August 9-11 Young Family Weekend Hills of Peace – Cancelled
Aug 30-Sept 1 Canada West Mission Conference Edmonton AB
September 27-29 Men’s Retreat Hills of Peace
September 27-29 Singles’ Retreat Samish Island
October 4-6 Young Adult Retreat Samish Island
October 4-6 Women’s Retreat Chilliwack
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Camp Kimtah at Samish Island
Entering Grades 10-2013 Grads
August 4, 4 pm-August 10, noon
"Life is..." In today's world we don't always slow down enough to focus on the meaning in our lives or the importance of relationships with people around us. One truth we know is "Life is..." It is a struggle, it is amazing, it is confusing and frustrating, it is... At Kimtah we will explore the many aspects related to what "Life is" and see how God's comfort and love can help us maneuver through even the toughest moments. Director: Catherine Peter kimtah@cofchrist-gpnw.org
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mission Conference August 30 - September 1
Photo of Mission Conference in Regina 2012
Register Today for Mission Conference in Edmonton!
Have you booked your hotel room yet?
All of our reserved rooms have been booked, but The Days Inn will honor our rate of $119.99 per night for 2 Queen Beds. These are on a first come first served basis. There are only 10 of these rooms left in the hotel. Please reserve your room today at 780-430-0011 and use ‘Community of Christ Conference’ as your reference.
Dan Beer, from the Vancouver congregation and his band the Seabillys sang O Canada and other songs at the Special Olympics in Langley on July 11th.
Dan and friends Brian and Nola Gibson, Doug and Vickie MacArthur and Debra Donohue will lead a sing-a-long on the Saturday of Mission Conference after funny lady Connie Cavanaugh performs.
The Caretaker of the Hills of Peace Campground is responsible for maintaining the grounds, buildings, and services of the Hills of Peace Campground in a safe and attractive condition for the benefit of all users. For a complete list of duties, go to Caretaker Job Opportunity. Accommodations, utilities and a small remuneration are included.
Here are a few photos of the first outreach project in Vancouver on June 29, 2013. We were blessed with beautiful sunshine, a great location (Stanley Park) and fabulous friends.
July 28-Aug 3 Camp Chimacum (boys 12-14 yrs) Samish Island
August 4-10 Camp Kimtah (15-18 yrs) Samish Island
August 9-11 Young Family Weekend Hills of Peace
Aug 30-Sept 1 Canada West Mission Conference Edmonton AB
September 27-29 Men’s Retreat Hills of Peace
September 27-29 Singles’ Retreat Samish Island
October 4-6 Young Adult Retreat Samish Island
October 4-6 Women’s Retreat Chilliwack
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Register Today for Mission Conference in Edmonton!
Have you booked your hotel room yet? We have 8, 2 Queen rooms left at $119.99 per night. The Days Inn will keep these for us until August 7th. Reserve your room today at 780-430-0011.
Dan Beer, from the Vancouver congregation and his band the Seabillys sang O Canada and other songs at the Special Olympics in Langley on July 11th.
Dan will also be performing at Canada West Mission Conference along with Brian and Nola Gibson, Doug and Vickie MacArthur and Debra Donohue on Saturday September 1st after funny lady Connie Cavanaugh performs.
Register today for Mission Conference and enjoy the free concert and sing-a-long!
Be sure to encourage all youth 16-21 years old to apply.
Click below to see a video
of our Get God trip to Camp Lokahi Family Reunion in Hawaii!
MP4
Flash
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Camp Chimacum: July 28, 4 pm-August 3, noon
Boys Entering Grades 7-9
"The Real Man Dialogues: The Quest for the Truth" We will continue our "real man dialogues" this year as we search for truth - in life and in spirituality. What is the truth? Is my truth different than yours? If you like a good quest and asking the tough questions, then come join us for a week of exploration, a canoe journey, an expedition into the mountains, and many more fun activities. Directors Erik Skoor & Mark Chapman chimacum@cofchrist-gpnw.org, 425-238-9714
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Register today for summer camps and retreats. Get all the details here!
I recently came across an estate that was almost settled. Here are the numbers from the estate wind up: The gross estate value was $56,000. The estate was covered by a “will” only and not a revocable living trust. The estate wind up costs and distribution is broken down as follows: Physical asset $10,500. Executor fee $3,000. Funeral expense $15,500. Other expenses $3,000. Beneficiary receives $24,500. Put another way, 57% of the estate went to various expenses and funeral costs and the beneficiary received 43%, clearly less than half. The physical asset was given to someone not in the will and not the beneficiary under the will. The gift was arranged separately and was well known about. There is absolutely nothing illegal or unethical in this gift distribution.
