Soul Food

Reflective Pauses

Advent Pauses
2020-2024

Lenten Pauses
2021 – 2025

Soul Food Posts

November 27, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

A note from Rev. Rebecca:

As I prepare to be off for a year welcoming the arrival of my son, one of the things I wanted to do was be able to share with you all the season of Advent, Christmas and Epiphany in some way. Which is why this posting includes all we need to journey through the seasons of Advent, Christmas and Epiphany together.

There maybe changes to how the Pause for Prayer words in 2026 during my time away from Gower but Pastoral Care Team will communicate that in the new year.

Thank you for sharing in prayer with me each week.

Blessings,
Rebecca

Advent, Christmas & Epiphany Reflection & Prayer Guide

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursdays. As you move through these sessions weekly have a candle on hand that you can light during the session.

As we prepare once again for the sacred seasons of Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany, we offer this guide as a spiritual companion for our Gower community—whether you join us in the sanctuary, online, or from wherever you find yourself this season.

While everything is provided here in full, we encourage you to journey through it week by week, allowing the themes to unfold slowly and prayerfully as we move toward the manger and into the light of Epiphany.

Advent invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and wait with hope.
Christmas invites us to rejoice in God-with-us, Emmanuel.
Epiphany invites us to follow the light and live with renewed purpose.

May these words help you listen for God’s voice, notice God’s presence, and open your heart anew to the Holy that is born in surprising places.

November 27, 2025 – Week One of Advent – Hope

Advent as the days continue to grow shorter, the light fades earlier, and winter moves in close around us. In many ways, this season mirrors our inner landscapes: the places where we feel stretched, tired, uncertain, or longing for change. Yet faith teaches us that this is precisely where hope begins—not when everything is perfect or easy, but when we choose to trust that God is moving even when we cannot yet see the path ahead.

Hope is not naïve optimism. It does not ignore hardship or pretend challenges don’t exist. Instead, hope bravely names the reality of the world and still insists that God is not finished with us. Hope is like a single candle that refuses to be overwhelmed by surrounding darkness.

In this first week of Advent, may we dare to believe that new beginnings are possible. Look for signs of God’s quiet, resilient work—healing that begins slowly, truth that rises, compassion that takes hold in unexpected places.

As we light the first candle, may it whisper to us: “Stay awake. Stay open. God is near.”

Questions for Reflection:
Where do I long for hope this season?
Where do I see small signs of new beginnings?
How can I become a bearer of hope to others?

Prayer:
God of Hope, in the dimness of early winter we light the first candle trusting that Your light always finds us.
When the world feels fragile, when our spirits feel thin, breathe Your hope into us again.
Strengthen our hearts to wait with courage and to trust Your promise that love will rise. Amen.

Blessing:
May hope take root in your heart and guide your steps with gentle confidence. Amen.

December 4, 2025 – Week Two of Advent – Peace

Peace can feel like a distant dream. Our world is full of conflict, division, and fear. Our lives can become noisy, rushed, and overwhelming. Even our own hearts can feel restless or unsettled. Advent reminds us that peace is not something we achieve through perfection or control—it is a gift we receive when we allow God to meet us exactly where we are.

Jesus repeatedly offers peace to his followers, often amid chaos: in storms, in uncertainty, in fear. Peace in Scripture is not merely the absence of trouble; it is the presence of God. It is the assurance that no matter what unfolds, we are held by a Love greater than anything we face.

This week, we are invited to slow down, breathe, and create space for God’s peace to take root. Peace might come as a moment of stillness, a deep breath, a kind word, a reconciliation, or a quiet shift within us. It may come gently, but it comes.

As we light the second candle, may it remind us to seek peace—not only in our world, but within our own souls.

Questions for Reflection:
What steals my peace?
Where do I hear God calling me to be a peacemaker?
What would peace look like in my relationships, community, or daily life?

Prayer:
God of Peace, when our minds race and our hearts feel crowded, speak Your calm over us.
Quiet our worries, soften our edges, and help us breathe deeply of Your Spirit.
Make us instruments of Your peace— gentle, courageous, compassionate. Amen.

Blessing:
May the peace of Christ guard your heart and shine through your life. Amen.

December 11, 2025 – Week Three of Advent – Joy

Joy can be surprising. It is not dependent on circumstances being ideal or life unfolding according to our plans. Joy shows up in unexpected and imperfect places—like the stable in Bethlehem.

In Advent, joy is not a command to “be happy” or to force cheerfulness. Instead, it is an invitation to notice the moments of delight that God places gently into our days: a child laughing, a warm cup of tea, a remembered kindness, the beauty of a sunrise, or the comfort of community.

Joy is deeply connected to gratitude. It grows when we pay attention, when we savour small moments, and when we allow ourselves to be amazed by the ordinary holiness of everyday life.

This week’s candle—traditionally rose-coloured—breaks into the deep blues and purples of Advent to remind us that joy is always breaking in, even when the world feels heavy.

As we light the third candle, may we open ourselves to joy that surprises us, lifts us, steadies us, and reminds us that God is near.

Questions for Reflection:
Where has joy surprised me this week?
What practices help awaken joy in me?
How can I share joy without forcing cheerfulness on myself or others?

Prayer for Week Three:
God of Joy, You delight in us even when we struggle to delight in ourselves.
Open our eyes to simple wonders— laughter shared, kindness offered, beauty noticed, love received.
Let Your joy rise within us like a candle burning steady and bright. Amen.

Blessing:
May joy find you gently, lift you softly, and carry you into God’s love. Amen.

December 18, 2025 – Week Four of Advent – Love

Love is at the heart of Advent. It is the pulse of God’s presence, the reason for the incarnation, the very shape of the Christian life. In a world where love can be conditional or fragile, God’s love remains constant, generous, and transformative.

Advent love is not soft sentimentalism—it is brave, compassionate, and active. It challenges injustice, reaches out to the lonely, tends to the hurting, and stands alongside the vulnerable.

This is the love embodied in Mary’s “yes,” in Joseph’s faithfulness, in the shepherds’ wonder, and most of all, in the Christ Child—God choosing to come close, to be with us in our humanity.

As we prepare for Christmas, we examine the love that flows from our lives. Where are we being called to love more? To forgive? To reach out? To soften? To stand firm in compassion?

As we light the fourth candle, may we feel God’s love surrounding us, filling us, and moving us outward into the world.

Questions for Reflection:
Where do I need to receive God’s love more fully?
How might I offer love more generously?
Whom am I being called to love—even imperfectly?

Prayer:
God of Love, You come to us not with fear or judgment but with tenderness and mercy.
Open our hearts to the fullness of Your love.
Help us to love boldly, to forgive freely, and to care deeply for those in need.
Let love be born again in us. Amen.

Blessing:
May love root you, renew you, and reflect through you. Amen.

December 25, 2025 – Christmas Day

Merry Christmas!

Today, joy and wonder meet us anew. After the long waiting of Advent, after the quiet hopes and whispered prayers, Christmas arrives—reminding us once again that God chooses to come close.

On this day, we celebrate the deep mystery of our faith: that the Creator of the stars came as a child; that Love took on flesh; that God entered human life not from above, but from within.

The story of Christmas is not only about a birth long ago; it is about a God who continues to be born into our world today— in kindness shared, in compassion offered, in justice pursued, in moments when love becomes real and visible among us.

On a morning wrapped in light and wonder, we are reminded that God comes to us in ways we often least expect: not in power but in vulnerability, not in perfection but in presence, not to escape the world but to transform it.

Wherever you are this Christmas—surrounded by family, holding memories, navigating grief, or finding joy in small things—know this:

Emmanuel—God with us—is here.

In every breath, every heartbeat, every quiet moment of hope or longing, God meets you with tenderness and grace.

As we welcome the Jesus today, may our hearts open wide to receive the peace, joy, and love that continue to shine through this holy season.

Prayer:
Holy and Gracious God, on this Christmas day we gather in awe before the wonder of Your love.
You come to us not with might or grandeur but with humility and tenderness, born into the beauty and vulnerability of our world.
We thank You for the hope that rises in the birth of Jesus, for the joy that fills our hearts, for the peace that stretches across the earth like dawn, and for the love that holds us through every season.
Be with those who celebrate with full hearts and those who carry sorrow today.
Be with those who gather around full tables and those who are spending this day alone.
Be with those who long for healing, those who seek comfort, and those who yearn for a safe and welcoming world.
May the light of faith awaken generosity in us, kindness through us, and compassion beyond us.
Let this day remind us that Your love is born again and again— in our communities, in our families, and in the quiet corners of our own hearts.
We give You thanks for the gift of Christmas, for the miracle of Emmanuel, God with us—now and always. Amen.

Blessing:
May the joy of the angels sing in your heart, the peace of Jesus rest gently in your spirit, and the love of God surround you like the warmth of a candle on a winter morning. Amen.

January 1, 2026 – Epiphany

Happy New Year!

Epiphany marks a new beginning—a season of revelation, clarity, and courage. We remember the Magi who followed a star across unfamiliar territory, uncertain of the path but confident in the One who called them forward.

Epiphany reminds us that the journey of faith is rarely straightforward. Like the Magi, we may find ourselves navigating twists, surprises, and unexpected detours. But God continues to guide us, offering light for the next step, wisdom for the road, and companions along the way.

The light of Epiphany is not just something we follow—it is something we are called to reflect. As Christ’s presence grows in us, we become bearers of compassion, justice, and truth in a world that still longs for light.

As a new year begins, we are invited to ask:
What new path is God opening before us?
What gifts do we carry into the world?
How will we follow the light with courage and trust?

Epiphany teaches us that God still speaks, still guides, still leads us toward hope. May we have the faith to follow.

Questions for Reflection:
What “star” is God placing before me this year?
Where am I being called to grow, learn, or step out in faith?
How can I be a light-bearer to others?

Prayer for Epiphany:
God of New Paths and Bright Stars, You call us to follow, to seek, to trust.
As the Magi journeyed by Your light, guide our steps into the year ahead.
Make us curious, brave, open-hearted, and ready to serve You wherever You lead. Amen.

Blessing:
May God’s light guide your path, Jesus’ love shape your journey, and the Spirit’s wisdom rest upon you in this new year. Amen.

22^nd January 2026- Lent

The Christian year moves on. The Magi have made their visit to the Bethlehem stable, have delivered their gifts, and have avoided Herod’s trap, returning to their countries by a different route. Jesus has been baptised by John. Epiphany is the liturgical season during which Jesus is revealed to the world through his ministry and actions, culminating in his transfiguration just before the season of Lent.
One example of Jesus’s work can be found in Luke, chapter 4, verses 14-21. Jesus returned to Nazareth, where he had grown up. His reputation as a teacher had preceded him and a large crowd had gathered to hear him in the synagogue. He read from one of the prophets:

The spirit of the Holy One is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Holy One.
He then concluded: This day is the scripture fulfilled in your ears.
Jesus places himself in the Jewish tradition, by reading from one of the prophets, but then brings his audience into the present, transforming a promise into a fact.

Questions for Reflection
We sing: “O Jesus I have promised to serve you to the end”. In what ways have you carried out that promise?
How have you helped the poor, the broken-hearted?

Prayer
Gracious and forgiving God, in spite of our best intentions, we do not always fulfill the promises we have made to follow in Jesus’s footsteps. In this season of Epiphany, help us to re-engage, to take to heart the examples of good deeds we find in the gospels.
Our Parent in Heaven, whose love knows no bounds, Your name is holy, held in the highest regard. May Your realm of love, acceptance, and justice come, May Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven, Guiding us to honour each other’s dignity and worth. Give us today our daily bread, the sustenance we need, And forgive us our prejudices as we forgive those who are prejudiced against us, Lead us away from judgment and deliver us from the hands of hatred. For Yours is the realm of unconditional love, the power to change hearts, And the glory of diversity in unity, now and forever. May all of us, created beautifully and wonderfully in Your image, Live and love in the spirit of Your Son, who taught us to pray, Embracing each other, as You embrace us all. Amen.
Blessing
May the love of God, the grace of Jesus, and the light of the Holy Spirit breathe new energy into our daily actions. Amen

November 20, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Transgender Day of Remembrance

Today we enter a time of solemn remembrance — a day when communities around the world gather to honour the lives of transgender and gender-diverse people who have been lost to hatred, violence, and discrimination.

Transgender Day of Remembrance is not only a day of mourning; it is a call to deep compassion, solidarity, and change. It invites us, as people of faith, to examine how we create safety, dignity, and belonging for every child of God.

In the Gospel, Jesus reminds us that every person is made in God’s image. Every person is worthy of love without condition, dignity without question, and safety without exception. And yet, transgender people continue to face discrimination, rejection, homelessness, poverty, and violence simply for being who they are.

As a community here at Gower, we affirm that every person is beloved. Today, our hearts stand with the transgender members of our community — known and unknown, present or far away — who seek spaces where they can breathe freely and live fully.

Remembrance is sacred work. But it is not passive work.
To remember is to commit.
To honour the dead is to protect the living.
To light a candle is to choose hope over fear.

On this day, we hold space for grief, for truth, and for a new way of being Church — one rooted in the radical compassion of God, who welcomed those the world pushed aside and called them blessed.

May our remembering move us toward justice.
May our compassion be courageous.
And may our love be loud.

Let us pray,
God of Tender Mercy,
on this Transgender Day of Remembrance,
we gather with heavy hearts
to honour the lives of transgender and gender-diverse people
whose light was extinguished by violence, hatred, or neglect.

We name before You the pain of a world
that too often refuses to see the full humanity of Your children.
We lament the fear, rejection, and injustice
that so many in the trans community continue to face.

Holy One, receive into Your eternal embrace
all those we have lost.
Hold them in Your peace.
Surround their families and loved ones with comfort and strength.

For those who live today in fear — grant safety.
For those who live without acceptance — grant community.
For those who carry wounds — grant healing.
For those who speak truth and seek justice — grant courage.

Forgive us when we have been silent,
when we have failed to stand with the vulnerable,
when we have not lived fully into Your call
to love our neighbour as ourselves.

Make us a church of welcome,
a sanctuary of safety,
a community of fierce compassion.

In Your love, may we honour the memory of those lost
by working for a world where every person
can live freely, authentically, and joyfully
as the one You created them to be.

We pray in the name of the One
who loved all people without fear or limit,
and taught us to pray together, saying:

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory,
forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing
May the God who created every person in beauty and truth bless you with compassion that transforms, courage that protects, and hope that endures. Amen.

November 13, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

World Kindness Day

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, November 13, 2025.

Today we celebrate World Kindness Day — a simple invitation to do good, to reach out, to remind one another that gentleness still matters.

In a world that often feels hurried, divided, and weary, kindness can seem small. But in truth, it is one of the most powerful acts we can offer. Kindness can heal, bridge divides, and awaken hope. It is the language of God’s love made visible in the everyday.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 4:32:

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Kindness is not just a feeling; it’s a practice. It’s found in a listening ear, a warm meal, a note of encouragement, a gentle word in a hard conversation. It shows up in how we treat strangers, neighbours, and even ourselves.

Here at Gower, we see kindness in the way our community shows up for one another — through outreach, hospitality, prayer, and presence. Whether it’s sharing a cup of coffee in the Hall, dropping off a bag of groceries for Bridges to Hope, or offering comfort to someone in grief — these are sacred acts of kindness that ripple far beyond what we see.

Kindness, at its heart, is an act of faith. It trusts that compassion can still change the world. It believes that love has the final word. And it reflects the heart of the One who said, “Love one another, as I have loved you.”

So on this World Kindness Day, may we look for small ways to bring light — to be gentle in our words, generous in our actions, and patient with ourselves and others. For when we practice kindness, we reflect the very image of God in the world.

Let us pray,

God of Grace and Gentleness,
on this World Kindness Day,
we pause to give thanks for the quiet goodness that still fills our world —
for the stranger who smiles, the friend who listens,
the hands that serve, and the hearts that care.

You have shown us what kindness looks like
in the compassion of Jesus,
who welcomed the outcast, forgave the sinner,
and lifted up the broken.
Teach us to follow His way —
to love without condition,
to forgive without hesitation,
and to serve without counting the cost.

Forgive us, O God, when we choose indifference over compassion,
when we speak in haste or act without love.
Soften our hearts where they have grown hard,
and remind us that even the smallest act of kindness
can carry the power of Your Spirit.

Bless our community here at Gower Street United Church —
that we may be a place where kindness lives,
where strangers are welcomed,
and where hope is renewed.

In all that we do and say this week,
may we reflect Your love,
and in doing so, help to heal the world.

We pray in the name of Jesus,
who taught us to love our neighbour,
and to pray together, saying:

Blessing
May your words bring comfort, your hands bring healing, and your presence bring peace.
Go forth as bearers of kindness — to lift the weary, to build up hope, and to reflect the light of God’s love in every corner of the world. Amen.

November 6, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Remembering for Peace

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, November 6, 2025.

November’s chill is settling over the city, and poppies bloom bright against our coats; we pause to remember. We remember the soldiers who served, the nurses who tended the wounded, the families who waited, and the countless lives — both military and civilian — forever changed by the shadow of war.

Remembrance Day invites us into that sacred silence — not as a glorification of conflict, but as an act of gratitude and a longing for peace. It is a time to honour courage and sacrifice, but also to confront the cost of violence, and to commit ourselves to a different path.

Here we remember those from Newfoundland and Labrador whose names are written on memorials, whose faces are pictured in family albums, whose stories are whispered in prayers. We remember the battlefields of Beaumont-Hamel, the seas of the North Atlantic, the peacekeeping missions and humanitarian work that continue around the world.

Yet remembrance does not end with history. It calls us to live differently today. It calls us to be peacemakers — in our homes, in our community, in our politics, and in our hearts.
The words of Jesus still echo:

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)

Here at Gower, we remember not only those who gave their lives, but also the hope they held — the hope for a better, kinder, and more just world. That hope still calls to us.

So as we approach November 11th, may our remembrance be active:
May it shape how we live, how we speak, and how we care for one another.
May we work to end the conflicts that still rage, the injustices that still divide, and the hatreds that still wound.
May we be people of peace — remembering with our hearts, and living with our hands.

Let us pray,

God of Memory and Mercy,
we come before You in this season of remembrance
with gratitude and reverence.

We remember those who served in times of war and conflict —
those who gave their lives,
those who returned with wounds seen and unseen,
and those whose families bore the cost of service and separation.
We give thanks for their courage,
for their sacrifice,
and for the peace we too often take for granted.

Yet, O God, we also remember that war was never Your dream for us.
You created us for peace —
for neighbourliness, for justice, for compassion.
Forgive us when we fail to live as peacemakers in our own time.
Forgive our silence when voices cry for justice,
and our indifference when violence continues around the world.

We pray for all places torn by war today —
for Ukraine and the Middle East,
for lands where fear and hatred still rule,
and for communities where peace feels far away.
Bring healing to the broken, hope to the weary,
and courage to all who work for reconciliation.

Bless our leaders with wisdom grounded in mercy,
and bless us that we may live out Your call to love,
to forgive, and to seek peace in every act and every word.

We ask this in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, who taught us to pray,

Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
May the God of Peace guard your heart and guide your steps.
May Jesus, who gave His life for love, teach you to live with courage and compassion.
And may the Spirit, who moves through memory and hope, fill you with strength to be a peacemaker in your time. Amen.

October 30, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Remembering the Saints and Embracing the Spirit of Joy

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

As October draws to a close, the air grows crisp, the nights stretch longer, and our streets begin to fill with laughter, costumes, and flickering pumpkins. Halloween arrives — a time of imagination and play, of community and welcome, where we knock on neighbours’ doors and share small gifts of sweetness and delight.

For the Church, this season holds another meaning too. The day after Halloween, we mark All Saints’ Day, when we remember with gratitude the faithful who have gone before us — those who shaped our faith, loved us into being, and left us examples of courage, compassion, and care.

Halloween and All Saints may seem like opposites — one full of fun and mischief, the other full of memory and reverence — yet both remind us of a more profound truth: that loves endures always.

