…In the Unity of the Holy Spirit…”

Grace to you and peace!

As I write this, I recently returned from a brief trip to Japan on behalf of Renison University College.  Renison has a School of Global Engagement and an English Language Institute (ELI) that regularly welcomes international students for English language immersion experiences on our University of Waterloo campus.  The purpose of the trip was to meet with several of Renison’s university partners in Japan: Dr. Tanya Missere-Mihas (Renison’s Vice-President) and myself visited ten institutions over six days, signing new memorandums of understanding and reaffirming existing agreements as we continue to build relationships with our treasured Japanese partners.  It was my first time ever to Japan and it was a culturally enriching experience, and I hope to return again in a couple of years on our next partner visit.  

 

The reason why I wanted to write briefly about this trip in this month’s newsletter is that there is, in my view, a relevant theological reflection around unity and welcome to be considered from this experience. In 1 Corinthians 1:10, St. Paul writes concerning divisions in the church: “10Now I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in agreement and that there be no divisions among you but that you be knit together in the same mind and the same purpose.” (1 Cor. 1:10; NRSVUE).  Our church, our country, and indeed the world, is deeply divided on a great many things.  There are divisions across theological perspectives, political divisions (including dangerous rhetoric on separation), and other human divisions by race, sexual orientation, and the like.  As June begins Pride Month, we are focused on creating an open and inclusive space where all belong. It is not something that should be reserved for only the month of June, but from July to May as well!

 

But back to my brief reflection and Japan: while I was there, we had very gracious hosts that welcomed us into their university communities.  What I do remember, however, is while standing in one of those university cafeterias, a place with no English signs whatsoever, and being left to try and determine both how to get something to eat, and even what it might have been. It was a daunting task for those of us not fluent in the local language.  (I was perhaps a little surprised once I figured out that what I was eating on one occasion to be was fried Eel!)   Anyway, a feeling of panic and anxiety set in as I tried to figure out how hungry I would have to be that day simply because of my inability to communicate in Japanese with strange (to me) foods.  In some ways, it is not unlike when the Japanese students (or other countries) come to Renison University College on short term English programs, stand in my cafeteria, and also wonder what to do and whether or not they will be hungry that day because they cannot navigate or communicate in my building.  It reassured me that the work we do at Renison to ensure complete welcome (food variety, ease of process, even to non-native speakers) we are very good at focusing on hospitality and welcome and the notion of unity that we are all just people who all want to eat lunch! Our work is all about welcoming PEOPLE to our campuses, regardless of their background. It is about serving the humans who come through our doors, as all are indeed welcome.  May this month of Pride, may the work of our church, and may the work of our educational ministries be all about belonging and welcome, as we serve our respective communities. May it be so!​

The Rev Dr Marc Jerry is a Lutheran Pastor and President and Vice-Chancellor of Renison (Anglican) University College at the University of Waterloo. Marnie, Marc, and Carmen began attending Mt. Zion when they moved to Waterloo in July of 2024, as Marc began leading Renison.

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This Saturday

Ubuntu -  June 6, 6 pm

People of all ages are invited to join Leo and Cherub for a time of fellowship and music on Saturday night at six pm. Bring yourselves, your friends and any musical instruments you play. The evening promises to be a “happening” where we experience “Ubuntu“.  After the music, there will be food to share. "Ubuntu" is a concept from ancient African thought, which is translated as "I am because we are," emphasizing relationality, compassion and the understanding that our well-being is tied to the well-being of our neighbour.

Come and find out what it is all about!

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Worship in the Courtyard and Potluck (formerly Worship in the Park)

June 21, 10 am, Rain or Shine!

This year’s outdoor worship service will be held in Mount Zion’s underused courtyard outside the auditorium. The Worship and Music committee is currently making plans to transform the courtyard into a worship space for the morning.

As in previous years, a potluck will follow. There is a sign-up sheet to help with planning, and we remind everyone to bring their own cutlery and dishes. Since we are in our own space, the kitchen will be available for chilling and reheating dishes, and if it rains, we will gather in the auditorium.

