So, I have a question, but I want to clarify the reason for the question in advance. You see, Natalie and I have told my family, her family and our church family about our future plans. We have let others know that we are moving back to Nova Scotia in April of 2025 and now you know. Many have asked why and, while we are very transparent about the primary reason for the move, there is another bit of information that weighed in on our decision. You see, there are no such things as coincidences, but there are opportunities. We spent many days praying over our decision to move and to retire from leading a church and, while Natalie and I will truly miss our Sundre faith family, as well as our Alberta family & friends, the time has come to “go and make disciples of all the nations”. Now, you need to understand, there were numerous opportunities that presented themselves over the past few months but the one that we, Natalie and I, chose was one that truly spoke to us in a special way. When you lean on His calling, there is a peace, an excitement, and even a bit of nervousness, but in God we trust.
The question is this; what is the next big thing? It has been an amazing 25 years in church ministry, but God is opening doors for several opportunities outside the formal church setting. He has provided and we are willing to go where He leads. There are a variety of teaching & training opportunities, plus transitional ministry and more. We look forward to finding ways to continue to be relevant in our daily lives, and move forward in faith. When we came to Sundre, at the time it was the next big thing in our ministerial life. We feel God has used us well in this community but there is a calling to the next big thing. The passage that came to mind as I was contemplating the change was from Matthew 28:19-20 NLT.
Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
The time has come to take this message to the east coast of Canada, to be His representative and build relationships as He guides & directs. These past two weeks, I have been referred to as Padre and Chaplain and numerous individuals have come forward for spiritual guidance and advice. Was this confirmation of His calling for the next chapter in my ministerial life? Another opportunity was very interesting to say the least, but we are confident this is the path He has set our feet upon.
This week, Darryl Wicks, President of our local Missions Ministry will be bringing us a message that touches on Kingdom news throughout the world. Please plan to join us either in person or online at 10:30 AM this Sunday. The service will be broadcast online on our website (https://www.mainavefellowship.ca/socialplatforms ), or you are more than welcome to join us in person at 402 Main Ave. W in Sundre, AB.
Blessings,
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