Everyone needs a representative
Everyone needs a representative at times in their lives. Someone chosen or appointed to speak or act on their behalf. Someone who will represent our interests. We look for a real estate agent when selling our homes to do this. We hire a lawyer to do so regarding legal matters. We vote for political candidates hoping they will do the same. But most importantly, we need a spiritual representative.
Who will represent us before God? Who will advocate and plead our case before His throne? Who will take our prayers and lay them before God? Join us this Sunday online for dynamic worship and the message, Who Represents You?
We have many pressing matters that we want to represent on behalf of others before God in prayer. We are praying for families who are grieving the loss of their precious loved ones. We lost a dear member of church family this past week as Audrey Elliott passed away suddenly on Monday, April 26 in the hospital. She was a lovely lady full of life, energy, and love for God. Her presence in our lives will be greatly missed. Shirley Butler lost her son Richard suddenly as well. We are believing for the healing and recovery of about half a dozen people in our church who have COVID. We will also be asking God for a miracle and His healing hand to be upon Pastor Kim as she prepares for brain surgery to remove a tumour in the next couple of weeks. Would you please join us tonight, for our Upper Room Prayer Meeting and represent these folks and their needs before the throne of God? Because everyone needs a representative.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Everyone needs a representative at times in their lives. Someone chosen or appointed to speak or act on their behalf. Someone who will represent our interests. We look for a real estate agent when selling our homes to do this. We hire a lawyer to do so regarding legal matters. We vote for political candidates hoping they will do the same. But most importantly, we need a spiritual representative.
Who will represent us before God? Who will advocate and plead our case before His throne? Who will take our prayers and lay them before God? Join us this Sunday online for dynamic worship and the message, Who Represents You?
We have many pressing matters that we want to represent on behalf of others before God in prayer. We are praying for families who are grieving the loss of their precious loved ones. We lost a dear member of church family this past week as Audrey Elliott passed away suddenly on Monday, April 26 in the hospital. She was a lovely lady full of life, energy, and love for God. Her presence in our lives will be greatly missed. Shirley Butler lost her son Richard suddenly as well. We are believing for the healing and recovery of about half a dozen people in our church who have COVID. We will also be asking God for a miracle and His healing hand to be upon Pastor Kim as she prepares for brain surgery to remove a tumour in the next couple of weeks. Would you please join us tonight, for our Upper Room Prayer Meeting and represent these folks and their needs before the throne of God? Because everyone needs a representative.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
More of the same.
For a third time, we have faced the closure of our church building to in-person services. It seems like we just continue to face more of the same things this year that we dealt with last year. Anyone getting a little tired of the same old thing? Sometimes it can feel real monotonous and boring. Like many things in life, we get tired of the same old things, whether it’s the food we eat, the clothes we wear, our hairstyles and even our daily routines. We want to spice it up a bit with some variety and try to keep it fresh.
However, there are some things in life that we are counting on to remain the same. In fact, it is imperative that the really important issues of life remain unchanged. Discover the things you absolutely do not want to see change in this Sunday’s message, More of the Same. When you grasp these truths you will truly seek for more of the same!
We look forward to you joining us for our online service this Sunday!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
For a third time, we have faced the closure of our church building to in-person services. It seems like we just continue to face more of the same things this year that we dealt with last year. Anyone getting a little tired of the same old thing? Sometimes it can feel real monotonous and boring. Like many things in life, we get tired of the same old things, whether it’s the food we eat, the clothes we wear, our hairstyles and even our daily routines. We want to spice it up a bit with some variety and try to keep it fresh.
However, there are some things in life that we are counting on to remain the same. In fact, it is imperative that the really important issues of life remain unchanged. Discover the things you absolutely do not want to see change in this Sunday’s message, More of the Same. When you grasp these truths you will truly seek for more of the same!
We look forward to you joining us for our online service this Sunday!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
God's Message of the Cross
We are hearing so many messages today. We hear and see messages ranging from talking about our health, what to eat, raising our kids to where we go on vacation even during these times!
Sometimes we are not sure what messages to listen to because we are skeptical of some of the sources and content. However, cutting through all these messages, there is a message that holds true for all of us. It is a message from God to us that brings us hope and a future. This message is “God’s Message of the Cross.”
Jesus was not the first one to die on a cross. It has been estimated that by the time of Christ, the Romans had crucified approximately 30,000 men in Palestine alone – nor would Jesus be the last. Yet, over 2000 years later He is the only One to be remembered and celebrated.
What makes Jesus’ death on the cross uniquely different from all the others? What is God’s message about the Cross? In this weekend’s message, join us as Pastor Charles preaches a powerful sermon on God’s Message of the Cross.
Blessings,
Pastor Wayne Russell
Associate Pastor
We are hearing so many messages today. We hear and see messages ranging from talking about our health, what to eat, raising our kids to where we go on vacation even during these times!
Sometimes we are not sure what messages to listen to because we are skeptical of some of the sources and content. However, cutting through all these messages, there is a message that holds true for all of us. It is a message from God to us that brings us hope and a future. This message is “God’s Message of the Cross.”
Jesus was not the first one to die on a cross. It has been estimated that by the time of Christ, the Romans had crucified approximately 30,000 men in Palestine alone – nor would Jesus be the last. Yet, over 2000 years later He is the only One to be remembered and celebrated.
What makes Jesus’ death on the cross uniquely different from all the others? What is God’s message about the Cross? In this weekend’s message, join us as Pastor Charles preaches a powerful sermon on God’s Message of the Cross.
Blessings,
Pastor Wayne Russell
Associate Pastor
Moving Stones In Our Lives
We continue to face increasing challenges in our lives and society at this moment. Sometimes it feels like the stones of life’s challenges are getting larger and larger.
In a riverbed, stones and rocks are like obstacles that block the flow of water. If there are a few of them, water tends to find its way around these obstacles. But if there are enough of them, or the stone and rocks are big enough, they can literally dam up a river and cause serious problems.
Life is filled with challenges and obstacles that become like rocks and stones in our life. But we must remember that with God, there is either a way around the obstacle, or He can suddenly remove them. Our God is greater than anything we will ever face. Our God is stronger, mighty to save, able to deliver, and glorious to heal. Our God is higher than any other. He is able to do immeasurably more that we could ask or think.
In this weekend’s message, we will discover how God wants us to face the obstacles of life. Join us and invite Him to roll your ‘stone’ away.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We continue to face increasing challenges in our lives and society at this moment. Sometimes it feels like the stones of life’s challenges are getting larger and larger.
