Highlands United Church Fall Program Guide Sept-Dec 2016 Page 2 2016 Fall Program Guide
Fall Program Guide Index Men’s Breakfast Caring and Wellness Nativity Exhibit and Craft Fair Caring Ministry Scottish Dance Fundraising Hospital Visits Sunday Lunches Care Facility Visitors Thursday Community Meals Highlands “At Home” Ministry Women’s Breakfast Caring Packages Music Ministry Healing Hands Ministry Eight Deadly Sins Prayer Shawls Ministry Genesis Too Choir Children, Youth & Young Adults God’s Free Spirits Choir Sunday Morning Children and Youth Program Hand Bell Ringers All Hallows Eve Family Party and Potluck Dinner IGNITE worship CHOPS Praise Band Fun Live-Giving Youth (FLY) Spirit Singers Choir IGNITE worship Reaching Out…Building Community Senior Yo uth Group Dress A Girl Around the World Young Adults Edgemont Village Christmas Day Community Meal Financial Stewardship Global Connections Annual Stewardship Connection Prayer Shawl Ministry Planned Giving / Enduring Giving Sandwiches for First United Saturday Lunch Grow and Learn Shelter to Home Book Circle Developmental Disabilities Climate Action Committee Community Partners (including First United, WISH, DruYoga for Adults CCSS, Lookout and Camp Fircom) ESL/ELL English as a Second Language Walk and Talk Seniors Ministry Yoga Chapel Seniors Connection
Life Events Worship Baptism Sunday Morning 10:00am Worship Weddings Sunday Morning Coffee Time Memorials Greeters and Welcome Hosts for Sunday Audio Visual / Technical Team Meeting Others Christmas Season Badminton Christmas Eve Services Birthday Celebrations Bridge Club Highlands Staff
Flea Market Volunteer Opportunities Guitar for Fun Highlands Quilters
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 3
Welcome to Highlands United Church
Welcome to the Highlands United Church Fall Program Guide. Whether you are a newcomer at Highlands or a long time member, this is the place to find the information you need to get involved in the community. There is an amazing array of small groups, choirs, outreach opportunities, study groups, programs for children, youth, families and seniors along with a wide range of seasonal and special events. Highlands has a place for everyone. Some people come to Highlands looking for a community of friendship. Check out the section entitled “Meeting Others.” Some come here with a longing to grow in faith and spirit or to untangle some knot that has developed in their life. Take a look at the “Grow and Learn” section. Sometimes life events, births, deaths, marriages bring people to Highlands. The “Caring and Healing” and “Life Events” sections will guide you to the ways we share these parts of life. Lots of people come here to worship and to sing. If that is you, check out one of the opportunities in Music and Worship. You may be here looking for a way to make a difference in the world. You are not alone. “Reach Out” and “Volunteer” is where you will find these opportunities. Whatever stage of life you are in, there are programs for “Children, Youth, Young Adults” and “Seniors”. Here at Highlands we have a vision of people gathering not only on Sundays but all through the week out of a desire to form beloved community. We know the difference it can make for our lives to be woven into a greater life lived in community. I hope that as you read through this guide you will be able to see yourself connecting in some way, and that you and we will be blessed by God in the process. Rev. Will Sparks
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org Page 4 2016 Fall Program Guide
Caring and Wellness month” bringing news of church friends and ongoing activities at the Caring Ministry church, and offering We are building a lay-led ministry that will ensure some caring faith support is given in the difficult patches of our life’s resources. If you would journey. There are currently four components and like to be part of a caring volunteers are invited to offer skills in these compassionate team ministries: who visit folks in one of these facilities OR be on the sub/alternate visitor
list, please call Jacqueline Scott through the Church Hospital Visits Office. Tanis van Drimmelen is a trained visitor with a Contact: Jacqueline Scott, 604-980-6071 compassionate heart and is a designated Hospital,
Palliative and Hospice Visitor. Highlands “At Home” Ministry As people live longer and remain in their own homes, we have discovered that there can be some acute loneliness in that decision. Visits and friends are more important than ever. Doree Piercy is the contact person for Highlands At Home Caring Ministry and tries to ensure that people living alone get caring phone calls. Would you like to be a caring contact for the At-Home people? Contact Doree Piercy through the Church Office. There is a screening process to ensure everyone’s safety. Contact: Doree Piercy, 604-980-6071
How can you help? If you or someone you know is in need of a hospital visit, please call the Church Caring Packages Office and Tanis will be alerted immediately. It Twice a year the invitation goes out via Highlights takes all of us being aware to ensure that and e-mail for people to bake cookies and make everyone in the congregation receives a caring goodies so we can deliver care packages to people visit. in care facilities and in the “At Home” Ministry, as Contact: Tanis van Drimmelen, 604-980-6071 well as a few with special circumstances. This ministry requires bakers and volunteers who will deliver the packages and have a caring visit. The Visiting Ministry for Care Facilities & packages usually go out for Christmas and Independent Living Easter. You can volunteer through the Church When people move into care facilities it is a big Office or respond to the invitation when it comes. adjustment and they often lose touch with their Contact: Tanis van Drimmelen, 604-980-6071 former faith community. Highlands Caring Ministry has appointed a visitor for each North Shore Senior Care Facility which is home to a Highlands person. These visitors connect at least “once a
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 5
