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THE LINK St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Victoria, B. C.
December, 2012
A A A new phenomenon in the retail world caught my attention this week. It’s called
‘Black Friday,’ and it is growing in importance year by year. ‘Black Friday’ is the day after
American Thanksgiving, and is marked by deep discount sales, both in stores and on-line. I was
about to launch into a diatribe against the consumerism and excess of the day, when a friend
referred me to the following article, which brought me up short. It’s by Diana Butler Bass. And although it’s
set in America, I believe it applies well to Canada.
This Black Friday, I expect that some religion commentators will write their yearly screed on the immo-
rality of consumerism decrying the shopping frenzy gripping the nation on the day after Thanksgiving.
But I am not going to join that chorus. Don’t get me wrong—I don’t love consumerism or the outburst
of materialism that accompanies American Christmas celebrations. It is, however, tediously easy for people
who write columns, ministers who preach sermons, or those who are generally comfortable with their jobs or
finances to look down on the rushing mobs grabbing electronics from Wal-Mart shelves. When it comes to
consumerism, there exists a tendency to blame the customers for bad behavior and greed.
Of course, there are greedy people everywhere, those who will do anything to gain advantage for them-
selves at the expense of others—people who live in a soulless world of material possessions. But the oddest
thing about the folks in lines at those discount stores: They are mostly poor, working class, or marginally
middle class. These are the very people who attend church regularly, express higher levels of belief in God,
and are more likely to give a higher percentage of their income to those in need. Indeed, nearly every survey
in religion shows that the poorer the American, the more likely they are to be both faithful and generous.
By contrast, the rich—the people who aren’t in lines on Black Friday—are less likely to be religious, more
likely to find meaning in materialism, and give a lower percentage of their income to help those in need.
According to a recent New York Times story, the wealthy will spend most of their holiday cash at stores like
Nordstrom, Saks, and Tiffany where there will be few sales and no door-buster specials.
On the morning of Black Friday, I watched a reporter interview two women at a mall, who had arrived
early for the sales. He asked, “What are you going to buy?” The woman, clearly not a well-off person,
responded: “Shoes.” He said, “Shoes? You’re not supposed to be buying shoes!” She said, “But I need
shoes.” He pressed the issue, “Are you buying anything else?” “No,” she replied. “I just need new shoes.” Her
companion was buying jeans. The reporter didn’t know what to say. How many people on Black Friday are
like these two women? (continued next page……..)
December, 2012 2 The Link
(Continued from page 1)
And that is the morality tale of Black Friday. Yes, there will be mall riots over flat-screen TVs. But
maybe, just maybe, people are shopping on Black Friday because they can’t afford the prices that greedy
corporations charge on a regular basis—saving up to buy things like shoes on deep discount. And, of course,
people who are suffering under the weight of economic inequality would like to have nice toys for their
children and decent electronics (electronics are arguably a necessity to participate in 21st century western
society) and the only time of the year they can afford such things is during the super-sales pushed on us by
mega-business on Black Friday.
So, this year I do not want to hear the cultural elite decry people standing in line for discounts. The
problem isn’t Black Friday super-sales. The problem is that America is mired in deep inequalities, that the
middle class is dying, and that many millions can’t afford to buy nice things for their families without waiting
in long lines on Thanksgiving night. We have become a coarser and less neighborly America, a culture where
far too many—including those who will spend their Christmas wad at high-end stores rather than Black Friday
sales—are not working for the common good wherein all of us share in the benefits of living in a wealthy
society.
Blessings, all
Dr. Ian
Session Report
The November meeting of Session was convened on November 20 .
The members of Session are very pleased to agree to receive four individuals as new members of the con-
gregation on December 2.
Session expressed their appreciation to Sheelagh and the ‘kitchen’ committee who have taken on the task
of ‘spring cleaning’ many areas of the church. We can expect to see more items for sale to interested members
of the congregation as the clean-up progresses.
A request for nominations to a number of the National Church Committees of the General Assembly was
received by the Clerks of Session. In recognition of his interest in History and his excellent work in caring for
our church Archives, the session has nominated Jim Kempling as a candidate for membership of the History
Committee.
