I have heard over and over again that B.C. is a difficult place to build community if you are new. I have listened to it from parishioners and friends who moved here from away. It is hard to make friends here.

Loneliness impacts our mental health, as well as our feelings of belonging and safety.

And I believe that our church is a place where we can make a difference. We have a team of dedicated individuals who are concerned about this issue and are taking steps to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging and safety within our community.

One small but significant step we can all take is to wear our nametags at church. While I understand that not everyone is fond of them, they play a crucial role in making new members feel welcomed and part of our community.

Starting next week, we will be offering two new ways for our community to connect. On Thursdays at 2 pm, we will be hosting 'Tea at Two' in the side chapel. This is an open invitation to anyone who may be feeling lonely or simply in need of some company. We want you to know that you are not alone, and we value your presence.

On Wednesdays, we hold a midweek Eucharist with coffee afterward, and we will also resume Bible study, both in-person at 11 am and online at 7 pm in the evenings.

On October 26th, following the 10:00 a.m. service, we will have a newcomers gathering for anyone new to our church who would like to meet the parish leadership or learn how to get more involved.

If you have other ideas about ways that we can reach out and invite people in, I would love to hear them.

See you on Sunday, 

Marnie

Readings for next Sunday include:

Gal 6:14-18; Ps 148:7-14; Mt 11:25-30

There is no easy link to the readings this week. We will be celebrating the Feast of St. Francis.

You are asked to consider a prayer, or poem, or a drawing that responds to the theme: Peace with Creation. Then you are invited to write or draw on one of the pieces of fabric on the table beside the library.

This Sunday will be the last day to add your square.

Please note that the correct date is Sunday, October 5

Bible study will begin again on Wednesday, October 8.

In person at 11am and Online at 7pm.

Each week, we will examine the readings for the upcoming Sunday, discuss what we notice, their place in the larger story, and ponder what God is trying to say to us.

Join members of the Parish Council and ministry leaders to learn more about who we are and how you can get more involved.

We would love the cookbook to showcase the diversity of our community at St. Anne's, so please consider your family's favorite dish.

What do you make for your kids when they come home for dinner?

What is your most asked-for cookie or dessert?

There is a sign-up sheet outside the office for your name, the recipe you are willing to contribute, and your contact information.

Recipes can either be sent to Noella at the office at stannes@telus.net, or if you want to bring in a physical copy, we have a file in the office.

Cookbooks will be sold at the Christmas bazaar this year.

If you have any questions, please speak to Monika Follett or Cliff Caprani