Healing Hands Ministry Healing Hands is a major outreach and caring ministry. The Healing Hands Children, Youth & Young Ministry within the Christian Adults community follows the example given by Jesus. It is an energy- We exist to explore, inspire, question and discover based approach to healing, the role of God in our lives. working with and restoring At Highlands United Church we exist to love and balance to the energy fields that surround you. be loved, to know and be known, to serve and be Changes may be experienced on a physical, served, to learn, pray and grow together. We mental, emotional and/or spiritual level. The goal of believe that the future of our church lies in the faith a Healing Hands session is to awaken your body's of our children and youth, and we support this innate healing powers, restoring harmony and journey in every way we see possible. We play balance to your whole being. together. We adventure together. We laugh Volunteer practitioners who have taken courses together. We worship together. We burn with a offered by the Healing Pathway based at Naramata desire to live the life Christ wanted for us — freely, Centre offer healing sessions to members of the with compassion and with great joy. congregation and to persons in the wider For further information on Children and Youth community. Appointments are available on programming please contact coordinators Allie Keir Wednesday afternoons and Monday evenings or Andria Irwin at [email protected] or (alternates weekly), and can be made for home, a visit our children and youth website at care facility, hospital or hospice. www.highlandsunite.ca Contact for info: Sharon Yetman, 604-988-5827
For an appointment: Lorraine Elliott, 604-985-4502 Tentative bookings made for first and third Sunday Morning Children & Youth Programs Wednesdays to match Seniors Connection, 12:30 – Registration is now open for all, ages 0 through 2:30 Sept to Dec. Grade 12. Please visit our website (www.highlandsunited.org) to register or visit us in
the church’s new Welcome Space before church Prayer Shawl Ministry on Sundays. The Prayer Shawl Prayer Shawls Please re-register group meets on your son or Mondays at 1pm in daughter even if the Choir Room. Our you have been shawls have been registered in the lovingly donated to past. Regular those who are ill or in Sunday School need of comfort, and classes begin Sept have been received 18th. with much gratitude. We welcome anyone who enjoys knitting or crocheting, as well as beginners and would like to learn to knit. Contact: Joy Dancey, 604-924-1065, [email protected]
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org Page 6 2016 Fall Program Guide
Sunday Morning Classes & Teachers PJs and Pancakes Nursery (0 to age 3): Alexa Villalpando Families and youth are invited to join us (by Age 3 to Kindergarten: Rachel Robertson, donation) for breakfast starting at 8:30 am before Maddy Keir and Chris Madill the service on Sunday, October 2nd. Grades 1-3 (4): Colin Madill, Grace Owens, Emily Anderson Grades 4-6 (7): Lianna Rushworth, IGNITE Worship Bella Kershaw and Matt Anderson Come and join us for our Grade 7 & up: Chris Bochon, Andria Irwin new all-ages, and Sandi Parker contemporary worship experience held once per All Hallow’s Eve / All Saints Day Family month in the Sanctuary. Potluck, Party & Darkness to Light Walk IGNITE worship is a place Friday, October 21, 5:30 pm where all are welcome Costumes welcome! and community is built Join us for this annual around spiritual practise, event in the HUC gym uplifting praise music and inspiring messages and at 5:30pm for family themes. A by-donation dinner is served after the activities, followed by a service in the Lower Hall. Worship at 6pm, dinner potluck dinner and at 7pm. th th spooky walk from the 2016 dates: October 14 , November 11 and Gym to the Sanctuary December 2nd where we will close with a short family FUEL X IGNITE worship. For families with children of all A true all-ages experience with our three youth ages…grandparents groups meeting on the same night, Friday, nd welcome too! December 2 ! 6pm: IGNITE Worship in the Sanctuary 7pm: Dinner in the Lower Hall FUEL* (The new “FLY”) 8pm: Senior Youth Tacky Christmas For young people in grades 4+. FUEL meets on Sweater Party the first and third Friday of each month 7pm to 9pm, beginning Friday, September 16th, for 8pm: FUEL for Junior Youth games, activities, and adventures! 8pm: Bible & Brew for Young Adults FUEL events from September to December are: in the Faith Room th th st September 16 , October 7 and 21 , November 4th and 18th, and December 2nd and 16th. (*faithfully united, energetic living)
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 7
Senior Youth (Gr. 7 & up) Financial Stewardship The senior youth have a flexible schedule of social activities, outings, and service projects, but are Highlands United serves a wide variety of people always sure to meet after IGNITE worship. both within the congregation and in the wider community. The life and work of Highlands is mostly Join us for the first fall gathering on Friday, accomplished through the financial support and October 14th at 7:30pm (following IGNITE worship commitment of its members and community. In & dinner) for The Great Bake Night, in preparation addition to weekly donations, one-time financial gifts for the Flea Market Bistro. and donations in memoriam provide for the Other 2016 events: ministerial and general expenses of the th November 11 : IGNITE worship & Senior Youth church. Highlands is pleased and proud to be at the Gathering end of our renovations and reconstruction of the nd December 2 : IGNITE worship & the Annual church main entrance and sanctuary interior and in Tacky Christmas Sweater Decorating Party replacing the roof and many old windows, funded by a successful capital campaign. Financial matters Young Adults (18-35) are closely managed throughout the year under the direction of the Finance Committee to ensure Our Young Adults meet once per month for Bible & prudent use of available resources. All donations to Brew after IGNITE worship & dinner. We cover the Highlands are eligible to receive an income tax theme from that evening’s worship service in a receipt, which is issued by the end of February of casual, conversational manner and enjoy a brew of the following year. our choice (coffee, tea, beer, cider etc.) We talk until we run out of things to say! For more If you would like to make a donation or establish a information contact Andria Irwin at program of regular giving: [email protected] Contact: Carol Smith, 604-980-6071 2016 dates: Oct 14th, Nov 11th, Dec 2nd [email protected]
