GOOD TIDINGS
SUMMER 2015
DUNBAR HEIGHTS UNITED CHURCH
…where meaning, justice and belonging meet
Summer Stream United
Worship
image: www.request.org.uk
Dunbar Heights United Church
Rev. Dr. Richard Bott
3525 West 24th Avenue, at Collingwood
Vancouver, BC V6S 1L5
Tel: 604 731 6420
[email protected]
www.dunbarheightsuc.ca
July 5th at 10:30am
at Dunbar Heights UC
July 12th at 10:30am
at Dunbar Heights UC
July 19th at 10:30am
at Dunbar Heights UC
July 26th at 10:30am,
at Ryerson UC
August 2nd at 10:30am
at Ryerson UC
August 9th at 10:30am
at Ryerson UC
August 16th at 10:30am
at Ryerson UC
August 23rd at 10:30am
at Shaughnessy Heights UC
August 30th at 10:30am
at Shaughnessy Heights UC
All Ages Service
Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MUSINGS FROM A MINISTER... ....................................................................................................................................... 3
SUMMER NEWS FOR DHUC ............................................................................................................................................. 5
NOTES FROM COUNCIL..................................................................................................................................................... 9
COUNCIL MINUTES.......................................................................................................................................................... 11
SUMMER WORSHIP ........................................................................................................................................................ 17
CENTENNIAL WRAP-UP ................................................................................................................................................ 19
OUTREACH UPDATE....................................................................................................................................................... 21
HEALING MINISTRIES UPDATE .................................................................................................................................. 23
CONTEMPLATIVE MEDITATION UPDATE .............................................................................................................. 23
THANK YOU... .................................................................................................................................................................... 25
SUMMER DHUC MEETINGS .......................................................................................................................................... 27
NEWS FROM THE CHURCH LIBRARY........................................................................................................................ 29
DHUC Vision Statement
We are an involved and connected community…
Seekers, questioners and believers at various stages on the journey.
We are nurtured and challenged by the presence of the Spirit to find depth and meaning for
our lives and to engage our neighbourhood near and far in living lives of justice.
Seeking to follow the way of Jesus, we dare to live God’s hope in our time and context.
Our greatest gift is our multi-age community in which we treasure our roots and heritage
and embrace the wisdom of the new.
All are welcome and each one enriches our whole to continue God’s unfolding story in our
midst.
Dunbar Heights United Church
....where meaning, justice and belonging meet.
Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
Seeking to follow the way of Jesus,
we dare to live God’s hope in our time and context.
MUSINGS FROM A MINISTER...
There are a number of times in the
lives of the disciples that I wonder
what it was like for them: after Jesus’
crucifixion, after Jesus assumption
into heaven, and right after Pentecost
are three that come to mind. I wonder
what they did and how they reacted
to the situation.
We know that, in each of those situations,
they remained together. I wonder if there was
someone who kept them organized, someone
who made sure they all ate, someone who
planned where they would meet, someone who
took responsibility for prayer, someone whose
grief was so overwhelming they couldn’t do
anything except cry. I wonder who laughed, and
who got angry, and who was exhausted, and
who was the know-it-all.
This group, along with other disciples like
Mary, Martha and Lazarus, had lived together
for three years. Many of them had been sent
out in pairs to preach the good news, and to
heal in Jesus’ name.
I am certain that, no matter what, they cared
for each other. None of them had any specific
training in how to care for one another. They
hadn’t done a Clinical Pastoral Education unit, or
read Clinebell’s Pastoral Care and Counselling,
or done a course on active and affirmative
listening. They weren’t ordained to the Ministry
of Word, Sacrament and Pastoral Care, or
commissioned to the Ministry of Education,
Service and Pastoral Care. They simply were
people who listened to Jesus when he said,
“Love one another as I have loved you,” and
then lived it out to the best of their ability.
Now, that’s not to say that there
weren’t some who were better than
others at listening, or at letting other
people know they cared, or at doing
what needed to be done – but, each
disciple, in their own way, took care of
the others in the good times and the
bad.
That’s the essence of Pastoral Care.
Jesus’ disciples listening to each other. Jesus’
disciples praying (and it truly doesn’t matter
what words one uses) with each other. Jesus’
disciples caring for each other.
Over the years, the church has done a pretty
good job of “professionalizing” pastoral care.
(Did you know that ministers in The United
Church of Canada were only ordained to “Word
and Sacrament” until the mid-1960s?)
Congregations call a minister and, often, they
expect that the minister will do the Pastoral
Care on their behalf. It doesn’t quite work that
way, especially in congregations larger than 4050 people.
It is helpful to have a minister. Ministers have
specific training in pastoral care, which is helpful
to a congregation – especially in the really
difficult times. But the biggest task of a minister
is to help the disciples equip themselves with
the tools and abilities they need to be able to do
the awesome task of caring for one another, in
faith and in love.
It is helpful to have a Pastoral Care Team.
These lay people have intentionally accepted
the responsibility of checking in with disciples
that we don’t see as often, often because of age
Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
or infirmity. They’ve accepted the responsibility
of checking in with people who are having issues
with their health, or in other parts of their lives.
(And, to be honest, the Team could use a few
more people who would be willing to
intentionally commit to this work.)
But, even with a Minister and a Pastoral Care
Team, the daily work of pastoral care sits where
it must – in your hands, your ears, and your
hearts. It is through your words of care that
God’s love will be most readily heard – and you
will be in the right places at the right times to be
the pastoral caregiver that the person in front of
you needs the most.
