We are honouring fathers this weekend!
It was great to welcome so many of you back to our in-person worship service last Sunday. To see so many people of all ages come and worship God together was inspiring! Your presence with us was such an encouragement to us personally and to others! We so enjoyed interacting with you and your family!
This Sunday is Father’s Day and we will be honouring our dads with a special gift whether you attend the service or choose to come to our drive-thru. In my message, The Dedicated Dad, we will explore a very familiar Bible story but with a bit of a twist that will expose some deeper insights about how to be a model dad. We are going to be paying tribute to some dads too! Make plans to do something special with and for your dad this weekend to honour him.
Please note that registration for services fills quickly each week (usually within one day) so be sure to register early if you wish to join us on Sundays. If your plans change and you cannot attend service, we ask that you cancel your registration to allow others on our waiting list to come. We are looking forward to welcoming even more people when we move to stage two in early July!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
It was great to welcome so many of you back to our in-person worship service last Sunday. To see so many people of all ages come and worship God together was inspiring! Your presence with us was such an encouragement to us personally and to others! We so enjoyed interacting with you and your family!
This Sunday is Father’s Day and we will be honouring our dads with a special gift whether you attend the service or choose to come to our drive-thru. In my message, The Dedicated Dad, we will explore a very familiar Bible story but with a bit of a twist that will expose some deeper insights about how to be a model dad. We are going to be paying tribute to some dads too! Make plans to do something special with and for your dad this weekend to honour him.
Please note that registration for services fills quickly each week (usually within one day) so be sure to register early if you wish to join us on Sundays. If your plans change and you cannot attend service, we ask that you cancel your registration to allow others on our waiting list to come. We are looking forward to welcoming even more people when we move to stage two in early July!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We're open once again!
We are excited by the news this week that we can once again re-open our church building for in-person services. It was also thrilling to see so many of you register so quickly! Just as you are eager to return to in-person services, we are delighted to welcome you back this weekend! Please note all the same protocols will be in place, so please plan to check-in through the east entrance, wear a mask, and hand sanitize. Registration will open each Monday, so be sure to register early and note there is also an option to be on our waiting list should others cancel. If things continue to trend in right direction with the COVID recovery, our capacity limits will increase next month. Join us in praying for a full recovery!
Just a reminder that today will be the Online Memorial Service for Rev. David Hazzard at 12 pm. Please continue to pray for the Hazzard family as they grieve their loss of this tremendous man of God and kingdom servant.
This Sunday, we will explore Jesus’ relationship with the Holy Spirit in His life and ministry. It is an example of what is available to us and how the Holy Spirit desires to work through each one of us. Then we will share communion together at the end of the service. So if you’re worshipping with us online, be sure to have your communion elements ready. Whether in person or online, we look forward to worshipping together and connecting with you this Sunday!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We are excited by the news this week that we can once again re-open our church building for in-person services. It was also thrilling to see so many of you register so quickly! Just as you are eager to return to in-person services, we are delighted to welcome you back this weekend! Please note all the same protocols will be in place, so please plan to check-in through the east entrance, wear a mask, and hand sanitize. Registration will open each Monday, so be sure to register early and note there is also an option to be on our waiting list should others cancel. If things continue to trend in right direction with the COVID recovery, our capacity limits will increase next month. Join us in praying for a full recovery!
Just a reminder that today will be the Online Memorial Service for Rev. David Hazzard at 12 pm. Please continue to pray for the Hazzard family as they grieve their loss of this tremendous man of God and kingdom servant.
This Sunday, we will explore Jesus’ relationship with the Holy Spirit in His life and ministry. It is an example of what is available to us and how the Holy Spirit desires to work through each one of us. Then we will share communion together at the end of the service. So if you’re worshipping with us online, be sure to have your communion elements ready. Whether in person or online, we look forward to worshipping together and connecting with you this Sunday!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Who is working behind the scenes?
There is always someone and something working behind what we see unfolding in our world today. Operating in the unseen spiritual realm, there is a real enemy trying to influence our world towards evil and contrary to God. But there is a greater person and power that is at work releasing the plans and purposes of our God in our lives and world.
In our current series on the wonderful person and work of the Holy Spirit, we are learning about who He is and what He does. The sending of the Holy Spirit was something promised by God the Father. Jesus send He would send the Holy Spirit once he ascended back to the Father. So the Spirit was sent and came on the day of Pentecost to fill all the believers and launch the church.
