Dear Grace Church,
It is hard to believe that we are already watching the leaves fall, feeling the cooler temperatures and beginning to gear up for what will be a strange winter. Autumn reminds us of transition. Typically, we have an idea of what to expect in the transition at this time of year – kids are back to school, the air becomes cool, pumpkins are put out on people’s steps and schedules begin to fill again. This fall is not typical though. As much as we are transitioning into a new season, we are taking all the “pandemic baggage” with us that we’ve had throughout the summer. Covid-19 continues to put unique stressors on our lives and continues to push us in new and difficult ways.
As the weather cools and we pull our warmer clothes out we’re also reminded of giving thanks. There are lots of things that will make this Thanksgiving feel somewhat strange as we reflect on gratitude in the midst of our community’s current situation. Given all that is happening in the world and in our lives, how do we give thanks this year? In worship throughout October we’ll be reflecting on knowing our stories. What have been our challenges? What have been moments of grace? What has given us joy and how has God been a part of our story? Looking back on your own story and the story of the life of Grace church is a wonderful place to start giving thanks.
We have been blessed in so many ways. Even though our lives may not be perfect there are things to be thankful for and we know that there is a perfect love that casts out our fears (1 John 4:18). We live in a country that protects our rights and freedoms. We live in a country that has so far managed the pandemic in an admirable way with careful concern for individuals. We have clean drinking water at the turn of a knob, and grocery stores full of food and treats.
For the ministry team, one of the things we are most grateful for is the loving community at Grace; a community that is supportive in times of joy and comforting in times of difficulty. Our church family is truly a loving support system where we can experience the highs and lows of our lives, while exploring what it means to accept God’s unconditional love for us. Grace Presbyterian Church is a place where we can try to learn who Jesus is, and how the Holy Spirit is guiding us.
We are grateful that despite all that has changed in our world that the story of Grace continues in meaningful ways. This fall is full of opportunities for spiritual formation of all ages through Grace Kids online, “Downtime with Jesus” for youth, a vibrant bible study and upcoming book study. Our community has continued to care for one another through Dwell on Sunday mornings, outreach in the parking lot, and a pastoral care network of elders, homebound visitors and deacons. We continue to reach out to the community around us with our second Trunk ‘N’ Treat event and a new relationship with the Calgary Food Bank. While the building remains closed, Grace continues to be an open and active community.
These are all reasons to give thanks! We are grateful for all those who have faithfully done the work to make these things happen and we are grateful for all the ways your gifts of time, talent and treasure have empowered these ministries. As discouraging as things might appear to be, there really are many reasons to be thankful. So Happy Thanksgiving! May you lose track as you count your many blessings.
Peace,
Rev. Christian Persaud, Rev. Jake Van Pernis and Rev. Maren McLean Persaud