We’re hoping on helping the entire
congregation to build their pastoral care
abilities, starting in the fall. We’re hoping to
build networks within the congregation that
build on the gifts and abilities already there, and
we’re hoping that this will help us to become an
even more caring and connected community of
Christ’s people.
Summer 2015
congregation, listen carefully to what’s going on
in their lives. Take a moment to let them know
that you’ve heard what they’ve said. If it feels
like it’s the right time, ask them if they would
like you to pray with them. If they say yes, offer
your hand and say, “God, for everything that is
going on in X’s life, I pray. I know you’re with
her/him. I ask for your help,” and then take a
moment for silence. (Yes, it can be hard to ask
and to do. Terribly hard. But those moments of
prayer are life-changing.) Then, if you have the
sense that what’s going on needs more support,
ask their permission to let the Pastoral Care
Team (which includes our Minister of Word,
Sacrament and Pastoral Care) know.
Let us know, and we’ll do what we can to
support both the person you were talking with,
and you.
Dunbar Heights United Church has had a long
history of caring for one another. Let’s keep that
going in the days ahead!
Until then, here’s what I’d ask you to do.
When you’re with other people in the
www.dunbarheightsuc.ca
Christ’s peace be with you.
Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
SUMMER NEWS FOR DHUC
“Good Tidings” is usually distributed on the first Sunday of each month. It is available in the church or on
the website during the month of issue.
COFFEE CLEANUP
We will not post the usual rota of coffee clean-up names during the summer due to
Summer Stream United worship. We are certain that friends and members will pitch in if
they can and when they can, in the usual DHUC spirit of community and service. And of
course, volunteers will be welcome to assist with set-up or clean-up of our special Summer
Stream post-worship activities on July 5th and 19th.
STAFF SUMMER LEAVE
Here is the list of summer leave and other staff absences over summer. Additions or updates will be posted
in the weekly announcements. Should you have questions about availability or alternate contacts for
vacationing staff, please contact the office at 604-731-6420 or [email protected].

Sheila Sanders
July 2nd – 8th and August 4th – 10th

Greg Caisley
July 27th – September 7th

Cathy Cryder
August 1st – 31st

Richard Bott
August 5th – August 30th
PASTORAL CARE TEAM
To connect with a member of the Pastoral Care Team during the summer please contact Richard or Sheila
through the office at 604-731-6420, or Richard on his cell phone at 604-506-2299. They will put you in
touch with an appropriate team member.
www.dunbarheights.ca
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
We are an involved and connected community…
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT DUNBAR HEIGHTS?
YOGA AT THE CHURCH
From July 2nd through September 10th (no classes July 28th, 29th, 30th or August 4th),
Yoga at the Church continues for the summer on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and
Thursdays, 9:30-10:45am. Join with a maximum of 15 yogis to move, stretch, build
strength and mediate, under the guidance of excellent teachers in a small setting, with
lots of personal attention. Classes are by pre-registration, but drop-in and other options
are available. Classes are taught in rotation by Shannon Cluff (Tuesdays), Alejandra
Oyervides de Madrigal (Wednesdays), and Thara Viyali (Thursdays) with Jacqui Trieber
filling in for Thara the first three Thursdays in July. For more information or to register,
contact Anne Clark at [email protected] or see the posting on the bulletin board.
FLOWERS
Many of us have glorious flower gardens throughout the summer and early autumn. If
you are able to share some of this beauty with the congregation please take a look at
the flower calendar beside the library. There are several spots open for September and
October. You may sign up for any open Sunday and inform the office if you want to
dedicate the flowers to anyone. If not, they are usually dedicated to the greater glory of
God. Fifteen minutes or so before service begins put your flowers in a vase from the
kitchen and place them on the pedestal. After the service, please take them home or give them to
someone to brighten their day. Thanks for your support, Patricia Alexis.
KNOX/DUNBAR MEN’S BREAKFAST
The Knox/Dunbar Men’s Breakfast Group will take a break for the summer, and resume
in September. If you would like more information please contact Pat Burns by email at
[email protected].
THE WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB… DO YOU ENJOY READING?
The Dunbar Heights Women's Book Club will not meet during July and August. New
members are welcome when we return in September! Watch the August bulletins for
information on September’s book choice, and meeting time and location. Better yet,
contact Bonnie Burnell at [email protected] to be put on the email list for
information and updates.
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
WAYS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
SUPPORT THE CAMP SPIRIT BURSARY FUND
Although the Camp Spirit team works to keep the participant cost as low as possible, there
are children who would like to participate, but find that finances are a barrier. We’d like to
ask you to consider supporting the bursary fund for Camp Spirit, to help in these
situations. You may make a donation by mail or by dropping off your donation personally
in the church office, with a note that it is for the Camp Spirit Bursary Fund.
CAR POOLING FOR SUMMER STREAM WORSHIP
We want to make it as easy as possible for our congregation to attend the Summer
Stream United services at Dunbar Heights, Ryerson and Shaughnessy Heights. If you are
able to help with driving or if you would like a ride to church on any Sunday this summer
please contact the office at 604-731-6420 or [email protected].
FIRST UNITED SUMMER NEEDS
During summer months, First United’s most urgent needs include sunscreen and bottled
water. If you bring the purchase receipt in with your donations they will issue you a tax
receipt in January.
