Calvary Updates

Join Pastor Ed for Bible Study each Wednesday morning at 10am starting October 4th

There will be a sign-up sheet on the table in the foyer.


Journey thru Grief

Full Day conference with key note speaker C. Elizabeth Dougherty


Nov. 14th 8:30 am to 4:00 PM Goods & Company 251 Red River Road

$60. registration fee

Contact Jessica Bruce 807-629 -2677

Jessica@hospicenorthwest.ca


We are very excited to announce that Rev. Edivar Govaski will be installed as Calvary’s pastor on Wednesday, September 13 at 7pm. Please join us for the installation service, followed by cake and coffee in the Fellowship Hall. We are excited to start this next chapter in God’s story at Calvary with Pastor Ed!


UPDATED CHURCH AND SUNDAY SCHOOL SCHEDULE

SUNDAY SCHOOL begins on Sept 10th at 9:30am. On that day we will have some special activities for all school-age children. (The church service will follow at 10:30).

Sunday School will be delivered in the ‘one-room style’ again (al children in one room, gr JK—gr 5). As more children return to Sunday School, we hope to divide for part of the morning into two age groupings.


A NURSERY ROOM is set up off the back hallway for parents/grandparents during Sunday school time. There are toys, Bible story books, and colouring materials available for you to have an informal learning time with the younger children. (If the need presents itself, we will look into having a teacher for Pre-school.)

As Pastor Ed settles in to his work, there should be learning opportunities coming up for Gr. 6+ For now, the older children are invited to join in the fun on Sept 10th.


Can’t wait to see you all!


Sunday School Staff

Michael de Jong shared some great news with the Calvary congregation this morning. Pastor Edivar Govaski has accepted the call from Calvary as lead pastor.

We thank Pastor Brian for all his assistance through the call process and we look forward to the arrival of Pastor Edivar to Thunder Bay.



Calvary Sunday Service Schedule


830am Service time July 2 thru Sept.3 with coffee to follow

July 16,30, Aug. 6,27, Sept. 3 Communion

July 2,9,23, Aug. 13,20 Lay lead service


There will be a special confirmation service on Monday June 12, at Calvary, at 7:00pm. If you are able and willing to support six young people, they will each be giving a short speech on what their Christian faith means to them, and while they take the Lord's Supper for the first time, it will be available for all who attend. If you are unable to attend, please keep Brooklyn Fontaine, Jordyn Fontaine, Koen Horne, Gavin McCrae, Emily Meservia and Jalwin Winston in your prayers.



LWML

Lutheran Women in Mission
Women’s Spring Renewal
Hosted by Mary Martha


Saturday, April 29, 2023
Calvary Lutheran Church
Theme: One In Christ (Psalm 133)


Presentations
Rachel’s Vineyard (Joanne Minor)
Video (CLWR)
Registration @ 9:30am cost is $5.00 - Lunch is provided
Thunder Bay Zone

Street Reach is not accepting clothing, household and personal hygiene donations at this time.

Monetary donations designated to support Street Reach must be sent to LCC Bay Street directly or through your church offering envelope identifying Street Reach.


There will be no Sunday School on Easter Sunday


Just a Reminder

Daylight Savings Time

Sunday, March 12, 2023

Calvary's Holy Week schedule

Palm Sun., April 2, 1 pm Communion;
Good Fri, Apr 7, 7 pm;
Easter Sun., Apr 9, 10 am lay service.


             Other Local Lutheran Services
               Maundy Thur., Apr 6, 7 pm @ Christ;
          Other Good Fri services, 10:30 @ Christ;
                                                       1:30 @ Trinity.

Calvary Sunday Service Schedule

Sunday March 5, 1pm Communion
Sunday March 12, 10am Lay lead service
Sunday March 19, 1pm Communion
Sunday March 26, 10am Lay lead service
Sunday April 2, 1pm Communion PALM SUNDAY
Sunday April 9, 10am Lay lead service EASTER
Sunday April 16, 1pm Communion
Sunday April 23, 10am Lay lead service


Lenten greetings to you!


It is March 1 tomorrow. And this email is to invite you to the three things that are happening on Wednesday.

First, after two weeks away, we are back to our in-person Bible study time at 10:00am.

Second, we are inviting you, as well as members of other congregations, to join us at Calvary at 6:00pm for a yummy soup supper. We offer you a choice of three soups, freshly baked buns, and desert. Now the desert part will require some of you to bring desert for everyone. That would be most appreciated.

And finally, we are having our midweek Lenten service at 7:00pm. The theme of the sermons for this Lent is, "Chronicles of the King."

See you as you are able.

Blessings!
Pastor Brian


SERVICE FOR EASTER SUNDAY –APRIL 9TH Please note that there will  be a Lay Service at Calvary Lutheran Church at 10a.m.


CAMP AURORA ANNUAL MEETING

Camp Aurora is hosting their Annual General Meeting on Thursday, February 23, at 7:00pm at Calvary Lutheran Church (2820 Donald Street East). Everyone is welcome! This meeting will give you an opportunity to see how the camp is emerging from COVID and adapting to new challenges. You will hear about the projects we have taken on and you can ask any questions you have about the ministry at Camp Aurora. After the meeting, there will be an opportunity for food and fellowship. If you have any questions, you can call/text Pastor Brian at 807-707-4080.




SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER


Christ Lutheran Church (47 Walkover Street) is hosting a Shrove Tuesday pancake supper from 5:00 – 7:00pm on Tuesday, February 21. Admission is by donation (free will offering). We would love to see you there! 




MIDWEEK LENTEN SERVICE SCHEDULE


Our midweek Lenten services are almost upon us. The sermon series is titled, Chronicles of the King. For each Wednesday, you are welcome to come for a soup supper at 6:00pm, and/or join us for the service at 7:00pm. 




March 1 - Calvary Lutheran Church (2820 Donald Street East) 


March 8 - Christ Lutheran Church (47 Walkover Street) 


March 15 - Epiphany Lutheran Church (333 Morse Street) 


March 22 - Trinity Lutheran Church (560 May Street North) 


March 29 - Calvary Lutheran Church (2820 Donald Street East) 



The donation boxes for Grace Place and Street Reach and empty pill bottles are now located in the front foyer under the table




Wednesday February 22

                     4 Pm

Ash Wednesday Service


Upcoming Church Services


Feb 5,19 Sunday School at 11:00am; Potluck at noon; Worship at 1:00pm with Holy Communion

Feb 12,26 Worship at 10:00am (coffee to follow); Sunday School at 11:00am

Bible Study Wednesdays 10 am in the fellowship hall




Upcoming Service Times

January 22, Worship at 10:00am (coffee to follow); Sunday School at 11:00am


January 29, Sunday School at 11:00am; Potluck at noon; Worship at 1:00pm with Holy Communion


Mary Martha Next Meeting

February 06, 2023 @ 1:00 PM Upper Room

Please bring pantry item for Grace Place

Membership dues for 2023 will be collected $8.00



Good Morning Church Family,


"Rev. Jan Pastucha has declined our call. 
As such a new congregational call meeting will be held January 15 after the 1pm service. Call documents will be in church mailboxes, as well as enclosed in a link sent in an email to members.  Please contact Michael deJong, if you have any questions."

Merry Christmas to All
Michael deJong

Church envelopes for 2023 are now

in your church mailbox.
If you do not have a mailbox then please check
the desk in the front foyer.
If you would like church envelopes please contact
Ginny Strey at 4765574 or leave a message at
the church office.


Envelope numbers may have changed for this year, as a result please do not use 2022 envelopes in 2023.

Greetings on this snowy Saturday night.

Just as an update on our service times for the rest of December and on into January.

This Sunday, December 11, Worship at 10:00am (coffee to follow); Sunday School at 11:00am
Next Sunday, December 18, Sunday School at 11:00am; Potluck lunch at noon; Worship at 1:00pm with Holy Communion
Christmas Eve, December 24, Worship Service at 3:00pm (We will again use artificial lights - flashlights, phones, etc, for however dark it might be)
Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, you are welcome to join the Holy Communion, Christmas Day service at Christ Lutheran
January 1, Worship Service at 10:00am
January 8, Worship at 10:00am (coffee to follow); Sunday School at 11:00am
January 15, Sunday School at 11:00am; Potluck at noon?; Worship at 1:00pm with Holy Communion

I will leave it at that. Blessings on your Advent and Christmas seasons!

Pastor Brian




****Service Update***
Dec. 24 Christmas Eve – 3pm Calvary
Dec.25 Christmas Day – 10:30am Christ Lutheran Church

Jan. 1 New Years Day – no Sunday School 10am Lay Service Calvary


We Are Getting Ready for Jesus' Birthday on Christmas @ Calvary


Sunday school and Jr. Confirmation classes are every Sunday at 11 am  


Service dates/times and locations

November 27th 10am Lay Service

November 30th  Advent Service 7pm @ Christ - 47 Walkover St.

December 4th 1pm -  Communion Service with the Voters / Call meeting to follow

December 7th Advent Service 7pm @ Calvary

December 11th 10am Lay Service

December 14th Advent Service 7pm @ Trinity - 560 May St. N.

December 18th 1pm Communion Service

December 21st Advent Service 7pm @ Epiphany - 333 Morse St.  

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services have yet to be determined.


  Christmas giving opportunities!  

Christmas Gift for Pastor Brian

Please contribute by cash to Ginny Strey or Lynda Wdowiak. If it is more convenient plea

se e transfer to r.strey@tbaytel.net or elouse1@yahoo.ca (no password needed)

We will give to Pastor Christmas Day at service.  

Dilico Christmas Wish Bags

  Please contribute by cash, cheque or e transfer to elouse1@yahoo.ca or contact Lynda Wdowiak by November 30th. If you have new items to give for the children's bags, please have to the church by December 4th. We are in short supply of arts and crafts and school supplies. See the email sent out for more details.  


On-going opportunities

Grace Place - toothbrushes / toothpaste and cooking oil

Street Reach - Cookies, sugar, peanut butter and sugar

Matthew 25 Ministry - pill bottles  

Calvary Council Chair - Carolyn Mol         

                 Vice Chair - Lynda Wdowiak



Midweek Advent Services

Date  Time   Location

Wed. Nov. 30th  7:00 pm  Christ Church 47 Walkover St.