When you read this, we will be at the beginning of the Advent season. The Session wish you God’s bless-
ing as together we share our journey of faith, hope, love and joy through this season of waiting,
anticipation and celebration. Sabine Teetzel and Colina Titus
CONTRATULATIONS,
IAN AND CATHY!! We join with Ian and Cathy in celebrating the
birth of their FIRST grandchild,
Matthew Daniel Victor, born in Vancouver on Tuesday,
November 20 to parents Daniel and Jennifer Victor.
He weighed 8 lb. 13 oz.
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church December, 2012 3
Words from the Assistant Minister
AdventAdventAdvent is upon us! Each year it seems to come faster and faster. Perhaps this year it
approached in such a flash because I have been busy learning the ropes as an Interim Moderator at
Chinese Church or just simply because I am still busy taking down my Fall / Halloween
decorations! Each year I try to welcome Advent with the same child-like excitement that I did
when I was young.
There continues to be lots of events, programs and services that help make Advent a celebration of
hope, peace, joy and love. I hope to see many of you at our Service of Hope and Healing. Traditionally peo-
ple think this service is only for those who have lost a loved one throughout the year but I would encourage
anyone who finds the “commercialism” of Christmas a bit much to come and spend time in contemplation for
ourselves, others and the world. This year the service will be on Dec. 6th at 6pm.
I am also really excited about the St. Andrew’s Day at Ten Thousand Villages. Present the voucher
found in the bulletin or mention St. Andrew’s on Dec. 11th between 10am-6pm at the Ten Thousand
Villages on Government St (Between Broughton and Fort) and St. Andrew’s will receive 10% of the pur-
chase. Support fair trade, St. Andrew’s missions and buy a special gift for someone all in one!
The Mission and Outreach Committee is also excited about the annual Carol Sing on Dec. 13th,
12-1pm. Come and join your pipes with ours and sing some favourite Christmas Carols! We are also grateful
to Dawn McLean who has really led the charge on this event and to Cathie Lylock for hosting it once again.
St. Andrew’s will also have an Open Church on Saturday Dec. 22nd and Monday Dec. 24th,
10am-4pm. This is a great opportunity to play Christmas Carols from our bell tower, invite folks to see the
space and remind them what this season is truly about. If you are able to volunteer for a one or two hour time
slot please speak to me or David McLean. Your help is always appreciated!
Finally if you are looking for that last stocking stuffer pick up a Presbyterian Church in Canada
Calendar for $4 (or 3 for $10). All proceeds go to Presbyterian World Service and Development. Calendars
are available from me, members of the Youth Group and Whitney.
There were many of you who assisted (and even more who volunteered but by then we were all filled
up) with the Soup Supper at UVic on Nov. 8th. We received rave reviews about our delicious soups, veg-
gies, buns and cookies. Thank you! I recently was talking to one of the students and asked her to write some-
thing about her experience. What she has to share I wanted to share with all of you. This ministry is definitely
“out of the box” but it is clearly providing many with a spiritual community that is profound, supportive, and
Christ-like in nature. It is a privilege to be a part of such unique evangelism.
“In September, 2011 I arrived at UVic as a 3rd year transfer student. I was unfamiliar with the city, and
without an established sense of home or family having moved from my social and academic networks. I also
left behind my spiritual community, a grounding presence in my life. Without it I felt lost, longing for the
solidity, wisdom, and love it fostered.
During the Weeks of Welcome, UVic’s Clubs and Course Unions offered an array of groups to join. Many
spaces were presented to root oneself in the swelling vastness of a new year and chapter of the journey.
However, the university’s Multi-Faith Services shone brightly through the crowd and its voice called gently
over the rest. As I picked up the literature about the Learn to Meditate Club, smiling faces from behind the
(continued next page……)
December, 2012 4 The Link
PRAYER FELLOWSHIP
As we approach Advent and the Christmas season, our awareness for those in
need or going through a difficult time seems to be heightened. We are made aware of
those awaiting test results, or needing medical treatment or having family difficulties,
etc. throughout the year, but during this season
especially the need seems greater. Please remember in your prayers those you know in difficult
situations . Prayer is the one thing we can do for each other when there doesn't seem like we can do
anything. Our prayer team is just a phone call away.
To get your name on our list, please phone me at 250-589-7413.
If you would like to be a part of this important ministry, please speak with me.
We are always open to having more people join our prayer team. The prayer fellowship tries to meet once a month for fellowship and for prayer updates.