VOLUNTEER FOR THE FALL FAIR
Are you interested in finding a new and exciting way to get involved at the church? The
Fall Fair is a fun-filled event that offers activities suited to all ages, and opens our doors
to the wider community. Why not volunteer to help out? It is a wonderful opportunity
for people to come together to coordinate one of the church's largest fundraisers. Key
roles are: Coordinator, Silent Auction, Decorations and Signage, Vendors, Financial
Coordinator, Lunch, BBQ and Advertising.
After many (much appreciated!) years of service for Fall Fair, Kathryn Urquhart and Jill Parker are
stepping down from their key organizational roles. Their positions are very suited to being done by a team,
rather than just one or two people, so if your time is limited you can still help fill the void they will leave.
And they will be available to provide support to the new team during this transitional year. If you are
interested in joining in, please speak with Richard, Kathryn or Jill.
THE CASSEROLE BRIGADE…
…is a tangible expression of our Christian faith, offering the hospitality of food when it is
most needed. In giving and receiving, there is a blessing. Over the past two or more years,
volunteers of the Casserole Brigade have provided food for members of our congregation,
and the recipients are always very grateful for our help. If you would like to know how you
can help out, Vivian Urquhart would be happy to tell you more. Likewise, if you are aware of anyone in
need of support please pass that information on to Vivian. Our volunteers are always happy to be of help.
You may speak with Vivian personally, or contact her at [email protected] or 604-738-6671.
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
NOTES FROM COUNCIL
I have been tracking changes in BC Conference
since 2004. I began doing this because I was
curious to see how the changes we at Dunbar
Heights were experiencing compared to changes
in other congregations. When we began the
strategic ministry planning process in early
2011, I was able to show my fellow planners and
our consultant, that we were an outlier: the
indicators of church vitality at Dunbar were
more positive than the same indicators at most
other congregations.
Phyllis Airhart, the writer of the feature
article in the June Observer, "Do We Still Believe
That Something Vital is in the Making?"
comments that "Old ways of operating no
longer work as they did in the past — for banks,
newspapers, political parties or retailers let
alone churches." It is in this context that we
seek to become something new.
However, in spite of us doing all the right
things we could not sustain that vitality for
much longer. Thus began a process towards
amalgamation which continues on July 7th: our
council members will have dinner with our
counterparts at Ryerson to see if Ryerson folks
share our enthusiasm in growing a new United
Church on the west side of Vancouver.
Conversations to-date are very encouraging.
One long-time Ryerson board member said our
decision to take the question of "which
building?" off the table was courageous. The
chair of the Ryerson council thought the ideas in
our Prospectus were brilliant.
2004
85
Incidentally, here are a few highlights from
my latest charts, which are based on 2013
statistics from the United Church Yearbook
published in late November each year. These
figures are the aggregate of the numbers from
four, largely urban, Presbyteries in BC
Conference: Vancouver Burrard, Vancouver
South, Victoria and Westminster.
2013
75
No. of Preaching Places
15,121 12,716
No. of Households Under Pastoral Care
9,135
6,703
Average Weekly Attendance
90
70
Median Weekly Attendance
36
22
Weekly Attendance >100
22
7
Weekly Attendance >150
7
4
Weekly Attendance >200
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Given the basic costs of managing a church
and the relatively low average annual giving —
about $1,700 per financially supporting
household in our Presbytery — it seems to me
that pressure will build for a more rational use
of the very fine sacred spaces we have. Our next
steps may well be a model for that
rationalization.
Summer 2015
large number of worshippers and the prospect
of meeting and comparing ideas with fellow
United Church folks is very stimulating.
My term as Council Chair ended in June. It is
rewarding to be part of the strong leadership
team at Dunbar Heights. I am grateful for the
experience.
Mark Paetkau, Council Chair
[email protected] 604-730-9035
l
I'm looking forward to Summer Stream. As a
choir member I am happy to be practising and
singing for an extra month, I like being part of a
Let there be light..."
God made the Sun and
the Moon and set
brilliant Stars around
them
www.dunbarheightsuc.ca
Seeking to follow the way of Jesus,
we dare to live God’s hope in our time and context.
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
COUNCIL MINUTES
COUNCIL MINUTES FOR MAY 20, 2015
APPROVED AT JUNE, 2015 MEETING
Present
Regrets
Present
Present
Regrets
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Regrets
Present
Present
Mark Paetkau
Julie Poznanski
Rev. Richard Bott
Cathy Cryder
Fred Fawcett
Michael Vogel
Barbara Johnson
Maggie Hosgood
Kathryn Urquhart
Anne Clark
Barbara McLeish
John Smith
Elaine Knapp-Fuller
Arthur Ross
Chair
Finance Committee
Minister
Minister of Youth, Children & Families
Treasurer
Property Committee
Worship Committee
Outreach Committee
CYFRC
Secretary
Member at Large
Member at Large
Member at Large
Presbytery Representative
1. Mark Paetkau called the meeting to order. Rev Richard opened the meeting in prayer.
2. Regrets: Julie Poznanski, Fred Fawcett, John Smith.
3. Minutes of April 15, 2015. Motion to approve the minutes, as circulated. Motion made by Michael
Vogel, seconded by Barbara McLeish. The motion was passed. The minutes of September 2014 are still
outstanding.
