June 18 - Busy week

This is a busy week for Mill Woods United Church.  In addition to our normal weekly activities which include hand bell practice, stitching connection, clothing bank, food bank distribution, and the bread run, we are also involved in two memorial services.  On Friday we will celebrate the life of David Baker here in our sanctuary at 3:00 PM.  A reception will follow.  At 1:00 PM on Saturday will be the memorial service for the Rev. Dale Irving, a member of our congregation and a former minister here.  This service will be held at Southminster Steinhauer United Church (Spiritual Seekers United in Community).  And next week is my final week as your minister.  So it is indeed a busy and hectic time.

In the midst of all of this, we will be celebrating Father’s Day on Sunday with two hand bell selections from the Borstad Family Bells, and a Children’s Time presented by a father, Rob McPhee.  I hope you can join us for this celebratory service.

A final thought.  Former minister Ian Kellogg once commented to me that Rob McPhee often carried this church on his back.  In my time here I have worked with Rob as he chaired a prolonged search committee with many peaks and valleys.  I have watched him lead our Church Council and help us navigate difficult waters.  He has reminded us of the importance of celebrating the 100^th Anniversary of the United Church and the 50^th Anniversary of Mill Woods United Church.  He has even written a book detailing the history of our church, and included a wonderful collection of photos from years gone by.  Finally he has spearheaded the Christmas Market and a variety of social and fundraising events throughout the year.  So on behalf of the congregation I want to express our deep gratitude and appreciation to Rob for the many ways he has given of his time, talent and energy to this community of faith.  Thank You, Rob!

Shalom,

The Rev. Dr. Dale W. Johnson