"And what is so rare as a day in June? Then, if ever, come perfect days."

James Russell Lowell

 

Who would have thought it's June already?  I'm still waiting for the Y2K Bug to hit my computer but, as we're almost half way through 2022, perhaps I should stop doing that.  Let's look forward to having a 'proper' summer and easing ourselves back into social life.

 

It's great to be back "in person", isn't it?  Sunday Worship is back at The Gathering Place, 10.30 a.m. but we're also still getting the basics – hymns, prayers, and Message – up on YouTube by mid-week.  This coming Sunday – Pentecost Sunday – will be Communion! Bible Study is sticking to Zoom for the time being.  The Wednesday group is doing a deep-dive on Isaiah while the Ladies' Bible Study on Thursday is seeing what the Ephesians have to tell us.  If you're not already in the loop, shoot us an email and we'll send you the links for the meeting.

 

Rev. Adam, George McKibbon, and sundry helpers are out at Market even as I type – a beautiful day for it.  As last year, we're harvesting fruit and veg for the Port Colborne Food Bank – all contributions gratefully received.  There's also a fair whack of interest in our upcoming extravaganza, "To Mars & Beyond!"  It's Vacation Bible School, but not as we know it, Jim.  (And you might have to be an old Trekkie to think that's cute.  Sorry.)  Seriously, we're taking part in Presbytery's amazing space-themed summer programme with games, music, art, food, and friends for kids aged 4 and up. AND IT'S FREE! Our turn will be July 11th to 15th, 9 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. and the interest is great.  If you have any kids, grandkids, or neighbour-kids, tell them to get in touch with georgeh@mckibbonwakefield.com and join us for an out of this world adventure.

 

Sticking to the kids, you're doing great with South Niagara Life Ministry's Baby Bottle drive.  Quite a few are already in but if you're still working on it, or considering it, make a note that the campaign ends on Fathers' Day, June 19th.  (And don't worry about bringing us a load of loose change.  It's actually easier for us if you want to give a cheque!)

Anyone hankering for a bit of music?  Linda Caldwell is extending you an invitation to her Student Recital here at The Gathering Place on June 16th at 7.00 p.m.  We're all welcome and – who knows? – we might get to hear the next musical mega-star in their formative years.  "We knew her/him when ...!"

Otherwise, we're slowly opening up the Office again.  The overall plan is for Rev Adam to be in Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings from 9.00 a.m. til noon.  Having said that ... we're currently still shooting the videos on Tuesday from 10.00 til around 11.30 so possibly better not to call in for a coffee then unless you want to make a Guest Appearance.  Also, next week is the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Canada so, even though it's on-line, Rev Adam is going to be out of circulation next week.  In a pinch, give me a call or leave a message on his email/cell phone and we'll sort something out.

Meanwhile, elsewhere ...

We're doing pretty well with our collections at the Market but Port Cares is giving some thought to the people who aren't mobile enough to get to the Food Bank.  They're putting together a Food Box Delivery service for people 55 years old and up in Port Colborne and Wainfleet.  They're in need of Volunteer drivers/deliverers (is that a word?) Can you help?  Get in touch with Amanda Upper Amanda.Upper@portcares.ca

Niagara Region is setting up a new service too.  This one is an Adult Day Programme, "helping older adults 60+ stay physically active, cognitively stimulated and socially connected."  It will be safe, engaging, and a break for caregivers at Northland Pointe.  We have an electronic version of the leaflet at The Gathering Place or you can call the Seniors Community Intake Line at 905-984-2621, toll free 1-877-212-3922.

Finally, you might have enjoyed a really really really good box of chocolates a few years ago, available then at Sobey's, called, "Peace By Chocolate".  There's a great story behind them.  The business was set up by a family of chocolatiers – Syrian refugees – in the Maritimes and it's now been made into a movie.  The Villages store in Port has arranged a screening at Ridge Film House, Ridgeway, on June 14th, 7 p.m. Details are at www.VillagesPortColborne.ca.

I said, "Finally".  I should never do that.

Speaking of refugees, our sponsorship of the Afghan family is creeping ahead – ain't paperwork a wonderful thing?  Thanks to everyone who adds a special contribution for "our refugees" in their weekly Givings envelope.  Of course, the need is much greater than one family.  Presbytery has agreed to a refugee sponsorship project as well for an Iraqi.  She was a kindergarten teacher helping her church distribute food to needy families ... which did not end well.  She's currently in Jordan and Presbytery is raising funds for her support – Rev Martin Wehrmann has all the details so, if you would like to help, let him know:  Martin Wehrmann at maw49@hotmail.com or 905-646-8271.

This time is final.  Until next time.  You know the drill:  keep safe, keep well, and God Bless!