Wed Dec.7th  7:00 pm  Calvary Lutheran 2820 Donald St. E

Wed. Dec.14th  7:00 pm  Trinity Lutheran  560 May St. N

Wed. Dec.21st  7:00 pm  Epiphany Lutheran 330 Morse St.


Please join us for Coffee and Snacks after the service


Community Clothing Assistance has asked us for help with their UNDERCOVER Program. This program provides underprivileged children (ages 4-14) with 7 sets of new socks and underwear for free. A box has been placed near the main parking lot entrance of the church if you would like to donate items, or if you would like to donate financially, you may label your offering for CCA Undercover Program and we will ensure it gets to them. Any questions can be directed to Carolyn Mol. Thank you for your support!




Our semi-annual voter’s assembly meeting, which will also be a call meet

ing, will be Sunday, December 4 following the 1pm worship service. Copies of the agenda, proposed workplan to be approved, and pastoral candidate information can be found in your church mailbox on Sunday. Questions regarding the pastoral call can be directed to Michael deJong, and questions regarding the workplan can be directed to Karolyn Hoard. Hope to see everyone at the meeting!


November  Church  Services
(Don’t forget the Daylight Savings time change Sunday Nov. 6 )


Nov.6
11:00 am Sunday School
-
12:00 pm Pot Luck/Coffee- 1:00 pm Communion Service

Nov. 13
10:00 am Lay Service (Coffee time to follow)
-
11:00 am Sunday School

Nov.20
11:00 am Sunday School
- 12:00 pm Pot
Luck/Coffee- 1:00 pm Communion Service

Nov. 27
10:00 am Lay Service (Coffee time to follow)
-
11:00 am Sunday School



Good afternoon!

We are trying something new this Sunday. Because of our scheduling challenges and opportunities, we have a one hour gap of time from noon until 1:00pm after Sunday School, before our worship service, on communion Sundays. In order to care for each other, to bridge the time for our Sunday School families, and to promote fellowship together, we are going to have potlucks at the church on those days, and see how it goes. You do not have to attend. You are certainly welcome to attend. Please have your dishes to the church by about 11:45am so that we are ready to go for noon. Also, please be aware that we have some allergies to be aware of, to care for each other. These allergies include peppers (all colours and including black pepper) as well as peanuts. Please do not bring any dishes that contain these ingredients or are cross-contaminated. Thank you. If you have any questions, please email me (pastorbrianfalkenholt@hotmail.ca) or call/text me at 707-4080). Pastor Brian



Greetings in the name of Jesus!

We have decided, following our congregational gathering as well as a council meeting, to try something new. We are going to have the worship services on non-communion Sundays at 10:00am. On those Sundays, coffee time in the fellowship hall will follow the service. Sunday School will be at 11:00am every Sunday, starting on October 16.

We will have this information on the phone message at church, we will update the church website, and we will send out email reminders. Here is the schedule for the rest of October.


October 9 - 10:00am Worship Service (Coffee time to follow)
October 16 - 10:00am Worship Service (Coffee time to follow)
                   - 11:00am Sunday School
October 23 - 10:00am Worship Service (Coffee time to follow)
                   - 11:00am Sunday School
October 30 - 11:00am Sunday School
                   - 12:00pm Food event * to be determined
                   - 1:00pm Communion Service (Reformation Sunday)

Please contact the office if you have any questions. We continue to try to be as flexible as we can manage to offer God's people His Word and Sacrament in the ways that we can.

Blessings!
Pastor Brian



Woman's Prayer Service
Saturday
October 15, 2022
 
This event is open to all women

 At Redeemer
Lutheran Church Registration begins at 9:30am
Prayer
Service is at 10:00am

 
There will be a time for
fellowship after the service.


SATURDAY OCTOBER 1ST
All Calvary members please join your church council for Fellowship & Discussion:
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE ?

Coffee 9:30 AM
Discussion/Planning 10:00-2:00 (Lunch provided)

REGISTRATION required so we can plan for the lunch meal.

CONTACT the church office: calvary@tbaytel.net or 623-8735: or see Lynda Wdowiak (Greeting) prior to Sunday Service.
 
 

Our mailing address is: 
Calvary Lutheran Church2820 Donald Street East
Thunder Bay, On P7E 5X7Canada


12+ Sunday School Clip Art - Preview : I Love Sunday Sch | HDClipartAll

XCITING NEWS!!!
Calvary Lutheran Church is planning to start Sunday School again this fall. Our first meeting will be Sunday, October 16 at 11:00 am. (The week after Thanksgiving) It will be delivered in the one room style ( all children in one room; grades Jk to grade 5). A second notice will be sent out in the beginning of October with more information and registration forms. Our records all need updating.
Pastor Brian is working on a plan for grade sixes and older for Confirmation classes. More to come on that.
Please email the church calvary@tbaytel.net with your address if it has changed or you are not sure if we have an old registration form. Please include your children’s names, grades and your address. Feel free to share this information with other parents.

Sunday School Staff from Calvary


      Trustees will be meeting Monday September 5th at 7 pm


Beginning Sunday September 4th - Church service returns to 1:00 Pm
In person Bible Study begins Wednesday Sept 14
th at 10:00 AM

Sunday School will begin on Sunday October 16th


Good morning

Here is an opportunity that may be of interest to you.
Hospice Northwest is hosting a “lunch and learn” via Zoom
On Thursday September 8th from 12 to 1 pm
Contact Suzanne Nuorala at 807 6265570 for details

 

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT BECOMING A HNW VOLUNTEER?
FIND OUT MORE HERE:  www.hospicenorthwest.ca/how-you-can-help/hospice-northwest-volunteer-program/become-a-hospice-volunteer/

Hospice Northwest offers palliative support and bereavement services free of charge.


We rely on your donations and fundraising for 50% of our operating cost.



Good evening!


We are going to have a midweek service this week on Wednesday, August 17, at 7:00pm, with Holy Communion, at Christ Lutheran (47 Walkover Street). The sermon and readings will be the same as this upcoming Sunday, August 21. This gives you an opportunity to be in the Lord's house and receive His supper, if you are not able to attend this Sunday. I have switched the next two Sundays. I am at Calvary on August 21, with Holy Communion, and August 28 will be a lay service.


I need to travel back to BC to support my father. I will be away from August 24 through September 3. 


Thank you for your continued support.

In the service of the Lord,
Pastor Brian

Happy Summer to all of my dear church family. I thanked God for all of you today
 
Just a quick note to give you an update on church council.
 
Pastor Eric Moffet declined the call. Please pray for Pastor Brian and the Call Committee has they work together to search for the right pastor to shepherd our congregation.
 
Please pray for Karolyn Hoard our church Treasurer as she is having health problems and will need support from all of us.
 
This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it! Even when we don't understand God's plan we need to keep positive and know He loves us.
 
In His Service,
Lynda Wdowiak Council Chair


Summer greetings!I hope and pray that all of you are doing well and enjoying the blessings of the summer season!For some people, the summer season means spending time out of town on the weekends. If you would like to attend a midweek Divine Service with Holy Communion, we are offering a service this Thursday, July 28, 7:00 pm, at Calvary Lutheran Church (2820 E. Donald Street). The sermon and hymnody will be the same as the service for this upcoming Sunday (July 31).You are welcome to join us there! If you have any questions, email me at pastorbrianfalkenholt@hotmail.ca or call/text at 707-4080.Yours through Christ,Pastor Brian



Women's Retreat
at Camp Aurora


August 5-7th

You could come for the weekend or
come out for a day on Saturday


The theme is "Beauty in God's Eyes".

If you have any questions, you can call Bev at @ 622-7851
$20.00 registration fee


Calvary’s 2nd strategic plan meeting is coming up this week on Thursday evening – July 7th.

Note :The time has been changed from 7 PM to 7:30 PM



Call Meeting Tonight

Hello Calvary Family

Just a friendly reminder

CALL MEETING TONIGHT

7:00PM Fellowship Hall

We Hope to see you there.


Greetings!

There is a Camp Aurora work day, this Saturday, June 18, starting at 10:00am. There are many tasks that need to be done to prepare the camp for opening. Please come out to Camp Aurora and join us, as you are able. Email me if you have any questions. We usually finish mid to late afternoon.

Blessings!
 Pastor Brian




Call Meeting will be held Wednesday, June 29, 2022 @ 7:00p.m.
In person voting only

_____________________

SUMMER SUNDAY SERVICES WILL BE 8:30a.m.

Only for the months of July and August. 

June 12,19,and 26 will remain at 1PM


If you would like to sign up for the coffee/store bought cookie hour please contact the



church office.  623-8735

_______________________

Phone Directory  ALL MEMBERS OF CALVARY
Please email your membership information to the church office calvary@tbaytel.net, as soon as possible or hand in your completed notice that you received in your church mailbox or by post.  DUE DATE JUNE 24, 2022
Universal Portraits will be contacting you to set up a photo appointment in the fall.


Have a wonderful summer and God's Blessings!
Lynda Wdowiak - Council Chair




Calvary church council is seeking congregational input on the development of our 2022-2025 strategic plan. A small committee will be meeting on  June 7 at 7pm with potentially one or two subsequent meetings. If you are interested in joining, or would like to know more, please contact Michael deJong.



Get Answers!


Does God exist?  How can anyone believe in religion when science has neither a need nor a place for God?  Is evolution happening today?  If God is a God of love, why do we suffer and die?


Creation Ministries International is coming to your area soon with answers to these important questions.  Come and hear Jim Hughes expose the bankruptcy of the evolutionary myth.  You'll be amazed to see how weak the scientific evidence for evolution is.


This is an issue that affects everyone.  Evolution teaches us there is no need for God, there is no spiritual realm, and there is no afterlife.  According to the theory, spirituality is just an evolutionary trick of the mind!


The Bible gives a very different picture about the nature of these things.  At this presentation, you will learn how the scientific evidence, when properly understood, confirms the details of the biblical account. At the same time, we will answer many of the Big Questions.