Our Christmas luncheon will be Friday, December 14th at noon at the Victoria Golf Club. Please let me know by Dec. 10th if you are able to join us. (250-589-7413).
For prayer requests or for joining the prayer team, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Ruth McCowan
(Words from the Assistant Minister, continued from page 3)
booth met my gaze. Few words were passed, but in the brief moments of exchange was a warm, embracing
welcome. I breathed a sigh of relief knowing here was a group that encouraged connecting together with
stillness and self.
Joining the group for the first time I approached with some hesitancy, feeling uncertain of myself and the
unfamiliar faces and practice. But my fears dissolved when I entered the chapel. A smiling welcome gleamed
from every face in the circle and I felt safe. It was a place to surrender.
The Meditation practice, chapel, and community is a place of solace and sanctuary. It was where I go to
remember and engage my self, my strength, my purpose, my direction, and the connection my experience
has to the world. When I enter this space the weight of journey transforms to light, gracing the past with
gratitude and illuminating the path ahead. Here I join with others in this radiance, collectively creating
a space where all can turn a light to themselves. The club community has become a family. Every
meeting is a home coming, and in Taize ceremony our voices sing collectively in deeply touching appre-
ciation, love, and joy for one another and the cosmos.”
Elizabeth White is studying Archaeology at UVic and is an active member of the Meditation Club and
Learn To Meditate Workshop.
Important Dates from the Assistant Minister
December 6 Service of Hope and Healing 6pm
Dec 11 St. Andrew’s Day at Ten Thousand Villages
Dec 22 and 24 Open Church, 10am-4pm
Dec 24 Christmas Eve Service
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church December, 2012 5
Homeward Bound Advent Retreat Day
Our last retreat day of the season is Friday, December
7th.
We are quickly approaching the Advent and Christmas season.
It will be good to take time out before things get too hectic. The Advent retreat day is an opportunity to
contemplate how we want to celebrate Advent and Christmas this year. I will have resources on hand
with suggestions for activities during Advent and Christmas. As always, the day is set apart for silence
and meditation. Depending on the weather, you might want to get out for a walk. There are several
areas in the neighbourhood with walking trails. There are also a couple of rooms set aside for those who
would like some private alone time.
We begin at 9, lunch is provided, and we finish around 3.
To register for the retreat or for more information see the website at
www.ruthmccowan.ca
or phone 250-589-7413, Ruth McCowan
Christian Education Update
The ministers have been providing many educational opportunities for adults and youth. Please refer to
their columns to learn more about these programs.
In addition, the CE Committee has been providing Sunday School/Nursery programs for the children and
youth on a weekly basis. Volunteers have a large selection of age-appropriate Bible storybooks and art/craft
materials from which to choose, depending on the needs of the children in their care. As well, the lessons for
elementary and preschool children are based on different materials provided in the “One Room Sunday
School” curriculum. This program is designed for children aged 3-12, with different materials provided for a
variety of ages, based on the same lesson. In this way, a wide range of interests and abilities can be accommo-
dated. This fall, the lessons were about the life of Moses and Joshua, and how God’s people travelled to the
Promised Land. The students in the Middle School and High School class have continued to use the “Reform:
Ancestors” program. As well, they have worked together to adapt and write a pageant to be performed by the
Sunday school students on December 16. Age groupings are flexible throughout the Sunday school and nurse-
ry, depending on the needs of the children and families.
Remember to check out our two borrowing libraries. The adult library books are housed in the main office.
Children’s books are found in the Elementary classroom, located upstairs in the church hall. Materials from
both the adult and children’s libraries can be borrowed simply by recording information as indicated in each
library area.
Another way to learn about the Bible is by preparing Sunday school lessons. Background information provid-
ed for the volunteer leaders is a good source of information for adults. The Christian Education Committee
welcomes questions throughout the year from anyone wishing to find out about the protocols for assisting in
the classrooms and nursery. Many thanks go to the nursery and Sunday school volunteer leaders.
Submitted by Dianne Penner, Convenor
December, 2012 6 The Link
THANK YOU!!
I would like to thank those of you
who showed such kindness and support to me following the recent
death of my father,
Thomas `Pete` Thorpe-Doubble : March 7, 1915
to
November 15, 2012.
You are all very much appreciated.
With gratitude,
Patricia `Ann` Lambie
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church December, 2012 7
And God shall wipe
away all tears from
their eyes; and there
shall be no more
death, neither
sorrow, nor crying,
neither shall there be
any more pain....