The Annual Stewardship Connection
Each year during October, all participants in the life of the church are invited to make a confidential financial pledge for the following year in support of our community’s many ministries, programs and outreach initiatives. This year’s Stewardship Connection will be launched on Sunday, October 2nd with the theme, “Abundant Joy, Overflowing Generosity!” and conclude with our famous Upside Down Celebration Lunch which will be held on
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org Page 8 2016 Fall Program Guide
Sunday, October 30th, immediately following worship. Please mark this date in your calendar. Grow and Learn For more information, pick up a copy of this year's Asking Big Questions for Adults Stewardship brochure, or browse it on the Highlands website. Thursday Evenings 6:15-7:15pm Contact: Bob Brown, 604-603-6005 October 20th to November 24th Life is full of big questions: Where do we come from? How do we reconcile ancient stories with Planned Giving / Enduring Giving scientific truths? What happens after we die? What is the most important thing? Sometimes the questions get personal: What am I called to do and be? How can I make a difference in the world? The Christian faith never claimed to have all the answers, but offers abundant resources to puzzle through the questions and live well with the struggle. Most significantly, the Christian community offers us people, companions in the struggle. In 5 one hour sessions we will explore some of the People want their lives to count in enduring ways great questions of the Christian faith. This program is designed for people interested in Confirmation and to make a difference with long term impact. Many of you may wish to remember Highlands and church membership. through a contribution in your will or with an For more information talk to Will Sparks enduring gift while you are living and can still enjoy [email protected] or Sandi Parker the fruits of your generosity. You can direct your [email protected] gift to the ongoing work of the church or maintain the church facilities over time. Highlands also has Book Circle an endowment fund named Highlands Heritage Fund which allows you to contribute to a Meets on the last permanent fund where your gift will become part of Tuesday of each month a growing, long-term legacy in support of the work (except in December, of the church long into the future. There are a July and August). It is a number of ways you can give a gift that will welcoming drop-in strengthen Highlands for ongoing service to its group, so come when community of followers and allow Highlands to your schedule permits or when you are interested increase its impact in the wider community: in a particular title. We gather at 7:00pm in the Library and are usually finished by 8:30pm. Books · Name Highlands Heritage Fund as a are chosen by voting on recommendations that beneficiary in your will individual participants bring forward. Upcoming · Make a one-time financial gift to Highlands titles will be confirmed in future weekly Highlights. Heritage Fund today If you have a book suggestion contact Phyllis · Name Highlands United Church as the Ferguson Bottomer, at [email protected] recipient of a Memorial gift
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 9
Climate and Environment “The mission of Dru Yoga is to “Create world Action Group peace by giving people the tools to experience This group started a year ago inner peace.” Because the movements are with this purpose: To graceful and flowing—and can also be done understand, clarify and act on sitting--any body can do it! Cost is $75 for 8 our role in faithful stewardship classes. of God's world. Our main goal Pre-registration required – register at is: To encourage and facilitate environment www.highlandsunited.org. For information contact and climate change awareness and responsibility Sandi Parker at among Highlands United Church's congregation [email protected] or 604-980- and its local community. 6071 ext 23 Instructor: JoAn Mauer We meet about once a month, for lunch on Sunday after worship. Watch for more information in the Highlights; or Living the Questions Session #3 speak to Jon Carrodus at 604-987-2595, A continuation of the DVD course in progressive or e-mail: jcarrodus at shaw dot ca Christianity begun in spring 2016. Stimulating and thought provoking Global Connections DVD clips and an Global Connections We place items of global opportunity for discussion concern before the congregation through and a diversity of announcements from the pulpit, on the action table opinions. Home baked or in the Highlights. We maintain contact with cookies and coffee Artesana, our partner organization in Guatemala. provided to add to the Contacts: Sharon Yetman 604-988-5827 fun! or Jon or Simone Carrodus 604-987-2595 Tuesdays, Oct 18-Nov 22, 1:00 pm – 2:15pm or 7:15 – 8:30 pm Intro to Dru Yoga for Adults Pre-requisite: Participants need to have attended Tuesdays, Sept 13 – Nov 1, 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm Sessions #1 and #2 or speak to Sandi Parker to see if this is a good fit for you. Participants can “Dru” is the Sanscrit switch back and forth between groups, but please word for “North email [email protected] to Star” the still point in indicate which group you will most likely be the night sky that attending, one can always find. Often Dru Yoga is Facilitated by Sandi Parker referred to as Please note: Session 1 will be offered in winter “stillness in motion” 2017 for those who are new to this program. or “yoga of the heart.” In many ways it looks similar to Tai Chi which also builds strength on many levels.