As the candles glow in carved pumpkins and as we light candles of remembrance in our sanctuaries, we proclaim that God’s love shines through every act of kindness, every prayer whispered for a loved one, every moment when laughter triumphs over fear.

As we celebrate both the joy of community and the comfort of remembrance. We honour the saints of our faith and our lives — those who spoke truth, served humbly, loved deeply, and reflected God’s love in the world. Some were famous; most were ordinary — yet each bore a spark of the divine.

So, as children fill the streets in costume and as we prepare to enter November’s quieter days, may we remember that we too are part of this great cloud of witnesses. We are called to live as saints-in-progress — not perfect, but faithful; not flawless, but full of love.

Let us hold close the memories of those who have gone before, and let us live so that others will remember in us and the love we offer.

Let us pray,

Loving and Eternal God,
as we gather in the glow of autumn,
we give You thanks for the saints —
those whose faith shaped our own,
whose kindness blessed our days,
and whose memory still guides us.

We thank You for the laughter of Halloween —
for neighbours meeting at the door,
for the joy of children,
and for the ways community is built through simple acts of sharing.
In the midst of costumes and candy,
remind us that You delight in joy, creativity, and connection.

We remember today all those who have gone before us:
parents and grandparents, friends and mentors,
teachers, leaders, and those whose names may be forgotten but whose love remains.
We trust that they rest in Your eternal care.

God of the living and the dead,
teach us to live with gratitude and grace.
When the nights grow long, remind us that Your presence is our warmth.
When we face fear or grief, remind us that love endures beyond all endings.
Make us people of courage, joy, and compassion,
who carry forward the faith of those who came before.

We ask this through Jesus Christ today as we pray as the words he taught us:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
May the God of all generations bless your remembering and your rejoicing.
And may the Spirit of the Saints surround you those who walked before and those who walk beside as you go out to love and serve in joy. Amen.

October 23, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Reformed and Reforming – A Living Faith for Changing Times

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Liturgically on Reformation Sunday (last Sunday in October), we remember that the Church is not a museum of the past but a living, breathing movement of God’s Spirit in the world.

Nearly 500 years ago, Martin Luther and other reformers called the Church to rediscover the heart of the Gospel — grace, freely given through Jesus Christ. That movement was never meant to end. It was a beginning.

“Reformation” means more than one moment in history; it means God’s ongoing work of transformation — in us, in our communities, and in creation itself. The Latin phrase ecclesia reformata, semper reformanda reminds us that the Church “reformed” must always be “reforming” — always listening, learning, repenting, and growing closer to the heart of God.

I believe that here at Gower, we live out that spirit of reformation in our own way:
by opening our doors wide to all,
by seeking truth and justice in our city and world,
and by nurturing faith that is curious, compassionate, and courageous.

Today I invite you to reflect on:

Where is God calling you/our community to be reformed today?
What traditions do we cherish — and what new paths are we being led to explore?
How can our faith respond to the shifting needs of our time — to climate change, inequality, reconciliation, and community renewal — without losing sight of the Gospel’s foundation in love?

The Reformation began with questions nailed to a church door. Perhaps our questions today are not written on wood but carried in our hearts.

What does it mean to be Church in 2025?
How can we, like those who came before us, trust that God is still at work — shaping, challenging, and calling us into a deeper, more generous faith?

Let us pray,

God of All Ages,
You have moved through prophets and poets,
through reformers and dreamers,
through ordinary people with extraordinary faith.

We thank You for the Spirit that stirred hearts long ago
to seek truth, grace, and freedom in Your name.
Reform us again, O God.

When we grow comfortable, disturb us.
When we cling to old ways that harm or exclude, renew us.
When we lose sight of Your mission, remind us that faith is not fixed — it is living.

We pray for Your Church in every place —
for leaders and congregations discerning new paths,
for those struggling to keep hope alive,
for those daring to imagine what church can look like in the years ahead.
Bless our community with creativity, courage, and compassion.

May our worship be alive with joy,
our service grounded in justice,
and our fellowship open to all who seek belonging.
Inspire us to keep reforming — not for tradition’s sake,
but for the sake of love, inclusion, and truth.

May Your grace, revealed in Jesus Christ,
continue to shape our lives and renew Your Church,
until the whole world knows the fullness of Your peace.

We offer you the prayers of our hearts today as we pray as Jesus taught us:

Blessing:
May the God who stirred the Reformers stir your heart with holy courage.
May Christ, the Living Word, renew your mind with grace and understanding.
And may the Spirit of Reformation guide your steps to build a Church that loves without limit and serves without fear.
Go in peace — reformed and always reforming, in the name of God who creates, Christ who redeems, and Spirit who sustains.
Amen.

October 16, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Faith After the Vote – Ending Poverty Through Compassion and Justice

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

In these early days after our provincial elections here in Newfoundland and Labrador, our hearts hold a mixture of hope and responsibility. Elections bring the promise of renewal — a chance for voices to be heard and for new visions of leadership to take shape. Yet they also remind us of the deep work still before us, especially as we mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (October 17).

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty calls us to look beyond politics and into the heart of our shared humanity. Poverty is not only a matter of economics — it is about dignity, justice, and belonging. It touches every part of life: housing, food, healthcare, education, and the wellbeing of creation itself. And so, our response cannot be limited to the voting booth. It must continue in the daily choices we make, in the policies we support, and in the compassion, we extend to one another.

As people of faith, we are reminded that the measure of a community is not in its wealth or its growth, but in how it cares for those most in need. When Jesus said, “Whatever you do for the least of these, you do for me” (Matthew 25:40), he invited us to see every act of justice and mercy as an act of worship.

In this moment after the election, we give thanks for the democratic process — for those who offered to serve, for those elected, and for those who hold them accountable. We pray that our leaders will govern with compassion and wisdom, putting people before profit and justice before convenience. But we also remember that leadership belongs to all of us. The work of ending poverty is not confined to the halls of government; it lives in every kind gesture, every meal shared, every voice raised for fairness.

Let us strive to see hope at work daily — in volunteers who cook and serve meals, in neighbours who listen to one another’s stories, in youth who speak up for change, and in the ongoing ministries that bridge difference and build belonging. These are the stubborn, beautiful acts of hope that transform communities.

As the prophet Micah says:

“What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

May this season — both political and spiritual — be one where we recommit ourselves to that calling.
May we be a church that listens deeply, gives generously, and lives faithfully — until every person has enough, every voice is heard, and every life is honoured.

Let us pray,
God of Compassion and Wisdom,
You are the Creator of abundance,
and yet too many live with too little.
You are the Author of justice,
and yet too many face inequality and fear.

We come before You today with grateful hearts
for the gift of democracy and the peaceful election in our province.
Bless those who have been chosen to lead Newfoundland and Labrador —
give them vision rooted in mercy, courage shaped by truth,
and hearts attuned to the cries of the poor.

We pray for those whose voices were not heard,
for those living on the margins,
for families struggling to find housing or food,
for those whose hope has grown thin.
Help us to see them not as statistics, but as siblings —
Your beloved children, worthy of care and compassion.

Inspire us, O God, to be a people of justice and action:
To speak for what is right,
to challenge what is unjust,
and to share what we have so that all may thrive.

Bless the Gower community, that we may continue to be
a beacon of welcome, generosity, and faith in this city.
Let our worship overflow into service,
and our gratitude become a movement of love.

Renew our hearts, O God,
until Your kingdom comes —
a world where poverty ends,
and peace, fairness, and dignity reign for all.

We pray in the name of Jesus
who came to bring good news to the poor and hope to the world,
and taught us to pray, saying:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
May the God of Justice strengthen your resolve.
May Jesus, the Bread of Life, nourish your compassion.
And may the Spirit of Hope move through you to challenge what is broken, to heal what is wounded, and to lift up every soul in love. Amen.

October 9, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

A Season for Gratitude

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, October 9, 2025.

As Thanksgiving arrives, we find ourselves surrounded by the familiar beauty of October — the vibrant leaves, the scent of harvest, the chill in the morning air, and the warmth that comes from gathering. It is a season that calls us to pause and remember the many ways God’s goodness has touched our lives.

Thanksgiving is not simply a date on the calendar or a feast at the table. It is a posture of the heart — a way of seeing the world through gratitude. When we give thanks, we recognize that all we have and all we are come as gifts from God. We are reminded that grace meets us not only in abundance, but also in the quiet places of our everyday lives: a shared meal, a word of kindness, the laughter of friends, the comfort of community, the steady rhythm of faith.

Thanksgiving is also a time to remember connection — to God, to one another, and to the world beyond our doors. We give thanks for the ministries that feed the hungry, comfort the lonely, and reach out in compassion. We remember that gratitude naturally overflows into generosity. When we open our hearts in thanksgiving, we become more ready to give, to share, and to bless.

In Scripture, the psalmist declares:
“The earth has yielded its harvest; God, our God, has blessed us. May God continue to bless us, so that all the ends of the earth may revere Him.” (Psalm 67:6–7)

This is our Thanksgiving hope — that our gratitude would ripple outward, touching lives, nurturing creation, and reminding us that God’s blessings are meant to be shared.

So may we pause, breathe deeply, and give thanks — for harvests and homes, for love and laughter, for this community and for the faithful presence of God that holds us through every season.

Let us pray,

Generous and Loving God,
As autumn surrounds us with colour and abundance,
we pause to give You thanks.
For the harvest gathered in,
for the beauty of this land,
for the blessing of community,
and for Your steadfast love that never fails.

We thank You for this Gower family —
for all who worship, serve, and care together in Your name.
For those who share food with neighbours,
who offer music and prayer,
who visit the lonely and lift the weary.
Bless every act of kindness, seen and unseen,
that makes this community a place of grace.

Yet we also remember, Lord,
those for whom this season is hard:
those who have an empty chair at the table,
those struggling to make ends meet,
those who are far from home,
and those who hunger for food, for friendship, or for hope.
May our gratitude be more than words —
may it become compassion in action.

Teach us to see Your gifts everywhere:
in the turning leaves,
in the laughter of children,
in the sharing of bread,
and in the quiet moments when Your peace settles around us like autumn light.

As the days grow shorter,
fill us with warmth that comes from Your Spirit.
Help us to be a thankful people,
living with open hearts and generous hands,
trusting always in Your goodness and grace.

We pray as Jesus taught us, saying:

Blessing:
May the God who blesses the harvest bless your home with peace and plenty.
May Christ, who sat at tables with friends and strangers alike, fill your table with love and laughter.
And may the Spirit, who moves in the turning of the seasons, stir in you a deep and joyful gratitude today, this Thanksgiving, and always. Amen.

October 2, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Entering October Together

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, October 2, 2025.

The first days of October invite us to pause and notice the shifting of the seasons. The air grows cooler, the daylight shorter, and the trees are beginning to put on their brilliant display of red, orange, and gold.

The pace of September’s return to routine has settled in, and already our calendars begin to look ahead to Thanksgiving, to harvest, and to the gentle winding down of another year.

For many of us, autumn is a season of mixed emotions. The beauty of changing leaves fills us with awe, while the falling of those same leaves reminds us of the impermanence of life. The gathering in of harvest reminds us of God’s abundant provision, while the turning inward of the season can stir both comfort and reflection.

As we carry all this together. We bring gratitude for the blessings of the past season—moments of connection, learning, and joy. We bring prayers for those facing illness, grief, or hardship as the days grow shorter. And we bring hope for what lies ahead: that God, who is faithful through every season, will continue to guide, sustain, and bless us as a community of faith.

The prophet reminds us: “The steadfast love of God never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22–23). As October unfolds, let us lean on that promise. God’s mercies are new each day, as fresh as the morning light, as steady as the turning of the seasons.

Let us pray,
Faithful God,
As October dawns, we give thanks for the beauty around us:
for leaves aflame with colour,
for crisp air that wakes our spirits,
for harvests gathered in with gratitude.

We thank You for this Gower community,
for friendships that encourage,
for ministries that serve,
for worship that sustains our faith.

Yet we also bring before You the needs of this season.
We pray for those who face the chill of loneliness,
for those who carry the weight of illness,
for those who mourn losses fresh or long remembered.
Hold them in Your tender mercy, O God.

As the earth shifts into autumn,
help us embrace the gifts of change.
Teach us to release what we cannot hold forever,
to give thanks for what has been,
and to trust in the seeds You are planting for the future.

Guide our steps as disciples of faith,
that in this season we may grow deeper in love,
steadier in faith,
and wider in welcome.

We pray as Jesus taught us, saying:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
As the leaves turn and the seasons change, may God’s steadfast love surround you.
As the days shorten and nights grow longer, may the light of faith guide your steps.
And as this community walks together into October, may the Spirit fill you with gratitude, courage, and peace, this day and always.
Amen.

September 25, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Healing the Wounds of Creation

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, September 25, 2025.

We continue our reflection during the season of creation as we explore messages from Jeremiah together during our pauses.

Let us begin today with reading Jeremiah 32:1-15 . I include here a translation from The Message but you are welcome to read from your personal bible or another translation.

Jeremiah 32: 1-15
The Message Jeremiah received from God in the tenth year of Zedekiah king of Judah. It was the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar. At that time the army of the king of Babylon was holding Jerusalem under siege. Jeremiah was shut up in jail in the royal palace. Zedekiah, king of Judah, had locked him up, complaining, “How dare you preach, saying, ‘God says, I’m warning you: I will hand this city over to the king of Babylon and he will take it over. Zedekiah king of Judah will be handed over to the Chaldeans right along with the city. He will be handed over to the king of Babylon and forced to face the music. He’ll be hauled off to Babylon where he’ll stay until I deal with him. God’s Decree. Fight against the Babylonians all you want—it won’t get you anywhere.’”

Jeremiah said, “God’s Message came to me like this: Prepare yourself! Hanamel, your uncle Shallum’s son, is on his way to see you. He is going to say, ‘Buy my field in Anathoth. You have the legal right to buy it.’

“And sure enough, just as God had said, my cousin Hanamel came to me while I was in jail and said, ‘Buy my field in Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin, for you have the legal right to keep it in the family. Buy it. Take it over.’

“That did it. I knew it was God’s Message.

“So I bought the field at Anathoth from my cousin Hanamel. I paid him seventeen silver shekels. I followed all the proper procedures: In the presence of witnesses I wrote out the bill of sale, sealed it, and weighed out the money on the scales. Then I took the deed of purchase—the sealed copy that contained the contract and its conditions and also the open copy—and gave them to Baruch son of Neriah, the son of Mahseiah. All this took place in the presence of my cousin Hanamel and the witnesses who had signed the deed, as the Jews who were at the jail that day looked on.

“Then, in front of all of them, I told Baruch, ‘These are orders from God-of-the-Angel-Armies, the God of Israel: Take these documents—both the sealed and the open deeds—and put them for safekeeping in a pottery jar. For God-of-the-Angel-Armies, the God of Israel, says, “Life is going to return to normal. Homes and fields and vineyards are again going to be bought in this country.”’

Let us reflect together.

Jeremiah finds himself in prison. The city of Jerusalem is under siege. The Babylonians are at the gates, and destruction is all but certain. It is the worst possible time to think about the future, let alone invest in it. And yet, in this moment of despair, God commands Jeremiah to do something strange: to buy a field.

On the surface, this makes no sense. Why would anyone purchase land in a war zone? What value could a title deed hold when the city is falling and the people are being carried into exile? And yet, Jeremiah obeys. He weighs out the silver, signs the deed, and seals it in a jar so that it might last a long time. His act is not just a financial transaction—it is a declaration of faith. Jeremiah proclaims: “Houses and fields and vineyards shall again be bought in this land.”

This is what hope looks like. Not optimism, not denial, but stubborn, faithful hope that dares to trust in God’s promise even when all evidence suggests otherwise.

During this Season of Creation, Jeremiah’s act challenges us to live out hope for the earth. We live in a time when environmental crises feel overwhelming—forests destroyed, waters rising, climates shifting, and species vanishing. It can feel as if the wounds of creation are “too far gone.” And yet, like Jeremiah, we are called to invest in the future. To take action today, however small or simple, that declares: there will be renewal, there will be life, there will be healing.

Hope is not passive. It is active, persistent, and sometimes stubborn. It looks like planting a tree whose shade we may never sit under. It looks like cleaning a shoreline, tending a garden, reducing waste, or advocating for policies that protect the vulnerable. It looks like teaching children to love the earth and reminding one another that creation is not disposable but sacred.

Like Jeremiah, we are asked to trust that God’s story is not finished. Even in the face of crisis, the Creator still whispers promises of renewal. Our acts of hope may seem small, but in God’s hands, they carry seeds of restoration for generations yet to come.

Let us pray,
God of the land and sky,
God of the past, present, and future,
You call us to trust in Your promise of renewal.
Even when the world feels fragile,
even when creation bears deep wounds,
You remind us that life and hope endure.

Like Jeremiah, we confess that we often doubt.
We see destruction and despair,
and we wonder if change is possible.
Forgive us, Lord, when we give in to hopelessness,
when we believe that our small actions cannot make a difference.

Yet You, O God, are faithful.
You call us to plant seeds of hope,
to invest in the healing of the land,
to act in love today for the sake of tomorrow.
Give us the courage to do so with persistence and joy.

Bless the stubborn acts of hope all around us:
the tree planted, the shoreline cleaned,
the habit changed, the child taught,
the community gathering to protect the land and waters.
May these acts, though small,
become signs of Your kin-dom and seeds of renewal.

We pray for those who despair at the state of the earth:
for communities overwhelmed by climate disasters,
for farmers facing failed harvests,
for children who wonder what future awaits them.
Hold them in Your mercy, O God.
Surround them with strength, with compassion, and with hope.

And remind us, O God,
that every act of love for creation is never wasted,
but part of Your great story of healing.
May we walk with courage,
live with gratitude,
and act with hope that stubbornly believes
Your promise of renewal is true.

Blessing:
As children of earth and sky, carry hope in your hands and renewal in your heart. Walk gently upon the soil, speak kindly to the waters, and trust that even the smallest act of care is part of God’s great work of healing. Amen.

September 18, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

When the Earth Mourns

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

We continue our reflection during the season of creation as we explore messages from Jeremiah together during our pauses.

Let us begin today with reading Jeremiah . I include here a translation from The Message but you are welcome to read from your personal bible or another translation.

Jeremiah 8:18-9:2

I drown in grief.
I’m heartsick.
Oh, listen! Please listen! It’s the cry of my dear people
reverberating through the country.
Is God no longer in Zion?
Has the King gone away?
Can you tell me why they flaunt their plaything-gods,
their silly, imported no-gods before me?
The crops are in, the summer is over,
but for us nothing’s changed.
We’re still waiting to be rescued.
For my dear broken people, I’m heartbroken.
I weep, seized by grief.
Are there no healing ointments in Gilead?
Isn’t there a doctor in the house?
So why can’t something be done
to heal and save my dear, dear people?

I wish my head were a well of water
and my eyes fountains of tears
So I could weep day and night
for casualties among my dear, dear people.
At times I wish I had a wilderness hut,
a backwoods cabin,

Where I could get away from my people
and never see them again.
They’re a faithless, feckless bunch,
a congregation of degenerates.

Let us reflect together.

Jeremiah is sometimes called the weeping prophet. His words carry the weight of grief—not only his own, but God’s grief. In this passage, he laments the brokenness of his people, their stubbornness in turning away from God, and the consequences of their sin. He feels the sorrow of missed opportunities: “the harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.” He looks for healing, for balm, for medicine that can restore his community—but finds only pain and desolation.

Jeremiah’s lament is not ancient history. It still speaks into our time. Today, the earth itself cries out in sorrow: forests stripped bare, rivers polluted, species vanishing, and communities uprooted by floods, storms, and wildfires. Like Jeremiah, we look around and ask: Is there no balm for the wounds of creation? Is there healing for the land, the air, the waters, the creatures?

