FAQ

After worship, we share Mug and Muffins which includes Fair Trade coffee and tea, as well as homemade goodies. We always have time for food and fellowship. The place hums with conversation about last night’s curling or the Sunday sermon or things that are happening in our lives. It is a time when the community catches up with each other and is a vital part of our worship life. We would love to get to know you better!

The Order of Service with titles of what’s happening are projected on the screen. When it is the congregation’s turn to read or speak, the text is usually bolded. If the Minister and congregation are to say something together usually you will see “(in unison)” after the title. If the congregation is going to sing something, either the hymn (song) is announced or its title appears on the screen.

The Bible is central to the United Church of Canada. It’s at once the holy writings of the Christian tradition, with stories of our ancestors in the faith, a guide for our living, and a source of prayers, songs, and poems. All of this, yet so much more.

We often refer to a passage as “the Word of God”. By this we mean the writer was inspired by God. Yet we also know the various books that make up the Bible are the stories of two ancient communities trying to be faithful to God under difficult circumstances – ancient Israel and the early Christian movement – and some of what was experienced and written then doesn’t fir with today’s world. We don’t endorse slavery, for example, or stone those who commit adultery.

Nevertheless, in its stories and teachings the Bible has a mysterious power to inform our lives: the story of ancient Israel, a people enslaved, then liberated, who wandered in a wilderness for years, is also the story of our own bondage and alienation. The wisdom of Jesus speaks to us, who are as much in need of healing and liberation today as those he taught and touched 2000 years ago.

United Churches offer opportunities for people to study the Bible, privately and in groups. It’s not easy to understand, so the church encourages us to explore the ideas of biblical scholars and others who have studied the Bible in depth.

Sometimes. The bulletin may say “in unison” when we say it together or we may take turns. The prayers we have a part in are usually displayed at the screens at the front of the Church (there are printouts on the information stand if it is easier for you to read).

We all say the Lord’s Prayer together. Often the Minister will say something like “we will pray in the words that Jesus taught us” just before we say the Lord’s Prayer together. If you don’t know the words (or want to check the version- we say it with the extra two lines on the end (For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen) it is found in Voices United (burgundy book) number 921 (top of page). Or it is also displayed on the screen. Sometimes we sing the Lord’s Prayer. The one we most often sing can be found in Voices United #925.

Giving is a personal act of gratitude, compassion, and hope. We believe the church plays a vital role in sharing God’s love in the world, and we invite you to support that work in a way that feels meaningful to you. Whether your gift reflects your passion, your values, or simply a thankful heart, we are grateful for whatever you are able to give.

All donations over $20.00 are eligible for a tax receipt.

Please note that at this time, LSUC does not pass a collection plate during worship. If you’d like to make a contribution, a giving basket is available just outside the worship space.

We have two options.

You can ask for envelopes from our treasurer. Money or cheques made out to Living Spirit United Church can be put in the envelope. Please indicated how you would like the money divided between local church expenses, and the United Church of Canada Church Mission and Service Fund. If you have other special donations that can be written in Other. Please make sure to leave us your name and address to ensure you receive your receipt.
The other option is PAR — Pre-authorized remittance (giving). Arrangements can be made to have a certain amount withdrawn from your bank account every month. If circumstances change, you can change the amount. If you arrange to use PAR, but feel uncomfortable not putting something in the collection plate on Sunday, we offer Pre-Authorized Remittance cards for your use. You can take one of those and put it into the collection plate. PAR helps the church manage its budget as your offering comes in every month. A pamphlet on PAR is available with further information.
Please see the information under “Donations” for other possibilities.

UNITED CHURCH

Living Spirit

Frequently asked questions

What should I expect?

What should I wear?

What do we do on Sunday?

What about after church?

Do I have to sit in a specific place?

What about standing, sitting, and kneeling?

How do I know what is going on?

Does the United Church believe in the Bible?

Do people say the prayers?

How do you present the Psalms (responsive reading during Bible readings) here?

Laughing in Church?

Crying in Church?

Clapping in Church?

Singing in Church?

Do you have children’s programs?

If I would like a visit from a Minister, what should I do?

I don’t have any money to put in the collection plate, is that okay?

I have money to put into the collection plate, how much should I put in?

Should I get envelopes or something for offering?

Where is the nearest washroom?

How physically accessible is the Church?

Does LSUC have a Facebook and an email address?