Good News and Great Joy!
You will have the exciting opportunity to personally bring the good news of the gospel and great joy to a child this Christmas as we dedicate Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes this weekend.
What an incredible tangible way for us to all help fulfill the Great Commission right from our own homes. Local churches in more than 100 nations will deliver our prayerfully packed boxes—with the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ—to boys and girls in some of the most difficult and remote places of the world. Children and families will gather to receive these boxes and hear the message of salvation through Jesus Christ and will be given the opportunity to pray and receive Christ as their Saviour.
Darren McCrae, our missionary from Colombia will be with us to share his experience of watching children receive these boxes in his country. He will also join us in praying over these shoeboxes and sharing an amazing update on the work of God in that nation.
Just a friendly reminder, that you must register to attend our Sunday services and please arrive before 10:30 am so we can properly seat you and your family. Remember to bring your OCC shoebox with you into the service. We will be praying over the boxes during service. Then on your way out of service, you can deposit your shoebox at the designated table in the lobby.
We look forward to your presence with us in person or online this weekend for this exciting Missions Sunday service!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
You will have the exciting opportunity to personally bring the good news of the gospel and great joy to a child this Christmas as we dedicate Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes this weekend.
What an incredible tangible way for us to all help fulfill the Great Commission right from our own homes. Local churches in more than 100 nations will deliver our prayerfully packed boxes—with the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ—to boys and girls in some of the most difficult and remote places of the world. Children and families will gather to receive these boxes and hear the message of salvation through Jesus Christ and will be given the opportunity to pray and receive Christ as their Saviour.
Darren McCrea, our missionary from Colombia will be with us to share his experience of watching children receive these boxes in his country. He will also join us in praying over these shoeboxes and sharing an amazing update on the work of God in that nation.
Just a friendly reminder, that you must register to attend our Sunday services and please arrive before 10:30 am so we can properly seat you and your family. Remember to bring your OCC shoebox with you into the service. We will be praying over the boxes during service. Then on your way out of service, you can deposit your shoebox at the designated table in the lobby.
We look forward to your presence with us in person or online this weekend for this exciting Missions Sunday service!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
The Wonder of Water Baptism
We are anticipating a wonderful water baptism celebration service this Sunday! Even in the midst of this long and arduous pandemic, God has been building His church by drawing people to Jesus Christ and into a confession of faith in Him. These services are some of the most exciting times in the life of the church as we celebrate with people their decision to receive Christ as their Saviour and they desire to follow Him.
Just a friendly reminder that if you are registered for Sunday’s service, please arrive by 10:30 am so we can properly seat you and your family.
We look forward to your presence with us in person or online this weekend for our Water Baptism Celebration Service!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We are anticipating a wonderful water baptism celebration service this Sunday! Even in the midst of this long and arduous pandemic, God has been building His church by drawing people to Jesus Christ and into a confession of faith in Him. These services are some of the most exciting times in the life of the church as we celebrate with people their decision to receive Christ as their Saviour and they desire to follow Him.
Just a friendly reminder that if you are registered for Sunday’s service, please arrive by 10:30 am so we can properly seat you and your family.
We look forward to your presence with us in person or online this weekend for our Water Baptism Celebration Service!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
The Great Invitation
Have you ever received a unexpected invitation from someone? And they were inviting you to an exhilarating experience with them like taking a trip, skydiving, or white water rafting? What made it so great was who invited you as well as what you experienced together.
We have been in a series of messages about the wilderness of our current times. In this Sunday’s message, Come To Me, you will hear the greatest invitation you will ever receive, who it’s from, and what kind of satisfaction it will provide in your life. May we accept the invitation to come eat, drink, and live, in the wilderness!
We are anticipating a wonderful water baptism celebration service Sunday next week! We have a make-up baptism class this Sunday during our service for anyone who would like to get baptized in obedience to the Lord’s command. Even if you just want to explore the meaning and purpose of water baptism you are welcome to attend too.
Just a friendly reminder that you must register to attend our Sunday services and please arrive by 10:30 am so we can properly seat you and your family.
We look forward to your presence with us whether in person or online this weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Have you ever received a unexpected invitation from someone? And they were inviting you to an exhilarating experience with them like taking a trip, skydiving, or white water rafting? What made it so great was who invited you as well as what you experienced together.