It is interesting to see how a modest estate of $56,500. could be eroded with various costs with so little being left for the beneficiary and might make a person wonder why. Why did the executor arrange for such an elaborate funeral? Why did the executor (spouse) take such a large fee when money is not an issue for them? Why was an asset worth 19% of the estate given to a non- family member and not sold and the benefit given to the sole beneficiary (not the spouse) under the will?
It is the prerogative of the testator or testatrix to do as they wish with their estate. I have no problem with this ”testamentary right” and it is certainly a benefit and blessing of the country we live in. In some circumstances, there are legal necessities which must be taken into account which can change the distribution under a will or trust if these issues are not taken into account when drafting the documents. We have the time now, to consider how our estate is to be distributed and all arrangements made with costs relating to those items.
I urge you to do a couple of things. First, take some time to review your estate plan and related arrangements to ensure it is what you want and it makes sense from a financial, ethical, and moral perspective. This is a good time to enlist the aid of a professional to review your plans and add a different perspective to your situation. Secondly, look at the estate numbers from above the estate wind up. Is this what you want for your estate and beneficiaries? What are your thoughts on this wind up? I would be interested in your analysis on this estate wind up and your perspective. Differing viewpoints can add insight for all of us to learn from.
The Caretaker of the Hills of Peace Campground is responsible for maintaining the grounds, buildings, and services of the Hills of Peace Campground in a safe and attractive condition for the benefit of all users. For a complete list of duties, go to Caretaker Job Opportunity. Accommodations, utilities and a small remuneration are included.
Be sure to encourage all youth 16-21 years old to apply.
Click below to see a video
of our Get God trip to Camp Lokahi Family Reunion in Hawaii!
MP4
FLASH
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Camp Kluane: July 21, 4 pm-July 27, noon
Girls Entering Grades 7-9
"Caution: Roadwork Ahead" Life is a journey, right? Whether it's "smooth sailing" or "rough terrain," the journey is filled with twists, turns, potholes, and unexpected off-ramps. Come and explore some ideas about how we can navigate that road called "Life" and learn some tools to make it the most exciting Journey you'll ever experience!
"The Real Man Dialogues: The Quest for the Truth" We will continue our "real man dialogues" this year as we search for truth - in life and in spirituality. What is the truth? Is my truth different than yours? If you like a good quest and asking the tough questions, then come join us for a week of exploration, a canoe journey, an expedition into the mountains, and many more fun activities. Directors Erik Skoor & Mark Chapman chimacum@cofchrist-gpnw.org, 425-238-9714
You will find below the link to a number of documents that have been created to assist with understanding the Interim Policy Changes for Canada regarding 1) Ordination of Priesthood of Same-Sex/Gender Orientation and 2) Authorizing and Officiating at Same-Sex/Gender Marriages.
The Interim Policies will be implemented in Canada only, June 1, 2013.
You will find the following documents at this link Interim Policy
-Canada Cover Letter from the Apostle
-Final Edited Canada Same-Gender Policies
-Interim Policies Canada Q&A
-Faithful Disagreement
Please review all documents, particularly the Interim Policy changes. If you have questions regarding the implementation please contact me.
Sincerely,
Gregory R. Goheen, Bishop
CWM President & Financial Officer
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Register today for summer camps, retreats and reunions. Get all the details here!
The Caretaker of the Hills of Peace Campground is responsible for maintaining the grounds, buildings, and services of the Hills of Peace Campground in a safe and attractive condition for the benefit of all users. For a complete list of duties, go to Caretaker Job Opportunity. Accommodations, utilities and a small remuneration are included.
"Caution: Roadwork Ahead" Life is a journey, right? Whether it's "smooth sailing" or "rough terrain," the journey is filled with twists, turns, potholes, and unexpected off-ramps. Come and explore some ideas about how we can navigate that road called "Life" and learn some tools to make it the most exciting Journey you'll ever experience!
"The Real Man Dialogues: The Quest for the Truth" We will continue our "real man dialogues" this year as we search for truth - in life and in spirituality. What is the truth? Is my truth different than yours? If you like a good quest and asking the tough questions, then come join us for a week of exploration, a canoe journey, an expedition into the mountains, and many more fun activities. Directors Erik Skoor & Mark Chapman chimacum@cofchrist-gpnw.org, 425-238-9714
You will find below the link to a number of documents that have been created to assist with understanding the Interim Policy Changes for Canada regarding 1) Ordination of Priesthood of Same-Sex/Gender Orientation and 2) Authorizing and Officiating at Same-Sex/Gender Marriages.
The Interim Policies will be implemented in Canada only, June 1, 2013.
You will find the following documents at this link Interim Policy
-Canada Cover Letter from the Apostle
-Final Edited Canada Same-Gender Policies
-Interim Policies Canada Q&A
-Faithful Disagreement
Please review all documents, particularly the Interim Policy changes. If you have questions regarding the implementation please contact me.
