Thames Road-Elimville United Church

P.O. Box 3, Exeter, Ont. N0M 1S6
Council report Newsletter Accessibility Church fees Calendar Community Park Map Community Resources


Sunday Worship
10 a.m.

Church office

Phone: 519-235-2803

E-mail:
thamesroadelimvilleuc@quadro.net

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM MARCH 6, 2024

The March 6th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes with a quorum present. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of February she attended the Council meeting, attended the Annual Meeting, prepared and led 4 Sunday worship services, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Luncheon in Mount Forest, prepared and led 4 Confirmation sessions, took the refresher course for Professional Boundaries, did 6 in-person pastoral care visits, attended the UCW meeting, enjoyed our Pancake Lunch, attended the Ministerial meeting, participated in the Coldest Night of the Year walk, officiated at a burial, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

Fundraising Committee

We had a fabulous response for our February gift card fundraiser. With 21 participants buying $10,975 worth of gift cards, the church received $416.25. A big thank you to everybody who participated this time.

The next gift card order is due Sunday, March 10, 2024. Due to VISTA being closed through March break, delivery will not be until *** Sunday March 24, 2024 ***. The projected April due date will be April 21, 2024 and the May due date will be May 12, 2024.

Christian Education Committee

The Sunday School has booked Zurich Bowling Lanes for Friday, March 15th (March Break) from 3:30-5:30 p.m. All are invited for bowling, supper at the church at 6 p.m. and an evening of St Patrick's Day themed activities. Watch for further details about supper as they become available. Amy and Sarah hope to see everyone there – that includes children, parents, grandparents, and friends!

Worship Committee

March 24th is Palm Sunday. On March 29th a Good Friday service will take place at the church at 10:00 a.m. Exeter United Church is invited to join with us. March 31st is Easter Sunday. Breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. (signup sheet on the back table). The worship service, with communion, will begin at 10:00 a.m. After expenses and donations of food from the Pancake Lunch on February 18th, $225.00 was donated to the TR-E Huggers team for the Coldest Night of the Year walk. There will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville United Church on Sunday April 14th due to the South Huron Foodgrains service at Exeter United Church. Folks are encouraged to worship in Exeter that day. As Reverend Louise is away on study leave on Sunday May 19th, there will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville United Church that day.

Outreach Committee

We welcome by transfer, into the fellowship of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge, the following full members: Linda Traquair from Hensall United Church, Jerry Traquair from Hensall United Church, and June Hodgson from Exeter United Church. The TR-E Huggers team thank everyone who donated towards the Coldest Night of the Year Walk on February 24th. The 13 walkers were Helen Kadey, Carolyn Johns, Joyce Fulton, Joan Skinner, Louise von Massow, Sharon Lynn, Robert & Kathy Bray, Grace, Ruby and Rosie Parker, and Rick & Judith Parker. The team raised $3,775 towards the campaign to relieve hurt, hunger and homelessness in the South Huron area. The March 5th service at Exeter Villa had 10 participants with Janis Richardson and Judith Parker assisting. Reverend Louise will be leading the next worship service on April 2nd at 2 p.m. A trunkful of food was delivered to the drop-off box at Hansen’s this week for the Exeter Community Food Bank. Thank you for bringing your contributions to church on the first Sunday of the month. There are five subscribers for the Broadview magazine which keeps the renewal cost at the $30 group rate.

Ministry and Personnel Committee

Reverend Louise will be on study leave virtually attending the Festival of Homiletics from Monday, May 13th – Friday, May 17th. There will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville United Church on Sunday, May 19th, the Victoria Day long weekend. Reverend Louise will be on vacation for one week at Algonquin Park from Monday, July 1st to Monday, July 8th. She will not be available for the worship service on Sunday, July 7th.  Reverend Louise will be on vacation for one week at Algonquin Park from Monday, August 5th to Monday, August 12th. She will not be available for the worship service on Sunday, August 11th.  Church cleaners are always needed. If you are able to help out, please sign up on the cleaning schedule posted above the desk in the basement of the church or contact Helen Kadey.

Community Park Committee

The annual report for the park has been sent to the Municipality of South Huron as per our Memorandum of Understanding agreement. Jack Hodgert has been working at ordering roses for the new rose garden at the park.

United Church Women

The UCW met on Feb 13th with Sharon Passmore and Joyce Fulton leading the program. Lunch hosts were Kathy Bray and Carolyn Johns. The members will be catering to the Exeter Curling Club wrap-up dinner on March 23rd. The next meeting is March 12th with Carolyn Johns and Joan Morgan leading the program. The Roll Call is “Describe yourself using a weather term” and Sharon Passmore and Joan Skinner will host lunch.

A World Day of Prayer coffee hour was held on Friday, March 1st with 16 ladies attending. We watched a video for the service written by Christian women of Palestine. It was a meaningful service that focused on a region of the world that has been in continual conflict. Something we cannot even imagine. This song entitled the “Kite Song” is a prayer for the children of Palestine and written for World Day of Prayer 2024 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTbCdoDyFCY. Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council/The United Church of Canada -Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada in February 2024. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

February 24, 2024 marked two years since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Nearly 30,000 lives have been lost and millions displaced. With this sombre anniversary, Canadian Christian leaders have joined voices, urging support for refugees and for peace. Their message? Pray, advocate for diplomacy, aid refugees, remember the invasion's impact, and hope for reconciliation. Donate to Mission and Service and stand with Ukraine and those suffering through this ongoing crisis. Read the full news story and ecumenical letter.

March 14th, National Affirming Day/PIE Day is a time for Public, Intentional and Explicit inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ people. This means showing up in solidarity, challenging hate, and reaching out beyond our community of faith. 2024 is the 6th birthday for PIE. Enjoy a piece of pie as you reflect on PIE; this year’s theme is PIE in the Public Square.

Foodgrains Committee

The annual South Huron Foodgrains church service will take place at Exeter United Church on Sunday April 14, 2024. Nevin McDougall will be the guest speaker at the service.

Other Business

Some time ago Council received a proposal from Sarah and Dave Govers to purchase the church building and surrounding property. Due to the significance of the proposition, Council has decided to take the matter to the congregation to consider the proposal and decide next steps. A Congregational Meeting is called for Tuesday April 2, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at the church. An alternate date for the meeting, if needed, is Wednesday April 3, 2024. A letter providing more information will be mailed to members and adherents of the congregation by March 15th. The required quorum for the meeting is 20 full members of the congregation. Please plan on attending this important meeting.

The Ministerial, a group made up of local ministry personnel, is organizing a fundraising cookbook project. The group is hoping the cookbook will be a compilation of recipes submitted by people from churches in the area. The proceeds of the sales will go to the South Huron Connection Centre (Community Table/Noah’s Ark). Watch your email in early April for ways in which you can submit your recipes for this worthwhile project.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 7:50 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM FEBRUARY 7, 2024

The February 7th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes with a quorum present. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of January she attended the Council meeting, prepared and led 4 Sunday worship services (one by Zoom), prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, attended a meeting with Exeter United Church to talk about collaboration, did 5 in-person pastoral care visits, attended a lunch with Perth Area Ministers, attended the Ministerial meeting, prepared and led a funeral, did some preparation for Confirmation sessions, attended a Zoom meeting led by EDGE for rural ministries, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

Finance Committee

The 2024 fee schedule for use of the church building and equipment was approved. Fees remained unchanged from last year.

Fundraising Committee

We had a great start to the 2024 gift card fundraiser. In January the church received $368.10 after 19 participants bought $9,420 worth of gift cards. The next order is due February 11th.

Christian Education Committee

Back by popular demand the Sunday School will be hosting another March Break St. Patrick’s Day themed activity for children, parents, and grandparents on Friday March 15th. Stay posted as we will be booking the activity based on whether it is likely if we have snow or not. New this year is a family chili cook-off competition which will serve as the supper. We hope to see you there!

Confirmation sessions started the first week of February.

Worship Committee

The Commissioning of Council will take place during the worship service on Sunday February 11th.

February 18th is the first Sunday of Lent. Communion will be served during the service.

To recognize Shrove Tuesday, a Pancake Lunch will be served following the worship service on Sunday February 18th. A signup sheet is on the back table.

There will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville United Church on Sunday April 14th due to the South Huron Foodgrains service at Exeter United Church. Folks are encouraged to worship in Exeter that day.

Outreach Committee

The TR-E Huggers team is registered for the upcoming Coldest Night of the Year Walk on February 24th. There are 8 walkers signed up currently, and we welcome more. Online donations can be made by visiting https://cnoy.org/location/exeter or cash donations can be given to Judith Parker or anyone signed up to walk. Funds raised will support the Southern Huron Connection Centre, which provides immediate essential needs to those who are unhoused or in need. This includes food, showers, and laundry facilities. Our church is scheduled to provide worship at Exeter Villa on the first Tuesday of every month beginning on Feb 6th. The next service will be March 5th at 2 p.m.

Thank you for bringing your contributions for the Exeter Community Food Bank to church on the first Sunday of the month.

Our Mission and Service Fund goal for 2024 was approved at the Annual Meeting at $7000.

Subscriptions to the Broadview magazine are due by Feb 29th. The cost is $30 for the year, and we need at least 5 subscribers to keep the group rate. Contact Judith Parker or Marianne Timmerman to renew or become a subscriber.

Ministry and Personnel Committee

Reverend Louise will be on vacation for one week at Algonquin Park from Monday, July 1st to Monday, July 8th. She will not be available for the church service on Sunday July 7th. 

Church cleaners are always needed. If you are able to help out, please sign up on the cleaning schedule posted above the desk in the basement of the church or contact Helen Kadey.

Trustees

As an update on the proposal from Dave and Sarah Govers to purchase the church building and surrounding property, a Congregational Meeting to provide information and decide next steps will take place on Tuesday April 2nd. Mark your calendar and watch your email/mailbox for more information in the coming weeks.

The Bereavement Authority of Ontario would like to see the headstones on the west side of the parking lot moved back to the actual burial ground area, possibly laid flat on the ground on the west side of the church. The original relocation of the cemetery headstones in the 1940’s was approved by the municipality of Usborne Township, which provided a grant for the work. In response to a recent letter from the Municipality of South Huron in which they asked how they can assist with privately owned cemetery expenses, Chair John replied that if assistance could be provided to relocate the stones again to meet current government standards it would be greatly appreciated. The Municipality responded by stating that this project is in its preliminary steps with staff reaching out to different municipalities to see what different opportunities are available for assisting privately/volunteer owned/run cemeteries. This project has not gone to Council, and no direction has been received from Council in relation to this. Staff will stay connected with any of the cemeteries that reach out to gather further information as is required.

United Church Women

The UCW installation of executive was held during the January 21st worship service. The next meeting is on Tuesday Feb 13th, at the NEW time of 7 p.m. Program leaders are Sharon Passmore and Joyce Fulton, and lunch hosts are Kathy Bray and Carolyn Johns. The Roll Call is “Best pet I ever had and its name.”

The World Day of Prayer will be observed on Friday, March 1st. Our group will gather together for a coffee hour to view the video provided. The theme is “I Beg You…Bear With One Another in Love” (Ephesians 4:1-3) prepared by the World Day of Prayer Committee of Palestine. Neighbouring churches will be invited to join with us.

Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council/The United Church of Canada

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada in January 2024, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region's Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

Camp Menesetung is now hiring a wide range of positions. They out-compete many summer camp salary ranges and place a high priority on creating an excellent staff experience. Online job applications are due before February 19th to be considered for the first round of hiring. Learn more about position specific job descriptions, the Summer Pay grid, Spring working options, and availability. Start your application today on their website: www.campmenesetung.ca/jobs.

The Spring 2024 Tri-Regional Council Meeting will take place on Friday May 24th, Saturday May 25th, and Sunday May 26th at the Unifor Centre in Port Elgin, and online. The Right Rev. Dr. Carmen Lansdowne, Moderator of the United Church of Canada, will speak on Friday evening.

Every February people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black people in Canada and their communities. Officially recognized in Canada since 1996, the 2024 theme for Black History Month is: “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build”. This theme celebrates the rich past and present contributions and accomplishments of Black people in Canada, while aspiring to embrace new opportunities for the future. This could be a time for congregations to make a commitment to becoming more culturally sensitive, racially inclusive, and justice conscious.

March 14th, National Affirming Day/PIE Day is a time for Public, Intentional and Explicit inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ people. This means showing up in solidarity, challenging hate, and reaching out beyond our community of faith. 2024 is the 6th birthday for PIE. Enjoy a piece of pie as you reflect on PIE; this year’s theme is PIE in the Public Square.

Foodgrains Committee

The annual South Huron Foodgrains church service will take place at Exeter United Church on Sunday April 14, 2024. Nevin McDougall will be the guest speaker at the service.

Nominating Committee

A thank you was extended to all who took a position on the 2024 Church Council.

Other Business

At their January meeting Council supported the sharing of summer worship services with Exeter United and maybe other area United Churches. It is possible collaboration in other areas such as choir and Sunday School may take place in the future.

The Executive of Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council has put together one-time cluster gatherings to bring together neighbouring communities of faith. It is their hope that clusters formed will help congregations connect with one another and find ways to support each other. The clusters will meet in the coming weeks.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom video conferencing.

REPORT FROM THE CONGREGATIONAL ANNUAL MEETING FEBRUARY 4, 2024

Following coffee and a snack, hosted by the Outreach Committee after the worship service, the 2023 Annual Meeting of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge was held in the church basement on February 4, 2024 with a quorum present. Welcoming 25 members and adherents of our community of faith, Chair of Council John Miner called the meeting to order at 11:35 a.m. followed by a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Remembered in prayer by Reverend Louise were Sanford Hutton, Margaret Stewart, Elda Riehl, Ross Hodgert, Wilma Kerslake, Marlene Hutton and Ross Ballantyne, members of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge who passed away in 2023. Welcomed with joy to our church family were Leah Katharina Loerzel, Miles William Warwick and Henry Willis Kemmere by Baptism.

Following a motion passed by the full members of the congregation, adherents were extended voting rights on all matters of business coming before the meeting.

The minutes from the 2022 Annual Meeting were approved and the reports in the 2023 Annual Report booklet were reviewed and adopted as printed.

Motions were passed to:
-Approve the Minister'’'s Remuneration Report for 2024.
-Approve the Honoraria and Employee Salary Report for 2024.
-Approve the 2024 Proposed Budget.
-Approve the 2024 Mission and Service Fund allocation of $7,000.00.
-Appoint Sharon Lynn and Marianne Timmerman as Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Representatives for 2024.
-Appoint Sharon Passmore and Carolyn Johns as Financial Examiners for 2024.
-Approve participation in the South Huron Foodgrains growing project in 2024 and to name Larry Lynn,
Brent Dawson, and Ken Kadey to the committee.
-Appoint Beth Cooper as a member of the Trustee Board for a 4-year term.
-Adopt a full slate of members for the 2024 Church Council.
-Approve our Living Faith Story for Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council as presented.

At this time the 2024 South Huron Foodgrains growing project will consist of 3.5 acres of corn or soybeans planted on land provided by Rob Essery and Mary Petersen. The committee is looking for additional land for the 2024 project.

Church Council will have no new members in 2024. No nominations were received, and no volunteers came forward to fill any of the open positions. All retiring members of Church Council agreed to return to their positions for another term.

Other Business:

It is anticipated that further discussions on ways in which neighbouring United Church congregations can work together by sharing resources will take place in 2024.

The Bereavement Authority of Ontario would like to see the headstones on the west side of the parking lot moved back to the actual burial ground area, possibly laid flat on the ground on the west side of the church. The original relocation of the cemetery headstones in the 1940’s was approved by the municipality of Usborne Township, which provided a grant for the work. The Municipality of South Huron is not prepared to help with costs related to the project at this time but may consider assistance in the future.

As an update on the proposal from Dave and Sarah Govers to purchase the church building and surrounding property, Council has asked the Trustees to approach regional council for more information on what the steps would be to consider the proposal. A congregational meeting to share information on the proposed purchase may be considered by Council at their February meeting.

John Miner extended a thank you to Reverend Louise for her worship leadership in 2023, and for being so dedicated to pastoral care within our church family. John also extended a thank you to our hardworking, dedicated Council and to the members and adherents of our church family for their participation in the life and work of our church.

Sharon Lynn extended a thank you to Chair John for his wisdom and guidance throughout a busy year and for taking on another 2-year term as Chair of Council.

The first meeting of the new Church Council will be on Wednesday February 7, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing. The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 12:15 p.m.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM JANUARY 10, 2024

The January 10th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of December she attended the Council meeting, prepared and led 4 Sunday worship services including the Christmas Eve service, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, attended the UCW meeting, did 12 in-person pastoral care visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

Finance Committee

The January to December 2023 Income and Expense Statement and Budget Comparison Statement were received by Council.

Fundraising Committee

Our donations toward cost-covering the 200 boxes of Stovetop Stuffing Mix for the Christmas Hampers being distributed from the Southern Huron Connection Centre totaled $675.00. The expense amounted to $259.08 and $415.92 was passed on to the Connection Centre to further assist with the hamper project.

We had a great start to the 2024 gift card fundraiser. The church received $368.10 after 19 participants bought $9,420 worth of gift cards. The next order is due February 4th.

Property Committee

Tom Passmore has tightened up the kitchen taps.

Christian Education Committee

Confirmation sessions for anyone 13 years of age and older are still being considered. Contact Reverend Louise or Amy Parsons if interested in participating, or for more information.

Worship Committee

The UCW Installation of Executive will take place during the worship service on Sunday January 21st.

Outreach Committee

The TR-E Huggers team is registered for the upcoming Coldest Night of the Year Walk on February 24th. Please consider registering as a walker or making a donation. Funds raised will support the Southern Huron Connection Centre, providing immediate needs such as food, showers, and laundry facilities, alongside acting as a vital bridge between the unhoused and important services, and facilitating transitions to stable living conditions. https://cnoy.org/location/exeter

There were 20 attend the worship service led by Reverend Louise at Exeter Villa on December 20th. Agnes Bray played the hymns, with Janis Richardson assisting the residents. The choir comprised of Sharon Lynn, Reverend Louise, Kathy Bray, Barb Dalrymple, Judith Parker, and Robert Bray sang 2 Christmas anthems that were enjoyed by the residents. On January 3rd, the worship service was led by Reverend Louise with 13 attending. Agnes Bray played the hymns and Judith Parker assisted the residents. Our church is scheduled for worship on the first Tuesday of every month, so February 6th at 2 p.m. is the next service.

Our goal for 2023 was to raise $6000 for Mission and Service. We exceeded our goal with a year end total of $7,480.69. Council approved an allocation of $7,000 for 2024. The recommendation will be taken to the Annual Meeting for consideration by the congregation.

At this time, canned soup and vegetables along with lunchbox items are needed for the shelves at the Exeter Community Food Bank. There are drop-off boxes for the food bank at Hansen’s and Foodland in Exeter. Thank you for bringing your contributions to church on the first Sunday of the month.

Ministry and Personnel Committee

Paul Vollick of Exeter United Church will be the emergency pastoral care contact while Reverend Louise is on study leave from April 5th to April 14th.

Church cleaners are always needed. If you are able to help out, please sign up on the cleaning schedule posted above the desk in the basement of the church or contact Helen Kadey.

Trustees

The cemetery report has been completed for 2023 and submitted to the Bereavement Authority of Ontario. The next report is due before March 2025 for the year ending 2024.

Chair John recently responded to a letter from the Municipality of South Huron in which they asked how they can assist with privately owned cemetery expenses. The Bereavement Authority of Ontario would like to see the headstones on the west side of the parking lot moved back to the actual burial ground area, possibly on the west side of the church. Centralizing the grave markers on a cairn is no longer acceptable, but the stones could be laid flat on the ground. The original relocation of the cemetery head stones in the 1940’s was approved by the municipality of Usborne Township, which provided a grant for the work. If assistance could be provided to relocate the stones again to meet current government standards it would be greatly appreciated, Chair John replied.

As an update on the proposal from Dave and Sarah Govers to purchase the church building and surrounding property, Council has asked the Trustees to approach regional council for more information on what the steps would be to consider the proposal. A condition of the proposal would allow us to continue to use the building as a community of faith.

United Church Women

The ladies met at the church on Tuesday December 12, 2023. Sharon Passmore and Marg McCarter led an enjoyable Christmas themed program. Following lunch a gift exchange took place, always a highlight of our Christmas meeting.

The Christian Leadership and Development Committee delivered our church donations in the amount of $1,245.00 to the Huron County Christmas Bureau the end of November.

Monthly donations were made to the Christian Resource Centre in Mitchell and Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron.

The Nominating Committee presented a partial slate of executive members for 2024. The report was approved as presented and the vacant position has since been filled.

The ladies decided to change the monthly meeting time from 7:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. United Church Women (Continued) The Installation of the Executive will take place during the worship service on Sunday January 21, 2024.

The World Day of Prayer service will take place on Friday March 1, 2024. The service, available in video format again this year, will be shown at the church while we enjoy coffee and snacks. Area churches will be invited to join us.

Following the meeting, the annual UCW group photo was taken.

The ladies meet next on Tuesday February 13, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at the church. The program committee is Sharon Passmore and Joyce Fulton. Lunch will be prepared by Kathy Bray and Carolyn Johns. The Roll Call is '‘'The best pet I ever had and its name'.

Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council/The United Church of Canada

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada in December 2023, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

The General Council Executive approved the appointment of the Reverend Mark Laird as Regional Council Executive Minister, Western Ontario Waterways, Horseshoe Falls, and Antler River regional councils, at its meeting in November 2023. He is a past President of Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council. Mark will begin his new appointment March 1, 2024.

Beginning January 2, 2024 the Christian Resource Centre hours will be changing. They will be open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed on Mondays and Fridays.

Your advocacy for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war is critically important. Moderator Carmen Lansdowne reminds us that the more constituents write to their elected representatives, the bigger the impact. A letter from the Moderator or the General Secretary is only one letter. Using our online advocacy tool, you can send your own individual emails calling on officials in the Government of Canada to continue to press for a ceasefire in the conflict in the Middle East. Please continue to donate to our Mission and Service partners who are currently responding to those impacted by the conflict in West Bank and East Jerusalem, advocate by sending a letter to your MP using our new advocacy tool, and pray for peace and justice in the Middle East. 

On behalf of Mission and Service, the national church wants to thank everyone for their contributions during 2023. The money received from Communities of Faith helps to feed hungry children, assists those devastated by natural disasters and war, and funds the vital work our partners are doing.

Foodgrains Committee

Harvested in 2023 where 5+ acres of winter wheat on land provided by Ivan Hern and family, and 3.5 acres of soybeans on land provided by Rob Essery and Mary Petersen. $14,325.00 was sent to Winnipeg for this South Huron Foodgrains Project. Matched 4 to 1 by the federal government, this amount makes $71,625.00 available to buy food for those unable to support themselves.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains church service will take place at Exeter United Church on Sunday April 14, 2024.

Nominating Committee The Nominating Committee is Joan Skinner, Greg Bahro, Marianne Timmerman, Sharon Passmore, Sarah Govers, and John Miner. No one from the congregation came forward to stand as a member-at-large on the committee.

Council positions to be filled for 2024 include Council Chairperson and one member on each of the Finance, Property, Outreach, Worship, and Christian Education Committees. Several volunteers have come forward to fill these positions; however, the position on the Christian Education Committee remains vacant. Further nominations and volunteers for any of the positions will be accepted up to the day of the Annual Meeting. Contact any member of the Nominating Committee for more information or to volunteer or make a nomination.

Other Business

Chair John and Reverend Louise attended a meeting at Exeter United Church on January 2nd to explore ways in which our congregations could work together and share resources. Council supported the sharing of summer worship services with Exeter United and maybe other area United Churches. It is possible the summer services may be held at our community park.

Reports for the Annual Report are to be to Sharon Lynn by January 14, 2024. Annual Reports will be available by January 28, 2024. The 2023 Annual Meeting will take place in-person at the church following the worship service on Sunday February 4, 2024, with an alternate date of Sunday February 11, 2024, if needed. A light snack will be provided by the Outreach Committee between the worship service and the Annual Meeting. For the meeting to proceed a quorum must be in attendance; a quorum is at least 20 full members of our congregation. A person becomes a full member in one of the following ways: confirmation, adult baptism and profession of faith, or through a certificate of transfer from another congregation or church, among others. Council is asking full members of our congregation to make a prior commitment to attend the meeting. The meeting invitation and RSVP date will be sent to all congregation members and adherents with the Annual Report by January 28, 2024.

Retired Treasurer Mary Lou Thomson will be recognized for her 13 years of service on Sunday February 4th prior to the Annual Meeting. We are grateful for the time Mary Lou has given to our congregation and thank her for sharing her talents.

To recognize Shrove Tuesday, a pancake lunch will be served following the worship service on Sunday February 11th.

Our Living Faith Story prepared for Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council was approved and will be taken to the Annual Meeting for consideration by the congregation.

Some time was spent working on our annual Self-Assessment Checklist that will be forwarded to Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council in March 2024. Work will continue at the February and March Council meetings, as required.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM DECEMBER 6, 2023

The December 6th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Acting Chair Robert Bray called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of November she attended the Council meeting, attended the Trustees meeting with the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, prepared and led 4 Sunday worship services, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, participated in the Christmas Concert and attended the Supper-in-a-Bowl, attended the Ministerial meeting, attended the UCW meeting, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, did 6 in-person pastoral care visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

Finance Committee

The 2024 Proposed Budget was approved by Council and will be taken to the Annual Meeting in February 2024 for approval by the congregation.

Fundraising Committee

The Sunday School Christmas Concert and Supper was held on Sunday, November 26th. There were 74 adults and children attend. Thanks to the 19 individuals who donated cupcakes or a crockpot of chili, soup or stew, making for a delicious meal. Helping in the kitchen were Anne Kernick, Marianne Timmerman, Greg Bahro, Helen Kadey, and Judith Parker. Proceeds from the meal totaled $540 of which $250 was donated to the Huron County Christmas Bureau and the remainder to church fundraising.

The November gift card fundraiser raised $509. The church received $531.75 from the December gift cards with 26 participants (one new participant) buying $13,605 worth of gift cards. The 4th quarter total is $1,517.30 and the total raised from this project over the year is $4,922.25. FANTASTIC! There are many people to thank for the success of this fundraiser - Robert and Kathy Bray for their time in administering the project, Treasurer Mary Lou Thomson for her quick transfer of funds making for a fast turn around time for the orders, Judith Parker for the many emails sent out with information and order forms, and last but not least, everyone who supported the church by participating in this fundraiser in 2023. Let’s do even better in 2024! The next gift card order is due on January 7, 2024.

Just a reminder there are still cookbooks available for purchase. A church cookbook would make a great Christmas gift for someone on your list - $25.00 each. Contact Judith Parker to get a copy.

Property Committee

A thank you is extended to Lorne and Pat Ballantyne for cleaning up the flower beds for winter. Also, thanks to Lorne for varnishing the front doors.

Christian Education Committee

Contact Reverend Louise, Amy Parsons, or Sarah Govers if you or someone in your family is interested in taking part in Confirmation sessions in the new year.

The Sunday School children presented a most enjoyable Christmas concert in the sanctuary on Sunday November 26th, and were rewarded for their hard work with a visit from Santa. A bountiful Supper-in-a-Bowl meal of comfort food, hot dogs, and cupcakes followed. A silent auction took place at the end of the evening. A thank you is extended to Amy Parsons, Sarah Govers, and Beth Cooper for their leadership in putting the concert together and to Judith Parker, Marianne Timmerman, and Anne Kernick for organizing the supper. A thank you is also extended to Robert and Kathy Bray for operating the sound system, and to the many other helpers who assisted in any way to make the event a success.

Worship Committee

Advent worship services continue in December. There will be no Sunday morning worship services on December 24th and December 31st. There will be a Christmas Eve service at the church on Sunday, December 24th at 7:00 p.m. Regular Sunday morning worship services will resume on January 7, 2024.