This passage invites us to share in God’s grief. It reminds us that God’s heart breaks when creation suffers, just as it breaks when people suffer. But lament is not the end of the story. Tears are not weakness—they are part of the healing. Jeremiah shows us that mourning is a holy act. To weep over the wounds of the world is to align our hearts with God’s.

But lament also moves us to action. If there is no balm, then we are called to become part of God’s healing. We cannot undo the past, but we can choose a new way forward. We can change how we live, work, and consume. We can restore what has been damaged. We can walk more gently upon the earth, carry one another’s burdens, and tend creation with reverence.

The good news is that Jesus himself is the Balm of Gilead—the one who heals our wounded spirits and renews the whole creation. Through him, God’s mercy and love pour out as medicine for a broken world. As disciples, we are invited to carry this healing forward, to become balm-bearers, people of compassion who restore, protect, and nurture the earth and all who dwell in it.

So, like Jeremiah, we lament. But we also hope. We weep, but we also act. And in God’s hands, even our tears become seeds of renewal.

Let us pray,
O God of grief and God of hope,
You hear the cries of the land and the cries of Your people.
Your heart breaks when forests fall,
when waters are poisoned,
when creatures vanish from the earth,
and when the poor suffer most from the wounds of creation.

We confess, that we have played our part.
Our greed has stripped the land,
our waste has filled the seas,
our desire for more has left fields barren and skies heavy with smoke.

Forgive us for ignoring the warnings of prophets and scientists alike.
Forgive us for turning away when creation groans.
And yet, O God, You do not abandon us.
In Jesus, You are the Balm of Gilead,
the Healer of nations,
the Restorer of all things.

Pour out Your mercy like healing oil upon the wounds of the earth.
Pour out Your Spirit like living water upon the dry ground of our hearts.

Make us bearers of Your balm.
Where there is pollution, may we bring cleansing.
Where there is destruction, may we bring restoration.
Where there is despair, may we bring hope.
Where creation mourns, may we carry the song of renewal.

We pray for those most vulnerable to environmental harm:
for communities displaced by floods and storms,
for farmers facing barren harvests,
for children growing up in poisoned neighbourhoods,
for all whose health is harmed by the air they breathe or the water they drink.

Hold them, God, in Your tender mercy.
Strengthen us as a people of healing.
Give us courage to lament with honesty,
wisdom to live more gently,
and faith to believe that renewal is possible.

Help us remember that the earth is Yours,
and we are called to be its caretakers,
its stewards,
its healers.

We pray as Jesus taught us, saying:

Blessing:
May the God who weeps with creation also weep with you, and turn your sorrow into strength.
May Jesus, the Balm of Gilead, bring healing to your spirit and hope to the earth.
And may the Spirit, who makes all things new, guide your steps in love, justice, and peace, this day and always. Amen.

September 11, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

When the Earth Mourns

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, September 11, 2025.

We continue our reflection during the season of creation as we explore messages from Jeremiah together during our pauses.

Let us begin today with reading Jeremiah 4: 23-28. I include here a translation from The Message but you are welcome to read from your personal bible or another translation.

Jeremiah 4: 23-28
23 I looked on the earth, and it was complete chaos,
and to the heavens, and they had no light.
24 I looked on the mountains, and they were quaking,
and all the hills moved to and fro.
25 I looked, and there was no one at all,
and all the birds of the air had fled.
26 I looked, and the fruitful land was a desert,
and all its cities were laid in ruins
before the Lord, before his fierce anger.
27 For thus says the Lord: The whole land shall be a desolation, yet I will not make a full end.
28 Because of this the earth shall mourn
and the heavens above grow black,
for I have spoken; I have purposed;
I have not relented, nor will I turn back.

Let us reflect together.

Jeremiah’s words are haunting. They echo the beginning of Genesis, where God’s Spirit hovered over the formless void and brought light, order, and life into being. But here, Jeremiah sees not creation, but un-creation. He sees the land stripped bare, the heavens darkened, the birds vanished, the fruitful fields turned to desert, and cities in ruins. It is as though everything that God made good has unravelled.

This vision is more than poetry—it is prophecy. Jeremiah wants us to understand that when humanity turns from God, creation suffers. The brokenness of the land mirrors the brokenness of our hearts. The trembling of the mountains reflects the weight of human injustice. When God’s people choose greed, violence, or selfishness, the earth itself groans.

In our time, we know this truth in painful ways. Wildfires scorch forests and communities, floods sweep through towns and cities, storms grow stronger, and species disappear at alarming rates. Our modern lifestyle—so often driven by convenience, consumption, and exploitation—has left scars upon the land and seas. The earth mourns under the weight of our disobedience.

And yet, Jeremiah’s vision is not the end of the story. God’s purpose is never simply destruction, but transformation. Just as creation once came out of formlessness and void, God can bring renewal from desolation. The prophetic warning is also an invitation: to repent, to change, to live differently, to walk in harmony with creation once more.

This is the heart of the Season of Creation. We are called not only to lament the damage, but to seek ways of healing. To honour the land with gratitude. To reduce what we take, restore what we have harmed, and renew our commitment to justice—for people and for the earth.

When the earth mourns, God hears. When creation groans, God calls. And when we repent and return, God reshapes us and our world into something new. This is the promise of hope that even in the darkest moments, light is not gone forever.

Let us pray,

Merciful and Creator God,
You formed the heavens and the earth,
And declared all things good.

Yet we confess that we have turned away from You,
And the earth now mourns under the weight of our sin.
The forests burn, the waters rise,
The soil grows thin, the creatures vanish.
Birdsong grows silent, and the fields once fruitful are barren.
The balance of Your creation is broken,
And still we turn our eyes away.

Forgive us, Lord, for our hardness of heart.
Forgive our greed that consumes beyond need,
Our apathy that ignores the cries of creation,
Our choices that place profit above people,
And convenience above care.

Yet You, O God, do not abandon us.
As You brought light out of darkness in the beginning,
So too can You bring renewal out of desolation.
Shape us into a people of repentance,
Willing to change our ways and our habits,
Willing to walk more gently upon the earth,
Willing to cherish what Your hands have made.

Strengthen us to act with courage:
To protect the waters and the air,
To restore the forests and the soil,
To defend the vulnerable—both human and creature,
And to honour the sacredness of all life.

In this Season of Creation, O God,
Open our eyes to wonder,
Open our hearts to grief,
And open our hands to work for healing.
We place our hope in Jesus,
Through whom all things were made,
And in whom all things are being renewed.

Blessing:
May the God who hears the groaning of creation also hear the cries of your heart.
May Jesus, who stilled the storm and calmed the sea, bring peace to the earth and to you.
And may the Spirit, who renews the face of the ground, renew your courage, your hope, and your joy, this day and always. Amen.

September 4, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

The Potter’s Hands and Creation’s Care

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

We have entered the Season of Creation, a time to renew our relationship with our Creator and all creation through celebration, conversion, and commitment together. Over the next few weeks, we are going to explore messages from Jeremiah together during our pauses.

Let us begin today with reading Jeremiah 18: 1-11. I include here a translation from The Message but you are welcome to read from your personal bible or another translation.

Jeremiah 18:1-11 – At the Potter’s House

18 This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: 2 “Go down to the potter’s house, and there I will give you my message.” 3 So I went down to the potter’s house, and I saw him working at the wheel. 4 But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him.

5 Then the word of the Lord came to me. 6 He said, “Can I not do with you, Israel, as this potter does?” declares the Lord. “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, Israel. 7 If at any time I announce that a nation or kingdom is to be uprooted, torn down and destroyed, 8 and if that nation I warned repents of its evil, then I will relent and not inflict on it the disaster I had planned. 9 And if at another time I announce that a nation or kingdom is to be built up and planted, 10 and if it does evil in my sight and does not obey me, then I will reconsider the good I had intended to do for it.

11 “Now therefore say to the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem, ‘This is what the Lord says: Look! I am preparing a disaster for you and devising a plan against you. So turn from your evil ways, each one of you, and reform your ways and your actions.’

Let us reflect together.

When Jeremiah visits the potter’s house, he notices something remarkable: the clay the potter works with becomes spoiled, but the potter does not discard it. Instead, the potter patiently reshapes it into something new. This image of the potter’s hands becomes God’s message to the people: “Can I not do with you, O house of Israel, just as this potter has done?”

This vision offers us both a warning and a promise. It reminds us of God’s power and sovereignty—God is the Creator who shapes all things, including us and the world we live in. But it also shows God’s patience and hope: even when we spoil what God has made, God does not give up. The clay is not wasted. Instead, it can be reshaped into something new, something beautiful, something full of purpose.

During this Season of Creation, this passage speaks deeply to our present reality. Like spoiled clay, we have marred the beauty of God’s handiwork. Our human patterns of overconsumption, pollution, and exploitation of the earth have left the environment scarred. Forests fall, waters are poisoned, species vanish, and the climate groans. We have treated the earth as if it were disposable rather than sacred.

And yet—God does not abandon us. Just as the potter works patiently with clay, so too does God invite us to repentance and renewal. We are called to be reshaped, to change our ways, to live more gently with the earth and in harmony with creation. God’s hands are still upon us, moulding us into something that honours the Creator’s vision.

This means that hope is never lost. We can reduce our harm, restore what has been broken, and join with God in the ongoing work of re-creation. As disciples, we are invited to embody this calling—not only in worship and prayer, but in the daily choices of how we live, what we consume, how we work for justice, and how we care for the vulnerable, including the earth itself.

The potter’s wheel keeps turning. The question for us, in this Season of Creation, is whether we will allow God to reshape us—our habits, our communities, and our relationship with creation—so that the beauty and wholeness of God’s earth might be restored.

Let us pray,
Merciful Creator,
You are the Potter, and we are the clay.
From the dust of the ground, You shaped the first human beings.
From the waters and the skies, You fashioned a world of beauty and abundance.
Every mountain, river, tree, and creature bears the mark of Your loving hands.

But we confess, O God, that we have spoiled the work of Your creation.
We have taken more than the earth can give.
We have polluted the air, poisoned the waters, and stripped the land.
We have treated Your handiwork as a possession rather than a gift.
Forgive us, for the greed and carelessness that wound Your earth.

Like stubborn clay, we resist being reshaped.
We cling to our habits of overconsumption and waste.
Yet You do not abandon us.
Your hands are still upon us,
calling us to repentance,
inviting us into renewal.

Mould us anew, O God.
Shape our hearts to love creation as You do.
Shape our eyes to see the beauty and the brokenness around us.
Shape our hands to act with care, justice, and responsibility.
Shape our lives to reflect gratitude and humility,
so that we may honour the sacred trust You have given us.

We pray for all who suffer most from environmental harm:
for communities devastated by wildfires, floods, and storms;
for those whose livelihoods are threatened by climate change;
for species pushed to the brink of extinction;
for future generations who will inherit what we leave behind.
Give us courage, O God, not to despair, but to hope.
Give us wisdom to make changes, both small and great.
Give us strength to join with others in restoring Your creation.

And as we seek to live as faithful stewards,
remind us always that You are with us—
shaping us, reshaping us, and guiding us toward wholeness.

We pray this in the name of Jesus,
through whom all things were made,
and in whom all things find their renewal.

We pray as Jesus taught us, saying:

Blessing:
May the God who shaped the mountains and the seas shape your heart with love for all creation.
May Jesus, who walked gently upon the earth, guide your steps in care and compassion.
And may the Spirit, who renews the face of the ground, renew your life and your hope, this day and always. Amen.

August 28, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

A Turning Toward Routine

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, August 28, 2025.

The last week of August always feels like standing at a crossroads. We are still firmly in summer, yet already the winds of autumn are beginning to stir. There are still picnics and barbecues, swims and hikes, festivals and family gatherings. And yet—school supplies are lined on store shelves, calendars are being filled, and conversations are turning to what comes next.

This moment evokes a complex mix of emotions. Some of us welcome the structure of routine after weeks of looser days. Others feel anxious or overwhelmed by the pace that September promises to bring. For children, there may be both excitement and nervousness about returning to classrooms. For teachers, there is joy in welcoming students, as well as the weight of responsibility. For workers, there is the adjustment of shifting from holidays and summer schedules back into the rhythm of deadlines and expectations. For retirees or the elderly, the change of seasons may bring reflection, gratitude, or even a sense of longing for days gone by.

And in the middle of it all, there is Labour Day weekend—a pause before we fully step into what’s ahead.

It is a time to rest, yes, but also to remember. Labour Day is more than the unofficial end of summer. It serves as a reminder of the dignity of work, of the struggles that workers endured for fair wages, safe working conditions, and decent working hours. It calls us to reflect on the ways that our society still needs to honour those who labour—whether in offices, on construction sites, in hospitals, in classrooms, in fields, or in homes. It is a moment to remember that work is not just about productivity, but about participation in God’s ongoing creation.

Scripture, too, reminds us of this balance. The book of Ecclesiastes says, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” (Eccl. 3:1). Work has its place. Rest has its place. Both are gifts from God, and neither should be forgotten. Even Jesus, who healed and taught tirelessly, also took time to step away, to pray, to be still, and to restore his spirit.

As we approach September, we are invited to do the same: to honour both labour and rest, to give thanks for the work of our hands and minds, and to seek balance in our daily lives. We are reminded that God is with us not just in worship on Sundays, but also in classrooms on Mondays, workplaces on Wednesdays, kitchens on Fridays, and the stillness of Saturday mornings. Every place we labour, every task we take on—great or small—is holy ground when we do it with love.

So as we look ahead to this new season, may we pause to savour what summer has given us. May we carry gratitude into our work and courage into our routines. And may we trust that in both labour and in rest, God is always with us, blessing our days and guiding our steps.

Let us pray

God of Creation,
God of Work and Rest,

As the seasons turn and the days shorten,
we gather before You with hearts full of gratitude and longing.
We give thanks for this past summer—
for the beauty of Newfoundland’s coastlines,
the laughter of children,
the joy of festivals and gatherings,
the peace of quiet evenings,
and the gift of time to rest, to breathe, and to renew our spirits.

Now we look ahead to the days of autumn,
with its routines, responsibilities, and new beginnings.
We bring before You all who prepare for change—
children walking nervously or excitedly into new classrooms,
teachers and staff shaping safe and welcoming schools,
students entering universities and colleges,
workers returning from vacation,
and families adjusting to new rhythms of life.

We pray for all who labour, O God:
for those who work in offices and shops,
on fishing boats and construction sites,
in hospitals, schools, and restaurants.
For farmers gathering the harvest,
for truck drivers on long roads,
for those who clean and those who build,
for those who care for elders, children, or neighbours.

We pray for those whose labour is too often unseen:
volunteers who give freely of their time,
caregivers who sacrifice much in love,
and those who pour energy into creative pursuits
that enrich our lives and communities.

We pray for fairness in all workplaces—
for safe conditions, just wages, and respect.
We remember the history of this Labour Day,
and the struggles of workers who came before us,
who spoke out and sacrificed for justice.
Guide us to continue their work,
ensuring dignity for every person.

We lift before You, O God, those who struggle with work:
those unemployed or underemployed,
those burdened by stress and overwork,
those whose labour is not valued,
and those who long for meaningful purpose.
Be present with them, O Lord,
and move us, as neighbours and as a community,
to support and uplift one another.

God of all seasons,
teach us the balance You desire for us:
between labour and rest,
between striving and sabbath,
between giving of ourselves and receiving from You.

Strengthen us for the work ahead.
Encourage us in times of weariness.
Inspire us to labour not just for ourselves,
but for the good of the whole world.

And so, with trust in Your presence
in every season, task, and calling,
we pray together as Jesus taught us, saying:

Blessing

As you step into these last summer days, may God grant you rest for your body, peace for your spirit, and courage for the work ahead. May your labour be meaningful, your routines be life-giving, and your days be filled with both joy and purpose.

August 21, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Standing Between Seasons

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, August 21, 2025.

Late August is a season of thresholds.

The long light of summer evenings still lingers, yet the mornings carry a different chill. Families prepare for the return of school, work routines, and the familiar busyness of autumn. Gardens are at their peak, but also nearing their harvest. The ocean winds shift, and the gulls cry a little differently, as though they know change is on the horizon.

For some of us, this is a joyful time—filled with the excitement of new beginnings. For others, it is a bittersweet moment, as summer’s ease slips away and schedules tighten once again. For many, it is both at once: gratitude for what has been, and anticipation for what lies ahead.

As people of faith, we remember that God is present in the in-between places. God is in the laughter around a campfire, and in the quiet of a September morning. God is with the teacher preparing a classroom, the child buying new shoes, the farmer watching the weather, the elder reflecting on another summer passed.

The seasons turn, but God remains. As the psalmist says: “From everlasting to everlasting, You are God.”

This week, as we stand between the fullness of summer and the beginning of autumn, may we pause long enough to notice the gifts around us. May we carry gratitude for what we have received, and courage for what is to come.

Let us pray, Holy and Ever-Present God,

We come to You in this moment between seasons—
thankful for the warmth and beauty of summer,
and mindful of the changes that lie ahead.

We give thanks for rest, for family gatherings,
for time on the land and sea,
for gardens and hikes, music and laughter,
and all the ways this summer has blessed us.

We pray for students and teachers preparing to return to school,
for workers adjusting to new routines,
for those whose schedules bring stress or worry.

We pray for farmers and fishers,
for caregivers and health workers,
for all who look toward autumn with hope or concern.

God of all seasons, remind us that You walk with us—
through summer ease, through autumn busyness,
through every joy and every challenge.

Keep us grounded in Your love,
open to Your Spirit,
and ready to share kindness in all we do.

And together, we join our voices in the prayer Jesus taught us:

Blessing
As you step into these late August days, may you carry with you the warmth of summer sun,
the peace of quiet waters, and the promise that God is with you in every season. Amen.

August 14, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

When the Land Burns, We Pray Together

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, August 14, 2025.

These summer days, we cannot ignore the smoke in the air or the images on the news. Across Newfoundland and Labrador, and in many places across our country, wildfires are burning.

For some, the fires are far enough away to feel like a story on a screen. For others, they are close—too close—threatening homes, communities, and beloved places. For many, the fires stir memories of other summers, other evacuations, other times when the world felt uncertain and the sky was filled with haze.

When the land burns, it affects us all. We are reminded how fragile our lives and ecosystems are, how quickly the beauty of summer can turn to worry and loss. We think of firefighters—working long hours, often in dangerous conditions. We think of families displaced, carrying what they could grab in a moment. We think of wildlife, forests, and watersheds altered for years to come.

As people of faith, we bring our grief, our anxiety, and our hope to God. The Psalms tell us that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. In the middle of the smoke and uncertainty, God is with those who shelter in gyms, who fight the flames, who make phone calls to check in on neighbours. God is with those who wait for news, and those who deliver it.

Our calling is to pray, to care, and—when we can—to act in ways that protect life, restore what has been lost, and build communities resilient to the challenges of our changing climate.

Today, we hold all those affected by these fires in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada. We wrap them in our prayers and commit ourselves to being people of compassion, hope, and steady presence in uncertain times.

Prayer for Those Affected by Wildfires
God of wind and rain,
God of earth and fire,

We come to You in this season of smoke and flame.
We pray for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador,
and for communities across Canada where wildfires burn.

Hold close those who have evacuated their homes,
those who watch from a distance,
and those who have already lost what cannot be replaced.

We pray for firefighters and first responders—
for strength in their bodies,
clarity in their minds,
and protection for their lives.

We pray for leaders making hard decisions,
for communities offering shelter,
and for neighbours looking out for one another.

We pray for the forests, lakes, and wildlife—
for all creation affected by these flames.

Breathe Your peace into our fear,
Your hope into our weariness,
Your courage into our actions.

And now, we join together in the prayer Jesus taught us,
trusting that even in fire and smoke,
Your Spirit is with us:

Blessing
As you go into this day,
may the peace of God steady your breath,
may the compassion of Jesus guide your steps,
and may the fire of the Spirit burn in you
with love stronger than any flame. Amen.