Rev. 21:4
In Loving Memory
GORDON
WINTER
6 November
GORDON WINTER
... Just a note to let you know that Gordon
passed away, comfortably at his care
home in Duncan, yesterday, (November 6) at
95 years of age. He was a member of St. An-
drew's congregation for many years and
served on many of your committees over his
time in Victoria. He met our mother, Isabella
at the church's young peoples club (she pre-
deceased him 7 years ago). Dad was sur-
rounded by his family up until the end and
we know he is in a better place.
If you think appropriate please put a notice
in your bulletin as some of your members
may still remember him. (We do!)
Thank you,
His sons,
Gary, Stewart, John, Allan and David
Winnifred Roseborough née Winnifred Ripley
My name is Duncan Mackinnon and I feel honoured to have been Win’s visiting elder from St Andrews
Presbyterian Church, for the last 15 years. This is Win’s story.
Win was born Winnifred Ripley, to Edward and Sarah Ripley, in the Peace River region of BC, on
October 2, 1925. She was brought up near Salmon Arm and in 1944 obtained her High School graduation cer-
tificate and University entrance qualification. In 1945, Win received a Diploma in Secretarial, Clerical and
modern accounting Studies from McEwen Wilkie Business College. Win then discovered her calling and
studied to be a Deaconess at the Ewart College in Toronto and was awarded the Diploma in 1949.
After graduation Win ministered for the next three years from a van based at Rocky Mountain House in
Alberta, where she told me she hiked up many steep slopes in the snow. In 1953 she was called to Sudbury as
Deaconess in Knox Presbyterian Church where she helped establish Calvin and Hillside Churches. In 1957
Win moved to the Presbytery of Vancouver Island, to become Deaconess at Knox Church in Victoria with the
Reverend David Murphy. Jenn will be interested to know that part of her ministry was to the students of the
University of Victoria.
In 1968 Win married an old friend from Knox Church in Sudbury, Ainsley Albert Roseborough. They were
married at Knox Presbyterian Church in Victoria where the officiating minister was Bruce Malloy.
She lived with her husband in Sudbury, Ontario for the next 15 happy years until Ainsley had a heart attack
and died on the Church steps. After this tragic turn of events Win returned to Victoria to become Deaconess at
St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in 1984, with the minister at the time being our old friend, Bruce Malloy.
Of note, Win was a devoted member of the Women’s Missionary Society and became a Life member
in 1978. Win retired as Deaconess in 1990, after more than 40 years, and thereafter regularly attended here at
St. Andrews Presbyterian Church.
She continued her ministry well after her retirement by witnessing to everyone she met and was very
well liked by so many people. Win had a great sense of humour and we had some great laughs together, even
laughing about getting old and turning the full circle of life. She was a brave and faithful lady.
Win died peacefully on her day of rest, Sunday, 23rd September 2012, one week short of her 87th birthday.
She has at last been granted her greatest wish, to be with her Saviour and Lord. We will all miss her very
much.
Submitted by Duncan McKinnon
December, 2012 8 The Link
Olwyn Parkinson and Katie Bass handed out 300 pairs of warm merino wool socks to
guests at the October Saturday Morning Breakfast. These were received with great ap-
preciation. Ruaridh Mackinnon purchased socks for the Saturday Morning Breakfast
folk and for the Christmas Gift boxes for the residents of Our Place. (Ruaridh man-
aged to get a great deal on-line and Mike Baker of Firgelli
Technologies Inc has paid for the shipping and duty costs.)
I am gathering the gifts of toiletries, toques, treats and gloves for the Christmas Gift
boxes for the residents
of Our Place. The following are the items needed:
weatherproof gloves, toques, scarves,
warm socks, pocket day timer
calendars, pens,
bus tickets,
razors, shaving gel, toothbrushes,
toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner
wrapped
treats,
chocolates, biscuits, hot chocolate, tea.
I will collect any items that you would like to donate
up to the 16 December.
Please drop off at the office or leave under the
‘Share the Joy of Christmas’ tree in the Kirk Hall.
The turkeys for Christmas dinner at Our Place will be provided through the Mr. Quarter Fund.
