Page 25 - Presbyterian Connection

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FALL 2024
During Covid and in the years since, Armour Heights Presbyterian Church in Toronto, Ont., moved to live streaming worship and having more online and hybrid gatherings. A group of worshippers in the Calgary area began to take part and now feel connected to the work of the congregation. Now, every year, members from Armour Heights take a trip to Calgary for a communion worship service and in-person fellowship. The most recent trip took place July 6–7.
Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield, Ont., is hosting a “Summer Speaker Series” on topics of interest to seniors and their families. On June 17, Knox welcomed Genelle Reid of the Huron Women’s Shelter. Genelle provided an informative and touching presentation on gender-based violence and its impact in rural communities. Huron Women’s Shelter serves Huron County and is an invaluable source of help and assistance to many. Their list of offerings includes: safety planning, a 24/7 support line (1-800-265-5506), counselling, referrals to other experts, court support, children’s support, resources and advocacy, and more. Pictured here is the Rev. Lisa Dolson (left) with Genelle Reid.
On July 11, as part of the “Summer Speaker Series,” Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield, Ont., welcomed Shelley McPhee-Haist and Lindsay Otto from One Care Home and Community Support Services of Huron County. Providing services to families in the local community for over 40 years, One Care offers support for older adults and adults with disabilities, helping people remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible. Knox was delighted to host them. Pictured here are (left to right) Lindsay Otto and Shelley McPhee- Haist from One Care Home and Community Support Services of Huron County, and the Rev. Lisa Dolson.
On Sunday, June 23, North Bramalea Presbyterian Church in Brampton, Ont., dedicated a new church window to recognize elder Rommel Sankarsingh’s many years of service. “Great is thy faithfulness” is dedicated to Rommel by the Sankarsingh family. Rommel served as elder since 2006, and as representative elder on presbytery from 2007 onwards. He was also on the Communication, Rental & Maintenance Committees.
Elmvale Presbyterian Church in Elmvale, Ont., recently celebrated the retirement of long-time faithful elder Doug Lambie, who had stepped back from his roles as treasurer and elder at the end of 2023. The Session and congregation thanked Doug at his home for his outstanding service to the church, and presented him with a painting of Doug with his team of horses, who had won the Sulky Plowing Championship in 2014. Thank you, Doug, for all that you have done and continue to do for the church and congregation. “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.”
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On May 5, Varsity Acres Presbyterian Church in Calgary, Alta., celebrated their second annual PIE service at their 10 a.m. Sunday morning service. PIE stands for Public, Intentional and Explicit. It is a way for affirming congregations to be clear about their affirming identity with their members, the LGBTQI+ community and the general public. The guest speaker was Pam Rocker, Director of Alberta’s Affirming Connections Network. Pam is a sought-after speaker in both Canada and the US and an advocate for the LGBTQI+ faith community. The service highlighted VAPC’s journey and ongoing commitment as an affirming congregation. The event also debuted the church’s new public affirming statement that was unanimously adopted by the congregation at their annual meeting this past February. Pictured (left to right) are the Rev. Pamela Scott, Pastoral Associate at VAPC, Pam Rocker of Affirming Connections, and VAPC’s minister, the Rev. Greg Smith.
The congregation of Central Presbyterian Church in Cambridge, Ont., celebrated Canada Day a week early on June 23 with a group photo followed by a barbecue and potluck lunch. Central has been in its current location on the banks of the Grand River in downtown Cambridge since 1880, and recently completed a significant restoration project which included replacing the slate roof.