We have been in a series of messages about the wilderness of our current times. In this Sunday’s message, Come To Me, you will hear the greatest invitation you will ever receive, who it’s from, and what kind of satisfaction it will provide in your life. May we accept the invitation to come eat, drink, and live, in the wilderness!
We are anticipating a wonderful water baptism celebration service Sunday next week! We have a make-up baptism class this Sunday during our service for anyone who would like to get baptized in obedience to the Lord’s command. Even if you just want to explore the meaning and purpose of water baptism you are welcome to attend too.
Just a friendly reminder that you must register to attend our Sunday services and please arrive by 10:30 am so we can properly seat you and your family.
We look forward to your presence with us whether in person or online this weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Got more than you can handle?
It’s been often said, "God won't give you more than you can handle." I am guessing that some of you are grappling with whether you think that statement is true or not, particularly in current circumstances of life. One really interesting thing to note is you can’t find that exact statement in the Bible either. So discover the truth of what to do when you feel like you’ve got more than you can handle happening in your life in this Sunday’s message, Hand It Over.
We are anticipating a wonderful water baptism celebration service in just a couple of weeks! Water baptism is a beautiful picture of what the Lord Jesus Christ has done for us through His death, burial and resurrection. If you would like to be water baptized you must register and attend the instructional class that will be held this Sunday during our worship service. Even if you just want to learn more about water baptism and what it means you are welcome to join this class as well.
We all know that prayer prepares our hearts to worship God and receive the truth of His Word. So we encourage you to join us for Pre-Service Prayer on Sunday at 9:30 am in the Prayer Room, or on the conference call.
Just a friendly reminder, if you have registered to attend service and your plans change, please be sure to cancel your registration. We also request that you don’t register to hold seats you will not be using. We do have a waiting list and others are eager to attend if you cannot. Also note the church doors open at 10:00 am and close at 10:45 am for security purposes, so please arrive in that time frame to ensure your entrance into the building. Thank you for your cooperation in these matters as we seek to serve as many as possible.
We look forward to your presence with us whether in person or online this weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
It’s been often said, "God won't give you more than you can handle." I am guessing that some of you are grappling with whether you think that statement is true or not, particularly in current circumstances of life. One really interesting thing to note is you can’t find that exact statement in the Bible either. So discover the truth of what to do when you feel like you’ve got more than you can handle happening in your life in this Sunday’s message, Hand It Over.
We are anticipating a wonderful water baptism celebration service in just a couple of weeks! Water baptism is a beautiful picture of what the Lord Jesus Christ has done for us through His death, burial and resurrection. If you would like to be water baptized you must register and attend the instructional class that will be held this Sunday during our worship service. Even if you just want to learn more about water baptism and what it means you are welcome to join this class as well.
We all know that prayer prepares our hearts to worship God and receive the truth of His Word. So we encourage you to join us for Pre-Service Prayer on Sunday at 9:30 am in the Prayer Room, or on the conference call.
Just a friendly reminder, if you have registered to attend service and your plans change, please be sure to cancel your registration. We also request that you don’t register to hold seats you will not be using. We do have a waiting list and others are eager to attend if you cannot. Also note the church doors open at 10:00 am and close at 10:45 am for security purposes, so please arrive in that time frame to ensure your entrance into the building. Thank you for your cooperation in these matters as we seek to serve as many as possible.
We look forward to your presence with us whether in person or online this weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
The Importance of Thanksgiving
We wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving as you celebrate God’s goodness! As we come to this holiday weekend, we have so much to be thankful for this year, even in the midst of all the challenges we have faced. In fact, an attitude of gratitude is essential for our current well-being. It is also the key to overcoming all the challenges we are still facing and will face in the future.
This Sunday in my message, A Thanksgiving Life, we will share three key truths that demonstrate the value and power of being thankful. The application of these truths to our lives will release the blessing of God! You will also learn why this is so crucial for us as we live in these last days.
Please note another exciting development. Our Toddler and PPT Kids: Roots classes have resumed and we are now expanding to include children aged 3 through to 10, starting this weekend! What an exciting development for our children!
We all know that prayer prepares our hearts to worship God and receive the truth of His Word. So we encourage you to join us for Pre-Service Prayer on Sunday at 9:30 am in the Prayer Room, or on the conference call.
Just a friendly reminder, that if you have registered to attend service and your plans change or not everyone in your family is able to come, please be sure to cancel their registration. Please do not register to hold seats you will not be using. We do have a waiting list and others are eager to attend if you cannot. Also note the church doors close at 10:45 am for security purposes, so be sure you arrive on time for service. Thank you for your cooperation in these matters as we seek to serve as many as possible.