Outreach Committee

A total of $1245 was gathered at the November UCW meeting, White Gift service and the Christmas Concert supper for the Huron County Christmas Bureau. This is a significant increase from our 2022 donation of $720. What a generous community we are at Thames Road-Elimville.

There were 9 attend the worship service led by Reverend Louise at Exeter Villa on November 15th. Agnes Bray played the hymns and Janis Richardson, Marianne Timmerman, Judith Parker, and Sharon Lynn assisted. The next worship service will be on Wednesday, December 20th at 10 a.m. The choir will present some Christmas songs during the service. Contact Marianne or Judith if you would like to assist.

Some suggestions for the Exeter Community Food Bank are canned fruit and vegetables, tuna, salmon, cake mixes and frosting, tea, coffee, feminine hygiene products, crackers, and lunchbox items. If you miss bringing items to church on the first Sunday of the month, there are drop-off boxes for the food bank at Hansen’s and Foodland in Exeter.

Our Mission and Service Fund goal for 2023 is to raise $6000. The year-to-date total is: $6642.39.

Ministry and Personnel Committee

Pastoral Charge Supervisors are an important part of many congregations in the United Church of Canada. You may recall that our congregation used the services of Pastoral Charge Supervisor Dave Williams for several years. A new policy that takes effect on January 1, 2024 will see these supervisors compensated at the rate of $35.00 per hour for time spent providing pastoral care supervision to a congregation. The community of faith is responsible for paying the stipend while the regional council will compensate the supervisor for mileage related to meetings.

Church cleaners are always needed. If you are able to help out, please sign up on the cleaning schedule posted above the desk in the basement of the church or contact Helen Kadey.

United Church Women

The ladies met at the church on Tuesday November 14, 2023. Joan Morgan and Marilyn Vandenbussche led the program. The guest speaker was Julie Grimminck who gave an interesting and informative presentation on foot care.

The Christian Leadership and Development Committee will be delivering our church donations for the Huron County Christmas Bureau at the end of November.

The Mission and Outreach Committee will be remembering our shut-ins at Christmas with cards and a phone or in-person visit.

Monthly donations were made to Make-A-Wish Southwestern Ontario and the Huron County Christmas Bureau.

Hanson’s Independent grocery tapes are to be brought to the December meeting.

The UCW Executive will meet at the church on Thursday December 7, 2023 to plan for 2024.

The ladies meet next on Tuesday December 12, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at the church. The program committee is Sharon Passmore and Marg McCarter. Lunch will be prepared by Kathy Bray and Marilyn Vandenbussche. The Roll Call is ‘What do you have on the top of your Christmas tree’. If you wish to participate, please bring a $5.00 gift to exchange.

Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council (WOW)

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada in October, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

Camp Bimini: The registration fee for a week of camp is a challenge for some families so your gift of $80.00 will help one child with the registration for camp for one day and a $40.00 gift will help for one half day. If interested in purchasing this gift, please contact us with the amount of your gift. We will accept cheque, cash, or e-Transfer for payment. A card (digital or physical) will be provided for you to give to the recipient. As the giver, you will receive a charitable receipt. To donate by phone, contact Camp Bimini at 519.271.4129.

The Hub Community Network is a cross-regional youth ministry that lives to connect young people with the liberating love of Christ and empower them to build a more just and inclusive world. We've been running regional youth events, worship services, and small groups for young people since 2015 and this year we're looking to serve more youth and young adults who are ages 13-35 and their leaders across the United Church of Canada. If your youth ages 13-35 or their leaders are looking to invest in connecting with millennials, gen z, and gen alpha then come join us at any of our upcoming events this winter and spring, or to learn more head to our link tree at: https://linktr.ee/Thehubcommunity.

Gifts with Vision are an opportunity for you to make a difference in someone’s life—during Advent and Christmas, or at any time of year—by giving gifts from the comfort of your home, with no packaging or wrapping needed. See all the gifts available and find out more by visiting the Gifts with Vision website at https://giftswithvision.ca/. Gifts with Vision catalogues are also available; find one on the table at the back door. Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council (WOW) (Continued) The United Church of Canada General Council Executive, its corresponding members, and the members of the National Indigenous Council have issued a plea to Prime Minister Trudeau to advocate for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, recognizing that, in the view of legal experts, genocide is currently taking place. Please continue to donate, advocate, and pray for the Middle East.

Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee is Joan Skinner, Greg Bahro, Marianne Timmerman, Sharon Passmore, Sarah Govers, and John Miner. No one from the congregation came forward to stand as a member-at-large on the committee. Council positions to be filled for 2024 include Council Chair and one member on each of the Finance, Property, Outreach, Worship and Christian Education Committees. Several volunteers have come forward to fill these positions; however, the position on the Christian Education Committee remains vacant. Further nominations and volunteers for any of the positions will be accepted up to the day of the Annual Meeting. Contact any member of the Nominating Committee for more information, or to volunteer or make a nomination.

Other Business

As an outreach initiative, Council has committed to a donation of 200 boxes of Stove Top stuffing mix to the South Huron Connection Centre in Exeter for the Christmas hampers they distribute to vulnerable families in our community. Council has purchased the stuffing mix and is looking to raise $250 to offset the cost. Any amount collected above this will go to the Connection Centre for other costs related to the project. Donations can be made in the form of cash or a cheque made out to Thames Road Elimville United Church (place on the offering plate in an envelope marked “Stuffing Mix”; include your name and address for a tax receipt), a cheque mailed to P.O. Box 3, Exeter, ON N0M 1S6, by e-Transfer to thamesroadelimvilleuc@hay.net (put “Stuffing Mix” in the description), or drop off your donation to Treasurer, Mary Lou Thomson or any member of Church Council. As with any financial donation to the church, a receipt for income tax purposes will be provided after year end.

Reports for the Annual Report are to be to Sharon Lynn by January 14, 2024. Annual Reports will be available on January 28, 2024. The 2023 Annual Meeting will take place in-person at the church on Sunday February 4, 2024, with an alternate date of Sunday February 11, 2024, if needed. For the meeting to proceed, a quorum must be in attendance; a quorum is at least 20 full members of our congregation. A person becomes a full member in one of the following ways: confirmation, adult baptism and profession of faith, or through a certificate of transfer from another congregation or church, among others. Advance commitment of attendance will be requested to ensure a quorum will be present.

As vacuuming the carpet on the steps is cumbersome with the full-size vacuum cleaners at the church, a small handheld vacuum, either battery operated or electric, would be handy to have. If you have such a thing hidden away and unused in a closet, our cleaning people would be happy to make use of it. Contact any member of Church Council if you can contribute in this way.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM NOVEMBER 1, 2023

The November 1st Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of October she attended the regular Council meeting and a special Council meeting, prepared and led 5 Sunday worship services, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, officiated at a funeral and a burial, attended the Ministerial meeting, attended the UCW meeting, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, attended the Edge Rural Ministry Townhall meeting by Zoom, attended the Halloween Party at the church, did 5 in-person pastoral care visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

Fundraising Committee

The October gift card fundraiser brought in $477.25 for the church with 25 participants. The November gift card order due on November 5th is now closed. The December gift card order is due on December 3rd.

Just a reminder there are still cookbooks available for purchase. A church cookbook would make a great Christmas gift for someone on your list - $25.00 each. Contact Judith Parker to get a copy.

Christian Education Committee

Contact Reverend Louise, Amy Parsons, or Sarah Govers if you or someone in your family is interested in taking part in Confirmation sessions in the new year.

A successful Halloween Party took place at the church on Friday evening October 27th. Close to 50 children, their parents, grandparents, and friends, enjoyed activities, Halloween candy, and a bountiful table loaded with potluck snacks. A thank you is extended to Amy and Sarah for their planning and decorating.

A Christmas Concert followed by supper is planned for Sunday, November 26th at the church beginning at 4:30 p.m. Watch for more details as they become available.

Worship Committee

November 26th is Reign of Christ Sunday and also White Gift Sunday. Donations in the form of cash or a cheque will be collected during the service. Cheques should be made out to Rural Response for Healthy Children. White Gift donations go to support the work of the Huron County Christmas Bureau.

December 3rd is the first Sunday in Advent. Communion will be served during the service.

There will be a Christmas Eve service at the church on Sunday, December 24th at 7:00 p.m.

There will be no Sunday morning worship services at the church on December 24th and December 31st.

Outreach Committee

There were 15 attend the worship service led by Reverend Louise at Exeter Villa on October 10th. Agnes Bray played the hymns and Janis Richardson and Marianne Timmerman assisted. The next worship service will be on Wednesday, November 15th at 2 p.m. Contact Marianne Timmerman or Judith Parker if you would like to assist.

Items for the Exeter Community Food Bank continue to be gathered on the first Sunday of the month. Thank you for your contributions.

The Broadview magazine (formerly The Observer) is the only remaining media organization dedicated to covering progressive Christian news and views. A section of the magazine is called ‘The Focus’ and is dedicated to news and articles covering the United Church across the country. Annually, the United Church of Canada would provide a grant to the Broadview magazine of over $100,000. This has been drastically reduced to around $40,000 so the magazine is asking for donations to keep this Christian network of journalism publishing through print and digital coverage. The website is www.broadview.org to read some of the articles or to sign up for the free newsletters for Broadview news or The Focus (United Church articles). Donations are tax deductible. Contact Judith Parker or Marianne Timmerman if you would like to be part of our subscriber group for print copies.

Thank you to those who continue to support the Mission & Service Fund. Our goal for 2023 is to raise $6,000. The year-to-date total is $5,355.19.

Ministry and Personnel Committee

The Honoraria and Employee Salary Report for 2024 was presented for approval by Council and will be taken as a recommendation to the Annual Meeting in February 2024.

Robert and Kathy Bray, who prepare and present the technical portion of our worship services on Sunday mornings, would like to pass the duty on to someone else. Please contact them for more information on the position.

The committee has been successful in filling the Treasurer position. Stacey Austin has been hired to carry out bookkeeping services and Helen Kadey will take on the position of Treasurer.

Church cleaners are needed. If you are able to help out, please sign up on the cleaning schedule posted above the desk in the basement of the church or contact Helen Kadey.

United Church Women

The ladies met at the church on Tuesday October 17, 2023. Carolyn Johns and Judith Parker led the program. Two speakers from United Way Perth-Huron and the South Huron Connection Centre gave interesting and informative presentations. 16 residents were served at the tea hosted at Exeter Villa on September 26, 2023.

A $100.00 donation was made to the South Huron Hospital Foundation in support of their Radiothon.

Monthly donations were made to One Care Home & Community Support Services, VON Palliative Care Volunteer Program, and the Exeter Legion Poppy Fund.

Future worship services at Exeter Villa will take place on Wednesday November 15, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. and Wednesday December 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.

The ladies meet next on Tuesday November 14, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at the church. The program committee is Joan Morgan and Marilyn Vandenbussche. Lunch will be prepared by Virginia Warwick and Marg McCarter. The Roll Call is ‘What is or would be your dream travel destination’. Financial donations for the Huron County Christmas Bureau (cash or cheque made payable to Rural Response for Healthy Children) will be collected.

Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council (WOW)

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada in October, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

Gifts with Vision are an opportunity for you to make a difference in someone’s life—during Advent and Christmas, or at any time of year—by giving gifts from the comfort of your home, with no packaging or wrapping needed. See all the gifts available and find out more by visiting the Gifts with Vision website. Catalogues are also available at the church.

You can support the people impacted by the conflict in Palestine and Israel through your donations and advocacy. Mission and Service partners are currently responding to those who are impacted by the conflict in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. They are working with Mission and Service partners ACT Alliance, Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees (DSPR), and the Humanitarian Coalition (as a member of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank) to provide tangible support for the people of the Middle East. Currently, there is an urgent need for food as well as non-food items such as medicines, psychosocial support, and shelter. Your help is urgently needed.

In addition to a financial donation, you can help by appealing to the Canadian government to respond to the escalating violence in Palestine and Israel by calling for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the violence, by ensuring humanitarian assistance is provided and a safe corridor for aid is opened, by ensuring civilians are protected, and by calling for the safe and immediate return of all hostages and civilians being held in detention without charge. Use this online letter writing template to send an email directly to Foreign Affairs Minister, The Hon. Mélanie Joly, and your local MP.

The time of the year has come to form the Council Nominating Committee for 2024. Our bylaws allow for up to two congregation members and adherents at large to serve as members on the committee. If this is a position that interests you, please contact any member of Church Council.

Other Business

Reverend Louise has been in contact with Andrea Loohuizen from The Connection Centre housed at Exeter Pentecostal Church about providing items for the Christmas hampers the Centre distributes to vulnerable families in December. Council made the decision to purchase 200 boxes of Stove Top stuffing mix as a contribution from the congregation. Watch for details coming soon on how you can donate to this outreach project.

Council members had a good discussion on potential next steps for our community of faith. Collaborative ministry was discussed at length, and a brainstorming session brought forth a variety of ideas to consider as we work on visioning the future of the Thames Road Elimville congregation.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:55 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 6th at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM OCTOBER 4, 2023

The October 4th Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of September she attended the Council meeting, prepared and led 3 Sunday worship services including one held at the Park, attended a Ministerial meeting, attended the Edge Rural Ministry Townhall meeting by Zoom, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, did 7 in-person pastoral care visits, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council fall meeting over 3 days, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

Fundraising Committee

Gift card orders are due on Sunday, October 8th by 2:00 p.m. Payment is due at the time of ordering. Expected delivery of the cards is on Sunday, October 15th. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, a thank you is extended to all those who have participated in the gift card fundraiser or who have donated directly. With your help we have raised a total of $3,404.95 to date this year. As you are considering your gift card order this month don't forget to consider your plans for fall projects, the stores where you will be starting your Christmas shopping, or maybe using the gift cards themselves as gifts. The next gift card order will be due on November 5th, 2023.

Christian Education Committee

There has been interest expressed in Confirmation sessions in the new year. Contact Amy Parsons, Sarah Govers, or Reverend Louise if interested in taking part.

The annual Halloween Party will take place at the church on Friday, October 27, 2023 beginning at 6:30 p.m. Those attending are asked to bring potluck snacks. This is a community event, and everyone is invited to come and join in the fun.

Worship Committee

Thanksgiving Sunday is Sunday October 8th. Regular worship services will continue on October 15th, 22nd, and 29th.

Outreach Committee

There were 17 residents attend the worship service led by Reverend Louise at Exeter Villa on September 20th. Agnes Bray played the hymns and Janis Richardson, Sharon Lynn, and Marianne Timmerman assisted. The next worship service will be on Tuesday, October 10th at 2:00 p.m. Contact Judith Parker or Marianne Timmerman if you can assist. The committee will continue to gather items on the first Sunday of the month for the local foodbank. Thank you for your contributions.

Ministry and Personnel Committee

The Minister's Remuneration Report for 2024 was presented for approval by Council and will be taken as a recommendation to the Annual Meeting in February 2024.

The committee will be contacting contract personnel regarding contracts for 2024. A report will be brought to the November Council meeting.

The committee continues to work on filling the Treasurer position which will become vacant on December 31, 2023.

Church cleaners are needed. If you are able to help out, please sign up on the cleaning schedule posted above the desk in the basement of the church or contact Helen Kadey.

Community Park Committee

September was a busy month for work at the park. Will Parsons with his skid steer, levelled the sand around the new toddler swing along with help from Judith Parker, Robert and Kathy Bray, Wayne Roddick, and Beth Cooper. The seats were installed on the new toddler swing with help from Brad Cann, Robert and Kathy Bray, Judith Parker, and Beth Cooper. With the completion of the toddler swing project, a photo was taken that included Rhys Kollias and Hudson Cann in the seats of the new swing, Mary Peterson of the South Huron Vitality Fund Board, and park committee members Judith Parker, Robert Bray, and Beth Cooper.

Brad Cann and Ryan Parker installed the 'Big Red' chair at the playground with help from Robert and Kathy Bray and Judith Parker.

Thank you to all the donors and volunteers who helped with the toddler swing and the 'Big Red' chair projects. They are a welcome addition to the park's playground.

United Church Women

The ladies have not met since the last Council meeting.

The Christian Leadership and Development Committee hosted a tea at Exeter Villa on Tuesday, September 26th.

The ladies meet next on Tuesday, October 17th (note date change from October 10th) at 7:30 p.m. at the church. The program committee is Carolyn Johns and Judith Parker. Lunch will be served by Anne Kernick and Joan Morgan. The Roll Call is “One thing on your bucket list”.

Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council (WOW)

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada in September, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

Reverend Louise and Sharon Lynn attended the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Fall Meeting from Thursday, September 28th to Saturday, September 30th. It was a virtual meeting only and coincided with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. Approximately 115 attendees at each session met in 5 sessions for a total of about 10 hours. The theme of the meeting was We Are One – Living into Right Relations. A highlight of the meeting was watching on video on Thursday evening the lighting of the Sacred Fire in Cape Croker on the Unceded Territory of the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation. There is significance in the way in which a Sacred Fire is built. It takes time to light the Fire, but the process teaches patience and provides a time to reflect on good thoughts. Sacred Firekeeper Thunderbird, who lit the fire, and two other firekeepers tended the fire for the duration of the meeting. In honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation we were privileged to listen to a conversation between Therese Samuel, the region’s Minister, Right Relations and Social Justice, and Joyce Johnston, a leader in the United Church in Cape Croker, broadcast live from Joyce’s home. Joyce had so much wisdom to share and was a delight to listen to. She has learned a lot from the church and feels there is a Spirit in the United Church of Canada to do things differently. A hybrid Spring 2024 Tri-Region meeting will take place on May 24, 25, 26, 2024 at the Unifor Centre in Port Elgin and online, when Western Ontario Waterways, Antler River Watershed, and Horseshoe Falls Regional Councils will meet jointly. United Church of Canada Moderator, The Right Rev. Dr. Carmen Lansdowne, will be in attendance at the meeting.

The United Church of Canada is calling for the protection and affirmation of the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people, particularly transgender and non-binary youth. Gender and sexuality are gifts of God and all persons are made in the image of God. Policies and guidelines related to gender identity and expression in educational and healthcare settings should uplift care and service providers, support transgender and non-binary students and youth, and create 2SLGBTQIA+ and gender affirming schools. The United Church denounces the emerging amendments to policies and legislation across provinces in Canada; these changes roll back safety and legal protections for 2SLGBTQIA+ people, particularly transgender and non-binary youth. The United Church of Canada calls on its members and people of goodwill to continue demonstrating solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and to foster inclusive and safer environments in learning institutions, community, and within family settings. Take action by contacting your Member of Parliament and ask them to safeguard and affirm existing legislation.

Other Business

Following this report is a message from Regional Council's Minister, Congregational Support, John Neff. In his opening words he asks the question “Is it still possible to do things the way we have always done it?”. Declining membership, tight finances, difficulty in recruiting volunteers, and a shortage of ministers are problems experienced throughout the region. We are encouraged to begin planning our next steps and start to make changes now. As 40% of the 135 pastoral charges in the WOW region are without a minister, one of the things John mentions in his message is collaborative ministry. Collaborative ministry is the sharing of the many resources distributed across our communities of faith. The Congregational Support Commission is asking congregations to consider what would be possible if we work together to share these resources. Collaborative ministry will be just one of the topics Council members will be talking about at future meetings as we begin to plan our next steps.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 1st at 7:00 p.m. in-person at the church.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CONGREGATIONAL SUPPORT MINISTER JOHN NEFF SEPTEMBER 2023:

As it says in Ecclesiastes, "For everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven."

As we begin to move from summer into fall congregations often begin to review finances, look at recruiting volunteers for various tasks, and schedule events and fundraisers. This is a busy and exciting time, but it may also raise questions such as “Is it still possible to do things the way we have always done it?”

Across our regional council we are hearing concerns about declining membership and finances. We are also hearing about congregations who have weathered the pandemic, but are now wondering how on-line worship, inflation, and aging building costs will impact their future. What will happen to the UCC presence in this area if several communities of faith disband?” Where will our community of faith be in the next 5 years? And just as coloured leaves mark the beginning of autumn, these questions tell us that we are in a season of discernment. The Community of Faith profile is one of the tools available to help congregations ask good questions. All communities of faith are now expected to complete their community profile and update it annually. The worksheets can be found on the regional council website in the congregational support toolkit 2.

But it is not enough to just collect information and talk about it. The real purpose is to help you plan the next steps and start to make changes. Waiting until there is a crisis because the boiler has broken and there are no funds to repair it, or the operating deficit means bills can’t be paid, or a few people are burning themselves out trying to manage all the tasks is not helpful. Deciding to just wait and see what happens takes away the opportunity to explore options and make choices. The reality is that any change such as collaborative ministry, amalgamation, redevelopment, or disbanding, takes time if you want to do it well. Waiting until next year only means you will have less energy and fewer resources to make those changes.

Talking to congregations, it is clear that some need money while others need volunteers. Some need assistance with administration and bookkeeping, while others could use tech support. Some are located in the heart of their community while others have watched the community move away. And yet, while there has been change and loss, this does not need to be a picture of scarcity. The good news is that we have an abundance of resources distributed across our communities of faith. This is why the Congregational Support Commission is asking communities of faith to consider what would be possible if we work together. For example, how might we share administration, bookkeeping, ministry personnel, governance, outreach and more to make things more efficient? How might we work with our neighbours to ensure that the ministries we care about continue? What can we do now so that this season of opportunity does not pass us by?

Now is the time for every community of faith to ask: What are our strengths and gifts, our challenges and needs, and our ministry priorities? Where is God calling us? And how can our ministry continue in new ways for another season? Then like a great potluck dinner the contributions of many will become a feast for all.

For more information about collaborative ministry, amalgamation, redevelopment, or disbanding, please see the toolkits on the website or reach out to your Minister for Congregational Support John Neff.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM SEPTEMBER 13, 2023

The September 13th Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the months of June, July, and August, she attended the June Council meeting, prepared and led 6 Sunday worship services including one held at Exeter United Church, took four weeks of vacation, attended 3 Ministerial meetings, attended the United Church Rural Ministry Network’s Zoom workshop, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, did 18 in-person pastoral care visits, officiated at a burial of ashes, officiated at a funeral, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported there are 45 cookbooks still available for sale out of the 600 that were printed. Contact Anne Kernick, Helen Kadey, Amy Parsons, or Judith Parker to purchase a copy of A Reunion of Family Favourites. A great gift for showers, birthdays, and Christmas.

The July 23rd gift card fundraiser raised $409.50; the September 10th gift card fundraiser raised $460.75. Total raised in the 3rd quarter (July, August, September) is $1,186.25; total raised year to date is $3,404.95.

The Christian Education Committee reported that Sunday School will resume on Sunday, September 24th.

If there is interest, Reverend Louise will lead a session of Confirmation classes in the new year. Contact Amy Parsons, Sarah Govers, or Reverend Louise if interested in taking part.

The Worship Committee reported September 24th is Baptism Sunday when Henry Willis Kemmere, son of Lars and Jessica Kemmere, will be presented for baptism. A coffee time will follow the service.

Communion will be served on October 1st, Worldwide Communion Sunday.

The Outreach Committee reported a thank you note has been received from the Grand Bend Rotary Club for our participation in filling school bags for South Africa. They plan to send off two more containers by the end of the year and hope to fill as many backpacks as possible. If you can help in any way, they would appreciate it. There were 19 residents attend the worship service led by Reverend Louise at Exeter Villa on July 19th. Agnes Bray played the hymns and Janis Richardson, Marianne Timmerman, and Judith Parker assisted. The next worship services will be on Wednesday, September 20th at 2:30 p.m. and Tuesday, October 10th at 2:00 p.m. Contact Judith Parker or Marianne Timmerman if you can assist.

Items for the foodbank were gathered on Sunday, September 10th at the service in the park. We will continue to gather items on the first Sunday of the month now that regular services have resumed. Thank you for your contributions.

The following email was received on September 3rd from Andrea Loohuizen of South Huron Connection Centre (at Exeter Pentecostal Tabernacle). "We have a family that after two years of trying to find them a home we have been successful! They will be moving into their home with their three children in a couple weeks! We want to bless them as much as we can and give them the opportunity to purchase some things on their own for their home! If you feel led to give towards this, we are accepting gift cards from Amazon, Wal Mart and Canadian Tire! We also can accept cheques, e transfers and cash and can provide a tax receipt for it! If you can help, please let us know! Trust me when I say this family deserves this so much!!! This family has been through a lot in the past couple years. One of their children has had medical issues and the husband lost his job which made for a financial strain on their family. We have been working very closely with them and at one point the wife and children were in the women's shelter and the husband was living out of their car while he searched for work. Well in the past couple months we helped him find a job and the family is preparing to be reunited in a home together. Anything that we can do to help them make this transition special for them would be amazing. We have been able to get them furniture, but I know from experience how special it is to buy some new things for your home. If you have any questions, please let me know!"

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported no one has come forward to fill the Treasurer position that will become vacant December 31st. Please contact Helen Kadey, Joan Morgan, or Janis Richardson to express interest in the position or to get more information.

Now that we are back in the church building, cleaners are needed. If you are able to help out, please sign up on the cleaning schedule posted above the desk in the basement of the church or contact Helen Kadey.

The Community Park Committee reported a stand-alone toddler swing was installed at the park on Saturday, September 9th. A thank you is extended to Dan Shapton for excavating and resanding the entire playground area. He also helped to mark out and drill the holes for the toddler swing poles along with help from Brad Cann, Robert and Kathy Bray, Jack Hodgert, Judith Parker, Wayne Roddick, and Beth Cooper. The poles were cemented in, and the toddler seats will be hung and the rest of the sand leveled soon.

Jack Hodgert has started a rose garden in the northeast section of the park. The significance of Jack's project is that roses will be planted to recognize all the school districts that made up Usborne Twp e.g. Lumley, Thames Road, Winchelsea, Plugtown, etc. We look forward to the completion of this project next spring.

The United Church Women met on Tuesday, September 12th for a Welcome Back Supper and Museum Tour. Following supper at Robinson’s Café in Exeter, 16 ladies carpooled to Lucan to tour the Donnelly Museum. The enjoyable evening was planned by Joyce Fulton, Diane Jeffery, Helen Kadey, and Joan Skinner. 24 dozen cookies were delivered to Camp Bimini in July. Thank you to the eight volunteer bakers!

The Christian Leadership and Development Committee is hosting a tea at Exeter Villa on Tuesday, September 26th at 2:00 p.m.

At the end of this report is a poster with details of an upcoming Women's Retreat Day at Camp Bimini on Saturday, September 30th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Register to attend by September 23rd.

The ladies meet next on Tuesday, October 17th (note date change from October 10th). The program committee is Carolyn Johns and Judith Parker. Lunch will be prepared by Anne Kernick and Joan Morgan. The Roll Call is “One thing on your bucket list”.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada over the summer months, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

Marianne Timmerman attended a meeting for Regional Council lay representatives via Zoom on Wednesday September 6, 2023. 24 lay representatives were in attendance. The duties of lay representatives were reviewed. As part of their duties, representatives are encouraged to report to their community of faith on Regional Council gatherings and educate the governing body about resources available on the website. Anyone can subscribe to the region’s newsletters and follow the region’s Facebook page to keep up-to-date on regional happenings.

The online only Fall Gathering of Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council will take place over 4 days from Thursday September 28, 2023 to Sunday October 1, 2023.

September 30, 2023 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours the children who never returned home and survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on the same day. Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family, and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”. The orange shirt is a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

The United Church of Canada is trying to learn from young people (ages 13-35 years) about what encourages a sense of connection to the church and what blocks their involvement. Please share this survey with Canadian young people that you know—they don't need to be connected with a church in any way.

The Christian Resource Centre in Mitchell wants everyone to know that any of the books and church supplies available at the United Church Resource Distribution Centre-UCRD are also available from them, our local non- profit Christian Resource Centre at 29 Ontario Road, Mitchell. You can order items from them by emailing them at hpprc@quadro.net, calling 519-348-9261, messaging them on Facebook “Christian Resource Centre”, or using the contact form on their website www.wowresourcecentre.ca. Once ordered they will let you know when the item has been received at the store so you can pick it up in Mitchell. Please know that by purchasing and picking up books/bibles/church supplies/gift items from the Christian Resource Centre Mitchell office, you are helping to keep this little gem of a local store open and save any shipping costs that you would have incurred from the UCRD. The office is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 7:50 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 4th at 7:00 p.m. in-person at the church.

