Our Passions |
WorshipThe diversity of Highlands can be observed in our worship life. We have two Sunday morning services. The larger service, at 9:30am, features an innovative and lively worship style, particularly appealing to families with young children, although people of all ages attend and enjoy the experience. The sermon is brief, leaving lots of room for the contemporary musical anthems and contributions.The smaller service, at 11:00am, reflects the traditional style and more meditative format of worship in the United Church. The sermon is longer, in the more conventional style. This service is supported by a fine choir whose singing supports this quieter style of worship. Between these two services, attenders at both meet for a lively coffee hour where friendship, visiting and written information are shared. We are currently exploring the possibility of adding some worship services in the style of Taize and in more contemporary styles. Stay tuned!
Our Vision and BeliefsOur Vision Statement We are at a pivotal moment at Highlands. Our Vision statement reflects the reality, hopes and dreams of the whole Congregation, while leading us to new and re-energized mission initiatives. Our Ministry Plan seeks to outline a vision of God’s call to Highlands United Church at this particular time in our life and in our history. Highlands values inclusivity, ministry of the Laity, good order, innovation, community mindedness, healing, and having fun together. We care about one another, support each other in life transitions and want to experience our faith being lived out in the way we treat one another. Our deepest desire is to continue to serve God's global village from our location in Edgemont Village. This Ministry Plan calls for us to intentionally organize our ministry life into a Small Group Ministry format. There are 5 priority areas in which we will positively stimulate small groups:
As more people feel empowered to join small groups in the areas of their gifts and interests, we will move towards creating a culture in the Congregation that recognizes:
Anytime, And is done by everyone. Please take time to read our Ministry Plan and Vision Statement (available above).
YouthHighlands has active, engaging and vibrant programs for youth!For events and info, please visit the youth page.
EducationIn addition to education for children and youth, Highlands is also committed to adult education.Our church library encourages healthy reading by offering a great selection of books and videos. Recently, the Highlands Book Club has been launched - check out our events calendar for information on locations and times. Bible study groups and other courses are also offered on a seasonal basis. If you're looking for further resources on the Internet, check out our Links page.
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MusicWith over 200 people participating in 4 choirs, music is an important part of life at Highlands.
A choir for children ages 5 to grade two. Practises most Thursdays (September-April) from 6:30pm to 7pm.
A choir for children and youth grades 3 to 12. Practises most Thursday evenings (September-May) from 6pm to 7:30pm.
This choir's membership is made up from adults and young adults who have graduated high school, and sings at the 9:30 service on Sunday morning. Focusses on the more contemporary repertoire, and rehearses most Thursday evenings during the school year from 8:00pm to 9:30pm.
An adult choir that focusses on more traditional repertoire, and sings at the 11:00 service on Sunday morning. Rehearses most Thursday evenings during the school year from 7:30pm to 9:00pm. Highlands also has opportunities for instrumental participation, whether that be in our handbell ensemble or as part of an impromptu worship band. For more information on any of these music activities, please contact a member of our music staff.
OutreachHighlands is committed to concerns outside of the local congregation.Locally, this means working in partnership with community organizations - involves keeping informed of the needs of the organizations, serving as volunteers and financial support where appropriate. We have on-going partnerships with Capilano Community Services Society, First United Church Mission, WISH (Women's Information and Safe House), Camp Fircom and the Pregnant and Parenting Teen Program in North Vancouver. Globally, Highlands has an ongoing partnership with the women of Nuestra Voz (Our Voice) in Guatemala, supports the work of the Ecumenical Task Force for Justice in the Americas, and participates in refugee sponsorship programmes. Givings to the Mission and Service Fund also support the work of the global church.
ChildrenSunday MorningOn Sunday mornings there are two services. At the 9:30 service, there are programs in which all children can participate - including a nursery for children aged two and under.
Sunday School Registration 2007 (pdf, 50k) Before children go to their Sunday morning programs, they are invited to participate in the service for the first 15 minutes, which includes a story time with the children that is related to a particular scripture.  Throughout the year, there are opportunities to participate in intergenerational services. If you are interested in being involved in specific ways with Children’s Ministry here at Highlands, please contact Cheryl Black. Choir Highlands has a fantastic music program which includes two choirs for children and youth. For more information, check out the music section. Programs/Clubs Highlands also supports childrens' programming that takes place throughout the week. There are several groups of Cubs, Scouts and Guides. For more information please contact the church office. |