It is clear that the disciples went everywhere, preaching the gospel message and the Lord worked through them confirming what they said by many miraculous signs (Mark 16:20). The book of Acts is a recording of those workings of the Holy Spirit through those first believers and the early church which continues to our present day. What were those miraculous workings of the Holy Spirit? Join us this Sunday as we highlight that work of the Holy Spirit, and believe together for the manifestation of His same power and presence in our lives!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
There is always someone and something working behind what we see unfolding in our world today. Operating in the unseen spiritual realm, there is a real enemy trying to influence our world towards evil and contrary to God. But there is a greater person and power that is at work releasing the plans and purposes of our God in our lives and world.
In our current series on the wonderful person and work of the Holy Spirit, we are learning about who He is and what He does. The sending of the Holy Spirit was something promised by God the Father. Jesus send He would send the Holy Spirit once he ascended back to the Father. So the Spirit was sent and came on the day of Pentecost to fill all the believers and launch the church.
It is clear that the disciples went everywhere, preaching the gospel message and the Lord worked through them confirming what they said by many miraculous signs (Mark 16:20). The book of Acts is a recording of those workings of the Holy Spirit through those first believers and the early church which continues to our present day. What were those miraculous workings of the Holy Spirit? Join us this Sunday as we highlight that work of the Holy Spirit, and believe together for the manifestation of His same power and presence in our lives!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Experiencing Your Constant Source of Power
Last Sunday, we were set to share a message about our need for spiritual power. About how God has provided a source of energy to us personally and to His church. As we began to worship the Lord, we tapped into His presence and power. There was such a strong anointing that we felt led to just continue to worship God, wait on Him in worship and experience the fullness of it! We hope you sensed it at home as well.
We actually experienced the essence of what the message was all about. God’s manifest presence came and we had our own personal encounter with the Holy Spirit.
I still feel to share that message with you to provide the basis for our experience and to understand God’s purpose for the baptism of the Holy Spirit, the birth of His church, and the arrival of a constant reliable source of spiritual power! So join us for our online service and come expecting and believing because you never know what God might do this Sunday!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Last Sunday, we were set to share a message about our need for spiritual power. About how God has provided a source of energy to us personally and to His church. As we began to worship the Lord, we tapped into His presence and power. There was such a strong anointing that we felt led to just continue to worship God, wait on Him in worship and experience the fullness of it! We hope you sensed it at home as well.
We actually experienced the essence of what the message was all about. God’s manifest presence came and we had our own personal encounter with the Holy Spirit.
I still feel to share that message with you to provide the basis for our experience and to understand God’s purpose for the baptism of the Holy Spirit, the birth of His church, and the arrival of a constant reliable source of spiritual power! So join us for our online service and come expecting and believing because you never know what God might do this Sunday!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Our Constant Power Supply
We have a need for power. Our lives demand a constant, reliable source of energy to power our homes, cars, and work. Reading the daily news headlines, we hear stories of the dilemma when there is a shortage of power supply… like a computer hack of an oil pipeline that caused gasoline shortages in the eastern United States.
We have relied on major sources of non-renewable energy like petroleum, hydrocarbon, natural gas, and coal to fuel our lives. Our world is now working hard at creating new sources of renewable energy like solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, wave, tidal, and even biomass due to the increase need for power.
But what about the need for spiritual power?
There is a very important source of power needed personally in our lives. The power to live righteously, boldly, and with the specific purpose of bearing witness to the kingdom of God. God promised power to us as believers. Jesus sent someone to empower us. Now He awaits you to welcome His presence and power in your life.
This weekend is Pentecost Sunday. Join us online as we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit which marks the baptism of the Holy Spirit, the birth of the church and the arrival of a constant reliable source of spiritual power! Let’s tap into that power source together this weekend!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We have a need for power. Our lives demand a constant, reliable source of energy to power our homes, cars, and work. Reading the daily news headlines, we hear stories of the dilemma when there is a shortage of power supply… like a computer hack of an oil pipeline that caused gasoline shortages in the eastern United States.
We have relied on major sources of non-renewable energy like petroleum, hydrocarbon, natural gas, and coal to fuel our lives. Our world is now working hard at creating new sources of renewable energy like solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, wave, tidal, and even biomass due to the increase need for power.
But what about the need for spiritual power?
