Humphrey Memorial and Stilesville United Churches in Moncton, New Brunswick, amalgamated in 2011 to become Visions United Church. Hear Pam Harrison’s story of some visionary younger members.

In February 2012, it was announced that Canada would no longer use the penny. Children at Visions United took advantage of this news: “Let’s collect pennies!” Their aim was to celebrate the church’s first anniversary May 1. Every Saturday as part of worship, they placed rolls of coins around the church—up the aisle, across the front, and back—with a goal of 366 rolls, one for each day of their first year (2011 was a leap year). Each week they reported the total, and people just kept bringing in the rolls! By the end of the project in April, they had reached more than their target, and many folks donated rolls of nickels, dimes, and quarters for a total of $420.

Next the children viewed the gifts then available in the United Church’s Gifts with Vision catalogue, reading the wonderful stories of our partners’ work around the world. Their leader answered questions, and soon the youth made three choices: two Wells for Life in Zambia ($200), 11 visits to the doctor in the Gaza Strip ($130), and 18 Christmas dinners for Canadian children from low-income families ($90). With only $420, they touched two villages and 29 individuals. Working with our partners, we can make a big difference here at home and around the world.

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