THE NOVEMBER 2012
DON’T FORGET Donnie Scearce, Lead Pastor
M
Don’t forget!
“DO THIS TO REMEMBER ME…” I Corinthians 11:25c
y maternal granddad was the most genuinely joy filled man I have ever known. From my earliest memory of him until he passed away a few years ago, the one character trait that marked his life more than any other was joy. He was always prepared with a joke to tell to lighten the day for someone else. He was also tenderhearted, kind, and gentle. Whenever someone in our family said or did something out of line, he would pass over it graciously if he could or correct it gently if he must. His gentle, joyful way would win the moment. But his life was not easy. He had grown up in an economically difficult time, one of twelve children. He had known the challenges of walking with a brother addicted to alcohol and of caring for his mother in poverty. He had served in WWII with two of his brothers, and one had been killed. Occasionally my granddad would pull out The Purple Heart, an award that was given to his family from the U.S. government to honour his brother’s sacrifice. It was always a very sobering time as he would remember his brother, and quietly mention the cost of war. Remembering is important for all of us, especially this month. We have the honour of having in our congregation those who have served faithfully in war so that we may live in peace. These veterans’ names are listed below. Remembrance Day on November 11, reminds us to not forget the thousands of people who have lost their lives during WWI, WWII, the Korean War, and those who have served in the Canadian Forces since. Keeping the memory alive is certainly something that we are reminded of in Scripture. Even as far back as the Exodus, when God was speaking to Moses about who it was that was going to deliver his people from slavery, he said: “Say this to the people of Israel:Yahweh, the God of your ancestors … has sent me to you. This is my eternal name, my name to remember for all generations” (Exodus 3:15). And before Jesus’ death and resurrection, so that we would never forget who it was that brought about our ultimate redemption and peace through his own death, Jesus said for his followers to participate in communion, saying “Do this to remember me.” Jesus did not want us to forget the cost of our peace. The proof of our not forgetting is perhaps summarized best by the way we live now. Hebrews 12:1 says, “…And let us run the race God has set before us.” From those like my granddad and our veterans here who have served us well, to the ultimate model of joyful sacrifice that Jesus made on our behalf, the moral of the story for us is as simple as it is profound: Don’t Forget.
Ben Kopp, Bob Hanway, Charlie Richardson, Ellis Pearce, Fred Roberts, Glen Rowe, Gordon Finch, Mack Dennis, Stan Adams.
GETTING TO KNOW OUR ELDERS... PATRICK HOEFNAGELS, ELDER
Patrick was born and raised in Strathroy Ontario, the second son in a family of five. His parents emigrated from Holland, met here, and were married. They were devout Catholics, and Patrick was raised in the Catholic tradition.
due in March), Jacob and James.
While in high school, Patrick met Rachel. They dated for eight years before getting married at North Park by Bill Stubbs in 1984. Rachel and Patrick have five children: Clark , Luke (married to Stephanie), Rebekah (married to Cameron, with baby
Through a friend from work, Patrick was introduced to a group of young men who were involved with the Navigators. One of these men was Ron Burdock. During this time, Patrick was seeking God and was introduced to North Park, where he found a new expression of faith. Through much prayer and study, Patrick continued to see God’s work in his life and the lives in his family. He was baptized at North Park as an expression of his desire to follow God’s will for his life.
Rachel is an administrator at London Health Sciences Centre, and Patrick is a plumber by trade; but they have both served in a number of areas in the church. Patrick was a youth leader and chaired the youth council for a number of years. He and Rachel have been active in life groups and served on the social committee. Patrick was involved with the building committee during the construction of our current facility; and he served on the Deacon Board while North Park transitioned from the old building to the new building. Both Rachel and Patrick have led groups in the Alpha program. They and their children have been overseas a number of times to assist in missions work, primarily in Uganda. For the past four years, Patrick has served on the Elder Board. He says, “North Park has been our family’s home for the past thirty years. This is where our children grew up and were nurtured in their faith. We have seen a lot of changes at North Park, and we will no doubt see many more before our time is done; but through it all God has been with us. I can say that since being on the Elder Board, I have spent more time in prayer than ever before, asking God for his direction for his church. I look forward to what he has for us in the months and years ahead.”