In a riverbed, stones and rocks are like obstacles that block the flow of water. If there are a few of them, water tends to find its way around these obstacles. But if there are enough of them, or the stone and rocks are big enough, they can literally dam up a river and cause serious problems.
Life is filled with challenges and obstacles that become like rocks and stones in our life. But we must remember that with God, there is either a way around the obstacle, or He can suddenly remove them. Our God is greater than anything we will ever face. Our God is stronger, mighty to save, able to deliver, and glorious to heal. Our God is higher than any other. He is able to do immeasurably more that we could ask or think.
In this weekend’s message, we will discover how God wants us to face the obstacles of life. Join us and invite Him to roll your ‘stone’ away.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Facing Your Hope
We are in the midst of Holy Week, which marks the final week of Jesus Christ’s life on earth and His sufferings on the cross for our sins. It was on this day that, Peter and John were sent to make preparations for Passover. After sunset, Jesus ate the Passover meal with His disciples, instituted the Lord’s Supper, and then washed their feet. He departs to spend time agonizing in prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, followed by the arrival of Judas and the authorities to arrest Jesus, and set in motion His trials, crucifixion, burial, and ultimate resurrection.
Together we will remember Jesus’ death on the cross for our sins at our Good Friday Communion Service. It will feature a special solo of the new song, Thank You Jesus For The Blood, as we prepare to gather together around the Communion table. Pastor Wayne’s message, His Cross, My Crutch, will drive home the truth of the power of the cross in our lives. So plan to join us, and also extend an invitation to others to engage in the online service. Be sure to prepare your communion elements of grape juice and bread in advance so you can participate with us.
We will engage in fervent prayer at our Good Friday Upper Room Prayer Gathering as we pray through the final sayings of Christ upon the cross.
Then there will be a grand celebration of the resurrection of Jesus at our Easter Sunday Celebration Service! It will feature a special presentation by our children and a powerful rendition of the song, He Lives, by our virtual choir. My message will encourage you to face your sense of hopelessness like the early disciples did by Facing Our Hope. Pray with us that God’s presence will be mighty all over the world as we gather to lift up the name of Jesus!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We are in the midst of Holy Week, which marks the final week of Jesus Christ’s life on earth and His sufferings on the cross for our sins. It was on this day that, Peter and John were sent to make preparations for Passover. After sunset, Jesus ate the Passover meal with His disciples, instituted the Lord’s Supper, and then washed their feet. He departs to spend time agonizing in prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, followed by the arrival of Judas and the authorities to arrest Jesus, and set in motion His trials, crucifixion, burial, and ultimate resurrection.
Together we will remember Jesus’ death on the cross for our sins at our Good Friday Communion Service. It will feature a special solo of the new song, Thank You Jesus For The Blood, as we prepare to gather together around the Communion table. Pastor Wayne’s message, His Cross, My Crutch, will drive home the truth of the power of the cross in our lives. So plan to join us, and also extend an invitation to others to engage in the online service. Be sure to prepare your communion elements of grape juice and bread in advance so you can participate with us.
We will engage in fervent prayer at our Good Friday Upper Room Prayer Gathering as we pray through the final sayings of Christ upon the cross.
Then there will be a grand celebration of the resurrection of Jesus at our Easter Sunday Celebration Service! It will feature a special presentation by our children and a powerful rendition of the song, He Lives, by our virtual choir. My message will encourage you to face your sense of hopelessness like the early disciples did by Facing Our Hope. Pray with us that God’s presence will be mighty all over the world as we gather to lift up the name of Jesus!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Facing The Crowd
Last week we spoke about how Jesus faced his future as He journeyed towards Jerusalem and ultimately the cross. In the story of Lazarus, we learned that we often we have expectations that Jesus will keep trouble away, or that as believers we should stay away from trouble when see it. But Jesus shows us that it’s not about living safe but rather by knowing we are secure when we are pursuing the will and glory of God in our lives.
This weekend marks the beginning of Holy Week, or the Passion Week of Christ, which is the final week of Christ’s life on earth and His journey towards the cross. It begins with His triumphal entry into Jerusalem on what we call Palm Sunday, as the people waved palm branches and worshipped Him as the Messiah. In this Sunday’s message we will look at what Jesus experienced from the crowds of people when he rode into Jerusalem that day, and where we might have been if we were in that crowd.
It is interesting that the opportunity to re-open the church building for in-person worship services coincides with this celebration. We are thrilled that so many of you quickly chose to register for service. We pray that whether you are joining us in person or online, that you will come to this weekend with a spirit of praise and worship in your heart for Jesus!
Please note that registration for our Good Friday Communion Service will run from Monday to Wednesday next week. Registration for Easter Sunday Service will run from Wednesday through Friday. You must arrive between 10:00 am and 10:45 am, and follow all the safety protocols. Whether you attend in person or online, it’s going to be an incredible week of services as we celebrate and remember the final week of Jesus life, His death on the cross, His burial and His resurrection. All done on our behalf so we could have a loving, vibrant relationship with God our heavenly Father. Let’s worship Jesus with all of our hearts!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Last week we spoke about how Jesus faced his future as He journeyed towards Jerusalem and ultimately the cross. In the story of Lazarus, we learned that we often we have expectations that Jesus will keep trouble away, or that as believers we should stay away from trouble when see it. But Jesus shows us that it’s not about living safe but rather by knowing we are secure when we are pursuing the will and glory of God in our lives.
This weekend marks the beginning of Holy Week, or the Passion Week of Christ, which is the final week of Christ’s life on earth and His journey towards the cross. It begins with His triumphal entry into Jerusalem on what we call Palm Sunday, as the people waved palm branches and worshipped Him as the Messiah. In this Sunday’s message we will look at what Jesus experienced from the crowds of people when he rode into Jerusalem that day, and where we might have been if we were in that crowd.
It is interesting that the opportunity to re-open the church building for in-person worship services coincides with this celebration. We are thrilled that so many of you quickly chose to register for service. We pray that whether you are joining us in person or online, that you will come to this weekend with a spirit of praise and worship in your heart for Jesus!
Please note that registration for our Good Friday Communion Service will run from Monday to Wednesday next week. Registration for Easter Sunday Service will run from Wednesday through Friday. You must arrive between 10:00 am and 10:45 am, and follow all the safety protocols. Whether you attend in person or online, it’s going to be an incredible week of services as we celebrate and remember the final week of Jesus life, His death on the cross, His burial and His resurrection. All done on our behalf so we could have a loving, vibrant relationship with God our heavenly Father. Let’s worship Jesus with all of our hearts!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Springing Forward
Things are moving forward. We are moving from the winter season to spring. We just turned our clocks forward an hour. We are moving towards the highlight of the year, the Passion Week of Christ. Now, we are also springing forward towards the reopening of our building for in-person services again, beginning on Palm Sunday – March 28. What a joy to know we can gather together again on the day we commemorate Jesus’ triumphal entry into the city of Jerusalem, welcoming the people to worship Him as the Messiah!