4. Minister’s Report. Richard is working on Summer Stream. Music is coming together. Advertising
coming out in next couple of weeks, including banners for each church. There have been two months
with no entries for Good Tidings. Discussion about a quarterly or seasonal newsletter. We will produce
Good Tidings every second or third month, depending on need as much information is in bulletins and
mail chimp. Richard has been asked to stand as President of BC conference, with two years as the
President elect and one year as president in 2017-18 and sought council’s response. Council was
supportive of Richard’s decision with some concern expressed for the amount of time that the
conference president role will take in the proposed church structural changes.
5. Ministry of Youth Children and Families Report. Camp Spirit staff is hired. Three young adults as
program leaders. Allison Rennie will offer leadership development throughout the summer. Only one
male staff person. 12 registered at DHUC already. First of four curriculums completed. Cathy is off to
conference May 27, in Whistler, working with the children. Godly Play organized through to end of
school year. Working on Summer Stream with Pamela Jeffery.
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
6. Children Youth and Families Resource Committee. One cake to say good bye for Olivia and Michelle,
Edie, Zach, John and Grace. Volunteer appreciation June 11 during which children will serve dinner to
the volunteers.
7. Ministry and Personnel. Cathy’s review is underway. The questionnaire was sent out on Mail Chimp
both to attract response from those who work with Cathy and to educate others on what the ministry
involves. Sheila appreciates long lead-time to do the “one offs” – those special projects that require a
lot of time to make them as effective as we want. People should be mindful not to ask her to do things
that really are not part of her job description. Consideration given to a committee to help back her up
on building use and maintenance issues. Still looking for a pastoral care minister replacement, with
Linda McLaren’s assistance.
8. Finance Committee. Report circulated. Recommendation that we establish a reporting channel for
Sheila. Mark Paetkau, Michael Vogel both willing to serve. Need a person who will be the point person
for working with the user groups as a liaison. Forward suggested names to Mark.
9. Outreach. Report circulated. Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommends that churches create
small heart shaped gardens in memory of the children who died in residential schools. Outreach plans a
bordered small garden with native plants and a memorial plaque. Outreach would be responsible for
the cost of installing and maintaining the garden. Suggestion that Outreach consult with the
Musqueam people for their input. Anne to search minutes for names of those interested in a memory
garden. Maggie to let the congregation know about the plan.
10. Worship. Worship committee hopes to offer music on the lawn during Summer Stream at DHUC. 10:30
start time for worship. We need a dedicated person to direct people to worship at other locations with
carpooling options. Pentecost colours this Sunday. Feedback on making permanent the changes to
chancel risers has included many positive affirmations of change; 2 people are opposed. Michael is
addressing safety concerns to eliminate corners and dips that people do not see. Michael will address
limited space before the chairs. Laminate will be light in colour, with dark nosing to mark the edge of
the steps. Wheelchair accessibility to rear of chancel would be non-conforming because of narrowness
of door. Richard will canvass with other Summer Stream churches for wheeled mobility concerns to set
priorities.
11. Presbytery. Arthur left 3 videos to outline proposed changes to United Church structure. The changes
coming are profound. Some concern whether the proposed changes will address the financial
constraints facing the United Church.
12. Property. Property has budgeted for professional gardening. Maggie offered to contact gardeners for
quotes and to show them the work required. Any gardener suggestions should be forwarded to Maggie.
13. Seniors Working Group. November 22 event in gym means that Fall Fayre on November 21 will need to
shift. Anne and Richard will move Stitch and Chatter to the stage on the Saturday to accommodate sale
on Sunday morning.
MOTION: Moved that up to $240 be committed to sponsoring members of DHUC to attend Compassionate
Listening. Moved by Anne, seconded by Michael Vogel. The motion was passed.
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
14. Other Business.
a. We need chair of council, chair of worship, chair of Outreach and the building up of the property
committee.
b. AGM date currently set for June 7. Deadline tight for getting AGM report out. Moved to June
28th.
c. Anne, Richard and Mark met with Ryerson leaders today. Met with enthusiasm on our
presentation. Ryerson’s new development is commanding their attention and ready to consult
the neighbours. Ryerson leaders seemed open to possibilities of involving with us now while
things are in transition. Ryerson positive about the possibility of engaging our ministry gifts and
alert that both congregations would be changed. Some practical concerns were raised directed
at congregational culture. Saw parallel processes between the two congregations in the
development, visioning to date. We were asked about the other conversations and advised that
Ryerson was our first, most logical visit.
d. Richard will meet with Beth Hayward, Stephen Chambers and Deb Bowman at Beth’s request as
a starting point. Richard has advised that we are interested in a partnership conversation and
not in having another multi-church conversation.
Next meeting: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 at 7:00 pm.
Motion to adjourn by Arthur Ross at 8:55 p.m.
Senior’s Working Group in Action
Outreach in Action
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
COUNCIL MINUTES FOR JUNE 17, 2015
FOR APPROVAL AT NEXT 2015 MEETING
Present
Regrets
Present
Regrets
Regrets
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Regrets
Present
Present
Present
Mark Paetkau
Julie Poznanski
Rev. Richard Bott
Cathy Cryder
Fred Fawcett
Michael Vogel
Barbara Johnson
Maggie Hosgood
Kathryn Urquhart
Anne Clark
Barbara McLeish
John Smith
Elaine Knapp
Arthur Ross
Chair
Finance Committee
Minister
Minister of Youth, Children & Families
Treasurer
Property Committee
Worship Committee
Outreach Committee
CYFRC
Secretary
Member at Large
Member at Large
Member at Large
Presbytery Representative
1. Mark Paetkau called the meeting to order. Rev Richard opened the meeting in prayer.
2. Regrets: Julie Poznanski, Cathy Cryder, Fred Fawcett and Barbara McLeish.
3. Minutes of May 20, 2015. Motion to approve the minutes as amended. Motion made by Michael Vogel,
seconded by Barbara Johnson. The motion was passed.
