Nelson United Church Programs


The Christian Development and Communications Committee is proud to present the
Nelson United Church
Continuing Education Programs
January 2009 – April 2009
program cross


There are three categories outlined below.
Contact the Office, for further informaton.

You are invited to participate in these interesting and informative activities... and bring a friend!


Registration Information

The Program Index:

Exploration Spirituality Community Building

 

 

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Exploration

1) Contemplative Prayer:
Session One: 7:30 p.m. – 2nd and 4th Sunday Evenings in Trinity Lounge
Sesion Two, for those unable to attend Sunday Evening: 1:30 p.m. – 1st and 3rd Mondays, in the Fairview Room

Contemplative prayer is the quiet prayer of meditation. There is a long history of contemplative prayer in the Christian Church

Are you interested in exploring what contemplative prayer might mean, if you are new to meditation, or are a long-time meditator, speak to David about developing such an opportunity to be with others who practice contemplative prayer. Read David's article, From David's Desk, in the Mustard Seed

2) Breakfast Book Bunch:
6:45 a.m. – Thursday Mornings
Starting Thursday, February 4th, 2010, in Trinity Lounge

We share breakfast together and engage in lively discussion about the book that we are reading together. This Winter, we are going to read a book by Richard Rohr entitled The Naked Now: Learning to See as Mystics See. If you would like to be part of this activity, please let David know. All who are able to function at 6:45 a.m! (when we gather) are welcome!! We share our thoughts about a chapter of the book while sharing breakfast; we are done by 8 am so folk who need to can get to work.

3) Adult Study Group:     VOLUNTARY SIMPLICITY
7:00 p.m. – Monday Evenings
Starting Thursday, February 22ndth, 2010, in Trinity Lounge

Sometimes, life can get out of control — too many emails, too much stuff, too much clutter, too many demands on our time and money. What does living more simply look like for us and our world? If these are worries that you are facing in your life, or if you are interested in exploring with a like-minded group what voluntary simplicity is all about, then join us at Nelson United Church Monday nights beginning February 22nd; we start at 7:00 pm in Trinity Lounge.

Discussion Course Goals:
* To understand the meaning of voluntary simplicity.
* To explore the material and psychological distractions that prevent us from caring for the earth.
* To acknowledge the connection between our lifestyle choices and the condition of the earth.

Topics Covered:
1. The Meaning of Simplicity: The concept of simplicity, as a religious practice or philosophy of life, has a long history. Both inner simplicity and outer simplicity are involved. What are some common misconceptions about a simple life?
2. Living More with Less: Accumulating material possessions is part of the American Dream. For some, the dream has become a nightmare. When do material possessions add meaning to our lives and when do they detract?
3. Making a Living: A growing number of people wish to resolve the conflict between the desire to make and spend money and the desire for a simple life. Why is that so difficult in our culture?
4. Do You Have the Time?: In modern society, our minds are focused on the "busyness" of the day, our current problems, and our future challenges. Are there alternatives to the fast pace of our mainstream culture?
5. Living Simply and Sustainably: There are countless practical benefits in moving toward simplicity and sustainability. What steps can be taken to move toward a life simple in means, rich in ends?

There is a resource book produced by the Northwest Earth Institute and the cost is $30. Please see David for more details.

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Spirituality       

1) Taizé Worship
     On the first Sunday of the month we hold a service of worship in the Taizé style in the Lower Hall. This is a time of prayerful singing, prayer, and quiet reflection.

Even if you can only come occasionally, you are welcome.

2) Alternative Worship Experience
     At 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday evening we join in a time of worship focusing on different themes. Please join us in the Church Hall as you are able.

3) Prayer Shawl Ministry
     At 5:00 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at the home of one of the participants for a time of great fellowship in this ministry as we come together for a common purpose. We welcome all who are willing to knit or crochet and pray for others. Even if you can't come to the meetings, you can still be part of this ministry!
Come and join us!

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Community Building

FAMILY MINISTRY EVENT — March 28th: A "Walk Through Holy Week". On Palm Sunday at 4 p.m. in the church hall. This event will be an informative and interesting way to reflect on Jesus' struggles during the last week in Jerusalem leading up to Good Friday. Our supper together will be a modified Seder meal consisting of symbolic foods like "bitter herbs" and a sweet compote. Speak to Janet or David Boyd for more information and leave an RSVP with Lois in the church office by March 24th. This is an all-ages event. All are welcome! Bring your friends.

 Men's Group
      7:00 p.m.– 3rd Tuesday of every month in Trinity Lounge. A gathering of "energetic and innovative" men who meet monthly to plan and execute Church repairs and carry out renovations and improvements. One of their fund raising events is the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. The group also hosts the annual fall Fowl Dinner, which is eagerly awaited by all. New members are always welcome. Come join the fellowship.

 

 Meet & Eat Group Activity
       On the 4th Saturday of each month we gather for a "good old pot-luck" meal at 5:30 p.m. in the Lower Hall. At about 7:00 p.m. we break into planned activities for the evening. For those who want to get together, share a meal, and have some fun!

Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first!

Get ready for Tropical Food and Golf Night bowling, skating, Karoke, dancing, Ceilidh, and coffee house. You are welcome to come to the pot-luck supper, the activities afterward, or both.

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REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Transporation can usually be arranged upon request

To register, or for information, please contact the Church Office.

Please Note:

The Christian Development and Communication Committee is always looking for new ideas regarding courses to offer or workshops to sponsor. If you have any courses that you would like to see offered at Nelson United, speak to Jayne Slawson, chair of the committee, or drop a note off at the office. We want to serve you better. Thanks.

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