From the Minister's Desk
Reverend Nancy Monteith
Being in ministry with the people of Jasper United Church is a wonder and a privilege. I am given the opportunity to walk with people as they look beyond the things of this world and open themselves to the Holy Spirit. God is mystery and continues to be a part of human life no matter how far we try to push God away. As God sent Jesus to remind the people of his time that God was still near, I believe God continues to show us in many ways that "we are not alone" and "we live in God's world" as our United Church creed reminds us.
With all the violence and hurt going on in our world, one may be tempted to say that God no longer cares. I beg to differ with that assessment. God is continually at work through all people who are trying to make this world a more loving, caring and compassionate place. Whenever we reach out to help another, God is at work. There is good news all around us. And with God there are always surprises.
The church community is one place where people gather to talk about God and the mystery of God. Yet that is not the only place or people through which the spirit moves .
I spend Thursday afternoons in the Thrift Shop and, as we work to place goods in the hands of those who need them, I feel the loving Spirit of God at work. As I listen to the news or read the newspaper, even in the midst of chaos, God is working through those who offer help and support, prayers and strength.
We pray for the people in turmoil, or the countries where war is still so much a focus, and we lend our support even if only in a spiritual way to those who need it the most. God will never be fully understood, yet if we continually look for opportunities to love and to care, that is the Holy Spirit working in us and through us and around us.
Got questions about faith? About God? Then the faith community is one place where you will discover people who are asking similar questions. Come join us! Bring your questions and be ready to add your opinions to the discussion.
The United Church is an open place, a place where all are welcome. You might be surprised at what is happening here at Jasper United Church. We are here each Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. and you would be welcome to join us.
Reverend Nancy Monteith