4. Minister’s Report. Summer Stream met earlier this week for final planning. Final advertising arrives
tomorrow, banners next week. Baptism in first week for SHUC child. Catering of lunches has proved too
expensive. Challenge will be the set up and clean up for 200-300 people. Carpooling coming together.
Ministry team planned out worship services from now until next June. Themes are laid out until
January 1. With many requests for a 2nd worship, the worship team has set Wednesday evenings with a
meal and spiritual nurture from September – December, for reassessment in November, December,
starting at 4:30 to accommodate the junior choir. Ryerson and Knox are considering participation.
Stewardship will be offered in 3 Sundays using a “giving kit” from UCC October 18, 25 and November
15. Pastoral care committee will be recruiting more members, assisted by 2 educational services on the
nature of pastoral care, starting with a Good Tidings announcement. Christian education for the fall:
the Disciple program, lay led and an 8 week immersion program on Thursday nights starting October
18. Hoping to offer a newcomers dinner in mid fall as an intro to DHUC and UCC, with talk of mission.
Would appreciate council member attendance.
5. Ministry of Youth Children and Families Report. Report circulated. Council affirms that Camp Spirit
bursary envelopes be placed in the pews for the next two weeks. Richard will make announcement this
week.
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
6. Children Youth and Families Resource Committee. The committee has finished meeting until fall.
Nearly completed felting all the hearts onto the black background in preparation for Summer Stream.
7. Ministry and Personnel. Report circulated. Outlined Sheila’s suggestions about rental rates, including
cost for custodial staff. Further discussion about competing interests for sanctuary space set up
between Saturday recitals and Sunday worship. Outlined need for emergency preparedness
information in place. Reference again to providing a committee to assist Sheila in liaison with user
groups, property issues and emergencies and an updated trades list. Arthur will clarify that there will
be no single event bookings in August.
8. Finance Committee. Report circulated. Council accepts Finance Committee’s recommendation that the
unassigned Lenten Appeal offering be designated to the Refugee Committee. Mark will contact
Vancouver Management regarding the renewal of the lease for the manse.
9. Outreach. Outreach meeting postponed until tomorrow.
10. Presbytery. Report circulated. Six pensioners attended the pensioners’ dinner. United in God’s work
report was discussed and now fully available. Presbytery moving to 3 all day meetings a year. Next
meeting Saturday, September 19th.
11. Property. Maggie was unable to use her gardener, so did the work with a group of people cleaning out
morning glory and cleaning beds. Michael will determine what the budget is for hiring gardeners for
the beds and advise Maggie.
12. Worship. Thanks to Anne and John for offering worship leadership. There was good feedback. Point
people have been assigned for last minute Summer Stream carpooling; all but one slot for music on the
lawn is filled. Need more drivers for carpooling. Worship committee meets Sunday.
13. Other Business.
a. Nominating committee: has found people to stand for chair and secretary. Also in
conversation with a possible Web Minister. Mark will remain as past chair for a year.
Waiting on information about a chair of Worship.
b. AGM agenda for June 28. Offering of report. Focus on discussion to date re Ryerson, led by
Richard. Mark will prepare copies of Prospectus for AGM and to have it published in Good
Tidings. Recommendation that we highlight the Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s Call
to Action report for more in depth follow-up in the fall. Outreach and Richard will prepare a
presentation.
c. Preparing for dinner with Ryerson. Sign up sheet circulated to supply the necessary food.
Open House at Ryerson June 25, 5 – 8:00 pm to talk about their plans with the neighbours.
Richard meeting with Stephen Chambers of SHUC next week.
Next meeting: Sunday, July 12, 2015 after worship to reflect on joint council BBQ.
Motion to adjourn by Arthur Ross at 8:35 p.m.
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Summer 2015
Seekers, questioners and believers at various stages on the journey
SUMMER WORSHIP
WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH WORSHIP THIS SUMMER?
SUMMERSTREAM UNITED!
Four United Churches – Dunbar Heights, Shaughnessy
Heights, Ryerson and St. Stephen’s United Churches – have
decided to worship together this summer. Why? To give us
a chance to worship and have some fun together, and to
share the resources that we have in our four congregations
to do so.
The ministry team has put together an exciting series
for summertime worship, moving the experience around
Image: pixabay.com
three of the four churches over the summer. But – don’t
worry – we’ve got plans in place to make sure you can get to the services you want to be at. (If you’d like to
be part of car-pooling, please contact Barbara Johnson: [email protected] or 604-733-2785.) And, happily
for us, we’re going to have a chance to get used to things, because we’ll be starting the summer at Dunbar
Heights.
Worship will start at 10:30am, with refreshments on the lawn beforehand (which will also give those of
us who went to the wrong building time to join everyone else!) There will be fellowship times after each
service, and lunch on some Sundays, so we have the chance to meet our neighbours.
For the Sundays that we’re at Dunbar Heights, Greg has invited anyone who would like to, to come and
join in a summer choir. He’s got music picked out that will connect with our themes. The choir will meet at
7:00pm on Thursday evenings.
Here’s what’s happening, and where:




Sunday, July 5th at Dunbar Heights UC with the Rev. Dr. John Pentland preaching
Starting us off with “Living Well!”