AGAIN….FOR THE FIRST TIME John Tyler, Chair of the Elder Board
For centuries, only scribes and the well-educated could read Scripture. The books were Latin or Hebrew volumes disseminated only to churches, monasteries and synagogues. Most people depended on a rabbi, priest or teacher to give second hand knowledge, which meant that people had to rely on the integrity of some who were hungry for wealth and power; so false traditions flourished, such as the selling of “indulgences.” At last, John Wycliffe translated the Bible into English in the late 1300s. Then, when Europeans started to use printing presses in the 1400s, copies could be rapidly produced instead of laboriously handwritten. By 1540, a single copy of an English Bible was available in most churches throughout England…for those who could read.
I am so encouraged that many at North Park have taken up the immense privilege - and the challenge - to open the Word of God as we progress through the “E100” readings. Before each day’s reading, it’s important to take a moment to ask God to open our spiritual eyes. We will see many familiar passages “again …as if for the first time,” as the Holy Spirit presents his Word to us. Who knows how Jesus will use this in our lives and in our corporate experience over the next several months as we meet with him in our homes, and then come to worship together! Enter the Story! It’s his story…it’s the story of his people… it’s our story!
Before public education and child labour laws, children worked on farms or in factories five to six days a week. Therefore only Sunday was available for education. Around 1780, the Sunday School Movement exploded throughout Europe and North America, and the Bible was used for teaching reading. By the late 1800s, most western countries had public education, so literacy was on the rise. Finally, individuals and families could have a Bible in English at home, and be able to read it!
page 2
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS NURSERY SCHOOL
Michelle Sweet-Boulay, Director of Humble Beginnings
We all know the hustle and bustle of excitement heard in the hallways on a Sunday morning at North Park, but what would you hear there on a weekday morning? You might be surprised to know it is not silent! Little voices can be heard singing and laughing, while little ears are hearing how much Jesus loves them. This is North Park’s Humble Beginnings Nursery School. Each morning 16 children between the ages of three and five enjoy a stimulating Christian program. While their little hands may be experiencing the amazing feeling of pumpkin goop, they can be hearing their teachers talk about who created those beautiful orange squashes. Even the seemingly simple act of imagining that they are creating pizzas out of pine cones and shells in the housekeeping centre, can lead to a conversation about how thankful we are that God gives us (real!) food to eat, beautiful oceans of seashells, and green pine trees for cones! I have enjoyed ten lovely years of teaching and loving these precious children and their families at Humble Beginnings and my co-worker Heather Neufeld has lovingly dedicated ten years to nursery school. Together we attempt to foster physical, social, emotional, and spiritual growth in those God brings to our little program. Over our many years together, we have been privileged to witness many beautiful transformations in some of our children and their families. Because our nursery school families come from all walks of life, church experience is not familiar to all of them, but they are simply coming to bring their child to “school”. Some parents have simply started by asking what other things happen in this big building. We begin to share information on some of the other outreach programs with them such as Playgroup, Summer Day Camp, Moms’ Bible Study and STOMP. We watch as what started out as bringing their child to nursery school transforms into opportunities to connect with Christian families and many times over the years we then will spot these little faces and their parents at a weekend service. All of this beginning perhaps from the seeds of a little pumpkin we were squishing in our hands. Heather and I are continually grateful to the commitment of those who pray for this program and to North Park for providing the space for this outreach. God is definitely at work in our Humble Beginnings Nursery School.
