Chief Warrant Officer Nov 17 Estelle Allen Delphine Emmanuelle Ahmed- Nigel – is conductor of the Cen- Nov 18 Shirley Ritchie Sarah Anne Abell, cherished Robin was born on October 11, tral Band of the Canadian Armed Nov 18 Mary Sproule daughter of Amy Abell and the daughter of Nore and Greg, and Forces, and the band had a key Nov 19 Elena Dent late Sinclair Abell died on Octo- sister of Kiki. role in the official activities, such Nov 21 Lorena Mason ber 3. Our thoughts and prayers as performing the Vice Regal Nov 24 Wendy Bailey are with Amy and her family. Congratulations to Leigh and salute. In addition to playing at Nov 24 Irene Hilkes Jeffrey Menzies on the birth of the installation of Governor Gen- Nov 24 Jenna Gibbs Audrey Whittle, former member their first child, a daughter, Alice eral Johnston, the band also Nov 24 Robin Mace of Parkdale United, died on Octo- Lauren, granddaughter for Emily played at the departure ceremony Nov 27 Alec Anderson ber 9, 2010, in White Rock, Brit- and Alan. of former Governor General Nov 28 Gavin Baird ish Columbia in her 89th year. Michaelle Jean. (The Governor Nov 30 Melanie Scott Our thoughts and prayers are General is Commander-in-Chief Nov 30 Daria Fincham with her brothers Len, Stan and of the Armed Forces.) Nov 30 Gerald Ernest David Baird and families. 14 15 Celebrating our Cultures 2010

On Saturday, October 16, Parkdale United Church held its annual Cele- brating Our Cultures international dinner. The event took place in Me- morial Hall where the walls were adorned with colourful travel posters from around the world and the tables were decorated with flags from more than a dozen countries.

Approximately 150 guests attended the event and all were eager to sam- ple the vast array of homemade international dishes. A few of the guests wore international costumes in anticipation of the rich global experience that awaited us.

Rev. Dr. Anthony Bailey welcomed everyone and invited guests at each table to welcome us in their mother tongue. Approximately 18 people did so and it was an awesome experience to hear so many new lan- guages. Anthony then asked God for His blessing on the food. After- wards, Anthony invited us to make our way to the buffet tables while Ray Smith, singer/guitarist entertained us with a variety of well-known folk songs. Ray’s mellow voice was music to our ears.

The buffet, laid out on both sides of the hall, included a broad range of main courses, appetizers and desserts. After dinner, the young Gittens boys won our hearts with their steel pan music. They were a welcome new addition to the line-up of entertainment.

As the evening progressed, guests chatted amiably as they initiated and

16 17 deepened their intercultural relationships. The warm smiles and stories Later, Elena Emelyanova, of cultural histories and fascinating life experiences, as well as the con- singer/songwriter/guitarist, versations about the symbolic dances and intricate costumes contributed serenaded us with her Rus- well to an evening of heartwarming fellowship and new friendships. sian rendition of Ave Maria, followed by a This year’s Master of Ceremonies was John Harewood, who looked lovely English song. Both handsome in his embroidered shirt from Ethiopia. Later in the evening, showcased her wonderful John delivered a brief reflective speech on the concept of “home” as a gift of music. physical place and the many reasons that immigrants move to Canada. He spoke about his Bajan roots and read excerpts from his journal enti- The Omely International tled “An Odyssey of Then and Now.” His descriptions of his pictur- Performing Arts Group esque homeland were engaging and poetic. provided the grand finale by bringing together cul- This year’s honorary “ambassadors” included Dennis Savelyev, who turally diverse performing spoke eloquently about his family’s arrival in Canada from the Ukraine, artists, including singers, and Ryan Pascal, whose presentation on Haiti was particularly informa- musicians, dancers and tive. The crowd cheered as Mustafa Abu-Nasar (the youngest member actors. Assembled by of Parkdale’s sponsored Palestinian family) approached the microphone Luan Van Phung, Fashion to speak about Iraq. We were all glad to hear how comfortable he is Coordinator and Dance becoming in speaking English since his family’s arrival in Ottawa one Choreographer, the Per- year ago. forming Arts Group presented superb examples of world fashions and folk dances. Each model was a dancer and represented a different This year’s international dinner country, wearing a traditional costume from that country, such as those was significant in that there was worn during festivals, ceremonies, weddings, celebrations, etc. The a moving musical tribute to the audience’s energy level soared as the African Jumba-Dambe Drummers late Ron Duncan, who passed tapped out their rapid rhythmic beats, and the Colombian dance group’s away recently at the youngish colourful costumes were absolutely stun- age of 57. Ron was a dear ning! friend to many and a dedicated member of Parkdale. Those Congratulations to the Omely International who knew Ron were shocked Performing Arts Group for leaving us with and saddened to hear of the such a memorable last impression. death of this kind, caring man. Ron worked tirelessly with the Respectfully submitted, Mission, Outreach and Justice Committee, and he is deeply Barbara Hennessy missed. Member Celebrating our Cultures Planning Committee 18 19 Random notes of Fundamental Skills

