Announcements

Sunday, July 3

GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Processional Highland Cathedral Scott Williams, Piper
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship (responsive)
May our purpose be strong.
To strive for what is fittest.
For there is nothing more precious than the love of God.
shared with friend, kin, and stranger.

Prayer of Approach (together )
God above us, beside us, and within us,
You call us to come together and be your people,
to offer the songs of our hearts, the prayers of our minds,
and the work of our hands. Be in this place and share with us your
wisdom and your grace for we have come in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Hymn: 409 VU Morning Has Broken
Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE
Hymn: 749 VU The Lord’s My Shepherd (Psalm 23)
First Lesson: 2 Kings 5:1-14
Second Lesson: Galatians 6:1-10 Carol Anne MacKenzie
Gospel Lesson: Luke 10:1-11
Anthem Bonnie Black Isle (D Knox) Amy Hendricks and Scott Williams
Sermon: “Simple Instructions”

GOD CALLS US TO RESPOND
Hymn: 567 VU Will You Come and Follow Me
Prayers of the People
Hymn 718 VU O God You Gave Your Servant John
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude

Beannachd Dia dhuit (Blessings of God be with you.) A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. May this be a time for us to draw closer to each other and God. We recognize that we gather
in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, and we seek to be good neighbours to the First Nations.

A special welcome to the members of the Antigonish Highland Society
who join with us this morning to mark the start of the 157th Antigonish
Highland Games. Together we give thanks for the rich history and
tradition that we will celebrate this week.

Congratulations and best wishes of the congregation are extended to
Lauren (MacDonald) and Geoff Koots who were married yesterday.
May God bless them as they begin a new part of their life together.

Sunday, July 3 at 2:30 pm The Clan Thompson Pipe Band is pleased
once again to present a concert at St. James United Church to kick off
Highland Games Week. In addition to musical numbers by the pipe band,
a small pipes group from the band, and several soloists, the concert will
feature Master of Ceremonies Martin MacDonald, organist Carolyn
Curry, vocalists Justin Skinner and Martha Palmer, trumpeter Luke
Henderson, and The Smith Highland Dancers.

The Church office is closed for the summer. The church voice mail
(902-863-2001) and email (office@stjamesuc.com) as well as the secure
mail slot in the office door are being checked on a regular basis. The
office will reopen Tuesday, September 6th

Affordable Housing – something to think about! The following is taken from the Antigonish Affordable Housing Society’s (AAHS) website. “Families and individuals living on modest means deserve safe,
good quality housing they can afford, but finding that housing has long been a major challenge for these community members. No new public housing apartments have been built in the Antigonish area since 1996. According to the Eastern Mainland Housing Authority, as of August 2016, the wait list for housing in the town and county stands at 247, which includes single mothers and their children, seniors and people living with disabilities. The competition for low-cost housing between
university students and people living on low incomes means those who are most vulnerable end up in precarious living situations which are often unsafe and/or poorly located with no security of tenure. Research shows that when there is affordable housing families can save money to meet important needs and/or plan for the future. They can free up resources for better quality food and other basic needs. Secure housing promotes increased mental and physical health and gives residents a sense
of independence, identity and pride. It improves educational outcomes for youth and has a positive effect on surrounding property values when it is well-designed and maintained. For more information visit www.vichealth.vic.gov.au for a Housing and Health Research Summary.” The AAHS has completed 26 units of affordable housing here in Antigonish. But much more is needed.

There will be a St. David’s Congregational Annual Meeting next
Sunday morning (July 10th) at 8:30 am. The worship service with
communion will follow at 9:00 am.

Scripture Readings for Next Sunday
Amos 7:7-17 • Colossians 1:1-14 • Luke 10:25-37

Sunday, June 26, 2022

June 26, 2022 – Third Sunday after Pentecost
GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship (responsive)
We come to worship God with deep gratitude.
For God is the source of all goodness.
All good gifts come from the Spirit of God:
love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, and gentleness are all of God.
Let us come with grateful hearts, not for things, but for who God is.
And let us show our gratitude in song and prayer.

Prayer of Approach (together)
God of grace, without your love we can do nothing.
So we ask for a double share of your spirit
so that we can work together, here and around the world,
to shine with the promise of the gospel.
Teach us to follow the examples of the prophets,
to speak clearly of justice and hope
and to work tirelessly for the good of all people.
For we ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, who brought healing and love to the whole world. Amen.

Hymn: 223 VU Eternal, Unchanging
Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE

Responsive Reading: Psalm 77 (p. 791)
First Reading: 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14
Second Reading: Galatians 5:1, 13-25
Gospel: Luke 9:51-62
Anthem
Sermon “Following The Way”

GOD CALLS US TO RESPONDHymn: 684 VU Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace
Prayers of the People
Hymn: 271 VU There’s A Wideness In God’s Mercy
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. May this be a time for us to draw closer to each other and God. We recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, and we seek to be good neighbours to the First Nations.