This year we will deliver 24 turkeys – about 500 lbs. of meat! There are many supporters of this
outreach including David and Pam Vuckson. David maintains the organ and the pianos in the church
and donates his fees for this service to the turkey outreach.
Many thanks to everyone who helps make these gifts of God’s love happen
for the poor and homeless in our community.
Kathy Mackinnon
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church December, 2012 9
Friendship Club Christmas 2012 Luncheon
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 15th.
That's when St. Andrew's Fellowship Club is holding its
2012 Christmas Luncheon in the Sayward Room of the beautiful Royal Colwood Golf Club on Goldstream Avenue.
The buffet luncheon will include salads and platters, carved roast turkey and trimmings, wild salmon fillet, and dessert, tea and coffee. The cost of the meal, including gratuity, tax, and entertainment, is $30.00 per person and all members of the congregation and their guests are invited to join us.
Doors to the Sayward Room will open at 11:45 am and lunch will be served at 12:15 pm.
Free parking is available in the Golf Club parking lot. If you would like to join us for this special festive event please be sure
to let Laura Richards know by December 2nd at the latest.
Also, when you sign-up, please advise Laura whether or not you will need a ride.
Laura can be contacted at 250-360-2346.
(Fotos by Mitchell)
BAZAAR, NOVEMBER 17
December, 2012 10 The Link
CONGRATULATIONS,
DOROTHY and JACK!!
New Granddaughter for Jack and Dorothy
Reimer— Mira Jade Saini Reimer was
born on September 30, 2012 to
Jonathan Reimer and Amy Saini
Reimer, a baby sister for big brother, Aneil.
What A Pleasing Surprise!
Question: What joins 6000 readers in 55 countries every day of the year?
Answer: PCCWeb Daily Devotionals are available online and by e-mail every day and are free of cost.
The Daily Devotional has been published by volunteers every day for the past 16 years. Here is what readers
are saying about it:
In an increasingly troubled world, the PCCWeb Daily Devotional reminds us of what is truly im-
portant: the love of God and His active presence in our lives. I have started every day for the past year
with Daily and the Bible reading selections. While the world remains troubled, Daily is helping me to
live "in the world" and not "of the world." – Robert Foster, Escondido, California, USA.
I love these devotions, and every morning, it is the first thing I read. Because of the devotions, I see
God more and more in the ordinary things of my daily life, and I find myself asking what God is teach-
ing me here now in this time. I see God in everything. I am amazed how often the message is just what
I need to hear as I hear God speaking to me through the devotions. – Liz Samis, Drayton, Ontario, Can-
ada.
I find the Daily to be a calming reprieve in the hubbub of day-to-day earthly matters that cause us stress
and concern. Whether I read the Daily in the morning, evening, or somewhere in between, I find it
calms my thinking and reminds me that God is in control, that I am one of His children, and that He
loves me in spite of my sins. – Peter Morrison, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Although the Daily website is provided by the Presbyterian Church in Canada, writing is not restricted to Ca-
nadians or Presbyterians. Devotionals are submitted by volunteers from all over the world, from places like
Uganda, Brazil, Australia, Mexico, India, Sri Lanka, and Britain, as well as Canada and the USA, making Dai-
ly truly on online community with friendships throughout the world. The sincerity of the writers is obvious. A
“PrayerLine" is also part of Daily, where readers can ask for prayer, or pray for the concerns of others.
There are some 6000 known subscribers by e-mail, but there are several untrackable formats besides e-mail,
such as webpage, text feed, podcast, Facebook, Twitter, and smartphones. In addition, subscribers find the de-
votionals useful to take to meetings of ladies, men, elders, trustees, and study groups. Readers pass them on to
friends and relatives by e-mail or word of mouth, and use them for children's stories and sermon illustrations,
so the grand total of beneficiaries is impossible to calculate accurately.
Check it out at www.daily.presbycan.ca.
We really hope that you will subscribe!
The coming season of Advent and Christmas is a time of particularly pleasant devotionals.
(with contributions from Jack Vallance, Nanaimo, BC, Canada)
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church December, 2012 11
Ladies are invited to a
Christmas
Coffee Party
at the home of Dorothy Reimer
Tuesday, December 18
from 10-12 a.m.
Come and enjoy a visit with
others over the Christmas
Season, drop in for a short time
or stay the whole time. Enjoy a
few Christmas goodies and treats
and a visit with our
Church Family.