A Women's Retreat Day

Saturday, September 30, 2023 9 am to 4 pm
Camp Bimini
3180 Perth Road 113, RR 1 St. Pauls, ON N0K 1V0
For women of all stages and ages, this day is a day to celebrate and build Body, Mind and Spirit in women. It is a day that invites and gathers women to share, to grow, and to be all in the comfort and peacefulness that is Camp Bimini. We’ll have times of laughter, community, sharing, playing, learning and more. This is a good day for friends to come together or come on your own and meet new friends. Cost: $55
(Do not let cost be a deterrent. Please connect with us if it is.). Meals, snacks, workshops, and supplies are included.
Register online (preferred): https://forms.gle/PHDmNJhnavoGsnrR8
Or fill out the form and return with your registration fee by Etransfer or cheque or cash by September 23, 2023. Registration is limited.
Once registered, details about needs of the day will be sent.
Camp Bimini is located on Perth Road #113 (also known as the Embro Road) approximately 7 kilometres southeast of Stratford. A winding Trout Creek makes its way through our property making homes for many crayfish, fish and turtles. Many trees also provide shelter for a variety of animals and birds. Bimini is a space very special because it is a space that encourages campers, staff, and volunteers alike to play, to learn, to laugh, to love, to sing, to grow, to teach, to create and to simply be. At Bimini, we strive and promise to strive to make available these opportunities to all who enter our gates.

CAMP BIMINI MISSION STATEMENT

We believe that Camp Bimini is a place where God’s creation comes together with respect for each other and the environment. It is our goal to give every child and youth a camping experience where they feel loved and valued for who they are. We strive to be welcoming and inclusive of each individual and provide a safe and nurturing place where campers may experience nature, grow spiritually, and create lifelong friendships.

REGISTRATION (please print) NAME
PHONE
ADDRESS
FOOD PREFERENCES, DIET REQUIREMENTS, ALLERGIES ETC. NONE DAIRY-FREE GLUTEN-FREE VEGETARIAN
VEGAN OTHER ____________________________
PAYMENT METHOD
CASH CHEQUE E-TRANSFER
EMAIL
A Women's Retreat Day
Saturday, September 30, 2023 9 am to 4 pm
Camp Bimini 3180 Perth Road 113, RR 1 St. Pauls, ON N0K 1V0
Please complete and mail back to Camp Bimini with your registration by September 23, 2023. The Cost is $55 per person and includes lunch, snacks and leadership for large group sessions and break-out workshops. Payment can be by cash, cheque (made payable to CAMP BIMINI with your name and women's retreat on the memo line) or by E-Transfer (sent to campbimini@cyg.net with your name and women's retreat in the message.) Registration and payment due by September 23, 2023. Registration is limited in 2023. Meals, snacks, workshops, and supplies are included.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM JUNE 7, 2023

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO MEMBERS AND ADHERENTS OF THE THAMES ROAD ELIMVILLE CONGREGATION!!!

With the retirement of Treasurer Mary Lou taking place at the end of 2023, it is imperative that the Treasurer position be filled in some way as soon as possible. We have a couple of options available to us. First, we are a registered charity that must have a Treasurer, and that person must be a full member of the congregation. Ideally this person would complete all the duties of the position, including accounting and reporting. A second option would see the responsibilities of the Treasurer shared with a bookkeeper who would perform the routine accounting duties for the pastoral charge. This person would not need to be a member of the congregation; however, there would still be the need for a Treasurer who is a member of the congregation. In this scenario the Treasurer would oversee the work of the bookkeeper and undertake reporting duties, including reporting to Church Council.

Please consider how you can contribute your time and talents to this necessary element of your church. Contact Helen Kadey, Joan Morgan, Janis Richardson, or any member of Church Council to express interest in the position(s) and for more information.

The June 7th Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of May she attended the Council meeting, prepared and led 3 Sunday worship services, took one week of Study Leave to virtually attend the Festival of Homiletics, attended the UCW meeting, attended two Zoom workshops on "Collaborative Ministry in the Rural Church" by the United Church Rural Ministry Network, attended a Ministerial meeting, attended a meeting with Reverend Paul Vollick and Reverend Jacob Shaw to discuss a shared summer worship schedule, virtually attended the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Spring Meeting over two days, attended "Coffee and Conversation" at Exeter United Church, attended EDGE's “Rural Ministry Townhall” online, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, did six in-person pastoral care visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported the chicken fundraiser orders are to be picked up at the church on Wednesday, June 14th between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. The June 4th gift card fundraiser had sales of $15,925 resulting in a profit of $632 for the church. Second quarter profit amounts to $1172.40 compared to $1,046.30 in the first quarter of 2023. The next gift card fundraiser order will be due on July 23rd.

The Christian Education Committee reported that Exeter's South Huron Soccer Club has gifted soccer nets to our community for use at the park. Installation will take place after the nets are released by the town. Some jerseys and soccer balls are being donated as well. A big thank you goes out to Marg Geurts for spotting the opportunity to benefit in this way and pursuing it.

The Worship Committee reported the June 25th worship service will take place at the community park, weather permitting. A potluck picnic lunch will follow the service.

Reverend Louise will be on holidays from Monday, June 26th to Monday, July 10th and from Wednesday, August 2 to Wednesday, August 16th. In case of an emergency please contact Helen Kadey at 519-228-6484.

A summer worship schedule with neighbouring churches was approved by Council. Although the only service at Thames Road Elimville is scheduled for July 23rd (hopefully at the community park), folks are encouraged to attend services at other churches throughout the summer.

The Outreach Committee thanks everyone who contributed school supplies and children's books for students in South Africa. The Grand Bend Rotary Club appreciates the commitment and support of our congregation for their project.

There were 20 residents attend the worship service led by Reverend Louise at Exeter Villa on May 31st. Agnes Bray played the hymns and Anne Kernick, Helen Kadey, and Judith Parker assisted. The next worship service will be on Wednesday, July 19th at 2 p.m.

Items for the foodbank continue to be gathered on the first Sunday of the month. Thank you for your contributions.

The Community Park Committee reported the port-a-potty at the park has been cleaned and serviced for the summer season. A $500 grant from the South Huron Vitality Fund will be put towards the toddler swing project taking place this year at the park.

The UCW ladies met on Tuesday, May 9th at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Kathy Bray and Virginia Warwick leading the program around the topics of tea and Mother's Day.

The Communications and Archives Committee advised that information on Thames Road Cemetery is still being collected.

The Christian Leadership and Development Committee reported the tea at Exeter Villa on Tuesday, April 25th was very successful with 31 attending. Another tea is planned for Tuesday, September 26th.

The Stewardship and Finance Committee reported monthly donations were made to Huron Safe Homes for Youth and Children’s Hospital of Western Ontario.

A bakeless bake sale collected donations of $290.00 for the Mission and Service Fund.

A donation of $200.00 was made to the Camp Bimini Kitchen Project.

Eight ladies will be baking a total of 24 dozen cookies for Camp Bimini in July.

The October UCW meeting has been changed from October 10th to October 17th. There is no UCW meeting in June. The ladies meet next on Tuesday, September 12th for a Welcome Back Supper. The program and supper are being planned by Joyce Fulton, Diane Jeffery, Helen Kadey, and Joan Skinner. Watch for more details as they become available. All women are welcome to attend.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of May, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. Reverend Louise and Sharon Lynn attended the Regional Council Spring Meeting virtually on Friday, May 26th and Saturday, May 27th. It was a hybrid meeting, online and in person at the Unifor Centre in Port Elgin. Approximately 100 people attended in person and around 70 online. Participants met in three sessions for a total of about 10 hours. The theme of the meeting was Dreaming Dreams. The children's book "Dream: A Tale of Wonder, Wisdom, and Wishes" by Susan V. Bosak was used to support the theme throughout the meeting. Using colours to represent the different stages of life, the book depicts the journey of life with all the hopes and dreams found along the way. The story challenges us to find a dream and follow it. To grow a dream, we need more than the one that we are, we need the "believe" of children, the "do' of youth, and the "think" of experience. We need all three and we have within our communities all of these things in each other. We were left with the question "what do you dream of for yourself and your church?" Presentations by three featured speakers explored the United Church of Canada calls to action to Deep Spirituality, Bold Discipleship, and Daring Justice. Presenting A Story of Bold Discipleship, Reverend Jacob Shaw told the history and story of the 6-point Villages cluster, sharing how it works and the pros and cons. Adam Creswell from HUB, a community network for young people in the United Church and beyond, presented A Story of Daring Justice. Based out of Trinity United Church in Kitchener-Waterloo, the goal of HUB is to empower young people to review and revitalize the church as tomorrow's leaders.

Sharing about Forest Church, Mary Savage presented A Story of Deep Spirituality. Forest Church, a contemporary grassroots initiative, offers great freedom and is an example of deep spirituality in the church. The group, which has met twice a month for the past 9 months at the Guelph Arboretum worships with and in creation, paying attention to the environment and slowing down to be present in the moment. Other presentations were made by the United Church of Canada Foundation and the Stewardship Support Team. Eleven Communities of Faith in the Western Ontario Waterways Region were celebrated as Affirming Communities. Eight more are in the process of becoming affirming. Affirming is more than welcoming 2SLGBTQ+ people in our faith communities, it’s about supporting these communities in every way we can. A new Western Ontario Waterways Region Pride flag containing the slogan “Safety, Sanctuary, Unconditional Love” was unveiled. Time was devoted to remembering ministry personnel who have passed. Blessings were extended to a new ministry formed by amalgamation. Thirty ministry personnel anniversaries of 5 to 45 years were celebrated as well as 15 Jubilands with service of 50 to 72 years.

The online only Fall Gathering of Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council will take place over 4 days from Thursday September 28, 2023 to Sunday October 1, 2023. A hybrid Spring 2024 Tri-Region meeting will take place on May 24, 25, 26, 2024 at the Unifor Centre in Port Elgin and online. Following the meeting a live streamed Celebration of Ministry Service took place at the Unifor Centre when

Stacey Mortson was ordained into the United Church of Canada. Previously ordained in other denominations, Craig Bartlett and Wonder Chimvinga were admitted into the United Church of Canada. President-elect Jennifer Irving was installed as the new President of Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council during the service.

New signs have been constructed for the South Huron Foodgrains Project and should be erected soon on property offered by Ivan Hern and Rob Essery for the 2023 project.

To begin exploring a collaborative relationship with local United Churches, Exeter United Church extended an invitation to us and other local congregations in April to attend three "coffee and conversation" sessions. On May 29th a good number of people from the Exeter congregation, along with two people from Thames Road Elimville, gathered for a time of fellowship over coffee and snacks. There is a possibility they will not hold the "coffee and conversation" at the end of June as people have other things to do with the arrival of summer. We will wait to see what they decide.

With June being Pride month, Council agreed to place a small Pride flag decal on the window of the rear entry door to make it clear that all are welcome in our church.

Pastoral charge governing bodies (in our case Church Council) and Regional Councils across the country are being asked to vote on the United Church of Canada Remit 1: Establishing an Autonomous National Indigenous Organization. At General Council 44, the National Indigenous Circle asked for the removal of any structural barriers that would prevent the development and sustaining of an autonomous National Indigenous Organization within the United Church of Canada. When any requested change in church structure will alter the Basis of Union, as this will, a remit is required. Approval of this remit will enable the Indigenous Church to define its own structure and processes while working in partnership with the rest of the United Church of Canada. Council voted to support the remit.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:25 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 13th at 7:00 p.m. in-person at the church.

Community church service on July 2nd at 11 am at the South Huron Recreation Centre. Presented by the South Huron Ministerial as part of Exeter's 150th anniversary celebrations. Worship services at Exeter United will be held in the Social Hall (not the Sanctuary) so enter through the Andrew St or parking lot entrances only.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM MAY 3, 2023

The May 3rd Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of April she attended the Council meeting, prepared and led 4 Sunday worship services plus a Good Friday service, assisted with the preparation and leading of the South Huron Foodgrains Service at Exeter United Church, prepared and led a special Easter Communion service at Exeter Villa, attended the Volunteer Appreciation event at Exeter Villa, attended the UCW meeting, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering on Zoom, attended a Ministerial meeting, attended a meeting with Reverend Paul Vollick and Reverend Jacob Shaw, attended "Coffee and Conversation" at Exeter United Church, attended a Zoom meeting "Rural Ministry Town Hall" hosted by EDGE, attended a Zoom workshop “Collaborative Ministry in the Rural Church” hosted by the United Church Rural Ministry Network, attended the Open House at the new Haskett Funeral Home, did five in-person pastoral care visits, officiated at a burial, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported they are exploring the chicken fundraiser again. Watch for details as they become available. Robert and Kathy thank the 23 individuals who bought gift cards for the April order. There was $9,075 worth of gift cards bought and the church received $356.75 as a result. The next gift card order is due May 7, 2023.

The Property Committee reminds everyone that church cleaners are needed. A sign-up sheet that includes instructions is posted above the desk in the basement or contact any member of Council to help out.

The Christian Education Committee reported that Sunday School will continue weekly with the exception of May 21st until the end of June.

The Worship Committee reported there will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville United Church on Sunday May 21st. That day our congregation is invited to Exeter United Church where a bluegrass band will be leading the service at 10:30 a.m. May 28th is Pentecost Sunday when Communion will be served. The Easter breakfast was enjoyed by about 50 people. After expenses and donations, we were able to donate $150.00 to Camp Bimini and $150.00 to Camp Menesetung.

The Outreach Committee reported our church has been asked by Susan Moore of the Grand Bend Rotary Club to participate in their project of collecting school supplies for children in South Africa. You may remember a number of years ago we gathered school supplies, books, hymn books and other items to fill a shipping container that the Rotary Club loaded in Exeter and was sending to Africa. In the past 13 years they have sent 97 forty-foot sea containers loaded with furniture, blackboards, books, and school supplies. The containers are received by Rotary Clubs in Africa who unload and distribute the supplies to rural schools who have almost no supplies or teaching resources.

The Rotary Club has been given 200 laptop bags from Conestoga College, so they are wanting supplies to fill them with appropriate items. Their Club fundraises for the cost of shipping (last one was over $9000), but everything inside is donated by school boards, hospitals and businesses like 3M and generous individuals. Basic items needed to fill the bags would be pencils, pens, crayons, pencil crayons, sharpeners, rulers, scissors, markers, paper scribblers/exercise notebooks, erasers, glue, glue sticks, construction paper, art supplies, teacher aids such as flash cards, stickers, learning games, tape, toothpaste, and toothbrushes. They also need children's books to add to the container, so gently used or new ones can be donated. This will help with reading skills. A box will be placed at the church to collect your donations of school bag supplies and children’s books. Contact Marianne Timmerman or Judith Parker if you need them to pick up your items. There were 18 residents attend the Easter communion service led by Reverend Louise at Exeter Villa on April 10th. Everyone was very appreciative of the opportunity for this special service. Agnes Bray played the hymns and Janis R, Sharon L and Judith P assisted in serving the elements. The next worship service will be on Wednesday, May 31st at 2 p.m.

Remember to bring items for the foodbank on the first Sunday of the month.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported that Reverend Louise will be away on vacation from Wednesday, August 2nd to Wednesday, August 16th. She will be away on Sunday, August 6, 13, and 20.

As Treasurer Mary Lou Thomson is retiring at the end of the year, a search is on for her replacement. If you would be interested in taking on this position and want more information, please contact Helen Kadey, Joan Morgan, or Janis Richardson.

The Community Park Committee reported C&M Landscaping will be cutting the grass at the park again this year.

The search for information on the location of the graves around the church is ongoing. A site map showing the location of the graves, or a pre-1941 photo of the church and the cemetery showing the gravestones in place, is being requested by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario. If you can provide any information or know of someone or an agency who may be able to help, please contact Sarah Govers or any member of Church Council as soon as possible.

The UCW met on Tuesday, April 11th at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Sharon Lynn, Melonie Miller, and Janet Coward leading the program on the themes of Leadership and Easter. Guest speakers were Cole Heessels and his mother Rebecca, sharing the highlights of their recent trip to the Canada Winter Games in Charlottetown, PEI with Cole's Team Ontario wheelchair basketball team. The meeting closed with several Easter poems and readings.

The Communications and Archives Committee asked the ladies to reach out to family and friends for assistance as we search for a pre-1941 photo of the church showing the gravestones in place.

The Christian Leadership and Development Committee will be hosting a tea at Exeter Villa on Tuesday, April 25th at 2:00 p.m.

The Mission and Outreach Committee reported a card was sent to Jessica and Lars Kemmere on the recent arrival of baby Henry.

The Stewardship and Finance Committee reported monthly donations were made to the South Huron Foodgrains Project, Phoenix House, and Five Oaks.

The Group Leaders will host a funeral lunch for Harold Johns on Saturday, April 15th at the Exeter Legion.

The ladies meet next on Tuesday, May 9th at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Kathy Bray and Virginia Warwick leading the program, and Diane Jeffery and Sharon Lynn providing lunch. The Roll Call will be “Who is your favourite hero”. Cash donations to a Bakeless Bake Sale in support of the Mission and Service Fund will be collected. All women are welcome to attend.

During the month of April several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada, providing up-to-date information on current church related topics. Reverend Louise and Sharon Lynn plan on attending virtually the Regional Council Spring Meeting on Friday May 26th and Saturday, May 27th. It will be a hybrid meeting, online and in person at the Unifor Centre in Port Elgin. The theme of the meeting is Dreaming Dreams. A Celebration of Ministry Service will take place at the Unifor Centre on May 27th at 4 p.m. Kids Across the Regions taking place from Friday, June 9th to Sunday, June 11th is a fun, faith-filled weekend at Camp Bimini for children in grades 4 to 8 from across the three regional councils. The theme is Heroes United: Discovering Super Powers. A voluntary three-tier pricing system is offered. Participants can choose the tier that is most suitable for their family: $70, $85 or $100 (actual cost). The weekend also offers young adult leader opportunities – no registration fee is charged. Email Kathy Douglas or call 519-441-0656 for more information. Click here to Register! Deadline for registration is May 26th.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains worship service on Sunday April 16, 2023 at Exeter United Church was successful with a good crowd in attendance at both the service and the chili lunch that followed. Thank you to everyone who donated to the project or contributed in any way. New signs are almost complete and will be erected at the growing plots in the near future.

To begin exploring a collaborative relationship with local United Churches, Exeter United Church has extended an invitation to us and other local congregations to attend three "coffee and conversation" sessions on the last Monday of April, May, and June at 10 a.m. On April 24th a good number of people from the Exeter and Thames Road Elimville congregations gathered for a time of fellowship over coffee and snacks. The next gathering will be on Monday May 29th. The invitation is for anyone from our congregation who would like to attend.

The provider for phone and internet service at the church has been changed to Hay Communications. The church phone number remains as 519-235-2803. The new email address is thamesroadelimvilleuc@hay.net.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 7th at 7:00 p.m. in-person at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM APRIL 5, 2023

The April 5th Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of March, she attended the Council meeting, prepared and led 4 worship services, two of which were on Zoom, prepared a worship service which was led by Judith Parker at Exeter Villa in her absence, attended the UCW meeting, attended the St. Patrick's Day Potluck Supper, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering on Zoom, attended a Ministerial meeting, attended a meeting for planning the April 16th Foodgrains Service at Exeter United Church, did one in-person pastoral care visit, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

A message from the Finance Committee:

To keep bank service charges at a minimum, people are asked to use e-transfers prudently. When transferring funds to make payments to, for example, the church, Sunday School, and fundraising at the same time, please send one e-transfer rather than several and note the breakdown of the amount in the comment section of the transfer. This would also apply if you were making e-transfers on behalf of several people. Send one e-transfer with a breakdown of the names and amounts you are including in your transfer. Thank you for your cooperation and your ongoing support of our church activities.

The Fundraising Committee reported that the Vista gift card fundraiser has raised a profit of $1,046.30 in the first quarter of this year. The April fundraiser brought in $356.75. The next gift card fundraiser order will be due on May 7, 2023.

The Christian Education Committee reported on the St. Patrick's Day outing to 'The Factory', and the potluck supper and games that followed at the church. Amy did such a fine job with her report, it is included here in its entirety. "It has been a long time since the Sunday School has gone on a field trip. That all changed on Friday March 17. A letter of interest was sent out to parents to determine if there was any interest in going to 'The Factory' indoor trampoline park at the old Kellogg's plant in London, returning to the church after for a potluck supper and evening of St. Patrick's Day themed games. The response was overwhelming, and the Sunday School was thrilled!!!

A bus was booked, then a second bus was booked. A few met at the park. In total, 45 kids/teens/young adults ran and jumped and played at the park for almost three hours. 22 adults sat in the sidelines catching up in conversation and rallying the troops together after to board the bus back. Of course, snacks for the ride home were deemed essential and enjoyed by everyone. Approximately 21 additional members of the congregation joined in for a delicious potluck supper which was full of variety despite nobody keeping track of the food being brought. The evening finished off with some exciting St. Patrick's team games including peeling cabbages, stacking plastic cups, Lucky Charms puzzling, memorizing St. Patrick’s items from a table, musical chairs, and the parents' personal favorite game of which team can pick up the most garbage off the floor! The children were in total disbelief when an adult drank the mystery juice which was clearly labelled "adults do not drink or you will turn green". The evening closed with an old Irish Blessing. A good time was definitely had by all, and it was lovely to see everyone young and old reconnecting in fun and good conversation.

A portion of the tickets was paid for by the Sunday School and a portion by parents, making the outing affordable for families. Several donations were received by free-will collection and by e-transfer which will no doubt help to fund future fun outings. The Sunday School would like to extend a BIG thank you to all those who helped decorate, set up and unset tables, check on crockpots plugged in throughout the day at the church, prepare and organize food and drinks brought for supper, wash dishes, and cleaned up the church after. We could not have done this without your help. Your efforts did not go unnoticed and were very much appreciated." Well done Amy and Sarah!

The Worship Committee reported a Good Friday service will be held at the church on April 7th at 10 a.m. An Easter Sunday breakfast on April 9th will begin at 8:30 a.m. followed by the Easter worship service at 10 a.m.

The Outreach Committee reported there were 18 residents attend the worship service at Exeter Villa on March 29th. Reverend Louise prepared the service and Judith Parker delivered it in her absence. Others assisting were Sharon Lynn and Janis Richardson. Louise will be leading a communion service at the Villa on Easter Monday, April 10 at 10 a.m. Contact Judith or Marianne if you would like to assist. Bring food or hygiene items for the Exeter & Area Community Foodbank to church on the first Sunday of the month. Thank you to all those who continue to support this much-needed outreach into our community. There were 5 people renew their subscription to the Broadview magazine. If anyone else is interested in being a new subscriber, contact Judith. The cost is $25/year. You can also sign up for the free on-line newsletter at https://broadview.org/newsletter/ .

The Community Park Committee reported the committee has reapplied to the South Huron Vitality Fund for a grant to install a stand-alone toddler swing in the park. As vehicles have been driving across wet areas in the park, the committee has roped off the entranceway. The park is closed until the grounds dry up and are suitable for vehicles to enter. The committee has received confirmation that the Municipality of South Huron will be continuing their partnership with the committee through the Memorandum of Understanding. South Huron Council expressed a sincere appreciation for the dedication and commitment that the Thames Road Elimville Community Park Committee has shown to the community.

Sarah Govers gave an update on her and Dave's proposal to purchase the church building and surrounding property. To satisfy the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, she is searching for a site map showing the location of the graves around the church, or a pre-1941 photo of the church and the cemetery showing the gravestones in place. If you can provide any information on the location of the graves around the church, or know of someone who may be able to help, please contact Sarah or any member of Church Council as soon as possible.

The UCW met on Tuesday, March 14th at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Janis Richardson and Helen Kadey leading the program on the themes of International Women's Day and St. Patrick's Day. An informative story was shared on Lydia Gruchy, the first woman ordained to the ministry of the United Church of Canada in 1936, and the difficulties she overcame in doing so. Recorded renditions of "O Danny Boy" and "An Irish Lullaby" were enjoyed. The Roll Call was answered with "Your Favourite Movie."

A virtual World Day of Prayer service was viewed at the church on Friday, March 3rd. Eight ladies enjoyed the service over coffee and snacks. A similar format is being considered for next year, and possibly an invitation to other churches to join us. A donation was made to the Women's Inter-Church Council of Canada which oversees the service.

The Christian Leadership Development Committee will be hosting a tea at Exeter Villa on April 25th. The Mission and Outreach Committee will be sending cards and making phone visits to several shut-ins in the community before Easter.

Monthly donations were made to Habitat for Humanity Huron and the Exeter Community Food Bank. Helpers are needed for the roast beef supper being catered to at the Exeter Curling Club on April 1st. The ladies meet next on Tuesday, April 11th at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Sharon Lynn, Melonie Miller, and Janet Coward leading the program, and Carolyn Johns and Janis Richardson providing lunch. The Roll Call will be “Your dream career”. All women are welcome to attend.

During the month of February several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada, providing up-to-date information on current church related topics. Marianne Timmerman and Sharon Lynn attended a virtual meeting for regional representatives on Tuesday, March 21st. The Regional Council Spring Meeting will take place on Friday May 26th and Saturday, May 27th. It will be a hybrid meeting, online and in person at the Unifor Centre in Port Elgin. Kids Across the Regions – Friday, June 9th to Sunday, June 11th. This is a fun, faith-filled weekend at Camp Bimini for children in grades 4 to 8 from across the three regional councils. The theme is Heroes United: Discovering Super Powers. A voluntary three-tier pricing system is offered. Participants can choose the tier that is most suitable for their family: $70, $85 or $100 (actual cost). The weekend also offers young adult leader opportunities - no registration fee is charged. Email Kathy Douglas or call 519-441-0656 for more information. Click here to Register! Deadline for registration is May 26th.

Across the United Church of Canada, Mission & Service Fund givings totalled $24.5 million in 2022. Of that amount over $1.5 million was contributed for the people of Ukraine. United Church of Canada donors gave over $182,000 to provide support to our partners who are assisting the people of northern Syria and Turkey. The Right Reverend Dr. Carmen Lansdowne, Moderator of The United Church of Canada, calls for a fundamental, fair level of income security for all through the establishment of a Guaranteed Livable Income program. More information, including an e-mail template for letters to government, can be found on the Guaranteed Livable Income webpage.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains worship service will take place on Sunday April 16th at Exeter United Church at 10:30 a.m. Steve McInnis, a Canadian Foodgrains representative, will be the guest speaker. The service will be followed by a free-will offering chili lunch.

To begin exploring a collaborative relationship with local churches, Exeter United Church has extended an invitation to us and other local congregations to attend three "coffee and conversation" sessions on the last Monday of April, May, and June at 10 a.m. There is no hidden agenda, just a time for people to get to know each other and see if they are comfortable together. The invitation is for anyone from our congregation who would like to attend.

In 2022, at General Council 44, the National Indigenous Council proposed that the church identify and remove any structural barriers that would prevent the development and sustaining of an autonomous National Indigenous Organization within The United Church of Canada. When any requested change in church structure will alter the Basis of Union of The Manual, as this will, a Category 3 Remit is required. The remit requires a vote by every regional council and each pastoral charge’s governing body. It does not need to be a vote of the full congregation. Voting is now underway and will take place until March 31, 2024. Before voting, members of Council will be studying information on the remit at future Council meetings.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:05 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 3rd at 7:00 p.m. in-person at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM MARCH 1, 2023

The March 1st Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of February, she attended a Council meeting by Zoom, attended a Trustees meeting, attended the Annual Meeting, prepared and led 4 worship services, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, attended the Pancake Lunch, did no in-person pastoral care visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended a Ministerial meeting, participated in the Coldest Night of the Year walk as part of the TR-E Huggers team, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported that a final report for the Huron Heritage Fund has been prepared for submission to County of Huron-Cultural Services. The report is required for release of the $500 grant to assist in printing costs for the new cookbook.

