LAHAVE-NEW DUBLIN PASTORAL CHARGE
PASTORAL CHARGE
HISTORY
We are a rural two-point pastoral charge that has experienced much 'Congregational Transformation' years before Roy Oswald made it the buzzword of our denomination. In the 1970’s, we were a seven-point charge in partnership with four Presbyterian congregations in the area. In 1983, a local initiative to consolidate and build one community church resulted in the Presbyterian congregations withdrawing from the partnership and the United Church congregations proceeding towards amalgamation independently.
Two congregations (LaHave and Mount Pleasant United) amalgamated and, with tremendous physical and personal input from members and adherents, together with the assistance of a 'Venture in Missions' loan from the national church, built West Side United in Pentz. Their former churches were dismantled after serviceable elements were incorporated into the new structure. The third congregation, in West Dublin, chose to remain unchanged and the charge operates with two points. Over the years, conscious efforts have been made to minimize any 'big sister, little sister' way of thinking. We are a forward thinking group and reference to the past is usually only heard at anniversary services.
Since 1985, we have been blessed in ministry by the Rev’s Calder Fraser, Gordon MacLean, George MacLean, James Fraser, Mark MacLean, Sally McShane and (current Minister) Neil McEwen; and Student Ministers Wilfred Pelley, Harold King, Doreen Daley and Nancy Ritchie.
OUTREACH
Early in 2003, the theme of 'Outreach' was adopted by the pastoral charge and it serves as the focus of activity for the Session and ministry personnel. A Pastoral Care Team of six caring individuals was recruited, trained and commissioned to reach out to people in our pastoral charge who are in need of special visits. A pictorial brochure, which tells our story to church families and newcomers, has been produced for use as an outreach tool. However, meaningful, consistent Christian Development is an ongoing challenge.
A member of each congregation participates in an ecumenical committee that sponsors a World Day of Prayer service each year. As well, a Lenten Bible Study was held at West Side United this year. Our dedication to outreach to the broader United Church can be seen in our strong support for the Mission and Service Fund and the Beads of Hope Campaign. We also have dedicated members of our congregations who are deeply committed to and involved in the work of our presbytery, conference and General Council.
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VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES
We are fortunate to have a large group of dedicated volunteers who provide enthusiastic support for Spring and Fall fundraisers as well as the 'Summer Fling'. At the same time, we recognize that, as our congregations age, this type of support is becoming more scarce. The Stewards in our Pastoral Charge choose not to go into debt. If a shortfall is predicted, they prefer to raise the money rather than borrow on a line of credit. To this end, they oversee luncheons, bakeless bake sales, a 'rockathon' and similar activities on an ad hoc basis. Our congregations are encouraged to participate in several banquet-style events each year as well as supporting three units of the UCW and a WA, two choirs and occasional Bible Study groups. All congregants are encouraged to give our three UCW units and the WA, the M&P committee, the Pastoral Care committee, our elected Presbytery representative and the Stewards, Trustees and Session as much participative, financial and spiritual support as possible.
Congregations
The LaHave-New Dublin Pastoral Charge is a two-point charge consisting of West Side United and West Dublin United Churches.
West Side United Church:
This church is situated on the west bank of the LaHave river in Pentz, approximately 15 kms. from Bridgewater.
The building structure, completed in 1985, is constructed in the shape of a T. The top of the T is 63 ft. long and 37 ft. wide. It contains a 140 seat sanctuary, minister's study, large foyer, photocopy room, storage area, and an upper room suitable for meetings/Sunday school. The stem of the T is a hall which is 69 ft. long and 42 ft. wide, with southern exposure of glass doors and windows. The opposite side consists of a choir room, nursery, washrooms, kitchen, and storage area, which are electrically heated.
The West Side United Church seeks to offer a ministry of joy to those who attend. Puppets are used to help children understand the lessons of the Bible. A place is set aside in the back of the sanctuary with playpen, rocking chair, small chairs and a table for the little tots to play while worship is taking place. Our wonderful organist Cecilia Haughn along with the choir lead the community in music taken from the United Church hymn books Voices United and More Voices. Drama is used to help people reflect on their faith. The members of the Joint Session of the Pastoral Charge are seeking new ways to educate, inform and inspire the people within its care. Many programs and special services are planned throughout the year to meet these goals.
Three U.C.W. units hold regular monthly meetings and combined tri-monthly meetings.
Membership at West Side United consists of approximately 106 families. Average attendance is approximately 50/60 persons. Strengths of the congregation include the ability to put aside differences and work together for the good of the church, a strong commitment to financial stability for the church and a strong belief in the continued existence of the church.
West Dublin United Church:
Situated in West Dublin, approximately 15 kms. from West Side United, this is a 103 year old wooden structure with vinyl siding. It has an electric organ, a chemical toilet, a new electric heating system and a rear choir room with separate exit. The sanctuary holds approximately 130 people.
The Women's Association group is comprised of approximately 15 members. Membership at West Dublin consists of approximately 45 families with an average attendance of approximately 15 to 20.
The West Dublin Church is well known for it's yearly Christmas caroling to those who are unable to attend the weekly services. The church seeks to be a symbol of God's love and care in the community.
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The Lighthouse Spirit
The Lighthouse Spirit is an
outreach initiative which uses
the symbolic language of the
lighthouse and all it implies
to reflect our purpose:
through the Spirit of God we will find ways to be a light to those in need.