 

To find out more:

 

Date:               Thursday May 19,  2022

Time:               7:00PM - Evolution vs Biblical Creation

                        followed by a Question & Answer Session

Venue:             Calvary Lutheran Church, 2820 Donald St E, Thunder Bay, ON

  





Calvary Lutheran Church

    Semi Annual Voters' Assembly

              JUNE 5, 2022

Following the Sunday, 1:00 pm Service


Any questions feel free to call  Lynda

 623-4804 (evenings)



YOU CAN NOW ACCESS YOUR CHURCH MAILBOX

There is an important notice from your Church Council

Please stop by and pick up your mail before or after the Sunday Service



Dear Calvary Members
The Nominating Committee of CLC council will have one position vacant this year.

Please pray for God to sent us the right volunteer, willing to do this important work.

If you are interested in letting your name stand for selection, to serve a 3 year term and are a 18+ yr old CLC member in good standing, please contact one of the committee members.

A printed information package is available on the desk in the foyer at church, or can be sent to you by email. Deadline is April 24, 2022.



There will be a Good Friday service at Calvary at 7 PM Friday April 15th.



Dear Calvary Members



The Nominating Committee of CLC council will have one position vacant this year. Please pray for God to sent us the right volunteer, willing to do this important work. If you are interested in letting your name stand for selection, to serve a 3 year term and are a 18+ yr old CLC member in good standing, please contact one of the committee members. A printed information package is available on the desk in the foyer at church, or can be sent to you by email. Deadline is April 24, 2022.


In His service,

The Nominating Committee




The Lenten Service scheduled for today April 6 at Trinity has been cancelled due to weather



On March 31, 2022 Calvary Lutheran Church Council met and changed the

timeline for removal of COVID-19 restrictions in the Church. The original
document was developed by the Church Reopening Team on March 10, 2022.


Church Council approved the following changes:


Effective April 10, 2022


Church Services- wearing a mask, physical distancing and hand sanitizing will be

a person’s personal choice in the Sanctuary. Exceptions: In the Church Overflow

and balcony it is mandatory that masks are worn, sanitizing and physical

distancing is maintained.


Communion – Individuals will still come up for communion following current

process.


Meetings/Internal Groups – Attendees may bring in beverages and a personal

snack.


Outside Groups – Gentlemen of Harmony, TB Quilters Guild, Craft N Chat, Ray

Koenig (Will be welcomed back to the church)Good evening!



The first announcement is that I have inserted a link to last week's midweek sermon from the sermon series since we needed to cancel that service due to the snowstorm. 
https://mcusercontent.com/e2d0ae0e7739d6a02c322f7c5/files/cb98d781-bcc7-a5a3-7919-8221e86800c2/sm032322.docxThe second announcement is that the service tomorrow night (Wednesday) at Christ, at 7:00pm will go ahead despite the weather forecast. Due to the fact that we have many members within walking distance, we will host the service, even if we are a small group. Feel free to join us as you are able and as it is safe for you to do so.The third announcement is that we are making a change to our Lenten schedule. The service was scheduled for Calvary but the midweek Lenten service on Wednesday, April 6, at 7:00pm, will be at Trinity instead, as their turn to host had to be cancelled.Please feel welcome to contact me with any comments, questions or concerns by email (pastorbrianfalkenholt@hotmail.ca) or by phone call/text at 807-707-4080.God's blessings to you during this Lenten season!Pastor Brian




Dear members of Calvary,


I will be away from work for this upcoming week, starting today. If you are in need of emergency pastoral assistance, please call Pastor Dan Barr. I will be back at work for Sunday, March 20. Just a reminder that Calvary is hosting the midweek Lenten service at 7:00pm on March 16. Also, there is a call meeting following the service on the 20th.


Also, a reminder that tonight is the night when our clocks spring ahead one hour.


Blessings!

Pastor Brian


CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH

On March 10, 2022 the Calvary Lutheran Church – Reopening Team reconvened to discuss the impact of the upcoming removal of COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS by the Provincial government.

The Reopening Team made the following decisions, while keeping in mind the concerns or comfort levels of our congregation.

March 21 until April 30, 2022

Sunday/Church Services – will remain the same with masks being required, physical distancing and sanitizing

Communion – process will remain the same

Meetings- wearing masks will be a personal choice or group leaders decision

Funerals & Weddings – remain the same with masks being required, physical

                                           distancing and sanitizing

 

May 1, 2022

Church Services – wearing a mask, physical distancing and hand sanitizing will be a person’s personal choice in Sanctuary. Overflow area be will kept for those wishing to wear masks and physical distance.

  • -         All doors will be unlocked to enter and exit through
  • -         Bibles/hymnals and cushions will be made available

Communion – Screen at front of church will be removed; however, individuals will still come up for communion following the current process

Meetings/Internal Groups –Attendees may bring in beverages and a personal snack (We are following up with the District Health Unit regarding the issue of sharing food)

Outside Groups

  • -         Gentleman of Harmony, TB Quilters Guild, Craft N Chat, Ray Koenig (Will be welcomed back)

Funerals & Weddings

  • -         Checking with the District Health Unit regarding the serving of food
  •  



Good Morning Calvary Family,

On Sunday, March 6, 2022, Pastor Brian formally announced that there will be a Congregational Pastoral Call meeting at Calvary Lutheran Church following the 1pm Communion church service on March 20, 2022.

The Call Committee chaired by Derek Mol met on Friday March 4, 2022 and reviewed a list of potential Pastoral Candidates received from Lutheran Church Canada.  The Call Committee recommended the names of three Pastoral Candidates and Church Council approved the recommendation.

The information related to each Pastoral Candidate (minus names) will be presented to the Congregational Church members in attendance at the Sunday, March 20th meeting. Following the discussion process ballots will be handed out to each Congregational member and a secret vote will take place.

Alex Grant
Church Council Chairman


Currently the homepage of the Lutheran Church Canada Website

Has a link to make donations to support the pastors and people of the synod of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Ukraine

Go to

https://www.lutheranchurchcanada.ca


Good afternoon everyone,

Here is the schedule for our special Lenten services. No preregistration is required for any of these services. Masking and physical distancing are required.

For Ash Wednesday, there are three services in town. 
Tuesday, March 1, 7:00pm Trinity
Wednesday, March 2, 7:00pm Christ
Thursday, March 3, 7:00pm Calvary

Wednesday, midweek Lenten services, at 7:00pm
March 9 - Christ
March 16 - Calvary
March 23 - Trinity
March 30 - Christ
April 6 - Calvary

Blessings on your day!
Pastor Brian




Today Calvary is having a major upgrade to its key fob security system. If you experience any difficulty with church access please contact Rod Johnson at 6235411.


Zoom Small Group Study

Monday February 28th 7 PM

 for 7 weeks

“Will the Real Jesus Please Stand Up”

Please contact the

church office for more information


Calvary Church Family,


Covid-19 regulations that took effect January 31, 2022.

No changes to religious services as they continue to be based on 50% capacity.
Social gatherings such as indoor meetings are restricted to a maximum of 10 people.

If you wish to book a meeting, please contact the church office.

Thank you
Alex Grant
Church Council Chairman




FEBRUARY 26TH, 2022

 

The Coldest Night of the Year WALK

 

For more information or to put a team together

CONTACT

 

RON WINSTL 964-2035

____________________________________________________________


Calvary Lutheran Church Family.

Please be advised Pastor Dan Abraham declined the call to Calvary Lutheran Church in a letter dated December 30, 2021.
We will revisit & start the process again, early in 2022.

Gods Blessings
Calvary Lutheran Church Council



Ontario COID-19 O.Reg. 263/20 Rules for Areas in Step 2 (As of January 5,2022 at 12.01 a.m. (at least 21 days until January 27, 2022)

 

Based on the regulations presented by the Ontario Provincial Government indoor religious services are limited to 50 per cent the capacity of the room.  Calvary Lutheran Church has been following the 50 per cent regulation; therefore, church services are not affected at this time. 

Social gatherings are permitted under the following conditions:
  . indoor gatherings limited to five people or fewer
  .outdoor gatherings limited to 10 people or fewer

The restrictions related to social gatherings will affect Calvary church groups, committees and bible class. The alternatives are either cancellation or Zoom meetings for groups with over five (5) members.

Alex Grant


To those attending the Christmas Eve Services, please bring a small battery

operated tea candle, mini-flashlight or use your phone in lieu of candles





CHRISTMAS SERVICES

Christmas Eve – 2pm & (7pm lay led) @ Calvary

4pm & 8pm @ Christ

6pm @ Trinity

Christmas Day – 10:30 @ Christ

Preregistration is required for all Christmas

services.

To register for Christmas Services please call the individual Churches.



AGENDA

CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH

SEMI-ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING

DECEMBER 5, 2021 (FOLLOWING 1:00 PM CHURCH SERVICE)

GI=GENERAL INFORMATION; ID=INFORMATION FOR DISCUSSION; IDM=INFORMATION FOR DECISION


1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

2. COMPARATIVE INCOME STATEMENT- ACTUAL 01/01/2021 TO 09/30/2021 (GI)

3. ADOPTION OF CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH 2022 WORKPLAN (IDM)

4. SELECTION OF 3 CONGREGATIONAL MEMBERS FOR THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE (IDM)

5. A VOTE TO CALL A CANDIDATE PASTOR (IDM)

6. POSTING OF PAST CONGREGATIONAL & PASTORAL CALL MINUTES (AS CIRCULATED IN MAILOUT PACKAGES TO CONGREGATIONAL MEMBERS FOR INFORMATION)

6.1 MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2021 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING (GI)

6.2 MINUTES OF OCTOBER 3, 2021 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING (GI)

6.3 MINUTES OF OCTOBER 17, 2021 PASTORAL CALL MEETING (GI)

7. CHURCH COUNCIL MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 10, 2021 (GI)

8. NEW BUSINESS

9. ADJOURNMENT & DOXOLOGY



Hello Calvary Family,

Midweek Advent Services will be shared between three congregations on Wednesdays at 7:00pm. For the sake of good order, we will ask people to preregister for each service by email ( chelc@tbaytel.net ) or by phone (767-3361). All reservations are being organized through Christ Lutheran.

December 1 – Calvary Lutheran

December 8 – Trinity Lutheran

December 15 – Christ Lutheran


Please mark your calendar

 Calvary Lutheran Church

Semi Annual Meeting

 Sunday Dec 5,  2021

following the 1:00 pm church service



Followers Of Christ Uniquely Saved


This is the newest name for the youth group of the Lutheran Church – Canada congregations in and around Thunder Bay. We are going to begin meeting again, on the second and fourth Fridays of each month, beginning on Friday, November 12, at Christ Lutheran Church, from 7:00 – 9:00pm.