Sunday, July 12th at Dunbar Heights UC with the Rev. Deb Bowman preaching
“Water from the Rock”
Sunday, July 19th at Dunbar Heights UC with the Rev. Sally McShane preaching
“The Drought and the Deluge” – exploring our Christian calling to serve in the world
Sunday, July 26th at Ryerson UC with the Right Rev. Gary Paterson preaching
“Water of Life”
cont’d...
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




Summer 2015
Sunday, Aug. 2nd at Ryerson UC with
“Flowing like a Mighty River” – a service of music and hope
Sunday, Aug. 9th at Ryerson UC with the Rev. Dr. Steven Chambers preaching
“Stilling the Waters”
Sunday, Aug. 16th at Ryerson UC with Ms. Laurel Chapman preaching
“Water/Wine”
Sunday, Aug. 23rd at Shaughnessy Heights UC with the Rev. Dr. Steven Chambers preaching
“And the Rains Came Down”
Sunday, Aug. 30th at Shaughnessy Heights UC with an All-Ages Team leading worship
“Called by the Sea”
As well, we’re going to be having a Gospel Choir Event with Marcus Mosely as our director, at
Shaughnessy Heights UC on August 22nd. The choir will be singing at the August 23rd service. (More
information to come about this.)
There will be a focus children’s ministry, facilitated by Cathy Cryder and Pamela Jeffery, along with their
very able team; and a nursery for younger children.
If you’d like more information about Summer Stream, please check out www.summerstreamunited.ca,
or speak with one of the members of our ministry team.
Centennial Picnic 2014
www.dunbarheightsuc.ca
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CENTENNIAL WRAP-UP
From the AGM June 2015 Report
In the AGM Report last June we talked about the events held to that date, the Launch Luncheon and Trivia
Dinner. We reported on our work in the DHUC Archives. What we looked forward to at that time was the
October Centennial Weekend. And it was a grand weekend of celebration!




Three music events: Centennial Choir concert of
Rutter’s Gloria on Friday night, musica intima on
Saturday and Postmodern Camerata on Sunday
afternoon
Open House on Saturday was an opportunity to
display for the neighbourhood all of the wonderful
ministry that goes on at DHUC.
Sunday morning worship with visitors and three
guest ministers, Rev. Barry Cooke, Rev. Brenda
Fawkes and Rev. Michelle Slater.
A grand Sunday luncheon where conversations
buzzed and no one wanted to leave.
Are we enjoying the new chairs? Thanks to all who bought one or more! They go well with our new
tables.
Much of the work in the archives has been accomplished. Carloads of recycling and shredding were
taken out; the remaining old files were grouped and boxed. Over the summer we hope to put the material
in each box in order and label the boxes. We would love to have some help! Volunteers please speak to
Barbara Johnson or Maureen Paetkau.
However, archiving is an ongoing project. Policies need to be in place for what goes into the archives,
when and how new material is integrated into the old; what can be recycled out.
ONE MORE PROJECT AND ONE HOPE
The one remaining initiative to honour Dunbar Heights United Church Centennial is to produce a Centennial
book. Work has been ongoing since January, with delays as volunteers tend to busy lives. But it will be
done! With two-thirds of the history and photos complete the book is 40 pages long so far. When
complete, copies will be placed in DHUC Archives and Library, in BC Conference Archives and in the hands
of ministers who participated in the Centennial weekend worship. There will be copies available at the
church in hope that friends and members of DHUC will order copies for themselves.
The hope: In the archives we found a Vancouver Sun article written at the laying of the cornerstone of
the sanctuary building. The caption read: “Behind the block they are positioning an urn containing
memorial pictures and papers.” We would love to open up that cornerstone and retrieve the pictures and
papers from that urn.
It has been an honour to work on this important celebration and Barbara and I thank Richard, Greg,
Elinor, Kathy Findlay, and all of you for supporting events
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.
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We are nurtured and challenged by the presence of the Spirit …
to engage our neighbourhood near and far in living lives of justice.
OUTREACH UPDATE
THE MEMORIAL GARDEN
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission wound up its activities this year. However, before they
wound up completely they sent out suggestions of projects and other ways in which we could carry on
the work the Commission had begun. One project that appealed to the Outreach Committee was the
building of a small, heart-shaped garden in memory of the First Nations children who died while in
Residential School. Council approved our going forward with this garden. The gardens are a national
project, and are not only for churches, but also for community groups.
So far…

The site: The DHUC heart-shaped garden will be set in the front lawn on the south-east corner,
near the church sign. We have approached the elders at Musqueam for their approval and ideas
about which plants to use. The congregation is invited to take part in the design, building and
maintenance of the garden, although the Outreach Committee has promised to care for the
garden once completed.

The materials: The design includes use of a heavy rubber edging to be placed deeply into the
ground, it will have no hard edges or corners for safety reasons, and it can be easily shaped.

The mobility: At the June 28th AGM many people asked what would happen if we moved from
our building. The answer is that the garden’s design will allow it to be moved wherever we go.

The plaque: We will have a plaque for the garden. No design has been chosen yet, nor have we
decided on the text. Outreach welcomes suggestions for this.

The deadline: We plan to present the garden at our Summer Stream United July 19th service.
Outreach is also hosting the Outreach Fair after worship that day, so please come and talk to us
about what the committee is doing, and take a look at our display of past projects and future
plans!
And one more thing...