The summer edition of Connections is arriving soon! This is a time of renewal, as the restrictions that kept us apart over the last months and years are slowly eased, the committee is looking for your submissions. We’re looking for articles about recent gatherings, events, books read, upcoming events as well added thoughts related to our St James future unfolding. Please submit stories by email to: stjamesconnections@gmail.com by June 27, 2022

Congratulations and best wishes to those who are graduating from High School this year. May God bless you as you continue on in your future plans.

The UCW and Men’s Club are pleased to announce that their bursary this year is going to David Nicholson. Congratulations David and all the best in your future plans!

LIFE OF ST. JAMES THIS WEEK
Sunday, June 26
9:00 am St. David’s reopens for the summer.
10:30 am Worship at St. James

Tuesday, June 28
3:00 pm Meditation Group meets in the Meeting Room
(Last class until September)

UPCOMING AT ST. JAMES
Sunday, July 3
10:30 am Opening of the Highland Games Worship Service. (No service at St. David’s this day). Everyone is welcome to wear their Highland best.
2:30 pm The Clan Thompson Pipe Band is pleased once again to present a concert at St. James United Church to kick off Highland Games Week. In addition to musical numbers by the pipe band, a small pipes group from the band, and several soloists, the concert will feature Master of Ceremonies Martin MacDonald, organist Carolyn Curry, vocalists Justin Skinner and Martha Palmer, trumpeter Luke Henderson, and The Smith Highland Dancers. The band has been presenting these concerts at St. James annually since 2016, with all proceeds going to support the church choir. Of special interest this year will be a pipe band arrangement of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Sounds of Silence” and a tribute to Robbie Burns.

Today is the International Day in Support of Torture Victims, annually observed to remind people that human torture is not only unacceptable – it is a crime. When you celebrate Canada Day this July 1st, let’s thank God that we live in such a wonderful country. Not perfect – but pretty close. And we can always be part of making it even better! 2 July is the International Day of Cooperatives. This year’s theme is “Cooperatives Build a Better World” and we here in Antigonish, home of the “Antigonish Movement” founded by Fr Moses Coady, should be more aware of the importance of cooperatives than most!

How can you help support the life and work at St. James? If you are worshiping in person there are the offering boxes at the doors. Envelopes can be dropped off at the office (or in the mail slot after hours) or mailed to “St James United Church, P. O. Box 1178 Antigonish, NS B2H 2L6. Online donations via credit card can be made by clicking on the “Donate” button on the website and interac e-transfers can be sent to eft@stjamesuc.com

Next Sunday’s Scripture

2 Kings 5:1-14 • Galatians 6:1-10 • Luke 10:1-11

Sunday, June 19, 2022

June 19, 2022 – Second Sunday after Pentecost
GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship (responsive)
Come, you who are acquainted with grief or oppression.
And discover the hope of the cross.
Come, you who are in need of good news.
And experience the surprise of the resurrection.
Come, you who seeking to know God
And follow the way of Jesus Christ.

Prayer of Approach (together)
O God, sometimes life is overwhelming; we can’t go on, our strength is gone, and we are ready to give up. In those times, send your Spirit into our hearts to remind us of your sustaining grace. Strengthen us, we pray, by calling to us once again to be your people, by showing us the truth of your love, and by speaking to us of your love and mercy. For we ask all of this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Hymn: 37 MV Each Blade Of Grass
Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE

Responsive Reading: Psalm 36, page 763 VU
First Reading: 1 Kings 19:1-4, (5-7), 8-15a
Second Reading: Galatians 3:23-29
Gospel: Luke 8:26-39
Anthem I Bind Unto Myself Today (VU 317/318) Choir
Sermon “The Reality of Change”
GOD CALLS US TO RESPONDHymn: 161 MV I Have Called You By Your Name
Prayers of the People
Hymn: 126 MV Are You A Shepherd
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude Christ Be With You (VU 318)

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. May this be a time for us to draw closer to each other and God. We recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, and we seek to be good neighbours to the First Nations.

LIFE OF ST. JAMES THIS WEEK
Sunday, June 19
11:20 am Our celebration of the end of Sunday School. Please join us in the hall for refreshments after service.

Tuesday, June 21
11:00 am Community Hot Meal P rogram in the Hall.
3:00 pm Meditation Group meets in the Meeting Room.

UPCOMING AT ST. JAMES
Sunday, June 26
9:00 am St. David’s reopens for the summer.
10:30 am Worship at St. James

There will be a meeting of Glen Bard Cemetery Lot holders on June 20, 2022 at 7 pm . The meeting will be held at James River Fire Hall.

On Sunday, July 3rd at 2:30 pm The Clan Thompson Pipe Band is pleased once again to present a concert at St. James United Church to kick off Highland Games Week. In addition to musical numbers by the pipe band, a small pipes group from the band, and several soloists, the concert will feature Master of Ceremonies Martin MacDonald, organist Carolyn Curry, vocalists Justin Skinner and Martha Palmer, trumpeter Luke Henderson, and The Smith Highland Dancers. The band has been presenting these concerts at St. James annually since 2016, with all proceeds going to support the church choir. Of special interest this year will be a pipe band arrangement of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Sounds of Silence” and a tribute to Robbie Burns.