The next youth night will be Friday, November 26, at Calvary Lutheran Church, at the same time. This youth group is for youth in Grades 6 – 12.

Each event will include games, activities, a devotion, and potentially snacks, as permitted.

We will be following all of the District Health Unit guidelines, which includes the wearing of a mask. Inviting friends is definitely allowed and encouraged. For more information, you can contact Pastor Brian at 807-707-4080 or by email at pastorbrianfalkenholt@hotmail.ca



Dear members of Calvary;

To anyone who may have concerns about returning to church and how Calvary has managed seating during COVID and as a friendly reminder to those who are attending, please note the following:

The balcony and overflow seating are spaced even more so than required for those that might need or want extra spacing.  Although overflow chairs are movable, they have been put in place to include that extra spacing and should not be moved.

In the main sanctuary, seating is every second pew (as marked).  Those sitting in one pew must maintain a 2 meter distance from every other person, except from their caregiver or from members of the person’s household (TBDHU.COM/placesofworship)

Masks are mandatory when in the building.

Entrances have hand sanitizer available and you are encouraged to use it when you enter and before and after using the washrooms.

We have done our best to keep everyone’s health and safety in mind. Should you have any concerns, please contact the church office so your concerns can be brought to the right person.


Please ensure that you complete the friendship register

when attending church services

This form is currently used for 2 things

1) By the church office to complete church records

and assist you

2) By the church in fulfilling its Covid plan commitment of

having records of those attending church on a weekly basis

Thank you for your assistance



Wednesday morning bible study returns at 10:00 am in the fellowship hall or via the following zoom link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85772101768


A reminder that there is a "Call Meeting" following this Sundays October 17th 1pm service.


The information on the 3 pastors being considered has been mailed to all member households for your review and prayerful consideration.


No preregistration is required to attend this church service or call meeting.


Please pray that God will move the heart's of His people.


CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH MEMBERS

IMPORTANT UPDATES


1. A Congregational Meeting was held Sunday September 12, 2021: a vote was taken to accept the New Constitution & Bylaws.


      The Constitution & Bylaws were rejected as presented.

      As a result, discussions and amendments will take place.


2. A follow-up Congregational Meeting will be held on October 3, 2021 immediately after the 1:00 pm Church service: to vote on the “revised” new Constitution & Bylaws.

PLEASE NOTE: IN-PERSON, IS THE ONLY VOTING OPTION; phone-in, mail & email will not be a voting option.


3. SCHEDULING CHANGE: The September 26, 2021 CONGREGATION “PASTORAL CALL MEETING” has been RE-SCHEDULED TO OCTOBER 17, 2021


Alex Grant

Church Council Chair



Subject: Bible Study this Wednesday, September 15, at 10:00am

 

Hello everyone,

We are starting back to Bible study tomorrow (Wednesday) at 10:00am. We are meeting in person (WOO HOO) in the fellowship hall but we are also offering the chance to join us online through Zoom, if that is the better alternative for you. The study and sound/sight quality might not be as good, but it is the best we can do. I have attached the Bible readings and Bible study but I will also have printed copies available when you come to the church.


See you soon!

Pastor Brian


https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85772101768


Bible Study Wed. Sept. 15

Lesson 7

Proper 20

The Holy Gospel: Mark 9:30–37 Jesus had traveled into the region of Caesarea Philippi, some 25 miles to the north of the Sea of Galilee. There, surrounded by the shrines of paganism, He had drawn from His disciples their confession of faith in Him as the promised Christ, and had begun to teach them about what lay ahead of Him as the culmination of His saving ministry. On one of the foothills of Mount Hermon, or on Mount Hermon itself, He had displayed to the inner circle of the disciples His glory as the Son of God in His transfiguration. Now, as they traveled through Galilee, Jesus was still primarily concerned with the instruction of the Twelve. He again spoke plainly about what lay ahead for Him. We are accustomed to hearing the message of the cross in the context of our salvation, and so we find it strange that the Twelve had such difficulty understanding and accepting His words.

98. Why did the disciples not understand, though Jesus spoke clearly about His coming death and resurrection? Why were the disciples afraid to question Him about what He was saying?

Capernaum, a fishing village on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee, was Jesus' headquarters for His Galilean ministry. His teaching tours through the villages of Galilee always ended with His return to Capernaum. On this occasion, Jesus focused on what the disciples—probably especially Peter, James, and John, the favored inner circle—had been arguing about as they had walked.

99. Why did the disciples not want to respond to Jesus' probing about their arguing? Why didn't Jesus just ignore His disciples' misunderstanding and arguing?

Jesus began, “If anyone would be first ..." The Greek verb is thelei, which implies a conscious, purposeful wanting or willing.

100. What's wrong with wanting to be first?

Jesus continued, "he must be last of all and servant of all.” The Greek word is diakonos, one who “raises dust by hurrying” to do what others have ordered.

101. How has this Greek word come into the life of the English-speaking Church? How can we cultivate the attitude of one who is ready to be the servant of all? (See Matthew 20:28.)

va

Reproducible by purchaser only. © 2008 Concordia Publishing House. Scripture: ESVTM

31

Jesus focused on a little child to stress His point. In that society, caring for little ones was "women's

nd not appropriate for men, so Jesus' talking to His disciples about receiving little children strongly underscored their need to become humble servants. A leader of men, which they evidently wanted to be, gives orders to others; a caretaker of little children has to devote himself to serving their needs.

102. What does it mean that receiving (and serving) such a child is to be done in Jesus' name? What blessing did Jesus attach for those who are willing to serve others in His name?

The Old Testament Lesson: Jeremiah 11:18-20 Jeremiah was God's spokesman to Judah during the chaotic years before its conquest by Babylon. A century earlier, the Assyrians had conquered Israel, the Northern Kingdom, and had threatened Jerusalem, but had been repulsed by the Lord's intervention as they laid siege to the city, when the angel of the Lord went out and slew 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. Judah, however, continued to be a pawn caught between rival world powers: Assyria and Egypt; then Babylon and Egypt. Judah's kings frantically sought strength in political alliances. The religious establishment promoted false security because of the temple of the LORD," a phrase that become a byword of false security. But Jeremiah persistently brought his message of doom, which was rejected by the leaders and was generally unpopular.

Today's pericope is the first of a number of passages in Jeremiah that are called his “confessions," In this section, he reacted to his learning of plots against his life by those who wanted to silence his judging call to repentance. Verse 21 indicates that the plot involved even people from Anathoth, his hometown. Even those close to him had turned against him.

103. How did Jeremiah come to know about the plot against his life?

104. How did he show his continued confidence in God's dealing with the situation?

105. Calls for vengeance in some Old Testament Scriptures, like this one, can be disturbing when compared with Jesus' instruction to love and to pray for enemies and to turn the other cheek. How may we understand Jeremiah's prayer for God's judgment of his enemies so that it is appropriate to his situation as God's prophet to Judah?

106. How does this Old Testament Lesson tie in with today's Holy Gospel?

Reproducible by purchaser only. © 2008 Concordia Publishing House. Scripture: ESVTM

32

The Epistle for the Day: James 3:13–4:10 In this pericope, James contrasts worldly wisdom with the wisdom that comes down from heaven. James said, “Who is and among you? By his_let him show his_in the meekness of_. Life's direction is determined by the heart's desires.

107. How is "earthly, unspiritual, demonic" a descending triad of evil? What is at the heart of “earthly” wisdom? What result does such earthly wisdom produce in human society? Give examples of advertisements and TV commercials that display and encourage envy and selfish ambition.

108. What does it mean to you that the wisdom that comes down from above is "pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere”? What do all these qualities of the wisdom from heaven have in common?

109. What is the harvest of righteousness that is sown in peace by those who make peace?

James asks, "What causes_and what causes_ among you? Is it not this, that your_are at within you?" James says that this inner war even keeps us from asking God for what we want.

110. Why are we hesitant and neglectful about talking to God about some of the things our hearts desire? Why does God not comply with some of our requests? (See 1 John 5:14–15.)

111. Why do those who fight and quarrel, covet and kill to get what they desire still often find themselves unsatisfied even when they get what they wanted?

In verses 4–6, James says the friendship with the world that grows out of worldly wisdom is spiritual adultery; and he reminds us that God "yearns jealously over the spirit that He has made to dwell in us." God is not willing to share the hearts, minds, and lives of His people with that which is "earthly, unspiritual, demonic.”

112. James urges us to submit to God because "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." How does that submission to God enable us successfully to resist the devil and continually to draw near to God? Of what does James want to make us continually aware with his strong words that we should "cleanse [our] hands ... and purify [our] hearts ... be wretched and mourn and weep... let [our] laughter be turned to mourning and Cour] joy to gloom"? What is the end result of all of that?

Reproducible by purchaser only. © 2008 Concordia Publishing House. Scripture: ESVTM


Bible study Wed. Sept. 15

Readings for Sunday, September 19, 2021


Mark 9:30–37

30[The disciples] went on from there and passed through Galilee. And [Jesus] did not want anyone to know, 31for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise.” 32But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.

33And they came to Capernaum. And when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you discussing on the way?” 34But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. 35And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” 36And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.”


Jeremiah 11:18–20

18The LORD made it known to me and I knew;

then you showed me their deeds.

19But I was like a gentle lamb

led to the slaughter.

I did not know it was against me

they devised schemes, saying,

“Let us destroy the tree with its fruit,

let us cut him off from the land of the living,

that his name be remembered no more.”

20But, O LORD of hosts, who judges righteously,

who tests the heart and the mind,

let me see your vengeance upon them,

for to you have I committed my cause.



James 3:13—4:10

13Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. 14But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. 15This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 17But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. 18And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

1What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? 2You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. 3You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. 4You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. 5Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, “He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us”? 6But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” 7Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.


Sunday September 12th
Following the 1 pm Service
Annual Congregational Meeting
- 2020 Calvary Lutheran Church Annual Report
- Calvary Lutheran Church Constitution


August 8, 2021     


Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

  

August 1, 2021  

Pastor Brian is taking some holidays and will be leaving on Monday, August 9, and he will be back in the office on Thursday, September 2.

