Links for June 7, 2026

The prayers and Christian sympathy of the congregation are extended to the family and friends of the Rev. Dr. William James
Shaffner who died last week. Jim’s funeral was on Thursday at Merigomish United Church. Please keep his daughter, Jeniffer Hilling, and all the family in your thoughts and prayers during this time. Jim’s ministry touched the lives of many and we were blessed that he served among us.

The prayers and Christian sympathy of the congregation are extended to the family and friends of Catherine Murray who died in mid May. Roy and Catherine were active in St. James for many years before moving to to be closer to grandchildren. Please keep Roy and all the family in your prayers during this difficult time.

Today is the United Church’s Pride Sunday. The fight against discrimination based on sexual orientation has come a long way, but still has a distance to go. Consider yourself an ally? Do everything you possibly can to ensure 2SLGBTQIA+ folks feel welcomed and included. Wear a pin, fly the flag, challenge discriminatory remarks and jokes, take a stand! The 8th is World Oceans Day. This year’s theme is “REIMAGINE: Beyond the world we know, a new relationship with our ocean”, calling for humanity to close the distance between ourselves and the sea, moving from passive inheritors of its resources, to active guardians of its future. And the 12th is the World Day Against Child Labour – make sure your purchases, (especially clothing), are ethically sourced. Childhood should mean learning, not earning!

St James UCW 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. Application deadline is June 15th. Submit applications to office@stjamesuc.com or mailed to St. James United Church, 197 Main Street, Antigonish NS B2G 2B8

Our Newest Connections Newsletter is being compiled. Do you have a story or some pictures? You can contact the office, or Brenda Rose, the editor brendaannerose@gmail.com by June 16th.