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org Page 10 2016 Fall Program Guide
English as Second Language ESL / ELL Yoga Chapel North Vancouver has become a vibrant Saturdays, November multicultural community 11-Dec 2, Time TBD including many for whom awaiting text English is a second (or third or fourth) language. This program provides an opportunity for students to practise their Walk and Talk English in an informal Join a member of the ministry team along with setting, meet new Wendy McNaughton or Phyllis and Lyndsay people, learn about life Bottomer at the Church on Tuesday mornings in Canada, share stories starting September 13th at 11:00am for a walk and have conversations around the Edgemont/Capilano area and a about spiritual matters. A discussion about spirituality, the community, the dedicated team of twelve volunteer teachers and world, the Bible, faith, the church, or anything else leaders take turns facilitating the classes. on your mind. Teachers and senior students work as a team to support these newcomers to Canada. The group meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30am to noon. We have 2 levels of classes: A Beginner and a more advanced class. The first hour of a class is focused on general guided conversation. Following a coffee break, conversation of a more spiritual nature takes place from 11:00 till noon. In addition, on Thursdays from 12:30-1:30pm, there is a Speakers Group for the more advanced and adventurous. Fall sessions start on Tuesday, September 13. The cost for the sessions is $40 for the Fall Term (Oct 19 to Dec 15), and $30 each for the Winter and Spring terms. You set the pace, and we will start us off with a quote, a question or a thought. Remove this If you or someone you know is interested in this sentence. program, please contact one of the teachers via The walk is set for those of an intermediate fitness the church office. New teachers and assistants are level; ie. You should be able to walk continuously always welcome. for 45 – 60 minutes including hills (this is, after all, Contact: Judy O’Neill through the Church Office at North Vancouver!) We walk rain or shine (unless it 604-980-6071. is really, really horrible, and then we will go for coffee!). Stay fit, meet others, and explore this beautiful community. ELL learners are welcome to join in and practice their conversational skills.
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 11
Life Events The staff at Highlands United Church would be pleased to assist with coordinating your wedding Baptism at Highlands service. To prepare for your ceremony, Highlands Baptism has been called the sacrament of will provide you with a marriage workbook to guide belonging. It is a public declaration of your you through a standard ceremony and provide you intention for you or your child to explore a spiritual with wording options that most closely path and receive the support of Highlands in your complement the type of ceremony you are Christian formation. We feel hono ured that yo u seeking. have entrusted Highlands with this initial step. For more information, check out our web site Adults being baptized will also be confirmed into www.highlandsunited.org or contact the Church membership and will attend a New Members Office at [email protected]. group to explore this path. Parents who wish their
children to be baptized attend a meeting on the meaning of baptism and a preview of the baptism Memorials service. This is a good time to get to know each Highlands can provide help and comfort in your other and to ‘rehearse’ the baptism act. time of loss, even if you are not part of the Contact: Will Sparks at: Highlands [email protected] or the Church congregation, by Office supporting you and your family as you
grieve, and by Weddings assisting with Weddings are wonderful celebrations! A church arrangements that wedding performed by a minister is similar to a involve Highlands civil wedding performed by a marriage Church and its commissioner—both services must meet the legal facilities. requirements of the Province of British Columbia Highlands staff can and must be registered with the Department of help you plan a Vital Statistics. But in a church wedding the memorial service or spiritual dimension of marriage is as important as funeral that best the legal. reflects your wishes, honours the life of your family member or friend, and acknowledges your loss. We can help you choose scripture readings, music and prayers, discuss the eulogy or words of remembrance and help your family and friends determine all aspects of the service. For more information, check out our web site www.highlandsunited.org or contact the Church You are welcome to be married at Highlands Office at [email protected]. whether you are part of the congregation or not; whether you have been married before; whether you and your partner have different religious backgrounds; whether you are different genders or not. We welcome you!
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org Page 12 2016 Fall Program Guide
Keith Miller 604-985-6046 or Dave Ball 604-987- Meeting Others 5432, so we know how many pairs to plan for this season. Badminton
The Badminton group meets on Monday evenings from 7:30 to 9:30pm starting September 12. Flea Market This annual event marks our church as a recycling Contact: Sharon or George Parton (604) 988-4488 and reusing centre in the community. The Flea Market will be held on Saturday, October 15 from Birthday Celebrations 9:00am to 2:00pm. Everyone is encouraged to get Come for cake and celebration during your involved in this community booster. There is an birthday month or save it up till the following ongoing opportunity/need to help sort on Tuesday month. The candles are lit from the mornings. Help is also needed to set up the week Christ Candle to represent that the prior to sale day and it is all hands on deck for a blessing of Christ continues through shift on Flea Market day. This sale raises between the blessing of each person alive – $25,000 and $35,000 so it takes many hands to light coming from light. Birthday make it happen! parties are held in the Fireside Room Contacts: after the 10:00am service. Watch for To help with set-up for the Annual Flea Market dates which will be posted in the Sale during the week of October 11-14, contact weekly Highlights newsletter. Gill or Doug Irwin at [email protected] Contact: Wendy McNaughton, or [email protected] [email protected] To help with selling on Flea Market Sale day, October 15, please contact Bonny Ball at [email protected] Bridge Club The Highlands Bridge Group meets on the first For regular Flea Market activities, speak to Jim Friday of the month in people’s homes in groups of Parsons at 604-987-3177 [email protected] eight people for about three hours starting at a For Antiques and Collectibles and Flea Market time convenient to the hosts. The first round is activities, contact Susan Hughes at th November 4 . The hosts start things off with a [email protected] light dessert, coffee, tea and conversation all together for about 30 minutes. Then we break into two groups of four, re-mixing after each six hands Guitar for Fun of bridge, so that we get a chance to chat with Join Stephen Molnar on Monday evenings for everyone one-on-one. Bridge skills range from beginner guitar get-togethers. Highlands... very basic up to instructor level, but the real focus Starting September 19th, the Guitar for Fun is to have fun. We do ask each “regular” person group will practise tunes that for $5 to join, which covers the cost of the desserts they will play at the Family served at the wind-up session at the Church in Christmas Concert in June, as well as some nice prizes for “notable” December. Come join the fun bridge performances. If you would like to be part and meet other folks who love of this social ministry, either with a partner as a to strum! regular, or to be put on the list of “spares” to be Contact: Stephen Molnar, [email protected] called when a regular can’t attend, please call
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 13
Highlands Quilters Nativity Exhibit and Craft Fair This group has been in existence for about 40 The Nativity Exhibit and Craft Fair will be held on years and over that time has raised a considerable Friday evening November 25 and Saturday November sum of money for the work of the church. 26. This weekend is a wonderful way to begin Currently we are a small group who work together Christmas preparations and to get into the spirit of the season in a meaningful way. Tour the more than 100 Nativity exhibits on display, enjoy a mug of cider or glass of wine, and the sound of local musicians playing seasonal music, and browse the Spirit Singers’ Craft Fair for wonderful handmade items and baking. Children can dress up as members of the Nativity or make their own Nativity scenes in the activity area. There’s also the ever-popular Kids Only Market, where for a few dollars children can do all of their Christmas shopping and surprise family members with their selections.