Thankfulness for Building Inclusive Community

Please come out and join Eric Law from the Kaleidoscope In- stitute in Los Angeles and oth- Our new Volunteer Coordinator ers from the Ottawa commu- for In From The Cold is Camille nity who are interested in Beaufort. She has set up an learning about and building e-mail address healthy intercultural and di- [email protected]. Thanks Camille verse communities of faith. November 19 Liz Harrison has recently stepped (Open Forum 7-9pm), down as Chair of the Ministry November 20 and Personnel Committee. (Workshop 9am-4pm ), Thank you for your dedicated work with that committee and the Where: City View United church Council Liz. Church, 4 Epworth Drive

Thanks to the terrific team of volunteers who are preparing for Eric Law's Friday evening open this year’s bazaar. It looks as forum is free and will feature a though it is going to be another Filipino Choir, and a Christian wonderful occasion for commu- band called Stream. nity celebration and fundraising. Saturday's workshop requires Thanks to our team of Sunday registration ($30 which in- School teachers. For “drop in” cludes lunch and snacks). attendees on Thanksgiving Sun- For more information, please day there were all kinds of fun contact Rev. Bailey things to do—it was hard to tear the kids away. ([email protected]) or Judy Lawson ([email protected] - 613 -224-5318 x 10) 20 21 An Alzheimer Pioneer The Second Blessing Coffee Shop did a brisk business during its Madeleine’s activism, which opening following the September 26 worship service. began in the early 1970s, resulted in the eventual creation of the Alzheimer Society of Ot- tawa and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario. The Alzheimer Soci- ety of Canada, which was founded in 1978, was the world’s first national organiza- tion to advocate for patients Long-time Parkdale member with dementia, through helping Madeleine Honeyman’s pio- patients and families find the neering efforts to have Alz- services they require. heimer’s disease medically diagnosed was prominently The Globe & Mail article recognized by the Globe & pointed out that the national so- Mail last month. The national ciety’s symbol is “a flower that newspaper published a series is not unlike Mrs. Honeyman: of articles on the issue of de- the forget-me-not.” mentia, in support of its call for governments to make pre- Among her other interests dur- vention, social support and ing her long membership at research a public health prior- Parkdale, Madeleine has become ity. known as “the Hat Lady,” be- cause of her fondness for wear- A half-page article on Made- ing colourful and dramatic hats. leine described her personal Each spring, we designate one journey in learning about Alz- Sunday as “Hat Day” in her heimer’s – a disease which led honour. (Last month’s Globe to her husband’s death - and article also displayed a small her campaign for more re- front-page photo of Madeleine search and public understand- wearing one of her trademark ing. head coverings.)

