Minister's Message October, 2025

You are probably reading this on Sunday, October 5. This day in the Church

calendar is named "World Communion Sunday". It is on this day that the entire Christian Church emphasizes the unity of all Christians. 

Why is this important? It is important because we need to be reminded of how often we are referred to, in the Bible, as the body of Christ.  And by "we" I am referring to all people of the faith. If we see ourselves as being separate we might also see ourselves as better, or even as competing. It is our hope that this presence and whole spirit of Christ can keep this body from self-inflicted wounds.

Three other important dates for us in October are the 12th, "Thanksgiving Sunday", the 19th, "World Food Sunday", and the 26th, which is "Peace Sunday".

And here are some other dates of note:

Important events coming up include the Season of Creation, with events like Creation Time 3 (September 28, 2025) and Creation Time 4 (October 5, 2025) at churches like Metropolitan United Church, and the ongoing 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism program returning in Fall 2025. Thanksgiving Sunday is on October 12, 2025, and the church is also involved in advocacy for Indigenous reconciliation and supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, with initiatives like the "100 Tables" project for creating welcoming spaces. 

I also found this:

Themes in Autumn Spirituality

• Balance: The Autumn Equinox symbolizes the balance between light and dark, growth and rest, prompting individuals to seek equilibrium in their own lives. 

• Gratitude: As the season of harvest, autumn is a time to acknowledge and express gratitude for the gifts and lessons cultivated throughout the year. 

• Letting Go & Release: The shedding of leaves by trees serves as a powerful metaphor for releasing burdens, old habits, negative thoughts, and relationships that no longer serve a purpose. 

• Introspection & Reflection: The slowing of nature's outward focus encourages an inward turning, providing an opportunity for deeper self-reflection and personal growth. 

• Maturity & Wisdom: The autumnal stage can be seen as representing the culmination of life experiences, the gathering of wisdom, and preparation for the soul's next stage. 

• Renewal:  While a time for release, autumn also prepares for the dormant period of winter, symbolizing the potential for future renewal and new beginnings. 

Best

Blessings 

bruce