A Summer Spirit




Every season has something to teach us.

Autumn teaches us that letting go is part of life.

Winter invites us to slow down, to rest, and to trust that not everything beautiful is visible.

Spring whispers that new life is always possible, even after the longest seasons.

And summer...

Summer reminds us to laugh a little louder, linger a little longer, and rediscover the joy of seeing familiar things with fresh eyes.

Perhaps that's why we've decided to let our worship take on a bit of a summer spirit this year.

Over the next nine weeks, Sunday mornings at Parkdale are going to look and feel a little different. We'll leave the sanctuary behind and gather in the garden. There will still be Scripture, prayer, music, and meaningful reflection, but there will also be conversation, storytelling, and opportunities to participate rather than simply observe.

Think of it as a summer edition of worship.

A chance to experience church from a different perspective.

The summer worship series is called The Gifts Among Us, and over nine weeks, we'll explore a simple but life-changing question:

What gifts has God placed within each one of us?

Too often, we think of gifts as talents reserved for a select few. But what if our greatest gifts are things like kindness, curiosity, hospitality, compassion, wisdom, creativity, encouragement, or the ability to help someone feel seen?

What if the greatest gift we have to offer is simply being ourselves?

Of course, summer is also a season for camping trips, family reunions, mountain adventures, vacations, and afternoons spent in the garden. If you're travelling, I hope you enjoy every minute. I hope you rest deeply, laugh often, make wonderful memories, and return home refreshed.

God doesn't stop walking with us because we're away from our usual routines.

Whether you're sitting beside a lake, hiking a mountain trail, wandering through a new city, or enjoying a quiet evening in your own backyard, may you experience moments that remind you of what matters most. Listen well. Love generously. Be present to the people around you. Those moments can become sacred, too.

And when you're in town, we'd love to have you with us.

However you spend your summer, my prayer is that it brings you rest, joy, meaningful connection, and a renewed sense of who you are and how your life blesses the world.

Have a wonderful summer.

Grace and peace,

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