We are currently working to arrange lay services at Calvary  for August 15, 22 & 29.


In the case of a Pastoral Emergency while Pastor Brian is away, please call:


August 9-22: Pastor Steven Bartlett (807)707-3574


August 23- September 1: Pastor Keith Blom (807)629-5756

      

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


July 25, 2021        

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


July 18, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday, July 11, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday, July 4, 2021


Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Tuesday June 29, 2021


The Board of Camp Aurora is sad to announce that there will be no overnight children’s camps at Camp Aurora in 2021. The Board realizes that 2020 and 2021 have been hard years for our families and that not everyone has access to a personal “camp” for their family to retreat to.


Therefore, as a service to our member congregations, the Board would like to offer Camp Aurora to our members for 2-night stays with their immediate family during July and August. The Camp would be available to only one family (one household) at a time. These would need to be booked in advance and are available to our members (and their immediate families) only. There is no fee, but donations are gratefully accepted.


If you are interested, all bookings and inquiries will be through Calvary Lutheran Church. You can phone and leave a message at 807-623-8735 or email at calvary@tbaytel.net. Please be aware that there is limited availability and that a waiver will need to be signed.


Blessings on your summer plans!


From the board of Aurora Lutheran Bible Camp


All dates are 3 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Tuesday July 6 – Thursday July 8

Friday July 9 – Sunday July 11

Tuesday July 13 – Thursday July 15

Friday July 23 – Sunday July 25

Tuesday July 27 – Thursday July 29

Friday July 30 – Sunday August 1

Tuesday August 3 – Thursday August 5

Friday August 6 – Sunday August 8

Tuesday August 10 – Thursday August 12

Friday August 13 – Sunday August 15

Tuesday August 17 – Thursday August 19

Friday August 20 – Sunday August 22

Tuesday August 24 – Thursday August 26

Friday August 27 – Sunday August 29Sunday, June 27, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday, June 20, 2021


Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website


The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Tuesday June 15, 2021

Dear Calvary Members,

The Annual Congregational Meeting which was originally scheduled for June, will not take place until the congregation can meet with more than 15% capacity. Our Annual meeting is now scheduled for September 12, 2021 after our Sunday service, however our Church Council would like to keep moving forward on as normal a routine as possible. In the past, council would have had the selection of new council members in June meeting. This year the council requires 2 new members to serve a three-year term. We received nomination forms from 2 members, which were approved by council on May 13, 2021.

Alice Chony - 6 yrs. pervious experience on CLC council, she has also taught Sunday school for numerous years.

Caine Benham - new member, transferred from Dryden, ON, currently on the Board of Trustees

We need your help please!

At our June 9, 2021 council meeting a motion was made:

“A motion was made that the new council members be installed via a ballot vote prior to the Annual Congregational Meeting. All ballots must be received by July 15th, 2021.”

Moved by Lynda; seconded by Elaine. Carried unanimously.


A mailer (or email mailout) will be sent out to all congregational members with ballots for the two new council members so that the new council will begin September 1st, 2021.


Please have all communicate members of your household fill out a ballot. Communicate members are age 18 yrs. or older and confirmed Calvary Lutheran Church members. There will be four ways to return your ballot: at service on Sunday you can give your ballot to the registration desk; return it by mailing the ballot you received to the church; put it in the church mailbox or by returning the email sent to you, with an email answer to the church secretary @ calvary@tbaytel.net


Deadline: July 15th, 2021

In God's Service,

Alex Grant, Chair

Lynda Wdowiak, Vice chair


Sunday June 13, 2021


Greetings fellow believers in our Risen Lord!



The government of Ontario has launched Step One of the Reopening Plan and they have made some last minute changes that now allow churches to hold worship services for 15% of capacity. That allows us at Calvary to have 53 people.


We will be starting back to in-person worship next Sunday, June 20 at 1:00pm. We will continue to have our worship services each Sunday at 1:00pm with communion on the first and third Sundays of the month.


You must continue to register with the church to reserve a place each week, either by email (calvary@tbaytel.net) or by phone (623-8735). When you register, you will be given a reminder of all of the health protocols that are still in place and which we will follow diligently.


This also brings to an end our time of having drive-thru communion. I was thrilled to see so many people appreciate the opportunity that it offered. If you would like communion and are not comfortable attending the in-person worship services, please contact me directly (707-4080) and I will arrange a time for you and I to meet and have communion.


Finally, church council has decided that due to a variety of factors including still limited numbers, the Annual Congregational Meeting will be held on September 12, following a shortened worship service. There will also be a Congregational Call Meeting following a shorted service on September 26. Specific information about those two meetings will be made available over the coming weeks.


May you continue to find your strength and your peace in Christ!


Pastor Brian

Sunday, June 13, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday, June 6, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday, May 30, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab



Monday May24

I hope and pray that you are enjoying this May long weekend.



First, the bad news. Due to the province’s reopening plan being province-wide and not regional, we will need to postpone our in-person worship services, as well as our Annual Congregational meeting and Call meeting until we are able to gather in greater numbers. We will update you as our province progresses through the stages.



Now, the good news, or, in other words, the opportunities. First, just a reminder that we are offering drive thru communion on Saturday, May 29. We are currently booked from 12:30 – 3:20 ish but we have openings for another couple of hours if this is something that you desire.



Secondly, we recognize the need for people to connect with God’s Word and with one another. Therefore, the Spiritual Life Committee is offering 3 different small group Bible studies over the next 4 – 8 weeks, using Zoom.



The first study, God’s Great Plan, is starting on Thursday, May 27, at 7:00pm. Here is a brief description of this 8 week study. “How do you defend the faith? How can you discern Law and Gospel from the Bible? How can you teach the Good News? What was and is God’s Great Plan? Keep asking the hard questions; we’ll help you answer them. Follow along in this eight-week Bible study on the Books of the Bible with Rev. Wayne Palmer.”



The second study, Living with Grief, is starting on Monday, May 31, at 7:00pm. Here is a description of this 4 week study. “Grief comes all at once, settling itself into your core, refusing to leave. The effects of grief, loss, and mourning are long-lived, jarring against a world that feels as if it has moved on. But Christ outstretches His arms to you, inviting you into His presence to find healing and hope again. Pastor Kristian Kincaid knows about grief. He has experienced being at the lowest point of grief and knows how Christ reaches out continuously for you to take His hands. After mourning the substantial loss of multiple family members, all taken in tragic ways, Pastor Kincaid wants to share what he’s learned with you. He’s seen how modern psychology offers an explanation, but only Christ offers relief.”



The third study, Revelation, is starting on Tuesday, June 1, at 7:00pm. Here is a brief description of this 8 week study. “The Book of Revelation can be intimidating. Confusing. A little scary. You want to understand this apocalyptic and prophetic book—but between the beasts, dragons, angels, and numbers, you don’t know where to begin. Lane Burgland, an expert on Revelation, breaks down this book of the Bible in eight video sessions, so you can confidently look forward to the Last Day.”



To reserve your place or for more information, please contact the church office at calvary@tbaytel.net. You can also check out these courses and watch a sample at cphfaithcourses.com.



Your fellow child of God,


Pastor Brian


Sunday, May 23, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday May 16, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Friday May14,2021


Greetings to you, fellow believers in the risen Lord!


Following our recent council meeting and the work of many committees, we thought it would be good to update you on some important dates and information for the congregation moving forward in the coming weeks.


We will be having our next drive thru communion opportunity on Saturday, May 29, starting at 12:30pm. Please contact the church office by email (calvary@tbaytel.net) or by phone (623-8735) to reserve your place.


We will also be starting back to our 1:00pm in-person worship services, on June 6, as long as the provincial stay-at-home order is lifted on June 2. We will follow all of the numbers and percentages allowed that safely enable us to gather. Again, you must reserve your place through the church office.


June 6 Divine Service with Holy Communion


June 13 Short Divine Service and Annual Congregational Meeting


June 20 Divine Service with Holy Communion


June 27 Short Divine Service and Call Meeting


Information about the two meetings will be coming to you by email, or by regular mail for those who do not have access to email, in the coming weeks. They will come at two separate times. There will also be an online zoom information meeting scheduled before each of these meetings, for those who are not able to attend in person.


Finally, if you have any need that we can help you with, please contact Connie in the church office or if you need me, as your pastor, please call or text me at 707-4080.


Stay safe! Continue to find your peace in Christ!


Pastor Brian



 Sunday May 9, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab



Sunday May 2, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

 


Sunday April 25,2021

Greetings fellow believers in the risen Lord!


Well, here we are - continuing to navigate our way through this pandemic. We continue to offer recorded services on the church website. We have zoom Bible studies on Wednesdays from 10:00 - 11:45am.


We are also having another drive thru communion day, where you can sign up for a time slot (10 minutes) and when you drive up, we will have a short visit, devotion and then I will serve you the Lord's Supper. We are offering this service on Saturday, May 1, from 1:00 - 5:00pm. Please call the church office (623-8735) or email (calvary@tbaytel.net) to reserve your place.


We are remaining closed to in-person services during this latest provincial shutdown. We will let you know when we are reopening to services in the Lord's house. When we are able to gather again, we will also be moving forward with issuing another call to a new prospective pastor.


Finally, please contact me personally by phone (707-4080) or by email (pastorbrianfalkenholt@hotmail.ca) if you need me. Also, I encourage you to reach out to each other. Being the Body of Christ means supporting each other through good times and especially through hard times like these.


Continue to know that you are loved by your Lord!

Pastor Brian



Sunday April 25,2021

There was some technical difficulty with the usual You Tube format for this service. A googlelink was successfully created, however that format is not supported by this website.
For those members who have access to the Calvary members facebook page, the googlelink can be accessed from there.

Apologies for limited access.

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


April 18, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

Martin Luther speech that he made 500 years ago - April 18, 1521 is also included in the worship service text tab



Sunday April 11, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

Sunday April 4, 2021


Dear Calvary Members

The Nominating Committee is taking names of potential nominees to serve on Calvary Lutheran Church Council for the three year term 2021-2024. We need two communicate members that are willing to do God's work. If you want to nominate someone or yourself please contact Lynda Wdowiak or the church office for details. Deadline for submissions April 18, 2021

Praying you are all healthy and safe.

