NOVEMBER 2025

Dear Kind and Gentle People,

Oh My Soul! Here at “The Mill” there are telltale signs that harvest is over and winter is approaching. The boards in the sluiceway have been adjusted so that the spring thaw and runoff will not overflow the pond. This involves climbing onto the dam and using a pick-ax to lift the boards as you hang over the edge. This year the pick-ax “flew” into the sluiceway requiring more climbing (boo-hiss), I am grateful for Ben-Gay! Another sign of the impending winter includes Mr. and Mrs. Mouse who have attempted to camp out in luxury, making themselves rather cozy on the “Peace Porch.” Needless to say, the welcome mat has been pulled out from under them and they will have to find another porch to squat on. Case closed!

Part of last week was spent representing UCCMA in Ottawa for the celebration and blessing of “Then Let Us Sing,” a songbook project that has been active in my life the past seven years and has culminated in the 100th anniversary of the United Church of Canada. It was truly a joy to serve on the “Ethos, Justice and Education” committee with deeply committed and dedicated colleagues. Mere words cannot express the strong bond of respect and unction that became the EJE committee.

TLUS is a remarkable collection of music from lyricists and composers all over the globe. It “lifts up the intercultural and anti-racist commitment of the church with material that prioritizes Black, Indigenous, People of Color, French-speaking, Two-Spirit and LGBTQTTIA+ voices, and concerns of people with disabilities.” (TLUS preface). TLUS reminds us of “Faithful song as an antidote to fear,” and calls us to remember Jesus’s love for everyone. The hymn “Love Over Hate” is one of my many new favorites. David Kai has created a unison setting of Pat Mayberry’s wonderful melody. It has a powerful message and is easily accessible. There are 165 other pieces just as yummy and wonderful in this collection.

Currently TLUS may be ordered from United Church Publishing House

1-800-268-3781

The message of “Love over Hate” merits some time in quiet reflection. The power of love always wins over lies, fear, hate.

Do spend a bit of your devotional time with these questions. How might you open the door of your heart with a fresh dose of kindness and mercy? How might you be a conduit for healing and hope through being in unction with Holy Love? Bet the answers will surprise you!

As Always, Gobs of Blessings and Heaps of Happiness,

Petah

Rev. Dr. Peter Stickney

Photo: Rev. Dr. Peter Stickney, UCCMA Chaplain, with Rev. Dr. Alydia Smith, Program Coordinator, Worship, Music and Spirituality, The United Church of Canada