Canora worshippers gather outdoors for Community in Bloom week

CANORA — As part of Community in Bloom week, Canora and area worshippers gathered in King George Park for a non-denominational church service on Aug. 10.

Worship leader Gwen Machnee welcomed all those in attendance.

“We’re glad you’re here this morning to praise God in the presence of nature,” said Machnee, before leading the opening prayer.

“We thank you Lord God for the many blessings you give us. Bless our service this morning. Bless the Town of Canora and surrounding area, and help us all to turn to you in praise.”

Providing uplifting music for the service were Carolyn Bright (keyboard), A.J. Bathgate (tenor ukulele), Pastor Greg Bright (guitar, vocals) and Wes Popoff (bass). Songs included Jesus Put This Song into Our Hearts, Our God, Oh, for a Thousand Tongues and Grace Like Rain.

Jake Van Alten shared scripture passages from Psalms 62:5–8 and John 9:1–12.

In the meditation entitled Who is Blind, Pastor Bright recalled a highlight from a Canora performance years ago by students from the now-closed Bethany College.

“They put on a drama telling the Bible story we read today,” said Bright. “One thing I will never forget is the blind man’s ‘seeing-eye-camel.’ It was there, on the stage—but just in our imaginations. The camel led the blind man to the Pool of Siloam. It was a comical add-on to the story. But I have never forgotten it.

“I love the reversals. The blind see—and the ones who think they see vividly display their blindness. The one who is judged to have been ‘steeped in sin at birth’ lectures those who are too pious to recognize or acknowledge their own lostness. And yet, there are those among them who ask real questions—and to whom Jesus gives real answers.”

Bright reflected on how the man healed of blindness challenged those who condemned him, noting the irony that those claiming to see clearly were, in fact, blind. He quoted scripture showing how the man defended Jesus’s actions as the work of God.

Bright said the lesson is to be careful in condemning others, remembering that only God sees the heart. Instead, he urged offering healing, forgiveness and opportunities to believe.

The service concluded with the benediction: “Now may the Lord bless you and watch over you as you watch Him and your eyes are opened to Him. Share what you learn about Him with others. Have a great week as you enjoy all there is to share and experience in our community.”

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