Elgin Portland United Church
Bible Discussion Groups
Reason to read the Bible #13: The Bible teaches us the importance of forgiving others, so that we may receive the Lord’s mercy for our sins. Matthew 6:14-15 “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Two meetings each week: Portland UC on Monday at 6:30; Elgin public Community Hall, Tuesday 10am. Please join us. For info contact Jim at ccjimbarton@gmail.com or 613-328-4089.
The Lyndhurst Turkey Fair celebrates its 30th Anniversary on Saturday September 21st between 10 am and 4:30 pm. They are looking for volunteers for the day of the fair. Call Diane Joliffe at 519-389-7797 if you are interested. The fair lottery funds this year will be going to the Sweet’s Corners Elementary School Playground equipment Fundraiser.
Elgin United Church
The Young at Heart Breakfast Club will meet again Thursday the 15th of August at 9 a m at the Junction Restaurant.
Let Clint or Ted know if you are coming by what ever means you are comfortable with by Wednesday the 14th at noon so we can reserve spaces for us. Everyone is welcome from both churches………..Ted
Portland United Church
We are extremely grateful to the residents of Mill Bay Court (and their helpers) for raising $2,843.35 for the Portland Food Bank with their yard, craft, and bake sale this past Saturday. What a tremendous (and hot!) job this was but there were many helping hands involved and co-operation all around. The tables were laden! One of the chief organizers was Annette, our church Secretary, so many, many thanks to you, Annette, and to all who took part in some way – by organizing, donating items, crafting, baking, selling lemonade, purchasing items and then packing up and delivering to charity shops what was left over. This was a huge undertaking but is so much appreciated as we try at the food bank to support those who need some extra help.
Sincerely, Louise Martin and Norma Cummings
I to would like to say thank you to Christine Parker from Mill Bay Court. The idea of the yard sale started with Christine’s craft table at Christmas time when the money at the craft table was donated to the Portland Food Bank. A heartfelt thanks to all who contributed.
God Bless, Annette Clarke
Portland United Church Council
Devotional Reflection
August 10, 2024
My grandson, Eoghan, is 12 years old. And autistic. But never underestimate the power behind this young mind. His reasoning is developing at an encouraging, and amazing rate.
Let me give you an example. This week I was looking after him in Mississauga. Whenever his mother is leaving him with me, we always draw up a calendar, listing the number of days she will be gone and the days of the week. Each morning, he comes downstairs from his bedroom and marks off each day. This calendar was a long one (9 days). In fact, he decided it was too, too long. He crossed off day 1. Then, day 2, 3, and 4. Obviously, he felt 9 days was more than he could handle! I explained to him this would not change Mommy’s return date. So, we made a new one and all was OK.
His compromising skills are also improving. After consuming 8 two-bite cupcakes, I informed him that was enough. Sitting there on the couch, legs crossed, I hear him say: ‘Five more cupcakes!’ I replied in the negative. Next, I hear: ‘Two more cupcakes!’ Rather startled, my resolve almost broke. But I held firm and the incident passed without further objection.
Isn’t this just so much like us! We know exactly the journey we are on. Clear direction has been given to us. There before us a short-cut appears, and it looks to be so much easier. Why not take it? And without debate, we’re off!
I’ve seen it many times. As we flit along life’s path, thinking we know best, we are stopped in our tracks. The swamp pulls us in. We struggle, pretend we are making progress, only to realize we are in quagmire, and sinking fast. You may still want to struggle, prove that you are OK. Then you stop.
Listening closely, that Voice calls you. And says: ‘This is the Way, walk in it!’ Can you feel it? Can you hear It! You stretch out your arms, and inch by inch, you begin to rise. It’s not easy – the first chosen path still has an allurement. You turn around, and the pull of this world’s desires tries dragging you back. Your reasoning powers are weak and can be broken easily.
Only in time are we able to discern the ways of God. And then you begin to see progress – in your daily devotional life, in your personal Bible Study, in your prayer life, in your ability to share Christ with others.
For most, this concept is rather new, even though we have heard it so many times. Scripture is filled with words like: Go make Disciples; You are the salt of the earth.
You might even be wondering why do we need to take this path? God tells us that it is only through acceptance of Jesus Christ will we enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
So today, take some time and see where your path is taking you – closer to the Heavenly Father? Or away from Him?
And remember: He is always there. You are never alone.
You are blessed. You are loved.
Liz Church, Director of Pastoral Care
Elgin/Portland Pastoral Charge