When I was asked, all those years ago, if I thought I might be interested in applying for the job of church secretary, I was very hesitant. I didn’t know the first thing about working in an office. Although I was used to working with the public, I knew this would be something very different.
I had grown up in the United Church and certainly knew enough about the church to think, “Why not throw my hat in the ring and see where it leads?”
My kids were both in school by then, and I was looking for something to occupy my time. Why not make a little money, too?
Then, when I was offered the job, my thoughts were, “What the heck have I done?” But over time, as I learned the ropes, learned from my mistakes, and managed to acquire some new skills, I guess you could say I have made a career out of being a “church secretary.” Although, if I may be so bold, I think it has been my calling.
The career side of the job — the administrative work, balancing the books, and making sure everything is in order for St. Paul’s to operate properly — can be rewarding in itself. But it is the passion I have for the job and the people I serve that truly fills my soul.
Is it always sunshine and roses? No. But I truly do care (perhaps a little too much!) about what happens at St. Paul’s and with its people. I believe that is what motivates me to be the best I can be, both in my career and in my calling.
St. Paul’s Weekly Update
October 26 – 30 – Tanis attending “Women in Ministry Conference” in Keene, Ontario
November 1 – In Person Worship with Marilyn Warkentin. Salt Shakers – Sunday School, Food Cupboard Sunday.
November 6 – Chatter in the Church — An Evening of Wine, Cheese and Stories Friday | 7:00 PM at St. Paul’s United Church | 286 Nelson Street, Virden
We’d love to have you with us — settle in for an evening of wine, cheese, and relaxed stories about community figures from our history. Enjoy wine & cheese, charcuterie, and local storytelling featuring our local Theatrick Players.
🎟️ Tickets: $50 in advance ($25 tax receipt included) Tickets available at the church office or call to book: 204-748-1295 – Reserve a table with a group of 10! All are welcome — we hope to see you there!
November 9 – 3:30pm Planned Gift Committee
Fall Newsletter – Our newsletter will be going out mid November. If anyone has a submission or pictures they would like included please email to Helen McCormick helenm548@gmail.com by November 10th.
November 11 – Church Office Closed in recognition of Remembrance Day
November 15 – Tanis – Virden, Muffin Morning, SALT Shakers – Sunday school, Service of Commemoration.
November 15 – On Sunday during regular 11pm worship, the service will include an… Act of Commemoration. – Commemorate .. to hold in precious memory! At this time, names will be read and candles lit in memory of family and friends who have died. Names entered into St. Paul’s Burial Register over the last twelve months will be included, as well as names which are specifically requested by members of the congregation. If you wish to submit a name please contact the church office before Thursday, November 12.
November 27 – Save the Date – St. Paul’s Christmas Bake Sale and Tea Friday!
Knit or Knot – The knitting & crafting group meets in the upper hall on Tuesday afternoons at 2pm.
Coffee Time – Join us Thursday mornings at 10:00am for a time of coffee and fellowship! This is open to everyone and all are welcome!
Food Cupboard Sunday – The first Sunday of the month is Food Cupboard Sunday and we invite you to bring a non-perishable food item for the Virden & Area Food Cupboard.
Celebrating the UCW – The UCW is celebrating their 65th Anniversary and are holding a celebration July 19-23, 2027 at the Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport, Ottawa, Ontario. You do not need to be a UCW member to attend as it is more about celebrating the women of the church. If you would like to know more you can contact Karen Coreett at karen.coreett5@gmail.com or you can keep up to date on the Facebook page National United Church Women NUCW.