22 23 The Christian Development commit‐ tery approved the recommenda‐ tee presented more information tions. The next step is for the Con‐ Summary of the October drawing attention to the regarding the licensing for video ference Mission Support Committee 12th Meeting of Ottawa appointments of two new use. They are trying to discover the to consider recommendations from Presbytery staff: Rev. Whit Strong as interest in acquiring a Presbytery all the Presbyteries and make deci‐ Ottawa Presbytery was Personnel Minister West license for interested congregations. sions regarding final grant alloca‐ welcomed by the congre‐ and Shanna Bernier as the Congregations are asked to indicate tions. These will be reported at the gation of Rideau Park Conference Animator for their interest by November 30, November meeting. United Church on Octo‐ Youth and Young Adult 2010. ber 12, 2010. During sup‐ Ministries The Global Partners Network invit‐ per the Presbytery cele‐ [email protected]. Rev. Brian Cornelius, the Chair of ing the Presbytery and its Pastoral brated the 90th birthday She also highlighted the the Finance Committee, presented Charges to become engaged in what of Anne Squire with cake and song. rally of support being held on Octo‐ the reviewed 2009 Financial State‐ it is calling "Countdown to 2012 ‐ Anne is a member of Emmanuel ber 19th on parliament hill for Bill C‐ ments for approval and the 2011 Living for Creation". This is intended United Church and past Moderator 300 regarding mining practice. draft budget and assessments as to build a network of activity in re‐ of the United Church of Canada. Carolyn Ruda, the Conference Mis‐ notice of motions to be considered sponse to the call of General Council sion and Service Enthusiast shared at the November meeting. The 2011 and the Moderator for the United Following the call to order by Chair, information about resources and draft budget is a 3% increase over Church to actively participate in care Barbara Reynolds, words of wel‐ the work of the M&S Fund. 2010. This increase is due to 2011 of creation. Presbyters were invited come were extended by Marilyn being the final year of the phase in to write (on a leaf ) projects and Law, Chair of Rideau Park Council. Rev. Ed Gratton, a member of the of a full time Youth and Young Adult efforts in their home congregations Marilyn spoke of the many pro‐ Presbytery’s newly formed Mission staff position in the regular budget. that reflect concern for the environ‐ grams of the congregation and par‐ Strategy Working Group invited Rev. Steve Clifton, chair of the Youth ment. The co‐chairs of the network, ticularly on its relationships with the Presbyters to share their vision of and Young Adult Committee re‐ Sara Surjadinata and Rev. Sandra community. She also related the what they hope the church will look ported on the work of the commit‐ Yule would be happy to hear from present partnership with Emmanuel like in 15 years. Energetic discussion tee and the contract with Fiona congregations. United Church during the renova‐ took place in small buzz groups. This Smith as interim coordinator, during tions on their own building. is the beginning of an ongoing con‐ the search for a new YAYA Minister. Rev. Ellie Barrington, on behalf of The worship was led by members of versation regarding the mission of the Church in Society committee the Presbytery "Seeking Right Rela‐ the Presbytery and its Pastoral The Mission Support Grant recom‐ encouraged Presbyters to share tions Group", including those who Charges. mendations were presented by Rev. information about the November 1st attended the Montreal and Ottawa Read Sherman. There has been a forum with Dr. Jeffrey Turnbull on Conference gathering in early Sep‐ Nicole Beaudry and Gisele Gifillan 10% decrease in the grant money Health Consequences of Poverty, to tember. Dramatic readings depicting presented on behalf of the Presby‐ available for distribution within be held at City View United 3 ‐ 5 pm. the experiences of residential tery Ministries in French working M&O Conference. The decision was The meeting adjourned with wor‐ schools were shared. group. Each month they will be pre‐ taken to show the direct Presbytery ship. senting a French phrase. The phrase grants to supported ministries along Following the routine business mo‐ for this meeting was "salut". They side the mission support recommen‐ Ottawa Presbytery meets next on tions, the Chair reported on the shared its wide ranging uses and dations, to give the total picture of November 9th at MacKay United work of Conference Executive, meanings. grant money available. The Presby‐ Church. 24 25 DISPATCHES FROM BRAZIL Pedroso. His family and neighbours came to revere it. Stories of mira- Basilica of the National Shrine of cles spread and the family built her a Our Lady of Aparecida, in the town chapel which soon became too of Aparecida, São Paulo. The Basil- small, so in 1737, the priest of ica is the fourth most popular Marian Guaratinguetá built her a chapel and shrine in the world and can hold up public visits started in 1745. In 1834 to 45,000 worshippers. work on a larger church began and it