Tomorrow is World Refugee Day. Your Social Justice Committee reminds you that: Whoever they are, people forced to flee should be treated with dignity. Anyone can seek protection, regardless of who they are or what they believe. It is non-negotiable: seeking safety is a human right. Wherever they come from, people forced to flee should be welcomed. Refugees come from all over the globe. To get out of harm’s way, they might take a plane, a boat, or travel on foot. What remains universal is the right to seek safety. Whenever people are forced to flee, they have a right to be protected. Whatever the threat – war, violence, persecution – everyone deserves protection. Everyone has a right to be safe. Also note that the 21st is National Indigenous Peoples’ Day. On this day, please recognize and celebrate the unique culture, and diverse contributions of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples of Canada. Make it a point to cultivate Indigenous relationships and especially to listen to their stories.

FINANCIAL NEWS (To May 31, 2022)
Offering Last Month $15,056 Year – To – Date Offering $72,763
Required for Budget $18,528 Year -To – Date Budget $94,063

The Offering Last Month reflects the money received from the congregation through donations put in the offering boxes, PAR, Canada Helps and EFT Transfer. This represents a -27.9% down from budgeted offerings.

Did you know? You can now use interact e-transfer to make your donation to St. James. E-transfers can be sent to eft@stjamesuc.com The funds are auto deposited so no need for a security question. Please make sure your include name and address in the comment area.

Next Sunday’s Scripture

2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 • Galatians 5:1, 13-25 • Luke 9:51-62

Sunday, June 12, 2022

June 12, 2022 – Trinity Sunday
GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship (responsive)
Let us worship God the Creator,
who is filled with glory and power, holiness and splendor;
Let us worship God the Saviour,
who shows us grace and compassion and calls for justice and peace;
Let us welcome God the Spirit,
who fills us with hope and joy and blesses us with eternal life.

Prayer of Approach (together)
God who is above, beside, and within, teach us, we pray. Teach us to forgive. For we know mercy is the way to bring about a new start in life. Teach us to love. For we know that with love there is hope and possibility unavailable any other way. Teach us to be one, as you are one. For we know that with you and each other we can reach into the world with grace and hope, Amen.

Hymn: 42 MV Praise God For This Holy Ground
Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE

Responsive Reading:Psalm 8, page 732 VU
First Reading:Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31
Second Reading: Romans 5:1-5
Gospel: John 16:12-15
Anthem:
Sermon “A Holy People”
GOD CALLS US TO RESPONDHymn: 145 MV Draw The Circle Wide
Minute for Mission Pamela Cunningham
Prayers of the People
Hymn: 194 MV Bread of Life, Feed My Soul
Celebration of Holy Communion
Hymn: 46 MV Bless The Lord
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. May this be a time for us to draw closer to each other and God. We recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, and we seek to be good neighbours to the First Nations.

LIFE OF ST. JAMES THIS WEEK
Sunday, June 12
11:30 am A Congregational Meeting will be held to discuss a recommendation from the Trustees and Property Committee regarding structural repairs to the steeple.
Tuesday, June 14
11:00 am Community Hot Meal program in the Hall.
3:00 pm Meditation Group meets in the Meeting Room.

Thursday, June 8
6:30 pm Choir practice in the Sanctuary.

FINANCIAL NEWS (To May 31, 2022)
Offering Last Month $15,056 Year – To – Date Offering $72,763
Required for Budget $18,528 Year -To – Date Budget $94,063

The Offering Last Month reflects the money received from the congregation through donations put on the offering plate, PAR, Canada Helps and EFT Transfer. This represents a -27.9% down from budgeted offerings.

The Social Justice Committee invites you to mark today, the World Day Against Child Labour, that aims to focus attention on the global extent of child labour, and the action and efforts needed to eliminate it. It brings together governments, employers and workers’ organizations, civil society, as well as millions of people from around the world to highlight the plight of the almost 10% of children worldwide who are involved in child labour and what can be done to help them! Ending child labour requires immediate action, accelerated motivation, and collaborative partnerships at all levels – NOW! Let’s make a difference. Let’s make sure that our post-pandemic world is free from child labour.

UPCOMING AT ST. JAMES

Sunday, June 26
9:00 am St. David’s reopens for the summer.
10:30 am Worship at St. James

With the upcoming high school graduation season approaching we would like to honour those who will earn their high school diplomas this year. If you know anyone from this year’s graduating class connected to St. James, please forward their names to the church by June 19th. Recognition of the graduates will be held on June 26th.

