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FROM THE MINISTER’S DESK
In this week’s Gospel reading, Jesus says that those who wish come after Him need to “take up their cross and follow Him.” For us, living in a world where crucifixions don’t happen like they did in Jesus’ time, it would be like saying, “strap yourself into an electric chair and follow me.” The very idea is horrific.
Following Jesus costs everything. It’s sounds like foolishness to the world. But it is the only way to live fully in God’s Kingdom. Are you willing to take up your cross and follow Him?
STAY CONNECTED…..
We want to help you stay connected so if you happen to be wondering “who’s doing what” in terms of duties, the list for this week is below….
August 30th 2026
SCRIPTURE READERS: Joan Hubbert
MUSIC: Jim Ling
POWER POINT: Thomas Black
SUNDAY SCHOOL: Sharon Gayman Laird
LEMONADE ON THE LAWN: Sally & Reece Sandiford
SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP 10:00 A.M.
Central United Church welcomes you to join our Worship Service Sunday mornings at 10:00 am. In worship we proclaim our faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour; God’s word is read and preached, sacraments celebrated, faith sung and prayers offered.
Sunday services are also livestreamed (and recorded) through the Church website or you can join here. A copy of the bulletin for this Sunday’s Service is attached here.
This Sunday’s Scripture readings are Matthew 16:21-28 and Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b. You can also find a daily scripture message at the top of our website.
LET’S GATHER WITH FRIENDS IN PRAYER!
Thursday, August 27th
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Unionville Alliance Church has invited us to join them for an evening to pray together for our churches and our community as we begin the Fall season’s programs. This will take place tonight, Thursday, August 27th from 7-9PM at UAC, 4898 16th Avenue, Markham.
UNITED CHURCH WOMEN (UCW)
Tuesday, Sept. 8th at 12 noon
The first meeting of the fall United Church Women (UCW) season will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 12 noon in the Friendship Room.
The UCW is open to ALL women in the church and we welcome everyone.
We meet monthly on the second Tuesday; bring your own lunch and share coffee, tea and sweets.
Our meetings begin with worship and feature a guest speaker or an interesting activity.
The Special Guest for September 8th is Ochelle Baller from Ghana Rural Integrated Development (GRID). She will tell us about the important work that is done in Ghana. There has been a longstanding Central connection as two former members our Central family served in the project.
Please save the date and join us.
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Wednesday, Sept. 9th at 10:00 am
Come and join us for a chat in the Friendship Room on Wed. Sept. 9th at 10:00 am. Our purpose is to provide a place to connect with others and an opportunity for friendship and fellowship.
If you’d like more information or have any questions, please feel free to contact John Frotten at jfrotten@rogers.com.
GRIEF SHARE
Wednesdays, September 16 – December 2
2:00 – 4:00 pm
If you’ve lost a loved one, you don’t have to walk through grief alone. GriefShare is a safe, caring group where you can find comfort, understanding, and hope.
Each weekly session features a video presentation, group discussion, and personal reflection to help you navigate healing.
- Open to all: Join anytime, whether your loss is recent or years ago.
- Materials: All course materials are provided.
Register by clicking here.
Know someone who could benefit? Please feel free to pass this invitation along.
THE JESUS YOU MAY NOT KNOW
Tuesdays, September 22 – November 24
2:00 – 3:30 pm
Discover a deeper, more intimate perspective of Christ in this transformative 10-week Bible study. Inspired by Dr. David Jeremiah’s insightful book, The Jesus You May Not Know, this course invites you to look past familiar stories and traditional preconceptions to encounter the true character, power, and heart of Jesus as revealed in Scripture. Whether you have been walking with the Lord for decades or are just beginning to explore your faith, this study will challenge, encourage, and renew your understanding of who Jesus really is.
A comprehensive study guide is highly recommended. It is available for $7 and will be provided at the course.
Please register to reserve your spot and study guide by clicking here.
ALPHA
Thursdays, September 24 – November 26
7:00 – 8:30 pm
Join us for a series of open, friendly conversations exploring the Christian faith. Each session features a short presentation on a different topic, followed by small-group discussion where you can share your thoughts—or just listen in.
Everyone is welcome, no matter your background or beliefs.
- When: Evenings at 6:30 PM (refreshments served)
- Format: Presentation + Small Group Discussion
Register by clicking here.
BAPTISM AND RECEPTION OF NEW MEMBERS
Sunday, Sept. 20th
On Sept. 20th we have scheduled a service of Baptism and Reception of New Members. There are four ways that adults can become full members of the church:
1. Baptism (if they were never baptized)
2. Affirmation of Baptismal vows (if they were baptized as infants but never confirmed)
3. Re-affirmation of Faith (if they were confirmed, but it has been many years since they were active members of a church)
4. Transfer (if they are currently members of a church but wish to transfer their membership to the church they are attending)
We also baptize infants and children who are presented for baptism by their parents (or, in some circumstances, by their grandparents), and those children are received as child members of the body of Christ until they choose to be confirmed, at which time they also become full members of our congregation.
If you have interest in or questions about membership or baptism, please email me at ldiaz@centralunitedchurch.com to set up a time for us to meet.
BOOK CLUB
Only weeks to go until Central United Book Club resumes on September 23rd. We are excited to launch our 2026/27 season with: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans.
Whether you’re a longtime reader or have been thinking about joining, now is the perfect time to become part of the Central United Book Club! Come enjoy, good books, lively conversation, and great fellowship as we begin a brand new season together.
Happy reading!
PASTORAL CARE
Should you become aware of any illness, bereavement, hospitalization, etc., among people of our church, please notify the church office as soon as possible.
If you would like a pastoral visit, please contact Rev. Diaz at the church office 905-474-0183 or by email ldiaz@centralunitedchurch.com.
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