Sincerely,
Gregory R. Goheen, Bishop
CWM President & Financial Officer
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Register today for summer camps, retreats and reunions. Get all the details here!
The Caretaker of the Hills of Peace Campground is responsible for maintaining the grounds, buildings, and services of the Hills of Peace Campground in a safe and attractive condition for the benefit of all users. For a complete list of duties, go to Caretaker Job Opportunity. Accommodations, utilities and a small remuneration are included.
One Head cook is required for 6 days at Hills of Peace Campground in Alberta. Your own transportation is ideal but for the right candidate(s) other arrangements could be made. Please forward your application to Courtney Znak, HOP Board Director at courtneynhaley@hotmail.com or mail to Box 143 Hughenden,Alberta, Canada T0B-2E0
Peace Colloquy registration opens this month at www.CofChrist.org/peacecolloquy. The October 18–20 event will begin Friday morning with a hymn festival as we launch the Community of Christ Sings hymnal, followed by a full day of activities, then the presentation of the Community of Christ International Peace Award to the Rev. John Bell at 7:30 p.m. CDT. Learn more about workshops, youth retreat, and children’s activities at www.CofChrist.org/peacecolloquy.
Abolish Poverty, End Suffering aid is offering flood relief in Germany. A US$5,000 grant through the German Red Cross is helping provide temporary housing for flood refugees, and will eventually help make flooded homes inhabitable again. Your offerings to Abolish Poverty, End Suffering make it possible for the church to be Christ’s hands and feet, reaching out through compassionate ministries to those in need. You can give to this and all of the Mission Initiatives at www.CofChrist.org/give/contribute and on the worldwide ministries side of mission tithes envelopes. Because of your ongoing generosity, Community of Christ is able to respond as a worldwide church to the crisis in Germany. Read more: www.CofChrist.org/news/2013/june/floodrelief.asp.
Order recommended fall curriculum for children, Of Water and Spirit. Materials will guide learners in exploring what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and how discipleship is lived out in Community of Christ. Because this is such important foundational material based on Community of Christ identity, message, mission, and beliefs, the First Presidency recommends use of this resource for fall curriculum with all children ages 7–11, even if they have already been baptized and confirmed. Materials include a Facilitator Guide and Disciple Journal (one for each student). Get them through Herald House: www.HeraldHouse.org; 1-800-767-8181.
Wondering what to use for adult Sunday school or study class this fall? The Disciple Formation Team recommends two resources. Each offers a series of six lessons that are engaging, simple to use, and encourage good discussion and participation.
* Live Christ’s Peace invites learners to consider more deeply what it means to “live Christ’s peace.” The invitation to live Christ’s peace is explored through the lens of scripture passages from the Bible, including the Sermon on the Mount and the Lord’s Prayer, and Doctrine and Covenants 163:3 and 4a,c. Lesson topics include: Christ’s Peace, Right Relationships, Grace and Generosity, God’s Justice, God’s Reign on Earth, and Live the Ethics of Christ’s Peace. ISBN: 9780830915675 is available for $12.95 from Herald House: www.HeraldHouse.org; 1-800-767-8181.
* Lessons on the faithful disagreement principles are at www.CofChrist.org/DFG/lessons/FaithfulDisagreement. Faithful disagreement is defined as actions and/or responses by a person holding a different view about a specific policy, belief, principle, or other position of Community of Christ. Explore the principles with lessons on exploring what it means to be a signal community, celebrating diversity through faithful disagreement, how we treat one another, how we share when we disagree, leading of the Holy Spirit, and broader application of faithful disagreement.
“The Great Rx for Health: Caring for Self, Caring for Others” is the theme for the next Health and Spirituality Workshop. Like the Great Commandment it will focus on practical skills and relevant information to create and maintain health and wholeness. It’s happening August 23–24 at the Temple in Independence, Missouri. Dr. Bowen White will return with his uplifting style both Friday and Saturday. Friday evening is free and open to the public. Registration is required for Saturday sessions. Visit www.hmaCofChrist.org or call HMA at ext. 1418 or
1262. Discount rates are available for congregations that pre-register with a single payment for a group of at least five people.
The Herald series, Live Christ’s Peace, continues this month with “God’s Justice,” by Apostle Susan Oxley. Mistreatment, abuse of power, and poverty abound. What responsibility do followers of Jesus Christ have in addressing injustice? What kind of justice is “God’s justice”?
Child protection: Anyone working with children and young people, at camps, reunions, or in a congregation must be a Registered Children and Youth Worker. Ask your mission center recorder for a list of those already registered, or contact Karen Waring (executive assistant to general counsel), or Christi Duke (World Church recorder).