Feel free to bring a friend.
1740 Patly Place
Victoria.
Conductor: Cathie LylockOrganist: Douglas Hodgkinson
Violinist: Aline Dumalski
Everyone welcome (no admission fee)Tel: 250-384-5734 email: [email protected]
At the Corner of Broughton and Douglas
Thursday, December 13th
12 noon - 1:00 p.m.Doors open at 11:45 a.m.
Hot apple drink and cookies
December, 2012 12 The Link
MEN’S BREAKFAST We usually meet on the 3rd Saturday of each month. This is sometimes changed due to other happenings such
as our bazaar in November. In December we will out right cancel our social so that we can join with those
going to the Christmas Friendship Club luncheon. In January we will have our men's breakfast on the 1st
Saturday of the month rather than the 3rd. This will give us a chance both to avoid the Christmas rush and to
have a breakfast almost mid-way between December and January. (It may also be a bonus, since it is the same
day the women of our church normally meet for their breakfast!)
Make a 2013 New Year's Resolution and
plan on joining us for our next meeting.
It will be as soon as the doors open, at 10 a.m. on Saturday January 5. We meet in the same place, the Bon Appetit Cafe
which is on the 5th floor of the downtown Bay Centre.
Make a friend or bring a friend and join us in friendly Christian fellowship.
For a ride or info regarding parking please contact Bruce McCowan,
phone: 250-881-5155 or email: [email protected]
***Note my phone # change***
Display of Christmas
Story Books
Parents, grandparents and
children are welcome to bor-
row seasonal books from the
Children’s Borrowing Li-
brary to use over the holi-
days. There are numerous
beautiful picture books about the Holy Family and
those that show a more secular aspect of Christmas
celebrations. As well, there are “lift a flap” books,
pop-up books, board books and books designed for
elementary aged children. Books from the library
will be available in the church hall to sign out during
coffee hour throughout December. They can be re-
turned to the lower hall during December, or given to
Dianne Penner or other Sunday school volunteers and
students to return to the children’s library later in
January. Enjoy sharing the meaning of
Christmas with your younger family
members, either in Victoria, or out of town.
Submitted by Dianne Penner
Book Review: Operation Mincemeat: How a
Dead Man and a Bizarre Plan Fooled the Nazis and
Assured an Allied Victory by Robert Morris
This New York Times’ bestseller tells a story that
has been told many times before...about a deception
to convince the Nazis that the impending 1943 Allied
invasion of Sicily was a decoy and not the real tar-
get. Because the Nazis were convinced that the inva-
sion would be somewhere other than Sicily, countless
Allied lives were saved.
The book, Operation Mincemeat, has made use of
recently declassified files from the British National
Archives and from MI5 naval intelligence officer,
Ewen Montagu’s personal files and photographs.
The book has humour, romance, intrigue and a
strong component of Christian faith.
Memorable spies, the complicated plot, and ingen-
ious developments, plus lots of excitement and ten-
sion make this a great read.
Dr. Tom Peet and Mrs. Kay Peet, members of St.
Andrew’s congregation, also endorse Operation
Mincemeat. “This is a must-read; one you can’t put
down. It sheds new light on aspects of WWII.``
Submitted by Laura Richards (edited—ed.)
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church December, 2012 13
Editors’ Note: reviews and submitted articles are the personal opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the ministers, Link editors or the Presbyterian Church in Canada.
November 1st, 2012
To:
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Victoria
Warm greetings from India! I am currently in Bangalore, Karnataka attending the Stu-
dent Christian Movement of India’s Centenary National Ecumenical Consultation on
the World Council of Church’s Assembly 2013, as a delegate from the Caribbean and North Amer-
ican Council of Mission through Meora World Mission. Now say that ten times fast! We are engag-
ing in discussion and mediation on the theme “God of Life; Lead us to Justice and Peace.”
The past seven weeks in India was been a whirlwind. The work of cataloguing books in the
library has begun. Shelly, one of the nurses from Victoria, has come to India and has been giving
classes on wound care for our post basic nursing students and the Indore Christian Hospital’s gen-
eral nurse midwife students. She has also done a musculoskeletal injury prevention workshop in
the Indore Christian Hospital. The two of us, along with 7 students from the Graduate School for
Nurses, attended the 67th Nurses League Conference in New Delhi.