became known as the "old Basilica" The story started in October 1717, when work on the even larger "new when Dom Pedro de Almeida, Gov- Basilica" was started in 1955. ernor of the provinces of São Paulo Celebrating A National Holiday in In 1930, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Minas Gerais, passed through a October under the title of Our Lady of Apare- small city in the Paraíba river valley, In October and November, there are cida, was proclaimed the "Queen and an important gold mining site. The a number of national holidays. Principal Patroness of Brazil" by people held a feast in his honour, Sometimes, they are extended to Pope Pius XII., with St. Peter of Al- and although it was not fishing sea- four-day weekends through a bridge cantara retaining the position of pa- son, the fishermen went down to the holiday given by some employers. tron and continuing as co-patron. Paraíba waters to catch fish for the On Tuesday, October 12, the final feast. Three of the fishermen prayed day of a four-day weekend, Brazil According to most sources, the Our Lady of Aparecida has more to the Virgin and asked for God's honoured its patron saint. That day, statue had been sculpted by a monk than once been the source of reli- help. After several hours, they were in addition to being the feast day of from São Paulo known for his artis- gious conflicts among Catholics and ready to give up when one of them Nossa Senhora Aparecida, is Chil- tic skills in making sacred images. It Protestants. On May 16, 1978, a cast his net once more and hauled in dren`s Day and Discovery of Amer- is three feet tall and dates from Protestant took the statue from its a statue with a missing head. They ica Day which some call Columbus around 1650 and must have been niche on the Basilica after the last cast again and brought up the statue's Day. underwater for years. It is sculpted Mass of the day. He was chased by head. After cleaning the statue, they in clay and covered by a stiff dark guards and some of the church goers. found that it was a black version of Nossa Senhora Aparecida blue robe of richly embroidered As he was caught, the statue fell to Our Lady of the Immaculate Con- The story of Nossa Senhora Apare- thick cloth with golden clasps. A the ground breaking to pieces. Be- ception. Legend has it that when cida is witness to the rich tapestry of crown was added in 1904. Only her cause the statue was made of clay the fishermen recovered the body, Brazilian religious and cultural his- face and hands can be seen. that had been submersed in water for then the head, the slender figure of tory. a long time it was difficult to repair, the Aparecida Virgin became so but a group of dedicated artists and heavy that they couldn't budge it. Briefly, here is the story of Our Lady Patroness of Brazil artisans carefully pieced it together They named the statue Nossa Sen- of the Appeared Conception (in Por- Devotion to the statue grew rapidly, again. hora da Aparecida Conceição, tuguese, Nossa Senhora Aparecida particularly among Afro-Brazilians, wrapped it in cloth and continued to or Nossa Senhora da Conceição not only for its black Madonna Alas, on her feast day in 1995, a fish. Their catch was so great that Aparecida). Nossa Senhora, the status, but also because one of her public holiday, an incident later they had to return to port because the Virgin Mary, is the patron saint of early miracles involved a young known as "kicking of the saint" took weight of the fish threatened to sink Brazil and on this particular day in slave. For 15 years after the discov- place. Televangelist bishop Sérgio the boat. The catch was the first October she is honoured because of ery, the statue remained in the family Von Helde, of the Universal Church miracle attributed to Nossa Senhora a short, wooden statue housed in the of one of the fisherman, Filipe of the Kingdom of God (UCKG), Aparecida. 26 27 kicked a replica of Our Lady Apare- cida on a late-night religious pro- gram broadcast, causing a nation- wide commotion. The event was perceived by Catholics as a major act of religious intolerance, causing a public outcry. Several temples of the UCKG were targeted by protest- ers, and Von Helde was transferred to South Africa. (I wonder why South Africa?)