A thank you is extended to the 21 individuals who bought Vista gift cards for our February order. The orders brought in $7,410 worth of gift cards and the church received $287.15. There were three new participants – thank you for joining this wonderful fundraiser! The next gift card order is due on Sunday, March 5, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Submit your order online, take your order to church, or after 11 a.m. on March 5th deliver your order to Robert and Kathy Bray at 41745 Thames Road East by 2:00 p.m. Payment is due at the time of ordering. The expected date the orders will be ready is Monday, March 20, 2023. Pickup will be from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the church. The next order will be in April.

The Christian Education Committee reported that Sunday School will be offered weekly until the end of June, except for April 16th and May 21st when there will be no worship services at the church. Sunday School leaders are Amy Parsons and Sarah Govers. Parents can reach out to them with questions or concerns. All children are welcome.

A March Break outing to The Factory in London is planned for Friday afternoon March 17th. Transportation by bus is being considered but is not confirmed at this time. Contact Sarah or Amy to express interest in participating in this activity. The outing is open to all ages – older, younger, and in between! An email with further information will be coming out on Monday March 6th; when received a prompt reply is requested. Following the outing, St. Patrick's Day will be celebrated with a potluck supper at the church followed by a games night. The congregation is strongly encouraged to join in the supper and evening activities.

An Easter weekend activity will be offered. Watch for details as they become available. Future proposed activities include a Food Bank activity/tour, a nature/trail walk, and a movie afternoon.

The Worship Committee reported that future worship services will be held in the sanctuary to allow the Sunday School children to meet in the basement. Lenten worship services will take place throughout the month of March. Remember to 'spring your clocks ahead' for the change to Daylight Savings Time on March 12th. Palm Sunday is on April 2nd and Easter Sunday is on April 9th. An Easter Sunday breakfast will take place in the basement of the church at 8:30 a.m. The pancake lunch from February 19th raised $325.00 which was donated to the "Coldest Night of the Year" walk.

The Outreach Committee reported the next worship service at Exeter Villa will be on March 29th at 2 p.m. Contact Judith Parker or Marianne Timmerman if you would like to assist at the services. The 2023 Coldest Night of the Year walk on February 25th was another success. Our TR-E Huggers team had 13 walkers participate - Louise von Massow, Robert & Kathy Bray, Helen Kadey, Joan Skinner, Joyce Fulton, Sharon Lynn, Kate Monk & Doug Hocking, Grace & Ruby Parker, and Rick & Judith Parker. Our generous donors raised $5,105 towards the overall campaign goal of $41,000 for Exeter. https://cnoy.org/location/exeter. This community has now raised $16,315 over four years of entering a team. Funds support the South Huron Connection Centre, offering basic needs such as washroom/shower/laundry facilities and light meals to those in need. Also, towards the homelessness initiative in Huron County with programs and shelter for women, children, and youth. Donations to the walk can be made until March 31st. Items for the Exeter & Area Community Foodbank can be brought to church on the first Sunday of the month and will be dropped off at Hansen’s. The food bank provides clients with a seven-day supply of non-perishable items, once a month.

The Community Park Committee reported the annual park report has been prepared and will be sent to the Municipality of South Huron as per the Memorandum of Understanding agreement.

The Trustees reported the Cemetery Operator Licence Renewal has been completed and submitted for both the Thames Road and Elimville Cemeteries. The Trustees continue to investigate costs for property insurance. A written proposal for the purchase of the church building and surrounding property was received from Dave and Sarah Govers. Discussions are ongoing.

The United Church Women met on Tuesday, February 14th at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Anne Kernick and Joan Skinner leading the program. Readings on the theme of “Love” were read, and several “love stories” from the Bible were shared as well as some history and trivia around Valentine’s Day. Two funeral lunches were catered to in January. The 2023 budget and charitable donations for the year were approved; donations in February will go to Camp Bimini and Camp Menesetung. For the foreseeable future, catering for meals will be done for small group only events and will be priced on a case-by-case basis. The Christian Leadership Development Committee will be hosting a tea at Exeter Villa on Tuesday, April 25th. The World Day of Prayer is Friday, March 3rd and the service will take place virtually again this year. Prepared by the women of Taiwan, a video link to the program will be circulated and shown across Canada. The one-hour video will be shown at the church at 10 a.m. on March 3rd, for any UCW members who want to watch it together over coffee and snacks. A donation of $100.00 was made to the TR-E Huggers team which is participating in the local Coldest Night of the Year walk on Saturday, February 25th. A roast beef supper will be catered to on April 1st and a funeral lunch on April 15th. The ladies meet next on Tuesday, March 14th at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Janis Richardson and Helen Kadey leading the program, and Joyce Fulton and Shirley Cooper providing lunch. The Roll Call will be “Your favourite movie”. All women are welcome to attend.

During the month of February several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada, providing up-to-date information on current church related topics. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

The Mitchell Christian Resource Centre is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 am - 4 pm. Call them at 519-348-9261 or send them an email at hpprc@quadro.net. Check out their website at wowresourcecentre.ca, and their Facebook page “Christian Resource Centre”. They have lots of resources, books, and giftware available for purchase.

Camp Menesetung still has spots available for summer programs. Early Bird pricing applies until May. Go to www campmenesetung.ca/summercamp for more information and to register. Camp Bimini summer camp registration opens February 28th. Go to https://campbimini.ca/ for more information and to register.

Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council is an Affirming Ministry of the United Church of Canada. The 5th annual P.I.E. Day on March 14th is a time to celebrate being Public, Intentional and Explicit in our inclusive welcoming of 2S and LGBTQIA+ peoples. Everyone is invited to enjoy a piece of pie and think about the people these letters represent. On Monday, February 6th a series of powerful earthquakes struck southern Türkiye (Turkey) near the border with Syria. The quakes caused extensive damage and loss of lives. Today, people need emergency shelter, blankets, mattresses, clean water, food, and hygiene items. The United Church of Canada joins its Mission & Service partners to show tangible support for the people of Türkiye and Syria. You can be a part of these efforts by donating now. Thank you for your generosity. Donations can be made in one of the following ways: Through the South Huron Foodgrains Project: Donations through the South Huron Foodgrains Project are matched 4 to 1 by the federal government. Send a cheque to Brent Caslick at 256 Victoria Drive, Centralia, ON N0M 1K0 payable to the South Huron Foodgrains Project, or send an E-trsfr to shgbtreasurer@gmail.com for deposit to the Foodgrains bank account. Brent can be contacted at 519-851-3572 for more information. Online via our secure donation page. Phone 416-231-5931 or toll-free 1-800-268-3781 ext. 2738 and use your Visa or MasterCard. Send a cheque or money order to: The United Church of Canada, Philanthropy Unit - Emergency Response, 3250 Bloor Street West, Suite 200, Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4. Please be sure to note "Emergency Response—Türkiye" on the face of your cheque.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains worship service is planned for Sunday April 16, 2023 at Exeter United Church at 10:30 a.m. Steve McInnis, a Canadian Foodgrains representative, will be the guest speaker. The service will be followed by a free-will offering lunch.

Council members spent some time working on the Annual Self-Assessment Checklist. Now completed, the document will be forwarded to Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council.

Wearing a mask at all future church-related gatherings will be a personal choice. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:10 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 5th at 7:00 p.m. in-person at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM FEBRUARY 8, 2023

The February 8th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of January she attended a Council meeting by Zoom and a Special Council meeting in person, attended a Trustees meeting, prepared and led 4 worship services, prepared and led 3 funerals and provided pastoral care to the families, did 3 in-person pastoral care visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended a Ministerial meeting, checked the church email and phone messages, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Finance Committee reported the fee schedule for the use of the church building and equipment remains unchanged from 2022. Contact a member of the Property Committee to book the facility or to rent tables, chairs, etc.

The Fundraising Committee reported another 200 copies of the "Reunion of Family Favourites" cookbook were printed in January. There are approximately 80 copies left out of the reprint. Contact Anne Kernick, Helen Kadey, Amy Parsons, or Judith Parker if you would like a copy. Robert & Kathy Bray reported on the Vista gift card fundraiser. In February there were 21 participants with orders totally $7,410.00. Our profit is $287.15. A thank you is extended to all participants for your orders. The next order is due March 5, 2023.

The Christian Education Committee asked if the worship service could be held in the sanctuary on the Sundays when Sunday School is scheduled so that the children can gather in the basement. Consent was given by Council. We have received another invitation from Exeter United Church to join them for skating at the Hensall Arena on Sunday February 19th from 10:30 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. All ages are welcome! After skating consider coming to the church for the pancake lunch, but please preregister if you are planning to come for lunch.

The Worship Committee reported a service in recognition of Black History Month will take place at the church on February 12th and the February 19th service will include the Commissioning of the Church Council members. February 26th is the first Sunday of Lent and Communion will be served.

As the following Tuesday will be Shrove Tuesday, there will be a Pancake Lunch on Sunday February 19th after the worship service. Please preregister by signing up on the sign-up list on the table at the backdoor of the church or by contacting Robert & Kathy Bray by phone at 519-229-8863 or by email at vkjbray@quadro.net. There will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville United Church on May 21st as Reverend Louise will be on Study Leave, or on Sundays July 2nd and July 9th when Reverend Louise will be on vacation. Also, there will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville United Church on Sunday April 16th due to the South Huron Foodgrains worship service at Exeter United Church.

The Outreach Committee reported that donations of $120.00 were made to the Mission and Service Fund for the coffee and snack served before the Annual Meeting. Reverend Louise led the worship service at Exeter Villa on Feb 1st. There were 17 residents attend with Sharon Lynn, Janis Richardson, and Judith Parker assisting. The next worship service will be on March 29th at 2 p.m. Contact Judith Parker or Marianne Timmerman if you would like to assist at the services. The residents look forward to our visit. The 2023 Coldest Night of the Year walk for Exeter area is Saturday, February 25th. Our TR-E Huggers team has 10 walkers participating so far, and donations received have us in second place on the scoreboard https://cnoy.org/location/exeter. Thanks so much to everyone who has signed up as a walker or donor to date. Broadview magazine renewal and new subscriptions are due by March 5th. Our annual group subscription rate is $25. Contact Judith Parker or Marianne Timmerman to renew or sign up for the magazine.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported that Reverend Louise will be on Study Leave from Monday, May 15th to Thursday, May 18th and on vacation from Monday, June 26th to Monday, July 10th. A letter of resignation has been received from Treasurer Mary Lou Thomson effective December 31, 2023. A thank you was extended to Mary Lou for giving us her time for the past 13 years.

With our property insurance coming up for renewal, the Trustees will be price checking around for current rates. The Trustees have met with Dave and Sarah Govers regarding the possible purchase of the church building and surrounding property. Further discussion will take place at the March Council meeting.

The United Church Women did not meet in January. The Installation of Officers took place during the worship service on January 22, 2023. The ladies meet next on Tuesday February 14, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Anne Kernick and Joan Skinner leading the program and Sharon Passmore and Melonie Miller providing lunch. The Roll Call will be "Your favourite winter pastime."

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of January, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

The Mitchell Christian Resource Centre is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 am - 4 pm. Call them at 519-348-9261 or send them an email at hpprc@quadro.net. Check out their website at wowresourcecentre.ca, and their Facebook page "Christian Resource Centre." They have lots of resources, books, and giftware available for purchase.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains worship service is planned for Sunday April 16, 2023 at Exeter United Church. Steve McInnis will be the guest speaker.

A thank you was extended to all who took positions on the 2023 Church Council. The Commissioning of Council will take place during the worship service on Sunday, February 19th.

Privacy Officer John Miner circulated a copy of our Privacy Policy amongst Council members, an annual requirement of the policy.

Council members completed a Community of Faith Survey for Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council. When the new Regional Governance Model was adopted in 2019, a commitment was made to review the structure in three years to determine that it was meeting the original stated objectives. The survey will assist in completing the review. Council members also spent some time working on the Annual Self-Assessment Checklist that will be sent to Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council in March.

Collaboration meetings with other local congregations to discuss ways in which we may be able to share resources with each other in the future have not yet been organized. Our representatives at the meetings will be John Miner, Reverend Louise, and Ken Kadey.

At the recent congregational Annual Meeting, Council was asked to consider providing more information on a more frequent basis regarding the financial situation of the church. Beginning in March 2023 and quarterly thereafter, the most recent Income and Expense Statement and Budget Comparison Statement will be sent to the congregation with the Council Report.

Wearing a mask at all future church-related gatherings will be a personal choice. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:10 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 1st at 7:00 p.m. in-person at the church.

REPORT FROM THE CONGREGATIONAL ANNUAL MEETING FEBRUARY 5, 2023

Following coffee and a snack hosted by the Outreach Committee after the worship service, the 2022 Annual Meeting of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge was held in the church basement on February 5, 2023. Welcoming 28 members and adherents of our community of faith, Chair of Council John Miner called the meeting to order at 11:15 a.m. followed by a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Remembered in prayer by Reverend Louise were Murray Dawson, Gordon McCarter, and Kay Cunnington, members of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge who passed away in 2022. Welcomed with joy to our church family were Brynlee Dianne Lynn and Liam Patrick Kemmere by Baptism, and Mercedes Prout and Natalie Parsons as full members by Affirmation of Faith Confirmation.

A highlight of 2022 was the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the blending of the Thames Road and Elimville congregations. Held on the first weekend in June, the commemorative event provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the life and work of our community of faith over the years, while at the same time bringing together folks of all ages for a memorable time of fun, food, and fellowship.

Following a motion passed by the full members of the congregation, adherents were extended voting rights on all matters of business coming before the meeting.

The minutes from the 2021 Annual Meeting were approved and the reports in the 2022 Annual Report booklet were reviewed and adopted as printed.

Motions were passed to:

-Approve the Minister’s Remuneration Report for 2023.

-Approve the 2023 Honoraria Report for non-salaried employees.

-Approve the 2023 Proposed Budget as presented and amended.

-Approve the 2023 Mission and Service Fund allocation of $6,000.00.

-Appoint Sharon Lynn and Marianne Timmerman as Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council

Representatives for 2023.

-Appoint Carolyn Johns and Helen Kadey as Financial Examiners for 2023.

-Approve participation in the South Huron Foodgrains growing project in 2023 and to name Larry Lynn, Brent Dawson, and Ken Kadey to the committee.

-Appoint John Miner as a member of the Trustee Board for a 4-year term.

-Adopt a full slate of members for the 2023 Church Council.

-Approve our Living Faith Story for Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council as presented and amended.

Church Council will have no new members in 2023. No nominations were received, and no volunteers came forward to fill any of the open positions. All retiring members of Church Council agreed to return to their positions for another term.

During new business a request was made to provide more information on a more frequent basis regarding the financial situation of the church. Council will be addressing this concern at their upcoming meeting.

Citing indifference and shortage of volunteers, a motion was made to close the church effective the date of the 2023 Annual Meeting in 2024. Following discussion, the motion was defeated by a large majority.

Speaking on behalf of both Dave and her, Sarah Govers expressed their interest in purchasing the church building and surrounding property. The congregation would continue to use the building for worship and meetings. The proposal has raised many questions and the Trustees have been searching for answers in recent months. At this time discussions between the Govers family and the Trustees are ongoing.

What's in store for 2023? It is anticipated there will be meetings with other local congregations to discuss ways in which we may be able to share resources with each other in the future.

John Miner extended a thank you to Reverend Louise for her worship leadership in 2022, and for being so dedicated to pastoral care within our church family. We appreciate her ability to rise to the challenges, sometimes last minute, that a busy schedule can bring, and feel very blessed to have her and Bruce as part of our church family here at Thames Road Elimville. John also extended a thank you to our hardworking, dedicated Council that holds everything together, and to the members and adherents of our church family for their participation in the life and work of our church. Of particular note is the caring response to our request for additional support last fall when our financial situation was looking extremely bleak. The ongoing support is very much appreciated.

Sharon Lynn extended a thank you to Chair John Miner for his wisdom and guidance throughout a busy year. For two plus years John exhibited excellent leadership throughout the pandemic, keeping everyone safe. With church activities and business matters emerging once again, 2022 has brought several new challenges, but John has carried on providing the leadership needed.

The first meeting of the new Church Council will be on Wednesday February 8, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing. The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 12:10 p.m.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM JANUARY 4, 2023

The January 4th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of December she attended the Carol Sing, dinner, and Cookbook Launch, attended a Council meeting by Zoom, prepared and led 4 worship services (including Christmas Eve by Zoom), prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, attended the UCW meeting, made just one in-person visit, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported the new cookbook - 'A Reunion of Family Favourites' has been a success story with all 400 copies sold in the month of December. Enquiries about purchasing a cookbook continue to come in, so there will be a reprint of the cookbook. Contact Anne Kernick, Helen Kadey, Amy Parsons, or Judith Parker to have your name added to the order list.

Robert & Kathy Bray reported the next Gift Card order is due January 8, 2023. The expected date orders will be ready is Monday, January 23, 2023 and pickup will be from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the church. The next order will be in February.

The Property Committee reported the carpet at the back entrance has been replaced.

The Worship Committee reported that worship services will resume at the church on Sunday January 8th. January 15th will be Baptism Sunday. On January 22nd worship services will be moved to the basement of the church. The UCW Installation of Officers will take place during the service.

The Outreach Committee reported the next worship service at Exeter Villa is Wednesday February 1st at 2 p.m. Contact Judith Parker or Marianne Timmerman if you would like to assist at the services. We hand out the songbooks, help residents find the correct hymn number and have a visit after the service. A thank you is extended to everyone who donated cookies for the Angel Project. We contributed over 700 cookies to be included in approximately 300 food hampers. The gifts and hampers were assembled by volunteers at Noah's Ark and distributed to families needing some extra Christmas love. Donations in support of the Exeter Community Foodbank will be gathered on Sunday January 8th. Thank you for your ongoing generosity to the foodbank. The 2023 Coldest Night of the Year walk for Exeter area is Saturday, February 25. Plan to be part of the TR-E Huggers team – either as a walker or donor. Over the past three years, our Thames Road Elimville community has raised $11,000 in support of fighting homelessness in the South Huron community. Council approved a recommendation that the 2023 allocation to the Mission and Service Fund be set at $6,000. The recommendation will be taken to the Annual Meeting in February for approval by the congregation.

The UCW met for their Christmas meeting at the church on Tuesday December 13, 2022. Janis Richardson and Judith Parker led the program. Janet Clarke and Bev Prout attended, telling us about the Huron Fidgetmakers and the fidget aprons the group makes. The Roll Call was answered with "An unusual Christmas gift I received." A financial donation was made to the Huron Area Newcomer Fund to support Ukrainian refugees. A full slate of officers for 2023 was approved. An installation of officers service will take place during the worship service on Sunday January 22, 2023. We viewed a “blast from the past” with a slide show of photos of our UCW over the past 60 years. The annual $5.00 gift exchange was enjoyed by all in attendance. Lunch was served by Joan Skinner and Melonie Miller. The ladies meet next on Tuesday February 14, 2023 with Anne Kernick and Joan Skinner leading the program and Sharon Passmore and Melonie Miller providing lunch. The Roll Call will be "Your favourite winter pastime."

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of December, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region's Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wowrcucc1.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains worship service is planned for Sunday April 16, 2023 at Exeter United Church.

The Church Council Nominating Committee is Joyce Fulton, Ken Kadey, Judith Parker, Kathy or Robert Bray, Sarah Govers, and John Miner. No one from the congregation has come forward to stand as a member-at-large on the committee. Council positions to be filled for 2023 include Council Secretary and one member on each of the Finance, Property, Outreach, Worship, Christian Education, and Ministry & Personnel Committees. Several volunteers have come forward to fill these positions; however, the position on the Christian Education Committee remains vacant. Further nominations and volunteers for any of the positions will be accepted up to the day of the Annual Meeting. Contact any member of the Nominating Committee for more information, or to volunteer or make a nomination.

Reports for the Annual Report are to be to Sharon Lynn by January 15, 2023. Annual Reports will be available on January 29, 2023. The 2022 Annual Meeting will take place in-person at the church following the worship service on Sunday February 5, 2023. The alternate date for the meeting is Sunday February 12, 2023, if needed. A light snack will be provided by the Outreach Committee between the worship service and the meeting with proceeds going to the Mission and Service Fund. All members and adherents of the Thames Road Elimville congregation are welcome to attend the meeting.

For the meeting to proceed, a quorum must be in attendance; a quorum is at least 20 full members of our congregation. A person becomes a full member in one of the following ways: confirmation, adult baptism and profession of faith, or through a certificate of transfer from another congregation or church, among others. To ensure a quorum is present, Council will be asking full members of our congregation to make a prior commitment to attend the meeting. The meeting invitation and RSVP date will be sent out with the Annual Report by January 29, 2023.

Council members spent some time working on the Annual Self-Assessment Checklist that will be sent to Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council in March.

Wearing a mask at all future church-related gatherings will be a personal choice. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:05 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 8th at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM DECEMBER 7, 2022

The December 7th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of November she attended a Council meeting by Zoom, prepared and led 4 worship services, prepared and led a worship service at Exeter Villa, attended the UCW meeting, attended the Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, met with Rev. Jacob Shaw, made 4 in-person visits including 3 hospital visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Fall Meeting by Zoom over 1 1/2 days, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, conducted a Baptism preparation session by Zoom, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The 2023 Proposed Budget was approved and will be taken to the Annual Meeting in February 2023 for approval by the congregation.

The Fundraising Committee reported a "Soup in a Bowl" meal and unveiling of the new cookbook - A Reunion of Family Favourites, was held on December 4th. The committee - Helen K, Amy P, Anne K and Judith P, want to thank everyone who provided 15 crockpots of chili, soup, or stew for the meal. Also, those who made cookies and squares for dessert - some of which are featured in the new cookbook.

Prior to the meal, families gathered in the sanctuary for a Christmas sing-along and visit from Santa which was organized by Robert & Kathy Bray. There were 85 adults and children attend this very successful evening.

To place an order for copies of 'A Reunion of Family Favourites,' contact Anne Kernick, Helen Kadey, Amy Parsons, or Judith Parker. The cost is $25 each, with cheques payable to Thames Road Elimville United Church or by e-transfer at thamesroadelimvilleuc@quadro.net (Make note it is for cookbooks). Robert & Kathy Bray reported the church received $704.75 after 27 individual orders bought $16,455 worth of Gift Cards. The Gift Cards have arrived and can be picked up by calling Robert and Kathy at 519-229-8863 to arrange for pickup at their home. A thank you is extended to Joyce Fulton and Gaiser Elliott Insurance for the use of the office as a courier drop off location. Treasurer Mary Lou Thomson was also thanked for her quick transfer of funds which made for a fast turn around time for the order. Now that the process has been set up, a volunteer for an administrator for the Gift Card program is needed. Perhaps a commitment of three months would be a good place to start. Please contact Robert or Kathy Bray if you feel this is a way you can support your church. The next Gift Card order will be due January 8, 2023.

The Christian Education Committee reported an invitation has been received from Exeter United Church to join with them for a skating party on Sunday December 11th at Hensall Arena between 9:30 a.m. and 10:20 a.m. Hot chocolate will follow the skating. All children are welcome to attend.

The Worship Committee reported there will be a Christmas Eve service in the church on Saturday, December 24th at 7:00 p.m. There will be no worship services at Thames Road Elimville United Church on Sunday, December 25th, and Sunday January 1, 2023. On Sunday January 15th the baptism of Leah Loerzel, daughter of Bernhard and Heather Loerzel, and Miles Warwick, son of Brett and Julia Warwick, will take place during the worship service. Worship services will continue in the sanctuary until January 15th before moving to the basement of the church on January 22nd.

The Outreach Committee extended a thank you to Reverend Louise for leading the worship service at Exeter Villa on December 7th. Marianne Timmerman and Janis Richardson assisted the residents. Contact Judith or Marianne if you would like to assist at the services. We hand out the songbooks, help residents find the correct hymn number and have a visit after the service. Items donated in support of the Exeter Community Foodbank were gathered on December 4th and dropped off in the foodbank bin at Hansen's. Thank you for your ongoing generosity. A coffee hour held after the UCW 60th Anniversary worship service on November 20th raised $155 for the Mission & Service Fund. Thank you to Joan Morgan, Virginia Warwick, Helen Kadey, and Carolyn Johns for organizing the refreshments. The financial donations collected by the UCW and on White Gift Sunday at the church, totaled $720 for the Huron County Christmas Bureau. The 2023 Coldest Night of the Year has been announced for Saturday February 25, 2023. Plan to be part of the TR-E Huggers team, either as a walker or donor, in support of fighting homelessness in the South Huron community.

The United Church Women met at the church on Tuesday November 8, 2022. Joan Skinner and Shirley Cooper led the program on the theme of Remembrance Day. We heard about the stories of several Huron County residents who had connections with the two world wars. Cash donations for the Christmas Bureau were collected. Under the leadership of Judith Parker, the United Church Women led the worship service at the church on Sunday November 20, 2022, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the formation of the UCW in 1962. A coffee hour followed the service with donations going to the Mission and Service Fund. An executive meeting to plan for 2023 was held on November 15, 2022. The ladies meet next on Tuesday December 13, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Janis Richardson and Judith Parker in charge of the program and Joan Skinner and Melonie Miller providing lunch. If you wish to participate in the gift exchange, please bring a $5.00 gift. The Roll Call will be “An unusual Christmas gift I received”.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of November, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region's Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/WOWUCC/. The Mitchell Christian Resource Centre is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 am - 4 pm. Call them at 519-348-9261 or send an email to hpprc@quadro.net. Check out their website at wowresourcecentre.ca and join their Facebook page "Christian Resource Centre." They carry a good supply of books and giftware for your holiday shopping. 2023 United Church calendars are available at the Resource Centre. The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council fall gathering took place virtually on November 18 and 19, 2022. Reverend Louise and Sharon Lynn attended the meeting by way of Zoom video conferencing. The region’s spring meeting will be in a hybrid format, both in-person and virtual. The meeting will take place on Friday, May 26, 2023 and Saturday, May 27, 2023 at the Unifor Centre in Port Elgin. Is there someone on your Christmas list who is hard to buy for? Gifts with Vision—the United Church's giving catalogue is full of gifts that help transform people's lives throughout Canada and across the world. While gifts for Ukraine and COVID-19 continue, there are many new gifts to support people across the world who are experiencing the effects of climate change, economic instability, and war-and particularly several new gifts for children. Check out the Gifts with Vision website and give gifts that make a difference.

Financial donations to the South Huron Foodgrains Project have been closed off for 2022. Donations can still be made in 2022, but they will be credited to the 2023 project. E-transfer your donation to shgbtreasurer@gmail.com or mail your cheque to South Huron Foodgrains Project, c/o Brent Caslick, 256 Victoria Drive, Centralia, ON N0M 1K0. Five acres of winter wheat for the 2023 project has been planted on land provided by Ivan Hern. In the spring of 2023, 3 ½ acres of corn or soybeans will be planted on land provided by Rob Essery. The 2023 South Huron Foodgrains worship service will take place on Sunday April 16, 2023 at Exeter United Church.

The Nominating Committee is Joyce Fulton, Ken Kadey, Judith Parker, Kathy or Robert Bray, Sarah Govers, and John Miner. No one from the congregation came forward to stand as a member-at-large on the committee. Council positions to be filled for 2023 include Council Secretary and one member on each of the Finance, Property, Outreach, Worship, Christian Education, and Ministry & Personnel Committees. Several volunteers have come forward to fill these positions; however, positions on the Christian Education Committee and the Ministry and Personnel Committee remain vacant. Further nominations and volunteers for any of the positions will be accepted up to the day of the Annual Meeting. Contact any member of the Nominating Committee for more information, or to volunteer or make a nomination.

