Winning Your Race
Everyone loves a winner. It is exciting to watch thousands of athletes from around the world compete passionately in their sport and win in the Tokyo, Olympics. It is also quite a moving moment to watch these winners take the podium stand, receive their medals, and listen to their country’s anthem played in honor of their achievement.
Oswald Chambers in his devotional, My Utmost For His Highest, said, “God does not give us overcoming life: He gives us life as we overcome. The strain is the strength. If there is no strain, there is no strength.” So what does it take to win the race that God has set before you?
In this Sunday’s message, we will be sharing four key biblical principles required for winning our race called the life of faith. We’ll wrap up by sharing communion together, asking God to give us the same grace and strength that He gave Jesus to endure the cross. Join us for dynamic praise and worship and the encouraging ministry of the Word of God this weekend! We look forward to your presence with us!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Everyone loves a winner. It is exciting to watch thousands of athletes from around the world compete passionately in their sport and win in the Tokyo, Olympics. It is also quite a moving moment to watch these winners take the podium stand, receive their medals, and listen to their country’s anthem played in honor of their achievement.
Oswald Chambers in his devotional, My Utmost For His Highest, said, “God does not give us overcoming life: He gives us life as we overcome. The strain is the strength. If there is no strain, there is no strength.” So what does it take to win the race that God has set before you?
In this Sunday’s message, we will be sharing four key biblical principles required for winning our race called the life of faith. We’ll wrap up by sharing communion together, asking God to give us the same grace and strength that He gave Jesus to endure the cross. Join us for dynamic praise and worship and the encouraging ministry of the Word of God this weekend! We look forward to your presence with us!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Running Your Race
Currently we are watching thousands of athletes from around the world representing their county in a variety of sports competitions at the Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. It is exciting to watching these competitions because of the remarkable skill, effort and determination these athletes demonstrate in the passion for their sport.
Drawing from this idea, the Word of God uses the analogy of running a race to describe our spiritual journey in this life (Hebrews 12:1-3). The journey begins when we accept God’s call to become a child of God and enter the kingdom of God. It is then that we begin to run the race marked out for us by God.
In this Sunday’s message, we will learn how to successfully run this spiritual race. We can find inspiration from others who have already run. We need to learn how to handle the struggles that come in the midst of the race. We will discover the key to running and finishing our race well.
As we announced last Sunday, this is Kristen Pond’s final day of working for us at PPT. Once again we want to express our appreciation to her for the skills, talents and effort she has given over these past three and half years serving in numerous capacities. Thank you Kristen for running this part of your race with us!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Currently we are watching thousands of athletes from around the world representing their county in a variety of sports competitions at the Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. It is exciting to watching these competitions because of the remarkable skill, effort and determination these athletes demonstrate in the passion for their sport.
Drawing from this idea, the Word of God uses the analogy of running a race to describe our spiritual journey in this life (Hebrews 12:1-3). The journey begins when we accept God’s call to become a child of God and enter the kingdom of God. It is then that we begin to run the race marked out for us by God.
In this Sunday’s message, we will learn how to successfully run this spiritual race. We can find inspiration from others who have already run. We need to learn how to handle the struggles that come in the midst of the race. We will discover the key to running and finishing our race well.
As we announced last Sunday, this is Kristen Pond’s final day of working for us at PPT. Once again we want to express our appreciation to her for the skills, talents and effort she has given over these past three and half years serving in numerous capacities. Thank you Kristen for running this part of your race with us!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Living In Certainty
We just returned from taking a break for some vacation time. We enjoyed our time to rest and be refreshed, and hope you get an opportunity to so as well this summer. We are so looking forward to seeing you again this Sunday!
Every week, it is exciting to see a growing number of people returning to gather together for worship and the teaching of God’s Word. Meeting together in person has always been a major part of God’s plan for His people and His church (Acts 2:42,46-47). God has wired us for social interaction and fellowship, and now that things are opening up more and more we want to personally invite you to come back to our in-person services. It is in that context that our spiritual and relational needs are meet. Please continue to register to attend services and if your plans to attend change, we ask that you cancel your registration to allow others who might be on our waiting list to come, as more and more people are desiring to attend.
Are you going through deep waters? Are you facing rivers of difficulty? Do you feel the fire of oppression in your life? Then plan to join us on our Prayer Conference Call tonight as we pray with you and for you, claiming the promises of God for those experiencing those challenges right now (Isaiah 43:1-3). These times of prayer are powerful and uplifting as we join our hearts and lift our voices together to God!
Life is getting more uncertain all the time. Our world is rapidly changing and if we just look at life in the natural, we’d live with a sense of uncertainty—which brings great mental and emotional stress. But God goes ahead of us to put certainty into all the uncertain situations of life. This Sunday we will learn the key to Living In Certainty that will keep us in the perfect peace of God. God goes ahead of us to put certainty into all the uncertain situations of life. You can live in wonderful certainty!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We just returned from taking a break for some vacation time. We enjoyed our time to rest and be refreshed, and hope you get an opportunity to so as well this summer. We are so looking forward to seeing you again this Sunday!