There is a very important source of power needed personally in our lives. The power to live righteously, boldly, and with the specific purpose of bearing witness to the kingdom of God. God promised power to us as believers. Jesus sent someone to empower us. Now He awaits you to welcome His presence and power in your life.
This weekend is Pentecost Sunday. Join us online as we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit which marks the baptism of the Holy Spirit, the birth of the church and the arrival of a constant reliable source of spiritual power! Let’s tap into that power source together this weekend!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Our Constant Companion
This morning Pastor Kim is undergoing surgery to have her brain tumour removed. We covet your prayers on her behalf asking God to guide the surgeon’s hands and to overshadowing this entire procedure. Pray for God’s peace and presence to flood her and her family’s hearts and lives. If you would like to send a get well card to Pastor Kim, you may drop it off in the collection box in the church vestibule and we will ensure it gets delivered to her. Tonight at our Upper Room Prayer Gathering, we will be providing you with an update on Pastor Kim’s progress and praying for her full recovery.
We will all have experiences in our lives where we must walk alone. Whether it’s into a doctor’s appointment at the hospital under COVID restrictions that do not permit someone to accompany you; or into the surgery room to undergo a procedure; or a personal appointment where due to necessity of confidentiality you must go alone.
But as a believer, we must remember we are never alone. Jesus promised us a constant companion who will accompany us personally all the days of our lives and through every experience in life. In this Sunday’s message, you will learn more about who He is and the wonderful promise and truth that you must Remember, You’re Not Alone. We look forward to your presence with us!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
This morning Pastor Kim is undergoing surgery to have her brain tumour removed. We covet your prayers on her behalf asking God to guide the surgeon’s hands and to overshadowing this entire procedure. Pray for God’s peace and presence to flood her and her family’s hearts and lives. If you would like to send a get well card to Pastor Kim, you may drop it off in the collection box in the church vestibule and we will ensure it gets delivered to her. Tonight at our Upper Room Prayer Gathering, we will be providing you with an update on Pastor Kim’s progress and praying for her full recovery.
We will all have experiences in our lives where we must walk alone. Whether it’s into a doctor’s appointment at the hospital under COVID restrictions that do not permit someone to accompany you; or into the surgery room to undergo a procedure; or a personal appointment where due to necessity of confidentiality you must go alone.
But as a believer, we must remember we are never alone. Jesus promised us a constant companion who will accompany us personally all the days of our lives and through every experience in life. In this Sunday’s message, you will learn more about who He is and the wonderful promise and truth that you must Remember, You’re Not Alone. We look forward to your presence with us!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
The key to winning the day.
It seems that every day we wake up, we are facing new challenges in life and especially to our faith. It can feel a bit overwhelming and discouraging at times. How do we overcome this and continue to press forward? We are not alone in that struggle and in our online service this Sunday we will learn How To Win The Day.
We hope you will bring your mom to our Mother’s Day Drive-Thru this Sunday afternoon. We would love to spend a few moments with you and bless mom with a gift. We encourage you to honour your mom this weekend!
Tonight, we will be praying for a healing that only God can give. Do you have a physical ailment that you know only God can heal? Are you dealing with brokenness in soul (your mind, emotions, or will) that you know only God heal? Do you know of those who need a spiritual healing in their relationship with God? Then plan to join us as we gather in faith believing for people to receive their healing. We will be especially interceding for Pastor Kim, who will undergo surgery to remove a brain tumour one week from today. Join us tonight for our Upper Room Prayer Gathering as we come together in the power of agreement in prayer! We believe breakthrough is coming!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
It seems that every day we wake up, we are facing new challenges in life and especially to our faith. It can feel a bit overwhelming and discouraging at times. How do we overcome this and continue to press forward? We are not alone in that struggle and in our online service this Sunday we will learn How To Win The Day.
We hope you will bring your mom to our Mother’s Day Drive-Thru this Sunday afternoon. We would love to spend a few moments with you and bless mom with a gift. We encourage you to honour your mom this weekend!
Tonight, we will be praying for a healing that only God can give. Do you have a physical ailment that you know only God can heal? Are you dealing with brokenness in soul (your mind, emotions, or will) that you know only God heal? Do you know of those who need a spiritual healing in their relationship with God? Then plan to join us as we gather in faith believing for people to receive their healing. We will be especially interceding for Pastor Kim, who will undergo surgery to remove a brain tumour one week from today. Join us tonight for our Upper Room Prayer Gathering as we come together in the power of agreement in prayer! We believe breakthrough is coming!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
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