On October 1st a new acting principal was appointed at our school. Ms. Singh, our most sen-
ior faculty member, was appointed as Acting Principal. Very unfortunately Ms. Singh fell ill short-
ly after her appointment. She has been in hospital with a fever of 104 degrees and severe back pain.
Her prognosis seems very poor at present. Could you please pray for Ms. Singh to regain her
health? Please pray for our students. They are going through all the transitions at the institution as
well, but we often forget to give them extra support at times like this. Pray that they will receive the
academic, emotional and spiritual support they require.
At present the MIBE Graduate School for Nurses does not have a single person covering the
work of principal in Ms. Singh’s absence. When I return from Bangalore to the school in Indore, I
will begin giving classes in two of the three subjects Ms. Singh was teaching; Medical-Surgical
Nursing and Nursing Foundations. We expect the previous interim principal, Mrs. Mercy John, to
return to our school in Ms. Singh’s absence, although, no date for her return has been arranged.
Please pray that Mrs. Mercy John, or some other capable individual, joins us at the Graduate
School for Nurses as interim principal soon. Please pray for strength for whichever interim princi-
pal we receive, as we are in need of a great leader during this unstable time.
I was very saddened to hear of Rev. Dr. Currie’s passing. Heaven is a richer place. I trust
the Lord is keeping you and your families all well. I hope the Halloween Hullabaloo topped previ-
ous years.
Thank you all for your prayers and support!
Namaste,
Michelle Verwey
December, 2012 14 The Link
St Andrew’s Mission and
Outreach +
Ten Thousand Villages
= a fun,
Fundraiser! Tuesday,
December 11th 10-6pm
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church’s Mission and Outreach program supports
local, national and international projects for those in need of the basic necessities
of life. Projects include - but are not limited to - a free Saturday morning Break-
fast, food drives, supporting a nursing school in India and Presbyterian World
Service and Development. Your support extends beyond the church walls to the
local community and abroad!
Ten Thousand Villages creates opportunities for artisans in developing countries to
earn income by bringing their products and stories to our markets through long-term,
fair trading relationships. www.TenThousandVillages.ca
Bring in your coupon or mention ‘St Andrew’s Presbyterian’ when you make your purchase on Tuesday December 11th 10-6pm at 1009 Government Street, Victoria, V8W 1X6
Please contact Maria Lyons at [email protected] or 250-598-8183 or Rev. Jenn Geddes at [email protected] with any questions.
VillagesVic Ten Thousand Villages Victoria
Support Fair Trade and St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
Mission and Outreach program when you shop on
Tuesday Dec 11th, at Ten Thousand Villages
1009 Government Street (between Fort & Broughton)
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church December, 2012 15
(Fotos by Mitchell)
December, 2012 16 The Link
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace,
good will toward men.
.Luke 2:14 (King James Version)
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church December, 2012 17
Arc
hiv
ist Jim
Kem
plin
g
250-6
58-8
546
Bell C
ho
ir Caitlin
Sam
uelsso
n
cait.e
va@
gm
ail.co
m
Cam
p R
epre
sentativ
e R
ev. Jen
n G
eddes
250-4
15-2
226
Cho
ir D
oro