On Sunday, July 3rd at 2:30 pm The Clan Thompson Pipe Band is pleased once again to present a concert at St. James United Church to kick off Highland Games Week. In addition to musical numbers by the pipe band, a small pipes group from the band, and several soloists, the concert will feature Master of Ceremonies Martin MacDonald, organist Carolyn Curry, vocalists Justin Skinner and Martha Palmer, trumpeter Luke Henderson, and The Smith Highland Dancers. The band has been presenting these concerts at St. James annually since 2016, with all proceeds going to support the church choir. Of special interest this year will be a pipe band arrangement of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Sounds of Silence” and a tribute to Robbie Burns.

Next Sunday’s Scripture

1 Kings 19:1-4, (5-7), 8-15a • Galatians 3:23-29 • Luke 8:26-39

Sunday, June 5, 2022

June 5, 2022 – Pentecost Sunday
GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements

Call to Worship (responsive)
In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Come to Jesus, you who are thirsty.
Alleluia!
Drink deeply of the Holy Spirit.
Alleluia!
Let your heart overflow with the living water that renews the face of the earth. Come, let us worship and bow down.
Let us kneel before the Lord our Redeemer. Alleluia! Amen.

Prayer of Approach (together)
Holy God, like a rushing wind your Spirit moved upon the first disciples on the day of Pentecost. Like a purifying fire your Spirit seared their hearts and minds with the message of salvation. Send the Holy Spirit upon your church in this time and place. Stir up our courage, and rouse us for prophetic witness, that we may join with them to proclaim to the world your mighty deeds of love and grace in Jesus Christ. Hear our prayer Lord God. Glory and praise to you. Amen.

Hymn: 333 VU Love, Divine, All Loves Excelling
Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE

Responsive Reading: Psalm 107, page 831 of VU
First Reading: Acts 2: 1 – 4, 12 – 21
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 12: 3 – 13
Holy Gospel: St. John 7: 37 – 39
Anthem: On Eagles Wings Alistair Hamilton
Sermon “Thy Will Be Done”
GOD CALLS US TO RESPONDHymn: 385 VU Spirit Divine, Attend Our Prayer
Prayers of the People
Hymn: 375 VU Spirit, Spirit Of Gentleness
Commissioning and Benediction (responsive)
Let us go in the peace of Christ.
Thanks be to God. Amen.
Postlude

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. May this be a time for us to draw closer to each other and God. We recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, and we seek to be good neighbours to the First Nations.

The Rev. Peter Smith is away from May 29 until June 6. This Sunday we are pleased to welcome the Rev. Doug Stewart to lead our worship.

The Finance and Stewardship Committee would like to thank all those who helped plan, worked at, donated to and attended the Olde Stump Frolic. Once again, thanks to all who contributed and worked that day.

St James UCW and Men’s Club Bursary- Interested applicants should submit a letter to St James United Church to indicate the applicant’s connection to St James and their plans for the upcoming academic year . Letters must be sent to office@stjamesuc.com by Sunday, June 5th.

LIFE OF ST. JAMES THIS WEEK
Sunday, June 5
11:30 am Coffee Hour after worship in the hall.
Tuesday, June 6
11:00 am Community Hot Meal program in the Hall.
3:00 pm Meditation Group meets in the Meeting Room.
Thursday, June 8
6:30 pm Choir practice in the Sanctuary.
UPCOMING AT ST. JAMES
On Sunday, June 12rh after worship, A Congregational Meeting will be held to discuss a recommendation from the Trustees and Property Committee regarding structural repairs to the steeple.

On Tuesday June 14th at 6 pm, The UCW will be dining out at the Maritime Inn. All women of the congregation are welcome. In lieu of ticket sales, everyone is purchasing their own meal. Please contact Joyce Hilling at joycehilling@gmail.com or phone, 902-863-5881 by June 8 to confirm your attendance.

With the upcoming high school graduation season approaching we would like to honour those who will earn their high school diplomas this year. If you know anyone from this year’s graduating class connected to St. James, please forward their names to the church by June 19th. Recognition of the graduates will be held on June 26th.

On Sunday, July 3rd at 2:30 PM The Clan Thompson Pipe Band is pleased once again to present a concert at St. James United Church to kick off Highland Games Week. In addition to musical numbers by the pipe band, a small pipes group from the band, and several soloists, the concert will feature Master of Ceremonies Martin MacDonald, organist Carolyn Curry, vocalists Justin Skinner and Martha Palmer, trumpeter Luke Henderson, and The Smith Highland Dancers. The band has been presenting these concerts at St. James annually since 2016, with all proceeds going to support the church choir. Of special interest this year will be a pipe band arrangement of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Sounds of Silence” and a tribute to Robbie Burns.

