Metropolitan United Church

"In the relentless busyness of modern life, we have lost the rhythm between action and rest ... Because we do not rest, we lose our way. We miss the compass points that show us where to go.  We lose the nourishment that gives us succor. We miss the quiet that gives us wisdom. Poisoned by the hypnotic belief that good things come only through tireless effort, we never truly rest.  And for want of rest, our lives are in danger." from Sabbath by Wayne Muller

2008 is Metropolitan's 190th anniversary of faithful ministry in downtown Toronto. Our long-serving minister Malcolm Sinclair is on sabbatical from April through September. In his absence, we too are breaking with routine to explore the meaning of sabbath in this place and for our times.

With the generous support of the Tow Lectureship for Excellence in Preaching, we've invited six distinguished preachers to explore this theme with us and to bring their testimony - to name what they have found on the journey that gives their lives purpose and strength.

On Sunday morning in the 11 a.m. service, we'll hear from:

April 6    The Very Rev. Dr. Peter Short, Moderator of The United Church of Canada (2003 - 2006), Wilmot United Church, Fredericton

May 11      Rev. Dr. William Kervin, Associate Professor of Public Worship Emmanuel College/University of Toronto

May 25     Mary Lou Fallis, Soprano, Opera Singer and Musical Comedienne

June 1      Dr. Mary Jo Leddy, Executive Director of Romero House

September 7      The Very Rev. Peter Elliott, Christ Church Cathedral (Vancouver)

September 28      Nora Sanders, General Secretary of the United Church of Canada

October 6      Rev. Dr. G. Malcolm Sinclair, Metropolitan United Church

The title of the preaching series takes its inspiration from a poem called Fire by Judith Brown.  The poem reminds us that a fire cannot burn without space between the logs; that too many logs packed too tightly can douse the flames almost as surely as a pail of water would.  We invite you to set aside your daily concerns, and gather around the fire to hear stories with the power to energize and renew our passion, sense of purpose, and commitment.

"For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but rested the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and consecrated it."

~ Exodus 20:11

This series will be available shortly via videostreaming at http://www.metunited.org/.