around a large quilting frame to finish off the quilts for others who have prepared the colourful pieced quilt tops. The completed quilts are either donated to charitable causes or returned to an individual. If you can do a simple running stitch then you can learn to quilt so do come and join us one Monday morning at 9:00 am in the Choir Room. Come for a visit or come to sew. For more information, Contact: Chris Robertson, 604-988-5483
Men’s Breakfast Mark your calendars for this not-to-be-missed event. This group meets every Wednesday at 7:30am at Come to view and participate or ask how you can help the Eighties Restaurant, at 14th and Lonsdale. We – many volunteers are needed for this annual event. gather for fellowship, support, and discussions about issues of importance to our community and Contact for Nativity Exhibit: Sandi Parker, 604-980 church. Breakfast, including beverage and gratuity, -6071 [email protected] is approx $11. Contact for Spirit Singers Craft Fair: Tracey Contact: Hugh Creighton, 604-980-3556, Morettin, 604-985-5660, [email protected] [email protected] Contact for Kids Only Market: Gill Irwin, [email protected]
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Raining Volunteers Church Fair setup, front of house, or bake cookies for our Following worship on Sunday, September 25 we guests contact: Carol Smith, will be having a church fair entitled "Raining [email protected] Volunteers". It will highlight various ministries within the church and how people can become Sunday Lunches involved. The goal is to make everyone aware of One Sunday during the month we will offer a delicio us lunch after church. Everyo ne is welcome to attend. Volunteers are needed to help prepare the lunch, set up tables and chairs, and create a welcoming ambience. We request a $5/person or $20/family donation to cover our expenses. Fall Lunch Schedule: September 11: Welcome back BBQ October 9: Thanksgiving Treats in the Welcoming Space October 30: Stewardship Celebration (Upside Down) Lunch November 27: Advent ‘continental’ pot luck lunch – the need for volunteers and the opportunities bring your muffins, veggie platters, cheese or other available. The welcoming space will be the place finger friendly foods to share, and enjoy one more to check out ways to become engaged in the work walk through the Nativity Exhibit. of the church. There will be people to talk to who can explain what the various jobs are, answer any Thursday Dinners questions, and share the benefits of volunteering. Thursday evenings are wonderfully energetic at We want people to find the right fit for their time HUC. Family logistical planning on this evening is and talents. This event will allow folks to explore an art, especially with many kids and parents without obligation. participating in one of our four choirs. Each Contact: Wendy McNaughton at: Thursday evening we will offer a hearty, simple, [email protected] family-friendly meal between 5:30 and 6:30pm and whether you’re a family of four or a senior on your own, all are welcome. And given the family style, communal nature of the event, we happily Scottish Dance Fundraiser encourage your assistance with clean up! If anyone This will be our fourth year joining would like to volunteer to participate on a particular forces with the Vancouver Fiddle Thursday night team, please contact Sandi Parker. Orchestra to present a Scottish Dinners in the fall begin on September 17. (Ceilidh) Dance. It’s loads of fun, with lively music for dancing, good Note: no dinner on October 13 due to preparations entertainment and homemade cookies for the Flea Market. The cost for this meal is $5.00 and refreshments at intermission! per person or $15.00 per family. Children 5 & under dine free! The next dance is scheduled for Saturday evening, November 12 at 7:00pm. Watch the Highlights for Contact: Sandi Parker, 604-980-6071 ext 23 ticket sale dates. If you’d like to help with the [email protected] Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 15
Women’s Breakfast Music Ministry
Genesis Too (GII) Choir for young folks in Grades 4 to 12. Practice is on Thursdays from 6:00 to 7:30pm, beginning September 15. GII sings on the second and fourth Sunday of each month, from Sept to May. This choir goes on a trip and presents a special service in the spring. Stay tuned for details on this special service in the weekly Highlights. On the third Thursday of each month at 8:00am, women of the congregation are invited to gather Contact: Geordie Roberts, 604-980-7349 for breakfast at Daisy Restaurant, 1089 Roosevelt [email protected] Cres., south of Marine Dr., between Lloyd and McKay just off 15th Street. The room is light and God’s Free Spirits Choir bright, the menu offers many food options and is for children in reasonable prices, and the conversation is lively. Kindergarten to Grade 4. The 2016 breakfast dates are as follows: Practices are on Thursday Sept 15, Oct 20, Nov 17 & Dec 15 evenings from 6:30 to The 2017 dates are: Jan 19, Feb 16, Mar 16, Apr 7:00pm beginning 20, May 18, Jun 15, Jul 20, Aug 17 September 15. To get your name on the monthly Women’s We sing once a mo nth in Breakfast Reminder Email List, please contact church and our sessions Cheryl Irwin: [email protected] end in May. Contact: Jeannie Denault, 604-929-7469
Hand Bell Ringers perform at Christmas and Easter, with practices the preceding three or four Sundays after church. Those interested must read music well. Contact: Roz Hollett, 604-929-6925
Praise Band If you are interested in being on the roster of players/singers for the Praise Band, please contact Geordie Roberts. We are looking for musicians who read music or can pick up a rock or pop style song quickly and are willing to attend one rehearsal in the week prior to a Praise Band service. Experience using a microphone or amplified instrument is also an asset. Contact: Geordie Roberts, 604-980-7349 [email protected] Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org Page 16 2016 Fall Program Guide
