It never ceases to amaze me how transformative a sunny winter day can be! It’s so life-giving, so energizing, I feel happier, I get easily excited about life. I am more joyful.  The good energy seems to radiate out. 


It’s a sharp contrast to those overcast winter days, I have to work harder at tapping into that joy of life.  The sun is still there but its rays and its impact seems muted. It feels like someone has covered the sun. It hasn’t gone away, it just seems like there is an apple bushel (basket) over it. 

The same is true for God’s light, it has been there before we were born. God’s life-giving energy resides in us. Our gospel reminds us that it is always there, even when we feel grey. It’s just hidden by the proverbial bushels that we put over it. 


Over the years, I have had to learn to remove my bushel of self-depreciation. Everytime I share an idea or thought Everytime I allow my light to shine) I give myself a little pep-talk “Roni you have great ideas, Your thoughts add value in God’s world. They align with God’s law of love.”

I had a kindergarten teacher who discouraged me from sharing my ideas in-class. She actually complained to my parents, asking them to discourage me from speaking up, and I internalized that no one wanted to hear my ideas. So I learned to intentionally remove that bushel and speak up, so that my light can shine!


Do you experience a sunny winter day, as transformative? How do you experience God’s light shining through you and others? What are some of the bushels you wear? Jesus prompts us to remove them.  Let’s explore together on Sunday February 8th at 10:00 am at Lowville United Church. 

Jesus says that we are light.  We all have the capacity to shine. May our lives be shining lights that bless God’s world! 


Please note that I am on study leave (February 9th to 16th).  Rev. Carolin MacMillan from Appleby United Church, will be providing emergency pastoral care. 


Watch out for information on our Lenten Study “Practicing the Way” by John Mark Comer. I will soon be sharing some more information about the book. It is a fantastic read, whether or not you choose to be part of the small group! More details to follow soon. 


Have a Blessed Weekend. 

Rev. Roni


  • WORSHIP COMMITTEE meeting Sunday following service.


  • STUDY LEAVE  for Rev Roni (Feb 9 - 16) for Emergency Pastoral Care contact Rev Carolin MacMillan at Appleby United Church during this study period. 


  • UCW  meeting Wed Feb 11 (11:30am) Zimmerman Rm.  Bring your lunch.  Afterwards at 1pm Presentation by Patrick Gallagher -  repairing the 16’ round stained glass Rose Window at St Paul’s U.C. Milton.  Everyone is welcome.


  • VOLUNTEERS NEEDED  to help at the pancake supper. Contact Karen if you can help [email protected] or 905 691-1859.


  • LOWVILLE PANCAKE SUPPER  Tues Feb 17 (5-7pm)  Cash only  Adults - $12, Children (6-11) $8, (5 and under) FREE   (includes Ice Cream, Coffee, Tea or Juice).  Invite your neighbours! (See attachment below)


  • REV RONI’S OFFICE HOURS  at our Church are Mon, Tues & Wed (10am-3pm) Contact Info: [email protected] or Cell (416) 271- 5313 (text, email or phone for appointment).


  • REFRESHMENTS for after worship.  Sign-up Sheet is  on the Zimmerman Rm Bulletin Board (south/east wall).