page 3
MOMS’ BIBLE STUDY
Ann Wiebe, Director of Small Groups | Lisa Monck, Moms’ Bible Study Co-ordinator
There are moms who are expecting their first baby, all the way to moms with teens who come to Moms’ Bible Study. Our desire is to provide a safe space for us as moms to turn our focus onto our great God and to grow in our passion to honour him in our everyday role as moms. We’d love to have you join us!! After settling our kids in the childcare program, we gather together for a quick coffee/snack and watch a short teaching DVD. This Fall we are going through “21st Century Parenting” by Rob Parsons. Parsons is the founder of ’Care for the Family’ in the UK and the author of MANY marriage and parenting books. Following our time together, we move into separate rooms for our small group discussions and prayer. These small groups are an opportunity for moms to feel safe enough to share honestly and encourage one another in the joys and challenges of parenting and life. Sometimes it is hard to really get to know someone unless you spend time with them. This is what Moms’ Bible Study is…a place to get to know other moms. Without the support of others, parenting can be very lonely. As we spend time with each other, we are learning to trust each other and learning to stop trying to live up to someone else’s expectations. We are learning to have faith and trust in our Heavenly Father, who can give us the strength and courage that we need to live each day, with a sense of peace. ‘And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.’ Philippians 4:7 (NIV) Our first week together, we celebrated being mothers. We listened to Diane Parsons, who is the wife of Rob Parsons. Diane shared stories about her experiences as a mother. She made us laugh, but most of all she set us at ease to know that we are not alone and that we need to stay in the game and to never give up! During the remainder of our time together, Rob Parsons will share with us some of his insights into parenting. He is an inspiring speaker, who brings a very down-to-earth approach to parenting. It is never too late to come out to Moms’ Bible study so feel free to join us for some or all of these sessions with Rob. Childcare is a very important component of this ministry. Stacey Andrews started this year as the Childcare Coordinator for Moms’ Bible Study. Stacey has transitioned very well into this position and has made great strides in making our moms feel at ease. This allows our moms to enjoy their morning. Thank you to Stacey and her faithful caregivers for serving our moms in this way. You are appreciated! Please mark Wednesday, February 6th on your calendar. This will be the start date of our second Moms’ Bible Study session. We will be studying “What HappensWhenWomen SayYes to God” by Lysa TerKeurst. Lysa is an author, speaker, blogger, teacher and a mom. Lysa’s down-to-earth approach is both challenging and encouraging. Come join us for a time of encouragement and learning with other moms! We give thanks to God for his continued blessing on Moms’ Bible Study. What an exciting time to be serving a God whose grace is sufficient for each day!
CHRISTMAS STORE Jenny Casselman, Life Resource Centre Intern
The Life Resource Centre is once again opening a Christmas store as a means of providing members of the community with the opportunity to buy affordable gifts for their children and one another. We believe that the Christmas store will give families the confidence and dignity to provide for their families and participate in this season of giving. In order to make this possible, we are looking for volunteers to assist with the set-up and monitoring of the store, gift wrapping, and helping to take care of children while parents are shopping. We also need new or never used gifts for all ages, as well as gift wrapping supplies, all of which can be dropped off in the donation bins at the entrance of the church that are clearly labeled “LRC Christmas store.” If you would like to learn more about the Christmas store or would like to be involved, please contact jenny.casselman@northpark.ca.
page 4
STOMP KIDS CHRISTMAS MUSICAL Jim Wells (JAZZ), Pastor of Children’s and Family Ministry
In the middle of challenging times, I believe it is even more essential for people of all ages to understand the reason Jesus Christ came to this earth. He came to teach us, to serve us, and finally, to conquer death in our place, so that we may enjoy life with him forever. What greater gift is there? And what better way to share it than through the mouths of children? Our STOMP Choir started working on this year’s Christmas musical last month. ‘ A Rockin’ Royal Christmas’ is the Christmas story. A very angry King Herod has hired two investigators (Sherlock Holmes & Sherlock Watson) to find out why the wise men never returned and where this baby King is. The STOMP Choir will be preparing the singing, acting, choreography and general excitement for God’s unique and humbling message of salvation.
Plan to invite friends and family to join us for this kick off to the Christmas season during our weekend services at North Park on December 1 @ 6:30pm & December 2 @ 9:00 & 11:00am.
DARE TO GIVE WISELY Ron Burdock, Director of Global Outreach
God has given us the responsibility to invest our resources in ways that are thoughtful and make a positive difference in the world. Released in 2009, the award winning book “When Helping Hurts” invited Christians all across North America to look deeper into the specific ways in which their actions may inadvertently be making a negative impact. It was Eva Peron who stated that, “When the rich think about the poor they have bad ideas”. Maybe she was right. Good intentions apparently are not enough....one must dare to give wisely and to think critically about their giving, especially when it comes to giving to address poverty.