Council members had a discussion around the topic of moving forward as a church in this community. Two invitations to join in collaboration with other congregations have been received in recent weeks. The Villages cluster, which includes Granton, Bryanston, Zion West, Centralia, Kirkton, and Hensall United Churches, has extended an invitation to become part of their cluster, and Exeter United Church is looking at possibilities for collaborating with other churches in the area in the future. Council made the decision not to join with the Villages cluster at this time. Exeter United Church will be made aware that we are interested in attending meetings that may lead to a collaboration with other local congregations in the future.

Reports for the Annual Report are to be to Sharon Lynn by January 15, 2023. Annual Reports will be available on January 29, 2023. The 2022 Annual Meeting will take place on Sunday February 5, 2023, with an alternate date of Sunday February 12, 2023, if needed. For the meeting to proceed, a quorum must be in attendance; a quorum is at least 20 full members of our congregation. A person becomes a full member in one of the following ways: confirmation, adult baptism and profession of faith, or through a certificate of transfer from another congregation or church, among others. Advance commitment of attendance will be requested to ensure a quorum will be present. The decision to hold the meeting in person or virtually will be made at the January Council meeting.

Wearing a mask at all future church-related gatherings will be a personal choice. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 7:50 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 4th at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM NOVEMBER 2, 2022

The November 2 nd Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of October she attended a Council meeting, prepared and led 5 worship services, attended the UCW meeting, attended the Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, attended the Trustees meeting, attended the Halloween Party, made 10 in-person visits, including 7 hospital visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported a Cookbook Launch event is being planned by the committee and will be a "Supper in a Bowl" meal. We will be asking for donations of a crockpot with chili, soup, or stew. Tickets will be $10/adult and $5/child. Kids menu will include hotdogs. Following the meal, the new cookbook will be unveiled and available for sale. A date has not been confirmed with the printer yet ...so stay tuned.

The Property Committee reported Lorne and Pat Ballantyne have cleaned up the flower beds around the church and Tom Passmore has fixed the bathroom sink.

The Christian Education Committee reported the annual Halloween Party in the church basement on Friday October 28 th was well attended with close to 50 kids and several parents, grandparents, and friends in attendance. A thank you is extended to Amy and Sarah for their planning and decorating.

The Worship Committee reported November 6 th will be Remembrance Sunday and the 60 th anniversary of the UCW will be acknowledged during the service on November 20 th . November 27 th is the first Sunday of Advent and White Gift Sunday. For White Gifts, cash donations for the Huron County Christmas Bureau will be accepted. Donations of $20.00 or more will be issued a charitable tax receipt. This program is funded by donations from the community and supported by the work of volunteers.

There will be a Christmas Eve service in the church on Saturday December 24 th at 7:00 p.m. There will be no worship services at Thames Road Elimville United Church on Sunday December 25 th and Sunday January 1, 2023.

The Outreach Committee extended a thank you to Reverend Louise for leading the worship service on November 2 nd at the Exeter Villa. Marianne Timmerman, Janis Richardson, and Judith Parker assisted. The next worship service will be on December 7 th . Donations in support of the Exeter Community Foodbank are gathered at church on the first Sunday of the month. Thank you for helping feed families in need. The UCW will be hosting a Coffee Hour on November 20 th following a worship service recognizing the 60 th Anniversary of UCW. Donations will go towards the Mission & Service Fund.

The Huron County Christmas Bureau continues to provide a helping hand to families in Huron County during Christmas. Eligible families will receive gift cards in lieu of toys and clothing. They are asking for financial donations only. Cash or cheques can be dropped off at Exeter United Church during the week of November 28 th to December 2 nd from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cheques should be made payable to: "Rural Response for Healthy Children" and can also be mailed to Rural Response for Healthy Children, PO Box 687, Clinton, ON N0M 1L0. Credit card donations can be made by calling 226-699-0707 x102.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee presented recommendations for Honoraria Levels and the Minister's Salary for 2023. Both reports were accepted by Council and will be taken to the Annual Meeting in February 2023 for approval by the congregation.

The United Church Women met at the church on Tuesday October 11, 2022. Joyce Fulton and Pat Ballantyne led the program, sharing several Thanksgiving readings. Diane Wilds from Exeter demonstrated her cake decorating skills and sent each lady home with a nicely decorated cupcake. The ladies are in charge of greeting, ushering and operating the lift for worship services in November. The ladies meet next on Tuesday November 8, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. at the church with Joan Skinner and Shirley Cooper in charge of the program and Sharon Lynn and Janis Richardson providing lunch. Cash donations for the Christmas Bureau will be accepted. The Roll Call is "A favourite way to relax."

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of October, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth.

Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/WOWUCC/.

The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council fall gathering will take place virtually on November 18 and 19, 2022.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began on February 24 2022, our overseas Mission & Service partners have been responding to the needs of those impacted by the war. Our church partners are at the forefront of the emergency response in Ukraine with help from faithful supporters of the Mission and Service Fund. Your generosity serves as a reminder of the loving spirit of God, providing care and encouragement when and where it is most needed. Thank you for your ongoing support.

The Nominating Committee consists of the retiring member from the Finance, Property, Outreach, Worship, and Christian Education Committees, plus Council Chairperson and up to two congregation members or adherents-at-large. So far members of the Nominating Committee for 2023 are Joyce Fulton, Ken Kadey, Judith Parker, Kathy or Robert Bray, Sarah Govers, and John Miner. As a congregation member or adherent, if this is a position you would be interested in taking on, please contact any member of the Nominating Committee.

As yet, a volunteer for an administrator for the gift card program has not come forward; however, Council decided to move ahead with the program with the hope that someone will be willing to take on this duty soon. Please contact Robert or Kathy Bray if you feel this is a way you can support your church. Details of the program will be available soon so that gift cards can be purchased in time for Christmas gifts.

In an effort to save on heating costs, worship services will be held in the basement of the church during the winter months, beginning in January 2023. In the event of inclement weather, services will be held by way of Zoom video conferencing.

A vacuum cleaner has been donated to the church giving us two, one for upstairs and one for downstairs. Thank you to the benefactor for the donation that will make cleaning the church a little bit easier. A second accessibility parking space has been identified on the parking lot at the rear the church. Wearing a mask at all future church-related gatherings will be a personal choice. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 7 th at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM OCTOBER 5, 2022

The October 5th Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of September she attended a Council meeting, prepared and led 3 worship services, prepared and led a worship service at the Exeter Villa, attended the UCW High Tea event, hosted the Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, made 3 in-person visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, checked the church email and phone messages, gathered responses to a survey letter, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported the cookbook is still in production and a 'cookbook launch' fundraising event will be planned for later in the year. A couple of other fundraising ideas were presented for consideration, one being the sale of gift cards. The church would purchase the card at a portion of its value and the consumer would then purchase the card from the church at face value. Council members felt the program could be a viable fundraiser. To proceed, an administrator is needed to oversee the project. Duties would include gathering orders, submitting orders, collecting money and arranging payment with Treasurer Mary Lou, and distributing the cards when received. If this is a project you could help with, please contact any member of Church Council.

The annual Halloween Party, the first since 2019, will take place at the church on Friday, October 28th beginning at 6:30 p.m. Those attending are asked to bring potluck snacks. This is a community event, and everyone is invited to come and join in the fun.

The Worship Committee reported Thanksgiving will be celebrated on Sunday, October 9th. On Sunday, October 16th the worship service will take place in the basement of the church.

The Outreach Committee thanked Reverend Louise for leading the worship service at the Exeter Villa on September 28th. Part 2 of the Reality Check survey from Church Council, was emailed/mailed out to the congregation for input on moving forward as a church in this community. A Coffee Hour was held following worship on September 11th with proceeds of $83.50 going towards the Mission and Service Fund goal of $7000 for 2022. Items for the Exeter Community Foodbank are being collected once again on the first Sunday of each month. Thanks for all your donations that will keep the shelves at the foodbank stocked for those in need.

Members of the Ministry and Personnel Committee will be contacting contract personnel in the near future regarding contracts for 2023.

The Community Park Committee met on September 26th. Amy Parsons attended to inquire about installing permanent soccer posts in the park next summer. The committee supported her request and Amy will move forward with the project in the spring of 2023. Her hope is to include the children of the Sunday School in the project. Our application for a South Huron Vitality Fund grant for a toddler swing structure in the park was denied due to limited funds. The committee has resubmitted an application through the Sunset Community Foundation for the grant season closing September 30th.

A good number of UCW members and friends attended a High Tea at the church on Tuesday, September 13th. Many attending donned suitable attire in the form of hats, fascinators, and white gloves. In true High Tea fashion, a wonderful selection of scones, fancy sandwiches, trifle, squares, and tea, were served. Following tea, a recently formed ukulele group from Exeter entertained us with several old familiar tunes. The ladies meet next on Tuesday October 11th at the church with Joyce Fulton and Pat Ballantyne leading the program. Carolyn Johns, Jo-Anne Rowe, and Diane Jeffery will provide lunch. The Roll Call is to name a superstition.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of September, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/WOWUCC/. The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council fall gathering will take place virtually on November 18 and 19, 2022.

Soybeans planted on land provided by Francis Cornish, and corn planted on land provided by Robert Essery for the 2022 South Huron Foodgrains project, have not yet been harvested. Ivan Hern is planting 5 acres of wheat for the 2023 project.

It was decided at the last Council meeting that with our current financial state, cleaning of the church building would be undertaken by volunteers from the congregation. A sign-up list has been created and is posted on the bulletin board in the basement of the church. Please consider signing up if you can help with this duty. Also, Helen Kadey can be contacted at 519-228-6484 to have your name added to the sign-up sheet.

As previously reported, our church's financial position is a serious concern to Council members. Our August appeal for input from the congregation yielded very few responses, and most of those received were less than hopeful. Part 2 of the Reality Check survey was sent to the congregation during the third week of September in the hopes of getting a clear sense of direction from the congregation. We received 24 responses in total. Although some respondents feel it is time to close the church, the majority feel it is important to do whatever is necessary to keep the church open. A majority indicated they could either donate more to the church or support the church at their current level of giving, while a strong majority were willing to commit to helping with fundraisers. Thank you to everyone who took a minute to complete the survey. Your responses provide greater hopefulness for the future of our church and will be helpful in future discussions as we move forward as a church in this community.

Wearing a mask at all future church-related gatherings will be a personal choice. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 2nd at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM SEPTEMBER 7, 2022

The September 7th Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the months of June, July, and August, she attended a Council meeting, prepared 7 worship services and led 6 (one being an email-only service); at the 25th anniversary service Reverend Jock Tolmay was guest preacher, attended the 25th anniversary Friday evening event, prepared and led a worship service at the Exeter Villa, prepared and led a wedding ceremony (plus its rehearsal), attended a Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, made 3 in-person visits, made a lot of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, took two 2-week vacations, was on-call for emergency pastoral care for a week for Exeter United Church, gathered responses to a survey letter, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported a Chicken Fundraiser with J.W. Sweid Foods was held in July. The profit was $1,180 with 60 people participating. Participation and profit was very similar to last year. The 'cookbook project' has had a lot of interest with around 450 recipes submitted. The committee has sorted the recipes into categories and typing is underway. We were successful in receiving a $500 grant from the Huron Heritage Fund which will help with publishing costs. A ‘cookbook launch’ fundraising event will be planned for later in the year.

The Worship Committee reported fall worship services will resume at the church on September 11th. A Welcome Back coffee hour will follow the service. On September 18th the worship service will take place at the former site of Elimville United Church, weather permitting. In the event of inclement weather, the service will be at Thames Road Elimville United Church. September 25th is Baptism Sunday when Liam Patrick Kemmere, son of Sjoerd and Lauren Kemmere will be baptised. Worldwide Communion Sunday will be on October 2nd; Thanksgiving will be celebrated on October 9th.

The Outreach Committee reported a worship service was led by Reverend Louise on July 20th at Exeter Villa. Sharon Lynn, Janis Richardson and Judith Parker assisted. It was heartwarming to visit with the residents once again and provide outreach in this way. The next worship service to be led by Thames Road Elimville is scheduled for September 28th at 2 p.m. A 'Letter from the Chair' was emailed/mailed out to the congregation with an update on current financial resources and a request for input and ideas on moving forward as a church in this community.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee led a discussion on hiring a cleaner for the church. It was decided that with our current financial state, cleaning will be undertaken by volunteers from the congregation. A list is being created so people can sign up to take a turn at cleaning. Please consider taking part if you are able. A new Workplace Discrimination, Harassment, and Violence Response Policy prepared by the United Church of Canada was adopted.

The Community Park Committee reported the damaged play structure in the park has been repaired. No reply has been received for the grant request for the toddler swings. The committee was asked to consider the addition of soccer goal posts in the park.

The UCW has not met since May 2022. Judith Parker delivered 21 dozen cookies to Camp Bimini on July 14th. Thank you to the volunteer bakers! The United Church Women celebrate 60 years in 2022. A service to mark this milestone will be held in the fall. The ladies will meet next on Tuesday, September 13th at the church for High Tea beginning at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $25. Optional wear (but not necessary) is a hat or fascinator and your white gloves! Entertainment will follow.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the months of June, July, and August, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region's Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/WOWUCC/. The Christian Resource Centre is located at 29 Ontario Road in Mitchell. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 am - 4 pm. Give them a call at 519-348-9261 or send them an email at hpprc@quadro.net. You can also check out the website, wowresourcecentre.ca, and join their Facebook page "Christian Resource Centre." They have up-to-date, cutting-edge theological, spiritual, and social justice resources, as well as church supplies and children’s books along with plenty of gift ideas and cards. 2023 United Church calendars are now available. Contact the Resource Centre to purchase one. The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council fall gathering will take place virtually on November 18 and 19, 2022.

General Council 44 met virtually in various sessions from February 13, 2022 to August 7, 2022. On July 23, 2022, the United Church of Canada elected the Rev. Dr. Carmen Lansdowne, Kwisa'lakw, 47, as its 44th Moderator. She will be the church's spiritual leader for the next three years. On September 30, 2022, people all across Canada will wear orange shirts to remember and honour Indigenous children who were taken from their communities and families to residential institutions. This year Indigenous communities across the country continue to share the truth they have always known: that many of the children who never returned home remain on the grounds of those institutions in unmarked burial sites. These communities are now seeking to honour the missing children. On Orange Shirt Day we also observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. For non-Indigenous Christians in particular, this is a time to reflect on their role in colonialism and the ongoing responsibility to make reparations.

Installation of the fibre network to the church is complete and ready for hookup. Hay Communications will be contacted for pricing for telephone and internet services. Wearing a mask at all future church-related gatherings will be a personal choice. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable. Beginning in September paper bulletins will be available when it is advantageous to have them, and the offering plate will be passed once again.

As previously reported, our church's financial position is a serious concern to Council members. In August a survey requesting input and ideas on moving forward as a church in this community was sent to 212 members of our congregation. Part 2 of the survey is being prepared and will be sent to members of the congregation in the days ahead. Please consider responding to this short survey by October 1st to provide guidance to Council members in future discussions.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 5th at 7:00 p.m. at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM JUNE 1, 2022

The June 1st Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of May she attended the Council meeting, prepared 4 worship services and led 3, one being led by the Worship Committee in her absence, made no in-person visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended the online Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Spring Meeting, took one week of Study Leave to attend the Festival of Homiletics online, attended a Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Clergy Gathering by Zoom, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported on the 25th Anniversary Cookbook project. The committee has collected almost 400 recipes so far and people are still asking to submit recipes. A section of the cookbook will feature 'morsels of memories' of catering or serving at a wedding, banquet, strawberry supper, etc. The cookbook will probably be published in the fall and be available for Christmas gifts. Contact Anne Kernick, Amy Parsons, Helen Kadey, or Judith Parker by the end of June if you have a memory or a recipe to share.

The Property Committee reported the dehumidifier has been hooked up in the basement of the church. A thank you is extended to the Miller and Govers families for straightening the fence along the west side of the church.

The Worship Committee reported we will be meeting at the Kirkton-Woodham Community Centre on June 5th at 10:00 a.m. for the 25th Anniversary worship service. The June 12th, June 19th, and June 26th worship services will take place in the Community Park, weather permitting. Bring your lawn chair. June 19th will be Confirmation Sunday. If the weather appears unsettled on Sunday morning, check your email to see if the location of the service has changed. Sunday School continues each Sunday during worship until June 19th. All children are welcome. Please note the summer schedule for worship services. There will be no service in any form on July 3rd and July 10th. Email worship services and the possibility of in-person services in the Community Park will be offered on July 17th, July 24th, and July 31st. There will be no services in any form during the month of August and on September 4th. Worship services will resume on Sunday, September 11th.

The Outreach Committee reported that donations of food items for the Exeter Community Foodbank can be brought to church on June 12th instead of June 5th this month.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported Rev. Louise will be on vacation from Monday, June 27th to Monday, July 11th and Friday, August 5th to Friday, August 19th. Several contacts have been made in an effort to find a cleaner for the church. A decision on hiring will be deferred until fall. If you are interested in taking on this duty beginning in September, or know of someone who may be, please contact Helen Kadey, Joan Morgan, or Janis Richardson.

The Stewardship and Finance Committee led the program for the UCW meeting on May 10th. A Bakeless Bake Sale collected $242 towards the M&S Fund. Donations can still be sent to Helen Kadey. Stewardship donations this month went to Huron Safe Homes for Youth and Children's Health Foundation. The UCW celebrates 60 years in 2022, so a service to mark this milestone will be held in the fall. Camp Bimini requested homemade cookies for campers this summer. Our members will provide 21 dozen cookies for the week of July 17th. The next meeting will be on September 13th with a 'welcome back' catered meal.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of May, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region's Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/WOWUCC/. Reverend Louise and Sharon Lynn attended the virtual Western Ontario Waterways Regional Spring Meeting by way of Zoom on Friday, May 6th and Saturday, May 7th. The theme of the meeting was "Our Words Matter". The topics covered - the word Mission, anti-bullying in the church, using pronouns, and racial justice - were timely and thought provoking. The Fall Regional Meeting will take place on November 18th and 19th, 2022 in a virtual or hybrid format. It is hoped an in-person Spring Meeting can take place May 26th and 27th, 2023. While it may be tempting to distance recent racist attacks in Buffalo, N.Y. and Laguna Woods, CA. as extreme events taking place solely in the United States, the realities of racism are also ever-present in Canada, and the impacts of these attacks are acutely felt here as well. The United Church of Christ in the United States, a full communion partner with The United Church of Canada, has offered this prayer following these horrific racist killings.

The Celebration Committee has been busy planning our 25th Anniversary weekend taking place on Friday, June 3rd and Sunday, June 5th. The committee met at the church on May 26th to finalize plans for Friday night’s supper and Farmer-style Olympics, and Sunday’s lunch and ball game. Close to 100 people have purchased tickets for Sunday's lunch. The 'Praying Hands Hosta' project was a success with 50 plants now growing and connecting the community as a reminder of the 25th anniversary of Thames Road Elimville United Church. Proceeds of $360 will help offset expenses for the celebrations. Thanks to Janis Richardson and Melonie Miller for coordinating this project.

Council agreed that wearing a mask at all future church-related gatherings will be a personal choice. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable.

A discussion took place on the financial situation of our church. Our rapidly declining bank balance is a serious concern to Council members and will be a business priority when Council resumes meeting in September.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 7th at 7:00 p.m. at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM MAY 4, 2022

The May 4th Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of April she attended the Council meeting by Zoom, prepared 4 ½ worship services including Good Friday, led 3 ½, the half being the Foodgrains service at Exeter United Church; one service was led by the Worship Committee in her absence. She attended the UCW meeting by Zoom, made no in-person visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended a Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, attended an online workshop on Acknowledgement of Indigenous Territory, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported Interest in the 25th Anniversary Cookbook is still growing so the deadline for submitting recipes has been extended to May 8th. There have been 300 recipes received so far and the committee is trying to reach out to those who need a reminder or may not have heard about the project. Contact Anne Kernick, Amy Parsons, Helen Kadey, or Judith Parker to submit a recipe. A grant request to assist in offsetting printing costs of the cookbook has been submitted to the Huron Heritage Fund.

The Property Committee is working on getting the dehumidifier hooked up in the basement of the church. As well, the broken blind on the west window is being repaired.

The Worship Committee reported Sunday May 8th, the fourth Sunday of Easter, is Mother’s Day. There will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville on Sunday May 22nd as Rev. Louise will be off on Study Leave. On June 5th Sunday worship will take place at the Kirkton-Woodham Community Centre at 10:00 a.m. as part of our 25th Anniversary celebrations. On June 19th a Confirmation service will be held for Natalie Parsons and Mercedes Prout. Sunday School continues each Sunday during worship until June 19th. All children are welcome.

The Outreach Committee reported the first Sunday of the month is when we support Exeter Community Foodbank. Bring non-perishable food items to church and they will help refill shelves at the food bank. Donation bins are also available at Hansen’s and Dollartree.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported Rev. Louise will be attending the Festival of Homiletics from Monday, May 16th to Friday, May 20th for Study Leave and will be off on Sunday May 22nd. Our cleaning team of Katelyn, Natalie, and Janelle are resigning from cleaning the church as they are finding time does not allow them to carry on. As a result, we are in need of a cleaner at the church as soon as possible. If you would be interested in taking on this task or know of someone who may be, contact Helen Kadey, Joan Morgan, or Janis Richardson for more information. Helen Kadey attended a Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council workshop for Ministry and Personnel Committee members via Zoom on April 27th.

Brodie Tree Service planted two Autumn Fantasy trees at the Community Park on April 29th at the entrance of the playground to replace the two trees that had died. A portion of the playset at the park is in need of repair and has been cordoned off until repairs can be made. No word has been received on our application for a Vitality Fund grant. If received the funds will be used to install a stand-alone swing structure with 2 toddler swing seats at the park.

Due to COVID concerns the United Church Women met via Zoom on Tuesday April 12th. A Lent and Easter program prepared by Joan Morgan and Marg McCarter was presented by Joan. An Easter bunny craft made from a sock was demonstrated. The Mission and Outreach Committee sent Easter cards and made phone visits to several of our senior and shut-in members. Donations were made to the South Huron Foodgrains Project, Phoenix House, Five Oaks, and the Camp Bimini “Kitchen Project”. Members will be baking 21 dozen cookies for Camp Bimini participants this summer. The ladies meet next on Tuesday May 10th with the Stewardship and Finance Committee leading the program. The Roll Call is a donation to a Bakeless Bake Sale with proceeds going to the Mission and Service Fund.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of April, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/WOWUCC/. Rev. Louise and Sharon Lynn will be attending the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Spring Meeting on Friday May 6th and Saturday May 7th. The United Church Women celebrate their 60th anniversary in 2022. A future Sunday worship service at Thames Road Elimville will commemorate this event. Pope Francis has spoken words of apology. The United Church recognizes how important this is for Indigenous members of the Roman Catholic Church and other Christian denominations, and Indigenous people who are not a part of the church...especially residential school survivors, intergenerational survivors, and their communities. Every step that is taken in the work of truth, of repentance, of reparation, of building right relationship, is a step in the right direction. May 2‒8 is Mental Health Awareness Week in Canada and for the second year the United Church marked Mental Health Sunday on May 1st. On January 24, 2022, The United Church of Canada launched its Korea Peace Appeal Ten Thousand Signature Campaign declaring, “70 years is enough”. In 2018, the United Church’s 43rd General Council declared that we believe God is calling us to join with partners to work for peace, justice, and reunification in the Korean peninsula. The 43rd General Council urged the church to address the suffering of the Korean people, which continues since the Korean War has not ended, some seven decades after it was begun. The United Church of Canada has taken up the invitation from Korean partners to add Ten Thousand Signatures to the Korean Peace Appeal by July 2022. The number of signatures collected so far is around 1,400. To sign the petition, click on the above link. We continue to pray for the people of Ukraine as we watch with horror the pain and destruction that has been caused in their country. United Church Mission & Service partners are responding to the unfolding crisis. You can help with your donation. Donate online here: https://www.gifttool.com/donations/Donate?ID=1955&AID=2274&PID=6507. Or send a cheque to: The United Church of Canada, Philanthropy Unit – Emergency Response, 3250 Bloor Street West, Suite 200, Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4. Please note “Emergency Response – Ukraine” on the face of your cheque.

The Celebration Committee has been busy planning our 25th Anniversary weekend taking place on Friday June 3rd (rain date Saturday June 4th) and Sunday June 5th. Friday (or Sat.) 6:00 p.m. at Thames Road Elimville Community Park - Hot dogs, chips, s'mores and a campfire - free will donations accepted. Bring your own beverages, lawn chairs, and roasting sticks. Friday (or Sat.) 7:00 p.m. - Farmer Style Olympics for the young and young at heart. Sunday 10:00 a.m. at Kirkton-Woodham Community Centre - Worship Service led by Rev. Louise with Guest Preacher Rev. Jock Tolmay. Sunday 12:00 noon - Lunch of Dressed Pork, Mashed Potatoes, Carrots, Baked Beans, Gravy, Coleslaw, Applesauce, Buns, Trifle, lemonade, tea, and coffee.

ADVANCED TICKETS ONLY BY MAY 25TH. Adults - $25.00, Children 6-12 years of age - $12.50, 5 and under – free. Contact Amy Parsons, Robert and Kathy Bray, Sharon Lynn, Judith Parker, or Virginia Warwick for tickets. Sunday 1:00 p.m. - Family Ball Game on the Kirkton diamonds – bring your own water bottles and ball gloves. Watch your snail mail for your invitation and plan on joining us for a weekend of fun, faith, and family as we celebrate 25 years together. Spread the word to family and friends - everyone is welcome.

The 'Praying Hands Hosta' has been chosen as the signature plant for the 25th anniversary of Thames Road Elimville United Church. It's a way to connect the homes and families in our community of faith during this Year of the Garden. See the attached flyer for details on ordering your hostas for planting in the next month. Thanks to Janis Richardson and Melonie Miller for coordinating this project.

A discussion took place on the deteriorating condition of the fence along the west side of the church. Further discussion will take place at the next Council meeting.

Provincial and Public Health regulations no longer mandate a face covering in a church building. However, for the safety of everyone who enters the building, Council is requesting that a face covering continue to be worn in the church. Capacity limits have been lifted for worship services, meetings, and other gatherings in the church. Proof of vaccination requirements have also been lifted. Health screening, contact tracing, and hand sanitizing remain in place. Worship services will continue to be available by email and mailbox drop off.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 7:50 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday June 1st at 7:00 p.m., in-person at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM APRIL 6, 2022

The April 6th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of March she attended the Council meeting by Zoom, prepared 4 Sunday worship services, 3 led in-person, one on Zoom, attended the 25th Anniversary Committee meeting by Zoom, made no in-person visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, planned and led three confirmation sessions, 2 in-person, one by Zoom, led a marriage prep session in-person, attended a Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Clergy Gathering by Zoom, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported the deadline of April 15th is fast approaching for submitting recipes for the 25th Anniversary Cookbook to committee members Anne Kernick, Amy Parsons, Helen Kadey and Judith Parker. Forms with details are available at the church or can be emailed. This community has a wonderful culinary history so let’s keep the legacy growing with recipes new and old.

The Christian Education Committee reported that Confirmation sessions concluded on March 16th. A Confirmation service for Natalie Parsons and Mercedes Prout will take place on June 19th. Amy Parsons and Sarah Govers will be offering Sunday School leadership during worship every Sunday until June 19th, excluding Easter Sunday. All children are welcome.

In-person worship services resumed at the church on March 6th, the first Sunday of Lent. Palm Sunday is April 10th, and a Good Friday service will take place on April 15th at 10:00 a.m. at the church. On April 17th Easter will be celebrated with communion being served. You are invited to bring an Easter lily to place in memory of a loved one on Easter Sunday. Please contact Robert & Kathy Bray by email vkjbray@quadro.net or by phone 519-229-8863 no later than Good Friday, advising who you are placing the lily in memory of. A service of baptism for Brynlee Lynn will take place on May 1st. The wedding of Jessica Arnold and Lars Kemmere will take place at the church on July 23rd.