Every week, it is exciting to see a growing number of people returning to gather together for worship and the teaching of God’s Word. Meeting together in person has always been a major part of God’s plan for His people and His church (Acts 2:42,46-47). God has wired us for social interaction and fellowship, and now that things are opening up more and more we want to personally invite you to come back to our in-person services. It is in that context that our spiritual and relational needs are meet. Please continue to register to attend services and if your plans to attend change, we ask that you cancel your registration to allow others who might be on our waiting list to come, as more and more people are desiring to attend.
Are you going through deep waters? Are you facing rivers of difficulty? Do you feel the fire of oppression in your life? Then plan to join us on our Prayer Conference Call tonight as we pray with you and for you, claiming the promises of God for those experiencing those challenges right now (Isaiah 43:1-3). These times of prayer are powerful and uplifting as we join our hearts and lift our voices together to God!
Life is getting more uncertain all the time. Our world is rapidly changing and if we just look at life in the natural, we’d live with a sense of uncertainty—which brings great mental and emotional stress. But God goes ahead of us to put certainty into all the uncertain situations of life. This Sunday we will learn the key to Living In Certainty that will keep us in the perfect peace of God. God goes ahead of us to put certainty into all the uncertain situations of life. You can live in wonderful certainty!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
God's Place
Over the past year there has been a lot been said about the racial divide; we see the tension across the world and between different people groups; nobody seems to be getting along. There are walls dividing us and we are all yearning for a fair and just society where all feel welcome.
We all want our place to feel warm and welcoming to our friends and family. We do a lot to make our home feel inviting and comfortable for everyone; we put up flowers and pictures and a welcome sign at the door that says, all are welcome.
At God’s Place all are invited and welcomed. God’s Place is not exclusive but inclusive; it’s not only certain people who are extended an invitation. At God`s Place there are no racial barriers, no dividing walls, and no class systems where only certain people are valued.
At God’s Place you are no longer strangers or foreigners but you are fellow citizens with the saints, you are of God’s household and His holy temple.
We invite you to join us this Sunday morning as Pastor Charles brings this timely message God’s Place. We look forward to worshipping with you together and online. Get ready for a fantastic morning in the presence of the Lord.
Blessings,
Pastor Wayne Russell
Associate Pastor
Over the past year there has been a lot been said about the racial divide; we see the tension across the world and between different people groups; nobody seems to be getting along. There are walls dividing us and we are all yearning for a fair and just society where all feel welcome.
We all want our place to feel warm and welcoming to our friends and family. We do a lot to make our home feel inviting and comfortable for everyone; we put up flowers and pictures and a welcome sign at the door that says, all are welcome.
At God’s Place all are invited and welcomed. God’s Place is not exclusive but inclusive; it’s not only certain people who are extended an invitation. At God`s Place there are no racial barriers, no dividing walls, and no class systems where only certain people are valued.
At God’s Place you are no longer strangers or foreigners but you are fellow citizens with the saints, you are of God’s household and His holy temple.
We invite you to join us this Sunday morning as Pastor Charles brings this timely message God’s Place. We look forward to worshipping with you together and online. Get ready for a fantastic morning in the presence of the Lord.
Blessings,
Pastor Wayne Russell
Associate Pastor
How do we live victoriously during these times?
I have spoken to so many people over the past weeks and months, and it seems like one of the major driving forces behind how they are living today is fear. Why? Because the reality of what is happening in the world around us drives that fear. It drives doubt and it drives certain anxiety. However, I want you to know that God has called us to victorious living. He has called us to live this way even in the midst of chaos and challenges.
Please join us this Sunday in person and online as we dive into the great topic of Living Victoriously In These Times. We are so very thankful for the beautiful presence of the Lord in our services. Please continue to pray the Lord will have His way as we praise, worship and preach the word.
Blessings,
Pastor Wayne Russell
Associate Pastor
I have spoken to so many people over the past weeks and months, and it seems like one of the major driving forces behind how they are living today is fear. Why? Because the reality of what is happening in the world around us drives that fear. It drives doubt and it drives certain anxiety. However, I want you to know that God has called us to victorious living. He has called us to live this way even in the midst of chaos and challenges.
Please join us this Sunday in person and online as we dive into the great topic of Living Victoriously In These Times. We are so very thankful for the beautiful presence of the Lord in our services. Please continue to pray the Lord will have His way as we praise, worship and preach the word.
Blessings,
Pastor Wayne Russell
Associate Pastor
What is the culture of the Kingdom of God?
We trust you enjoyed celebrating the Canada Day holiday with your family!
We have been preaching and teaching on the topic When Faith and Culture Collide. Today is our monthly day of fasting and prayer at PPT which will also be based on that theme. Let us include asking God to forgive our sins, heal our land, and restore love and unity. May the Lord heal the deep, painful hurt from the injustices against our indigenous families and knit our hearts together in love.
