Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - June/97

Contributor - Pat Pluister

Title - Keeping in Touch! Sharing Our Joy!

Topic - Emmanuel Reformed Church, Whiby

Seeing how much fun the Adult Bell Choir was having, Harriet was able to recruit some of the next generation to share their special music during the evening service on March 2, 1997, which was a "Service with a Youthful Twist.' The youth Bell Choir played two hymns: 'Holy, Holy, Holy" and "Jesus Shall Reign." Also participating were Ruth Reitsma on flute and BethAnn Groeneveld on piano. The Call to Worship, Psalm 150, was read by Yvonne Craig. Pastor Ron's youthful message entitled "What's Holding You Back?" was based on Mark 10: 17-31 (read by Clint Reitsma) and John 6:112 (read by Robbie Woudwijk). The service, which was well attended, was an inspiration to all. Another service like this is scheduled for June 8, at which we will have Rev. Blain McLeod (and sidekick) from the Canadian Bible Society.

During the morning service on March 2, we were introduced to Rev. Dr. Elias Dantas from Brazil, who has been called by the Classis of Ontario to plan two new RCA congregations among the thousands of Portuguese-speaking Brazilians living in the Toronto area. This will take much planning, so let us support Him with our prayers for wisdom and spiritual guidance.. Rev. Dantas and his family will be to the Toronto area from Florida in September.

On Friday, March 7, Emmanuel's RCWM (Reformed Church Women's Ministries) was host for the World Day of Prayer services. Participants were from the churches from the Whitby Ministerial Association. Two services were held, and our guest speaker was Rev. Winnifred Bridges, a member of Emmanuel. Winnifred gave us an inspiring message based on the Parable of the Sower from Luke's Gospel. Our food for thought was 'How do you receive the 'Seed,'and what kind of soil are you?'

On February 9, Janet Janz (nee Vliegenthart) left for a six month work project in Rwanda, Africa, which is sponsored by the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, U.S. Aid, and the Canadian Wheat Farmers. Janet's great knowledge of language, culture, and the ways of the African people will be a great asset in assisting refugees returning from Zaire to Rwanda. Her responsibilities include helping families get back together after being forced to separate, comforting those mourning the loss of loved ones who were left behind, and helping to organize the rebuilding of homes and gardens. Janet's husband, Bruce, joined the team at the end of April to work as a volunteer. Please join our congregation in prayerful support for the safety of Janet and her team and for the healing and reconciliation of this very troubled country as its peace (even among Christians) is very fragile.

Pat Pluister is a member of Emmanuel Reformed Church in Whitby, Ontario.

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