Submitted by Brad Inglis
So here we are at year end with lots of stories under our belt. We have been part of history. Forever we will refer to this time as BC – before covid and AC – after covid. There will be stories about how we coped, stories about fears and anxiety and all of the wonderful stories about what we learned. How resilient we could be, the little things that made the difference, how important connection is. AND we get to end the year on a high note with the promise of a vaccine that, over time, will be rolled out. Once again it is that “hurry up and wait” scenario that we know so well, but nevertheless it offers us hope. Hope maybe for an Easter gathering, summer holidays with family and friends, a less stressful work season and hugs – who will you hug first when it’s safe again?
Some of the ladies from the church and community got together to organize some poinsettias and boxes of goodies for those who are perhaps on their own this Christmas or could use a little boost. We thought it would be a nice way to reach out and let folks know they are being thought of. I appreciate the ladies for diligently working away in their own kitchens to bake and then carefully working and adhering to covid protocol.
If you are scratching your head wondering why you got something – let’s just say, you are thought of and cared about and be glad you didn’t get a lump of coal (this is when I wish the paper used emojis’).
Tobermory Muses Zoom Concert December 18
On Friday December 18th at 7pm our local Muses Group will be hosting an evening Zoom Concert with some music and local folks who will be reading stories and poems. Everyone is welcome to participate, you just need the free Zoom program installed on your computer and an invitation to join. You can get this invitation by emailing tobermoryunitedchurch@eastlink.ca or calling me and if you aren’t familiar with Zoom, I am happy to help get you connected. It is a great opportunity to see some familiar faces!
Longest Night of the Year Service December 21
The tradition for the past several years has been to have a quiet and reflective service on the Longest Night of the year, December 21st. This year the service is being hosted by all of the United Churches on the Peninsula via Zoom at 7pm. Again, you will need to email the office if you would like to participate and invitations will be circulated.
This service is designed to allow us to take a breath in the midst of the season. Christmas isn’t always easy for everyone. The gifts, the lights, the hubbub can all be a little overwhelming. Sometimes we just need to take a break from all of the glitz and quiet ourselves. Sometimes we just want to take a moment and remember those who have gone before us. Broken relationships, loss and isolation can all seem a little overwhelming during the holidays. And this year – we are all experiencing our own different mix of emotions. Please feel free to join as we take this time of peace and reflection.
Christmas Eve Service
Christmas Eve will be a little different this year. Our service will be posted on Youtube and you go to The Desk Of The Lazy Theologian. We will once again revisit the ancient story of an immigrant family who find themselves with this new born baby who is destined to change the world. What do they say? The reason for the season? I can’t help but think that more than ever we are yearning for a newness, a chance to re-start, as we look towards 2021. The Christ Child offers us those reminders of hope and peace and new beginnings in the face of diversity.
On behalf of Tobermory United Church, we would like to offer our sincere best wishes for a bright and beautiful 2021.
Merry Christmas and thank you for how each of you change the world in your own little way.
Brad Inglis is the minister at Tobermory United Church. He can be reached at binglis2@me.com
519-596-2821 (Home)
www.tobermoryunited.ca