As we reopen the church building again for worship services, we remind you that you must register to attend services. Online registration will open each week on Mondays and is limited to 15% capacity. The protocols will be the same as before. So please arrive between 10:00 am and 10:30 am, and check-in at the registration desk. You will be required to wear a mask, hand sanitize, and maintain social distancing once you enter the building. We are calling on our incredible volunteers to once again to help us. So, if you are a volunteer please look for an email requesting you to sign-up to serve in various capacities for our Sunday services. We look forward to seeing you again and we welcome you to worship with us in-person as we celebrate Easter!
As we spring forward into this new season of life and ministry, we need to do so with a certain spirit—join us online this Sunday for our worship service and message, Facing The Future, to discover how! We also look forward to all our members joining us for our online Annual Business Meeting at 2 pm. May you have a blessed weekend!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Things are moving forward. We are moving from the winter season to spring. We just turned our clocks forward an hour. We are moving towards the highlight of the year, the Passion Week of Christ. Now, we are also springing forward towards the reopening of our building for in-person services again, beginning on Palm Sunday – March 28. What a joy to know we can gather together again on the day we commemorate Jesus’ triumphal entry into the city of Jerusalem, welcoming the people to worship Him as the Messiah!
As we reopen the church building again for worship services, we remind you that you must register to attend services. Online registration will open each week on Mondays and is limited to 15% capacity. The protocols will be the same as before. So please arrive between 10:00 am and 10:30 am, and check-in at the registration desk. You will be required to wear a mask, hand sanitize, and maintain social distancing once you enter the building. We are calling on our incredible volunteers to once again to help us. So, if you are a volunteer please look for an email requesting you to sign-up to serve in various capacities for our Sunday services. We look forward to seeing you again and we welcome you to worship with us in-person as we celebrate Easter!
As we spring forward into this new season of life and ministry, we need to do so with a certain spirit—join us online this Sunday for our worship service and message, Facing The Future, to discover how! We also look forward to all our members joining us for our online Annual Business Meeting at 2 pm. May you have a blessed weekend!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Living By Revelation
Yesterday (March 11) marked the one-year anniversary of the World Health Organization’s declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic. For an entire year, we have been living with much uncertainty, the devastating impact it has had on people’s hearts and minds, not to mention the loss of life.
This past year has tested our faith, and called us to press into our relationship with Jesus and the principles of His kingdom like never before. The Spirit of God has called us to put down ever-deepening spiritual roots to keep us grounded in God and the truth of His Word.
We are now moving towards the Easter season, a time when we reflect upon who Jesus Christ is and the work He came to do on our behalf. This Sunday we will explore one of the disciple’s experiences with Christ, as he started to prepare them for what He would face during His Passion Week. If there was ever a time we need to be a people who are Living By Revelation, it is today. This Sunday in our online service, discover what Christ wants to reveal to you in this season, so that your anchor holds in the midst of this storm.
A growing number of people are enjoying the experience of reading the 40 Days of Revival daily devotionals and Scriptures together. You can still join us and share your words of insight that will surely encourage others in our journey together.
We also hope you will join us again tonight for our Upper Room Prayer Meeting, as we specifically pray for you, your family and our church to be ‘Graced with Power’ in your lives and ministry.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Yesterday (March 11) marked the one-year anniversary of the World Health Organization’s declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic. For an entire year, we have been living with much uncertainty, the devastating impact it has had on people’s hearts and minds, not to mention the loss of life.
This past year has tested our faith, and called us to press into our relationship with Jesus and the principles of His kingdom like never before. The Spirit of God has called us to put down ever-deepening spiritual roots to keep us grounded in God and the truth of His Word.
We are now moving towards the Easter season, a time when we reflect upon who Jesus Christ is and the work He came to do on our behalf. This Sunday we will explore one of the disciple’s experiences with Christ, as he started to prepare them for what He would face during His Passion Week. If there was ever a time we need to be a people who are Living By Revelation, it is today. This Sunday in our online service, discover what Christ wants to reveal to you in this season, so that your anchor holds in the midst of this storm.
A growing number of people are enjoying the experience of reading the 40 Days of Revival daily devotionals and Scriptures together. You can still join us and share your words of insight that will surely encourage others in our journey together.
We also hope you will join us again tonight for our Upper Room Prayer Meeting, as we specifically pray for you, your family and our church to be ‘Graced with Power’ in your lives and ministry.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Living On Purpose
It’s important in life to have a purpose. Without purpose, what’s the point of getting up every day? Life can’t be just about growing-up, getting a job, taking a few vacations, retiring, and dying, can it? Is that why we are here on earth? I believe each of us are on earth for a special purpose.
Why is purpose so important? A purpose sets the entire context for our lives. A purpose is a master plan for our life. Knowing our purpose helps us define our goals. It helps us avoid getting lost in the minutia of daily life by keeping our eyes on the target. It can make life much more enjoyable and focused. Purpose is not something that others choose for us; rather, it is something God wants to reveal to each one of us. You were made by God for a purpose. Do you know your purpose? Do you want to live your life for that purpose? Discover how in this Sunday’s message, Living On Purpose. Together we will examine someone who epitomizes the concept.
It’s been a wonderful experience reading the 40 Days of Revival daily devotionals and Scriptures together, and reading your comments of insights and reflections. It helps us feel connected to one another in our pursuit of God. We also are praying into those topics every Friday night at our Upper Room Prayer Meeting, so please join us as we pray over the process of purity.
Let’s also continue to pray for the opportunity for our church to re-open, so we can once again meet in-person and worship together!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
It’s important in life to have a purpose. Without purpose, what’s the point of getting up every day? Life can’t be just about growing-up, getting a job, taking a few vacations, retiring, and dying, can it? Is that why we are here on earth? I believe each of us are on earth for a special purpose.
Why is purpose so important? A purpose sets the entire context for our lives. A purpose is a master plan for our life. Knowing our purpose helps us define our goals. It helps us avoid getting lost in the minutia of daily life by keeping our eyes on the target. It can make life much more enjoyable and focused. Purpose is not something that others choose for us; rather, it is something God wants to reveal to each one of us. You were made by God for a purpose. Do you know your purpose? Do you want to live your life for that purpose? Discover how in this Sunday’s message, Living On Purpose. Together we will examine someone who epitomizes the concept.
