Do you remember that song from Smokey and the Bandit “East Bound and Down”? Well there is a line in the song that goes like this… We’ve got a long way to go but a short time to get there!  Well how true this rings. As of October 2023 the Mission & Service total income for the month was $538.00 and a year to date contribution $6,358.12 leaving us about $3,141.88 to reach our goal of $ 9,500.00.

            This is why the “Lights of Hope” Campaign is so important. Many years ago the “Lights of Hope” Tree was started here at Grey Street United Church and I would like to continue what has become a “Church Family Tradition”.

            This year the “Lights of Hope” tree will change its location in the sanctuary (So Excited) and my prayers were answered that the outdoor Lights still work for the “Lights of Hope” Tree which is located on the Grey Street side of the building.

            The “Lights of Hope” campaign will be not be presented to you the congregation in the usual way during “Called to be the Church” as we ‘ve  many events taking place in the month of November.  So this year I’m being creative by using technology.  I encourage one and all to please watch for this announcement in our Weekly GSUC News letter, our M & S tab on the Webpage and hopefully with the help of Diane on our Face Book web page.  The tree will be set-up in its new location and lit for December 03, 2023 with the Outdoor tree lit at dusk the same day.  My thoughts are the “Lights of Hope” campaign will remain open until the end of the last Sunday Service which is December 31, 2023

            This year the “Lights of Hope” envelopes can be found in a basket located on the table against the wall in the sanctuary.  Inside your envelope is an “In Memory of” tag along with an ornament hangar. Once you choose an ornament in memory of your loved one complete the tag which may be hung on the “Lights of Hope” Tree. Your donation envelope may be placed in the collection plate located by the doors close to the Sanctuary entrance or by E-transfer (Please remember to indicate your donation is for the “Lights of Hope” campaign) or simply mailed to the church office. Just as a reminder; remember to include your name & church envelope number located on the back of the envelope.

            In 2022, the “Lights of Hope” campaign raised $1,735.00 and combined with the par and envelope giving, cash donations, offering plate, EFT Transfers as well donation button and fund raising events throughout the year we surpassed our goal of $9000.00 and raised $10,252.50. I can’t wait to see what we can do this year!

            Thank you for your participation in the “The Lights of Hope” campaign and for being part of our amazing ministry. You are truly an example of what it means to Love one another.

Respectfully Submitted

You’re Mission & Services Enthusiast

Cheryl Palylyk