4-week poetry course Feb. 23-Mar. 21

Ahmad SpierijNews

Lead by Wendy Maclean. A wonderful opportunity to be part of a small community of writers. CenterQuest, the sponsor, is a school of spiritual direction. It is an international group, and in the past we have had folks from Singapore, Philippines, Canada, USA, Malaysia and Spain. It involves a live session on Monday evenings, then daily prompts and an interactive forum. For anyone who is interested in writing poetry, especially if it is a new experience. Wendy Jean Maclean https://myemail.constantcontact.com/The-Lent-Poetry-Studio-is-Back-.html?soid=1114329429132&aid=_JsH3MgoJR8  

Cookies Wanted

Ahmad SpierijNews

The next cookie delivery to our “at home” folks will be on Monday Feb 16. Cookies will be gladly accepted at church on Feb 15 (see Mary Davis Little or Linda Steinberg) or at 9:30 Monday morning at the Earl St door. If you know anyone who would appreciate a little extra love (cookies) at this time, please let Mary or Linda know and we can add them to the list.

Ongoing Book Sale

Ahmad SpierijNews

Final chance to get that last minute forgotten gift! You may find it with the other books by MacCallum Hall. A real bargain at $1.00 each. Try your luck! Merry Christmas!

Connections Circle Notes

Nick SteinbergNews

All the best to you and your families in this Advent Season! This week the Connections Circle covered a number of topics. Our most important conversation was with the report from the Transition Circle after the Discernment Retreat Session on Nov 29. There is a lot of follow-up required in order to inform us all on our potential futures. Please carefully read the attached report from the Circle. And please consider what roles you can play in helping the team get the answers we need. It could be as an expert opinion for specific issues or it could be part … Read More

Shaping Chalmers Future Together Discernment Retreat *updated*

Nick SteinbergNews

** For a more detailed summary see the 2 page attachment. There is also an 11 page document that contains even more details about the Discernment Retreat. If you would like a copy of this, please email the office or Elizabeth and we can send you it. We will also have a few printed copies available on Sunday. ** At our November 29 gathering, the congregation gathered to discern next steps for Chalmers’ future. After thoughtful dialogue using Restorative Practice principles, participants considered various options including disbanding, expanding rentals, forming partnerships, and other possibilities. The group reached consensus to move … Read More

Apology to 2S and LGBTQIA+ People and Communities

Ahmad SpierijNews

Words from the Task Group As the authors who were tasked with writing this apology, we have held the deep challenges and complexities of speaking on behalf of the church. We know that each of you carry your own stories and experiences; you have come to understand the United Church through relationships with communities of faith, clergy, staff, and fellow United Church members. We recognize that each person has their unique needs when it comes to healing and that for some, this apology arrives too late and for others, this apology arrives ahead of healing actions by the church that … Read More

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Carol SleethNews

SUMMER SERVICES 2025 at 10am We will be worshiping with our neighbours at different locations throughout the summer; services begin at 10:00 am. Rev. Elizabeth and Rev. Catherine will take turns preaching on the Lectionary Gospel readings from Luke. July 6 at Sydenham Street United 82 Sydenham St. with Rev. Elizabeth Guillaume-Koene Strawberry Social after the service July 13 at Sydenham Street United with Rev. Catherine Elsdon July 20 & 27 Faith United at The Normandy Retirement Home, 630 MacLean Ct. (park on street or in nearby plaza) with Rev. Catherine Elsdon Aug. 3 at Chalmers United 211 Barrie St … Read More

Blessing Box – 24/7 Outdoor Pantry

Nick SteinbergNews

The Blessing Box Pantry Program Donations for the outdoor pantry are always happily accepted! Useful Items: • laundry pods • individually wrapped snacks, sweets or gum • bottles of water • rolls of toilet paper Thank you to all for all your support to the pantry and to the Tuesday Benevolent Program. It can only happen with your participation. The people we serve are so appreciative!

Flowers in the Sanctuary

Nick SteinbergNews

Flowers in the Sanctuary If you wish to place flowers in the sanctuary or in memory of a loved one, or in celebration of a life event, please email: or call the office 613 546 3263 x 222 and we will get back to you for your details and to make the arrangements. The cost is $75 and is tax receiptable.

Pastoral Care

Nick SteinbergNews

Chalmers’ Pastoral Care If you or someone you know is in need of Pastoral Care support, please contact: Rev. Elizabeth Guillaume-Koene: email or call 905-410-2461 or speak to a member of the Pastoral Care Team: Mike Hartlin, Marjorie Mason, Ruth Tracy, Mary Davis Little, Heather Faris, Linda Steinberg, or contact the office: . If you are moving, please notify the office by email: or by phone 613-546-3263 ext. 222 Monthly Phone Calls to Keep in Touch If you are willing to touch base with three to five people once a month by phone, it would be deeply appreciated. … Read More