Your Social Justice Committee invites you to celebrate World Environment Day today and World Oceans Day on 8 June! The 2022 theme for the former is “Only one earth.” which advocates for environmental change on a global scale. Check out www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/canadian-environment-week/envirotipsfor ideas on how to help our planet thrive. 8 June is a day for humanity to celebrate the ocean. According to Asha de Vos, Founder and Executive Director of Oceanswell, “If we truly want to save our oceans, every coastline needs a local hero.” Could this be you?
Next Sunday’s Scripture
Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 and Psalm 8 • Romans 5:1-5 • John 16:12-15

Sunday, May 29, 2022

May 29, 2022 – Ascension Sunday
GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship (responsive adapted from Psalm 1 and John 17)
It is a wonderful thing when we trust and believe in God.
We are like trees planted beside a flowing river.
May the church be one, just as Christ and God are one,
that Christ may be glorified in us.
When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in our words and actions
then our lives bring good news to the world.
Come, people who place their hope in the promises of God.
Come, let us worship and praise as one.

Prayer of Approach (together from a prayer by W. Temple 1881-1944)
Lord Jesus Christ,
who prayed for your disciples that they might be one,
even as you are one with God in heaven;
draw us to yourself, that in common love and obedience to you
we may be united to one another, in the fellowship of the one Spirit,
that the world may believe that you are Lord,
to the glory of God forever and ever, Amen.

Hymn: 28 MV God Of The Bible
Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE

Responsive Reading: Psalm 1 (p. 724 VU )
First Reading: Acts 1:1-11
Second Reading: Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21
Gospel: John 17:20-26
Anthem: Higher Ground (J. Wachter) Choir
Sermon “Where Are We Looking?”
GOD CALLS US TO RESPONDHymn: 144 MV Like A Healing Stream
Prayers of the People
Hymn: 176 MV Three Things I Promise
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. May this be a time for us to draw closer to each other and God. We recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, and we seek to be good neighbours to the First Nations.

The Rev. Peter Smith is away from May 29 until June 6. If there is a pastoral emergency during that time please contact the Rev. Doug Stewart at (902) 735-2102 or through the St. Martha’s Hospital Switchboard during the day (902) 867-4500 press “0″ for the operator.
Next Sunday we welcome the Rev. Doug Stewart to lead our service of worship.

The Congratulations and best wishes of the Congregation are extended to Rick Gunn who will be ordained this afternoon at Bedford United Church.

LIFE OF ST. JAMES THIS WEEK
Sunday, May 29
11:30 am Coffee Hour after worship in the hall.

Monday, May 30
2:00 pm St. James UCW is hosting a Q&A Session on Green Burials in the Hall. Patrick Curry from Curry’s Funeral Home will answer questions. Everyone is welcome.

Tuesday, May 31
11:00 am Community Hot Meal program in the Hall.

Thursday, June 2
6:30 pm Choir practice in the Sanctuary.

Please join your Social Justice Committee in celebrating June 1st – the Global Day of Parents when we honour parents and parenthood. The major purpose of this day is to accept the sacrifices and affections of parents towards children. Not only parents but also grandparents and great grandparents can be a part of this day! Show them you care. Spend a day with them doing whatever they’d like to do.

St James UCW and Men’s Club Bursary- Interested applicants should submit a letter to St James United Church directly. The letter should indicate the applicant’s connection to St James and their plans for the upcoming academic year (community college, university, etc.). Preference will be given to confirmed members of St James United Church. It should also be noted that this is not a scholarship nor an award of merit, however applicants may choose to include any information that they think might be relevant to the selection committee. The selection
committee is four members – the minister, representatives from the Men’s and Women’s groups, and a representative of children’s worship program. The successful applicant will be notified at graduation, and the congregation will be notified in the bulletin following graduation, in late June. Submit letters of application to office@stjamesuc.com or drop off in the office mail slot. Application deadline is Sunday, June 5th.

UPCOMING AT ST. JAMES
On Sunday, June 12rh after worship, A Congregational Meeting will be held to discuss a recommendation from the Turustees and Property Committee regarding structural repairs to the steeple.

On Tuesday June 14th at 6 pm, The UCW will be dining out at the Maritime Inn. All women of the congregation are welcome. In lieu of ticket sales, everyone is purchasing their own meal. Please contact Joyce Hilling at joycehilling@gmail.com or phone, 902-863-5881 by June 8 to confirm your attendance.

Next Sunday’s Scripture

Acts 2:1-4, 12-21 • 1 Cor 12:3-13 • St. John 7: 37-39

Sunday, May 22, 2022

May 22, 2022 – Sixth Sunday of Easter
GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship (responsive)
God has created and is creating.
We gather to worship God our Creator.
Jesus died and rose again to reconcile and make new.
We gather to worship God our Redeemer.
The Holy Spirit works in us and others to bless and guide.
We gather to worship God our Sustainer.

Prayer of Approach (together)
Eternal Lord, you know how easy it is for us to become bound by chains of mistrust and fear. The chaos and uncertainty of life is continual and makes us afraid. We hear you calling to us but worry we can’t find the way.

Loving Lord, flood the shadows of our lives with the light of your grace. Open our eyes to the good news which Jesus brings to us. Show us once more that your love has already begun to transform our lives. For we are your people through Jesus Christ, Amen.