I read a great quote this week that expresses perfectly what we mean about how to address the issue of when our faith and culture collide:
"God's intention was never for the culture of the day to influence people's view of Biblical truth (the gospel). This is a polluted filter that magnifies "personal truth" above "The Truth". Jesus’ instruction was to go into all the world (culture of the day) and share the gospel (Biblical truth) to influence the culture, and its people, to align with God's view, which is not polluted by sin and human weakness. His plan and will for us is good. He is our creator and knows how to repair what is damaged, heal what is hurt and satisfy the seeking heart. Be confident, be unashamed and bold to stand for and share the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is the vaccine for the virus of pride, selfishness and fear that is plaguing our culture."
– Ron Jutze, Director of Operations at The Word For You Today.
Join us this first Sunday of July, as we more deeply explore this in my message, The Culture of the Kingdom. We look forward to seeing so many more of you since we are now able to increase our seating capacity to 25%. Let’s gather together to celebrate the Lord in worship and experience the beauty and wonder of His kingdom in our hearts!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We trust you enjoyed celebrating the Canada Day holiday with your family!
We have been preaching and teaching on the topic When Faith and Culture Collide. Today is our monthly day of fasting and prayer at PPT which will also be based on that theme. Let us include asking God to forgive our sins, heal our land, and restore love and unity. May the Lord heal the deep, painful hurt from the injustices against our indigenous families and knit our hearts together in love.
I read a great quote this week that expresses perfectly what we mean about how to address the issue of when our faith and culture collide:
"God's intention was never for the culture of the day to influence people's view of Biblical truth (the gospel). This is a polluted filter that magnifies "personal truth" above "The Truth". Jesus’ instruction was to go into all the world (culture of the day) and share the gospel (Biblical truth) to influence the culture, and its people, to align with God's view, which is not polluted by sin and human weakness. His plan and will for us is good. He is our creator and knows how to repair what is damaged, heal what is hurt and satisfy the seeking heart. Be confident, be unashamed and bold to stand for and share the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is the vaccine for the virus of pride, selfishness and fear that is plaguing our culture."
– Ron Jutze, Director of Operations at The Word For You Today.
Join us this first Sunday of July, as we more deeply explore this in my message, The Culture of the Kingdom. We look forward to seeing so many more of you since we are now able to increase our seating capacity to 25%. Let’s gather together to celebrate the Lord in worship and experience the beauty and wonder of His kingdom in our hearts!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
When Things Collide
Welcome to summer! We are looking forward to hot, hazy days and time spent with our families enjoying the great outdoors and vacations together. Another amazing feature of this season is thunderstorms. They are created when hot, humid air clashes with cold, dry air. The difference in these air densities causes lift and the creation of those incredible thunderstorm clouds that can rise up to ten miles in the air and provide an incredible sight and sound display!
Like thunderstorms, we as believers often feel the clash as people who live within two different kingdoms. Living in this natural world, we live under the influence of ‘kingdoms’ of this world. As children of God, we are citizens of the unseen, spiritual kingdom of God. In this Sunday’s message, When Kingdoms Collide, we will explore these two kingdoms and the reality that they often collide because of the principles by which they operate. We will also learn how we are to navigate this tension as followers of Christ.
As announced by the provincial government, we will be entering Step 2 in their reopening plan next week which will allow us to increase our seating capacity to 25%. Registration is required for services and does fill quickly so be sure to register early if you wish to join us. Once capacity limits are reached, you will be able to join our waiting list and will be contacted if openings become available. We therefore ask if your plans change and you cannot attend service, please cancel your registration as soon as possible to allow others on our waiting list, to come. We are looking forward to seeing more of you join us on Sundays!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Welcome to summer! We are looking forward to hot, hazy days and time spent with our families enjoying the great outdoors and vacations together. Another amazing feature of this season is thunderstorms. They are created when hot, humid air clashes with cold, dry air. The difference in these air densities causes lift and the creation of those incredible thunderstorm clouds that can rise up to ten miles in the air and provide an incredible sight and sound display!
Like thunderstorms, we as believers often feel the clash as people who live within two different kingdoms. Living in this natural world, we live under the influence of ‘kingdoms’ of this world. As children of God, we are citizens of the unseen, spiritual kingdom of God. In this Sunday’s message, When Kingdoms Collide, we will explore these two kingdoms and the reality that they often collide because of the principles by which they operate. We will also learn how we are to navigate this tension as followers of Christ.
As announced by the provincial government, we will be entering Step 2 in their reopening plan next week which will allow us to increase our seating capacity to 25%. Registration is required for services and does fill quickly so be sure to register early if you wish to join us. Once capacity limits are reached, you will be able to join our waiting list and will be contacted if openings become available. We therefore ask if your plans change and you cannot attend service, please cancel your registration as soon as possible to allow others on our waiting list, to come. We are looking forward to seeing more of you join us on Sundays!
Every blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
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