We look forward to your presence with us whether in person or online this Thanksgiving weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving as you celebrate God’s goodness! As we come to this holiday weekend, we have so much to be thankful for this year, even in the midst of all the challenges we have faced. In fact, an attitude of gratitude is essential for our current well-being. It is also the key to overcoming all the challenges we are still facing and will face in the future.
This Sunday in my message, A Thanksgiving Life, we will share three key truths that demonstrate the value and power of being thankful. The application of these truths to our lives will release the blessing of God! You will also learn why this is so crucial for us as we live in these last days.
Please note another exciting development. Our Toddler and PPT Kids: Roots classes have resumed and we are now expanding to include children aged 3 through to 10, starting this weekend! What an exciting development for our children!
We all know that prayer prepares our hearts to worship God and receive the truth of His Word. So we encourage you to join us for Pre-Service Prayer on Sunday at 9:30 am in the Prayer Room, or on the conference call.
Just a friendly reminder, that if you have registered to attend service and your plans change or not everyone in your family is able to come, please be sure to cancel their registration. Please do not register to hold seats you will not be using. We do have a waiting list and others are eager to attend if you cannot. Also note the church doors close at 10:45 am for security purposes, so be sure you arrive on time for service. Thank you for your cooperation in these matters as we seek to serve as many as possible.
We look forward to your presence with us whether in person or online this Thanksgiving weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Preparing the way for what is next
In last week’s message Where Are We Now? we determined that, like the Jewish nation’s journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, we are currently in the wilderness. Meaning we are in unchartered territory and not too sure what is just around the corner. But like the Israelites camping journey, we can have full assurance that God is the midst of his people and from that position, He is leading, guiding, providing and protecting His people.
But the wilderness season is also about preparation. It’s a place where we face trials and struggles and through them we learn to trust and obey God. In this Sunday’s message, Preparing The Way, we will learn how God uses the wilderness season to also prepare us for what is coming and the way forward!
We hope you will join us today in fasting and prayer, which we do the first Friday of every month. Also plan to join us for our Upper Room Prayer Meeting tonight where we will be praying about this month’s theme: Preparing For What Is Next.
We have great news from the Kids Ministry area. Pastor Kim is back and feeling much better since the brain tumor surgery in May. With that we want to announce that the Toddler ministry (those walking and up to age 3) and the PPT Kids: Roots ministry (ages 3-8) will resume this Sunday. We also welcome you to join us for Pre-Service Prayer at 9:30am in the Prayer Room/Chapel.
We look forward to your presence with us in person or online!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
In last week’s message Where Are We Now? we determined that, like the Jewish nation’s journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, we are currently in the wilderness. Meaning we are in unchartered territory and not too sure what is just around the corner. But like the Israelites camping journey, we can have full assurance that God is the midst of his people and from that position, He is leading, guiding, providing and protecting His people.
But the wilderness season is also about preparation. It’s a place where we face trials and struggles and through them we learn to trust and obey God. In this Sunday’s message, Preparing The Way, we will learn how God uses the wilderness season to also prepare us for what is coming and the way forward!
We hope you will join us today in fasting and prayer, which we do the first Friday of every month. Also plan to join us for our Upper Room Prayer Meeting tonight where we will be praying about this month’s theme: Preparing For What Is Next.
We have great news from the Kids Ministry area. Pastor Kim is back and feeling much better since the brain tumor surgery in May. With that we want to announce that the Toddler ministry (those walking and up to age 3) and the PPT Kids: Roots ministry (ages 3-8) will resume this Sunday. We also welcome you to join us for Pre-Service Prayer at 9:30am in the Prayer Room/Chapel.
We look forward to your presence with us in person or online!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Where are we now?
It’s a question that is often asked these days. If you Google it, you will see maps and tools to help you to find your location and determine your potential direction, with the goal of helping you reach your desired destination. So where are we right now in God’s plan and purposes?
There is a greater sense of uncertainty as we grapple with new and constant challenges in this ever-changing world. With all that is unfolding, where are we headed? What’s coming next? In this Sunday’s message, Where are we now? we are going to bring some clarity and understanding to that question. We will learn what we can expect to experience in the coming days as we journey towards our ultimate destination. It’s a message that will challenge and encourage your heart!