August 7, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

A Church on the Move, A People Rooted in Hope

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

This week, across time zones and in the hearts of many, the United Church of Canada is gathering once again—this time for its 45th General Council.

Commissioners, staff, youth, elders, leaders, and observers have come together—some in person, many online—from coast to coast to coast. They come not only to make decisions, but to discern the Spirit, to share the wisdom of their communities, and to shape the path forward for this beloved, complicated, beautiful church we call home.

The General Council is not just a meeting—it is a sacred act of collective listening. Together, the church asks:
Where is God calling us now?
What injustices must we confront?
What healing must we offer?
What truth must we speak?
How can we love more boldly?

This is not always easy work. It involves hard conversations, heartfelt prayer, and moments of deep vulnerability. It involves vision and courage, especially in a church that continues to evolve in a rapidly changing world. And it requires compassion—for one another, for the church as it is, and for the church we hope it can become.

While we are all invited to join the livestream of the meetings (learn more here: https://generalcouncil.ca/). We can also reflect individually on our visions and dreams for the future of our denomination and how we continue to grow in Deep Spirituality, Bold Discipleship and Daring Justice.

We hold in prayer this week all who carry the responsibility of leadership and discernment. We lift up the Youth Forum participants—whose energy, faith, and insight are a vital gift to this church. We pray for the Moderator, the Right Rev. Dr. Carmen Lansdowne and General Secretary Micheal Blair, for the behind-the-scenes staff who hold the process together, and for the commissioners who bring the voices of their regions to the circle of listening. We offer prayers for support for all those who have put their names forward to be the next Moderator of our church

And we pray especially for those from our own home region—First Dawn Eastern Edge—including Rev. Pamela Jones-Fitzgerald and others who are serving with faithfulness and generosity. May they feel the support of our prayers surrounding them. May they know that their wisdom and presence matter.

In a time when the church is reimagining itself, the Spirit is still speaking. And we—here in St. John’s and across this country—are part of that conversation.

Let us pray,

Holy and Listening God,

We give thanks this week for the 45th General Council of The United Church of Canada.
Thank You for the courage of those who gather,
for the commissioners who discern with prayerful hearts,
for the youth who offer fresh wisdom and deep hope,
and for the leaders who guide this time with care and vision.

We lift up all who are carrying this sacred work—
especially those from our own First Dawn Eastern Edge Region.
We pray today for Rev. Pamela Jones-Fitzgerald,
for every delegate and voice from Newfoundland and Labrador,
and for all who carry the hopes of their communities with them.

May this council be a space of grace.
May hard decisions be made with compassion.
May justice and truth rise with clarity.
And may Your Spirit blow gently and powerfully through every word, every silence, every prayer.

We pray for moments of connection across difference,
for laughter to lighten the long hours,
and for courage when the path ahead feels uncertain.

Remind us, O God, that the Church is not ours alone.
It is Yours.
And it is alive—still growing, still reaching,
still learning how to love as Jesus loved.

Bless the work of the Council.
Bless the hearts of the people.
Bless the Church in every place it gathers.

And now we pray together, in many voices but one Spirit, as Jesus taught us:

Blessing
As we go from this moment, may our prayers stretch across provinces and time zones.
May those who gather be held in courage, wisdom, and rest.
May our leaders walk gently, and may the whole Church feel the wind of the Spirit moving once again.
And may we remember: the Church is not just a structure or a schedule. It is people—beloved, imperfect, hopeful, and treasured by God every day. Amen.

July 31, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Welcoming the Nation, Living the Spirit of Hospitality

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, July 31, 2025.

This week, something remarkable is happening in our city.

The streets of St. John’s will perhaps feel more alive than usual. There’s excitement in the air, energy on every corner, and people from across the country walking alongside us. Flags wave, buses bustle, and athletes in team jackets from British Columbia to Nunavut to Newfoundland and Labrador fill our city with colour and pride.

As the Canada Summer Games begin next week, St. John’s will become a gathering place for stories, hopes, and a shared dream of excellence, sportsmanship, and connection.

These Games are about more than medals or records. They’re about people—people who have trained through setbacks and successes, who have arrived here ready to give their all, and who carry not only their team colours, but the love and support of entire communities back home. They are about the parents and guardians who cheered from the sidelines, the coaches who encouraged every extra practice, the volunteers who make it all run, and the city that has said: Come, you are welcome here.

At its heart, this is a moment of hospitality—a sacred exchange that happens when we open our arms and say, “There’s room for you here.” As people of faith, we know how powerful that act can be. Hospitality is more than politeness or organization; it’s the very practice of seeing others as beloved. It is rooted in the life of Jesus, who welcomed the stranger, shared meals with the unexpected, and taught us that true greatness is found in serving others with joy.

As we watch events unfold on tracks, fields, lakes, and courts, we are reminded that there is beauty in competition—but also in cooperation. In handshakes after the race. In cheering for someone else’s personal best. In moments where rivals become friends.

We hope that all those visiting St. John’s this week feel not only the excitement of sport, but also the warmth of community—the friendliness of a downtown conversation, the help of a stranger with directions, the appreciation of their effort and presence. We hope they leave not only with memories of achievement, but with a lasting sense that they were not just accommodated but celebrated.

To the athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and families: Thank you for being here. Thank you for sharing your spirit with us. You are part of this place now.

And to the people of St. John’s and the wider province: May we continue to be a people of wide welcome, deep kindness, and joyful hospitality—not just this week, but always.

Let us pray,
God of welcome and wonder,
We thank You for this special season in our city—
for the Canada Summer Games,
for the energy and excitement,
for the athletes who have trained with courage,
and for the communities that have gathered in celebration.

We give thanks for those who have journeyed from near and far,
and for the spirit of unity that draws us together.
Bless all who compete, coach, cheer, or volunteer—
fill them with strength, grace, and joy in every moment.

We pray for safety on the fields, courts, tracks, and trails.
We pray for moments of kindness that go beyond competition—
for conversations that bridge difference,
and friendships that last beyond the Games.

May those who visit St. John’s feel the warmth of this place—
in the hospitality of neighbours,
in the beauty of the sea and sky,
and in the quiet sense that they are welcome here, just as they are.

Help us, O God, to reflect Your love in the way we welcome others.
Teach us to cheer not just for victories,
but for courage, connection, and compassion.

And now, as one people in many places, we pray the words Jesus taught us:

Blessing:
As we go into this day and into the week ahead, may we carry the spirit of welcome in all we do.
May we greet the stranger as a friend, and cheer each other on in life as in sport. Amen.

July 24, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Summer Rhythms and the Regatta Spirit

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

There’s a rhythm to summer in St. John’s a slower pace, a longer light, and a quiet invitation to pause and breathe it all in.

The berries begin to ripen, the harbour hums with visitors and locals alike, and somewhere in the distance, the sound of oars slicing water reminds us that the Regatta is just around the corner.

The Royal St. John’s Regatta isn’t just a race.

It’s a tradition woven into the fabric of this place a celebration of strength, teamwork, and community spirit. It’s the only civic holiday in North America determined by weather, reminding us that we’re always in a relationship with nature here. We plan with open hands, ready to adjust, just as we do in life and faith.

As we move through these beautiful July days, we give thanks for the moments of connection and tradition that shape us. For boat crews who rise early to train. For families gathering on Quidi Vidi Lake, sharing picnic blankets, laughter, and memories. And for the deep sense of place we feel when we stop and remember:

We belong to this land, and to one another.

God is present in all of it—the calm, the wind, the waiting, and the celebration.

Let us pray,

God of wind and water,

We give You thanks for this season of warmth and light,
for summer skies over the Narrows,
for quiet mornings on Signal Hill,
for sunsets that stretch long into the evening.

In these days of sun and salt air,
You invite us to slow down,
to notice beauty in familiar places,
to breathe deeply and be renewed.

As our city prepares for the Regatta,
we give thanks for tradition and togetherness—
for the rowers whose strength inspires us,
for volunteers and organizers,
for families who gather, and for the joy of shared community.

Whether the day dawns calm or windy,
remind us that Your Spirit is in it all—
in the movement of the boats,
in the stories told on the lakeshore,
and in the heartbeat of this province we call home.

Bless all who are resting this summer,
all who are working,
and all who are longing for renewal.

Help us to hold this season as sacred,
not for what we accomplish,
but for how we pause, reconnect, and remember
that Your love surrounds us—always.

And now we pray together as Jesus taught:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
Go in peace, treasured by God, rooted in place, and ready for whatever the tide may bring. Amen.

July 17, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Treasured by God Every Day: Rediscovering Burry Heights

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, July 17, 2025.

Have you ever experienced a place that feels like home the moment you arrive? For many in our province, Burry Heights Summer Camp is that kind of place. Nestled among the trees and open fields, it’s more than just a camp—it’s a sacred space where friendships grow, laughter echoes, and the presence of God feels close in every sunrise, every song, and every shared meal.

This past week, I returned to Burry Heights for the first time in a very long time. I have not attended a week of camp since I was a preteen, I believe. I spent the past week living at camp as their chaplain for the week. It has been a blessing to spend time in this special place of community. To explore faith with teens, connect in fun activities and the excitement that comes from being a place that holds dear memories and friendships close.

Obviously, those who make up the camp leadership and campers have changed since I was last here. There is something that has not changed, though, and that is the spirit. There may be new songs sung, but there are also the ones that were sung when I was a child. There may be new camp counsellors with nicknames I have never heard, but there is space held for those who were here before and the traditions they started. It is truly a special place that has filled my mind this week with new delights and past reflections of love.

Maybe you’ve been to Burry Heights before. Maybe it’s been years since you walked the trails, sat around the campfire, or sang songs under the stars. Or maybe you’ve never been and you’re wondering what makes it so special.

Here is why I think camp matters
Life moves quickly. Our calendars fill up with school, work, appointments, and endless to-do lists. Sometimes, in all the noise, we forget the importance of stillness, connection, and joy. That’s what makes camp so powerful.

At Burry Heights, something different happens:
Phones go away, and conversations come alive.
The sound of traffic is replaced with laughter and song.
We breathe deeper and notice the beauty around us.
But most importantly, we remember who we are: God’s beloved treasure.

The theme I picked for this week was Treasured by God Every Day. I hoped this theme would remind the teens and leaders that being “treasured” isn’t something we earn. It’s not about accomplishments, perfection, or popularity. It’s about God’s unwavering love for each one of us—love that never lets go, even when life feels uncertain.

You are loved. You belong. God treasures you—every single day because there’s always room for more voices around the campfire, more laughter echoing through the trees, and more hearts discovering that they are loved beyond measure.

None of this is unique to Burry Heights, the multitude of summer camps across our country connected to the United Church of Canada offer this space of community, connection and faith to so many. Safe spaces that encourage questions, faith and openness in world the continues to become filled with uncertainty these spaces of peace are a blessing.

Let us pray,
Gracious and loving God,
Thank you for the gift of Burry Heights—
for the joy of campfires and the peace of quiet trails,
for the friendships formed and the memories that last a lifetime.

We thank you for the gift of church camps—
for the laughter of campers,
for the dedication of leaders,
And for all the hands and hearts that have made these spaces holy over the years.

As we reflect on memories of camp and dream about their futures,
help us remember that Your love is not confined to one place—
But this space reminds us how close You are.
Bless all who long for community,
all who need a place of belonging,
and all who seek Your presence in creation and in each other.

You remind us this week that we are Your treasure—
Not because of what we do or what we have,
But because of who we are:
Your beloved children, created in Your image,
Cherished beyond measure, every single day.

Help us remember:
Your love does not stay behind at camp—
It goes with us, surrounds us, and holds us,
Every moment, every breath, every day.

And now, with grateful hearts, we pray the words Jesus taught us:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing
As you go from this moment,
whether camp is a beloved memory,
a brand-new dream,
or something you’re rediscovering,
carry this truth with you:
You are part of this story.
You are treasured by God every day.
And there is always a place for you here.
May the Spirit of summer camps—
the laughter, the stillness, the joy, and the love—
go with you wherever life takes you.

July 10, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Pride is Holy

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, July 10, 2025.

This week, the streets of St. John’s come alive with vibrant colours, bold laughter, joyful tears, and stories of resilience. The Pride Festival is more than a celebration—though it is certainly that. It is a sacred moment, a public witness to the beauty, strength, and diversity of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. It is also a reminder, to all of us, of how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.

At Gower Street United Church, we believe that Pride is holy. It is holy because it affirms the God-given worth of every person. It is holy because it echoes the radical hospitality and justice-centred love of Jesus. It is holy because it shines light where there has been silence, and lifts up those who have too often been pushed down.

When Jesus walked the earth, he spent his time not with the powerful or pious, but with those on the margins. He healed those deemed untouchable. He spoke with those others crossed the street to avoid. He made space for the silenced, the shamed, and the forgotten. He saw people—truly saw them—and said, “You are beloved.”

That is the gospel we cling to and proclaim: not one of exclusion, but of embrace.

So when we celebrate Pride, we are not stepping outside of our faith—we are living it. Every rainbow flag in our windows, every step in the parade, every word of affirmation is a reflection of God’s own inclusive heart.

Pride is a time of joy—but it is also a time of truth-telling.

We name the reality that many queer and trans people have been harmed by religion, by churches, by words spoken in God’s name. That harm is real, and it is ongoing. It is present in policies, in pulpits, in family rejections, in subtle microaggressions.

As a community, we lament that legacy. We confess the ways we have been complicit in exclusion. And we pledge to be part of the healing.

Affirming is not just a label—it’s a lifelong practice. It means continually listening, learning, unlearning. It means not assuming we have “arrived,” but staying open to being challenged by the voices of queer and trans people in our pews, in our pulpits, and in our community.

Our calling as church is simple but not easy: to make space.

To make space for people to be fully themselves—without judgment, without fear, without having to “tone it down.” To make space for pronouns to be shared and respected, for gender diversity to be celebrated, for love in all its forms to be seen as sacred.

Pride calls us to widen our welcome, not just in words but in practice. Hospitality is not passive. It is a spiritual discipline that asks us to shift, stretch, and even dismantle barriers to belonging.

We dream of a church where no one has to wonder if they are safe. Where youth can see leaders who reflect them. Where parents of queer children find encouragement, not condemnation. Where trans and nonbinary folks are not just accepted, but uplifted. Where love—real love—is the lens through which we see the world.

Let us pray,

God of Radiant Light,
You who fashioned the stars and spun the galaxies—
You also shaped us, each one, in Your image.
No two of us the same, yet all of us Yours.

We give thanks for the beauty of human diversity—
For bodies and souls of every shape and story.
For love that knows no limits, and identities that refuse to be boxed in.

We celebrate those who have paved the way—
Those who marched before us, who came out in fear and faith,
Who claimed space when none was given.

We lift up those who cannot celebrate freely:
Those in unsafe homes, unsafe churches, unsafe countries.
God, surround them with courage, community, and hope.
Let them know they are not alone.

We ask for healing—for wounds caused in Your name.
We ask for forgiveness—for when we stayed silent.
And we ask for boldness—to be a church that leads in love,
That welcomes not reluctantly but joyfully.

We offer all these prayers, spoken and unspoken,
In the name of Jesus,
The one who dined with outcasts,
Touched the untouchable,
And loved without condition.

And now, with one voice, we pray as Jesus taught:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing
As you go know this
You are created in God’s image.
You are wonderfully made.
You are wholly loved.
There is nothing you need to change to be worthy of love.
You are beloved. You belong.

June 26, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, June 29, 2025.

On July 1st, we will gather in a unique moment of tension and truth. In Newfoundland and Labrador, this day begins with Memorial Day, a solemn time to remember the tragedy of Beaumont-Hamel, and the lives lost in war. Across Canada, the day is also marked as Canada Day, a time for national celebration. At Gower Street United Church, we approach this day with reverence, complexity, and hope.

In Sacred Memory

In 1916, on the morning of July 1st, nearly an entire generation of young men from the Newfoundland Regiment was lost at Beaumont-Hamel. For those of us in this province, this is a sacred day of remembrance—a time to honour their sacrifice and to mourn the deep grief that still echoes through families, communities, and churches, including our own.

We remember all who served in global conflicts, those who returned changed, and those who never came home. We remember civilians caught in violence, and we pray for a world where peace is not just an ideal, but a lived reality.

In Humble Reflection

Canada Day invites us to give thanks for the beauty and diversity of this country. We are grateful for the rugged coastlines, the rich cultures, and the many communities who have helped shape this land. But we also acknowledge that Canada’s history includes deep injustices—especially toward Indigenous Peoples.

This land, Ktaqmkuk (Newfoundland), is the traditional, unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq and Beothuk. The island has been shaped by the Inuit of Nunatsiavut and NunatuKavut, and the Innu of Nitassinan. For many, Canada Day is a reminder of colonialism, residential schools, and broken promises. At Gower Street United Church, we hear this truth and commit ourselves to the journey of reconciliation.

We do not come to July 1st with easy answers. We come with open hearts—grieving, grateful, and grounded in the hope that, by God’s grace, we can help build a more just and compassionate country.

Let us pray

Creator and Sustainer,
On this day, we remember and we reflect.
We remember those who gave their lives in war—especially the young men of the Newfoundland Regiment,
Whose names are written on our hearts and in our history.
We mourn the pain of families forever changed,
And we honour their courage and sacrifice.

We reflect on the gift and the challenge of being Canadian.
We give thanks for the beauty of this land,
And for the many cultures, languages, and stories that shape it.
But we also confess the harm caused by colonialism,
And the ways we have failed to honour Indigenous Peoples and the treaties made with them.

Forgive us, O God.
Heal the wounds of the past and present.
Teach us to live with truth, humility, and love.
Let our remembering lead to peace,
And our celebrating lead to justice.

Together, as people of faith, we pray the words Jesus taught us:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
The power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing
May the God of all peoples bless you this day:
With memory that honours truth,
With vision that seeks justice,
With gratitude that does not ignore pain.
Go gently, go boldly, and go in love.
Amen.

June 19, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, June 19, 2025.

June 21st marks National Indigenous Peoples Day, a sacred opportunity to listen, remember, and walk humbly with Indigenous Peoples across this land. For those of us at Gower Street United Church in the heart of St. John’s, it is also a call to reflect on our place in the ongoing journey of reconciliation, justice, and healing.

We acknowledge with respect that the land on which we gather is the ancestral homelands of the Beothuk, and the island of Ktaqmkuk (Newfoundland) is the unceded, traditional territory of the Mi’kmaq and Beothuk. We also recognize the Inuit of Nunatsiavut and NunatuKavut and the Innu of Nitassinan, and we offer our respect to all Indigenous peoples as we continue the journey of relationship-building, reconciliation, and justice.

In St. John’s, signs of that journey can be seen in the relationships we nurture through community partnerships, educational events, and moments of sacred remembrance, such as the red dress installations and the annual Sisters in Spirit vigil. At Gower Street United, we remain committed to learning the truth of our shared history, especially the deep wounds inflicted by colonialism, the residential school system, and the role played by Christian institutions, including our own.

National Indigenous Peoples Day is not just about celebration. It is a day for listening with our hearts, for amplifying Indigenous voices, and for discerning where God is calling us next in this sacred journey. It is a time to ask: What does it mean to honour the wisdom of Indigenous Elders? What does it mean to decolonize our faith practices? How do we embody reconciliation, not just in words, but in action?

As part of the United Church of Canada—a church that has made a formal apology for its role in the residential school system—we at Gower Street commit ourselves again to the 94 Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We remember that apology means nothing without change.

Let us pray

Creator God,
You formed this land with wisdom and beauty,
And entrusted it to the care of all its peoples.
We give thanks for the resilience of Indigenous communities,
Who have held sacred stories, ceremonies, and languages for generations,
Often in the face of great suffering and injustice.

We confess the harm done—
By churches, by settlers, by systems of power.
Forgive us for our complicity.
Open our eyes to see truth,
Our ears to hear pain,
And our hearts to be moved to action.

