Dear Friends in Christ,
Do you know how many countries celebrate Thanksgiving? Many nations have their own version of Thanksgiving and commemorate it in unique ways. In Canada, Thanksgiving dates back to the sixteenth century, when a European explorer–after establishing a settlement in what is now Newfoundland and Labrador–gave thanks for surviving the long and dangerous journey across the Atlantic. Nearly 400 years later, in 1957, our government officially declared that the second Monday in October would be a “Day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed.”
As we reflect on that declaration, we see that, spiritually speaking, this festival of gratitude is built upon God’s presence, protection, and provision for our nation. That is why, as Canadian believers and children of God, this season is a precious opportunity to thank Him–not just for the physical harvest, but for all the divine blessings He has bestowed upon us throughout the year. As we look forward to this sacred holiday weekend, let us humbly remember the Lord our God, who gives us the strength and wisdom to produce wealth and well-being, rather than saying proudly to ourselves, “My power and the strength of my hands have achieved all this wealth for me” (Deuteronomy. 8:11-18).
With this reflection in mind, I warmly invite you to join us for our hybrid Thanksgiving service this Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., both in person at St. Andrew’s Fenelon Falls and online.
In this Thanksgiving message, based primarily on Psalm 103, we will explore how God is the true Source of every blessing–regardless of how much or how little we have. Together, we will also have an opportunity to number the benefits we have received from the Lord and place them, one by one, on our list of thanksgiving.
We look forward to worshiping with you!
Blessings,
Caleb
Church News and Announcements
Fall Bible Study via Zoom: “The Miracle of Mercy” by Rick Warren
Session Three: Mercy Helps the Hurting
Wednesday, October 14, 2026 – 10:00 a.m. – 11:10 a.m.
Please join us for this meaningful journey whenever you are available and feel led to participate.
St. Andrew’s Women of the Church
The next St. Andrew’s Women’s meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in the church basement. Everyone is welcome to join in this time of fellowship!
Session Meeting
Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom
Pulpit Supply Schedule
Dan Schley will lead our worship service on Sunday, October 25, 2026. Caleb, as Interim Moderator, will lead the Ballyduff congregation in worship on that Sunday.
Shopping Card Orders
Orders will be collected on Sunday, October 25, 2026. Please place your order with Donna Schley. Thank you to everyone who supports us by using the cards.
Salvation Army Food Bank Donations
Donations will be collected on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Your continued support of our community is greatly appreciated. Last month we donated 42 lbs. of food due to
your generosity!
Pastoral Visits & Home Communion
Caleb, along with his wife Soon Hwa and available elders, would like to conduct pastoral visits this fall. Home communion is also available upon request. If you or someone you know would appreciate a visit or this time of fellowship, please let Caleb or an elder know.
St. Andrew’s Pastoral Care Ministries
Prayer Shawl–Coordinated by Donna Schley
Prayer Chain–Managed by Barb Silver
Prayer Card–Handled by Sharon Dawson
Pastoral Visits–Served by the Session
If you are aware of someone who could benefit from our pastoral care services (including home communion), please reach out to our coordinators.
Mission Statement
The mission of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Fenelon Falls is to communicate faith, hope and love by supporting and serving our congregation and the local community and communicating our excitement in praising and worshiping God with our friends and neighbours.
Inclusivity Statement
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Fenelon Falls is a member of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. At St. Andrew’s, we believe that we are all one in Christ, regardless of age, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation, and physical or mental ability. We welcome into our church everyone who seeks to love God and participate in an open and supportive congregation that is grounded in the teachings of Jesus Christ. The journey of Christian faith is ongoing and we continuously pray for God’s guidance as we listen to and learn from one another.