We also welcome you to join us for Pre-Service Prayer at 9:30 am in the Prayer Room. We look forward to your presence with us in person or online!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
It’s a question that is often asked these days. If you Google it, you will see maps and tools to help you to find your location and determine your potential direction, with the goal of helping you reach your desired destination. So where are we right now in God’s plan and purposes?
There is a greater sense of uncertainty as we grapple with new and constant challenges in this ever-changing world. With all that is unfolding, where are we headed? What’s coming next? In this Sunday’s message, Where are we now? we are going to bring some clarity and understanding to that question. We will learn what we can expect to experience in the coming days as we journey towards our ultimate destination. It’s a message that will challenge and encourage your heart!
We also welcome you to join us for Pre-Service Prayer at 9:30 am in the Prayer Room. We look forward to your presence with us in person or online!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
It’s time to arise!
We are in the midst of three days of fasting and prayer (Oct 16-18). As part of RiseUp Canada, we have joined with fellow believers across this great nation praying for repentance, righteousness, and revival in our land. We encourage you to participate in some manner. Check out the daily special online meetings.
We are thrilled to announce that a number of our ministries are re-opening using a hybrid approach of online and in-person ministry. For example, Pre-Service Prayer will be offered both online and in person starting this Sunday at 9:30 am. Just check-in at the registration desk and then proceed to the Prayer Room. Following prayer, you can make your way to one of the five entrances to the sanctuary to be seated by an usher.
Our Toddler Ministry is going to begin on Sun, Oct 3! How exciting to being able to love and impact these precious little souls for Jesus! We are also working on our Sunday Roots classes right now. We need our teachers and assistants to catch a fresh vision of the opportunity of a lifetime to teach God’s dynamic Word to our children. Jesus loves children and wants them to come to know Him, His love for them and His plans for their lives! Will you join us in investing in their lives?
Our three days of fasting and prayer will culminate with this Sunday’s message, Let’s Rise-Up Church. Let’s regather to worship God and refocus on our call and purpose in this life. God has ordained His church for such a time as this! We look for to your presence with us in person or online for our worship service this weekend.
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
We are in the midst of three days of fasting and prayer (Oct 16-18). As part of RiseUp Canada, we have joined with fellow believers across this great nation praying for repentance, righteousness, and revival in our land. We encourage you to participate in some manner. Check out the daily special online meetings.
We are thrilled to announce that a number of our ministries are re-opening using a hybrid approach of online and in-person ministry. For example, Pre-Service Prayer will be offered both online and in person starting this Sunday at 9:30 am. Just check-in at the registration desk and then proceed to the Prayer Room. Following prayer, you can make your way to one of the five entrances to the sanctuary to be seated by an usher.
Our Toddler Ministry is going to begin on Sun, Oct 3! How exciting to being able to love and impact these precious little souls for Jesus! We are also working on our Sunday Roots classes right now. We need our teachers and assistants to catch a fresh vision of the opportunity of a lifetime to teach God’s dynamic Word to our children. Jesus loves children and wants them to come to know Him, His love for them and His plans for their lives! Will you join us in investing in their lives?
Our three days of fasting and prayer will culminate with this Sunday’s message, Let’s Rise-Up Church. Let’s regather to worship God and refocus on our call and purpose in this life. God has ordained His church for such a time as this! We look for to your presence with us in person or online for our worship service this weekend.
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
A hybrid church approach this Fall
How did your first week of September go? We were praying you and your family as you worked to settle your children back into school. This was an exciting week for us as we welcomed Pastor Kim back to ministry! She has been on short-term disability while recovering from her brain tumour surgery. We thank the Lord for His healing hand upon her body and life!
As we enter this Fall season, our mission as a church has never changed but actually become even more focused for us than ever before. As we shared in last Sunday’s service, our calling is to ‘make disciples’ and help people become fully devoted followers of Christ by fulfilling His five purposes for their lives. We will move forward with a hybrid church approach that will provide in-person and online gatherings in order to facilitate your connection with God and people, your spiritual growth, your opportunities to serve, and your mission to our world that so desperately needs Christ.
This Fall we will be restarting some of our in-house ministry gatherings while continuing to offer our online ministries. We are going to focus first on Sunday ministries and then our mid-week ministries. This is going to take a fresh commitment from all our volunteers, so we encourage you to respond to various emails and calls you will be receiving from staff and ministry leaders who will be seeking your support to be scheduled to serve. Let’s come together using our spiritual gifts, talents and abilities to serve one another and invest in our spiritual growth and development to reach people for Christ! Please stay tuned to these emails for further details on all our Fall ministry plans.