The feast day of Nossa Senhora Aparecida is now all but eclipsed by Children`s Day which, in Brazil, now ranks with February 14 (Sweethearts Day) and Mothers` Day in consumer spending. on. Lucas is a fine dancer although A Birthday Party on Children`s he is not sure how he learned. He is Day... Adriely, 5 years Brazilian. Maybe that is all it takes. During that long weekend, I also He is also learning capoeira, a popu- attended Adriely`s birthday party. lar martial dance form, so was also week course on Ecumenism and DID NOAH FISH? She is the adopted daughter of one of performing spinning head stands and Inter-religious Dialogue in São my CESE colleagues. I have be- holding his body horizon- Paulo during the summer of 2009, come good friends with Alonso and tal ,supported on one arm. one of our speakers was a part-time A Sunday school teacher several children in my colleague`s Pentecostal pastor. She was also a asked, "Johnny, do family. (Those of you who know Luca asked me if I am a Christian. part-time pastor in a São Paulo Lu- me, will hardly credit this but they Yes, I said. Catholic? No, Protes- theran church. you think Noah did a lot think I am rather exotic here.) It was tant. It could be an important issue. of fishing when he was on truly splendid party including about Luca and his mother and family at- Brazil has a rich religious and cul- the Ark ?" 20 children, mostly siblings or cous- tend a Pentecostal church. Clearly, tural diversity. God bless us all as ins and a few friends. Luca is taking it all in, including its we strive to know and do His will. often very clear distinctions between "No," replied Johnny. I loved it and felt privileged to be good and evil. For many Pentecos- Kathleen included. tals, the Catholic Church is the work of the devil. "How could he, with just In one of these pictures, I am danc- two worms?" ing with Lucas who is 8 years old. As in many other countries, Pente- We were doing a two-step, alone on costalism is growing rapidly in Bra- the “dance floor” and neither of us zil while, as elsewhere, mainline stumbled nor had our toes stepped churches shrink. During a four- 28 29 Where are they now? Nails in the Fence Lectionary for November 2010 Kathryn and Peter Meerburg’s chil‐ There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His father gave him dren, Gayle and Glen, cut their a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence. November 1 (All Saints’ teeth in Parkdale’s nursery, and went on to the Sunday School and Day) youth groups in the late 70s and The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks, as he learnt to control his anger, the number of nails ham- early 80s, during the ministry of mered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 Gervis Black. hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Psalm 149 Ephesians 1:11-23 Gayle has Arts degrees from both Finally the day came when the boy didn’t lose his temper at all. He told Luke 6:20-31 Carleton University and the Univer‐ his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out sity of Western Ontario, and Glen is one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. November 7 a degree graduate of the Geology program at the University of Water‐ The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father Haggai 1:15b—2:9 loo. (During her studies at Carleton, that all the nails were gone. Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 or Gayle served one term as a Page in Psalm 98 the House of Commons.) The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, “You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13- Gayle is employed with the Dell fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they 17 Computer company in Toronto, a leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it Luke 20:27-38 large manufacturer of computers, out. But it won’t matter how many times you say I’m sorry, the wound printers and associated products. will still be there. A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one. Re- November 14 She and husband Markus live in member that friends are very rare jewels, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. They lend an ear, they share Oakville, and they have a 7‐month words of praise and they always want to open their hearts to us.” old daughter, Isabella. Isaiah 65:17-25 Isaiah 12 This was sent via e-mail during Friendship week encouraging people to 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 Glen is employed with Geosoft Can‐ forgive those who had ever left a “hole” in their fence. Luke 21:5-19 ada in Toronto, an information technology company that provides Submitted by, November 21 (Christ the software worldwide for the geo‐ Erin Fortune. science industry. He is also a Cana‐ King / Reign of Christ) dian Army reserve officer with the Queen’s Own Rifles. He and wife Jeremiah 23:1-6 Ginette live in Brooklin, and have Luke 1:68-79 two sons, Logan 4, and Karson, 2 ½. Colossians 1:11-20 Luke 23:33-43

