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September 16, 2026

Hello Gathering Church, 

May you know God’s strength and love as we enter Fall—a season of many new beginnings, a season of harvest, a season of transition in creation and in our lives.  

In early September, Rocco’s father was diagnosed with lung cancer and given two months to live.  Rocco’s dad has lived a life of commitment to his family, hard work and extending loveand hospitality to many.  Rocco’s parents live in Niagara Falls meaning there will be many trips to and from Niagara Falls over the next number of weeks. We join in grieving with Rocco, Doris and their family in this season of caring for Rocco’s father, savouring time and conversation and preparing for his end of life. 

Rocco has requested a leave of absence to tend to his father and family in this time.  The Board and I have accepted this request of a leave, which begins immediately, and offer our blessings to Rocco as he steps away from ministry responsibilities.  

The Board and Vision and Care will be offering extra care and support to the church, ministry and myself in Rocco’s absence.  

Please join in praying for Rocco and Doris, their grown children and grandchildren as they walk in this season.  

Rocco and Doris welcome words of encouragement and “hello” through emails at rd.maiolo@gmail.com

Please reach out to Leadership or myself with any questions.

It is good to be the family of God, a gathered community where we rejoice with one another and grieve with one another, lightening the burdens we carry.

God’s Peace

Leadership Board and Catherine

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, 

so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. 

Romans 15:13