Lynda Wdowiak

lynwd3@yahoo.ca




Sunday April 4, 2021

Today's Easter service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

 

Thursday April 1, 2021

The Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services are available on the sermons tab on the website. The worship service text tab contains the associated service text.

Sunday March 28,2021

The service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

Friday March 26, 2021
Greetings to the members of the family at Calvary!
As we enter this most holy of weeks, I wanted to update and/or remind you of a few items.
  1. We are offering what we are calling “Drive-Thru” communion. This will give you the opportunity to receive the Lord’s Supper from the safety of your own vehicle. You will pull up to the designated area (which will be clearly marked) where we will have a brief devotion and then the elements will be consecrated and handed to you to partake of in your vehicle. We are hosting this on Saturday, April 3. We are booking at 10 minute increments from 1:00 – 3:30. Please do not arrive more than 2 minutes early and please stay in your vehicle for this entire time. If you have an offering for the church, you can also give that during this time. You can reserve a place by phoning the church or by emailing the church.

 

  1. We would appreciate an Easter greeting (Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia! Happy Easter from ________) recorded and emailed to the church (calvary@tbaytel.net) which we will include at the beginning of the recorded service for Easter. If you are unsure of how to do this and would like to participate, please call the church (623-8735) and leave a message and someone will get back to you and assist you with this.

 

  1. The COVID reopening team continues to monitor the situation in our city closely. It has been decided that we will not come back to in-person on April 11. The team will be meeting again on April 8 to reassess all of the information and make a decision on how we will move forward. This team was appointed and empowered for this task by your church council.

We look forward to any comments, questions or concerns that you might have.

In the service of our Lord,

Brian Falkenholt, Your Vacancy Pastor


Wed. March 24, 2021

Today's mid week Lenten service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

Sunday March 21,2021

Today's Lenten service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab



Friday March 19 2021

Dear Members of Calvary Lutheran Church

The Calvary Lutheran Church Council is starting the Nominating process for the (3) year term 2021-2024 for new Council members with a deadline of April 18, 2021. Three council positions will be vacant this year as their term is complete.

Eligible Criteria are:

Calvary Lutheran Church communicate member in good standing

18 years of age

Willingness to volunteer time and talents

No more than 30% of council members can be directly related

If you are interested or want to nominate a member to serve as a Council member for this (3) year term please contact Lynda Wdowiak, Chair of the Nominating committee at lynwd3@yahoo.ca by March 28, 2021.

Due to the Government restrictions related to the Covid pandemic, we as a Congregation are not able to meet in person to vote on the selection of Council Members; therefore it is my obligation to make you aware of the following recommendation to Members of the congregation.

Susan (Sue) Kajmowicz is currently a Council member serving as Council Secretary. Susan (Sue) is willing to serve on Council for another (3) year term. As per Calvary Lutheran Church by-law 2.2.7 congregational approval is required to select her as a member of council.

By-law 2.2.7 states: Should a Council Member choose to serve a second (3) year term, with the approval of the members of the congregation, they shall remain on council without going through the selection process.

I am recommending that Susan (Sue) Kajmowicz be accepted to serve a second (3) year term council.

Should you have concerns regarding this recommendation please contact Alex Grant, Council Chair at grant-fam@shaw.ca

Yours truly, Alex Grant



Thursday March 18, 2021

Calvary Zoom Open House, March 21, 2:00 - 4:00 pm

Hello members of our church family!

We want to have the opportunity to connect with each other during these difficult times. You are invited to join us this Sunday, March 21. We are having a zoom gathering in the style of an open house. You are welcome to "drop in" whenever it works for you, between 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Stay for a few minutes or for the two hours, it's up to you. It is definitely BYOS (bring your own snacks).

Just to be clear - this is not a meeting, there is no agenda, no roll call or attendance will be taken. It is just an opportunity to see some different faces and to catch up in any way that you would like.

If you have any questions, please call Pastor Brian at 707-4080 or email me at pastorbrianfalkenholt@hotmail.ca

Here is the zoom link for the open house

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86190290672

See you then as you are willing and able.

Pastor Brian


Wed. March 17, 2021

Today's mid week Lenten service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday March 14, 2021

Blessings to you, fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.

As a matter of update, we are looking at the earliest date to reopen the church to in-person worship as being April 11. This means that the church building is closed to the membership except in cases of essential need. Our call service for the issuing of a call to a prospective pastor will also continue to be on hold until it is appropriate to move forward. You will be given two weeks’ notice and information packages when that time comes.

As we continue in the season of Lent and look towards Holy Week and our Easter service, we will not be gathering in person at this time. We will be recording the Easter Service, as we have been, but we would like to add something special. The something special part is YOU! For all of you who are comfortable with participating, we would like you to send us a short video message that we can add into the beginning of our Easter service. In this video message we would love to see you and your family saying, “Christ is risen, He is risen indeed. Alleluia! From ……”.

If you would like to do this but don’t have a way to record your message, or need support in how to send it to us, then please contact us here at the church (623-8735) and we can send someone to you with a camera to assist. We can gather safely outdoors, physically distanced, to record your message.

Please email your recorded messages to calvary@tbaytel.net. We would appreciate receiving all messages by March 29.

Pastor Brian


Sun. March 14, 2021

Today's Lenten service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

 


Wed. March 10, 2021

Today's mid week Lenten service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab



Sunday March 7, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab




Wed. March 3, 2021

Today's mid week Lenten service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab




Tuesday March 2, 2021

 

                    

Pastor John P. Schmidt left us to be with his Heavenly Father on Saturday, February 27, 2021. He was born June 30, 1930 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and moved to Canada in August 1964. Here he began a ministry at Calvary Lutheran Church. Thunder Bay that spanned over 40 years. He served until retirement at the age of 80. Throughout his time at Calvary, Pastor Schmidt worked to spread the message of God’s love and encourage others to be “Windows of God’s Love” often including humour, the Green Bay Packers and Snoopy and Charlie Brown in his sermons.
Pastor Schmidt will be missed by his wife of 67 years, Carol, his four children and their spouses; Debbie and Alex Grant, Chris and John Whitehurst, Patti and Ken Rickards and John and Lori Schmidt, his grandchildren and their spouses, and great grandchildren, as well as his church family at Calvary. Many relatives including his sister Audrey in the United States will also miss him.
We are forever grateful to Dr. Bukovy for his care and concern for him, his caregivers; especially Pam and all others who supported him during the past couple years.
Should friends wish to view a live stream of the service please go to the Blake Funeral Chapel Facebook page (www.facebook.com/BlakeFuneralChapel) on Thursday, March 4th, 2021 at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Calvary Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, Thunder Bay Regional or a charity of your choice that demonstrates love for others..

Copyright © 2021 Calvary Lutheran Church, All rights reserved.
You're receiving this email because you are connected to Calvary

Our mailing address is:
Calvary Lutheran Church
2820 Donal Street EastThunder Bay, On P7E 5X7Canada


Sunday February 28, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab



*** IMPORTANT INFORMATION ***

May God’s peace rest in you in the midst of these anxious times!

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

Martin Luther used this verse as the foundation for his famous hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” It still serves as a reminder and comfort to us as we continue to move forward, not knowing what will happen next, yet knowing that God will be with us through it all.

Due to the rising COVID numbers here in Thunder Bay, the potential of the variant virus and the number of cases arising from no known source, Calvary Lutheran Church will not be having any in-person services for at least the next two weeks (March 1 – 14). The congregation’s leadership group will meet regularly to decide on the best course of action for going back to in-person services.

Until that time has arrived, we will continue to offer our services online. We will have a recorded service for both the midweek Lenten service as well as the Sunday service. You will find these on our church website at www.calvarythunderbay.ca. We will also be mailing out all correspondence and sermons to our members who don’t have the benefit of the internet.

We were also trying to incorporate a call service into our regular service on March 14, in order to send out another divine call to a prospective pastor. That call service will need to be postponed until a later date, when it is safe to meet with at least the 30% capacity of our congregation.

If you have any comments or concerns please address them by email at calvary@tbaytel.net, by regular mail, or leave a message on the church answering machine at 623-8735.

In the Service of the Lord,

Brian Falkenholt, Vacancy Pastor

Alex Grant, Congregational Chairperson

Ben Grant, Reopening Team Chairperson


Sunday February 21, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


– Sunday February 14, 2021


Blessings as we enter the Lenten season.

As we emerge from the latest provincial shutdown on February 16, our Thunder Bay Health Region has been placed in the Red Zone. This means that we are allowed to have in-person worship services for up to 30% capacity of our sanctuary. We will be starting our services with this expanded attendance on Thursday, February 18 for the Ash "Wednesday" service, to begin the season of Lent. We will be having the imposition of ashes given from individual cups, offered for those who wish to participate in this way. We will continue through the season of Lent with midweek Lenten services on Thursdays at 6:00 pm, following the theme, “Four Significant Days.” Our Sunday services continue to be at 1:00 pm with Holy Communion celebrated on the first and third Sundays of the month. The Sunday morning services will be recorded and be made available to watch, as soon as they can be uploaded. The link information and all other church information can be found on our website at calvarythunderbay.ca

Our church leadership continues to monitor the information regarding the pandemic very closely. We continue to follow all of the guidelines and procedures mandated by our government. Please continue to reserve for all services by phone (623-8735) or by email (calvary@tbaytel.net). If our government makes any changes, including what they are calling an “emergency brake,” we will notify you of how it affects the congregation.

Be safe in the midst of this world. Be at peace in the care of your Saviour, Jesus.

Pastor Brian



Sunday February 14, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday February 7, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Thur. Feb 4, 2021

Hello Calvary Family,

We are continuing with our small services on Sundays at 1pm and Thursdays at 6pm.

The new dates are as follows:

Sunday, February 7th at 1pm

Thursday, February 11th at 6pm

Sunday, February 14th at 1pm

Thursday, February 18th at 6pm

We can only accommodate 9 people on each date, so call the office to reserve a spot 623-8735

You will receive a confirmation phone call or email from me, to let you know if the spot is yours. If you have a first and second choice of dates let me know.

Gods Blessings

Connie

Copyright © 2021 Calvary Lutheran Church, All rights reserved.

