Rectors Report
Week Ending March 14, 2010

This Sunday in our worship at the Prayer Over the Gifts we will repeat the line, "God of mercy and compassion, your Word calls us home to faith and love." As we continue our march through the season of Lent I pray that these words echo true for each of us. That we indeed do hear a call to return home seeking to renew and strengthen our relationship with God.

This week in our parish it was a pleasure to meet with those who have been part of the book study "The Heart of Christianity." Our study concluded on Tuesday and it is my belief that those who attended have a new appreciation and a wider perspective of the awesome God we worship and the relationship we share.

The Property Committee met this week to make plans for the upkeep, maintenance and improvements to our property. As stewards of the gifts that God gives us we honour our relationship with God in the care of our property. Thanks to the property committee and all who share in their work for this ministry.

The Prayer Group met on Wednesday morning to pray for the needs of the parish, to listen to and reflect on God's word and to enjoy the fellowship of gathering together. I was pleased to visit pastorally with a parishioner on Wednesday afternoon, and to be present with our gathered community on Wednesday evening as we celebrated the Eucharist, part of our Lenten discipline. Where we meet together in God's name for any reason we honour that relationship.

Thursday morning myself, the wardens and several members of the congregation met in the office seeking paths leading towards reconciliation of a matter before our parish. I give thanks for the example we have in our Lord in being an agent of reconciliation and take courage in his promise to us, "where ever two or three are gathered together in my name there I will be also." With his example and with his promise I am confident that "all things can be reconciled in Christ."

Thursday afternoon it was a pleasure to visit Melville Lodge where two members of our congregation are residents. It is always nice to be able to keep those relationships with members from our congregation who are not able to worship with us as they once did. After visiting Melville Lodge I dropped by the hospital where several members from our communities are now patients.

Thursday evening the Parish Council met for its monthly meeting to conduct the business of the parish and to lay plans for the future. Following the meeting the council stayed to assist with the Easter mailing which is available this morning. Many hands makes light work. Thanks for the help.

On Friday we continued with our regular meeting of the Action Committee. Last week a draft vision statement was presented for your comments. Please review the statement and make comments to any member of the Action Committee. Our work continues on an Action Plan.

My report this week comes to you on the back of a bulletin cover I received from the diocese. This bulletin cover gives a good update on where your dollars have gone and the good work that has been accomplished as a result of your response to the disaster which took place in Haiti. As I said at the time, we as a parish, can be very proud of our response, a response which still continues through your donations. Well done !!!

Blessings
Rev. Mike