In 2011, a small team of global friends born in developing countries were asked to come together and offer their counsel to those involved in mission leadership here at North Park. The team was headed up by Mary Kamau from Kenya and it included individuals from Africa, Asia and Latin America. The specific task they were given was to bring together some research from respected global friends on the positive and negative effects of some of our giving initiatives. The need for such research came from comments made by Oscar Muriu in 2009 when he visited North Park. Oscar is the pastor of Nairobi Chapel in Nairobi, Kenya. He is a voice of wisdom to leaders in the West who want to understand Africa and how to help. He was gracious in his reflections, but suggested that many ideas coming from the West tend to perpetuate dependency and a feeling of helplessness on the part of the people who receive their aid. Books like “Dead Aid” by Dambisa Moyo have sought to enter into this complex subject from a macro perspective, but the principles are basically the same: some giving has a negative impact. The group met three times and talked about how to give and make a distinctly positive difference. Their intuition and their wisdom is a rich collection of five principles for daring to give wisely: 1. Give in ways that build on relationships and foster reciprocity, as gifts will be more meaningful and appropriate. Initiatives that foster one way giving can weaken the recipients. 2. Give in ways that build capacity into families and churches, as this will empower people to become productive and sustain themselves. Teach parents how to generate an income so that they can provide for their children. 3. Give in ways that build on local resources and economies, as this inspires people to look to what they have, not to what they do not have as the starting point for creating change. 4. Give in ways that deal with the root causes of poverty, as this gives the best chance for a positive outcome in the long term. 5. Give in ways that prioritize meeting pressing needs for vulnerable communities, as resources are scarce. These principles represent the best wisdom of our global brothers and sisters at North Park. It’s their analysis of what we need to do in order to be a positive force in the world. The Global Outreach team is looking at how we can apply these principles in our selection of partnerships. A good example is our work with IJM in Thailand where we are funding citizenship work. Helping someone get their citizenship takes time, but in the end it gives a person the opportunity to begin the journey out of poverty. A lack of citizenship is truly a root cause of poverty. Our work in Asia among the QST is an excellent example of principle 1 regarding building on relationships. We have been working there for seven years and our help for the workers serving in the region is meaningful and appropriate. It is by no means easy to discern how to give within these principles. However, our leadership has chosen “Bowing Down” as our overall Christmas theme from Matthew 2:11: “They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Like the wise men, our Dare to Give challenge attempts to recognize the sacrifice of giving not only to Jesus but also to our local and global friends in need. And we are excited to share three opportunities that attempt to give wisely, all of whom are either an initiative of, or a partner ministry of North Park. You can give dignity to a Thai Hill Tribe member by sponsoring a citizenship, you can give skills to our friends at Life Resource Centre by purchasing an apron from World Tailors, or you can give relief to people on the streets of London through Mission Service Christmas Kits. We are thrilled to humbly offer you these opportunities to join with the wise men from so long ago and learn with us how to give in a way that makes a lasting difference in our world today!
page 5
page 6
Canadian Blood Services Cheshire Sanctuary London Mission Services Youth for Christ
page 7
EVERY VOICE MATTERS: AN EVENING WITH SANCTUARY
Ron Burdock, Director of Global Outreach
North Park has the privilege of being a catalyst for the growth and release of missional leaders. In 2011, we commissioned Darryl and Sarah Reckman to the work of starting Sanctuary London. The community known as Sanctuary is doing well, with people from all walks of life serving together in the streets of London. The Hour that Changes the World presents Every Voice Matters An Evening With Sanctuary.....an opportunity to come together and celebrate this great new beginning with Darryl and Sarah.
We are pulling out all the stops for this celebration. EnRoute is hosting and we have invited Greg Paul to come and speak. Greg is the founder of Sanctuary Toronto; an amazing story of God’s grace through Greg’s life and vision. Greg’s heart for the homeless of Toronto led him to begin a church where friends on the streets could find hope and belonging beyond just shelter and food. Greg and Sanctuary Toronto has grown to be an advocate for the homeless across North America, with Greg being a vital leader in the church’s emerging vision for how we re-enter our faltering urban centres. It was Greg’s coaching and Sanctuary Toronto that incubated and mentored the team at Sanctuary London.
TEACHING & RED FROGS AT ENROUTE
Pete Maddocks, Pastor of Young Adults
We have had a great first half of the Fall semester at EnRoute and are now deep into our Fall series, “Rumors of Another World”, which brings a kingdom perspective to Paul’s letters in the New Testament. The main focus being how our lives can begin to point toward the other reality that Jesus spoke of when he proclaimed the Kingdom of God was at hand. So far we have looked at themes such as transformation, the Spirit, discipline, contemplation, temptation, gentleness, suffering and evangelism.