Hymn: 352 VU I Danced In The Morning
Blessing of the Prayer Shawls
Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE

Responsive Reading: Psalm 67 (p. 786 VU )
First Reading: Acts 16:9-15
Second Reading: Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5
Gospel: John 5:1-9
Anthem: Higher Ground (J. Wachter) Choir
Sermon “More Than Healing”
GOD CALLS US TO RESPONDHymn: 606 VU In Christ There is No East or West (Tune 344 St Peter)
Minute for Mission Shaun Scott
Prayers of the People
Hymn: 691 VU Though Ancient Walls
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. May this be a time for us to draw closer to each other and God. We recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, and we seek to be good neighbours to the First Nations.

LIFE OF ST. JAMES THIS WEEK
Sunday, May 22
11:30 am Coffee Hour resumes. Please join us in the hall for coffee and conversation.
11:30 am Trustees and Property Committee in Meeting Room.

Tuesday, May 24
11:00 am Community Hot Meal program in the Hall.

Thursday, May 15
6:30 pm Choir practice in the Sanctuary.

Saturday. May 28
10:00 am -1 pm Old Stump Frolic. Come and check out the fun in and around St. James! (Items for the Olde Stump Frolic can be dropped off at the church this week Monday – Friday 10-12)

Green Burials – St. James UCW is hosting a Q&A Session on Green Burials, Monday, May 30, 2022 at 2:00 pm in the Hall. Patrick Curry from Curry’s Funeral Home will answer questions about Green Burials. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The Social Justice Committee invites you to note that today is the International Day for Biological Diversity with the theme “Building a shared future for all life”. Biodiversity is essential for all the processes that support life on earth, including humans. Without a wide range of animals, plants and microorganisms, we couldn’t have the healthy ecosystems that we rely on to provide us with the air we breathe and the food we eat. From nature-based solutions to climate, health issues, food and water security, and sustainable livelihoods, biodiversity is the foundation upon which we can build back better.

St James UCW and Men’s Club Bursary- Interested applicants should submit a letter to St James United Church directly. The letter should indicate the applicant’s connection to St James and their plans for the upcoming academic year (community college, university, etc.). Preference will be given to confirmed members of St James United Church. It should also be noted that this is not a scholarship nor an award of merit, however applicants may choose to include any information that they think might be relevant to the selection committee. The selection
committee is four members – the minister, representatives from the Men’s and Women’s groups, and a representative of children’s worship program. Application deadline is Sunday, June 5th. The successful applicant will be notified at graduation, and the congregation will be notified in the bulletin following graduation, in late June. Submit letters of application to office@stjamesuc.com or drop off in the office mail slot.

FINANCIAL NEWS (To April 30, 2022)
Offering Last Month $17,015 Year-To- Date Offering $51,107
Required for Budget $19,444 Year-To-Date Budget $74,110

The Offering Last Month reflects the money received from the congregation through donations put on the offering plate and through PAR. This represents a -31.5% down from budgeted offerings. The Required for Budget amount is the total collection needed to break even, if all budgeted activities took place. The Year-To-Date offering is the actual amount that our congregation has donated to the end of April. The Year-To-Date Budget amount is the required amount needed for all budgeted activities to take place this year as of the end of April, 2022.

Next Sunday’s Scripture

Acts 1:1-11 • Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 • John 17:20-26

January 2, 2022

January 2, 2022 – Epiphany of our Lord

GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship (responsive)
In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Lord Jesus, King of kings, infant born of the Virgin Mary.
Your star led the Magi to the manger.
They paid homage to you in your mother’s arms.
In this Christmas season we see how God manifests his
goodness and love to all people in his Son Jesus Christ.
Together with the Magi, we offer him as gifts, the gold
of our faithfulness, the incense of our prayers, and the
myrrh of our sacrifice.
Come, let us worship the infant Jesus.
To him be glory forever. Amen.

Prayer of Approach (together)
Today the Magi came to Bethlehem, with them, Lord, we come to
render homage to you. Today the star leads them to the manger.
With them, Lord, we wish to be led by your holy light. With them,
Lord we wish to adore your holy will for us. With them, Lord, we
wish to offer you our own lives as a gift. Hear our prayer Lord Jesus.
Glory and praise to you, infant born to the Virgin Mary. Amen.

Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.
Hymn: The First Nowell

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE
First Reading: Isaiah 60: 1 – 6
Second Reading:Ephesians 3: 1 – 12
Holy Gospel: St. Matthew 2: 1 – 12
Anthem
Sermon “Pay Him Homage”

GOD CALLS US TO RESPOND
Hymn: As With Gladness Men of Old
Prayers of the People
Commissioning and Benediction (responsive)
Let us go in the peace of Christ.
Thanks be to God. Amen.
Postlude

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. We
recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded
territory of the Mi’kmaq People and we seek to be good neighbours to the
First Nations. May this be a time for you to draw closer to God. The
service is posted each week on our website (www.stjamesuc.com).