It’s been a wonderful experience reading the 40 Days of Revival daily devotionals and Scriptures together, and reading your comments of insights and reflections. It helps us feel connected to one another in our pursuit of God. We also are praying into those topics every Friday night at our Upper Room Prayer Meeting, so please join us as we pray over the process of purity.
Let’s also continue to pray for the opportunity for our church to re-open, so we can once again meet in-person and worship together!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Living Here For There
If I find in myself, desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world. — C.S. Lewis
As a believer in Jesus Christ, we live on two planes of existence simultaneously. The New Testament is full of examples of this dual reality. We live in a temporal, visible world but also an invisible, eternal world. Join us this Sunday as we learn how to live in the ‘now’ with the next world in mind in our second message in this series, Driven By Eternity: Living Here For There.
Love is the greatest virtue in the kingdom of God and on earth. We want to thank you for responding to our challenge to connect with someone everyday this past month to express your love and appreciation for them. We hope you will join us this Sunday night for our Family Zoom Meeting as we celebrate the conclusion of our Love Challenge in a unique and fun way!
We are thrilled with the 114 people who have already joined us for our devotional series: 40 Days of Revival. It’s not too late to join us in learning more about God and growing in our relationship with Him through the study of revival. Together we will explore the attributes common to history's greatest revivals. Topics like being present, prayer, purity, power, personal sacrifice and praise—with hearts open to what they might teach us about God and our relationship with Him. Knowing God and His ways is the goal and prize of this time we will spend together. So let's spend the next few weeks together before Easter, growing in our relationship with Christ.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
If I find in myself, desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world. — C.S. Lewis
As a believer in Jesus Christ, we live on two planes of existence simultaneously. The New Testament is full of examples of this dual reality. We live in a temporal, visible world but also an invisible, eternal world. Join us this Sunday as we learn how to live in the ‘now’ with the next world in mind in our second message in this series, Driven By Eternity: Living Here For There.
Love is the greatest virtue in the kingdom of God and on earth. We want to thank you for responding to our challenge to connect with someone everyday this past month to express your love and appreciation for them. We hope you will join us this Sunday night for our Family Zoom Meeting as we celebrate the conclusion of our Love Challenge in a unique and fun way!
We are thrilled with the 114 people who have already joined us for our devotional series: 40 Days of Revival. It’s not too late to join us in learning more about God and growing in our relationship with Him through the study of revival. Together we will explore the attributes common to history's greatest revivals. Topics like being present, prayer, purity, power, personal sacrifice and praise—with hearts open to what they might teach us about God and our relationship with Him. Knowing God and His ways is the goal and prize of this time we will spend together. So let's spend the next few weeks together before Easter, growing in our relationship with Christ.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
What is driving you today?
What is the driving force in your life? You can find the answer to that question in the answers to a few other questions: What do you think about while you're driving to work? What do you think about while you're driving home? What do you think about right before you fall asleep? The answers to these questions will help clarify the driving force in your life. The word ‘driven’ means ‘to propel’. It also means to ‘guide, control, or direct’. What is guiding and motivating your life on this earth? Discover the wisdom of being Driven By Eternity in this Sunday’s online service!
Last weekend was a busy and fruitful time of sharing God’s love with people on the Valentine’s and Family Day holiday. We delivered hot and delicious meals to our senior shut-ins. Then we connected with kids and adults at our Valentine’s Day Drive-Thru sharing God’s love and some sweet treats! Thanks to everyone who helped be a blessing to others and to all who came to experience it. We really enjoyed seeing you in person and having some personal time together!
Our Love Challenge continues to be a great blessing throughout the month of February as people are calling or texting a different person every day and let them know they are loved and appreciated. Thanks for sharing words of encouragement with one another and for building each other up in faith, hope and love!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
What is the driving force in your life? You can find the answer to that question in the answers to a few other questions: What do you think about while you're driving to work? What do you think about while you're driving home? What do you think about right before you fall asleep? The answers to these questions will help clarify the driving force in your life. The word ‘driven’ means ‘to propel’. It also means to ‘guide, control, or direct’. What is guiding and motivating your life on this earth? Discover the wisdom of being Driven By Eternity in this Sunday’s online service!
Last weekend was a busy and fruitful time of sharing God’s love with people on the Valentine’s and Family Day holiday. We delivered hot and delicious meals to our senior shut-ins. Then we connected with kids and adults at our Valentine’s Day Drive-Thru sharing God’s love and some sweet treats! Thanks to everyone who helped be a blessing to others and to all who came to experience it. We really enjoyed seeing you in person and having some personal time together!
Our Love Challenge continues to be a great blessing throughout the month of February as people are calling or texting a different person every day and let them know they are loved and appreciated. Thanks for sharing words of encouragement with one another and for building each other up in faith, hope and love!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Happy Valentine's Day and Family Day!
Interestingly this weekend, Valentine’s Day and the Family Day holiday coincide. Though it’s a time to celebrate various kinds of love, when we combine these two events we are celebrating the gift of 'storge' love (from the Greek). This refers to familial love like that of a mother for her baby, or of a brother and sister for each other. The family is God’s idea and plan from the very beginning of creation. And the family relationship is based on a unique love between family members. Let’s celebrate it this weekend!
As part of this weekend’s celebrations, our youth and young adults will be leading worship and Pastor Josh Cassell will be preaching the Word in his message From Trouble To Triumph. Ever have one of those Mountain Top experiences with God? When you've never felt more passionate, or more zealous for the things of God? What about the valley? Have you ever been through a time in your walk with God where you've never felt more defeated? What do you do when the valley immediately follows the mountain top? Where do you go when your trouble has begun to triumph over your testimony? Let's turn to the Scripture to see how God instructs us how to walk through these moments of doubt that have inflicted humanity from the beginning. He makes a way! Discover how in the message this Sunday!
Then, be sure to pack-up your kids and join us for our Valentine’s Day Drive-Thru where you will be greeted by our staff and blessed with a Valentine’s treat for both kids and adults! We look forward to seeing you!
February is Black History Month, so we encourage you to check out this webpage that shares some incredible stories of black people who have made tremendous contributions to our life and society.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Interestingly this weekend, Valentine’s Day and the Family Day holiday coincide. Though it’s a time to celebrate various kinds of love, when we combine these two events we are celebrating the gift of 'storge' love (from the Greek). This refers to familial love like that of a mother for her baby, or of a brother and sister for each other. The family is God’s idea and plan from the very beginning of creation. And the family relationship is based on a unique love between family members. Let’s celebrate it this weekend!