Walk with us, Spirit of Justice,
As we seek to be good guests,
As we learn what it means to honour the treaties,
And to live in right relations.
Let reconciliation not be a distant ideal,
But a daily practice of listening, learning, and love.

And now we pray as Jesus taught us:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
The power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
May the Creator who dwells in every leaf and river,
Every bird and stone, every drum and sacred fire,
Surround you with peace.
May Christ walk beside you,
Opening your heart to truth and your hands to justice.
And may the Spirit stir in you a deep, living commitment
To reconciliation, respect, and renewal.
Go now, in humility, in hope, and in holy love.
Amen.

June 12, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, June 12, 2025.

As wildfires rage across parts of Canada this summer, skies have turned an eerie orange, and communities are being evacuated under the threat of advancing flames. Many are facing displacement, loss, and fear. Nature groans under the weight of climate extremes, and we are reminded how fragile—and interconnected—our world truly is.

This isn’t the first time Canada has endured wildfires, but 2025 has brought unprecedented challenges. Prolonged heat, dry conditions, and strong winds have turned forests into tinderboxes. Firefighters work around the clock; families seek shelter; wildlife flees in panic. From coast to coast to coast, the land cries out.

In the fire, there is a sobering truth we can no longer ignore: creation is not merely scenery—it is sacred.

We are stewards of a planet entrusted to our care, and yet the signs of strain are all around us. It can be tempting to turn away from the images—the satellite views of smoke spreading across provinces, the charred remains of once-lush forests, the worn faces of firefighters battling an unforgiving blaze. But we must not look away. Instead, we look through the lens of compassion and prayer, holding space for sorrow while kindling a fire of hope within our hearts.

These fires are not just physical—they are spiritual.

They reflect a world out of rhythm, a humanity out of sync with the natural order. Scripture tells us the earth is God’s and everything in it (Psalm 24:1), yet we often forget how deeply creation bears the weight of our choices.

Still, even in disaster, there is mystery.

Scripture is full of holy fire—Moses meets God in a bush aflame but not consumed (Exodus 3), the Spirit descends as tongues of fire at Pentecost (Acts 2), and Jesus promises to baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit. In God’s economy, fire does not only destroy—it purifies, it renews.

Could it be that even in these wildfires, the Spirit is speaking?
Calling us back to reverence, to repentance, to restoration?

Maybe now is the time to listen—not just to the winds or sirens, but to the Spirit’s whisper in the smoke:
“Come back to Me. Care for what I have given you. Love as I have loved.”

We grieve what is lost.
We pray for what still can be saved.
We act in the hope of redemption—believing the earth can heal, and so can we.
Let this be more than a moment of reaction—let it become a movement of responsibility and renewal.
If you feel called, consider donating to relief organizations, checking in on those affected, or simply offering this prayer today. Even in the smoke, God’s light shines through.

Let us pray together, drawing on the hope that unites us.

God of wind and flame,
You who spoke from a burning bush and yet did not consume it—
We come before You in sorrow and urgency.
The forests are burning,
The skies are choking,
And Your creatures—human and animal alike—are fleeing for safety.

We pray for all who have lost homes, livelihoods, or loved ones.
We pray for firefighters and first responders risking everything to protect others.
We pray for the vulnerable—the elderly, the sick, the poor—who have no easy way out.
And we pray for the land itself, scorched and wounded.

Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Spirit, come and breathe again over this smoldering world.

Let us now pray the words Jesus taught us, for in these words we find hope, strength, and surrender:

Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be Thy name.
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the kingdom,
And the power, and the glory,
Forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
May the God who calms storms and walks through fire be with all those in harm’s way.
May He shelter the displaced, comfort the grieving, and strengthen the weary.
May the Spirit hover over the smoke and chaos, bringing peace that surpasses understanding.
And may we, God’s people, rise with courage to care for the earth and one another.

June 5, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

As we prepare to gather this weekend for the Centennial Celebration of The United Church of Canada, we pause today to reflect on what this milestone means, to give thanks for God’s faithfulness, and to look ahead in hope. May this time serve as an invitation: to remember our story, to recommit ourselves to Bold Discipleship, Daring Justice, and Deep Spirituality, and to join our hearts in prayer as the day of celebration draws near.

One hundred years ago, in 1925, countless faithful people heard God’s call to come together—to unite in purpose, mission, and love. They did not assemble merely to preserve institutions or traditions, but to embody Christ’s invitation to table fellowship: a table large enough for all. From coast to coast to coast, congregations of different backgrounds and experiences joined hands and hearts, trusting that the Spirit would guide them into a new expression of Christian witness.

Today, as we stand on the threshold of a century of shared ministry, we give thanks for every minister, elder, lay leader, and volunteer who carried forward that bold vision. We remember those who built churches, those who knitted shawls, those who served hot meals, and those who taught Sunday School. We lift up the voices of Indigenous siblings who have long invited us to rethink our understanding of community — voices that call us to reconciliation and mutual respect. We honour the many migrants and refugees who have made this land home while reminding us that God’s love transcends borders. We celebrate the young people and the seniors, the queer and the straight, the clergy and the laity, who have together shaped the rhythm of our life.

In reflecting on our past, we do not simply catalog events. We remember stories of faith and resilience: the way people opened their doors to help neighbours during the Great Depression; how laywomen organized fundraising drives for hospitals; how local congregations protested unjust policies during the civil rights era; how our Church welcomed 2SLGBTQIA+ members and advocated for marriage equality. Every act of compassion and courage has told a part of the story: that when people of faith come together, guided by God’s Spirit, they can change the world.

Centuries ago, Jesus called disciples to follow him—leaving behind nets, livelihoods, and familiar shores. That call to leave what is comfortable and embrace what is urgent remains at the heart of our identity. At 100 years, we recommit to Bold Discipleship: trusting that God equips us, even when we feel uncertain or ill-prepared.

Courage to Learn: In a fast-changing world, new questions arise every day—about technology, mental health, reconciliation, climate justice, and more. Bold disciples ask hard questions, listen with humility, and pursue learning even when the answers are not yet clear.
Courage to Act: Whether it’s organizing a community meal, lobbying for equitable housing policies, or standing in solidarity with marginalized neighbours, discipleship demands that we move beyond words. We follow Jesus into places of need, trusting that even small acts of kindness can ripple outward.
Courage to Risk: Some doors will close, and some familiar patterns will shift. As a Church, we may be invited to try new ways of ministry — perhaps online worship, pop-up prayer vigils, or partnerships with grassroots organizations. These ventures may feel risky, but they can also reveal fresh expressions of faithfulness.

To embrace Bold Discipleship is to remember that our call is not merely inward. It is a call to walk with our neighbour in the marketplace, by the bedside, in the protest march, and around the church table. It is to follow Christ’s example of compassion—whether in word or deed.

The gospel demands more than private piety; it summons us to pursue justice and peace. In 1925, the founders of The United Church of Canada believed that a united witness would speak more powerfully for truth. Today, our world cries out for justice in countless ways: Indigenous land rights, affordable housing, racial equality, gender equity, climate justice, accessible health care, and more.

To live out Daring Justice means:

Standing with those on society’s margins. We do not cast judgment from a distance, but lean in to listen and learn from those whose voices have been silenced.
Challenging unjust structures. We recognize that systems—economic, political, and social—can oppress and exclude. We are called to advocate for policy changes, resource redistribution, and genuine reconciliation.
Cultivating a culture of welcome. In our congregations, we dismantle barriers—physical, cultural, linguistic, or attitudinal—so that every person feels known, seen, and beloved.

This centennial is not a time for nostalgic complacency. It is a time to ask: Where is justice still deferred? Where do we need to speak truth to power? How do we co-create a beloved community where all flourish?

As we recount the stories of our past and recommit to bold action, we must never overlook the source of our strength: God’s abiding presence. Deep Spirituality is the wellspring from which all our work flows. It is not merely an add-on to programs or causes; it is the grounding that sustains us when the path becomes steep.

A Life of Prayer: Whether in solitary moments at sunrise, in a choir singing ancient hymns, or at a late-night vigil, prayer connects us to God and one another.
Sacred Community: Worship is not a performance; it is a shared encounter with the Holy. Around the communion table, in Bible study circles, or during a simple potluck, we glimpse the kin-dom of God.
Spiritual Practices: Silence, contemplation, storytelling, art, and creation care — all these practices ground us in God’s presence. They remind us that even in busyness, we are called to pause, breathe, and remember our dependence on the Spirit.

Deep Spirituality also means walking gently on the earth. May we recognize that our faith is intimately connected to the well-being of the planet. We commit to faithful stewardship for generations yet to come.

We stand at a threshold. A century of witness anchors us; yet a fresh chapter lies ahead. We do not know exactly what tomorrow brings, but we know this: God is still at work. The Spirit continues to stir within us, calling us beyond our comfort zones.

Hope for Renewal: Perhaps God is inviting us to imagine new forms of community—churches without walls, intergenerational alliances, and shared spiritual practices with people of other faiths.
Hope for Healing: Through reconciliation initiatives, grief support ministries, mental health companionship, and cross-cultural partnerships, we become agents of wholeness.
Hope for Transformation: When we witness injustice, we do not turn away. When we see exploitation or environmental harm, we do not look the other way. Instead, we become catalysts for change, trusting that God’s redeeming love can bring life out of hardship.

This is our moment to be bold, daring, and rooted. Whether you have been part of The United Church of Canada for ninety-nine years or ninety-nine days, you belong here. As we gather for our centennial worship, let us carry these commitments in our hearts: to follow with courage, to love with justice, and to pray with depth.

Let us pray together, drawing on the hope that unites us.

Gracious and Eternal God,
we give you thanks for 100 years of faithful witness.
You have called us to be your people — Bold Discipleship, Daring Justice, Deep Spirituality.

When we have walked in faith, you have blessed our journey;
when we have stumbled, you have lifted us up.
You have formed us around your table, from coast to coast to coast,
and in that unity we glimpse your kin-dom.

As we look ahead, breathe new life into our hearts.
Teach us to follow where you lead, even when the path is steep.
Gift us with the courage to seek justice for our neighbours who are hurting;
grant us wisdom to steward your creation with care.
May our worship be sincere, our prayers persistent, and our love boundless.

And now, in the words that Jesus taught us, we pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power, and the glory,
forever and ever. Amen.

We look forward to welcoming you at the National Centennial Celebration worship on Sunday June 8, at 6:30 p.m. (NDT), in person at Gower Street United Church or on the United Church of Canada YouTube channel. Come ready to give thanks, to proclaim God’s unfailing love, and to embrace the journey that lies ahead.

Blessing:
As we prepare to celebrate, may your Spirit guide us—
that our prayers might rise like incense before you,
our offerings become seeds of hope,
and our lives shine with your love.
Keep us steadfast in faith, tireless in service,
and ever grateful for your grace.

May 29, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Preparing for Pride Month 2025

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

As we turn the calendar toward June, the Gower Street United Church community opens our hearts and prepares our spirits for Pride Month 2025. Each year, Pride offers us the opportunity to deepen our commitment to justice, to celebrate the beautiful diversity of the human family, and to renew our call as followers of Christ to act with love, faith, and boldness in the face of discrimination, exclusion, and harm.

The United Church of Canada’s call to “Love, Faith, and Bold Action” this Pride season reminds us that our participation in Pride is not performative—it is profoundly rooted in our theology, our values, and our belief in a God who welcomes all, just as they are. It is a season not just for rainbow banners and marches, but for deep listening, spiritual courage, and a willingness to examine how we as a community can do more to stand in solidarity with Two-Spirit (2S) and LGBTQIA+ people.

At Gower, we affirm that every person is created in the image of God. There is no exception to this. Sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ability, or any other identity marker does not change the fundamental truth that each person is a beloved child of God. This is not only a statement of belief—it is a call to action.

This Pride, we’re invited by the wider church to make our faith visible through acts of solidarity. The United Church’s 2025 campaign encourages us to participate in a letter-writing initiative to Members of Parliament, urging them to uphold and advocate for the rights and dignity of 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Canada and around the world. This is a tangible, faithful act that reflects the love of Christ and our commitment to justice.

We know that 2SLGBTQIA+ rights are under attack in many places, including here in Canada. Harmful legislation, targeted rhetoric, and acts of violence continue to impact the lives and well-being of queer and trans people. Pride Month is a time to speak truth, offer support, and embody a Church that stands with, not apart from, those who are marginalized.

To prepare for Pride Month means to be open—to new learning, to challenging conversations, and to honest reflection.

As a congregation, we strive to be an open and affirming community, but we also know there is always more we can learn and more we can do. That’s why we will use this month not only to celebrate, but to grow. During Pride, we will share stories, prayers, and resources that help us understand the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ people in our church and in our world. We will hold space for lament and healing, as we recognize the harm that has too often been caused in the name of religion. And we will renew our commitment to creating a church where all people can bring their full selves into relationship with God and with one another.

This Pride Month, let us act with love. Let us speak in faith. Let us move with boldness. And let us be the Church the world needs.

Let us pray,

God of abundant love,
You made each of us in your divine image,
knit together in the womb with intention,
blessed with a beauty and uniqueness all our own.

We thank you for the vibrant spectrum of humanity,
for the courage of 2SLGBTQIA+ people,
and for the gifts they bring to our church and to the world.

We repent of the harm that has been done in your name,
and we seek your guidance as we strive to be a place of healing,
affirmation, and joy.

Open our hearts, God.

Help us to see with eyes of love,
to speak words of justice,
to walk humbly with those who are hurting.

Give us the strength to act boldly,
and the wisdom to listen deeply.

In all things, may we reflect the light of Christ,
and become the beloved community you dream for us to be.

We pray in the name of Jesus,
who showed us how to love without condition or fear.

And now, with all your people, we pray the prayer he taught us:

Our Father(Creator), who art in heaven,
hallowed be Thy name.
Thy kingdom come;
Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
As we enter this Pride season,
May you be clothed in the courage of your convictions,
Strengthened by the Spirit’s call to justice,
And wrapped in the unshakable love of our Creator.

May Gower be a place where all feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
May our words speak truth, and our actions speak louder.
And may the blessing of God—Creator, Christ, and Holy Spirit—
Be upon you and remain with you, now and always.

May 21, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Living Into the Power of Communities

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, May 21, 2025.

On May 17, communities across the globe paused to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia—a day to name the violence and discrimination faced by people of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and sex characteristics. It is a day of resistance and remembrance. A day of courage. A day to celebrate the sacred worth of all people.

This year’s global theme was “The Power of Communities”—a timely and necessary call in a world where 2SLGBTQIA+ communities continue to face rising hate, criminalization, and exclusion in both subtle and overt ways.

Even though the date has passed, our response must continue. IDAHOBIT is not just a day. It is a reminder of our ongoing calling.

In the United Church of Canada, we believe that love is at the heart of the gospel. We believe that every person, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, is created in the image of God, precious and beloved. And we know that faith must be lived, not just spoken.

The United Church’s call for Pride Month (June) this year is to “Love, Faith, and Bold Action” (https://united-church.ca/news/call-act-love-faith-and-bold-action-during-pride-2025), which echoes the very heart of IDAHOBIT: that our solidarity must take shape in how we show up, speak out, advocate, and build inclusive, affirming communities. Whether in congregational life, family conversations, national advocacy, or global partnership, we are invited to live out God’s inclusive love in tangible ways.

And so, we ask ourselves:

Are our church spaces truly safe for LGBTQIA2S+ people to be their whole selves?
Are we advocating for global and local policies that protect and uplift the lives of queer and trans individuals?
Do we listen when 2SLGBTQIA+ people tell their stories, and do we allow those stories to change us?

In a time when 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Canada and around the world are facing renewed threats—through anti-trans legislation, conversion therapy, erasure, and violence—we are called not to silence or neutrality, but to bold action.

“The Power of Communities” reminds us that healing and justice do not happen in isolation. They happen when people gather with love, determination, and solidarity. They happen when we lean into the Spirit’s movement, building relationships that are just, faithful, and liberating. They happen when we, as a church, choose to show up—not just during Pride Month or IDAHOBIT, but every day.

Let us pray,
Loving God,
You made each of us in your image,
beautiful, beloved, diverse, and whole.

We give thanks for the gift of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities—
for their joy, their creativity, their faith,
for their resilience in the face of harm,
and for the sacred ways they show your love in the world.

We remember all who have been hurt by homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia, –
those who have been silenced, rejected, threatened, or erased.

We name the pain of exclusion,
especially when it comes from families, churches, and communities meant to offer care.

Forgive us, O God, for when we have stayed quiet,
for when we have benefited from systems that harm,
for when we have not done enough.

Give us the courage to be bold in love.
To speak up. To take action.
To open wide the doors of our churches and hearts
until all know they are safe, seen, and celebrated.

Let your Spirit move among us—
healing what is broken,
strengthening what is weary,
and guiding us toward justice with joy.

All this we ask in the name of Christ,
who loved without limits and called us to do the same.

As your children, we join together in the prayer Jesus taught us:

Blessing:
May the love of God surround every person who has ever felt unseen.
May the Spirit move in our churches with clarity and compassion.
May we walk forward—together—in hope, justice, and joy.
And may our communities be places where no one is ever left behind. Amen.

May 15, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Walking in Solidarity: A Reflection for Moose Hide Campaign Day (May 15)

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Today, across Canada, people are joining their hearts and voices in recognition of Moose Hide Campaign Day—a grassroots Indigenous-led movement committed to ending violence against women, children, and all gender-diverse people. It’s a day of ceremony, fasting, learning, prayer, and taking action. At its core, it is a day about love, healing, and the sacred responsibility we all carry to protect one another.

The campaign began in 2011, when Paul Lacerte and his daughter Raven returned from a moose hunting trip along the “Highway of Tears” in British Columbia, where too many Indigenous women and girls have gone missing or been murdered. They wanted to do something to stop the violence, especially violence against Indigenous women. Using a traditional and sacred material—moose hide—they began creating small pins to raise awareness and invite conversation. Since then, over 5 million moose hide pins have been shared nationwide.

The United Church of Canada has long acknowledged that we, as a church, have been complicit in the harms done to Indigenous peoples through colonization, residential schools, and systemic injustice. But we are also a church that commits to the work of reconciliation, truth-telling, and healing. Our apologies to Indigenous peoples in 1986 and again in 1998 were not endpoints but beginnings—calls to live differently, more faithfully, and more justly.

Moose Hide Campaign Day is one such opportunity. It invites us to live into our United Church commitments:

To listen deeply to Indigenous voices and wisdom.

To stand in solidarity with all those harmed by gender-based violence.

To practice reconciliation not only in words, but in our daily choices and relationships.

To support healthy masculinity, engage men and boys in this work, and challenge cultures of silence and harm.

Wearing the moose hide pin today is a sign of our commitment. But it must be more than a symbol. It must become a way of being—committed, accountable, and open to transformation.

As people of faith, we believe that all people are made in the image of God, beloved and sacred. There is no room for violence in a world God calls us to co-create—a world marked by justice, compassion, and peace.

Let us walk this path with humility and courage. Let us move forward together, as people of faith, walking in the light of reconciliation, justice, and love.

Learn more and access resources at moosehidecampaign.ca

Let us pray,

Creator,
You formed us in love, each one of us sacred, each one of us worthy of respect, safety, and dignity.
We come before you on this day, bearing the weight of sorrow and the hope of change.

We remember and honour all women, children, and gender-diverse people who have suffered violence.
We lift up the families of the missing and murdered.
We grieve the silences, the injustices, and the systems that continue to harm.

Today, we wear the moose hide pin.
Let it not be an empty gesture, but a sign of our shared responsibility—
to speak truth, to challenge violence, to create communities of care and courage.

Help us, O God, to walk humbly.
To listen with open hearts.
To learn from Indigenous leaders, Elders, and communities.
To unlearn what colonization has taught us.
To raise our voices for justice.

Inspire our church to be a refuge and a resource,
a community where accountability, respect, and healing are made real.

Bless the work of the Moose Hide Campaign.
Bless all those who fast today in body or in spirit.
Bless our steps as we walk this road—not just today, but every day.

