The Weekly e-Messenger of SSUC
News and Upcoming Events in the Life of the Community
This week: Sunday, October 20
Join us for a ritual of belonging, as we welcome Niina Luong, daughter of Natsumi and Tenkai.
Gathering Companions: Steve Bailey
Musicians: Katie Alexander, piano; Ann Didluck, alto saxophone; Janis Zalitach, clarinet; Curt Mooney and Ron Middleton, tenor sax; Noah New, trombone; Jennifer Laux, baritone horn; Kathryne Kuhn, electric bass; Larry Alexander, drums; Tenkai Luong, viola
Song Leaders: Heidi Stenabaugh, Marilyn Blackall
Tech Team: Dara Smith, Wade Garner
Welcome Team: Berni & Arvid Hardin
Coffee Crew: Helen & Harry Pauls, Gloria Hooke
Nursery: Blair Anderson-Croft
Food Bank: Jay-Lynn Peters, Jim Cramer
Post-Gathering Reflections
Those joining from home and wishing to connect with community and discussion are invited to join the post-gathering Zoom call at about 11:15 a.m. (MT). Find the link here.
Our strength and love are with those experiencing illness or loss:
- Ken May, on the death of his brother last week in Calgary.
We celebrate with:
- Jacky Boruk, turning 85 on October 23rd.
We are thrilled to welcome Wes D. (they/them) to our team as our new Youth Coordinator. Wes will be working with our youth to develop a weekly gathering on Sunday mornings, concurrent with our Sunday gatherings. Wes also has future plans to commence a community youth GSA program .
Originally from Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, Wes is a nonbinary and transmasculine creator, advocate, and coach. They are an educator in trans-informed care, passionately dedicated to fostering wellbeing and community connection. A proud dog dad with a big smile and an even bigger heart, Wes brings compassion and encouragement into every encounter. Their signature phrase is, “I’m proud of you.”
Chris’ occasional thoughts and reflections.
On Sunday, September 22, 2024, the SSUC community strengthened our collective intentions to stand for justice and for the marginalized, not just in theory but in these very concrete ways… Read more here.
Introducing Affirming Afternoons! Note the correct start time of 1:00 pm
A monthly casual time to be together with others in the LGBTQIA+ community, their families and allies. Each month might be different, but the goal is the same: have some fun, have a safe space to be yourself, and connect with others. Always the 3rd Sunday afternoon of every month.
October 20: Games Day. Bring a few favourite board games! Snacks and beverages provided. Adults, teens and kids are welcome.
Calling all youth! 🌟 Join us for the first Youth Café Gathering – Sunday, October 27!
We’re kicking things off with a fun, interactive gathering designed by you, for you. This gathering is all about brainstorming what you want the program to look like moving forward – your ideas, your vibe, your voice! 🎨📝
We’ll also have some easy get-to-know-you questions so that everyone feels welcome and connected. And of course, no hangout is complete without snacks – come hungry for good conversation and tasty treats! 🍿🍪 📅
Guest signup for Guess Who’s Coming for Dessert
Treat Makers Needed!
Calling all cookie bakers, candy makers and treat creators. Your support is needed for our annual Christmas bake sale. We will, once again, be selling homemade treats of all descriptions. This includes your best cookies, fudge, rum balls – whatever you want to make! Starting October 13th there will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer to let us know how many treats you plan on making. Contact karenhenderson604@gmail.com if you have any questions.
Tuesday Connection for Women of All Ages
Tuesday Connection is a discussion and social group for all women in our community. A variety of topics and resources are presented each week. All women are invited to gather weekly at SSUC at 9:45 am, or online here.
SSUC Men’s Coffee Group
All men are invited to SSUC on Tuesday mornings at 10:00 am in the Music Room for coffee and social time. Bring your own mug!
Zoom Yoga
Yoga classes have resumed via zoom, Wednesdays at 7 pm. The weekly fee is only $5, payable via e transfer or cheque. Contact Jo Nicholas (djnicholas1952@gmail.com) for registration information and the zoom link.
Resource Group
Thursdays at 6:00 pm.
SSUC Choir
Thursdays at 7:15 pm in the Small Hall.
SSUC Ukulele Circle
Upcoming dates: October 19 (Youth Lounge), November 2, November 16, December 14, 10:30 am, Lower Level Hall.
Congregational Care Committee
- Caregiver Support Group at SSUC
The first meeting will be on Wednesday, October 23 at 1:00 pm, Small Hall. Please contact SSUC office if interested at 780-435-2028 or by email at info@ssucedmonton.com.
Refugee Support Committee
- The whole community of SSUC is thrilled to welcome Yemane and Siem to Canada! The brothers are reunited and are settling in. We look forward to all the ways we will support them in their settlement and help them know they are welcome and belong in their new city!
Help us keep going, giving, and growing!
SSUC and all of its community programming operate solely on the generosity and support of our donors. Donate online here, send an e-transfer to info@ssucedmonton.com, or mail a cheque to the address at the bottom of this communication. You can also sign up to donate by automatic withdrawal by contacting our administrator at info@ssucedmonton.com.
Support Palestinian farmers living under military occupation…
We are fully stocked with oil for the fall season. 500 mL bottle, $25; 750 mL bottle, $30; za’tar spices, $6.
Fund our outreach programs while you get your groceries!
We are fully stocked with grocery cards from Safeway/Sobeys, President’s Choice (Loblaws, Superstore, etc.) and Save On. Buy them on Sunday mornings or be in touch with the church office at info@ssucedmonton.com or 780.435.2028.
Featured Book: The Truths We Hold: An American Journey
“If you would like to know more about the woman who may sit in the Oval Office chair next January,” the Indianapolis Recorder prods, “read it now….” “It” is The Truths We Hold, authored by America’s vice-president, Kamala Harris. In it, National Public Radio opines, “Harris presents herself as a potentially formidable presidential candidate. …she efficiently makes her case, like the prosecutor she is.” And she points up the values and inspirations that guide her life. Read more…
Participants Needed for Macewan Study
A student in psychology at Macewan University is conducting research that explores experiences of coercive control within intimate relationships. They are seeking participants of all gender identities and sexualities. See the poster in the foyer for more information or follow this link.
(Stream recordings of our old gatherings too!)