As part of this weekend’s celebrations, our youth and young adults will be leading worship and Pastor Josh Cassell will be preaching the Word in his message From Trouble To Triumph. Ever have one of those Mountain Top experiences with God? When you've never felt more passionate, or more zealous for the things of God? What about the valley? Have you ever been through a time in your walk with God where you've never felt more defeated? What do you do when the valley immediately follows the mountain top? Where do you go when your trouble has begun to triumph over your testimony? Let's turn to the Scripture to see how God instructs us how to walk through these moments of doubt that have inflicted humanity from the beginning. He makes a way! Discover how in the message this Sunday!
Then, be sure to pack-up your kids and join us for our Valentine’s Day Drive-Thru where you will be greeted by our staff and blessed with a Valentine’s treat for both kids and adults! We look forward to seeing you!
February is Black History Month, so we encourage you to check out this webpage that shares some incredible stories of black people who have made tremendous contributions to our life and society.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
What the heart craves is an experience.
As we discovered last Sunday, everyone is ultimately longing for an overwhelming encounter with God’s love in the depths of their being. God has demonstrated that love to us through the death of His Son Jesus on the cross. He wants you to know that He has loved you for a very long time; that His love for you is the starting place of your journey in a relationship with Him; that His love is working in every crevice of your life. He also wants you to know that nothing can ever cause His love for you to cease. But God desires all that truth to move from your head to your heart. So join us this Sunday for the second part of this message, What The Heart Craves: Love’s True Experience. It’s also Communion Sunday, so please prepare your elements of bread and juice. Extend an invitation to your online friends to join us, and pray they too will have a powerful experience of God’s love!
The Love Challenge has launched for the entire month of February! Throughout this month of February, we challenge you to call or text one different person every day and let them know what you appreciate about them and offer them words of encouragement. Let’s spread the agape (unconditional) love of God with one another!
Upper Room Prayer is tonight at 8pm, based on our topic What The Heart Craves. We will be praying together for the salvation of your our family members. We will also be interceding for our other loved ones who may know the Lord to be taken into a deeper experience in their relationship with God.
Thank you for your donations of non-perishable food items for needy families. We are receiving many calls for assistance right now, so we appreciate your tangible expressions of love for others. Your can drop-off food donations in the church office vestibule weekdays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm throughout this month. You can also deposit your tithes/offerings by placing them in the secure drop box. Thank you for helping us provide this practical expression of love to families in need.
Check out our new PPT Online Store. New items have been added, including resources for our Life Groups. Just go to ppt.church/shop to make your purchases and read the instructions to make arrangements for pick-up.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
As we discovered last Sunday, everyone is ultimately longing for an overwhelming encounter with God’s love in the depths of their being. God has demonstrated that love to us through the death of His Son Jesus on the cross. He wants you to know that He has loved you for a very long time; that His love for you is the starting place of your journey in a relationship with Him; that His love is working in every crevice of your life. He also wants you to know that nothing can ever cause His love for you to cease. But God desires all that truth to move from your head to your heart. So join us this Sunday for the second part of this message, What The Heart Craves: Love’s True Experience. It’s also Communion Sunday, so please prepare your elements of bread and juice. Extend an invitation to your online friends to join us, and pray they too will have a powerful experience of God’s love!
The Love Challenge has launched for the entire month of February! Throughout this month of February, we challenge you to call or text one different person every day and let them know what you appreciate about them and offer them words of encouragement. Let’s spread the agape (unconditional) love of God with one another!
Upper Room Prayer is tonight at 8pm, based on our topic What The Heart Craves. We will be praying together for the salvation of your our family members. We will also be interceding for our other loved ones who may know the Lord to be taken into a deeper experience in their relationship with God.
Thank you for your donations of non-perishable food items for needy families. We are receiving many calls for assistance right now, so we appreciate your tangible expressions of love for others. Your can drop-off food donations in the church office vestibule weekdays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm throughout this month. You can also deposit your tithes/offerings by placing them in the secure drop box. Thank you for helping us provide this practical expression of love to families in need.
Check out our new PPT Online Store. New items have been added, including resources for our Life Groups. Just go to ppt.church/shop to make your purchases and read the instructions to make arrangements for pick-up.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
What The Heart Craves
As this month comes to a close, God has been “opening our eyes” as we have sought the Lord in fasting and prayer. He has been showing us what He wants us to see in our lives, our world, and His kingdom. We shared many wonderful testimonies this past Wednesday night on Pastor’s Chat. So please watch it if you were not able to join us live. It will bless and encourage your heart to hear what God has done and is doing!
Our Upper Room Prayer is tonight at 8pm! We feel led to continue to meet with you for these special evenings, to offer fervent, effectual prayer together on our prayer conference call. Join us this evening as we seek God about some of the current, critical crisis facing our lives and the world today.
We are happy to announce we now have an Online Store on our website! Our first offer is the One Year Bible NLT - Premium Slimline Large Print edition ($25). For those of you who would like to join us on the journey of reading through the entire Bible each year in easy and understandable daily readings. Just go to ppt.church/shop to purchase your Bible and read the instructions to make arrangements for pick-up. You can join us as we start the month of February!
Everyone loves encouragement so please join us for the Love Challenge! Throughout the month of February, we want you to join us in reaching out with the God’s love to others with words of encouragement. Call or text one different person every day and let them know what you appreciate about them. Solomon said, “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.” (Prov.12:25) Let’s reach out to one another with God’s love in our hearts and make some people’s hearts glad this month!
People need a tangible expression of love from our benevolent Food Pantry. During the month of February, we are asking you to make benevolent food donations by dropping them off in the church office vestibule weekdays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. You can also drop-off your tithes and offerings by placing them in the drop-box there. Thank you for helping us provide this practical expression of love right now.
What The Heart Craves. We all want to be swept away, to be loved in spite of ourselves, to be fully accepted, to be cherished, to matter to someone. Join us this Sunday for a message that speaks to this core desire and God’s provision for it. Also invite someone you know who needs to hear this message! We are gaining new subscribers to our YouTube channel every week. So thank you for being a witness and an ambassador for Christ by helping us get the Word out to people!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
As this month comes to a close, God has been “opening our eyes” as we have sought the Lord in fasting and prayer. He has been showing us what He wants us to see in our lives, our world, and His kingdom. We shared many wonderful testimonies this past Wednesday night on Pastor’s Chat. So please watch it if you were not able to join us live. It will bless and encourage your heart to hear what God has done and is doing!