30 31 Stained glass windows are but sym- For All Time … bols of a past generation’s desire to “Mum!” young Brian exclaimed, “These provide something that would last windows are beautiful!” and serve to inspire generations to He was standing, looking at the stained come. They represent the sense of glass windows in the church sanctuary. vision and confidence in the future Even though his mum and dad had been on which the United Church has bringing him to the church ever since he thrived and grown. Stained glass was a baby, it was as though Brian was windows are a visual endowment. seeing the windows for the first time. Like stained glass windows and Perhaps this was simply the first time other memorial gifts, named endowed funds create a that he had stood still long enough to no- lasting legacy. They can be a way of giving thanks for the tice them! past, honouring the present and expressing confidence in the future. “Where did they come from?” he asked as he ran his fingers over the surface. By establishing an endowment, a donor creates a flow of income to a United Church mission, program, or congre- “Well,” said his mother, Mary Anne, “if you look at the gation. The principal or invested amount remains intact for names at the bottom here, they tell us who gave them to perpetuity (or for some agreed upon time), and the in- the church many years ago.” come earned goes to support the activities of the chosen “Why would they do that?” Brian asked. beneficiary. And naming the fund after a loved one not only personal- “Well, they probably thought they would make the sanctuary izes the gift, but like the stained glass window, it ensures an extra special place and remind us of some of the won- that their loved one’s name and vision live on in genera- derful people and stories in the Bible. Look at this window. tions to come. Do you see Jesus welcoming all the little children?” To discuss your vision and the possibility of establishing a “Boy, these people were really thinking ahead, weren’t named endowment, contact the Financial Development they?” Brian said. And with that, he headed toward the Officer in your region or conference. church hall for juice. Mary Anne was startled by his last comment, and turned to Paul Sales, Financial Development Officer her friend, Ruth, who had overheard their conversation, and Montreal and Ottawa Conference The United Church of Canada said, “You know? He’s a sharp cookie. They really were 6304 Paddler Way, Orléans, Ontario K1C 2E7 thinking ahead.” Phone: (613) 841-9291 Email: [email protected]

32 33 Canadian Centennial Choir

An Old-Fashioned Christmas Tuesday, December 14, 2010 7:30 pm Centretown United Church 507 Bank Street

A festive selection of Christ- Jean-Stephan Clark mas carols, Hannukkah songs exceeded his personal goal and audience sing-along by pedalling 100 kilometers, Triumph of the Spirit and raising $1,125.00 in Saturday, March 5, 2011 8 pm sponsored pledges in the St. Bridgid's Centre for the Arts 302 St. Patrick Street Medtronic “Bike for Beats” fund-raiser on September Fauré's Requiem, accompa- 26. nied by orchestra, Imant Raminsh's I Will Sing unto the Lord and Glick's Triumph of the Bike for Beats is a one-day Spirit cycling event in and around

A Celtic Ceilidh Ottawa, to help in raising Saturday, May 14, 2011 8 pm funds for the Ottawa Heart Centretown United Church Institute. Riders of all abili- 507 Bank Street ties aged 14 and up choose Adult subscription package - between three course $60 ($48 before 31 Oct. 2010) lengths: 25km, 50km, and Senior/Student package - $49 ($40 before 31 Oct. 2010) 100km. Children under the age of 12 ac- companied by a parent are free of charge Stephan, who is an Ottawa Call Val Hum, 613-728-8830 paramedic, also lost 10 pounds of weight during the

Valerie Hum lead-up training and cycling 13 Hutchison Ave, day. Ottawa, K1Y 4A2 613-728-8830

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HOW ARE OUR FINANCES?

All donations are very much appreciated as we continue to fund the ministries of Parkdale United Church. We EDITORIAL BOARD currently have a deficit of about $37,000. Debbie McGregor, Chair and Editor, Kathleen Stephenson (foreign correspondent), John Butcher, Valerie Hum, Peter Meerburg, Danica Rogers and you???? WOULD YOU LIKE Call (613) 728-8656 to volunteer. GIVINGS ENVELOPES? The Parkdale Messenger is pub- lished at Parkdale United Church, Parkdale United Church on the last Sunday of each month is financed by congrega- and includes a calendar of events and activities for the following tional donations. If you month. We appreciate any sub- do not have envelopes missions to the Parkdale Messen- and would like to, please ger. We reserve the right to edit, condense contact the office and let or reject submissions, but will Jennifer know. Using try to find space for all. regular envelopes with

your own number helps Next issue: December 2010. ensure that all your Please submit articles and materi- givings are included in als to [email protected] or the church office one by November 17. charitable tax receipt at year-end.

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