Please check the Outreach bulletin board in the hallway beside the kitchen door. We have posted a
lot of information about The City Before the City, a series of three distinct exhibits being presented at
three locations in Vancouver: The Vancouver Museum at Kits Point, the Museum of Anthropology at
UBC, and the Musqueam Cultural Center on Musqueam Lands. All of these exhibits are well worth a
visit!
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HEALING MINISTRIES UPDATE
WORKING WITH ENERGY, WORKING WITH SPIRIT
There are over 20 practitioners with Dunbar Healing Ministries.
Many are from Dunbar Heights, some are from other congregations
and some are from the wider community.
OFFERING HEALING TREATMENTS
On the 4th Monday of each month (with variation if holidays
interfere) we offer treatments to Dunbar folk and those from our
related communities. Many come for help in dealing with on-going
medical and emotional situations. Others come as the result of
injury or surgery.
SUMMER SCHEDULE

Healing Ministries will continue to meet through the summer. The
sessions are:
 July 13th at 7:00pm in the sanctuary for a practice session
 July 27th at 7:30pm in the sanctuary for an “open” session
 August 10th at 7:00om in the sanctuary for a practice session
August 24th at 7:30pm in the sanctuary for an “open” session
If members of the congregation are undergoing surgery or have had a physical or emotional trauma (e.g.
a fall or significant change in their life), they are encouraged to contact Susan Burns, Lorraine Struyk or
Judy Donaldson to arrange for a specially scheduled healing session. Asking is encouraged, usually
requests can be accommodated. So please do not be shy.
CONTEMPLATIVE MEDITATION UPDATE
During May and June the group (about twelve) met to listen to and discuss the Four
Voice Method of Discernment, taught by Cynthia Bourgeault, and offered through The
Contemplative Journal on-line. It was a most engaging and stimulating seven-week
series that has practical application for a life of sustainable and growing integrity.
Contemplative Meditation will continue
through July. Please watch the weekly announcements for
updates on August plans.
Cynthia Bourgeault
Image: YouTube
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Summer 2015
THANK YOU...
Thank you is simply not enough to express my deep gratitude
for your kindness, but let me begin there.
Thank You! Your generous gift of money will be put to good and
faithful use and the beautiful quilt from Stitch N Chatter has
travelled with me to Oliver. Wrapped in its beauty, I am held in
the blessings and prayers placed with each loving stitch of the quilt. Thank you!
I am settled now in Oliver and enjoying my time at Osoyoos United Church. They are a warm
and welcoming congregation and willing to embrace my learning edges.
I would like to share I have been approved by Candidacy and Admissions Board (CAB) for the
next step of my journey – Supervised Ministry Experience (SME). They were affirming of my
gifts and supported me in my goal of worship leadership. I continue to pray that I will find
myself appointed in the Lower Mainland or vicinity.
My journey to here is filled with so many touchstones and you at Dunbar are one of them.
Thank you for the generous love you have offered me. I think of you all and hold you in my
prayers. Blessings to you as you celebrate summer worship with the other Westside churches.
Linda
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Dunbar Heights United Church Monthly Newsletter
Summer 2015
SUMMER DHUC MEETINGS
Committee Meetings
Spirituality & Group Meetings
WORSHIP COMMITTEE usually meets on the 2nd
Sunday of each month, at 12:00 noon in the
Lounge. There are no meetings planned for
summer at time of printing. The next scheduled
meeting is September 12th.
STITCH & CHATTER meets every Thursday at
9:00am in the Ethel Todrick Room. They will
continue to meet throughout the summer.
HEALING MINISTRY usually meets on the 2nd
and 4th Monday of each month, at 7:30pm in the
Sanctuary. The meeting on the 4th Monday is
open to the community. The summer open
sessions are July 27th and August 24th.
FINANCE COMMITTEE usually meets on the 2nd
Tuesday of each month, at 7:00pm in the
Lounge. There are no summer meetings. The
September meeting is on the 8th.
CONTEMPLATIVE MEDITATION meets every
Tuesday at 7:30pm in the Library. They will
continue to meet during July. Please watch the
bulletin for announcement of any August
meetings that may be set.
MINISTRY & PERSONNEL COMMITTEE usually
meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, at
7:00pm in the Library. They will meet during the
summer as necessary. The next scheduled
meeting is September 9th.
PASTORAL CARE TEAM will meet as necessary
during the summer. If you have a pastoral care
emergency please contact Rev. Richard or one of
the pastoral care team members.
rd
COUNCIL usually meets on the 3 Wednesday of
each month, at 7:00pm in the Ethel Todrick
Room. There are changes to this schedule for
the summer: The 1st scheduled summer meeting
is July 7th with members of Ryerson United’s
council. The 2nd scheduled meeting is after
worship on Sunday, July 12th. Further meetings
will be announced as they are set.
UNIT 3 usually meets on the 2nd Thursday of
each month at a place to be announced. There
are no summer meetings.
CHOIR PRACTICE is every Thursday at 7:00pm in
the Sanctuary. Choir will practice July 2nd, 9th,
and 16th. They will not practice again until
September 10th.
OUTREACH COMMITTEE usually meets at
5:00pm on the 2nd Thursday of each month in a
member’s home. The next meeting is July 9th.