Our Upper Room Prayer is tonight at 8pm! We feel led to continue to meet with you for these special evenings, to offer fervent, effectual prayer together on our prayer conference call. Join us this evening as we seek God about some of the current, critical crisis facing our lives and the world today.
We are happy to announce we now have an Online Store on our website! Our first offer is the One Year Bible NLT - Premium Slimline Large Print edition ($25). For those of you who would like to join us on the journey of reading through the entire Bible each year in easy and understandable daily readings. Just go to ppt.church/shop to purchase your Bible and read the instructions to make arrangements for pick-up. You can join us as we start the month of February!
Everyone loves encouragement so please join us for the Love Challenge! Throughout the month of February, we want you to join us in reaching out with the God’s love to others with words of encouragement. Call or text one different person every day and let them know what you appreciate about them. Solomon said, “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.” (Prov.12:25) Let’s reach out to one another with God’s love in our hearts and make some people’s hearts glad this month!
People need a tangible expression of love from our benevolent Food Pantry. During the month of February, we are asking you to make benevolent food donations by dropping them off in the church office vestibule weekdays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. You can also drop-off your tithes and offerings by placing them in the drop-box there. Thank you for helping us provide this practical expression of love right now.
What The Heart Craves. We all want to be swept away, to be loved in spite of ourselves, to be fully accepted, to be cherished, to matter to someone. Join us this Sunday for a message that speaks to this core desire and God’s provision for it. Also invite someone you know who needs to hear this message! We are gaining new subscribers to our YouTube channel every week. So thank you for being a witness and an ambassador for Christ by helping us get the Word out to people!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Seeing God’s purpose and your purpose in these days.
Our powerful 21 Days of Fasting and Prayer is coming to a close this weekend. How has God spoken to you or what has He been revealed to you as we have been praying for Him to ‘open our eyes’? We would love to hear your testimony, so please email them to me and indicate if you wish to just privately share this or whether we can share it publicly to encourage others. We will never use your name, but tell the story so others can be blessed, rejoice with you and let it encourage others. We know God has truly been working in people’s lives during this fast and we would love to hear your testimony!
Our Upper Room Prayer Gathering is tonight! We have felt compelled to call people to another special prayer conference call. We are believing for 150+ people to join us for this incredibly relevant topic, The Unseen Road Ahead and God’s plan for your life.
Our Connect Challenge continues so please make an effort each day to connect with at least one different person via a phone call or text and ask how they are doing. Again we are hearing wonderful reports of how people are being blessed themselves by reaching out to bless others! Let’s mutually encourage one another in the Lord and our walk with God.
Our Church Office is closed, however the office vestibule is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm for you to drop off your tithes/offerings and any board nominations ballots (deadline is this Sunday).
My message this Sunday is Seeing Your Purpose. What if everything God has for your life is exactly what you would love to do most? Join us as we explore God’s purpose for your life and this year!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Our powerful 21 Days of Fasting and Prayer is coming to a close this weekend. How has God spoken to you or what has He been revealed to you as we have been praying for Him to ‘open our eyes’? We would love to hear your testimony, so please email them to me and indicate if you wish to just privately share this or whether we can share it publicly to encourage others. We will never use your name, but tell the story so others can be blessed, rejoice with you and let it encourage others. We know God has truly been working in people’s lives during this fast and we would love to hear your testimony!
Our Upper Room Prayer Gathering is tonight! We have felt compelled to call people to another special prayer conference call. We are believing for 150+ people to join us for this incredibly relevant topic, The Unseen Road Ahead and God’s plan for your life.
Our Connect Challenge continues so please make an effort each day to connect with at least one different person via a phone call or text and ask how they are doing. Again we are hearing wonderful reports of how people are being blessed themselves by reaching out to bless others! Let’s mutually encourage one another in the Lord and our walk with God.
Our Church Office is closed, however the office vestibule is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm for you to drop off your tithes/offerings and any board nominations ballots (deadline is this Sunday).
My message this Sunday is Seeing Your Purpose. What if everything God has for your life is exactly what you would love to do most? Join us as we explore God’s purpose for your life and this year!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
COVID Update
As we mark the half way point of our 21 Days of Fasting & Prayer, we are receiving wonderful testimonies of how is working His truth in people’s lives. The daily interaction on the Bible app is providing a wonderful platform to connect and share spiritual insights with one another. We encourage you to press into the Lord through fasting, reading the daily devotionals and prayer points. Keep joining others on our evening prayer conference calls and Pastor’s Chat livestreams. Especially plan to join us for our Upper Room Gathering this Friday night as we are believing for 120+ people to join us for this special prayer conference call. Together we will be praying for the fullness of God’s presence to fill our lives, homes and church. So make a special effort to join us and get in on receiving this blessing of God! Our Connect Challenge continues so please work at connecting with one different person every day via a phone call or text. We need to mutually encourage one another in these times!
With the latest emergency stay-at-home order announced this week, the church office will be officially closed again. Most of our staff will be working from home but available for you to contact. We are pleased to inform you that we can continue to produce our online livestream services under the Production Media Industries guidelines. We are reducing the number of volunteers working as an extra precaution. Our staff and volunteers will continue to follow all the strictest safety protocols that have kept us all safe and virus-free. We are grateful to God for protecting the ministry over these past eleven months.
As we progress in this new year, we are going to continue to see great challenges ahead but also great manifestations of God’s goodness in the midst of it all. In light of that truth, one of the greatest needs for facing the future is wisdom and discernment. Join us online this Sunday, for the message Seeing The Unseen, where we will help you develop these two spiritual skillsets in your life.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
As we mark the half way point of our 21 Days of Fasting & Prayer, we are receiving wonderful testimonies of how is working His truth in people’s lives. The daily interaction on the Bible app is providing a wonderful platform to connect and share spiritual insights with one another. We encourage you to press into the Lord through fasting, reading the daily devotionals and prayer points. Keep joining others on our evening prayer conference calls and Pastor’s Chat livestreams. Especially plan to join us for our Upper Room Gathering this Friday night as we are believing for 120+ people to join us for this special prayer conference call. Together we will be praying for the fullness of God’s presence to fill our lives, homes and church. So make a special effort to join us and get in on receiving this blessing of God! Our Connect Challenge continues so please work at connecting with one different person every day via a phone call or text. We need to mutually encourage one another in these times!
With the latest emergency stay-at-home order announced this week, the church office will be officially closed again. Most of our staff will be working from home but available for you to contact. We are pleased to inform you that we can continue to produce our online livestream services under the Production Media Industries guidelines. We are reducing the number of volunteers working as an extra precaution. Our staff and volunteers will continue to follow all the strictest safety protocols that have kept us all safe and virus-free. We are grateful to God for protecting the ministry over these past eleven months.