You're receiving this email because you are connected to Calvary

Our mailing address is:

Calvary Lutheran Church

2820 Donal Street East

Thunder Bay, On P7E 5X7

Canada


January 31, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Wed. Jan. 27, 2021

It is with great sadness, with the loss of our dear Sister in Christ, Diane Spakowski, the Nominating committee of Calvary Lutheran Church council is in need of a new member. If you are willing to serve in Diane's place, please contact me, the Nominating committee chair, for detail before Feb 1,2021. Please call 623-4804.

Thank you for prayfully considering to volunteer.

In His Service,

Lynda Wdowiak


Sunday Jan. 24, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Monday January 18, 2021


Greetings in the name of the Lord who sustains us!

We are entering our eleventh month of this pandemic affecting the life of the church. We continue to learn and grow in what we know about COVID-19 and we also continue to learn and grow in how we can best move forward as the body of Christ.

Part of the struggle as a Christian is to seek a Godly balance of what it means to be “in the world but not of the world.” The leadership of this congregation has been diligently seeking out this balance so that we show proper respect to the authorities that God has placed over us in our world and yet also obey God according to His holy will. After consideration and prayerful thought, this is how we will proceed.

We will continue to record a weekly church service for you to watch and participate from your homes. In addition to this, recognizing the essential need of incarnational worship (meeting in person) and receiving the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, we will be offering communion services, beginning with twice a week. According to both Ontario provincial guidelines and Thunder Bay Health Unit guidelines, we are allowed to gather for worship services with a maximum of 10 people present (myself + 9). We will continue to stringently follow all protocols in screening, masking and physical distancing. We recognize and respect the seriousness of this pandemic. We also acknowledge the essential nature of our mandate to gather together around God’s Word and His Sacrament.

We will be celebrating the Lord’s Supper beginning:

January 24 Sundays at 1:00pm

January 28 Thursdays at 6:00pm

January 31 Sunday at 1:00pm

February 4 Thursday at 6:00pm

The order of service will last about 25-30 minutes. Reservations are mandatory, either by phone or by email, no later than Thursday at noon for the following week. We will send out a confirmation email or a phone message with your reservation as well as general information about when a service is full. Church doors will open 20 minutes prior to the service. Please do not hesitate to reserve a spot in the fear that you are taking the opportunity from someone else. We will be managing that from our end to make sure everyone that desires Christ’s body and blood will have the opportunity in a timely manner.

These added services are for our benefit, for the Lord offers not only forgiveness but also strength through His supper, so that we are better equipped to meet the days ahead.

Please contact me directly by phone (707-4080) or by email (pastorbrianfalkenholt@hotmail.ca) if you have any questions, comments or concerns.

Your vacancy shepherd in Christ,

Pastor Brian



Sunday Jan. 17, 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sun. January 10 2021

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


January 8, 2021

To members of Calvary Lutheran Church. Please be advised that the Provincial Government today announced that the current COVID-19 lockdown in Northern Ontario will be extended to January 23, 2021.  The next attended church service will be scheduled for Sunday, January 24, 2021.   Alex Grant, Council Chair




Sunday Jan. 3

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab



Sunday Dec. 27

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website.

This service is provided by Pastor Richard Beinert from Saint James Lutheran Church.



Thurs. Dec 24

There Is a digital Christmas Eve Service and Christmas Day Service located on the sermons tab of this website. These services are provided by Pastor Richard Beinert from Saint James Lutheran Church.

Have a safe and Merry Christmas






.Dec 22

IMPORTANT NOTICE

We are going to proceed to hold our in-person worship services on Christmas Eve at 6:00 pm and Christmas Day Communion Service at 1:00pm. A reminder that these services are by reservation only and that all reservations must be made by tomorrow, December 23 by noon.

In compliance with our government and to honour their authority, as given by God, the church will then be closed to all in-person activities, with our next in-person service scheduled for January 17, 2021 at 1:00pm.

Please continue to check the church website at calvarythunderbay.ca for updates, resources and links to online services.

God's blessings to you as we remember what our Lord has done for us!

Pastor Brian



Sunday Dec 20

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

For those of you attending the "Candlelight Service" on December 24th at 6pm.  This year due to Covid, we will not be blowing out Candles, instead we are asking everyone to use the following:- the light on your cellphone - bring a flashlight - a battery operated tea light or battery operated candle Thank you for your understanding



Friday Dec. 18

There will be no Sunday Service

at Calvary on Dec. 27th

Services will resume

on January 3rd at 1 pm

There will be a Lay led service at

Christ Lutheran on the 27th

(reservations required)


Zoom Bible Study will resume Wed. Jan. 6th at 10 AM

Link to follow




Sunday Dec.13

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab



Friday Dec. 11


Calvary Lutheran Church

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Christmas Worship Services

Christmas Eve @ 6pm Christmas Day Communion Service @ 1pm

ATTEND BY RESERVATION ONLY: Reservations start on

Monday, December 14th until noon on Wednesday, December 23rd

Call the Church office 623-8735 or email Calvary@tbaytel.net

Due to the current COVID-19 public health recommendations and restrictions combined with the anticipated demand to attend a Christmas worship service, we will be assigning seats for the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day worship services to best utilize the space we have.

Please read the following prior to making your reservation

Do not attend or reserve if you feel unwell or have symptoms of COVID-19. A complete list of symptoms can be found on the Thunder Bay District Health Unit website (tbdhu.com)

Do not attend or reserve if you have been in close contact with someone who is currently COVID-19 positive or who has symptoms and is awaiting test results

Do not attend or reserve if you have travelled outside of Northwestern Ontario within the past 14 days. Visitors from outside of Northwestern Ontario will not be allowed to attend unless they have completed 14 days of self-quarantine

Please Consider…

Only members of the same household will be allowed to sit together*

Seating is very limited and most spots only accommodate groups of 2 which may require some members of the same household to be split up*

Choosing 1 Christmas service to attend in order to give other people the opportunity to attend*

The need to cancel your reservation if you are unable to attend*

If we reach our capacity, Christ Lutheran Church will be open for reservations on December 23rd provided they still have space available. Their Christmas Eve services are at 4pm & 8pm and their Christmas Day service is at 10:30am.

*If you have any questions, contact the church office. Thank you for your understanding



Sunday Dec6

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab



Friday Dec.4

On December 14th

Attendance Sign Up Requests can be

made for the following services through the church office

Thursday Dec. 17 -6pm (Advent)

Sunday Dec. 20 – 1pm

Thursday Dec. 24 -6pm (Christmas Eve)

  Friday Dec. 25 -1pm (Christmas Day)

A reminder that seating is limited and Covid 19 safety protocols are in place.

Reservations must be made to ensure seating.

Cut off time for reservations is Noon on Wed. Dec. 23




Thurs. Dec.3


Calvary Lutheran Church

Semi-Annual Congregational Meeting

December 13, 2020

GI-General information; ID-Information for Discussion; IDM-Information for Decision Making

Agenda

1. Adoption of Agenda (IDM)

2. Discussion and Congregational Approval of 2021 Calvary Lutheran Church Workplan (IDM)

3. Requesting Three (3) Congregational members to serve on Church Nominating Committee

4. Adjournment and Lord’s Prayer




Here is the zoom link for the congregational information meeting that will take place on Monday, December 7 at 7:00pm.

It will be hosted by Karolyn Hoard and myself.


https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86343126883


Thanks!

PB

Wed. Dec2


Dear Members of Calvary,


On Sunday, December 13th following the 1pm service, we will be having our Semi-Annual Congregational Meeting.

The meeting will be to approve the work plan for the 2021 year that you will find attached in this email.


If you are unable to attend in person, please mail, email or drop off your ballot in our secure mailbox no later than Friday, December 11, 2020.


If you have not received the information package and ballot by mail/email please contact the church office


Our mailing address is:

Calvary Lutheran Church

220 Donald Street East

Thunder Bay, On P7E 5X7

Canada

office number 623-8735



We are moving forward with our Midweek Advent Services

We are meeting on the next 3 Thursdays at 6:00pm - December 3, 10 & 17.

Our theme for this year is "Jesus, Son of ..."

December 3 - Jesus, Son of David

December 10 - Jesus, Son of Abraham

December 17- Jesus, Son of Joseph

December 25 - Jesus, Son of Mary

Please reserve your place by noon of the service day, either by email (calvary@tbaytel.net) or by phone (623-8735).

Thank you.

Pastor Brian



Sunday Nov.29

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


The Service is being brought to you in two parts. The first part concludes with most of the sermon.



Thursday Nov.26


Dear Members of Calvary Lutheran Church;


As active COVID-19 cases in our city continue to rise, the Calvary Reopening Team is making the following changes to our protocol for entering Calvary Lutheran Church based on recommendations from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit.


Do Not Enter If You:

1. Feel unwell and have symptoms of COVID-19

2. Have been in close contact with someone currently COVID-19 positive

3. Travelled outside of Northwestern Ontario within the past 14 days. Visitors from outside of Northwestern Ontario must also self isolated for 14 days prior.

As well, we will be enhancing our screening efforts upon entry into the church by taking an infrared temperature reading starting this Sunday, November 29th.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the church office.


Sincerely,

The Reopening Team


P.S. A friendly reminder that Sunday worship services have moved to 1pm effective November 29th



Sunday Nov.22

Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

The Service is being brought to you in three parts. 




SaturdayNov.21

Taking body temperature is a preferred

practice identified by the Thunder Bay District

Health Unit to monitor for fever.


This will be a practice at Calvary moving forward.



Current Activities occurring or planned for at Calvary

Worship – Sunday Worship, Funerals, Weddings,

Baptism, Advent

Church Council – Council meetings, Council committees

Trustees –

Altar Guild -

Senior Confirmation –

-Meetings must be booked through the church office

-Meetings must follow current protocols regarding seating,

documentation completion and sanitation

-Zoom meetings are an option


Sunday November 15


Today's service is available on the sermons tab on the website

. It is in 2 parts


The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Saturday November 14


Regular Sunday Services will move to 1pm starting on Sunday, November 29th  

Weekly pre registration is still required for those planning on attending



Calvary’s Christmas Schedule


Advent @ 6pm on Thursday December 3, 10 & 17

Christmas Eve Service will be at 6pm

Christmas Day Service will be at 1pm

Weekly pre registration is still required for those planning on attending


Calvary!

