May 2026 Newsletter

For the Beauty of the Earth

“For the beauty of the earth” is the beginning of one of our favourite hymns. As I look out my window here at MHP, I can see the beauty of trees budding, and the grass so green and lush. How wondrous is spring! I think it is God’s gift to us for surviving another Canadian winter — and this winter was especially long!

Each season is a gift from God. Each month, each day, and each moment that we enjoy the many blessings we have are to be appreciated with thankful hearts. Today, I choose to be thankful for the rain that is falling and the earth that is blooming.

To come back to our hymn:
“Christ, our Lord, to you we raise this, our hymn of grateful praise.”

Blessings,
Pastor Cherie
pastorcherie@gmail.com
905-401-7641

May Services

May 3 – Camp Sunday

Guest Speaker: Michelle Roberts, Executive Director, Camp Cairn
Scripture: Ephesians 3:14–19
Message Title: Greetings from Camp Cairn

May 10 – Mother’s Day

Series: Short Stories by Jesus: Parables of a Controversial Rabbi
Scripture: Matthew 13:45–46, Proverbs 31:10–15, 26–29
Message Title: A Pearl of Great Price

May 17

Series: Short Stories by Jesus: Parables of a Controversial Rabbi
Scripture: Luke 18:1–8, Proverbs 31:16–26
Message Title: A Woman of Strength

May 24

Series: Short Stories by Jesus: Parables of a Controversial Rabbi
Scripture: Matthew 20:1–16
Message Title: Hanging Around on the Corner

May 31

Series: Short Stories by Jesus: Parables of a Controversial Rabbi
Scripture: Luke 18:9–14
Message Title: Good Fella’s

Life Events

Welcome to the Family!

• Enzo, grandson of Darcy
• Pearson, son of Spencer and Stephanie

Retirement Announcement

Rev. Karen Dimock, former minister at MHP, is retiring this spring.

She shared with Pastor Cherie:

“Currently I find myself in a season of reflection and gratitude, and I would be glad if you could also convey to those who remember me, how much I have enjoyed full-time congregational ministry, how grateful I am for the years I had at MHP, and how precious they all remain to me.”

The Session is preparing a card and gift to share with Rev. Karen on this special occasion. There will be an opportunity for members of the congregation to share their good wishes.

Evangel Hall Update

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped with the Evangel Hall dinner in so many ways.

A message of thanks was shared with us:

“Thank you for responding to God’s call to feed the hungry and provide drink to the thirsty! Thank you to your team who prepared, cooked, served, cleaned up, and participated in worship. Once again, thank you for sharing your abundance of food, including desserts. We truly thank you for your time with us and for thinking about us.”

Thank you to all who served so generously.

Upcoming Events

In the Neighbourhood

Seniors’ Program at Runnymede United Church

Runnymede United Church has partnered with Parkdale Golden Age Foundation to host a new seniors’ program during May and June.

When: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where: Memorial Hall, Runnymede United Church

Activities include:

• Arts and crafts
• Drumming
• Gentle fitness exercises
• Healthy eating presentations
• Hot lunch

Cost: $8 cash contribution per program
Please Note: Pre-registration is required.

For anyone age 60+, come and enjoy the program!

Habitat for Humanity GTA Volunteers Needed

Habitat GTA is helping address one of today’s most pressing needs: affordable housing.

They partner with hardworking families in need of safe and secure homes and rely on volunteers to help make it possible.

Volunteering is a meaningful way to:

• Engage with the community
• Learn new skills
• Strengthen neighbourhoods across the GTA

For more information:
volunteer@habitatgta.ca
habitatgta.ca/volunteer

Posters are also available on the bulletin board in the Fellowship Hall.

Closing Blessing

May this season of renewal remind us daily of God’s goodness, grace, and faithfulness.

Happy May to all!

 

Pastoral Visiting and Care — An Online Study, Spring 2026 This online study will be held within the Certificate in Lay Leadership program. This study will help build your comfort and confidence in providing care and support to members of your congregation. This study is for lay leaders already doing this work and those who wish to explore this ministry. For more info click here.