As we progress in this new year, we are going to continue to see great challenges ahead but also great manifestations of God’s goodness in the midst of it all. In light of that truth, one of the greatest needs for facing the future is wisdom and discernment. Join us online this Sunday, for the message Seeing The Unseen, where we will help you develop these two spiritual skillsets in your life.
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
2021 is off to a roaring start!
In this first week of the new year, we have some amazing testimonies!
It has been exciting to see over 40 new subscribers to our YouTube Channel over the past several weeks. We thank God for enlarging the scope of our ministry influence as we enter this new year!
The first week of our 21-Days of Fasting and Prayer is off to a roaring start!
We are grateful to over 90 people who have joined us on the Bible App to read the Devotional, Scriptures, and share their insights and prayers with one another in the ‘Talk It Over’ feature. I know many others of you are receiving the daily emails with the prayer points and I thank you for joining us in that manner too. Whichever way you choose to fast and pray is between you and God, we only ask that you participate in some fashion and join us in asking God to open our eyes to Him, His ways, and His power. Be sure to sign-up for these emails or join us on the Bible App.
An all-time record number of people joined us on our Prayer Conference Calls.
Monday night we had 80 people, Tuesday over 70, and Wednesday night’s Pastor’s Chat saw over 100 folks join us on our Livestream and Conference Call! We want to thank you all for your support and participation in hearing the Spirit’s call to begin this year in prayer. If you have not yet joined, we encourage you to jump in now and join this movement of seeking first the kingdom of God and setting the course for the new year.
Pick up the Connect Challenge by calling/texting one different person every day.
I have personally been blessed by my phone conversations, whether it was to wish someone a happy birthday, to rejoice with someone who has experienced the Lord’s healing touch as they have fully recovered from a severe bout of Covid-19, or another person who is still recovering from surgery. You reap what you sow, because in turn you will be blessed to hear their story and you can pray with them. This is so easy that everyone can do it. Just wake up in the morning and pray, asking the Lord who you should reach out to that day. He will impress someone upon your heart who needs the blessing of hearing from you. Even keep a journal of the people you have connected with as a record of God’s blessing. Someone shared their testimony with me about how they called over 40 people during the month of December to connect with people and wish them a Merry Christmas! That is absolutely amazing! Let’s make this a team effort! If we all do this, it will be an exponential blessing that will cause an explosion of encouragement in all our lives!
A by-product of fasting is that it produces a physical cleansing of toxins and impurities in our bodies. More importantly, we need a spiritual cleansing. So we look forward to your presence with us online this Sunday as we participate in Communion together. Prepare your elements and your heart as we come to the cross of Christ again for a fresh cleansing in this new year!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
In this first week of the new year, we have some amazing testimonies!
It has been exciting to see over 40 new subscribers to our YouTube Channel over the past several weeks. We thank God for enlarging the scope of our ministry influence as we enter this new year!
The first week of our 21-Days of Fasting and Prayer is off to a roaring start!
We are grateful to over 90 people who have joined us on the Bible App to read the Devotional, Scriptures, and share their insights and prayers with one another in the ‘Talk It Over’ feature. I know many others of you are receiving the daily emails with the prayer points and I thank you for joining us in that manner too. Whichever way you choose to fast and pray is between you and God, we only ask that you participate in some fashion and join us in asking God to open our eyes to Him, His ways, and His power. Be sure to sign-up for these emails or join us on the Bible App.
An all-time record number of people joined us on our Prayer Conference Calls.
Monday night we had 80 people, Tuesday over 70, and Wednesday night’s Pastor’s Chat saw over 100 folks join us on our Livestream and Conference Call! We want to thank you all for your support and participation in hearing the Spirit’s call to begin this year in prayer. If you have not yet joined, we encourage you to jump in now and join this movement of seeking first the kingdom of God and setting the course for the new year.
Pick up the Connect Challenge by calling/texting one different person every day.
I have personally been blessed by my phone conversations, whether it was to wish someone a happy birthday, to rejoice with someone who has experienced the Lord’s healing touch as they have fully recovered from a severe bout of Covid-19, or another person who is still recovering from surgery. You reap what you sow, because in turn you will be blessed to hear their story and you can pray with them. This is so easy that everyone can do it. Just wake up in the morning and pray, asking the Lord who you should reach out to that day. He will impress someone upon your heart who needs the blessing of hearing from you. Even keep a journal of the people you have connected with as a record of God’s blessing. Someone shared their testimony with me about how they called over 40 people during the month of December to connect with people and wish them a Merry Christmas! That is absolutely amazing! Let’s make this a team effort! If we all do this, it will be an exponential blessing that will cause an explosion of encouragement in all our lives!
A by-product of fasting is that it produces a physical cleansing of toxins and impurities in our bodies. More importantly, we need a spiritual cleansing. So we look forward to your presence with us online this Sunday as we participate in Communion together. Prepare your elements and your heart as we come to the cross of Christ again for a fresh cleansing in this new year!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Open My Eyes
Happy New Year to you and your family!
If you see your life only through your own eyes it can present a very narrow, critical, and limiting view of yourself, the world around you, and ultimately your view of God and what He is doing in this moment of time. We must learn to see ourselves and our situations through God’s eyes. If you hope to see what’s true, what’s possible and what God has planned, we must see it through God’s eyes.
Open My Eyes will be our prayer for the next 21 days, starting this Monday as we embark on 21 days of fasting and prayer. We are asking the Lord to open our eyes, to look into every part of our lives, to help us see all He has for us, all He is doing in us and through us, and what He is doing to advance His kingdom on earth.
God wants us to see life through His eyes. He has a vision for your life, for your family, for your business. So, we’re beginning this year saying, “God, open our eyes.” Open our eyes to the wonderful things You have given us, open our eyes to Your plans, Your direction, and Your purpose for our lives. Show us who You are. Show us Your glory. Bring us revelation by, “the eyes of your understanding being enlightened.” (Ephesians 1:18a)
God wants us to see His ways. But, God’s ways are not our ways. His Ways are higher than our ways. “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9, NLT) God needs to enlighten us and open our eyes to His wisdom, knowledge, and direction for our lives and His kingdom purposes.
God want us to see His power. You need to know that the very same power that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in you right now! The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. (Romans 8:11a, NLT) We have the power of Holy Spirit living in us. God is still in the miracle-working business! Power to change lives and circumstances in a moment.
So join us this Sunday online for the message Open My Eyes that will launch us into this new year and season of fasting and prayer. God is going to help us to see life through His eyes, His ways and His power!
