Reflections for Advent I

Canadian singer-song-writer Steve Bell, who worships with the Anglican congregation of St. Benedict's Table in Winnipeg, in 2020 created a series of  three videos of reflection in text and music for Advent.  He is now sharing them for all online. Your Editor will post these regularly through this season, hoping that they will bring you blessings.

Worshipping in Person Again!

 

It's official (for now!) -- we're back to in-person worship at St. Cyprian's!  We began on November 14, and now have arranged a schedule of alternating Morning Prayer and Eucharist Services through to January 23, 2022 -- all being well, and COVID statistics permitting.  (Christmas service details will be posted at a later date.)

On the weeks that Rev. Robert is officiating at Eucharist in St. John's Parish, Olds, we at St. Cyprian's will worship with Morning Prayer from the Book of Alternative Services.  The officiants and homilies/reflections at these services will be provided by lay ministry volunteers from the parish.  

Given that this virus is still very much in our midst, there are some protocols that must be followed to keep worshippers and celebrants healthy and safe, to whit:

• We will have a limited number of attendees, and have needed to institute a registration process to ensure we can meet numbers that meet distancing requirements. To register in advance, contact Jean at 587 377-2392 between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm.  
• Out of courtesy, please don't leave it until the last minute!  
• And if you are bringing a guest or another parishioner with you, please ensure that you register them at the same time.  We will do our best to accommodate "surprise" visitors, but space limitations make this a challenge at this time.
• We will be following all protocols outlined by Archbishop Greg Kerr-Wilson for the Anglican Diocese of Calgary:
• Masks and social distancing will be required.  
• We will be able to sing, but with masks on. 
• Social gatherings are not yet allowed, so there will unfortunately be no coffee hour yet.
• Pews have been marked off for alternate use to enable social distancing.
• Please keep your outer-wear (coats etc.) with you, so that you can exit the church through the hall after the service, rather than loop back into the narthex.
• Those wishing to make an offering for the work of the parish, including the Primate's World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) may do so in a plate on the table at the entrance.  Our offerings will be taken up to the altar at the appropriate time in the service, for thanksgiving prayer;
• The "Passing of the Peace" will be done with smiles, nods, and hand gestures of welcome;
• Eucharist is being facilitated by priestly intinction, with the congregation remaining in their pews, and the sacrament being administered individually by Rev. Robert as he travels down the aisle of the church.

We welcome you to our worship, and ask only that you are mindful of the needs of others when you join us.  Please practice kindness in these challenging times...

Editor's Note: There is a slight 'skip' in this video from 

Canadian singer-song-writer Steve Bell; 

please don't let that distract you from the music.  

Thank you.

Remembering in Ordinary Time: November 11

 For Remembrance Day, from the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby...

Service for Sunday, November 7, 2021: Worshipping "In Place" (for now)

 

Today's service is provided by Rev. Robert Sears and members of the Anglican Parish of St. John's, Olds, Alberta. We're continuing our reflections on Hebrews.  Hymns will have scrolling text so you can sing along. 

Readings for Sunday, November 7, 2021:

Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17

 Psalm 127

 Hebrews 9:24-28

The Gospel of Mark 12:38-44

This week we remember especially Vince Seymour, a member of St. John's Parish, who was a regular participant in the parish's recorded services.  He passed away October 29 (see https://www.echovita.com/ca/obituaries/ab/olds/vincent-seymour-13617352).  May he rest in peace and rise in glory, and may his family and friends be comforted by sweet and happy memories of his presence in their lives.  

Please note that our parishes prepare to worship in person again, effective November 14, 2021.  Please pray for the Fruit of the Spirit to bless our congregations during this time of transition.  Thank you.

Thanks to Rev. Robert and volunteers for this service.

May it bless your day. 😊

Just a Reminder...

 

Yep! This weekend in Alberta -- Saturday night (Nov. 6) at bedtime...if you still have watches and clocks that need your help (like I do), don't forget to set 'em back an hour!

Music in (Extra)Ordinary Time: All Saints Day 2021

 

A little music for All Saints Day... 

Lyrics: Rev. William Walsham How 

Tune: Ralph Vaughan Williams - SINE NOMINE 

May it bless your day!  😊