Registration as a children and youth worker requires successful completion of the application form and participation in Child Protection Core Training. The Child Protection office in Legal Services requires at least two-weeks to process an application. Applications can be mailed to Karen Waring at International Headquarters, e-mailed to Karen Waring, or faxed to (816) 521-3099. Application forms and guidance for completing it can be found at www.CofChrist.org/legal/childprotection. Please contact your mission center president or pastor for opportunities to participate in the Core Training.
How will your congregation celebrate Heritage Day? If you’re looking for a way to include church history at your congregation on Sunday, September 15, find plenty of ideas on Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation’s website: www.HistoricSitesFoundation.org. From hymn festivals and worship service outlines to sermons and testimonies, there is something for everyone on the “worship resources” page. Whether your journey begins in a small grove in western New York, the islands of the South Pacific, or the savannas of Africa, we all have a powerful story to tell. Community of Christ Heritage Day, Sunday, September 15, is an opportunity to share your congregation’s unique story!
Outdoor fun requires vigilance against insect bites. Lyme’s Disease is this month’s Health Brief from Community of Christ Health Ministries Association. Learn what areas of the US are at greatest risk and which ticks carry the bacteria that causes this disease. Go to www.CHM.HMACofChrist.org for the health brief to download for congregation and camp information.
If you have always wanted to know more about the Old Testament, consider taking Wayne Ham’s Community of Christ Seminary class on Hebrew Scriptures online October 28–December 20. You can enroll for graduate or continuing education credit. For more information, visit www.graceland.edu/seminary or contact Judy Luffman.
Deepen Your Discipleship. Community of Christ Seminary is enrolling new students for fall semester in the master of arts in religion (MAR) program. Each of the 10 courses may be taken by degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking students for three semester hours of graduate credit or 4.2 CEUs. Visit www.graceland.edu/seminary for more information.
The Temple summer touring season in Independence, Missouri, begins with expansions of the audio tour now available in English, Spanish, and French! Integrated Communications and Visitor Services teamed up to produce the audio tour, which plays on a hand-held wand visitors check out from the Temple Reception desk. A self-guided brochure accompanies the wand. This expands the opportunity to share our story with guests from around the world visiting International Headquarters.
We’re pleased to give visitors the ability to pace their time in the Temple, tour as they wish, and explore our unique richness and diversity. Visitor Services staff continues to give personal tours, answer questions, and provide the ministry of presence.
Staff organists introduce visitors to the world of the organ with free half-hour demonstration recitals. You will experience the Auditorium’s 113-rank, 6,334-pipe Aeolian-Skinner or the Temple’s 102-rank, 5,686-pipe Casavant. June, July, and August recitals happen daily at 3:00 p.m.
Register by July 26 for MEADS (Ministerial Education and Discipleship Studies). August 5–9 courses: Community of Christ Scriptures with Dale Luffman 8:30 a.m.–noon, and Pastoral Care with Jeri Lauren Lambert 1:30–5:00 p.m. Fee is $88 per class or $175 for both. Visit www.CofChrist.org/meads/schedule.asp for more information and syllabi. Register with Michelle Booth: ext. 1459.
July 4: International Headquarters offices closed—Independence Day USA
July 20-27: Spectacular
August 5–9: MEADS
August 23–24: Health and Spirituality Workshop
September 1: World Hunger Emphasis
September 2: International Headquarters offices closed—Labor Day (USA)
September 9–13: Council of Twelve Apostles meet
September 15: Heritage Day
September 16–19: World Church Leadership Council
Daily Prayer for Peace
A brief worship service is held daily at 1:00 p.m. central time at the Temple. Join us in prayer from wherever you are. For details and the text of each day’s prayer, visit www.CofChrist.org/prayerpeace/.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2013 Camping/Event Calendar
July 6-12 Family Reunion Hills of Peace
July 12-16 Junior Camp (8-11 yrs) Hills of Peace
July 13-20 Family Reunion Samish Island
July 20-27 Spectacular Graceland University
July 21-27 Camp Kluane (girls 12-14 yrs) Samish Island
July 28-Aug 3 Camp Chimacum (boys 12-14 yrs) Samish Island
August 4-10 Camp Kimtah (15-18 yrs) Samish Island
August 9-11 Young Family Weekend Hills of Peace
August 11-17 Singles’ Reunion Samish Island- Cancelled
Aug 30-Sept 1 Canada West Mission Conference Edmonton AB
September 27-29 Men’s Retreat Hills of Peace
September 27-29 Singles’ Retreat Samish Island
October 4-6 Young Adult Retreat Samish Island
October 4-6 Women’s Retreat Chilliwack
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.”
The CWM Weekly Announcement blog keeps you up to date with what is happening in the Canada West Mission. It is usually published every Thursday – enter your email below to automatically receive every new post in your email inbox.
To have information published in the blog, email the editor, Debra Donohue, at debra@communityofchrist.ca