Join us this Sunday, Dec. 11, the day after Human Rights Day, as we welcome special guest Flora Terah, a former parliamentary candidate in Kenyan elections in 2007, who was attacked and tortured by a gang of men warning her against running for office. Her son was murdered in March 2008 and her story became a case study for Amnesty International on the state of the world's human rights. The service, entitled We, the Global Village: One Kenyan's Story, begins at 10:30. Music provided by Sandra Hunt.
On Tuesday, the Carmina Choir will hold a special Christmas concert in the Sanctuary.
During the month of December, all unidentified cash in the collection baskets will be given to the Montreal Diet Dispensary which annually provides nutrition and moral support to two thousand women in need during their pregnancy and during the first months after the birth of the baby. Read on for information on other activities happening this week.
Financial Commitment 2011
As another year comes to an end, please keep in mind your 2011 financial commitment or donation to the Church. (Tax receipts are issued for all contributions of $50 or more.) In order to qualify for an income tax receipt for 2011, all financial contributions must be received by Thursday, December 29. Any payments received after this date will be deposited and posted in 2012 and will not be reflected in 2011 tax receipts.
You may also make a contribution via CanadaHelps.org, which only allows donations using a credit card and issues tax receipts directly. In other words, donations made this way will not appear on your UCM tax receipt. There is also a 3.9% service charge incurred by the Church for each transaction, so we urge you to consider the electronic banking option.
If you have any questions, please contact Petrina Lee Poy at 514-485-5555 or by email.
BidNite 2011
Please don't forget to submit your BidNite payment before the end of the year. You can deliver your cheque to Petrina Lee Poy or Maychai Brown on a Sunday morning or send it to the church office, clearly indicating that it is for BidNite. Thank you for making this event such a success.
Sunday, December 11, 10 am
Religious Education: Children's choir practice in preparation for the chalice lighting; The songs/parts will be repeated, with bells, during the multigenerational service next week.
After the 'Time for All Ages' the children will meet with Nicoline Guerrier and Caroline in the Chapel for a brief introduction to plans for the multigen, and to work on developing a small pageant and ritual to be part of the service. Helpers welcome. Even if a child is absent today, he or she can join in next week.
Because our theme for next week is "Celebrate the Dark," we are asking the children to wear dark clothing if at all possible.
Sunday, December 11
Social & Environmental Concerns Committee
During coffee hour, we will have pens and paper ready for anyone who would like to write a letter on behalf of a prisoner of conscience -- a good way to celebrate Human Rights Day. You will find us at the big corner table in Phoenix Hall.
Tuesday, December 13, 10 am to noon in the Nursery
Play Group
We welcome children under five on a drop-in basis accompanied by a (grand)parent or caregiver. Pack a snack for your child(ren). Coffee is provided. Open to all, whether church members or not. No charge but a donation of $3/session per family is suggested.
Tuesday, December 13, 12 - 1:15 pm, Thomas Room
Seeking the Sacred in Stories
Facilitated by Rev. Diane Rollert
Bring your own brown bag lunch and join this ongoing group, as we deepen in community and search for meaning in the stories we read. Copies of this month's story available from the office.
Tuesday, December 13, 7:30 to 9 pm
Carmina Choir
Special Christmas concert in the Sanctuary.
Contacts: Keith Robinson (514-931-9028) or Brian Brice (514-843-6497)
Thursday, December 15, 10 am to noon in the Nursery
Play Group
Thursday, December 15, 7:30 to 9 pm
Parts in Peace Choir Rehearsal
Everyone welcome to try us out. Please bring a binder and a pencil. For information: Sandra Hunt or call 514-484-5559.
Sunday, December 18, 10:30 am
Celebrate the Dark: A Multigenerational Solstice Service
Caroline Balderston Parry, Nicoline Guerrier and the children
Music: Sandra Hunt and the Parts in Peace Choir
Today is the day for donations for the Mitten Tree.
Ring out this news: During December, the children`s choir will be using the new handbells purchased by the Music Collective!
Sunday, December 18
Winter Solstice/Christmas Multigen Potluck
after the Service
Desperately Seeking Elves!!! Potlucks require a lot of organization and volunteers. The beloved UCM tradition of tourtière, quiche and holiday treats will take place once again this year. Not sure what to do? See the sign-up sheets posted on the silver doors in Phoenix Hall for ideas of what has been offered and then let us know what you would like to share. For further information, please contact Mrs. Klaus (a.k.a. Kleins) at 514-855-0005 or click here.
Coming Up
Monday, December 19, 7:30 to 9 pm in Phoenix Hall
Drumming Circle
Open to all. If you have no drum, we can lend you one.
Contacts: Ann Beer (514-426-1204) or Aldyth Harrison (514-739-3830)
Wednesday, December 21
Midday Meal
Bridge or Scrabble at 10:15 am; lunch at 12:30 pm, followed by Music at 1:30 pm. This month, we have a special treat: McGill professor Sara Laimon and her two children will perform. The children will each have a solo and then the three of them will play together.
If you attended the November lunch, you do not need to register for the December lunch. Only people who cannot attend need to phone Ruth deGiovanni at 514-934-4956. Visitors are always welcome. Cost is $5.
If you have comments or suggestions, please contact Elizabeth Anglin or call her at 514-937-4095.
Please note the Church office will be closed from noon on Friday, December 23, until 9 am on Tuesday, January 3.
Telephone messages will be checked daily and mail will be checked on Thursday, December 28.
Saturday, December 24, 5:30 pm
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Rev. Diane Rollert
Music: Sandra Hunt and the Parts in Peace Choir directed by Kerry-Anne Kutz