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Mount Zion Women's Retreat​​​​​​​​​

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Women from Mount Zion, as well as from other churches and those with no church home, have returned after a great weekend of "spiritual renewal".  I think of our Women's Retreat as an outreach program.  We provide "spiritual food" for women who do not have an opportunity to participate in a Retreat in their own congregations.  Pastor Tanya Varner, of Trinity New Hamburg, gave us much to think about with the theme - "Beloved - Resting in God's Grace".  She reminded us of God's constant, unconditional love given to us and that "resting" is a gift that we often forget in our busy lives.  Thankfully, Pastor Tanya has agreed to be our leader in 2027 as well.  We all enjoyed delicious meals organized by Anne Woolner and Sandy Dotzert.  Thanks also to Joan and Jacquelyn Schweitzer for leading our craft Sat. Afternoon.  We also took time to colour postcards in support of C.L.W.R.'s Lake Chad project.  These cards, when signed, will be mailed to the Federal Government.  If you would like to learn more about Mount Zion's 37th Annual Retreat, please speak to:  Marg Tupling, Kerry Joy Townson, Henriette Stumper, Peggy Nickels, Arlene Knight, Judi Harris, Marie Besong, Esse Bell, Anne Woolner, Joan and Jacquelyn Schweitzer, and Carol Ziegler.  Hidden Acres has been booked for April 30, May 1 and 2 for 2027.  Mark your calendars now if you plan to return or come for the first time.  Carol Ziegler (Den Mother)

 

​It is with Sadness

It is with sadness that I convey the passing of Ruth Huehn on May 31, 2026.

Let us uphold Ruth’s daughter, Jennifer and her family in our prayers as they grieve Ruth’s death.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."

The funeral was held on Thursday, June 4, 2026. 

A livestream of the funeral service will be available on Ruth’s tribute page at www.erbgood.com. In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family and donations to Mount Zion Lutheran Church may be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo at 519-745-8445 or at www.erbgood.com.

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Peace, Pastor Philip Mathai

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Financial Update – May 2026

A note from Finance!

Results in the Ministry & Mission (current) account for the five months of 2026 recorded a deficit of $29,281. Despite being a significant deficit, it is $14,552 better than budget despite spending being $4,809 worse. Good member support combined with higher rental income is the primary source of the improvement.

 

Additional Comments:

• Member gifts $105,765 are $15,240 better than plan. Thank you!!

• Rental Income from parking & facility of $27,684 is $3,318 better than plan.

• Disbursements of $167,294 are $4,809 worse than plan. The major issue in spending is in Property Expenses due to heavy snow removal and salt costs.   ac

See the full Report here

Richard Brubacher, Treasurer and Chair of Finance​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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Pew Shuffle …. One step at a time

The Worship and Music Committee has been considering removing the rear pew located in front of the organ chest for some time now and after discussion with Church Council has decided to proceed.

The reasons are to

• create a path of circulation inside our Sanctuary which will allow for more effective movement inside the Sanctuary and also more effective use of our Narthex during gathering times after service. It will also allow for more access to the organ chest on an as required basis.

• Sarah reminds us that the organ pipes can be quite loud. Sitting so close to them can result in hearing damage.

• We are also hopeful that it will encourage our in-person congregants to move forward for a more connected on-line experience with our home viewers during live streaming.

The reality is that there is no market for pews, and having already moved several into other areas of the church, this one will be moved off-site.

There is no firm schedule, but it will likely “disappear” over the summer months.   

Bill Gastmeier, Chair Worship and Music Committee

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Email Scam

Some of you may have received an email from Pastor Philip requesting you to contact him or to buy something. Pastor Philip wants the congregation to know that he has not sent any mass emails and the address used was not his.  

Please ignore these emails.

 

Reimagining Mount Zion Update from the Planning Liaison Committee

May 2026

The Planning Liaison Committee met in person with GSP and ABA on May 4th, joined by the executive. It was a very productive “meet and greet,” during which we all got to know each other and better understand our respective roles.

We went over the steps we have taken that led to their retainer, reiterated our project goals, and acknowledged the helpfulness of the Building Condition Survey and the Designated Substance Report, which were obtained with their help. They confirmed their scope of work and excitement to move forward as part of our team.