thy R
eim
er 250-5
92-5
051
Co
-Clerk
s of S
ession
Sab
ine T
eetzel
Co
lina T
itus
250-6
58-8
998
250-3
82-2
387
Actin
g D
irecto
r of M
usic
Bo
b G
oo
dw
in
Envelo
pe S
ecretary
Leo
na Jo
hns
250-5
98-9
450
TH
E L
INK
Em
ail: th
elin
k@
shaw
.ca
Ard
ath S
hand,
Deb
ra Verw
ey,
Fio
na R
yneveld
778-4
40-0
818
Mr. Q
uarter F
und
K
athy M
ack
inno
n
250-4
79-0
119
Nursery
Co
ord
inato
r A
rdath
Shand
778-4
40-0
818
Pho
tograp
her
John M
itchell
250-4
79-7
801
Ro
ll Clerk
Search
Co
mm
ittee D
unca
n
Mac
Kin
no
n
(Co
nvener)
250-4
79-0
119
Shut-in
Co
ord
inato
r S
heila M
itchell
250-4
79-7
801
Sunday S
cho
ol
Dia
nne P
enner
rdsap
enn
er@sh
aw.ca
Pra
yer T
eam
R
ev R
uth
McC
ow
an
250
-589-7
413
Thrift S
ho
p
Maatje N
ix
250
-598-5
970
Treasu
rer Jack
Reim
er 250
-592-5
051
Ush
ering C
oo
rdin
ator
Alista
ir Gran
t 250
-598-4
742
TE
AM
S:
Christia
n E
ducatio
n
Dia
nne P
enner
rdsp
enn
er@sh
aw.ca
Co
ngreg
ational L
ife S
abin
e Teetze
l
Co
lina T
itus
250
-658-8
998
250
-382-2
387
Fin
ance
Jack R
eim
er
250
-592-5
051
Ad
min
istration
Leo
na Jo
hns
250
-598-9
450
Missio
n &
Outreach
R
ev Je
nn G
eddes
250
-415-2
226
Pasto
ral Suppo
rt B
rian T
itus
250
-382-2
387
Pro
perty
D
avid
McL
ean
250
-598-4
432
Wo
rship
Jo
hn M
itchell
250
-479-7
801
Lea
d M
inister:
Th
e Rev
Dr. Ia
n V
ictor
Assista
nt M
inister:
Th
e Rev
Jen
n G
edd
es
ST
. AN
DR
EW
’S P
RE
SB
YT
ER
IAN
CH
UR
CH
DIR
EC
TO
RY
C
hu
rch
Offic
e: 6
80 C
ou
rtney S
t., Vic
toria
, BC
V8W
1C1
Tel: 2
50- 3
84-5
734 F
ax
: 250-3
84-5
738
e-m
ail: sta
nd
rew
svic
@te
lus.n
et
Lead
Min
ister: T
he R
ev. D
r. Ian
Vic
tor A
ssistan
t Min
ister: T
he R
ev. Je
nn
Ged
des
Ph
on
e: 2
50
-858
-5648 E
mail: rev
ian
@te
lus.n
et D
ay O
ff: Mondays P
hone: 2
50
-415
-2226 E
mail: re
vje
nn
@telu
s.net D
ay o
ff: Mondays
Offic
e A
dm
inistra
tor: W
hitn
ey H
an
na C
hu
rch
Offic
er:
Gra
nt S
hep
ard
December, 2012 18 The Link
SUN Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1
Breakfast for those in need (Christ Church)
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
10:30 am: Sunday
Worship-
COMM - UNION
THE LINK
available
6:00 pm: Smooth Rhythms (Kirk Hall)
10:00 am to noon: Thrift Shop
6:30- 8:00 pm: Floor Hockey (Kirk Hall- every-one welcome) 8:30 pm: Out of the Rain (Kirk Hall)
6:00 pm – HOPE &
HEALING SERVICE
7:30 pm - Choir Practice (Lecture Room)
Set-up for Sat. Break-fast (St.
Andrew’s)
Breakfast for those in need (St. Andrew’s) (Kirk Hall)
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
10:30 am: Sunday Worship 2:00 pm: Bal-let Victoria Reception (stage up) (Kirk Hall)
6:00 pm: Smooth Rhythms (Kirk Hall)
2:00 pm: Tea for Tu-tu (Free for Seniors) (Kirk Hall) 8:30 pm: Out of the Rain (Kirk Hall)
11:45- 1:00 pm: CAROL SING (Sanctuary) 7:30 pm - Choir Practice (Lecture Room)
Noon- 4:30: Academy of Ballet Recital (Kirk Hall)
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
10:30 am: Sunday
Worship-
PAGEANT
10:00 am to noon: Thrift Shop
6:30- 8:00 pm: Floor Hockey (Kirk Hall- every-one welcome) 8:30 pm: Out of the Rain (Kirk Hall)
7:30 pm - Choir Practice (Lecture Room)
Tentative: Dan Lapp Rehearsal
Tentative: Dan Lapp Concert
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
10:30 am: Sunday Worship
Christ-mas Eve Service
TIME: TBA
Boxing Day
8:30 pm: Out of the Rain (Kirk Hall)
7:30 pm - Choir Practice (Lecture Room)
Set-up for Sat. Break-fast (BC Ferries)
Breakfast for those in need (BC Ferries) (Kirk Hall)
30 31 JAN. 1 2 3 4 5
10:30 am
Sunday Worship LINK
DEADLINE
NEW
YEAR’S EVE