The Outreach Committee reported that the Exeter Community Foodbank needs our help. Their shelves are emptying as fast as they fill them. So folks are asked once again to bring non-perishable food items to church on the first Sunday of the month. Currently, they are in need of cereal, student lunch snacks, crackers, soup, canned meals, sidekicks, canned veggies, KD and rice. Donation bins are available at Hansen's and Dollartree. The ninth edition of the TR-E Huggers Hub newsletter was sent out on March 28th. Contact Judith Parker if you are not receiving the group emails with weekly worship service, council reports, newsletter, etc. Sometimes internet technology has a mind of its own!

The Community Park Committee reported the application for a grant from the Sunset Community Foundation through the Vitality Fund has been sent. If received a stand-alone swing structure with 2 toddler swing seats will be erected at the park. Corey Laye has been contacted and will be cutting the grass at the park again this year.

The UCW met in person at the church on March 8th with the Mission and Outreach Committee leading the program on the theme of International Women's Day. Cash donations and feminine hygiene products collected from our church community in the days leading up to the meeting amounted to over $500.00 of products for the women in Ukraine. Several Irish stories, jokes, and riddles around St. Patrick's Day were enjoyed. During business the upcoming cookbook fundraiser in conjunction with our 25th anniversary celebration was promoted. Date for submission of recipes is April 15th. The ladies will meet next on Tuesday April 12th at 7:30 p.m. in person at the church. Roll Call for the meeting is "A household safety tip." If attending, please bring a pair of scissors with you to the meeting.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of March, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/WOWUCC/.

The Christian Resource Centre in Mitchell is open Tues., Wed., and Fri. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They have up-to-date, cutting-edge theological resources; spiritual, social justice, and children’s books; church supplies, and plenty of gift ideas and cards. The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Spring Meeting will take place May 6-8, 2022 on Zoom.

The extreme violence in Ukraine continues to be beyond words, as is the case for so many around the world who confront armed conflict in their communities. Thanks to your generosity, the United Church community has raised $402,000 for humanitarian relief so far. Of that, $240,000 has been sent via the ACT Alliance. Spanning 127 countries, the Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance is the world's largest network of Protestant and Orthodox churches and agencies, including the United Church. Your generosity through Mission & Service has long supported ACT's humanitarian relief and advocacy efforts. Plans are being finalized for disbursement of $162,000 and funds that continue to come in. Please consider making an online donation today. Or you can send a cheque to:

The United Church of Canada
Philanthropy Unit - Emergency Response
3250 Bloor Street West, Suite 200,
Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4
Please note "Emergency Response - Ukraine" on the face of your cheque.

A successful South Huron Foodgrains worship service took place on Sunday, April 3rd at Exeter United Church. The guest speaker for the service was Henry Reinders, Regional Representative for Ontario at Canadian Foodgrains Bank. Due to safety concerns around the pandemic, there was no in-person lunch served following the service, but Screaming Chef refrigerated meals were available to take home for a donation. Bags of white beans donated by Hensall District Co-op were included in the donation. The 2022 growing project will be planted on two parcels of land provided by Francis Cornish and Robert Essery.

Mark your calendar for Thames Road Elimville United Church 25th anniversary celebration events coming up on Friday June 3rd (rain date Saturday June 4th) at the Community Park, and Sunday June 5th at the Kirkton Woodham Community Centre. Friday will offer burgers, hot dogs, and s'mores beginning at 6:00 p.m. followed by "Farmer Style Olympics" for all the family. On Sunday there will be a 10:00 a.m. worship service followed by a catered lunch, a family ball game, and more.

Provincial and Public Health regulations no longer mandate a face covering in a church building. However, for the safety of everyone who enters the building, Council is requesting that a face covering continue to be worn in the church. Capacity limits have been lifted for worship services, meetings, and other gatherings in the church. Proof of vaccination requirements have also been lifted. Health screening, contact tracing, and hand sanitizing remain in place. Worship services will continue to be available by email and mailbox drop off.

An application through the Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program resulted in a rebate of a portion of energy costs incurred at the church in recent months.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday May 4th at 7:00 p.m., in-person at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM MARCH 2, 2022

The March 2nd Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with an acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Reverend Louise reported that during the month of February she attended the Council meeting, prepared 4 Sunday worship services led on Zoom, attended the Annual meeting on Zoom, attended the UCW meeting by Zoom, made no in-person visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, planned and led three confirmation sessions, one on Zoom, two in person, led a marriage prep session in person, attended a Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, took five days of Study Leave, participated in the Coldest Night of the Year walk as part of the TR-E Huggers team, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee provided details for submitting recipes to the 25th Anniversary Cookbook project. Committee members are Anne Kernick, Amy Parsons, Helen Kadey and Judith Parker. The committee is asking for family favourite recipes from the vintage Thames Road and Elimville cookbooks, as well as new recipes to keep our culinary history growing. Consider contacting former members who may want to share their family favourites from previous cookbooks. The deadline for submitting recipes is April 15th.

The Christian Education Committee reported that six of eight Confirmation sessions have taken place to date. The sessions are now taking place in-person.

In-person worship services at the church will begin again on March 6th, the first Sunday of Lent. Communion will be served, and the Commissioning of Church Council will take place during the service. There will be no worship service at Thames Road Elimville United Church on Sunday April 3rd due to the South Huron Foodgrains service at Exeter United Church.

The Outreach Committee extended a thank you to the donors and walkers who supported Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY). The TR-E Huggers team had 13 walkers and raised $3,705 in support of the South Huron Connection Centre in Exeter and the Huron Homelessness Initiative http://www.cnoy.org/exeter. In the three years our church has participated, we have contributed $11,360 to the local CNOY campaign. Contact Judith or Marianne if you would like to renew your Broadview subscription or sign up. Cost is $25 and the deadline is March 11. Remember to support the Exeter area foodbank when you are at the local grocery stores.

The Community Park Committee is applying for a grant to purchase and install a two-seat standalone toddler swing set at the park. The park's yearend report has been sent to the South Huron Municipality as per the Memorandum of Understanding. Trees at the park that have died will be replaced during the year. A work bee is planned for May to spread mulch around the trees.

The UCW ladies have not met since the last Council meeting. Around the globe, World Day of Prayer was celebrated on Friday, March 4. Click on this link to view the virtual WDP service: https://wicc.org/world-day-of-prayer-2022-service-video/. The theme is “I Know the Plans I Have for You” (Jeremiah 29:11) and was prepared by women of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They will share the injustice obstacles that immigrant women in the UK have met, the selfishness of Britain as a conquering nation, and the hopes for the future. The next UCW meeting will take place in-person at the church on Tuesday, March 8th at 7:30 p.m. with the Mission and Outreach Committee leading the program. The Roll Call is “An Irish Saying”.

Several emails were received from Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council and the United Church of Canada during the month of February, and any pertinent information was passed on to the appropriate people. The Region’s Facebook page is a good way to keep up-to-date on regional happenings including upcoming events, workshops, and programs for children and youth. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/WOWUCC/. Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council is an Affirming Ministry of the United Church of Canada. The 4th annual P.I.E. Day on March 14th is a time to celebrate being Public, Intentional and Explicit in our inclusive welcoming of 2S and LGBTQIA+ peoples. Everyone is invited to enjoy a piece of pie and think about the people these letters represent.

The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Spring Meeting will take place May 6-8, 2022. Since the pandemic struck, over $500,000 in emergency gifts have been donated to support our Mission & Service partners. The donations are used to deliver personal protective equipment, distribute food, install sanitation stations, and support education programs to help prevent and control the spread of the virus. Also, through the Gifts with Vision catalogue, over 8,360 full vaccinations have been provided to those who need them most across the globe. Altogether, that’s over $750,000 in COVID relief. In October 2020, the people of The United Church of Canada committed to becoming an actively anti-racist church. This includes intentionally opposing signs and systems of racism whenever they are displayed in the church and society. To this end, the church created a diverse Anti-Racism Common Table of Indigenous, non-Indigenous racialized, and White people from across the country to work alongside staff in providing direction on how the church can respond to ongoing manifestations of systemic racism, including White Supremacy, in the church and in Canada. In an open letter the United Church's Anti-Racism Common Table expresses deep concerns about the display of racist symbols that have been seen recently at demonstrations occurring across the country. Click on this link to learn more: https://united-church.ca/news/opposing-symbols-hate-protests.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains worship service is planned for Sunday, April 3, 2022 at Exeter United Church at 10:30 a.m. The guest speaker will be Henry Reinders, regional representative for Ontario at Canadian Foodgrains Bank. Due to safety concerns around the pandemic, there will be no in-person lunch served following the service. Two parcels of land are being considered for the 2022 growing project.

The Thames Road Elimville congregation will celebrate our 25th anniversary in 2022. Mark your calendar for celebration events on June 3rd and June 5th. More details will be provided as they become available.

With the reduced COVID restrictions announced by the provincial government in recent days, capacity limits are lifted for all indoor public settings including worship services, meetings, and other gatherings in the church. Proof of vaccination requirements are also lifted. We can choose to require proof of vaccination if we want to, but it is not required. Council members voted to return to in-person worship services in the church beginning Sunday March 6th. Proof of vaccination will not be required. Other protective measures such as a face covering and health screening of patrons upon entry, remain in place at this time. Worship services will continue to be available by email and mailbox drop off.

Some time was spent on developing policies and working on the annual Self-Assessment Checklist for Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:15 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday April 6th at 7:00 p.m., in-person at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM FEBRUARY 9, 2022

The February 9th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with an acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Rev. Louise reported that during the month of January she attended the Council meeting, prepared 5 Sunday worship services led on Zoom, the last of which was led by Robert & Kathy Bray, made two in-person visits, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, officiated at the funeral for Murray Dawson, planned and led two confirmation sessions on Zoom, led a marriage prep session in person, attended a Ministerial meeting on Zoom, conducted some Ministerial business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, took two days of Study Leave, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Finance Committee presented the 2022 fee schedule for use of church buildings and equipment. The schedule was adopted as presented with no changes from 2021.

The Christian Education Committee reported that three Confirmation sessions have taken place to date on Zoom.

Sunday worship services will continue virtually on Zoom until at least February 27th. There will be no worship services on Sunday, July 3rd and Sunday, July 10th. Email worship services and the possibly of in-person services in the Community Park will be offered on July 17th, July 24th, and July 31st. There will be no services in any form during the month of August and on September 4th. Worship services will resume on Sunday, September 11th.

The Outreach Committee reported our Coldest Night of the Year team, the TR-E Huggers, has 5 walkers participating so far and raised $1225 to date. This year's campaign will support the South Huron Connection Centre in Exeter which offers washroom, shower, and laundry facilities plus light meals to those in need. Funds will also support the Huron Homelessness Initiative in the area. Last year our team raised $4,490 and everyone is encouraged to consider walking or donating to this important cause in our community. Visit www.cnoy.org/exeter or contact Judith or Rick Parker for more information. Renewal of our Broadview group subscription was extended to the April/May issue of 2022. Contact Judith or Marianne if you would like to renew or start a subscription to the magazine. Cost is $25 and the deadline is March 11th.

The Ministry & Personnel Committee reported Reverend Louise has booked her holidays for 2022 and will be away from Monday, June 27th to Monday, July 11th, from Friday, August 5th to Friday, August 19th, and on Sunday, August 21st. She will also be off on Study Leave from Monday, May 16th to Sunday, May 22nd.

The Community Park Committee was meeting this past Thursday to discuss the possibility of carrying out a project in 2022 if COVID restrictions allow.

The UCW met virtually on Tuesday February 8th with the Christian Leadership & Development Committee in charge of the program. Several enjoyable readings and musical videos were presented on the theme of 'Love'. Charitable donations for the coming year, the 2022 budget, and 2023 meal prices were approved. The 2022 UCW program booklets were emailed out on January 15th. Contact Helen Kadey if you have not received a copy and would like one. The UCW made a donation of $100.00 to the TR-E Huggers walking team which is participating in the Coldest Night of the Year event in Exeter on February 26th. The ladies will meet next on Tuesday March 8th at 7:30 p.m. - in person or on Zoom, to be determined. The Mission and Outreach Committee will be in charge of the program. World Day of Prayer is Friday, March 4th and the service was prepared by the women of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The theme is "I Know the Plans I Have for You" (Jeremiah 29:11) and will share the injustice obstacles that immigrant women in the UK have met, the selfishness of Britain as a conquering nation, and the hopes for the future. Similar to last year, there will be no in-person gathering but a one-hour video is available from the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada. The video link will be shared with our partner women’s groups at Exeter United, Precious Blood, Exeter Christian Reform and Exeter Pentecostal to be viewed on March 4 in our homes. Together in 170 countries around the world, there will be a sense of standing together in prayer and action to restore hope for women and children touched by injustice.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Spring Meeting will take place May 6-8th. For the first time in the church’s 97 year history, the General Council will be held completely online in 2022. The 44th General Council starts on February 13, 2022, and continues with a series of gatherings, learning and listening sessions, and decision-making meetings through August 2022. The theme of the gathering is “Who do you say I am?”. The commissioners for GC44 were elected in 2021 from the 16 Regional Councils and the National Indigenous Council. On January 24, 2022, The United Church of Canada launched its Korea Peace Appeal Ten Thousand Signature Campaign and declared, “70 years is enough. It’s time to end the Korean War.” You are invited to participate in this church-wide effort to collect 10,000 signatures—you can sign the petition here. Moderator Richard Bott and the Rev. Dr. Kyongia (Kay) Cho will be hosting a special Korea Peace Appeal Ten Thousand Signature Campaign information session on Thursday, February 24, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. to encourage and support uptake of this campaign. Use this link to register and find out more.

A thank you was extended to everyone who took a position on the 2022 Church Council. The Installation of Church Council will take place during the worship service on March 6th.

The Thames Road Elimville congregation will celebrate our 25th anniversary in 2022. A celebration weekend will begin on Friday June 3rd at the Community Park for an evening of family friendly events. Ideas for suitable activities would be welcomed by the planning committee; please contact a member of the committee if you have a suggestion to offer. Celebration Committee members are Amy Parsons, Robert and Kathy Bray, Virginia Warwick, Sharon Lynn, and Judith Parker.

Some time was spent on developing policies and working on the annual Self-Assessment Checklist for Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:25 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 2nd at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom.

REPORT FROM THE CONGREGATIONAL ANNUAL MEETING FEBRUARY 6, 2022

To ensure the safety of participants during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, 24 members of our community of faith attended the 2021 Annual Meeting of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of their homes. Chair of Council John Miner welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order at 11:00 a.m. with an acknowledgement of the land on which we were meeting.

Remembered in prayer by Reverend Louise were Lorraine Alexander, Bruce Delbridge, Paul Kerslake, Elizabeth Taylor, and Gerald (Jerry) Riehl, members of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge who passed away in 2021. Welcomed with joy to our church family were Breanna Barbara Loerzel by Baptism, and Katelyn Parsons as a full member by Affirmation of Faith Confirmation.

Following a motion passed by the full members of the congregation, adherents were extended voting rights on all matters of business coming before the meeting.

The minutes from the 2020 Annual Meeting were approved and the reports in the 2021 Annual Report booklet were reviewed and adopted as printed.

Motions were passed to:
-Approve the Minister's Remuneration Report for 2022.
-Approve the 2022 Honoraria Report for non-salaried employees.
-Approve the 2022 Proposed Budget.
-Approve the 2022 Mission and Service Fund allocation of $7,000.00.
-Appoint Sharon Lynn and Marianne Timmerman as Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Representatives for 2022.
-Appoint Carolyn Johns and Helen Kadey as Financial Examiners for 2022.
-Approve participation in the South Huron Foodgrains growing project in 2022 and to name Larry Lynn, Brent Dawson, and Ken Kadey to the committee.
-Appoint Robert Bray as a member of the Trustee Board for a 4 year term.
-Approve the disbandment of the Interview Team.
-Adopt a full slate of members for the 2022 Church Council.
-Approve our Living Faith Story for Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council.

The Community Park Committee is hopeful they will be able to undertake a project in 2022 if COVID restrictions allow for activities to take place in the park.

Speaking on behalf of the South Huron Foodgrains Committee, Larry Lynn thanked everyone who supported the growing project in 2021. The annual Foodgrains worship service is planned for Sunday April 3, 2022.

The Elimville Cemetery Board will be looking for help to re-install the newly painted cemetery fence when the weather is appropriate to do so.

Church Council will have no new faces in 2022 as all retiring members agreed to return to their positions for another term.

The Thames Road Elimville congregation will celebrate our 25th anniversary in 2022. A celebration weekend will begin on Friday June 3rd at the Community Park for an evening of family friendly events. On Sunday June 5th a worship service will take place at the Kirkton-Woodham Community Centre, followed by lunch and a ball game on the ball diamonds. Reverend Jock has agreed to be guest speaker at the worship service, working with Reverend Louise. Ideas for Friday evening activities would be welcomed by the planning committee; please contact a member of the committee if you have a suggestion to offer. Mark your calendar and watch for further details as they unfold. Celebration Committee members are Amy Parsons, Robert and Kathy Bray, Virginia Warwick, Sharon Lynn, and Judith Parker.

What's in store for 2022? While COVID-19 continues to be a concern, it is hoped that our community of faith will return to some sense of “normal” in 2022. We look forward to returning to our church building again soon and being able to carry out some of the activities we have been unable to do during the past two years. We look forward to our 25th anniversary celebrations in June.

John Miner extended a thank you to Reverend Louise for her worship leadership in 2021, and for being so dedicated to pastoral care within our church family during another difficult year. We appreciate her ability to rise to the challenges that COVID-19 presented within our community of faith and feel very blessed to have her and Bruce as part of our church family here at Thames Road Elimville.

John also extended a thank you to our hardworking, dedicated Council that holds everything together, and to the members of the congregation for their participation in church activities, although limited again this past year due to the pandemic. Everyone’s ongoing support is very much appreciated. Sharon Lynn extended a thank you to chair John Miner for his wisdom and guidance throughout another difficult year. John continues to be up-to-date on the latest regulations regarding COVID-19 put in place by the government and public health, keeping Council informed along the way. His main concern from the beginning of the pandemic has been to keep everyone safe, and for this we are truly thankful.

The first meeting of the new Church Council will be on Wednesday February 9, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing. The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 11:40 a.m.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM JANUARY 5, 2022

The January 5th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

A thank-you note from Marilyn Rohde was shared. Marilyn extends her thanks to the congregation for the gift and recognition received following her recent retirement from custodial duties at the church.

Rev. Louise reported that during the month of December she attended the Council meeting, prepared 3 Sunday worship services and the Christmas Eve service, the last 2 being led on Zoom, made two in-person visits, officiated at the funeral for Jerry Riehl, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, met with a couple regarding a wedding, attended the Country Christmas Parking Lot Social, attended the UCW meeting, attended a Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Region Clergy Gathering by Zoom, took one week of Study Leave, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Finance Committee presented the 2022 Proposed Budget. It was approved by Council and will be taken to the Annual Meeting for approval by the congregation.

The Fundraising Committee reported that a profit of $500.00 was made on the Christmas fundraiser. A thank you is extended to everyone who participated in the fundraiser and also to those who made a financial donation to the church in response to the Appeal Letter.

The Christian Education Committee reported that two people will be participating in Confirmation classes beginning in February.

The Worship Committee reported that the UCW installation of officers service will take place during Sunday worship on January 16th. Worship services will take place virtually on Zoom until at least February 6th.

The Outreach Committee reported the in-person worship service planned for December 29th at Exeter Villa was cancelled due to restricting visitors into the Villa because of the Omicron variant. A recommendation for the M & S allocation for 2022 was approved by Council and will be taken to the Annual Meeting for approval. Weekly worship services continue to be mailed to four members who do not have email. Let Judith Parker know if anyone else would appreciate receiving a copy. The TR-E Huggers team will be participating in the Coldest Night of the Year event coming up on February 26th. Please support this outreach project by walking, or by sponsoring a walker. Walkers can complete their walk anytime during the month of February. The walk raises money for local charities serving people experiencing hunger and homelessness. The South Huron Ministerial is looking at ways local churches can assist with homelessness in the community. Council will be considering how our congregation can contribute to this outreach project.

The Trustees reported that a report has been received from the Insurance company regarding the inspection of the church and properties by the Loss Prevention Officer. The only item to be addressed is to re-locate one fire extinguisher. The cleaning staff has reduced their hours and will report weekly to the Trustees until in-person worship services resume in the church.

The December UCW meeting was held in-person and led by Joan Skinner and Sharon Lynn. The Christmas program included demonstrating 'cookies in a jar' gift idea and a craft where we made church mice out of felt and a candy cane. A full slate of officers was brought forward for 2022 and Janis Richardson was thanked for her three years of service as President; also, the committee members who remained in place for an extra year due to the pandemic. A gift exchange took place while having tea and cookies. It was nice to be together for a meeting at the church after 20 months. An installation of officers will be held during the worship service on January 16th. The next UCW meeting is February 15th.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains worship service is planned for Sunday, April 3, 2022. The committee is looking for land for the 2022 growing project. If you are able to provide acreage or know of someone who might consider doing so, please contact Larry Lynn, Brent Dawson or Ken Kadey.

The Nominating Committee has organized for 2022; members are Joan Skinner, Greg Bahro, Marianne Timmerman, Sharon Passmore, Amy Parsons, and John Miner. No one from the congregation has come forward to stand as a member-at-large on the committee. Positions to be filled include Chair of Council and one member on each of the Finance, Property, Outreach, Worship, and Christian Education Committees. Several volunteers have come forward to fill these positions; however, if you are interested in letting your name stand for a position on Church Council, please contact a member of the Nominating Committee before the Annual Meeting.

The Provincial government has announced new gathering restrictions that cover the period from January 5th to January 26th. Decreased capacity limits reduce attendance at in-person worship services and other gatherings; therefore, Council has decided to suspend in-person worship services until after February 6th. The matter will be revisited at the February Council meeting. In the interim, worship services will be available on Zoom video and telephone conferencing, by email, and by mail. All church related and non-church related indoor meetings and other gatherings are now limited to 5 people.

Reports for the Annual Report are to be to Sharon Lynn by January 16, 2022. Reports will be available on January 30, 2022. The 2021 Annual Meeting will take place virtually on Zoom on Sunday February 6, 2022, with an alternate date of Sunday February 13, 2022 if needed. In order for the meeting to proceed, a quorum must be in attendance; a quorum is at least 20 full members of our congregation. A person becomes a full member in one of the following ways: confirmation, adult baptism and profession of faith, or through a certificate of transfer from another congregation or church, among others. Children of full members and children who have been baptised but have not yet become full members are considered members, not full members. To ensure a quorum, Council is asking full members of our congregation to make a prior commitment to attend the meeting. Further information will be sent out in advance of the meeting.

Our Living Faith Story prepared for Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council was reviewed and will be taken to the Annual Meeting for approval by the congregation. Some time was spent working on the annual Self-Assessment Checklist that will be forwarded to Regional Council when completed. The checklist is a guide to help communities of faith learn about the requirements and best practices for their ministry, and to identify where work needs to be done to improve on the way we are currently doing things.

Sandblasting and painting of the Elimville Cemetery fence has been completed and is ready to be re-installed when the weather allows this to happen. Please contact Gerald Johns if you can be of assistance when the times comes.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 9th at 7:00 p.m.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM DECEMBER 1, 2021

The December 1st Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that during the month of November she attended the Council meeting, prepared 4 Sunday worship services, one led by Bruce Ward in her absence due to a cold, made no in-person visits, held a baptism preparation session by Zoom, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended a Ministerial meeting, conducted some Ministerial business, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council meeting by Zoom over 2 days, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, attended a planning meeting for our scene in this year's Bethlehem Journey, by Zoom, participated as Narrator in our scene in the Bethlehem Journey, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Finance Committee reported that the 2022 Proposed Budget was presented. Some changes were made, and the amended budget will be brought to the January meeting for approval by Council.

The Fundraising Committee reported that orders for the Christmas Fundraiser have been submitted and the items from Epicure, Westland Greenhouses, and Stonetown Artisan Cheese, are to be picked up at the church on Friday December 10th from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. A thank you is extended to everyone who participated in the fundraiser, and to those who have forwarded a financial donation in response to the Appeal Letter that was mailed to every household on November 24th. If you haven't already made a financial donation in support of the mission and ministry of our church, please consider doing so.

The Property Committee reported that both kitchen faucets have been replaced at the church.

The Christian Education Committee reported that having a Santa Claus parade on Elimville Line is not feasible this year. Instead, a Country Christmas Parking Lot Social will take place in the church parking lot on Sunday December 5th from 2 to 4 p.m. There will be hot drinks and a child safe fire for roasting marshmallows. A visitor from the north is expected if it's not too cold; parents are asked to bring a small gift for their child/children ($10. or less). Please dress for the weather and park along Elimville Line as the parking lot will be blocked off. If the weather is horrible the campfire will be eliminated, and folks will gather in the church shed for a social time.

The Worship Committee reported that December 5th is White Gift Sunday. Folks are asked to bring a monetary offering in a white envelope and place it on the offering plate. The offering will support the Exeter and Area Food Bank. A Christmas Eve service will take place at the church on Friday December 24th at 7:00 p.m. A mask, proof of vaccination, and identification are required for those aged 12 and up to attend services in the church. There will be no worship service, on-line or in-person, on Sunday December 26th. Over the winter, in the event of inclement weather worship services will take place by way of Zoom if travel to the church is deemed unsafe. Watch your email for any update if the weather is unsettled.

The Outreach Committee reported a successful Bethlehem Journey was held on November 27th with Exeter United and Thames Road-Elimville partnering for the Wisemen scene. There were 87 vehicles visiting the five scenes and comments were very positive. A thank you is extended to John Miner, Bruce Ward, Greg Bahro, Marianne Timmerman, Sharon & Brett Lynn, Robert & Kathy Bray and Rev. Louise for taking part in this community outreach event with Exeter area churches. Remember to give when you can towards the Exeter and Area Food Bank when at the grocery store. Thank you to those who support the 2021 Mission & Service Fund goal of $8000. Donations can be made monthly through PAR or by cheque or e-transfer to Treasurer, Mary Lou. A TR-E Huggers Hub newsletter of upcoming community events, fundraisers, and projects was compiled and sent out on November 17th. Weekly worship services continue to be mailed to four members who do not have email. Let Judith know if anyone else would appreciate receiving a copy. The Exeter Villa has contacted us about offering in-person worship services for the residents once again. It has been arranged that Rev. Louise and helpers will attend on Wednesday, Dec 29th at 2 p.m. The South Huron Ministerial is looking at ways local churches can assist with homelessness in the community. Council will be considering how our congregation can contribute to this outreach project.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported that Rev. Louise will be on Study Leave from December 26th to January 1st.

The Community Park Committee reported that Karel Hodgert has donated tulip bulbs to the park and Judith Parker has planted them in the two entranceway gardens. A thank you is extended to Karel and Judith.

The November UCW zoom meeting was led by Joyce Fulton and Judith Parker. Guest speaker was Bonnie Sitter of Exeter who gave a presentation on writing the book "Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz - Memories of Ontario Farmerettes." Along with Shirleyann English, Bonnie captured stories of the young women recruited through a government sponsored program to work on farms in Southwestern Ontario during WWII until 1952. The book is being made into a play and will make its way to Blyth Theatre in the next couple of years. There is also a movement to have the 'Farmerettes' honoured with a Canada Post stamp recognizing their commitment to serve the country. Copies of the book are available from Bonnie or at several stores around town. Recipients of the month's stewardship donations were Make-a-Wish Foundation and Huron County Christmas Bureau. The next UCW meeting will be held on December 14th with Joan Skinner and Sharon Lynn planning the program. We hope to meet in the church, with a $5 gift exchange and tea-time to follow.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. Rev. Louise and Sharon Lynn attended the Western Ontario Waterways Fall Meeting virtually in three sessions on Friday, November 12th and Saturday, November 13th. The theme of the meeting was "Resurrection not Resuscitation". Reports were received from the various Commissions, and financial statements and the 2022 Proposed Budget were approved. Presentations were made by Mission and Service and the United Property Resource Corporation, a United Church entity developed to support communities of faith on using their real estate assets within the United Church to support community ministries and right relations. It is hoped the 2022 Spring Meeting can be held in person.