All this we pray,
In the name of the One who walked in solidarity with the marginalized,
who lifted up the brokenhearted,
and who calls us to love one another.

As your children, we join together in the prayer Jesus taught us:
Our Father(Creator), who art in heaven,
hallowed be Thy name.
Thy kingdom come;
Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
May the Spirit of Truth guide your steps.
May the Spirit of Courage strengthen your voice.
May the Spirit of Compassion open your heart.
And may you go from this day wearing not only a pin,
but a deep commitment to healing, justice, and love.
All my relations. Amen.

May 8, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

A Place at the Table – A Christian Family Sunday Reflection

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

This Sunday, May 11, is Christian Family Sunday in our liturgical calendar. We are invited to reexamine what it means to be part of a faith family — not just the one we were born into or the one we choose to gather with on Sundays, but the broad, inclusive, and beautifully diverse family of God.

As we mark our centennial, the United Church of Canada has taken time to reimagine Da Vinci’s Last Supper as a representation of our faith community: one committed to welcoming people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. In this reimagined depiction of The Last Supper, we see a powerful image of welcome. Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic painting, this version offers a vision of Jesus’ table that reflects the reality of our communities today — diverse in race, gender, age, ability, sexuality, and story. It’s not just a piece of art — it’s a proclamation: whoever you are, there is a place for you here. You can view the image or learn more here: https://united-church.ca/a-place-at-the-table

Christian Family Sunday is about more than celebrating traditional families. It’s about honouring the relationships that nurture faith, love, and a sense of belonging. It’s about claiming our place as God’s beloved — and making room for others to claim theirs too. At Jesus’ table, there are no outsiders. There is no test to pass, no background check required, no need to prove ourselves worthy. The table is wide, and the welcome is deep.

This vision challenges us as a church. Who are we making room for? Who is still waiting to be invited in, or waiting to be genuinely seen once they arrive? The image reminds us that our work as a Christian family is never finished — we are called to continually expand the circle of love, to practice radical hospitality, and to listen to the voices we have not yet heard.

Jesus gathered a diverse group around him — tax collectors and fishermen, doubters and dreamers, the impulsive and the prayerful. And still today, Christ invites each of us to the feast — not because we are perfect, but because we are loved.

May we be a community where every person, every family, every unique story, is not only accepted but celebrated. For this is the way of Christ, and this is what it means to be family in faith.

Let us pray,
God of open arms and generous love,
You gather us like a parent gathers their children — with tenderness, grace, and joy.
Today, we give thanks for the gift of Christian family:
For those who sit beside us in worship,
For those who challenge us to grow,
For those we have yet to meet.

Thank you for the bold vision of a table where all are welcome —
For the courage to imagine a church that reflects your heart,
Where no one is turned away,
And every story is honoured.

Help us to make space —
In our sanctuaries and in our hearts —
For every beloved child of yours.
When we are tempted to close the door, widen our perspective.
When we are afraid of what is different, open our understanding.
And when we feel like we don’t belong, remind us of your embrace.

As your children, we join together in the prayer Jesus taught us:
Our Father (Creator), who art in heaven,
hallowed be Thy name.
Thy kingdom come;
Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
forever and ever. Amen.

Blessing:
May the God who sets a table for all fill your heart with courage and your hands with compassion.
May Christ walk beside you as a sibling and a friend.
May the Spirit stretch wide the walls of your heart,
until all find a home in your love.
And may you always know — deeply and truly —
that there is a place for you here. Amen.

May 1, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Honouring Asian Heritage Month

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada—a time to honour the rich histories, diverse cultures, and many contributions of people of Asian descent who shape our communities and country. It is also a time for reflection: on what it means to live together with mutual respect, to learn from one another, and to actively build a society rooted in justice and belonging.

Scripture reminds us that “from one ancestor [God] made all nations to inhabit the whole earth” (Acts 17:26). This sacred truth calls us to see one another not as strangers or categories, but as siblings in God’s global family. Asian communities in Canada represent a wide tapestry—encompassing East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and the Pacific Islands—each with its own languages, traditions, wisdom, and spiritual gifts. Their presence has enriched Canadian life for generations through the arts, food, scholarship, faith, public service, and social justice advocacy.

But Asian Heritage Month is also an opportunity to confront the harms of racism and exclusion. Anti-Asian discrimination—whether in the form of historic injustices like the Chinese Head Tax, or recent hate incidents during the COVID-19 pandemic—reminds us that there is still much work to do. As people of faith, we are called not only to celebrate but also to stand in solidarity, to listen deeply, and to commit ourselves to the work of reconciliation and equity.

Let us use this month to open our hearts to stories we may not have heard, to appreciate traditions we may not yet understand, and to stand against any force that would divide or demean. For when we honour one another’s heritage, we honour the image of God in all people.

Let us pray,
Holy One,
We give thanks for the beautiful diversity of your creation,
and for the many cultures and communities that reflect your image in unique and powerful ways.
In this month, we lift up the gifts, wisdom, and witness of Asian peoples in Canada and around the world.
We give thanks for their resilience, hospitality, creativity, and enduring faith.

We also acknowledge the pain of racism and exclusion.
We lament the times when difference has been met with fear rather than welcome.
Forgive us, O God, for the ways we have remained silent in the face of injustice.
Help us to be builders of bridges, learners of stories, and seekers of truth.

Bless all those in our community of Asian descent—may they feel seen, valued, and loved.
Guide us as a Church to be a place of celebration, justice, and belonging for all.

In trust and unity, we pray the words that Jesus taught us:

Blessing:
May the God who crafted every culture with care and purpose bless you with eyes to see the sacred in your neighbour, ears to hear the wisdom of ancient voices, and a heart open to justice and love. Amen.

April 24, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Earth Day

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, April 24, 2025.

Earth Day (April 22) invites us to slow down and attune our hearts to the song of creation—a song we are called to protect and preserve. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1), yet too often we treat this gift as if it were ours alone to exploit. From the whisper of a spring breeze rustling new leaves, to the crash of ocean waves sculpting distant shores, every aspect of creation proclaims the power and beauty of its Maker.

As we reflect beyond April 22, may this season of spring continue to awaken in us an ethic of care. Consider the migrating birds tracing their ancient pathways across hemispheres; their flight is both miracle and metaphor, reminding us that every creature depends on habitats we have a duty to sustain. Think of the soil beneath our feet—rich with microbial life, holding the promise of growth, yet threatened by overuse and neglect. Recall the rivers that irrigate our fields and quench our thirst; their purity is fragile in the face of industrial runoff and plastic pollution.

In our own lives, we can embody faithful stewardship. We might choose local food that reduces carbon footprints; restore native plantings in our gardens to welcome pollinators; speak up for legislation that curbs greenhouse gas emissions and protects wild places. Small acts of care, multiplied across communities, have the power to reverse harm and foster flourishing. As the poet Wendell Berry writes, “The earth is what we all have in common”—and so our healing of it becomes a profound expression of neighbor-love.

Today we also hold in our prayers the life and witness of Pope Francis, who passed into eternal life on April 20, 2025. Francis has been a prophetic voice throughout his papacy calling the world to ecological conversion. In his groundbreaking encyclical Laudato Si’, he named care for our common home as a moral imperative, reminding us that “everything is connected” and that “genuine care for our own lives and our relationships with nature is inseparable from fraternity, justice and faithfulness to others.”

May his courageous leadership continue to guide us: that our technical knowledge be informed by moral wisdom, and our innovation matched by humility. As we lament what has been lost—species driven to extinction, landscapes scarred by industrial activity, communities displaced by rising waters—let us channel our grief into concerted action. For in Christ, the promise of new creation shines bright: a vision where “the wolf will live with the lamb” (Isaiah 11:6), and the earth itself will be restored to harmony.

Let us pray,

Gracious Creator, we stand in awe of the beauty and wonder of your handiwork. You set the stars in their courses, you paint the skies at dawn, you bring forth fruitfulness from the dust. We confess that we have too often treated this gift carelessly, thinking only of our immediate needs rather than of the generations yet to come. Forgive us, we pray.

Bless us with renewed vision: to cherish all living creatures, to protect the air and water, to tend the soil with humility and patience. Give us courage to speak truth to power, that policies and practices may reflect your heart for justice for the poor and for the earth.

We also remember with gratitude the life of Pope Francis. May his prophetic witness to the interconnectedness of creation and human dignity continue to inspire us. Grant him eternal rest, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through your mercy, rest in peace.

In humility and hope, we pray the prayer Jesus taught us, saying together:

The Prayer of Jesus

Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
Go forth to love and to serve—
to tend the earth in faithfulness,
to honor the memory of those who have guided us,
and to embody the mercy you have received.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

April 17, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Maundy Thursday: The Table, the Towel, and the Love That Endures

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, April 17, 2025.

There’s a quiet heaviness to Maundy Thursday.

It begins with a meal. Bread is broken. A cup is shared. Jesus gathers with his friends, knowing full well that betrayal is near and suffering is around the corner. Still, he kneels. He washes their feet. He offers them bread and wine. He calls them “friends.” In a world often driven by power and pride, Jesus shows a different way—one of humility, service, and love poured out.

The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin Mandatum, meaning commandment. On this night, Jesus gives his disciples a new commandment:

“Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another” (John 13:34).

Not just any love—a love that kneels. A love that gets its hands dirty. A love that sees the journey’s grime and washes it away without judgment. A love that knows its time is short and yet chooses tenderness over fear.

Jesus flips the table and picks up the towel in a world that often values being served.

And around that same table, he breaks bread and lifts the cup—not just for his disciples, but for all of us.

“This is my body… this is my blood… do this in remembrance of me.”

It’s a sacred act of sharing. Of remembering. Of grace.

Maundy Thursday is a night of paradox:

Joy and sorrow. Friendship and betrayal. Service and sacrifice.

It draws us into the heart of Jesus’ ministry and sets the stage for all that is to come. It reminds us that love is not just a feeling—it’s a choice, a practice, a commitment.

Today, we are invited to pause.

To come to the table—not as perfect people, but as those who hunger for grace.

Remember that even in our flaws and failures, Christ kneels beside us.

To receive the bread and the cup as signs of a love that never lets go.

To listen again for the call: “Love one another.”

And to ask: How will I carry that love into the world?

If you want to receive communion today, all are welcome to join Rev. Rebecca at Cowan Heights United Church at 7:30 p.m. for a Maundy Thursday Communion Worship.

Let us pray,

Holy God,
On this sacred day,
We remember the meal shared, the feet washed, the prayers whispered in the garden.
We remember the love that stooped low, the hands that served,
The heart that broke for the world.

We confess, O Christ, that too often we hesitate to follow your example.
We would rather be served than serve.
We struggle to love as freely as you love us.
We keep our distance when the path gets difficult.
And yet, you draw us near.

Thank you for the bread and the cup—signs of your presence,
Symbols of your promise.
Thank you for the towel and the basin—reminders that love is a verb.
That true greatness is found in service.
That holiness is lived out in ordinary acts of care.

Today, we pray for those who feel forgotten at the table.
For the hungry, the lonely, the weary.
For those facing betrayal, loss, or fear.
May your love surround them.
May your peace sustain them.

Help us, God, to carry your love into the places that need it most—
With humility, with courage, and with compassion.

And as we remember your commandment to love one another,
May we not only remember but also respond.

And so, with the church of every time and place, we lift our voices and pray together the words Jesus taught us:

The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
As you go from this time of reflection,
May you carry with you the grace of the table,
The humility of the towel,
And the strength of love that kneels and serves.

May the Spirit of Christ dwell richly within you,
guiding your steps in compassion,
and shaping your heart with kindness.

And may the peace of God, which passes all understanding,
keep your heart and mind in the knowledge and love of Jesus Christ.

Go in peace, to love and to serve—
In the name of the one who first loved us.
Amen.

April 10, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Palm Sunday: The Road That Leads to Love

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, April 10, 2025.

This Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week with a day that shimmers with both joy and tension—Palm Sunday.

It begins with a parade. The streets of Jerusalem are alive with excitement. People gather to glimpse the teacher and healer they’ve heard so much about. They wave palm branches—an ancient symbol of victory and peace—and cry out with full voices, “Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!”

There is praise and pleading in their shout: “Hosanna” means “save us.” It’s a word that captures the longing of a people yearning for deliverance—longing for something better than what the empire offers. On that first Palm Sunday, there was real hope that Jesus might be the one to set things right, that he might change everything.

And he would.

But not in the way many expected.

Jesus enters the city not on a war horse but on a donkey, not in royal robes but in the dusty clothes of a humble teacher, not with a sword but with open hands. His power is not one of domination but of compassion. He comes not to overthrow the authorities by force but to transform the world through love.

Palm Sunday holds up a mirror to our expectations. We, too, want saving, though the things we long to be saved from may look different. We want healing, justice, and peace. We want answers, clarity, and comfort. And yet, Jesus often comes to us in ways we don’t anticipate. He doesn’t always remove the hardship, but he meets us in it. He doesn’t always provide escape, but he offers presence, strength, and grace.

The same crowd that shouted “Hosanna” would fall silent in just a few days. Some would even turn on him. And yet, Jesus kept walking. He walked straight into the heart of human suffering. Straight into betrayal, denial, violence, and death. Not because he had to—but because of love.

That’s the real triumph of Palm Sunday—not the palms or the praises, but the courageous, relentless love of Jesus. A love that doesn’t turn away when things get hard. A love that doesn’t give up on us, even when we get it wrong. A love that walks with us, no matter how winding or broken the road may be.

Palm Sunday invites us to ask: What kind of leader are we welcoming? What kind of Saviour are we following? Are we open to a Messiah who leads not by might but by mercy? Are we ready to follow Jesus in the joy of the parade and into the shadows of Holy Week?

This day asks us to prepare our hearts for Easter morning and the full journey. For the table and the towel. For the garden and the cross. For the silence of Saturday and the miracle of resurrection.

And so, let us wave our palms with celebration and commitment—to walk the path of love, wherever it leads.

Let us pray,
God of palms and parades,
We come with joy and expectation, waving our hosannas,
Longing to see You more clearly, to follow You more nearly.
We remember the crowds who lined the streets,
Their voices lifted in praise,
Their hearts full of hope for a better tomorrow.

We confess, O God, that we too are eager to celebrate
But hesitant to journey through the harder parts of the story.
We want the joy without the sacrifice,
The peace without the struggle,
The resurrection without the cross.

Yet You come to us—not in grand displays of power,
But in humble acts of love.
You invite us to follow—not from a distance,
But closely, wholeheartedly,
With palms open and hearts willing.

As we move into Holy Week,
Give us courage to walk with You:
Through the noise of the city,
Through the quiet of the garden,
Through the pain of betrayal,
And into the mystery of resurrection.

Help us to welcome You not only with our words,
But with our lives.
Not just on Sunday, but every day.
And may our hosannas rise not only from our lips,
But from hearts transformed by grace.

And now, as Jesus taught us, we pray together:

The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
As you wave your palms this week,
May you also open your heart.
As you welcome the Prince of Peace,
May peace take root in your life.
As you shout “Hosanna,”
May you know the saving grace of God.
And as you follow Jesus into this Holy Week,
May you be strengthened by his love,
Sustained by his courage,
And surprised by the hope that rises,
Even from the shadow of the cross.
Go now, in peace—
To love, to serve, and to walk the road that leads to life.
Amen.

April 3, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

100 Words of Hope: A Call to Share and Inspire

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, April 3, 2025.

We are slowly moving towards all our centennial celebrations at Gower in May, including the worship with the National Church on June 8^th at Gower. Excitement is building, yet at the same time, much in our world feels heavy and difficult. It is a time when we all seek a little hope, a little grace, a little positivity in the midst of our struggles.

Last week the members of the United church were invited to share “100 Words of Hope” that draw from deep spirituality to speak to these moments of high anxiety and change in the church, Canada, and the world.

Hope is more than a feeling—it is a force that sustains us through times of uncertainty and change. It is the quiet assurance that even in the darkest moments, light will break through. The United Church of Canada’s 100 Words of Hope campaign invites us to reflect on the ways hope moves in our lives and to share that inspiration with others.

Each of us carries stories of resilience, faith, and love—stories that can uplift someone in need of encouragement. Whether through a short reflection, a poem, or a heartfelt prayer, your words can become a beacon for others, reminding them they are not alone.

This initiative is a way for us to come together as a community, weaving a tapestry of hope that stretches across congregations and beyond. By participating, we contribute to a movement of deep spirituality, bold discipleship, and daring justice—affirming that hope is alive and active in the world.

I encourage you to take this opportunity to share our voices, inspire one another, and build a future rooted in faith and possibility. What does hope mean to you? Take a moment to write, reflect, and share your 100 words. Your voice matters, and together, our words can shine a light that guides us all.

You can submit your 100 words here: Submit 100 Words

You can read submissions already received here: https://united-church.ca/blogs/round-table/100-words-hope and https://united-church.ca/blogs/round-table/100-words-hope-season-purpose-and-radical-welcome

Let us pray,

Loving and Gracious God,

In a world filled with uncertainty, we turn to You as our source of hope. When the weight of the world feels heavy, when change feels overwhelming, and when we long for reassurance, remind us that You are always present—guiding, strengthening, and renewing us.

You call us to be people of hope, to share light in the midst of darkness, to offer love where there is fear, and to speak words of peace when the world feels divided. May the words we offer—our prayers, our reflections, and our stories—be a source of encouragement and strength for those who seek it.

As we journey toward our centennial celebrations, we give thanks for the generations of faith that have come before us, for the community that surrounds us now, and for the future yet to come. May this be a time of renewal, of deepening faith, and of hope that carries us forward.

And now, as Jesus taught us, we pray together:

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the God of hope fill you with peace in times of uncertainty, with strength in moments of weariness, and with light when the path ahead feels unclear.
May your words and actions be a source of encouragement, your faith be a beacon of love, and your heart be open to the movement of the Spirit.
Go now, sharing hope with the world, trusting that God walks with us—yesterday, today, and always. Amen.

March 27, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Seeing with New Eyes: A Reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Lent & Earth Hour

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, March 27, 2025.

The Fourth Sunday of Lent, also known as Laetare Sunday, is a moment of pause and renewal in the Lenten season. The word Laetare—Latin for “rejoice”—reminds us that even amid reflection, fasting, and preparation, there is joy in God’s presence. We are reminded that God’s grace is always at work, leading us toward transformation.

John 9:1-41 tells the story of Jesus healing a man born blind. It is a powerful narrative, not just about physical sight, but about the deeper ways we see—or fail to see—the truth of God’s kin-dom. The Pharisees, despite their knowledge of the law, remain blind to the miracle unfolding before them. The healed man, on the other hand, moves from uncertainty to faith, recognizing Jesus as the light of the world.

This story invites us to ask:

What are we blind to in our own lives?
Are there truths we resist because they challenge our comfort or assumptions?
How is Jesus inviting us to see the world—and our responsibilities—more clearly?

These questions are particularly relevant as we approach Earth Hour, an annual event (on the last Saturday of March) where people around the world turn off their lights for an hour to reflect on our impact on the planet. It is a symbolic gesture, but it also carries a more profound invitation: to acknowledge the ways we have turned a blind eye to the cries of creation, to the signs of ecological distress, and to the responsibility we bear as stewards of God’s earth.

Just as Jesus opened the eyes of the blind man, Earth Hour invites us to open our own eyes—to see the earth not as something to be used up but as a sacred gift entrusted to our care. Yet, it is easy to look away. Climate change, environmental degradation, and the suffering they cause can feel overwhelming. Like the Pharisees in the Gospel, we may cling to old habits and justifications rather than face the need for change.

But Jesus calls us to deeper sight—to see creation not through the lens of consumption and convenience, but through the eyes of love and responsibility. The psalmist declares:

“The earth is the Lord’s, and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1)

If the earth belongs to God, then how we treat it reflects our faith. Are we honoring creation with gratitude, or are we exploiting it for short-term gain? Are we living in ways that reflect the abundance of God’s kingdom, or in ways that contribute to scarcity and harm?