Take a moment right now to register and join us in person for worship and a message about Our Wounded Healer followed by Communion. We look for to your presence with us in person or online this weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
How did your first week of September go? We were praying you and your family as you worked to settle your children back into school. This was an exciting week for us as we welcomed Pastor Kim back to ministry! She has been on short-term disability while recovering from her brain tumour surgery. We thank the Lord for His healing hand upon her body and life!
As we enter this Fall season, our mission as a church has never changed but actually become even more focused for us than ever before. As we shared in last Sunday’s service, our calling is to ‘make disciples’ and help people become fully devoted followers of Christ by fulfilling His five purposes for their lives. We will move forward with a hybrid church approach that will provide in-person and online gatherings in order to facilitate your connection with God and people, your spiritual growth, your opportunities to serve, and your mission to our world that so desperately needs Christ.
This Fall we will be restarting some of our in-house ministry gatherings while continuing to offer our online ministries. We are going to focus first on Sunday ministries and then our mid-week ministries. This is going to take a fresh commitment from all our volunteers, so we encourage you to respond to various emails and calls you will be receiving from staff and ministry leaders who will be seeking your support to be scheduled to serve. Let’s come together using our spiritual gifts, talents and abilities to serve one another and invest in our spiritual growth and development to reach people for Christ! Please stay tuned to these emails for further details on all our Fall ministry plans.
Take a moment right now to register and join us in person for worship and a message about Our Wounded Healer followed by Communion. We look for to your presence with us in person or online this weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
What is God building?
It’s September, the Labour Day holiday weekend is here and the weather already feels a bit like Fall! This marks the unofficial end to summer and the start of a new school year next week. The Labour Day holiday was instituted as a day of rest to celebrate the accomplishments of unions and labour movement. Labouring is always about building something whether it’s our jobs, our homes, our families, etc. It’s amazing to look across our city and see so much building equipment and projects underway.
For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God. (Hebrews 3:4, NLT)
God is a builder too. He is building something of eternal value and worth. He lays the foundation by calling people to a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. Then He uses various tools as He works to build us up and equip us for our task. It is all part of His master plan of building people lives, His church and ultimately the greater kingdom of God. And God is still very much in the building process!
This holiday weekend, we invite you to worship God Almighty with us and be challenged and encouraged by the message, God The Builder. As you discover your role in His master building plan you will also find your greatest sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in life.
Take a moment right now to register and join us in person. We look for to your presence with us in person or online this holiday weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
It’s September, the Labour Day holiday weekend is here and the weather already feels a bit like Fall! This marks the unofficial end to summer and the start of a new school year next week. The Labour Day holiday was instituted as a day of rest to celebrate the accomplishments of unions and labour movement. Labouring is always about building something whether it’s our jobs, our homes, our families, etc. It’s amazing to look across our city and see so much building equipment and projects underway.
For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God. (Hebrews 3:4, NLT)
God is a builder too. He is building something of eternal value and worth. He lays the foundation by calling people to a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. Then He uses various tools as He works to build us up and equip us for our task. It is all part of His master plan of building people lives, His church and ultimately the greater kingdom of God. And God is still very much in the building process!
This holiday weekend, we invite you to worship God Almighty with us and be challenged and encouraged by the message, God The Builder. As you discover your role in His master building plan you will also find your greatest sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in life.
Take a moment right now to register and join us in person. We look for to your presence with us in person or online this holiday weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Wrestling within your soul
Have you been bombarded with nagging thoughts, suspicions, doubts, fears, wonderings, reasonings, and theories about what is happening in your life and our world world?
This Sunday, we will examine from the Scriptures what it means to wrestle within our own souls. You will learn the strategies that are being used against us to create this battle within our minds. Together we will learn how to overcome it and stand firm in the truth and strong in your faith in these challenging days!
If you would like to join us in person, please take a moment right now to register. We look for to your presence with us in person or online!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Have you been bombarded with nagging thoughts, suspicions, doubts, fears, wonderings, reasonings, and theories about what is happening in your life and our world world?
This Sunday, we will examine from the Scriptures what it means to wrestle within our own souls. You will learn the strategies that are being used against us to create this battle within our minds. Together we will learn how to overcome it and stand firm in the truth and strong in your faith in these challenging days!