Spirit Singers Choir 15th Capilano Scouts This group sings every Sunday in worship from Weekly activities and programs for young people, September to June, and practises on Thursdays male and female, with the aim to help develop well- from rounded youth, better prepared for success in the 8 to 9:30pm. The special service at the end of the world. year, and the annual trip are highlights. Beavers (5-7), Cubs (8-10), Scouts (11 to 14 Contact: Gill Irwin, [email protected] Venturers (15-17), Rovers (18-26) Contact: Eleanor Oakley [email protected]
Saturday Lunch Feeding Ministry The Saturday Lunch Feeding Ministry provides a healthy, abundant meal every Saturday at 1:00pm at the North Shore Neighbourhood House, at 2nd and St. Georges in Lower Lonsdale. Each week we serve up to 50 guests. You can help by being one of the three cooks, from 10:30am to 1:00pm, or by being one of the four or five server/greeters, from 12:20 to 2:30pm. For more information about this ministry and how you can help, see the volunteer Reaching Out schedule on our web site at www.highlandsunited.org. Edgemont Village Community Christmas Day Contact: Emily Heidrich, Community Meal [email protected] is held on Christmas Day at 12:00pm in the Gym and is open Shelter to Home to everyone from the Through all the twists and turns of congregation and the community. life, some people end up homeless We’re also looking for help with and needing the support of North cooking turkeys and preparing Shore agencies. At some point, they return to the feast on Christmas Eve. independent housing. At this exciting, scary time Donations of turkeys or financial contributions to they encounter a harsh reality – it takes money to assist with food purchases are always welcome. furnish and stock their new home. In partnership We are very grateful to the Edgemont Business with NS agencies and with the wise, Community for their continued support of this compassionate Shelter to Home leadership team, community event. If you’d like to cook, bake or we supply furniture and household items they need serve, or just come for the meal, to set up, at no cost. We accept only items that are Contact: Carol Smith, 604-980-6071 in good condition. To donate items call 778-331- [email protected] 8465. Highlands is also an active member in the To volunteer, see the Highlands website Edgemont Village Business Association and we (www.highlandsunited.org) are represented at meetings by Betty Chapin. We or contact: Ruth Kershaw, [email protected]. are a full sponsor of all Village Events.
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Developmental Disabilities Association after-school programs at two elementary schools. The Seniors HUB is a resource for many isolated Through the work of our Flea Market we have a seniors o n the North Shore. Thro ugh financial and strong connection with the Developmental volunteer help from Highlands, programs such as Disabilities Association, who come on site to pick driving to medical appointments, phoning lonely up items weekly throughout the year and after our seniors-telefriend, social programs, shopping trips annual Flea Market sale. with the aid of a van and volunteers to help with walking programs happen because of our help. Community Partners The North Shore Lookout Shelter receives help Our facilities allow us to reach out to groups and financially from Highlands with bus passes for provide meeting space for many organizations clients who need to attend job interviews, medical whose goals are in line with our vision. Some of appointments, or reconnect with family. these groups include Rovers, Venturers, Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, Guides, AA, Alanon, Grief Recovery, and Tai Chi. Camp Fircom is also a partner with Highlands. We help send campers in need to camp, donate to the Highlands reaches out to many groups in our organic farm, and lend a hand when work is community, both on the North Shore and the needed at the camp. Downtown Eastside. The Local Connections Anyone is welcome to join our committee. We Committee meets every 2 months to decide how usually meet Thursday afternoons every 2 months. we may best partner with these groups both Please be in touch. Sheila Durward 988-5982 or financially and volunteer support. any member or our committee. First United Church is our main partner on the Downtown Eastside. Through funds & volunteers from Highlands & many other churches, programs Seniors Ministry of footcare, food bags, outings, hospitality, Seniors Connection advocacy issues, tax returns, storage facilities and Seniors from Highlands and the community 111,718 meals are served to the vulnerable people beyond, meet on the first and third Wednesday of on the downtown eastside. Clothing donations, the month from 10:30am to 1:00pm, for a fun, toiletries, socks, money and volunteer help come informative and engaging experience. The event from Highlands folks. begins with 15 minutes of chair exercises, followed WISH Drop-in Society also in the Downtown by a guest speaker and a hot lunch. Each session Eastside provides a safe place for sex trade offers opportunities for continued learning, access workers. Our donations & volunteer help provide to information and resources, and the sense of well clothing, toiletries, and financial support for -being that comes from being in relationship and retraining, health clinics, hot meals, and a Van to connecting with others. The cost per session is $7 travel on the streets to provide safety & health and signup in advance for each event is required. supplies. For further information, to participate as a volunteer, or to register, contact Colleen Blair at On the North Shore, Capilano Community [email protected] Services Society has been a partner since its or call 604-980-6071 ext 27. beginning over 50 years ago. C.C.S.S. provides youth counselors in 3 secondary schools, offering RSVP by noon on the Sunday before any given sex education, drug & alcohol counselling, and program day, so that we can confirm numbers for social activities for Youth-at-risk. They also have lunch!