Turning off our lights for an hour is a small act, but it can be a spiritual practice—an opportunity to embrace stillness, to pray, to reflect on our role in the larger web of life. In the darkness, we may find a new kind of clarity.

Perhaps we will notice how much we take for granted—the glow of electricity, the hum of appliances, the constant distractions that fill our days. Perhaps in that quiet, we will hear a deeper call: to live more simply, to tread more gently on the earth, to choose compassion over complacency.

And when we turn the lights back on, the challenge remains: How will we live differently? How will we, as followers of Christ, bring healing not only to human hearts but to the wounded earth?

Jesus tells his disciples:

“As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” (John 9:5)

Today, that light continues to shine through us. May we be bearers of Christ’s light—not only in our words and prayers but in our choices, in our advocacy, and in the ways we care for the earth.

This Lent, and in the spirit of Earth Hour, let us commit to seeing with new eyes. Let us choose love over indifference, action over apathy, hope over despair. And in doing so, may we discover the joy that comes when we walk as children of the light.

Let us pray,
God of Light and Life,
In this sacred season of Lent, you call us to deeper awareness, to clearer vision, to hearts open to your transforming love.
Like the man born blind, may we be healed of all that keeps us from seeing your truth.
Forgive us for the ways we have ignored the cries of the earth, the suffering of the poor, and the call to be stewards of your creation.

As we mark Earth Hour, we step into the gift of stillness.
In the darkness, may we find wisdom.
In the quiet, may we hear your call.
May this small act remind us that we are not separate from creation, but woven into its beauty, its fragility, and its future.

Help us to walk as children of the light,
To care deeply, to act justly, to live simply,
That your world may flourish,
And your love may shine through all we do.

We ask this in the name of Jesus,
The light of the world,
Who opens our eyes and leads us home.

And now, as Jesus taught us, we pray together:
The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the light of Christ shine upon your path,
May the love of God guide your steps,
And may the Spirit open your eyes to see the beauty of creation,
The call to justice, and the hope that is always before us.
Go in peace, walk in light, and live with love. Amen.

March 20, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

On the Eve of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, March 20, 2025.

As we continue to journey through Lent—a season of self-examination, repentance, and preparation—we are invited to look inward and outward, to consider the patterns of our hearts and the brokenness of the world we inhabit. Tomorrow (March 21) is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Today, we pause in the shadow of that call, seeking the courage to reflect, repent, and act.

Lent calls us to face the truth: the truth of who we are and the truth of the systems that shape us. Racial injustice is not a distant issue—it is present in our communities, our institutions, our history, and even our churches. It is present in the subtle exclusions and the overt violence, in the stories we hear and those we silence, in the opportunities extended to some and withheld from others.

In the wilderness, Jesus was tempted to turn away from suffering, to seek comfort and control instead of solidarity. But he chose the path of truth and justice, the path that led to the cross. As his followers, we are called to do the same—to resist the temptation of complacency, to reject the comfort of neutrality, and to walk instead in the way of sacrificial love.

On this Lenten day, I invite you to examine our complicity in systems of racial privilege and oppression.

Let us listen deeply to the voices of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities, voices that bear witness, offer truth, and lead us toward justice and healing. Let us lament the harm that has been done—and is still being done. And let us commit, not only in word but in action, to the work of anti-racism, knowing that this is Gospel work, resurrection work, the work of healing and liberation.

Here are some places to start listening and learning:
Unsettling the Word: Biblical Experiments in Decolonization – This anthology features voices reinterpreting scripture from decolonial perspectives. (I owe a copy if you would like to borrow please contact me)
Indigenous Youth Roots – An Indigenous youth-led organization working on reconciliation and education.
Ethnocultural Networks– The United Church of Canada offers networks that lift up the voices of racialized leaders in faith communities
Indigenous Ministries and Justice – Learn from Indigenous voices within the United Church
The On Canada Project – An Instagram and web-based platform that shares racialized perspectives, often speaking to white and settler allies directly.

Let us pray,
God of truth and transformation,
You call us into the wilderness not to wander aimlessly,
but to be shaped, challenged, and renewed.

In this Lenten season, we come with heavy hearts,
aware of racism—
the harm it has caused and continues to cause,
the systems that benefit some while wounding others,
the silence that has been complicity,
and the fear that has stifled solidarity.

We confess, O God, the times we have looked away
from injustice that did not touch us directly.
We confess the comfort we’ve clung to
when You called us to courageous witness.
We confess the history we’ve forgotten
or refused to learn.
Forgive us. Teach us. Renew us.

Create in us hearts that are not only moved,
but committed—
to listening deeply to voices long silenced,
to honouring the wisdom of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities,
to learn what we were never taught,
to standing up, speaking out, and walking humbly with You.

Let this Lent not pass
without us being changed.
Let our repentance be more than words.
Let it be policy.
Let it be protest.
Let it be presence and prayerful persistence.
Let it be solidarity lived out in action.

Loving Jesus, You broke bread with the outcast and lifted up the forgotten.
You crossed every human-made boundary in the name of love.
Help us to do the same.
Make us co-creators of the Beloved Community,
where all are valued, all are free, and none are feared.

And now, with hope and humility, we pray the words You taught us, in the language and tradition closest to our hearts, saying:
The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the God who creates all people in love, the Christ who walks the road of justice, and the Spirit who breathes courage into our hearts go with you this day.
May you walk humbly, act boldly, and love fiercely—until all God’s children are free. Amen.

March 13, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

PIE Day

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

While tomorrow, March 14, is Pi Day for some, for us at Gower as an affirming congregation, it’s PIE Day! We will be lifting being Public, Intentional and Explicit in worship on Sunday.

On National Affirming PIE Day, we pause to reflect on what it truly means to be a church that is Public, Intentional, and Explicit in our welcome and affirmation of 2SLGBTQIA+ people. It’s more than a slogan or a celebration—it’s a faithful commitment to live out God’s radical love and justice in a time when such love is urgently needed.

PIE stands for Public, Intentional, Explicit, and it challenges us to go beyond quiet acceptance or private belief. It invites us to shape our communities of faith into places where everyone—regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression—knows without question that they are not only welcome, but celebrated and cherished.

In today’s social and political climate across Canada and worldwide, this call takes on even deeper meaning. While Canada is often seen as a progressive and inclusive country, we are witnessing a rise in hate crimes and anti-2SLGBTQIA+ rhetoric, particularly targeting trans and non-binary people. Drag events have been protested. Pride flags have been vandalized. School boards have come under attack for inclusive policies. And legislation that affirms the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals is increasingly being challenged.

In this context, being Public means putting our values on display in ways that can be seen and felt. It means flying the Pride flag on our churches, naming ourselves as Affirming ministries, and showing up at community events—not just in Pride parades, but also in town halls, in school board meetings, and in public conversations where inclusion and justice are being debated. It means not staying silent when others are being silenced.

Being Intentional means we don’t wait for someone to ask for change. We take the lead in creating safer, more inclusive spaces. We update our signage and language. We review our policies and liturgies. We offer education on gender diversity and intersectionality. We prioritize relationships with 2SLGBTQIA+ people in our communities—not as a token gesture, but as an act of deep listening, trust-building, and learning.

Being Explicit means naming who we are affirming and why. It means saying “2SLGBTQIA+” out loud and in print, recognizing the unique experiences and identities within that acronym. It means being clear that this affirmation is not a vague idea, but a concrete theological and ethical stance grounded in our understanding of God’s inclusive love and justice. It means making sure people don’t have to wonder, “Will I be safe here? Will I be seen here? Will I belong here?”

This is especially important for young people—who are among the most vulnerable to rejection, discrimination, and mental health struggles, and who often look to faith communities for hope and connection. The presence of an affirming church can be life-giving. The absence of one can be devastating.

Jesus’ ministry was never vague about who was welcome. His life and witness were public, intentional, and explicit in reaching out to those who had been marginalized. He healed, embraced, and uplifted. He challenged unjust systems. He turned tables and told truth. He embodied love in ways that left no doubt.

And that is our call, too.

In advance of this PIE Day, we give thanks for Affirming Ministries across the United Church of Canada, and we recommit ourselves to this holy work—not just one day a year, but every day. Let us be bold in our welcome, brave in our advocacy, and rooted in our faith that every person is created in the image of God—beloved, beautiful, and worthy.

Let us pray,

Loving and affirming God,
You created each one of us in your image—beautiful, diverse, and beloved.
You call us to love as you love, without conditions, without fear, without exception.

We give thanks for the bold witness of Affirming Ministries across the United Church of Canada.
We give thanks for the sweetness of inclusion, the joy of belonging, and the courage of all who have made this journey of affirmation possible.

Help us to be Public in our witness—proudly showing our welcome in our words, our signs, and our actions.
Help us to be Intentional in our ministries—continually learning, unlearning, and striving to do better.
Help us to be Explicit in our affirmation—naming those who have too often been silenced, and proclaiming your love with clarity and conviction.

In a world where exclusion still causes pain, where policies and prejudices still do harm, may our faith be a force for justice.
Where voices are silenced, may we speak up.
Where hearts are broken, may we offer healing.
Where anyone is made to feel less than whole, may we affirm their sacred worth with all that we are.

We remember especially today all 2SLGBTQIA+ people who are seeking a safe place to be fully themselves—may our communities of faith be places of shelter, of celebration, of life.

We pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ,
whose ministry of inclusion and radical love inspires our own,
and who taught us to pray, saying:

Blessing:
May our churches be places of healing and celebration. May our lives reflect the sweetness of inclusion. And may we, together, continue to grow as Public, Intentional, and Explicit signs of God’s love in the world.

March 6, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

A Sacred Journey of Renewal

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

As the season of Lent begins, we enter a time of reflection, prayer, and preparation. It is a season rooted in Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness, a time of fasting and spiritual discernment before stepping fully into his ministry. Lent invites us to examine our own hearts, to strip away distractions, and to realign our lives with God’s call to love, justice, and mercy.

At the same time, our Muslim neighbors are in the sacred month of Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer, and deepening connection with God. From sunrise to sunset, they set aside food and drink, focusing instead on spiritual nourishment, generosity, and community. It is a month that calls for self-discipline, inner reflection, and an awareness of those who go without.

Though Lent and Ramadan come from different faith traditions, they share profound spiritual themes: fasting not as deprivation but as a means of drawing closer to God; prayer not as obligation but as a practice that reorients the soul; generosity not as an extra act of kindness but as an essential way of living in community. Both seasons remind us that faith is not simply about belief—it is about practice, about living out our love for God and neighbor in tangible ways.

These days are an opportunity to step outside the rush of everyday life and listen more deeply—to God, to our own hearts, and to the needs of the world around us. Fasting reminds us of our dependence on God. Prayer creates space for transformation. Acts of generosity embody love in action.

In a world too often divided by differences, these sacred seasons invite us to recognize our common longing for meaning, peace, justice, and a world where all are fed in body and spirit. As Christians journey through Lent and our Muslim neighbors through Ramadan, may we stand in solidarity with one another, honoring the many ways God calls people to lives of faithfulness, compassion, and hope.

Lent is not only about giving up—it is about making space. Ramadan is not only about fasting—it is about feeding the soul. In both, there is an invitation: to slow down, to listen, to trust that God is at work in us and through us. May this season be one of renewal, transformation, and deeper connection with the Divine and with one another.

Let us pray,
Holy and Compassionate God,
As we enter this sacred season, we open our hearts to You.
In Lent, we follow Jesus into the wilderness,
trusting that You meet us in our hunger, our longing, our searching.
In Ramadan, our Muslim neighbors embark on a journey of fasting and prayer,
seeking closeness with You through devotion and generosity.

Bless all who turn to You in this time—
those who fast and those who pray,
those who seek renewal,
those who yearn for justice,
and those who simply long to know they are not alone.

May our fasting remind us of those who hunger daily.
May our prayers deepen our compassion.
May our acts of kindness reflect Your boundless love.

In this season of transformation, draw us closer—
to You, to one another, and to the hope You place within us.
May we walk in Your ways of peace, justice, and mercy,
trusting that You are with us in every season of the soul.

We pray as Jesus taught us:
The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the God of mercy walk with you in this sacred season.
Go in peace, trusting that the Spirit guides you,
now and always. Amen.

February 27, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Bearing Weight and Transformative Light

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

I apologize for not posting a prayer last Thursday; it was not until Friday that I realized I had not posted it online.

Transfiguration Sunday is a turning point in the church year, a bridge between the light of Epiphany and the journey into Lent. It is a moment of revelation—Jesus, standing on the mountaintop, transformed in dazzling light before the disciples. But it is also a moment of weightiness as Jesus begins his descent into the reality of suffering, sacrifice, and, ultimately, the cross.

In a world that often feels heavy with uncertainty, Transfiguration invites us to pause at the mountaintop, to glimpse divine glory, and to ask:
– What does transformation look like in our time?
-Where do we see moments of clarity and light amid our burdens?

We stand at a crossroads politically and socially, both globally and locally. Across the world, conflicts rage on, climate crises deepen, and economic disparities widen. Closer to home, as elections begin brewing in Canada and with Premier Andrew Furey’s recent decision to step down, we see the shifting nature of leadership and governance. These changes bring opportunities and anxieties as individuals and communities discern the path ahead.

For many, these transitions carry weight. There is uncertainty about who will lead and how decisions will impact lives, particularly for the most vulnerable. There is fatigue—of promises unfulfilled, of political rhetoric that does not always translate into justice or compassion. There is hope, too—a hope that leadership can emerge with wisdom and that communities can hold space for change with grace and accountability.

The Transfiguration reminds us that transformation is about shining moments of glory and the journey back down the mountain into the valleys where real work happens. Peter, James, and John wanted to stay on the mountaintop to enshrine the moment. But Jesus led them back down into the messy, complicated realities of the world.

So, how do we live in this moment?

Acknowledge the weight. There is no need to rush past grief, fatigue, or uncertainty. Naming what we carry—our fears, frustrations, and longings—is an act of faith. It makes space for honest reflection and genuine prayer.
Seek glimpses of transformation. Where do we see the light breaking through? It might be in the resilience of communities organizing for justice, in the courage of individuals stepping into leadership, or in the simple yet profound acts of kindness that remind us of our shared humanity.
Commit to the work of change. Transfiguration is not about passive observation but active participation. How do we engage with the political process? How do we hold leaders accountable while striving to be leaders—whether in our families, workplaces, or communities? The call is to witness transformation and be part of it.

I invite you to take time today to reflect on how you can live in this moment.

As we stand in this season of transition, may we take heart from the disciples who, though confused and afraid, followed Jesus down the mountain and into the work of love, justice, and healing. May we trust that even in uncertainty, God is present, transfiguring the world in ways seen and unseen. And may we be part of that light, bearing it forward into the world that so desperately needs it.

Let us pray,
God of Transformation and Glory,
In the brilliance of the transfigured Christ, we glimpse your divine presence and are reminded of your call to be agents of change in a troubled world.
We lift up the people of Ukraine, who continue to endure hardship and conflict. Grant them strength and hope, and guide global leaders toward paths of peace and reconciliation.
We also hold in prayer the evolving relationship between Canada and the United States, particularly in these times of shifting policies and economic realities. May dialogue, understanding, and shared values guide the way forward, fostering peace and cooperation between neighbours.
In the face of political shifts and societal challenges, empower us to stand firm in our commitment to justice and compassion. May we be voices for the marginalized and advocates for policies that reflect your love and equity.
As we reflect on the transfiguration, open our hearts to moments of divine revelation. Let these experiences transform us, equipping us to bring our light into our world’s spaces.
We pray for courage to act, wisdom to discern, and faith to trust in your guiding presence.

Blessing:
May the light of Christ’s transfiguration shine upon you, illuminating your path with wisdom, courage, and hope. As you journey from the mountaintop into the world, may you carry the radiance of God’s love, the strength to seek justice, and the grace to walk in peace. Amen.

February 13, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, February 13, 2025.

As we approach Valentine’s Day, traditionally dedicated to celebrating love and compassion, we find ourselves amidst complex global events that challenge our understanding and practice of these virtues. Recent political tensions between Canada and the United States have introduced uncertainties that weigh heavily on many hearts.

I know many of you are already aware that the United States, under President Donald Trump’s administration, has proposed imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, a move intended to exert economic pressure on Canada. In response, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that Canada will implement counter-tariffs of equal measure, emphasizing that such actions are “unacceptable” and affirming Canada’s readiness to respond “strongly and firmly” if necessary.

These developments have sparked a wave of economic nationalism within Canada, with campaigns encouraging to “Buy Canadian” and support local businesses. This movement is evident in the increased visibility of “Made in Canada” labels and initiatives to reduce reliance on American products.

For many, these actions by the U.S. administration have led to feelings of frustration, concern, and even betrayal. The close relationship between our two nations makes such tensions particularly poignant, affecting economic interests and personal and communal bonds.

In times like these, the teachings of our faith can offer guidance. We are called to uphold principles of justice, peace, and compassion, even amidst adversity. The UCC encourages us to engage in thoughtful dialogue, seek mutual understanding, and advocate for policies that reflect our shared values.

As we reflect on the essence of Valentine’s Day, let us remember that love extends beyond personal relationships; it encompasses our communities and the global family. We are reminded of Jesus’ commandment to “love your neighbour as yourself,” a call to extend compassion and understanding, even in challenging times.

Let us also acknowledge and support those among us who are struggling with the current political climate. Feelings of uncertainty and concern are natural, and as a community, we must offer empathy and solidarity. By coming together, we can navigate these challenges with resilience and hope.

Let us pray:
God of Love and Justice,
In this season we turn to You, seeking guidance and strength. Our world faces tensions that test our resolve and challenge our commitment to Your teachings.
We lift up those who are troubled by the actions of leaders and the uncertainties they bring. Grant them peace of mind and the assurance of Your presence.
Empower us to respond to adversity with grace and compassion. May we engage in dialogue that builds bridges, not walls, and seek solutions that uphold the dignity of all.
Help us to support one another, fostering a community where love prevails over division. Remind us of our shared humanity and the interconnectedness of all Your creation.
As we navigate these times, may we remain steadfast in our faith, embodying the love and justice You have shown us through Jesus.

*or Creator

Blessing:
Go into the world, carrying love as your guide and justice as your calling.
May the Spirit of peace steady your heart in uncertain times.
May Christ’s compassion shape your words and actions.
And may the boundless love of God strengthen you to be a light in the world.
Go in love, go in peace, go with courage. Amen.

February 6, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, February 6, 2025.

The words of Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde have resonated deeply within the faith community and world over the past days. During the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral, Bishop Budde implored President Donald Trump to “have mercy” on marginalized groups, including 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and migrants. She emphasized the Christian call to compassion and justice, urging leaders to consider the vulnerable in their policy decisions.

This appeal for mercy was met with criticism from some quarters, including a demand for an apology from President Trump. Bishop Budde, however, stood firm, stating, “I am not going to apologize for appealing to the president to have mercy.”

Bishop Budde words and events of these past days invite us to reflect on our own commitments to justice and mercy. The United Church of Canada emphasizes the importance of social justice, inclusivity, and the inherent worth of all individuals. Bishop Budde’s message aligns with these principles, reminding us of our duty to advocate for the marginalized and to speak truth to power, even when it is uncomfortable.

In the context of Canada-U.S. relations, recent discussions have surfaced regarding the potential occupation of Canada as the 51st state of the United States. President Trump has suggested using “economic force” to achieve this, a notion that has been met with concern and resistance from Canadian leaders.

These geopolitical tensions underscore the need for thoughtful dialogue and mutual respect between nations. As faithful people, we are called to promote peace, understanding, and the dignity of all peoples. In times of political strain, our faith compels us to seek reconciliation and to uphold the values of justice and compassion.

Reflecting on Bishop Budde’s courageous stand and the current international dynamics, we are reminded of our own responsibilities as people of faith. We must ask ourselves how we can embody the principles of mercy and justice in our daily lives and in our interactions on both personal and global stages.