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Summer 2015
NEWS FROM THE CHURCH LIBRARY
As mentioned in the last
newsletter, we have added a
new category, Parent
Resources, to the church
library. Although this section
has started out small, Cathy
Cryder will gradually choose
books and other resources
that will be helpful for
families and caregivers. An
excellent example is A Faith
Like Mine, which Jill Parker
has reviewed for us this month.
to begin with. For each major
religion there is information
about Words of Faith, Faith
and Tradition, Faith and
Family, Faith and Learning,
Faith and Community, and
Faith and Hope. Each
paragraph is illustrated with
a photograph and a few
comments from a child, each
child from a different
country. Special festivals,
symbols, ceremonies, rites of passage and
places of worship are also described by the
children, and there is a small map showing
where followers of each religion generally live.
The Parent Resources section is on the
bookshelf to the right of the library window, next to
the desk.
A Faith Like Mine
by Laura Buller
Throughout the book, the text is simple and
respectful of all religions. The children’s photos
and quotes are natural and endearing.
The sub-title of this book states that it is A
Celebration of the World’s Religions Through
the Eyes of Children and it delivers just that!
The book covers the six major religions:
Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Judaism,
Christianity and Islam. It also includes a short
description of other, lesser known, faiths.
This is a beautiful book, which will enrich
anyone – child or adult – who reads it. Large
print, short paragraphs and colour everywhere
make it an excellent choice as a resource to
introduce children to other faiths. The author
and all who helped to create this book are to be
congratulated.
After an introduction that asks the question
“What is Faith?” there is a simple definition:
“faith” is trust, loyalty and truth. That is enough
Reviewed by Jill Parker
Our greatest gift is our multi-age community in which we treasure our roots
and heritage and embrace the wisdom of the new
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Summer 2015
Dunbar Heights United Church
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
June 28
10:00 Worship
11:30 AGM and Lunch
June 29
9:30 Yoga
5:30 Jazzercise
7:30 Monday Step
June 30
9:30 Yoga
7:30 Cont Meditation
6
7
9:30 Yoga
5:00 Karate
7:30 Cont Meditation
TBA Council Meeting
5
10:30 Worship
Guest Preacher Rev.
Dr. John Pentland
12:00 Lunch
12
10:30 Worship
12:00 Council Mtg
19
10:30 Worship
Guest Preacher Rev.
Sally McShane
12:00 Lunch &
Outreach Fair
26
10:30 Worship
at Ryerson with Right
Rev. Gary Paterson
7:30 Monday Step
13
5:30 Jazzercise
7:00 Healing Ministry
7:30 Monday Step
14
9:30 Yoga
5:00 Karate
7:30 Cont Meditation
20
21
9:30 Yoga
5:00 Karate
7:30 Cont Meditation
5:30 Jazzercise
7:30 Monday Step
27
Camp Spirit
7:30 Healing Ministry
Open Session
7:30 Monday Step
28
Camp Spirit
7:30 Cont Meditation
Wednesday
July 2015
Thursday
July 1
CANADA DAY
OFFICE CLOSED
July 2
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
9:30 Yoga
6:30 Lifeline
7:00 Choir Practice
8
9:30 Yoga
Friday
9
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
9:30 Yoga
5:00 Outreach Ctte
5:00 Karate
6:30 Lifeline
7:00 Choir Practice
15
9:30 Yoga
5:30 Jazzercise
16
22
23
31
10
11
2:00 Private Recital
17
18
24
25
31
August 1
5:00 Karate
30
Camp Spirit
6:30 Lifeline
4
5:00 Karate
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
9:30 Yoga
5:00 Karate
6:30 Lifeline
29
Camp Spirit
July 3
5:00 Karate
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
9:30 Yoga
5:00 Karate
6:30 Lifeline
7:00 Choir Practice
9:30 Yoga
5:30 Jazzercise
7:00 Soul Tending
Saturday
Camp Spirit
Dunbar Heights United Church
Sunday
Monday
August 2
10:30 Worship
at Ryerson
BC DAY
OFFICE CLOSED
Tuesday
3
4
7:30 Cont Meditation
Wednesday
August 2015
Thursday
5
9:30 Yoga
Friday
Saturday
6
7
8
13
14
15
20
21
22
10:30 at Shaughnessy
Heights United –
Gospel Choir
Workshop
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
9:30 Yoga
6:30 Lifeline
7:30 Monday Step
9
10:30 Worship
at Ryerson with Rev.
Dr. Steven Chambers
12:00 Worship Ctte
10
7:00 Healing Ministry
7:30 Monday Step
11
9:30 Yoga
7:30 Cont Meditation
9:30 Yoga
17
18
9:30 Yoga
7:30 Cont Meditation
19
9:30 Yoga
7:00 Council Meeting
16
12
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
9:30 Yoga
5:00 Outreach Ctte
6:30 Lifeline
10:30 Worship
at Ryerson with
Preacher Laurel
Chapman
7:30 Monday Step
23
10:30 Worship
at Shaughnessy
Heights with Rev. Dr.
Steven Chambers &
music guests
24
7:30 Healing Ministry
Open Session
7:30 Monday Step
25
9:30 Yoga
7:30 Cont Meditation
27
28
29
9:30 Yoga
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
9:30 Yoga
6:30 Lifeline
31
September 1
9:30 Yoga
7:30 Cont Meditation
September 2
9:30 Yoga
5:00 Open Worship
September 3
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
9:30 Yoga
6:30 Lifeline
September 4
September 5
30
10:30 Worship
at Shaughnessy
Heights
All Ages Service
7:30 Monday Step
9:00 Stitch&Chatter
6:30 Lifeline
26
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