If you would like to join us in person, please take a moment right now to register. We look for to your presence with us in person or online!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Are you wrestling in your life?
All around the world we see people wrestling with others in their desire to gain power and control over their lives and circumstances. This week alone we have seen the struggle in Afghanistan as the Taliban wrestle to gain control of the country once again.
As believers, we are called to be spiritual wrestlers. The Scriptures speak of two forms of wrestling. One is the with the devil and his evil forces (principalities, power, rulers of the darkness of this world, spiritual wickedness in high places) as outlined in Ephesians 6:12. God has given us spiritual armour and weapons to use in this spiritual battle The other form of wrestling is with God as we find in the story of Jacob in Genesis 32:24.
This Sunday, we will examine from the Scriptures, what it means to wrestle with others, ourselves and with God, and what it produces in our lives. We will also be praying in the service for all our students and teachers returning to school, college and university this Fall, so plan to join us!
Let’s also gather tonight for our Upper Room Prayer. We will be praying for the battles raging in Afghanistan and Haiti, and other situations where people are wrestling for their lives and future. You will be making an eternal difference in their destinies as we pray together!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
All around the world we see people wrestling with others in their desire to gain power and control over their lives and circumstances. This week alone we have seen the struggle in Afghanistan as the Taliban wrestle to gain control of the country once again.
As believers, we are called to be spiritual wrestlers. The Scriptures speak of two forms of wrestling. One is the with the devil and his evil forces (principalities, power, rulers of the darkness of this world, spiritual wickedness in high places) as outlined in Ephesians 6:12. God has given us spiritual armour and weapons to use in this spiritual battle The other form of wrestling is with God as we find in the story of Jacob in Genesis 32:24.
This Sunday, we will examine from the Scriptures, what it means to wrestle with others, ourselves and with God, and what it produces in our lives. We will also be praying in the service for all our students and teachers returning to school, college and university this Fall, so plan to join us!
Let’s also gather tonight for our Upper Room Prayer. We will be praying for the battles raging in Afghanistan and Haiti, and other situations where people are wrestling for their lives and future. You will be making an eternal difference in their destinies as we pray together!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
Are you living by faith or presumption?
There are many unscriptural presumptions on the news that often tempt us to question God’s sovereign wisdom and control. But we know that the Lord does all things well because He is good all the time and great is His faithfulness. He is always true to His loving character regardless of how things look on the surface. Do not presume that you must understand why things happen to you since it is not necessary to understand everything in order for us to do God’s will. When we know what God has done in the past, we might feel certain that He will do it again or the same way in the future. But His plans may not be our plans. His ways are higher than our ways; his thoughts are higher than our thoughts.
In this Sunday’s message, Living Beyond Presumption, we are going to explore an Old Testament story that reveals how to live beyond any presumptions we might have about how God is going to work and to instead live by faith.
Just a friendly reminder that you still must register to attend in-person services. If you have to cancel your registration, please do so as soon as possible to permit others on the waiting list to come. We ask that you arrive on time, as the entrance doors are locked at 10:45 am to maintain security in the building. Please continue to follow our safety protocols by checking-in at the registration desk, wearing a mask and using the hand sanitizer located in the lobby.
We look forward to hosting you and your family at PPT this weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
There are many unscriptural presumptions on the news that often tempt us to question God’s sovereign wisdom and control. But we know that the Lord does all things well because He is good all the time and great is His faithfulness. He is always true to His loving character regardless of how things look on the surface. Do not presume that you must understand why things happen to you since it is not necessary to understand everything in order for us to do God’s will. When we know what God has done in the past, we might feel certain that He will do it again or the same way in the future. But His plans may not be our plans. His ways are higher than our ways; his thoughts are higher than our thoughts.
In this Sunday’s message, Living Beyond Presumption, we are going to explore an Old Testament story that reveals how to live beyond any presumptions we might have about how God is going to work and to instead live by faith.
Just a friendly reminder that you still must register to attend in-person services. If you have to cancel your registration, please do so as soon as possible to permit others on the waiting list to come. We ask that you arrive on time, as the entrance doors are locked at 10:45 am to maintain security in the building. Please continue to follow our safety protocols by checking-in at the registration desk, wearing a mask and using the hand sanitizer located in the lobby.
We look forward to hosting you and your family at PPT this weekend!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor
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