Let us pray:

God of Compassion and Justice,

We lift our hearts to you, seeking your guidance in these complex times. Grant us the courage to stand firm in our convictions, as Bishop Budde has demonstrated, and to advocate for those who are marginalized and oppressed.

In the face of political tensions and discussions that challenge our national identity, help us to be instruments of your peace. May we promote understanding and respect between nations, upholding the dignity of all your children.

Inspire us to embody your mercy in our daily actions, reaching out with love to those who are vulnerable. Strengthen our resolve to speak truth to power, guided by your Spirit of justice and compassion.

We pray for our leaders, that they may govern with wisdom and empathy, considering the needs of the least among us. May your divine guidance lead them toward decisions that reflect your love and justice.

We pray as Jesus taught us:

The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,

thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
As you go into the world, may you carry mercy in your words, hope in your actions, and love in all that you do. Go now with courage, knowing that you are held in God’s grace, today and always. Amen.

January 30, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Black History Month

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

As January gives way to February, we prepare our hearts to enter Black History Month, a sacred time to honor the legacies, struggles, and triumphs of Black communities across the world. Today let us share together this Psalm for Black History Month by Akinyi Owegi-Ndhlovu.

From everlasting to everlasting
World without end, You Are!

Wrought in my mother’s womb
And even before then
You knew I would be.
Who I would become―or not…
Where I would dwell―or not…
What skin tone I would have
Especially after the sun had touched me;
All these, you, Creator God, had known.

The language that I would speak
Or how many I would speak, hear, and understand
How I would know to call you
And know that you are still the One
How I would pray, praise, or lament
And hope and trust that you would still hear.

My mother continent is Africa
Vast lands and lakes and rivers created by you.
You were there before many a navigator, an explorer, often a stranger
Created invisible lines, invisible boundaries, unnecessary divisions.
Before I knew to call you God or Dieu,
Languages from across many seas,
I learned to call you in the languages
Of my kin and others, closer, nearer, and dear to me,
Present or gone before me
In the continent of my origin, my birth, my roots.

Nyasaye (Luo)
Mungu (Kiswahili)
Mulungu (Ngoni)
Ngai (Kikuyu)
Enkai (Maasai)
Chukwu (Igbo)
Unkulunkulu (Zulu)
Lesa (Bemba)
Mwari (Shona)
You who sees all, hears all, knows all
You who are many in One,
Present everywhere all at once;
You in whose image I am made,
You whose nature is
Love, Unity, Harmony, Sameness,
It matters not in what land I currently dwell.

To you I pray,

Breathe your nature in me
Breathe courage and wisdom in me
Breathe healing over wounds that may still be open
Breathe over scars that may still be tender
Breathe to soothe the hurt that may still linger
Breathe, so that unforgiveness may not inhabit or overwhelm me

Breathe that I may fully live to
Love and be loved
Understand and be understood
Accept and be accepted
Value and be valued
Listen―and be listened to

That I may not be singled out
Because of mere suspicion or stereotype
That I may not be considered as not belonging
Because a person, a people, a system
Just cannot believe or accept that I do

That I may be viewed neither as a token nor an object of pity
But truly and sincerely be recognized as a worthy and deserving human

In the here and now and beyond now. Amen[1]

Akinyi offers a song of life and breath, creation and belonging—reminding us of the God who has known us from everlasting to everlasting, who crafted us in love, and who calls us to be fully alive in justice, truth, and unity.

Black History Month is a time to remember the richness of heritage, the beauty of diversity, and the courage of those who have paved the way for justice and equity. Yet it is also a call to action. The work of confronting racism, dismantling systems of oppression, and building a world of equity is far from over. As people of faith, we are invited to stand in solidarity with our Black siblings and to challenge any system, structure, or mindset that diminishes the sacred worth of any human being.

This reflection on identity and belonging also speaks to the ongoing pain and hope in the Middle East. As tensions persist, stories of grief, resilience, and courage emerge from both Israel and Palestine. We are called to hold these stories in prayer, not as distant observers but as active participants in the work of peace and justice. The release of captives and ongoing calls for ceasefires are reminders of the possibility of reconciliation, but true peace will require deep, transformative healing.

In the psalm’s words, we hear the assurance that God knows us intimately:

“You who see all, hear all, know all… You in whose image I am made.”

This is a truth that transcends borders, languages, and histories. It is the same God who breathed life into the vastness of Africa, the cradle of humanity, who also breathed life into every corner of creation. God’s breath of justice calls us to stand against stereotypes and divisions, whether rooted in race, religion, or nationality.

As we move into February, let us reflect on how we can embody the psalmist’s prayer:

How can we breathe love, courage, and healing into the spaces we inhabit?
How can we ensure that no one is “singled out because of mere suspicion or stereotype”?
How can we be part of God’s work to bring unity where there is division, and hope where there is despair?

In a world so often divided, God’s Spirit calls us to live out the harmony and unity that are at the heart of the divine nature. As we honor Black history, pray for peace in the Middle East, and prepare to walk into February, let us recommit ourselves to living as God’s people: a people of justice, love, and unwavering hope.

Let us pray:

God of everlasting love and boundless compassion,
You have known us from the very beginning.
You shaped us in love,
wove us together in beauty,
and called us to live in your image of unity and harmony.

As we approach Black History Month,
we honor the richness of heritage and the courage of those who have fought for justice.
Breathe your Spirit into us,
that we may continue the work of dismantling racism,
standing in solidarity and building a world where every person is valued.

We lift before you the ongoing struggles in the Middle East.
We pray for peace, reconciliation, and justice.
Comfort those who grieve, strengthen those who work for change,
and guide us all to be peacemakers in your name.

God of creation,
You who spoke life into the vastness of Africa,
who know every language and every heart,
breathe healing over wounds that remain open,
and courage into all who face injustice.

Help us to see one another as you see us:
beloved, worthy, and created in your image.
May we love boldly, listen deeply, and act justly.
And in all things, may we honor you,
from everlasting to everlasting.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the God of everlasting love and boundless grace go with you.
May you walk in the light of justice, rooted in hope, and guided by peace.
And may the Spirit breathe courage, compassion, and unity into your heart,
this day and always. Amen.

[1] https://united-church.ca/prayers/psalm-black-history-month

January 23, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Intersections of Faith, Justice, and Community

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

This week, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of faith, justice, and hope as we reflect on significant global and local events unfolding.

Monday, January 20, marked the inauguration of Donald Trump as the President of the United States. His return to power signals a renewed call for us, as people of faith, to stand firm in our commitment to justice, compassion, and inclusion. The gospel compels us to challenge policies and rhetoric that exclude, demean, or harm. For our 2SLGBTQIA+ siblings and all those marginalized by systemic injustice, we reaffirm that God’s love knows no bounds, and our church is a sanctuary of welcome, dignity, and hope.

At the same time, we witness a glimmer of hope in the Middle East. The announcement of a ceasefire in Israel and Palestine and the release of 90 Palestinian prisoners are steps toward peace and reconciliation. These moments call us to pray fervently and act boldly for lasting justice in the region. The psalmist reminds us, “Righteousness and peace will kiss each other” (Psalm 85:10). This vision of harmony is not passive; it demands dismantling systems of oppression, healing historical wounds, and building trust between communities. As we celebrate these small yet significant milestones, we must also hold space for the grief and pain of those still waiting for justice and liberation.

This week is also the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, a time to reflect on Jesus’ prayer “that they may all be one” (John 17:21). In a world deeply divided—politically, socially, and spiritually—Christian unity is both a gift and a responsibility. It does not mean uniformity but rather a shared commitment to living out Christ’s love in ways that transform our communities. Unity is most potent when it inspires action: feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, welcoming the stranger, and advocating for those without a voice.

Amid these global events, on January 29, the Lunar New Year is celebrated, a time of renewal, gratitude, and hope. Rooted in family and community traditions, this celebration reminds us of the beauty of creation’s rhythms and the joy of starting anew. For those in our global and local communities marking this occasion, we pray for peace, abundance, and the blessings of harmony in the year ahead.

As we hold these events in tension, we are reminded of our call as Christians to be bridge-builders and bearers of light. Whether we are praying for justice in Palestine and Israel, standing with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, working for unity among Christians, or celebrating the joy of the Lunar New Year, we do so with a faith rooted in the hope that God is always at work, bringing new life and possibility to our world.

Let us pray:

God of justice and peace,
We come before you with gratitude and longing,
bringing the joys and struggles of our world into your presence.

On this week of Donald Trump’s inauguration,
we pray for wisdom, courage, and compassion to guide all leaders.

Help us to challenge policies that exclude or harm
and to proclaim your vision of a world where all are valued,
especially our 2SLGBTQIA+ siblings and those pushed to the margins.

We give thanks for the ceasefire in Israel and Palestine
and the release of 90 Palestinian prisoners.
May these steps toward peace grow into lasting reconciliation.
Comfort those who continue to grieve and suffer,
and inspire us to be peacemakers in your name.

In this Week of Prayer for Christian Unity,
we pray for healing within your church.
Unite us in your love and guide us to work together
to build a world of justice, inclusion, and hope.

As we celebrate the Lunar New Year,
we give thanks for the rhythms of creation and the gift of renewal.
Bless those who mark this season with joy,
and may peace and abundance fill every home.

God of all times and places,
guide us to be your hands and feet in the world.
May we act with justice, love with compassion,
and walk humbly in your ways.

We pray as Jesus taught us:
The Prayer of Jesus

*or Creator

Blessing:
May we go forward this week with hearts open to God’s Spirit, ready to love boldly, act justly, and walk humbly in God’s way.

January 16, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

World Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

I need to start this week with an apology; I confused my dates last week, and the World Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins this Sunday, January 18^th, not last Sunday. My apologies for this confusion today. Let us reflect and prepare for this communal week of prayer and reflection. We will have daily posts for you to guide your prayer and reflection next week, starting on Sunday on all Gower’s social media.

For 2025, the prayers and reflections for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity were prepared by the brothers and sisters of the monastic community of Bose in northern Italy. This year marks the 1,700th

anniversary of the first Christian Ecumenical Council, held in Nicaea, near Constantinople in 325 AD. This

commemoration provides a unique opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the common faith of Christians, as expressed in the Creed formulated during this Council; a faith that remains alive and fruitful in our days. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025 offers an invitation to draw on this shared heritage and to enter more deeply into the faith that unites all Christians. The guiding biblical text was chosen – John 11:17-27. .

In John 11:17-27, we find Martha, weighed down by grief, meeting Jesus with a mixture of sorrow and faith. Her brother Lazarus has died, and yet in her anguish, she expresses profound trust: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.” Martha’s words echo the tension we often feel as Christians: the pain of waiting for God’s promises to be fulfilled and the hope that God’s power will bring life even amid death.

Jesus responds to Martha with a declaration that resonates across time: “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” This is the heart of our faith—the assurance that life in Christ transcends death and that in him, all things are made new. Martha’s response is equally striking: “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God.” In this moment, her faith bridges the gap between present sorrow and future hope.

This passage is deeply significant for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity because it speaks to the divisions we face as the body of Christ. Like Martha and Mary, we may share the same faith but experience it differently, sometimes feeling isolated or disconnected. The divisions among Christians—whether theological, cultural, or historical—can feel like a kind of death. Yet, the promise of resurrection reminds us that unity is not a human achievement but a gift from God.

The Nicene Creed, which has been a cornerstone of Christian belief since the fourth century, affirms this shared hope. When we proclaim, “We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church,” we are reminded that our unity is not based on uniformity but on our shared confession of Christ as Lord. The creed draws us back to the essentials of our faith, reminding us that, despite our differences, we belong to one body, one Spirit, one hope.

This week invites us to confront the reality of our divisions while holding fast to the hope of reconciliation. Like Martha, we are called to bring our honest questions and struggles to Jesus, trusting that he can bring life where there seems to be only death. Unity in Christ is not simply about agreeing on every point of doctrine or practice; it is about being rooted in the love and life of Christ, who is the resurrection and the life for all.

What does it mean to live out this unity?

It begins with humility. We must listen to one another, recognizing that no single tradition has a monopoly on God’s truth. It requires repentance as we acknowledge how we have contributed to division through pride, misunderstanding, or apathy. And it demands love—the kind of self-giving love that Christ demonstrated on the cross, a love that transcends boundaries and calls us to serve one another.

As we reflect on this week’s theme, let us also consider the broader world. The divisions within the Church are mirrored in the divisions of our communities, nations, and world. A divided Church cannot fully witness to the reconciling power of Christ. Our unity is not for our sake alone but for the sake of the world, that all may see and believe in the God who brings life from death and hope from despair.

May this week be a time of prayer, dialogue, and renewed commitment to the unity Christ desires for us. Just as Jesus called Lazarus forth from the tomb, may we hear his call to step out of the tombs of division and into the light of new life together.

Let us pray:

God of all life and hope,
You created us to live in unity,
to reflect your love as one body.
Yet we confess that we have allowed divisions to grow,
building walls where you have called us to build bridges.
Forgive us, God, and lead us into your way of peace.

Jesus, the resurrection and the life,
you call us from the tombs of separation and fear.
Give us the courage to respond,
to seek reconciliation where there is discord,
and to celebrate the richness of our diversity.

As we proclaim the Nicene Creed,
remind us of the foundation of our faith:
one faith, one baptism,
one God and Father of all.
Help us to live out this unity,
not only in words but in action,
that the world may see your light shining through us.

Holy Spirit, breathe new life into your Church.
Renew our hearts, strengthen our resolve,
and bind us together in love.
May our shared faith in Christ unite us,
so that we may bear witness to your grace and truth
in a world longing for hope.

We pray as Jesus taught us:
The Prayer of Jesus

Our Father,* who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name,

thy kingdom come,

thy will be done on earth,

as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.

Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
May the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all, now and always. Amen.

January 9, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike-Winter

Baptism, Unity, and the Call to Care

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

This Sunday, we will explore Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River, a moment of profound revelation. As Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the voice of God declares, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” This moment affirms Jesus’ identity and mission, connecting the divine to the earthly and setting Him on the path of ministry, healing, and sacrifice.

This sacred moment invites us to reflect on our own baptismal identity. Baptism is more than a ritual; it is a reminder that we, too, are God’s beloved, called to live with purpose, compassion, and justice. It marks our entry into a community of faith and our commitment to care for the world around us. As the waters of baptism wash over us, they carry promise and responsibility—a calling to love God, one another, and all of creation.

Today, our hearts turn to the devastation wrought by wildfires in Los Angeles. The land, once abundant with life, is now scarred by flames. Families are displaced, ecosystems are destroyed, and the air is thick with smoke. The fires are a stark reminder of our fragile relationship with creation and the urgent need to address the causes and impacts of climate change.

Baptism, with its waters of renewal, stands in contrast to the consuming fires. It calls us to respond to destruction with restoration, to counter despair with hope. How can we, as followers of Jesus, live out our baptismal calling in the face of such crises? How might we offer the healing waters of compassion, advocacy, and action to a world in need?

This Sunday also marks the beginning of the World Week for Prayer for Christian Unity. In a time when division seems to define much of our world, this is a call to remember the unity we share in Jesus. Across denominations, languages, and cultures, we are bound together by the waters of baptism. Unity does not mean uniformity; it means coming together with our differences, united by love and a shared mission.

As we reflect on these themes, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of all things. The same Spirit that descended upon Jesus at His baptism dwells within us. The same waters that flowed in the Jordan River sustain life across the globe. And the same light that shone at Jesus’ baptism continues to shine, even in the darkest of times.

In the baptismal waters, we find our identity as God’s beloved, our hope for renewal, and our calling to live as agents of love and unity. Let us step boldly into this calling, bringing healing to creation, reconciliation to our relationships, and light to the world.

Let us pray:
God of the waters and the wilderness,
We come before You in awe and humility,
grateful for the gift of baptism and the calling it represents.
In the baptism of Jesus, You revealed Your love and purpose.
Help us to hear Your voice, calling us beloved,
and to live out our calling with courage and faith.

We lift up the people and lands affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles.
Comfort those who have lost homes, livelihoods, and loved ones.
Protect those who risk their lives to fight the flames,
and renew the earth scarred by destruction.
Teach us to care for creation with wisdom and compassion,
to recognize the sacredness of the world You have entrusted to us.

As we look forward to the World Week for Prayer for Christian Unity,
we ask for Your Spirit to move among us.
Break down the walls that divide us—walls of denomination, culture, and history.
Help us to see one another as siblings in faith,
bound together by the waters of baptism and the Spirit of love.
May our unity inspire us to work together
for justice, peace, and the flourishing of all creation.
In a world often marked by division and despair,
help us to be bearers of Your light.

When we face the fires of hardship and fear,
may we remember the waters of Your grace.
When we encounter division,
may we work for reconciliation and peace.
When the road is uncertain,
may we trust in Your guiding presence.
Renew us, O God, in the waters of baptism.
Strengthen us for the work ahead,
and remind us always that we are Your beloved children,
called to love and serve in Your name.

We pray together, as Jesus taught us:
The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
As you go forth, may the waters of baptism remind you of your identity as God’s beloved.
May the Spirit guide you to bring healing to creation, unity to the church, and light to the world.
And may the grace of Jesus, God’s love, and the Holy Spirit’s fellowship
be with you today and always. Amen.

January 2, 2025 – Rev. Rebecca Pike

Following the Star

Pastoral Care invites you to Pause for Prayer at about 4:30 PM (or a time that suits you) on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Epiphany is a season of light, a time to reflect on the revelation of Jesus to the world. The story of the Magi, travelling from afar to kneel before the Christ child, speaks of faith, perseverance, and hope. Guided by a star, they left behind the familiar and journeyed into the unknown, trusting that they would find something extraordinary.

As we begin a new year, the Magi’s story resonates deeply. Like them, we stand at the threshold of a journey. The past year may have brought joy, growth, or success, but it may also have carried challenges, loss, or uncertainty. Epiphany promises that God’s light continues to shine, guiding us through every twist and turn of our lives.

The Magi’s gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—were symbols of honour, worship, and sacrifice. Yet, their journey itself was a gift, an offering of trust and devotion. In the same way, we are invited to bring our gifts to Christ in the year ahead. These gifts may not be tangible, but they are just as precious: acts of kindness, a forgiving heart, a commitment to justice, or a willingness to serve others. I invite you to take a moment to reflect on the gifts you are bringing into 2025?

Epiphany also reminds us that God’s light is not reserved for a select few; it shines for all people, in every corner of the world. As the Magi represented nations beyond Israel, so are we called to see the universality of God’s love and share it freely. In this new year, how might you embody this love? How might you be light for others in a world that often feels overshadowed by division and despair?

As we journey through this season of light, let us trust in God’s guidance, seek God’s presence in unexpected places, and step into the new year with hearts open to transformation. Like the Magi, may we be bold enough to follow the star, wherever it may lead.

Let us pray,

God of light and revelation,
We give thanks for the journey of the Magi,
who followed the star to find Your Son.
As we begin this new year, guide us with Your light.
Help us to leave behind the burdens of the past
and to walk forward in faith, hope, and love.

Teach us to see Your presence in the world around us—
in the beauty of creation, in the kindness of others,
and in the quiet moments of prayer.
May we offer the gifts of our lives to You,
serving with humility and compassion.

When the road is uncertain, grant us courage.
When we falter, remind us of Your grace.
And when we are weary, renew us with Your strength.

We pray together, as Jesus taught us:

The Prayer of Jesus
Our Father,* who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.

*or Creator

Blessing:
May the light of Christ guide your steps in this new year.
May your heart be filled with hope, your spirit renewed with joy,
and your path illuminated with peace.
Go in God’s grace and love. Amen.

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Reflective Pauses

Advent Pauses2020-2024

Lenten Pauses2021 – 2025

Soul Food Posts

Projects

Resources

Get Involved

Galleries

Advent Pauses
2020-2024

Lenten Pauses
2021 – 2025