The prayers and Christian sympathy of the congregation are extended
to the family and friends of Gordon Morrison following his death. Please
keep Christine, Joanna, Lily, and all of Gord’s family in your thoughts
and prayers during this difficult time. A memorial service will take place
at a later date.

Rev. Peter Smith will be away from December 26th until January 6. If
there is a pastoral emergency during this time please contact the Rev.
Doug Stewart at 902-735-2102. This Sunday we are pleased to
welcome the Rev. Doug Stewart to lead our service of worship.

POVERTY – Part 1 of 2 Your Social Justice Committee asks you as
part of your planning for 2022 to consider the following. As the
Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives writes, “poverty is felt deeply in
Nova Scotia, creating social conditions that manifest themselves in many
harmful ways: low wages, precarious work, racial and gender
discrimination, a weak social safety net, inadequate public services, and
a lack of affordable and available child and family services. Many
individuals and families struggle to afford a roof over their heads and
enough food to put on the table, with little left for childcare, clothing or
transportation. Even having a full-time job can be insufficient to pull
a person out of poverty. In Halifax an individual would have to work 70
hours a week on minimum wage to afford a two-bedroom apartment.”

Next Sunday’s Scripture
Isaiah 43:1-7 • Acts 8:14-17 • Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

December 26, 2021

GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude Mary Did you Know? Charles Lowe
Welcome and Announcements

Call to Worship (responsive- Isaiah 9:6)
A child has been born for us, a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Opening Prayer (together)
Eternal God, this season we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in our
world. For in the midst of our despair you send your hope and
peace. In the midst of our fear you send your joy and love. For in the
midst of our darkness you send your light among us to shine and
show us not only the way but the truth of your grace and salvation,
Amen.
Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.
Hymn: Good Christian Friends, Rejoice!

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE
Responsive Reading: Psalm 148, p 871 VU
Praise God from the heavens, give praise in the heights!
Give praise, all you angels; praise God, all you hosts!
Praise God, sun and moon; give praise, stars and lights!
Praise God, farthest heavens, and all waters
beyond heaven. R
Let all things praise the Holy One at whose command they were created,
who established them for all time, setting bounds, which cannot be
passed.
Praise God from the earth, great sea creatures and ocean
depths, lightening and hail, snow and frost, gales that obey
God’s decree,
all mountains and hills, all fruit trees and cedars,
wild animals and cattle, creatures winged and earth-bound.
sovereigns who rule earth and its people,
all who govern and judge this world,
young men and women alike, old people and children
together! R
Let all things praise the name of God,
the name above every other, whose splendour covers heaven and earth.
You give strength to your people,
songs of praise to your faithful,
to Israel, the people dear to your heart. R
First Lesson: Isaiah 62:6-12
Second Lesson: Titus 3:4-7
Gospel: John 1:1-14
Anthem Silent Night, Holy Night Charles Lowe
Sermon: “What Did We Get For Christmas?”

GOD CALLS US TO RESPOND
Hymn: What Child is This?
Prayers of the People
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. We
recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded
territory of the Mi’kmaq People and we seek to be good neighbours to the
First Nations. May this be a time for you to draw closer to God. The
service is posted each week on our website (www.stjamesuc.com).

The Council Executive have decided that because of the current Covid
restrictions in Nova Scotia that worship at St. James will be online only
from December 24th until January 9th. When conditions change we will
resume in person worship services.

Rev. Peter Smith will be away from December 26th until January 6. If
there is a pastoral emergency during this time please contact the Rev.
Doug Stewart at 902-735-2102

December 24, 2021

December 24, 2021- Christmas Eve

GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER
Prelude Concerto in D Allegro (G. Torelli) Andy Hirt
Welcome
Call to Worship (responsive from Isaiah 9:2, 6-7)
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness-
on them light has shined.
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Opening Prayer (together)
Help us, O Lord, to welcome your presence among us —
with joy, like the angels who announced your birth;
with faith, like the shepherds who responded to the invitation;
with firm intention, like the Magi who travelled from afar;
and with awe, like Mary as she accepted the miracle, Amen.

Anthem (or music Angels From the Realms of Glory)
Lighting of the Advent Candles (responsive)
The Light shines in the darkness
and the darkness does not overcome it.
We who have walked in darkness have seen a great light
For the light of God breaks forth into our lives.
We honour Messiah with Christ-candle’s flame,
our Christmas Eve candles glad tidings proclaim.
O come, all you faithful, rejoice in this night,
as God comes among us, the Christian’s true light.

TO HEAR OF SALVATION

Gospel: Luke 2:1-7
Meditation “The Voice of Rejection”
Anthem: Away in A Manger Andy Hirt

Gospel: Luke 2: 8-15
Meditation “The Voice of Invitation”
Music: O Holy Night Kenji Omae

THROUGH THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST

Gospel: Luke 2:16-20
Meditation: “The Voice of Awe and Wonder”
Anthem: There’s a Star in the East Garrett van de Wiel
Prayers of the People at Christmas
Benediction
Postlude Joy to the World Kenji Omae and Hee-jung Choi
Silent Night Hee-jung Choi

A warm welcome to everyone who has gathered with us for worship this Christmas Eve. May this time be an occasion when you experience the promise of this season and through the carols and readings may you draw closer to God and to your neighbour.

