Palms of Hope — Palm Sunday 2020
PALM SUNDAY MESSAGE TO CONGREGANTS AND COMMUNITY OF HOPE UNITED
Palm Sunday blessings to you all! I so much wish we could gather as one, as congregation and community to celebrate the Parade of Palms, however we must joyously celebrate in our own homes, knowing that by doing so, we are keeping safe our neighbors, families and friends. I am so very proud of all of the efforts of our health care workers. Let us keep them in our daily prayers.
This week as I checked in on members of our congregation, I was so very thrilled to discover that you are doing the same. Making sure that all are ok, that people have what they need and knowing that with time and patience, we will once again gather together in worship in our sacred space at Main and Danforth.
Here on our website we have posted our Palm Sunday Sermon, First Reading and Gospel. Please find the sermon, and previous sermons, by going to the “Worship” tab above, and from there scrolling down and clicking on the “Sunday Sermons” tab. The First Reading and Gospel can be found under the same “Worship” tab and scrolling down to “First Reading & Gospel”.
Also on our website are a few links for worship services that you can join on-line. Our Moderator records one on Tuesday for each of the following Sundays (https://www.united-church.ca/blogs/round-table/moderators-online-worship-april-5-2020). We have also included Faith United (https://faithunited.ca/worship/ - click on the “Online Worship” tab which is the second item under “Events”, click on “YouTube Link” and then click on the “Live Now” service), which airs at 10:30 on Sunday Mornings. Our goal is to have one up and running for Easter Sunday, so will keep you posted as we progress and get the technology figured out. Here too is a link to a Palm Parade in Jerusalem (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GeQIbNNyRQ).
As far as I am aware, all of our congregants are keeping well and are safe. My ordination which was scheduled for May 23, 2020, has been postponed due to Covid19. Our building remains closed until such time as it is safe to once again gather. We are actively working on our Community of Faith Profile which will be ready for your review and comment in the coming weeks.
For pastoral emergencies, please email HopeUnitedChurch@gmail.com. I may also be reached through the church office 416-691-9682. Messages will be checked each day.
Blessings and keep safe!
Brian Stevens
Worship Leader