A thank you is extended to everyone who participated, volunteered, financially supported, or assisted in any way to support the 2021 South Huron Foodgrains Project. To be recognized in particular are the Murton Brock family and Ondrejicka Elevators, who made significant contributions to the project in the form of acreage and harvested produce. The joint effort by everyone has resulted in the largest financial contribution the South Huron Project has ever made to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank National Coalition. The South Huron Committee is looking for land for the 2022 growing project. If you are able to provide acreage or know of someone who might consider doing so, please contact Larry Lynn, Brent Dawson or Ken Kadey.

The Nominating Committee has organized for 2022; members are Joan Skinner, Greg Bahro, Marianne Timmerman, Sharon Passmore, Amy Parsons, and John Miner. No one from the congregation has come forward to stand as a member-at-large on the committee. Positions to be filled include Chair of Council and one member on each of the Finance, Property, Outreach, Worship, and Christian Education Committees. Several volunteers have come forward to fill these positions; however, if you are interested in letting your name stand for a position on Church Council, please contact a member of the Nominating Committee.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation. A celebration weekend will begin on Friday June 3, 2022 at the Community Park for an evening of family friendly events. On Sunday June 5, 2022, a worship service will take place at the Kirkton-Woodham Community Centre, followed by lunch and a ball game on the ball diamonds. The planning committee will meet again in the new year. Watch for more details as they unfold.

Reports for the Annual Report are to be to Sharon Lynn by January 16, 2022. Reports will be available on January 30, 2022. The 2021 Annual Meeting will take place on Sunday February 6, 2022, with an alternate date of Sunday February 13, 2022 if needed. In order for the meeting to proceed, a quorum must be in attendance; a quorum is at least 20 full members of our congregation. A person becomes a full member in one of the following ways: confirmation, adult baptism and profession of faith, or through a certificate of transfer from another congregation or church, among others.

A monetary donation will be made on behalf of the congregation to the Zamokuhle Day Care Centre in memory of Pam Tolmay.

Signage to identify an additional handicapped parking spot will be erected in the church parking lot.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:15 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 5th at 7:00 p.m. at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM NOVEMBER 3, 2021

The November 3rd Church Council meeting took place in-person at the church. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that during the month of October she attended the Council meeting and a Special Council meeting, both by Zoom; prepared 5 Sunday worship services, 3 of which were led by way of Zoom, and 2 being held in person in our sanctuary; made 2 in-person visits; made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business; attended the UCW meeting by Zoom; attended a Ministerial meeting in person; conducted some Ministerial business; attended a session of United Fresh Start along with John Miner, Sharon Lynn and Judith Parker; attended the WOW Clergy Gathering by Zoom; attended a planning meeting for our scene in this year's Bethlehem Journey; was on-call for emergency pastoral care for Exeter United Church (no calls); kept up to date with United Church and WOW Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported that order forms for an upcoming Christmas fundraiser will be available soon. Products from Epicure, Westland Greenhouses, and Stonetown Artisan Cheese will be available for purchase in time for Christmas. Order deadline is Sunday, November 21st with pickup at the church on Friday, December 10th. Watch for your order forms and further details as they become available. An appeal letter for financial support to the mission and ministry of our church will be mailed to every household the end of November. It is hoped that everyone in the Thames Road Elimville faith community will consider answering the appeal for financial support and participate in the fundraisers if possible.

The Property Committee reported that the trees along the parking lot fence have been trimmed.

The Christian Education Committee reported that two successful events for the kids have taken place this fall. Over 20 children participated in the Pumpkin Wagon Ride to the Govers' farm on October 24th. A big thankyou is extended to the Govers family for hosting this event. About 22 ghosts, cowboys, clowns, fairies, and more were present in the sanctuary on October 31st for Halloween. Following a short worship time with Rev. Louise, the children enjoyed a Halloween Party in the basement. With COVID-19 still in our midst, the traditional Christmas concert, silent auction, and Country Supper will not be held in the church this year. Instead, plans are being made to have a Christmas parade on Elimville Line on Sunday December 5th. A take-out supper will follow the parade. Start thinking about how your family can participate in the parade.

The Worship Committee reported that the Remembrance Day service will take place at the church on November 7th. Two services of baptism will take place at the church, one on November 14th and the other on November 21st.

The Outreach Committee reported that planning is underway for the 2nd Bethlehem Journey drive-thru event on Saturday, November 27th from 5 - 8 p.m. Our church is partnering with Exeter United for the Wiseman scene. Volunteers are needed to dress in costume for the vignette or be a parking attendant. The journey will follow the star from Centralia Faith Tabernacle to Emmanual Baptist Church, Exeter Pentecostal Tabernacle, Exeter United and finish at Exeter Christian Reform church. Contact Rev. Louise, Judith, or Robert & Kathy if you can participate for all or part of the time. Register now to travel the journey as last year the event filled up early. Click on this link to register: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-bethlehem-journey-2021-tickets-188434130557. Remember to give when you can towards the Exeter Food Bank when at the grocery store. Thank you to those who support the 2021 Mission & Service Fund goal of $8000. Donations can be made monthly through PAR or by cheque or e-transfer to Treasurer, Mary Lou. Camp Bimini is holding a Drive-thru Dinner on November 14 with pickup at St. Marys United Church. Menu is Loin of Pork Chausser, Rotini Arribiata, vegetables and brownies. $20 adult; $10 children 10 & under. Ticket info available at www.campbimini.ca by Nov 7th. The United Church of Canada annual 'Gifts with Vision' gift catalogue is now available at www.giftswithvision.ca. Each Gift with Vision provides support for specific Mission & Service partners for special projects. Without Mission & Service, Gifts with Vision projects would not be possible. Visit the website and see some of the success stories. A newsletter is being prepared to send out shortly. Please submit any items you would like included in the newsletter to Judith within the next week.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported that Robert Bray is willing to train anyone who is interested in learning his role so there is someone to fill in when he is not available. The job includes putting the slide show together for the worship service and overseeing the presentation on the screen on Sunday morning. If this is something that interests you, contact Robert or any member of Council.

The Trustees reported that Usborne Hibbert Fire Insurance Company inspected the church recently and found no serious issues. The fire extinguishers will be checked within the next few weeks.

The October UCW zoom meeting was led by Virginia Warwick and Shirley Cooper. Each member was asked what they were thankful for during 2021. The answers were printed onto a large pumpkin which was very effective. Recipients of this month’s stewardship donations were One Care, VON Palliative Care, and the Poppy Fund. The next UCW meeting will be held by Zoom on November 9 at 7:30 pm with Joyce Fulton, Judith Parker and Kay Cunnington planning the program. Author and photographer Bonnie Sitter will be guest speaker on writing the book "Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz - Memories of Ontario Farmerettes." Along with Shirleyann English, Bonnie captured stories of the women who stepped in to work on farms during WWII. Everyone is welcome to join this meeting; contact Judith for the Zoom link.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. Creating Conversation is a video series that features a variety of topics that youth and young adults are keenly interested in exploring further. To access the videos, go to: Creating Conversations – Shining Waters Regional Council: shiningwatersregionalcouncil.ca.

Rev. Louise and Sharon Lynn will be attending the Western Ontario Waterways Fall Meeting online on Friday, November 12th and Saturday, November 13th. The theme of the meeting is "Resurrection not Resuscitation". 2022 church calendars are available. You can pick one up at the Christian Resource Centre in Mitchell. Commissioners of the 43rd General Council met online on October 23rd and approved a mission and vision statement for the denomination. Commissioners embraced the words "Deep Spirituality, Bold Discipleship, and Daring Justice" as a statement of purpose for the church in such a time as this, and supported a related vision statement: Called by God, as disciples of Jesus, The United Church of Canada seeks to be a bold, connected, evolving church of diverse, courageous, hope-filled communities united in deep spirituality, inspiring worship, and daring justice. General Council 44 is meeting virtually in 2022.

For the 2021 South Huron Foodgrains Project, seven acres of soybeans were planted on Hern Line on land provided by Murton Brock.

The Nominating Committee is organizing for 2022. Our bylaws allow for up to two congregation members or adherents at large to be part of the committee. If this is a position you would be interested in filling, please contact any member of Church Council.

Rev. Louise, John Miner, Judith Parker, and Sharon Lynn participated in the United Fresh Start session entitled “Transitions” on Tuesday, October 19th on Zoom. Good discussion around change and transition took place during the session. It is important to note that change is an event, while transition is a process that takes place over time.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation and the Celebration Committee met on October 7th to begin planning for this milestone. The celebration weekend will begin on Friday June 3, 2022 at the Community Park for an evening of family friendly events. On Sunday June 5, 2022, a worship service will take place at the Kirkton-Woodham Community Centre, followed by lunch and a ball game on the ball diamonds. Watch for more details as they unfold.

Representatives from the church have met with Hay Communications about bringing their fibre network into the church. The work is expected to be completed in the spring of 2022.

In a recent communication with Rev. Jock, he related that Pam's cancer is slowly taking over and her health is deteriorating. Please include Pam and Jock and their family in your prayers.

To meet Huron Perth Public Health regulations for non-church related social gatherings in the church (e.g. family gatherings), identification and proof of full vaccination is required for anyone 12 years of age and older, along with health screening and contact information for everyone attending the event. It is the responsibility of the church, not the group using the church, to screen participants, record contact information, and check identification and proof of vaccination.

Thanks to Robert and Kathy, the First Aid Kit and the defibrillator are now housed neatly on a shelf near the vertical lift where they are easily seen and readily accessible.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:50 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 1st at 7:00 p.m. at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT OCTOBER 27, 2021

A Special Council meeting took place on October 27th by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Recent Provincial legislation that took effect on October 25, 2021 allows congregations to “opt in” to lifting capacity limits for worship services, weddings, and funerals held in the church. In return, anyone 12 years of age and older entering the building for these events will be required to present identification and proof of full vaccination, or a valid exemption certificate. As this new option would remove capacity restrictions currently in place in the sanctuary to meet physical distancing requirements, Council voted to move forward with this new alternative. All other current COVID-19 protocols including masking, hand sanitizing, health screening, and contact tracing, will remain in place.

For identification purposes, photo ID is not required. Proof of identity can be established using documentation issued by a public body, provided it includes the name of the holder and date of birth. Examples of acceptable documents include birth certificate, driver's licence, health card, or passport. An expired driver's licence or health card is also acceptable.

To be fully vaccinated, the final dose must be received at least 14 days prior to the date of entry into the building. Proof of full vaccination is your Ontario enhanced vaccine certificate with a QR code, or your vaccination receipt, with or without, a QR code. The enhanced vaccine certificate is a digital format on your phone, with a QR code that can be scanned by the Verify Ontario app. Your vaccination receipt can be in the form of a paper copy or a download on your phone. Both are acceptable proof of vaccine documentation. To print a paper copy of your vaccination receipt, or to download it to your phone, click on this link and follow the prompts: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/proof-covid-19-vaccination.

A valid exemption certificate must be signed by a Medical Doctor, a Registered Nurse (Extended Class), or a Nurse Practitioner, stating that you are exempt for a medical reason from being fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and the effective time-period for the medical reason.

Failure to meet these requirements will result in denied entry into the church building. As the church is not permitted to retain any personal information provided, identification and proof of full vaccination or a valid exemption certificate, will need to be verified each time you enter the building for a worship service, wedding, or a funeral.

In other business, the kitchen, which has been off-limits, was reopened, and congregational group responses will now be allowed during worship services.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM OCTOBER 6, 2021 The October 6th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that the month of September continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During September she concluded her 2-week end-of-summer vacation, attended the Council meeting by Zoom, prepared 3 Sunday worship services, 2 of which were led by way of Zoom, and 1 being the Covenanting service outdoors at the park (thanks to all who made it such a special day), made no in-person visits, made quite a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, hosted a Ministerial meeting in person in our church building, and agreed to become the Ministerial's new Chairperson, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported it is exploring another fundraiser for the upcoming season. Stay tuned for details as they become available. An appeal letter for financial support to the mission and ministry of our church will be sent out to every household in the coming weeks.

The Property Committee reported that the new water heater has been installed in the church.

The Worship Committee reported that the Thanksgiving service on Sunday October 10th will be held in the Community Park, weather permitting. Following the re-opening of our church building, two baptisms will take place.

The Outreach Committee reported that we will partner with Exeter United Church as a participant in the 2nd Bethlehem Journey on Saturday November 27th. Other participants in the event include Centralia Faith Tabernacle, Emmanuel Baptist, Exeter Pentecostal Tabernacle and Exeter Christian Reform churches. Stay tuned on how you can volunteer to be part of this meaningful outdoor event. The need for food security in our area has not stopped. Please consider supporting the Exeter and Area Community Food Bank by making a donation when checking out at Holtzmann’s Foodland or Hansen’s Independent. Just a reminder to subscribers, your Broadview Magazine renewal has been extended until April 2022. Our church Mission & Service Fund allocation is $8,000 this year. Thank you to those who make donations through monthly pre-authorized remittance (PAR) or have increased giving to M&S during the pandemic closure. There are a number of short videos on how your donation makes a difference. Click https://www.youtube.com/c/unitedchurchofcanada/playlists and scroll down to [Your Generosity Matters-2021]. Contact Sharon Passmore regarding signing up with PAR.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported it will be contacting lay employees in the near future regarding remuneration for 2022.

The Community Park Committee will be replacing the seats, chains, and connectors on the swings in the park.

The next UCW zoom meeting is October 12th at 7:30 pm with Virginia Warwick, Shirley Cooper and Nancy Smith on the program committee.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. Sunday, October 17th is the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty and an opportunity to join with others across the church to draw attention to the call and need for a Guaranteed Livable Income.

Rev. Louise, John Miner, Judith Parker, and Sharon Lynn will be participating in another Fresh Start session on October 19th.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation and the Celebration Committee has met to begin planning for this milestone. Planning committee members are Chairperson Amy Parsons, Robert and Kathy Bray, Sharon Lynn, Virginia Warwick, and Judith Parker. Watch for details of celebration events as they unfold.

Council voted to re-open our church building for in-person meetings, gatherings, and worship services beginning October 24, 2021, with Huron Perth Public Health guidelines in place. Services by email, mail or mailbox drop off, will continue to be available to the members and adherents of our congregation.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:25 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 3rd at 7:00 p.m. at the church.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM SEPTEMBER 8, 2021

The September 8th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that the months of June, July and August continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During those months she took two 2-week vacations (July 3-17 and August 23-September 6); prepared 8 Sunday worship services, 3 of which were led by way of Zoom, 4 outdoor services (including the Confirmation of Katelyn Parsons) and one email-only service; did some planning ahead for worship services; conducted the wedding of Brett Warwick and Julia Roberts; conducted the funeral service for Bruce Delbridge; made 3 in-person visits; made quite a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business; attended the July 18th Drive-in service of the Villages United Church; attended a Ministerial meeting in person; attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom; attended the Council meeting by Zoom; attended the Council gathering at the church; attended the 8th and final session of the United Fresh Start program by Zoom; kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported a successful Chicken Fundraiser was held in July with 60 customers ordering 189 boxes of Elmira chicken products. A profit of $1,195 was realized and the committee thanks everyone for their continued support of our church mission and ministry.

The Property Committee reported that the tire ruts left in the lawn after the roof repair at the church have been filled in and seeded with grass. The dehumidifier has been replaced. Installation of a new hot water heater in the church will take place in the next week or so. Quotes were received for replacing the fence at the church, but no action is being taken at this time.

The Worship Committee reported there will be no worship service the morning of September 19th due to the covenanting service in the afternoon.

The Outreach Committee reported that our church has been approached about participation with other local churches in the Bethlehem Journey again this year in December. Interest was expressed if a partnership with Exeter United Church is possible.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported that Marilyn Rhode has retired from cleaning the church effective August 21st following 30 years of service. A big thank you is extended to Marilyn for carrying out her duties in such a dedicated, efficient, and professional manner all these years. Katelyn, Natalie, and Janelle Parsons are the new custodians for the church.

The UCW Welcome Back Potluck scheduled for September will not be held due to the ongoing safety concerns to public health. There was no scheduled meeting in June.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. Huron Shores United Church in Grand Bend was successful with their application for grant funds from the Government of Canada’s $31 million Healthy Communities initiative, formed to help support communities create or transform public spaces during the pandemic. The front yard of the church has been transformed into what the church calls a Community Living Room where both visitors and residents can expect to feel safe and included. As many Canadians begin to see the way out of the COVID-19 pandemic through vaccines, the United Church of Canada is adding a vigorous advocacy campaign to its COVID-19 Global Response and is continuing to ask people to financially support global partners dealing with the ongoing pandemic. ACT Alliance, a global coalition of churches, notes that Global South nations will reach herd immunity levels only in 2024, if ever. The new chapter of the COVID-19 Global Response appeal asks people to advocate with the Canadian government for more vaccine sharing, donate to the ongoing appeal, or show solidarity by buying a vaccine for someone in the Global South. Donations to the appeal support our partners as they respond to the increasingly devastating impact of COVID-19 in communities they serve with food, PPE, shelter, income generating activities, and more. The United Church of Canada has launched a fundraising campaign to support the people of Haiti in recovering from a massive earthquake and drenching tropical storm. A Centennial Celebrations Planning Committee is being formed to mark the 100th Anniversary of the United Church of Canada in 2025. On September 30th people across Canada are invited to wear orange shirts to remember and honour Indigenous children who were taken from their communities and families to residential schools. Sunday, October 17th is the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty and an opportunity to join with others across the church to draw attention to the call and need for a Guaranteed Livable Income.

The covenanting service with Rev. Louise and the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council has been set for Sunday, September 19th at 2:00 p.m. at the Community Park. In the event of inclement weather, a motion was passed to allow the service to take place at the church. Rev. Fred Monteith, who has a connection with the Thames Road community, will be the guest speaker for the service. Volunteers are needed to present symbols during the service. Contact Rev. Louise if you are interested in taking part. Following public health protocols, the UCW will serve a snack following the service. Everyone is welcome to attend; please bring your mask and a lawn chair.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation and Council is beginning to plan for this milestone. Planning committee members Robert and Kathy Bray, Sharon Lynn, Amy Parsons, Virginia Warwick, and Judith Parker plan to begin meeting in September. If you would like to join the team, please contact any member of Council. A motion was passed to allow gatherings of up to 10 people meeting for church related business to take place in the church.

In July, Council approved a request from the Elimville Cemetery Board to proceed with sandblasting and repainting the cemetery fence. The cost will be covered by Elimville Cemetery Board funds.

Hay Communications has been contacted with our expression of interest in having their fibre network brought to the church. The work is expected to take place in 2022.

As the safety of all who enter the building is of upmost importance, the church building continues to be closed for worship services. Although the building is closed, “church” is still open. Services by email, mail or mailbox drop off, and Zoom video and telephone conferencing, will continue to be available to the members and adherents of our congregation until in-person services resume.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 6th at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM JUNE 2, 2021

The June 2nd Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that the month of May continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month she prepared 4 Sunday worship services, all of which were led by way of Zoom (one of which was the shared Foodgrains service), contributed by video to the funeral service for Lorraine Alexander, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended the Council meeting by Zoom, attended the UCW meeting by Zoom, attended the 7th session of the United Fresh Start program by Zoom, attended the 3rd combined session of the United Fresh Start program along with John, Sharon L, and Judith by Zoom, attended the 3-day Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Meeting by Zoom, took a week of Study Leave in order to attend the online Festival of Homiletics, kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported that in place of the strawberry & ham smorgasbord this year, the committee is planning a fundraiser using the Profit from Poultry program of JD Sweid Foods, better known as Elmira Chicken. They offer great chicken products sold in boxes for the freezer. You should have received ordering information by now. If you haven’t and would like to participate in the fundraiser, contact Judith Parker.

The Property Committee reported that repairs on the church roof are now complete. Ruts in the grass from the work still need to be repaired.

The Worship Committee reported that Zoom worship services will take place on June 6th, June 13th, and June 27th. On June 20th, Father's Day, a Confirmation service for Katelyn Parsons will take place at the Community Park, weather permitting and provided provincial guidelines can be met. Stay tuned regarding the other June worship services; they may be moved to the Community Park if allowed by provincial guidelines. There will be no worship services during the month of July 2021, on August 29, 2021 and September 5, 2021. On August 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2021 there will be email services only.

The Outreach Committee reminds everyone to remember the Exeter & Area Foodbank by giving donations when asked at the checkouts in Holtzmann’s Foodland and Hansen’s Independent. Please let Judith Parker know of anyone who would like to receive the weekly worship service by mail.

The May 11 UCW meeting was held virtually with Helen Kadey, Sharon Passmore, Helen Weston and Marilyn Vandenbussche presenting a program on Stewardship and Finance. Donations this month were directed to Huron Safe Homes for Youth and Children’s Health Network. Provided that day camps can be held, our donation of cookies for Camp Bimini will be delivered on July 13 along with any items on the wish list circulated last month. The next meeting is on September 14 and will be virtual or in-person depending on pandemic restrictions.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. Rev. Louise and Sharon L. “attended” the Western Ontario Waterways Spring Regional Council Meeting by way of Zoom from Thursday, May 13th to Saturday, May 15th. Five sessions took place over the three days, totalling about 10 hours. Between 150 and 175 people attended each session. A sacred fire lit on the grounds of Cape Croker United Church burned for the duration of the meeting. Several interesting and informative presentations were viewed; Commissioners were named to attend General Council 44 in July 2022; Western Ontario Waterways Executive and Commission members were acclaimed; 4 new Licenced Lay Worship Leaders were inducted; 5 ministers were remembered In Memoriam; 55 Jubilands were celebrated for between 5 and 70 years of ministry; one community of faith amalgamation was recognized. 12 year old Jaylynn from Stoney Point First Nation performed a jingle dance dressed in a red dress dotted with jingle bells – the red dress being representative of the many Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women. The fall Regional Meeting will take place from November 12th to November 14th, most likely virtually. The Celebration of Ministry that could not take place at the spring meeting due to gathering restrictions related to COVID-19, will take place at the fall meeting.

The date for the covenanting service with Rev. Louise and the Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council has been set for Sunday, September 19th at 2:00 p.m. The location for the service (the church or the community park) will depend on any restrictions on gatherings that may be in place at the time. Rev. Fred Monteith, who has a connection with the Thames Road community, will be the guest speaker for the service.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation and Council is beginning to plan for this milestone. We are happy to welcome Virginia Warwick to the planning committee. Other committee members include Robert and Kathy Bray, Sharon Lynn, Amy Parsons, and Judith Parker. If you would like to join the team, please contact any member of Council.

An invitation to participate in drive-in worship services at the Starlite Drive-In has been received from Rev. Jacob Shaw from Villages United Church. Our congregation has offered to participate in the service on July 18th.

Hay Communications is expanding their fibre network to the area and the church will qualify. There is no cost to bring the service up to the church. The company will be contacted with our expression of interest in having this done.

$215.00 was donated to the Healing Fund of the United Church of Canada in recognition of the remains of the 215 indigenous children found on the grounds of the Kamloops B.C. residential school.

As the safety of all who enter the building is of upmost importance, the church building continues to be closed. Although the building is closed, "church" is still open. Services by email, mail or mailbox drop off, and Zoom video and telephone conferencing, will continue to be available to the members and adherents of our congregation until in-person services resume.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:15 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 8th at 7:00 p.m., format/location to be determined when the time is closer.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM MAY 5, 2021

The May 5th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that the month of April continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month she prepared 4 Sunday worship services and a Good Friday service, all of which were led by way of Zoom (an additional Maundy Thursday service was emailed to the congregation), did some advance planning for the May 2nd Foodgrains service, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended the Council meeting by Zoom, attended the UCW meeting by Zoom, attended the 6th session of the United Fresh Start program by Zoom, attended the 2nd combined session of the United Fresh Start program along with John Miner, Sharon Lynn, and Judith Parker by Zoom, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Fundraising Committee reported that during this third wave of COVID-19, it is hard to promote fundraising events that may or may not be able to happen. Alternatively, everyone is encouraged to continue supporting the mission and ministry of our church through donations by cheque payable to Thames Road Elimville UC and mail to PO Box 3, Exeter ON N0M 1S6. Or by E-transfer to: thamesroadelimvilleuc@quadro.net.

Ken and Greg from the Property Committee would like to thank the person(s) who raked the stones off the grass in preparation for mowing. They also extend a thank you to Lorne and Pat Ballantyne for the spring cleanup in the flower beds.

The Worship Committee reported that Mother's Day will be celebrated on May 9th. Regular Zoom worship services will take place on May 16th and May 30th. There is no worship service on May 23rd as Rev. Louise will be off on study leave.

The Outreach Committee reported that the Broadview Magazine has been recognized as top magazine and website by the Canadian Christian Communicators Association and top magazine by the Associated Church Press. A number of United Church writers were recognized for their work, including former Moderator David Giuliano and General Council staff members Trisha Elliott and Adele Halliday. For non-subscribers, the website offers some good reading https://broadview.org/. A series of videos were produced by Perth Huron United Way bringing awareness to the programs they support. One of the videos highlights the "Coldest Night of the Year" campaign in the Exeter area and what the dollars support. Scroll down to the Exeter Focus video in the following link; you may recognize some of the faces. https://perthhuron.unitedway.ca/spirit-of-community/. Remember the Exeter & Area Foodbank and give donations when asked at the checkouts in Holtzmann's Foodland and Hansen's Independent. Please let Judith Parker know of anyone who would like to receive the weekly worship service by mail.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported that Rev. Jock Tolmay will be available for pastoral care when Rev. Louise is on study leave, May 17th to 23rd, and away on vacation from July 3rd to 18th. Rev. Jacob Shaw of Villages United Churches, Granton, will be available for pastoral care when Rev. Louise is on vacation from Aug 23rd to Sep 6th.

The Community Park Committee reported that they have started cutting grass at the park. The porta pottie will be serviced when COVID restrictions are lifted.

The Trustees reported that no new information has surfaced regarding the enquiry by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario about Thames Road Cemetery. A note has been sent off to Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council requesting guidance on how to proceed from here.

The April 13th meeting of the UCW was held virtually with Pat Ballantyne, Marg McCarter and Carolyn Johns preparing the program. Carolyn presented the theme of inclusiveness, referencing an article on how we can be aware and engaged locally in Huron County. The April stewardship donations were $30 to Huron County Women's Shelter (Phoenix Home) and $50 to South Huron Foodgrains Project. Cookies will be donated to Camp Bimini for the day campers this summer. As well, the camp has provided a Wish List of items that any of us probably have in our cupboards. The list is attached to this report and items can be dropped off at Janis Richardson or Judith Parker's porch before July 12th. The next virtual meeting is May 11th at 7:30 p.m. The Roll Call is a "Bakeless Bake Sale" for the Mission and Service Fund. The program committee is Helen Kadey, Helen Weston, Sharon Passmore, and Marilyn Vandenbussche.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council spring gathering for ministers and lay representatives will be held by way of Zoom on Thursday evening, Friday evening, and all day Saturday, May 13th to May 15th. The election of members to the Western Ontario Waterways Executive and Commissions will take place at the meeting. General Council Commissioners will also be elected at the meeting. May 3rd to 9th is Mental Health Awareness Week in Canada, and this year for the first time the United Church marked Mental Health Sunday on May 2nd. Preparing for Retirement: A Practical Spirituality is a three-part webinar series on preparing for retirement. Retiring is one of the major transitions in our lives, and like all transitions it raises many spiritual questions. The live webinars, led by Rev. Dr. Sheila MacGregor, were recorded on April 15th, April 22nd, and April 29th. Part 1 is Endings/The Exodus; Part 2 is Life in the Wilderness; Part 3 is The Promised Land. To view the recorded webinars, visit United in Learning Recorded Webinars with this link: https://www.united-in-learning.com/index.php/webinars/recordings. The webinars can be viewed free of charge, but a $10.00 donation per webinar is suggested.