         Please remember our 2020 Christmas Family!

      We have a Mom with 5 girls who need some Christmas cheer. 

We have an electronic wishlist available to distribute,

contact Connie in the office

(623-8735) or Lynda Wdowiak (623-4804 or lynwd3@yahoo.ca)

to be sent the link to view the list. 



Nov.8

The Service is being brought to you in three parts. The first part concludes with the sermon.

The second part starts with the Nicene Creed and concludes with the Agnus Dei.

The third part starts with the Nunc Dimittis and concludes with the closing hymn, LSB 758, "The Will of God Is Always Good."


The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

Sunday Nov.1

Today's service is available on the worship service tab on the website


The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Sunday Oct.25


The Service is being brought to you in three parts. Part One takes us from our announcements through the sermon.

Part Two takes us from the Nicene Creed to the Agnus Dei.

Part Three takes us from the Dismissal Blessing to the Closing Hymn, LSB 578, Thy Strong Word.


Today's service is available on the worship service tab on the website


The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Wednesday Oct.21



Subject: OPPORTUNITY: QUESTION AND ANSWER SESSION REGARDING PASTORAL CALL CANDIDATES - Thursday, October 22nd @ 7PM


Brothers and Sisters in Christ;


We are making available a question and answer session on Zoom for members who aren’t able to attend the Congregational Call Meeting this Sunday and have questions about the pastoral call candidates that were mailed out to all member households.


Pastor Brian, Elaine Ratcliffe (Call Committee Chair) and Ben Grant (Council Chair) will host the 45 minute meeting on Zoom at 7pm on Thursday, October 22nd. 


The link for the meeting is provided below:


 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81828308445


Sunday Oct. 18

The Service is being brought to you in three parts. In the introduction, I also explain how we are celebrating Holy Communion next week.


Today's service is available on the worship service tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab


Friday Oct.16

Communion is tentative set for

All Saints Day at Calvary

on November 1st.

We will need to know ahead of time

if the people taking part in communion

will need non-alcoholic wine

and also if they require gluten free wafers.




Monday Oct. 12


Pastoral Call Meeting

-        Here is the clarification regarding voting

Voting by baptized and confirmed members (no age restriction)

Holding office must be 18 years or older



An Information Package has been

mailed out from Ben Grant, Council Chair


Information Highlights


In person meeting Sunday October 25th at 9:05 AM

following worship (limited seating as per Covid-19)

-3 candidates identified for consideration

A pastor call ballot for each member of a household

ballot in person, by mail, by church drop off, by e-mail


Any questions should be directed to the church office

623-8735 identifying - Pastoral Call Meeting


Annual Congregational Meeting

-Here is the clarification regarding voting

Voting by baptized and confirmed members (no age restriction)

Holding office must be 18 years or older

 

An Information Package has been

mailed out from Ben Grant, Council Chair


Information Highlights


In person meeting Sunday November 8 at 9:05 AM

following worship (limited seating as per Covid-19)

-Agenda – Annual Year End Report, Calvary’s Financial Statements, List of Approved Names for council selection

A ballot for the Annual Congregational Meeting for each member of a household

ballot in person, by mail, by church drop off, by e-mail

Any questions should be directed to the church office

623-8735 identifying - Pastoral Call Meeting




Suday Oct.11


Today's service is available on the worship service tab on the website

The service text is also available on the worship service text tab

The taping cut off at the last hymn. We’ll follow up during the week to try and fix.




Sunday Oct.11


In order to continue weekly worship we are in
need of cleaners and ushers, committed prior
to the weekly worship date
If you can assist please contact Judy Belrose,
Ron Strey, Rod Johnson, or Deb Waytowich so that the usher and cleaner sign up calendars can be completed.


Sunday Oct 4 - Bible Study Information

We are going to be starting "Zoom" Bible Study again this week. We are going to be meeting via Zoom again on Wednesdays at 10:00am. We will be looking at the Bible readings for the upcoming Sunday. 

Just click on the link below this line and follow the instructions. 


I have attached the Bible Study information and questions in one file and the Bible readings for this study in a second file.

I will see those of you there who want to and are able to join.

God's blessings!
Pastor Brian

Bible Readings for Oct.11


Gospel Reading          Matthew 22:1–14

          1Again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, 2“The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, 3and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. 4Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.’ 5But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, 6while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. 7The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. 8Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. 9Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.’ 10And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.

          11“But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. 12And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. 13Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ 14For many are called, but few are chosen.”

 

Old Testament Reading       Isaiah 25:6–9

6On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples
          a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wine,
          of rich food full of marrow, of aged wine well refined.
7And he will swallow up on this mountain
          the covering that is cast over all peoples,
          the veil that is spread over all nations.
          8He will swallow up death forever;
and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces,
          and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth,
          for the Lord has spoken.
9It will be said on that day,
          “Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us.
          This is the Lord; we have waited for him;
          let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.”

 

Epistle Reading           Philippians 4:4–13

          4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

          8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

          10I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13I can do all things through him who strengthens me.



Bible Study for Oct 6&7

Lesson 10

Proper 23

The Holy Gospel: Matthew 22:1-14 It was Monday or Tuesday of Holy Week. Jesus had forcefully cleansed the temple court of merchants and moneychangers and was teaching in the temple. Representatives of the religious leaders approached Him, demanding that He tell them by what authority He taught and did His miraculous signs and bold acts. Instead, Jesus confronted them with their own religious attitudes and actions through a series of parables, the last of which is today's Holy Gospel. With the parable of the two sons, He exposed the shallowness of the yes they were saying to God-no deeper than words and outward appearance. With the parable of the talents, He accused them of being unfaithful in their responsibilities as religious leaders, rejecting the Lord's call through prophets like John the Baptist and rejecting even the Son He had sentall so they could perpetuate the religious system in which the "fruits of the vineyard" went to them. This parable of the wedding banquet then ended the confrontation and spurred the Pharisees on in their plotting to get rid of Him

151. What was Jesus trying to make the people and the religious leaders aware of with the parable of the wedding banquet? What does it say about "the king" that he sent out repeated invitations to those originally invited to the feast? What shows the serious consequences of rejecting the king's invitation to the feast

In God's gracious will and purpose, the "wedding feast" for His Son will indeed have its full complement of guestsand not always those we might expect to be there

152. How is it that "both bad and good" were accepted and welcomed to the wedding hall? Since both "bad and good" will be at the feast, how must we understand the king's saying, Those invited were not worthy"

The part of the parable that deals with the wedding clothes is an epilogue that adds its own point. In that society it was not unusual for the wealthy to provide their guests with festive garments for such grand occasions. This relieved the guests of expenditure on their part and underscored the expansive generosity of the host. Our English "had no wedding garment" is not as expressive as the Greek, which is a passive form meaning "not having been garmented"in other words, not wearing the garment the king supplied

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153. What is this wedding garment, and why is it essential that everyone at the banquet be clothed in it? (See Isaiah 61:10; Revelation 7:14; 19:78.) Why will all who appear without this festive garment be "speechless," without excuse

154. In the light of the parable, interpret Jesus' closing mashal: "Many are called, but few are chosen.

The Old Testament Lesson: Isaiah 25:6-9 Chapter 24 ends with the promise that on that day the LORD will punish the host of heaven, in heaven, and the kings of the earth, on the earth. ... [F]or the LORD of hosts reigns on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem" (vv. 21, 23b). These surely were reassuring words. Assyria had conquered the Northern Kingdom, Israel, and had deported major elements of the population for settlement elsewhere. Her armies then pressed southward into Judah, overwhelming its northern villages. Jerusalem itself was threatened. Isaiah steadfastly prophesied that Jerusalem would be saved and encouraged its people and their leaders to trust in the Lord instead of political alliances

In chapter 25, the prophet praises the Lord for this assured deliverance. Its first verses use terminology that called to mind the Lord's strength in fighting for Israel in the destruction of Jericho and the conquest of Canaan and His mercy toward Israel in settling them in the Promised Land. Verses 6-9, the heart of the chapter, give to the praise an eschatological, universal thrust

155. Which mountain was Isaiah referring to with "On this mountain the LORD of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food"

156. What is "the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations"? What is especially striking about the fact that Isaiah says that it is on this mountain that the Lord of hosts will "swallow up death forever"

157. For whom will the sovereign Lord wipe away the tears from their faces and take away their reproach? (See Revelation 21:1-4.

158. What impact is added by the prophet's ending with "the LORD has spoken"

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The lesson ends with a short song of praise that displays the attitude of all who have been tested and have learned that the Lord's promises are sure and certain. Read the words aloud together: "Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, that He might save us. This is the LORD; we waited for Him; let us be glad and rejoice in His salvation.

159. How does this Old Testament Lesson tie in with today's Holy Gospel

The Epistle for the Day: Philippians 4:4-13 This familiar pericope has been read on the Fourth Sunday in Advent from ancient times and is still part of the One-Year Lectionary on that Sunday. It contributes to Philippians being called Paul's "Letter of Joy.

The joyous fellowship of the congregation in Philippi evidently was being disturbed by a squabble between two of the women (vv. 23). Paul urged them to settle things and "agree in the Lordand encouraged his "true companion," evidently the congregation's elder or pastor, to intervene pastorally to help them resolve the problem

160. Paul's encouragement to peacekeeping led him to point to an important part of the dynamic of making peace. What does it mean to rejoice in the Lord? What impact was added for his friends in Philippi by the fact that Paul wrote this encouragement to rejoice while he was in custody awaiting trial in Caesar's court

161. How does the fact that the Lord's return is near encourage us to gentleness in our dealings with others, yielding our "rights" rather than insisting on them

Paul wrote, "Do not be anxious about anything." The Greek for "anxious" carried the idea of a mind being drawn in different directions, not focused or assured. We all know what that is

162. What does Paul prescribe for anxiety? What is not to be forgotten as we bring prayer and petitions to God? How will our consciously giving thanks to God influence our whole outlook on life

163. What blessed results will be gained from practicing such a conscientious spiritual exercise? Why will the peace of God surpass all understanding as it guards our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus

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You are what you think! Long ago the writer of Proverbs said, "He is like one who is inwardly calculating"