Our outreach to the students at Fanshawe through Red Frogs has also been developing with new opportunities and leaders slowly arising. Red Frogs seeks to serve and make connections with students right in the midst of the party atmosphere. We bring food and water to events & house parties and give it all away for free. This Fall we were happy to be invited back to the biggest party on campus for the second year in a row. This was a great catalyst to start the year and provided a chance to connect with many students for the first time as we gave out hundreds of bottles of water, cookies, brownies, doughnuts and bracelets. We’ve also been invited to several houses to make breakfast and dinner and are looking forward to a busy weekend before Halloween, as there will be many events for us to be involved in. We also just started our first “Fill the Fridge” campaign where we will have students post the most convincing pictures of empty fridges and hungry students on our Facebook page. The winning house will get a fridge full of groceries and a dinner party, thrown by us, for all their friends. Through all that we do, we seek to demonstrate the love of Jesus to the students at Fanshawe, build relationships with them and invite them out to our community events at EnRoute. Please pray for energy for our team, as it’s a draining ministry and that God would soften the hearts of students so that they might experience the love of Jesus.
page 8
SENIORS’ CLUB Ruth Nuss, President and Editor
The North Park Seniors’ Club is an outreach ministry that seeks to meet the needs of seniors (those 60+ years old) by providing Christcentred programs and encouraging fellowship, friendship and interaction in a Christian atmosphere. The following are snapshots of our year so far: In January, we enjoyed guests Dave Colvin and Henry Klausnitzer from Emergency Management, London who showed us how to prepare for and survive in the event of an emergency such as a prolonged power outage from a severe storm. Pastor James Bekkers brought the devotional. In February, we enjoyed the beautiful photography of Mary Jo Wyatt as she and Anne Robertson took us on a “Journey to the Holy Land”. Our March meeting featured Jane Burke, daughter of missionaries, who presented her life journey using 25 pairs of shoes from childhood.
In September, we enjoyed Bob Heywood from Exeter and his humour, inspirational singing and excellent accordion playing. In October, our guests were Ken and Ann Vernon, Ontario Regional Directors with Focus on the Family. Their message was about the importance of passing on a godly heritage to the next generation.
Bob Heywood
If you are a senior, why not join us on the 2nd Thursday of each month for a Pot Luck Luncheon. Please check our Seniors’ newsletter available in the rack beside our bulletin board for future meeting plans. You won’t be disappointed.
Part of Jane Burke’s shoe display.
Ron Elliott, a pharmacist from St. Thomas, gave an informative talk in April on certain prescription drugs taken for chronic conditions and how they could impact our driving and healthy lifestyle. Rev. Pieter Schinkelshoek brought the devotional.
GOVERNANCE REVIEW Donnie Scearce, Lead Pastor | John Tyler, Chair of Elder Board
The last time North Park made a formal change to its leadership structure was in 2002, over a decade ago. Many changes have taken place since then, not in documentation but in practice. Before 2002, North Park had one Deacon Board. As the amount of work increased, the Board was divided into three – Mission, Ministry, and Management. It has become necessary to make adjustments. The congregation is larger than it was in 2002. Tim Keller’s outstanding article Leadership and Church Size Dynamics (2010), about the necessary leadership change process for churches the size of our congregation, helped shape some of our thinking. The governance review process was initiated in September of 2011 to help us prepare for the next decade of ministry. From earlier issues of the LINK, you may recall the primary issues were: To improve decision making by forming Ministry Departments To clarify relationships between staff and volunteers and Deacons To align vision and financial oversight at the “governance” level There are five phases to this process: PHASE 1 – Identification: An Elder subcommittee chaired by Dale Laird studied the issues and made recommendations to the full Elder Board (September 2011 – February 2012). PHASE 2 – Decision: Elders and other leaders met for a prayer and planning retreat which included the chairs of the three Deacon Boards to consider governance issues raised by the subcommittee, with input from Consultant Jim Brown. The Elder Board gave direction to design and implement a plan that
page 9
In May, Pastor and Mrs. Rodger McCready and their dog Ginger, illustrated the importance and rewards of obedience. The lesson was “keep your eyes on your Master, not on the temptation, until your Master says okay.” A highlight in June was a Cruise on the Grand River. Thanks to Wayne and Helen Fisher for keeping us entertained on the bus with games and treats.
