This is a group of dedicated individuals who are all about the ministry of companionship, including chatting on the phone; visiting congregational members in their homes, in hospital or care facilities; meeting for coffee and conversation; going for a stroll; accompanying someone to a church event; sharing a prayer; or just being present in quiet. Bringing the comfort of a gentle, caring, respectful, and friendly presence is what this ministry is all about. Of course, it requires respect for complete confidentiality. Members of this group are supported by the Minister for Community Wellness and are encouraged to participate in pastorally-focused presentations and workshops at Cummer, oriented to supporting them in their ministry. If you want to learn more about this ministry – either to receive companionship support or to volunteer as a group member – contact the Minister for Community Wellness kshea@cummeravenueuc.ca (416) 222-5417 Ext.#202.

This ministry welcomes all who knit, crochet and weave. It’s simple, really – we provide the yarn, a selection of simple patterns, and members knit their pattern of choice. Prayer Shawl makers are encouraged to begin and end each session with a prayer; some will offer simple prayers to accompany their stitch pattern, throughout the creation of their shawl. Our shawls are then blessed, and lovingly stored until someone in need, or someone marking an especially joyous occasion, is gifted with one. This is how a Prayer Shawl is born! Our shawls are made from soft yarns, completely washable, and ready to be given freely, accompanied by a gift card with a note about the Prayer Shawl – ready to be wrapped around the shoulders of the person receiving it, to offer comfort, healing, care, and gratitude.

In an effort to more deeply understand the important link between mind, body and spirit, our ministry for Community Wellness explores the ways that nature enriches us, offers healing and support, and teaches us about the importance of being attentive to that which is around us – along with the positive effects on our physical, mental and spiritual health. Our Nature Reflection Walks, offered in the Spring and Fall, are an open invitation to learn from nature. On these accessible walks, we stroll along a designated Forest Therapy Trail, making several stops along the way to listen in silence to the sounds of nature, and hear brief reflections from various religious & indigenous traditions, on the role nature can play in bringing us closer to that which is Holy in our lives. These are wonderful ways to get some fresh air, a little exercise, and meet some new friends, while reaping the benefits of nature all around us, and learning a little something about religious traditions other than our own, as well as learning from the wisdom of Indigenous traditions. Our Fresh Flower Arranging, and Christmas Evergreen Arranging Workshops, held just prior to Christmas, and in the midst of the grey, cold months of winter, provide a much-welcomed relief from the cold, and remind us to stay hopeful, because spring is around the corner! We work with fresh evergreen boughs in early December, and fresh cut flowers in January/February, learning ways of arranging them and making beautiful creations to bring home. These activities provide an essential lift to our spirits, improving our mental health during these sometimes-difficult months of winter – and enable us to meet new friends, and be a part of a growing community of faith. Cummer’s Ministry for Community Wellness is excited to begin looking at some new happenings in the area of Environmental and Climate Justice, as together we explore what it means to protect and care for our precious planet. Follow us on social media to learn what’s happening! Or contact our Ministry for Community Wellness: kshea@cummeravenueuc.ca (416) 222-5417 x 202.

Our faith community is fortunate to have a steadfast group of people who have committed themselves to praying privately for those who are struggling with physical, mental, spiritual or emotional challenges. We also offer prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving for those experiencing deep joy and happiness in their lives. Praying on behalf of others is a powerful way to respond to Jesus’ call to love one another. Opportunities to explore a deeper understanding of prayer are offered throughout the year, as a support to the prayer team members. All prayer requests are strictly confidential, and can be submitted to the Minister for Community Wellness : kshea@cummeravenueuc.ca (416) 222-5417 x 202.