This evening’s bulletin is dedicated to the glory of God
and in loving memory of Sheila Marie Polson by the Polson Family.

Thanks to Hee-jung Choi, Andy Hirt, Kenji Omae, and Garrett van de Wiel for sharing their gifts of music for this Christmas Eve service.

The Council Executive have decided that because of the current Covid restrictions in Nova Scotia that worship at St. James will be online only from December 24th until January 9th. When conditions change we will resume in person worship services.

The end of the calendar year is quickly coming. Thursday, Dec 30th will be the final date for donations to be received and credited for the 2021 income tax year at St. James. Donations can be dropped off anytime up to and including that day through our secure mail slot. Online donations can be made anytime at http://www.stjamesuc.com

December 19, 2021

December 19, 2021 – Fourth Sunday of Advent

GOD BRINGS US TOGETHER

Prelude
Welcome and Announcements
Call to Worship (responsive- Matthew 1:23)
A young woman will conceive and bear a child,
and the child shall be called Emmanuel,
a name which means ‘God is with us.’

Prayer of Approach (together)
O God, be not distant from our hearts.
Be near to us. Hold us in your presence
as a mother who enfolds her infant within her arms.
So that we, restless children that we are,
may wait and hope for you. Amen.

Lighting of the Advent Candle (together)
Jesus Christ, Love of God made flesh, shine in our lives and in your world with your unending love, Amen.
A candle is burning, a candle of love,
A candle to point us to heaven above
A baby for Christmas, a wonderful birth
For Jesus is bringing God’s love to our earth.

Children’s Story and Lord’s Prayer.
Hymn: Gentle Mary Laid Her Child

GOD SPEAKS THROUGH SCRIPTURE

Responsive Reading: Luke 1: 47-53 (p. 898 VU)
My soul proclaims God’s greatness.
My spirit rejoices in God my saviour.
For you have looked with favour on your lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed.
You have done great things for me, O Most Mighty.
Hallowed be your Name!
You have mercy on those who fear you,
From one generation to another. R

You took action with a strong arm.
You scattered the proud in their conceit.
You pulled the mighty from their thrones.
You raised the lowly.
You filled the hungry with good things.
You sent the rich away empty.
You come to the aid of your servant, Israel,
for you remembered your promise of mercy,
to our ancestors, Abraham and Sarah,
and to their children in every age. R

First Reading: Micah 5:2-5a
Second Reading: Hebrews 10:5-10
Gospel: Luke 1:39-45
Anthem Soon and Very Soon
Sermon: “A Time for Faith”

GOD CALLS US TO RESPOND
Hymn: All Poor Ones and Humble
Prayers of the People
Commissioning and Benediction
Postlude

A warm welcome to everyone who is joining us for worship. We recognize that we gather in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People and we seek to be good neighbours to the First Nations. May this be a time for you to draw closer to God. The service is posted each week on our website (www.stjamesuc.com).

This Sunday’s bulletin is dedicated to the glory of God
and in loving memory of Douglas Adams by the Family.

Thanks to Michele Ashby, Alistair Hamilton, and Martha Palmer for sharing their gifts of music with us today.

Rev. Peter Smith will be away from December 26th until January 6. If there is a pastoral emergency during this time please contact the Rev. Doug Stewart at 902-735-2102

THIS WEEK AT ST. JAMES
Friday, December 24
7:00 pm Family Christmas Service at St. James
9:00 pm Christmas Eve Communion
Because of the new health restrictions we will need to have assigned seating for Christmas Eve. Please contact the church office by December 23rd at 1pm to reserve your seat 902-863-2001 or office@stjamesuc.com

Your Social Justice Committee wishes you and yours a safe and happy Christmas! At this time of year, our thoughts should turn to those less fortunate than us. Why not make a tradition of giving a “family donation” to any one of the front-line charities in our community? They will usually provide a card, (or you can), stating that a donation has been made in the gift recipient’s name. There are many worthy local charities. Some to consider are:

• our church’s very own Hot Meal Program
• Antigonish Community Food Bank Society
• St Vincent De Paul Society
• Antigonish Affordable Housing Society
• Antigonish Emergency Fuel Fund
• Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre
• Syria-Antigonish Families Embrace
• The Naomi Society
  Most of these are easily researched and effortlessly donated to via the canadahelps.org website, which provides you with an immediate tax receipt. “There is no better exercise for your heart than reaching down and helping to lift someone up.” – Bernard Meltzer

The end of the calendar year is quickly coming. Thursday, Dec 30th will be the final date for donations to be received and credited for the 2021 income tax year at St. James. Donations can be dropped off anytime up to and including that day through our secure mail slot. Online donations can be made anytime at http://www.stjamesuc.com