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Happy New Year to you and your family!
If you see your life only through your own eyes it can present a very narrow, critical, and limiting view of yourself, the world around you, and ultimately your view of God and what He is doing in this moment of time. We must learn to see ourselves and our situations through God’s eyes. If you hope to see what’s true, what’s possible and what God has planned, we must see it through God’s eyes.
Open My Eyes will be our prayer for the next 21 days, starting this Monday as we embark on 21 days of fasting and prayer. We are asking the Lord to open our eyes, to look into every part of our lives, to help us see all He has for us, all He is doing in us and through us, and what He is doing to advance His kingdom on earth.
God wants us to see life through His eyes. He has a vision for your life, for your family, for your business. So, we’re beginning this year saying, “God, open our eyes.” Open our eyes to the wonderful things You have given us, open our eyes to Your plans, Your direction, and Your purpose for our lives. Show us who You are. Show us Your glory. Bring us revelation by, “the eyes of your understanding being enlightened.” (Ephesians 1:18a)
God wants us to see His ways. But, God’s ways are not our ways. His Ways are higher than our ways. “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9, NLT) God needs to enlighten us and open our eyes to His wisdom, knowledge, and direction for our lives and His kingdom purposes.
God want us to see His power. You need to know that the very same power that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in you right now! The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. (Romans 8:11a, NLT) We have the power of Holy Spirit living in us. God is still in the miracle-working business! Power to change lives and circumstances in a moment.
So join us this Sunday online for the message Open My Eyes that will launch us into this new year and season of fasting and prayer. God is going to help us to see life through His eyes, His ways and His power!
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
What do you See, Hear, and Know?
Like most people, I love the Christmas season! We have been listening to Christmas music since Nov 1st. One of the songs I enjoy listening to is Do You Hear What I Hear? This song loosely tells the story of the birth of Jesus. It includes parts when the angels announced the arrival of Christ and the wise men.
The song was written by a husband and wife, Noel & Gloria Regney, in New York City during the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. It’s incredibly descriptive lyrics are an outflow of the heightened and tense emotion of that time. The first lines came to Noel walking home through streets of Manhattan, New York as people were gripped with fear. He saw two mothers walking together, their babies in strollers in front of them. As these babies were connecting with one another, without a care in the world, and smiling at each other, these song lines began coming to him, “Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy, ‘Do you hear what I hear?’” He finished writing them when he got home, and Gloria wrote the tune.
Besides being a familiar song, it also poses three great questions at Christmas time: Do you see what I see? Do you hear what I hear? Do you know what I know?
This Sunday we will explore some of the characters in the Christmas story like the shepherds, Simeon and Anna. They all saw, heard and knew things about the birth of Jesus Christ.
What did you see this Christmas? What did you hear this Christmas? Do you know the Christ of Christmas?
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Like most people, I love the Christmas season! We have been listening to Christmas music since Nov 1st. One of the songs I enjoy listening to is Do You Hear What I Hear? This song loosely tells the story of the birth of Jesus. It includes parts when the angels announced the arrival of Christ and the wise men.
The song was written by a husband and wife, Noel & Gloria Regney, in New York City during the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. It’s incredibly descriptive lyrics are an outflow of the heightened and tense emotion of that time. The first lines came to Noel walking home through streets of Manhattan, New York as people were gripped with fear. He saw two mothers walking together, their babies in strollers in front of them. As these babies were connecting with one another, without a care in the world, and smiling at each other, these song lines began coming to him, “Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy, ‘Do you hear what I hear?’” He finished writing them when he got home, and Gloria wrote the tune.
Besides being a familiar song, it also poses three great questions at Christmas time: Do you see what I see? Do you hear what I hear? Do you know what I know?
This Sunday we will explore some of the characters in the Christmas story like the shepherds, Simeon and Anna. They all saw, heard and knew things about the birth of Jesus Christ.
What did you see this Christmas? What did you hear this Christmas? Do you know the Christ of Christmas?
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Is there Joy in Your World?
As we enter into this final week before Christmas, are you experiencing any joy in your heart and soul? Life can certainly feel overwhelming at times as we are forced to adjust to changing circumstances on a continual basis in every dimension of our lives.
If you were to ask anyone on the street “what is the most joyful time of the year?” Without any question, it would be practically unanimous that Christmas is the most joyful time of the year. One of the other carols you will hear everywhere you go is one titled, It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.
It’s Christmas Sunday this weekend, and we will be speaking on the carol, Joy To The World. The words of this song are so well known to us:
Joy to the world! The Lord is come
Let earth receive her King!
Let every heart prepare Him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven, and heaven and nature singJoy to the world! The Savior reigns
Let men their songs employ
While fields and floods
Rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat, repeat the sounding joyHe rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
And glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders of His love
Is there any joy in your world? What should our experience of joy be based upon? Many of us work so hard on getting the externals all ready for Christmas. We are busy decorating our home inside and out, baking our favourite goodies, and wrapping gifts. All in hopes of experiencing some Christmas joy. Scriptures say the angel announced to the shepherds, “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10,11).
The key to experiencing true joy in your heart and life is found in the first line of the first stanza, Joy to the Word! The Lord is come; Let earth receive her King! Let’s pray that in this final week leading up to Christmas that more and more people will experience the true joy of this season, Jesus!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
As we enter into this final week before Christmas, are you experiencing any joy in your heart and soul? Life can certainly feel overwhelming at times as we are forced to adjust to changing circumstances on a continual basis in every dimension of our lives.
If you were to ask anyone on the street “what is the most joyful time of the year?” Without any question, it would be practically unanimous that Christmas is the most joyful time of the year. One of the other carols you will hear everywhere you go is one titled, It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.
It’s Christmas Sunday this weekend, and we will be speaking on the carol, Joy To The World. The words of this song are so well known to us:
Joy to the world! The Lord is come
Let earth receive her King!
Let every heart prepare Him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven, and heaven and nature singJoy to the world! The Savior reigns
Let men their songs employ
While fields and floods
Rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat, repeat the sounding joyHe rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
And glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders of His love
Is there any joy in your world? What should our experience of joy be based upon? Many of us work so hard on getting the externals all ready for Christmas. We are busy decorating our home inside and out, baking our favourite goodies, and wrapping gifts. All in hopes of experiencing some Christmas joy. Scriptures say the angel announced to the shepherds, “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10,11).
The key to experiencing true joy in your heart and life is found in the first line of the first stanza, Joy to the Word! The Lord is come; Let earth receive her King! Let’s pray that in this final week leading up to Christmas that more and more people will experience the true joy of this season, Jesus!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor