Beyond the Stain Glass

Within the walls of Calvary Lutheran Church, our members share their talents and time to keep the Church strong. But this does not end at the doors of the Church. Outside the Church our members shine just as bright.

God's men Recognized by B4H

Three of God's men were recognized by Bicycles for Humanity (who ready and send bicycles to 3rd World countries; where they are used as a prime mode of transportation) Norm Bushby, Michael Karschti and Victor Carlson were issued certificates of recognition for their faithful involvement in B4H, by Dr. Steve Klassen., B4H Chairperson.
Norm has been involved with B4H for about 4 yrs., Mike for about 4 yrs, and Victor for the past 3 yrs.
Not present,( as he has moved on) was Harold Koblun for about 2 yrs. All 4 gentlemen are very proud of the work that is put into these bicycles and the difference it makes in the lives of the people and children that receive these gifts of their love and labour.
P.S. On Saturday April 25, 540 bicycles, bicycle parts, and various sports equipment (soccer balls, etc.) were loaded in the 5th trailer which is bound for Namibia, South Africa. The Lord has given them this mission and they thank the Lord for the privilege to serve Him in this important venture.

Calvary’s Special Christmas Dinner

Can a sermon inspire a Christmas dinner for 140 people? Yes it can and it did at Calvary Lutheran Church in Thunder Bay in 2008 and again in 2009.

Touched by Pastor John Schmidt’s words, a member of the congregation (who wishes to remain anonymous) felt moved to “do something” special for Christmas last year - but there were less than two weeks to prepare.

This member had stepped out in generosity to provide the funds for a full turkey dinner asking members of Calvary to bring friends who would be alone over Christmas - those recently bereaved, separated and living by themselves - to enjoy a free dinner at the church.

Upon hearing of this idea the Fellowship Team of Calvary stepped up to the plate and took on the challenge of organizing the meal on short notice.

Volunteers turned out to set up, peel potatoes, carrots and turnips, roast turkeys, slice ham and make gravy. Other volunteers made up gift bags for guests. On the Sunday following Christmas, members and guests poured into the Fellowship Hall. The Sunshine Singers, a small group ,led in carol singing and then the feast began.

Many guests expressed amazement that the dinner was paid for in advance. Guests from Sierra Leone and Nepal tasted pumpkin pie for the first time! An invalid whom we knew only by name smiled his thanks from his wheelchair. There was a feeling of joyous celebration in the air. And the banquet didn’t stop there ! Fifty turkey dinners were packed and given to the Lutheran Community Care’s Street Reach Mission the next day.

Again this year Calvary received funds for the dinner and served about the same numbers of people. Volunteers flocked to the kitchen to enjoy the fun of working together to make the meal. Again the Sunshine Singers led the singing. Some of our young people helped with carrying plates and serving.

This year we had guests from a Teen Challenge Program , Street Reach, Senior’s Homes and from around our community all in fellowship together. Some of the guests pitched in to help clean up. A Calvary member who had broken her right wrist just before Christmas took home banquet tablecloths to wash.

This celebration of Christmas seems to bring out the best in people. One generous act inspires another and another. Six meals left over from our donation of meals to Street Reach were delivered to the home of a family known to have no food at all in the house.

So as we look forward to this new decade with hope we give thanks for the privilege of sharing in the joy of giving from the heart , begun by Pastor’s words and the response of a grateful member.

Thank you. In His Love, Joan Black

JESSICA NELSON Winner in the Northern Kids & Communities Art Contest

Congratulations to Jessica Nelson, Grade 2, Agnew H. Johnston Public School. Jessica's drawing of the "Terry Fox Lookout" was voted winner of the Northern Credit Union's first ever Northern Kids Calendar Contest for children, in the 6-8 years old age group.

There were 230 drawings entered by children in this age group showing their most favourite place in their Northern Community.

Jessica has won a $1000 Northern RESP (Registered Education Savings Plan) and her drawing will be featured in the 2010 Northern Kids Calendar.

Thanks to everyone for voting for Jessica's drawing.

Keep up the good work and beautiful drawings Jessica!