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Seniors Connection Sept-Dec 2016 Schedule th — Christmas bus trip! November 30 Join us for a bus trip out to Potters Christmas September 21st — Meet the store….a wonderland of Christmas displays to New Minister at Highlands! simply walk through and enjoy or to help with your The process of calling a new Christmas shopping, followed by lunch at another minister is a long one but in location. Cost and details to come. Please this case, so worth the wait! advise of your interest so an appropriate size bus Rev. Will Sparks will join us as our special guest and can be arranged! share his story! December 7th — Higher Ground concert and Christmas lunch! October 5th — Nutrition and Wellness Talk Rescheduled from last spring, we’ll hear from Join us and members of the Higher Ground Deborah Harsant about how to make some simple Choral group for a concert and sing-a-long and a changes to the food we buy and the way we Christmas luncheon. prepare it, to improve our health and well being.
October 19th — Stand Strong: Safety Strategies for Seniors So we gather to laugh Suzanne Jean will introduce the program she and sing, to share our provides that improves personal safety and stories, to remember increases awareness and self confidence for and to imagine, to know and to be known, to seniors. You have more ability than you might experience our deep think! longings and to renew our relationship November 2nd — The Nature Trust of British with the source of our hope. Columbia... is a leading land conservation organization based in BC that acquires ecologically significant land for wildlife and plants. Properties include the Squamish River estuary, Boundary Bay which is part of the Pacific Flyway for migratory birds, and the Adams River with its famous sockeye salmon run. Congregation member Robin Rivers, works with the Nature’s Trust and will share insights into the exciting work of this group.
November 16th — Wildlife in Africa… walk the pages of the National Geographic with Bernadette Woit as she shares her recent travel experiences in Africa!
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 19
If you are interested in being a Welcome Host, Worship Services please contact Jon Carrodus, jcarrodus at shaw dot ca [note correction to e-address], 604-987- Commissioning Service for Rev. Will Sparks 2595 Sunday September 18, 3pm If you can offer your help as a Sunday Morning Speaker: Blaire Odney Greeter, please contact Colleen Blair at [email protected].
Details to follow Technical Team / Audio Visual The technology at Highlands is doing a pretty good job of keeping up with the real world! Every
Sunday, we are now live-streaming our services, and they are being watched far and wide! From England to Australia, from Korea to Africa, and from Lions Gate Hospital to Capilano Care, many folks are enjoying worshipping with Highlands. We Sunday Morning 10:00am Worship now have three trained people in the sound booth The Sunday service at Highlands is inspiring, for every Sunday service: one person runs the inclusive and thoughtful. The theology is cameras and computer for the Live Stream progressive and looks for the metaphor in our presentation; another executes the Power Point scripture that relates to today. Worship begins at presentation in the Sanctuary; and a third takes 10:00am and concludes with coffee time. You are care of all the microphones used in the service so invited to come as you are, to bring your those in the Sanctuary and all the other spaces in questions and your opinions. the church can hear the service properly. Contact: Will Sparks at [email protected] If you would like to be a part of the technical crew who runs the sound system, powerpoint, and live
streaming on Sundays and assists rental groups Sunday Morning Greeters and Welcome Hosts who need to use the system, please contact Doug Sunday Greeters and Irwin at [email protected] or 604-838-8457, Welcome Hosts are an and we will arrange for the appropriate training essential part of the and scheduling to take place. Highlands experience. Many people who come to Highlands came initially because of the warmth and interest shown to them when they arrived at the Church and during the pre- service and post-service coffee times. If you are passionate about meeting people and helping newcomers and long-time participants to feel welcome and to experience a sense of home and belonging…of knowing and being known.
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Highlands Christmas Season Quiet Christmas Service Sunday, December 18th at 7:00pm Christmas can be a time of mixed emotions. Joy and comfort can come with gatherings of family and friends, special music and food, gifts given and received, colourful lights and decorations. This time of year can also produce a sense of overwhelming busyness. For some of us the emotions are loneliness or sadness. If we have had a recent loss, this time of year can be especially hard. We can feel out of step with the 7:00 pm Carols and Choirs celebrations of the season. This quiet worship Choirs and carols with Genesis II and the Spirit service of carols and candles is an opportunity to Singers Choirs. Please come early for seating. simply be, and to find God’s quiet strengthening presence. Please feel welcome to stay afterwards for conversation and refreshments. 10:00 pm: A Gospel Christmas Eve Contact: Will Sparks at: A service that is in keeping with the "themed" [email protected] nature of the late service for the past several years, this year we are offering a Gospel Christmas Eve Service at 10:00pm. Family Christmas Concert A fun and informal evening of choirs, stories, By “Gospel” we mean seasonal music arranged for dancing, and oodles of audience participation, on performance in the style of Southern Gospel (think Sunday, December 11 at 7:00pm. This is an Elvis Presley) with maybe a smattering of African- annual Highlands Christmas tradition intended to American Gospel where we think we can pull it off. fill you, your family and friends with a sense of Contact Geordie Roberts for more information community and the enjoyment of the Christmas about playing in the band at Season. To be part of the “Family Band” (all [email protected] experienced players welcome) at this event, contact Geordie Roberts at Christmas Day Service 10:00 am [email protected] Come and join us in our cozy sanctuary for Christmas morning worship. Sip a cup of hot Christmas Eve Services mulled cider or coffee while we sing favorite carols, 4:00 pm Christmas Pageant listen to the Christmas story and hear a message An opportunity for the young and young at heart to for all ages. Pajamas are welcome! wear a costume and participate in the service. The God’s Free Spirits choir will sing. Please come early for seating.
