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FROM THE MINISTER’S DESK
“I started reading a book recently that, judging by the title, seemed like it would be a perfect resource for my doctoral project. I quickly grew frustrated with it, because the author took more of a “storytelling” approach, with flowery imagery, and I thought, “just make your point!” I don’t mind reading stories for fun, but when I’m trying to learn something I like it to be made clear.
I probably would have grown very frustrated if I was following Jesus around Galilee, and had to listen to parables! Some of the twelve disciples wondered why he didn’t speak plainly, and I think there are still some today who wish he would have. But Jesus didn’t just want to put facts into our heads, he wanted to put love into our hearts, and Jesus knew that takes artistry and creativity. I guess He knew what He was doing!”
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 16th 2026
SCRIPTURE READER: Felicity Monaco
MUSIC: Sarah Wyse
POWER POINT: Henry Wong
SUNDAY SCHOOL: Sharon Gayman Laird
LEMONADE ON THE LAWN:
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 20:1-16, Luke 10:25-37 and Psalm 145:14-21. You can also find a daily scripture message at the top of our website.
FOSTER CHILDREN
Back-to-School Backpack Drive
Once again, Central has set a goal of providing 40 school backpacks for foster children in York Region in time for the start of the new school year. Each backpack will be thoughtfully filled with essential school supplies, including a water bottle, lunch box, duotangs, crayons, highlighters, a Christian bookmark, and a personal note of encouragement.
Our youth will help pack the backpacks, making each one a bundle of encouragement and support. We warmly invite the congregation to join us in this mission by donating toward the cost of these school supplies.
Donations of any amount may be made to Central United Church and designated “YRCAS.” Donations of more than $20 to Central United Church will be included on your annual charitable tax receipt.
Deadline: Sunday, August 16, 2026.
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Wednesday, August 26th at 10:00 am
Come and join us for a chat in the Friendship Room on Wed. August 26th 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 – December 3
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
Thank you to all book club members for coming out & making this season of book club so thoughtful, engaging and enjoyable.
Book Club will resume on September 23rd & new members are always welcome.
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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