Grace United Church – Gananoque

“Do Not Let Your Circumstances Take Away the Joy of God’s Blessings” Dear Grace United Church, I do not know what is going on in your life right at this moment, or what is waiting for each of us this summer season. However, the Spirit is leading me to share what I have been learning still today about God’s Blessings and life’s circumstances. Most of you know that I attended the Festival of Homiletics in Denver, Colo., which took place the week of May 16. This was the event’s first in-person gathering since 2019, which also offered virtual participation. At … Read more

Dear Grace United Church, Spring has sprung, and winter coats and shoes are put away. The time has come to open up our hearts and minds to the great outdoors and the Universe, to be recharged and rejuvenated, to make this world a better place. There is an annual conference that takes place in the United States, which I have attended since 2013, called Festival of Homiletics – in other words, Festival of Preaching – Yes, who would want to attend a festival of preaching and listen to 4-5 sermons and lectures per day? I would, yours truly! Why, you … Read more

Why bother to become a Full Member at a Community of Faith? There are many things in life that make us wonder. So, imagine how many more questions people have about Spirituality, Religion, and being part of a Community of Faith. By no means does a minister have all the answers, but sometimes a minister can offer explanations to help us find our way. Today, I invite you to think how your home address is essential to your everyday life; and how it is the place that you connect with your immediate family, and also how friends and extended family … Read more

Dear Grace United Church,   We have made a full circle once again and arrived at the most beautiful time of the year – Spring!  Spring is not only a time that lifts our spirits with the beautiful symphony that the birds offer us, with the honking of the geese, but also gives us a feast to our eyes and senses with the blossoming of colourful flowers and scents that wake us up from a slumber.   Easter Sunday is celebrated on the first Sunday following the Paschal Full Moon, which is the first full moon of Spring. This year, April 17 will be Easter … Read more

Newsletter – Spring 2021 – Rev. Takouhi’s Reflection… Dear Grace United Church Family & Friends, Exactly a year ago today, March 8, 2020, was the last time that I led worship celebrations – like we knew it – at the communities of faith that I served. Without any fear we were shaking hands, hugging each other, sitting side by side, singing fearlessly, praying, passing the Peace of Christ, the offering plates, dancing, clapping, having coffee, cookies, celebrating birthdays, and breaking bread together as the Sacrament of Communion or dinners/lunches for mission fundraisings and otherwise. Today, when I look back, I … Read more