Events
CWOP (Caribbean Workers Outreach Program)
Every spring hundreds of workers leave their families in Jamaica and come to Norfolk County to provide much-needed labour on our farms. Crops such as apples, peaches, tobacco, celery, onions and strawberries require planting, weeding, pruning and harvesting. Many workers stay six or more months. The money that they send home to their families makes a difference. (housing and education)
Many years ago, St. James realized that there was a need for these workers to have spiritual support, and who better than someone from their own country. St. James, with support from the United Church of Canada, formed a group called the CWOP, (Caribbean Workers Outreach Program), which includes members from other area churches. CWOP plans a program and brings a minister from Jamaica for 6 to 8 weeks. These ministers visit the men at the farms in the evening, as well as providing Sunday night services at St. James. Workers as well as members of our local churches attend. Refreshments after the service bring everyone together.
Annual Potluck Supper (for St. James Women)
Every summer, the women of the congregation have enjoyed a potluck supper and an evening of relaxation and friendship.
See related images below.
Cruising down the Grand River on a Sunday afternoon……..
54 of us enjoyed the beautiful scenery as Captain Al entertained us with information and humour. A delicious supper was served, followed by a hymn sing led by our former minister Mary Jo Paterson and accompanied by Angus McLeod on a keyboard. Using the CWOP hymn books gave us a chance to enjoy Jamaican hymns and some of our own favourites.
On our way back the sun was setting and the view as we returned had changed to muted tones. Beautiful!
See related images below.
The Men's Breakfasts
The Men's Breakfasts at St. James are held periodically, as a means of bringing the men together for a communal time. They are not just food and fellowship for the soul - our guest speakers have recently included the founder of a local children and youth association, a museum curator speaking about Black History in Norfolk, a man who, with a group of 40-50 something year old Christian men, travelled on a hockey mission to the Czech Republic and a local author who writes spiritual fiction.
Keep watch for our next announcement.
Five Oaks Day Away
For the past few years St. James Liturgical Bible Study Group has sponsored a Day Away at Five Oaks Retreat Centre.
We arrive about 10:00 a.m., have a study period until lunch -- lunches are always good -- take a bit of free time to visit the Book Store, walk the Labyrinth, or just enjoy the grounds (and pool) and return to group for a craft/activity and head for home about 3:00 p.m.
This year thirteen people attended on a bright, warm day and thoroughly enjoyed all Five Oaks has to offer.
See Images below.