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 21
Highlands United Church Staff
Church Staff Rev. Will Sparks Lead Minister [email protected] Sandi Parker Ministry Development [email protected] Colleen Blair Minster for Seniors & Hospitality [email protected] Andria Irwin Coordinator for Children, Youth and Young Adults [email protected] Allie Keir Coordinator for Children, Youth and Young Adults [email protected] Carol Smith Administrator [email protected] Geordie Roberts Music Coordinator [email protected] Gillian Irwin Spirit Singers Director [email protected] Geordie Roberts Genesis Too Choir Director [email protected] Jeannie Denault Gods Free Spirits Director [email protected] Ken Irwin Lay Worship Leader Tatina Lee Administrative Assistant [email protected] Alexa Villalpando Nursery Care Demi Chao Accompanist LeeAnne Robertson Accounting Services
Sunday School Teachers and Youth Leaders: Alexa Villapando Rachel Robertson Maddy Keir Chris Madill Colin Madill Grace Owens Emily Anderson Lianna Rushworth Bella Kershaw Matt Anderson
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community represents, both to newcomers and to Volunteer Opportunities long time members. Welcome Hosts, are particularly focussed on welcoming and answering (or redirecting) any questions that newcomers have, both before and after worship. Greeters provide a welcoming smile along with the weekly bulletin, Seniors Connection collect the offering and do a general tidy up of the The Seniors Connection sanctuary after worship. Support and instructions program which runs on the are provided for volunteers in each of these roles. 1st and 3rd Wednesday of If you are interested in being a Welcome Host, the month is in its fifth year. please contact Jon Carrodus, [email protected] We have amazing volunteers who help to cook and serve or set up and tidy up for this wonderful If you can offer your help as a Sunday Morning event but we are always happy to welcome new Greeter, please contact Colleen Blair at volunteers. Please speak with Colleen Blair if [email protected]. you’re able to participate. Contact Colleen at [email protected] Thursday Dinners and Sunday Lunch or call 604-980-6071 ext 27. Simple meals are shared around the table at Highlands as we nurture ourselves and one another Friendly Drivers Needed! with food and friendship. The Seniors activities at Highlands offer the Sharing a meal together is a opportunity for folks to get out and visit with one perfect entry point into the another and keep in touch both socially, community and into the heart physically and spiritually, but they need to be of God. Sunday lunch able to get here! If you would be interested in happens once a month and picking up folks for any of the Wednesday while Thursday dinners programs, your efforts would be truly appreciated happen every week in the and many blessings would be bestowed upon school year, volunteers are you! Also, a mileage allowance to help offset the invited to help with just one cost of gas can be offered. Please check in with Thursday dinner a month— Colleen Blair at be one of the set-up or clean [email protected] or call 604- -up crew! When there are 980-6071 ext 27, if you can offer the gift of a lift. enough volunteers, everyone has fun! Please be in touch with Sandi Parker if you can participate in this
very essential ministry. The Hospitality Ministry Contact: [email protected] or call Hospitality is central to our identity as Christians 604-980-6071 ext 23 and there are many practical ways in which to participate in this profoundly beautiful expression of our faith. Join the group of gifted and committed Sunday Morning Greeters and Welcome Hosts who embody and make real, the warm and generous welcome that the whole
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org 2016 Fall Program Guide Page 23
would like to be part of our Monitors team. Flea Market Highlands supports many local and global Visiting Ministry outreach programs through contributions and Are you looking for a volunteer position at donations to the Flea Market. If you have a couple Highlands? Not sure what you want to do? Do you of hours free on a Tuesday morning, come and enjoy, have a passion and love supporting a join the “sorters” to sort through donations and Senior? have an opportunity to socialize and make new Visiting Ministry (under the umbrella of Caring friends over coffee. Ministry) is a group of volunteers who visit Senior Care Facilities once per month within the Property Committee volunteer’s personal schedule. The Property Committee We have one group gathering per year with the is charged with the fabulous team of volunteers that are in place now maintenance, upkeep and for fellowship and support. repairs of the church We are visitors, not caregivers, who bring news building and facilities. from Highlands, provide a listening ear for our Much can be done by friends who are not able to attend church as they volunteers without were accustomed, as well as be extra “eyes and needing to engage ears” for their loving family. We want our friends to contractors, especially know they are not forgotten! physical work that can be quite light when teams If so, please meet with me in the New Welcome are assembled. There is also continuing need for Space after any service for coffee. I can give you carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and painting skills. more details. If you are not able to stay, please If you can lend a hand from time to time, please give the office a call & ask for Jacqueline Scott contact Carol Smith, in the church office, or Dave (Visiting Ministry) and I will return your call. Wilson, Property Committee Chair.
Many more volunteer opportunities are noted in Evening Monitors various ministries throughout this guide. During the school year, individuals “man” the church office reception desk from 7pm to 10pm pm Monday through Thursday. These individuals
provide information and directions to folks who come to the church for meetings and events. Together with our custodian, the monitor is responsible for ensuring that the building is secure at the end of the evening. Contact the church office at: [email protected], if you have an evening free once every 6 weeks and
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Our Vision Statement:
As followers of Jesus, we want to be a community that gathers and takes risks: To receive and engage a diversity of people, To celebrate life-giving worship, To love and be loved, To know and be known, To serve and be served To learn, pray and grow together. Trusting in God, we want to be people who scatter: To live out faith in action, To seek peace, justice and healing, To share time, ministries and money. Led by the Spirit, we are continually transformed on this journey.
Whoever you are…Wherever you are on your faith journey… Whatever you want to ask…...you are welcome and accepted.
Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver, BC V7R 2P1 Ph: 604-980-6071 www.highlandsunited.org