Some of our Seniors at a Strawberry Social.
would include moving Deacon Boards to Deacon committees or task forces (depending on needs) which will report through the leadership structure to the Elder Board. The Elders also understood this would eventually include adjusting the By-laws and North Park Organizational Document accordingly (February 2012). PHASE 3 – Planning: A plan was developed with the assistance of the Chair of the Mission Deacon Board, Tom Timmerman, and input from Staff Leadership (June-September 2012). PHASE 4 – Implementation: We are in the process of implementing the plan. With the cooperation of all involved, the Boards are becoming Deacon committees and some of the Deacons will be available to serve on temporary task forces as needed. The Biblical “Deacon” role is not so much defined by structure as it is by spiritually gifted and willing individuals serving the church in a necessary task. While everyone’s spirit has been exceptional throughout this process, this phase takes time to discern the best way to get the work done, and to ensure we are not missing something in the process. (August-Present). PHASE 5 - Formal Documentation: After we have tested what we are doing and have modified it well, we will bring it to the congregation in writing to make the formal changes to the language of the By-Laws. We appreciate your prayers as we move through this change process. As was true in the early church in Acts, it remains true in our church today that we need each other to accomplish the mission God has for us. The better we can communicate and know who does what, the stronger we will be. More information will be available in the coming months through the LINK as this process continues. As always, if you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at elders@northpark.ca.
HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY, MOSAIC David Cottrill, Director of Community Outreach
November 4 marks a special day at Mosaic Intercultural Church as we celebrate 2 years of holding services in the cafeteria at Ross High School. About 5 years ago, North Park recognized the need to start a worshiping community of people who live in the Kipps/Adelaide area and were participating in the programs at the Life Resource Centre. Many were learning a new language and culture after resettling in London, and lacked transportation. It was proposed that a church be established close to their apartments so they could walk, bring their neighbours, and be active participants, even if their English was limited.
In the last 2 years, a church community that loves to come together to worship, eat and fellowship each Sunday, was formed. The church is young both in its age and in those who attend. Many youth and children come each week and truly feel at home, for some the only church they have ever been to. Meeting in a cafeteria allows us to go straight from our service to lunch on the other side of the room (see photo above). The pot luck lunch is an assortment of dishes from around the world, and it provides a chance to really get to know each other. After lunch we facilitate a time in the gym for youth, a children’s choir practice, and Bible studies. We are so blessed to have facilities that give us the ability to do multiple things at one time. Even with the talk of the possibility of closing Ross High School in the near future, we are confident that God has started a good work and will provide resources, a place to meet, and leaders to continue this witness. We value your prayer; trying to bring together many cultures, styles and preferences in worship is difficult, yet it proclaims the power of the gospel to bring reconciliation into a world of strife and separation. As we enter our 3rd year, our desire is to train up local leaders in the church who can be salt and light in the community, bringing the good news into the streets and homes of Northeast London. The wonderful connection between the Life Resource Centre and Mosaic is that those who come to the church have a place to serve right in their backyard; and they can invite those they serve, to church on Sundays. We know that a small group of people who are committed to Jesus can be a transforming power in their neighbourhood.
GIVING THANKS – ROSS ESL DINNER Jenny Casselman, Life Resource Centre Intern
Every culture has different reasons, methodologies, and traditions for celebrating a time of thanks. In some areas of the world, people gather and offer up thanks for the harvest season. For others, there is a set time for families to gather with friends and neighbours to reflect on God’s provision in their lives. Some celebrate with food and dancing; others, with ancestral rituals handed down through the generations. No matter the differences, though, there is one commonality – giving thanks in community.
On October 4, the Life Resource Centre held its annual Thanksgiving Dinner for ESL students at Sir George Ross Secondary School (see photo above). The purpose of holding the dinner is to get to know the adults in the Kipps/Huron community who attend the ESL classes at Ross, as well as their families. It is also an opportunity for us to share our Canadian tradition of a thanksgiving dinner. This year, 350 people from varying countries – Nepal, Burma, Columbia, Sudan, Eritrea, Iran, and China – showed up and enjoyed turkey with all the fixings and apple pie. Families and volunteers engaged in conversation, and family photos were also taken – a highlight for most, as they proudly display them in their homes. This event is now a Thanksgiving tradition for the Life Resource Centre and one that the students look forward to every year. Thanks to all of the volunteers from North Park who helped make this night possible. We look forward to engaging with you more in the future!