The annual South Huron Foodgrains worship service took place virtually on Sunday May 2nd with approximately 35 people in attendance. Rev. Louise and Robert and Kathy Bray led the Zoom service on behalf of Thames Road Elimville United Church. Members of Exeter United, Centralia United, and Zion United also took part in the service. Henry Reinders, Ontario Regional Representative for Canadian Foodgrains Bank, shared his experiences while on a learning tour to India in early 2020. The South Huron Foodgrains Project sign has been erected at the site of the 2021 project on land provided by Murton Brock. Ways to financially support the work of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank through the South Huron Foodgrains Project are: EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) send an e-Transfer to shgbtreasurer@gmail.com

Cheque
send a cheque made out to the South Huron Foodgrains Project
c/o Brent Caslick
256 Victoria Dr.
Centralia ON N0M 1K0

The date for the covenanting service with Rev. Louise and the Regional Council has been set for Sunday, September 19th at 2:00 p.m. The location for the service (the church or the community park) will depend on any restrictions on gatherings that may be in place at the time.

Rev. Louise along with John Miner, Sharon Lynn, and Judith Parker attended the second and third combined sessions of the United Fresh Start program on April 24th and May 4th by way of Zoom. The sessions titled "Habits, Norms and Expectations" and "Family Systems Theory," explored the habits, norms and expectations and the clarity of roles and relationships within a new pastoral relationship.

A Privacy Policy photo consent form was approved at the meeting. It will be circulated to the congregation by email as a fillable form. A hard copy of the form will be supplied on request. The consent form will be reviewed in 5 years time for any changes that may be needed.

An Accessibility Committee was formed to oversee all issues relating to accessibility. The committee will have several roles, some of which are - ensuring that practices and procedures are consistent with our Accessibility Policy, coordinating accessibility training for volunteers, and ensuring that assistive devices provided by the church are available and in good working order. Committee members to date include Rev. Louise, Robert Bray, and Joan Skinner.

A Community Resources page has been added to our church website. The page provides links to websites for Al-Anon, Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth, Exeter Community Food Bank, Huron Women's Shelter, Jessica's House, and Victim Services Huron County.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation and Council is beginning to plan for this milestone. Committee members so far include Robert and Kathy Bray, Sharon Lynn, Amy Parsons, and Judith Parker. If you would like to join the team, please contact any member of Council.

A request to provide space, for a donation, at either the community park or the church parking lot for a fish fry, is being investigated. The host would be responsible for planning and carrying out the event and contacting Huron Perth Public Health about any restrictions that would apply.

As the safety of all who enter the building is of upmost importance, the church building continues to be closed. Although the building is closed, "church" is still open. Services by email, mail or mailbox drop off, and Zoom video and telephone conferencing, will continue to be available to the members and adherents of our congregation until in-person services resume.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:10 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 2nd at 7:00 p.m. at the community park. In the event of bad weather, the meeting will take place by way of Zoom.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM APRIL 7, 2021

The April 7th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that the month of March continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month she prepared 4 Sunday worship services, all of which were led by way of Zoom, did some advance planning for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday services, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended the Council meeting by Zoom, attended part of the UCW meeting by Zoom, attended the 5th session of the United Fresh Start program by Zoom, attended the 1st combined session of the United Fresh Start program along with John Miner, Sharon Lynn, and Judith Parker by Zoom, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, prepared for and conducted 4 Confirmation sessions by Zoom, prepared for and conducted 2 Marriage Prep sessions for a couple by Zoom and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Christian Education Committee reported that Confirmation sessions with Katelyn Parsons have been completed and a Confirmation service will take place when the weather allows for an outdoor in-person gathering.

The Worship Committee extended a thank you to everyone who attended the recent Easter services. It was great to see many faces for the breakfast and Easter morning service. Rev. Louise will conduct the wedding ceremony for Brett Warwick and Julia Roberts on Saturday June 5, 2021. A Teen Bible will be presented to Katelyn Parsons at her Confirmation service. Worship services by way of Zoom are planned for April 11th, April 18th, and April 25th; however, if the weather is warm, plans could change and the services may be held at the community park. The South Huron Foodgrains worship service will be on May 2nd at 10:00 a.m. by way of Zoom. There will be no worship service on Sunday May 23rd as Rev. Louise will be off on study leave. Rev. Louise will be on vacation for 5 Sundays this summer - July 4th, 11th, and 18th, August 29th, and September 5th. There will be no worship services during the month of July. Services on August 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd will be e-mail services only.

The Outreach Committee encourages everyone to remember the Exeter & Area Foodbank and give donations at the checkouts in Holtzmann's Foodland and Hansen's Independent. Our church Mission & Service Fund allocation is $8,000 this year. Events like the coffee hours, Mom's Night Out and Christmas Country Supper have been regular fundraisers for the M&S Fund. So, during the COVID closures consider making donations by monthly pre-authorized remittance (PAR) or increasing your monthly givings to M&S so our allocation can be met by year-end. Contact Sharon Passmore regarding signing up with PAR.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported that Rev. Louise and Bruce will be on vacation from Monday, August 23rd to Monday September 6th.

The March 9th UCW meeting was held virtually with the Mission & Outreach committee leading a program on experiences with homelessness in the Exeter area. The March stewardship donations were $30 to Habitat for Humanity and $50 to Exeter Community Food Bank. Four easy-care tablecloths have been donated for the long tables in the church. This will alleviate the use of plastic when we return to holding events at the church. The next virtual meeting is April 13th at 7:30 and the Roll Call is "What is your birthstone." Program committee is Carolyn Johns, Pat Ballantyne and Marg McCarter.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. The Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council spring gathering for ministers and lay representatives will be held by way of Zoom on Thursday evening, Friday evening and all day Saturday, May 13th to May 15th. General Council Commissioners will be elected at the meeting. The folks of Trinity and Atwood United Churches in North Perth have created some lawn signs. The intent is to be a visible reminder that people in the area value diversity, and to promote this message to people who are Black, Indigenous and People of Colour. There is no geographical reference on the signs so they could be used beyond Perth County. Proceeds will be used by Trinity and Atwood United Churches to fund further efforts towards racial justice, social justice, inclusion, and diversity projects in their community. The WE VALUE DIVERSITY lawn signs are for sale for $15. Each sign comes with a wire stake to use in the ground. To order, email Sandy Earl. The confirmation email will include the password for an e-transfer. There will be a designated day/time at Listowel's Trinity United Church parking lot for sign pick up. Details will be included in the confirmation email. In a historic decision, the commissioners of the 43rd General Council decided on March 20, 2021, to conduct the 44th General Council online only in July 2022. This will be the first time in the church's 97 year history that the triennial meeting will not be in person. The commissioners for GC44 will be elected from the 16 regional councils and the National Indigenous Council throughout 2021. The July 2022 meeting will elect the new Moderator for the next three years. The terms of the current commissioners, national committees, and Moderator were extended a year from 2021 to 2022 because of the pandemic.

A virtual South Huron Foodgrains worship service will take place on Sunday May 2nd at 10:00 a.m. with Thames Road Elimville as Zoom host. Henry Reinders, Ontario Regional Representative for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, will be the guest speaker. Murton Brock has agreed to be the 2021 Foodgrains Project Farmer.

Discussions are taking place on holding covenanting services with Rev. Louise and the WOW region. It is hoped a fall date can be arranged with the region.

Rev. Louise along with John Miner, Sharon Lynn, and Judith Parker attended the first combined session of the United Fresh Start program on Saturday, March 20th by way of Zoom. The purpose of the session titled "Entering A New System," was to help participants understand that community of faiths are living systems and that the way new people enter the system can have a substantial impact on their ministry.

The Thames Road Elimville United Church Accessibility Document approved at the February Council meeting is now uploaded to the church website. In the months ahead an Accessibility Committee will be formed to oversee things and to make sure training takes places as per our Accessibility Policy.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation and Council is beginning to plan for this milestone. The first step is to form a committee to plan and oversee celebratory events. We are currently recruiting members and invite you to contact any member of Church Council to express your interest in being a part of the committee. Several suggestions have been made on possible ways to celebrate this milestone, including a night of music through the decades or a hymn sing night, hotdogs and fireworks, a family games night, a movie night with the VCR tapes from the events leading up to the closing of Elimville Church, a fish fry at the community park, and a worship service. Other ideas are welcome. Please consider being a part of the planning committee.

The Christian Resource Centre in Mitchell is open for curbside pickup only until at least April 30th.

As the safety of all who enter the building is of upmost importance, the church building continues to be closed. Although the building is closed, "church" is still open. Services by email, mail or mailbox drop off, and Zoom video and telephone conferencing, will continue to be available to the members and adherents of our congregation until in-person services resume.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 7:50 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 5th at 7:00 p.m.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM MARCH 3, 2021

The March 3rd Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that the month of February continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month she prepared 4 Sunday worship services, all of which were led by way of Zoom, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended the congregation’s Annual Meeting by Zoom, attended the Council meeting by Zoom, attended the 4th session of the United Fresh Start program by Zoom, attended the Ministerial meeting by Zoom, attended the WOW Clergy Gathering by Zoom, prepared for and conducted 4 Confirmation sessions by Zoom, prepared for and conducted 2 Marriage Prep sessions for a couple by Zoom, and kept up to date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Finance Committee reported the 2021 fee schedule for the use of church buildings and equipment has been uploaded to the church website.

The Property Committee reported that a representative from the Technical Standards Safety Authority visited the church in February for the annual inspection of the vertical lift. The lift passed inspection.

The Christian Education Committee reported that Confirmation sessions are ongoing.

The Worship Committee reported that Lenten worship services will continue on March 7th, 14th and 21st by way of Zoom. March 28th is Palm Sunday by way of Zoom. A Maundy Thursday evening email service will be offered on April 1st. A Good Friday service will be held by way of Zoom on April 2nd at 10:00 a.m. Easter Sunday, April 4th, will offer a Zoom Easter breakfast at 8:45 a.m. followed by a Zoom Easter worship service at 10:00 a.m. with communion. If the weather shines on us, the Easter worship service may be moved to the community park. The South Huron Foodgrains annual worship service will take place by way of Zoom on May 2nd at 10:00 a.m.

The Outreach Committee reported that our Coldest Night of the Year team had 19 participants register for the 2-5 km. walk on February 20th to bring awareness and support for the homelessness issue in the Exeter area. The local community campaign had 24 teams with a $30,000 goal and $41,102 raised to date. Our TR-E Huggers team raised $4,490 which surpasses last year's goal by $1,300. This success would not have been possible without the generosity of friends and family of our community. For subscribers to the Broadview magazine, the renewal is being extended until the April/May issue of 2022. The magazine is changing its print frequency from 10 issues to 8 issues per year. The new renewal date will be March instead of November. Mission and Service videos provided by the United Church of Canada to promote the Mission and Service Fund, are now available for our use.

The Community Park Committee reported that a recap of the 2020 park events has been forwarded to the Municipality of South Huron as a requirement of the Memorandum of Understanding agreement with the Municipality.

The Trustees reported that the search for information requested by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario is ongoing. A recent communication from the Municipality of South Huron advised no new information has been found, but they are still looking.

The February 9th meeting of the United Church Women was held virtually with the Christian Leadership Committee leading a short program. The 2021 budget was approved along with the list of charitable organizations the UCW will donate towards during the year. A $100 donation was given to the TR-E Huggers team in support of the Coldest Night of the Year campaign. World Day of Prayer is Friday March 5th, and Thames Road Elimville UCW are the hosts this year. In-person events are not possible due to the pandemic, so a one-hour video has been prepared by the Women's Inter-Church Council to convey the program theme developed by the women of Vanautu, an archipelago of islands in the South Pacific. The video link is being shared with our partners Exeter United, Precious Blood, Exeter Christian Reform, Caven Presbyterian and Exeter Pentecostal women's groups to be viewed in our homes. Together in 170 countries around the world, there will be a sense of standing together in prayer and action to restore hope for women and children touched by injustice. The video can be viewed here: World Day of Prayer 2021 Virtual Service - YouTube.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. As part of the United Fresh Start program, our community of faith has been invited to register a group to take part in some of the core modules of the program. The group can have up to 10 participants, including the minister. Currently we have 4 members in the group, including Rev. Louise. A Ministry & Personnel workshop will be offered through Zoom on Thursday, March 11th from 7 to 9 p.m. and again on Saturday, April 10th from 9 to 11 a.m. A Camp Bimini Fundraiser Drive-Thru Dinner will take place on Sunday, March 28th in the St. Marys United Church parking lot from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visit www.campbimini.ca for details and to purchase tickets. Faith On the Move - Daily Reflections on Hope and Change is an opportunity to journey together through Lent, exploring the resources in the new Lenten devotional from United Church Publishing House. Meet online every Tuesday at 1 p.m. from February 23rd to March 30th. Find out more and register.

A virtual South Huron Foodgrains worship service is being planned for Sunday May 2nd at 10:00 a.m. with Thames Road Elimville as Zoom host. Henry Reinders, Ontario Regional Representative for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, will be the guest speaker.

After being on hold for a year due to the pandemic, discussions are once again taking place on holding covenanting services with Rev. Louise and the region. Documents supporting our community of faith's Annual Self-Assessment were submitted to Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council in February. In the months ahead an Accessibility Committee will be formed as a requirement of our newly approved Accessibility Policy.

The Christian Resource Centre in Mitchell re-opened on March 1st with the following hours of business: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday - 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Monday and Thursday - closed; and by appointment. They are always available by email or through the contact form on the webpage www.wowresourcecentre.ca. You may leave a phone message at 519-348-9261 and messages will be taken off once or twice a week. They still have plenty of 2021 Church Calendars.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation and Council is beginning to plan for this milestone. The first step is to form a committee to plan and oversee celebratory events. We are currently recruiting members and invite you to contact any member of Church Council to express your interest in being a part of the committee. Several suggestions have been made on possible ways to celebrate this milestone, including a night of music through the decades or a hymn sing night, hotdogs and fireworks, a family games night, a movie night with the VCR tapes from the events leading up to the closing of Elimville Church, a fish fry at the community park, and a worship service. Other ideas are welcome.

As the safety of all who enter the building is of upmost importance, the church building continues to be closed. Although the building is closed, "church" is still open. Services by email, mail or mailbox drop off, and Zoom video and telephone conferencing, will continue to be available to the members and adherents of our congregation until in-person services resume.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 7:40 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 7th at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM FEBRUARY 10, 2021

The February 10th Church Council meeting took place by way of Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that the month of January has continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month she prepared 5 Sunday worship services, all of which were led by way of Zoom, made a number of phone calls and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business, attended the Council meeting by way of Zoom, attended the 3rd session of the United Fresh Start program by Zoom, attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom, prepared for Confirmation sessions to start in February, and kept up to date with United Church and Regional Council emails and other information.

The Finance Committee presented the committee's recommendation for the 2021 fee schedule for the use of church buildings and equipment. The recommendation was accepted with no changes from last year.

The Christian Education Committee reported that Rev. Louise is currently leading a Confirmation class that will be meeting weekly for the next couple of months.

The Worship Committee reported that Thames Road Elimville United Church has been asked to host the South Huron Foodgrains church service by way of Zoom. The committee, along with Rev. Louise, has agreed to take on this project. The date of the service is yet to be determined.

The Outreach Committee reported that the TR-E Huggers team is participating in the Coldest Night of the Year event on February 20th. This outreach opportunity encourages members of our congregation to be a walker or a sponsor. Funds raised will support local initiatives to help the homeless, hungry, and hurting people in the Exeter area. Register to walk or to make a donation to the team or an individual walker at www.cnoy.org/Exeter. Contact Judith for more information.

The Ministry and Personnel Committee reported that Rev. Louise will be on holidays in Algonquin Park from Saturday, July 3rd to Sunday July 18th. She will also be taking a study leave from Monday, May 17th to Sunday, May 23rd for the Festival of Homiletics which is held online.

The Community Park Committee reported that a recap of the 2020 park events will be forwarded to the Municipality of South Huron as a requirement of the Memorandum of Understanding agreement with the Municipality.

The Trustees reported that the search for information requested by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario is ongoing. Contact has been made with the Ministry of Health and the Municipality of South Huron. To date the Ministry of Health has not responded. The Municipality has confirmed that the Thames Road cemetery was declared abandoned some time ago and they continue to search their records for more information.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. February is Black History Month. In October, the General Council of the United Church of Canada made a commitment to work towards becoming an anti-racist denomination. The Executive of Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council has pledged to bring attention to Black Lives Matter in the year ahead. Applications are open for positions at Camp Menesetung for folks 16 and up. The first round of applications closes February 21, 2021. See the poster for details and more information.

A thank you was extended to everyone who took a position on the 2021 Church Council. A full slate of Council members was approved at the congregational Annual Meeting on February 7, 2021.

Council members completed their work on the Self Assessment Checklist. A Privacy Policy and an Accessibility Policy were approved as part of the process. The checklist, to be completed annually, will be forwarded to Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council. As part of the Privacy Policy families will be asked to sign a form consenting to the use of personal images (photo or video). Watch for the form in a future mailout.

A service of installation of the Church Council will take place during the worship service on Sunday, February 21st.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation. In the months ahead Council will be working on plans to celebrate this milestone.

As the safety of all who enter the building is of upmost importance, the church building continues to be closed. Although the building is closed, "church" is still open. Services by email, mail or mailbox drop off, and Zoom video and telephone conferencing, will continue to be available to the members and adherents of our congregation until in-person services resume.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:25 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 3rd at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing.

REPORT FROM THE CONGREGATIONAL ANNUAL MEETING FEBRUARY 7, 2021

Due to lockdown measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic, 28 members of our community of faith attended the 2020 Annual Meeting of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge by way of Zoom video and telephone conferencing in the comfort of their homes. Chair of Council John Miner called the meeting to order at 11:00 a.m.

Remembered in prayer by Rev. Louise were Paul Stewart, Jean Coward, David Passmore and Gerry Morgan, members of Thames Road Elimville Pastoral Charge who passed away in 2020. Welcomed with joy to our church family was Noah Elson Lynn by baptism, and Bruce Ward by transfer.

Following a motion passed by the full members of the congregation, adherents were extended voting rights on all matters of business coming before the meeting.

The minutes from the 2019 Annual Meeting were approved and the reports in the 2020 Annual Report booklet were reviewed and accepted as printed.

Motions were passed to:
-Approve the Minister's Remuneration Report for 2021.
-Approve the 2021 Honoraria Report for non-salaried employees.
-Approve the 2021 Proposed Budget as printed in the Annual Report booklet.
-Approve the 2021 Mission and Service Fund allocation of $8,000.00.
-Appoint Sharon Lynn and Marianne Timmerman as Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council Representatives for 2021.
-Appoint Helen Kadey and Carolyn Johns as Financial Examiners for 2021.
-Approve participation in the South Huron Foodgrains growing project in 2021 and to appoint Larry
Lynn, Brent Dawson and Ken Kadey to the committee.
-Appoint Ken Kadey as a member of the Trustee Board for a 4 year term.
-Approve a full slate of members for the 2021 Church Council.

Due to the pandemic several fundraising projects planned by the Fundraising Committee did not take place in 2020; however, the committee was pleased with the financial outcome at the end of the year after conducting a successful canvass that was well supported by members and adherents of the congregation.

The Community Park Committee reported that no major projects are planned for the park in 2021. A recap of the 2020 park events will be forwarded to the Municipality of South Huron as a requirement of the Memorandum of Understanding agreement with the Municipality. In the year ahead the pandemic will continue to affect activity in the park as it did in 2020.

Speaking on behalf of the South Huron Foodgrains Committee, Larry Lynn thanked everyone who supported the growing project in 2020. To date no offer of land has been received for a 2021 crop. Due to the pandemic, at this time the committee is unable to project if a Foodgrains church service will be held in the spring of 2021.

Church Council will have no new faces in 2021 as all retiring members agreed to return to their positions for another term.

2022 is the 25th anniversary of our blended Thames Road Elimville congregation. In the months ahead Council will be making plans to celebrate this milestone.

What's in store for 2021? While COVID-19 continues to be a major concern, it is hoped that our community of faith can return to some sense of "normal" in 2021. We look forward to returning to our church building at some point during the year and putting our re-entry plan into action when it is safe to do so.

John Miner extended a thank you to Rev. Louise for her worship leadership in 2020, and for being so dedicated to pastoral care within our church family during a difficult year. We appreciate her ability to rise to the challenges that COVID-19 presented within our community of faith and feel very blessed to have her and Bruce as part of our church family here at Thames Road Elimville.

John also extended a thank you to the dedicated members of Church Council. COVID-19 presented some new challenges, but everyone rose to the task of dealing with them and carried on, getting the work done. The members of the congregation, who too successfully adapted to a new way of “church”, were thanked for their participation in church activities in 2020 and for their ongoing support in every way.

Sharon Lynn extended a thank you to chair John Miner for his wisdom and guidance throughout a difficult year. He was continually up-to-date on the latest regulations regarding COVID-19, keeping Council informed and everyone safe.

The first meeting of the new Church Council will be on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. by way of Zoom video conferencing. The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 11:40 a.m.

CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT FROM JANUARY 6, 2021

The January 6th Church Council meeting took place via Zoom video conferencing in the comfort of our homes. Chair John Miner called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Louise reported that the month of December continued to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the month she prepared 3 Sunday worship services, a Blue Christmas service on December 21st, and our Christmas Eve service of lessons and carols, all of which were led by way of Zoom; made a number of phone calls, and sent a number of emails and text messages to stay in touch with members of the congregation and to conduct administrative business; attended the Council meeting by way of Zoom; attended the second session of the United Fresh Start Program by Zoom; attended the Western Ontario Waterways Clergy Gathering by Zoom; participated in our part of the Bethlehem Journey; kept up-to-date with United Church and Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council emails and other information.

The Finance Committee extends a thank you to everyone who responded to the appeal letter sent out in October.

The Fundraising Committee extended a thank you to everyone who participated in the Christmas fundraising orders. A profit of $722.79 was raised. The next fundraising project will be compiling a cookbook with new and vintage recipes. Watch for details.

The Property Committee reported that the planned roof repair at the church has been completed; however, another leak has been detected. The additional repair will be undertaken when the ground is firm enough to handle the equipment needed to make the repair.

The Christian Education Committee was thanked for organizing and producing the virtual Christmas Concert that was shared online just before Christmas. Many thanks go out to Sue Shafer, Amy Parsons, Maggie Acs, Sarah Govers and Reverend Louise for their organizing efforts. Also, a big thank you is extended to all who participated by recording and submitting their video clips. Special thanks to Maggie and Sarah for all the time spent on compiling and editing the video submissions. The presentation was very well done and truly a delight to watch when we were unable to be together to celebrate the Christmas season.

The Outreach Committee reported that the Bethlehem Journey, held on December 5th in conjunction with Centralia Faith Tabernacle, Emmanuel Baptist Church, Exeter Pentecostal Tabernacle, Exeter United Church and Exeter Christian Reform Church was a success. Visitors travelled by vehicle to each church for a different scene in the Christmas Story. Thanks to Greg Bahro, Bruce Ward, John Miner, Sharon Lynn, Will & Nic Parsons, Louise von Massow, Marianne Timmerman, Karel Hodgert, Robert and Kathy Bray, and Judith Parker for their participation in partnering with Exeter United Church (coordinated by Dianne Shapton) in presenting the wisemen scene. The weekly worship services continue to be sent by email to 80 families and a printed version is sent by mail or mailbox drop off, upon request. Please let Judith Parker know if anyone would like to receive the weekly worship service by mail. In December, Holtzmann's Foodland put out a challenge of matching the first $1000 towards the Exeter and Area Foodbank. There was $5,435 donated by the community through this challenge. Thanks to our congregation who continue to support the food bank at Foodland and Hansen’s YIG.

Our prayers go out to friends and family who are residents or staff at the Exeter Villa as they face the challenges of controlling a COVID-19 outbreak declared on December 18, 2020. Show your support with a phone call, card, email or text to those we know. The Bethlehem Journey Committee has produced an encouragement video for Exeter Villa. Reverend Louise and Judith Parker contributed to the video on behalf of Thames Road Elimville by participating in a 20 second script provided by the committee. The purpose of the video is to let the staff and residents of the Villa know that the community is thinking about them and supporting them.

The Trustees reported that the search for information requested by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario is ongoing. The Authority is looking for a Registry of Burials and a map of the burial plots around the church. The United Church Archives and the Municipality of South Huron have been contacted for information on any records they may have. If anyone has information, documentation, a map, or photos of the church grounds prior to 1941 that will assist in confirming where the graves are located, please contact Beth Cooper, Robert Bray, John Miner or Ken Kadey.

A virtual UCW meeting was held on December 8th. The program included viewing the musical video "Mary Did You Know" performed by the Pentatonix. Virginia Warwick led a discussion exploring the lyrics of this emotional song. Shirley Cooper gave a Christmas reading. President Janis Richardson led the business, and committee reports were given. The monthly stewardship donations have been made to all local and regional charities the UCW supports. Marilyn Vandenbussche reported she has given $850 to Ronald McDonald House as a result of sewing custom face masks for a donation during the past months. A time of chatting closed the virtual gathering. The next Zoom UCW meeting will be held February 9, 2021 with the Christian Leadership Committee providing a short program.

The Western Ontario Waterways Facebook page, available to everyone, is a good way to keep up-to-date on Regional happenings including programs for children and youth. In November Rev. Therese Samuel was named to the new tri-region position of Minister, Right Relations and Social Justice, effective March 1, 2021. Ending Life Well is a 7 week program, once a week via zoom, on Thursdays from 2:00 to 3:15 p.m. beginning January 7, 2021. The program, presented by Sydenham-Heritage United Church, Brantford creates a discussion about death in a safe and respectful place. Professional presenters cover topics such as legal issues, hospice, palliative care, medically assisted dying, funeral homes, and grieving and loss. Download the brochure. Email Jane Baxter for more information. Marshall Memorial United Church, Ancaster, Ontario has been live streaming their worship services since 2008. In this time of COVID-19 they have carried on without skipping a beat. Check out their YouTube channel, the music is wonderful.

In 2020, 5 acres of corn and 5 acres of soybeans were planted on land donated by Jeff Borland (Huron Perth Ag Services) for the South Huron Foodgrains project. $13,500.00 will be sent to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank; with the 4 to 1 ratio given by the Federal Government, this becomes $67,500.00. A thank you is extended to everyone who contributed to the project by donation or in kind. The South Huron community can be very proud of this accomplishment.

The Nominating Committee has organized for 2021 with members Joyce Fulton, Ken Kadey, Judith Parker, Kathy or Robert Bray, Sarah Govers and John Miner. Positions to be filled include Secretary and one member on each of the Finance, Property, Outreach, Worship, Christian Education and Ministry & Personnel Committees. Several volunteers have come forward to fill these positions; however, if you are interested in letting your name stand for a position on Church Council, please contact a member of the Nominating Committee before the Annual Meeting. Reports for the Annual Report are to be to Sharon Lynn by January 17, 2021. Reports will be available on January 31, 2021. The 2020 Annual Meeting will take place via Zoom on Sunday, February 7, 2021, with an alternate date of February 14, 2021 if needed. In order for the meeting to proceed, a quorum must be in attendance; a quorum is at least 20 full members of our congregation. A person becomes a full member through one of the following ways: confirmation, adult baptism and profession of faith, or through a certificate of transfer from another congregation or church, among others. Children of full members and children who have been baptised but have not yet become full members are considered members, not full members. Further information will be forthcoming in a newsletter that will be sent out a few days before the meeting.

Council members spent some time working on the annual Self Assessment Checklist that will be forwarded to Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council when completed. The checklist is a guide to help communities of faith learn about the requirements and best practices for their ministry and to identify where work needs to be done to improve on the way we are currently doing things.

As the safety of all who enter the building is of upmost importance, the church building continues to be closed. Although the building is closed, “church” is still open. Services by email, mail or mailbox drop off, and Zoom video conferencing, will continue to be available to the members and adherents of our congregation until in-person services resume.

The meeting closed with prayer and was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 10th at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom video conferencing.


Return to home page


We believe that guided by the Holy Spirit our Pastoral Charge will nurture Christian faith so that we may serve God by word and personal example.