Nov. 28th, 2010
Rectors Weekly Report

This morning in our churches we begin the observance of the season of Advent. The word 'Advent' is a Latin word meaning 'the coming.' It is a time of preparation for celebrating the coming of Jesus, the Light in the midst of our darkness, symbolized by the Advent wreath.

The Advent wreath is a circle of evergreen branches laid flat to symbolize God's endless love for God's people. Four candles stand in the circle - typically three purple and one pink - symbolizing the themes of hope, peace, joy and love. At the centre of the wreath a white candle called the 'Christ Candle' is placed. A candle is lit on each Sunday of Advent representing the theme of that day and joining light with previously lit candles. At Christmas the 'Christ Candle,' surrounded by the light from the other four candles, is lit to focus Christ as the centre of our lives and the source of our hope, peace, joy and love.

It was wonderful to get a head start on preparations for Advent this past week. While on retreat this week at the Villa Madonna retreat centre in Rothsay, New Brunswick, I was able to read and study and rest to prepare for Advent in our parish. I look forward to sharing with you the excitement and anticipation of the season as we seek to strengthen and renew our relationship with our Lord and look for new ways to grow together in the kingdom which has been prepared for us.

My apologies to the Men's Breakfast group. I had hoped to return from retreat on Friday night in time for the breakfast on Saturday morning but snow and freezing rain in New Brunswick made a return on Saturday morning a safer alternative. From what I hear it was indeed my loss. The menu choices at St. Andrew's on Saturday morning sounds much better that my meal which consisted of an Egg McMuffin from McDonalds.

Next Sunday, December 5th at 7 p.m. here at St. Andrew's the Region of Fort Sackville will be hosting Canon Eric Beresford, president of the Atlantic School of Theology as he presents a timeline of the discussions which have taken place in the Church on the subject of human sexuality particularly as it applies to same sex relationships. As you may recall our bishops sent out a pastoral letter on this subject earlier this fall and have asked each parish to indicate the direction they would hope to pursue. This is a wonderful opportunity to gather information to help us to prepare to begin the conversation. This is open to all parishioners.

Christmas Country Jamboree at St. Andrew's
 December 12th 7 p.m.  We are fortunate to have some well known local country music personalities with us for a Christmas Country Jamboree. The performance will be held in the hall at St. Andrew's. Price for the show $8.00 per person. There will be canteen. Proceeds will be for St. Andrew's. For more information see Rev. Judie.

May we bless God's holy name by what we say and by what we do.

Come Lord Jesus, come

Have a great week.

Blessings
Rev. Mike