They agreed to send us a list of the information they will need to begin to define redevelopment options in terms of a “needs, wishes, and priorities” document.

They have done so, and your committee is in the process of responding so we continue to move things forward in a timely manner and are all starting out on the same page.

Bill Gastmeier Chair, Reimagining RMZI Planning Liaison Committee

 

From Justice through Service Committee

1.  Grocery cards program

As noted in May, the  Justice Through Service Committee has been reviewing the grocery card program, and we are making an effort in the next few months to revise it,  to enhance what we can do and provide meaningful assistance to those who benefit from the program, now and in the future.   As noted last month, donations have declined, and we encourage the congregation to keep this ministry in mind over the summer!  We’d be glad to answer questions and gather suggestions about the benefits and possible changes.   

2. Strawberry Thanksgiving and Communion

Initiated as a means of reparations to the Six Nations, eleven local churches and denominations have started efforts towards reconciliation by contributing token lease payments to a fund established for language and cultural programming through Six Nations Polytechnic (SNP). The annual Strawberry Thanksgiving and Communion will be held on Saturday June 13, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and will focus on amplifying youth voices.  Hanne Kunhert will serve as the co-host for the two-row programming.  If interested we can attend in person at SNP, or online.  Registration is required.  For information and to register go to:  https://mcc.org/events/strawberry-thanksgiving-and-communion

3. Feather & Cross Bingo

This starts June 1, 2026, the beginning of National Indigenous History Month.  We can fill up the card over the summer by reading books, going to a powwow and in many other steps.  Cards and instructions can be found at:  Find the Bingo Card, Instructions, and Resource List here.  Mary Thompson, Chairperson, Justice through Service Committee

 

Recent Significant Birthdays

Best wishes to:

May 20 – Jack Pym celebrated his 99th Birthday

June 3-- Dennis Eaton celebrated his 90th birthday.

 

A note from a new Community Gardener

A friend of Karin Packull’s writes: (edited for length) Hi, Karin,   I was over at the church garden today.  Wood was being delivered to put around the base of the gardens so many people were there setting up their gardens.  I have to tell you, everyone was so kind.  So many helped me get set up.  I couldn't have done it without them.  I was so touched by their kindness and willingness to help me.  What a church you belong to!  I tell you, by the end, I was getting teary; I was just so touched by everyone's kindness.  With all the ugliness and greed happening around us, it was just so wonderful to be with people who pitch in and help each other so easily, so graciously.  What a wonderful group of people.

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Mount Kitchen Food Ministry ​​​​​​​​

The kitchen is closed for the summer ☀️! Thanks to everyone who placed food orders from our menu. On May 28, we held our 'Thank You Luncheon' for our dedicated volunteers. 👏 They are:  Wednesdays and Thursdays - Hermine, Vi, Karin, Helga, Joan, Jacquelyn, Jan and Lorraine. Our hard-working dishwasher crew - Alma and Patrick. Rob, our 'always with a smile' delivery person. Margaret for ordering our supplies, meat and produce. Patrick for delivering our dishes to Better Tent City Ardelt every week, Cobbs Bread for donating the bread and sweets, DISTRO for delivery of our share of the bread, and of course Mrs Bell for preparing our meals every week. 🫶Jane Schlegel, MZ Kitchen Food Ministry 

 

Summer Notes

Open Sesame continues until the end of June

Shuffleboard ended on May 27th and will return in the fall

Exercise class will end on June 30th and return in the fall.

Mount Zion Café will return in the fall

• Girls’ Rock Summer Camp runs 7 weeks this summer.  Last day is Aug. 21st.

• Camp weeks are scheduled for July 6, July 13, July 20, July 27, August 4 (4 days), August 10, and August 17.

• Wednesday Chinese Seniors group moves to Saturdays from July 11 – Aug. 22 due to the Girls' summer camp program.

• Stripping/waxing of floors:  could be done in July for Open Sesame. School is ready to set up in August for the school start.

• Stripping/waxing of floors UPPER LEVEL: could be done week of Aug. 24.  No rentals allowed that week.

• Shampooing carpets Upper Level:  could be done week of Aug. 24.