page 10
STANDING TOGETHER IN CARE James Bekkers, Pastor of Community Life
“A person STANDING ALONE can be attacked and defeated,
but TWO can stand BACK TO BACK and conquer.” Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NLT)
This passage from Ecclesiastes is probably used more in wedding ceremonies than anywhere else. Yet, while it certainly applies in a marriage, it is just as applicable to the rest of life. When someone calls out “I’ve got your back!” when you are under attack, it is truly music to the ears. The passage goes on to declare, “Three are even better, for a triple braided cord is not easily broken”. If you doubt that, just try braiding some strands together and you will know the literal truth that is being spoken. This wisdom is not about good knot tying or weaving, it was intended to apply to relationships as we experience them in everyday circumstances. As Pastor of Community Life, I have come to understand these passages in relation to the way we are called to care for one another within the body of Christ that we know as North Park. While some might believe that a really large congregation would be a place where one could experience all kinds of care and support, in actual practice it turns out that large congregations can be pretty lonely places. Just think about it. When was the last time you have heard the words, “I’ve got your back!” For better or for worse, that kind of support is increasingly difficult
to experience. In a world where care has become increasingly impersonal and even rare, the church is committed to things that people used to receive as members of small communities where everyone depended on others. One of the things I have come to realize as Pastor of Community Life is that there is no way one person can keep up with the needs of a congregation the size of North Park. It is just not possible for one or even two people to be able to keep up with all of the calls that come in, not just from the church, but also from the surrounding community. I am thankful that I have great people like Wendy McLellan, Ann Wiebe and a group of skilled volunteers. As we have been thinking about how to develop a better means of caring for the congregation and the community, we came across a great book called “Share the Care: How to Organize a Group for Someone Who is Seriously Ill”. In a nutshell, the message of the book is, “You don’t have to do it alone.” The authors, Sheila Warnock and the late Cappy Capossela came together with ten others to help a terminally ill friend . . . and stayed together caring for her for three and a half years. The result of that journey was a model which I believe is relevant for us at North Park as well. I hope to increasingly incorporate these principles into a model that will help us to care more effectively without burning out volunteers and staff. This is a work in progress, and I believe that it holds great promise; not just for becoming more effective in the work of pastoral care, but also for experiencing the joy and rewards of being able to say to one another, “Hey, I’ve got your back.You’re not alone!” Truly, that three stranded cord of individuals, the community, and the Lord Jesus, is something that is not easily broken.
NORTH PARK SUPPORT & RECOVERY – wendy.mclellan@northpark.ca
Cancer Care – Monthly meetings offering compassionate support for people who are facing a diagnosis of cancer.
Celebrate Recovery – A Christ-centered recovery group for adults struggling with life’s hurts, habits, sins, wounds, and daily challenges. Every Friday evening.
DivorceCare – Help and healing for the pain of separation and divorce. 13 weeks, 2 hr sessions: videos, discussion, workbooks.
GriefShare – Comfort and hope for those experiencing the loss of a loved one. 13 weeks, 2 hr sessions: videos, discussion, workbooks.
DivorceCare Surviving the Holidays – Help with facing the Christmas season amidst the pain of separation and divorce.
GriefShare Surviving the Holidays – Comfort and hope for facing the Christmas season.
DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K) – Help and healing for children of separation and divorce. 13 weeks, 2 hr sessions: videos, discussion, workbooks, stories, crafts, games & more.
Single & Parenting – Practical helps and support for the unique challenges of raising children on your own. 13 weeks, 2 hr sessions: videos, discussion, workbooks.
Now recruiting facilitators and childcare workers for Single & Parenting for the Winter season (13 Saturday mornings beginning in January). Contact wendy.mclellan@northpark.ca.
page 11
COMMUNITY LIFE
BIRTHS Jebediah Abraham Stevens (September 19) – Parents Joe & Julie, sister Jorja Abrielle Elise Vyn and Kaelen Isaiah Vyn (October 4) – Parents Rich & Tara, siblings Brennan and Eliana Gideon Martin Steenstra (October 5) – Parents Joel & Gina Ella Grace Lansdell (October 11) – Parents Nathan & Katlyn Nathaniel Isaac Meyer (October 12) – Parents Adam & Sarah, sisters Emily and Evelyn DEATHS - Correction from October LINK Howard James Reid (September 14) – brother of Bram Reid